The New Night

By Mya Duong

In the explosive conclusion to the Mindful Things series, Lauren and her allies face their greatest challenge in a literal race to save humanity.

In book two, Lauren was taken by Raefield’s accomplices and sent to the past. She is held captive at Raefield’s grand estate, where secrets are overheard and half-truths are spoken regarding her former life. With her memory still blocked, Lauren struggles to trust anyone, making her escape more challenging. Yet nagging questions prevail: Did she and her birth parents do the right thing to prevent Raefield from becoming too powerful? Raefield continues his war to suppress humanity and bring back the rule of witches. Lauren is resolved to defeat Raefield at all costs. Back in the present day, Quinn, with her family and friends, work tirelessly to bring her home. A confrontation erupts and their escape is not without loss.

Chicago remains the epicenter of imminent threats and a great battle is unavoidable. Will Lauren and her allies uncover Raefield’s weaknesses and avert his destruction on humankind? Their fate hangs in the balance of a new time.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mya Duong
• Release date: Mar 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9780999334652

Mya Duong

Mya Duong grew up in Wisconsin, then moved to California. She has worked in healthcare for nearly 25 years, gaining invaluable life lessons. She writes in her free time, and currently lives in the San Diego area with her husband and two dogs.Visit her website at www.myaduong.com

Book preview

PROLOGUE

They say the wicked are forever cursed, cast away from the civility of humans in order to protect what is pure and true and innocent. Yet even in the eyes of a child, a deeper breadth lurks, which we’d rather not admit to ourselves. I was deemed that child, or so it had been told. I was shut away; I was banned. Society could now rest easy with her conscience decidedly clear that the right thing to do had been done.

I was reborn.

1

DE NOVO

It took me a moment to drink it all in. Everyone resembled me in appearance and nature. I stood in the past in the home of Raefield’s domain.

I wasn’t planning to show up, but I guess that wasn’t my choice, I mumbled, my face tight, my heart racing.

He let out a wry smile. When it comes to you, there is no need for an invitation. You were expected. He glanced around at all his guests, capturing their attention and holding them mesmerized.

Raefield’s eyes narrowed, and everyone turned away by the flip of his mood as if they had done something wrong.

I wouldn’t want to be a rude guest, but may I be excused? I’m feeling out of place. I held my body as still as possible to fight off the tremors that wanted to break free.

Raefield chuckled. You know that’s not possible. I can’t predict how you’ll react. My dear, you’ve just had a long journey, which I assume caused you to have some form of transformation. All you need is to become acclimated to the familiar surroundings, and you’ll feel like you’ve never left. He smiled widely, baring shiny white teeth. His bright hair glowed, and his face turned a rosy hue. But I noticed the deep vessels in his eyes, waiting to strike at me. Oh, my poor manners. You can’t remember, can you? That dreaded rock. We will soon take care of it.

I took a few steps away from him.

Don’t think too much of it. The process isn’t as dreadful as you might believe. Then you’ll be your old self, the Eden we once knew . . . and more. Much more!

Raefield laughed with childlike amusement. His guests followed along, their eyes drawn to him, their longing expression held spellbound. Then his laughter stopped, but his face remained serene. His guests went silent, still held captive.

I couldn’t share his or their enthusiasm. The thought of one of his mangy sorts ripping the stone out of my head for their amusement left me ill. I shuddered again.

"I don’t know what has come over me. Please, you must be sooo tired. Imani will help you get settled so you can freshen up. If you wish, a little slumber might do you some good. Your strength has been weakened."

Imani appeared out of nowhere on Raefield’s command. She guided me away from the grand room and back into the foyer. I felt myself tipping to one side.

It’s beautiful and quiet here. You should enjoy the place and embrace what’s around you. You’re with your people. Raefield will accommodate your needs and provide an environment that’s suited just for you. It’s the best way, the only way.

