Both Dan Sherrill and Kristen St. Knight have woken up for the morning. She decided to put on a nitegown and begin fixing breakfast after their most eventful night together. In each other's arms. Not knowing what he likes to eat, she hurries some eggs and bacon, and freshly toasted potato bread. The waffle iron is also on.

He also wakes, knowing of his meeting with Isaac this morning. He also remembers hearing something when they had both decided to keep each other awake by not sleeping, but making love through the night. A note was, in fact, slid under Kristen's apartment door.

A team has been assembled this morning for an investigative trip to 'Universe 2,' featuring Eliza, friend of L, and Jesus of Nazareth along with His Father. To dig deep into Professor EyeCross' alternate destiny. To find out how he was able to transport Jesus, without Him knowing it, to this alternate reality.

Meanwhile, the mysterious note is still calling Dan's name from across the apartment. Who was tracking his movements enough to know that Kristen would invite him over to make love to him?

Kristen St. Night-What's that?

Dan Sherrill-I heard it delivered last night, I just didn't say anything to you. I didn't want to ruin the mood of our bodies making love.

Kristen-It's addressed to you. Who did you tell about this?

Dan-No one. Not a soul.

Kristen-Aren't you going to open it?

In an instant the envelope is opened and a tiny slip of paper is revealed. As well as the business card of a local police officer.

Kristen-Oh my God.

Dan takes the letter, tears it into a million pieces and slings all million of them against the apartment door.

Kristen-Do you want to use my cell phone?

Dan-Sure.

His phone rings. Loud.

Detective George Grahnt-Is this Dan Sherrill AKA Aaron Deschanel of North Iley?

Dan-It is. What can I help you with?

Detective Grahnt-I'm sorry, again, to have to bring you this news, but she's in very bad shape. They barely found a pulse on her wrist. Your beloved. She mentioned your name and number. I'm sorry, but she's only got a couple of hours left and they are thinking of pulling the plug on her life suport. She's in too critical of shape right now. I'm sorry.

Dan-What hospital? I'm bringing a friend with me.

Detective Grahnt-East Kaesa Memorial. That's where her doctor is. I'm sorry, Dan. I'm contacting you out of need. You did ask her to marry you once. It went unanswered. She never said 'no,' she said you asked her in a voice message on her phone. When some of the officers went to grab some clothes for her from her house they found the message saved to her answering machine. With the intent to keep it for a while.

Dan-What is wrong with her?

Detective Grahnt-She overdosed.

Dan-On what?

Detective Grahnt-Heroin. I know it's a lot for you to hear. We found enough of a supply of it in her house to last a year. Maybe two.

Dan-I thought she was just a friend of 'The Father,' in disguise. Pettel was her name. I saw her the other day. At the all night pancake house.

Detective Grahnt-Pretty good disguise. Last night she was beat pretty badly by one of tthe dealers she works for. Whoever you saw last night wasn't Mythaq, as you like to call her. This woman, Pettel, you speak of, works for Mythaq.

Dan-I had no idea.

Detective Grahnt-The things you saw in her house, they were paid for with drug money.

Dan-I don't believe this.

Detective Grahnt-Let's just say that her parents are in shock, to say the least. Her dad mentioned you. Good things, don't worry. I tracked down her dealer and beat the shit out of him until he told me that he knew where you lived on North Iley.

Dan-Why didn't you call when you found her?

Detective Grahnt-You number is saved on her cell phone as Dan, not Aaron Deschanel, it threw me for a second.

Dan-I'll be there in a little while.

Detective Grahnt-We found a tape, and a few letters with your name on it that the other detective wanted you to have.

Dan-This is strange. She didn't ever seem to have those tracks on her hands that most heroin users have.

Detective Grahnt-It's called make up. Once it washed off her wrists and hands she was hideously marked from that shit.

Dan-I'll see you in a little bit.

He turns to Kristen with a sad look on his face.

Dan-Can I call the Empress?

Kristen-Sure.

She answers the call.

Empress Alia of Iley-Kristen?

Dan-It's Mythaq. She's in a hospital, dying of a heroin overdose.

Alia-Oh, dear.

Dan-Any news from The Father, Eliza and Jesus?

Alia-Not yet. Hey, I have your cell with me. You got a strange call last night. A strange voice mail. Some guy wanted to track you down and hurt you. Something about you not ever talking to his girlfriend again. Care to enlighten? Michelle from the country dance club called, and let's see, I'll tell Issac you won't be able to make it to the meeting this morning. I'll have Patrick go in your place.

Dan-Thank you. Whoever left the message probably should worry more about growing up than messing with royalty. And an author.

Alia-So when Pettel was disguised as Mythaq, it was just Pettel from Lysithea, right? She never really was Mythaq. I'll call 'The Father,' and tell him.

Dan-Thanks. I'm outside about to take the drive to the East Kaesa hospital, to see all of this for myself.

Alia-I'll send someone to guard you, just in case. A blonde I know. You need this. Closure.

Dan-It's so hard though. The last time we talked was supposed to be the last. I was driving home around the spot where I crashed my car last summer and instantly I froze up and didn't want to drive anymore. I called a few people, but no one was home, and I knew there was really only one person I wanted to talk me throught this thing which obviously is still hard for me because I don't remember my accident. No matter the novels I've written about it and the fortune tellers I almost called and the people I've hounded about it, I still couldn't tell you what caused the thing to happen.

Alia-You probably never will.

Dan-I called her. Out of the blue. Very quick. She was on another call. It was her alright. Not Pettel. It was her voice. The land between C'ila and Iley, where I had the accident, doesn't get good phone reception and I head a tone and suddenly it said 'Call Lost,' I was so fucking scared. Sorry, but I was. I saw a cop car sitting at the side of the road, on the shoulder. With his lights on. I don't know what the Hell he was investigating. I called my friend from Chicago and asked her over and over, what does 'Lost Call' mean. All she would say was that maybe the signal from the cell phone towers was too weak and nothing to worry about. I tried calling Mythaq back, but no answer. I was lucky she talked to me any. I was driving home from a ridiculous personals date that ended the same way it began. Awkward. I hate that. When people build themselves up to be princesses, but then it's just a halloween costume, hiding evil and terrifying blotches of dishonesty.

Alia-Then don't spend your money hanging out with people who unravel.

Dan-I never knew Mythaq was into drugs so deep.

Alia-Call me with news.

Dan-I will.

She sits up for a little while having herself just woken up for the morning to find a tray full of hospital food and fruit juice awaiting her.

Mythaq dannika Osterly-It didn't work.

Nurse California July-What didn't?

Mythaq-The overdose.

July-It was intentional?

Mythaq-And painless.

July-Oh dear. You can't do that. It'll promise you a place in Hell with the devil himself.

Mythaq-I don't care.

Huge teardrops fall from her eyes.

Mythaq-All I wished for was dying painlessly on my living room floor.

July-I'm sorry.

Mythaq-Is Dan coming?

July-Your fiance?

Mythaq-Why'd you call him that?

July-That's what it says on your medical chart. It has you as a possible Mrs. Dan Sherrill.

Mythaq-I hurt him so badly. I never answered his proposal. The one from my answering machine. He asked me to marry him.

July-I double as an attorney.

Mythaq-A nurse by day?

July-Big shot attorney by night. Actually, I'm a public defender of drunk driving cases on East Kaesa.

The door of her hospital room opens.

Dan-Mythaq!

Mythaq-Dan.

He races to her side, to hold her hand in his.

July-Careful with her hands, she covered them up with make up. Same kind actors use. It's common among users to 'cover their tracks,' if you know what I mean.

Dan-What has this shit done to you?

Mythaq-I couldn't deal with life anymore. Too many hurt men. Too many hurt tears. Too many fucking lonely nights! I didn't want another one.

Dan-Then fucking marry me!

He storms out of her room and slams the door shut hard, alarming several nurses on their routine shifts.

Once inside the waiting room he meets her. Alia's surprise help.

Cay'q Stem-Everything alright? You look a little red in the face. Can I get you some coffee?

Dan-No. It's alright.

Cay'q-Alia sent me. My friend dropped me off. Her name is Ludmilla Knay, you'll meet her later at supper.

Without being asked, she walks over to the coffee pot and pours him a plastic cup full of it and adds cream and sugar, to put him in a good mood.

Once it's set down next to him on the table, along with magazines and medical brochures, he begins to stare at it while thinking about why he's been called here in the first place.

Dan-I wanted to marry her. I would've been marrying a lie. I can't believe that. I've only asked 3 women to marry me in my whole 28 years. The first one was because of a deception and the women who tried to come inbetween me and Joabeth ended up trying to shoot the Son of God dead in Heaven, the other one I had to deal with her pregnancy and adoption of her baby and getting a divorce from her, now this.

Cay'q-How do you feel about the woman in that hospital bed?

Dan-The thought of her makes me angry and makes me want to cry at the same time. I should've made love to her on our first date. I should've, but I didn't. Fuck, it might have saved her life. And mine. It got close a few times, but I pulled away. I don't know why. Scared, I think. She's so beautiful and awesome. I just didn't want to get hurt. And even though I did eventually. Brutally. By her. I never forgot how precious she looked the night we met. I woke The Father out a sound sleep to tell Him about her. Strange it's the end of August and that was March. She hasn't left my thoughts in all this time. Now she's fighting for her life. I can't handle this. It sucks, I know, but I have to. I should be in Issac's tracking room helping out with Jesus and The Father's mission, but instead I'm here on East Kaesa with you and a woman I let break my heart and make spiked punch out of the blood that flows through it.

Nurse July walks closer to the conversation with a concerned look on her face.

July-She wants to see you.

Dan-I know.

Cay'q-Ludmilla will be back shortly, so go on. We'll wait for you.

He walks back through the door with the cup of coffee in his hand. Taking another look at her fragile and wounded body he can't help but want to cry to her.

Mythaq-You and I are just a memory, my dear. It's over between us. It didn't work. I hurt you, and that's final. Don't you go caring about me. What did I tell you to do? Forget about me? Let me take this heroin alone. Let me take it and let me lose a fight with it right the fuck now!

Dan-No! You're a Christian!

Mythaq-It's an act! God, are you that stupid!

Dan-Praising God shouldn't be an act!

Mythaq-Why do you even want a drug addict? I'm also a crook, too. Didn't you know that? I'm a jewel thief, Dan, I take things that aren't mine to take.

Dan-Like my heart!

Mythaq-It's okay. I'm telling you these things on my deathbed. I only have another 90 min to live. The doctors are under orders to pull the plug. I paid them $10,000 to do it.

Dan-Don't you want to answer my proposal? If you die on me without answering it, by law, we are engaged. Until you say no.

Mythaq-Why do you love me?

Dan-I love the way you look at me with 'I love you' written all over you face, right alongside your make up.

