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The Pyres of Destiny: Call of Destiny, #2
The Pyres of Destiny: Call of Destiny, #2
The Pyres of Destiny: Call of Destiny, #2
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The Pyres of Destiny: Call of Destiny, #2

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Since the beginning, evil has walked the earth in many forms, perhaps none more terrifying than what hides behind the mask of humanity.

  • WINNER: Pinnacle Book Achievement Award - Best Thriller
  • FINALIST: Readers' Favorite Book Awards 2022 – Fiction-Suspense

"The graphic details of the story brought me into every event as if I was there. ...I would recommend anyone who enjoys fantasy stories and reading about Native American culture to pick up The Pyres of Destiny." ~ Readers' Favorite Book Reviews, Stephanie Chapman

The trial that captured the world's attention has ended, leaving in its wake a path of humiliation and broken hearts. Jake and Dakota emerge scarred, but free from the shackles of both his past and her guarded secret, anxious to turn the page on a new chapter in their lives. Yet some wounds fester.

Behind the closed doors of the privileged, depravity and dark desires prevail. In a world mired in insatiable appetites and fueled by sins older than mankind, an ancient, evil entity gains strength.

Caught in the crosshairs between two worlds, can Jake and Dakota connect what was to what is? Can they bridge the physical and the supernatural? The Destiny of mankind may well hang in the balance.

EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS the second book in the thrilling "Call of Destiny" series. Set against the backdrop of the American West, a tug of war unfolds between 21st-century forensics, American Indian spirituality, and ancient prophecy. [DRM-Free]

"The pace of the story is fast without being overwhelming. The narrative style is intriguing as well as simple; a nice combination that keeps the attention of readers on the story. The suspense was alive in the story, in fact, it was almost the protagonist." ~ Readers' Favorite Book Reviews, Rabia Tanveer

"...continues to deliver the goods you expect the way its predecessor has delivered. D.M. Earley continues to make Jake and Dakota develop as characters as well as meticulously represent Native American culture. ...The Pyres of Destiny is a potent supernatural drama that stays committed in its depth." ~ Readers' Favorite Book Reviews, Vincent Dublado

 

LanguageEnglish
Release dateNov 20, 2021
ISBN9781622531622
The Pyres of Destiny: Call of Destiny, #2
Author

D.M. Earley

Like many new authors, I said for years I wanted to write a book. Life, careers, and other necessary evils seemed to always derail that goal. Then, last year, on a road trip out west, I found the spark that ignited The Temptation of Destiny. My journey began in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. After high school, I joined the U.S. Coast Guard, spending the better part of eight years busting holes in the sky on C-130s. After the military, my career path meandered through the financial services industry, auto industry, bar industry, and construction management. I am excited to start my next adventure with a move out west, and begin work on my second book. New Mexico, The Land of Enchantment, will provide the rich Native American mythology to take readers on another roller coaster ride (as The Temptation of Destiny does). In my downtime, I enjoy hiking and other outdoor adventures with my wife. Hunting, fishing, and doing everything possible to stay from falling into the “status quo,” fuels me. When it’s time to wind down this adventure we call life, I hope to be sitting in a cabin high in the alpine forests of the Rockies, spending the days with my wife, children, family, and friends, reminiscing about the blessings this life afforded us all.

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    The Pyres of Destiny - D.M. Earley

    Copyright

    www.EvolvedPub.com

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    ~~~

    THE PYRES OF DESTINY

    Call of Destiny – Book 2

    Copyright © 2021 D.M. Earley

    ~~~

    ISBN (EPUB Version): 1622531620

    ISBN-13 (EPUB Version): 978-1-62253-162-2

    ~~~

    Editor: Lane Diamond

    Cover Artist: Richard Tran

    Interior Designer: Lane Diamond

    ~~~

    PUBLISHER’S NOTE:

    At the end of this novel of approximately 158,174 words, you will find a Special Sneak Preview of THE CLOVIS DIG by Teri Fink, a novel combining elements of mystery and historical fiction, laced with American Indian themes. We think you’ll truly enjoy this novel too, and provide this preview as a FREE extra service, which you should in no way consider a part of the price you paid for this book. We hope you will both appreciate and enjoy the opportunity. Thank you.

    ~~~

    eBook License Notes:

    You may not use, reproduce or transmit in any manner, any part of this book without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations used in critical articles and reviews, or in accordance with federal Fair Use laws. All rights are reserved.

    This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only; it may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, please return to your eBook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

    ~~~

    Disclaimer:

    This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or the author has used them fictitiously.

    Author’s Note

    I wish to provide a reasonable heads-up here: there are some... well, difficult scenes in this book. Bad things happen in this world, often done by evil people, and it was important for me to capture that where necessary. I tried not to be gratuitous with any of it, but neither did I want to water it down too much.

    It’s a fine line. I hope I walked it fairly.

    Having said that, if violence, and particularly violence against women, is something you cannot tolerate under any circumstance, then those parts might be a bit too much for you.

    Still, these things do happen in this world, and I think that sometimes we need to shine a light on it in order to bring it into the open, so that we may condemn it in the strongest terms possible.

    I do. And this story does. I hope you’ll make it through and find it worthwhile.

