Branded, Chapter 6

I took the stairs up to the balcony, wanting to prolong this meeting. Since Rogan was downstairs with his sister, who was waiting for me in the box? I began having second thoughts about this meeting. I took a moment to pull myself together, took a deep breath and willed my feet to move forward up the stairs.

I entered a lounge area at the top of the stairs and had to take a moment to gain my bearings. I found the door to the balcony and stepped through into the dimly lit hallway leading to the viewing boxes. I paused to let my eyes adjust to the dark.

I was surprised at how qui ckly my eyes adjusted to the dim lighting. I was standing in front of the curtain to Box A without realizing I had even moved my feet. I peered in through the partially opened curtain and saw a man sitting in a chair at the front of the box.



He made no indication that he was aware of my presence, yet he knew I was there. I could sense him probing into my mind. Actually, I could sense several intruders; violating my thoughts. I tried to empty my mind, but it was proving to be difficult; more difficult in this place, than ever before.

Each probe was like a voice; much like one can discern a speaker by their voice, one can discern these probes and identify their originator. However, I only “knew” this man’s intrusions, although others seemed familiar, I was unable to identify them.

“Come; sit! Don’t waste my time,” he snarled, seemingly annoyed. He made only the slightest tilt of his head in my direction, before returning his gaze towards the stage.



Well, I could see this was going to go well, but I was here to seek information. I took a breath, choking back some biting words and stepped into the box.

“What was I doing here?” I thought as I closed the curtain behind me.



“You’re here in an attempt to learn more of what you are,” his thoughts invaded my mind. I hesitated just inside the curtain, shocked by the realization that I was so vulnerable. My mind was an open book to these people. I would have to learn to suppress my thoughts better; and quickly.

The lights from the stage below draped the theater in a soft glow which set off the rich reds and dark woods. Melded together with the ambient lighting it created an ominous atmosphere in the balcony area. The only thing missing was fog. I can only imagine the depth of these colors under normal lighting.

“You really should get out more, Jadon. Your thoughts lend me to believe you have yet to experience your true heritage.”



Before I could take another step, he turned his head toward me and blasted me with thoughts; angry and annoying thoughts, all urging me to sit down.

I refrained from answering, instead concentrating on clearing my mind of petty thoughts.

He clearly looked annoyed; perhaps not wanting to be here in the first place. I could sense that he was not here of his own volition. I couldn’t help but wonder if that look was etched on his face for all time.



“Of course I’m annoyed. I’m annoyed with you. Now sit down and let’s get this over with,” he conveyed in an even, unemotional tone; almost monotone, if thoughts can be likened to verbal speech.

I couldn’t help but to stifle a chuckle; knowing I was an annoyance to this man.

“Clearly you have a lot to learn. How one of your nature can be so ignorant is astounding. But I must forgive your stupidity, having lived with humans all this time. I am sure we will be spending quite a bit of time together.”

The way he said “humans,” seemed forced. One could feel the very hatred in him for them. Do I really want to be associated with such a person?

Taking a seat next to him, I shot back, “That’s a daunting proposition, at best. I have no desire to spend any more time with you than I have to.”

There was a troupe of actors on the stage below, acting out some medieval scene. This was clearly a rehearsal as they were clumsy and miscalculating; human. Gah! Why did I even think that? I don’t want to be like Rogan; or this man next to me; finding fault with humans. Unlike them, I do not feel disgust and hatred of humans. I find them endearing, not cold and controlling.



“Well, let us make the best of this situation. Clearly neither of us wants to be in the company of the other.”

“Agreed!”

“What would you like to ask first? Ah, yes, your indolent actions have made me forget my place. I am Dieter van Halstaed.”

“Thank you,” I said aloud, “And I am…”

“Yes, yes, you’re Jadon! Please do not defile this place by speaking aloud. It is so cumbersome and irritating. If you’re anything like your father, you have a bright mind, so use it.”

“Okay, so you’re name is Dieter,” I began, “But just who are you? Why should I waste my time with you?”

“You really are a simpleton, aren’t you? If you had not been with humans for so long, you would know who you are! You have a lot to learn before you will be of any use to our master.”

“”Of use to OUR master?’ Just what are you implying?”

“Yes; why else do you think you came here, but to serve our master?”

“You are more pretentious than Rogan. What is it with you people? Where do you get off telling me what I will and will not do? I am not here to serve anyone, especially your master. I only seek to find out who I really am. I made a mistake coming here. I’m sorry to have bothered you.”



I tried to rise from the chair, but was unable; somehow compelled to remain seated; forced against my will. I could feel another presence, a presence even stronger than Dieter; yet I could see no one else.

A vile grin spread across his face. His thoughts betrayed him; reveling in the fact that I was being forced to sit there.

“Go ahead, fight it; you cannot win. The master can make you do his bidding and you will have no recourse but to comply.”

“Who is this “master” you keep talking about?”

“He’s your father. And you will serve him.”

“If he truly is my father, why has he not come to me himself? Why send a lowly minion such as yourself to do his bidding?”

“Lowly minion,” he scoffed. “If it were up to me, I would do away with you right here. Be glad your future is not up to me.” He grimaced as if in pain. Was he receiving a mental brow beating? I could only hope so.



“Let’s get back to the subject at hand, shall we?” he asked, speaking aloud for the first time; seeming more congenial.

“Why am I here, exactly?” I ventured.

“Your father wants to offer you a haven. You do not have a place among the humans. They are weak, frail creatures that are short-lived. If they realize what you are, you will be cast out. As a result, you will have to move from place to place, to keep your true identity hidden.”

“And just why would he think I would enjoy living under his watchful eye?”

“He can offer you protection.”

“Offer me protection from what; who?”

