Congratulations !
You have been awarded points.
Thank you for !
- Story Listed as: Fiction For Adults
- Theme: Survival / Success
- Subject: Adventure
- Published: 05/13/2023
Clark and the Ring of Fortune
Born 1997, F, from MO, United StatesThe Precious Ring of Fortune (part 1)
Chapter 1
It was quiet… too quiet. That could only mean that danger was near. I turned around to face the cave's entrance where I could hear the grunting of my brother and the swinging of the shovel as it dug deeper into the tunnel. “Hey,” I called to him, “I think that is far enough for today.” My brother grunted again then he called back, “Nah, I think we should cover more. Besides, I think I’m getting closer to something interesting.” I got out my battery radio from my pack and I turned it on listening closely. “Seems like the weatherman is predicting a storm for the southern part of Lémon today about the evening,” the man on the radio said, “But what the scientist are saying is even more interesting. They are saying any time a big earthquake is going to happen right at the Evermore Caves. Any of the people out there should evacuate immediately just in case it does happen today, but I don’t see why since today is such a beautiful day with no clouds and a bright yellow sun. All you people just stay safe and don’t do anything that would cause a lot of trouble to man. Bollard signin’ off.”
I took a second to take in this information then I turned back to the cave and yelled to my brother, “I think we should call it a day! On the radio, that man said the scientists were saying an earthquake was going to happen soon. You better get out of there!” My brother growled in frustration and yelled back, “I’m going to find that thing that old man was talking about and I’m going to do it alone since you doubt me!” The rumbling started suddenly then the whole ground started to shake and then the rocks fell from off the top of the cave. “Get out of there as fast as you can!” I yelled to my brother, “The earthquake is starting! Get out of there, David!” He grunted as he went deeper and then said back (loud enough so I could hear him), “No Clark, I’ve got to do this. I saw what was on this wall. It’s gotta be me, it’s my fate and you can’t stop that!” I was torn between running for shelter and staying here with my brother to save him so I decided to stay here. “Run for it Clark,” David called to me. I yelled back, “No David, I’m not going anywhere till you are beside me! That’s what brothers do! They don’t leave each other’s side till both are safe.” Then there was another rumble and then the whole front of the cave collapsed.
Chapter 2
I dove out of the way of the falling rocks, but David was no more. I coughed the dust out of my mouth then called out, “David! David! Are you okay? David, answer me!” I ran over to the cave entrance and looked for a way inside, but it was too late to save him. I called 911 and when they got there, even they said it was too late to save David. I went back home after I gathered my stuff in misery. When I got back, I sat down in my chair by the fireplace thinking this over. My brother was gone, and it was my entire fault that he was dead. I knew people would start to wonder why he wasn’t showing up, so I planned a funeral and then I quit my job as a redneck explorer of old caves. I began to work for a high school as a security guard, and I didn’t like the sound of it, but I did it anyway. I couldn’t go back to a job if I had to do it alone without David there. I didn’t mind the job; the teens didn’t give me any trouble on my first day and I guess it wasn’t all that bad.
Days passed by and nothing happened till one day, a man in black cowboy boots came into the school. I didn’t suspect anything at first till he pulled out a gun and yelled, “Everybody on the ground before I start shooting!” The students, staff, and janitors did exactly that while I narrowed my eyes and tried to get closer to the guy without being seen. The man pointed his pistol at the principal and asked fiercely, “Where is the ring? Tell me and no one gets hurt!” Principal Randy stood up slowly and said, “I have no idea what you are talking about, sir, honestly I don’t.” The man jabbed him in the chest with the gun and said, “Yes, you do. Where is the Ring of Fortune? Quickly, before I lose my temper.” I came up behind him, the principal saw me and said, “You better get out of my school before someone calls the police.” The man narrowed his eyes and said, “You seem to act tough, but I know you aren’t. This is your last warning. Tell me now or you die along with all these kids and adults.”
Then I decided that this has gone too far so I said, “Why don’t you and I step outside so I can tell you how a retired redneck fights?” He turned around and I punched him in the face. He flew away from me against a wall and then he stood up saying, “It’s the redneck Clark Harris, what is the name of the world are you doing here? Aren’t you still doing what you were doing with your brother?” I stepped towards him and said, “I retired from being a redneck, but seems my old job came in handy since you are here. Put down that gun before someone gets hurt.” He stared at me with surprise and stuttered, “Of course Mr. Harris sir. Whatever you say. I-I’ll do it right now!” He put the gun down on the ground and then put his hands up in the air. “Well now that wasn’t so hard,” I commented to him, “Now, someone call the police before he decides to change his mind.” A student stood up, took out his cell phone, and called them quickly. In no time at all, the police showed up and took that man away.
Chapter 3
Principal Randy walked up to me and said, “I’m glad you took a job here, Clark. You did an amazing job saving the staff, students, and me.” I gave a small smile and said, “I’m glad too. I’d hate to think of what would have happened to innocent people if I had not been here. I wonder what he was talking about when he said, ‘The Ring of Fortune’. I guess it must be very valuable if someone wants it that bad.” The principal shrugged and said, “I have no idea why he would look
for it here, but I hope he doesn’t get it anytime soon. I suppose you have to go since it is after school and you probably have things to do.” I sighed and said, “Yeah, I probably should get it. I’ve got to do some research on this Ring of Fortune and see why it’s so valuable.” Principal Randy said, “Yeah. Goodbye, Clark.” “Goodbye sir,” I said then I headed out and went back home. I got on my laptop and typed ‘Ring of Fortune’ into the search bar then I clicked enter. So many things popped up that it took me a while to go through it all. I about gave it up till one website caught my attention. I clicked on it and it came up as a website of old legends. It said: ‘The Ring of Fortune was said to have the power the grant one wish to whoever touches it before the red dawn of the second full moon on May 21st. It has the greatest power that can set back the ways of time and stop those from dying. It can give immortal life to whoever wishes it, but they have to be the first to touch it before the time runs out. The Ring of Fortune can be found in the cave that is called Evermore. The cave is called that because it was said to have powers of its own. Those who try to find it must beware that it could kill you since it has a mind of its’ own. Beware…” I thought over this and it seemed that the thing my brother David was looking for was the very ring itself, but now it was up to me to find it.
That meant that I had to go back to the cave and go into it alone not knowing the dangers inside of it. I packed a bag full of supplies that I would need for the task and then I headed out. Meanwhile, news that I was going after the ring spread across the school and it caught a student’s attention. Back to me, I was standing at the cave’s entrance thinking how I should remove all the rubble from the front when I heard footsteps coming up from behind me. I whipped around and I saw a student that looked like he could be a senior in high school. “What are you doing here,” I asked him trying not to sound startled. “I thought you could use some help so here I am,” he said, “My name is Adam and I want to come with you.” I sighed and said, “It’s going to be dangerous Adam. I don’t know if your parents or the school will like it if I let you come along. You might get hurt.” Adam smiled and said, “I can take care of myself, so I won’t get hurt. Please let me come with you! I’ve always wanted an adventure and here’s my chance.”
I thought about this then I said, “Fine, but I don’t get any crap if you get injured or bitten by something in that cave.” His smile broadened then he said, “That’s cool with me, but how are we going to get inside the cave?” I gave a small smile and said, “Don’t worry, I’ve got that covered.” I reached into my pack and brought out a stick of dynamite, set it at the top of the cave’s entrance, lit it, and then ran for cover with Adam behind me. It exploded with awesome force and the entranced was completely revealed. I stepped out from behind a huge boulder and said, “That is how I planned to get inside. Not bad, eh?” “Not bad at all.” I turned around quickly and saw one of the high school staff standing behind me. It was Ms. Kelly Walker. “What are you doing here,” I asked her. She smiled and said, “I’m coming with you into the cave of course. You’re not going without me.” I sighed with frustration and asked, “Is everyone at the school going to come with me or is it just you two?” Adam came out from hiding and said, “Looks like it’s just us. We’re a team like Indiana Jones!”