    ~ D.M. Earley

    Books by D.M. Earley

    CALL OF DESTINY

    Book 1: The Temptation of Destiny

    Book 2: The Pyres of Destiny

    Book 3: A Regression of Destiny [Coming 2022]

    ~~~

    www.EvolvedPub.com/DMEarley

    What Others Are Saying

    ~~~

    THE TEMPTATION OF DESTINY (Book 1):

    ~~~

    Best Literary Fiction – Fall 2019

    ~~~

    "Suspenseful, intriguing and powerfully tense, this is a dark fantasy work like no other. Fans of many different genres, including crime, horror, and mystery will all find something they can enjoy in the pages of author D. M. Earley’s psychologically chilling vision of how the future can affect the present. The characters are well developed, and Jake in particular presents as an everyman whom most people could aspire to or relate to for his peaceful little life. His journey is harrowing, with highly atmospheric and torturous moments of narrative as his psyche is invaded by what he sees and what he thinks he knows about his own destiny. The graphic content is shocking but appropriate to the dark nature of the plot. Overall, The Temptation of Destiny is a master class in tension and supposition." ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, K.C. Finn (5 STARS)

    ~~~

    "The Temptation of Destiny is a treat that the likes of [which] does not exist anymore. It’s a book that transcends a specific genre and can reach nearly every single person that would pick up this book. Between the covers of this book exists a world so real and so fantastical that it cannot be put down once you begin. It’s a story you will want to read again and again to pick up on the nuanced details time and again. As an avid reader, this truly is a book that is apart from all other books to have come out in the recent years. I’m blown away by how one book can seamlessly cover all aspects of the human condition into the pages of this book. This book really has something in it that every reader would enjoy. The Temptation of Destiny covers genres including, but not limited to, fantasy, horror, crime, romance, mythology, and mystery. It covers these in such a way that it exists as all of these genres and none at the same time. It really is a book that stands out among the rest, and being DM Earley’s first novel, a testament to his talent as a writer. I cannot wait to see how this story continues and 2020 cannot come soon enough." ~ Tyler Hurden

    ~~~

    "How do we respond to prophetic visions and can we embrace the present when we know the future spells doom? This is the question that haunts the characters in The Temptation of Destiny. ... This novel opens a powerful series and I loved how the author deals with existential themes. The descriptions are terrific and they capture details of the setting, leaving readers with clear pictures of the environment in which the story takes place. The story has a thought-provoking premise: what happens to our lives when we have an idea of what our future looks like? The spiritual themes run through the narrative in which two worlds seem to collide and the lives of the characters are tested. The Temptation of Destiny explores some of the hidden fears of the human spirit, exploring the anxiety that affects people when danger looms ahead. The scenes are beautifully written, the points of views clearly narrated, and the conflict is so skillfully constructed that it drives the story forward. A great read, indeed." ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, Divine Zape (5 STARS)

    ~~~

    "The Temptation of Destiny is a suspenseful novel written by D.M. Earley. Following destiny and the path fate weaves before someone is something often considered as not without its challenges, but easy to follow. Prepare to lose your misconceptions. Following his fate, Jake is led through trials and tribulations he could never have seen coming, all tempering him for the difficulties of what is still in store, but at the same time, he is given the tools needed to survive. I enjoyed watching the characters grow and develop, as well as the immersion into different cultures, survival, and values. It was amazing to see how the pasts of the characters and their experiences all combine to ensure they are in the right place, position, and have the capacity to do and be exactly what is needed. Past, present, and visions of the future pave the way, and the depth and detail ensure the reader will be left satisfied. The Temptation of Destiny is beautifully written, expressive, and enjoyable. I loved the idea and themes behind the plot, and how everything came together." ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, K.J. Simmill (5 STARS)

    BONUS CONTENT

    We’re pleased to offer you a Special Sneak Preview at the end of this book, in which you’ll enjoy the first 3 chapters of the critically-acclaimed THE CLOVIS DIG by Teri Fink, a novel combining elements of mystery and historical fiction, laced with American Indian themes.

    ~~~

    Given the sheer volume of literature produced each year, it can sometimes be hard to find true works of such striking excellence as this tiny gem of a book... The voices that spring out of every page seem to come from the mist of time and the furthest reaches of the human experience... The book has some of the most creative and fully fleshed-out characters in modern fiction. ~ US Review of Books, RECOMMENDED

    ~~~

    Fink has impressive command over the many swirling elements of her well-plotted novel... The characterizations are strong, but the author has the ability to make the unique setting as important as the people. Archaeology and murder mix in this smart, picturesque novel that’s steeped in local culture. ~ Kirkus Reviews (Our Verdict: GET IT)

    ~~~

    ~~~

    OR GRAB THE FULL EBOOK TODAY!

    FIND LINKS TO YOUR FAVORITE RETAILER HERE:

    TERI FINK’S Books at Evolved Publishing

    Table of Contents

    Copyright

    Author’s Note

    Books by D.M. Earley

    What Others Are Saying

    BONUS CONTENT

    Table of Contents

    Dedication

    THE PYRES OF DESTINY

    PART ONE – SECOND CHANCE

    Prologue – In This Life...

    Chapter 1 – Dreams

    Chapter 2 – Mingan and Hurit: The Beginning

    Chapter 3 – Eyes of the Night

    PART TWO - TAKEN

    Chapter 4 – Delivery

    Chapter 5 – Welcome to Our World

    PART THREE - COMPARING NOTES

    Chapter 6 – More Questions than Answers

    PART FOUR - THE SEARCH

    Chapter 7 – The Missing

    Chapter 8 – The Innocent

    Chapter 9 – A Step towards Hell

    Chapter 10 – Face to Face

    Chapter 11 – The Party

    Chapter 12 – Into Thin Air

    Chapter 13 – Tears of the Innocent

    Chapter 14 – A Woman’s Intuition

    Chapter 15 – Not Tonight

    Chapter 16 – Mingan and Hurit: The Journey

    Chapter 17 – Choices

    Chapter 18 – A New Direction

    Chapter 19 – The Search

    Chapter 20 – Doubts

    Chapter 21 – Mingin and Hurit: The Climb

    Chapter 22 – The Morning

    Chapter 23 – The Night

    Chapter 24 – Mingan and Hurit: Sins

    Chapter 25 – The Six

    Chapter 26 – Next Steps

    Chapter 27 – Circles

    Chapter 28 – Next Act

    Chapter 29 – Questions

    Chapter 30 – Skeletons in the Closet

    Chapter 31 – Faces

    Chapter 32 – The Stranger

    Chapter 33 – The Hike

    Chapter 34 – Strike Four

    Chapter 35 – The Cave

    Chapter 36 – The Search Begins

    Chapter 37 – Weakness

    Chapter 38 – Into the Darkness

    Chapter 39 – Day Two

    Chapter 40 – Visions

    Chapter 41 – The Pyres

    Chapter 42 – The Bridge

    Chapter 43 – The Pursuit

    Chapter 44 – The Balance

    Acknowledgements

    About the Author

    What’s Next?

