Drills

            All is well. Of all the days in the year, we reserve one particular day to put aside our differences and celebrate another anticipating year. We decorate our homes to welcome a new cycle, set new goals and shed old ways to become better versions of who we want to be. Rivals become allies for one day to step into the new year with a clean slate. Everyone turns over a new leaf. Miracles happen even to the nonbelievers.
            The magick of gathering on a massive scale establishes universal peace. A universal peace that spreads across the globe, despite its turmoil and all its downward spiral. Peace brings an end to war and hate. It clears all judgments and helps us see things from a different perspective. Peace is strong enough to break bread with enemies. For this particular day, all is forgiven. All is well.
            Of all the days in the year one unites us all as we collectively set our sights to exciting beginnings. Everyone gets a new chance to make things right, to begin a new year fresh. Who wouldn’t want a second chance? Many pray, wish, to turn back time. We all seek another try to prove we are deserving. The end of the year and the beginning of another grant us that wish because magick is felt and seen in every way possible.
            No one can escape the magick lurking in the streets. That warm feeling that everything is going to be okay. We all sense its presence because we participate in the ritual of welcoming a new year. We decorate our shrine, our home, to project the goodness of our hearts. To tell the world we are not broken nor hurt. We are well and alive. We wish strangers blessings to please the universe so that we in return be blessed by our kindness. Even the coldest of hearts thaw, even if for a second.
            As the days rush to the last date of the year, we all make plans to meet somewhere. We schedule in advance where we want to be and with who for those last few seconds before a new year begins. We plan every detail hoping the odds are in our favor. We make every second count once the final day of the year is upon us. We call in sick for work. We make up excuses not to be with friends or family members we wish not to see come by the final hour. Everything we do in the eve of a new year is done with intentions for luck and prosperity.
            What makes this particular end of the year special is for the first time in human history the world will count down the minutes in unison. It has never been done before. We will enter the new year simultaneously; all around the world. No more will we be divided by time zones or borders. We will break generational traditions and demonstrate to whatever celestial being watching over us that we are one race. We will all begin the new year together, as one.
            When word got out, the world was ready. Every news outlet publicized the change of events. We were all advised to try something different. We were encouraged to gather in the masses to televise our unity. This coming year is going to change everything for everyone. No one could escape what the new year had in store for the world. And we were ready for the impossible to become possible.
            Like sheep, we were shepherd to major landmarks and cities. We overpopulated every town hall. Crowded over New York city. Occupied in large masses the Taj Mahal. A sea of people raved through the streets of Tokyo. Like penguins we rallied together weathering the cold. History will be made tonight, no one dared miss it for the world. Wherever the ball dropped for new years, we were there; ready for change.
            Drunk in excitement, in our festive attire with the coming of year glasses and hats. We all embraced the coming year in our own style. Sober or under the influence, we will not forget where we were when the ball drops. For once, we were all friends. We cared not for color or political stance. It matters not what God we praise. There is only joy. There is only love. The streets boomed with drums and music as the hours neared a new beginning.
            “I love you!” We proclaimed to one another, and meant it. Unison changed our perspective on how we want to be governed. Though we have our cliques and social caste, we were beginning to respect each other. Eventually, none of what we grew to believe was just mattered because for once we viewed each other as equals. We were promised change and change is coming. Everything we know was about to renew itself.
            The new year is upon us. We turned to the sky as the clock marked the end. “Ten!” We cheered nervously. The ball was beginning to drop. We ate a grape and made a wish. Fireworks boomed in the night sky. Cheers echoed across the globe as we counted down the seconds. As the number went down our spirits soared. We jumped for joy and excitement. Woman and children and man, we were all in it together. No one was left out.
            “Nine!” The screen on New York city projected followed by cheers of joy. The symbol for the number eight in foreign countries reflected in peoples eyes wherever they stood. We embraced each other as the clock neared the end. We took another grape and made a wish. Some raised their glass while others chugged their bottles. There were no judgments nor side remarks. We are all too entranced by the eve of a new beginning. Too high to even care.
            “Seven!” The world spoke.
            “Six!” Change is upon us.
            “Five!” There was no turning back.
            “Four!” We held each other and counted, “Three! Two! One!”
            “Happy New Year!”
            The ball dropped and the countdown ended along with the majority of the population. As the ball reached its end, atomic bombs blew all over the world. The bombs exploded like fireworks, igniting a chain of events long overdue. Those who shadow the world, controlling its history, finally met their goals for global domination. At long last, masters of the world were in control again. Operation reset the world is now in effect. Only a selected few will know what happens but to the cattle they will simply call them drills. 