Kelly Walker narrowed her eyes and said, “I’m not a damsel in distress so no, we are not like Indiana Jones. Not even close.” “Well if we all are going into the cave then come on,” I said, “I don’t have all day.” I picked up my pack after I got out three flashlights and we went into the cave. Deeper and deeper we went into the unknown. I shined my light on the path and then we came upon a skeleton. Adam stared at it and Kelly gasped. I knelt down beside it and looked at it real closely. “What does he want with an old skeleton,” Adam asked Kelly and she shrugged. I stood up and said, “That skeleton is what is left of my brother when he came down here. I hope he didn’t die slowly when he got trapped in here. Come on, let’s go.”
I led the way till the cave started to go downwards into the earth. My light landed on a spider and I jumped. “What is it,” Kelly asked me. I said, “It’s nothing, just a spider. Ugh, I hate spiders.” She looked at Adam and they both smiled then they followed me downwards. “Stop,” I said suddenly, and they immediately did just that. I look over the edge and saw if we went any further we would have fallen off a cliff that went straight down a long way. “What do we do,” Adam asked aloud. I set down my pack and pulled out some rope saying, “A little cliff doesn’t bother me. I brought this just in case we would need it.” I tied one end to a secure rock and then tossed the rest down into the abyss. I climbed down with Kelly behind me and Adam bringing up the rear. Once we were at the bottom we continued onwards then we stopped at the end of the tunnel. “I think we are here,” Kelly said aloud, “But where is the ring?” I looked around and said, “I don’t know, but I will keep looking for it.” We froze when we heard the click of a gun.
Chapter 4
I slowly turned around and saw a bald man with dark shades pointing a pistol at me with four other guys dressed the same behind him. “Where is the ring,” he asked, “I know you know where it is.” I took a step forward boldly and said, “I don’t know, but I wouldn’t tell you if I did.” The man in sunglasses took a step toward me and said, “Oh really? Well, I can get it out of you if I tried. What will it be, Clark? I won’t wait all day.” I narrowed my eyes and said, “I don’t know where it is. That’s all I’m going to say to a ruffian like you.” He growled and said, “I guess I can’t use the nice way. Get them.” The men behind him charged at us and we tried to fight them, but in the end, they got us. Two held my arms while the other two held on to Kelly and Adam. The man in sunglasses then asked, “Are you going to talk now, Clark? Or do I have to make you?” I struggled between the two guys and said, “I think you are going to have to make me because I don’t know.” The man pointed the gun right at my side and said, “So be it.”
Then he fired it, I clenched my teeth trying not to cry out in pain and then Adam yelled, “Leave him alone you bully! He doesn’t know!” The man pointed the gun at him and said, “So you say. How do I know that you are not lying to me?” Adam swallowed nervously and said, “I’m not, but neither of us knows where that ring is or where to look. All we know is that this is the cave where is it supposed to be.” The man narrowed his eyes and said, “I don’t believe you. Looks like I’m going to have to teach you some manners, kid.” I struggled harder as the man stepped closer and closer to Adam menacing him with the gun; I ignored the pain in my side as I fought to protect him. I kicked the guy holding my right arm in the shins and he released me as I kicked him again. Then I slammed my fist into the other guy's face, he cried out in pain and that caught their leaders’ attention. He turned to me just as I punched a point in his arm just below the shoulder, paralyzing his gun arm. He cried out in pain and I punched his stomach. He bent over; I grabbed his shoulders and kneed him in the gut twice. Then the men that I had already beaten up grabbed me from behind.
Once they had me pinned down, the man with the sunglasses raised his gun right at my head and said, “Well you put up a good fight for a retired redneck. Any last words before you’re ended for good?” I looked at him and said, “Your gun isn’t loaded, and the police are going to be here real soon.” Just as soon as I finished saying that, we heard police sirens outside the cave and then one of the police said, “There they are! Get away from those folks before we shoot you and put your hands in the air!” The man in sunglasses and his men did what they were told immediately. I found out there was a warrant for their arrest, they were taken to jail for kidnapping and murdering several young adults. I got my side bandaged and then Kelly and Adam walked up to me. “How did you know the police were coming,” Adam asked me. I smiled and looked at them saying, “I didn’t. But that ring really came in handy at that time.” They looked at me confused and Kelly asked, “What ring?”
I raised a golden ring with a ruby on it and said, “This one. I found it in my brother’s hand, and I plan to donate it to the museum so they can do some research on it. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, but I didn’t want those guys to know I did have it.” Adam smiled and said, “You led them on a wild goose chase. I get it now! So what do you plan to do now that you completed this mission?” I thought about it for a second and then said to them, “I think I’m still going to work as the security guy for your school if Principal Randy says it’s okay.” Kelly smiled and said, “Good because we need someone like you to protect the students that have experience in fighting.” We went our separate ways till school started the next day, but I had to take the day off because my side was still healing. The story spread across the town like wildfire on a windy day. When I got back to the school to continue working, I got asked several times about it, but I didn’t mind. I put this act in the back of my mind until one day; this act will be brought back up in a different situation.
******
The Precious Ring of Fortune (Part 2)
Chapter 1
It was a dark night when two men were walking along a sidewalk taking in the peaceful night. Suddenly, nearby there was a scream that was soon cut off by a gunshot. The taller one of the men turned to the other and asked, “What was that?” The smaller man shrugged and said, “I have no clue. Do you have your cell phone?” The taller man nodded, pulled it out, and dialed 911. It rang for a little bit till someone answered.
“Hello this is 911, what is your emergency?”
“Hello, we need the police. We heard a gunshot that cut off a scream northeast of us.”
“What is your location?”
“On a curb between the streets of Lima Avenue and 114th Street.”
“We’ll send someone out there.”
“Thank you.”
The police worked to find where the scream came from and they found a woman with dark hair lying in a pool of blood with a shot wound to her chest. A man said he was walking by the house when he heard an argument, a scream then a gunshot. Then he said something that caught the police’s attention, he said when he heard the argument, he heard a name mentioned. It was the name, Clark Harris.
Chapter 2
The next day, Clark was out in his field shooting at his target with his rifle. Since he had his earplugs in, he didn’t hear the homicide detectives’ car drive up. “Mr. Harris,” one of the detectives called to him. He lowered his gun, took out his earplugs, and said, “Hello detectives. Beautiful day, isn’t it?” The larger detective said, “Indeed it is. May I ask what you are doing?” Clark nodded towards the target and said, “Target practicing. Gotta keep practicing if I’m going to get my aim right.” “Indeed,” said the larger detective then he asked, “Do you own any other guns, Mr. Harris?” Clark nodded saying, “Yeah, two pistols, but I hardly use them. Why?”
“Do you own an assault rifle?”
“No, seen them, know them, but I’ve never owned one.”
“Why not?”
“I’ve never taken interest in them. Aren’t they illegal?”
“Yes, but one was used to kill someone last night.”
“What?”
The broad-shouldered detective took out a picture of a woman with dark hair and asked, “Do you know this woman, Mr. Harris?”
“I’ve seen her at the store once or twice, but I don’t really know her.”
“Seems like she knows you.”
“Well, that’s not really a surprise because I used to be a famous redneck explorer.”
“Well, it seems like it was serious when you were mentioned. If you hear anything let us know. Oh and do you have anyone that hates you at all?”
“There was someone who hated me because their brother got put in jail. He said it was because of me and that he would get me back for it.”
“What were their names?”
“I think his name was Felix Webster and his brother’s name is Ivan Webster.”
“Okay, again, call us if you hear anything.”
