CHAPTER ONE

 

QUESTIONS 

We all find ourselves at the funeral to bid our farewell to Clarance on Meadow's local graveyard site as it was pouring endlessly.

After that, we all returned to the Museum's property.

I discovered standing in the front yard porch hallway outside where Monsieur Decruz, Goodness, and Amina wanted me to describe the facial appearance details of Clarence's murderer. 

"She was murdered by a malevolent Shadow. I am telling you. And it is the same thing that murdered Herod. I saw it killing her beforehand!" I answered. 

"For real. Neither can I believe you. And are you telling us that you have a vision before time?" Goodness scoffed. 

"I have no idea. And what I am telling you is the truth. Besides, in any minute it is going to strike again." I reported. 

"Nonsense. And you must be a psychic or something?" Goodness roared. 

"Maybe. Listen, it is your choice if you do not believe. Though it tried to pull out my heart by attacking me too, every time it screeched in pain and ran out of sight into the darkness of the woods." I replied. 

"Correct. And are you sure that you are not the one who did it? Um-er, well, I know your kind." Goodness scoffed. 

"Meaning? And are you accusing me of killing innocent classmates? Besides, are you saying that our kind is violent? Or is it because I am African?" I blinked. 

"No, no that is not it." Goodness gulped. 

"Um-er, well, that is what you mean, officer." I nodded. 

"No, Williams. I am only here to ask questions. And I only want to know the truth. Was Clarence murdered by the same darkness that manslaughter Herod?" Goodness chuckled nervously. 

"And what is the point of telling you again if you cannot believe me for what I am saying? Besides, I am telling you the truth. Monsieur Decruz, I need to go." I said. 

"I beg your pardon. And do not dare walk away from me." Goodness warned. 

"I just did, officer. Clarence was murdered by the replica of Monsieur Decruz. I mean the same thing that murdered Herod. And a lot more innocent people will perish if you do not do something!" I shouted. 

"Williams. Come back here. I am not done with you--," Goodness snapped. 

"How many times am I going to say this, Goodness? I did tell you that Clarence was murdered by something unimaginable evil, but you have itchy ears." I roared. 

"Goodness. Let the boy go. And I am sure that Williams had nothing to do with Clarence's death." Monsieur Decruz interfered. 

"But Manolo? And if I do find out who murdered three victims in one day, what am I going to explain to our Queen?" Goodness asked. 

"Wait, what? Three victims are dead in one day?" I gasped. 

"That is right." Goodness agreed. 

"And who is the third one?" I asked. 

"My niece Ezra of course. She was found dead yesterday morning. Her head was ripped off her body too. It is the same as Herod's and Clarence's missing heads. And I am just wondering what manslaughter is going to do with those heads." Goodness sighed. 

"As I told you yesterday, this person might be an occultist. And not the boy, Williams though is kind, harsh but not a murderer." Amina interrupted. 

"I see. That might be right Amina. Must we continue with our investigation? And that is a great idea. We should start where Ezra was found dead. And we will find the murderer's killing patterns." Goodness answered. 

"Exactly, Officer Goodness, now you are talking," Amina added.  

Monsieur Decruz just sighed deeply as he watched Goodness and Amina march towards the exit, and out of sight.  

I was heading in the east-south direction as I walked through the refreshing green grassland. Going towards where my fellow students were sitting. 

Nazareth and his cousin Abbie were outside with their best friends Dawn Winslow, Israeli, Jordan, and Hosea Chestnut, sixteen, and the triple brothers. All three boys have greasy curly noir hair. 

"Nazareth, do you think Williams is all right?" Abbie asked. 

"I guess. Why do you ask, cousin?" Nazareth asked. 

"I am worried about him," Abbie replied. 

"Or you are beginning to have a huge crush on him." Jordan laughed. 

"No, I am not Jordan!" Abbie shouted. 

"Of course, you are." Israeli teased. 

"And why is every time we talk about the race, you have to mention his name? Besides, who is Williams?" Hosea asked. 

"Um, you will find out soon enough boys," Abbie responded. 

"Abbie Willows, come on." Hosea pleaded. 

"No, boys, I cannot tell." Abbie refused. 

"Great. That is even great. Mystery guy!" Jordan whined.  

I was getting closer to Nazareth and the others. 

"Jesus. Here he comes." Abbie sighed.  

All of them turned around until they saw me coming in their direction. 

"I beg your pardon. And Jordan, isn’t that boy that beat the lesson out of us yesterday?" Hosea gasped. 

"Wait, what? And are you for real? Williams, kick your bottoms?" Abbie blinked. 

"Sure. He did." Jordan answered. 

"No way! Besides, he is from outside of the unbreakable invisible golden barrier, how could he beat a lesson out of you? And would you mind telling me the reason he kicks your bottoms?" Nazareth laughed. 

"Um-er because he was wearing our school's uniform. And you know we do not like someone we do not know to disrespect the Museum's clothes code." Israeli repeated. 

"Huh-um, wait, did you mock Williams because he disrespected the Museum's clothes code?" Abbie blinked. 

"Sure. Neither did we come to the school anniversary festival because our whole body was in agony." Hosea swallowed. 

Nazareth burst out laughing hard. I arrived at where they were in a minute. 

"Williams. Um, how are you doing this morning?" Abbie asked. 

"Fine, I guess. And why do you ask?" I asked back. 

"Nothing much. Um-er, we were all worried about you." Abbie replied. 

"Not me at least. And I just wish Williams would join the race of pain and thorns so that he might eat his harsh words." Mileson interrupted. 

"Jesus. Even better. And if it is not our Miss Overconfident? Still, moping around because she lost the swords dueling combat? Classic." I groaned annoyingly. 

