A Dragon’S Mage

PART 1

CHAPTER 1

Aurora Borealis

Long ago there lived harmony. Humans remained within the Human World and the mystical beings remained within the premises of the Mystic Realm. All was well. Regions were prosperous. Humans and mystic beings hardly came into contact with one another. That was when mages used to look like humans and possessed magical abilities. They thought of themselves to be superior and because of that they began to use those around them. Dragons once acknowledged the mages, for they had once watched over them and freed the world from corrupted magic. As the mages lust for power grew they began to take dragons from their regions, forcing them to make unbreakable contracts with them. Until the fifteenth century, humans bowed to mages, for most of them would not dare stand against their power. The regions, the dragon’s homes, were annihilated. No dragon can live without placing their mark on the region they were born from. One particular human took a step forward. He had enough of the mages’ vanity. He approached the Great Dragon and what happened next sealed every beings fate. This person became the first human dragon whisperer. Since then, humans are the only ones that can become dragon whisperers. Whisperers can hear their voices, talk to them as an equal, share their human experience with the creature, have an extended lifespan and access to their power in exchange for energy and partnership. Dragons are forever indebted to the man and his family. They no longer have to fear being out of their element, for a human will come and free them. No dragon will respect a mage for what they had done. Mages have hated humans for their interference ever since. An unforgettable event took place when the same human asked for mages to be stripped of their power and image – the mage’s curse. All mages’ of pure, half and partial blood have vowed to rid the world of dragons. For it was they who betrayed the mages’ and would pay.

My given name is Samson Drake Slayer. I was the first mage to make amends with a dragon and his whisperer. This is the beginning to something new and my story of how I achieved the title, a dragon’s mage.

Chicago - August 15th. The humidity was intense. It didn’t bother me. I was used to extreme weather, whether it was the scorching seal of the sun or the bitter coldness of the winter air. I had been exposed to worse things than blizzards and heat waves.

I was in my human form waiting outside the Chicago Muay Thai Kickboxing Club. My jeans were baggy and tattered. My biker boots managed to prevent my pants from dragging on the floor by an inch. I wore a black shirt, with a chain around my neck and a small cross earring in my left ear that I received at graduation from my human friend Judy. On my wrist was a silver watch with Roman Numerals and an engraving on the back that Connie gave to me. My hair was all black except for the ends at the back of my head that were spiked and coloured red.

Both Connie and Judy go to the University of Chicago. Connie studied to be a university professor. She had this theory that students in university would be easier to teach because they wanted to be there, not just to take a nap when they had trouble sleeping at night.

Judy’s trying to become a paramedic. For the first couple of months of university, she rose past the levels of being hysterical. She dropped three major classes before realizing that she desperately needed them. She’s back on track – for the time being.

All three of us lived outside of the city, in a two bedroom apartment, in a town called Berwyn.

The reason we lived outside of Chicago – the dragon. He refuses to be away from his whisperer. There is no space for an adult dragon to hide, and he does not take great pleasure in being invisible forever. Some days I wish he would disappear, at least for an evening.

Connie walked out the front doors of the club. She smiled when she saw me. Her hazel eyes were beautiful, filled with unlimited bravery. Her hair was tied back in a ponytail with a few strands hanging down, next to her bangs. She wore a turquoise t-shirt that had a little pocket on the side of her chest. Her pants were sweats. Connie works at the club; she teaches some classes for the newbies and takes the masters for herself. Connie held a backpack over her shoulders, every day it was filled with more books, ripping it at the seams. Lastly, around her neck, was locket I gave her. At first it was just heart shaped, but after it got damaged I was able to get it changed a little. Now the heart had a dragon on it.

Hey Connie, great work tonight, called a classmate of hers, exiting the club, as well.

Thanks, she called back.

Connie strolled up to me and greeted me with a small peck on the lips.

I smiled as some mocha flavoured lip chap rubbed off on my face.

And thank you for picking me up, she smiled, grasping my right hand and swinging it back and forth.

I blushed and smiled a little harder. How was your class?

Well, we walked down the street together, it was another day filled with lectures about my stance, but I taught some classes defensive moves if a person has a knife. They’re not taking it as seriously as I had though. Connie sighed. Maybe I should have gone to the police academy with you. We entered the parking lot. It would probably be easier to do than having to deal with the same people all day long. And I don’t mind getting the beat down once and while, keeps me on edge.

I chuckled. If you remember, I had to go through the police academy twice before I became an officer.

And that’s nothing to be ashamed of, Connie stated. You told me that half of the recruits in your class quit because they couldn’t handle it. You went through it twice, and that shows how committed you are. That’s very impressive, and it shows determination.

My smile dropped as I remembered the classes. It’s not impressive when you have an emotional breakdown in your class when they start talking about domestic violence. My face turned a little redder than usual. That was embarrassing.

Connie stopped and held a finger up in my face. That is nothing to be ashamed about. I witnessed what Kamal did to you. You just couldn’t handle it at first. Sam, you still achieved your goal. That is something to appreciate.

I gave her a faint smile. You’re right.

You’re darn right I’m right, Connie stood proudly and held her free hand on her hip.