He handed Clark his card then both of them left. Clark looked at the card with a lot on his mind, but he put his earplugs back in and continued to shoot at the target with his rifle. Later he went back inside. The next day he was sitting on his favorite chair when his mother, Sandy, confronted him. “You got into more trouble, didn’t you,” she accused him. He looked up from his newspaper and asked, “What?” Sandy waved her finger in his face and said, “You have people after you. I heard all about it from the detectives. Why, Clark? Why did you have to go after it?” Clark put his newspaper aside and said, “I went after the ring because it sounded interesting. You should know that would’ve caught my attention because of who I am. Okay, I admit that it might not have been the best idea I’ve had, but if I didn’t get it then others would have tried to do bad things with the ring, so I had to.”
She growled and said, “No, you did not have to. You could have gone to the police and told them what you knew. If you did then we wouldn’t be in this mess. I don’t care if you were interested in the Ring of Future, but I will care if these people get you.” He stood up and said, “No one is going to get me. I can take care of myself and Mom, it’s the Ring of Fortune not the Ring of Future. Everything will be fine, you’ll see.” Sandy sighed and said, “That’s what you said when you and your brother started to be explorers, and look what happened. One of you died doing that! I can’t lose you too along with what I have already lost like your father and your brother.” “You won’t lose me,” Clark said gently, “I’ll still be here when this is over, I promise.” Then she said, “I wish you would settle down and have a family of your own.” He sighed and asked, “Again with the marrying stuff? I told you I will marry when I feel I am ready, or it happens to me.”
Chapter 3
That night a dark figure silently stalked across town and then spotted Kelly Walker walking towards her car with two bags in her hands, one in each hand. The dark figure started to stalk towards her, but she noticed that she was being followed and she picked up her pace. The dark figure picked up their pace too then Kelly started to run to her car, pulled out the keys, unlocked it, and dove in as a gunshot at her. Frightened, she started her car and slammed her foot on the gas as the gun fired again; it hit her back windshield but missed her by a few inches. Once she was gone, the dark figure cursed his bad luck under his breath then looked around and left the area. Clark was about to call it a day when he heard a knock at his door; he got up, answered it, and said in surprise, “Kelly! What are you doing here?” “Clark,” she said with fear in her eyes, “I need your help, I got shot at! They just started to stalk me then they shot their gun.” He stepped aside and beckoned her in; she did come in and he said, “Please sit down. Did you get shot at? By whom?” She shook her head and said, “I don’t know. I didn’t see a face, but it scared me so much. You can see on my car in the back windshield there’s a bullet hole there but thank goodness they missed me.”
Clark thought about this and then asked, “Would you feel better if you stayed here rather than go back to your home alone?” Kelly nodded saying, “If that is okay with you.” “Hey,” he said, “the option is open if you want to.” She gave a small smile and said, “Thank you, Clark. That’s twice you’ve done something for me.” He cocked his head and asked, “What was the first one?” “You let me come along when you went after the Ring of Fortune,” Kelly told him. “Well,” Clark said, “that was for something that was both of our interest so I couldn’t say no. This is for something serious. We need to tell the police about this.” She shook her head and said, “I doubt they could do something about this. I didn’t see a face so it’s not much help.” He sighed and said, “If that’s what you want to do then okay. Come on, I’ll show you where you can stay.” They both stood up, with Clark in the lead, he showed her where she would stay for the night. “Do you live with anyone,” Kelly asked him curiously.
Clark turned to look at her and said, “Yeah, my mom. Why?” She said, “Because just in case I meet anyone here. I’m trying to avoid awkward moments. So you live with your mom?” He shook his head and said, “No, she lives with me. After my dad and brother died, I didn’t want her to feel lonely so I let her move in with me that way I can look after her.” Kelly noticed that Clark was nicer than he looked then she asked, “Do you know where she is now?” Clark shrugged and said, “Not a clue. She’s somewhere around this house, but I don’t know where. Even though I am the owner of the house, I don’t always know where things or people are here. My mom put herself in charge of that.” She laughed and said, “I guess that is a woman thing to be in charge.” Before he could respond, Sandy came out of a room farther down the hall holding a dark brown book that looked like it had pictures in it. “Who’s this Clark,” she asked him. Clark gestured towards Kelly and said, “Mom, this is Kelly Walker. Kelly, this is my mom Sandy.”
Sandy held out her hand and Kelly shook it saying, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Kelly. I hope Clark has been kind to you.” Kelly smiled and said, “He’s been a complete gentleman.” Clark looked down feeling self-conscious then Kelly asked Sandy, “What’s that you’re holding?” Sandy looked at the dark brown book then back at Kelly and said, “These are Clark and David’s baby pictures. I like to look at them and remember what a troublesome pair they were even when they were babies.” Kelly looked at Clark and she could tell he was embarrassed. Then she looked back at Sandy and asked, “Do you think I could see them sometime? I’ve never met Clark’s brother and I want to understand why they were so close.” Sandy smiled and said, “If you want to then that’s fine with me.” “Well you could just ask about the stories that happened when my brother and I were young rather than see the pictures,” said Clark suddenly, “Anyway, we need to go to bed after I show Kelly where she is staying because it’s after ten so it’s very late. Come on, Kelly.” Sandy smiled at Kelly then Kelly asked quietly, “Could you show me sometime?” Sandy’s smile grew as she said, “Sure when he’s not around.” Clark showed Kelly her room then they both called it a day.
Chapter 4
At midnight, there was a scream that erupted from the living room, both Kelly and Clark got out of bed alarmed to check it out. With Kelly behind him, Clark went into the living room and saw his mother on the floor with her eyes closed still fully dressed. He knelt beside her and gently shook her, but she didn’t respond. “I think she fainted,” Kelly said. Clark looked at her and asked, “Do you know how to revive someone who’s fainted?” “I think so,” she said, “I think it has to do with some water.” Clark left and then came back with a cup a quarter full of water. He handed the cup to Kelly and she dripped some on Sandy’s face. Sandy stirred slightly and Clark let out a sigh of relief. Kelly glanced at Clark and was glad to have helped him. Then she realized that he had a more handsome face than she noticed before with kind eyes, she noticed that he was more muscular than she realized before and had a bare chest. Kelly looked back at Sandy slightly blushing with embarrassment when she realized that she was checking him out. Sandy opened her eyes and sat up. “What happened mom,” Clark asked her. Sandy looked at him and said, “I saw a face in the window and if looks could kill, I would be dead right now. It scared me so much that I screamed then I don’t remember anything else.”
Clark stood up and looked out his window that had a view of the outdoors but saw nothing. He looked back at the two women and said, “Seems like people are definitely after us because I found the ring. Though it makes me wonder why now?” They later went back to bed after some thinking. The next day Clark was out shooting his bow and arrows at his target. He shot another arrow not noticing that Kelly was coming up from behind him since she was walking quietly. He grabbed another arrow, notched it on his bow, pulled back the string, aimed then shot and hit the bullseye directly in the center. “You’re pretty good at this,” she commented, and he whipped around completely startled. “Um,” he said, “thanks. Have you shot a bow and arrow before?” “I was taught once,” Kelly said, “but that was a while ago.” He handed her the bow and said, “Here, why not give it a try?”
She took it and put her left hand on the grip that was on the front of the bow then put her right hand on the string. “Well done,” Clark said approvingly, “See? You still know how to hold the bow right.” He picked up an arrow out of his pack and handed it to her then she notched it on the string. Kelly tried to pull the string and the arrow back, but she couldn’t because she wasn’t strong enough. Clark smiled and put his hand on hers then helped her pull the string and arrow back then said, “Now aim for the big red dot in the middle of that target.” Kelly took her aim then both she and Clark released the arrow. It hit the bullseye directly next to Clark’s arrow. “Good job,” he said with a smile, “Nice shot.” Kelly looked at him and said, “You helped me.” “I only helped you pull back the string,” said Clark, “you did the rest.” She smiled blushing with pleasure then said, “Well, I would still need help to relearn this.” “I don’t think so,” he said, “If you had a smaller bow then you would not need help.” They talked for a little while till Kelly excused herself and then went inside.