"No, I am not!" Mileson shouted.  

I just scowled, as I marched away. 

"Not going to give me a second chance are you, Williams? And I know I hurt you badly, but I am learning from my mistakes." Mileson said.  

I stood for a moment but continued walking away silently and out of sight. 

"Cousin. And what do you mean by learning from your mistakes?" Winslow interrupted. 

"Because, because... Dawn. My arrogance gets the best of me. And I ended up hurting someone terribly. I wish I could take it back. Now his heart is full of nothing but harsh words towards everyone." Mileson sighed. 

"Meaning?" Winslow blinked. 

"Meaning, Williams, Dawn. I am the one who humiliated him at my school in Mississippi. I call him harsh names like "ugly duckling"." Mileson continued. 

"Wait a minute! Williams, was the boy who confessed his unconditional feelings to you, but you rejected him?" Winslow gasped. 

"Sure. Now he has nothing to do with me, but I counted him as my rival. He used to be sweet, humble, and very funny but when I look through his eyes. Such things are no longer in his heart but hurt. His eyes have no love or do not smile." Mileson repeated. 

"Williams was all that?" Winslow grasped. 

"That is right, Dawn. And if you excuse me, I need to go back to my group." Mileson answered.  

Michelle just sighed deeply and quietly marched away out of their faces in the hallways of our school.  

CHAPTER TWO

 

THE NONSENSE YOU ARE PULLING

I was sitting at my computer at the desk in the dormitory drafting my thrilling novel. 

“Williams? And what are you doing? Jesus. Are you the author of that book?” Mrs. Macclenny asked. 

I turned around where I met face-to-face with Mrs. Macclenny. 

“Huh. What do you mean the author of that book?” I replied. 

“Um-er, I am a fan of the Museum?” Mrs. Macclenny blinked.

“For real?” I exhaled. 

“Exactly. I mean all the thrilling, suspense, monsters, and much more are very classic and epic.” Mrs. Macclenny nodded. 

“I see. And I am just writing the second novel. Um, where the main character has life-threatening rising challenges. And I believe it might throw him off the cliff to find out what are the motives behind the murderer's bloodshed of innocents.” I explained. 

“Interesting, Williams. And I must admit that the books are classic, and I must encourage you to write more of them.” Mrs. Macclenny insisted. 

“No worries. I will do just that. And is that the only reason you are here?” I urged. 

“Nope. On behalf of the Race of Pain and Thorns Tournament, Monsieur Decruz asks permission to join. And I do not know why, but he can see the determination in your spirit.” Mrs. Macclenny reported nervously. 

“I am not sure if I will be interested in joining in.” I sighed. 

“And why not?” Mrs. Macclenny gasped. 

“Let us just say I have reasons,” I claimed. 

“Reasons? And what are these reasons which are causing you to stay here? Alone.” Mrs. Macclenny fluttered. 

“Catch up very quickly.” I acknowledged. 

“And listen, I have no idea what happened to you in the past, but it is good to have friends.” Mrs. Macclenny suggested. 

“No need for friends, instructor. I preferred to be alone. It helps me focus on my classical story arcs. And if you excuse me, I must return to what I was doing before.” I continued. 

“Even better but still here. And just in case you change your mind, just bring it to Mrs. Anderson's bureau. And the race is going to be tomorrow afternoon.” Mrs. Macclenny said. 

“I am sure that I will not join.” I scoffed.  

Mrs. Macclenny just sighed deeply as she put the signing paper on my desk, and headed towards the exit after we stared at each other, but she walked out of my sight with disappointment in her eyes. 

Later, I found myself marching within the woods, and I was on my way to the local village restaurant of Meadow. I was marching by the roadside and getting closer to the restaurant where I met Officer Goodness. 

“And what is the case of you standing in my path? Out of my way please!” I ordered. 

“Rude. And harsh but I must warn you, boy. If anything happens, I know where to find you.” Goodness warned. 

“I mean, last night we went to retrieve Clarence's body, but we could not find it,” Goodness explained. 

“I beg your pardon. Could not find her body but what about a huge hole under the shade of the oak tree?” I inquired. 

“I am sure that it must be from an animal that lives underground. Or something.” Goodness reasoned. 

“Excuse you, warthhog? And what are you talking about? I am telling you after Clarence was murdered it tried to attack me but vanished screaming in agony. And I eyewitness what happened to her—.” I paused. 

“Enough, boy. And I must warn you, I am keeping a close eye on you. If you do any monkey business, I have no choice but to put you where you belong.” Goodness scolded. 

“Officer, it would be best if you went back to those dark woods. And find the culprit that is behind three deaths. I mean the Museum of Prophecy’s students. I will say again, something monstrous evil is on the rise.” I insisted. 

“Fair enough. Neither do I believe the nonsense you are pulling.” Goodness growled.

I exhaled in annoyance, Goodness returned to his vehicle and drove away. Later, I arrived at the local restaurant in Meadow.

I discovered myself opening the door and went straight inside.  

Out of nowhere, an old man in his fifties came to bump into me.  

Instead of me falling hard on the floor, he did fall on his bottom first. I heard him grunting in pain. 

“I beg your pardon. And watch where you are going, boy!” He shouted. 

“Excuse me. I am sure you are the one who should watch where you are going. Still, are you fine? And I think I should help you.” I scorned. 

“Better be.” He snarled. 

He gave me his hand, I was about to help him, but I found myself having a vision. I saw him having a life-threatening accident, and I saw him in unimaginable shape.  

I was about to collapse when he caught me. 

“Jesus, my Living God. And young man, is everything, all right?” The old man continued. 

“I am fine, thank you. And I plead with you not to go in your car. I mean, drive because something unimaginable will happen to you.” I begged. 