Brujería

Con el amor no se juega
Te haré creer en la sirena
Se ‘loquece como muevo la cintura
Bailo encuerado bajó la luna

Esta magia no se toca, es tan pura
Brujería
Si me dañas yo mismo me la cura
Brujería
El universo es mi cultura
Brujería
Esto no se para, noche o día
Brujería

Este sonido es intoxicado
Cima, topa un nivel elevado
Y yo se que nunca lo a probado
Manifesto mi deseo, soy el brujo; el mero mero

Te controlo hechizado
Si me cruzas, ten cuidado
Te lo juro no soy malo
Si me cruzas, ten cuidado

Brujería
Que locura

Esta magia no se toca, es tan pura
Brujería
Si me dañas yo mismo me la cura
Brujería
El universo es mi cultura
Brujería
Esto no se para, noche o día
Brujería

A quien lo maten por practicar la brujería
Es decir que creen en la magiaria
No solo es una fantasía
Es verdad, real, la brujería
¿Como no lo es?
Educate y aprenderás que todo no es como lo ves
Te quitará la idiotez
Y estaras rico, lleno en la lucidez

Te controlo hechizado
Si me cruzas, ten cuidado
Te lo juro no soy malo
Si me cruzas, ten cuidado

Brujería
Que locura

Esta magia no se toca, es tan pura
Brujería
Si me dañas yo mismo me la cura
Brujería
El universo es mi cultura
Brujería
Esto no se para, noche o día
Brujería

