But she was no longer with the sisterhood.
Screw it. There was no being sweet today.
“Okay. I'll go inside with you guys.”
Fishhook slowly lowered his gun, then motioned to her. “Pass me the sword . . . slowly.”
Karma walked to him, holding it out. “All right. Here you go.”
When he reached for it, she spun low, slashing across his Achilles tendons. The guy screamed in pain, falling to the ground. Karma stepped on his wrist and took the gun from him. When Baby Face charged, she shot him in the face. Eli reached for the knife Baby Face dropped, but before he got to it, Karma sliced her blade up and cut him across his shoulder. He twisted all about, screaming, yet did not fall.
On the ground, Fishhook cried out, “I can't believe you shot Baby Face. Oh, my ankles. I need help. I can’t get up. Please.” He was pleading for help.
He was also bleeding profusely, but soon, crawled his way down the road. Eli followed him, trying to get his buddy back standing. It was not happening.
Karma took a long breath, and without looking back, walked down to the dock.
She knew she would never be permitted on a boat with a gun. It wouldn't be easy to get on with her sword to begin with, but the gun? When she started to contemplate throwing it to the side, she suddenly thought perhaps it would be a good tradable asset for passage. So, she held onto it for the time being.
She finally got to the dock, and saw a large boat out in the water that a few people were boarding.
It seemed like one of her safer options. Where ever it went she’d be fine with. A boat only posed so much risk. She walked to the gangway, seeing a man standing at the top watching all who wanted to get on the vessel.
She then saw a patrol-like group of men at the top, all holding rifles. They soon looked her up and down. She had to go up and on board, no matter what.
She was a petite and pretty thing. The men gawked and saw so much promise in her, but lots of people had good looks. That didn't mean they could afford to travel. A man blocking her route on board wore a crimson mask over the lower half of his face. He put his hand out, stopping her. She had an odd forehead tattoo. He saw that and also a funky white strip of hair cascading down her long black locks. He held her up, looking her over more and more.
“This is not a free trip. What do you offer to get on?” he asked with a grin.
Karma pulled out the gun, holding it out to the man. He took the weapon, looking it over, and seemed satisfied. He then let her on board without another word spoken. That went better than I thought it would, she mulled.
She still had her sword, and that was cool.
The boat crossed the river into a larger bay. It stopped on a small isle so all could board a larger ferry to continue. It took about forty-five minutes for them to get to a secluded, fairly large private isle.
The log buildings here seemed in very good condition. Many had boats that were tied up in the marsh, and she saw several gardens and animal pens, implying it was a self-sufficient area that relied heavily on the people working as a unit here. It was somewhere to begin, she thought, leaving the ferry.
Karma was led to a lodge by a tall, camouflaged soldier man where she came upon a red-haired woman with thick green glasses.
In a sassy voice, the woman, who was probably in her mid-thirties, said, “Well, who do we have here? What’s your name, little lady?”
Karma rolled her eyes at such a stupid question. She was no longer the little girl who’d run away from her mining community. Since joining the sisterhood, she’d become more mature in body and mind. She looked at the woman, who seemed to be waiting impatiently for her to answer.
She had no reason to lie, so she explained that she was from Wyoming and had made her way out here to search for a better life. The woman nodded, listening. Karma asked her now, “What’s your name?”
The woman appeared a bit surprised, but replied, “You may call me Miss Deville.” She cocked her head at Karma. “So . . . What do you have to offer us here in Pine Haven? We do things our way here. We grow all our own food and are very community-orientated. We work together to create a high standard of living away from the crap you just came from. I ask again. Other than your cute looks, an odd tattoo, that strange white streak in your hair, and a tight little body, what do you have to offer us?”
Now Karma was the one taken aback. This woman was weird. The questions were silly!
Karma was slightly built, but a Mystical Slayer none the less, tough as nails, and if these people gave her a chance to contribute, she was more than physically able.
“I can do whatever you need. I'm more than capable of doing anything and am not afraid of physical labor.”
The woman nodded and actually smiled. “If you want to stick around, it might work. We have a meeting later this evening. You are welcome to come to that and hear more.” She nodded to a man now standing behind Karma. “Doclin will take you to your quarters, then later he'll show you around. Welcome to Pine Haven, kid!”
Karma was glad to hear a welcome. Yet, she was no kid. This wasn’t so hard after all. It was then, though, that her sword was taken from her via the tall soldier for safe measure. She frowned at such precaution.
Doclin, a nice-looking young man of maybe twenty or so, led her to a log home and an apartment-like room a decent way down the dirt road.
She had brought very little with her, besides her bag.
Doclin, who had somewhat curly, short brown hair, and actually looked a bit like an older Johan, then said, “Listen, you can stay here and freshen up. Later, head over to the main lodge. Just take a right down the dirt road and you won't miss it.”
As he turned to go, he looked back at her. “You’ll get to meet the village leader, Ravel, tonight, too.”
Karma smiled. “Can you tell me about him before you go?”