“I beg your pardon. And nonsense. Nothing is going to happen to me. Listen, I must be with my grandchildren and daughter. I mean my whole family is waiting for me so I am going.” He asked. 

“None of them will see you when you are in an accident. I mean not breathing anymore.” I urged. 

“Well, thanks for your help but I am going, boy.” He insisted.  

Though I forbade him to not go, he walked away after making sure that I was all right and was out of our sight. 

Suddenly, I overheard someone struggling as if he was moving something. I turned around and discovered that it was Winslow who was struggling with the heavy cart. I just scoffed in annoyance, I stood up and ran toward her to ask if I could help. 

“It seems as if you are struggling with moving this cart.” I interrupted. 

“I guess. Are you here to mock me, or to help me?” Winslow commanded. 

“Not even close. I am here to help you. And would you kindly move aside so that we might move it together?” I begged. 

“Sure, why not?” Winslow muttered.  

Winslow moves aside as we both push the cart to the back of the restaurant's counter. It was the direction where she wanted to remain. 

“Williams. Tell me if you are trying to avoid not joining a pain and thorns tournament. And would you tell me why?” Winslow continued. 

“No idea. Please. Can you bring me a spicy chicken burger? And a cup to put on my favorite drink.” I pleaded. 

“No worries. I will do that for you.” Winslow quoted. 

“I see. And I will be sitting on that chair while waiting for you to bring me dinner. I have not signed the paper that Mrs. Macclenny handed me to give Mrs. Anderson. And will walk back to the school.” I uttered. 

“Nonsense. And I will drive you once I finish my work. I mean if you want to get there in time because in the afternoon we are just on the corner of the tournament.” Winslow refused. 

“I think that would be better. But I must tell you I am not going to say thank you.” I groaned. 

“I figured that to be the case. But since you already told me that I am going to take you, there is no problem.” Winslow sighed. 

“I sure, you are.” I acknowledged.  

I went to sit on the comfort of the couch and waited for my meal to arrive. Winslow was wearing a blue long-sleeved sweater uniform a red skirt that reached her thighs, and winter boots. 

 

CHAPTER THREE

 

TOURNAMENT OF THORNS AND RIVALRY

I was checking something on my phone, and I did not realize Winslow brought my meal, and silently put it in front of me. 

“Meals are served, Williams. And I wish our team would win a trophy.” Winslow interfered. 

“Trophy? And are you talking about the tournament?” I asked. 

“That is right. And I hope that if you join, we will win, and I will be fine with that.” Winslow laughed. 

“Have no choice, do I?” I grunted. 

“Not at all.” Winslow acknowledged. 

“Jesus. And all right then I will join. And who took the trophy last time?” I asked. 

“I am sure it was Mileson, Her Eminence, and her team,” Winslow added. 

“Wait, what? Mileson, is what you said to be Her Eminence?” I blinked. 

“Sure. And why?” Winslow asked back. 

“I thought it was you Winslow as Her Eminence of their team,” I responded. 

“Not even close. I am not but Mileson, my cousin is.” Winslow continued. 

“I see,” I uttered.  

I began munching on my food, Winslow was sitting in front of me, and watching me enjoy my meal in silence. 

Later, that afternoon we were heading to our school's racing tournament. It is going to be around two, so we only have one hour left. I looked at my watch it was around one and forty-five p.m.

When Winslow was driving, at a further distance, two of us saw police officers' cars flashing lights.  

Adding emergency vehicles to the right of the roadside.  

Winslow got closer after we looked to the right, and we saw the man I warned at the restaurant not to drive headless.  

His head was on his lap, his body leaned on the car's window with it shattering glass in pieces. 

“Jesus. Old man Piere Marquez. And what way to die. No worries, Williams, you warned him to drive but he did not listen. His blood is upon his head.” Winslow inhaled. 

“Murdered. I mean, he was murdered by something unimaginably evil?” I nodded. 

“Say what? And for crying aloud. And how did you know that?” Winslow gasped. 

“Look. Would you mind telling me how the seat belt was unbuckled? And his body is not leaned in the right position but on the right-side window of his car? I mean headless. What kind of death is that? I know something like this happened, but not in that kind of manner.” I said. 

“Right. Are you telling the truth, Williams?” Winslow replied.  

After I had witnessed Pierre’s death, I had enough of seeing people I just met dying. 

Later, I discovered myself in the noir woods at the crime scene where I saw Clarence murdered.

“I am sure that Clarence’s body would not just walk away. I mean after I saw her murdered in front of me by that wicked shadow.” I thought loudly.  

I observed thoroughly and I saw a folded paper on the ground. I picked it up after I unfolded it and my face was on it.  

Overhearing footsteps crunchy the dry leaves ground, I decided to hide. 

I found out that it was Officer Goodness and his partner Amina. 

Both had dogs in their position. I decided to run away as quickly as possible and out of sight before they could reach the crime scene.  

I rushed into my dormitory, slammed the door shut, and went straight to sit on my desk.  

I first signed the racing tournament paper. I took out the paper with my face on, and I saw my worst nightmare.  

I saw a noir hooded man, his claws dark finger, and was pointing at me at an unidentified room with a background full of books.  

I stood firmly against him without fear in my eyes. 

“Christ! Williams, there you are. And where have you been? Have you decided to join the tournament?” Mrs. Anderson asked. 

“I have Mrs. Anderson. And here is my proof.” I acknowledged. 

“Great. And what are you looking at?” Mrs. Anderson asked. 

“Would you mind telling me why I am in this paper picture?” I urged. 

“Let me see. No way!” Mrs. Anderson repeated. 