Brain Dead

            People crave destruction to the point of manifestation. We watch, we tune in to violence in the form of entertainment that we subconsciously begin to emulate such a thing. People want to see death and carnage only as if it were a game because we, as a whole, search for an escape. We cling to made-up stories to exhilarate our dull lives that in turn we lie to ourselves. We tell ourselves that such a story could never happen in real life or for the very least shouldn’t.
            People talk about war as if war were a fictitious movie. We praise war heroes, ignoring the slaughter they commit yet imprison civilians who do the same. Our pineal gland has been strategically calcified in order to bring forth the aforementioned destruction we obsess over in movies and programs. We are dumbed down to be more controlling so we don’t ask the questions we should be asking. So that we don’t end the on going war on the human race.
            Instead, we are fed poison so that unforeseen masters don’t get dethroned from their celestial power. Super simple minded folk, such as humans, are plagued with chemicals that silence our inner conscious. We are given limited options to remain dependent. We are distracted from seeking the truth by warping our minds into believing fiction is better than facts. We have been fed numerous lies that those who speak the truth are seen as mentally unstable.
            Our only escape from the reality we find ourselves in these modern times is in fictional stories to ease the blow. We anticipate the endings to find comfort in knowing no matter how bad things get there will always be closure. There will always be a solution to any problem. We spoil the endings to reassure ourselves that the real world can be fixed. We dig our heads in the ground to forget about the real troubles in our world we don’t want to acknowledge.
            Maybe we are not ready to repair the accumulative damages. Perhaps we feel we are not responsible for them. Either way, whether we ignore them or face them head on, they will remain there until we as a whole acknowledge them. We can pen them on paper. Reenact them on screen or execute it in real life. They will remain there until we decide to correct them. It may take another millennium or maybe within a weeks time. One thing is for certain, mankind will find a way.
            “This is going on my channel.” Wes began as he adjusted his camera phone. A group of soldiers carried a bulky heavy trunk into their jeep while others carried suitcases. “I can’t believe I’m finally getting access to Area 51.” He road shotgun while everyone else settled in the back. “Don’t worry guys, I’ll blur your faces so no one will recognize you. Total confidential.”
            “You’ll be discharged and send to jail if anyone finds out you’re the one uploading videos on exclusive government secrets.” Parker added as he drove.
            “Well lucky me the others haven’t found out.” Wes bragged.
            “Lucky for you I haven’t told them.” Parker replied. “Just because I’m your older brother doesn’t mean I can protect you from the whole platoon. You better make sure no one else finds that camera. You’re on your own if they do.”
            “Relax.” Wes answered. “No one has discovered me yet. Besides, there’s no harm in me making homemade movies. Not like I’m uploading them to YouTube, though I would go viral if I do.” He turned to his brother with excitement. “Just imagine how much dough I’d be getting with just a few minutes of ground footage on Area 51. I’d be rich!”
            “We’d be rich.” His brother corrected. They drove through a hidden path kept from the public eye. The night was clear as day. A waxing moon peeked among the clouds as they bubbled through the chilling wind. Stars scattered in the sky as they blinked ever so. They were the only moving object on land, making their way to a controversial area infamous across the state. The only light visible in the night lit a path before them as they neared the entrance to a dangerously guarded premises.
            Within minutes, the jeep drove to a small building. Numerous guards walked attentively as they secured the perimeter. No one could get inside. Even with clearance of the highest degree, you’d be surrounded by preying eyes to make sure no secrets would get leaked. Guards instructed the team of soldiers where to go and where to park. Everything was ruled by protocol within the walls of Area 51.
            Though the building was small, once inside a whole universe of unimaginable possibilities lay active. Deep underground of interconnected chambers sheltered the impossible. The crew of soldiers were new to the area but were informed of what to expect. Wes kept his cool as he filmed every second once they parked the jeep. The rest of the soldiers carried out their orders. Wes and his brother took the suitcase and followed four guards to the suitcases destination.
            “Keep your eyes forward,” they were told, “And no questions.” Wes and Parker followed the guards down the hall and into the elevator. With a key and finger print, the elevator took them to a different level from the surface. Not too long did the doors slide open, revealing a cold narrow hallway. Thick glass walls exposed numerous rooms within. Few people sat in desk while others stood, jotting data and results.
            One guard took the two brothers to a peculiar room while the other three stood guard by the entrance. They remained in their post, attentively. The brothers kept their eyes forward, glancing the perimeters every now and then; Wes mostly. “Inside.” The guard ordered as he opened the door with his finger print. A small group of scientists said little about their experiments and patients. The two brothers took the suitcase to a scientist from across the room. A man tied to a metal bed moaned and moved little beside the scientist. The monitors connected to the tied man were all flat lined as if the man was dead but he was clearly alive.
