Dragon Eye: And so it Began-Part I
William "Revel" Anson: Samrx5@cs.com
Disclaimer: The Gargoyles Universe is the property of Disney and Buena Vista it is used without their knowledge. The Dragon/Fey War and several other themes are the property of TGS. All original characters in the Dragon Eye Universe are the property of William "Revel" Anson
Dragon Eye
And so it Began-Part I
Eleven Thousand Years Ago
"It is quiet, " whispered a ruddy colored dragon to his companion, "do you think they have fled?" The black and gold dragon stretched his aching muscles taking the chance of peering over the smoldered rocks and brush.
"We could not have killed them all, they may be hiding." The black and gold dragon stepped out into the open waiting for another wave of attacks from the mortals and their fey masters.
"Do you see them Klaru?" asked the red dragon, his yellow eyes little more than slits as he squinted. The wind blew the thin smoke away revealing the devastation to the two dragons. The two were declared of lesser blooded at the time of their hatching forever binding them to the lower class of their sacred society and in times of war were considered cannon fodder. Because of such a declaration "lessers" were often left to defend themselves in a skirmish or used as the first wave against the other mortal races. Dragons were long-lived and hard to kill, but it could be done.
Klaru and his crimson friend Fet were on scout patrol when a sole flying figure spotted them and alerted the rest of the mortals and two of the Fair Folk who were leading them. The two dragons were thrown off to discover that the one who spotted them was a winged. They purposely patrolled during the day to avoid the wingeds that fiercely protected their homes and the humans that dwelled near by at night.
Klaru stood over the fallen warriors one by one searching for the one winged mortal who had been at the front of the skirmish after the fey had retreated leaving the mortals defenseless. Klaru did feel slightly bad about destroying the lesser races having several of their members for friends fighting against the fairies. After several minutes he found the one he was looking for.
"Fet, come here and look it was a winged," said the black dragon. Nervously Fet trotted over to his friend, constantly looking around for any sign of an ambush.
"We should take flight, the humans may be planing a counter strike at this very moment," hissed the red dragon.
"In a moment, just look," argued Klaru pointing at the lifeless being, "this one is not stone." Klaru reached down prodding the eye shaped pendent that was lying on the warrior's chest. He picked it up giving it a sniff wrinkling his sensitive nose.
"It stinks of fey magic, I can sense it from here," growled Fet squinting at the pendent. Klaru nodded in agreement. The pendant was fairly simply; an obsidian gem encased in an eye shaped gold rim.
"I think we should take this with us," said the black dragon. Fet's eyes went wide his expression clearly one of surprise.
"What for?"
"I do not want it to be used against us again," replied Klaru, his voice sharp.
"Then destroy it and be done with it, it is of no use to us. We cannot even harness any power from it," argued Fet looking over his shoulder once again.
"We cannot," replied Klaru with a wicked little grin that wrapped around his long face, "but the Heiri might be able to."
"And how do you intend to present it to the Heiri? The great lords of the arts are not well known for their compassion, especially lord Apep." Fet noticed a strange twinkle in his friend's eye the kind that meant trouble. "You cannot mean for us to present it to the Heiri, we are not worthy to even be in their presence. Such gall could be considered treason."
"And so what if it is," snarled Klaru. "We will never see our next millennium if we do not try improve our status." Fet could feel his body shaking with fear; both from his friend's words and the possible punishment form his leaders. The magic of a dragon are not capable of taking life, but there are worse things than death, places that would make any mortal being take their own life if they could.
"But what good would it serve us? We are nothing more than novices in the use of the arts."
"It is a chance," replied Klaru more calmly than before, "a chance for us to help our kind and ourselves at once." The black dragon hardened his dark green eyes. "You are either with me or not, there is no in between." Fet looked over his shoulder once again. He knew this was a mistake, but he had to try. Letting out a long sigh the red dragon nodded extending his wings for flight.
"Alright, I am with you."
* * * * *
Skema was the dragon's most sacred city. Few beings of the other races knew of its existence since it was hidden above the clouds floating by sitting on a focal point where several ley lines crossed. The platform itself was essentially a mountain that had been carved from the earth long ago and raised to the heavens long before Klaru or Fet even existed. It was the capital of the dragon's culture and the city where all of noble birth were taught to use the arts of dragon magic.
"I never imagined my unworthy eyes would ever be able to see Skema," said Fet in awe as they approached the rich iron and granite cliffs that protected the city within. Klaru nodded equally as overwhelmed, but with more disdain for those who would not have allowed him to see such a sight. It was too late now to turn back.
Klaru and Fet approached the cloud temple where two guarding drakes stood before the entrance that was vast even by a dragon's standards. Drakes were less developed than full blood dragons, unable to use magic. They were smaller in overall size but they made up for it with brute strength and a pugnacious temperament. They were fiercely loyal and obedient, which could be a problem for the two dragons. The two guards crossed their pikes growling at the approaching dragons.
"State your business," snarled the peacock colored guard. Klaru nodded maintaining his smile.
"We seek audience with the Heiri on matters of a recent item we have discovered that we believe should be brought to their attention," he replied.
"Not all of the masters are here," said the gray drake, "several are away in battle dealing with the fey."
"We understand, now would you announce our presence to see if they will meet us," said Klaru trying not to smile at the sound of some of the Heiri being absent. The only ones who usually remained during a campaign were the true scholars and seekers of knowledge. The wielders of the arts who took flight to the call of battle were often the ones who had become consumed my their magical energies. Some became so consumed that they became one with the dark arts unable to be in the presence of the sun for it would hurt them. Lord Apep was one such example and was probably locked away asleep until sun down. Klaru sighed internally knowing that sunset was several hours away.
The peacock drake entered the temple addressing the three members of the Heiri that were conversing in the main chamber. Several minutes of discussion passed before they agreed to hear the visitors' words. It was more out of curiosity than necessity that they allowed the two dragons of lower grade to approach them. Such a matter that they would risk to appear meant that their information might serve some use or they were rebelling. In either case it was best to have them where they could be seen.
"We have been told that you wish to speak to us?" spoke a gentle voice that seemed to echo off the solid granite walls. Both Klaru and Fet lowered their heads to the floor as they approached the three dragons perched several yards above the audience level floor. Klaru presented the eye before the Heiri making sure to keep his eyes on the floor as not to anger his leaders. The two dragons, each on opposite sides of the elder began to growl at the sudden presence of a fey touched talisman.
"Is this an insult low breed?" growled the forest green dragon his eyes glowing an eerie magenta color. Klaru had to do some fast-talking if he did not want to end up crippled or worse.
"No insult my master," he replied softly, "This trinket was in the hands of a winged mortal that revealed our presence when we were scouting over the Barren Point. We were able to drive the two fairies away vanquishing many humans in the process."
"And you believed that you were important enough to report such a small event and item to us personally? You are quite arrogant for a lower class," said the green dragon his eyes returning to a dull red tint.
"It was not arrogance, my master," he began, trying to bottle his frustration, "I believed that it would be wasteful to simple destroy an item that has the ability to draw magic from the earth. Be it fey touched or dragon or even human, magic is magic, it only depends on how it is harnessed. I thought it to our advantage to possibly use this weapon against those who originally created it since our own natural magical abilities cannot harm the fey. All that would need to be done is for a master-of-the-smith to re-forge the source, the eye I presume."