Chapter 5
Clark stayed outside a while longer to continue shooting then he, too, went inside to be greeted by Sandy. “Come on”, she said while taking his arm. “Where are we going,” he asked her completely confused. Sandy smiled at him and then led him into the dining room where on the table there were different kinds of food and drinks. Still very baffled, Clark asked, “What’s this? Mom, what is going on?” Kelly came out of the kitchen and said, “This is our way of thanking you for what you have done for us.” “But I didn’t,” Clark started to protest, but then Sandy interrupted him. “You’ve always looked out for me ever since your father and brother died,” she said, “You’ve always helped me around the house ever since you were little, and you’ve always been there for me. You let me move in with you and so much more than that.” Clark was about to protest when Kelly interrupted him, “You opened up your home to me when I needed help, you let me come with you on your quest to find the Ring of Fortune and you helped me relearn how to shoot a bow and arrow. Shall we name everything you’ve done or is that enough?”
Clark didn’t say a word for a little while till he finally asked, “So what do you plan to do? Please tell me you’re not going to make me eat all this by myself.” Sandy smiled and laughed while Kelly said, “No, we’re going to help you if you want.” Clark sighed with relief. Once it was at least 9:07 PM, Clark called it a day. When he was gone, Sandy showed Kelly the baby pictures and told her the stories that she knew of Clark and his brother. Kelly smiled and asked, “So both were troublemakers?” Sandy gave a quiet laugh and said, “Most of the time they were, but it was mostly David. Clark was always ready to take all the blame and the punishment on his own head rather than let his brother get it all to himself for his mistake. Clark told me once, well actually several times, that David was his best friend.” “So what did Clark do after his brother died,” Kelly asked her.
Sandy’s eyes saddened and she said, “Clark was devastated by his brother's sudden death. Since I can always tell what he was feeling or thinking, I could see the pain in his eyes every time his brothers’ name was mentioned, when I asked him if he was going to continue his job of being a redneck, he told me there was no possible way he could do it alone and I knew that he blamed himself for David’s death. So he quit doing that job for a living and became a security guard at your school. I should have known when the ring was mentioned his adventurous side would be activated. That decision led us to now and I’m sure he doesn’t regret going back to that cave where his brother died. Clark probably felt close to him there as would I.” Kelly had tears in her eyes when she heard how much Clark had suffered and she said, “I wish I could have helped him and you then.” Sandy smiled and said, “Well, that’s already passed us in the past. We had better go to bed before he wakes up and finds us here still.” Kelly smiled and the both of them went to bed after bidding each other good night. That night, evil was stirring in the darkness and its’ time to strike was very soon. It was almost time and there was nothing that could stop it now.
Chapter 6
The next day, Sandy left town to see a friend that lived four hours away and planned to stay there for the day. At that minute, Kelly was sitting on the couch reading a book when she heard a knock at the door. She stood up, opened it, and was surprised to see… “Adam,” she exclaimed in astonishment, “What are you doing here?” “Kelly,” he started to ask, “where is Clark?” Confused she said, “He’s outside shooting his rifle. Why? Is something wrong?” Adam looked at her very seriously and said, “Yes, they’re coming and they’re after Clark. Are there any more guns in his house?” “Yeah,” Kelly said, “In Clark’s room. I think they’re under his bed on the left side.” Adam grabbed her hand and said, “Come on! They’ll be here any time so we need to hurry, or Clark will be killed!” Meanwhile, that was happening, Clark raised his rifle and shot at the target hitting it at a perfect bulls-eye. He took out his earplugs, set down his gun on a tree stump, and went to check the target.
Clark heard a gun cock and he immediately knew he was not alone. Slowly, he turned around and saw Felix holding his rifle pointing the barrel at his chest. “Seems like I’ve got you, Clark,” said Felix. Clark remained calm as he replied, “So you have. I believe that’s my gun you’re holding. Put it down and you won’t get hurt.” Felix laughed and said, “I’m the one holding the weapon and you’re defenseless so I’m the one who’s to do the threatening this time. You knew
I would come back to get you for getting my brother in jail and here I am.” Clark took in a breath then let it out and asked, “What do you plan to do with me?” Felix smiled and said, “I’m going to kill you as I did to that woman who seemed to know you when you were younger. She had a crush on you, but I doubt you remember that.” Clark then asked, “Why? Why did you kill her? She was innocent!” Felix then said, “I asked her where I could find you and she told me after some convincing then I knew she was no use anymore so I killed her to make sure she couldn’t give me away.” “That put a mark on your record,” Clark said. Felix shrugged and said, “So one mark can’t hurt me. Now enough talk, it’s time for you to die.” He raised the gun to aim at Clark but stopped when he heard two guns cock and a female voice say, “Put that gun down or we’ll kill you.” Felix looked over his shoulder and then saw Kelly and Adam pointing pistols at his head and chest.
Felix gave a nasty smile and asked, “You think I came alone? Think again!” Clark groaned quietly as he now knew that his friends were in danger along with him. He glanced over his shoulder and saw the men that attacked them in the cave along with Felix’s brother Ivan (the man with sunglasses). When all was thought to be lost, they all heard a new voice yell, “Put down those guns and get me before I call the cops!” They all turned and saw a pretty auburn-haired girl waving her cell phone at them. Ivan looked at his brother and Felix yelled to his men, “Get her and kill her!” The girl (or should I say woman) took one look at the men charging at her and yelled, “You can try to get me, but you’ll never succeed!” She ran faster than any of the men combine, and she dodged their shots very well. Then she jumped on a horse and charged at them. She rode passed them, reared up the horse on its’ hind legs, and let it kick Ivan in the face then she jumped off and slugged Felix in the right spot in his jaw knocking him out on the spot.
The woman turned to Adam, Kelly, and Clark and said, “Well that guy’s jaw was harder than I expected, but all is taken care of. I owe that rancher one for the horse.” “What happens now,” Adam asked. The woman smiled and said, “The police should be here any second to arrest these guys, but I’m sure they’ve already got their men.” Soon enough the police did arrive to take the men away and then Adam asked her, “What is your name?” She looked at him and said, “My name is Agent Jayliah, I work for the FBI. I’ve tracking these guys for a while since Ivan and his buddies broke out of prison. I had better go report my dealings to my boss before he starts to wonder where I am after I return the horse to his rightful owner.” Adam smiled and said, “I hope we meet again.” Agent Jayliah smiled back and said, “I hope we do. Here’s my card in case you need me.” She handed him her card and then left. Clark and Kelly were smiling when Adam turned around to face them. “What,” he asked them, they both turned away then Adam said, “Well don’t look at me like that. You two have something going on as well!” Kelly and Clark looked at each other and started to protest, but Adam smiled and said, “Kelly, Sandy told me that you were watching Clark with interest.”
Clark looked at Kelly surprised, and she was blushing then Adam said, “And Clark, you’ve been doing the same thing to Kelly. Don’t think anyone hasn’t noticed.” Now Kelly was the one surprised, she looked at Clark and he was turning slightly red. Then Sandy walked up behind them and asked, “Has my son found someone he likes? That’s great!” She smiled and Clark said, “Now don’t you get into this.” His mother grinned and said, “It’s about time. Now, are you two going to start dating or do I have to set it up? Clark, you know I will do that.” Kelly looked at him and said, “If he were to ask me then I would say yes as long as it’s at my house and I’m cooking.” Clark looked at her with a nervous smile and said, “Well if you want to then sure. Let’s do it.” Sandy walked up behind her son and gave him a shove and he, losing his balance, fell forward ending up kissing Kelly on the mouth. When they parted, Clark was blushing and Kelly asked, “Can we try that again? That one was a little rough.” He smiled, stepped forward and they kissed again. From that day forward, they dated and after a way of dating, they ended up getting married and then had two sons.
