Second Sight (Hollows Ground Book 1)

by J. A. Culican

  “How was it?” A small smile forms around his mouth. “You haven't puked yet, so you're already doing better than my first time.” One of his dimples appears.

  I untangle my hands from his shirt and take a weak step back as my stomach does a small tumble. My eyes roam the small room we’ve landed in as I swallow the bile that’s threatening to escape. Light casts through the iron-barred door to my right. There is nothing else in the room.

  “I’ll be okay.” I hold my stomach lightly as it begins to settle down. “Where are we headed?”

  “A not so nice part of town.” Luka grabs my hand and cracks the door open. “Stay close and stay alert. We’re not far.”

  Luka drags me through the door and quietly closes it behind us. We’re standing in an alley; the wind carries the smell of old, rotten food and death as we head deeper down the street.

  My eyes squeeze shut in hopes to stall the visions waiting to assault me. It seems death is everywhere here.

  “We need to move faster.” Luka’s hand squeezes tighter around mine.

  “I know.” I exhale. “There is so much death here.” Inhale.

  My trust is in Luka as he guides me through the desolate part of town. My mind is focused on my breathing and keeping my visions from overtaking me. My first mission is going to be a doozy, I can already tell. I need to stay centered.

  A crash to my right forces me to open my eyes. A glimmer hugs the sky around us as light bounces within a globe. It looks as though someone has dropped a dome in the middle of the city.

  “What is this?” My hand vibrates as it hovers over the glimmer.

  “A shield. It keeps all non-magic people out.” Luka passes his hand through the shield. “Only those with magic can see it. Other will pass right through it without seeing what really lies within.”

  “And what exactly lies within?” I ask, pulling my hand back.

  “A battle.” Luka shakes his head. “Something has changed. The Wraiths never used to start fights on the surface. It’s too chancy. One thing both the Shades and the Wraiths have always agreed on is keeping our gifts a secret. The world just isn't ready to know the truth.” Luka closes his eyes and grabs my hand. “Let’s go.” He pulls me through the barrier.

  Static energy zips through me as an epic battle wages in front of me. Streaks of light zoom past us as Luka pushes me to the ground. I crumble beneath Luka’s weight, my head pounding from the pressure of holding my visions in. My fingers tunnel in the dirt beneath me as the first vision breaks through, but the man is already gone.

  “Can you stand?” Luka whispers in my ear. “Kasik’s barricade isn’t far.”

  I shake my head as I push my forehead into the ground, and another vision hits. Two men are exchanging huge balls of fire. One of the men looks familiar, I’ve seen him at the gym. The ball slams into his back.

  “He needs to move. Move him now!” I shout at Luka.

  “Who?” Luka asks as the ground beneath us shakes.

  “The fire guy, the pyrokinetic, he’s going to get hit.” I squeeze my eyes tighter.

  “Really, you brought her here?” Luna sneers from above us.

  “Kasik ordered it,” Luka replies as he tries to pull me off the ground.

  I wiggle away and push my forehead harder to the dirt. They’re running out of time.

  “Move him. Now!” I screech into the ground.

  “Get Alec out of there, somethings going to happen to him,” Luka commands.

  “Says who, he knows what he’s doing―”

  “Now, Luna. Move him now.” Kasik orders from nearby.

  The vision shakes and I watch as the man I presume to be Alec is forced toward us by some invisible force. An explosion goes off right where he had just been. I exhale in relief. That’s one. The first I’ve managed to save.

  “Let’s move. Alec grab her other side.”

  Someone tugs my body off the ground and we’re moving. My eyes are still shut as visions race behind my eyelids. My head lulls forward as my body goes tense.

  “Luna, get down,” I shout as my eyes flick open.

  Kasik pushes her to the ground just as a lightning bolt whizzes over their heads. That’s two. I exhale. My back hits a wall as I slide back down to the ground. Dark hair cascades around me as the next vision hits. Oh, God.

  “A red dump truck full of rocks. Get it out of here. Hurry, it’s going to hit the barricade.”