“And what is wrong? Is there something wrong I have committed? If that is the case, then I would say classic.” I inhaled. 

“Not at all. I will tell you after the tournament. Now chop-chop. Hurried outside!” Mrs. Anderson scolded. 

“Right.” I scowled.  

I folded the picture, put it in my pocket, and rushed out of the dormitory's exit, and out of sight.  

Mrs. Anderson's eyes widened after she realized who I was as I walked up to Nazareth and the other five. 

“Here you are again. And are you here to mock us?” Nazareth scorned. 

“Maybe. And why do you even care?” I asked back. 

“In the team, we were supposed to be seven of us, but Dawn Mileson Winslow is ill. And six people are allowed to compete in the tournament,” Nazareth sighed. 

“Jesus. And I suppose that does not look good but worry no more. I enjoy seeing Mileson losing facial expression.” I snickered lightly. 

“Meaning, Williams?” Nazare asked. 

“I guess you can count on me. And I am sure we should do this. Have you prepared everything?” I answered. 

“No way! Williams, are you for real?” Nazareth blinked. 

“Would you kindly tell me why I am here with you people?” I asked annoyingly. 

“Never mind. And you just lighten our hopes of not losing.” Nazareth swallowed. 

“Great. That makes me even worse.” I sighed.  

Nazareth burst into laughter, he handed me a uniform to wear, and that was white my favorite color.  

I instantly put it on. Unfortunately, that afternoon we were at the beginning of the race tournament, and I had an idea that our ride would be enormous hawks. 

“His name is Judea, I know you are harsh, but you must be gentle with him,” Nazareth warned. 

“Gentle? Never. And why should I be gentle with him?” I scoffed. 

“Um, you will find out sooner than you think.” Nazareth snickered viciously.  

I inhaled heavily after we were interrupted by Monsieur Decruz's announcement.  

Goodness was standing next to him, a woman that was royalty, an unidentified tiny girl sitting next to her. 

Seven more guards in pure golden long-sleeved army trench coats, pants, and army boots. 

I am sure that the old woman who sat next to a tiny girl was in her eighties, but healthy and strong sat on their throne-like chairs with a red cushion.  

I could not see the unidentified girl because a hood was over her face, but she nervously waved at me.  

I saw a woman in a blue-sky garment confusedly look at her but laughed quietly as she covered her mouth and looked in our direction. 

“Evening everyone. We have our special guests who want to see this thrilling race. It is Her Eminence Esther and our princess, her twenty-seventh grandchild. Today we are at a magnificent event. I mean from generation to generation this race tournament was our foundation to unite us all.” Monsieur Decruz interrupted. 

All our audience applauded and cheered for us with joy. 

“Remember, Williams. All you have to say is hover and fly. And everything will work out for you perfectly.” Nazareth chuckled. 

“Even better.” I sighed.  

All of us were waiting for Monsieur Decruz to shout commence for us to start our race tournament. 

“Have decided to join the race, huh? Surely, Williams. It is best if you give up. Besides, you better do your best, or else my mother is not a woman that you can contempt with, my friend. Trust me. She is the most fearsome woman in Meadow. I mean do not dare get to her bad side or else you will regret it—,” Mileson mocked. 

I just snickered out laughing hard and I had no fear in my eyes. 

“Still, sore about what happened? And remember that, Mileson. I have no fear of a mere human, but I only fear God alone. And still, good luck. Besides, you need to do the best you can for your team. Perhaps, do not go crushing hard into huge oak trees, because that is going to be classic!” I teased. 

Nazareth with the rest of our team in the Race of Pain and Thorns Tournament roared in laughter. 

“Classic, indeed Williams. And Michelle stop being a jerk! Remember, you are not the only one who has parents who are the noblest and wealthiest in the entire world. I understand. Besides, is everyone ready?” Nazareth announced.  

All of us agreed, and we climbed on top of our hawks until it started raining hard. I came to realize that our white garments which we all were wearing, were our raincoats. 

I have been put against Mileson and every other teammate who has competed with their opponents. She and I were the only constant left.

CHAPTER FOUR

 

CHAMPION

Monsieur Decruz was thrilled that I joined the tournament. Neither could wait to see how my racing with the enormous hawk would be. Our turn which we were all waiting for came at last. 

“My, my. Lastly, it seems like I am against you, Williams.” Mileson answered.  

I forced a smile as I scoffed at Mileson who glanced at me furiously. As her team member, the twin brothers interrupted us. 

“Williams, loser you better watch out this time. I am sure Mileson will win this time. And you are going to kiss her dust!” Jonesboro cackled. 

Caesar Jonesboro, seventeen, one of Mileson's teammates shouted at me. 

“Right, right, my brother is correct. And did you hear my brother, Williams? You are going to kiss her dust!” Elisha agreed.  

Elisha Jonesboro, seventeen, older twin brother to Caesar. 

“Excellent. Mileson, would you look at two cutest men cheering for you? Classic. Now, this is interestingly romantic. And I have no idea you were that soft spot in your heart. How classic!” I scoffed. 

Mileson was furious with me when it was our turn. 

“Hover and fly!” Mileson screamed. 

She flew with her enormous hawk out of my sight at the greatest speed. 

Nazareth cheered for me after I sighed deeply and responded up and flew.  

It was raining down harshly heavily, but we were unshakeable on our enormous hawks.  

Mileson and I compete across time through the dark woods. We pass through the bushes of thorn vines, as both of us yelped in pain. Leaves branches smacked our faces, tasting our salty blood, and agonizing pain afterward.

I lost my balance by falling into the swamp full of man-eating crocodiles when Mileson crashed into my enormous hawk. Mileson burst out laughing in a mockery away.

