Volatile

VOLATILE

DANIELA ELANA

Volatile

Copyright © 2018

Daniela Elana

Cover design © 2018 by Hampton Lamoureux, TS95 Studios

Editors: Tehlor Kay Mejia, Ashley Davis, and Edmund Pickett

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, otherwise—without the prior written permission of the author and copyright owners.

The Characters and events in this book are fictional, and any resemblance to an actual persons or events is coincidental.

ISBN 9780463707944

Printed and Bound in the United States of America

First Printing April 2018

https://danielaelana.wordpress.com

In Loving memory of Rocky, my Labrador.

For every year I wrote, you were by my side.

Your smile and bright eyes brought endless joy

to everyone you encountered and

your nine years on earth were a gift from Heaven.

Acknowledgements

Over the course of the five years that Volatile was in the works, I had the privilege of working with three great editors. For developmental editing, Tehlor Kay Mejia, line editing, Ashley Davis, and for copy editing and proof reading, Edmund Pickett. I also would like to thank Hampton Lamoureux for the cover design. None of this would be possible without the continual support of my family.

Ecclesiastes 1:17-18 New International Version (NIV)

¹⁷ Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.

¹⁸ For with much wisdom comes much sorrow;

    the more knowledge, the more grief.

PART I

CHAPTER 1

GENESIS

TO SAY I DESERVED SUCH A FATE WOULD BE A LIE. Then again, my fate was more of a curse than a blessing. Choosing to leave everything I knew and had worked to achieve for an unknown future might have seemed like a rash decision to some. Yet, it made complete sense to me at the time. I’ve always been one to follow my heart and cast logic aside. With this attitude, I’ve gotten further than I should’ve, but it was also the cause of my fall.

* * *

He loves me…? He loves me not…? I plucked a petal from a violet tulip. It sailed down to the brass stars embedded in the black terrazzo pavement. A cool mid-April breeze caressed the hairs along my dark-copper arms and rattled the steel barricades lining the congested street. The scent of burnt pretzels laced with car exhaust fumes permeated the evening air.

An orchestral film score echoed in my ears muting the ring of bells from shop doors opening and closing. The rhythm and red evening sky filled my mind with images of my acting career launching me to stardom. My chances of fame were as slim, as was the likelihood of meeting Claudius in person.

He was an angel I had been in contact with for the last three years through visions.

Yet despite my doubts, here I was headed to Griffith Park believing that he would show. Glancing down at my phone, I reread the text message he’d sent that morning.

Dear Maricel,

You’re probably wondering when we’re going to meet. After all these years and still you have yet to know me in the flesh. The time is now. Tonight at a quarter to seven, I shall arrive. Keep looking up. Change is afoot.

—Your Guide, Claudius

I glanced upward and saw people shoving one another to get into a crowded nightclub. Avoiding eye contact with anyone coming and going in, I picked up the pace. In my attempt to distance myself, I’d failed to notice a tall man jostled by his intoxicated friend. His broad back collided with my chest. I tumbled to the sidewalk beneath him, my headphones falling from my ears. He lifted himself off me, stealing a quick glance with his beady hazel eyes. A half smile spread across his brick-shaped face. The two men exchanged glances, shrieking with laughter. The stench of stale liquor and cigarette smoke lingered on their breath and they scurried away.

Squaring my shoulders, I ignored the snickering spectators and scooped up the withered flower and tangled earbuds.

Just great, I said to myself, staring at the cracked phone screen and stuffed it in my jeans pocket. It seemed that I was always getting caught in the senseless cruelty of careless people. Pushing the incident to the back of my mind, I lied to myself that everything was fine.

The thud of heavy footsteps pulled me to a stop, and the tulip slipped from my hand. I snapped around with my fingers curled into fists, but there was no one there.

Maricel, Maricel, Maricel… a guttural whisper seemed to ricochet off the walls of the buildings, lamp poles and palm trees.

Quickening my pace, I struggled to keep up with the ebb and flow of pedestrians, and their fleeting glances. In the corner of my eye, a dark shadow slipped from my field of view. A shrill buzz rang out, vibrating throughout my eardrums. I cupped my ears to block the frequency.

As fast as the sound had intruded upon my thoughts, there was silence. Removing my hands from my ears, I continued plodding along until I reached Griffith Park.

With a deep breath, I scrolled through text messages to see if I had any new ones, but there was nothing after the earlier text.

The glowing Hollywood sign seated on the peak of Mount Lee towered overhead. I messaged the number back to inform Claudius I had arrived for our meeting. Seconds later, the text returned invalid. Gaping at the number, it dawned on me. It was 1111, a numeric pattern meaning that angels are present.

My heart knocked against my chest with a mix of fascination and dread. Could it really be him? He was my guiding voice, my guardian. If not for the encouraging words on all the cards he had sent me I would never have had the courage to pursue a career in acting.