Doclin paused, as if thinking. “Well, he's a decent man who cares about the people here. He likes things done his way, though. It’s best you watch your step with his sassy partner, Barb Deville. You met her when you arrived. She’s a devil of a woman.”
Karma seemed at odds with his last thoughts. “Why is she so bad?”
Doclin laughed. “She’s got no virtue and is full of jealousy. A girl like you, with your soft skin and shiny black hair . . . Just watch yourself.”
Karma narrowed her eyes. Since they had just met and she had sensed the woman was a bit off, she bit her lip, curious even more now, and called out to this guide. “What is that supposed to mean?”
Doclin shook his head, calling back, ‘You’ll see,” and walked down the road.
Karma ran out the door. “That’s it? No more info? When are you going to show me around?”
He just waved goodbye over his shoulder and walked on.
As she sat and waited for the community event, a young blonde girl showed up to escort her about the area. It was a nice surprise. They talked some and while they walked, she told the girl, whose name was Abby, that the place seemed nice. Abby nodded, remaining silent, so as to not really answer.
They spotted a few cars on the road. All were self-driven, the occupants sitting at the wheel doing whatever they wanted. Some were even in the passenger seat. Karma also a few robots walking about and doing chores at some of the homes.
After about an hour of looking around, she was taken to the main lodge.
Many long tables were situated inside. Abby told her the community would often join together not only for meetings, but for meals. She noticed several Bloom bars being put out on the table for tonight's meeting. These bars, imported from England, were said to contain green tea, various antioxidants, elderberry, and were fully organic.
There was certainly no shortage of supplies here.
As they left the lodge and walked down the road, they passed the Market Square. Karma noticed a black-skinned, older, hippie-like woman with long, grayish dreads selling some sort of pottery.
She began to walk over, but Abby
grabbed her by the shoulder. “Better not go that way. She’s really nuts. Her name is Miggie, and she’ll end up talking your ear off. Let's just go the other way.”
Karma followed her escort away from the area. She was shown a medical center, a garden made for meditation, a close by swimming hole, and many other places thereafter.
When they were finally back at her log cabin apartment, she had to ask, “So this place seems almost too good to be true. What am I missing here?”
Abby shook her head. “Just go to the meeting tonight. Okay?” She scratched her blonde hair a bit, then turned and headed out.
Karma shrugged. Yeah, I’ll do that.
As she settled in, she thought about her sisters back home. Wow. This is a whole different setting here.
She supposed this was the sort of utopia the women in Washington hoped for worldwide. Just a little community that would thrive, growing and eating their own food, having group meetings and meals, and keeping people safe above all else. She guessed it could be possible in the right places.
But wouldn’t it be boring? She pondered that for a bit.
The thought was quickly smashed when a face appeared in the window, scaring her quite a bit, making her jump and cry out.
The woman spoke in a somewhat scratchy voice. “It’s not what it appears. They will manipulate and hypnotize you, then take your life. It’s best if you leave now.”
Karma was ready to run out to talk to this person, but the shadowy figure spoke again quickly, “Heed my warning. Go . . . Before it's too late. Take the next boat out of here.”
Karma ran out, but the woman had disappeared.
She had recognized her, however. It was the old hippie woman from the market. Maybe she was crazy, or perhaps she knew something Karma didn’t.
Later, when time came for the community gathering, Karma was one of the first to arrive.
Others soon began trickling in. Lots of the families had young children, but she didn’t see many people her age. When she saw Abby and her family, she let out a relieved breath.
As more people came in, she spotted a few guys appear in the double door entryway. They were armed and wore green military-type uniforms. As Karma continued to watch, more of these men walked in with a man who appeared to be the leader of the community.
Judging by his looks, he had some sort of Southern upbringing. Maybe Florida. Perhaps he was Columbian? He smiled and looked at ease as he raised his hand, waving to many in the crowd and shaking hands with others as he made his way to a podium.
She overheard someone say, “Juan is speaking now. Come on, everyone, be quiet.”
Karma remembered she had been told the leader’s name was something else, but she listened now, perhaps over-thinking things.
Juan, who was not very tall, had dark hair and matching sideburns and wore an olive-green tailored jacket and slacks. He appeared to be in his mid-thirties.
He cleared his throat. “Welcome. We are gathered here tonight to acknowledge the fact that it has been two years since we took this island for our own and made a life. Two years already . . . Can you imagine? Time really flies. Most would be very envious of us.”
The people all responded with smiles and applause, seemingly happy to be there.
Then Barb Deville walked in. Karma heard a random voice near her whisper, “Right on time to make her grand entrance.”
Miss Deville, with her red hair propped up high now, made her way up to stand beside Juan, then sat in a chair next to the village leader. She wore a tight, crimson-red romper dress. It was strapless and hung down over her chest, not shoulders. She smiled a wicked grin to all watching.
Juan continued, “Out in that world”—he pointed toward the bay— “they are not so fortunate. The power-hungry scratch and dig for more wealth, more control, and even kill just to stay alive and prosper. No one really knows their place, but in this community, all can thrive.” He raised his voice. “It is here, in Pine Haven, if you pull your weight and help, you will be looked after, cared for, and safe.