Mythaq-You think it's like that, don't you?

Dan-Yeah.

Mythaq-Why'd you call me that morning to barely keep me on the phone?

Dan-Holding onto hope I guess. I thought you had a bright spot on your black heart. I was wrong. This story is supposed to take place right after 'Title of Fury,' but I think I'm able to break continuity rules here for the sake of telling the story of how much I wanted to cry on the phone, but I wanted to be strong for you, like I am now.

Mythaq-I don't have caller ID. I didn't know it was you.

Dan-You didn't have the heart to hang up in my face, right?

She takes a deep breath.

Mythaq-You're right.

Suddenly the almost full cup of steaming hot coffee, cream and sugar included, is slung across the room, staining the walls.

Dan-I thought you were the right one for me. I don't just rattle off 'will you marry me' to every scorching hot dollface I freak dance with. It takes a lot of emotion and energy drinks to get me to that point. A lot of meaningful kisses being accepted by the other person. A lot of heartfelt cards, and letters, and thoughts in the middle of the night. These screwed up drugs you're on don't scare me. It does make me want to rescue you from it, but I know I'd only drive you away with thoughts of a rescue mission like you like to remind me of you not wanting. I'd accept you for who you are and not what you're high on. If that's okay with you.

Ludmilla has returned to pick up Cay'q and Dan, only when she arrives she find Cay'q by herself in the waiting room.

Ludmilla Knay-Are you afraid of this situation? You really don't know him very well yet. He could fall for her all over again. They just broke up in May. Feelings may still linger which you have to be able to prepare yourself for any given moment now.

Cay'q-He doesn't know about me yet. Let's keep it that way until we're in Russia.

Ludmilla-That you're his 'Real' soul mate?

Cay'q-Exactly. Let my accent fool him for a while.

Ludmilla-Let's go and get him so we can go and get something to eat. I'm sure this is hard on him, seeing her like this. I mean Hell if she dies she'll have a wake, funeral, and more drama to add to his fractured heart at the moment. I don't like his chances of not crying hard over her.

He looks at his watch then another look in her eyes.

Dan-My watch says you only have a few minutes left. That is, until the doctors come back to yank the plugs from the life support and I'll have to to watch in horror as you stop breathing and talking.

Mythaq-I'm just a memory to you. A good and bad one, I think, but still a memory. I love you Dan Sherrill. There, I said it. I meant it.

The doctors are seen walking down the hall leading up to her room. On their way to put Mythaq out of her identity once and for all.

Ludmilla-Those are the doctors who are set to shut off her life support. Dan's still in there. It'll horrify him. We better be there for him.

When they find him he's holding onto her hand for dear life.

Dan-I can forgive you now for breaking my heart as I'm now forced to watch you stop breathing.

Mythaq-It's for the better I've hurt enough people being alive. I can't do it anymore if I'm gone.

Dan-The only one and last one you'll hurt is yourself. I can help you. I can pray for you.

Mythaq-I don't want that. The drugs are swirling through my body at a record pace I can actually not feel my hands now. I'm dying.

Dan-No! I'm so scared for you.

Mythaq-I have a secret to tell you.

Dan-Yes, anything.

Mythaq-That woman with the blonde hair. The tall one. She's your soul mate.

Stunned, Cay'q runs out of Mythaq's room and into the waiting room and slams the door shut, and cries into her hands.

Dan-She's not. She's just someone Alia sent to see me through this.

Mythaq-I'm serious. You can believe me if you want. Her name is Cay'q. Right, Ludmilla?

Ludmilla-Yeah.

Dan-What's going on here.

Mythaq-See, you don't need me. Forget about me. Forget about 'us' and go and be with the one you're meant for. Do it for me. The doctors are on their way. My legs are numb right now. I can't feel anything.

Dan-Can you feel the love I have for your heart, honey?

Mythaq-Barely.

Dan-But you still do! I know it! Do you know how many times I've heard that this girl or that girl is my soul mate. Why can't it be you! It was. For about a month! I don't know why I'm telling you this. I've been on the verge of killing myself. Hell, I drove to Lake Geneva, took a bottle of sleeping bills with very little water and ate the whole bottle. I tried sleeping in my car so that someone would find and ID me. I got mad that I wasn't tired enough for it to work. I got back in my car and drove home. With an entire bottle of that shit in my system. I puked my guts up on the carpet of my mom and her husband's house at the time. So I know about cleaning up green puke from off white carpet. By the time I made it to the toilet and leaned over and unleashed more of it I realized that it hadn't worked. Or had it? I was 18 at the time. Bad year. Around the time of the consipracy surrounding Joabeth. Yeah and starting the car in the garage with the garage door down doesn't work either. Neither does swallowing toxic kitchen products. Just because they say harmful or fatal if swallowed is not the great ticket to death that it seems to be on the surface. None of the three times ever worked because I'm still here. Foolish to think about and recount, but you learn something everytime shit gets so out of control. Let the doctors help you. Let this pass. I forgive you. I do. I really do. If you're right about Cay'q, it won't matter. I love you. I love you.

Mythaq-My face is numb.

At that moment a set of 6 doctors and an on site minister walk through the door, followed by Cay'q.

Hearing the minister begin to pray for Mythaq, Dan is seen with huge tears falling from his hurt eyes.

Dan-Damn, my phone keeps going off.

He walks to the corner of Mythaq's room and presses the talk button on his prepaid cell phone.

Deputy Brake (James) Fluid-Dan Sherrill?

Dan-Yes?

Brake Fluid-This is Brake Fluid. I'm Tyrone's brother. Attorneys run in our family, but I chose law enforcement as my profession. The ugly duckling in the family. Anyway, is she still breathing?

Dan-She is. Barely. She's about to drift off.

Brake Fluid-Ask her how much she loves you? Do it now.

Dan-Mythaq?

Mythaq-Yes?

Dan-How much do you love me?

Mythaq-Damn. That's Brake Fluid, isn't it?

Dan-Yeah. How do you know him?

Mythaq-I dated him. Can I have the phone?

He hands her the phone, being respectful of her wishes on her last day on Earth.

Brake Fluid-Mythaq?

Mythaq-Honey. I overdosed. Bad this time. I'm dying.

Brake Fluid-They're going through your house to prepare for your wake in a few days.

Mythaq-Who's conducting the search?

Brake Fluid-The disctrict attorney, Robin Cardinal, and Detective Belinda Air Filter. Both are friends of yours, I know. That's why they were chosen.

Mythaq-Where is the heroin?

Brake Fluid-With Sherriff Gasket. Ellen Jean Gasket. She's got it.

Mythaq-Can you steal it for me?

Brake Fluid-How hurt are you, lady?

Mythaq-I'm 'selling' most of my injury.

He turns fast, grabs the chair he's been sitting and resting in and throws it hard at the white painted wall next to her bed. It crashes right through the wall, waking the elderly woman in the next room.

Brake Fluid-Mythaq? Mythaq?

His face is a dark shade of red.

Dan-I knew it. I knew it the whole time. Overdose? You just want to see me cry. How Christian is that? You knew you were hurting, but you let me fall for you. Now it's affecting me and my new relationship and I want to smash the vase that is housing the flowers that have been dropped off in the middle of the night for you. I've never hurt so much as I have for you. It never ends since all I keep tasting in my mouth is your freakin awesome kisses. I'm sorry. I need to leave. Since how can anyone prove they don't have a headache when they call in sick to work? How can I prove that you don't have everyone in this hospital believing you are hurting and depressed and all of this? This is just a game you want me to play in order to call you one last time and cry one last time on your voicemail for my heart the Hell back. You stole it, you thief in the night. You stole it red handed from me. You opened your arms and your heart to me like a beekeeper and then you crushed me with your contagious black ask that litters your avenging heart. I'm not going to lay face down and try to scoop up my heart any more from your shoelaces. Give it the Hell back. Or more than the flat painted walls will be crushed by this anger you have made me submit to.

Mythaq-It's just a matter of real estate, my dear.

Dan-Drugs never could hammer down an 'Inventor.'

Mythaq-Where will you be on June 19th?

Dan-What are you talking about?

Mythaq-Don't play stupid. Marcus and Thoma, remember? Your antique dealer from Spain with the cute doll collection, who doubles as my brother's attorney. I know the date of the 'End of the World.' The Father can't change His mind.

Dan-Why not?

She easily rises from the bed to stand eye to eye with Dan, as his phone is ringing again.

Dan-Yes?

State Trooper Positive Jumper Cable-Is this Dan Sherrill?

Dan-It is.

Positive Jumper Cable-Myself and my partner and brother, Negative Jumper Cable, are headed that way. Brake Fluid just called us. Don't worry, you're safe.

Dan-Have you known the whole time?

Positive Jumper Cable-We have.

Dan-If it matters, she's out of bed and walking.

Mythaq-I threw you out of one window, I can easily do it again.

The nurses have just checked in Judge Candi Kane Lessi and States Attorney Exhaust Smoke, but as they make their way to the room, they are met by the minister assigned to read Mythaq her last rights.

Judge Candi Kane Lessi-Stay away from her, Dan!

The brave judge bursts through the door of the hospital room.

Mythaq-You!

She tackles Mythaq in a rage not seen by very many judges.

Another strange face has just been authorized for entrance into Mythaq's room. Julio Villa.

The door opens to reveal Julio and a sheet of perfectly typed orders from Mythaq's father, Admiral Osterly of Madrid Spain.

Julio Villa-I'll be collecting miss Osterly.

Candi Kane-How? She's on East Kaesa, she's our responsibility.

A gun bullet flies past her head and nicks the wall above Mythaq's bed, and they all make their way for the door, except Dan who watches in horror.

Someone sneaks through the door and puts her hands on Dan's eyes, tight, which scares him to death.

Cherry Felts-Shh. You don't want to see this. I know Alia's sister. She sent me. Auria sent me.

Dan-I don't want to leave Mythaq. I still love her.

Cherry-I know you do. I've got three friends in the car waiting for us. Tell these people we're leaving. You don't want to pollute your heart with thoughts of an evil woman posing as a good woman.

A second woman comes to check on the situation.

Caress Allday-Cherry, let's go. Drag him if you have to.

Mythaq has in a few seconds figured out their escape plan.

The door suddenly won't open.

Sugar Fields and Mitsy Seamore look at their watches waiting for Dan and the others to race back to the car they came in. Planning their trip, with their new friend. To the Ukraine. Little does Dan know, it's for good.

Sugar Fields-Isn't that The coroner, Michael Hurts, isn't it?

Mitsy Seamore-It is.

Sugar-So she's dead?

Mitsy-Must be.

Sugar lights up her cell phone and makes a call to an unexpecting captain.

Captain Steven LaGrange-The boat is ready. The ladies are waiting and wanting to pick out their husbands. This is my favorite part of the whole process.

