Half and half

prologue

Prologue

The girl screamed, arching her back like a cat and straining against the chains that held her. She tossed her ebony hair out of her eyes and glared at her captor, defiant. The 16-year-old boy smiled and the girl screamed again, louder this time. It was dark. A funny smell lingered in the air, like something sweet trying to be covered. The adolescent made a gesture with his hands and the girl shuddered, and then went still. “I’m afraid even she can’t stand this pace. You will slow down.” A loud Voice broke the darkness. The boy flinched and looked at the slumped, broken body on the ground. He walked with sure steps toward the girl, and turned her over, looking mildly curious. Even he had to admit she was beautiful. The Voice rang out again. “They are all beautiful, do not be deceived.” He nodded, not embarrassed. As if he could ever feel something for one of them. The girl stirred. “She’s waking.” The boy stated in a soft voice, like a purr. The Voice went quiet. The girl opened her eyes and looked at him directly. Her defiant golden eyes held his. He didn’t even blink. “Use your gift.” The Voice whispered into his ear. The boy didn’t hesitate. He strode toward the girl, looking like a predator stalking prey. He crouched in front of her and looked at her in the eyes. She lowered her gaze, trembling, but finally looked up. She wished she hadn’t. Stormy black eyes met hers. She felt as if his eyes were deep pools of black light. She felt herself falling and crumbled to the ground. The Voice chuckled. The boy sprang to his feet, as agile as a feline. “They’re coming.” The Voice went quiet. Finally, “why her?” The adolescent smirked, “she defied her father.” The Voice laughed, “Dispose of her.”  The adolescent said, “As you wish.” And within two strides she was upon her body. He knelt and placed his hand on her cold brow. There was a brilliant flash of light and the girl disappeared.