Now that’s where I say these final words and they are:
The End.
Clark and the Ring of Fortune(Odette Rivers)
The Precious Ring of Fortune (part 1)
Chapter 1
It was quiet… too quiet. That could only mean that danger was near. I turned around to face the cave's entrance where I could hear the grunting of my brother and the swinging of the shovel as it dug deeper into the tunnel. “Hey,” I called to him, “I think that is far enough for today.” My brother grunted again then he called back, “Nah, I think we should cover more. Besides, I think I’m getting closer to something interesting.” I got out my battery radio from my pack and I turned it on listening closely. “Seems like the weatherman is predicting a storm for the southern part of Lémon today about the evening,” the man on the radio said, “But what the scientist are saying is even more interesting. They are saying any time a big earthquake is going to happen right at the Evermore Caves. Any of the people out there should evacuate immediately just in case it does happen today, but I don’t see why since today is such a beautiful day with no clouds and a bright yellow sun. All you people just stay safe and don’t do anything that would cause a lot of trouble to man. Bollard signin’ off.”
I took a second to take in this information then I turned back to the cave and yelled to my brother, “I think we should call it a day! On the radio, that man said the scientists were saying an earthquake was going to happen soon. You better get out of there!” My brother growled in frustration and yelled back, “I’m going to find that thing that old man was talking about and I’m going to do it alone since you doubt me!” The rumbling started suddenly then the whole ground started to shake and then the rocks fell from off the top of the cave. “Get out of there as fast as you can!” I yelled to my brother, “The earthquake is starting! Get out of there, David!” He grunted as he went deeper and then said back (loud enough so I could hear him), “No Clark, I’ve got to do this. I saw what was on this wall. It’s gotta be me, it’s my fate and you can’t stop that!” I was torn between running for shelter and staying here with my brother to save him so I decided to stay here. “Run for it Clark,” David called to me. I yelled back, “No David, I’m not going anywhere till you are beside me! That’s what brothers do! They don’t leave each other’s side till both are safe.” Then there was another rumble and then the whole front of the cave collapsed.
Chapter 2
I dove out of the way of the falling rocks, but David was no more. I coughed the dust out of my mouth then called out, “David! David! Are you okay? David, answer me!” I ran over to the cave entrance and looked for a way inside, but it was too late to save him. I called 911 and when they got there, even they said it was too late to save David. I went back home after I gathered my stuff in misery. When I got back, I sat down in my chair by the fireplace thinking this over. My brother was gone, and it was my entire fault that he was dead. I knew people would start to wonder why he wasn’t showing up, so I planned a funeral and then I quit my job as a redneck explorer of old caves. I began to work for a high school as a security guard, and I didn’t like the sound of it, but I did it anyway. I couldn’t go back to a job if I had to do it alone without David there. I didn’t mind the job; the teens didn’t give me any trouble on my first day and I guess it wasn’t all that bad.
Days passed by and nothing happened till one day, a man in black cowboy boots came into the school. I didn’t suspect anything at first till he pulled out a gun and yelled, “Everybody on the ground before I start shooting!” The students, staff, and janitors did exactly that while I narrowed my eyes and tried to get closer to the guy without being seen. The man pointed his pistol at the principal and asked fiercely, “Where is the ring? Tell me and no one gets hurt!” Principal Randy stood up slowly and said, “I have no idea what you are talking about, sir, honestly I don’t.” The man jabbed him in the chest with the gun and said, “Yes, you do. Where is the Ring of Fortune? Quickly, before I lose my temper.” I came up behind him, the principal saw me and said, “You better get out of my school before someone calls the police.” The man narrowed his eyes and said, “You seem to act tough, but I know you aren’t. This is your last warning. Tell me now or you die along with all these kids and adults.”
Then I decided that this has gone too far so I said, “Why don’t you and I step outside so I can tell you how a retired redneck fights?” He turned around and I punched him in the face. He flew away from me against a wall and then he stood up saying, “It’s the redneck Clark Harris, what is the name of the world are you doing here? Aren’t you still doing what you were doing with your brother?” I stepped towards him and said, “I retired from being a redneck, but seems my old job came in handy since you are here. Put down that gun before someone gets hurt.” He stared at me with surprise and stuttered, “Of course Mr. Harris sir. Whatever you say. I-I’ll do it right now!” He put the gun down on the ground and then put his hands up in the air. “Well now that wasn’t so hard,” I commented to him, “Now, someone call the police before he decides to change his mind.” A student stood up, took out his cell phone, and called them quickly. In no time at all, the police showed up and took that man away.
Chapter 3
Principal Randy walked up to me and said, “I’m glad you took a job here, Clark. You did an amazing job saving the staff, students, and me.” I gave a small smile and said, “I’m glad too. I’d hate to think of what would have happened to innocent people if I had not been here. I wonder what he was talking about when he said, ‘The Ring of Fortune’. I guess it must be very valuable if someone wants it that bad.” The principal shrugged and said, “I have no idea why he would look
for it here, but I hope he doesn’t get it anytime soon. I suppose you have to go since it is after school and you probably have things to do.” I sighed and said, “Yeah, I probably should get it. I’ve got to do some research on this Ring of Fortune and see why it’s so valuable.” Principal Randy said, “Yeah. Goodbye, Clark.” “Goodbye sir,” I said then I headed out and went back home. I got on my laptop and typed ‘Ring of Fortune’ into the search bar then I clicked enter. So many things popped up that it took me a while to go through it all. I about gave it up till one website caught my attention. I clicked on it and it came up as a website of old legends. It said: ‘The Ring of Fortune was said to have the power the grant one wish to whoever touches it before the red dawn of the second full moon on May 21st. It has the greatest power that can set back the ways of time and stop those from dying. It can give immortal life to whoever wishes it, but they have to be the first to touch it before the time runs out. The Ring of Fortune can be found in the cave that is called Evermore. The cave is called that because it was said to have powers of its own. Those who try to find it must beware that it could kill you since it has a mind of its’ own. Beware…” I thought over this and it seemed that the thing my brother David was looking for was the very ring itself, but now it was up to me to find it.
That meant that I had to go back to the cave and go into it alone not knowing the dangers inside of it. I packed a bag full of supplies that I would need for the task and then I headed out. Meanwhile, news that I was going after the ring spread across the school and it caught a student’s attention. Back to me, I was standing at the cave’s entrance thinking how I should remove all the rubble from the front when I heard footsteps coming up from behind me. I whipped around and I saw a student that looked like he could be a senior in high school. “What are you doing here,” I asked him trying not to sound startled. “I thought you could use some help so here I am,” he said, “My name is Adam and I want to come with you.” I sighed and said, “It’s going to be dangerous Adam. I don’t know if your parents or the school will like it if I let you come along. You might get hurt.” Adam smiled and said, “I can take care of myself, so I won’t get hurt. Please let me come with you! I’ve always wanted an adventure and here’s my chance.”
I thought about this then I said, “Fine, but I don’t get any crap if you get injured or bitten by something in that cave.” His smile broadened then he said, “That’s cool with me, but how are we going to get inside the cave?” I gave a small smile and said, “Don’t worry, I’ve got that covered.” I reached into my pack and brought out a stick of dynamite, set it at the top of the cave’s entrance, lit it, and then ran for cover with Adam behind me. It exploded with awesome force and the entranced was completely revealed. I stepped out from behind a huge boulder and said, “That is how I planned to get inside. Not bad, eh?” “Not bad at all.” I turned around quickly and saw one of the high school staff standing behind me. It was Ms. Kelly Walker. “What are you doing here,” I asked her. She smiled and said, “I’m coming with you into the cave of course. You’re not going without me.” I sighed with frustration and asked, “Is everyone at the school going to come with me or is it just you two?” Adam came out from hiding and said, “Looks like it’s just us. We’re a team like Indiana Jones!”