In the far right hand corner of the parking lot was my bike. A BMW S 1000 RR I bought ten months ago. Connie let go of my hand and strapped her backpack on tightly. I put my leather jacket on and then my helmet. The helmet covered my whole head with a glass mirror hiding my face. I pulled myself onto my bike and waited for Connie to put on her helmet and join me on the bike. There was no greater joy for me when Connie slipped her arms around my waist. Her hands clasped together just above my stomach. I leaned forward which made Connie lean on me. I revved up the motorcycle and then took off the kickstand. I pulled out of the parking lot onto the main road. When it was dark out, and the road was bare, I would show off by doing wheelies or go fast just so I could feel Connie tighten her grip around me. She was the one thing in my life I never wanted to let go of. A couple of cars were out on the road as well, but I sped past them. Connie laughed.

When we arrived in Berwyn, I drove to our apartment. The sky had finally turned dark. The evening was going by exactly as I wanted it to; clear night sky, stars shinning, the crescent moon and the sound of crickets chirping made everything perfect.

As I parked, Connie took off her helmet and slowly got off the bike. Her hair was full of static. She had to pull her elastic out and flatten her hair with her hands. It didn’t help.

I have something to show you, I said, turning off the bike.

What is it?

I got off the bike, took off my helmet and helped flatten her hair. Connie pushed me away and pulled her hair back into a ponytail.

We’ll drop by our apartment first then I’ll take you up to the roof.

Can’t you take me now? she asked excitedly.

I’m not going to let you carry your ten ton book bag up onto the roof. We’ll drop it off first and maybe fix your static hair. I stretched out my hand to feel her hair strands stand up, but Connie slapped my hand away.

Spoil sport, she commented.

I gave her a small smile. Don’t worry, you’ll see it soon enough.

We walked into the lobby of the building and then pressed the button for the elevator. The doors opened. Connie ran in and pressed the number four. When the doors opened again, Connie grabbed my hand and forced her way down the hallway. Our apartment opened up to a small kitchen. It divided into dining/sitting area. There were three doors next to it. One was a room the girls shared, the second was a room I had to myself and door number three was the bathroom.

Connie opened the closet, shoved the helmets and her book bag in it then ran to the bathroom. In thirty seconds Connie ran back out of the bathroom; all her static hair was wet down. She shoved me through the doorway, back into the hall and shut the door behind her. She couldn’t wait to see what I had planned.

Show me my surprise, she begged, grasping my arm.

Do you really want to know? I asked teasing her.

Connie scowled at me.

All right, I caved. I guided Connie to the stairwell, and we went up. We walked up to the roof and paused in front of the door. Okay, before we go outside I want you to close your eyes.

Sam, she whined.

I promise it’ll be worth it.

She let out a sigh then closed her eyes.

I smiled again. Connie was holding onto my left arm. I opened the door slowly. I liked getting Connie all tensed up and excited. She squeezed my arm. I led her out into the open and had her sit down on a blanket I had set up earlier. In the sky, green and blue northern lights appeared.

You can open them now.

She looked out. Her mouth opened as she gasped with amazement.

I smiled at her expression. She was beautiful, and she made me feel great by just looking the way she did. I stayed up last night to see when they would be on. And tonight was the night.

It’s … amazing, she said.

Have you ever seen the Northern Lights before?

No, she admitted, turning to face me. It was hard to see anything this beautiful in the ravine.

A caged bird is finally released, I said, kissing her upon her neck.

Stop, she giggled.

I continued to kiss her neck and wrapped my arms around her. She continued to giggle. I stroked her skin with the utmost care. I stopped for a second to pull off my jacket. The one time that I felt hot was when I kissed her. Connie laid herself on my lap. I bent down and moved my hands onto her waist, lifting her shirt up.

Sam, we’re going to get caught, she whispered.

I stopped. I pulled Connie up and rested my forehead against hers. Not yet we’re not.

I continued to kiss her. Her face was soft. My hands stayed on her cheeks while hers were on the back of my neck. Connie tried to pull away, but I didn’t let her. She then moved her face away from mine for a brief second.

Sam, she said.

I refused to stop.

Sam! Connie spoke in a harsh tone.

What? I pulled away, surprised.

Connie bit her lip and looked away. She was upset about what I was doing. I backed off.

I’ll put it out of mind, I said.

Connie held herself.

Connie, I promise. I’ll put it aside.

It’s not just that, she replied.

Tell me what’s wrong then.

Sam, besides what happened, you should know, Connie turned to face me and showed me a gold left eye, Nightly’s been watching.

Dang it dragon, can I at least have ten minutes with Connie without you cutting in?!

He says, ‘not likely’.

Oh, come on. He always gets to see you. I’m lucky I got the night off.

I’ll talk to him, she said, turning away.

Every date I’ve been on with Connie has been interrupted by the dragon - and at the best moments. For once, I would like for him to vanish on a random adventure just so I could have Connie for an evening.

Kay, she said, he’s gone.

I grumbled as I crossed my arms.

Don’t be like that, she said. I’ll make it up to you.

How? I asked.

She turned me around and carefully laid her lips against mine. How was that?

I don’t know. I couldn’t really feel it. I lied.

Connie smiled and gave me another kiss. Well?

I moved my hand side to side, motioning that it was okay, but not the best.

She tried again, again and again until I grabbed her by the waist once again and kissed her back. She laughed, and I blushed. I released my mage form. Connie moved her hands up to my ears and rubbed them. She was gentle. The way her thumb rubbed across the fur that was upon my ears was so tender. She made the mistake of hitting my earring though. A small ring is made whenever her nails come into contact with the silver cross earring. When it happens I have to pull away for a couple of seconds; being in my mage form makes my ears extremely sensitive.