Several minutes passed and no one appeared. Maybe I had been stood up, or worse, a band of criminals had led me here to mug me of my meager possessions.

A single flash of light streaked across the smoggy night sky. I hoped it wouldn’t storm. Rain was the last thing I wanted, although drought-stricken California could use the water. With no one to greet me but the hissing cicadas, I turned to leave. If he was ten minutes late then he wasn’t coming. It was clear that this planned meeting was nothing more than a cruel joke, and I hated myself for believing for a small second that angels were real. Even worse, I had believed in the idea of love.

A white orb of light fell to the Earth like a shooting star. Hypnotized by the sight, I bolted up the hiking trail after it and collapsed. Brushing the dirt off my sleeves, I sprang up and darted uphill.

The ground vibrated as the orb of light formed into a being crouched on his haunches, blocking me from moving forward. I fell on my face at his feet. Large black wings cloaked his countenance. He stood and extended his wings.

When he looked at me, my eyes stung from his brightness. A violent gust of wind encircled him, whipping back my raven hair. He wore a dark-cerulean overcoat adorned with Hebrew inscriptions that matched his lapis lazuli-colored eyes. His golden spirals fell upon his muscled shoulders rippling around the sculpted outlines of his square face.

He stood more than a head taller than me, and he offered his bloodless hand. I stared at it for an entire minute before accepting his invitation. When our skin met, a sharp current of electricity shot through my veins and I bucked. Startled by the sting of his touch, I withdrew my throbbing hand. I gazed at his large palm still outstretched almost as if he expected me to try again.

Biting back the pain, I closed my eyes, and gripped his hand once more. This time our fingers interlocked, and the pain subsided as I stood up.

Maricel— His voice erupted like thunder.

Claudius— I said. Everything came together like a jigsaw puzzle. He cupped his hands together as if holding something. Within his palms, a red flame formed. It rose out of them and morphed into a spiral of energy. When he spun around, he hoisted me off my feet, pulling me close to him. We rose above the terrain.

I’m going to take you to where it all began.

Are you sure about this? I asked. He ignored my question and clutched me tighter. I buried my head into the soft fabric of his wool t-shirt. His skin smelled of fresh sandalwood like the warm scent of the Earth’s pigments upon the heated pavement after rainfall.

We plunged into the swirling mass of energy. Our surroundings glowed brighter than scorching stage lights on Broadway. Memories from my childhood streamed past us, bridging the gap between space and time. Terrified by all I was witnessing, I dug my nails into his arms. If he hadn’t been an angel, I would’ve cut him.

We appeared on the other side of the wormhole and glided downward to the peak of a mountain in the Golan Heights. The bright middle eastern sun beat down on us. I squinted ahead to see the vast green patches of land dotted with wild irises, sparse kermes oaks, and juniper trees.

Where are we?

Mount Hermon. He curled his lips into a wry smile. His large hands descended upon my narrow shoulders, delivering another wave of electricity throughout my body. Nearly four thousand years ago, I was a part of a group of two hundred angels known as the Watchers. We came to this very mountain. This is where our leader, Semjaza, requested we take an oath and we all agreed, he said.

What made you guys decide to leave Heaven for Earth? I said. He frowned, as if thinking how to explain, before a grin stretched across his chiseled face.

It was an experiment, you could say.

What type of experiment?

It was our mission to civilize mankind. Before we colonized the Earth, humanity lacked a lot of the basic knowledge taken for granted today.

So, you guys set up a society? I said.

Yes, for example: Azazel taught women about makeup and jewelry and men about swords and breastplates, how to fashion them with the metals of Earth; Semjaza offered curses and witchcraft, Kokabel astronomy; Baraqijal astrology; Araqiel meteorology; Ezeqeel the knowledge of the clouds; Shamsiel signs of the sun and Sariel the moon. Those are just a few examples—there were many more. With our help, mankind’s technology advanced rapidly. We helped you discover medicine along with the concept of science. Haven't you ever wondered about the pyramids? His light eyes were full of zeal as he named each Watcher and what they taught, studying my reaction and level of comprehension.

I suppose so? I said, feeling minuscule as he hovered over me.

Do you know the reason for their construction?

Was it for the internment of ancient Egypt’s nobility? I said thinking of the numerous historical books I had read on ancient Egyptian civilization.

Not quite. While you’re correct that the pyramids of Giza, as well as the various step pyramids, mastabas, and temples found in Thebes, were used as funerary complexes for the deceased elitists, there was more to the architecture than burial. The nobility’s most important possessions were placed in the funerary complex as well.

Yes, I think that the Ka, or soul, was believed to be connected to the mummified body. They also thought possessions could manifest in the afterlife through hieroglyphics, sculptures, and paintings, I said.