Kelly Walker narrowed her eyes and said, “I’m not a damsel in distress so no, we are not like Indiana Jones. Not even close.” “Well if we all are going into the cave then come on,” I said, “I don’t have all day.” I picked up my pack after I got out three flashlights and we went into the cave. Deeper and deeper we went into the unknown. I shined my light on the path and then we came upon a skeleton. Adam stared at it and Kelly gasped. I knelt down beside it and looked at it real closely. “What does he want with an old skeleton,” Adam asked Kelly and she shrugged. I stood up and said, “That skeleton is what is left of my brother when he came down here. I hope he didn’t die slowly when he got trapped in here. Come on, let’s go.”
I led the way till the cave started to go downwards into the earth. My light landed on a spider and I jumped. “What is it,” Kelly asked me. I said, “It’s nothing, just a spider. Ugh, I hate spiders.” She looked at Adam and they both smiled then they followed me downwards. “Stop,” I said suddenly, and they immediately did just that. I look over the edge and saw if we went any further we would have fallen off a cliff that went straight down a long way. “What do we do,” Adam asked aloud. I set down my pack and pulled out some rope saying, “A little cliff doesn’t bother me. I brought this just in case we would need it.” I tied one end to a secure rock and then tossed the rest down into the abyss. I climbed down with Kelly behind me and Adam bringing up the rear. Once we were at the bottom we continued onwards then we stopped at the end of the tunnel. “I think we are here,” Kelly said aloud, “But where is the ring?” I looked around and said, “I don’t know, but I will keep looking for it.” We froze when we heard the click of a gun.
Chapter 4
I slowly turned around and saw a bald man with dark shades pointing a pistol at me with four other guys dressed the same behind him. “Where is the ring,” he asked, “I know you know where it is.” I took a step forward boldly and said, “I don’t know, but I wouldn’t tell you if I did.” The man in sunglasses took a step toward me and said, “Oh really? Well, I can get it out of you if I tried. What will it be, Clark? I won’t wait all day.” I narrowed my eyes and said, “I don’t know where it is. That’s all I’m going to say to a ruffian like you.” He growled and said, “I guess I can’t use the nice way. Get them.” The men behind him charged at us and we tried to fight them, but in the end, they got us. Two held my arms while the other two held on to Kelly and Adam. The man in sunglasses then asked, “Are you going to talk now, Clark? Or do I have to make you?” I struggled between the two guys and said, “I think you are going to have to make me because I don’t know.” The man pointed the gun right at my side and said, “So be it.”
Then he fired it, I clenched my teeth trying not to cry out in pain and then Adam yelled, “Leave him alone you bully! He doesn’t know!” The man pointed the gun at him and said, “So you say. How do I know that you are not lying to me?” Adam swallowed nervously and said, “I’m not, but neither of us knows where that ring is or where to look. All we know is that this is the cave where is it supposed to be.” The man narrowed his eyes and said, “I don’t believe you. Looks like I’m going to have to teach you some manners, kid.” I struggled harder as the man stepped closer and closer to Adam menacing him with the gun; I ignored the pain in my side as I fought to protect him. I kicked the guy holding my right arm in the shins and he released me as I kicked him again. Then I slammed my fist into the other guy's face, he cried out in pain and that caught their leaders’ attention. He turned to me just as I punched a point in his arm just below the shoulder, paralyzing his gun arm. He cried out in pain and I punched his stomach. He bent over; I grabbed his shoulders and kneed him in the gut twice. Then the men that I had already beaten up grabbed me from behind.
Once they had me pinned down, the man with the sunglasses raised his gun right at my head and said, “Well you put up a good fight for a retired redneck. Any last words before you’re ended for good?” I looked at him and said, “Your gun isn’t loaded, and the police are going to be here real soon.” Just as soon as I finished saying that, we heard police sirens outside the cave and then one of the police said, “There they are! Get away from those folks before we shoot you and put your hands in the air!” The man in sunglasses and his men did what they were told immediately. I found out there was a warrant for their arrest, they were taken to jail for kidnapping and murdering several young adults. I got my side bandaged and then Kelly and Adam walked up to me. “How did you know the police were coming,” Adam asked me. I smiled and looked at them saying, “I didn’t. But that ring really came in handy at that time.” They looked at me confused and Kelly asked, “What ring?”
I raised a golden ring with a ruby on it and said, “This one. I found it in my brother’s hand, and I plan to donate it to the museum so they can do some research on it. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, but I didn’t want those guys to know I did have it.” Adam smiled and said, “You led them on a wild goose chase. I get it now! So what do you plan to do now that you completed this mission?” I thought about it for a second and then said to them, “I think I’m still going to work as the security guy for your school if Principal Randy says it’s okay.” Kelly smiled and said, “Good because we need someone like you to protect the students that have experience in fighting.” We went our separate ways till school started the next day, but I had to take the day off because my side was still healing. The story spread across the town like wildfire on a windy day. When I got back to the school to continue working, I got asked several times about it, but I didn’t mind. I put this act in the back of my mind until one day; this act will be brought back up in a different situation.
******
The Precious Ring of Fortune (Part 2)
Chapter 1
It was a dark night when two men were walking along a sidewalk taking in the peaceful night. Suddenly, nearby there was a scream that was soon cut off by a gunshot. The taller one of the men turned to the other and asked, “What was that?” The smaller man shrugged and said, “I have no clue. Do you have your cell phone?” The taller man nodded, pulled it out, and dialed 911. It rang for a little bit till someone answered.
“Hello this is 911, what is your emergency?”
“Hello, we need the police. We heard a gunshot that cut off a scream northeast of us.”
“What is your location?”
“On a curb between the streets of Lima Avenue and 114th Street.”
“We’ll send someone out there.”
“Thank you.”
The police worked to find where the scream came from and they found a woman with dark hair lying in a pool of blood with a shot wound to her chest. A man said he was walking by the house when he heard an argument, a scream then a gunshot. Then he said something that caught the police’s attention, he said when he heard the argument, he heard a name mentioned. It was the name, Clark Harris.
Chapter 2
The next day, Clark was out in his field shooting at his target with his rifle. Since he had his earplugs in, he didn’t hear the homicide detectives’ car drive up. “Mr. Harris,” one of the detectives called to him. He lowered his gun, took out his earplugs, and said, “Hello detectives. Beautiful day, isn’t it?” The larger detective said, “Indeed it is. May I ask what you are doing?” Clark nodded towards the target and said, “Target practicing. Gotta keep practicing if I’m going to get my aim right.” “Indeed,” said the larger detective then he asked, “Do you own any other guns, Mr. Harris?” Clark nodded saying, “Yeah, two pistols, but I hardly use them. Why?”
“Do you own an assault rifle?”
“No, seen them, know them, but I’ve never owned one.”
“Why not?”
“I’ve never taken interest in them. Aren’t they illegal?”
“Yes, but one was used to kill someone last night.”
“What?”
The broad-shouldered detective took out a picture of a woman with dark hair and asked, “Do you know this woman, Mr. Harris?”
“I’ve seen her at the store once or twice, but I don’t really know her.”
“Seems like she knows you.”
“Well, that’s not really a surprise because I used to be a famous redneck explorer.”
“Well, it seems like it was serious when you were mentioned. If you hear anything let us know. Oh and do you have anyone that hates you at all?”
“There was someone who hated me because their brother got put in jail. He said it was because of me and that he would get me back for it.”
“What were their names?”
“I think his name was Felix Webster and his brother’s name is Ivan Webster.”
“Okay, again, call us if you hear anything.”