Sorry, Connie said

The ringing died down. I’m fine, I lied as a minor headache came upon me. You just have to be careful when you rub my ears.

Why don’t you take the earring out then?

When I was four I was training the mage home. It’s called the Mage Base. It was in New York. For one of my sessions, we went into a warehouse that was about to collapse. I had just turned five, and all the other mages were older than me. The session was ‘get out alive’. During the rush, I got caught on some nails. I moved my hands up and took out my earring. There wasn’t just a hole in my ear but a tear that was made right through it. A board broke and one of its nails pierced my ear and ripped right through it. When I cleared the building, I found my ear nearly torn off. Ever since then I’ve kept an earring in to help cover up the scar.

That’s horrible.

That wasn’t the worse thing I experienced. I put my earring back in.

What are these bases?

That is exactly what I would like to know, Judy said, coming through the door.

At first Connie didn’t know who it was. She overacted. Grabbed my coat and threw it on my head.

Calm down, Connie. It’s only me. She sat down right in between Connie and me.

I pulled the jacket off my head. You could have rung a doorbell.

Yes, but luckily for me, there wasn’t one. I might have missed something good, Judy replied.

Yeah, that’s what I wanted. I placed the coat over my shoulders and then reverted back into my human form. Do you mind? We were having an evening to ourselves, and we didn’t want to be interrupted.

Sam, Connie said.

No, it’s not! This is my only evening off for a while, and I just wanted to spend some time with you, I said while standing up.

I didn’t mean to interrupt your date. I was just curious with what you two were talking about.

Judy! Connie yelled.

I left. I went to my room and locked the door. Inside my room was cool, the window was open but the blinds were drawn. There was nothing in it really; just a single bed, a night stand with a lamp and an alarm clock on it, a closet hid in a corner and there was a mirror that I frequently glanced at. Whenever I was mad there was always one thing that cooled me down – shadow boxing. I would turn out my light then angle my lamp to cast a shadow on the wall. I would release my mage form and then change into some sweats. The only sounds made during the time were the small ticks of my watch and my breathing. When my shadow appeared on the wall I began to swing at it, and when it mimicked me I treated it like an attack. It was hard, but at least it kept my mind off things. Sometimes my emotions got the better of me. It hasn’t been long since I first started to react to them. When they first started to come up I didn’t know how to control them. I was emotionally unstable. However, my time in the police academy taught me how to adjust my attitude towards things and how to take control of myself.

New York was one of the three Mage Bases that I knew of. Mage Bases are carefully placed in cities with high human population. New York has one, Washington another, and there was one in Chicago too. The Lead Mage built them, and he kept them in close proximity so that he could stay in control. Rarely were mages found living outside of those districts unless they were on a mission. But since Kamal’s demise I have not come into contact with any mage. And that was a good thing because my memories about the Mage Base in Chicago were the worst.

CHAPTER 2

Chicago’s Police Department

My alarm clock went off at 7:00am. I slapped my hand on the snooze button then rolled onto my feet. My head sagged to the side. A long and dreary sigh escaped my lips. I dragged my feet across the carpet stopping at my closet. I opened the doors then grabbed a hanger that had my uniform on it. An undershirt, a button up, short sleeved, sky blue top, black pants and dress shoes. I grabbed a box from a shelf. Inside was my Glock 22 that was tucked into a holster and my badge. I strapped the holster around my waist and then placed the badge on the opposite side of my belt.

When I exited my room the smell of burnt eggs, toast and bacon ran up my nostrils. Connie ran past me and opened up the deck door.

Judy, I coughed, are you cooking again?

Judy had a lot of talents: snooping, dancing, eavesdropping, gymnastics, but cooking has never fallen into that category.

Connie coughed, as well. Yeah.

Judy ignored both of us and then set a plate on the table where I usually sat. Here Sam, enjoy.

I looked at Connie, awkwardly.

Connie returned to her seat, pushing her glasses up the bridge of her nose. Judy has something she would like to tell you.

I turned my attention to Judy who looked away. Her long dark brown hair drifted through the air. She kept her brown eyes shut and held herself. Her skin tone was light milk chocolate. She quickly opened her eyes. All right, look, I’m not the best at apologies, but Connie stayed up late last night and convinced me to give you one so here goes nothing. Pause. I’m sorry for eavesdropping on your date last night and making you angry, ya da, ya da, I’m done.

Wow, I said amazed.

Connie propped her head up with her right arm. You should have been in our room last night. It took me two hours to come up with a good argument. It’s not easy to win an argument against Judith Bachor.

Connie’s glasses reflected some light in my direction.

I disguised myself in my human form and sat down. Thanks.

Judy sighed. Relieved that I accepted her peace offering.

I was afraid to eat her food. The strip of bacon looked like ashes and I don’t think eggs were supposed to be dried-up. I took the toast and ripped a piece off the corner. I forced the piece down and then dropped the rest on the plate. To avoid Judy’s unpleasant look, I turned to see Connie reading a book.

What are you reading? I asked reaching over to rub her back.

Stuff, she yawned, flipping to the next page.

Okay, Judy announced, I’m going to get ready for the day. Judy left us and entered the bathroom.

That was code for throw away her cooking. Judy knew she was a horrible chef, she would purposely announce her exit, giving us permission to throw away her horrible food. With her exit, I threw the food into the garbage.