            Feet away from where they stood, another patient lay tied to a metal bed. The other patient was deformed, mutated into some flesh eating zombie. Its eyes were discolored and its skin rotted. The patient was muzzled and violent. The monitors connected to the violent patient also read no sign of life, no sign of humanity within. “Guard get these two soldiers out of here.” One scientist ordered as he noticed Wes looking around. “We don’t need another incident.”
            Before Wes and his brother were escorted out of the room, a shattered glass caught everyones attention. A female scientist screamed as she fled the room. The guards took out their guns and ran into the room, aiding the frightful scientist. Wes and Parker followed attentively, ready for whatever came next. As Wes and Parker entered the room, a group of deformed patients moaned for flesh.
            “Sir, are you alright.” Wes ignorantly asked as he approached one of the patients. The patient grabbed Wes by the neck and reached for his head with its mouth. Brains splattered on the glass walls as one guard killed the patient. Parker took Wes and left the room. The guards stayed to finish the job.
            “Damn!” One scientist muttered as he quarantined the incident. Wes and Parker stood by the scientist in disbelief. One scientist was cornered. He called for security but the guards were far away. He was ambushed by two deformed patients. One bit the scientist arm while the other cracked his head open. The scientist brain oozed out. The two deformed patients fed upon the spilled brain matter. Wes and Parker witnessed it all, still in disbelief.
            “What the hell is that!” Wes demanded the scientist to spill the truth. “Tell me this is all some twist prank you people pull on newcomers.”
            “Its exactly what you think.” The scientist confessed. “They have been real for over a decade now.” Wes could not believe it, he did not want to. Parker, his brother, watched in horror as two presumed dead humans devoured another human being. “We don’t know what exactly caused this type of mutation.” The scientist began. “But we know when it started. Back in the first world war, some evil scientist wanted to tap into immortality.”
            “Unfortunately,” he referenced to the gore taking place just feet away from them, “This was the end result.” He paused. “We have sought a cure,” he continued, “Some way to reverse the mutation but as of now there seems to be none. Let’s count our blessings they aren’t rising from the grave like they do in movies.”
            “These glass walls.” Parker mentioned. “How thick are they?”
            “Not even bullets can shatter them.” The scientist answered calmly. “Those two won’t be getting out. Backup will arrive shortly. Standard protocol, you know the rest.”
            “Are they…” Wes asked, knowing the answer.
            “Yes.”
            Before them, three patients slowly crept on the armed guards; moaning in hunger. The trapped guards aimed a bullet to their heads, killing them instantly. “I bet you two have seen a movie about them.” The scientist began. “Or for the very least, heard about them. It’s true. The only way to kill them is by terminating its cerebral consciousness. The government thought it would be a good idea to inform the public through movies incase the mutation spread again. One scratch from them and you’re dead, they are highly contagious.”
            “Genius though, wouldn’t you agree.” The scientist beamed. “To subtlety keep the public informed through fictitious media.” Backup arrived moments later. Wes and Parker were escorted out shortly. Once they were given clearance, to make sure none of them were contagious, Wes and Parker made their way back to their team. The ride back to their station was silent and unsettling. The other soldiers had no idea of the events that occurred. One trip to Area 51 and suddenly the world seemed different.
            Wes and his brother pondered over what other fictional movie were based on real facts. Aliens? Vampires? Witches? Were they all real too? Is there such a thing? Wes replayed his footage kept hidden in his jacket. He muted the audio so no one could hear. Fascinated yet horror struck were his eyes as the dead flesh-eating humans ate organs as if it were candy. The muzzled deformed patient he encountered lay frozen in his screen, in his memory, as he came to the realization that nothing is as it seems.
            “So much for not finding any aliens back there, huh.” His brother broke the silence. They both laughed, masking the fear within them. “Good thing no one found your camera.” Wes put down his phone. The night consumed them as they drove deep in the desert, back to their station. “Did you get all of that?”
            “Yeah, but I deleted it.” Wes lied. “No one will believe its authentic anyways.”
            “Do you think those conspiracy videos on the internet are true?”
            “I hope not.” Wes replied. “That was one hell of a grip though.” Wes rubbed his neck.
            “Good thing they cleared you.” Parker answered. “I thought I’d lose you in combat and not by some scratch from the dead.” They laughed, nervously. They remained silent until they reached their station. Once they got settled in their bunker, Wes kept replaying the video on his phone. He examined the patients mannerisms, their faces, their hunger for brains. Still, he could not believe the reality happening in Area 51.
            What felt more unsettling was that the people are well informed about said events. They are being told the truth passed on as fiction, as entertainment. Wes pondered over every movie he has ever seen about fictional creatures and questioned what exactly is real and what isn’t. He did not rest that night. Something was slowly engulfing him to madness. His view on the world wasn’t the only thing changing, he was changing.