    More from D.M. Earley

    More from Evolved Publishing

    Special Sneak Preview: THE CLOVIS DIG by Teri Fink

    Dedication

    For my wife, family, friends, readers, and my publisher and editor, Dave Lane (aka Lane Diamond), whose words of encouragement and positive reinforcement keeps my believing in myself and allowing me to share a story that can allow us to escape everyday life.

    PART ONE – SECOND CHANCE

    Prologue – In This Life...

    IN THIS LIFE... (Continued from The Temptation of Destiny)

    Jake took her hand as they lay basking in the warmth of the sun, enjoying the peace of their new life.

    Dakota broke the silence. It’s getting hot. Let’s take one more dip, and head back to the cabin. She jumped up and tugged Jake’s hand.

    You are a glutton for punishment, he said. Okay, last time.

    They dove into the cold water, and Dakota swam to the small waterfall and stood up. As the gentle cascade flowed over her, she tilted her head back and pushed her hair into the flow of the waterfall.

    Jake couldn’t take his eyes off her. She looked so sensual, so exotic. Bright-colored leaves hit the water around her. Despite the cold water, he felt his dick start to rise.

    He backed up to bring it out of the water. Hey, my Indian maiden, I have something for you.

    She looked at him, raising her eyebrows. I thought he was cold? She walked slowly forward, teasing him as she ran her hands across her hard nipples.

    Jake caught a reflection behind her. For a split second he wondered what it could be.

    "Dakota, dive!"

    A shot rang out... and the world went into slow motion.

    Dakota lurched forward, her eyes wide, blood spraying from her chest.

    Jake screamed, "Nooooooooo!"

    A second shot rang out, and Jake felt a searing burn in his chest, dropping him to his knees in the water.

    He struggled to move towards Dakota as her body bobbed facedown and lifeless in the torrent beneath the falls. Crimson-stained water rushed past him.

    A third shot rang out, and Jake recoiled backwards, still on his knees. He struggled to maintain consciousness. As Dakota’s body floated towards him, he grabbed her for their final embrace in this life.

    Honi ran to Jake, and a fourth shot echoed in the fall air.

    Silence befell the mountain. The birds stopped singing, and the sky darkened. Bright-colored autumn leaves fell from the trees above, covering the three in a death blanket as they floated in the shallows. Jake took his final breath and drifted into blackness.

    Alexi woke suddenly, having fallen asleep on her couch, and looked down at her feet.

    Jake stood there, his appearance that of a much younger man. He looked at her with a familiar sparkle in his eye and smile on his face. He walked up to her head, reached out, and brushed her cheek, his touch warm and comforting. He nodded and backed away from her slowly, never taking his eyes off hers, and disappeared.

    Alexi smiled as tears trickled down her cheek. Jake had not lied. She knew he would be with her until she took her final breath.

    Jim worked down at the front gate, doing his final cleanup from tourist season.

    A truck pulled up with two men in fishing gear. They jumped from the truck and approached Jim. Excuse me, sir, one of them said. Where is Hangman’s Bridge?

    Jim pointed east. Go back down the road, and make a right. It is about two miles.

    The taller fisherman reached his hand out to shake Jim’s. Much obliged, sir.

    Jim shook his hand and felt a small prick in his palm. He jerked his hand away and looked at the stranger. His vision blurred as he began to wobble. The earth spun around him and he crashed to the ground, then struggled to get to his hands and knees.

    He looked up, laboring to breathe. Dakota will—

    No, Chief, Dakota is already on the other side waiting for you.

    With his last breath, Jim growled, "Nooooo," and lurched forward into the dirt.

    Joe kissed Jessica goodbye and left the remote cabin.

    Jessica held up a piece of paper. Hey, aren’t you forgetting something?

    Damn, good catch. I would have been pissed if I rode all the way into town and forgot the grocery list.

    Well, maybe all that good sex I give you makes you forgetful. She winked.

    That’s very possible. See you in an hour.

    Joe fired up his motorcycle and started his ride off the mountain. He looked out over the fall colors painting the valleys below and accelerated through a sharp turn. Suddenly, his front tire exploded. He fought to gain control but hit the guardrail head on, catapulting him and the bike over it. Both came to rest hundreds of feet below on the rocky ledges.

    On the canyon above the winding road, Fiore lowered his rifle. "Well, Mr. DA, you, sir, are what we call collateral damage."

    Mr. Smith pulled his phone from his pocket as a text alert came across:

    Two Elk down on the mountain. Hunting was good.

    A second text followed:

    Fishing is good at Wind River today.

    A third text read:

    Fatal motorcycle wreck on the pass. Traffic is backed up.

    Mr. Smith nodded and smiled. Another happy client.

    Mr. P pulled a burner phone from his desk and dialed.

    Yes sir, the voice on the other end answered.

    Are the pheasants ready to leave South Dakota?

    Yes, sir, they’re crated and on the plane.

    How many do we have?