Sam, Connie called.

I turned towards her.

We never finished out conversation last night. What are the Mage Bases?

I sat back down beside her. Mage Bases are homes for mages. When Kamal still ruled, he had this idea that it would be better to have the mages’ living in one building instead of being scattered across the city. He created the Mage Bases so that he could rule over them.

Like a kingdom? Connie asked.

I guess you could call it that. There are three main bases. Chicago, New York and Washington; three of many powerful cities in the United Sates.

Why only create them in America?

Like I said, he liked keeping things close together.

But not all mages had to live in those bases, right?

As far as I know, Kamal had scoured the globe, collecting every mage and brought them back to this country.

Connie bit her lip.

It was never good when Connie bit her lip. It meant that something was on her mind.

I have to go to work, I’ll see you later. Tonight, maybe? I asked.

Can’t, she said. I promised Nightly that we would go flying.

I looked to the floor, disappointed.

But I’m free Sunday. We could go on a date then, she suggested.

I looked back at her face. I blushed and gave her a small smile. That’s … that’s great. I stood up and gave her a kiss. I’m looking forward to it.

Connie smiled at me as I went to the closet, grabbed my own backpack and helmet and then left.

The girls usually took the bus into Chicago. We all had a licence to operate a motorcycle. That was something the three of us made sure on when I bought the bike. The girls only used it when I had days off or worked the night shifts. The dragon gives Connie lifts into the city from time to time. Dragons are huge though. They require a wide space to live in, not cramped areas like a city. His presence could have been discovered any day at any time. If that were to happen, he would expose all of us.

I entered 16th Precinct in Chicago an hour later, passing a couple of humans. I entered the locker room and locked my backpack and helmet inside a half locker. When the door closed, I was towel whipped from behind.

I straightened up, grunting then turned to see Ryan Chase. "Good morning, rookie."

I refused to say anything.

Ryan Chase was one of my elite officers. He’s a third year, and my human tormentor. He had just finished sparring and decided to play a practical joke. He was decently built, well-toned, had a big mouth, blond curly locks and the most annoying voice. To me it sounded like a bull frog, to women, they believed he was so sensitive and the deep voice made him sound dangerous.

Chase wrapped an arm around me. Come on rookie, show some emotion.

I said nothing.

A towel snapped again. Chase held the back of his head. He sounded like he was about to cry.

Knock it off Chase, or else I’m taking you back out onto the mats and the janitors can clean up the remains.

My mentor had saved me yet again. Detective Ricardo Felts, one of the most expert detectives in Chicago. Felts was a huge man, almost entirely made up of muscles. He wore sweats to show that he was sparring. He had intimidating blue eyes. Some of the other officers have told me that when he interrogates a suspect, they always confess in less than forty-five minutes. The only thing off about Felts was the fact that he had a huge scar covering half his face. His short cut dark hair didn’t even hide it.

It’s nice to see you again Slayer, Felts nodded in my direction. Meet me on the mats?

I have paperwork to finish up, I said.

The silent one talks, Chase teased.

Chase winced as he saw Felts move, but he didn’t see the box Felts was aiming for and landed on him.

You really must think before you act Chase, Felts commented. He then turned his attention to me. I’ll see you out there then.

I nodded then left the change room. I yawned as I sat at my desk and pulled up a case file on my computer. The case was one that Felts insisted that I helped him on. It was a domestic violence charge. A girl was being abused by her family. One boy, we assumed her friend, tried to reason with them. The family wouldn’t listen. The boy pulled a gun on them. One of the family members was shot and that’s when we were called in. I stayed behind the yellow tape with the some officers as Felts went into the building with a few colleges. I remember hearing a gun go off. Later, I discovered it was the girl’s friend had been killed. The trial was today. The parents and siblings of the girl were facing assault charges. I was just finishing up my report when Felts came by.

I had forgotten about that trial today, Felts sighed. Poor girl.

Felts had changed into his everyday clothes. He didn’t dress like a proper officer of the law. He had a sweater on, hidden beneath a trench coat, Corduroy pants and steel toed boots.

What’s her name? I asked.

Claire Greenwood. Felts pulled up a chair beside me and read my report. She’s gone mute after seeing her friend die. I wish I could help her. If the judge drops the charges then that girl will go back to living with her family again.

Can’t you do anything? I asked.

Not unless there’s a psychic in the jury? Felts scratched his scar. It truly is a cruel world.

One of the reasons why I wanted to protect the humans. Their world was so corrupted.

Felts, wheezed a voice.

The two of us turned our heads to see Captain Shmeagal (Sh-ma-g-el). This man was built of only fat. His clothes were so close to breaking off. His mustard coloured face proved that he wasn’t healthy and his nearly bald head was constantly greasy.

Yes, sir, Felts acknowledged his presence as did I.

Are you or are you not supposed to be at the hospital dealing with the Greenwood girl? The captain asked.

Yes, of course, but I was-

I want you there now, the captain wheezed.

Felts sighed. Yes, sir, right away. He grabbed my shoulder and hoisted me out of my chair. Come on Slayer; let’s see how good you are when it comes to talking with girls.

You go ahead, the captain said, I wish to speak with Officer Slayer at the moment.

But sir-

The captain raised his hand, stopping Felts from talking. It’ll only be a minute.

Yes, sir, Felts turned his back away from us and walked away, clenching his fists fiercely.