“From those of his kind that would see you destroyed,” he said curtly.

“And just who or what would they be?”

“Vampires! Most of them would see you destroyed! You are an abomination to them; a half-breed. You are loathed in their world, and cast out by humans. You have no other place where you can belong, than with him.”

“I see! So, in a nut shell, I’m damned it I do and damned if I don’t? And why do you choose to serve him?”

“I am as you are. I have no place in this world. I am fortunate that he offers me protection.”

“So you are Branded as well!” I stated as if confirming the fact for myself. “Yes, I sense that, now. How long have you been here?”

“I have been with my master all my life. There is nothing else for me.”

“He’s brain-washed you into thinking you have no other option.”

“Hold your tongue. He has been good to me.”

“Good to you for keeping you bound to him; locked away as if in some fairy tale tower?”

“I have everything I could need. What more is there?”



“There’s life; to make your own way in the world; make your own decisions.”

“Unlike you, I have not been tainted by human ideals. I do not need to trek about the world in search of excitement and riches; in search of myself. I have everything I could possibly want right here.”

“Do you have freedom?”

“I have my freedoms, yes.”

“No, I don’t mean allowances; I mean freedom; to go where you will, when you will; to do as you please; to say as you please.”

“I have all I need.”

“And I have all I need. I will need some time to think things through.”

“”You would defy your father’s wishes and leave?”

“I must go back, for a time; to collect my things.”

“Everything you need is here.”

“Perhaps! But I have become attached to some material belongings that I would like to have; wherever I end up. Pleas offer my father my apologies.”

“As you wish. I will have a car waiting outside to return you to your hotel.”

“Thank you,” I said as I rose. “You’re my brother, aren’t you?” suddenly coming to the realization. I could sense something familiar about him, but couldn’t quite place my finger on it until now.

“Yes, I am,” was his simple reply.

I walked out, not sparing a backward glance. I was actually surprised that I met with no resistance. Once outside, I made my way around the side of the building to where the car was parked. As I was waiting for my ride, a woman approached.

“You must come with me, please,” she pleaded. “I have dismissed your driver.”



“Just where…” I began to ask.



“Do not speak; not here,” she spoke with fear in her eyes.

She took my hand and led me to a car that was left running. She motioned for me to get in the passenger seat as she moved around to the other side and got in behind the wheel. No sooner had I closed the door, than she had pressed her foot on the accelerator and sped away from the opera house.

Branded, Chapter 5

“I must go now!”

“Wait! You can’t leave now. I have so many questions. You have shown me things; I want to know more; to see more,” I pleaded pathetically. I became nauseated hearing my own words. What has come over me; I sounded like a whining child. But I must admit I am quite intrigued by the events of this night. I must know more.

“I’m sorry; I must go. You can find what you seek in Sancta.”

“Sancta?”

“A city to the northwest. It is one of the oldest cities in the known world. Be wary; there are those that would see you perish there.”

He was Off before I could even open my mouth. As he fled, his thoughts entered my mind, “Go! He is there.” More cryptic nonsense?



Perhaps I should forget this night and go on as if it never happened; dismiss it as a dream. As much as I would want to, I feel driven to learn more about myself; who, or what I am.

I spent the next few days mulling over everything he had said; everything he had shown me; everything he had taught me. I can’t turn away now. I have to pursue this now.

After some time searching the web, I could find no reference to Sancta at all. I’m beginning to think I have been duped. I should have known better. Although there was some truth to what this man said and showed me, I realized that the life I had now was all I wanted. I’m living comfortable and I can remain here for a while longer, before having to move on. I have plenty of time to decide to look into this later.

I closed the browser window just as a chat box opened with instructions to book the flight at the enclosed link. Curiosity got the better of me and I clicked the link. It indeed was a booking for an airline ticket for tomorrow afternoon. The destination was Sancta. I click the buy button before I realized I was doing it. I waited for the purchasing information page to come up on my screen, but instead was greeted with a “Your purchase has been confirmed” message. There was a button to click to print the e-ticket; I turned on my printer and printed it. I shut down the computer and stared at the flight information for some time.



“Well, I guess I’m going on a trip,” I affirmed to myself, wondering why I could find no information on Sancta.

I guess I’m going to find out if it actually exists, or if I’m going nowhere. This is all so cloak and dagger; I couldn’t help but wonder what I was getting myself into; and conversely, why my father (if he truly is) was putting me through all of this.

Whatever the case, I’m going to see this through - for now.

I packed a small bag, not intending on staying long. I gave myself plenty of time so I would be sure to catch the flight. The woman behind the ticket counter gave me odd looks after checking my ticket, but said nothing and processed me through.

Several hours, and a flight change later, the plane began to descend into a veil of fog in search of the runway. I couldn’t see the pavement below; the pilot making a smooth landing. We deplaned down the steps onto the tarmac; I haven’t exited a plane in this manner in a very long time. I found my way to baggage claim and retrieved my sole piece of luggage; hailed a cab and asked to be taken to a nice hotel.

“I know just the place, mister,” the cabbie announced. He raced through the streets of the fog filled city. I was barely able to make out the buildings in the thick blanket when the cab pulled up in front of a hotel.

I stepped up to the front desk and the clerk handed me a key without either of us saying a word.

“Excuse me; I don’t have a reserva…” I began to protest, but was cut short by the quick reply of the desk clerk.

“Oh, but you do, Mr. Friedrich. We’ve been expecting you,” she concluded with a pert smile. “Gilbert,” she continued, speaking the name with a heavy accent, pronouncing it as zheel-bear, “will show you to your room.” She nodded to the bellboy just to the right of the counter.



Gilbert was young; I would guess in his early twenties. He had a glazed look in his eyes. He did not smile or speak all the way to my room. He seemed fixated on a single goal; zombie-like; nothing else mattered; never turning his head once.