"Such a mixture can be dangerous," said a cool gray dragon as she entered the audience hall, "magic is magic, but ill proportions can have disastrous results." It was easy for Klaru and Fet to recognize the newcomer of high blood with her flawlessly polished scales, regal accent, and slightly glowing green eyes that pulsated with magical energy.
"Ah Nouri, we were just discussing business from which your opinion would be greatly appreciated," said the elder dragon gesturing to the two in the center of the hall. She nodded to the two lower dragons gesturing for Klaru to approach. The black dragon handed the eye to the master-of-the-smith before respectfully retreating back to where Fet had neither moved or spoken. Nouri examined the pendant closely feeling it over with her mind to searching for any type of immediate danger to herself or the other Heiri.
"And you say you found it on a winged," she said turning an eye towards the two dragons. Both Klaru and Fet nodded. "The Fairy Folk must hold winged mortals in high standing that they would even bother supplying them with weapons. Perhaps there is something to gain from the attempt on such an item."
"You are considering experimenting with the eye?" said the forest green dragon the disgust easily recognizable. Nouri scowled at her fellow Heiri.
"I have already considered and accepted the challenge, Karos," she replied gracefully. The elder raised a talon silencing Karos. His eyes turned then to the master-of-the-smith and nodded.
"Then you can begin as swiftly as caution allows," said the elder softly, "I expect results soon."
"And what of Lord Apep? Surely he will want a say on the matter," said the dark aqua dragon to the elder.
"I will inform my son later this evening," replied the elder his eyes almost saddened by the thought of having to even approach his offspring. Nouri nodded to her fellow leaders before turning her attention to the two dragons that had all but been forgotten by the other Heiri.
"I will see that you are rewarded for your logical thinking. This war would have already been over already if there were more minds that worked like yours." The gray dragon turned away from the rest of the Heiri leading Klaru and Fet out of the audience hall. With her back to them and her concentration elsewhere she did not see Karos's eyes burn for a moment.
"I will have to ask you to stay within the city until I am finished with my work. I may need to call upon you for questions concerning this weapon."
"We will offer any assistance that our master requires," replied Klaru with a smile.
* * * * *
Chicago Illinois, 1990
Lake View was a fairly new suburban development neighborhood. It first broke ground back in 1988, but was ironically named considering it was on the south side outskirts of Chicago, no where near Lake Michigan. Nevertheless it grew and grew well. The houses were generic and varied mostly as one or two story. Most of the garages only accommodated one car. The rest were just lined along the street usually in front of its owner's home. It was still a young community filled with fairly young families and their children. Most were simple middle class workers with teenagers and young adults.
From the brown and cream house in the middle of Atherstone Drive an eighteen year old boy with a backpack slung over one shoulder strolled out to his red and silver 1988 Bronco II.
"Jeff wait, do you need money for lunch?" Jeff turned to his mother and shook his head.
"Nah, I have money, thanks." His mother watched him continue to the car a broad smile slightly wrinkling her face.
"Have a good day at school," she called out, "oh and I'll have your cake when I get off work so make sure your friends are here about five if they are coming."
"I will, bye," he replied with a wave before turning the engine over. Jeff's mother waved as the SUV pulled away waiting until it tuned the corner before returning inside.
It was seven o' clock on the dot when Jeff stopped at a house that was several streets down from his own. He played with his golden brown hair as the front door opened and a young brunet emerged from the house. He watched her walk towards him with a small smile on her face. Heavenly blue eyes locked with Jeff's and her smile broadened only enhancing her beauty. It was that kind of smile that made Jeff's heart jump reflexively spreading a smile across his own face. As soon as she latched her seat belt he pulled away taking a moment to glance at his watch.
"I can't remember a day that we have made it to school before the 7:25 bell," she said in her slight Wisconsin accent. A smirk forced its way across Jeff's face.
"Sorry Jill," he replied, "I wake up when I do, but if you stayed at my house like I suggested we would not have that problem." Jill giggled in that way he always enjoyed; it was like a song that you never get tired of hearing.
"I know it's your birthday too, but don't get any ideas. You need to get your mind out of the gutter." Jeff could not keep from laughing.
"Awe," he flashed a phony hurt expression, " but that's where it belongs so I'm told." Jill turned her face to the window that small smile on her face once more.
* * * * *
As usual, Jeff ands Jill entered their chemistry class right as Mr. Hegwood was calling the roll. The slender, balding chemistry teacher glared at the couple through his Buddy Holly style glasses.
"Mr. Degger, Ms. Anderson, this is the fourth time you have entered my class after your names have been called, " he said in his standard monotone voice. "One more tardy will result in an unexcused absences." Jeff shrugged his shoulders.
"Funny, I don't feel tardy," replied Jeff causing several of his peers to snicker. Mr. Hegwood straightened his glasses and glared at the teenager.
"Well you are, now take your seat." Jeff took his seat behind Jill smiling to himself.
"I guess he didn't catch that one," Jeff whispered in his girlfriend's ear, Jill simply smiled.
Jeff waited until most of the other students in class had walked away before he began his usual rant. Jill as usual listened attentively for phrases she could contradict or prove him wrong simply for the reason of doing it. She was not sure who enjoyed the little game more, but it was something to look forward to in the morning.
Pine Hill High School was a fairly small school with a little more than a thousand students when they were all there, which was rare. The outside was a tan colored brick with red trim around the windows and a red stripe that served no purpose. The inside was not anything grand either with a tile first floor and a ragged carpet second floor.
After the first period of the day the school had what was called the fifteen minute break which allowed the students and faculty to take a break and wake up for the rest of the morning. Jeff and Jill often just stood at one of the balconies that were one the second floor where large windows let the early morning light pour in.
"Is it just me or is at a bad thing when a guy is trying to explain the equilibrium of something and everyone in the entire class is asleep because the teacher is tone deaf," said Jeff taking Jill's hand in his own.
"Well," she said with a sigh, "I stay awake because I have to write down everything he has to say. Otherwise I'd fail." She quickly turned a sharp eye to the young man standing next to her. "On the other hand someone else I know falls asleep, rarely studies, and still manages to pull off a high B average. Just imagine what this person could do if they tried." Jeff smirked. He knew it annoyed her greatly that so many things came to him with such ease. Math and science were just things that he was able to do, but were hardly interesting to him. The counselors told Jeff that he could take honors level classes, but that would take time away from what he really enjoyed to do. He much rather preferred reading fiction of almost any genre and history of all ages. History was Jeff's favorite subject because it so rarely changed.
Jill was more a math kind of person. She loved hard numbers and the perfect equations of the universe. All things required math because it was everywhere was her philosophy. Jill saw it as art of perfection and that all things could be explained with the numbers. Although she enjoyed reading some Jeff's collection of science fiction and fantasy books, they were just stories to her that held no truth to them.
* * * * *
Lunch was always the most interesting time of the day for Jeff. He had early release worked into his schedule and was done with his day by twelve, while Jill had taken a full load again to improve her transcript. Although he could leave Jeff always stayed to eat with her unless there was an emergency errand that his mother wanted him to run. What Jeff really found surprising when they started dating was how well Jill adjusted to being with Jeff's two best friends, Ryan and Zack.
The two were an interesting pair. Zack Fix was a competitive figure skater and a full time art student with dyed orange hair. Ryan Megan was just Ryan. He was in the ROTC, but like most things that Ryan tried he lost interest quickly because he was lazy and proud of it.
"Afternoon guys," said Jeff plopping down next to Jill with a slice of square pizza in hand. Zack and Ryan both waved without looking up from what they were doing.