I’ve seen him do it a couple of times before, but he only did it after the captain talked with him.

Slayer, the captain called.

I stood at attention and faced him. Yes, sir.

The captain began to laugh. He had a silent laugh, and instead of any laughter a ringing sound would be made from his throat. You sure do pay attention when your name is called.

I nodded.

I didn’t like to talk to anyone. Maybe it was just what I developed, or for the fact that I didn’t trust him very much.

Do you like your job here? the captain asked.

Yes, sir, I answered.

Good, he slapped me on the back.

I winced for a second then sucked air back into my lungs.

That is all I wished to ask, the captain nodded. You are dismissed.

I titled my head in appreciation then headed downstairs. When the captain was out of view, I quickened my pace and headed out of the precinct as fast as I could. Felts I liked, the captain, not so much. The guy constantly stopped me from talking to Felts. He didn’t like how I was hanging around him so much. If I had a choice, I would rather have Felts as the captain then Shmeagal any day.

Slayer, Felts called from out of his Sudan. Come on, let’s go.

I smiled. Yes, sir. I opened the passenger’s door and jumped into the seat. It always excited me when Felts included me on his investigations. I wanted to prove my worth to him and become a detective like him.

Felts drove up to the hospital. We rode the elevator up to the third floor. The second room on the floor had an officer guarding it. Officer Red.

Officer Red had a notepad in his hands. Red’s name also lived up to his appearance. Red hair, his skin, took on more of a red tone than the usual Caucasian. He had light brown eyes and always wore bright red running shoes.

Good morning Red, Felts said, any progress with the girl?

No, Red spoke in a monotone voice. Maybe you’ll have better luck with her.

All right, I’ll give it a shot, Felts straightened up his coat, wait here Slayer. Felts went through the door and sat down next to the bed and began to talk to the brunette in the bed. When the girl looked up at Felts, she seemed terrified.

It has been three days since the incident, Red said, poor girl, can’t even muster up a word.

I stared at the scar on Felts face. Red, how did Felts get his scar?

You didn’t ask?

No.

And you want to become a detective? Red sighed. Actually, most of the officers believe that he did something to upset the captain.

The captain? I asked.

Right, you weren’t here when Shmeagal got promoted. Two years ago, Felts and Shmeagal both transferred to the 16th Precinct and they were both competing for the role of captain. Anyway, things got a little too out of hand. Both of them showed great potential, but in the end Shmeagal was the one who got the title.

That doesn’t explain what happened to Felts.

When the decision came in from the Commissioner’s Office Felts was omitted because he was in the hospital. Blunt force trauma to the head. We all suspected that Shmeagal did something, but there was no proof. Felts was left at the rank he was at and has hated Shmeagal ever since.

That explained his behaviour around Shmeagal.

I looked through the window again and watched as the girl began to tear up. She covered her face and turned away from Felts. Felts sighed and then he got up and left the room.

She won’t talk to me, Felts rubbed his head. Even for her own safety, she’s frightened.

Let me try, I said.

She won’t talk to anyone, Red said.

Felts looked intrigued. All right, go ahead. Felts held the door open for me as I entered.

Hi, I looked at the girl. You’re Claire, I’m Officer Slayer.

Claire said nothing and she refused to turn around.

Sorry, I sat down on the chair next to the bed. You can call me Sam.

Claire turned her head slightly.

You are probably fed up with people trying to get you to talk, I set my gun and badge on the table.

Claire turned and faced me. She nodded.

Did … did you just … answer me? I asked.

Claire nodded again.

I smiled. Is it alright if I ask some questions?

Claire looked at me awkwardly.

I’ll keep it to yes and no questions.

She nodded.

I sighed in relief. Were your parents abusive towards you?

Claire nodded.

Verbal abuse?

Clair shook her head.

Did a friend stop by the day you were in trouble?

Clair nodded, slowly.

Did an officer shoot him?

Claire didn’t answer. She looked away from me.

I held my hands together. I have a girlfriend. Her name’s Connie. She’s very faithful to me as I am to her.

Claire turned her head around.

I did something terrible to her five years ago, and that was before we got together.

Claire held my hand.

I had to summarize what had happened all those years ago. Keeping the facts but leaving out the details. So I said, The two of us got into trouble. She happened to take the full force of the punishment. And I left her during her time of need. There was no one who I could open up to besides her and I couldn’t even be with her without getting into trouble. That is until someone dear to her confronted me. She wasn’t the only one suffering, but everyone who was dear to her and trying to help was in distress. Because I heard those words, I had to step forward and come clean with my mistakes.

Claire looked stunned.

That boy who stayed, I continued, for you, I wish I was half the man he was. If he died, he died protecting you.

Phillip, Claire whispered.

I’m sorry, I wanted her to repeat herself.

Phillip, she said again.

I smiled. He was a hero.

He always was, Claire admitted.

I know your parents hurt you. Watching Phillip die probably made it feel like there was no one in the world that you could believe in. I’ve been there, but … there are more people out there that are … accepting. Don’t go back with those people. Tell me what happened.

Claire hesitated. Sam, my brothers, my mom and my dad, they hate me. I couldn’t do anything right, but Phillip saw something in me. He wanted to help. He was my personal hero. He’s gone now.

And I am sure he wouldn’t want you to go back and live with those people.

Greg shot him.

I nodded.

He’s my older brother. I don’t want to go back, Sam. I’m scared. Claire let go of my hand and held herself.