Safely tucked away for the night, I recounted the events of the day. The looks of disgust from the airport staff when they became aware of my destination to the hotel clerk who had been expecting me. For some odd reason, I felt calm; serene. Sleep came easily.

I was awakened by a knock on the door. It was him; the man who had made me come to realize just who or what I was, although I was not ready to admit it to anyone, least of all myself.



“Good morning,” he began, “I hope I didn’t disturb you.”

“No, not at all,” I lied. I had been sleeping like a log.

“I am to deliver this message to you,” He said, handing me a sealed envelope. “I will take my leave.” And he was gone; as quickly as it took me to look up from the envelope.

I closed the door and laid the envelope on the table. I made a cup of coffee to help wake up before I read the note.




I opened the envelope to reveal a note written in old style handwriting on parchment. The note simply stated:



Why can’t these people be straight forward for once? I’ve come this far, I may as well keep going. Not having brought any formal attire with me, I will have to do some last-minute shopping. I showered and dressed, then had one more cup of coffee while I took in the view from the balcony.



I can’t believe this is the same city I enter in a blanket of fog just the day before. I can see for miles in any direction and only last night, I could barely see past the nose of the taxi.

Coffee gone, I ventured out to look for a tuxedo or other suitable attire for an opera house. As I entered the lobby, I saw Gilbert standing near the front desk, apparently waiting for the next guest needing an escort to their room. I walk over and asked him where I might find a shop to purchase formal attire. He told me the name and proceeded to use his arms for this direction and that.

I wandered through the streets, not completely sure of his directions, but found the establishment in question with little effort. I tried on a few outfits, choosing a modest tuxedo for the night. After a few measurements, the tailor assured me it would be delivered to the hotel with time to spare.

As I handed him my credit card, he waved his hand, saying “No, sir, it has already been taken care of.”

Arguing with the merchant would have proven pointless, so I bid him good day and left. With the better part of the day still ahead of me, I decided on a small tour of the city. My first stop was a local curiosity shop.



There were goods of all kinds displayed for sale here. I suppose there is someone out there for each item for sale here. You know what they say, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” There was an abundance of treasure here.

I hadn’t planned on buying anything; just biding my time. While perusing the shelves, I spied a beautiful young woman across the store. I lingered a little longer, moving slowly about the store, just to sneak peeks of her as she shopped. “Damn, I’m stalking her!” I thought to myself. I decided to quickly buy something and make my exit. I absently took a book from a bin and made my way to the register.



As I was making my purchase, the woman approached the far end of the counter. She shyly smiled as I looked in her direction. I quickly turned away in embarrassment and finalized my acquisition. I hastily made my way to the door, bumping into at least two displays on the way out.

Once outside, I took a moment to admire my new treasure. I purchased a book entitled, “Fishing for the Moon.” I chuckled to myself as I hurriedly placed it back in the bag and moved along the street. I took in a few more shops in my travels and found myself in front of the science museum at the docks.

I made a quick tour of the museum, finding some interesting displays. As I made my exit, I felt a chill run down my spine as if I were being watched.



I shrugged it off to being in an unfamiliar setting and began to admire the collection of fish in the pond outside. Wishing I had my rod and reel with me, I looked up and noticed the beautiful woman across the pond.



This has to be more than mere coincidence, I thought. I gathered my resolve and walked around the pound and introduced myself.

“Excuse me, Miss, weren’t you at the curiosity shop earlier?” regretting my forwardness.



“Yes, I was there earlier,” she tittered.

“I thought it was you. My name is…” I began.

“Jadon; yes, I know, and I am Natalia,” she finished.

I’m getting used to people making arrangements for me and paying for my purchases in my stead, but I am getting quite tired of them finishing my sentences. I quickly shrugged off my irritation and turned my attention to Natalia.

“So, Natalia, how do you know my name?”

“My brother, Rogan; his master was expecting you. That is all he has been talking about for the last two days.”

“Master? You make him sound like a pet.”

“Oh, no! You have it all wrong. It is a pleasure for my brother to serve him.”

“Do you serve this master, as well?” I inquired.

“Sadly, I am not worthy to serve him. I am human.”

“And your brother is not?”
“No, he is one of the Branded. My mother was taken by a vampire and gave birth to Rogan.”

“I would love to learn more, but I fear I must get back to my hotel; I have an appointment I must keep. May I meet with you later?”

“I understand. I would love to meet with you again. There is a lounge just down the street from your hotel. I can meet you there tomorrow.”

“That would be wonderful. Until tomorrow, then!” She gave me the name of the lounge and directions to get there.

I walked around the corner and spied the hotel off in the distance. I made my way back as quickly as possible. True to his word, the tux was waiting for me at the front desk.

I laid out the tux on the bed, and proceeded to shower and shave. I began to don the tuxedo and was amazed at how well it fit from the few brief moments I spent with the tailor. It was modified perfectly; neither too tight nor too loose. The gloves may be a bit too much, but the merchant suggested them. Who am I to disagree?



I again made my way to the lobby, where Gilbert was waiting to escort me to a waiting taxi. I was no sooner in the back seat when the driver pulled away at flank speed, as if there were a fire to get to. Arriving at the Opera House in what must be a record time, the driver was off as quickly as ever.

I climbed the steps to an old Gothic façade that overshadowed the reset of the neighboring architecture, although it was the shortest of them. I reached for the handle on the huge ornate door and it began to swing open on its own. I stepped through into a lobby done in entirely too much red with rich wood panels on the wall.

As I walked in further, I was surprised to see the man who visited me pass through the lobby. Natalia was not too far in his wake. I greeted her, expressing my curiosity at her presence.