"Um... what are they doing?" asked Jeff almost afraid of the answer. Jill smiled whispering in his ear.
"Ryan is showing him a new card trick he learned." Jeff blinked a couple of times.
"Okaaay." Jeff watched as Ryan flipped and tapped the deck to reveal the card that Zack had originally chosen.
"So how's your car running?" asked Jill turning her attention back to Jeff.
"Okay I guess," he replied with a shrug, "it could use some new tires, but I've needed those for a while. Why do you ask?"
"Just trying to make conversation," she replied with a smile. Jeff arched an eyebrow at her quirky smile.
"Is it that hard to talk to me that we have to talk about the Bronco. Boy are we in trouble." Jill giggled burying her face into his shoulder. Her laughing abruptly stopped as she reached for her backpack.
"I almost forgot," she said unzipping the bag, "I figured I might as well give you your present now since I can't come to your party tonight."
"If you want to call it that," he snickered. "It will probably be just Ryan and Zack coming and you know what kind of rip-roaring party animals they are." Jill smirked at the sarcasm kissing her finger and pressing it to Jeff's lips.
"Be nice or you will not have any friends." Jill removed the brown paper wrapped object handing it to the birthday boy. Jeff smirked for a moment and quickly tore through the paper revealing the necklace and pendant. The necklace was a simple dull silver chain, but the trinket was more than impressive. The small perfectly smooth gem was a light sky blue encased in an eye shaped gold rim about an inch and a half long and an inch tall at most pinching at one end like a sideways rain drop.
"It's beautiful, how much did this run you?" Jeff asked his eyes as wide as saucers.
"Not much," she replied with a pleased smile, "I know how you love sci-fi and medieval stuff so I thought you would like it. Believe it or not I found it at a flea market next to a bunch of other cheap jewelry and a knife display. The dealer said the stone was not precious so it might be made of blue glass, I was not really listening to the guy." Jill took the necklace and hung it around Jeff's neck kissing his forehead.
"Happy birthday my love."
* * * * *
Jeff and Ryan were playing video games when Jeff's mother entered the house with a grocery bag in one arm and a rectangle cake in the other. Jeff jumped up from his chair taking the grocery bag to the kitchen; Zack happily took over in Jeff's sudden absence. Jeff's mother examined the cake to make sure every thing was correct taking the plastic cover off to prepare for the party.
"Is this everyone that is coming?" she asked glancing at the two boys playing video games. Jeff nodded as he tore open a bag of potato chips. "Where's Jill?"
"She couldn't make it," he replied between bites, "her family is going up to Milwaukee tonight and tomorrow to visit her grandparents. I think it's their anniversary tomorrow, I forgot to ask."
"Awe, that's too bad." Jeff shrugged his shoulder rolling up the bag of chips.
"It's okay," he reached into his shirt pulling out the gift Jill had given him earlier. "What do you think?" His mother examined the pendant closely. She was impressed by the remarkable condition it was in give how old it must have been.
"It's beautiful, did she give this to you?" Jeff nodded in reply. "It has been well taken care of considering its age. The jewel looks new, but the gold could be over a hundred years old given its color."
"Really?" he said examining the gift once again. "I didn't think it was real gold. Gold is usually softer than this." Jeff's mother pressed her fingernail down against the raindrop corner, but did not even indent it.
"It must have a lot of metals mixed with it," she said turning her attention back to the event at hand, her son's eighteenth birthday.
The party went well enough or at least as well as everyone was expecting. It was a simple party with cake, ice cream, gifts, and of course Zack and Ryan singing off key. Jeff did not want a major event though. It was not that he was unsociable, he just preferred being with his friends and family. Jeff picked up the first box from Zack shaking it lightly; at least it was not alive. He opened the box pulling out the two compact discs that were taped together.
"Alright," said Jeff with a smile spread across his face, "I was going to buy these, but you just saved me the trouble." As Jeff opened the other boxes his mother took pictures. Most of the gifts were clothes and a dragon poster to add to his collection. Given the few guests Jeff was not even expecting as much as he received. The last box was from Ryan with a small tag on the top of it.
"For persons over the age of eighteen," Jeff read aloud raising and eyebrow. He glanced at his mother a quirky smirk on his face. "You may not want to use the camera on this one. I have a bad feeling about this." Ryan simply smiled like the devil. Jeff examined the box giving it a slight shake bouncing the loose items inside around. He tore away the wrapping opening the flaps as everyone waited patently. Jeff took one look in the box and started laughing passing the box to Zack.
"Ah cool," said the orange haired boy. Zack reached in pull out the Playboy, holding it in front of Jeff's face. "Quick take a picture." Jeff's mother did not hesitate.
"It's an assortment box of all the wonderful things you can get now in the world of manhood," Ryan explained as he removed the items from the box. Jeff watched with a sideways smirk as he removed a pack of cigarettes, several pornography magazines, an adult video, and a single wrapped cigar. "I tried to get your voter registration card early, but the DPS would not let me."
"Oh well, I think you still out did yourself." Jeff would have felt embarrassed, but it was far too late.
* * * * *
It was pass eight when Ryan finally went home and Jeff and his mother were left to clean up the kitchen. As Jeff rinsed the cake form the plates he remembered another good reason for small parties, small messes.
"Did you have fun?" asked his mother softly.
"Yeah I loved it, thank you." Jeff loaded the last plate and started the dishwasher. He grabbed a sink rag and placed it under the door where it often times would leak during one of the cycles wiping his hands on his pants.
"I'm sorry I could not get you more things." Jeff turned and smiled modestly. It was just his mother and him. It had been that way since he was five. She worked very hard to keep him happy and raise him all by herself. Jeff knew what kind of child he was, it had to have been hell for her, but she did it. Other might have given up, but his mother was strong and the teen respected and loved her for it.
Jeff never knew his father. He had left the two of them years ago and never looked back. He got a call about three years ago from a person who said he was his father, but Jeff did not want to listen. Even if it was him, he was not his father. That person may have impregnated his mother, but there was more to the fatherhood criteria than just that. Not surprisingly whoever it was never called back.
The thoughts soon passed and a smile returned to the teenager's face. "It's okay," he said, "I really don't need a lot of stuff. Jill says you almost spoil me anyway."
"Oh does she now?" Jeff smiled at the sharp eye his mother was giving him. "And what else does Jill say about me when I'm not around?" his mother said with her hands on her hips. Jeff smirked as he scratched his head trying to think quickly.
"Well," he began, " that you are the kindest, sweetest, and most caring mother on the face of the earth."
"Oh sure she does, nice try," she replied wryly.
"Seriously though" Jeff continued, "it was good, just the way I wanted it, thanks." He wrapped his mother in a warm hug before finishing to clean the kitchen so she could lay down and rest finally.
* * * * *
Jeff awoke late like he usually did on Saturday morning. The light coming through the curtains was at just the right angle to strike the teen in the face. He stretched his well-toned frame his elbows popping as they began to move after hours of inactivity. Jeff picked up his schedule sheet from under his books, which had his work hours on it. Under Sat. it had a number two. He glanced at his alarm clock displaying the digital time of 11:33 and grabbed a semi-clean shirt off the floor.
"Let's see," Jeff mumbled to himself as he searched his closet for a clean white collar shirt. He found one and laid it out on his desk to use for work later. The teen eventually made his way to the kitchen and poured a bowl of cereal mixing the rest of one box and opened another of a different kind making a marshmallow and gram mix. As he went for the milk his mother emerged from her room straightening the crisp black dress jacket.