Sugar-He's almost ready to be brought to you, Captain.

Steven-You know the drill. You're the best agents I have. How much did you four bring in for me tonite at the club?

Sugar-Total?

Mitsy-12 lap dances each.

Sugar-About a thousand dollars.

Steven-Anything out of the ordinary?

Sugar-Caress got beat pretty bad by 'Big Daddy,' he's one of the bouncers.

Steven-Anything broken?

Sugar-Her nose. We cleaned up most of the blood. It was real bad for a while tonight. This dancing shit isn't the safect job in the world, but it's certainly better than our homeland. Thank you again for sailing us past the border. I really like it here. Well, except seeing my friend being beat.

Steven-Do you know this man's real name?

Sugar-You either call him 'Big Daddy' or Jason Riddle. That's how he signs the slips in the cash register.

Steven-Can you trace his signature?

Sugar-I can try.

Steven-Do it. Open the cash register and take the money. All of it. Then you find something, anything, and trace it over and over on your break. He'll never know what 'hit' him.

Sugar-I can see them heading toward the car now. It worked. She's still got her hands over Dan's eyes. Good. Very good.

Steven-Just bring him here. You can give him the injection, if he won't calm down.

Sugar-How can anyone resist riding in the car with four exotic dancers?

The car door opens, but reveals Dan in absolute tears.

Dan-I don't know who the Hell you girls are, but just get me the fuck out of here. Now!

Sugar-Should I give him the injection?

Mitsy-No. He's hurting too much from that woman in the hospital.

Dan-That woman, evil as she is, is someone I loved with all of my heart and soul. God, why can I forgive her so easy for butchering my heart with knives. My phone is going off. I better answer it.

Joseph S.-Hey Dan. I'm scoping out the place for you. Hold the phone away from your new friends for a seconds. I'm going to whisper something to you.

Dan-Who is this?

Joseph S.-What do you keep in your kitchen cabinet? Made of glass?

Dan-How'd you get my number.

Joseph S.-A lady from high school gave it to me.

Dan-I haven't seen her in years. I cherished her so much. Her brother hated my guts, but I didn't care or bother paying attention to him when I called her on the phone and talked so well to her. We lit up the hallways at school for a few awesome weeks. I had had some kind of a note or present for her. I made her a mix tape. I can't believe she thinks about me so many years later.

Joseph S.-I was contacted about you possibly being in danger and involved in a Mail Order Bride investigation. I thought I could help out. I have researched their organization all morning. Interesting.

Dan-Where are you? Can you see me?

Joseph S.-You're crying in a shiny new car with 4 exotic dancers. I'm a couple of cars behind them.

Dan-Does The Father know you're here? Do you have back up?

He hands the phone to his back up.

Nephi-Hey, kid. Something's truly not right with these ladies you're with. Their caretaker is a captain on a cruise ship famous for its Mail Order Bride hopefulls. They sign up on the internet, then get to talk to the girls on the phone. Long distance, might I add.

There is a slight knock on Empress Alia's castle on North Iley. Two ladies and a strangely formal man.

Patrick of Iley-Can I help you?

Tomas Gom-Is this the North Iley castle?

Patrick-It is.

Faith Sullivan-I'm Faith Sullivan. This is Aurora Greene. We work for a book publishing company near Hollywood, California. We ran across Dan Sherrill's website and figured we'd scope out some of the 'Alia and the Boy' locations for ourselves. In case he wanted to loan us a manuscript to review.

Patrick-Wait just one second.

He walks up the main staircase to Princess Avonlie's room.

Patrick-There are three book publishers outside on the front lawn wanting to investigate the place. Someting about wanting to publish Dan.

Princess Avonlie-Give them some coffee. I'll be down in a minute. Hmm. What sexy dress can I wear?

Patrick leads them into the main dining room as they stand in awe realizing that 'Alia and the Boy' is actually based on real places and real heartbreaks.

Faith-The rumor was that everything in these stories actually happens, and is only slightly sugarcoated for these stories Dan publishes online. Any truth to that?

Patrick-I'm not at liberty to say.

Faith-Tomas, are you writing this down? Wow. I mean I'm talking to 'The' Patrick of Iley. I read your a graphic designer, too.

Patrick-Where are you getting your facts from?

Faith-Relax, honey, just a little Hollywood gossip, I think.

Patrick-Avonlie?

She has decided to walk down the huge staircase in a flowing black dress and freshly painted on red lipstick.

Avonlie-We are a rather dramatic bunch, aren't we Patrick?

Patrick-Just slightly. So who called you guys?

Tomas-I remember the Wooden Box flyers, all the cute models. I used to go to NIU. I got a job in the journalism department of one of the local Hollywood TV stations and I packed my things up and hopped on the first flight out of 'corn field heaven' and into the arms of sunny California.

Avonlie-North Iley has always suited me just fine.

Faith-Tomas, look over here on this end table, it's a picture of Dan and the lady who played Rachel Deschanel in the live performances. Wow. Patrick, weren't you there that night?

Patrick-I was.

Aurora Greene-We'd like to publish some of Dan's stories as actual printed hardcover novels.

Tomas-Do you think he would go for it?

Avonlie-Probably not.

Tomas-It would spell financial freedom. He could run around in a limo, not having to go to his CD store owner friend for car repairs every other day.

Avonlie-I'll be right back I need to make a phone call.

She dials Alia's number in the kitchen with a sigh of relief to be away from the publishers.

Avonlie-Alia, there's some creepy book publishers here to offer Dan money for writing about us. I'm really freaked out. Alia?

Jason 'Big Daddy' Riddle-Well, isn't it the famous North Iley Princess, Avonlie?

Avonlie-Where is my friend?

Jason Riddle-She's being talked to. And then taken care of.

Avonlie-What do you mean?

Jason Riddle-I'm going to sell her.

Avonlie-For what?

Jason Riddle-2 Million dollars. To a man in Portugal. I got a call that a reward was placed on her head overnight and I tracked her down and gagged her so she couldn't yell or communicate with her precious Ileys. I have her sister, too. Auria.

Avonlie-What do we give you in return for her safety?

Jason Riddle-The Father. It's that simple.

Avonlie-Where shall we bring Him?

Jason Riddle-Hill Cumorah. I think you know where that is.

Avonlie-We'll be there at midnight. All of us.

Patrick notices a strange look on her face as she walks back to the conversation, which is obviously boring him by the second.

Patrick-I'd love to talk about manuscripts and things until our eyelids close with crust from staying up all night, but it looks like my friend here has something important to tell me.

Avonlie-Patrick, this is serious. Alia and Auria have been kidnapped. They want to meet us near some Hill Cumorah. Do you know where in the world that is?

Patrick-I do. Not too far. Strange they'd pick that for a location.

There is a knock on the castle door. The sound of it shocks the still in awe book publishers, awaiting something dramatic from the enigmatic group.

Avonlie-Who is it?

Joseph S.-It's me, Joseph S.

Avonlie-Do you know him, Patrick?

Patrick-Open the door. He might be valuable tonight.

Joseph S.-Dan was taken, too. These four women took him. They're headed for Russia. Something to do with Mail Order Brides and a boat.

Patrick-Who do you know that lives here?

Joseph S.-Anda, Alia's boyfreind. Anyway, what do you know so far about this strange night?

Patrick-Alia has been kidnapped, along with her sister. They were taken to Hill Cumorah, ever heard of it?

A pale look comes over their guest's face.

Faith-Hey you look awfully familiar, my dear.

Joseph S.-My ID photograph isn't nearly as important as rescuing the empress.

His hidden cell phone rings in a distinct tone.

Joseph S.-Yes, Lehi?

Lehi-I am following the women and Dan, they're coming up to a cruise ship as we speak. Wait, I'm getting a call myself.

Jesus of Nazareth-Hey, buddy.

Lehi-Hi there. Long time, no see.

Jesus-Alia's missing, you know this. Are you close to finding her or Dan?

Lehi-I've got all the supplies I need to stakeout this cruise ship. Nothing will get past me.

Jesus-I'm glad you were around to call. I know I don't get to visit with you guys as often as I can since I hooked up with the Ileys. I'd be crushed if anything happened to Alia.

Lehi-They want to sell her for money to a man named Rewyn Cass. This guy's got credentials. He'd easily pluck the money for her hand in marriage without a bat of an eyelid.

Jesus-Trail them. Nothing can happen to Empress Alia. I guess I don't get the whole human servant thing. I never taught that. My Father didn't, either.

Lehi-It's sad, I know.

Dan looks at his rescuers in awe of their ability to help him out of the hospital, but what is their motivation in doing so, he wonders? Once they arrive at Sugar's rented apartment he is lead to his own room, complete with bed, dresser and television.

Mitsy-What do you think?

Dan-I think I'm wanting to cry. You guys have been so sweet in getting me away form Mythaq. I could never repay you.

Mitsy-Truth is we're not who you think. I'm keeping my real identity from you to protect you.

Dan-From what. Or who?

Sugar-Some other night for that, my dear.

Mitsy-You miss someone, don't you?

Dan-A woman. The woman who was set to attack me in the hospital.

Mitsy-She didn't seem like the type to be missed or loved, judging by the fact that she wasn't french kissing you when we saved you.

Dan-Will you take me to her?

Sugar-We do have a few minutes. Pile back into the car. You're going to be useless to us if you're still missing a demonic heartbreaker.

Dan-I know where she lives. It's not far from here. You could go to the door and then I'll trail you close so that I can see her at the right time.

Sugar-Cherry and Caress can follow the three of us in their car. Mythaq doesn't know our cars.

Dan-I know your trying to kidnap me and to ask for my help in plotting out your advisor's scheme, but do this one thing for me and I'll not put up a fight.

The two dancers look at each other in agreement.

Once they arrive outside of Mythaq's home on Earth, Dan lets an ocean of tears fall from his eyes for the woman inside the beautiful house.

Sugar-Would you rather we leave?

Dan-No. I want to be here for her. She did make me happy when I knew her. It's been months since I saw her. I miss her so much. Everything about her. Her hands, and eyes, and her smile. I miss it all. I knew her a short time, but my heart used to feel like it knew her forever. Her calls used to surprise me at work. One day the bosses cracked down bad on personal calls and they were all gathered by my desk practically and up comes her number on the caller ID and I lit right up like a Christmas tree. It was times like that that I miss the most about her. I've been here only one other time. I got so lost I had to ask four people for directions. It's maze-like out here.

Sugar-Relax, honey. Just march up to her.