He handed Clark his card then both of them left. Clark looked at the card with a lot on his mind, but he put his earplugs back in and continued to shoot at the target with his rifle. Later he went back inside. The next day he was sitting on his favorite chair when his mother, Sandy, confronted him. “You got into more trouble, didn’t you,” she accused him. He looked up from his newspaper and asked, “What?” Sandy waved her finger in his face and said, “You have people after you. I heard all about it from the detectives. Why, Clark? Why did you have to go after it?” Clark put his newspaper aside and said, “I went after the ring because it sounded interesting. You should know that would’ve caught my attention because of who I am. Okay, I admit that it might not have been the best idea I’ve had, but if I didn’t get it then others would have tried to do bad things with the ring, so I had to.”
She growled and said, “No, you did not have to. You could have gone to the police and told them what you knew. If you did then we wouldn’t be in this mess. I don’t care if you were interested in the Ring of Future, but I will care if these people get you.” He stood up and said, “No one is going to get me. I can take care of myself and Mom, it’s the Ring of Fortune not the Ring of Future. Everything will be fine, you’ll see.” Sandy sighed and said, “That’s what you said when you and your brother started to be explorers, and look what happened. One of you died doing that! I can’t lose you too along with what I have already lost like your father and your brother.” “You won’t lose me,” Clark said gently, “I’ll still be here when this is over, I promise.” Then she said, “I wish you would settle down and have a family of your own.” He sighed and asked, “Again with the marrying stuff? I told you I will marry when I feel I am ready, or it happens to me.”
Chapter 3
That night a dark figure silently stalked across town and then spotted Kelly Walker walking towards her car with two bags in her hands, one in each hand. The dark figure started to stalk towards her, but she noticed that she was being followed and she picked up her pace. The dark figure picked up their pace too then Kelly started to run to her car, pulled out the keys, unlocked it, and dove in as a gunshot at her. Frightened, she started her car and slammed her foot on the gas as the gun fired again; it hit her back windshield but missed her by a few inches. Once she was gone, the dark figure cursed his bad luck under his breath then looked around and left the area. Clark was about to call it a day when he heard a knock at his door; he got up, answered it, and said in surprise, “Kelly! What are you doing here?” “Clark,” she said with fear in her eyes, “I need your help, I got shot at! They just started to stalk me then they shot their gun.” He stepped aside and beckoned her in; she did come in and he said, “Please sit down. Did you get shot at? By whom?” She shook her head and said, “I don’t know. I didn’t see a face, but it scared me so much. You can see on my car in the back windshield there’s a bullet hole there but thank goodness they missed me.”
Clark thought about this and then asked, “Would you feel better if you stayed here rather than go back to your home alone?” Kelly nodded saying, “If that is okay with you.” “Hey,” he said, “the option is open if you want to.” She gave a small smile and said, “Thank you, Clark. That’s twice you’ve done something for me.” He cocked his head and asked, “What was the first one?” “You let me come along when you went after the Ring of Fortune,” Kelly told him. “Well,” Clark said, “that was for something that was both of our interest so I couldn’t say no. This is for something serious. We need to tell the police about this.” She shook her head and said, “I doubt they could do something about this. I didn’t see a face so it’s not much help.” He sighed and said, “If that’s what you want to do then okay. Come on, I’ll show you where you can stay.” They both stood up, with Clark in the lead, he showed her where she would stay for the night. “Do you live with anyone,” Kelly asked him curiously.
Clark turned to look at her and said, “Yeah, my mom. Why?” She said, “Because just in case I meet anyone here. I’m trying to avoid awkward moments. So you live with your mom?” He shook his head and said, “No, she lives with me. After my dad and brother died, I didn’t want her to feel lonely so I let her move in with me that way I can look after her.” Kelly noticed that Clark was nicer than he looked then she asked, “Do you know where she is now?” Clark shrugged and said, “Not a clue. She’s somewhere around this house, but I don’t know where. Even though I am the owner of the house, I don’t always know where things or people are here. My mom put herself in charge of that.” She laughed and said, “I guess that is a woman thing to be in charge.” Before he could respond, Sandy came out of a room farther down the hall holding a dark brown book that looked like it had pictures in it. “Who’s this Clark,” she asked him. Clark gestured towards Kelly and said, “Mom, this is Kelly Walker. Kelly, this is my mom Sandy.”
Sandy held out her hand and Kelly shook it saying, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Kelly. I hope Clark has been kind to you.” Kelly smiled and said, “He’s been a complete gentleman.” Clark looked down feeling self-conscious then Kelly asked Sandy, “What’s that you’re holding?” Sandy looked at the dark brown book then back at Kelly and said, “These are Clark and David’s baby pictures. I like to look at them and remember what a troublesome pair they were even when they were babies.” Kelly looked at Clark and she could tell he was embarrassed. Then she looked back at Sandy and asked, “Do you think I could see them sometime? I’ve never met Clark’s brother and I want to understand why they were so close.” Sandy smiled and said, “If you want to then that’s fine with me.” “Well you could just ask about the stories that happened when my brother and I were young rather than see the pictures,” said Clark suddenly, “Anyway, we need to go to bed after I show Kelly where she is staying because it’s after ten so it’s very late. Come on, Kelly.” Sandy smiled at Kelly then Kelly asked quietly, “Could you show me sometime?” Sandy’s smile grew as she said, “Sure when he’s not around.” Clark showed Kelly her room then they both called it a day.
Chapter 4
At midnight, there was a scream that erupted from the living room, both Kelly and Clark got out of bed alarmed to check it out. With Kelly behind him, Clark went into the living room and saw his mother on the floor with her eyes closed still fully dressed. He knelt beside her and gently shook her, but she didn’t respond. “I think she fainted,” Kelly said. Clark looked at her and asked, “Do you know how to revive someone who’s fainted?” “I think so,” she said, “I think it has to do with some water.” Clark left and then came back with a cup a quarter full of water. He handed the cup to Kelly and she dripped some on Sandy’s face. Sandy stirred slightly and Clark let out a sigh of relief. Kelly glanced at Clark and was glad to have helped him. Then she realized that he had a more handsome face than she noticed before with kind eyes, she noticed that he was more muscular than she realized before and had a bare chest. Kelly looked back at Sandy slightly blushing with embarrassment when she realized that she was checking him out. Sandy opened her eyes and sat up. “What happened mom,” Clark asked her. Sandy looked at him and said, “I saw a face in the window and if looks could kill, I would be dead right now. It scared me so much that I screamed then I don’t remember anything else.”
Clark stood up and looked out his window that had a view of the outdoors but saw nothing. He looked back at the two women and said, “Seems like people are definitely after us because I found the ring. Though it makes me wonder why now?” They later went back to bed after some thinking. The next day Clark was out shooting his bow and arrows at his target. He shot another arrow not noticing that Kelly was coming up from behind him since she was walking quietly. He grabbed another arrow, notched it on his bow, pulled back the string, aimed then shot and hit the bullseye directly in the center. “You’re pretty good at this,” she commented, and he whipped around completely startled. “Um,” he said, “thanks. Have you shot a bow and arrow before?” “I was taught once,” Kelly said, “but that was a while ago.” He handed her the bow and said, “Here, why not give it a try?”
She took it and put her left hand on the grip that was on the front of the bow then put her right hand on the string. “Well done,” Clark said approvingly, “See? You still know how to hold the bow right.” He picked up an arrow out of his pack and handed it to her then she notched it on the string. Kelly tried to pull the string and the arrow back, but she couldn’t because she wasn’t strong enough. Clark smiled and put his hand on hers then helped her pull the string and arrow back then said, “Now aim for the big red dot in the middle of that target.” Kelly took her aim then both she and Clark released the arrow. It hit the bullseye directly next to Clark’s arrow. “Good job,” he said with a smile, “Nice shot.” Kelly looked at him and said, “You helped me.” “I only helped you pull back the string,” said Clark, “you did the rest.” She smiled blushing with pleasure then said, “Well, I would still need help to relearn this.” “I don’t think so,” he said, “If you had a smaller bow then you would not need help.” They talked for a little while till Kelly excused herself and then went inside.
