All Hallows Weekend

Chapter 9

   I hopped over a fallen tree. I looked to the sky and saw that the sun has begun to sink. "Don't worry, James." Harry said. "Let's keep moving."

    "Do you think we'll make it there on time?" I asked.

    "Better pray to God that we do. I have a question though." Harry helped me over a fallen tree, letting the others struggle. I snickered before looking back at Harry. "Any person would be terrified at the fact that one is probably going to be used for a ritual. You don't seem bothered by that fact though. Why?"

    "At first I was terrified, but then I realized that being scared really wouldn't do anything for me. I mean, the thought of being part of a ritual isn't the best, but in a way, my grandfather and uncle have been warning me about it. They clearly new that this would one day happen. They said I am the most innocent girl in my family that has been born in generations. Grandfather was always protective of me. I started learning ways to protect myself from a young age. My uncle started with physical training and then into different areas, yes, even spiritual."

    "Wow." He muttered. "Nothing will ever be the same after this. I don't think I will sleep peacefully after this." I nodded in agreement. "They must have been planning this for the longest time. I wonder what makes you so pure? So innocent?"

    "Innocence is a very rare and valuable thing to come across. My grandfather was the main figure in my life. He set me on a straight path with God. Taught me right from wrong. He taught me what I should do when facing the dude from down under. If I show fear, it won't help me. The devil thrives on fear and sin."

    "I suppose that makes sense." Harry said.

    "They believe I am innocent, but I have some secrets of my own. The scars I have are made by my own hand. Just like yours are." I said. He flinched.  "It's nothing to be ashamed of. We all have our scars and our stories, some more so than others. Some are visible and some lie within our minds. If I die today, I know that I lived the best life. I didn't live the best life because my parents loved me, but because I was taught to be the best person I can be, myself. I don't care if there are a bunch of demons after me. I do care about those who get hurt along the way. I lost my brother, but I know he is in a better place."

    "This really doesn't bother you now, does it? Have you, other than that one time with the demon, dealt with paranormal stuff?" Harry asked.

    "Loads of times. The first time was when I was five. I was with my uncle for a weekend. We were camping up south. I don't remember where it was. I was playing by a lake. I decided to play in the water despite my uncles warnings. I encountered a water demon. When I was eight, I messed with one of those boards. First and last time." I explained.

    "So...is you being shy just a disguise then?" Harry asked.

    "You would ask that, wouldn't you?" I laughed. "Yeah, the best way to deceive someone if you ask me. My siblings haven't figured it out yet." Harry hopped over a large boulder. 

    "What do you plan on doing after this?" Harry asked.

    "Other than survive until I am eighteen?" He laughed. "I want to dig more into the paranormal. I find this rather exciting now."  He eyed me wearily. "If we make it out alive, you will find out a lot more about me if you decide to stay around."

    "Would you two stop flirting!" Livy growled. "Our lives are in danger and all you can think about is flirting?"

    "There is a difference between flirting and a casual conversation." I snarled. Livy flinched. "You guys are the ones taking your time in walking. Watch your step, there is a big hole. We need to walk faster if we want to make it out of these woods, the sun has gone down. Given how dark it is, I say we have about four or five hours before midnight and I still have no interest in being part of a ritual."

    "Who do you think will die next?" Bella asked. 

    "So negative. Quit it." I muttered. Bella narrowed her eyes at me.

    "So, if ghost and demons are real, do you think werewolves do too?" Emit asked.

    "Possible. We live in a odd world." I answered. "There are somethings better left alone though."

    "James, why do you know so much this kind of stuff?" Emit asked.

    "My uncle and grandfather. My grandfather dad taught him. So, I guess it somewhat runs in the family. I don't know much about past families. It's a recent kind of thing."

    "Why am I stuck with the crazies?" Bella whined.

    "Why must you continue to complain? Seriously, James's life is on the line and all you can think about is yourself? How selfish can you be?" Harry snapped. "You'll be the next to die with that attitude."    

    "Seriously, Harry? No need to be so mean." Edward snapped. "I just don't get it. Your family was so stupid to cross a cult! They probably think your sacrifice will redeem them."

    "How did I end up with heartless friends?" Harry growled. 

    "Hey, the more we fight, the more danger we'll be in. Ya'll need to get your act together. You are acting more like children than anything. Come on, I am not wasting anymore time listening to you guys try to put the blame on me. Bella, I'm your sister. I have never done anything to you. You can blame me for the deaths of your friends, but I am not going to blame myself for something I can't control. Grow a pair and act your age." I spoke calmly.