Fatigue took over my body and caused my tears to freeze in place. I’d been separated from the life I’d once known and cherished, from all the people who mattered. How could I want this—a prison? Somehow, I drew enough strength to transcend the palatial staircase onto the second floor. I turned around to see the openness of the foyer. What had carried me up here? My feet pressed firmly against the ground.

We kept your room in order and decorated it tastefully for your expected return. Raefield doesn’t spare any expenses. Imani’s voice sounded soothing and friendly, despite a hitch near the end.

Expected?

Imani straightened her silver dress, a practical but classical gown for everyday wear of this era. We knew you would one day return. He is never wrong.

I flinched. As we moved along the hallway, I counted seven doors and noticed an opening in the ceiling.

Just storage in the attic. It’s a large estate. When you’re settled in, there’s a basement that’s quite substantial, Imani said, her eyes growing larger.

My room was the last one on the left, just like my Victorian home in New Haven. My hands shook, but I forced them to be still. I pushed open the double doors. Gasping, I scanned the enormous room in front of me. Even in my sleep-deprived state, my eyes widened at the excess and grandness of my bedroom.

I’m rather envious. We’re in the smaller rooms on this floor—although they’re accommodating—just not as nice as yours. But I guess there’s only one you, Imani said, eyeing the muted yellow walls, white crown molding, and ornately designed, fabric covered windows. The sun beamed through an opening in the window. There’s some water in the pitcher on the table. She pointed straight ahead. "We don’t have bottled water like in your modern world, but just the same, it is fresh and without impurities. She motioned me to walk ahead of her. Take a look around and familiarize yourself to this grand room. Imani watched my gaze as I scanned my new room. I’ll let you rest. Someone will attend to your needs." She quickly turned away and left, the doors closed by themselves.

I rushed to the doors and gripped the handle.

Why can’t I break this?

I rattled the door some more to no avail. I closed my eyes and let the energy flow. A sudden burst ignited, connecting my mind to my body. The jolt felt diminished compared to my normal reaction. I pressed harder and focused on opening the door. The current moved steadily, then faded again until the electricity fizzled.

I slammed my fist into the door. Err!

I paced my opulent room. What should have been a luxury suite at an exclusive hotel turned into my growing nightmare.

Lauren, you need to get it together and use whatever brain power you have left to get out of here.

My thoughts turned to Chicago. . . .

I shut the images down and held the people at bay. I couldn’t let my memories consume me, not when I could break down too easily and never find my way home. That’s what he’d want, to keep me weak and a prisoner.

My throat felt parched. I looked over to where the pitcher and some glasses stood on a table next to the refined, red floral lounge chair. I hesitated, unsure if they’d placed anything poisonous into the pitcher. I poured a glass of water and inhaled the liquid for anything unusual. Nothing registered. I finally took a fated sip and allowed the small amount of water to travel through my system. I waited but felt nothing, then took a larger gulp. If they’d wanted me dead, I would already be dead. I remembered their main purpose for my imprisonment as I finished the rest of the water.

I placed the glass back on the table and lay down on the chaise lounge to gather my thoughts. My weakened state after traveling through the mist had not changed. I gazed up at the texturized ivory ceiling and the gold trimmed perimeter. All this luxury couldn’t replace my former life.

After a few moments, I sat at the edge of the chaise lounge and contemplated my circumstances. A glimpse of my reflection caught my attention. I approached the mirror, paying little attention to the enormous canopy bed to my left and the pristine bathtub to my right. I gazed at my cerulean dress, but more importantly, at the face staring back at me. I was taken aback.

I looked . . . different . . . the same, only older, just as Horus had mentioned after our arrival. I touched my face, ran my finger across my lips, and drew in a deep breath. The reflection was me with a few added years, or more accurately, more than a decade. I appeared to be at least thirty or so.

Now use your more mature brain and get yourself out of here, Lauren. The reflection didn’t reply back.

