'A traditional court setting cannot contain
the two sides of a long awaited case that just
happens to revolve around the location of the
afterlife...'
Natalya Glory, Stephen Scott, and Aaron Deschanel
in
Alia and the Boy:The Evening Before a Real Estate Dispute
With special appearences by Anda Quorell and Krystal Jordan
Written and Directed by
Dan Sherrill and Wooden Box Theater
The Father has someone at his library door for lunch on a most important day. She appears beautiful as he opens the door and offers her a cup of coffee. She's been up all night. Tired and distraught. Her name is Violet of Iley. She's been tossing and turning throughout the night with news that is too passionate to share with just anyone.
It's been a long night on North Iley as Captain Lena'Je, Anda Quorell and Captain Jayla have been put on the highest of red alert. Several other Ileys have been notified of a catastrophic threat to North Iley and it's way of life. The call came from the neighboring planet, Pelka.
The call was placed by Jesus of Nazareth and his friend, Tyrone Fluid, of the now famous Fluid Twins. Two brothers. Two attorneys. One mission. Protect the Date of the 'End of the World.' At all costs.
A security code had been figured out in the middle of a rainy August night. A security that a faithful member of the North Iley government was instructed to guard. With his life. Distraction was the first item on the agenda, not the protection the Pelka race from distinction. Someone is in great trouble.
Violet of Iley is about to speak as Captain Lena'Je, Captain Jayla, and Anda Quorell open the door to the library and stand behind her.
The Father-Relax, I know what's happened.
Violet of Iley-I'll help you anyway I can. I'm sure the Ileys here today will, too. I know sparks are going to fly when you catch up with him, but just let him go club dancing tonight. Be very lucky that the call I intercepted for you guys was placed to him from another Iley and not someone from Kaesa. Be very lucky. We could all be in serious trouble if we were faced with dealing with Kaesa law here.
Yet another knock is heard.
She walks in, apparently out of jail.
Olivia Scott-I heard. He left me a voicemail a few days ago. What's going on. I take it there's no more of his urge to take me to court?
The Father-Olivia, this is Violet of Iley.
The two women shake hands.
The Father-I've sent for him.
Violet-With us two here?
The Father-No. By himself.
Olivia-I'm not sure I'm ready to see him.
The Father-Well, get ready then.
Violet-Does Alia know?
The Father-Why are you here Violet?
Violet-I'm not sure myself. I left a note saying I'd be back home for supper, but I'm not sure why I was given the amount of grace that I now somehow have for him. I felt like he should've learned his lesson with me.
The Father-Sometimes false hope is worth holding onto.
Olivia-I told him not to call, but he did. I hated to not call him back, but I seriously didn't want to be a person he could just confide in so easily. I know what happened with us and, yeah, I just couldn't. And I won't.
The Father-I understand. You're free to go. He's on his way here soon, anyway.
Olivia-So there's no trial for me to not look forward to attending?
The Father-You've proved yourself by coming here and facing me. That's enough.
Olivia-Nice meeting you, Violet.
Violet-Yeah, um, you too.
The Father-Olivia?
Olivia-Yes?
The Father-Should I tell him you came by to check on him?
Olivia-No. And tell him to not contact me. For any reason. Let him call his redheaded friend sitting over there. I have nothing more, my friend, to do with this. Tell him I'm sorry things didn't work out.
The Father-What of your brother's presence in Heaven? Should Karolina stay in hiding?
Olivia-You'll have to ask my brother that one. I'm leaving. Here.
She places her comlink to Him in His hand and quietly shuts the door to the library and walks down the main steps leading to her shuttle. It lifts her away to an undisclosed location.
Not one Iley, citizen of Heaven or anyone for that matter ever saw Olivia Scott by any name, weather it be Mythaq Osterly or Listell True, again.
She sees a tear fall from His eyes as He walks back to His chair.
Violet-What was that all about?
The Father-Nevermind. Long story. Read some of the novels.
Violet-That was the gal from the dance club right?
The Father-I...I originally picked her for Dan.
Violet-Originally?
The Father-I changed it.
Captain Jayla-You're not supposed to do that!
The Father-Drastic measures from a drastic period of time. It was right to separate them that way.
Violet-But her ghost haunts him because of this. Even now it does.
He stands up and knocks a cup full of pens and pencils off of His desk.
The Father-Don't you think I know that!!!
Violet-I'm sorry. Just stating facts here. No need to get upset and start throwing things.
The Father-You're right.
He sits back down in His chair and throws His hands in the air, as if givin up on the current situation.
The Father-First you, Violet, then Rachel, then his first wife, then Crayonnah, then Natalya, then Olivia, now this. I don't know if there's much left of him.
Violet-That's real nice of you to include me in that list! Thanks a lot!
She gets up to leave, but He is able to convince her to stay.
The Father-I want at least one of you on that list to make it right with him. Do it for me.
He walks in and is told to sit down next to Violet. She doesn't carry a smile, only a look of concern.
Dan Sherrill-So you all know?
Violet-We do.
Dan-What do you mean by all of you know?
Violet-I got word through someone on North Iley. The Captain here. Hey Lena'Je, thanks again.
He looks at his friend and wonders why he would call her into this.
Dan-How did you know to call her?
Captain Lena'Je-She's North Iley. She has the same blood as us.
Dan-We can't involve her in this.
Captain Lena'Je-We already did.
Violet-Honey, I don't mind.
Dan-Are you sure?
She reaches into her pocket and pulls out his badge.
Violet-When you threw your cup full of water and ice on the balcony, you dropped your badge on the floor. I had Iva pick it up and hang onto it. You always had a replacement and I always had the original. The one Alia made for you. I know you. I've read every damned novel on your website! I saw the signs for them, so I thought I'd check them out. I know you're getting the cast back together for some open mic shows. I know all of it. I know you loved this gal. I know you loved me. Why you did, I'll never know. But, you did. Why else would you bring this whole 'Alia and the Boy' thing back to the stage again. You obviously don't care if the Nelari people know, do you? Or will it be just the thing to make it authentic to you. Do you need that to paste over the things in your heart that need pasting over?
Dan-You do know me. Finally.
Violet-Yeah, and don't tell anyone, but I brought some friends here to Heaven to plan out your life from here on.
Two hooden women walk through the library door and stand next to Violet.
Iva Am'Jorr-What mess have you gotten into this time, kid?
Katha-We leave you alone for six years and here you go getting into trouble for the umteenth time. At least when it was with us we could keep our eyes on you and make sure you didn't get hurt, that much anyway.
Violet-We're going to help you. On one condition.
Dan-What is that?
Violet-We are the last people anyone would expect you to be hanging around with. Go everywhere with one of the three of us and you'll be fine. People will just have to get used to you and me appearing together. We're also the best people to advise you from here on. Is that understood? You're going to stay with Iva, your sister on Iley, when you're in uniform or whatever. Is she still Alia's daughter in the scripts?
Dan-I guess so.
Violet-Can you two get along long enough to live together for a little while so I can investigate the situation further with the North Ileys. I need to know if someone we know wasn't hired or related to Mr. Corda'Lie or Admiral Osterly. I know all about them, too. I have some people to pay visits to.
She surprises him and everyone in the library with a kiss. On his lips.
Dan-What was that for?
Violet-How long have you wished that would happen to you? It just did.
Iva and Katha look at each other as if in a time warp. 8 years in the past.
Iva-I guess I'm taking you home, kid.
Dan-I don't feel right telling this to anyone as my commander self.
Before she leaves in her shuttle, Violet hands Dan a letter, written by her. A very short letter.
Daniel,
Thanks for always believing in me. It never went unnoticed. It was just misunderstood for a long, long time. I'm happy to help you now. If you're not too mad at me for hurting you.
Love, Violet
Dan whispers 'thank you,' even though her shuttle has already lifted off to solve a very delicate puzzle.
Oscar Vega pulls up to the library in his car and offers his hand for Dan to shake.
Iva-Who is this?
Dan-An old enemy.
Iva-Do better than that, my friend. I'm your old enemy.
Katha-Don't forget about me.
Iva-Fine. We're your oldest and dearest enemies, who's this old looking fellow?
Dan-This is Oscar Vega. He doubles as a ruthless enemy to the Ileys and to God. His other role is an ordained minister. Whichever you choose to believe.
He smiles at Dan, knowing their battles and history.
Oscar Vega-Very well said. Ladies, it's nice to meet you both. I'm sure your friend, here, could fill you in about me later. I thought he would like to know that he is welcome to come back to church at any time. With me and Olivia.
Dan-How do you know that what I need is church? Especially with you and Olivia?
Neither of them see the bullet that is headed for Dan's face.
Iva-Dan!! Someone just fired on you!
Dan-I saw it coming. They missed.
Iva-We need to get you home to North Iley. Anda and the two captains will see us when we get there. They're in one shuttle and Katha and I are in another one. Violet came alone.
Another shot is heard coming their way.
He reaches for his cell phone and dials a familiar number.
Dan-Your brother just fired on me. I can see him in the distance. Why?
Olivia-He's out of control. I can't calm him down!
Dan-Is it about Karolina?
Olivia-Yes. He probably heard your voice and thought you were with her. Where is she?
Dan-I can't tell you.
Olivia-So you know?
Dan-I know. But I haven't seen her and Joseph in a while.
Olivia-How long is a while?
Dan-Around the time of the last novel.
Olivia-When was that?
Dan-May. Before summer started.
Olivia-And you haven't done any writing because of your current situation, right?
Dan-Why are you drilling me for information about his wife?
Olivia-He wants Joseph to come to him. He's trying to lure on a battle. He's contacted some people to taunt Joseph and his brother and their friends.
Dan-What kind of 'people,' are you talking about?
Olivia-Ancestors.
Dan-I'm not following you.
Olivia-I don't know, either. That's all he said to me was that he was in contact with some ancestors of people Joseph might be haunted by if he ever saw them in person. Whatever that means.
Dan-Vega is with me. I'm sure he can figure this out.
Olivia-Alright. Tell him I'll see him on Sunday. Take care, Daniel.
Dan-I will.
He turns to the pastor and asks the same question that he already thinks he has the answer to.
Dan-I know you're not a Mormon pastor, but who are these contacts that she claims Stephen has made?
Iva-Are you coming with us, pastor? We're going to North Iley.
Dan-Let him come with, I might need his expert advice on this. Alia can take him home later.
Stephen Scott sits at a kitchen table in an uncharted part of Heaven, facing a man. A man who, if found, could round up a familiar group of enemies.
Stephen-How much will it take for you to huddle together the names of the original army?
Zerahemnah-Not long. Some head counts are not easily forgotten.
Stephen-Then take them out of your memory bank and into my knowledge.
Zerahemnah-Not so fast! I sense an old enemy may not be that unaware of my presence here in Heaven. Not many people know I'm here.
Stephen-As you wish.
Zerahemnah-I will draw up the list.
On the way to Iva's apartment Dan asks her to use her cell phone.
Oscar Vega is in the backseat of her shuttle, looking on.
He answes the phone.
The Father-Yes, Iva?
Dan-No, it's me.
