A Temporal Trust (The Temporal Book 2)
Page 25
“She wore only a ring. There were no other personal effects.” Marcus’ voice was matter-of-fact, but not without a nuance of emotion.
“And the head? What did you do with it?”
“At the first opportunity,” said Marcus without remorse or delight, “we burned it to ashes.”
“No matter her crimes—crimes against you and me personally, she was a Temporal. A pity.” Khan’s head focused on Kaileen’s long fingers, fingers that had caused the death and suffering of many. His stern frown seemed to be permanently etched into his face. “We will not talk of this now.”
Bae Khan backed away and motioned for the one with the torch to finish. As the blaze caught, Khan and the others walked to Suteko and Sam who were congregated around Marcus.
“Sam,” Khan said, extending his hand but keeping his face expressionless, “We have been waiting a long time for you.”
Sam wasn’t sure how to respond as he shook the offered hand. “A long time, sir?”
He turned back to Marcus. “You are sure, Marcus?”
“I am sure, Khan-ssi.”
The Korean man turned back to Sam, tilting his head slightly. The examination continued for over a minute without a word or further question. Sam began to feel uncomfortable as if he was being examined for some twisted use. The silence of the man was punctuated irregularly by the crackle of fire behind him. Everyone’s attention was on these two men—even Suteko who had blamed herself for Hikari’s death seemed totally absorbed by the silent drama unfolding.
“For a millennium, we have waited for you, Sam. And now it is time for you to finish the work you were destined to accomplish.”
About the Author:
CJ Martin, originally from Florida, spent several years in Japan learning the language and soaking up the culture. Many of his stories draw from this experience.
The Tanaka series of short stories and novels explore one Japanese man’s desire to protect his family and end the cycle of violence prompted by a group of revenge-minded yakuza. Betrayal, murder, timeless friendship, and family secrets abound, delving deep into Tanaka’s past.
In the style of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, The Agora Mysteries is a series of novelettes written from the perspective of Mr. Carl Brooks, the last surviving member of the legendary Agora Society. Using his considerable intellect and knowledge of esoteric matters, Mr. Brooke cleverly thwarts criminals and solves cold cases. Look for Two Tocks before Midnight, The Penitent Thief, and the Peace Party Massacre in the series.
The Temporal is a supernatural thriller about a group of people with special, almost super-hero abilities and a dark group of creatures called the Nephloc. Book two of the Temporal series, A Temporal Trust, is available now.
Please contact the author at cj@kotobainc.com or visit his blog at: http://cjmartinbooks.com
Your comments and questions are most welcome.
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