I moved to the large window next to the floor mirror that overlooked the back of the estate. It appeared sprawling. I scanned for any possible escape route. A guard looked up, and I quickly moved away from the window. I walked to the adjacent window and saw another guard on duty.

Think, Lauren. I paced my new prison.

Next to the dressing screen, I noticed a door. I crossed the room and hesitated at the entrance. Turning the knob, I opened the door to a windowless room and searched for a light switch, knowing this estate would contain modern amenities.

I walked into a modern closet filled with simple dresses and luxurious ones. Hats and shoes lined the shelves. My search wouldn’t end with picking out clothes. I had ulterior motives. I traced my hands along the edges of the closet and tapped at various points and gently pushed on the walls.

Nothing. No trap door opened.

I looked up at the ceiling for a secret attic, only to remember the one I’d seen with Imani down the hallway.

Frustrated, I left the closet.

What else? Where else?

I couldn’t think anymore. My eyes felt heavy fighting sleep. Perhaps if I sleep, my strength will return, and everything would be the same. I climbed into the king-sized canopy bed. Surprisingly, comfort surrounded me. In moments, I drifted away.

*

Something startled me awake. I grabbed the pillows next to me and held them close in a defensive manner. A jolt of energy seeped out. Even in the darkness, a shadow lingered. I didn’t remember closing all the curtains.

Who’s in here? I called out.

A rustling sound moved closer to me before a flicker of light from a small lamp appeared. I’ve been waiting for you to wake up, Ms. Eden. I knew you’d sleep for a long time, the voice in the darkness replied. She moved closer to the light so that I could see her face.

You’re the one sent to help me, but I don’t need that kind of help. I tossed the pillow away and pulled up the blanket, turning away from her.

I’m here to make your stay easier, just like I did before. She stood patiently and waited for my reply. The stranger then walked toward the light switch and turned on the lights. Overflowing gray strands covered her head and warmth filled her round face. You don’t remember me.

No, as I’m sure you’re aware, I don’t remember anything. I refused to meet her gaze.

Master Raefield says you’ve come here to remember. He’s going to help you get your memory back, she said with child-like eyes.

I sat up in bed and faced her. Oh, is that what he said? How thoughtful of him to help me with such a difficult task.

The woman continued to smile. She appeared younger after lurking out of the shadows. He’s a good man. He’s done so much for me and my family. And, he’s been an asset to your people. How strong you’ve become in the community!

My throat went dry. Did you know my parents? And the Reeds?

Oh, yes! Lovely people, your parents. They were very close to the Reeds, naturally, being twins and everything. Your father and his twin had many similarities. A true family, always helping each other. It’s a shame the mist took you and them. Raefield was so heartbroken, but you’ve returned to us.

My stomach turned. I could only imagine the lies that Raefield had invented to glorify his loss and weave an image before and after we’d left New Haven.

My blood simmered.

He was so distraught for weeks. We did everything we could to ease his pain. We were all devastated when your parents died in that fire, especially Raefield. He scoured the city, looking for the villains who would do such a thing. Once he captured the perpetrators, law enforcement swiftly dealt with them. It was just and righteous for what those two men did to your parents while they slept.

I reached for the water that was placed next to the end table. I felt like the Salton Sea. What happened to them?

The city felt that Master Raefield could handle the situation quietly, because the previous mayor had freed these men on minor charges. They’d stolen food from a neighbor. Raefield could bridge the distrust between your people and mine. He convinced the city these men were a menace to society. They had killed the mayor and his wife. They were leaders of your people and representatives of ours. She spoke freely.

What did he do to the men? My hands trembled. I clasped one hand over the other one.

They were stabbed and hung in a private ceremony outside in a field with your people in attendance. Later, their bodies were burned. A few city officials came as witnesses and for record keeping.

I felt a sharp pain run along my chest. My birth parents wouldn’t need protection from two minor felons, who could never come close enough to attack former leaders of my kind. I closed my eyes for a few moments, then opened them when realization set in. You were present.

