Loup-Garou: The Beast of Harmony Falls (The Ian McDermott, Ph.D., Paranormal Investigator Series Book 1)

by David Reuben Aslin

  “Yeah, well, I have enough gas to get me down the road.”

  Charlie looked at Ian with a questioning look on his face.

  “Down the road? Where are you heading to anyway?”

  Ian replied, “Well, I thought Astoria, Oregon sounds interesting what with that outbreak of vampires and all.”

  Charlie shook his head as both men laughed at that. Charlie then looked as though a light bulb had just gone off inside his mind.

  “That’s it, Ian. This is your calling. You know, paranormal investigations and such. You’ve always sort of fringed on it, right? Hey, how ‘bout I put in a call to the Astoria Police? Let them know what a fine job you did helping us with our difficult, weird case. I’ll tell them difficult and weird is right down your alley. Your area of expertise as it were.”

  Ian paused for a second. “Yeah, maybe it’s time I reinvent myself just a bit. Change with the times and all that. What was it that television character from that X-Files show used to say? Oh yeah, ‘The truth is out there.’ Well, you and I know that the truth can be stranger than fiction!”

  Charlie took a deep breath and replied, “Boy, you got that right.” Ian smiled as he looked straight at Charlie.

  “Yeah, Charlie, make that call if you want. Well, I … I mean Scout and me, we better get a move on. I want to pull into Astoria before dark. You know, with them vampires and all.”

  Both men laughed, but Charlie had a concerned look on his face.

  “First a werewolf, now vampires. Lions and tigers and bears, oh my. Well, Charlie, after what we’ve been through, I’m not totally ruling out any extreme possibility. Probably it’s nothing more than club freaks or some nutjob running around with plastic fangs. Some fruit case that’s seen one too many Bela Lugosi movies. But still …”

  Charlie looked at Ian. “Yeah, but still. Well, you take care. Get yourself a silver crucifix, some garlic, and maybe a wooden stake or two. You know, can’t be too careful. Okay, Ghost Buster, you better get going!”

  The two men said their goodbyes and Ian and Scout climbed out of Charlie’s car. Charlie pushed his trunk release button. Ian walked to the rear of the car, reached in, and grabbed the bag of dog food and the dog bowls. Ian then shut the trunk and moved out of the way. Charlie backed his car up and began to leave but suddenly stopped and rolled down his window.

  “Scout, you take good care of my friend, Paranormal Investigator Ian McDermott!”

  Scout wagged his tail and barked three times.

  Those words resonated in Ian’s head. That was it. That was perfect. He would have new business cards made by some print shop as soon as possible. Maybe even get an online private investigator’s certification and license.

  Chapter 50

  Partings

  Ian hooked his Jeep up to his trailer. He then unplugged it from all the utilities and went back inside to double check that everything had been properly put away.

  “Well, Scout, looks like that’s about it. Come on, boy. Let’s go to the office and pay the bill so we can get a move on.”

  The two headed over to the office. After paying, Ian asked, “Molly, can you tell me the best way to get from here to Astoria, Oregon?”

  Molly looked at Ian kind of funny. “Say, you didn’t have a dog when you arrived, did you?”

  “No, I just picked him up today as a matter of fact!”

  Molly rubbed her right hand on her chin. “Course I only seen him once, but that dog looks a lot like Sheriff Bud’s.”

  Ian smiled and replied, “Yeah, that’s because he used to belong to Bud. He was given to me.”

  Molly looked at Ian somewhat suspiciously.

  “A gift, huh? You don’t say. Well, anyhow, the best way to go is to head back to Woodland. Then go north on I-5 for about thirty miles, I guess. Take the turn off to Longview. Head into Longview keeping your eyes peeled for Oregon Way ‘cause you’ll be making a left onto it. That will head you straight to the bridge that crosses the Columbia to Oregon. Once across the river, you’ll be heading west up Rainier Hill. No more turns from that point. Just keep on that road for about I’d say seventy miles or so, and you’re there. From Astoria, it’s just minutes on down to the Oregon or Washington beaches and lots of camp grounds and RV parks. Might be some good clam digging this time of year. That what you going for? Clam digging?”