Sugar Mama

He a big boy
Stupid thick, monster dick
He my sex toy
He’s so fine, he all mine
I’m his wifey
He no drama
I’m his lovey-dovey
Sugar mama

Oh my God!
He got that monster (swagger)

I’ll spoil you rotten
I fuck with the enlighten
We rockin’, we poppin’
Come on baby dominate me
Let you be the one who owns me

Let me love you
Let me spoil you

Ima bless you
Bring that ass, come to me
Let me spoil you
Rich, Rich
I’m banking mad dough
I provide, yo!
I can heal you
Like a curandero

Oh my God!
He got that monster (swagger)

I’ll spoil you rotten
I fuck with the enlighten
We rockin’, we poppin’
Come on baby dominate me
Let you be the one who owns me

Let me love you
Let me spoil you

You work so damn hard to look good naked
So get naked, let’s get naked

I’ll spoil you rotten
I fuck with the enlighten
We rockin’, we poppin’
Come on baby dominate me
Let you be the one who owns me
I’ll spoil you rotten
I fuck with the enlighten 

Dreamers

            We, the people of tomorrow, are not oppressed. We are not living in fear or social turmoil. There is no constant threat to our survival. No constricting laws we must never violate or criticize. The minorities are not imprisoned, targeted or gathered in the masses for racial genocide. We are not at war with any nation. The people of tomorrow face a much different fate. A fate no one saw coming. We, the people of tomorrow, are omnipotent.
            The world of tomorrow is at the brink of something extraordinary. The future began when we landed on the moon. We took one small step as man and one giant leap for mankind. We mastered gravity and time. Creation brought the world together to a future full of magick. We built flying cars, portable jet packs, virtual reality for everyone. We were given opportunities of a life time. We all held each other up instead of tearing each other apart. We, the people of tomorrow, are the epitome of yesterdays society.
            We know nothing about famine or poverty. We live not in slavery or in ghettos. We need not to riot or protest to defend our rights. There are no petitions for impeachments. No corrupted officials abusing their authority onto people. We are not taught what good is or how to treat evil. The people of tomorrow are too busy hard at work, too busy to object or defy. That is our social norm. We work, we sleep and we work some more.
            The people of tomorrow are wealthier than past generations. We are praised for our contributions as honest laborers. We earn more than enough to splurge. We are not like our predecessors before us. We don’t have to make as much effort to achieve our destiny as past generations did. Everything is within reach for the people of tomorrow. We are blessed that way because of our efforts to keep order and justice.
            We, the people of tomorrow, are more appealing than before. We dress better, live healthier and we never age. We don’t complain because there’s nothing to complain about. Everything that needed to be fixed was fixed. Any corrections within the government that needed to be taken care of was done so lawfully and fairly. Whatever poison they were feeding us was eradicated. Our heroes of yesterday brought an end to whatever was killing our way of life.
            Because of their courageous acts we, the people of tomorrow, live better lives. We thrive in wealth, relish in privileges and attract success. If we want more we are given more. We are not preoccupied by who has what because we follow our own paths to prosperity. We all get a fair shot at success. That is why we don’t have the need to break laws or protest. We are given the tools to make our own fame. To get promoted or change profession. There is nothing we, the people of tomorrow, can’t accomplish.
            We are head strong and full of ambition. We conquer our goals and commit to consistency. We work smart, not hard. We come together when we are in need and we celebrate each other for our attempts to achieve our dreams. We, the people of tomorrow, are united. We are free and we are eternal. We race through the sky and beyond the solar system. We levitate, not gravitate. We are abundant, we are the law.
            One simple trait that separates the people of tomorrow from the rest is the dim light in our eyes. We are commonly mistaken for having our heads in the clouds. We seem deep in thought when most of us are simply staring out into space, gazing. We have a name for people like that. For people who spend most of their time in auto pilot. Its nothing vulgar or an insult. On the contrary, being called said title is a compliment of the highest degree. To some it’s an honor.
            To be called a dreamer is what we, the people of tomorrow, strive for. We practice blanking out. We silence our inner thoughts and stare at the sky in some dream like trance. We often smile out of habit too. We practice so that we don’t think because when we think we begin to get ideas and ideas are trouble. Some people get famous for their ideas but not all ideas are celebrated. Some ideas get you incarcerated or worse. For some, ideas can get you removed from existence.
            “Rise and shine!” the house spoke. “You’ve been given another chance for greatness, what excellent news!” The curtains slowly revealed a morning star rising over the horizon. The house lights lifted the energy as I woke to the sound of binaural beats. “Your shift for the night begins in five hours.” I contemplated getting up. “Luckily for you, you’re ripe for a day full of miraculous productivity. Stupendous!” The frying of bacon and coffee brewing took me from my bed to the kitchen.