"I guess this means you have to work too," said Jeff with a smile.
"Yeah," she replied with a sigh, "Mr. Zoller asked all the operations staff to come in for a Saturday conference and meet some of our Norwegian investors. It should not take too long. When will you be home?" Jeff thought back to his schedule clicking his teeth.
"A little after nine as long as they don't ask me to close. I'll call you if I am though." Satisfied with the response she gave Jeff a kiss and left for work. Jeff sat silently for several minutes with the sound of his crunching the only noise in the house. The place did not feel so welcome for some reason. He could not explain it, but with the house empty it felt colder and less welcoming. Jeff crunched a few more time scanning the emptiness; it was eerie to be alone even in a place that was so familiar.
"I guess I should get ready," he said to no one in particular.
* * * * *
Jeff entered the grocery store waving at Debbie who was working the courtesy desk as usual. He slipped his sunglasses in to his shirt pocket walking towards the side room to clock in. Jeff had worked at Dodge's Food Bucket since he was a sophomore in high school. It was a local store several miles away from his home that was owned by a married couple, the Dodges. They had always been nice to Jeff rewarding his hard work with leniency and pay raises.
Jeff still could remember his first day of work when he was sixteen. The faces had changed so much since then. With the exception of a few full time workers all the people he had started working with had moved on or gone to college. He had been younger than most of them then, but now he was considered an old hand, able to tell a customer exactly where any item could be found.
The customers themselves were an interesting breed, Degger thought. He was intrigued by some of them while only annoyed by others. Some he wondered how they managed to even find the front door while others were always friendly and willing to ask him how he was doing.
"Are you open?" Jeff looked up at his light, it was off and his close sign was still up. He had not even placed his cash till into the tray.
"No," replied Jeff raising an eyebrow. The man smiled placing his six pack on the conveyor belt. Jeff sighed and sneered to no one in particular. It was something he had come to expect from some of the customers.
"So you working the late shift tonight?" Jeff turned his eyes to the sacker who had just arrived. Billy Drapier was about twenty-eight and had long ash brown hair that was usually either tied into a pony tail or put under a hat. Up until that moment Jeff had not noticed that Billy had been growing a goatee.
"Who are you suppose to be, David Xanatos?" Billy flashed a crooked smirked trying to imitate the well-known billionaire. Degger had seen the CEO of Xanatos Enterprises on television and although Billy was a bit heavier set in comparison he still could pass for a decent stunt double, not that the man probably ever needed one.
"Hey man the look is in and besides," he replied smiling again, "chicks love it." Jeff had to stifle the first wise crack that came to mind as Mr. Dodge approached the two with that look that needed no words, it always said, "get back to work."
"Hello Jeff how are you feeling?" he asked in his calm and friendly voice like it always was. Jeff had heard this opening line before, it was the over friendliness he used when he needed a favor and you were the last hope.
"Well I didn't have any test this week so I guess pretty good," Jeff replied waiting for the inevitable.
"That's good," he replied with a thin lip smile. "I know how Saturday night is usually important to teens, but I really need you to stay on until ten, Clarisa is no where to be found and I tried calling Jonathan and Kim, but neither one is home." Jeff sighed again. He knew this was going to happen, it usually did. The upsides were that he would get an extra hour of pay, which was always needed and Jill was gone so he had no plans.
"Alright, it's just and hour. It won't kill me"
* * * * *
"Just an hour," chimed Jeff as he looked at his watch, which read 9:15. "What the hell was I thinking taking the graveyard shift. This is death." Billy who was sweeping the registers snickered in response to his coworker's complaining. The last hour was like a void in time. The clock seemed to be standing still as the last hour crept by. There were several procedures that the sackers went through in the closing process, this included sweeping, garbage, and eventually mopping the store aisle by aisle. The cashiers on the other hand just cleaned their registers and counted the money. Jeff was never sure which he preferred since he had performed both before luckily not on the same night.
"Bet you five bucks that a family with screaming kids comes in at or around nine fifty and they grab a cart to do big shopping," said Jeff checking his wristwatch once again. Billy felt in his pocket if he had the tips and smiled, "You're on."
As if on cue by a director, a father, mother, and three children entered at 9:52 with the three kids fighting over who would get to ride on the bottom section of the shopping basket. Jeff turned to see Billy's sideways sneer flashing a smirk spreading across his face.
"Lucky SOB," mumble the sacker as he threw a five dollar bill on the register. "How did you know that they were coming?" Jeff could not keep from laughing.
"Because it always happens."
* * * * *
"Goodnight Cindy," said Jeff as he waved to his manager and walked towards his Bronco II. He started the engine and was searching the radio stations when he noticed that his fuel gauge was almost on the wrong side of the E.
"Guess I better get gas for tomorrow," he sighed shifting in to drive. Jeff drove for several minutes until finding a station that had a decent price for regular fuel. It was farther away from his house, but that is when the price also started to drop. Jeff hopped out of his car and moved to the pump, which had a bright red sign stating: pre-pay at night.
"Terrific." The Bronco II sported a twenty-three gallon fuel tank and at full could last for almost two weeks with the little amount of driving that Jeff did.
Jeff let out a head splitting yawn as he approached the clerk's counter. The elder attendant barked a small laugh rubbing his mustache.
"Long night son?" he said happily.
"Yeah the late shifts will kill you with boredom. I'm just glad I get to sleep in tomorrow," replied Jeff fishing through his wallet.
"Well I just came on myself, I'll be here till six."
"Ehe," moaned the teen at the thought of a full night shift, "no thank you. I need twenty on pump number three." The cashier made the transaction, the smile never leaving his face.
"You have a good night. Try to watch out for all the crazies out there," chimed the attendant, Jeff simply waved over his shoulder walking casually back towards the pump.
* * * * *
The freeway was mostly open road at that hour with a few cars within near vicinity, but most people were already where they wanted to be for a Saturday night. Still Jeff kept a watchful eye out for any drunk drivers which were a true danger if out on the freeway. A sixty mile per hour collision could play hell with a person's complexion or life for that matter.
It was only after a few minutes that the teen noticed the unusual vibration in the steering wheel. Rattles and vibrations were something that ran rampant in the two year old vehicle, but this one was different, it was new and far move severe. If it had been light out or even if Jeff had parked on the opposite side of the gas station he might have seen the bulge that had formed in his right rear tire where the belts had shifted.
The tire exploded shredding to pieces causing the SUV to careen across four lanes slamming hard into the concrete median. Jeff fiercely griped the wheel and slammed on his breaks. The sudden shift of gravity by the breaking caused the Bronco to flip on its side sliding back across the lanes of traffic. A full sized truck was caught off guard by the sudden movement hammering the undercarriage of the SUV propelling it forward again. The bare metal body sparked as it slid across the asphalt and over the guardrail to a semi dry creek bed twenty feet below. A moment later the damaged wreak exploded. Motorist stopped to aid the driver of the wreaked truck and several tried approaching the burning Bronco but the gasoline burned hot with several secondary explosions preventing anyone from getting too close to the blaze.
Over a hundred yards away down stream a smoking figure struck the ground hard rolling over several times before coming to a halt. He lay unconscious with his wings limp and unmoving and his blue green skin scuffed and blackened in several places. Around his neck a blue gem wrapped in a gold rim encasement, illuminated ever so slightly, active again after almost eleven thousand years.