Dan-I have to face this so I can move on with my life, just in case I find someone special. I wouldn't want to drag this into a new relationship because of what she did to me. She hurt me so badly and with little reason. Talk about leading someone to the promised land then shutting the doors to it in their face at the same time. Her kisses just seemed to last forever. I was tempted, I know it. I was tempted and cried myself to heartbreak. It wasn't supposed to happen like that. I found something good and I held onto it for dear life, but so did she in the beginning. She held me in her arms like I was her one true love in the world. It's hard to be thinking about anyone else. I mean, I haven't seen her since that day in church. And even then it was like she was a different person altogether. A shell of her former self. I wanted to cry so hard that day. I felt like I was lead on a tour of her heart, but crippled at the end of it. Maybe it's because she painted a perfect picture of what I thought and believed true love was all about. Maybe not, though. Maybe she had it all planned out. Maybe she picked my name out of a hat to hurt. Maybe not. She had no idea I was going to be at the dance club that night that we met. I just threw away the shirt I was wearing the night we met. I couldn't keep it in my house after what happened.

Mitsy-Then you're giving into her powers over you.

Dan-I guess I'm a sucker for a pretty girl. I guess I'll always be. Is it possible to fall in love with someone so soon. As soon as I saw her the first time she cried in my arms that she'd found her true love. I wrote 'Cross shatter Eye' about it. It's on the website, if you get a chance to read it. Those were happy times. Happier than now. I guess I started writing this one with an awesome storyline to go with it, but I miss her so much. Little things I see and hear from others remind me of her all day and Hell, we only had 4 dates total over the four months we knew each other.

Mitsy-Do you want to talk about it? You can put your pen down, Dan, and just talk to Mitsy and I.

Dan-Thank you.

Mitsy-What is it in particular that makes you cry even all these months later about someone so bent on smashing your heart?

Dan-I set out to write about Mail Order Brides and kidnapping Alia, and going to Portugal. Yeah, that worked real well.

There's a distinct knock on Suagr's car window.

Joseph S.-Can I help?

Mitsy-Sure. You must be Joseph S. I've heard of you.

Joseph S.-Dan called me with his thoughts and his new novel.

Dan-Will you understand if we change some things and just talk for a little while. I need to get a few things off of my chest before I can continue writing.

Joseph S.-You mean the lady from the hospital, at the beginning of the story? We're at her house aren't we?

Dan-Yeah. I guess I have an audience now for my big gamble on my heart's emotions.

Joseph S.-You mean your two exotic dancer friends and me? Listen, you're the author. Is this book dedicated to her memory to you?

Dan-Weather I sit to write her as a villain or a escaped heroin addict, I still see her as a beautiful and caring woman, like I know is deep down somewhere in her heart. The ability to love and be loved. I believe it's still there.

Mitsy-So you distract yourself from missing her by writing these novels for the internet and somehow the last few have ended up being about her no matter what.

Dan-No matter what.

Mitsy-Where is Alia?

Dan-You mean in this story or for real?

Mitsy-You know what I mean.

Dan-Look, you're right. I set out to write a story about basketball and the end of the world, but people do that all the time. I'm depressed, fuck, and I need to take a walk. I need a walk. I need to see my angel. The one supposidly set aside for me by God.

Joseph S.-Did He ever confirm it?

Dan-No.

Joseph S.-Then how do you know she is? Or was? How do you know? She could be an illusion. A pathway to the right one from God. Maybe it was a test to show off your endurance. Just because someone's a Christian and goes to church and all of that stuff doesn't automatically mean she's right for you. So any Christian woman of any church meets you in a dance club and professes her undying love to you in the first 45 minutes you know each other is going to win your heart over and suddenly, yeah, she's the one! Is that how it works for you? You would've done anything for her? Right? Right? Think about that rationally. People sometimes lead double lives. By day a big shot attorney, by night someone might be into freak dancing. It's called illusion, my friend, and I don't even know you that well to be advising you on what to do here, but from what Jesus tells me in various emails that He sends me, He thinks highly of you, but He wishes you wouldn't wear your loyal heart of your sleeve so much. It keeps getting you hurt. Play hard to get.

Dan-Don't you see? Don't any of you see? I did that with Mythaq. I actually threw her number away after the first couple of times she called. I wrote her off as being too strange for me. We didn't get along at all on the phone. It was strange and awkward. I mean I looked forward to her calling, but not nearly as much as I should've. I think I need closure.

Joseph S.-Then knock on her door.

Mitsy leans over and kisses Dan on the cheek before sending him off to her familiar front door.

The doorbell is rung, once. In about 45 seconds it's answered.

Mythaq-Why are you here?

Dan-Can we talk? Just don't slam the door in my face. I won't yell or throw anything. I'm here to beg you to listen.

Mythaq-Are you going to let me talk?

Dan-I don't have to work tomorrow, it's Saturday night. I'm writing a novel. It's about you. It's called 'Shoes worn for a Championship.' You'll like it. You used to say you had read the others.

Mythaq-I read and printed one of them recently.

Sure as she speaks, he sees a printed version of 'Failure to notify the legal aid,' sitting on her coffee table.

Dan-You're not mad?

Mythaq-It's brutally accurate.

Dan-So are you.

Mythaq-Look, I used to want to keep you only as a memory and I talked myself out of you when in the beginning all I wanted to do was talk myself into you. I failed. I'm sorry. I know I swore I'd never apologize for hurting you, but I am now. Which is why I have a check to give you. For your trouble. It's from my father.

She hands him an envelope, which he opens in a rush.

Dan-This check is from you. It's $8,000. To get rid of me?

Mythaq-No. To get rid of me. This money will cause you to forget all about me. You could spend it however you want. I don't care. I don't want you thinking about me. I hurt and slaughtered you.

She's openly crying. He pauses then holds her in his arms. She accepts, finally.

Dan-No amount of money will cause me to forget about you, my angel.

Mythaq-I love you so much.

Hearing herself say these three words makes even her break down and cry.

Dan-Let me sit with you on the couch, and maybe you'll open up and talk to me for once. The reason I kept cutting you off before and cross examining you was because the things you were saying had no merit to them. They were based on scenarios being played over and over and over and over in your head about me that weren't the slightest bit true. The things you were saying, I just couldn't believe were coming out of your precious mouth. The same mouth that houses your lips. Lips I had spent so much time kissing with mine. I told you I loved you two weeks after we had met. It came naturally, I admit. I'm sorry. I wanted you to know that I was holding onto you for as much dear life as you were holding onto me. Don't you think it would've worked? There's no way in Hell you can sit here and tell me that you didn't wish our kisses could've lasted forever, because I do. I wish it all the damned time. I wish you could just come home with me to my studio apartment and leave this place behind and start over with me, but I've moved on, a little. I have a girlfriend now, and I'm happy. You're alone and single. By choice? Or can't you handle someone holding you close to him. Can't you handle his cologne. Can't you handle his loving words? Couldn't you handle mine?

Mythaq-No I can't!

More tears are falling, bringing her make up with them.

Mitsy and the others make their way to Mythaq's front door and ring the doorbell to make sure everything is going as planned.

Dan-These are my friends. They're harmless.

The door is opened and the three wellwishers are let into her house.

Mythaq-Would any of you like something to drink?

Sugar-Just some water.

Joseph S.-Do you have any ice cream.

Hearing the words leave his new friend's mouth, Dan is also seen crying.

Joseph S.-What? What did I say?

Sugar-I read the 'legal aid' story. Online. It's brutal. If I remember right, these two had ice cream a couple of times. Together. That's why Dan here can't go to the ice cream place on New Iley without feeling her presence, in the middle of the crowded outlet mall sidewalks.

Mythaq-Alright! Enough of this!

Sugar-I'm sorry.

Mythaq-Don't set me off.

Sugar-I'm sorry, again. I really am. I was just explaining why you two might not be the happiest right now.

Mythaq-It's mutual. I think about him, too.

Dan-You do?

Mythaq-Dan, I pray about you a lot.

Dan-You told me that once before, but I didn't know how to take it. The last time we talked. I took a deep breath and thought about what your conversations with The Father about me might be like and I didn't want to catch Him off guard by asking Him. What it boils down to is the same thing it always boils down to and that is that I can't erase my feelings for you. Their either a blessing or a curse. A blessing that I met you, but also a curse. A curse that one night with my new girlfriend I came close to calling it quits with her.

Mythaq-Why?

Dan-Because of you. I needed a walk. I needed something. I needed to hear my new friend, Panda, play her guitar and sing at the new coffeehouse. I needed a night alone. I was fucked up with a thousand different things. I keep looking at my cell phone waiting to see the name 'Mythaq' come up on the caller ID. What if I get too involved and all the sudden you call and tear me away from whoever might be letting me into her house when I know good and damned well that the sun rises and sets with you on East Kaesa. That night I hung out with a couple of new friends over where the Pelka live. Near the outskirts of North Iley. I needed a rest. A break. A chance to shut off my phone and run as fast as I could the other way from the so far happy direction my life had been running into that night. I probably scared everyone. I'm not over you. Not by a long shot. You never get over the ones who hurt you the most, you know.

Mythaq-I know.

Dan-I've never gotten over you. I may have pitched the firefighter shirt I wore the night of 'Cross shatter Eye,' but I learned from it. It didn't work. You're still here in my thoughts. You leave with a 'To be continued' smile, even on the phone. I knew the last time we talked wonldn't be the last. The queston is why on Earth would you tell me you prayed for me often? What would you have to gain by including me in your prayers to God if you hate me.

She leaves everyone, including Dan in the living room, and storms up her staircase and slams her bedroom door shut.

Joseph S.-Do you want me to try to talk to her?

Dan-Yeah. I'm sorry, you guys. Aren't you supposed to be kidnapping me for some Mail Order Bridge sceme?

Sugar-Shh. This comes first.

Joseph S. walks quietly up the staircase to her bedroom, but doesn't knock. Instead he sits on her floor next to the door and opens his heart to her.

Joseph S.-I know what's the matter here. You love him so much. The spark was so great that neither of you knew how to handle it. It happens. You both jumped backwards and were suddenly scared to death of each other. He's writing this story as a way of closure on this topic. It's taken up too much of 'Alia and the Boy' and it needs to be out in the open.

She opens the door to let him in. Then shuts it behind them.

Mythaq-He told me he loved me. He treated me like a princess.

Joseph S.-I know.

Mythaq-What's wrong with me?

Joseph S.-You're wounded.

Mythaq-I know.

Joseph S.-Come here.

With that he offers her a soft hug which is met with more tears falling from her eyes.

Mythaq-Thanks for listening.

Joseph S.-Isn't that what Christian Mystery characters are for?

Mythaq-Closure, huh?

Joseph S.-He's walking around with a new woman in his life and you in his heart. One of you is still haunting him.

Mythaq-I'm sorry.

Joseph S.-Maybe you should tell him that. You haven't done anything someone in your situation wouldn't have. It's normal to be scared of committment.

He opens the door and signals for Dan to join her in her room.

Her eyes are red from crying.