All of the reptilian beasts came like swarms that surrounded me. Getting out of the swamp was challenging but Judea did not fall into it, so he came to snatch me in time as i did my best to avoid snapping snouts. 

In the end, Mileson catches all winning points flags and the only remaining flag to be held was a pure golden color one. 

Mileson cynically mocked me, still, I did not allow her to intimidate me, but I was relaxed and kindly smiled at her.  

She scowled at me as she charged across time after her last trophy, but I crossed time downward at the greatest speed. 

Mileson was about to catch her last trophy to be announced as the winner, but I overpassed her.  

I snatched the pure golden flag before her sweaty grabby hands held onto it.  

Our teams were announced as the champions of the Race of Pain and Thorns Tournament. I was about to land safely but the eagle flew upward.  

Neither could I control it and I found myself at the greatest speed. 

“Jesus! And Judea, my friend, where do you think you are taking me?” I urged. 

My hawk screeched in pain as he continued flying without stopping. At least we found ourselves flying within the darkest and thickest forests of the woods. 

Judea and I stopped after landing softly at a frightening abandoned mansion. Judea turned around to look at me and pleaded with me to follow him. 

“All right, I trust you, Judea. I am right behind you.” I responded. 

My hawk led the way and was keeping a close eye on me as if it were trying to protect me from any danger. 

Moments later, we were walking for a few minutes. We discovered ourselves marching within the ruined small hallways. 

I stare at both sides where the statue destroys nothing and both sides as spiky sharp objects.

“Mwamba Williams. Ah, finally we have met again. Keep coming. Just come to your doomed boy! Come to me. And give yourself to me, I warned you to stay away from Clarence, but she is dead. And for the last time, stay away from Willson.” the man replied. 

“Not a chance whatsoever you are! Well, you should know that I am not here for you. Nor do I have no fear of you. Would you just calmly show yourself or else I will finish you out? And you should know that greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world, remember my Bible scripture has claimed that.” I shouted. 

It crackled in laughter. Later, the strongest invisible force flung me hard on the wall, I tasted my blood, and it pinned me there.  

I saw it in front of me with my vivid blurry eyesight the darkest evil of all was coming my way at the greatest speed. 

The evil of all was about to reach me when the brightest light came from nowhere and made the darkness of the shadow scream in pain.  

Disappearing out of my sight but its whispering voice was still around. 

“My, it seems as if He who lives in you, will not allow me to touch you. Still, just wait until I reveal the real me. I am, the most powerful being I have ever been for eos, after I held Mileson captive, I am coming for you all. In other words, Meadow with its Museum of Prophecy's academy will burn to ashes. And the whole nationwide world will be pledged into total darkness, ha-ha!” The man cackled sarcastically. 

Shadow's evil of all charged after me with all force, but Judea my hawk managed to scoop me up on his back and flew away at the greatest pace for my safety.

Shadow, ageless, is the most chaotic big mouth with canine chopper man. She is the most fearsome of all, only surrounded by darkness.

After all the dodging, turning, and trying to escape the evil of all forces, an invisible telepathic strength smacked my head. 

I was about to reach the mega-palace; I was falling screaming at the top of my lungs. Mrs. Macclenny heard my screams after I collapsed in front of her with the greatest thud. 

It was pouring nonstop. My hawk came landing safely as Mrs. Macclenny came rushing towards me with worries on her face. 

“Williams, Williams! Are you feeling all right?” Mrs. Macclenny asked. 

I did not answer her, and neither was there any breath in me.  

Mrs. Macclenny did not have any choice but to rush me to the infirmary for a check-up. 

I was lying on my bed in the nursing room motionless.

Mrs. Macclenny sat next to me till Monsieur Decruz walked in. 

“Mrs. Macclenny, has he woken up? And would you mind telling me who did this to him?” Monsieur Decruz urged. 

“Not at all but the nurse said it is fine he is fine. And nothing broke but severe damage from his fall from his hawk. No life-threatening Monsieur Decruz. Williams has not woken up to tell me what attacked him.” Mrs. Macclenny responded. 

"Um, thank you very much, Mrs. Macclenny. And now you must go rest how we take care of the rest my old friend.” Monsieur Decruz said. 

After that Mrs. Anderson walked with Mrs. Americano inside at once, Mrs. Macclenny marched towards the entrance with worry on her face and out of the other's sight. 

“Monsieur Decruz, I heard everything. Is our young winner all right?” Mrs. Americano asked. 

“Correct. Williams is fine. And I am trying to figure out what attacked him.” Monsieur Decruz replied. 

“Right. And when he woke up we will know what caused his downfall at such a height?” Mrs. Anderson interrupted. 

All of them saw me moving after three of them were stopped by my racing tournament teams coming into the hospital. 

Even Winslow herself, whom Nazareth told me was ill, did not permit her illness to stop her from seeing me. 

 

 

CHAPTER FIVE

 

IT IS ALL YOUR FAULT

All of them were overwhelmed with worry on their faces. 

“Winslow, Nazareth, and Abbie? And why do you have a sad expression?” Monsieur Decruz commanded. 

“Monsieur Decruz, would you mind telling us what happened to Williams?” Winslow said. 

Dawn Mileson Winslow, sixteen, mixed cutest and astonishing British-American girl. 

“I do not know, Winslow. And everyone, I am just waiting for him to wake up. And so, I do not know what happened to him.” Monsieur Decruz uttered. 

“I see. Man, this is terrible. And I am wondering who could have done such a thing.” Abbie panicked. 

“Quiet down Abbie. And I am sure Williams will be fine. He must be fine.” Goodness scolded. 

As the rest of them all glanced in front of them Abbie swirled around until he met Officer Goodness. 