To be continued...
William "Revel" Anson: Samrx5@cs.com
Disclaimer: The Gargoyles Universe is the property of Disney and Buena Vista it is used without their knowledge. The Dragon/Fey War and several other themes are the property of TGS. All original characters in the Dragon Eye Universe are the property of William "Revel" Anson
Dragon Eye
And so it Began-Part I
Eleven Thousand Years Ago
"It is quiet, " whispered a ruddy colored dragon to his companion, "do you think they have fled?" The black and gold dragon stretched his aching muscles taking the chance of peering over the smoldered rocks and brush.
"We could not have killed them all, they may be hiding." The black and gold dragon stepped out into the open waiting for another wave of attacks from the mortals and their fey masters.
"Do you see them Klaru?" asked the red dragon, his yellow eyes little more than slits as he squinted. The wind blew the thin smoke away revealing the devastation to the two dragons. The two were declared of lesser blooded at the time of their hatching forever binding them to the lower class of their sacred society and in times of war were considered cannon fodder. Because of such a declaration "lessers" were often left to defend themselves in a skirmish or used as the first wave against the other mortal races. Dragons were long-lived and hard to kill, but it could be done.
Klaru and his crimson friend Fet were on scout patrol when a sole flying figure spotted them and alerted the rest of the mortals and two of the Fair Folk who were leading them. The two dragons were thrown off to discover that the one who spotted them was a winged. They purposely patrolled during the day to avoid the wingeds that fiercely protected their homes and the humans that dwelled near by at night.
Klaru stood over the fallen warriors one by one searching for the one winged mortal who had been at the front of the skirmish after the fey had retreated leaving the mortals defenseless. Klaru did feel slightly bad about destroying the lesser races having several of their members for friends fighting against the fairies. After several minutes he found the one he was looking for.
"Fet, come here and look it was a winged," said the black dragon. Nervously Fet trotted over to his friend, constantly looking around for any sign of an ambush.
"We should take flight, the humans may be planing a counter strike at this very moment," hissed the red dragon.
"In a moment, just look," argued Klaru pointing at the lifeless being, "this one is not stone." Klaru reached down prodding the eye shaped pendent that was lying on the warrior's chest. He picked it up giving it a sniff wrinkling his sensitive nose.
"It stinks of fey magic, I can sense it from here," growled Fet squinting at the pendent. Klaru nodded in agreement. The pendant was fairly simply; an obsidian gem encased in an eye shaped gold rim.
"I think we should take this with us," said the black dragon. Fet's eyes went wide his expression clearly one of surprise.
"What for?"
"I do not want it to be used against us again," replied Klaru, his voice sharp.
"Then destroy it and be done with it, it is of no use to us. We cannot even harness any power from it," argued Fet looking over his shoulder once again.
"We cannot," replied Klaru with a wicked little grin that wrapped around his long face, "but the Heiri might be able to."
"And how do you intend to present it to the Heiri? The great lords of the arts are not well known for their compassion, especially lord Apep." Fet noticed a strange twinkle in his friend's eye the kind that meant trouble. "You cannot mean for us to present it to the Heiri, we are not worthy to even be in their presence. Such gall could be considered treason."
"And so what if it is," snarled Klaru. "We will never see our next millennium if we do not try improve our status." Fet could feel his body shaking with fear; both from his friend's words and the possible punishment form his leaders. The magic of a dragon are not capable of taking life, but there are worse things than death, places that would make any mortal being take their own life if they could.
"But what good would it serve us? We are nothing more than novices in the use of the arts."
"It is a chance," replied Klaru more calmly than before, "a chance for us to help our kind and ourselves at once." The black dragon hardened his dark green eyes. "You are either with me or not, there is no in between." Fet looked over his shoulder once again. He knew this was a mistake, but he had to try. Letting out a long sigh the red dragon nodded extending his wings for flight.
"Alright, I am with you."
* * * * *
Skema was the dragon's most sacred city. Few beings of the other races knew of its existence since it was hidden above the clouds floating by sitting on a focal point where several ley lines crossed. The platform itself was essentially a mountain that had been carved from the earth long ago and raised to the heavens long before Klaru or Fet even existed. It was the capital of the dragon's culture and the city where all of noble birth were taught to use the arts of dragon magic.
"I never imagined my unworthy eyes would ever be able to see Skema," said Fet in awe as they approached the rich iron and granite cliffs that protected the city within. Klaru nodded equally as overwhelmed, but with more disdain for those who would not have allowed him to see such a sight. It was too late now to turn back.
Klaru and Fet approached the cloud temple where two guarding drakes stood before the entrance that was vast even by a dragon's standards. Drakes were less developed than full blood dragons, unable to use magic. They were smaller in overall size but they made up for it with brute strength and a pugnacious temperament. They were fiercely loyal and obedient, which could be a problem for the two dragons. The two guards crossed their pikes growling at the approaching dragons.
"State your business," snarled the peacock colored guard. Klaru nodded maintaining his smile.
"We seek audience with the Heiri on matters of a recent item we have discovered that we believe should be brought to their attention," he replied.
"Not all of the masters are here," said the gray drake, "several are away in battle dealing with the fey."
"We understand, now would you announce our presence to see if they will meet us," said Klaru trying not to smile at the sound of some of the Heiri being absent. The only ones who usually remained during a campaign were the true scholars and seekers of knowledge. The wielders of the arts who took flight to the call of battle were often the ones who had become consumed my their magical energies. Some became so consumed that they became one with the dark arts unable to be in the presence of the sun for it would hurt them. Lord Apep was one such example and was probably locked away asleep until sun down. Klaru sighed internally knowing that sunset was several hours away.
The peacock drake entered the temple addressing the three members of the Heiri that were conversing in the main chamber. Several minutes of discussion passed before they agreed to hear the visitors' words. It was more out of curiosity than necessity that they allowed the two dragons of lower grade to approach them. Such a matter that they would risk to appear meant that their information might serve some use or they were rebelling. In either case it was best to have them where they could be seen.
"We have been told that you wish to speak to us?" spoke a gentle voice that seemed to echo off the solid granite walls. Both Klaru and Fet lowered their heads to the floor as they approached the three dragons perched several yards above the audience level floor. Klaru presented the eye before the Heiri making sure to keep his eyes on the floor as not to anger his leaders. The two dragons, each on opposite sides of the elder began to growl at the sudden presence of a fey touched talisman.
"Is this an insult low breed?" growled the forest green dragon his eyes glowing an eerie magenta color. Klaru had to do some fast-talking if he did not want to end up crippled or worse.
"No insult my master," he replied softly, "This trinket was in the hands of a winged mortal that revealed our presence when we were scouting over the Barren Point. We were able to drive the two fairies away vanquishing many humans in the process."
"And you believed that you were important enough to report such a small event and item to us personally? You are quite arrogant for a lower class," said the green dragon his eyes returning to a dull red tint.
"It was not arrogance, my master," he began, trying to bottle his frustration, "I believed that it would be wasteful to simple destroy an item that has the ability to draw magic from the earth. Be it fey touched or dragon or even human, magic is magic, it only depends on how it is harnessed. I thought it to our advantage to possibly use this weapon against those who originally created it since our own natural magical abilities cannot harm the fey. All that would need to be done is for a master-of-the-smith to re-forge the source, the eye I presume."