Dan-I brought you a tissue. I figured you could use one.

Mythaq-Thank you.

Dan-I guess it comes down to this.

Mythaq-It does.

Dan-I love you so much. God, why do I still think that way. Or write that way. My angel guitar player. Hell, I don't even know if somewhere in your heart you're reading this. It doesn't matter. It'll probably always be unread by the one it's being written for. My target audience just happens to be the one responsible for breaking my heart minutes after she had just built it up so well. Your arms held me so close that I had no choice. I had no choice. I really didn't. I fell for you. I want to spend my life in love with you in this setting, but as much as I wish that I wish the reset button on my life could be pressed over and over when I walk out your door tonight. I want it pressed and you erased so I can move on, but what if the phone does ring and it's you, I mean it won't say 'Mythaq,' because I deleted your name and number from my phone, it'll be a surprise, but quite honestly, I'm tired of waiting for the phone to ring and flash your number on my caller ID. I tried that, it didn't work. I just ended up fucking waiting for an angel to walk over to my house, that I ended up walking to hers. If you know what I mean. I'm done waiting for you to answer my wedding proposal that was left on your recorder. I don't care now. I'm moving on. I'm singing karaoke. I'm dancing. I'm competitive. I love it.

Mythaq-And not me?

Dan-Not anymore. I shouldn't. What did you ever do for me? Just hurt me. That's pretty much it. Sorry to say.

Joseph S.-I just wanted to interject and say thank you for having me over.

Dan-It's no problem. There were few people I could think of who would be able to appreciate this situation like yourself. I know you might come across as misunderstood to some people, but all is fair in love and breaking down and crying.

Mythaq-Time's almost up.

Joseph S.-What are you talking about?

Mythaq-The sleeping pills I've taken. I took them before you got here.

Joseph S.-My dear, why?

Huge tears fall from her eyes.

Mythaq-I think all I am programmed to do is hurt and destroy people. I thought I could just cuddle up on my bed and not wake up to hurt Dan anymore.

Dan-Then marry me and you won't hurt me.

Mythaq-But, I can't do that!

Dan-Why!

Mythaq-Because of the lethal dosage that's in my system!

Dan-So you're really dying? This isn't one of your schemes to try to hurt me again?

Joseph S.-Keep her breathing, Dan, I'm going to go through her bathroom to see if I can find the empty bottle.

Dan-I've tried this before, it doesn't work, my dear.

And then she collapses.

Dan-No!!!

Joseph S.-Out of the way, Dan, I know CPR.

Dan-Don't let her die, I'm begging you.

He uses his comlink to give Nephi their direct locaton.

Not being very far away helps as he is able to drive quickly, without being noticed, to her parking lot and parks his car.

The door is answered by Sugar as her and Mitsy have been there the whole time, looking over the situation.

Sugar-You must be Nephi?

Nephi-Where's the lady?

Sugar-Upstairs.

Nephi, carrying a first aid kit, and instructions on how to perform mouth to mouth on her.

Nephi-You must be Dan Sherrill.

Dan-Can you save my friend?

Nephi-Do you want her saved? If she lives, she haunts you. She's kept you from falling in love a few times, is that right?

Dan-This is her life, and yes I still love her and wish every day her name would flash on my caller ID, but I'm happy now. I told her I wouldn't hope for her anymore. Wasn't that the right thing to do? To keep her as a memory.

Nephi-That depends. Your proposal went unanswered, doesn't that bother you? Most recorders are also designed to erase remaining minutes of messages at the touch of a button. Maybe she never heard it.

Dan-All I know is I said it. I know what I said. I know what in Hell I said. I was mad. I was angry. I was in love. Is that so bad? Is it?

Nephi-Maybe she thought it was and erased the messages as soon as she heard your voice.

Dan-Yeah I was pretty angry. We were yelling. I was driving home. I didn't want to believe what I was hearing so I tried drowing her out by cross examining her like she was on the witness stand for breaking my heart, but damn it she did it for no reason.

Nephi is able to revive her by keeping his hands on her stomach and by softly pressing on it, creating slight motions in the form of heartbeats. They both see her eyes open.

She speaks in a faint, dying voice.

Mythaq-I erased them, just like I threw away the tape and letters. You don't get it, do you? I'm going to Hell and you won't be able to save me then, Mr. Rescue Mission. I won't allow it. I didn't set out to hurt you, you let me do it all by myself. Now I have a house full of your friends and these two from the gang with the blue books and great, old man, you just revived me, but I didn't ask you, Dan, to fall in love with me. I grew tired of waiting for you to move on. I don't want anyone to love me. I'm choosing to grow grey hair and sit alone on the parkbench because that's what I chose to plot out my life with scenes of. Not being loved.

Nephi-Lady, how can you talk like that?

She's visibly crying, again.

Mythaq-I'm so sorry. To all of you. This is the first time I've come to terms with this. Dan, I cherished having your hand to hold. I cherished it.

Her eyes fill completely with tears.

Mythaq-I've ruined so many lives over this feeling. I should've let myself fall in love. I should've.

In a flash she runs to the bathroom and leans over the toilet to relieve herself of the sleeping pills she swallowed, hoping to never wake up again.

Mythaq-I need a shower.

Nephi-I'll spray an air freshner to cover the smell of dying depression.

Both Dan and Nephi hear a crash coming from the shower in the bathroom.

The house is silent as Joseph S. and Nephi force Dan away from the doorway of the bathroom, making sure he doesn't see what they think transpired in there.

As they walk closer to the shower and open the curtain, their suspicions are correct. She lay motionless on the floor of the shower.

Joseph S.-There isn't a pulse, is there?

Nephi-No.

Joseph S.-What the Hell are we going to tell Dan?

Nephi-Look, my friend, blood is pouring out of her wrists. The wounds must have been waiting for the right time to start bleeding. This was done earlier and finished once the bathroom door was shut fully.

Joseph S. reaches for his comlink and places a call to someone who is without a doubt watching from afar.

The two explorers of 'Universe 2' are startled at what is told to them by their sometimes friend.

The Father-She was dear to me. I better tell the admiral, her father.

Jesus is handed the comlink.

Joseph S.-As I was saying...

Jesus-It's me.

Joseph S.-Hello Jesus, I'm sorry I haven't written in a while and I'm glad you guys picked me for the Mail Order Bride case, but this is nothing like what I was expecting when I got your call the other day. This is nothing I ever want to go through again.

Jesus-Wrap the body in a blanket. Keep her warm until My Father and I can examine her for ourselves. Trust me, this was not planned.

As soon as Jesus hangs up His Father's comlink, another call comes in.

L-Are you watching the footage inside Mythaq's house? Are you?

Jesus, for the first time, notices His Father sitting in the grass of the valley they were talking and exploring. He's crying floods over Mythaq.

Jesus-L, Dad's real upset. I don't think we'll be able to carry out the rest of our investigation here if He continues to look as sad as He does right now.

Someone walks close to L, with a notecard of a new arrival to Hell.

A few seconds later his comlink is seen by all flying through the air at a record pace and smashing against one of the firey walls.

L-No!!! Not her!!!

Wynna-I'm sorry to inform you of such news. We knew her from 'Alia and the Boy' when you let us read it. I know a prayer for her soul won't get her out of here and into Heaven, but some of us can try. It never did us any good, but we think, just from reading Dan's stories, that she did at least have some good in her.

L-What are you talking about, she was totally good.

Dane Yaw-Here she comes.

As predicted, Mythaq dannika Osterly is lead to an awaiting cell on the suicide floor of Hell.

He races up the stairs to her side.

L-Can I get you anything, lady, anything at all?

Her eyes open, briefly.

Mythaq-Tell Dan that we were just a memory. Make sure I don't ruin his new relationship. Make sure.

L-I'll do what I can.

Mythaq-Why do you look so sad?

L-Your stay here was not planned. Not predetermined. The harder cases never are. The point is to not end up here, my dear. I can give you a glass of cold water, but that's about all I can and am able to offer you without being attacked myself. I'll warn you, though, The Father visits the residents here at night. Every night. If that's going to bother you, let me know now so I can erase you from the visit list.

Mythaq-What will he say?

His shadow walks down the hallway, closer to the conversation.

The Father-That I'm not one bit happy.

Eliza-It's one thing to swear off true love, it's another to swear yourself off. How could you?

L-Glad you're in one piece, Eliza. Look, Mythaq, I can't treat you any different down here that anyone else. I wish I could. I've come to know you. As a friend. This saddens me, too.

The Father-I imagine your body will require a wake. A funeral. I should make you watch it, but I won't. Maybe it would do you some good to see Dan physically sick over your passing. He loved you so much. I had so much faith in the both of you. I'm sorry for saying that a little late. I left the situation in the case of someone I trust.

Mythaq-Your two friends did revive me, but I was mad my attempt to hallow my soul didn't work.

The Father-Let yourself be loved. Let someone cuddle up close to you. Do you know what you have to look forward to here? Half burned bodies hanging by chains and people who had a choice to either come here or home with me. Why on Earth do people choose the worse of the two destinations? It's like they set out to die. I didn't make people in that way. I don't understand. I don't. I wish I could end all of it tonite. Right now. I might as well if My people act this way.

A flash comes across The Father's comlink.

Nephi-Stand back, she's dangerous!

The Father-What?

Nephi-The blood in the shower. It's food coloring.

He gives her a blank stare.

The Father-Masks need to be removed at this point in the conversation that I'm demanding be taking place at this very moment.

As requested the face of Mythaq is mysteriously adjusted.

He speaks into the comlink.

The Father-Thank you, Nephi.

Nephi-I'll meet you in Russia, my friend.

The Father-Patrick and Princess Avonlie will see you to your apartment.

Court comes early for Stephanie Philleppe, traffic court that is. She can't believe there could be so many cases in a two week period where she lives in Stockton, California. She's about to be handed another one.

Attorney Jennings Mathadall-This is a strange one.

Stephanie Philleppe-What? Did they pull him over in the middle of the road instead of making him pull off to the side of it?

Attny Mathadall-We arrested a man for driving with a woman we assumed was a street walker. We assumed. The officer pulled him over for suspicion of solicitation. Well, and for blowing a stop sign.

Steph-I didn't know you couldn't ticket someone for suspicion. Isn't that what all night weekend stings are for?

Attny Mathadall-This isn't a high risk neighborhood by any means?

Steph-Explain the case to me before he comes in and I have to answer for it to the judge.

Attny Mathadall-It was grisly. That's all they said to describe how she reacted to the traffic stop. The woman's name is hard to pronounce, but Russian for sure. They said she was dropped off and sold right off one of those cruise ships. The product and result of something they called 'Mail Order Bride' services. These poor women flee Russia and surrounding countries in search of a better life with American men. There is no real regulation where that goes. I wish there was. He was dressed in a suit and tie. Nothing suspicious about that. On the other hand, she had on thick lipstick. Red, of course. You could smell her perfume, the officer said in the report they found in his car.