“Goodness, grumpy has always, my old friend? And what brings you here?” Mrs. Macclenny responded. 

“I am here to ask what attacked Williams. Have you forgotten, Mrs. Macclenny? And no offense to you, Monsieur Decruz, but this is intimidating!” Goodness inhaled. 

“Calm yourself, Goodness. And as you can see, the boy is resting. Please allow him to have peace while he rests.” Mrs. Macclenny answered. 

“Forgive me, Mrs. Macclenny, my bad.” Goodness shivered. 

“Exactly, and welcome to the infirmary. I am sure you will have fun while trying to ask Williams questions when he is awake.” Monsieur Decruz muttered. 

"I hope so, Monsieur Decruz. And I am genuinely happy that I have come, but I am hoping to find some not-harsh response." Goodness laughed. 

Winslow felt discomfort, Nazareth did too, and the rest of the instructors of something sinisterly evil hovering in the Museum of Prophecy’s air.

It was like our worst nightmare chill running down our spines, but we were not afraid.

“Um—er, well, welcome to the Museum’s infirmary, Officer Goodness?” Abbie swallowed. 

“Thank you very much, Miss Willows. And I am hoping you are having the best day in class at the Museum of Prophecy. Neither are you going to be late?” Goodness answered. 

“I am fine. No worries, I still have time. Besides, English second period, so no worries.” Abbie said. 

“Perfect then. And I am glad not everyone is hurt. And would you mind telling me what happened to Williams?” Goodness asked. 

“Yahuwah. I am incredibly lucky that Judea, my hawk, happened to escape the evil man in darkness, everyone.” I answered. 

All of them turned around till they saw me sitting up on my bed, though I winced in pain at my injuries. 

“Williams, you have a wake. And thank you Yahuwah! Perfect. And did you just shout “Man in Darkness?” Winslow urged. 

“That is the truth. Man in Darkness, the darkest evil of all, almost put me out of my existence, but my hawk rescued me. He is on a wild rampage for my life. Everyone else in both Meadow and it Museum of Prophecy's academy,” I said. 

“Would you tell me, Williams? Did this Man in Darkness cause your hawk to go to the abandoned ruin of the ruined of the forbidden noir woods? And besides, what are you talking about? Man in Darkness is on a wild rampage after your life. Or everyone else? Seriously, Williams?” Nazareth asked. 

“I am serious. Shadow attacked me. I mean, the moment my hawk was about to land on the finish line. It took me as it screeched in pain and took me to this unidentified abandoned ruin. Not just me, it wants to take over Mileson as its apprentice.” I responded. 

“No way! First, it was Clarence. Now it is coming after Mileson.” Monsieur Decruz replied. 

“That's what it told me. And warn me to stay away from her.” I said. 

“I see. And now everyone, we should leave Williams to rest.” Monsieur Decruz reported. 

“Right, Monsieur Decruz. And Williams, take care of yourself.” Winslow inhaled. 

“No worries, I will be fine.” I winced.  

Night covered the sky like a huge dark blanket. After everyone left to rest, I marched out of the infirmary exit and marched along with the noir woods.  

Last, I arrived at the crime scene where I saw Clarence murdered by the ruthless, darkest evil. I saw a figure with a diamond ring on, I unplugged the leave from a gigantic oak tree and picked it up instantly. 

“Jesus. I guess Goodness did not see this. Um, I suppose I should see what happened to Clarence’s body.” I said. 

Touching the bloody figure bare figures, instantly I was taken into my visual world, and I observed Clarence’s being eaten by wildlife to nothing. 

“Yahuwah, my Living God Almighty. Clarence’s body was unexpecting. That is even better.” I continued.  

I put Clarence’s remaining finger with a diamond ring into a bag because I wanted to give it to the police officers. 

I marched to the police officers’ headquarters because I was looking for Goodness. In the meantime, I met face-to-face with Amina on my way, the moment I opened the door, and was marching in the HQ’s hallway. 

“Evening, Williams. And what brings you here tonight?” Amina reported. 

“Um-er, I have something for Goodness. I have a clue about what happened to Clarence’s body. And why you could not find it by the next morning?” I answered. 

“For real?” Amina blinked. 

“That is correct, Officer Amina," I said.

"All right then follow me,” she answered.  

Amina led the way and I followed until we arrived inside Goodness’s office. 

“I beg your pardon. And what is he doing here in my office in the middle of the night?” Goodness asked. 

“Quite whining like a child, Goodness. And I have something interesting I have found. I mean some clue to tell you the reason you could not find Clarence’s body.” I shouted. 

“Seriously. Are you here to mock me? Or make fun of me?” Goodness gasped. 

“Not even close. And here.” I sighed.  

I put Clarence’s finger in front of them that was in the bag. 

"Wait a second. I remember the diamond ring. It is from Clarence." Goodness gasped. 

“That is exactly right, officer. And the reason you could not find her body the next morning is that her body was mauled by wildlife.” I answered. 

All three of us paused for a moment when we overheard the life-threatening snarling sound. 

Suddenly, Goodness and Amina unleashed their revolvers. 

“Would you mind telling us what is that sound?” Amina asked. 

“I have no idea. Still, I should suggest that all of you get out. I am telling you that something life-threatening is going to strike.” I urged. 

“Meaning—!” Goodness stopped. 

All of us overheard screaming, flesh reaping, and snarling of ravenous beasts. Amina closed the door of Goodness because did not want whatever thing was out there to come in. Both police officers were panting heavily while having revolvers in their hands. 

“I am sure that it has gone,” I responded. 

“I am sure of it, but we must make sure,” Goodness said. 

Abruptly, Mileson was on her way to see her ill cousin when out of nowhere a sack covered her face. 