  “Now, Luna. Alec, you heard her. Get rid of it,” Kasik orders

  My vision wobbles as I see a group of Wraiths coming around the corner blades outstretched toward another Shade.

  “No. Throw it toward the post office. By the flag pole.”

  The dump truck flies through the air, hitting the corner right where the Wraiths stand. I see their deaths. The deaths of my supposed enemy is no easier to watch then those I protect. I lose count of how many I saved, but the number I’ve killed is three.

  Energy vibrates around me as other Shades join us behind the barrier. Chatter is held around me as I center myself once again. The visions have stopped and my body relaxes.

  “They’re retreating.” Luka kneels down in front of me as my eyes crack open. “Wow.” Luka moves closer to me. “Your eyes are almost glowing.” Both dimples emerge.

  My breath hitches as I take in his expression. He seems in awe as he looks me over. My stomach tosses once again as pressure builds behind my eyes. Another vision, one I’m sure I don't want to see. My palms push up against my eyes as I focus on my breathing.

  Luka pushes my hair away from my face as his fingers tangle within it. “I can feel your fear. You did amazing. You saved us all. Kasik is impressed. Just relax.”

  Luka has misinterpreted my fear. My fear isn't of Kasik but of what I did. I may have saved some Shades, but I killed some Wraiths. The feeling doesn't sit well with me. Their deaths are on my hands.

  Luka’s fingers leave my hair and land on my neck. “Come on. We can head back now. You need some rest.”

  With Luka’s help, I find my feet. I need more than just rest; my whole body is exhausted. Each vision keeps replaying in my head as a reminder of my actions as the Shades around me celebrate their victory.

  “Come on.” Luke guides me away from the others. “I know a shortcut home.” His arm wraps around me. “Jace, can you teleport us back? Ela’s energy is zapped.”

  It’s the guy I saw near the post office who almost had a back full of knives. His once pulled-back blue hair is now loose around his face, accentuating his bright azure eyes.

  “No problem. Thanks by the way, what you did today saved my life and many others.” Jace places his hands on our shoulders. “Take a big breath.”

  A flash of light explodes around us. I fall backward and land on Luka’s couch. Tears streak my cheeks and a laugh leaves my lips as everything that has just happened hits me. I actually used my curse to save people. But then again, I also used it to kill people. Then there's this whole teleporting thing. I lean my head back against the cool leather and blow out a harsh breath.

  “I’m really proud of you. You jumped right in today and got the job done. Things would have ended up much differently if you hadn't been there. You should be extremely proud of yourself.”

  Luka hands me a glass of water. I didn't even hear him get it. I sit up and take a sip. Proud. I do feel it, but there’s something else there, too. Something I’m not proud of.

  “How many Wraiths have you killed?” I ask without thinking.

  Luka sits back down beside me. “Personally, not many. I’m used more to gauge emotions, deciding the frames of mind our opponents are in. I’m able to predict an outcome of a fight based on how the Wraiths feel. Scared. Confident. I’m not usually a part of the actual combat.”

  “I killed three―”

  “But saved many more.” Luka’s arm wraps around my shoulders.

  My body trembles from the contact as I think about our friendship. Anything more was never an option for me. But now that I
have some control, I wonder if a future with Luka is possible.

  “Are you cold?” Luka glances down at me.

  “Nah, just tired.” I stare at the coffee table in front of me.

  “You should rest and shower,” he says. “I’ll make us some food.”

  I push off the couch, leaving Luka’s warmth behind. I stumble down the hall and push my door open, quickly closing it behind me. I lean against my closed door and sigh, my body exhausted. Something on my bed catches my eyes. A note.

  Mirela―

  The Shades have been lying to you. They aren't who you think they are. If you value your freedom, meet me tonight at the corner of Park and Newton.

  TR

  TR, the initials don’t sound familiar. Park and Newton are only a few blocks away. We pass by there almost every day when heading to the training facility. The Shades aren't who I think they are? What does that mean?