    Eleven birds, sir.

    "Very good. Make sure none of their feathers get messed up. The client wants them perfect."

    Their feathers are perfect, sir. See you at the ranch.

    Decker raised his scope one last time to look down at the bodies of Jake, Dakota, and the wolf. He dialed Sam’s cell phone.

    Yea, Decker?

    Sam, I’ll meet you at the Six Gun Saloon in Dubois for pickup around nine.

    10- 4.

    Decker hiked down off the ridge above, and strolled to the waterfall. He waded to the lifeless bodies of his targets and rolled them over in the water.

    Damn, Jake Michaels, you were a lucky bastard, banging her. He snapped several pictures of Dakota’s naked body.

    When Decker had been on the ridge waiting to take his shots, he’d noticed a small opening to an old mine. He decided it would be the perfect place to dump the bodies and belongings from the cabin. He thought it unlikely anyone would ever find them, theorizing that the police would track the ATV back to Jim. People would believe Jake pulled another disappearing act, and Dakota joined him.

    He bent down to retrieve Jake’s body, but something caught his attention out of the corner of his eye. He stood and looked towards the waterfall, but saw nothing.

    Suddenly, the skies darkened, the winds howled, and the water in the pool turned choppy. A lightning bolt crashed into a tree to the left of him. He recoiled, lost his footing on the slippery creek bed, and fell beneath the surface.

    He attempted to stand, but something held him under the water. The more he struggled, the more resistance he faced. He thrashed violently in a fight for his life, but there was little he could do to keep the cold water from rushing into his lungs.

    The skies turned blue again, and the waters calmed.

    Decker’s body was drawn to a small whirlpool forming in the middle of the pool, where his body spun several times in the vortex before disappearing.

    As the moon rose over the mountains, Jake, Dakota, and Honi floated lifeless in the silvery light, the quiet of the night broken by whispers around the waterfall.

    The Ancient Ones surrounded the pool, their heads lowered.

    The Faceless Indian stepped from the darkness of the woods and approached the bodies.

    The Spirit of the Water rose from the depths. She knelt next to Dakota and cradled her head. She looked at The Faceless Indian and nodded before retreating below the surface.

    The Faceless Indian looked towards the night sky. Heisonoonin, ceixotoni hinee neeniit Mingan, Honi, noh Hurit.

    His hands glowed as he touched Jake’s, Honi’s, and Dakota’s heads.

    Several seconds passed.

    Jake opened his eyes and took a deep gasp for air.

    Dakota did the same.

    Honi yelped and stood up.

    Jake knelt and pulled Dakota to him. Their eyes met as he pushed the wet hair off her face. He watched the exit wound in her chest slowly close. He glanced at his own chest then, but found no evidence of a gunshot wound.

    Honi gained his senses and walked to them, licking first Jake’s face and then Dakota’s.

    Jake felt an uneasiness course through his body. A voice, not his, came from deep inside. Rowtag, why have you brought us back? Have we not fulfilled our punishment?

    Dakota, in an unfamiliar voice, added, We have suffered for tens of thousands of years in mortal bodies. Is our punishment not over?

    Mingan and Hurit, your punishment is fulfilled. Your host’s Destiny is not. They must stop the evil your indiscretions set free.

    Mingan barked, "Rowtag, mortals cannot fight them. They will suffer pain like they have never known. Why would you do that to them?"

    Rowtag placed his hands upon Jake’s and Dakota’s heads. Sleep, Mingan and Hurit. You will be called upon again.

    Jake and Dakota regained their composure after the manifestation of souls inside them fell dormant.

    Your name is Rowtag? Jake said.

    Yes, I am known by many names. That is what the First Ones called me.

    The presence inside Dakota and I, Mingan and Hurit... will they guide us in fulfilling our Destiny?

    No, Jake, your guidance will come from the Spirit World, as it has on this journey. Mingan and Hurit will be called upon only by me. Your bodies are merely a vessel for them until such time comes. For now, Dakota and you may relax. Enjoy the love you have found. Your journey ahead will be challenging.

    Rowtag walked into the darkness and faded from sight.

    Jake looked at Dakota. Well, Counselor, I guess Eternity will have to wait one more lifetime for them.

    Chapter 1 – Dreams

    Samuel Red Hawk woke suddenly. He gathered his senses and reached for the phone. His heart raced. He hoped it was not too late.

    Anna looked at the caller ID. Hello Father.

    Anna, is Jim there?

    Yes, he is sitting outside with Jay, why?

    I had a dream. Please let me speak with him.

    What kind of dream, Father?

    A dream of evil white soldiers, like the ones that hurt our Lomasi.

    Anna had learned her lesson the last time she did not listen to Samuel. She rushed the phone outside to Jim.

    Jim saw the concerned look on his wife’s face as she handed the phone to him. Who is it, Anna?

    It’s Father. He had a dream. He needs to talk to you.

    Yes, Samuel, what is it?

    Jim, I had a dream you will meet with two white men. They have been sent to kill you. Do not shake their hands. They will approach you at the gate.

    Jim paused for a second rolling his eyes. Okay, Samuel, I will be on the lookout for them. Why do they want to kill me?

    You threaten their leader.

    Jim thought for a second about the dream Samuel had the night of Dakota’s attack, and swallowed hard. He would take this warning a bit more serious.

    Very well, Samuel, he said. Thank you for the warning. Now, you get some rest. Anna and I will be there Monday to pick you up.

    Jim, there is an ancient evil on the earth. A great battle is coming.

    Okay, Samuel. Do you want to speak with Anna?

    "No, I must rest. I must have my strength for what the Spirit World will show me. I must prepare for the great battle."

    Samuel hung the phone up. He lifted his ceremonial pipe to the sky, blessed it, and prepared for a visit to the Spirit World.