The Father-Jesus is here, He wants to talk to you.
He hands the phone to His Son.
Jesus-Dan, listen, this is going to be tricky. I talked to your 'friend' who called you 'restricted' tonight. I don't have good news.
Dan-How bad is it?
Jesus-He will meet with you near the bar where the Nelari used to hang out. He wanted to meet you in person.
Dan-What have I done? Really! What have I done. I missed her!
Iva looks over at Dan, as tears fall down his cheek.
There is a long pause on the phone.
Dan-Don't you understand, Jesus! I missed her!
Jesus-I know.
He is crying, as well as Dan.
Jesus-You think this is easy for me to report back to you that you're a wanted man now because of tonight?
Dan-Wanted by who? The police? Fine, I'll turn myself in right now, tonight. I'll go and spend the night in some damp jail cell and you know what? The prison guard will just get sick of my nonstop crying for 6 hours at a time. It's going to fall down my face until I make puddles on the floor of the jail! That's what I'm preparing myself for. Iva might be taking me home tonight, but I don't want to be near anyone but...
Jesus-The one who called the police on you? Neither one of you acted with any sort of reason. That's why you're both separated. I'm sorry to have to put it this way, but it's true.
Oscar finds a box of tissue on the floor of the backseat of the shuttle and hands several to Dan.
Dan-I'm sorry, Jesus. I didn't let you finish telling me the bad news.
Jesus-I made a deal with the police. I gave them my word that Iva would house you so you didn't try to put yourself back in the hospital, again. You are to turn yourself in Monday night. No handcuffs, no trips in the police car. None of it. You're fine this weekend, but you have to promise me that you'll be careful. Give Iva your cell phone so you're not tempted to call someone that will really get you in trouble. Stay clear of Olivia and all of the things going on in Heaven and you just focus on being on North Iley. We've got everything under control here. I know you miss and love someone dearly tonight, but you have to temporarily put her out of your heart for the next week or so until you see her. This isn't going to be easy. It's going to be hard, but the alternative is spending the weekend in jail.
Dan-I understand. It just doesn't make it any easier to have to endure.
Jesus-I've never let you down, have I? Iva and Violet, along with Katha are friends. Enemies, but friends. Can you give the phone back to Iva?
He does.
Iva-He's in real bad shape, what the Hell do I do for him?
Jesus-Improvise. It may be a long night.
Iva-So I know what to tell Violet, what are we up against, exactly?
Jesus-Hold the phone on your other ear.
Dan has calmed down and is looking out the passenger side window and doesn't see her switch ears.
Jesus-How close are you to North Iley?
Iva-A few minutes. 5 or 10. Why?
Jesus-The officer is going to meet with Dan by the old Nelari Vs. Iley battleground. The bar the Nelari flock to. He needs to go over the proceedures for Monday.
Iva-Proceedures?
Jesus-Fingerprints. Pictures. He has to arrest Dan. It has to appear that Dan turned himself in, instead of the mandatory warrant for his arrest being out all day. They've made it so that Dan can just stop by after work with the bond money and be free to go home or to his Wooden Box Theater performance right after the police station on North Iley. Understand? It's a misdemeanor. Not the most serious charge in the world, but still something serious in the eyes of the law.
Iva-Like what Violet did to him?
Jesus-About the same. It's easily dropped, if you know what I mean.
Iva-If they can delay the court date until after a certain reunion can take place?
Jesus-Exactly.
Once the shuttle lands in the middle of North Iley's annual outdoor festival, Iva and Oscar Vega make their way into one of the local taverns, for a couple of beers. Violet, who had already gotten there a couple of minutes earlier, stays out of view of the meeting between Dan and the officer.
She sees him walk back toward the bar and the officer be driven away in a patrol cart, heading back toward one of the other bars hosting the festival. Outside on this fateful August night.
He sees her hiding and walks closer.
Dan-Listen to me. Can I please stay with you instead of Iva?
Violet-Honey, you look so scared.
Dan-You're watching my heart break apart. Look at my crying eyes? It's not that I don't trust Iva, I do. And Katha is nice, but I'd rather be with you.
She sees the tears begin again.
Violet-Let me make a phone call.
It lasts a few minutes. Long enough for a voice mail to be left for someone special. Saying she'd be out of town tonight.
Violet-Let's get you home. I'll tell Alia to come get Vega and we can take you home.
Dan-Thank you.
He surprises her with a hug. Holding onto her for dear life.
The door of the familiar blue tavern opens to reveal for the first time ever, Violet and Dan. People turn and almost fall out of their chairs at the sight of an unexpected friendship. Then the uproar turns to dead silence as Dan stands in the middle of the bar, infront of Captain Jayla and Anda Quorell, and a few other original Ileys.
Dan-I'm not here as Commander Aaron Deschanel tonight, guys.
Anda Quorell-We saw you outside talking to the police. Is everything alright?
Violet-Tell him, hun.
Dan-I'm going to be arrested on Monday.
Anda-Did you have anything to do with this, lady?
Violet-No, I'm just the designated friend to pick up the pieces.
Anda-Buddy, you're crying. What is it?
Violet-Your 'buddy' here is married.
Anda-Married? Well, then are those tears of joy? Tell me those are tears of joy? Tell me? I get it you were talking to friends of yours outside who just happen to be police and now your here to announce to us that, yes, Wooden Box Theater is back, and that you're married. Congradulations, buddy.
Violet-Shut up, Anda!
He backs away from the conversation.
Dan-Can I just have the floor for a little while.
The audience agrees.
Dan-Tonight I got a call from the North Iley police. I'm under apparent arrest for something I did out of foolishness to all involved. I couldn't wait a week. I am married, Anda, you're right, but she left me after my best friend and my friends and her friends barged into the relationship and fucked it up for us. Which lead to us fighting for four days and clutching at straws as to what the Hell could be done to fix this as it seems to be so unfixable at the moment. The police have rules and I broke one of them tonight. I'm sorry, guys, to be so ruthlessly honest, but this is a hard night. Might explain why Violet is here with me. I'm a damned mess right now. A damned mess!
No one says a word.
Dan-I was married for 16 days. What am I saying, I am married! I am married! You guys have known me and fought me for eight years. You should know me by now. I lost it. I fell victim to other people's gossip about me. The more people you tell about weddings the more they try to take it over. I cracked. So did she. I listened to the wrong people who in the end could do nothing but say they told me so. They said it would never work. Hell with that and them. They're not the ones being arrested in a few days for no reason. Mark my words, I will win back my wife. Right now we're so far out in left field that it looks grim and very, very impossible. I've got Violet here and Iva and Katha, my bitter enemies on Nelari and Iley, to protect me.
Violet smiles to herself.
Dan-You know what? The next time I get married, I'm not telling anyone! Not a soul! Until four months after the fact, that way no one can screw it up trying to unload their doctrine for the perfect marriage on me! Look at the people who were trying to advise me? Half of them are divorced, too! If she ever comes back to me I will have about 10 or 12 less friends, not by them leaving me, but by me leaving them. I know that's harsh, but sometimes you have to take drastic measures when someone you love leaves you because you, youself have driven her away believing what family and friends tell you to do with your life.
Tears fall.
Dan-I wish she was here. Right now. With me. I'd apologize for everything. I'd fix everything. I would. I know she can't be. I know she probably thinks less of me. Maybe if she'd listened intently to what I said in the messages, like the officer said he did, she'd know that I missed her and loved her so much. I Loved her with all of my heart and soul. There is not one thing in my imagination or yours that I wouldn't do to win her back.
Violet becomes emotional, just listening to him retell of his love for his wife.
Dan-I don't care if I'm breaking character on this or not. I don't even care if the cops come back in and arrest me for saying this outloud, but all I want right now is my wife to be returned safely to my side. I was mad. I was mad at my best friend. I was mad at my parents. I was mad at everyone who said I would mess this marriage up royally, and guess what I did? I did it. I failed her. I failed her as a husband. I messed up big time. I'm going to be arrested Monday night and then hopefully I can crawl to my Wooden Box Theater show and know that I went to Hell and back, but am I cursing her name? Absolutely not! Others have. My best friend and my mom and my sister and my family are telling me to run. To run so far away from her that I forget her name. I missed her! That's my only reason for leaving her a damned message that said those very words in it. Those very words.
He covers his eyes with his hands and wipes tears from them both.
Dan-Yeah, so thanks for listening. I know it's a bar. I know its in the middle of the festival we're having here, and I know it's a harsh, difficult topic, but forgive me and don't blame me for not wanting to be twice divorced!
He pauses for a few seconds and nods to Violet. An unexpected nod.
Dan-I can't take this anymore!
Surprising everyone, Dan is seen running to the bathroom and slamming the door shut. Praying for a few seconds to The Father to hear him, he lets himself go and as Violet hears, Dan has brought himself to vomit into the toilet.
Violet-Dan! Are you okay?
Dan-I'm sorry. I don't want you to see me like this. Call my friend Joseph S. I trust him. He's Mormon, but he's been a friend to me for a while. Just get him here.
He yells out the number, and tries to clean himself up with paper towels.
Dan-Violet!!!
She races back to the door.
Dan-I just threw up blood!
Violet-Okay, sit tight, I'll get your Mormon friend on the phone.
He answers his cell phone, on the fourth ring, recognizing the North Iley area code.
Joseph S.-Yes? Who is this?
Violet-This is Violet of Iley. I'm Dan's, um, friend. Gosh, I never thought I'd call him my friend, but I am right now. He's asking for you.
Dan-Is he on the phone!
Violet answers as Dan opens the bathroom door and takes the phone. When he does, she walks in and takes a look at the blood on the floor. She places a tiny kiss on his cheek, and lets him talk, while she cleans up the blood.
Dan-Joseph?
Joseph S.-It's me, kid. What's wrong?
Dan-I just puked up blood. I'm so scared.
He decides to sit on the floor to talk. The floor of the bathroom.
Joseph S.-Start at the beginning, kid. I can't help you if I don't know the catalyst. By the way Karolina is fine. Stephen has backed off for the time being. We're considering coming out of hiding.
Dan-I lost my wife. Hopefully not for good, but the end result doesn't look too happy right now. I'm technically under arrest. I'm thinking of going our dancing after I get cleaned up. I had a panic attack and puked blood into the toilet. Sorry if that sounds a little too honest, but I know you can handle honesty. You're a prophet, you're probably used to people like me by now.
Joseph S.-Forget about that title now, I'm your friend. I'm a friend to the Ileys. I have since you guys called me in about Mythaq Osterly. How do you feel physically?
Dan-Like someone stabbed me in the heart and now its bleeding through my mouth. How else should I feel? I missed my wife tonight, so I left her a few heartfelt messages on her phone, that I know I shouldn't have done, and I knew I'd get into trouble for doing it, but I laid down on my bed, staring at my phone. I called a few of my friends and wanted to go out to North Iley anyway, but I was waiting for a load of laundry to get done washing and drying and I couldn't help it. I dialed the number, knowing full well that some sort of trouble and drama would come of it, and I got a call about 20 minutes later from a North Iley officer. He said that they were going to have to 'take care of this,' and me. I managed to convince him that I wasn't a threat to anyone. Lucky for me he listened to the messages and found zero wrong with them. I met with him outside here a few minutes ago. I felt better doing it. I felt like I wasn't just some voice on the phone anymore. I'm about cashed out of tears and emotions. I'm threw, Joseph. I don't mean to cry on your shoulder, but...