  Ian smiled. “Oh, I suspect I’ll be doing some digging around!”

  Ian and Scout left the office and returned to the Jeep. They climbed in, and the two of them headed out of the Firlane Resort, turning west towards new horizons.

  EPILOGUE

  Part I

  Three hours later …

  “Well, boy, looks like we’ve made it. Welcome to Astoria. I don’t know about you, but I’ll be glad to get out and stretch my legs. I’m getting a little hungry. You probably are too, huh boy? Say, since I’ve got a few coins in my pocket since Charlie squared me up, how ‘bout I spring for some lunch at a restaurant? I know what you’re thinking. I spend too much money eating out. Yeah, you’re right about that. This will be the last time for a while. Say, maybe later this evening, we’ll spot us a nice grocery store and stock up on some groceries. This is nice. It’s been a long time since I’ve had anyone to talk to while on the road. You’re not much of a conversationalist. But you sure are a good listener, aren’t you, fella?”

  Ian petted Scout’s head. Scout wagged his tail and panted happily. They were bonding fast.

  Ian and Scout were heading through downtown Astoria. “Look boy, there’s a nice-looking restaurant just up ahead. And by that I mean it looks nice enough for the likes of me. Not too expensive, if you know what I mean. But no dive either. Scout, it’s called Pigs-In-A-Blanket. With a name like that, it’s gotta be good, right? You know, just like that jelly. With a name like Smucker’s, it’s gotta be good! I always thought that was funny, like the word Smucker’s sounds good.” Ian laughed at his levity. Scout barked his approval at the humor.

  “Okay then, boy. I’ll tell you what. You’re gonna stay here in the Jeep. I’ll crack a window for ya. When I get back, I’ll have a little surprise for you. Maybe some bacon or sausage. How’s that sound, boy?” Scout barked once loudly as if he understood completely.

  Ian pulled his Jeep and trailer into the far back of the restaurant parking lot so as not to block any traffic.

  “All right then. You keep guard of all my worldly possessions. I won’t be long. Hey, while I’m inside, maybe I’ll get a good tip on a nearby campground or RV park. One that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. One that takes shaggy guests like yourself. Okay … there, the windows cracked just a little ‘cause it looks like it could start raining any time. It’s pretty windy and cold, so I know you won’t get overheated. I do hate to leave you just when we’ve started getting to know one another. The worst part is you don’t understand much, if any, of what I’m saying. Well, if somehow you can understand – just know I will try and be fast. You be a good boy while I’m gone.”

  Ian climbed out of his Jeep and locked its doors. He then walked across the parking lot and into the restaurant.

  Once inside, Ian looked around until he spotted a sign that said, “Seat Yourself.” He did just that and immediately picked up a menu and began looking it over.

  Hmm … Breakfast served twenty-four hours a day. Nice. The “Pacific Coast Special” breakfast: Two farm fresh eggs, your choice of either three slices of bacon or three sausage links, hash browns and toast: $8.99. Well now, that sounds perfect.

  Ian looked up over his menu and noticed his server was waiting with a smile on her face. “Can I get you some coffee or something to drink while you decide what you’ll be having?”

  Ian noticed the pretty young woman’s name badge.

  “Hello, Jennifer. I’ll have a large tomato juice and the Pacific Coast Special breakfast … for lunch, that is.”

  Jennifer smiled. “Good choice … Sausage or bacon?”

  Ian paused for a second. “Uh, bacon.�
��

  Jennifer continued, “What type of toast would you like?”

  Ian thought about that one for a couple of seconds before he replied. “Sourdough.”

  Jennifer smiled and made her notes on her order pad. “Oh, and how would you like your eggs?”

  Ian returned a smile to Jennifer. “Over hard would be great. Say, Jennifer, have you lived here in Astoria long?”

  Jennifer looked at Ian with a slightly surprised look on her face as she replied, “No, sir. I’ve been staying … I’ve been house sitting for my aunt and uncle for a couple months while they were traveling. But they just got back this week. I was living before, and will be returning to, Seattle. I got this job about a month ago. You know, seasonal help. And actually, today’s my last day. This job ending actually worked out perfect, timing wise. ‘Cause I just got a letter of acceptance a few days ago to the nursing program at the University of Washington in Seattle. That’s where my parents live. Anyway, I’ve been working here and there for the last couple of years saving what I can for school. Oh my gosh … I’ve practically told you my life story.” Jennifer began to blush.