    I must learn more.

    Jim looked at Jay and Anna, and shook his head. Samuel claims there will be two men at the gate sent to kill me. He said not to shake their hands, and that a great battle is coming to Wind River. It is amazing how some days he is clear as a bell, and others he fades into some other world.

    Jay looked between the couple, and said, Jim, I know you do not believe in the ancient ways as I do, but I saw things the day we arrested Jake Michaels. I saw the Ancient Ones on the Sacred Grounds. They were in great numbers. I heard Jake Michaels speak in the Ancient One’s tongue at the police station. Maybe Samuel is right. Maybe there is a great battle coming?

    Jay’s prophetic tone caught Jim’s attention.

    Jim, remember Father’s last dream, Anna quickly added.

    Jim took a deep breath, shook his head, and chuckled. Well, Jay, I was heading down to the gate to do a final cleanup of the area. It is surprising Samuel saw that. Do you want to do a little stakeout?

    Jay nodded. Sure, but I am not cleaning up trash.

    Anna said, You two be careful down there, just in case Father is right. Neither of you are spring chickens anymore.

    Jay wrapped his arm around Jim’s shoulder and winked at Anna. These two old Indians still have a fight or two left in them.

    The men jumped in the old farm pickup and drove down to the gate.

    Jay said, Drop me off at the logging road. That will give me a good view of the gate, just in case Samuel is right.

    "Damn, Jay, you really are not helping me pick up garbage, are you?"

    Jay grabbed his right shoulder and rolled it, wincing in pain. My bones are too old for that.

    Jim huffed. Oh, but you can fight a couple assassins?

    My partner will handle that. Jay patted a .44 magnum on his hip, turned to walk up the logging road, and soon ducked into the trees.

    Jim returned to the gate and started to pick up trash.

    A few minutes passed, and a black pickup with dark windows drove up the road. It slowed as it approached Jim. He glanced towards Jay, who acknowledged his look with a nod before stepping behind the cover of the pines.

    He looked into the blacked-out cabin, and could make out two silhouettes with cowboy hats on.

    The door opened, and a tall redheaded woman jumped out. Jim White Feather, you handsome devil, what are you doing picking up trash?

    Jim walked towards her with his arms extended. Nice truck, Beth. What are you doing out this way?

    The two hugged.

    Beth patted him on the shoulder. My God, you’re still as solid as you were forty years ago.

    And you are still as beautiful.

    Always the smooth talker, Jim White Feather. How is Anna?

    She is good. You should take a ride up to see her.

    Jay looked down on Jim and Beth, and noticed another vehicle pull halfway down the road and turn around.

    Jim, I would, but I’m taking my friend up to the Continental Divide trail. I assume the logging road is still drivable?

    Yes, it is in good shape. In fact, if you look back there, wave to Jay.

    Beth looked back and waved in the direction Jim pointed too.

    Jay stepped out of the cover and waved back.

    Jim, why is he hiding in the bushes? Never mind. It’s Jay... forget I asked. Beth laughed.

    The two hugged again.

    Beth jumped back in the pickup and drove up the logging road.

    Jay watched as Beth paused the truck where he stood tucked in the brush.

    Hey, Jay, she called out. If you’re taking a piss, you don’t have to be that bashful. I remember all two inches of that thing.

    Jay stuck his hand through the thick cover with his middle finger raised. Best two inches of your life.

    I love you too! She rolled up the window and drove ahead.

    Jay laughed to himself. He and Beth had dated for several years after he returned from Vietnam. He wanted to go back into the military and make a career out of it once the war ended, but Beth did not want to leave Wind River. When he retired and moved back to the Reservation, Beth had been married for the past twenty years. He often wondered what his life would have been like with her. She was smart and driven, absolutely determined to succeed in her veterinary practice, which she did. She owned four offices between Jackson Hole and Lander.

    He snapped out of his daydream when the noise of another vehicle coming down the road caught his attention. It was the same vehicle he’d seen earlier.

    Jim looked up from the garbage pile he was raking.

    A four-door, cookie-cutter, black sedan approached him, stopped, and two fishermen got out. They approached Jim.

    Excuse me, sir, where is Hangman’s Bridge? the taller of the two men said.

    Jim pointed east. Go back down the road, and make a right. It is about two miles.

    The taller fisherman reached his hand out to shake Jim’s. Much obliged, sir.

    Jim looked down at the outstretched hand and did not shake.

    What’s wrong, Mister, don’t you shake hands? The taller man said.

    No, I am a germophobe. Sorry, Jim said, and shrugged.

    The shorter man stepped forward, and lifted his arm to pat Jim on the shoulder.

    Jim blocked his hand with the rake.

    Hey, Chief, calm down, the taller man said. We mean no harm. But I must say, you are starting to offend me.

    Jim stared at them for a second, and said, I think it is best you boys get back in that truck and leave.

    The two men looked at each other and smirked.

    Well, Matt, the taller one said. The man said we should leave.

    Matt paused for a second, looking Jim in the eyes. You know what, Sam, I don’t think I’m leaving until he apologizes and shakes my hand.

    The three men stared at each other until the unmistakable clicking of a revolver cocking broke the silence.

    Jay stepped from the cover of the brush. I believe the man asked you to leave.

    Matt and Sam put their arms up as they looked over at Jay walking towards them with the .44 aimed head-high.

    Hey, Matt, Tonto has a big six-shooter, Sam said.

    Jim watched Matt’s eyes. As soon as they glanced towards Jay, he struck, landing a hard right across Matt’s jaw and knocking him to the ground.

    Sam reached into his vest.

    Jim pulled out his sidearm and cocked it against Sam’s cheek. I would not do that.