Steph-Why did they have to find the report in the car, wouldn't he just show it to the members of the police force once he got back to the station?

Attny Mathadall-He never made it back that night. He was murdered. Not by the man locked into this terrifying ring of illegal brides, but by the bride herself.

Vand Krush walks through the courtroom door scared for his life and clutching some printouts from one of the websites where he found his supposed true love.

Steph-You must be Vand, I'm just putting you on court supervision for the traffic light you blew, but I'd like to know more about the murder that took place the night of your marriage.

Vand-Is there somewhere the three of us can talk?

The judges chambers is the perfect fit for their talk.

Steph-What do you do for a living?

Vand-I coach a junior high basketball team.

Steph-It says here her name is Lyubov, no last name. Hometown reads, Hell, I can't pronounce it. Klaipeda. Somewhere in Lithuania.

Vand-I saw her picture and profile on a website.

Steph-And you had to have her.

Vand-I was curious.

Attny Mathadall-About human slavery?

Vand-No. About rescuing someone from danger. That's how it was described to me. Like I'd be rescuing a beautiful 28 year old woman from the clutches of an evil environment. That she'd be willing to go on a cruise to meet me, granted I could raise the money I needed to get there.

Attny Mathadall-How much money are we talking about? Can anyone put a price on a wedding?

Vand-I took out a loan for $10,000. It barely chipped away at the initial costs, and her green card and citizenship papers needed social security numbers. I felt like I was signing away my life.

Steph-To a woman? Someone you barely knew.

Vand-They set up a phone in her room, where she stayed. We talked, but somehow the talk always steered to me taking out a loan to come to Lithuania to get her. Something about needed to flee the place in a hurry. She was sweet, really sweet. I fell for her accent. I didn't know about the muders she was escaping. Eyes being ripped out of sockets with her bare hands. I guess she took a hammer to some guys heart and kept pounding on his chest until there was a fist sized hole in it, then she stuck her hand inside his chest and poked a hole literally into his heart, before tearing it out of the socket that held it in his chest. From the police reports I cringed at reading, she left him to die on the floor of his house. I was reluctant. I wasn't shown her police files until after we said our vows. At least the pastor was nice about the whole thing. Twenty couples got married that day. All the men looked scared to death. None of us knew. I met a guy taking a piss in the bathroom before his wedding. I was adjusting my tie and making sure I wouldn't freak out myself. This guy was shaking so bad I almost had to wrestle him to the ground to get him to calm down. He drank like a fish right up to the point of saying 'I do.'

Attny Mathadall-Was she really that beautiful?

Vand-Truthfully, no. She was average.

Attny Mathadall-Then why not just leave? Get the others and go.

Vand-When we walked on the boat a cold feeling came over me. I was with Red Borne, in real life he's a marketing supervisor. He also said he traded stocks and was independantly wealthy, but single. I talked to him the most. About a lot of things. Country music. Rugby. The usual. He was scared, too. We were searched. The company had their own ship captain. He wouldn't look anyone in the eye. Just kept to himself and kept quiet. We were fully searched. The first night of the cruise something happened that scared the shit out of all of us. See you don't meet your bride until the second night of the cruise. You're holed up in bunk beds with the other potential husbands. Red heard something and banged on my room door in the middle of the night.

Attny Mathadall-What was it?

Vand-Guards checking the rooms for contraband. The only thing is, they had guns themselves. Machine guns. We heard them, while we were getting scared more by the minute. We heard them agreeing that anyone who didn't fulfill their cash payment to the captain of the ship would be killed that night. In their sleep.

Attny Mathadall-So you paid the money in fear for your life?

Vand-Wouldn't you?

Steph-It's sad this kind of thing goes unnoticed by the authorities. Those countries can't possibly be as bad as those people tried to convince you, or else major news coverage would proceed. It's crazy to think about. So you can, with enough money and smarts on how to avoid gunshots thrown your way, buy a wife. So what happened once you brought her home?

Vand-She looked at me and told me something that I'll never forget.

A scared look comes over his face.

Attny Mathadall-What did she say?

Vand-She told me the date of The End of the World.

Attny Mathadall-What?

Vand-I know it now.

Attny Mathadall-Well, what is it?

After the words leave the Attorney's mouth, Vand pickes up one of the pens sitting on the table the three of them are sitting at and holds it up to his eyes for about 30 seconds, without saying a word.

Steph-Vand, what's wrong?

He says nothing.

Vand-I signed my name on the dotted line. I'm married. I might as well have saved my money and gone to a strip club and had a few lap dances to cure my desire. I should've. I went on a horrifying cruise ship. One of the 'husbands in training' was killed.

Steph-Oh dear.

Vand-They suspected he was onto them and he was gunned down. We heard it. I wanted to get out so bad. Now I'm married to a killer. A killer!

With the pen still in his hand he cuts himself off in mid-thought. Looks at the pen again, which scares the two members of the court scene outside of the judges chambers.

The judge is disturbes three minutes later with news. Vand had snapped and stabbed himself so hard in the throat with the same pen he was staring at that he was instantly killed.

Traffic court has just come to a brief hault.

Sonjay Criss turns to his friend Margo Timmery in awe of seeing a paramedic make her way through the courtroom doors and into the judge's chambers.

Dr. Awane-There's no pulse. I'm calling for back up.

Her mask is removed, fully. Showing The Father her true identity.

Lyubov Krush-Apparently you figured me out.

The Father-Apparently.

Lyubov-I plotted this.

The Father-Good job.

Lyubov-It's still just a matter of real estate. It was me at the country line dance club that met Dan. It was I who orchestrated this whole thing. While you and your people in Heaven scrambled and came to blows over my identity. Goes to show your response time. I even impersonated you wife's kidnapper. That was fun. Why did I do it, you ask? Why do people do what they do? To gain an advantage over their opponents.

The Father-Am I your opponent, and if so, why?

Lyubov-Did they tell you what happened to the police officer that pulled over my husband? Did they? I dislodged his beating heart while he watched in horror. Horror! I pulled out a knife and sliced three of the veins leading to each of his hands from both his right and left wrists. I left him to die. I held my husband at gunpoint.

L-Why? To get a free ticket down here with the murderers? Or a swim around the Lake of Fire?

Lyubov-Neither.

Eliza walks closer to the conversation.

Eliza-I know you, lady. Lyubov, isn't it?

L-Eliza, do you know this woman?

Eliza-She killed my husband. His name was Arthur. Beautiful soul. He was unfaithful and died for it. He was overseas in Lithuania on a business trip. He never came back. They called me and said they thought they'd captured his killer. All they had was a sketchy photo and a name, Lyubov Catapult. I recognize you from the news. You're not nearly as pretty in real life, you firebreather. I look forward to seeing your hair burn by the root.

She removes a torch which usually sits on the wall of the suicide wing of Hell, where Mythaq was supposed to spend eternity, however now they are becoming used to looking at her in a different light. With an evil name. More evil than the last.

With one swing Eliza connects with Lyubov's shoulder, sending her screaming in pain.

Eliza-That's for my husband.

Lyubov turns to The Father and involves Him in her unraveling.

It burns bad on her shoulder for roughly 5 seconds, then the fire heals itself. They all stand in awe.

Lyubov-Give us our land back! We already know the date of The End of the World.

Two guards are dispatched by hand signal from L. Their bodies covered in a constant fire. She refuses to budge and makes it known through her actions that the fire is not burning her.

The Father, seeing His own reflection in the image of their entered alternate reality yells for Professor EyeCross to end the the tour of 'Universe 2,' while still gasping for breath at the possibility of a 'Universe' without His presence.

Professor EyeCross-Why did you have me end the tour you guys were on?

The Father-Sunday Evening service is calling my name. What a tour it was?

The transporter, run by Isaac, is turned off revealing The Father, Jesus, Eliza, and their friend Mary Magdale, who had been only a few footsteps away from the whole situation, as a lookout.

L-Are you okay, Jesus?

Jesus takes one look at the Professor while exiting his control room which is built into his cell in Hell.

Jesus-I have to admit, professor, that I have now more questions than answers. This journey was not what I was expecting. I found things out that I wasn't expecting to find out. Were we shown the future or the past?

Martina and Collette, the professors friends, walk into his cell and make sure Jesus and his friends made it out of 'Universe 2' without any harm done physically to them.

Both are rewarded for the concern with a couple of glasses of cold water.

The Father-You are right, it is almost perfected. That scares me.

Martina-It should scare you and put you out of business any day now.

The Father-Very unlikely.

Martina-Was Dan's lady from the country music club on Universe 2, or wasn't she?

The Father-She was there. Only she was a killer. I'm sorry, everyone, I'd like to stay and recount what we just went through, but I have a sermon to write.

Jesus-Mary Magdale, what did you think? We weren't in a position to be talking through most of it. Did you see anything out of the ordinary that you'd like to tell the professor?

As she takes a deep breath to begin her testimony, The Father walks toward the exit of Hell and is let out easily. Once back at His home in Heaven, He seems to want nothing more than to take a nap on His bed. Alone.

Mary Magdale-It was unlike anyhting I've ever witnessed. I didn't want to touch anything for fear it would change my future. I saw the same things the other three did, but I kept turning back not wanting to see what was thrown in front of my face. Dan's lady was there. She was unmasked. Some kind of a Mail Order Bride who went around killing her husbands. Eliza knew her. It was so real, even though I know we never left the cell here, it was so real. The 'Inventors' had plotted to get the Date out of Dan by hiring her to pretend to love him. She never could kill him. She never could. She ended up freaking out and almost killing herself.

L-Professor, I think it's time to dismantle this thing of yours. It obviously can't do anyone any good except cause possible nightmares to occure in the sleep of anyone daring to cross it's threshold.

As predicted, The Father can't sleep. A few times He wakes in the night. Alone. Covered in tears.

Noah comes to check on Him, hearing his distress comlink go off.

Noah-Is everything okay?

A few seconds pass and no response from The Father's bedroom.

Noah-My friend, are you okay?

Beginning to become worried, he tries breaking into the bedroom.

Someone is banging on The Father's front door. Loud. Noah decides to leave the bedroom being broken into and see who is banging so loud on the door.

Once it's answered and Noah sees who it is, he immediatly suspects something is seriously wrong with him.

Joseph S. begins to cry. Hard. 'He's covered in sweat for some reason,' Noah thinks to himself. But why? And why is The Father not anwering His bedroom door if He just hit His distress button?

Joseph S.-Is The Father okay?

Noah-What are you doing here?

Joseph S.-It's long story.

Noah-Here grab one of his folding chairs, I have an idea.

He walks over and hands it to Noah, who uses all of his strength to force the door open.