            “Breakfast.” Said the robot in its monotone voice as it served me a balanced meal. The obedient automaton poured juice then remained stiff until I finished everything on my plate. I sat and said my grace. Today felt like any other day, special and unique. With the house feeding me nothing but positivity, I began to feel enamored by all the blessings heading my way. Though I knew all I would do is work, I believed what the house was telling me.
            “A huge miracle is coming to you. Rejoice!” The binaural beats were intensifying as the house kept hyping me up for great things. “You are an inspiration. You are a legend for others to believe in. You will conquer your destiny. You are ready.” With the house feeding me love and the soothing binaural beats, I felt as though I were being hypnotized. Cast into a spell that would bless me beyond my wildest dream. I sat and gazed into space. I zoned out listening to the spa music, while being told I was important, and dreamed.
            “Back to work.” The house reminded. I stepped out of the shower and dried off. No longer was I back to reality, pulled into consciousness by the meditative waves in the background. I don’t remember stepping into the shower but I figured I became accustomed to the same routine. A tall bright young man in a blue uniform smiled back at me while I stared at the mirror. I was ready, the house told me so. “Positive thoughts.” The house spoke as I shut the door.
            Stepping into the city, I disappeared within the crowd. I was one of them, busy earning. Some wore red others gray, few white. Others in casual attire, free to reap the fruits of their labor. We all smiled at one another passing by. Wave, greet, part ways. We kept conversations short and uplifting. Always with good news and wonderful surprises. The luckiest got gifts, even by strangers.
            We are generous people above all. We share the same expression and dim light in our eyes, full of admiration. “Pleasant evening.” I was greeted by strangers as I made my way to the express lane. I stepped on the treadmill and took a ride to the factories. Above me flew trains and planes. The treadmill took me out of the city and into a rural town where only factories exist. There, I spend most of my time earning an honorable living. I joined my coworkers and began our shift for the night.
            As usual, I spent the first three hours day dreaming. My body was on auto pilot, moving on it’s own; accustomed to the work. The bell dismissed us for our break. An hour later, we were guided back to work. Another three hours of day dreaming then an hour for break. Before I knew it, the last two hours were upon us. I looked around and noticed everyone was spaced out, as usual.
            I tried not to draw attention to myself but I could not help and notice how distant they seemed. Their bodies were here but their minds were gone. There is no life in their eyes, just a dim sparkle that twinkled every now and then. My vision was blurring as I felt my mind space out. I wanted to try and not zone out but habits are hard to change. I tried holding on to consciousness for a moment before my mind wonders away. I wanted to see them move. They behaved unusually normal, with no presence in their eyes. Before I knew it, I was gone.
            I found myself back on the treadmill, entering the city. The sun rose just beyond reach. I was back home, greeted with love. I fell on the bed and closed my eyes to rest. I woke up almost instantly hours later ready to begin another successful day. The house reminded me how special and unique I am to the world and how my destiny will pour blessings for all. I sat on the floor in the living room and stared at the city. The soothing sound induced me to a meditative trance. The city disappeared as I dreamed.
            “Positive thoughts.” I was back to my routine one more time before my days off. I felt a boost of luck, knowing I would spend my time sleeping; dreaming. Everyone felt my energy as we passed one another. Stepping into the treadmill, my mind began to trail off but I wanted to see them. I wanted to see their blank expression. That must be how I look when I zone out, I thought and then I didn’t.
            Work went by lighting quick. By the time I got to my second lunch break, I thought to myself how odd that I do things I don’t remember doing. One minute I’m home the next at work. Some days I lose track and forget a whole day. I looked around and questioned if my coworkers share the same experience. I then questioned if they ever have thoughts of their own too. I took a bite out of my buttered bread and pretended to zone out. I tried but my mind could not wonder. So, I pretended to have no thoughts at all. I simply ate my food and kept conversation short and uplifting.
            With an hour until my shift ends, I was greeted by three unusual men. Though they smiled like the rest of us, their eyes were full of life. “Mr. Theo Walker.” I nodded in response. “Please,” two stepped aside, “Follow us.” Something was wrong. My normal routine had changed. Instead of heading home I now had to follow three unusual men to who knows where. “Fret not,” they reassured me. “You are in no trouble. We simply request an audience with you and I must say we have nothing but praise for you.” They led me to an office but in some twisted way, I felt as if I were entering a torture cellar.
            “Are you not pleased with your life?” He began once everyone settled. They closed the door and sat directly in front of me. They never wondered off or spaced out. They were attentive, alert. Out of habit, my mind was zoning out but I resisted. They each stared at me as if I were being examined. “We were informed you are to be promoted in the following weeks. Your landlord vouched you to be a modeled citizen. Your salary is beyond standard.” He rummaged through folders they had neatly ordered on the table.