  Maxwell’s words echo in my head. “The Shades aren't what they seem either. You must protect yourself, stay true to yourself.” What was Maxwell warning me of? I need to know before any more blood is on my hands. My mind is made up. Tonight, I’ll meet the elusive TR. Tonight, I’ll find out what he knows.

  My feet hit the ground with a quiet thud. The moon's light is hidden behind the clouds as most of Hollows Ground sleeps. My fingers are crossed that Luka stays that way. I debated throughout dinner whether or not to tell Luka about the note, but in the end, I knew I had to come alone.

  Thankfully the streets are deserted and my rendezvous point isn’t far. As I creep closer to where TR asked me to meet, a chill races up my back. This could very well be a trap. I knew that before I left, but now that I’m only a few steps away, reality hits me. The only comfort I have is that there’s no feeling of my impending death. Surely, I’ll see my own death before it happens. A shadow moves as I turn down Park Drive. The shadow steps out under a lone ray of light that has escaped between the clouds.

  “I won't hurt you. That I can promise you.” A deep voice carries to me.

  Something about the man is familiar. His broad shoulders tower over me and his long brown hair hangs in his face. With a brush of his hand across his forehead, deep green eyes appraise me.

  Slowly, he steps toward me. “My name is Talon,” he says with his hand held out in front of him.

  “I’m―”

  “Mirela. I know.”

  Talon steps closer, waiting for me to grasp his hand. I stare at his face, certain that I know him from somewhere.

  “We must stay in the shadows. No one should see us.” He gestures to the side of the nearby building with his still-outstretched hand.

  My feet move to where he points but my eyes stay glued to his face. “How do I know you?” I ask with a shake of my head.

  “You don’t.” Talon looks both ways down the street before joining me. “But you’ve seen me.”

  Then it hits me. “You were there today. You’re a Wraith.” I stumble over my own feet as I step back.

  He nods his response.

  “I saw you. You tried to kill Alec.” My hands shake at my side. “You can control fire.”

  “Because of you, Alec is alive, but many of my men aren't.” He holds his hands out in front of him. “I’m not here to hurt you.”

  “Then why?”

  “You’re new. Before today, I’ve never seen you around. I’m sure Kasik wouldn't have been able to keep you hidden all this time. He surely would’ve used you by now.” He tilts his head in observation. “Where’d he steal you from?”

  “Steal? He didn't steal me. I―” I look to the ground. He didn't technically steal me.

  “I don't have much time. Your keeper will be looking for you soon.” He sighs. “Listen, I can only imagine what Kasik has told you about the Wraiths. It’s not true.” He steps closer and peers down at me. “The Shades leave damage and destruction in their wake. They are out to control, to hurt. They cause chaos and anarchy―”

  “Stop.” I pull away from his gaze. “You have it all wrong. Luka told me all about you and your kind. I’ve seen it with my own eyes.”

  “You’ve only seen what they want you to see. The Wraiths have done nothing but instill order and stability in all mankind. Magic or not, we protect all. Including you.”

  “You lie. I saw the battle today. You weren't there to protect anyone.” Visions from earlier dance through my head as I squeeze my eyes shut.

  “We only sacrifice people when it’s needed to preserve the fragile balance of peace.” He tips my head back to look at him. “The Shades came after us. They tried to harm our own. They are out to control all.”

  “The Shades fight for freedom. It’s you who are out to control. The stock market and oil companies―”

  Talon’s fingers shut my mouth. “How can they truly be freedom fighters if they’re using you against your will?” His eyebrows arch. “Or maybe I’m wrong and you're able to leave whenever you want.” He drops his hands.

  “I’m here to keep them safe. If the Wraiths gets their hands on me, they―you—will use me, or worse.” A pounding in my head begins as I take in Talon’s size. Here I am, alone with a Wraith.

  “We would do nothing but protect you, and that would only happen if you wanted us to. You’d be free to make your own choices.”

  “I don’t believe you. You're playing me,” I mutter.