Joseph S.-Hey, kid, that's why I'm your friend.
Dan-There's some Ileys here and Katha and Iva, old enemies of mine who are now helping me, are here, too. Violet isn't really my friend, she's just helping me. In all reality, she can't stand me, but has a soft spot for me if I'm ever in trouble.
Joseph S.-Sometimes it's good to knock on enemy doors when things are out of hand. I am truly sorry about your situation. I know it doesn't get any easier from here. What does The Father think you should do?
Dan-I haven't really talked to Him much about this. I know He picked her for me when Mythaq did what she did.
Joseph S.-How do you know He picked her?
Dan-I am not feeling this helpess and distrought for nothing! I am going to be printed and photographed on Monday. Then I'll know the bail money amount, which I'm sure if I ask around won't be that much. Violet and I have a history. She's the right one for the job of taking care of me.
Joseph S.-I'm glad you called me.
Dan-Me, too.
Joseph S.-Have you decided weather or not you're going to the country line dance club, yet?
Violet grabs the phone from Dan, surprising him.
Violet-So you're a Mormon?
Joseph S.-Yeah. Are you guys coming to the club? I know the way there, unfortunatly. Long story. The Ileys and Dan are good people.
Violet-We'll be there. I've been studying this particular case. I met Mythaq Osterly, or whatever she's called. I met her in heaven. Quite a character, she is.
Joseph S.-I know her all too well. Her brother wants to kill me. My soul mate is his ex wife. He killed her, she ended up in Heaven and I found my lost soul mate. It's a long story.
Violet-Which I've already read. The burning building. The missing plates of Nephi. I read all of Dan's novels.
Joseph S.-Yeah. Neat story. Anyway, I'll meet you guys at the club in about half an hour.
Once things are cleaned up and blood mopped up with water and soap, Violet gives Vega, Iva and Katha orders to stay close to Dan's apartment. Just in case.
Before leaving the parking lot, Dan spots Emperor Gelfa trying to flag him down, through the car window. Violet pulls closer.
Gelfa-Danny, I heard. This is not good. I'm here, though, if you ever need to talk. You've got my cell number, right?
Dan-Yeah. And thanks again.
Gelfa-How's your mom and sister?
Dan-They're good, but they don't know about tonight.
Gelfa-Hey, I'm no attorney, but I don't see you as being a threat to anyone. Just represent yourself and they'll throw it out.
Dan-I wish I wasn't going through this.
Gelfa-I know. I still have a video of you and your first wife from the fast food place I saw you guys at. It's too bad that one didn't work.
Dan-I remember that day. It's cool that you still have it. I saw her.
Gelfa-You did?
Dan-Yeah, when this judgment against me was first introduced. I drove by and saw my first wife for a few seconds at her work. It was hard. I hope I'm not going to end up twice divorced. She looked really beautiful.
Gelfa-Well, she was really beautiful.
Dan-That divorce I wanted. For good reasons. This one I don't want because it's for the wrong reasons.
Gelfa-Life is full of curveballs. Hey, if you ever need to talk. I'm serious, just call and we'll go for another walk around campus or something. Your family goes from one catastrophe to another, it seems. I've known your mom for a long time. Hang in there, Danny.
Violet-We'll try. Thanks Gelfa. For now it's going to be some serious club dancing.
Gelfa-I'll tell the Ileys over at the bar that you guys are alright.
Dan-Gelfa?
Gelfa-Yeah?
Dan-Tell Captain Lena'Je that I'm sorry if I happen to miss his two shows at the festival. I know it'll disappoint him, but I have to look out for my well being and my...family.
Emperor Gelfa waves at both Violet and Dan as they drive away in her car to the line dance club, half an hour away.
Once inside they are greeted by Joseph S. and sat down at his table with Karolina, who offers Dan a hug, which is met with several falling teardrops.
Joseph S.-It's alright, kid. There's someone out there for you.
Karolina Scott-Honey, don't cry. So, she was a fortune teller. The Father said something over the phone about her reading tarot cards.
Dan-Yeah. She used to lay them out on her bed and seemed to really believe what they said. I was going to write her into 'Alia and the Boy' as a fortune teller. I guess I never had time to do that, either.
More tears fall.
Dan-We barely had enough time to do much of anything once we were married.
Karolina-I don't see what on Earth happened.
Dan-We just both snapped on each other. It would take a novel to explain what happened over the course of a few days, but the bottom line here is that I'm without my better half. My wife. My light. My inspiration. My truth. My awesome, awesome wife. I'm without 99% of my heart.
Joseph S.-And you couldn't take the loss anymore so you left her a few messages tonight.
Dan-Three. You can never finish your thought in just a minute of recorder time. And I couldn't. I instantly wanted to talk to her. It was spur of the moment. It was agony even hearing her voice on the recorder. It was agony, because I still had an 'I love you' message from her on my phone's voicemail inbox. I played it a few times. I wished to God I could have told it to her back. I grabbed the CD with our wedding song on it and threw all caution to the wind. I didn't care if I would get arrested or how many countless friends had warned me about doing it, I had to call her. I remembered calling her for the first time on my phone. The day we met. The night I fell in love with her. The first time we made love. I snapped. I pressed the buttons on the phone and no one answered. But what she heard and I assume the cop did too was a saddened husband reaching out in vain to his estranged beloved.
Joseph S.-I'm very, very sorry.
Someone makes eye contact with Dan from the dance floor.
Sam Hewsa-Hey buddy, shouldn't you be looking for a cowgirl? That's what you're good at. Coming here in your baseball cleats and tearing up the dance floor with all the cute girls.
He looks at his friends and lets a few tears be seen, falling down his face.
Sam looks back at Joseph.
Joseph S.-He'll be alright. Go on, kid. Go see when the traditional slow songs are gonna start and see if you can score a cowgirl. At least something good will come of tonight. Plus, you still have the North Iley festival going on until Sunday. Keep your chin up.
Sam reaches out to shake Dan's hand.
It's accepted.
Sam-There's the 'old' Dan we know and can't wait to see in action.
Dan-This place is really special to me. It's almost time for the club music to start and then...
Sam-Go on, say it.
Dan-And then, it's on! Like I always say. I might be getting a divorce.
Sam manages to hold back from choking on his beer.
Sam-What? When did this happen?
Dan-On my birthday. Last month.
Sam-I don't see a ring? Where is it?
Dan-I gave it back to her. During an argument. Didn't feel right keeping it if we were just going to break up.
A hooded woman walks from the dance floor and directly in front of Dan and his friends. Her hood is kept over her face. They know it's a woman by her nail polish. Bright red.
She speaks.
Reenah Catalys-Someone gave this to me tonight. Smeone was here. Take this.
It's a tiny slip of paper with words written in red ink.
Dan-Joseph do you see her?
Joseph S.-Yeah, why would you ask me that?
Dan-I think this place is haunted. I always did.
Joseph S.-Dance with her. The song is starting.
He looks at the hood over her face and wonders who she is.
Reenah-Your wife is not here. Come, dance with me.
They walk, hand in hand, to the middle of the dance floor, and move slowly to the song.
Joseph walks by the DJ and requests another slow song, which is given to him.
Violet-Joseph, I don't know much about the Mormons, but can you pretend to dance with me so I can get a good look at 'lady mystery' over there.
She lifts her hood, shocking all in attendance, in the middle of the song.
Violet looks at Joseph, as his mouth is hanging wide open.
Reenah-I am not to be given up on. I'm missing my eyeballs. I am not to be given up on!
Dan-She's cross eyed. When I'd get too close, her eyes would cross. Cross eyed? Cross eyed?
Reenah-Reverse the words for your answer.
Dan-Reverse the words...EyeCross! Damn him!
Reenah-He's trying to help you! Look at my long red hair. You know I'm trying to help you, too. Do you remember me? I used to go by the name, Triangle. I work for the professor. Professor EyeCross. He's in Hell coming up with a solution to your dilema.
She reaches into her pocket and grabs her comlink to him.
Dan-Give me that!
Before he can wrestle it from her hands, she presses a button. Joseph, Violet, Karolina and Dan are in EyeCross' laboratory in one of the cell halls of Hell.
L is walking around with a dictionary in his hands, as well as several medical books laying out on the table.
Collette is the first to walk up to Dan and wrap her arms around him.
Dan-Thank you. I'm sorry again, for shooting you in the hand a couple of years ago.
Collette-Honey, I think you have more problems that my hand to worry about. I forgave you as soon as it happened.
Someone walks from out of view, and smiles brightly at Dan.
Natalya Glory-Hey you!
He holds her, briefly, in his arms.
Natalya-I'm back in town so I thought I'd ask L where to find you. I heard. Everything. I can help you. We've been through worse. I've been through worse. We're gonna figure a way out of this mess for you.
He walks with grace down the cell hall and easily opens the doors to the professor's lab.
The Father-Hi.
Dan races to His side.
The Father-Come with me.
Dan-Alright.
He leads Dan down one of the main hallways and closer to Eliza's cell.
The Father-he has something to say to you.
Eliza-Danny, my sweet friend. What has come knocking at your heartfelt door?
Dan-You don't even want to know.
Eliza-Honey, I do know.
The Father walks back to the conversation with a 32 ounce cup of ice cold water, to help with Eliza's burning body.
Eliza-Thank you so much! All we do down here is burn to a crisp. All day. It's so hot down here. I don't know how anyone else stands it.
Dan-You're a dear friend, Eliza.
He can barely look at her sometimes, as her flesh is terribly scarred from being in Hell for so long. He cringes everytime he is allowed to see her. He knows that just looking at her, with no hair, only a couple of teeth and an eternal flow of tears falling down her. She is kept alive only by the constant heat and the few cups of water that she's allowed to have.
Dan-What is it you have to tell me?
Eliza-Take this with you back to North Iley and up in Heaven, where you sometimes go to visit. Things look impossible right now. I know. Hang in there kiddo. I'm never going to get out of here.
Hearing her say that causes The Father to shed tears.
Eliza-That's for your faith in me, my Heavenly Father.
The Father-You're welcome.
Eliza-Danny, listen to me. Do not give up on that girl. Marriage is an all consuming thing. You can't just break up. Do you realize the people she'd have to tell about this? Even if it's covered up, it can't stay covered up. We don't know if she's a villain or an unlikely hero right now. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, that much is true. If this was wrestling I'd say she needs to make a huge 'face' turn. But this is real life, just like 'Alia and the Boy.' I think you should continue to hope for the best.
Dan-Thank you!
The Father-We'll let you know how things turn out. Enjoy the water.
Eliza-Thank you for it.
The Father-Dan, I have some footage to show you. We can use L's monitor.