  Ian held up his hand, gesturing that it was quite all right as he smiled. “No, no, it’s good to hear your plans are working out for you. Say, one more question. What do you know about a new nightclub in town? I’ve heard it’s sort of a place where … I don’t know … kind of attracts, what’s the word? Goth people, and persons interested in the occult … or … uh … let’s just say alternative lifestyles. I’m doing some research … some investigation you might say … and …”

  Jennifer flashed Ian a sly grin as she half-rolled her eyes. “Yeah, you don’t look the type that goes there. But you’re talking about … you described the new club in town called The Morgue. That place is just a couple blocks from here. Down on the wharf … the waterfront. Pier Thirteen I think? I’ve never been there. I mean I’ve been by it. I’ve never been inside. But I’ve heard stories. It’s a real creepy spot. The city’s been trying to shut it down ever since it opened last June. But I hear the owner has deep pockets and has powerful lawyers and all that. Anyway, he’s been able to keep the place going even with all the local church groups and negative press and the like. You’re right. The place attracts lots of Goths and, you know, all those vampire poser types. Real freaks, some of them. I’m surprised there’s enough people into that sort of thing in this little town to keep a place like that going. I mean, maybe in Portland or Seattle … but Astoria?”

  “But I guess people come from all over to go there. Probably mostly weirdos from Portland.”

  Jennifer covered her mouth and blushed slightly as she glanced around, checking to see if she had offended any listening ears before continuing. “Well, I’m no one to judge. Different strokes and all that. But that place is not my thing if you know what I mean. Not at all.”

  Ian smiled and shook his head in agreement. “Yeah, I hear that. Not my cup of tea either. It’s just … well … like I said, I’m doing a little research.”

  Jennifer smiled. “What are you, some kind of private investigator or undercover cop?”

  Ian took a deep breath; then, with a Cheshire Cat-like sly expression on his face, winked at Jennifer as he replied, “Something like that. Say … do you know the name of the person who owns or runs the club?”

  Jennifer giggled. “Yeah, but it’s gonna cost you. In the form of a good tip, that is. Good information doesn’t come cheap around these parts.”

  Ian laughed, “No, I don’t suppose it does. If the food here turns out to be half as pleasant as the conversation, you’ll be well compensated.”

  Jennifer laughed. “Good, ‘cause a girl’s got to pay for her schooling somehow, right? His name’s – and you’re gonna love this – I read in the paper that his name’s Vladimir Drago Salizzar. Doesn’t Drago mean dragon or something like that?”

  Ian smiled and nodded a silent yes. Jennifer continued, “Molly said people just call him Salizzar. Now doesn’t that sound just like out of a movie or something? I’ve never seen him myself. But the girl, Molly, who used to work here? She told me he’s like out of this world good looking. Long, black hair that he keeps pulled back in a bushy pony tail, dark eyes, and a perfect, though really pale, complexion. She said he talks with some sort of European accent. She said he even … and get this …” Jennifer paused once again to look around to make sure no other ears were listening. None were. “He, like, wears eyeliner, red lip gloss, and clear nail polish. But Molly said he didn’t seem gay. Maybe bisexual. How weird is that? I mean sure, in a big city, but around here in a town of mostly loggers and fishermen? The guy wears make-up. No wonder nobody ever sees him during the day. Looking like that in this town, he’d probably get beat up. But I guess somehow it works for him ‘cause Molly said he’s like totally hot. Anyway, I almost went with her once to check him … to check that club out. But the whole thing sort of freaked me out. I backed out at the last minute. I never got a second chance to go with her ‘cause soon after, she just never showed up for work anymore. That was a few weeks ago. She was like me. Not from around here. She probably got fed up with small town living and all the rain and moved back home or wherever. She was from somewhere back east. Chicago, I think?”

  Ian interrupted, “Say Jennifer, do you know of any good campgrounds or RV parks close by?”