Claire, I stood and grabbed my things. There are some officers outside the door. They wish to speak with you. If you honour Phillip and me, you will talk to them, alright?

I will.

I smiled at her as I attached the badge and holster to my waist.

Thank you Sam, she said.

That’s when I left.

Felts and Red both stared at me as I exited the room.

She’ll talk.

Red was astonished. You got her to talk?

Enough, Felts shoved Red into the room, talk to her gently and don’t screw up. He closed the door. How’d you do it Slayer?

My lips moved a little, words had a hard time getting out of my mouth. I just told her a story and then she opened up.

Felts rubbed my head. Good job. Felts raised his hand and stared through the window, watching Red take notes as Claire talked. When I first entered the police force I had a theory. That thing you did in there to help that girl is what I believed in. Wars don’t just happen overseas, with guns and machetes. They are inside us. The things that we want to become and the fowl monster that wishes to be released. It’s best to stop those as quickly as you can.

I smiled. Felts was amazing. I wished my father was something similar to him.

A phone rang.

Felts picked up his phone and grumbled as he saw the caller ID.

Felts answered the phone. Yes, sir.

That explained it.

Yes, we got her to talk. Pause. Yes, she will give a statement. Pause. All right, he hung up. Felts ran three of his fingers across his scar and then turned to me. Hey Slayer, you want to sit in on a trial?

Three hours later I found myself sitting in a court room. In front of me were the prosecutor, Claire, and the defendants, her family. I sat in the second row, close to the aisle. The jury was a party of twelve and then there was a judge. Red sat next to me as did Felts and we watched the trial. The people were sworn it then the lawyers stood up and gave their statements. The prosecutor showed the jury and the judge the picture of Claire’s wounds that were inflicted upon by her family. The defendant objected saying the Claire was known as clumsy kid that bruised easily. The prosecutor called Felts up to the stand. He gave his statement. He was outside the door when all the commotion was going on, but the door was locked. He was trying to talk with the people on the other side, but when Phillip went to unlock the door a struggle happened. Felts then said he kicked the door down and stormed in. Phillip was on the floor and the gun was in one of Claire’s brother’s hand and he shot Phillip. He also mentioned that Claire was in the room, curled up in sheets. The defendant stepped forward and asked Felts if the gun was Phillip’s to begin with. It was. Did he have the right to pull it out? No. The defendant then pointed out that, in self-defence, the brother, Greg, took the gun away from Phillip and shot him. Felts left the stand. I stared at the jury. They didn’t seem too convinced that Claire was innocent. That worried me. Next on the stand was Claire’s family. The mother stated that she protected her kids with her life. A lie. Her father said that she was acting crazy that day. That she had spent too many afternoons drinking with friends. Her brothers said the same thing and added that Claire had been leaving home in the middle of the night for the last two weeks. Finally, it was Claire’s turn on the stand. I could see her shaking. She stared at me the entire time.

Ms. Greenwood, said her lawyer. Are you able to speak?

Claire nodded. Yes, she spoke weakly.

"Ms. Greenwood did they or did they not harm you that day that made you want to hide in your own covers?" The lawyer stressed those words to get a point across.

Yes, she whispered.

The lawyer went to her briefcase and pulled out a doll. She walked back to Claire and held the doll out. "Ms. Greenwood, please show the jury and the judge and everyone in this room what your family did to you."

Claire stared at her family. They intimidated her, but then she looked back at me. I gave her a nod. Claire pointed to the area where her chest would be, her pelvis and her face. Her arms and legs were left untouched, for the most part.

Thank you Ms. Greenwood. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, Ms. Greenwood, has been abused and assaulted by the people she had once called family. No further questions your Honour, the lawyer returned to her seat.

Next came the defendant. He walked up to Claire and sneered at her. Ms. Greenwood, is it true that you are a problem child?

No, she said weakly.

Then why were you sneaking out at night?

Claire was silent.

I was worried for her. I wished to stand up and help, but I wasn’t allowed.

To get away, Claire finally said.

To get away from what? the lawyer asked.

From them, Claire pointed at her family.

Why?

Objection, we’ve already discussed this, your Honour, Claire’s lawyer yelled out.

Overruled, the judge announced.

Ms. Greenwood, is it true that you would sneak out and drink?

I snuck out, yes, but I would not drink.

Your brother’s say otherwise.

My brother’s lie. I lie in my bed, every night, wondering if they are going to barge in and hurt me. Claire stood. She had begun to cry.

Ms. Greenwood, please control yourself, the judge demanded.

You see, Claire is an emotional wreak, spoke the defendant.

I raised my head and stared at the lawyer. What would he know of an emotional wreak? You can only be pushed so far before crumbling. I knew how Claire felt.

Claire sat down and shook her head. She did not say anything more. She had been humiliated in front of the entire court. She refused to answer any further questions from both her lawyer and the defendant. They said the family was not responsible for the alleged assault or the murder of Phillip. It was recommended that Claire be placed in a mental care facility for further evaluation. The judge dismissed the court. I left my seat and walked up to Claire.

Claire, I whispered.

She looked at me. At least I’ll be away from them. Hopefully for a long time.

I nodded.

They took her away. I stared while Claire was escorted out of the courtroom. I thought being a cop would help me to understand and help people. When I saw Claire, I realized that I couldn’t play the hero, not all the time.