As they walk closer to the viewing room, which sits right next to L's main office and lookout, Dan asks him again what the footage is of.
The Father-Just sit down and we'll go over it.
Dan-Alright.
The Father pushes play on the viewing device and Dan is face to face with himself and his beloved. Fighting.
He hits pause.
Dan-I can't watch any more of this!
The Father-Sit down! Now watch the tape!
Dan-Please. What good will it do?
The Father-Do you want to save your marriage?
Dan-I do.
The Father-Watch the tape. Carefully.
Dan-Alright.
The play button is pressed again.
It's a scene of Dan writing a letter to read during a Wooden Box Theater performance. He's sitting at his desk at work. Trying to find the right words for the audience, but also for his heart to hear.
My dearest fortune teller,
Whenever I turn on the light in my new apartment I think of how much I miss you. I miss you all the time, honey. I was in one of the bookstores in town getting band names for my Myspace page and I stuck on a pair of headphones and I went through all of our songs, having not heard most of them since you sang them to me last.
By the time I got to James Blunt's 'You're Beautiful' I couldn't help but shed tears for you right there in the store.
Later I ran into a detective friend of mine at Wal Mart, while buying brake fluid for my car, and told him that I might be going through a divorce soon.
I have no idea what to say to people on the street that ask my how I'm doing. I'm not fine being left to want to call or see you about every 45 seconds. Husbands generally do miss their all important spouse after nearly a month apart.
These difficult times are what either make us stronger or weaker with huge tears falling down our faces in the middle of a bookstore on Labor Day. The judge is keeping us apart for a month and then what? I wish I knew. I know that you heard me cry my eyes out until they were bloodshot red last thursday. I know you saw my aunt cry in my arms as my heart could not keep silent any longer. I know, because tears fell down your cheeks, too.
I wish I could've walked to your side and used a tissue to help you dry your eyes, but things like attorneys and judges were in the way. It was like I was at a funeral. The funeral for my heart, and it was time for me to mourn my marriage in front of my attorney, the courthouse, my family and friends.
I lost it. My body went numb and I was told to agree not to see you for 30 more days.
At least now there's a little bit of hope. Mom said you looked at her with make up running down your face. flashing signs of true emotion. She said you kept looking at her wistfully. That was all she could say to sum of the day. Trust me, babe, there was no one more emotional on the second floor of the courthouse than your husband was. A husband that could do nothing but cry in his mothers arms for the reason and answer that this is all happening to him.
I told her that I was running out of floors in this place to get married and divorced on. They all want me to cut my losses and move on. Then I hear that 'they all told me so.' My sister, who gave me my bond money, told me to move to the city away from all of this. My dad would rather I pack up and move to Georgia with him. They're all mad that I'd make it right with you in a split second, than stray from you. Someone I just married a month ago.
In closing, honey, I know I can't call, email, or delivere this to you, but at least it'll get heard by someone. Then again maybe by way of a miracle, tonight, while your going through your computer's music playlist and it gets to one of our songs, you'll think of what we were to you, and when you get to 'You're Beautiful,' you'll recall the times I'd look you in the eyes, your beautiful eyes, and tell you that I cherished you and that I was proud to be your fiance, and that I was proud to be your husband.
I never meant anything so much.
I want you to know that I pray for you every night before I fall asleep in the hopes that at least God might still be a believer in marriage lasting forever. For better or for worse. This right now. This being apart is worse than anything the police or judge could ever sentence me with.
I miss you and I hope deep down you might miss me, too. I hope to continue my marriage to you at the end of the month and to not be faced with the absolute devastation of my life and my heart by you walking away from your loving husband.
If you walked through the doors of The House Cafe on North Iley, I'd reach out my hand for yours and pray you'd take it. God knows I've cried enough to fill an ocean for you. I love you, my beloved fortune teller wife. I miss and love you, always.
Signed, Your loyal husband.
Danny
P.S. Dear God, Please look after Mr. and Mrs. Dan Sherrill on this rainy Labor Day Night.
It's late. Dan and The Father have had quite a long talk about marriage and divorce. He has an idea. A long shot. An old friend.
Friday Night September 22nd.
12:30am. Dan Sherrill applies his North Iley badge and walks toward a familiar battleground in the great Nelari Vs. Iley war that founded 'Alia and the Boy.' He walks to the main Nelari tavern and takes a few looks through the crowd. He spots North Iley Captain Lena'Je, who is also a folk rock singer. Emperor Krada is there along with another familiar face, Anda Quorell.
After a long chat with Zayne Wrenju about auto repairs and gas prices on North Iley, Commander Aaron Deschanel, badge displayed, makes his way to the Nelari side of the two part now famous tavern. There's the blue side and the red side. Everyone knows it.
My car is parked right outside the place, taking up two spots, he thinks. Earlier in the day we had a tornado town down near here. And a rainbow bright as day lead him straight to her house, while needing a phone card for my prepaid phone. The same one you used to call me on. The one gas station by my house was closed for weather reason since the tornado siren went off during it. So I was forced to drive by your house. That's when I saw the rainbow touch down at your apartment.
I got out of my car to walk in and pay for the minutes to be put on my phone and I happend to glance down at the roses for sale and I was reminded of the one I bought for you from this same place. Remember walking there with me many times. All I can do is look up and see this beautiful rainbow leading to your door.
I walked through the open doorway from the blue section of the tavern to the red and my heart skipped a beat. I don't always wear my glasses. I should. Might not look like I'm squinting so often. I could've sworn I saw you. With a group of people. I could've been dreaming.
Dear Empress Alia,
I went to sing with my friend Heather..I did 5 songs..including 'Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue, Chrome, Billys Got His Beer Goggles On, Just a Few Questions and Daddy Won't Sell the Farm.
Know any of those?
I wated to say that before going to the line dance club, I stopped by the split Nelari/North Iley tavern...and maybe it was poor eyesight and whatever, but I couldve sworn that I saw my fortune teller wife..It was like 12:30am though..I didn't want to get too close, and squinting never is fun, but I was there to see Anda and Lena'Je, from Iley..Anyway..I walked by a couple of times, but I didn't see any of her friends that I would normally recognize.
I only stayed for maybe 15 minutes talking to my friends before heading out to the club till 4am.. sratchy voice and all.
It did look like her..Actually a lot..We weren't close enough to say anything, and we probably couldn't, anyway, even if it was her. If it was, she was with a group of people I'd never seen before. So maybe not..Just my imagination..But again, without my glasses it's hard to see people sometimes and focus without looking like im squinting...
I had to drive by her building to get to the road to get me to the line dance club and her living room light was on...so maybe it was just my imagination..we'll see. Anyway, I'm headed to the beach to see my daughter. It's her birthday. It's always nice to see Maria.
Aaron Deschanel
He emails the letter to her and boards his North Iley shuttle to a familiar setting. To see his daughter, Gemma and her mother, Maria of Iley. On the beach. He hasn't seen his little girl in almost a year. He's just in time for her birthday. Maria is there with Clive and Meg, Annie and Torres.
The doorbell rings and she walks to answer.
He has brought gifts and a card for Gemma. And one for Maria.
He is met with a kiss and a soft hug from her.
Aaron Deschanel-Hey guys.
Annie walks up first and wraps her arms around her best friend.
Annie of Iley-It's great to see you on your daughters 6th birthday. How are you holding up?
There is a hush now in the room, as they originally wanted to get through today without mentioning the issue on North Iley.
Annie-I'm sorry. Aaron, just pretend like it's not going on while you're here.
Torres-I agree. I wish you could stick around and recoup your heart while we sit out the next week or so until you go to what sounds like Armageddon.
Aaron-I emailed Alia and let her know I was coming. Just in case something happens.
She turns to see him, and the gifts he brought. And the card with money in it. The little girl races at record speed to her dad and kisses him on the cheek.
Aaron-Hey there, girl.
She looks back at him with a sad look.
Aaron-Come here. Sit on the couch with me.
The 6 year old Gemma sits next to her dad, but still can't smile at him.
Maria walks closer.
Aaron-I'm fine, Maria.
Maria-Are you sure?
Aaron-Yeah. I am.
Gemma Deschanel-Daddy, we saw a lady today.
Aaron-A lady?
Gemma-She gave me a card.
Aaron-Maria, what is she talking about?
Maria-Honey, show daddy the card you got.
He takes one look at the design and nature of the card.
The High Priestess Card.
Aaron-Who gave this to you guys and where did it happen?
Maria-We were just getting coffee and a lady saw my daughter and handed it to her.
He turns the card over, and reads outloud.
Feminine, secrets, confidant, mystery.
The High Priestess sits between the two pillars of the Temple of Solomon.
Boaz, the black pillar represents the negative life force while, Jachin, the white pillar, represents the positive life force.
The High Priestess has on her lap a scroll of esoteric wisdom.
DIVINATION MEANINGS : When this card appears in a man`s reading it indicates the perfect woman he dreams of.
Tears fall from his eyes, as his badge is taken off, again, and set on the table.
Gemma leans in closer and gives him a hug.
Gemma-Daddy, don't cry.
Maria-Dear, do you think she was here earlier today and gave your daughter the card for you to see?
Dan-She used to read this deck of tarot cards. On her bed. She asked me if I wanted to ask it something. I shyed away and then asked a few questions about Mythaq Osterly and I never really looked at them again. Sore topic. If she was here, this is the card she'd want me to see.
Gemma-Who gave me the card, daddy?
Dan-A woman named Majesty. God, what am I saying? I'm married to that woman! Her name is Majesty Sherrill. This is her tarot card. She tracked me down to the beach and now she's given you this card to get to me.
Gemma-What happened?
Dan-Oh Gemma, you don't want to know.
Gemma-Why don't you just stay here with mom and I. It's nice here. Annie is here, and Meg. Stay, daddy.
Dan-I have an emotional war to fight first.
Maria-Small, less commander-like words, dear.
Dan-There's no other way to put it. Let me tell you something, I'm going to court to fight hard. I'm going to give it my absolute solitary best.
Maria-What do you have there?
Dan-Hey get everyone together. I want to read something so that I don't have to keep repeating myself while I'm here.
The crowd walks closer to the couch as Dan pulls out a freshly typed letter.
Friday September 22nd, 2006. 1:30am.
As I sit here and reflect on over a month and a half away from my wife I can't help but feel like I've been in jail for as long as this separation has been in effect.
Next thursday, in my hometown, in the same courthouse we got married in, on my birthday, a judge will decide and I'm sure my wife will decide if our short marriage is worth working out or not.
I'm scared. I'm afraid. I'm a lot of things right now. I've been on dates, no one seems to come close to her. My friends and family told me to move on and find someone else, but the truth is, there isn't anyone else. To please everyone I know, including my family, would be to give up on my beloved wife and everything she did for me in the 2 months that I knew her.
I'm going to walk into court and let it be known that I don't care what on this Earth I have to do to walk out of there with her in my arms, I'm willing and able to do so. I've got the rest of my life to spend and offer her. Hell I'd give her every penny, every quarter and every last solitary dollar to my name. I'd give her my car, my CD collection. My heart. Everything. I'd give to her right now. I already gave her the rest of my life.