Then you are aware that everything buried within them is of significance, he said, seeming pleased with my answer. I nodded in agreement. In preparation for the deluge, the pharaoh at the time commissioned artisans in Egypt to construct pyramids, which not only served as tombs, but as storage vaults for vital papyrus scrolls that spoke of our presence on Earth.

It’s amazing to think, all of this time the truth has been hidden in plain sight, I said.

Mythology revolves around our thousand years on Earth.

I guess it explains why every culture shares similarities in their myths, I said. His face broke into a smile.

It still feels like I’m dreaming. How do I know I’m truly awake?

You don’t, but there is a way to test it, he said. My eyes widened.

How?

Jump from the top of this mountain.

Wait, what? I shook my head, confused.

Consider it a leap of faith, he said.

I can’t believe you’re asking me to risk my life!

You wanted to know if you were dreaming. He patted my back.

There has to be another way... I said, shaking my head against it.

Trust me to save you, Maricel.

I just met you…

I’ve been looking out for you all these years. Why would I fail you now? he said. Although his request scared me, my curiosity was greater than my reservations. You know you don’t have to, if you don’t want to. I could take you back if you’re not comfortable…His voice trailed.

No, I want to try.

Are you sure? he asked. I made my decision and turned my back.

Here goes nothing, I said. Like a programmed cult member, I inched closer toward the edge, feeling the jagged rocks roll beneath the soles of my tennis shoes. From the corner of my eye, I saw his arms folded over his chest. And I sensed his doubt as to whether I’d go through with it. Obviously, this was a test of loyalty. Gazing down below at the miles I’d tumble, I knew that I’d splatter to tiny pieces of meat if this experiment failed.

Closing my eyelids, I heard an inner voice, screaming at me to consider my family and friends, not to be selfish, but I silenced it.

Leaping forward, I fell. The forest around me swirled into a blur, threatening to asphyxiate me long before I could hit the Earth. He must have been an angel of death, because I swear no good angel would ever manipulate anyone into doing something so evil.

A familiar hand wrapped around my torso, and just as swiftly as I had fallen I ascended. My eyes popped open and I saw that I was secure in his arms.

I can’t believe it!

You didn’t think I’d let you fall? he said, setting me down beside him.

I didn’t know what to think.

I’m here with you now, he said, tucking a strand of my hair behind my ear. Put your complete faith in me and I promise I’ll guide you, neophyte, he said. I bit my lower lip, still skeptical of him, but didn’t voice my fears. He scooped me up and we flew away. My head rested upon his thorax, listening to his shallow heartbeat. Extreme warmth radiated from him.

The wormhole reappeared and we reemerged in Los Angeles on the iron balcony outside my apartment. I turned to him and saw that his eyes glistened.

You’re the one who sent me the talisman and cards, I said.

You needed some encouragement to believe in yourself. Just know that I have faith in you, he said. We embraced, and he rested his chin on the crown of my head.

Thank you, I said, stepping away from him toward the door.

Maricel, he said in a gentle yet firm voice, and I pivoted on the balls of my feet. For now, keep what we have a secret.

Goodnight, Claudius. I tipped my head and closed the door behind me.

* * *

The next day I dropped change into the fare box of the city bus, examining my prospects for a seat and chose one towards the back corner. An attractive young man with short, dark hair seated across from me drew back his lips as our eyes met.

I'm Thane. What's your name? His brown eyes studied me. Heat rose in my face, and I tore my eyes away from him.

Maricel, I said. His long face lit up with delight.

From the looks of things, you’re new to L.A.?

Yup, I said, fiddling with my purse strap.

What brought you here? I’ve seen a ton of people come and go. It’s like a revolving door around here.

My career, I said, keeping my gaze on my mustard yellow tennis shoes.

Where are you from? He leaned forward with his hands clasped and I caught a whiff of a piney smell.

Kansas.

Aw, just like Dorothy. He smirked.

Ha, real funny, I said.

It’s cute, he said.

My hometown, Holcomb, is known for the Clutter murders.

Crazy, and I thought Kansas was a peaceful place.

It’s like any other place that has its good and bad areas.

I see. Have you lived anywhere else besides Kansas?

New York City. I shrugged.

You’re a nomad.

Well, let’s just say I’m yet to find my home.

Restless?

Very much so.

You said something about a career? His brows rose.

I’m an actress.

Damn, good luck. By the looks of things, you shouldn’t have too hard of a problem, making it.

If you say so. I tugged at the cuff of my sweatshirt to cool myself from the sudden heat wave that overtook me.

No, I’m serious! Most people do well to land a spot as an extra.

I’d hate to be another cliché tale of an actress swallowed by the vicious world of Hollywood. I sighed.

You seem more like a legend to me already.