Before she could speak, the man beckoned to her, “Come Natalia.”

“I’m sorry! I must not keep my brother waiting. You must not keep your appointment waiting, either.” she said as she turned to follow him.


End chapter

Branded - Chapter 4

“…your mother became impregnated,” he was saying, “carrying his child. She believed it to be the child of her husband, but your father knew the truth. He would go to her when he could. This became increasingly difficult as she was alone less and less as the pregnancy progressed. Your mother’s husband accepted a position in the new city. They moved away shortly after discovering the pregnancy.”



My will to resist was wavering; I wanted to know more, but I didn’t want to seem too anxious to know more. I will listen to what he has to say, and then sift through it later. “If he truly loved her, why did he not take her away with him at that point?”

He laughed at my inquiring, causing my will to harden again.

“I fail to see what is so funny. I’m not going to sit here while you ridicule me.”

“I’m sorry,” he said in earnest. “You have much to learn. Come with me, I want to show you some of what you are.”

“What do mean, ‘what I am?’ Who are you?” He was talking like I was some kind of animal; a freak; a sideshow exhibit.

“Who I am is unimportant at the moment. Just come, I’ll show you.”

“Alright, I’ll go if it’ll hurry your departure. I’ll be right back,” I said as I went inside to change into something a little more suitable for the night air. “Let’s go.” I simply said, as I emerged from the house.



“Right over here. I want to show you that you possess some of your father’s powers. Something the human could never possess. Now, we’ll race to the turn in the cove over there…”

“What is this all about? I’m not racing you anywhere.”

“Would you please humor me just this once? I swear, if you cannot catch me or beat me, I will leave you alone,” he challenged.

“Fine, I can’t wait for you to leave. Let’s get this over with,” I said, resigned to be rid of him, once and for all.

“Now, just concentrate on catching me; your body will do the rest. Whenever you’re ready!” he said.

I began to run across the sand. He took flight and soon passed me with a speed the likes of which I had never seen. I concentrated on catching him and my body felt like it was changing. It became light and lithe; it felt as if it lifted off the sand and was barely brushing the grains as I passed over them.



That was wild. I’ve never felt so exhilarated. And this has been inside me all this time? What a rush. I won’t give him the satisfaction of knowing how much I enjoyed it.

‘Ha ha, I knew you would love it,’ his voiced echoed in my mind as clearly as if he had spoken the words aloud.

“How did you…?” I stammered.



“We have the ability to read the thoughts of others. Be mindful of what you are thinking at all times. You never know who might be eaves dropping.”

“I…can read minds?”

“Yes, to an extent, but your abilities are limited, as are mine. Come let me show you. We will need to find someone whose mind is open. Any human will do. Perhaps we can find our guinea pig at the park.”


“There, that human over there. He should do.”

“I know who he is; that’s Ellis Steiner. He’s a member of a small military contingent on the base at the other end of the island.”

“Good; go ahead and read his thoughts.”

“What? I can’t read his thoughts.”

“You can if you try. You must concentrate. In time, you will be able to read minds with little effort; perhaps even when you don’t want to. Humans are such unguarded creatures.”

“You speak of humans as if they are unintelligent animals. If you are like me, you are half human yourself.”

“Yes, unfortunately, I have those weak genes. However, I prefer to embrace my stronger heritage and denounce the weak. Now, go on and read his mind before he decides to leave.”

I began to concentrate my energy on probing Ellis’ thoughts. “I am not able to read his thoughts. Perhaps I don’t have that ability.”

“You have it. Believe me, you have it; I’ve felt it. It’s not going to come to you just like that. It will take time and effort in the beginning. But with practice and perseverance, you’ll get there.”

“Oh, I can see his thoughts. He is thinking that he is able to enjoy this lawn game because he was handy enough to quickly repair the broken sink in his kitchen.”



“Yes, you’ve done it. That was impressive. It took me some time from my first attempt. But then I was just a fledgling when I learned.”

“Fledgling?” I asked; sure I did not understand the context in which he used the term.

“A fledgling is a newly turned vampire. I tend to think in terms of the vampire world as that’s where I was raised; as I’m sure you identify yourself with the humans.”

”Ah, that makes sense. Is it always that simple; to read minds, I mean?”

“Yes, however, your abilities are much weaker than those of most vampires.”

“Most vampires?”

“I say most, because there are some weak-minded vampires. Your father is Princeps, one of the bloodlines with the strongest mental abilities. You are of him, so you have stronger abilities as a result. But make no mistake; your abilities are weak compared to most vampires.”

“You were going to tell me more of my father and mother before you opened my eyes to what I can become. Would you tell me now?” I asked sheepishly.

“Of course; let’s return to your house, and I’ll continue there,” he said in a triumphant tone.



“So was that my father who had called earlier, at the house? The man told me to listen to what you had to say.”

“I do not know for certain, but I would presume so. As I said, our abilities are comparably weak to those of the vampires. Your father has the ability to read minds over great distances. You and I are only able to read minds within a much shorter radius.”


Once back at the house, I lit a fire in the fireplace, feeling an uncomfortable chill. An eerie feeling, like someone was watching you. I shrugged it off as my imagination playing tricks.



We sat in front of the fire as I recanted, “If he loved her, why did he let her leave?”

“As relations with humans are frowned upon, there is no telling what might have happened to her, had he tried to hide her away. He could not take her into his world and he could not enter hers. For her safety, he had to let her go.”

“Yes, I can understand that.”

“As I said earlier, they moved away shortly after discovering the pregnancy. This new city was in the domain of another bloodline. These vampires are hideous, misshapen creatures of the night; hardly worthy to be called vampires, but vampires nonetheless. They keep mostly to themselves, hidden away from humans and other bloodlines alike, mainly because of their appearance. Little information can be gathered from or about them. They are of the Umbra Bloodline.