    Sam raised his arms.

    Jim reached back and pistol-whipped him, knocking him to the ground.

    Jay approached the downed men and tossed two sets of handcuffs on the ground. Put them on.

    Fuck you, Tonto, Sam growled.

    Jay lifted his foot up and crashed the heel of his cowboy boot across Sam’s face. A gash opened on his cheekbone, spurting blood onto Matt.

    Jay pressed his cocked pistol into Sam’s bleeding face. Again, I will ask you nicely, put the cuffs on.

    Matt and Sam cuffed themselves.

    Jim looked at Matt’s right hand. Take that ring off and put it on the ground.

    Fuck you, Chief, Matt barked.

    Jay pulled his knife and pressed it against Matt’s ear, drawing blood. I do not think you heard him. I would listen to the man if you want to use this ear again.

    Matt worked the ring off and dropped it on the ground.

    Jim picked the ring up with a stick and examined it. On the outside of the ring portion, hidden on the palm side, was a small needle. He played with the face of the ring, and it opened to expose a small chamber with liquid in it. He showed Jay.

    Matt looked at Sam with raised eyebrows.

    Who sent you? Jay said.

    Fuck off, Matt hissed.

    Jay, grab their car and take them for a little ride down the canyons. I will follow you in the truck.

    10-4.

    Jay pulled Sam and Matt’s car up, opened the trunk, and ordered them inside. When they hesitated, he cocked the hammer on his gun.

    The two men complied.

    They traveled three miles into the canyons on Jim’s property. Jay stopped the car and popped the trunk just as Jim arrived behind him.

    The two assassins laid soaked in sweat and blood.

    Jay reached in and yanked them out, one by one, and threw them to the dusty ground.

    Jim and Jay drug them off the road and positioned them back-to-back on the ground. Jay then pulled a set of jumper cables from their car and tied the two together around the chest.

    Jim knelt and looked Matt in the eyes. Okay, one last chance. Who sent you here?

    Matt spit a mouthful of blood in response.

    Jay walked over to the two captives, bent down, and looked at them hard while pulling his survival knife from his belt. Many years ago, our ancestors had ways to make prisoners talk. Some found it barbaric, and we were forced into the laws of the white man. The old ways died. The bad thing for both of you is, we are on our Ancestor’s land, and Jim and I still believe in the old ways.

    He cut one of Sam’s pants legs, exposing his thigh, and with a quick slicing motion, he filleted a one-inch piece of Sam’s leg.

    Sam jerked violently and his screams echoed through the canyons.

    Jay moved around to Matt and forced the hunk of flesh into his mouth.

    Matt spit the bloody, hairy piece of meat out and puked.

    Sam thrashed, trying to get loose. "You sick Motherfuckers, we will kill you!"

    In a calm voice, Jim said, We will feed you each other, piece by piece, until you answer our question. Now, who sent you?

    "Go to Hell," Matt hissed.

    Jim looked down at Jay and nodded.

    Jay stood, grabbed Matt’s hair, pulled up on his scalp, and sliced the taut skin.

    Matt screamed in pain and kicked his legs wildly.

    "Okay!" Sam yelled over Matt’s cries of agony. It was Dibella, Vincent Dibella.

    Jay stopped the scalping, and his eyes darted to Jim.

    Jim said, Dibella? Why would Dibella want me dead?

    We don’t know. We just take the orders, Sam said.

    Jim nodded at Jay.

    Jay bent down and drew the knife to Sam’s ear.

    "Please no! I really don’t know," Sam pleaded.

    With a quick slice, Sam’s right ear fell to the sandy dirt, and Jay reached down and picked it up. He then shifted around to Matt and grabbed his mouth to open it.

    Matt shook his head trying to avoid Sam’s ear being shoved into his mouth. "South America, you bastards. South Fucking America!" Matt blurted, before the sand-crusted ear could be forced past his lips.

    Jay stood and walked over to Jim, and they looked down on the two bloody assassins.

    Jim pulled a phone from Sam’s pocket and scrolled through the contacts, all listed in code.

    What contact is Dibella? Jim said. What is your confirmation message?

    #Four, Fishing is good at Wind River today, Sam murmured.

    Who else has he ordered a hit on? Jim said.

    Sam, trying to maintain consciousness, mumbled, I don’t know. He keeps contracts and contractors separated.

    Jay knelt next to Sam and raised the knife point to his eye. Sam did not flinch.

    Let him go Jay, Jim said. I believe him.

    What are you going to do with us? Matt said.

    Jim tossed a canteen of water to the ground. You are free to go. If you make it off the Sacred Lands tonight, you were meant to live. Tell your boss this is over. We will not be as hospitable next time.

    Jay bent down and unlocked the handcuffs. He stood up and whispered, Ha tcaciihi telhiiha.

    Jim and Jay jumped in the two vehicles and left for the ranch, purposely taking a different route to mislead the two assassins deeper into the canyons.

    Jim stopped his truck at Buzzards Gulch and got out.

    Jay joined him between the vehicles. What are you thinking?

    Jim said, I say we leave the car here. I guarantee they were spooks. No one will come looking for them.

    I agree. Do you think Dibella will go after Dakota?

    I was alone when I tried to force his asshole attorney Sellman into a deal. I would assume he thinks Dakota knows about South America. It would look too obvious if he killed both of us. Even if he made it look like an accident, or natural causes, it would raise red flags. She is with Jake at the cabin. Dibella’s men would have a difficult time finding them out there. Still, to be safe, I am going to ride out tomorrow morning and talk to them. You want to go?

    Yes, I will go with you. Does anyone else know about the plea you offered Sellman?

    Yes, Joe does. Do you think he would go after a DA?