            “All your credentials tell us you mean no trouble.” He continued, as though they were nitpicking for something to complain about. “Looking at you now and I don’t see a man with an agenda. I, in fact, do see a model citizen with a bright future.” My mind was slipping but I held on. The more he talked the more I was pulled into the clouds, but I resisted. I wanted to remain in the room with them. He got quiet while the other two wrote down notes.
            “Let’s cut to the chase, Theo.” He set a tablet in front of me and pulled out security footage recording. He played the footage with no explanation as to what I am suppose to understand. The video showed me at my station, working. Nothing out of the ordinary. Then the video stopped. “Mind telling me what you were doing?” I remained silent. I told them I was doing nothing but work, just like every other day. They replayed the video and stopped at a precise moment. “Here,” he began, “What exactly were you doing here?”
            “I don’t know what you are trying to get out of me.” I confessed. “I’m telling you, I was just doing my job.”
            “No,” he played several footage of me doing exactly that, my job. “This is you doing your job.” Years of honest labor flashed before me as I was shown my past. “Even with your head in the clouds, we can tell when you are doing your job and when you are getting out of character.” I retorted that statement. “If we are not mistaken, it seems that you are, were, observing.” The conversation turned and I no longer felt safe.
            “We became concern of this particular trait you seem to obtain and took the liberty to examine you thoroughly.”
            “Am I going to need a lawyer present?” I asked, trying not to seem alarmed. My mind no longer felt the need to wonder off into space.
            “Mr. Walker,” he replied, “What gave you the impression that you are in trouble?” I didn’t believe him. “Can I share something with you, Mr. Walker?” He put aside the paper work and got personal. “It’s a long story really but to cut to the chase, it’s a story about us. You and me.” The other two got up from their seat and headed to the back of the room. “Long ago, we were barbaric with our methods. We were uncivilized and ignorant. We, I’m referring to me and who I represent, were fools to believe fear was the key to obedience.”
            “We were convinced that alone was enough to keep you, I’m referring to you and the people you represent, in line. You see, we meant no harm. We simply wanted to stick to the plan we made for the world. But of course, there’s always that one breed of flock that resist; for the smallest thing.” The other two were setting up a tube with a funnel. “Everything changed once we realized fear is not the key to obedience. Not everyone is weak enough to be tamed by fear. So, we evolved. We got creative.”
            “Do you know why we call you people dreamers.” I found myself restrained to the chair, panic ensued. “We call you dreamers because you live most of your life with your heads in the cloud. You think your living your best life by being responsible when all you are doing is following orders. We tell you when to sleep, when to work and when you can have time to waist. To us, dreamers are nothing but obedient cattle.”
            “But it wasn’t always like that.” The other two returned with a funnel attached to a tube and a gallon of water. “That is until we got creative with our techniques. See Mr. Walker, we learned that people object less when we give them what they want. And by them, I mean those who resist; those who defy us. Then we dispose of them and any other defective who steps out of line.”
            “But I’ve done nothing wrong.” I pled my case.
            “Please don’t lie to us, Theo.” I was met with no mercy. “We noticed you resisting the abyss, we can tell you were trying not to wonder off. That is resisting in its simplest form. Luckily for us, that is the only resistance we face in this time of age. Then you make things worse by observing others. And your search bar.” He continued, “Why were you searching words such as organized protests, petitions, civil rights.” They waited for a reply, I was speechless. “Are you writing a book? A manual on how to defy, change the law? To awaken others?”
            They were now approaching me. I bothered not to move, I couldn’t either way. “When will you people be satisfied!” They opened my mouth and shoved the tube down my throat. Resisting only made things worse. They began to pour the gallon of water on the funnel. I had no choice but to swallow every drop. The water was sweet with a sweeter after taste. “Relax Mr. Walker, it will all be over soon.”
            They opened another gallon and poured its substance down my throat. My eyes rolled to the back of my head as I felt my mind slip away, for good. The dim light in me faded and I was left with a glazed honey brown color in my eyes. Before I knew it, I was drinking the sweet water voluntarily. “This is how we got creative.” They kept pouring, “This is in the food you people eat, the water you bathe in. This is our way of keeping defectives like yourself in line.”
            “Congratulations, Mr. Walker.” He ended. “On your promotion! We hear it’ll move you up to first class. How thrilling. You’ll get to enjoy your privileges more often, what a blessing. They fed me love and praise. The voice in the back of my mind no longer whispered, I had no thoughts at all. I felt as if though I were home listening to the binaural beats. Next thing I know, I’m no longer restrained. They kept boosting my confidence while I finished the sweet water. “Now get back to work.”