“How many bloodlines are there?”

“There are seven major bloodlines, two lesser, and uncounted rogue lines. To continue, your father set out to find her again; to bring her back to him. The Princeps made every effort to thwart his search, fearing he would lead to the bloodline’s discovery. They went so far as to enter into an unprecedented agreement with the Umbra to that end.



“His continued efforts to locate her eventually got him removed from his seat as Regis. He was cast out, no longer welcome at court. He went into seclusion for a time in an attempt to solidify his place among the bloodline, although he remained undaunted in his quest. By the time he located her, it was too late. She was due to have the child and any attempt to move her might jeopardize the child.

“He wanted the child now, as a human female giving birth to a dhamphir, or Branded such as you, cannot survive the delivery. Your mother’s fate was sealed. Your father clung to the shadows, watching day after day, until the time came. She went into labor, would deliver a son and then die that night.

“Your mother gave birth to twins, which is virtually unheard of in hybrid births. It wasn’t until sometime later that your father learned of the twin son. He would have to wait and watch for now, as he dare not abandon the son he had taken; for surely the other vampires would destroy the child.”

“This twin; my brother; do you know him? Would it be possible to meet him?”

Branded - Chapter 3

I spend a good amount of my time in my garden; or fishing about the shores around the island. I have become familiar with the best spots to fish; generally waiting until after dusk to attempt to keep to myself.



I have spent the months since my arrival on this island establishing a garden on the sandy beach. A near futile attempt, at best, but I was able to make my plants thrive in this clime. I cleared a patch of beach, digging down several inches, and brought in come heavier soil from midway up the central mountain; it seems to be infused with volcanic ash. My plants seem to like it and that’s all that matters.

I take great pains to maintain my garden and reap his bounty. It gives me a sense of accomplishment.

“Did you miss me?” asked the once familiar voice. I couldn’t quite place it, but I know I’ve heard it before. As I turned in the direction of the voice, it came to me; the man who had come to me that night long ago.



“Well, did you?”

“Did I…” I stammered.

“Miss me; did you miss me?”

“How can I very well miss you, when I don’t even have a clue as to who you are?”

“Ah, but you do. You know who I am.”

“Yeah, right! I know who…you…are...” I trailed off. Then all of a sudden, I did know who he was. “Yes, I do know who you are.”

“Ah, I knew you would.”

“What do you want of me?” I challenged.

“It is not what I want of you, but what you need of me.”

“Need? From you? You can offer nothing that I need.”

“Why must you be so obstinate?”

“I have done fine for myself without your help thus far. Be gone!”

“You have so much to learn,” he began to laugh.

This did nothing, except to piss me off. “If all you can do is ridicule, then I need none of it. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some business to take care of.”

“As you wish, but you really do need to talk to me.”

“I’ve had enough of your games. Go away!” I waved him off as I rose from my chair. I made my way into the house. I did have questions, that much was true. But I will not sit and be ridiculed by someone I do not know.

It was close to lunch, so I made my way to the kitchen and began to prepare something to eat.



“Mind if I join you? Have enough for two?”

I didn’t hear him enter; or the door open and close for that matter. “What is your problem? Don’t you get that you are neither wanted nor welcome here? Get out of my house and leave me alone.”

“Ah, but he would not like that I left without fulfilling my duties.”

“He? Who is he? What duty would that be?”

“Now, see, you’re making me get ahead of myself.”

As if on cue, my phone rang. I was thankful to have an excuse not to talk to my uninvited guest. To my dismay, the voice on the other end of the phone was less welcome than the visitor.



“You would be wise to hear what he has to tell you.”

“Who is this? How did you know someone was here?” I demanded.

There was no response except the click of the connection being severed.

“Suit yourself; I’ve got things to do and can’t waste my time on you and your fairy tales.”

“You’re only making this harder on both of us, you know. Let me say what I need to say, and then I’ll be out of your way. I’m only the messenger.”

“YOU don’t get it, do you Messenger? I don’t want to hear your message; his message; any message. ”

“Whatever. I’m going to tell you anyway. Whether or not you listen is up to you. I’m here on behalf of your father; your biological father.

“If you haven’t guessed, your father is a vampire. He is of the Princeps Bloodline. Your father first found your mother in the city of which he was Regis. He had gone to her several times while she resided there with her husband. Although relations with humans are discouraged, he continued to see her. He became enamored of her to the point of falling in love with her.”



“What’s a Regis? And why did she not speak to my father of this?” I asked.

I was curious to what he had to say, but I could not get past the fact that he entered my house uninvited and was trying to force me to listen. He had the edge on me and I didn’t like that.

“First, the Regis is the leader of a coven or region in the vampire world. Second, the man she was married to is not your father.”

“So you keep saying, but you have offered no proof to back your claim.”

“The Princeps have strong mental powers. They can manipulate one’s memories to keep from being discovered; one of the strongest bloodlines to be able to do so. He masked her memories; she remembered nothing of their time together.”

“You expect me to believe all this? You know what? You can leave now; I think I’ve heard more than enough.” He was clearly getting on my nerves. I wouldn’t be doing all of these menial tasks if I weren’t trying to busy myself in an attempt to get him to leave.

“Believe as you wish, however everything I am telling you is truth. Aren’t you the least bit curious of who you really are and where you came from?”

“I know who I am and where I came from. I have a life, and it is apart from yours. Let’s keep it that way, shall we? Now please leave.”



“Once I have delivered the message, I shall go. You know as well as I do that there is something different about you; something inhuman, if you will. You cannot deny that you are aging slower than your peers; much slower.”

“Granted, I do appear to be aging slower, but there is a medical explanation for it.”