    Think about how that would divert the attention off of him, if Dakota and you showed up dead. No one would connect Dibella to the death of the DA that prosecuted Jake.

    Jim nodded his head in agreement. We need to warn him, also.

    Jim, what happened in South America?

    Dakota and I had a client being charged with embezzlement by his partners. He met an untimely death on a solo hiking trip. To make a long story short, his partners were connected to the Dibella boys, and a sexual assault and pornography charge in Belize. Those charges were dropped when the victim refused to testify. I threatened Sellman with exposing this during the trial, in hopes he would get Dibella to consider a plea. As you know, that did not happen. It appears I opened an old wound.

    Jay paused for a second. There is much more to this story for Dibella to order your execution. After watching the tape, we know the Dibella boys were human traffickers. Do you think Sellman or Vincent Dibella are behind a trafficking ring? They both have plenty of money. It would make no sense.

    Honestly, I think it’s more than money.

    Jay nodded. Well, it appears this case is far from over, but... we cannot pursue it based on what we just did to these two goons. You will need to use the legal system and the evidence you have to move it forward.

    Jim sighed. "When Dibella realizes I am not dead, he will send more people to stop me. Maybe Samuel is right, and there is a great battle coming to Wind River."

    We will be ready, Jim. Let’s go home.

    Sounds good. I am sure Anna is getting worried. Hey, what did you whisper to them before we left?

    Ha tcaciihi telhiiha.

    Jim laughed. The cannibal dwarfs Jay? Please tell me you do not believe in that old myth?

    Do you believe in Samuel’s visions now?

    Jim raised his brows and nodded. Good point, my old friend.

    Jake snapped his eyes open. Dakota’s head laid across his chest. He gently stroked her hair as he analyzed the dream of their death. He looked past the field towards the butte above the waterfall.

    Dakota, wake up.

    Dakota moaned. Do I have to?

    I had a dream. I need you and Honi to get back to the cabin. Lock the door, and make sure you have the rifle ready.

    Dakota, hearing the seriousness in his voice, lifted her head. What kind of dream, Jake? You’re scaring me.

    Someone was sent here to kill us. There’s a sniper on the ridge behind the waterfall. He has no shot on us right now. Get up and walk to the right side of the clearing back to the cabin.

    Who sent someone to kill us?

    I don’t know, but I’ll find out.

    What are you going to do? You’re naked and have no gun with you?

    I’ll loop around the left side of the falls through the pines. I leave a ghillie suit in a hunting blind there. He won’t see me through the canopy. The noise of the waterfall will cover my footsteps.

    And then what, Jake? Are you gonna beat him to death with your dick? Come back to the cabin and get your gun.

    "I don’t need a gun. Please, just listen to me. The dream showed me one shooter. I know where he is, so I’ll creep up on him. Now go. I’ll tell you the rest of the dream when I get back."

    She leaned forward and kissed him. Jake Michaels, after all we have been through, you’d better not leave me alone on this mountain.

    In your words, trust the Spirits. Now go, and have the rifle ready in case I fail and he comes for you.

    Dakota and Honi left for the safety of the cabin.

    Jake slowly made his way through the pines, retrieved his ghillie suit, and moved forward. He reached the base of the ridge and surveyed the climb. If his dream vision had been correct, the sniper would be looking east. Jake’s best approach would be to travel farther to the north spine of the ridge and move along the creek bed back to the shooter.

    He reached the top of the ridge and crept along the stream for several hundred yards, and heard the sound of the waterfall in the distance. His dream showed the shooter posted on an outcropping to the right of the falls. He stepped up on a boulder and scouted the area. A movement caught his eye, so he slipped into the creek and bellied his way downstream. His special forces training had prepared him well for what he was about to do.

    The shooter lay prone above the falls, his eyes focused in his scope at the area below.

    Jake slithered out of the stream and crept behind the sniper. He held a grapefruit-sized creek stone in his right hand. "Hey."

    The sniper rolled over on his back and pulled his gun up.

    Jake crashed the stone across his jaw, and quickly followed with a second blow to the shooter’s right arm, causing him to lose the grip on his rifle. Jake looked down to see a survival knife on the shooter’s hip. He pulled the knife from the sheath and pushed it against the shooter’s throat. Make one move, you cocksucker, and I will cut you ear to ear.

    The shooter slowly rolled his head to the right and spit out a mouthful of blood.

    Jake reached with his left arm, grabbed the rifle, stood, and pointed it at the shooter’s head. Who sent you?

    Fuck you, Michaels, the shooter hissed.

    Jake dropped to his knees, buried the six-inch blade into the shooter’s thigh, and twisted it 180 degrees.

    The shooter’s cries echoed through the canyon.

    Get up on your knees, you piece of shit, Jake growled.

    The shooter struggled to his knees using his left arm. His right arm dangled lifelessly at his side. Blood flowed from his mouth, and his camo pants quickly turned crimson from the knife wound. He wobbled on his knees trying to maintain consciousness.

    One more time, who sent you?

    I don’t know. We just get orders.

    Jake glared at the shooter. I don’t believe you.

    He moved behind the shooter, yanked his head back by his hair, and pressed the blade lengthwise across his mouth. With a quick slice, the blade split the shooter’s cheeks from his lips to his jaw bone. Jake pushed him forward onto his stomach.

    The shooter writhed in pain on the ground.

    We can keep this up all day, or you can tell me who the fuck sent you.

    Jake dropped in front of the shooter again, pulled his head up and moved the knife towards him.

    Dibella, the shooter struggled to say.

    Jake stood. Why would Dibella want us dead?

    South America. The shooter leaned forward to avoid chocking on his own blood.

    Give me your phone.

    The shooter reached into his pants and threw the phone on the ground.

    Who is your contact and what is the confirmation message.