“Jesus Christ! Hey, what are you doing? And who are you? Mileson muffled. 

Mileson was surrounded by unidentified hooded people in noir trench coats in the darkness of the secret order’s underground chamber. Her face was covered in wounds and bruises. 

“Michelle Mileson! It is all your fault that we lost the tournament.” The first girl snapped. 

“Meaning? And you know the person that made us lose. I am not the only person who made us lose.” Mileson shouted. 

“For real, Mileson. And you are no longer a member of this Order.” The boy muttered. 

“I beg your pardon.” Mileson blinked. 

“Have heard us loud and clear.” Girl two roared. 

“No, this cannot be possible. And I am pleading with you to give me a second chance, I promise you I will be a champion next time.” Mileson begged. 

“No second chance, Mileson. Stripped her clothes of the Order and dragged her into the outer darkest chamber. And I am sure that she has someone to meet.” Boy, two said. 

“Right away.” Girl three agreed. 

“No, please. Give me a second chance!” Mileson pleaded. 

“Not a chance for your overconfident girl! And this time we will make you humble and kind to everyone.” Boy, three scoffed.  

Mileson was furiously dragged away by her stunning precious curly noir out of sight. Later, she discovered herself on the chair. 

“No! And how dare you ruin my hair. Besides, I have somewhere to go.” Mileson scolded. 

“I have no idea, but I must warn you to remain sitting there.” Boy three continued.  

“If you dare try to make any monkey business of escaping, you are dead. And no one will recognize or find the whereabouts of your body, understand?” Girl two scalded.  

Mileson whimpered silently in tears. The two people that brought her there left her alone. 

CHAPTER SIX

 MASSACRE IN PART OF MEADOW

Michelle was crying her sorrow out. She hears footsteps, getting closer and closer to where she was sitting. 

“Man, I am in big trouble. And I am pleading with someone to help me.” Mileson cried. 

“Calm down, Mileson. I supposed that being kicked out of the team must be harsh, but Shadow had the greatest plan for you.” The woman said. 

“Plan for me? Release me at once! I just kicked out the order, and you are here talking nonsense. Release me at once. And I planned to see my sick cousin, but am I not allowed to?” Mileson urged. 

“I am afraid that it is unnecessary.” The woman said.  

"And why not?” Mileson asked. 

“I have no idea. And remember that our tournament team the Order has been winning the championship cup for decades, but for you to lose to that worthless boy. That is classic. Besides, you might leave for now, but I promise we will make your life miserable. Out of my sight before I lose it!” The woman growled. 

Mileson whimpered in fear, stood up, and ran out of sight. Uncovering herself, our interesting worst nightmare.  

Back to the local law enforcement, Goodness opened the door of his office and we followed. We saw everywhere covered in red stains and bodies were lying on the floor breathless. 

All the other police officers are massacred ravenously without mercy by these unidentified beasts.

“Jesus. This is such a terrible way to die. And who could have done such a malicious act?” I gagged.

“All the innocent friends and fellow police officers were massacred in cold blood,” Amina answered.

“All of this is your fault. If you did not come, none of this would happen.” Goodness roared.

"Goodness! Hold yourself together!” Amina scolded. 

“Um-oh, Amina, do not tell me to hold myself together,” Goodness complained.

“Enough, old man. And as I told you before something life-threatening evil is on the rise, but you do not believe me. Though I have brought you Clarence’s finger with the diamond on it, I would plead with you to make the DNA simple. I wanted you to find out if it matches. And who knows, it might come from another victim’s fingers.” I shouted.  

Goodness looked at me with rage, but I just ignored him and walked out of their sight.

Heading toward the local restaurant for my favorite spicy chicken burger, I arrived at it in time, but Winslow was nowhere to be found. 

“Nazareth was telling the truth. Winslow surely was sick. That is even more classic.” I thought. 

“Hold your horses, Williams. Just do not go yet!” Nazareth discontinued.  

I turned around where I met face-to-face with Nazareth and his cousin Abbie Willows. 

“Nazareth? Abbie? And why are you here?” I blinked. 

“Um-er, we work here,” Nazareth answered. 

“No, we do not. And Winslow knew that you would pass by here, so we are covering for her.” Abbie chuckled.  

“Here I am,” I said. 

“And so, you want us to give you a spicy chicken burger as always?” Abbie continued. 

“That is right,” I said. 

“Need a ride too?” Nazareth asked. 

“Nah-huh, I prefer to walk at night. I need fresh air. And I have something to find out. Besides, I just escaped death at our local police station.” I laughed.  

“I beg your pardon. Again? Williams, how long would continue playing with fire?” Abbie commanded. 

“Fair enough.” I scoffed.  

“Um, you are not being fair to me, Williams. And your harsh words are getting on my nerves. Have you thought about other people’s feelings but yourself?” Abbie urged. 

“And why do you even care, Abbie?" I urged.

"I care so much for you because I thought you were our friends but every time, we tried to be closer to you, you pulled yourself away,” Abbie roared. 

“And if I pull myself away from you, why do you even bother wanting to be my friend?” I asked enraged.  

“Yahuwah, Williams, you truly are harsher than ever. Is it because of what Mileson did to you?” Nazareth asked. 

“I am warning you not to go there, Nazareth!” I demanded.  

“Is it Williams? And is that the reason you are pushing everyone out of your life?” Nazareth persisted.  

“Listen, I do things alone. I will always be alone till now. And I told you before, I do not want to be friends here with anybody. Or even at school, so dropped this topic. I have moved on, and I dislike the mistake of repeating itself.” I roared.  

“Even for a girl who is falling in love with you. I mean, are you trying to avoid that?” Nazareth asked.  