All week at work I've been trying to make a timeline of our short life together. All 63 days of it. I've been weighing in how people would react to us making this work out. And I've come to the conclusion that it's none of their business. It's the right I have as a husband. As a Christian husband, to fight for the bond we once had. There's nothing more attractive to me than seeing that beautiful girl smile at me.
I have a performance coming up on Monday. Live on stage. Hopefully my actress friend will come help me through it. Or anyone for that matter. Tears are going to be shed on stage. I know it. I'm not ashamed of the fact that I miss my lovely wife with all of my heart and soul.
My life has been painfully miserable ever since she left me. No matter the reason. No matter that I've sat out the last month and a half on pins and needles. I'm missing the other half of my heart. I'm missing my wife tonight. More than anything.
Sure, I could replace her. People often do. But what happens when that crosses my mind is I remember the good itmes. The love we shared. No matter if I knew her 2 days or 46 days before we married, I found the woman of my absolute dreams.
Tonight marks one week before I go in front of a judge. Last time I did I cried all over my Mom and my aunt and my 2 friends. It was the emotional day of my life. I felt like I was at a funeral. The funeral for my heart. I've been broken hearted ever since August, when she broke up with me.
I'm so sad right now. I've lost weight. I don't wanna eat half the time. I just want to see my wife again. I know it'll never be erased, this time apart. I know that. We both do.
It's going to take every ounce and every breath in my heart to make it through the next week. I could be the happiest man in the entire God created world next thursday or just as miserable if not worse than I am right now. I can write novels and do performances and whatever else to help the pain of losing a loved one go away, but no matter what everyone has said to console me through this most agonizing time for me, only the prospect of a another chance to be a husband to that beautiful woman will do.
I found the absolute angel of all of my dreams. It would be a disaster if things went wrong next thursday. The day is approaching. I am so scared. I am drained emotionally. I am drained spiritually. I am drained in my heart.
There is nothing. Nothing as hard as waking up every morning knowing you can't call or write to or see your beloved wife. There is nothing that I can say or do to explain the feelings I have felt. Sorrow. Agony. Heartache. Those are just a few.
I would do anything. I would pay her rent for her. I would help with groceries. I would give her my undivided attention. For just one more chance. Just one more.
Everytime I hear one of our songs I break out in tears. Especially 'You're Beautiful' and 'High' by James Blunt. I miss her so much. I know this isn't a perfect world. None of us are. We tend to think we are sometimes, but we're not. I wasn't prepared for this. Maybe it's made us stronger, and maybe she's gone for good.
I don't know. All I want to do right now is cry. All I want is a chance to continue my precious marriage. That's the number one goal right now. Show up, prove things can be fixed and leave with her. Trust me, I would get down on my hands and knees right now if only she'd listen. I have choke sobbed and cried and pleaded with God and anyone who will listen to please bring her back, but I guess it all comes down to thursday.
I'm going to need a lot of support during this week. To keep from giving up on her. To keep from giving up on me. I know I'll be an emotional wreck right up until they call our name.
All I'd really like to say to her right now is honey I love you. I am proud to be your husband. I am proud to be in your presence. I am proud that you decided to marry me on my birthday. I wouldn't take anything back. There is no limit to amount of love I still have for you, honey. I would always be there for you. I know we got so far out in left field that all hope seemed lost, but I'm here to tell you, it's not....send one of the outfielders to get the ball and the game can be restarted!! For good this time...
Please..anyone reading this. I can't help but cry right now. Just pray for me and my marriage to work out. As a fellow Christian and Christian author and whatever else, please pray for me and my wife.
There's nothing like losing the one God handpicked for you, but there's soemthing to be said about second chances. I hope she has it in her heart to make something of the life we had right in the palm of our hands.
I am just a husband longing for his precious wife to return to his life...I swear to God right now I would do anything to have her back! I am so afraid and scared... I just hope and pray every day that when it's finally time to decide this she might have the grace in her that made me fall head over heels for her back in June, when we met.
Pray for me...please!
A lone shuttle orbits the Moon of Elara. Its pilot is The Father. His destination, an old and very dear Elara Attorney, Krystal Amethyst Jordan.
He lands near her office and exits the shuttle, leaving His helmet, and walking alone.
Walking up to her office door, He pauses, realizing that haven't exacltly spoken much since Heaven was created. Attorney Jordan, as it turns out, is someone The Father trusts with His life. They have been communicating through email for a couple of weeks about Dan's marriage. Breaking the ice of their once long standing argument. She is, as The Father knows, Pettel's best friend. The woman who kidnapped and hid Katelyn, so many years ago.
Once the flashback ends in His head, The Father knocks on her office door.
Krystal Amethyst Jordan-Yes, dear?
The Father-Aren't you happy to see me?
Krystal-Slightly. I'm putting a lot of work on hold to come meet with your friend. Where can I find him, anyway.
The Father-I received a text message that he's at his other home, with his group of friends on a beach in California. He's got a daughter there. A six year old. They've spotted her there, too. She somehow handed his daughter a tarot card.
Krystal-And left, I take it?
The Father-You're the best attorney in the solar system. I forgive you, for being Pettel's friend. She did an awful thing to me. I deal with it every day.
Someone else manages to park her shuttle directly to the right of The Father's.
The Secretary in the legal office asks her name.
Katelyn Socoroa-My husband is seeing Attorney Jordan.
Secretary-Have a seat. They should be done any minute.
The door opens again.
It appears to be Pettel herself.
The two lock eyes. With fury. Then Pettel sits down right next to Katelyn.
Katelyn-Hello, Pettel.
Pettel-Kate.
Katelyn-Are you here to see my husband or Krystal.
Pettel-Neither. I'm here to see you. I was in the neighborhood and saw your shuttle parked outside.
Katelyn-Why?
Pettel-I'm trying to retain her for my daughter.
Katelyn-Well, she is your best friend. By the way, do you have any gum?
Pettel-Maybe. Let me see.
She opens her purse and digs through several items, hoping to find one last piece of cinnamon gum.
Katelyn, noticing that Pettel is digging pretty hard for chewing gum, notices something in the midst of the disaster in her purse. It's a card. In this middle of a couple of packs of cigarettes.
Katelyn gets up suddenly and knocks on Krystal's office door.
Krystal-Hi Kate, um, Castel'de, I will see your kid at the beach. We'll have a talk before his court date.
Katelyn-It's not that. Pettel is outside in the waiting room.
The Father-Did you talk to her?
Katelyn-Honey, can I talk to you for a minute?
The Father-Sure. Krystal, thank you, again. I owe you a spot in my will for this.
Once they are outside the office, Katelyn makes her statement.
Katelyn-Pettel was fiddling with her purse and revealed a card to me. Well, not directly. I saw it between a couple of packs of smokes.
The Father-What kind of card?
Katelyn-A tarot card.
The Father-Which one?
Katelyn-You have a worried look.
The Father-Did she say why she was there?
Katelyn-She was going to hire Krystal to represent her daughter.
The Father-Her daughter, tarot, represent, honey call someone for me on your phone.
Katelyn-Sure. Who?
The Father-Someone who can read these things. Her name is Madame C. Here's the number.
She answers, interupting a session of her own.
The caller ID reads 'YHWH.' It's a sure sign that He needs some help.
Madame C-Hello, my dear.
The Father-Two tarot cards have shown up today. One on the beach with a friend's daughter, and one just now on Elara. My friend, an attorney, is headed to the beach to have a conversation with someone close to me, who's going through a separation right now.
Madame C-And you need me to trace the clues.
The Father-It's a legal separation until the end of the month. By the way the two cards were 'High Priestess' and 'Judgement.' You obviously know that I have no idea about any of that stuff, so I thought I'd use my friendship with you and your family to ask this important question. It's for a friend.
Madame C-That's only two cards.
A woman forces her way into Madame C's tarot reading shop.
Madame C-Excuse me!
She notices the woman carrying nothing but a card. The 'Hanged Man' card.
Madame C-My dear, I believe your visitor has entered my reading room.
The Father-Okay, Madame, don't let her know you're talking to me. I'll pay you for any reading you do with her.
Madame-I'll hold you to that Mr. Socoroa. Have a good night.
The Father-She's there. On the beach.
Katelyn-Should we go?
The Father-Not yet. I'll wait to hear back from Krystal, from her talk with Dan.
Back at the reading room, Madame C is trying to convince Majesty Mariah Sherrill to change her mind and reveal her face.
Madame C-I know why have come to the beach. You seek someone you love. You seek someone who loves you, and is loved by you. It's a nice night out. Would you like to take a walk with me?
She says nothing, but motions for the door.
Madame C-Alright, the silent treatment. I'm a friend of the family. I'm a friend of The Father and Jesus.
She leads Majesty out the door of the office and onto the street, by the beach.
Her veil is lifted, once it seems that no one is around.
Majesty Mariah Sherrill-What's ever the right thing to do?
Madame C-You know that he's a commander on North Iley?
Mariah-I know. For a while I had his access codes for the Iley database. I saw his ranking.
Madame C-Why are you doing this to him?
Mariah-I don't know.
Tears fall from her eyes.
Make up is dripping off her face as it mixed with tears.
Madame C pulls a tissue from her pocket and hands it to the wife of Dan Sherrill.
Madame C-I'll warn you, the tarot card mystery you have created is bothering him.
Mariah-May I read something to you?
Madame C-Normally I'm the one doing the reading, but go ahead.
Mrs. Dan Sherrill reaches into her pocket and unfolds a sheet of computer paper and reads it outloud.
Mariah-I printed this out from his blog, online. I've been carrying it since they told me he posted it.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Please God don't take my wife away from me again....
'Dear God,
I'm hopeful that my beloved wife is out there somewhere thinking of me...Watch over her tonight for me.'
It's about quarter to one in the morning and yet it seems like I've been away from my wife for an eternity..It doesn't even seem real. Right now I'm listening to one of our songs 'On again tonight' by Trent Wilmon.
If I could have anything in the world right now it would be that beautiful woman back in my life. There isn't one thing..not one thing I wouldn't do tonight or any of the 13 more nights I have to be without her.
All I know is that they can drop the legal separation on the 28th...but then what? Does absence really make the heart grow fonder? Does it? How long can someone stay mad over a few arguments? How long are husbands and wives supposed to be apart? Sometimes the legal system is awful.
I miss every last solitary thing about her. The most beautiful and compassionate woman I ever met in my life. The most generous and loyal wife anyone could ever have. I just wish she was still mine..
I know I'll be on pins and needles and an emotional wreck...Hell, I was married for 16 days before we separated, and now I face another divorce. Or the greatest day of my life if she decides to give me one more chance to make something of this marriage. All I need is one more chance. I swear it'll be fine. We have so much potential. We have so much potential.
But please God if anyone reads this - pray for me! I know some of you might not be Christians or probably have never been married, but keep me in your thoughts and prayers the next 2 weeks...
I have no clue how she's feeling...I can't call or talk or email or anything until we're face to face in court...Trust me I would if I could, but it would mean nothing if I got in trouble for it, again.