“And that would be…?”

“I don’t need to explain anything to you. You seem to know all the answers. Just take your answers and leave, would you please?”

“If we could just sit down and you let me finish what I have to say, I can get out of here a lot sooner, than following you around while you pretend to be uninterested.”

“Pretend to be uninterested? You are presumptuous, aren’t you? Okay, okay, if it will get you out of here faster, I will let you deliver your message.”

I led him to the back porch where we sat and looked out upon the cove while he spun the rest of his yarn.



“Now where was I? Oh, yes, I remember now…”

Branded - Chapter 2

He was gone before I could ask who he was; what he wanted with me; how he knew of me…

Although I never saw him before that day and haven’t seen him since, I feel a kindred connection. The encounter left me baffled and confused for several days. It left me with so many unanswered questions. I had to talk to someone about it. But to whom?

I had just returned home from completing my degree at the university in Sunset Valley. I majored in Business. My dad wanted me to take over the family business one day. He had built quite the import/export company. It was among the top 25 traders on the international markets. I was given a position in the imports division, working as a sales representative. This was a great place to start, young, independent, allowing for travel to exotic places. I couldn’t have asked for more.

Not long after, Dad and I went fishing. We fish off the shore quite together. We didn’t talk much, but I always felt a special bonding happening on these outings.



This particular evening, I decided to finally tell him about the encounter.

“That’s about all that happened.”

“That is curious. Could it be? No, it couldn’t,” he said more to himself than to me.

“What?” I pleaded. “Couldn’t be what, Dad?”



“You’re going to find out someday. I guess now is as good a time as any for me to tell you what I know.”

“Find out? Find out what? What’s with all the hemming and hawing?”

“As you know, I loved your mother very much. She was the world to me. I felt damned lucky that she chose me over some of the other guys she knew,” he began.

“We had hoped for children since we were married,” he continued. “After several years with no luck, we started to lose hope. We both went in for testing. They found nothing wrong with either one of us.

“Then, one day, your mother announced she was pregnant. We couldn’t have been happier. We believed that the timing was all wrong and that fate had stepped in until the right time. We were both naïve enough to believe this.



“Then one night, when your mother was in the second trimester, she turned in early, saying she was exhausted. She was often very tired those days. Well, that night she had turned is as I said, when a short time later, I heard voices coming from the bedroom.

“I quietly made my way down the hall. I paused outside the door. There was a man’s voice and your mother’s. She seemed incoherent, as if she were drugged. The man spoke in a commanding, yet soothing tone. He told her the child was his and that he would return for it when the time was right.

“I opened the door and entered the room. The man turned to face me. He couldn’t have been more than 25 years old from the looks of him. His skin was white; nearly translucent. He involuntarily hissed and backed away from me. He said he would return for his child and fled through the open door onto the balcony. I’d heard tales and rumors of creatures like that. Until then, I believed vampires to be nothing more than scary campfire tale myths.



“I could not bring myself to say anything to your mother about the incident for the longest time. When I finally mentioned it to her, she said she had the very same dream up to the moment I entered the room.

“The day finally came and your mother went into labor. I wanted to take her to a hospital, but she insisted on giving birth at home. She was quite adamant about it. She made arrangements for a midwife that she was put in contact with. She could not tell me how she knew of this woman, either. There were many things she did that she had no prior knowledge of throughout the pregnancy.

“The midwife arrived shortly after I had called her. She took her bag to the bedroom and started prepping your mother for delivery, shooing me from the room. She could come out every so often and instruct me to do this or to do that. I was frantic with worry and concern, so I performed everything to the letter.

“Night had fallen. It seemed like it was taking forever. From the screams, I can only imagine the pain your mother must have been in. Then I suddenly heard the small cry of a baby. Soon the babies cry was followed by a muffled shriek. The midwife then called for me. I ran into the room. She was standing over your mother; hand on her heaving chest, trying to breath.

“Between her heavy pants, she managed to tell me that a man – no, something – had entered through the balcony window and made off with the baby barely before she had cut the umbilical cord. He had taken our son. I felt my heart sink. The midwife quickly turned her attention back to your mother who had begun screaming in pain again.


“I began to panic. The midwife announced that there was another child; twins. No sooner had you drawn your first breath when your mother drew her last. I was horrified. I took you in my arms and vowed never to let you go again.

“I raised you the best I could without a mother. Shortly after your mother’s funeral, curiosity got the better of me; I had to know; one way or the other; so I had a paternity test done. I was not your biological father, but that didn’t mean I loved you any less. I loved you all the more because you were the only part of your mother I had left.

“I started looking into vampires/human offspring; curious about what I could expect from you; assuming your father was a vampire, of course. There is next to nothing significant available out there. I found a few myths and tales that contradicted each other. They were very difficult to locate. I probably wouldn’t have found anything, without the resources I have to draw from. According to the myths, the children of humans and vampires are called dhamphirs. They are more commonly called The Branded, as they develop a marking, or brand, much like the one on the back of your hand, once they reach puberty; although, they develop at different rates in all children. I thank heaven that yours took so long to manifest itself.

“The myths also tell of vampires having super human powers to some degree. It’s said that they can control the minds of humans. They apparently feed upon human blood and the ability to control the victims mind also removes any memory of having been fed upon. This control may be why your mother didn’t remember being visited by this man.

“I imagine this is somewhat hard to digest.”



“Yes it is; but some truth rings true. I can sense it; feel it. I always thought I was different.”

“Quite frankly, I’m surprise you’re as calm as you are about all of this. I assumed you’d tell me I was a crazy old coot, spouting fairy tales.”

“I cannot deny what I feel to be true. You taught me that; perhaps it was in preparation for this day. Did you learn anything else from these myths?”