CHAPTER 3

Holly

It had been a fourteen days since Claire’s case. Ever since the trial happened I couldn’t stop thinking about her. I visited her a couple of times. She would only talk to me, no one else. I had this fixation with a few cases that I worked with. If there was a person who was treated unjustly I would talk with them. Not do anything, just talk. They liked it, and so did I. I was learning about the human mind. My fixation keeps my mind occupied though, and I missed several dates with Connie. All my visits end with people asking me to leave. They thought that I would encourage Claire to do something drastic. I had to bide by their rules.

It was two in the morning when I returned home. August 30th.

I opened the door quietly. I didn’t want to wake the girls. It turns out that Connie was on the couch, reading a book with candle lights lighting up the apartment.

It’s about time, she had her glasses on again. She placed her book down and approached me.

Her white night gown flickered in the candle light.

Connie took my helmet and grabbed my backpack, tossing them into the closet. She guided me to the couch and sat me down. I didn’t know what she was doing. Connie strolled back into the kitchen and opened the fridge. I leaned over to see what she was grabbing.

Close your eyes, she said.

I did.

I heard her rustle through the fridge. The door closed. A match was lit. I could smell the sulfur. I dragged her feet as she approached me.

Release your mage form, she said, sitting beside me.

I did.

Okay, open.

My eyes opened. In front of me was a cupcake with a candle in it.

Happy birthday, Connie brushed her hand against the furthest side of my face and kissed my cheek.

My birthday was yesterday, I smirked.

Yeah, well you, she gave me a light punch on the arm, were so obsessed with Claire, and wanting to prove her innocence that you blew off your own birthday. But that’s why I stayed up. I wanted to wish you one.

I smiled. I stretched out an arm and wrapped Connie in it. She giggled and took off her glasses. She placed them on the coffee table right next to the cupcake.

They asked me not to come back, I said.

Again Sam, why?

All I do is talk. Maybe it’s the fact that I’m a cop that keeps showing up when I’m not needed. My smile dropped. My thumb stroked the back of Connie’s neck.

Connie looked at me. Are you okay?

I shifted my eyes away from her gaze. I want to be a hero, Connie. But it’s harder than what everyone makes it out to be.

It’s easier to talk about things then do them. Ask anyone.

"Phillip tried to be a hero, but he got killed. Is that allowed? I know there’s a saying ‘better to die a hero or live as a coward’, but why?"

Connie hugged me. Her head rested upon my chest. It’s too bad that you’re not a vigilantly. Cops have to abide by the rules, whereas vigilantes take the law and bend it a little.

There’s no such things as vigilantes, I said.

Have you not watched Saturday morning cartoons? Connie asked.

No, I never really had the time. Why are you arguing with me on this?

Connie hugged me tighter. Why do you think there are no vigilantes in the world?

I never really thought about it. I’ve only repeated what others have told me. They always said that humans who attempt to save another’s life usually die trying. Kamal always said ‘You’re only postponing their deaths.’

It’s just what I grew up with, I said. My lips lay against Connie’s forehead.

Connie sat up and turned to face me. When I looked upon her beauty, I couldn’t help but blush, even in my mage form.

You don’t need to wear the fancy cape to be a hero. A hero is someone who doesn’t give up and insists on helping, giving and trying. You can’t get anywhere without trying.

Her last sentence took me back our final fight in the ravine. Connie and Nightly became one and battled a fifteen hundred year old mage.

You don’t even know how to win, I remembered Kamal’s voice yell out.

"No, we don’t need to know how to win. All we need to know is that we can try."

Connie, I said, five years ago, you found out that I wasn’t what I appeared to be. And yet, you risked your life to save me even after I nearly choked the life out of you, why?

Connie pulled her hand out from behind my back then poked me in the forehead. You are my friend.

Those words seemed to have a certain effect on me. I sat Connie on my lap and had her face me. I grabbed her face and kissed her.

Connie wrapped her arms around my head.

My eyes closed. My fingers traced her facial features then moved to her shoulders, feeling her exposed skin. Then I moved them to her lower back. There was a scar on her back. The shape hasn’t fade since she received it five years ago. It still stretched from one side of her back to the other.

Connie pulled away and let out a heavy sigh.

Something wrong? I asked.

No, she was lying. After her response, she bit her lip. It was never a good sign when she bit her lip. Connie removed my hand off her lower back. It stings.

Maybe we should get some sleep. I swung my legs onto the couch and pulled Connie onto me. For my birthday, would you sleep with me tonight?

For your birthday, she took the cupcake and held it before me. Make a wish.

I stared at the candles small flame. I did not believe in wishes nor did I have any to make. I had everything. The flame on the candle was blown out.

Connie laid against me, pulling an extra blanket on top of the two of us. There had never been a perfect moment when Connie and I were together. As she began to fall asleep, I stroked her cheeks and pulled the loose hair away from her face. When she was asleep, I pulled the elastic out of her hair. The dirty blond hair dropped down.

I kissed her lightly on the lips. I love you.

Dreams are strange. The human mind knows exactly what they’re seeing. Just memories or ideas that have been heard before, and, like life, they can’t control them.

I’ve told Connie that she could control her own dreams if she wanted to, but what I didn’t tell her was that she could only control her own dreams when a mage possessed it.

Mages don’t dream, but if one happens to fall upon us … they always end as nightmares.