That’s a huge stretch, I said, looking up at his thin face for a quick second before looking away.

It’s hard not to give someone a compliment when credit is due.

Whatever, I said, peering out the window.

If you want I could show you around the city after I get off work tonight… Although it wasn’t in my nature to encourage this sort of thing, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to have a tour of the city.

Okay.

I'll pick you up after work. Here’s my number. Text me and let me know it's you, he said, handing me an old receipt. I chewed my bottom lip, uncertain of what else to say and nodded.

The bus crawled to a stop, and he waved. I returned the gesture as he disappeared, then punched the number he had scribbled on the back of the receipt into my phone. Instant dread gripped me about what I had just agreed to, and I wished that I could turn back time and decline his offer. But I hated breaking a promise once I made one, no matter how unpleasant. It was difficult for me to say no to anyone even when I knew it would cost me. Pushing it to the back of my mind, I focused on getting into character.

Hurry, we’re going to begin in fifteen minutes, a member of the crew said as I entered. An actress who had short, Ombré hair that hung right above her broad shoulders bumped into me as she spun around, screaming at another actor.

What’s wrong with you?

Sorry, I mumbled. She ignored my apology and marched past me with her nose high in the air.

As I sat at the dresser in the dressing room, I peered into the mirror, the hairstylist undid my bun, letting down my straight hair that flowed to my lower waist. Then she parted my thick tresses, adding waves, which made my round face appear ovular. A makeup artist came around and applied eyeliner and mascara to accentuate my dark, almond-shaped eyes.

The bumping sound of slight movement in the dressing room alerted me and I pivoted around. Nothing was out of the ordinary, just the group of makeup artists, hairstylists, and racks of clothing.

When, I glanced back at myself in the mirror I caught a glimpse of Claudius standing behind me. I clutched my chest to catch my breath.

What are you doing here? I asked. He came around the chair and placed his hand on top of mine. 

Don’t fret, we’re communicating with our minds. No one else can see or hear me. I could make myself known to them, but I prefer to stay under the radar, he said, sorting a few strands of my hair.

He vanished again, and I watched my hair rise on its own. No one seemed to notice as they continued chattering. Claudius reappeared behind me and enclosed his hands around my shoulders. I’m haunting you, he said.

It’s kind of creepy, but I could use a guardian angel.

What? one of the makeup artists said as I shifted in the chair. I smiled, embarrassed that I had spoken aloud instead of keeping it in my head.

Nothing. I withdrew my phone, then glanced at Claudius, who chuckled.

You look stunning, he said.

Maricel, hurry up! We’re going to begin any moment now! A crew member pounded on the door.

Are you going to watch me?

If you want.

I’d love it if you did, I said.

Break a leg. You were born a star who shines brighter than Venus herself, he said.

Thanks, I said, rushing onto the set.

As we filmed I couldn't help but smile every time I glanced to my left and there he was. Sometimes he’d dash in front of the green screen or a fellow actor, dancing in circles around me and I’d erupt into laughter.

Why are you smiling?

My head swiveled around to see the woman I had knocked heads with earlier and I sighed. She crossed her arms over her chest. Claudius ran up behind her, and pretended to kick her in the butt. I covered my mouth as a broad grin spread across my face. What do you think is so amusing? She squinted at me.

Life can be funny when it imitates art. I giggled.

You’re beyond weird.

So I’ve been told.

Save your pathetic smile for the camera, she said, marching away. I burst into laughter and turned to him.

I see that you already have a fan, he said.

A super fan, I said. His eyes lit up in a green shade at the expression.

Oh my gosh, your eyes, they glow!

There are a lot of things you’ll have to learn about me.

I’m up for it.

Are you ready to leave? He placed his arm around me.

More than ready. I leaned into him. He led me outside as the sun set for the day.

Where do you want to go? Paris, Rome, Beijing, the moon? His light eyes examined me. Then I remembered that I’d promised to meet Thane. Claudius would be the perfect excuse to get out of it, but I didn’t want to be rude after his kind offer.

Now that you mention it, I just remembered that I promised to hang out with someone earlier today.

Okay, he said, removing his arm, and turning away.

I really would’ve liked to have spent time with you tonight, I said. He didn’t turn as he continued to walk, his shoulders raised. There’s always tomorrow!

He cocked his head back, studied me, then nodded and flew straight up. After he disappeared into the sky, I reached for my phone and texted Thane.

Moments later the bus halted and I got on. As my eyes searched for a seat, my phone vibrated. I glanced down to see the message, then heard a familiar voice. My eyes met Thane’s as he sat in the back, and I walked over, and sat beside him.

How’d filming go? He rubbed his hands together.

Okay, but ... I said, debating whether I should mention the woman on the set.

But…

There’s this girl who hates me because I accidently bumped into her, I said. He