    Number One, two elk down on mountain, hunting was good.

    Jake sent the message and looked down at the shooter. I should let the grizzlies and wolves finish you tonight.

    The shooter struggled to look up. Fuck you and that Indian cunt, he forced out through his mangled mouth.

    Jake nodded and squeezed off one round.

    Jake climbed down the rocks and waded into the pool to clean the blood from his body. He saw Dakota running towards him.

    The two embraced at the water’s edge, holding each other tight.

    Jake loosened his hug and looked at Dakota. It was Dibella. He sent the shooter.

    "Why, Jake, because of his piece of shit sons?"

    No, because of South America, but... there’s more to this. Let’s get back to the cabin. I’m freezing.

    Chapter 2 – Mingan and Hurit: The Beginning

    Jake and Dakota sat on the bear skin rug facing the roaring fireplace.

    She grasped his hand. You’re still shivering, love.

    I’ll warm up in a few minutes. Thank God the Spirit World warned us, or we wouldn’t be here.

    Jake, what exactly did they show you?

    Jake recounted the dream, leaving no detail out except one: his visit to Alexi. He ran his hand through his hair and shook his head. "There has to be more to this. Dibella will not stop once he finds out we’re not dead. He’ll send more goons."

    Dakota shifted from Jake’s side and faced him, placing her hands on his knees. "Destiny will not allow us to be separated. We need to visit the Spirit World tonight. We need answers from this Rowtag."

    She paused. Her face tightened and eyes narrowed. Could my grandparents be in danger also? We have no way of warning them from here.

    Jake looked deep in her eyes as he placed his hands on her shoulders. I thought about that as I walked back. The Spirits will warn them, probably through Samuel.

    Dakota thought for a second, You’re probably right.

    Jake reached over to the small table to his left and retrieved a pipe and a pouch. Are you ready for some answers?

    Dakota nodded.

    They drew several deep hits each, and stared into the dancing flames as the medicine gently flowed through their bodies, separating them from the physical world.

    The couple stood outside the cabin. The hue of gold aspens illuminated the nighttime mountains. Light snow fell, and each flake twinkled like small stars. For the first time, Jake and Dakota stood fully clothed in the Spirit World.

    In the distance, Rowtag meandered through the meadow.

    The two interlocked hands and walked towards him.

    He turned as they approached. Gone was the dark abyss that once formed his face. Steel blue eyes set in a chiseled, kind face, greeted them.

    I am glad to see you paid heed to your vision, Jake. Rowtag’s voice was deep, soft, and calming now, unlike the foreboding tone in previous visits.

    Jake nodded. Rowtag, why was a hit man sent here? Who are Mingan and Hurit? Why does the Spirit World continue to show them in our bodies?

    Are my grandparents in trouble? Dakota followed quickly.

    A small smile crossed Rowtag’s face as he raised his hand. Children, I know you have questions, as many have since the beginning. The answers will soon come clear. Come, follow me.

    Rowtag led the couple past the waterfall to the foot of the hot spring Jake and Dakota had bathed in often. Jake, Dakota, look deep into the bubbling water.

    Jake glanced at Dakota, his face flushed hot with embarrassment.

    Her eyes widened.

    Rowtag chuckled. Yes, I saw everything that happened in this spring. I led you here. It was a test. I needed to know if lust would weaken each of you, and if the sins of the flesh would deem you not worthy of the journey ahead. Now, relax and stare deeply into the pool.

    Jake’s and Dakota’s eyes glazed as the pool percolated. The hypnotic dance of bubbles calmed as the water cleared. Below the surface, a village appeared. The view zoomed-in on a young brave walking into an ornately decorated teepee. He opened the front flap, and the earthy smell of kinnikinnick hung in the wisps of smoke filling the teepee.

    An elderly man stood to greet him. His weathered buckskin matched the years of wisdom on his face. A raven-feathered head dress fell below his waist, and rows of turquoise beads cascaded down his chest. To the left and right of the elder stood two spears anchored into the earth, their shafts adorned with eagle feathers and topped with rattlesnake skulls.

    The two men greeted each other in an ancient language, which the Spirit world allowed Jake and Dakota to understand.

    Mingan, please sit, Askuwhetean said.

    Great Grandfather, it is nice to see you. Why do you not come into the sun more?

    I can not speak with the Spirits out there. My days in the physical world are coming to an end. The Spirit world will soon welcome me.

    Mingan’s eyes welled. Great Grandfather, did you call me here to say goodbye?

    No, Mingan, it is time for you to go on the Journey, as my father and his father did, and their fathers have since the beginning. When your father and grandfather were taken by the Spirits, you became next in line to lead our people, as you know. First, you must add a sacred feather to each of these spears.

    Great Grandfather, eagles fly above our head every day. Their feathers fall to the ground. This task seems simple. I have heard of the Journey since I was young. I expected much more of a test for the leader of our people.

    Askuwhetean smiled and shook his head slightly. You remind me of your father, so confident, quickly jumping to his own conclusions. No, Mingan, the feathers you will retrieve come from sacred eagles that live on the High Mountain, where the Great River splits. You will climb above the clouds to reach a special land, one few return from.

    Mingan paused and his brow dropped. Great Grandfather, if this land is so dangerous, how did you survive? And all the leaders of our people before you? How did my father and grandfather live?

    "My son, you will need to trust in the Spirits and believe this is your Destiny. You will face evil that few have seen since the Great Flood. Stay true to our beliefs, and you will return to lead our people."

    This evil, Great Grandfather, will it be in the shape of man or beast? Can I drive my spear though its heart?

    "No, you cannot kill this evil we call the Six. They are of our flesh and bone, but their magic is too strong. They were sent from the Great Spirit to guide humans in the beginning, but

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