I guess all I can do is sit it out and wait for that important day is ahead of me and its taking every ounce of my heart to hold out for what seems like an eternity of mourning....every day waking up alone to an empty apartment...
We were married on my birthday, July 27th! I haven't seen her in person since august 31st..and even then we weren't allowed to speak or really be by each other...before that the last time we talked or saw each other was august 13th!!
Over a month ago...So you can about figure what I'm going through...every day at work being on the verge of crying. The other day it worked and I was in tears at my desk for my coworkers to see. I don't care anymore. I just want things to be back to normal. I have hope though. Maybe a miracle will happen..
All I want is my beautiful wife back in my arms...not just for 2 weeks, but for forever...that's what the vows were supposed to mean...
pray for me..
Dan
Huge tears fall down her face. She made it through reading the entire blog without shedding a tear, but when she got to the last few lines, her eyes drained.
Madame C offers her a hug.
A woman walks closer to the conversation.
Krystal-Hey there. I'm from out of town, I was told either an Aaron Deschanel or Dan Sherrill was around here, or possibly staying here on the beach.
Madame C-Who are you?
Krystal-Just a friend.
Mariah-You know my husband?
The Elara born attorney takes a deep breath before answering her, realizing who Mariah is.
Krystal-I, um, I've never met him.
Mariah-Why do you need to talk to him?
Krystal-Well, I'm assisting his case from this point on. The Father hired me. I guess I'm his guidance counselor, too. We've never even met. Just emails and I've talked to Dan a couple of times on the phone. I'm going to be meeting him for the first time, that is, if I can find him. I understand he has a daughter here.
Madame C gives Krystal a surprised look.
Krystal-I will say one thing, lady, you know your tarot cards.
The attorney makes her way to a nearbye coffee shop to find her new friend.
Mariah looks back at her walking friend.
Madame C-Consider things. You may stay here. I have an extra bed in my reading room. I'll get you something to eat. Not a word. I could use an assistant.
Krystal is told to find Dan with Maria and Clive, and his daughter, Gemma.
At around midnight, Mariah offers to close up the tarot shop for Madame C who has gone to bed for the night.
There is a slight breeze coming from the front door. She notices the door wide open and starting to close itself from the gust of wind.
She thinks to herself that it must be the waves from the beach.
Mariah-Who's there?
No one answers.
Suddenly, she feels something inside her. An unexpected feeling. She walks to a chair to catch her breath, as no one responds.
He walks through the doorway and sits down next to her and reaches for her hand.
The Father-You are with child.
Mariah-How?
The Father-He trusted you.
Mariah-This is a sign, yes?
The Father-You're pregnant. He doesn't know. You could skip town and never see him again. Delay the divorce until you've given birth to his child and never see or talk to him again, but you'll be alone with child. It's up to you.
She blinks and He's gone. Back to Heaven.
She sits on the chair, by herself, for an hour. She says nothing, and does nothing, aside from resting her hand on her stomach. Where people would start to see her gain weight from the pregnancy.
The next thing she hears is the sound of his voice. Talking to Krystal by the water only about 20 or so feet from the tarot shop.
Krystal-Are you ready for court? You know you have only about 4 days left.
Dan-I have no idea if I am or not, because I don't know what to prepare for. Do I prepare for love or prepare for emotional war? Do I prepare for my wife's homecoming to my heart, or do I take the ticket I was given to a new love who would do anything for me? Why can't anyone fucking take marriage seriously? I signed up for a lifetime with that girl. The last time I checked a lifetime wasn't 16 days!
Krystal-Shh. You don't want to wake up the whole beach.
Dan-I told her toward the end that I wanted to have a baby with her. Someone for Gemma to play with. Maybe a little sister or brother. I divorced my first wife because she wanted to have kids before I was ready and I did it to not keep her from finding a guy that was ready when I clearly wasn't.
Krystal-How are you magically ready now? With someone who walked out on you at the first sign of trouble?
Dan-That's just it. Maybe...
Krystal-Don't attempt something in order to keep her. I mean, do it for the right reasons. Not as a bargaining chip.
Dan-I understand.
Krystal-Hey, those two are out late.
Maria and Gemma are seen walking up to Dan.
Maria-Your daughter made this picture for you. To cheer you up. It's little more than a smiley face, but if you notice it says 'Cheer up, Dad.'
Mariah has been near the conversation, just out of view. She happens to catch a glimpse of the picture given to Dan.
She thinks to herself, 'that must be his daughter.' She then realizes that Gemma could have a sister or brother in a few months time.
She walks away from her hiding place and finds the keys to Madame C's car, and secretly drives to on site hospital.
Dr. Rae-May I help you, Miss?
Mariah-I'm here to see a doctor to confirm if I'm pregnant or not.
Dr. Rae-I can help you, come with me.
She walks with her toward an empty hospital room. She is told to lay down so the doctor can check her vital signs and x-ray her.
Dr. Rae-Are you married? Single? Seeing someone?
Mariah-I'm separated from my husband. Legally separated for another four days.
Dr. Rae-Then what?
Mariah-I don't know.
Dr. Rae-How long were you married before you separated?
Mariah-A little over two weeks.
Dr. Rae-How long did you date though before you got married?
Mariah-A month and a half. He asked me to marry me 5 days after meeting me. I held off the first time, but the next night I said 'Yes.'
Dr. Rae-I'll be right back with the x-ray results.
Ten minutes pass, and she sees the doctor walk back through the door, where Mariah has been waiting.
Dr. Rae-Mrs. Sherrill I have news for you. I have to ask, and pardon my brutal honesty, but considering that your husband is Commander in Chief of a star fleet, and a well liked resident in our beachside town, I think I need to caution you at this point.
Mariah-Caution?
Dr. Rae-I have the results from your pregnancy test.
Mariah-And?
Dr. Rae-You better put whatever made you leave him in the past for the sake of your unborn child. The divorce rate is too high to just up and leave when you have an argument. From one woman to another. Life doesn't work that way. Marriage doesn't. Define forever? Forever isn't a couple of weeks, lady. Get your head on straight. You can't say you've exhausted all efforts to repair the weak link in your marriage. I don't buy it. Look at people who have been married 25 years? You think they didn't ever fight, or get pissed off? They must have this great big secret, right? The truth is, there is no secret. It's easy. Don't give up! Don't you ever give up on the one you marry. Then who do you ever have left at the end of the day? You open your closet door and see your wedding dress and your rings and your marriage certificate and you sit and wonder what the fuck went wrong, and when you can't answer yourself logically then you miss him, right?
Tears are falling from Mariah's eyes, once more.
Mariah-You're right. You're so right.
Dr. Rae-Mrs. Sherrill, you are just short of two months pregnant. I'd say you probably conceived around August 5th or 6th, does that sound right?
Mariah-It does. That was the last time...Oh dear God.
She completely breaks down, and bows her head to cry. Dr. Rae walks closer and puts her arm around Mariah.
Dr. Rae-Do you think he would take you back?
Mariah-I have no idea. I won't know for a few more days. When we see each other. Last time we saw each other in court he could barely keep his eyes on me without having to wipe away tears. I don't know how it's going to go at all. I can't see myself raising this child on my own. We are barred from talking for four more days. I can't tell him I'm pregnant. God why can't I tell him I'm pregnant with his child!
Dr. Rae-Any names picked out?
Mariah-I didn't know I was pregnant. We weren't really trying to have a baby. Neither of us are rich. He liked the name Armando from that one beach show that was cancelled. I told him I wasn't giving our baby a name like that. Neither one of us are Spanish. I guess we weren't together long enough to pick out a name. This is really saddening me.
It is a little after midnight in the quiet beach front town. Dan is staying in Clive and Maria's guest room, as Mariah has cuddled up on the spare bed inside Madame C's tarot reading shop. She has read and reread his blog entry. There is a pile of tear filled tissues laying next to her bed. She now has an upcoming pregnancy to deal with.
She knows she can't call him, and that he can't call or email or see her, for that matter.
How will the news of the pregnancy affect him, muh less her.
There is a sheet of paper next to the bed, with about 12 possible baby names.
Dan wakes up in the middle of the night and walks downstairs to Gemma's room and walks to her side, and kneels by her bedside.
Dan-Daddy's here, my littlest angel.
She opens her eyes.
Gemma-What happened to you, dad?
Dan-I can't. I can't tell you.
Gemma-Was someone mean to you?
Dan-Honey, no matter how difficult this is for you to hear, I am married. I am missing her right now. I was asleep, but I'm so lonely. That's why I came here tonight. I guess you're to young to understand. Daddy got hurt. Very badly. I'm not totally innocent though. I let things and people get in the middle of my wife and I. We just fell apart.
Gemma-What about my mom? Don't you still like her?
Dan-She has Clive. He loves you a lot.
Gemma-I know. Just a thought. Why can't you just talk to your new wife?
Dan-We're legally separated. We can't talk for 4 more days. I've been dead inside for the last month and a half. Dead inside my heart. I've felt like I've been in jail. Oh Gemma.
He bows his head to cry, in front of his daughter.
She wraps her arms around him and smiles.
Gemma-You've always got me, daddy.
Dan-That's nice to hear.
More tears fall.
Maria notices the guest room door has been opened and walks downstairs to check on Dan.
She knocks on the bedroom door and walks in.
Maria-What's wrong, honey?
Gemma-Why did that lady hurt my dad?
Maria-We don't know, angel, we don't know.
She hears the doorbell ring. Twice. It's 12:36am.
Maria-Sorry, I'll be right back.
She walks toward the front door, hoping it didn't wake Clive.
Once the lock is undone and the door is opened, Maria walks outside to unveil the visitor.
Mariah-Is my husband here?
Maria-He is.
Mariah-May I see him?
Maria-No. You can't. Legally you can't.
Mariah-I'm pregnant. With his kid. Will you tell him that I'm here at the beach.
Maria-He already knows you are here. He's been told of your presence.
Mariah-I'm sleeping at the tarot place in town.
Maria gives her a questioning look.
Mariah-Do you know the lady who owns it?
Maria-So you really are pregnant?
Mariah-I went to the hospital here. Dr. Rae tested me and I'm going to have a baby in about 7 months.
There is a pause.
Maria-Come in. Have a seat. I could have you arrested and thrown the Holy Hell out of here and in jail, but you're lucky. Very lucky.
Mariah-Thank you.
She walks to Gemma's room.
Maria-Your wife is in the living. Stay in here, Dan. Gemma, you come with me.
Dan-Doesn't she want to see me?
Maria-She does. It might be a trap. I don't have $500 to give you like your sister did.
Mother and daughter exit the room, without Dan.
Maria-Gemma, this is Mariah Sherrill. Your stepmom. Go ahead introduce yourself. Sorry, Mariah, she's a little shy around strangers.
Gemma-Are you the lady who broke my daddy's heart?
Several huge teardrops begin to form from the emotion in her heart coming out.
Mariah-How do I answer that?
Maria-The truth. Don't lie to Dan's daughter.
Mariah-Your father and I had a fight. Over four days. We're separated because of it. He broke something of mine. We were at each other's throats for almost a week after we married. We needed a break. We needed something. We needed normal. We needed more love than we had to keep it going.