“Tonight is a good night. Some of our people have returned from the hunt; others have returned from crabbing. We will share all with everyone. When you leave, you'll be able to pick up crates of the crabs and some fresh spring water. Plus, I know what you all enjoy.” He smirked, winking. “Yes indeed, the whiskey has been packed and bottled to give to each and every one of you as our special evening gift as well.”
The people started clapping again, happy to hear of such generosity.
Juan then raised his arms. “Enjoy supper, everyone. Dance, mingle, and have a great night. Thanks for coming, and always remember. Do your part, play your role, and all will be just fine. Again, thank you. Thank you all very much.”
CHAPTER THREE
Well, he seemed nice enough, thought Karma as she walked about, snacking on a few items.
After she stayed for a bit, watching others dance and make merry, she exited the building, still wanting to know what role people played on this island. That was the biggest question that still lingered in her head.
The people about saw her kanji tattoo on her forehead and it seemed to make them feel uneasy. She was not sure of what to think of that, either. She tried to be nice and talk to people and a few did said hello to her as well.
Just as she was about to head down the road, Juan appeared, giving her a big smile.
“I thought you might want this back,” he said, holding Karma’s sword out to her. He did not linger. “I hope you enjoy your stay here.” He then made his way back inside the building.
She frowned. That was odd. Anyhow, she had her katana again.
Even so, she headed back down a dirt road towards the apartment complex, looking forward to a restful night's sleep. The fresh air had her tired.
Karma, for the first time ever, was free. It was an odd sensation, yet it felt pretty good.
She wondered if maybe it was time to take the sisterhood’s Starigen 6280 formula she had stolen before she left. Then she began thinking about her past misuse of the formula, deciding maybe, just maybe, she’d stop taking it. She was aging quickly. Perhaps she should have taken the dosage more seriously when first told to be careful.
Lost in thought, a squirrel jumped in front of her, making her gasp. It shook her back to reality. She hurried down the trail, more focused on her surroundings, soon making it back to her cabin room.
As she lay down to rest, she started thinking about Sun, Victory, Naiera, Johan, and all the other younger members back in Washington, D.C. Then her mind turned to Gavin. It still made her very upset and was the whole reason she ran away. The older people at home didn't seem to care. She held such though for over an hour, unable to fall asleep.
It was then that she heard a noise inside her room. She stilled, listening intently.
Her eyes widened as she looked at a dark corner within, a spot where she thought the sound had come from. There was a creak of a wooden board, or maybe it was a door opening. Either way, she had definitely heard something.
Then a woman whispered, “Be quiet. Don’t say anything.”
Karma paused, waiting.
“People are coming for you,” the voice explained. “You need to come with me.”
Karma debated on what to do. She could fight her, now seeing the outline of a woman, or she could just stay still and wait for more talk.
As her eyes adjusted, she could make out Miggie, the woman from the market.
Karma could not hold back. “What are you talking about? Everything is fine here.”
Miggie was a dark-skinned African-American, her hair tied up in dreads and hanging some in her face. It was hard to tell her age. Her face was dirty and her clothing in layers.
She rushed forward and got in Karma’s face. “We have to go. Trust me.” She pointed to the back door. “Come now. Come.”
Karma was trained as a Mystical Slayer. She was taught to use her “one spot”, her intuitive thought process, or sixth sense, as the sister
hood’s leader, Reagan, called it. This woman before her seemed legit, so she stood and went with her outside.
The moonlight was their only light source.
Both ran swiftly toward the woods. Just as they cleared the log building, they looked back. They saw a couple of roofless jeeps drive up.
Miggie looked at Karma, eyebrows raised. “It is good you listened to me. We have to get further away.” She turned and ran off, Karma following.
She was surprised that the older woman could run so fast and not tire out.
Eventually, Karma needed to stop, placing her hands on her knees, panting. “I can't go any farther. Please. Can we rest a second?’’
With a sigh, Miggie stopped, looking around.
Once her breathing started to slow, Karma asked, “Who are you really, and what do you want of me? What’s going on?”
The older woman gestured to her. “I will explain, but we have to keep moving.”
She then led her to a creek. After ten minutes, they came to a clearing. Karma stopped suddenly at what she saw by the water.
She spotted several members of the community there, some with burlap sacks over their heads, while others arrived in vans at this very moment. Something was going on here and it was not normal. Both the women watching ducked back into the bushes and hid.
Karma looked at Miggie for an explanation, yet she only placed a finger to her mouth for quietness. They then looked back out by the shoreline.
It looked like the sack covered people were teens. They were ushered to the water and stood there, shivering in the night air as each was now being stripped naked. Some of the army-like guards she had spotted earlier stood around, watching, and it was next that Juan appeared.
Karma furrowed her brows, shaking her head. “I don’t understand.”
Miggie whispered, “Now do you see why I warned you? You must follow me to a place where a boat can get you off this island.”
Karma nodded. “Okay.” She looked to the water again, somewhat freaked out.
“I can bring back help for you too. I promise,” Karma added, touching Miggie on the shoulder.
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