"Such a mixture can be dangerous," said a cool gray dragon as she entered the audience hall, "magic is magic, but ill proportions can have disastrous results." It was easy for Klaru and Fet to recognize the newcomer of high blood with her flawlessly polished scales, regal accent, and slightly glowing green eyes that pulsated with magical energy.
"Ah Nouri, we were just discussing business from which your opinion would be greatly appreciated," said the elder dragon gesturing to the two in the center of the hall. She nodded to the two lower dragons gesturing for Klaru to approach. The black dragon handed the eye to the master-of-the-smith before respectfully retreating back to where Fet had neither moved or spoken. Nouri examined the pendant closely feeling it over with her mind to searching for any type of immediate danger to herself or the other Heiri.
"And you say you found it on a winged," she said turning an eye towards the two dragons. Both Klaru and Fet nodded. "The Fairy Folk must hold winged mortals in high standing that they would even bother supplying them with weapons. Perhaps there is something to gain from the attempt on such an item."
"You are considering experimenting with the eye?" said the forest green dragon the disgust easily recognizable. Nouri scowled at her fellow Heiri.
"I have already considered and accepted the challenge, Karos," she replied gracefully. The elder raised a talon silencing Karos. His eyes turned then to the master-of-the-smith and nodded.
"Then you can begin as swiftly as caution allows," said the elder softly, "I expect results soon."
"And what of Lord Apep? Surely he will want a say on the matter," said the dark aqua dragon to the elder.
"I will inform my son later this evening," replied the elder his eyes almost saddened by the thought of having to even approach his offspring. Nouri nodded to her fellow leaders before turning her attention to the two dragons that had all but been forgotten by the other Heiri.
"I will see that you are rewarded for your logical thinking. This war would have already been over already if there were more minds that worked like yours." The gray dragon turned away from the rest of the Heiri leading Klaru and Fet out of the audience hall. With her back to them and her concentration elsewhere she did not see Karos's eyes burn for a moment.
"I will have to ask you to stay within the city until I am finished with my work. I may need to call upon you for questions concerning this weapon."
"We will offer any assistance that our master requires," replied Klaru with a smile.
* * * * *
Chicago Illinois, 1990
Lake View was a fairly new suburban development neighborhood. It first broke ground back in 1988, but was ironically named considering it was on the south side outskirts of Chicago, no where near Lake Michigan. Nevertheless it grew and grew well. The houses were generic and varied mostly as one or two story. Most of the garages only accommodated one car. The rest were just lined along the street usually in front of its owner's home. It was still a young community filled with fairly young families and their children. Most were simple middle class workers with teenagers and young adults.
From the brown and cream house in the middle of Atherstone Drive an eighteen year old boy with a backpack slung over one shoulder strolled out to his red and silver 1988 Bronco II.
"Jeff wait, do you need money for lunch?" Jeff turned to his mother and shook his head.
"Nah, I have money, thanks." His mother watched him continue to the car a broad smile slightly wrinkling her face.
"Have a good day at school," she called out, "oh and I'll have your cake when I get off work so make sure your friends are here about five if they are coming."
"I will, bye," he replied with a wave before turning the engine over. Jeff's mother waved as the SUV pulled away waiting until it tuned the corner before returning inside.
It was seven o' clock on the dot when Jeff stopped at a house that was several streets down from his own. He played with his golden brown hair as the front door opened and a young brunet emerged from the house. He watched her walk towards him with a small smile on her face. Heavenly blue eyes locked with Jeff's and her smile broadened only enhancing her beauty. It was that kind of smile that made Jeff's heart jump reflexively spreading a smile across his own face. As soon as she latched her seat belt he pulled away taking a moment to glance at his watch.
"I can't remember a day that we have made it to school before the 7:25 bell," she said in her slight Wisconsin accent. A smirk forced its way across Jeff's face.
"Sorry Jill," he replied, "I wake up when I do, but if you stayed at my house like I suggested we would not have that problem." Jill giggled in that way he always enjoyed; it was like a song that you never get tired of hearing.
"I know it's your birthday too, but don't get any ideas. You need to get your mind out of the gutter." Jeff could not keep from laughing.
"Awe," he flashed a phony hurt expression, " but that's where it belongs so I'm told." Jill turned her face to the window that small smile on her face once more.
* * * * *
As usual, Jeff ands Jill entered their chemistry class right as Mr. Hegwood was calling the roll. The slender, balding chemistry teacher glared at the couple through his Buddy Holly style glasses.
"Mr. Degger, Ms. Anderson, this is the fourth time you have entered my class after your names have been called, " he said in his standard monotone voice. "One more tardy will result in an unexcused absences." Jeff shrugged his shoulders.
"Funny, I don't feel tardy," replied Jeff causing several of his peers to snicker. Mr. Hegwood straightened his glasses and glared at the teenager.
"Well you are, now take your seat." Jeff took his seat behind Jill smiling to himself.
"I guess he didn't catch that one," Jeff whispered in his girlfriend's ear, Jill simply smiled.
Jeff waited until most of the other students in class had walked away before he began his usual rant. Jill as usual listened attentively for phrases she could contradict or prove him wrong simply for the reason of doing it. She was not sure who enjoyed the little game more, but it was something to look forward to in the morning.
Pine Hill High School was a fairly small school with a little more than a thousand students when they were all there, which was rare. The outside was a tan colored brick with red trim around the windows and a red stripe that served no purpose. The inside was not anything grand either with a tile first floor and a ragged carpet second floor.
After the first period of the day the school had what was called the fifteen minute break which allowed the students and faculty to take a break and wake up for the rest of the morning. Jeff and Jill often just stood at one of the balconies that were one the second floor where large windows let the early morning light pour in.
"Is it just me or is at a bad thing when a guy is trying to explain the equilibrium of something and everyone in the entire class is asleep because the teacher is tone deaf," said Jeff taking Jill's hand in his own.
"Well," she said with a sigh, "I stay awake because I have to write down everything he has to say. Otherwise I'd fail." She quickly turned a sharp eye to the young man standing next to her. "On the other hand someone else I know falls asleep, rarely studies, and still manages to pull off a high B average. Just imagine what this person could do if they tried." Jeff smirked. He knew it annoyed her greatly that so many things came to him with such ease. Math and science were just things that he was able to do, but were hardly interesting to him. The counselors told Jeff that he could take honors level classes, but that would take time away from what he really enjoyed to do. He much rather preferred reading fiction of almost any genre and history of all ages. History was Jeff's favorite subject because it so rarely changed.
Jill was more a math kind of person. She loved hard numbers and the perfect equations of the universe. All things required math because it was everywhere was her philosophy. Jill saw it as art of perfection and that all things could be explained with the numbers. Although she enjoyed reading some Jeff's collection of science fiction and fantasy books, they were just stories to her that held no truth to them.
* * * * *
Lunch was always the most interesting time of the day for Jeff. He had early release worked into his schedule and was done with his day by twelve, while Jill had taken a full load again to improve her transcript. Although he could leave Jeff always stayed to eat with her unless there was an emergency errand that his mother wanted him to run. What Jeff really found surprising when they started dating was how well Jill adjusted to being with Jeff's two best friends, Ryan and Zack.
The two were an interesting pair. Zack Fix was a competitive figure skater and a full time art student with dyed orange hair. Ryan Megan was just Ryan. He was in the ROTC, but like most things that Ryan tried he lost interest quickly because he was lazy and proud of it.
"Afternoon guys," said Jeff plopping down next to Jill with a slice of square pizza in hand. Zack and Ryan both waved without looking up from what they were doing.