They both are in shock to find The Father missing.

Joseph S.-Where do you think He went?

Noah makes a call on his cell phone to the other side of Heaven.

Isaiah-I haven't seen Him.

Noah-Find him. Please.

L's phone rings with Noah on the Caller ID.

L-Noah, He's not here. The Father and His Son and a couple of friends just got back from 'Universe 2' it's a scary place. They saw some things that may have affected them. I'm not sure of the extent of it, yet. We're still going through some of the footage that Mary Magdale shot while she was there, so far it's pretty horrific. I need you to do something for me. I need you to find the woman who broke Dan's heart earlier this spring. I need you to find out if she is wearing a mask. The Father's well being depends on it.

Noah-Consider it done. I'll leave tonight.

He wakes. Lucid. Im the dream.

He is walking in the sand. Barefoot. It's night. He's not sure where He is.

The Father-Hello? Is there anyone there?

A cold feeling comes over him.

Messenger Uyqa-I'm just one of them.

The Father-Show yourself so I don't have to guess what you look like. Why am I here?

Uyqa-We need to discuss a real estate transaction that you were involved in many years ago.

The Father-Earth? Or Heaven?

Uyqa-Neither. You know the place.

The strange messenger reaches out of the darkness and touches The Father's hand. Suddenly they are aboard an alien craft.

A being walks from the shadows to greet The Father.

Benja'Kn-Surprised to see me?

The Father-No.

Benja'Kn-Do you have what I want?

The Father-The deed to Shistal? The planet, Shistal. You're home planet? Am I right?

Benja'Kn-Exactly.

The Father-I have it.

Instead of handing it over, The Father surprises all aboard the ship by pulling out of His pocket a lighter and slowly ignites it, horrifying the crew.

The Father-I'm casting this from existance.

Benja'Kn-Why?

The Father-For a good nights sleep.

Benja'Kn-That burning you have caused will only ensure you of never sleeping. Aren't those sleeping pills in your other pocket, yes?

The Father-How can you see that?

Benja'Kn-I should've never dealt with you. If you don't deal with me, my people will extract the Date of the End of the World in more aggresive ways than ever. The professor and his two hot assistants are no match for me and my crew. This you will never win. You understand. You're keeping the professor alive down there in Hell so secretly he can come up with a way for you to rid everyone of me, aren't you?

The Father-No one can see you. Only me. Only my nightmares can transport me here. Only mine. Only mine.

Benja'Kn-I would talk to your friend, Joseph S. We had a little chat earlier.

The Father-You did what? Not him!

Benja'Kn-I gave him an ultimatim. Either he finds me the date, which he has, or I was going to expose him. He chose wisely. Didn't you send him to Russia? Or did you just think that was all part of the 'Universe 2' simulation? How can you know what to believe when you tamper with an 'Inventor' like me.

He begins to feel weak, like all powers are being drained from Him. All at once. Feeling extremely dizzy, He collapses on the floor of the ship. Once the crew see Him in a daze, the engine of the ship is turned on and they exit Heaven.

Noah-Joseph S. what's happening to you?

Noah looks into his eyes revealing that his eyes are completely white, as if the color has been evacuated from his eyeballs.

Joseph S.-I don't know. I can see The Father. He's in trouble.

As soon as he finishes his sentence, he collapses.

Noah uses his cell phone to try to reach Isaiah again.

Noah-Get over here, buddy, and fast! Something is comepletly out of control here.

A loud tone rings into Noah's ear. He checks the readout of his phone. Two words flash.

Call Dropped

He dials the number again. Again, the same message comes up on the caller ID.

He walks out of the front door of The Father's house and looks upward at the sky which has darkened to an evil shade of navy blue. Strange objects can now be seen, fully, by all onlookers on this most sacred place.

Now crying to himself and realizing that Joseph S. is on the floor shaking as if dying would be more peaceful right now, Noah tries the call again.

Isaiah-Yes?

Noah-Have you seen the outside?

Isaiah-I have.

Noah-It's navy blue. You know what that means?

Isaiah-An invasion.

Noah-There are trillions of souls here. We can't be attacked. They must have been waiting for the right time and day to take The Father out of commission and use this prophet here, that's quivering for dear life, to get at Him.

Isaiah-This is going to be a very dark day if we don't hurry.

Noah-What are you proposing we do?

Isaiah-See if you can revive Joseph S. and bring him with you to my house. We'll go over my plan once you get here.

He looks up from writing his novel, at The Father's computer, with his headphones on and sees several teardrops fall from his eyes.

A few minutes later after pausing from the story he uses his comlink to reach The Father, and a few minutes later He is seen walking close to the desk where Dan is sitting.

The Father-What's wrong?

Daniel-This sucks.

The Father-What does?

There is a long pause.

The Father-I've been reading the story so far. Online, you know. I like it. I like the alien stuff. You have an imagination, my friend. I cringed a few times, but I'm a grown up, the sight of blood doesn't bother me.

She walks with grace into the conversation.

The Father-Eleanor? You said you were stopping by later?

Eleanor-Couldn't help it. I've got a couple of cartons of milk for Danny I wanted him to have. I read the first part of the novel. I was happy and yet worried at the same time for your heart, my great grandson. You're important to me and I know you can't just drive over to Edward St. and sit at my table to hear one of my famous lectures. You've come along way in these stories and, well, in the last 3 years. I'm proud of you. From the girl you had to steal your car back from twice to this most recent attempted butcher of your heart. You're lucky you have anything left to give someone new.

Dan-I did meet someone new. She's awesome.

Eleanor-I'm glad.

Again there's a long pause. The three of them are silent as Dan's left eye tears up pretty good.

Eleanor-If I could've saved everyone I knew from being depressed and having a low self esteem I'd win a peace prize for my effort. You have to let this one go. I know you miss the Hell out of her, and you've written about 5 novels about her, but listen, is she beating down doors to come over and see you? Is she figuring out which of the four unmarked doorbells on your front door ring to the guys floor? No. She's got your work number at least, right? Say what you want, but she could've easily picked up the phone and called you. I'm sorry she didn't, I thought she was more a woman than she ended up being. I thought of everyone you'd met recently that that one would've cared for your heart the most. Hey, aren't most Christians good people?

The Father-Most of them.

Dan-Writing this story has helped. Actually, they all have helped in closure of the situation. I like who I'm with. She's a sweetie, but nothing's set in stone. She could do the same fucking thing. If not worse, but things seem happy so I'm gonna run with it and see where it leads.

Eleanor-There's never a promise set in stone that anyone, weather your married or dating or just sleeping with someone, that they'll be there in the morning. It's wise sometimes to not sleep for fear of it. A wedding is just a promise to some people. A one time promise. As much as the one your crying over right now was right for you, she was fifty percent wrong for you. You just didn't know the extent of the percentages until probably you made a graph in pencil on paper for yourself to actually examine. I dare you to examine it. I know you. You're stubborn, like me. You want an answer now. You want a girlfriend now, or else you don't want to watse your time and money on someone who might be or might not be 'with you' am I right? You want someone that's not going to turn to you on the way to a movie date and say she doesn't know if she wants to date you exclusively. You want to be sure. We all do. You don't need someone who's going to string you along. And you know what? Keep up the fortune and glory search for her. Maybe you found her now. This new one sounds nice. But, what does it mean to be 'with' someone?

The Father-So you might find someone who likes to cuddle, but she also eats chili and I know how much that grosses you out. So what's important to you? What's important to you? A thin figure? A figure skater? A supermodel? A stargazer?

Dan-A stargazer. A dreamer. I know that sounds dorky, but it's true. A good kisser is a plus. Have you ever kissed a girl and it wasn't the most pleasant thing in the world to sit through?

The Father-Yeah. I spent time with a woman named Olya Pavlodar back on Lysithea, before I met Katelyn. We just had no chemistry at all. She broke my heart. I've got pictures of us over in that drawer by the law books. Your comment about bad kissers brought her to mind.

She walks closer to the conversation and the group with a long flowing dress on and freshly painted on makeup.

Katelyn Socoroa-You did tell me about her once.

The Father-I'm sorry about dinner, Dan called me about how the story was coming along and I figured I'd lend my ear in case some of it was too intense for him to get onto HTML for the website. The 'legal aid' story has over 200 reads on it. That's amazing.

Dan-Hi Katelyn.

Katelyn-Hey, Danny. How's the end coming?

Dan-Good. I had to stop for a moment something in the middle got me on the emotional side, so I put it down. I paused it. I called your husband. He's good at cheering me up.

Katelyn-If I know Eleanor then I know she's already lectured you so I won't restate things that have already been stated. The divorce rate is too high to limit yourself. To settle for someone just because she'll say 'I do.' That's pretty pointless. Having to answer to the other person's family and friends when it comes to love. Best thing to do? Hang onto this new girl, take it slow, but fast. Rush, but don't rush. Nothing's a gaurantee. Nothing. Remember I was hidden in a rock formation for all those years. Every day I wanted to see my husband, but every day I kept in my seclusion. Every day.

Dan-I'm sorry. I can't imagine how it must have felt for you.

The Father-Anyway, where are the Ileys headed now?

Dan-Russia.

The Father-Then I'll call her for you. She can ride with you. Just take whatever she says about me with a grain of salt. We dated a few times. Nothing special.

Dan-You're ex?

The Father-Yeah.

He walks, alone, to the corner of the library and pulls his phone out from his jeans pocket.

And dials the number.

Olya Pavlodar-I have a ringtone for you. I downloaded it off the internet.

The Father-How did you know I was going to call?

Olya-Since I've liked you for so long I kept your number close. On my phone. I always hoped for the best in us getting back together.

There is a quiet pause for both of them.

The Father-Can you look over my friends, the Ileys, when they go to Russia in the next 'Alia and the Boy,' it's going to a trilogy. They'll need you for a while. Three novels.

Olya-I don't mind.

The Father-You've been waiting all this time for me to call?

Olya-Yes.

The Father-That's not possible. What about Benja'Kn.

Her voice changes.

The Father-Yeah. What about you? A little too anxious to hear from me again, yeah? Nice space ship you have me drugged and laying on the floor of.

He stands up eye to eye with Benja'Kn.

The Father-Do you like the taste of bricks? I mean actual bricks? And some of the paste they glue them together with to make houses? Imagine not being able to harm my dreams again. The day is going to come. Like a thief in the night. Don't I say that in Revelation somewhere? Anyway, think about it. It doesn't taste very good. It's like swallowing a bumblebee and having it sting you all the way down your throat.

Benja'Kn-The riddles you talk in are no match for the power aboard this ship.

The Father-Man made steel lines the walls of this thing. How many did you lure aboard it with the promise of fortune and glory?