“There is next to nothing on The Branded. According to one of the myths, the branded are feared by humans; reportedly having a longer lifespan.”

“Well it seems we have some decisions to make.”

“I am so sorry for not having told you sooner. I wanted to protect you more than anything else, Paul. I love you, and didn’t want to lose you. But I can’t have it both ways. You can’t remain here forever and remain undiscovered.”

“I will stay as long as I can, Dad. I love you, also. That won’t change just because you’re not my biological father.”

That was twenty years ago. Since that time I have found out little else about who, or what, I am. I have worn gloves in public ever since to hide my brand; been careful to avoid meaningful relationships. I have kept to myself for the most part. Twenty years, and I look like I haven’t age a day.

At least here; on this largely uninhabited island; on this secluded stretch of beach; far from any day-to-day human contact; I can forget about where I came from or what I am; at least for the time being.



This is not where I want to spend the rest of my life – however long that may be – but it will give me an opportunity to think things through and decide where to go from here. I have yet to discover the identity of the man that appeared on the beach all those years ago. I have something to occupy my time, anyway.

Branded - Chapter 1

Leaving town, having no idea where I was headed, I simply picked a direction and drove. After 20 some odd hours behind the wheel, I ended up in a backwater town called Twisted Falls.

I decided this was as good a place as any to discard what was left of Paul Westphal. The car I purchase from my former neighbor, for much more than it was worth, I sold to a local for a fraction of that. This poor misshapen fellow was on cloud nine, having made the deal of his life. I couldn’t help but smile as he reveled in his good fortune.

After asking directions, I made my way to the local diner for a bite to eat. I made inquiries of the hostess as to the nearest travel agency. She pointed out that their small community was not only in backwater country, but the demise of the chemical plant explosions a few years back left the populace with visible scars they would much rather keep hidden. The physical deformities were on the extreme side, I must admit. I can’t blame them for wanting to keep to themselves. As a matter of fact, I could identify completely. That is exactly where my life was heading at the moment; to disappear; to hide away.



The hostess; she introduced herself as Flo; made sure to bring attention to the fact that I wore my gloves throughout the meal; not with words, but rather with her eye movements. It was as if the locals had an unwritten language that each and every one understood. It was a bit unnerving, but I did not let it dissuade me from finishing my meal. Using the phone at the cashier’s counter, I called a cab to spirit me away from this carnival of sideshow freaks; the residents of Twisted Falls. I have to give them credit though; they sure know how to make a fortune from their misfortune.

The cab driver remained silent for the twenty-five mile trip to the Valley Travel Bureau in Green Valley. He dropped me at the door of the agency in the lush farming community. It was hard to believe that this vibrant, flourishing community remained in such close proximity to the hazardous waste site I had just left.

I stepped inside and was met with a large smile and a heavy accent, beckoning me to have a seat in a chair at the service counter.



“Hey, Shoogah! Mah nayme is Margot,” she stated, with emphasis on the first syllable. “Thayt’s with a tay, but it’s sahlent, you say,” she went on. “What cain ah due for yoo, tuhday?”

Margot spoke with a very heavy accent, dragging each word out as if it were difficult and caused pain. It sure was painful to my ears. The way she said sugar, it felt like she was drawing my head in closer, ever so slowly, on the first syllable, and snapping it back abruptly on the second. One could get whiplash from a conversation with this woman. I had to concentrate to understand what she was saying.

“I’d like a ticket to Seres,” I offered, telling her the country I was destined toward.

“Thayer’s lots a ayerports there, sweetie,” she snapped back. “Cayer tuh narrow it dowan for may a bit?”

“Oh, I‘m sorry, I have some business to conduct in Fengjin.


“Dew yoo have all yer papahs, huhnay?”

“Yes, everything’s in order,” I averred, passing the documents to her.

“Hah soon wood yoo be wantin’ tuh leave, Shoogah?”

“I’d like to leave as soon as possible.”

“Wayell, consid-ran the nearast ayerport too heeyah is a ways away, tomorruh wood be the soonest yood get fly outah thayer.”

“That would be fine, Margot.”

She proceeded to bang away on the keyboard in front of her computer monitor, paying extra attention to her fingernails; fearing she may break one, I would presume. I was thankful that all of her attention was on her nails; it kept her from talking. I think one more word from her at that moment, and I might feel compelled to strangle her. I mustered my resolve and somehow made it through the ordeal. I am positive I lost several points of my IQ from the exchange.



Soon she printed out a ticket and handed it to me. “Thayer yoo go, Mistah Morgan.”

“Thank you for everything, Margot.”

Jesse Morgan. Huh; another identity that will soon disappear. Thanks to previous business dealings for my father, I was able to provide the fake identification to the travel agent. To my knowledge, he and I are the only ones aware of this alter ego of mine. But who (or what) am I; really?

I was able to make it to the “ayerpowt,” as Margot says it; caught my flight on time; and made it through customs; all without incident. My documents were in order and the baggage check went rather quickly, having only two small bags with me. Now on the ground in Seres, I hailed a cab and made my way to Fengjin. I knew if anyone could help me get a new start on life, that person was here.

I checked in to a local inn and took some time to freshen up and relax after the long ride before setting out on my business. I now felt like I have no purpose. I had nowhere to be; nowhere to go. I shook off my melancholy mood and headed out.

I made my way to the market place where I used to conduct business for my father’s company. I stopped by the Relics shop, just to say hello to the proprietor, Wu Xio. She had become a good friend over the years. Most of my business was done through her.



I wanted to tell her myself that I would no longer be doing business for my dad’s company and that Kenan would be taking my place. She had met him on several occasions when I had brought him along, so the transition should go smoothly. She was sorry to hear that I would no longer be conducting business with her. I assured her that I would still make it a point to come back and visit my friends.

