Predators of Blood and Soul

I sat on the porch in the autumn twilight, pouring through the leather bound tome on my lap.  Frustration mounting, I flipped through the pages, searching.  NPR drifted from the kitchen as my father shelled oysters for dinner.

“And in local news, a horrifying murder occurred in Anacostia this evening.  Police just recently discovered the mutilated body of a sex worker in a dumpster on Good Hope Road.  Commuters are advised to avoid the area, as the scene is closed to the public.  Her identity is unknown, but her body shows evidence of brutal assault.  The case is under intensive investigation.  If you have any information, please contact local authorities.”

The book shook in my hands.  I cursed, slamming it shut.  “You just won't tell me what I need to know, will you?” I said darkly.

The book stirred, spine shivering.  Surprised, I traced the stacked pages.  A paper cut me.&n