Yes, I was there. Everyone felt justice had been done. The townspeople knew nothing of either death. The public remembers a fire killing your poor parents, started by a cigar left in their room. Of course, this had been taken care of by your family’s steward and liaison, Nathan and Clara, and a few witches to stage the tragic event. Your identity was protected since you had left, and Master Raefield took care of everything afterwards.

I remembered what Nathan had told us at the loft . . . they’d needed to cover up the events surrounding my parents’ death. I reached for another glass of water, pulling in the information given to me. The past slowly came together. I remained emotionless. Thank you—

Rebecca.

Rebecca . . . for bringing me water. Another disturbing thought crossed my mind: Had Raefield threatened Nathan and Clara after we’d left? No longer protected, they’d needed to depart when Quinn had left for the modern world to find me. Their only way to stay safe had been to remain quiet and do what was necessary to change the course of events. Did many people know about us?

A few significant people. Your family and Raefield worked very hard to keep the peace between your kind and the townspeople. So much chaos had erupted with all the witch trials and burning. People were afraid. On both sides. Rebecca shook her head. Raefield was seen as a negotiator and your father had been a good leader. Together, they made it work. Naturally, being blood related—half-brothers—had an advantage.

I coughed up the water I’d just consumed. I couldn’t catch my breath as I reached for my throat. Everything felt too tight and too hot, like I could burn up.

My dear, are you alright? Rebecca quickly sat down next to me and patted my back.

Must’ve swallowed some air. I slowed my breathing, but the pain in my head and my heart seemed to expand.

Mom . . . Quinn, why didn’t you tell me?

You see? That’s why he wants you here so much. You’re family. You’re all he has left.

I blocked the images from my mind. Family. The worst possible connection to the man I loathed transformed into reality. My eyes turned languid. Yes, my aunt Helen told me. Tell me again how he’s related?

Oh, that’s easy enough. Your paternal grandfather passed away. Your grandmother remarried a Sinclair, Raefield’s father. Raefield is at least ten years your father’s junior. Raefield’s father had known your grandparents.

Raefield was family! He and my father had the same mother, my grandmother. Had I always known, somewhere deep inside?

Rebecca quickly stood. I’m sorry to keep talking like this when you’ve just arrived and need to settle in.

I quickly blinked and reached for her hands. It’s not a problem. Thank you for talking to me, and reminding me what I’ve missed. I think you’re going to be helpful.

Yes, we’ll get along just like we did before. Raefield asked me not to say too much until you’re ready, but it seems you’re already eager to remember.

I searched Rebecca’s eyes, trying not to betray myself. Yes, I want nothing more than to remember who I was and what role I played in this family. I’d like to be that person again. Can you help me to remember? Tell me more about my parents? I think Raefield would want me to feel as if I’ve come back.

Rebecca’s eyes lit up. Of course, when things are in order. Imani and Jaxson can also replenish your memory. They were more acquainted with your parents. She looked at me seriously, her eyes searching. Your eyes are brighter than I remember. Quite emerald-like. She stared at them for a moment longer before casting her eyes down, then moved further away from the bed. There are lovely dresses in the closet for you. Raefield had different sizes ordered because we didn’t know how you’d turn out when you arrived. They are quite modern and lovely. She paused for a moment, then continued. Raefield has seen your modern world. We do have some of the luxuries of a civilized society. There is electricity and running water throughout the estate.

I noticed it’s quite up-to-date for this time period. I thought back to my break-in at Raefield’s estate, and I remembered how elaborate his home had seemed for that era. Guilt surfaced when I recalled how easily I had slipped away from Quinn.

Rebecca sensed my withdrawal, but didn’t respond. She walked toward the double doors; they opened and closed for her without effort.

I took in a deep breath and lunged myself into the bed with my face pressed against a pillow to fight off the unwelcome information regarding my family. Raefield and my father and my mother . . . we were all family. His blood was linked to mine. His family line ran through me.