Chapter 5
Clark stayed outside a while longer to continue shooting then he, too, went inside to be greeted by Sandy. “Come on”, she said while taking his arm. “Where are we going,” he asked her completely confused. Sandy smiled at him and then led him into the dining room where on the table there were different kinds of food and drinks. Still very baffled, Clark asked, “What’s this? Mom, what is going on?” Kelly came out of the kitchen and said, “This is our way of thanking you for what you have done for us.” “But I didn’t,” Clark started to protest, but then Sandy interrupted him. “You’ve always looked out for me ever since your father and brother died,” she said, “You’ve always helped me around the house ever since you were little, and you’ve always been there for me. You let me move in with you and so much more than that.” Clark was about to protest when Kelly interrupted him, “You opened up your home to me when I needed help, you let me come with you on your quest to find the Ring of Fortune and you helped me relearn how to shoot a bow and arrow. Shall we name everything you’ve done or is that enough?”
Clark didn’t say a word for a little while till he finally asked, “So what do you plan to do? Please tell me you’re not going to make me eat all this by myself.” Sandy smiled and laughed while Kelly said, “No, we’re going to help you if you want.” Clark sighed with relief. Once it was at least 9:07 PM, Clark called it a day. When he was gone, Sandy showed Kelly the baby pictures and told her the stories that she knew of Clark and his brother. Kelly smiled and asked, “So both were troublemakers?” Sandy gave a quiet laugh and said, “Most of the time they were, but it was mostly David. Clark was always ready to take all the blame and the punishment on his own head rather than let his brother get it all to himself for his mistake. Clark told me once, well actually several times, that David was his best friend.” “So what did Clark do after his brother died,” Kelly asked her.
Sandy’s eyes saddened and she said, “Clark was devastated by his brother's sudden death. Since I can always tell what he was feeling or thinking, I could see the pain in his eyes every time his brothers’ name was mentioned, when I asked him if he was going to continue his job of being a redneck, he told me there was no possible way he could do it alone and I knew that he blamed himself for David’s death. So he quit doing that job for a living and became a security guard at your school. I should have known when the ring was mentioned his adventurous side would be activated. That decision led us to now and I’m sure he doesn’t regret going back to that cave where his brother died. Clark probably felt close to him there as would I.” Kelly had tears in her eyes when she heard how much Clark had suffered and she said, “I wish I could have helped him and you then.” Sandy smiled and said, “Well, that’s already passed us in the past. We had better go to bed before he wakes up and finds us here still.” Kelly smiled and the both of them went to bed after bidding each other good night. That night, evil was stirring in the darkness and its’ time to strike was very soon. It was almost time and there was nothing that could stop it now.
Chapter 6
The next day, Sandy left town to see a friend that lived four hours away and planned to stay there for the day. At that minute, Kelly was sitting on the couch reading a book when she heard a knock at the door. She stood up, opened it, and was surprised to see… “Adam,” she exclaimed in astonishment, “What are you doing here?” “Kelly,” he started to ask, “where is Clark?” Confused she said, “He’s outside shooting his rifle. Why? Is something wrong?” Adam looked at her very seriously and said, “Yes, they’re coming and they’re after Clark. Are there any more guns in his house?” “Yeah,” Kelly said, “In Clark’s room. I think they’re under his bed on the left side.” Adam grabbed her hand and said, “Come on! They’ll be here any time so we need to hurry, or Clark will be killed!” Meanwhile, that was happening, Clark raised his rifle and shot at the target hitting it at a perfect bulls-eye. He took out his earplugs, set down his gun on a tree stump, and went to check the target.
Clark heard a gun cock and he immediately knew he was not alone. Slowly, he turned around and saw Felix holding his rifle pointing the barrel at his chest. “Seems like I’ve got you, Clark,” said Felix. Clark remained calm as he replied, “So you have. I believe that’s my gun you’re holding. Put it down and you won’t get hurt.” Felix laughed and said, “I’m the one holding the weapon and you’re defenseless so I’m the one who’s to do the threatening this time. You knew
I would come back to get you for getting my brother in jail and here I am.” Clark took in a breath then let it out and asked, “What do you plan to do with me?” Felix smiled and said, “I’m going to kill you as I did to that woman who seemed to know you when you were younger. She had a crush on you, but I doubt you remember that.” Clark then asked, “Why? Why did you kill her? She was innocent!” Felix then said, “I asked her where I could find you and she told me after some convincing then I knew she was no use anymore so I killed her to make sure she couldn’t give me away.” “That put a mark on your record,” Clark said. Felix shrugged and said, “So one mark can’t hurt me. Now enough talk, it’s time for you to die.” He raised the gun to aim at Clark but stopped when he heard two guns cock and a female voice say, “Put that gun down or we’ll kill you.” Felix looked over his shoulder and then saw Kelly and Adam pointing pistols at his head and chest.
Felix gave a nasty smile and asked, “You think I came alone? Think again!” Clark groaned quietly as he now knew that his friends were in danger along with him. He glanced over his shoulder and saw the men that attacked them in the cave along with Felix’s brother Ivan (the man with sunglasses). When all was thought to be lost, they all heard a new voice yell, “Put down those guns and get me before I call the cops!” They all turned and saw a pretty auburn-haired girl waving her cell phone at them. Ivan looked at his brother and Felix yelled to his men, “Get her and kill her!” The girl (or should I say woman) took one look at the men charging at her and yelled, “You can try to get me, but you’ll never succeed!” She ran faster than any of the men combine, and she dodged their shots very well. Then she jumped on a horse and charged at them. She rode passed them, reared up the horse on its’ hind legs, and let it kick Ivan in the face then she jumped off and slugged Felix in the right spot in his jaw knocking him out on the spot.
The woman turned to Adam, Kelly, and Clark and said, “Well that guy’s jaw was harder than I expected, but all is taken care of. I owe that rancher one for the horse.” “What happens now,” Adam asked. The woman smiled and said, “The police should be here any second to arrest these guys, but I’m sure they’ve already got their men.” Soon enough the police did arrive to take the men away and then Adam asked her, “What is your name?” She looked at him and said, “My name is Agent Jayliah, I work for the FBI. I’ve tracking these guys for a while since Ivan and his buddies broke out of prison. I had better go report my dealings to my boss before he starts to wonder where I am after I return the horse to his rightful owner.” Adam smiled and said, “I hope we meet again.” Agent Jayliah smiled back and said, “I hope we do. Here’s my card in case you need me.” She handed him her card and then left. Clark and Kelly were smiling when Adam turned around to face them. “What,” he asked them, they both turned away then Adam said, “Well don’t look at me like that. You two have something going on as well!” Kelly and Clark looked at each other and started to protest, but Adam smiled and said, “Kelly, Sandy told me that you were watching Clark with interest.”
Clark looked at Kelly surprised, and she was blushing then Adam said, “And Clark, you’ve been doing the same thing to Kelly. Don’t think anyone hasn’t noticed.” Now Kelly was the one surprised, she looked at Clark and he was turning slightly red. Then Sandy walked up behind them and asked, “Has my son found someone he likes? That’s great!” She smiled and Clark said, “Now don’t you get into this.” His mother grinned and said, “It’s about time. Now, are you two going to start dating or do I have to set it up? Clark, you know I will do that.” Kelly looked at him and said, “If he were to ask me then I would say yes as long as it’s at my house and I’m cooking.” Clark looked at her with a nervous smile and said, “Well if you want to then sure. Let’s do it.” Sandy walked up behind her son and gave him a shove and he, losing his balance, fell forward ending up kissing Kelly on the mouth. When they parted, Clark was blushing and Kelly asked, “Can we try that again? That one was a little rough.” He smiled, stepped forward and they kissed again. From that day forward, they dated and after a way of dating, they ended up getting married and then had two sons.
Now that’s where I say these final words and they are:
The End.
- Share this story on
- 8
COMMENTS (0)