"Um... what are they doing?" asked Jeff almost afraid of the answer. Jill smiled whispering in his ear.
"Ryan is showing him a new card trick he learned." Jeff blinked a couple of times.
"Okaaay." Jeff watched as Ryan flipped and tapped the deck to reveal the card that Zack had originally chosen.
"So how's your car running?" asked Jill turning her attention back to Jeff.
"Okay I guess," he replied with a shrug, "it could use some new tires, but I've needed those for a while. Why do you ask?"
"Just trying to make conversation," she replied with a smile. Jeff arched an eyebrow at her quirky smile.
"Is it that hard to talk to me that we have to talk about the Bronco. Boy are we in trouble." Jill giggled burying her face into his shoulder. Her laughing abruptly stopped as she reached for her backpack.
"I almost forgot," she said unzipping the bag, "I figured I might as well give you your present now since I can't come to your party tonight."
"If you want to call it that," he snickered. "It will probably be just Ryan and Zack coming and you know what kind of rip-roaring party animals they are." Jill smirked at the sarcasm kissing her finger and pressing it to Jeff's lips.
"Be nice or you will not have any friends." Jill removed the brown paper wrapped object handing it to the birthday boy. Jeff smirked for a moment and quickly tore through the paper revealing the necklace and pendant. The necklace was a simple dull silver chain, but the trinket was more than impressive. The small perfectly smooth gem was a light sky blue encased in an eye shaped gold rim about an inch and a half long and an inch tall at most pinching at one end like a sideways rain drop.
"It's beautiful, how much did this run you?" Jeff asked his eyes as wide as saucers.
"Not much," she replied with a pleased smile, "I know how you love sci-fi and medieval stuff so I thought you would like it. Believe it or not I found it at a flea market next to a bunch of other cheap jewelry and a knife display. The dealer said the stone was not precious so it might be made of blue glass, I was not really listening to the guy." Jill took the necklace and hung it around Jeff's neck kissing his forehead.
"Happy birthday my love."
* * * * *
Jeff and Ryan were playing video games when Jeff's mother entered the house with a grocery bag in one arm and a rectangle cake in the other. Jeff jumped up from his chair taking the grocery bag to the kitchen; Zack happily took over in Jeff's sudden absence. Jeff's mother examined the cake to make sure every thing was correct taking the plastic cover off to prepare for the party.
"Is this everyone that is coming?" she asked glancing at the two boys playing video games. Jeff nodded as he tore open a bag of potato chips. "Where's Jill?"
"She couldn't make it," he replied between bites, "her family is going up to Milwaukee tonight and tomorrow to visit her grandparents. I think it's their anniversary tomorrow, I forgot to ask."
"Awe, that's too bad." Jeff shrugged his shoulder rolling up the bag of chips.
"It's okay," he reached into his shirt pulling out the gift Jill had given him earlier. "What do you think?" His mother examined the pendant closely. She was impressed by the remarkable condition it was in give how old it must have been.
"It's beautiful, did she give this to you?" Jeff nodded in reply. "It has been well taken care of considering its age. The jewel looks new, but the gold could be over a hundred years old given its color."
"Really?" he said examining the gift once again. "I didn't think it was real gold. Gold is usually softer than this." Jeff's mother pressed her fingernail down against the raindrop corner, but did not even indent it.
"It must have a lot of metals mixed with it," she said turning her attention back to the event at hand, her son's eighteenth birthday.
The party went well enough or at least as well as everyone was expecting. It was a simple party with cake, ice cream, gifts, and of course Zack and Ryan singing off key. Jeff did not want a major event though. It was not that he was unsociable, he just preferred being with his friends and family. Jeff picked up the first box from Zack shaking it lightly; at least it was not alive. He opened the box pulling out the two compact discs that were taped together.
"Alright," said Jeff with a smile spread across his face, "I was going to buy these, but you just saved me the trouble." As Jeff opened the other boxes his mother took pictures. Most of the gifts were clothes and a dragon poster to add to his collection. Given the few guests Jeff was not even expecting as much as he received. The last box was from Ryan with a small tag on the top of it.
"For persons over the age of eighteen," Jeff read aloud raising and eyebrow. He glanced at his mother a quirky smirk on his face. "You may not want to use the camera on this one. I have a bad feeling about this." Ryan simply smiled like the devil. Jeff examined the box giving it a slight shake bouncing the loose items inside around. He tore away the wrapping opening the flaps as everyone waited patently. Jeff took one look in the box and started laughing passing the box to Zack.
"Ah cool," said the orange haired boy. Zack reached in pull out the Playboy, holding it in front of Jeff's face. "Quick take a picture." Jeff's mother did not hesitate.
"It's an assortment box of all the wonderful things you can get now in the world of manhood," Ryan explained as he removed the items from the box. Jeff watched with a sideways smirk as he removed a pack of cigarettes, several pornography magazines, an adult video, and a single wrapped cigar. "I tried to get your voter registration card early, but the DPS would not let me."
"Oh well, I think you still out did yourself." Jeff would have felt embarrassed, but it was far too late.
* * * * *
It was pass eight when Ryan finally went home and Jeff and his mother were left to clean up the kitchen. As Jeff rinsed the cake form the plates he remembered another good reason for small parties, small messes.
"Did you have fun?" asked his mother softly.
"Yeah I loved it, thank you." Jeff loaded the last plate and started the dishwasher. He grabbed a sink rag and placed it under the door where it often times would leak during one of the cycles wiping his hands on his pants.
"I'm sorry I could not get you more things." Jeff turned and smiled modestly. It was just his mother and him. It had been that way since he was five. She worked very hard to keep him happy and raise him all by herself. Jeff knew what kind of child he was, it had to have been hell for her, but she did it. Other might have given up, but his mother was strong and the teen respected and loved her for it.
Jeff never knew his father. He had left the two of them years ago and never looked back. He got a call about three years ago from a person who said he was his father, but Jeff did not want to listen. Even if it was him, he was not his father. That person may have impregnated his mother, but there was more to the fatherhood criteria than just that. Not surprisingly whoever it was never called back.
The thoughts soon passed and a smile returned to the teenager's face. "It's okay," he said, "I really don't need a lot of stuff. Jill says you almost spoil me anyway."
"Oh does she now?" Jeff smiled at the sharp eye his mother was giving him. "And what else does Jill say about me when I'm not around?" his mother said with her hands on her hips. Jeff smirked as he scratched his head trying to think quickly.
"Well," he began, " that you are the kindest, sweetest, and most caring mother on the face of the earth."
"Oh sure she does, nice try," she replied wryly.
"Seriously though" Jeff continued, "it was good, just the way I wanted it, thanks." He wrapped his mother in a warm hug before finishing to clean the kitchen so she could lay down and rest finally.
* * * * *
Jeff awoke late like he usually did on Saturday morning. The light coming through the curtains was at just the right angle to strike the teen in the face. He stretched his well-toned frame his elbows popping as they began to move after hours of inactivity. Jeff picked up his schedule sheet from under his books, which had his work hours on it. Under Sat. it had a number two. He glanced at his alarm clock displaying the digital time of 11:33 and grabbed a semi-clean shirt off the floor.
"Let's see," Jeff mumbled to himself as he searched his closet for a clean white collar shirt. He found one and laid it out on his desk to use for work later. The teen eventually made his way to the kitchen and poured a bowl of cereal mixing the rest of one box and opened another of a different kind making a marshmallow and gram mix. As he went for the milk his mother emerged from her room straightening the crisp black dress jacket.