  Jennifer suddenly got a very thoughtful expression on her face as she gently tapped her pen against her cheek. “Of course there’s lots of camping near the beaches, but on this side of the river? Hmm … Warrenton I think would be the closest. Then there’s Seaside and Canon Beach further away, but not very far. I’d guess around a twenty to thirty minute drive from here. Oh, and there’s lots of places across the bridge over at Ilwaco and around Long Beach, which is really nice. They’re probably about the same distance away. Maybe a bit closer, around a twenty minute drive I’d guess. But real close. Hmm … near to town here … I don’t know. I don’t think there’s any.”

  Ian smiled and extended his right hand. “Jennifer, my name is Ian McDermott. It’s been my pleasure to meet you. I want to thank you for all the information. Oh, and good luck with school.” Jennifer responded likewise, and they shook hands cordially.

  Jennifer smiled brightly, “Nice to meet you, Ian. My last name’s Dowling.”

  Ian smiled as he asked, “Jennifer, do you ever go by Jenny?” Jennifer looked at him with a slightly surprised look on her face as she responded to his provocative question.

  “Yeah, actually … my family and friends call me Jenny. Why do you ask?”

  Ian grinned as he replied, “Oh, no reason. It’s just you remind me a bit of a very nice gal who works for a friend of mine in a town I just came from. That, and Jenny just seems to fit you.”

  Jennifer smiled and left to turn Ian’s order in to the kitchen. Ian’s food came just a few minutes later. It was good – very good. Before leaving, Ian wrapped a couple pieces of bacon that he’d saved in a napkin and put them in his coat pocket. He then left a sizeable tip at the table for Jennifer, the aspiring nurse.

  Part II

  After exiting the restaurant, as Ian headed back to his near-vintage Jeep Wagoneer, Scout spotted Ian and started barking happily.

  Ian unlocked the door of the Jeep and began petting Scout, who had been a very good boy. Nothing was chewed on or disturbed in any way.

  Ian retrieved the napkin-wrapped bacon from his coat pocket and gave it to his very appreciative companion. He then put a leash on Scout and walked him to an abandoned lot just across the street from the restaurant parking lot. Scout did his business, then they returned to the Jeep.

  “Okay boy, next order of business. Keep your eyes peeled for a print shop of some kind.”

  Ian and Scout drove out of the restaurant parking lot and proceeded up the road to the main street of Astoria.

  Ian glanced for a second over at Scout. “There. Right over there. Scout, do you see it? It’s just ahead on the right: a FedEx-Kinko�
��s. They do good work, and fast. I’m gonna have them make up some business cards for us. How does Ian and Scout’s Investigations sound?”

  Scout let out a groan, then yawned.

  “Oh, I suppose you’d prefer Scout and Ian’s …?” Ian chuckled as he shook his head.

  Scout, as if he understood every word Ian was saying, wagged his tail and barked three times.

  Ian glanced at Scout once again. He looked into the bright eyes of his four-legged friend, and he couldn’t help smiling. Then, trying to put his game face on, Ian took a deep breath and exhaled as he spoke, “All right, seriously Scout. What would sound good?”

  After much contemplation, Ian began ascending from the depths of his thought. Then, with a grin on his face, he exclaimed out loud, “Scout, I’ve got it. I think we’re gonna have to go with Ian McDermott, Ph.D., Paranormal Investigations.”

  ~Fini~

  Other works of heart-stopping fiction from

  the author of horror and the macabre,

  David Reuben Aslin

  RED TIDE - The Flavel House

  Horror / Vampires of the Morgue

  Book II of the Ian McDermott, Ph.D.,

  Paranormal Investigator Series

  It’s late October. Paranormal Investigator, Ian McDermott, has come to the small coastal river city of Astoria, Oregon to investigate a rash of recent slayings, which in their wake have left the banks of the Columbia River littered with horrifically mutilated, completely exsanguinated … rotting corpses.

  All leads point to the new waterfront nightclub aptly named: The Morgue—devilishly devised by its unabashedly flamboyant owner, Vladimir Drago Salizzar (a self-proclaimed vampiric creature of the night), to attract Gothic types and presumed vampire role-playing raving revelers.