I made my way around to the other shops and said my helloes. I had become acquainted with many of the shop owners here in the village. I left word with the book shop merchant that I was looking for Shen Su.

Shen Su was an underground merchant, dealing in black market goods among other illegal activities. I knew he could tell me who could give me a new identity that would start me on a clean slate with no way to tie me to Paul.

The next day, I received word that Shen Su would meet me in the garden of the Wan-Yong Martial Arts Academy in a nearby village. I obtained directions to the academy and left shortly before lunchtime. I arrived in time to wander about the academy. It was relatively new and the garden was so peaceful. I was told many came here to meditate.

“My old friend; what brings you to Seres?” a familiar voice behind me inquired.



“Friend! Thank you for meeting with me! I am hoping you can provide me with some information.”

“Ahh, information does not come cheap, my old friend.”

“It never does,” I acknowledged. “I need to start my life anew; with a new identity; in a new place.”

“Oh, that is an easy and costly one,” he said, lifting one eyebrow and informing me of his price.

“That’s not a problem. Whatever it takes,” I assured him. He knew I was good for the money.

“There is a man in the Paradisae Archipelago who can fulfill your needs. He is a pawn broker on Palma Island.”

“I’ve heard of the Archipelago, a large group of equatorial islands, but have not traveled there.”

“The islands are home to many indigenous cultures and tribes. You may even find a place to call home there.

“Perhaps I will.”

“You should know I am aware of your plight; and I do hope you find what it is you are looking for.”

“I don’t even know what it is that I am looking for. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me, old friend,” I said, as I opened my wallet and paid his fee.

“Ah, but your wallet has just thanked me. It is always a pleasure to see you. I do hope I will see you again before too long.” I bowed to Shen Su and left the garden.

I made my way to the regional airport and booked passage to the Paradisae Archipelago. The capital city wasn’t very large, but it had a little of everything. I found a motorcycle dealer and ended up purchasing a nice ride; in cash; for an absurd price. I rode to the village on the other end of the island. I rode around for a bit, taking in the sights until I found the Pawn Broker Shop. I ventured in and looked around, perusing the goods on the shelves.



There weren’t any other customers in the shop, so it wasn’t long before the clerk came to offer assistance. He informed me that he had my request was waiting, recognizing me from the description he received along with the request. I had assumed I would have to bring the request to this man myself; then wait several days for it to be fulfilled. I made a mental note to thank Shen Su for all of his assistance.

The man opened a folder upon the counter and proceeded to “give” me a new identity. Everything I needed was there; passport, identification card, driver’s license, everything. It was overwhelming and exciting becoming someone else.




He placed a shredder upon the counter and instructed me to finally retire the old me. He walked away to leave me to my task. After I finished destroying Paul and Jesse, he walked back over, emptied the contents of the shredder into a bag and handed it to me, with instructions to dispose of it; perhaps a bonfire at the beach.

“How much do I owe you?”

“It’s already taken care of. Someone must really think highly of you to have taken care of this for you.”

“I suppose so. I’m sure it couldn’t have been a small fee, either. Who knows of this new identity?”

“No one does, sir. Not even me. The name is randomly generated by several computers, so your full identity cannot be traced to one source. Each computer is used to complete its portion of the documents and then passed on to the next. The completed documents are then placed in a sealed container and delivered to the client. This protects [i]the operation[/i] as well as the client.”

“Thank you,” was all I could muster. I was quite overwhelmed by the whole process. I gathered up the documents and turned to leave.

“Have a good [i]new[/i] life, sir. Make sure you become very familiar with the new you,” he said as I was leaving the shop.

I simply turned and waved, continuing outside. Although nothing had physically changed, it felt strange just to know I was someone else.

I wandered around the village for a short while. A notice on the board outside of the grocery store caught my eye. A beach home on nearby Vanusa Island was being sold by the owner. The hand written information below the picture said their partner had just passed away and they didn’t want to live out there alone. “Out there” also peaked my interest. It was worth checking out.



The house was perfect. It was still available and on a secluded stretch of beach. The owner had already removed their contents, as there was a previous party interested. The deal fell through at the last minute for some reason. It wasn’t any of my business and, quite frankly, didn’t care to know.

I walked toward the front door of my new house. I know I just have a new name; a new identity; but I felt as if I was looking at the world with a whole new perspective; a new outlook; excited at the prospect of being Jadon’s life living on this remote beach.

The first couple months I kept busy; decorating the house; and planting a garden. As the house became furnished and the garden established, there was less to do. I was finding more free time. I found a sculptors wheel and workbenches in the garage.

Looking out upon the sea, I took a few minutes to decide what I wanted to do with myself now that I had no job to go to; no family to call my own anymore. Instead, all I could dwell upon was that night I found out about myself; how it all came to light. If HE hadn’t visited, I might still not know the truth.



I remember that night as if it were yesterday…

I was taking an evening stroll along the beach. I heard something behind me. I turned around to find him standing there. I was not startled at all; it was as if I [i]knew[/i] he was there before I turned around.

“May I help you?” I inquired.



“I believe it is I who may help you,” he said smugly.

“I doubt that; I don’t even know you.”

“Ah, but you do. Look deep within your soul. You’ll find the truth.”

“And what, pray tell, would that truth be?”

I couldn’t help but notice the marking on the back of his wrist while he talked. It was the same kind of marking I have on my wrist. What does this marking mean?



“In time you will come to realize the truth…” he said as he turned and began to walk away.

He turned his head back to look at me as he walked and continued, “The truth of who you are; [i]what[/i] you are. You will not be able to deny yourself for much longer…”

And with that, he vanished. I have not seen nor heard from him since.