Dan slowly opens the bedroom door to overhear the conversation his daughter is having with his estranged wife.
Mariah-Your dad is one Hell of an amazing person. We scared each other. So much. He theatened to kill himself if I left him and I still did. He told me he didn't want me to end up a widow over this not working out. I can hear the seriousness in his voice. It haunts my dreams. It makes me uneasy.
Maria-You don't know him, though. He's easily calmed down.
Mariah-You're right. I don't know him. I miss him. Like mad. Most of the time I just lay awake and focus on the rings sitting on the table beside my bed. I ask myself all the time what on Earth made things so awful. Because they are awful right now. I went from finding a sweetheart. To getting engaged. To getting married and now separated from the one person I'm not supposed to be separated from. My husband. A wife can only go on so long with her choice to estrange herself from her beloved. I am so stubborn sometimes. He begged and pleaded and broke down and cried all over me for two days straight, but I wouldn't listen. I refused to listen, so he cried some more, and I refused some more, and then we were in court. I had to look at him, wearing an outfit that I bought him on my credit card, and he was looking so pittiful, like the damned life had been sucked out of him and he would fall apart at the very thought of something going wrong. I feared for my heart, too. I felt like I was at a funeral. Without my husband near me, I have felt like I have been in jail, too.
Dan is openly crying, trying not to be seen by her.
Maria senses him, listening to the conversation, and motions him to remain out of view for fear of an arrest trap.
Maria-Mariah?
Mariah-Yes?
Maria-I know you're not religious, but may I pray with you. You could use to seek God's guidance with your marriage. It can be saved, but only by your hands. A wife is always supposed to be supportive. That's 'Marriage 101.'
Mariah-Sure.
Maria-On one condition.
Mariah-What is it?
Maria-Close your eyes. Tight. As tight as you possibly can.
Mariah-Okay they are.
She walks to the bedroom and signals for Dan to follow her into the living room, and to sit by Mariah, hand in hand, during the prayer.
She figures you have to see the other person for their to be contact, right?
Maria-Gemma, bow your head, my girl.
All eyes are closed, and all four heads are bowed.
Maria-Dan, do you want to start?
He holds onto Mariah's hand, and Gemma's with his other hand.
Dan-Dear God, I just want to pray for my wife right now. As much as I'm sure you've heard me rattle on about how much I miss her, I just want to say thank you for her. She's nothing short of precious. To me. I know I'll be an emotional wreck on Thursday, but tonight, right now, with my daughter, and her mother, and my wife here, I'm not so bad. Please look after Mr. and Mrs. Sherrill on Thursday. We are both going to need it. We need this to work. I have a couple of 'Plan B' options if she strays for good, but I don't want to cash them in. I am a Christian husband. I believe in marriage and true love. I believe in all of it. I believe in you! I do not know how I will be after we go in front of the judge. I pray sometimes that you end up being that very judge that decides my fate. I not only mis her, but I also mourn her beautifully sexy body next to mine in the morning. We have so much potential. I would just hate for it to go to waste. Please don't take my wife away from me again. That would damage me for a lifetime. Look at her, Lord, isn't she beautiful? I know you chose her for me. All the signs pointed that way. Thanks for putting the rainbow, that day, right by her apartment. I saw it. It was beautiful. I was hopeful after that. I miss her, God, I miss her fresh baked cookies. I miss it when she'd make cornish hens in the oven, and we'd sit and watch movies together. I could tell you every single one of them.
He can't keep from crying, but feels Mariah use her hands to dry his eyes.
Dan-I miss her soft bed, and holding her through the night, even though I would snore sometimes. She never complained. I remember the last night we were happy. She took me to dinner and we had the sweetest time. We've been through so much, God, please. I'm pleading with you. Don't take my wife from me. She's all I have.
He can't even form any more words, there are too many tears falling.
Dan-She's...all I have. Please don't take her from me. If I've ever asked you for anything. Anything! Please God, don't take my wife away from me again.
Maria-Dear Lord, I just pray for these two to work out there differences and to have the honest chance at marriage that they know they both deserve. Not talking to each other isn't going to get them anywhere. They will be apart for so long that they'll forget how to kiss each other. How to make love. How to shower together. He'll forget how she taught him how to get the soap out of his eyes, when taking a shower. These things and memories are supposed to be forever in a marriage. Separation is always a long term solution to a temporary problem. I don't care who she is. I don't care if he knew her 46 days or 40 years before marrying her. These two were joined together by you. That much I am positive of.
Dan and Mariah feel Maria's hands on both of their shoulders.
Maria-Lord, I just pray that these two be reunited on Thursday. They've waiting and stuck it out long enough. Please don't let this bond and these special times that they have shared go to waste. Find it in your heart, Lord, to watch over them. Watch over this family.
Hearing Maria refer to them as a family causes Mariah to unleash several tears.
Mariah-Dear God, I know I don't often talk to you like this. I am married. I guess it never really had a chance to sink into my heart. Maybe it was that it happened in a courthouse instead of a church, but it's starting to. I see how much I have hurt this man of mine. We have hurt each other, and for what reason? Our stubborn nature was our undoing. I think I have had enough time to realize our mistakes. We are a blessed family. Family should come first. Always. Why didn't it ring true this time?
She pauses.
Dan feels her hand holding his tightly now.
Opening her eyes has revealed more tears. This time he is the first to wipe them away from her eyes and cheek.
Mariah-I don't know how I will feel or be on Thursday. I know it's going to tear you apart, honey. I know this last month has torn you apart. I am torn apart, too. You can't just watch your husband vanish and not feel at a complete loss. Wistful. It was hard as Hell to see your mom, and aunt and your friends in court. I was at a loss. I had to sit by myself and cry. They wouldn't let me say anything.
He slowly opens his eyes.
Dan-I love you. I hope that the sentiment you're feeling now will translate in court.
Mariah-I hope so, too. I want to take you home with me, but I don't want to spell more trouble for you. More trouble than what I've already caused for you. Danny?
Dan-Yes?
Mariah-Do I disgust you?
Dan-You already asked me that before. You never could make me unlove you. I was disgusted with the situaton and how far out in left field we were in.
Mariah-Can we go and get the ball and keep playing baseball, since it was knocked way out in left field?
Dan-That's what my baseball cleats are for. Running after a ball in left field.
Mariah-I'm pregnant.
A hush falls over the room. Even Gemma has lifted her head.
Dan-You are?
Mariah-I know you broke up with your first wife because she wanted kids, how do you feel now that we are going to have a baby together?
Dan-Was it the one time I'm thinking it was?
Mariah-Yeah. I'm going to have a baby. Your baby.
His cell phone rings.
Dan-Hang on, I'll get that.
Krystal-Are you okay?
Dan-Yeah, why?
Krystal-I'm just checking. Are you alone?
Dan-I'm at Maria's house. I'll be staying here until Thursday.
Krystal-Call me as soon as you reach your attorney's office parking lot. I wish I could be there. Just keep me as your life support.
Dan-I will.
Krystal-Good night, my dear friend. I've learned a lot about you and the Ileys tonight.
She hangs as he gives Mariah the same confused and seirous look that he left her with before answering the phone.
Dan-A baby?
Mariah-Yes. A baby.
He stands up and walks a few steps away from her.
Dan-We have to be able to talk freely to have a child.
Mariah-I know. I'm going to be staying at the tarot shop until Thursday.
Dan-I've been there.
Mariah-I miss you.
Dan-I miss you, too. I guess I will see you on Thursday.
Mariah-Don't give up. Fight for me. Just please, don't give up.
Dan-I will.
He sends her away for the night with a kiss on her forehead.
She walks, alone, back to the tarot shop and lays down to sleep on the borrowed bed. Dreaming of what the next few days will be like.
Morning hits early for both of them. Mariah offers to help manage the shop and Dan is content with hanging out with Annie, and his daughter. Trying to think of ways to distract him from the danger that may be ahead for both of them.
The list is complete. Stephen and Zerahemnah have devised a plan to find Karolina and return her to her former husband, and out of love with Joseph S.
Zerahemnah-I have everyone contacted. The Lamanites will happily tear apart Heaven in their search for Karolina Scott.
Stephen-I appreciate the anomosity in this timely situation. I believe we need to destroy Heaven. Strand by strand. Mile by mile. I will reclaim Karolina.
Zerahemnah-The records of my original defeat will be erased. I will help you.
Little do either of them know that Jesus has been monitoring the conversation from Heaven, with The Father.
Jesus-Joseph is a liability to our Heaven.
The Father-I realize this now. Well, we can't kick him out because of this, but we can hide him safer, don't you think?
Jesus-I'm worried about Dan, as well. He will be devastated if anything goes wrong in court on Thursday.
The Father-I am preparing myself, too. In case he needs me. I want to be able to be there for him. I hope Krystal was of help to him.
His cell phone rings.
The Father-Hello?
Krystal-If you must know, he's ready. I just talked to him again. I brought a friend. Dan and I had drinks on North Iley. He couldn't sleep and neither could I. He's fine. I'm sorry I couldn't see him in court, but I'll leave that one up to you, from a far.
The Father-Thank you, Krystal.
Krystal-I'm going to do a follow with him a few days after court. Maybe next Monday. Maybe I'll be his life support. He's a sweet kid.
The Father-I know we have a history, but you're welcome to see Dan whenever you want. You'd be a magnificent addition to Wooden Box Theater and the North Ileys.
Krystal-I'll give it some thought.
When she hangs up both Jesus and The Father feel a strange presence walk close to the conversation.
A hooded man hands Jesus a slip of paper, then walks away.
The Father-Who or what was that?
Jesus-I don't know. Let's have a look.
He opens the tiny folded note and reads outloud.
The rule is reborn
Signed - Laman
Remember 'Sometime after the year AD 400'
The Father-Relax, he's gone.
Jesus-What does this mean?
The Father-Remember your adventure in the Americas, after the cross?
Jesus-The one they wrote about?
The Father-Gold plates or something like that. I believe that one of the groups of people back then, might be holding a reunion...
Jesus-And we are the targets?
The Father-No. But Karolina might be.
Jesus-But she's Joseph's soul mate.
The Father-Who is behind the reunion?
Jesus-More mysteries surround this tiny slip of paper that I have in my hand. We must act fast. We can't risk the millions we house up here in Heaven.
He pulls the comlink from His pocket.
Jesus-Red alert! Red alert! People of Heaven. A dangerous renuion is set to take place.
His voice is projected throughout all of Heaven.
Jesus-Listen to me! If you see or spot a Lamanite, run! They are said to be highly dangerous.
The next thing heard of the disaster siren. A siren that is rarely, if ever, heard.
A woman, child in hand, in the Brush District of Heaven, kneels before the photo of Jesus on her living room wall. She smells fire and runs to the basement, to escape the group of evil doers, rampaging through the streets of her hometown, Cesslwire, Heaven.
More attacks are reported. To Noah. And to Isaiah.
Noah-We can't hold them off much longer. How did so many of them reunite! What do they want?