“Especially that. Listen, I have promised myself to never fall in love. And yes, because of what happened, Nazareth. That is what caused me to turn out to be harsher towards everyone. Have nothing to do with friends or even fall in love. Who knows maybe what is after I would claim to what so-called my friends’ lives. And I do not know how I would feel.” I shouted.  

Abbie and Nazareth look at me with shock in their eyes.  

"Christ, Williams. Here is your dinner. You surely do not care about anyone’s feelings, but dig in.” Abbie said. 

“Boohoo, shame on me for being harsh. And this is classic. I am not going to say thank you, just a reminder.” I uttered.  

“Sure. Winslow told us that! And so, we know that you are going to say that.” Nazareth said.  

Later, I discovered myself outside that night at the Museum's dormitory balcony, looking at the full moon after I had done my dinner.

Moments later, I was standing in the dark woods where Clarence died. 

Touching the ground, instantly I met face-to-face with my old friend Mrs. Webclass’s husband.  

“Obed? And why are you here?” I asked.  

“One day you will unite the two worlds.” Monsieur Webclass answered. 

“Meaning?” I uttered. 

“Williams is everything all right?” Nazareth asked. 

I find myself face-to-face with Nazareth. 

“I am fine, Nazareth,” I answered. 

“Excellent then," Nazareth said.

"Um—er, why are you here--?” I paused. 

“We need to help you with this case.” Abbie interfered. 

“I beg your pardon. Abbie, you too?” I blinked. 

“I am. And I must tell you, I will not give up on becoming your friend. Not even Winslow because she wishes that she would be here but curses this illness of hers.” Abbie scolded. 

“Exactly, even if you do not want us around,” Nazareth whined. 

“Classic, but I must warn you to be cautious, understand!” I warned. 

“Got it!” Both nodded.

We were looking around for more clues deep into the woods with our brightest torches but when we had none with returned to the Museum's property. Around that time, I was outside our dormitory’s balcony looking at the same full moon the second time though I am not a fan of moon gazing. 

I went to bed around ten, after I wrote chapter five of The Museum. Morning came, and we discovered ourselves within the enormous luxurious marble stone floor of the Meeting Hall. 

I saw two huge golden throne-like chairs with red cushions. All of us were waiting for Monsieur Decruz and our instructors.  

We sat on our seats in silence, Nazareth sat next to me, and Abbie did the same. 

“Morning, Williams. And how are you?” Nazareth interrupted. 

“Fine, I guess.” I sighed. 

“That is nice. And this is your first time seeing the Meeting Hall. I suppose. And are you satisfied?” Nazareth asked. 

“Not even close--,” I said. 

“Morning everyone. And we are here to claim who won yesterday’s tournament. I mean since one of the winning team members was not feeling well. I would welcome Mwamba Williams to come forward.” Monsieur Decruz called.

"After that, I would welcome Willson and Eve Jonesboro to fight until one of them is defeated." She continued.

All of us cheered, I walked up in front to get our trophy, and Decruz glanced at me with a smile. 

“Williams, you have made me proud. And how does it feel to have friends finally? I know that your determination is overwhelming that you have made the team that never held the trophy in their hands have one.” Monsieur Decruz continued. 

“Please, Decruz, I have no friends. And I will never have friends.” I muttered. 

“I see. And to remind you, I will never give up.” Monsieur Decruz replied. 

“Um, well, good luck with that.” I scoffed. 

I sighed deeply and marched back to my seat. Willson came midst us and did Eve where the sword dueling combat commenced.  

Eve, fourteen, had the upper hand and knocked Willson over while saying point. 

Willson was knocked down repeatedly, Eve was about to point her with a sword, and out of nowhere a legion of locusts shattered the glass window above us.  

Surrounding Eve with a face similar to the face of Monsieur Decruz. 

“Wait, what? Brother? And are you behind my students’ death?” Monsieur Decruz urged. 

“No idea, brother. I am only here to protect what is mine.” Monsieur Decruz’s brother snarled.  

Monsieur Decruz‘s twin little brother shrieked in laughter and flung Eve hard on the wall where she inhaled her last. 

“No! Eve! And what have you done, brother?” Monsieur Decruz roared. 

“Ha—ha—ha, this is just the beginning, brother.” Monsieur Decruz’s brother cackled.  

Caesar and twin brother Elisha watched their dead little sister’s corpse with their eyes widened.  

Monsieur Decruz‘s brother’s legion of locusts flew away back at the same window, and out of our sight. 

Willson’s eyes were shocked and trying to adapt to what just happened.  

Monsieur Decruz‘s legion of locusts flew away back at the same window, and out of our sight.  

Willson’s eyes were shocked and trying to adapt to what just happened. 

“My, my, Williams. And it seems as if you were right along. How did you know?” Monsieur Decruz demanded. 

“And I have no idea. Even if I told you, you would not believe Monsieur Decruz.” I responded. 

“I suppose you might be right. And even old Willow because he has been on your neck since day one.” Monsieur Decruz inhaled. 

“No worries because I have no fear of a mere human, but God alone,” I said. 

"Even perfect. And it seems as if the meeting is dismissed.” Monsieur Decruz answered. 

Monsieur Decruz sighed, everyone stood on their feet and was out of Decruz and the instructors’ sight.

Getting nabbed by the underground orders, and the local townspeople in Meadow and Museum's being prepared for Thanksgiving. He finds out the answers to the secrets of what happened in the past with his friends in the ruins deep in the noir woods.

Tensing treacherous war between brothers for the same girl. Preparing to sing on Thanksgiving. My friends from Mississippi are coming to Meadow for the celebration.

Milleson began to fall in love with me. Even worse, making a game deal with her to be given a second chance. 

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 17.04.2023

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