"I guess this means you have to work too," said Jeff with a smile.
"Yeah," she replied with a sigh, "Mr. Zoller asked all the operations staff to come in for a Saturday conference and meet some of our Norwegian investors. It should not take too long. When will you be home?" Jeff thought back to his schedule clicking his teeth.
"A little after nine as long as they don't ask me to close. I'll call you if I am though." Satisfied with the response she gave Jeff a kiss and left for work. Jeff sat silently for several minutes with the sound of his crunching the only noise in the house. The place did not feel so welcome for some reason. He could not explain it, but with the house empty it felt colder and less welcoming. Jeff crunched a few more time scanning the emptiness; it was eerie to be alone even in a place that was so familiar.
"I guess I should get ready," he said to no one in particular.
* * * * *
Jeff entered the grocery store waving at Debbie who was working the courtesy desk as usual. He slipped his sunglasses in to his shirt pocket walking towards the side room to clock in. Jeff had worked at Dodge's Food Bucket since he was a sophomore in high school. It was a local store several miles away from his home that was owned by a married couple, the Dodges. They had always been nice to Jeff rewarding his hard work with leniency and pay raises.
Jeff still could remember his first day of work when he was sixteen. The faces had changed so much since then. With the exception of a few full time workers all the people he had started working with had moved on or gone to college. He had been younger than most of them then, but now he was considered an old hand, able to tell a customer exactly where any item could be found.
The customers themselves were an interesting breed, Degger thought. He was intrigued by some of them while only annoyed by others. Some he wondered how they managed to even find the front door while others were always friendly and willing to ask him how he was doing.
"Are you open?" Jeff looked up at his light, it was off and his close sign was still up. He had not even placed his cash till into the tray.
"No," replied Jeff raising an eyebrow. The man smiled placing his six pack on the conveyor belt. Jeff sighed and sneered to no one in particular. It was something he had come to expect from some of the customers.
"So you working the late shift tonight?" Jeff turned his eyes to the sacker who had just arrived. Billy Drapier was about twenty-eight and had long ash brown hair that was usually either tied into a pony tail or put under a hat. Up until that moment Jeff had not noticed that Billy had been growing a goatee.
"Who are you suppose to be, David Xanatos?" Billy flashed a crooked smirked trying to imitate the well-known billionaire. Degger had seen the CEO of Xanatos Enterprises on television and although Billy was a bit heavier set in comparison he still could pass for a decent stunt double, not that the man probably ever needed one.
"Hey man the look is in and besides," he replied smiling again, "chicks love it." Jeff had to stifle the first wise crack that came to mind as Mr. Dodge approached the two with that look that needed no words, it always said, "get back to work."
"Hello Jeff how are you feeling?" he asked in his calm and friendly voice like it always was. Jeff had heard this opening line before, it was the over friendliness he used when he needed a favor and you were the last hope.
"Well I didn't have any test this week so I guess pretty good," Jeff replied waiting for the inevitable.
"That's good," he replied with a thin lip smile. "I know how Saturday night is usually important to teens, but I really need you to stay on until ten, Clarisa is no where to be found and I tried calling Jonathan and Kim, but neither one is home." Jeff sighed again. He knew this was going to happen, it usually did. The upsides were that he would get an extra hour of pay, which was always needed and Jill was gone so he had no plans.
"Alright, it's just and hour. It won't kill me"
* * * * *
"Just an hour," chimed Jeff as he looked at his watch, which read 9:15. "What the hell was I thinking taking the graveyard shift. This is death." Billy who was sweeping the registers snickered in response to his coworker's complaining. The last hour was like a void in time. The clock seemed to be standing still as the last hour crept by. There were several procedures that the sackers went through in the closing process, this included sweeping, garbage, and eventually mopping the store aisle by aisle. The cashiers on the other hand just cleaned their registers and counted the money. Jeff was never sure which he preferred since he had performed both before luckily not on the same night.
"Bet you five bucks that a family with screaming kids comes in at or around nine fifty and they grab a cart to do big shopping," said Jeff checking his wristwatch once again. Billy felt in his pocket if he had the tips and smiled, "You're on."
As if on cue by a director, a father, mother, and three children entered at 9:52 with the three kids fighting over who would get to ride on the bottom section of the shopping basket. Jeff turned to see Billy's sideways sneer flashing a smirk spreading across his face.
"Lucky SOB," mumble the sacker as he threw a five dollar bill on the register. "How did you know that they were coming?" Jeff could not keep from laughing.
"Because it always happens."
* * * * *
"Goodnight Cindy," said Jeff as he waved to his manager and walked towards his Bronco II. He started the engine and was searching the radio stations when he noticed that his fuel gauge was almost on the wrong side of the E.
"Guess I better get gas for tomorrow," he sighed shifting in to drive. Jeff drove for several minutes until finding a station that had a decent price for regular fuel. It was farther away from his house, but that is when the price also started to drop. Jeff hopped out of his car and moved to the pump, which had a bright red sign stating: pre-pay at night.
"Terrific." The Bronco II sported a twenty-three gallon fuel tank and at full could last for almost two weeks with the little amount of driving that Jeff did.
Jeff let out a head splitting yawn as he approached the clerk's counter. The elder attendant barked a small laugh rubbing his mustache.
"Long night son?" he said happily.
"Yeah the late shifts will kill you with boredom. I'm just glad I get to sleep in tomorrow," replied Jeff fishing through his wallet.
"Well I just came on myself, I'll be here till six."
"Ehe," moaned the teen at the thought of a full night shift, "no thank you. I need twenty on pump number three." The cashier made the transaction, the smile never leaving his face.
"You have a good night. Try to watch out for all the crazies out there," chimed the attendant, Jeff simply waved over his shoulder walking casually back towards the pump.
* * * * *
The freeway was mostly open road at that hour with a few cars within near vicinity, but most people were already where they wanted to be for a Saturday night. Still Jeff kept a watchful eye out for any drunk drivers which were a true danger if out on the freeway. A sixty mile per hour collision could play hell with a person's complexion or life for that matter.
It was only after a few minutes that the teen noticed the unusual vibration in the steering wheel. Rattles and vibrations were something that ran rampant in the two year old vehicle, but this one was different, it was new and far move severe. If it had been light out or even if Jeff had parked on the opposite side of the gas station he might have seen the bulge that had formed in his right rear tire where the belts had shifted.
The tire exploded shredding to pieces causing the SUV to careen across four lanes slamming hard into the concrete median. Jeff fiercely griped the wheel and slammed on his breaks. The sudden shift of gravity by the breaking caused the Bronco to flip on its side sliding back across the lanes of traffic. A full sized truck was caught off guard by the sudden movement hammering the undercarriage of the SUV propelling it forward again. The bare metal body sparked as it slid across the asphalt and over the guardrail to a semi dry creek bed twenty feet below. A moment later the damaged wreak exploded. Motorist stopped to aid the driver of the wreaked truck and several tried approaching the burning Bronco but the gasoline burned hot with several secondary explosions preventing anyone from getting too close to the blaze.
Over a hundred yards away down stream a smoking figure struck the ground hard rolling over several times before coming to a halt. He lay unconscious with his wings limp and unmoving and his blue green skin scuffed and blackened in several places. Around his neck a blue gem wrapped in a gold rim encasement, illuminated ever so slightly, active again after almost eleven thousand years.
To be continued...