Jesus answers him, on the other end of the phone line.
Jesus-We need to take supportive action to preserve this day and the days that follow.
She rests peacefully on the ever important day. The few days on the beach have proven to be very calming to her. She leaves a note for Madame C and makes her way to her shuttle and back home, to North Iley. With a host of things to ponder and think about.
Once leaving work from a shortened four hour shift, he makes his way through the twenty or so mile journey home from his job on East Kaesa to his hometown. He manages to turn the dial on his car stereo to a few of their songs. Music that reminds him of a simpler time when all there was and ever would be were her precious eyes looking into his. Every morning and night.
He stops to pick up an energy drink, to keep him from crying in the car. He has to be strong.
A familiar name flashes across his caller ID screen.
Krystal-Fight for this marriage. I wanted to call you again and tell you that I would love to be in Wooden Box Theater. I really wish I could be there now, really. I feel bad that you are going through this. I held back the other night when we talked on North Iley. A LOT. Just so you know. I know your friends were there and stuff, but I want to reiterate what I said. 'Whatever was meant to be, will happen!' I am not here to judge you by any means. I am happy that I went up there, and it was great working with you.
Dan-I am pulling up to my attorney's office right now. I remember last time I was here they were tearning up the parking lot and he and I had to walk through still damp blacktop. A lot has happened since that fateful day that I sat and cried on my aunt and mom's shoulder. I don't know what's going through her head right now. I have no idea. I don't really know how I will be once it's over. Shaken. Broken. Badly beaten. I know I will cherish the Hell out of that beautiful wife of mine. Even if she decides to run fast away from me once court is over. I honestly don't know what to expect. I can write novels and do theater performances trying to predict the outcome. Either way. But the truth is that I'm scared. Freightned and an emotional wreck right now. I know I could walk in there, with my attorney and she might just have my wedding band ready for me to talk and take her back, and would I? It would be strange for the first few minutes of holding hands with her. I never forgot our first kiss. At the wrestling pay per view. I never met a more angelic woman in all of my life.
Krystal-Then you go in there and you fight like you've never fought before for her love and her loyalty. Given all that you told me at the coffee shop about her love and dedication to you, both in her heart and with her pocketbook, she loves you. She knows she loves you. She's probably scared that all of this has made you love her less.
Dan-Well, I don't. It'll be strange because I will have to learn to love her again. She will have to go back to being the beautiful girl I found off the internet and drove 40 miles to watch wrestling with. That's the honest to God truth.
Krystal-Dear God, I just pray that you watch over Mr. and Mrs. Dan Sherrill during their day in court. I know it will destroy both of them to be apart any longer than they have to be. He is a sweet guy, Lord, just protect him and his wife as they try to make sense of this bitterly emotional situation. I've spent time with him. I've chatted on the phone with him and online. I helped him with his car trouble and with his play the other night. God, he's so dedicated to this marriage being saved. I almost wish there were more like him out there. He doesn't deserve this. Neither of them do. They deserve a honeymoon together. Like a husband and wife do.
Dan-Dear God, just please, please watch over me as I try to win back my marriage and my wife. I know I fail you often. I know I do it. I do things that make you shake your head at me sometimes, but this time I know you were smiling down at me when I met this beautiful woman. I felt it in my heart. Much different than Mythaq Osterly or any of the others. I know this one was from you. All the signs were there. Every last one of them. All from you. The rainbow by her apartment. The shamrocks all over her apartment. The smile on her face tells me nothing but God loves me. Somehow, you still love. To put someone in my life like Mariah means that you love me, still. I know I've bugged you about this girl or that one, but this time all I have in my heart is to please ask you to save my marriage. I am putting this one in your hands to do with it as you wish. I know that outcome right now looks painful. We didn't leave on good terms. I no longer have my wedding band on. It's in its original box. In a drawer, probably. Please God, if you're out there. Listen to my humble prayer and know that I trust whatever you decide of my marriage. I am just a husband wanting and longing for the day he can look at his beautiful bride and know that she's going to be there when I wake up friday. That's all I could ever ask you for. Please don't take my wife away from me, again.
Her phone rings.
Krystal-Honey, I don't mean to do this, but The Father is on the phone.
The Father-Tell him I want this to work out ask much as he does. If not more.
Suddenly His other line rings.
The Father-Hello?
Admiral Osterly-I am going to win!
The Father-Excuse me, Osterly?
Osterly-You better hope and pray Dan doesn't walk into his attorney's office!
The Father-Why is that?
Osterly-Something is waiting for him.
The Father-What is?
Osterly-I have finally gained the upper hand.
The Father-I'm not following you.
Osterly-Would you like to talk to Pastora Condon?
The Father-Not very much. What's with all the secrecy?
Osterly-Bait.
The Father-What do you want?
Osterly-Our land back. As 'Inventors' that is our main goal. We finally have bait to tempt you with. You friend's wife. Papers are inside that will throw him over the edge.
The Father-Divorce papers?
Osterly-You catch on fast. We were hired. Pettel is behind this. We worked very closely with Dan's wife. I'm sorry that you couldn't see that Dr. Rae was in on it, too, to hide the false pregnancy from everyone on the beach, including her husbamd.
The Father can be heard throwing things in His office. And then His desk chair is thrown across the room, breaking a sizable hole into the wall.
Jesus races to the office.
Jesus-Dad, are you okay?
The Father-Dan is being set up. Admiral Osterly just called me. We must put Heaven on even redder alert!
Jesus-Why would she join him on the beach?
The Father-She was probably wired.
Jesus-I'm sorry, Dad, I knew you wanted this to be real.
The Father switches back to Krystal.
Krystal-What is it?
The Father-Tell Dan to meet his attorney at the court house. Do not let him go into the office. Alone. Something terrible awaits him if he does. I'm worried about him.
A car pulls up next to Dan's and the two women walk closer to the car.
Iva-Whoever you're on the phone with, is right. This has been a trap from Admiral Osterly to secure the date of the 'End of the World' for their own no good. It's just like them to befriend the Ileys and the Nelari people a few novels ago and then destroy the peace with us that they had forged.
Violet-I truly am sorry. There never should've been this marriage now to deal with. It's going to break records for it's dramatic outcome. At least you know the truth now, before you and your attorney take the walk from here, down a few blocks and inside the courtroom. This was a plot by the 'Inventors' to secure a secret date. Not to have you fall in love. Like I know you did. Your friend, Addie, will meet up with you in a couple of weeks to go over strategy. I have something for you, though.
She hands him his North Iley badge. He applies it to his dress shirt, for good luck.
Commander Aaron Deschanel
North Iley Starfleet
Aaron-Let's hope it still fits. If all else fails, I have members of my family and friends awaiting me in a few minutes. Then we'll see if this little charade can be brushed over by some actual true love headed my way.
Violet-I always did love your optimism. You have a lot of living to do between now and March. Go to court. We'll walk up separate and meet you outside when it's over. She doesn't know our faces. Being twice divorced should not come up until you decide to marry again. Do not, for any reason, go into the next relationship and start it off by telling her you're awaiting a divorce. That'll scare anyone away. I want you to take anything and everything down off your websites and your life that reminds you of this and move on. As long as there are raves to go to and line dances to do and slow dances to ask cowgirls to do with you, then you're fine. Don't let this one thing hinder your life any more than it needs to. And it doesn't need to at all. That's the best advice I can give you.
Iva-As much as I've fought and shouted at you in the past, I can't help but agree with Violet on this. You could totally withdrawl from life. Quit Wooden Box Theater. Quit your job. Go home. Sit there and weep until you still don't have her back. If you see her today, she will not be the woman you fell in love with. How should I put this? She'll be a totally different person. A stranger. Someone you haven't been around for almost two months. She was hired to steal the Date of the 'End of the World' from you. Don't forget that. She faked a pregnancy! Admiral Osterly hired her to put God out of business, but don't fail God. Keep the date secret. She left you, He never will. Think of it that way. We'll have to have a beer on North Iley when this is all over. Maybe Friday night.
Violet-Here's a letter.
He opens it to read the writing from Emperor Gelfa, his friend.
Aaron,
The Nelari that are still on Iley have pledged to help the Ileys protect you. Everyone knows the Nelari and the Ileys are bitter rivals, but it looks like you have an ever more bitter rival on your hands than us. We never thought it possible, but we have to take one step at a time. Be glad you didn't disclose any information that could be used against The Father. Whatever you do, don't let your emotions end the world.
Emperor Gelfa, of Nelari
and your friend.
Aaron-Thank you.
Iva-Go on. Walk on your own. I think they said your case was on the second floor again.
Violet-Honey, we'll meet up with you later. We want to get a bird's eye view of the results of the case. No one would suspect us hanging out together, so we have to keep it that way. Go with your chin up. You could either lose and break down and give her the satisfaction of seeing you bleed tears through your eyes or stand up for yourself and make yourself the 'face' instead of the 'heel,' if you know what I mean. If you go in there as the defendant they will eat you alive! Go in and reverse the roles a little. You deserve at least that much. At the end of the day you are still 'You.' She hasn't taken that away, and cannot crush you as much as she may think she can. Just do me and Iva a favor. We need a rival. We have that in you. You're our beloved rival. You and your Wooden Box Theater. I would hate to be in competition in that field. I would hate for someone to hate and want to crush you more than your favorite villains. Me and Iva. Be good, dear.
He gives them one last smile as he walks alone, down the main street of his hometown, awaiting the judge's ruling on not only his legal separation, but also his pending divorce, while The Father has foiled his most lethal opponent, by winning again.
The End.
To Be Continued in October with
Alia and the Boy: Leftover Falling Sparks
Special thanks to Rachel Brunson, Colleena Corrigan, John Hadley, Bill Leighly, Susan Colby, Chris Ebert, Seaworthy, Julie Nelson, Aleta Bumbar, Chenelle Davis, Ted Apollo, Making April, John and Kickstand Productions, The Felix Culpa, Anberlin, Underoath, Leslie and Ruthie, Tom from Art if Forever, Barb, Bretne, Ryan B, Energy Thursdays, Rachel Verona, Ericia, Ryan Read and Stephanie, Matt Aldis, Brandon Smith, Jim Lohmiller, Matt Carlson, An East Hazel Tango, Halifax, Armor for Sleep, Paul Heyman, Briana Price, Heather and KJ Dan, Steve and Cathy, Connie and Benny, Christine, DJ Chris from the Cadillac Ranch, Kaisa Vala, My dear friend Nita, Andrea Ruetten, Bret Beetham, Brian Long, Tricia Hampton, Daisy Dexter Dobbs, Laura Hogg and all of my author friends on Myspace. Everyone at the Energy Thursdays Extreme Hawaiian Foam Party on August 17th. The greatest club dancing night ever!
Special thanks to everyone who's come to see Wooden Box Theater live at the House Cafe in DeKalb, IL. And everyone who cheers for me at karaoke.
I'd personally like to thank God for getting me through this novel. It was probably the hardest one of the series to write. I think it's a perfect mix of Sci-Fi, Romance, and Christian Mystery. See what you think.
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