  His words make me question everything I’ve been told. No one has shown me any proof of the Wraiths’ wrongdoings. And what Talon says is right. They’ll never let me leave; I will always belong to the Shades. The girl with the multicolored hair pops into my head. The first day I was here, I remember watching her use her finger to pay for her food. I’d joked with Luka about big brother, but maybe there was much more truth to it then I had first thought. The swiping in everywhere we go, even to open his front door. My hands scrub at my face as each small detail comes back to me.

  “Mirela.” Talon pulls my hands down. “I’m here to help, if you want it.”

  I look up into dark pools of forest green eyes. I want to believe him, just as I want to believe Luka. Both blame the other for all the wrong in the world. Both make the promise they are doing what's right. What's best for all.

  “I need to head back, before the moon fully rises. But I want to offer you the protection of the Wraiths. You are welcome to join us. If you do, I can promise you your freedom. You will owe us nothing. We will use you for nothing. Of course, you are welcome to help us on our fight for freedom, but you will never be forced.” He breaks eye contact with me and looks behind me.

  “I’m not sure what to believe.” I glance over my shoulder, following Talon’s sight and seeing nothing. “How can I trust you?”

  “How can you trust the Shades?” He arches his eyebrow at me again. “Listen to your gut. You don’t need to decide now, but fight with caution. The Wraiths won't hesitate to kill you if you’re fighting against them. If we are locked in battle, it’s to keep our own safe.”

  I nod, not sure what to say. I have no idea who to believe or what my next move should be.

  “I’ll be in touch. Think about what I’ve said. Think about who you are and whose side you're really fighting on.”

  Talon disappears around the corner of the building and out of sight. His words reverberate through my head. Whose side am I really fighting on?

  I climb back through my window, lost in my thoughts. Confused. I met Luka’s parents, saw what the Wraiths are capable of and the devastation they left behind. But Luka’s parents knew the risks. Knew what could happen to them in war. They chose to be there; they weren't forced. Not like me.

  My back hits the cool bed. The ceiling fan above me rotates slowly as my mind races. Is it possible I could be fighting for the wrong team? Talon could have easily forced me to go with him, but he didn't. I heave out a breath as exhaustion from today's events hits. I need a good eighteen hours of sleep.

  The door to my room slams open, bouncing against the wall. My heart ham
mers as I jump from my bed and come face to face with Luka.

  “Where’s your coat?” Luka starts ruffling through my few belongings on the dresser. “The Wraiths are on the move. We must hurry.” Luka tosses my sweatshirt to me.

  “We just left them. It’s the middle of the night.” I rub my eyes with my palms.

  It’s been less than a half hour since I left Talon, and only a few short hours since we returned from the fight. I’m not sure how much more I can take today.

  “The Wraiths are heading toward a Gypsy community. They think we aren't watching. Like you said, it’s the middle of the night and they just lost the last fight. Luka shrugs. “My guess is they think we're celebrating, throwing a big party or something. Regardless, we need to move. Now.” He points to the door.

  “Why a Gypsy community? What do they have against them?” My heart sinks.

  “They want to kill them.” Luka shakes his head and heads toward my door, holding it open for me.

  “Why?” Blood pumps through my ears.

  “The gypsies are known to produce the most magical offspring, more than any other race. The Wraiths see them as a threat. They think the Gypsies will rise up against them one day. One of their many goals has been to eradicate them.”

  “They would never,” I whisper.

  My hand grabs the ties to my sweatshirt. We were always on the move when I was little. Is this the reason? Were we constantly running from the Wraiths? No one else held any magic in my community. I’d never even heard of anyone else until the day Drina died. The Wraiths are wrong.

  Once out on the sidewalk, we move fast. My eyes drift around the street as I realize I’m looking for Talon. Is he still here? Or am I going to be fighting against him again in just a short time? I believe him just as I believe Luka. Both sides think they’re the good side.

  Luka bumps my shoulder with his. “You okay?” He shakes his head with a small chuckle. “What am I saying? Look at everything that's happened in just the past twelve hours.” He grabs my hand and squeezes. “Anything you want to talk to me about, you can, always.”