The darkness started to clear up. A grand piano came into view and it was being played. I approached the piano. As I walked, I noticed the attire I was in. It didn’t surprise me that elegant clothes were on me. Mages are very formal.

Welcome Samson.

That voice – it belonged to Kamal.

What are you doing here? I asked in a monotone voice.

You’ve been ignoring me Samson, he replied.

I have no need to take orders from you anymore.

Kamal stopped playing the piano and slammed his hands down on the keys creating a foul sound. You can’t turn your back on mages’, if you do that you’ll find more things haunting you than me.

I stuffed my hands into my pockets. I’m not afraid of you.

I think you are, Kamal rose up from the piano. If you’re not afraid of me, come here.

To me, I believed I had no reason to. To him, it would only prove him right.

The scar under his pale yellow slit pupil eye looked fresh.

Play the piano, he ordered.

You know I don’t know how.

Play the piano.

No.

You’ve grown, Kamal said, only in your physical form though. Now that you are on your own you can do what you want. You can even tend to those desires of yours, but your mind is still of a child’s.

Go to hell, I spat, turning around.

Kamal caught my shoulder and forced me to sit down on the piano bench. My body shook. Kamal grinned.

You are afraid, he hissed. That pleases me. I can even control you with fear through death.

I wanted my body to stop shaking. I wasn’t afraid, I shouldn’t have been afraid of a dead mage.

No, I screamed in my mind. My body wouldn’t listen. My arms rose and my fingers stretched across the white keys on the piano. I could play?

Kamal kept his hand on my shoulder and gripped it fiercely. A battle is brewing in all directions. Like playing this piano, he bent down to whisper into my ear, you are going to be played for left, right and center. He gripped my right hand with his free hand making the piano music vanish. Through this process you are going to be pushed over your breaking point. When that moment finally happens, you’ll be no better than me.

What … what are you … talking about?

Kamal didn’t answer. He raised my hand until it was up to my eye level. Then he broke it in one snap.

I screamed.

I awoke.

The light was fighting its way through the curtains at the deck door. It was morning. I pulled Connie in closer to me.

To dream of Kamal randomly was strange. Why and why now?

Connie began to stir. She yawned and awoke looking at me. Morning, she whispered.

So, can I make up for the several dates I missed by taking you out today?

Is that what you wished for? she asked, shifting her weight over.

The bedroom door opened. Connie where- Judy walked out then stared at us. Oh, so this is why you didn’t sleep in your own bed.

Nothing happened, I said disappointed.

Connie removed herself off me and took the blanket with her. She yawned and rubbed her eyes. She noticed her hair. Why is my hair down?

Judy shook her head. You really don’t know what he was trying to do?

Connie looked at Judy confused. What are you talking about?

Judy folded her arms and then stared at me. Do you want to tell her?

What … I … I scratched the back of my head, flustered. Judy knew what I wanted?

Connie was courageous and strong, but she always seemed to miss some of the obvious details that were left out.

Fine, I will, Judy said.

Don’t, I begged.

Connie may have been dense when it came to me trying to make a move on her, but when she got angry I had always feared that she would sick her dragon on me.

It took Connie a moment to realize what Judy and I were talking about. Sam!

I stood up and backed away from her.

Relax Connie, Judy giggled. Even if Sam’s a mage he’s still a boy. And most boys only have one thing on their mind.

I go and risk my life every day to help humans, I argued.

And when you’re not on duty your mind is usually on Connie, Judy shot back at me.

I want to spend time with her, is that a crime?

No, but obsessing over her is.

Judy-

Connie walked over and tugged at my arm. She shook her head. It’s not worth fighting over. Besides, no one has ever beaten Judy in an argument.

Judy took pride in what Connie said.

Except for Romeo, Connie commented.

What?! Judy yelled. How do you know about that?

Alex, Connie answered, he said it was because they were twins he could tell with their, and I quote, ‘twin powers’.

Judy grumbled.

Romeo and Alex. They were two of the closest and oldest childhood friends of Connie and Judy. They’ve told me stories about them. I’ve seen them a couple of times and envied the friendship they had with the girls. I had always wondered what their feelings were towards them.

"We should get ready for our date, Connie." Judy always liked to tag along with us, that’s why I had to stress the word ‘date’.

Connie smiled and ran into her room.

I smiled, feeling happy.

Ahem, Judy coughed.

I turned my attention to her. Did you want something?

Yeah, she said, walking up to me, I want you to stop obsessing over Connie.

I rolled my eyes. I’m not obsessing.

Judy raised her hand to my eye level and held out two fingers. Two things, she said, you obsess over two things.

"Hypothetically, let’s say I was obsessing over two things."

Judy crossed her arms and nodded.

I continued. If one was Connie, what is the other?

"Your cases," she replied.

What?!

It’s true, Sam. For the last month, you were regularly visiting a victim. You always do that before the people ban you.

I said nothing.

Judy whispered something quickly. Don’t turn into Caleb.

My eyes shifted away from Judy. A cold chill went down my back as those words brought back a disturbing case.

Caleb was Judy’s ex. Caleb Cling was a narcissistic maniac. After the second week of dating Judy, Caleb was practically glued to her hip. Because Judy tried to break up with him, Caleb locked her up. Felts and I had to go and rescue her during our patrol.

I found Judy, in a closet, gagged and tied up. She had been stricken several times. The way they were placed proved that she was trying to fight him but ended up losing. It was an unspeakable sight and I don’t think I’ve seen her so scared until that night.