Why would you do this to your own brother?

I pushed away all the sordid and twisted reasons he might’ve thought, how he might’ve believed my parents had been the enemy. I knew he couldn’t be rational. Evil lived in his domain, and I’d become ensnared in his prison.

My escape couldn’t come soon enough.

2

RAEFIELD

When I awoke, I felt more alive and stronger. My sky-blue dress was wrinkled from laying on the bed. I knew I could replace it with the many elegant dresses from my fully stocked closet. Raefield didn’t hold back on any expenses, and he definitely anticipated a new me at any age, just as Rebecca had said. I didn’t care. I didn’t want anything from him.

I quickly crossed over to the closest to search for something more comfortable to wear. I couldn’t find what I needed. Pants—anything that could give me greater movement than this dress. And running shoes. These wedge heels would hinder any distance I needed to cover. How practical we’d become.

Checking myself in the mirror and using a damp cloth to freshen up, I prepped for the possibility of a long journey. I swept my hair up in a neat and tidy twist. I looked at the escape route. The door appeared less overpowering now than it had before. Could a wave of my hand open up to freedom? I reached for the handles and threw open my first getaway.

Lauren, are you ready for dinner? Your hair looks lovely in that upsweep, Imani cooed and scanned my face, void of any reaction. We have a special dinner waiting for you. I’m sure you’re famished.

Um, sure. I was looking forward to finally eating.

"Good. Raefield has requested a fine meal for your homecoming, something succulent and delightful to entertain your taste buds. And, of course, wild stories for our little soiree."

I clenched my teeth together and held back the heat from forming on my face. I’m not really up for any guests since it’s my first night here. I was hoping for something quiet or just dinner alone.

Imani frowned. There are people eager to see you again. They’ve learned of your return and want to see for themselves—a family member of the mayor and his wife—their beloved leader now perished. Her eyes seemed to beg me to come down to dinner.

Of course. You went through all this trouble. I searched her face again for any warning signs, only to find a smooth completion.

We walked down the somber hallway to the balcony above the two-story foyer. Everything appeared impressive and regal in the evening light. The chandelier sparkled high above the main floor. Laughter caught my attention. The guests waited downstairs for my great return even as the knots formed in my stomach. I didn’t want to face them. I didn’t want to know them again. My head pulled back to whimpering sounds I heard behind me. They sounded familiar, sounds I remembered hearing before I knew this world existed. I scanned the darkened hallway. Nothing moved across the corridor.

Something you remembered? Imani paused midway on the staircase.

I lowered my eyes to the ground. Memories live in this place.

She turned her back to me and continued down the stairs.

We entered the grand hall, every pair of eyes turning in my direction. My face flushed.

Jaxson stepped forward. You really do shine, Eden. I mean . . . Lauren. That dress suits you.

Yes, she has come home, a lovely addition to the family. Come, let’s not hesitate. Everyone would like a chance to talk to you, Imani gestured. She led me further into the great hall.

Tiny shots of electricity fired inside of me. I felt some relief knowing my powers were coming back. Hold still, I thought to myself, unsure of my abilities in this domain.

Ahhh. The lovely Lauren has risen. We’ve been eagerly waiting your return. You must be famished, Raefield said sweetly. His light hair was styled in a youthful way, and his face shone with confidence. But his eyes reflected a warning, something to tell me he wouldn’t hesitate to flex his will. Raefield looked at my dress. I’m sure you could’ve found something more appealing in the closet without a wrinkle for your first night.

I narrowed my eyes. "When you suddenly find yourself somewhere you didn’t expect to be and thrust into a new world, the last thing you think about is what dress to wear. Somehow, I felt more exhausted than normal, so the need to sleep overcame me, Uncle."