Benja'Kn-Keep talking. The more you fight me with this real estate issue, the more I'm going to send you packing into rehabilitation. For nightmares. Only you won't know what's real and what's a dream. I like the sound of that. 'What's real, and what's a dream.' So, the Ileys are going to Russia? Why?

When The Father doesn't answer He begins to feel numb. First His hands, and then his shoulders.

Benja'Kn-I'm not human, am I? Admit it! I'm not human.

There is, however, a knock on the outside of the secluded ship.

Benja'Kn-I'm not expecting anyone. Are you?

The Father-No one. Except my lookout.

Benja'Kn-Your dreams didn't say anything about a lookout. How are you attaching someone to your dreams?

The Father-My name is YHWH. Address me properly or else.

Benja'Kn-Guards, see who is intruding on my fateful night, and The Father's fateful night...mare.

Two armed human guards, with little facial expression slowly walk toward the ship's doorway to the outside world. The botton is pressed to reveal their strange visitor at 3am.

Joseph S.-This is the place, Noah.

Benja'Kn-Ah, yeah. Everyone, look who it is. My newfound friend. Come in Joseph S. but leave that fossil outside of my ship's door. I do mean you, Noah.

Noah-Don't worry, I brought a telescope.

Benja'Kn-For what use?

Noah-To distract the referee.

Benja'Kn-What referee?

Noah-Look in my eyes, I'm distracting the referee with my telescope.

The guards look puzzled. Then they look down at their shoes, as their 'time out' has expired, and they have to return to the game of basketball.

Seated in the front row of bleachers inside the arena appears to be the rest of the team waiting to be called into play.

Noah looks to be keeping his eyes focused on the players. It appears to be Isaac. His father, Abraham, watches on from a few seats away from Noah.

Noah-Benja'Kn, it's simple. I don't want the other team to win. I brought a telescope. The ref will laugh and wonder why I just didn't bring my pair of binoculars with me. But then I realized, lots of people bring those and I'm trying to distract the ref, not blend in. Are you understanding my theory, yet?

Benja'Kn is speechless as to how to answer.

Benja'Kn-How do I respond? Where have you taken me? Why are you making me sit through a basketball game featuring Isaac and players I've never met before?

Noah-It's a matter of real estate, my friend. The ability to erase and rewind. Personally, I like basketball. It's fun. Keep looking into my eyes.

Benja'Kn-Why?

Noah-I'm manipulating your scenery. I'm twisting and turning it to help my friend escape. You don't get to come to Heaven in your starship and mess with my friends.

Benja'Kn-You're trying to get on His good side, aren't you? Aren't you? Aren't you? From throwing the film footage at him. I read 'Alia and the Boy,' too.

Noah-I know. It's popular. You probably have read it.

Benja'Kn-There's just one thing...Check on Patrick and Avonlie.

Noah-Why?

Benja'Kn-Scenery twisting might be neccessary, as they might not look the same as when you last saw them. Disfigured from being mauled by my henchmen. They're being held captive. They were disguised as book publishers. North Iley has just been invaded. As we speak.

Benja'Kn feels a tap on his shoulder, it appears to be, in fact, Princess Avonlie and Patrick. Perfect as they were when they let the mysterious book publishers into the castle.

Avonlie-Who's winning, Noah?

Noah-Dan. He's found a sweet lady this time.

Benja'Kn is seen actually crying.

A mask is removed from his face revealing who had been underneath it since midway through the novel.

Mythaq-Is he happy?

Noah-It seems that way.

Mythaq-Then I'm happy. I only wanted what's best for him. That's what I prayed for at night. I knew it wasn't me.

He opens the arena door and walks over to her. Noticing tears falling from her eyes and the mask sitting next to her.

Dan-Mind if I sit down?

Mythaq-No.

Dan-I'm pretty happy right now. I'm with someone who treats me right. Not sure if she can shoot from the free throw line, but who cares. No one's perfect. Maybe she can play beach vollyball. She loves me for who I am. Nothing's been held against me.

Mythaq-I'm sorry. I really am. For what I did.

Dan-I accept. You don't have to throw yourself into the mercy of my Heavenly friends, just be happy for me. I wished a lot that we'd end up together, but writing this story has meant closure on that part of my heart that you knowingly wounded and I want nothing more than to call you on the phone and tell you these things so you can hear me say them to you, but on second thought, I'd rather finish watching Issac's game. I hope his team wins. I feel pretty bad I wasn't there at the meeting with him. I was a little distracted the last couple of days. It's not worth retelling, I'd rather someday you read this. You used to say you read the others, well here's a new one, then, for you to dive into.

She takes his hand in hers, which surprises everyone in attendance.

Dan-Why did you do that?

Mythaq-Because I wanted to, one last time. Your hands were always so warm to hold onto, for dear life. Remember the night we met and I cried in your arms. I just want to say that I wouldn't have traded it in for anything. But I'll let you get back to your girlfriend and your basketball game and I'll say goodbye to you, Dan. Thanks for letting me talk and explain this to you.

Dan-I don't know how to react. Am I seeing a glimpse of the 'old' Mythaq. The lady from the dance club.

Mythaq-Walk with me. Outisde of the noisy arena. Just you and me, one last time.

Noah gives Dan a warning-like glare, but finally backs away, hoping this trip outside doesn't spell trouble.

Mythaq-You always did have a great imagination where your writing goes. I just don't know how to tell you this, but I was so close to telling you I loved you outside when we had ice cream, but I held back. I was scared of getting hurt.

Once they are outside among the rows and rows of cars parked near the arena, she again reaches out for his hand.

Dan-I'm crying, aren't I?

Mythaq-You are.

Dan-Saying goodbye is always hard. We stayed up until 4:30am that one night. I almost fell asleep driving home. I got into DeKalb, near where East Iley is set in story form, and I was dozing off. I swear I almost had 'Rehydrate Ash Part 2' right then and there. I was just hoping to cuddle up on my bed and catch some sleep before I was supposed to see you again. But, then I almost didn't go. I was scared, too. It took me all day and most of the afternoon to convince myself to get back in my car and see you again. I was attached to you. I'm sorry for saying it this way, but I was. It's hard to say goodbye. I put on my headphones and sang a few Keith Urban songs and a couple fron Straylight Run. I thought long and hard that day before I jumped back in the car. The night before was spectacular. I wanted to stay the night, but I knew it wouldn't seem right. When I saw you the next day I got that same feeling I did every other time. I felt safe, but then broken. At the same time. How could I have known? How could I have?

Mythaq is feeling her own makeup run down her eyelashes, mixing with tears.

Dan-How could you pray for me and not tell me what you were praying for me for? How? It automatically told me that there would be another chapter in our book of 'to be continued' looks back and forth over the phone, in ecards, in emails, in broken promised meetings for talks you suspected were going to be arguments. I trusted you with my heart. I did.

Mythaq-I have something for you.

She surprises him by taking off her prized ring and putting it in the palm of his hand and then closing his hand around it.

Dan-Why are you giving me this?

Mythaq-To remember me by. I don't know. Maybe I misjudged you. You really did love me. You say you're in love again, but I remember you. I remember you! I remember you writing your number down for me, I remember the smoke getting in your eyes. I remember kissing you. I remember crying on your shoulders. Somewhere in my low self esteem and hateful words, I do remember you. That's the Dan I pray for. I prayed you'd forget all about me, but that prayer didn't come true, and I'm reading in these pages. I hasn't gone away and I just want you to know it hasn't gone away for me either. You and I are a memory, yes, but memories don't have to die. You write about them, yes? Yes? Yes? That's your thing. You're a writer.

Dan-Can I kiss you? One last time.

Mythaq-I'm afraid of that, though.

Dan-Afraid? That the closure I wrote this story to ensure would crumble before my eyes if our lips touched again? Or afraid that I was right about you. You are a good person, no matter what the Hell everyone told me or still tells me. I can't erase you. I'd rather swallow bar soap than erase those incredible times with you, but moving forward always helps. I've learned from you. I've learned a lot. I know the word learned is past tense, meaning I'm done learning from you, but I am. I'm sorry. I have to go back inside. You can do whatever you want. I threw away the shirt I was wearing the night we met. I've already made the first move.

Mythaq-What's the second move?

He surprises her with a kiss, to her lips. Her arms reach to pull him close to her body.

5 whole minutes pass. Neither wants to leave, but he finally pulls away from her. One last time.

Dan-Look at me.

She looks deeply into his eyes.

Dan-All I wanted was a place in your heart. That wasn't acceptable to you. You told me I always had a place there, but when it came down to it, my room in your heart was never really there was it? Or you'd have called to check up on me, after you hurt me. Any true villain checks to make sure his opponent is not breathing before walking away. You didn't do that. I guess that's why ash lives in your skeleton where you heart should be.

Mythaq-I probably deserved that.

She turns her back to him to walk away, for good. Into the sea of people trying to fight traffic after the basketball game.

Once she's a few cars away from him, she notices him crying rather loudly for her. As if she was a rock star being called back on stage for one more song, she gives in and begins walking back to where Dan is standing.

Dan-I can't let go, either. I want to be mad at you, but I can't. I let myself get all worked up thinking I'd found my match. I never told you this but I cried like a baby that Sunday, watching you up there with your friends. You know what I mean. From afar I could see the sunlight through the windows and I kept looking back at you. So beautiful. I kept looking at the hanging cross. And then you. And then drying my eyes from the tears that were falling out of them. This wasn't easy for me. I was in the right place at the right time with the right woman. Finally. I bet people around me were wondering just what in Hell I was so upset about, but the truth is I wasn't upset at all. I was happy. I was so happy. Like I'd won a million dollars. As bad as you hurt me, you did give me hope that someone is out there for me. But my tears are forever printed on the floor of that place. I've never been so built up in my entire life, and on the other hand I've never felt so hurt either. At the same time. Maybe my tears were a warning of things to come.

There is a few minutes where neither says anything, they just look deeply into each other's eyes.

Dan-Maybe it really was a glimpse into the future. I went from being the happiest man in the world, to being the saddest. But, I don't want to keep you so I'll let you walk to your car and I'll go back inside. I'm sorry you had to hurt me the way you did. It wasn't the easiest thing in the world to deal with. Luckily I take good notes. And I clean up good.

Mythaq-Luckily.

The End.

Continue to

Alia and the Boy:
Spoken to in proficient Russian

Special thanks to the following bands for inspiring most of what you've just read. Silverstein, The Real You, Last Winter, Glory Nights, Sigur Ros, Sheryl Crow, Punchline, Hawthorne Heights, Hidden in Plain View, Halifax, Keith Urban, Straylight Run, The Audition, The Forecast, Sarah MacLachlan, Glasseater, 5 Stars for failure, Amber Pacific, June, Bayside, Gym Class Heroes, and Armor for Sleep.

Email-dansherrill2003@yahoo.com

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