Raefield’s pupils widened and he only chuckled, giving nothing away that I’m certain he hadn’t already planned. I told you she was charming. Please, come reacquaint yourself with people you’ve already met. He reached out his hand, but I wouldn’t take it. Raefield smirked. You already know Horus. The remodeled man gave me a warm smile. Jaxson and Imani will join us, of course, and your well-acquainted friends, Mercedes and Nicholas will participate in our little feast. Mercedes gave me a curt smile. And this upstanding gentleman is the city mayor, Patrick Bergeron, his lovely wife, Adaline, and the chief of police, Mr. Martin.

I managed to give the strangers a polite smile, even when my desire to run from this place urged me on.

We’ve heard such lovely things about you. You must be tired coming all the way from Colorado to see your uncle, the mayor’s wife said.

Uncle. I cringed at the sound of that word coming from a stranger, spoken aloud and clear for the world to know and for me to remember. My neck veins suddenly filled up to the point where pressure streamed upward toward my head. Everything felt hot. It was an unexpected and long journey.

The mayor chuckled. Of course, of course. When family and duty calls, one must seize the moment. With your parents—the Reeds—living in Europe, and you away from any family, it was generous of Raefield to offer you a position at his estate.

Oh, is that what my dear uncle said?

My parents, the Reeds. How convenient for the reversal of roles. I remembered Quinn and Nathan telling me how my life had been covered up to protect me.

Forgive us. We were excited to learn that a relative of Raefield was moving here. We’ve only met you once, briefly, and had one or two conversations with your parents before they went abroad. What keeps them so away from the states? Adaline inquired.

Change of scenery. It was rather cold and unsafe living in New Haven. I avoided eye contact with Raefield.

Yes, but that was many years ago. Such a tragic and isolated incident with the previous mayor, Adeline said, shaking her head. Much has changed since then. Were you close to your aunt and uncle, the De Boers, since you lived with them for a short period? They seemed like fine people, true leaders.

My throat went hoarse. Another obstacle I needed to clear. Keep emotions in check, Lauren. Not too well, apparently.

Adaline, let’s not delve into so much family history when she’s just arrived, the mayor said. We have all evening.

It’s alright. I don’t mind hearing other people’s perspective on the history of New Haven and my family. My uncle likes to sugarcoat a situation, then try to bury the hatchet as if nothing ever happened.

What was that, dear? Adaline asked.

My dear niece has picked up a style of colloquialism being used in the growing Wild West. I’m still learning their meaning, Raefield said as he glared at me. Let’s move into the dining hall. I’ve requested a special meal for Lauren’s homecoming and for your gracious presence.

Adaline looked pleased. She gave me a friendly smile, then linked her arm in mine. I would very much like to get to know you, how you ended up in Colorado, and why you’ve never come back to visit. My husband has been mayor for years, and only now does Raef talk about his niece. He never talks about any family.

I can’t imagine why. His name is notorious in my family.

Adaline smiled. I do hope you make your stay here permanent. I think we could become fast friends. There are so many exciting changes, not only in the city, but everywhere. She fussed with her dress. It’s amazing how many Model T’s are on the roads today. And I’m so glad we’re moving away from the Victorian era. Don’t you think the style is less restrictive? I can move easier.

It’s more fluid than I remember. Easier to move quickly when you have to, I muttered. But I seem to be missing pants in my wardrobe.

Adaline’s eyebrows moved in closer. I can’t imagine Raefield would have you do anything laborious for you to need trousers. You’re family. And I’m sure some type of management position within his estate would be more suited for you.

Only time will tell.

I looked at the feast spread across the long dining table for us to enjoy. Everything looked mouthwatering. My body craved food, and I needed the energy. I managed to sleep but still lacked a fully energized body. We took our seats as the waiters began to serve the meal.

This bisque is divine, Raefield. And the array of seafood and fresh bread is so delightful. Compliments to your chef, Adaline admired.

"Nothing less for our Eden. Here in New Haven, we have the fruits de mer at our disposal, Raefield replied, smiling. You’ll have to excuse me, it’s Lauren now. She prefers it that way."

"Eden no