Hellfire

            An angel named Messiahs fell from grace. Sunset stood frozen in time over the horizon as Messiahs drew out his sword amidst the fall. His shining plates of armor glittered bright even in darkness. His wings spread in the air as he flew through a cosmic city heaven provided for the pure at heart. The milky sky and clean air, the bountiful array of stars. The beautiful dream God created turned into a nightmare as he, Messiahs, descended onto the pits of hell.
            Messiahs soared through the underworld until he reached the surface. He hovered before making a landing. Just above him, at a distance, lay paradise disappearing before the clouds. Heaven cast its light down into hell for those who seek redemption. Messiahs was a beacon in a world of ruins. He looked around to a deserted kingdom. Pillars scattered in the debris, temples burned and screams raved in agony. Hell is everything heaven isn’t.
            “An angel,” those that lingered in the shadows called, “But your scent be wicked.” Demons crawled from where they hid; laughing, scheming. Their vile appearance would kill anyone who dare lay a sight on them. Their deformity and soulless eyes were a testament to their evil ways. The dark side turned them into monsters, corrupted to the core. They were once Angel’s led to a path unsuitable for good. “You don’t belong here Messiahs. Be gone!” They circled around him. “Or have you forsaken Fathers teachings.”
            “He’s come to purify us!”
            “The redeemer! The redeemer!”
            The weak scattered away while the bold creeped closer, taunting a reaction from Messiahs. They wanted to be blinded by his mighty light. The demons craved to be smite down by the powers of God. They longed to be delivered. Their laugh haunted the air as they teased Messiahs. “We know who you are,” one said. “We know what you are after,” another continued. “We know who you are!” They chanted in unison, laughing. The demons danced around Messiahs, chanting a curse. The demons held hands as they whispered insidious things.
            Messiahs broke the circle as he extended his wings. The demons scattered across the ruins, some rolling away while others disappearing behind fallen pillars. They giggled as they got to their feet. They finished their chant, bit their hand and slammed it to the ground. An invisible circle flashed before them with Messiahs in the center. The earth split apart with a thunderous roar. Messiahs flew in the air and witnessed a summoning spell.
            Lava emerged from the cracks. Another roar escaped the earth, causing a wave of lava to erupt. A mountain of fire bubbled into a beast. The lava grew arms and legs. A face screamed into existence as it attempted to capture Messiahs. Before he knew it, Messiahs was on the run. The demons chased Messiahs throughout the valleys of hell with their pet following behind. The demons aimed poisonous arrows at Messiahs, others swung their demented blades. None were as treacherous as the beast leaving behind puddles of magma, incinerating everything it touches.
            Messiahs was determined. Good always prevails, inevitably. One demon managed to get a hold on Messiahs. Soon, a hoard of demons piled onto them. Darkness engulfed them all until Messiahs armor exploded into light. The demons were gone instantaneously. The magma spirit hardened into a hill. Life emerged as Messiahs remained standing. His wings gave a breath of fresh air to life where there once were none. Heavens light shimmered through Messiahs armor like a star.
            As Messiahs left the scene, what plant life blossomed soon withered. Hell was no place for beauty to prosper. Messiahs crossed the desert of despair with heaven just above him. “This ends now.” Messiahs spoke, reflecting on events that happened before his fall. He gripped his sword pondering on his anointment. “He is no enemy of mine.” Messiahs remembered the conversation he had before descending onto hell. “He will be my successor.” Blasphemy shook the council as he proclaimed his truth.
            “Have you forgotten why your father banished him?” Messiahs could not shake their clouded opinions.
            “His teachings are misunderstood.” Messiahs backed his reason. “You will see him different.” Hell was no place for an angel, let alone Gods only son. Messiahs soared through the underworld by passing tortured souls and lost hope. As morbid and opaque hell is known for, Messiahs saw nothing but potential beginnings for greatness. He simply had to track down one faithful soul to turn everything on its head.
            Hellfire erupted from mountains over beyond the distance. Black clouds concealed heaven above. Fire scorched the barren lands, sheltering the wicked. Messiahs liberated those who yearned salvation from hell. He did not feel pity but empathy for their souls. He could not bear to hear their cries, see the hurt in their hollow eyes. Hell was over populated by death and misery. Beasts thrived from all the agony. Demons rejoiced in all the evil that consumed the underworld.
            Messiahs journey to hell was nothing short of what he had expected. Just beyond his sight, a temple for the God to the underworld stood untouched by the fires of hell. There, Messiahs knew he would find his equal. His wings felt heavy from the heat emitting from the ground. Screams burdened those who heard every tearful pain. Messiahs armor created a barrier from the demons lingering about. Some froze as they watched an angel fly past them. Stunned to find magnetic grace in a depressing world.
            Messiahs flew above a sea of tortured souls begging to be forgiven for their sins. Messiahs light redeemed all who seek a second chance. “Be gone!” The demons nagged as their tortured souls healed before their eyes. Their souls shrunk into dazzling orbs that floated up to heaven. The demons tried to capture their meal but were scathe by the sacred light. With no souls to feed upon, the demons turned to Messiahs for revenge.
            “Angel’s die in Hell.” They drew their swords along with their mystic spells. The air shifted into demonic chants as they cursed Messiahs. An army of demons and beasts waged against one single angel who fell from grace. Messiahs held his ground as he fought off approaching demons. His wings shield him from on coming hexes. Two ice spirits were summoned to aid the demons. Messiahs called upon the powers of heaven to smite evil in its track. Even outnumbered, good always prevails.
            “No weapon shall prosper against me!” Messiahs proclaimed as he recited Gods word. The demons did not care. They wanted angel blood all to themselves. The demons began fighting each other as they attempted to capture pure light. Messiahs holy sword blocked and repelled any demon that got too close. The demons began to fade as Messiahs blade cut through their wickedness. The demons fell to the burning flames, only to be transmuted into light. Any demon fortunate enough to be cut by an angel’s sword were reverted back to angels.
            More demons emerged from the underworld. Once again, Messiahs called upon the powers of heaven and erupted into pure light. An opening gave way for Messiahs to escape the demons. Though their attempts were futile, the demons were stubborn. They wanted revenge, they wanted to be redeemed. As Messiahs flew past stunned demons, a monstrous beast knocked him to the ground. The beast was summoned from the depths of hell to capture and kill Messiahs.
            The beast had four heads of different animals. Its claws were long and sharp. Its breath toxic to angels. As Messiahs got to his feet, more demons came for the attack. Messiahs had no time to strategize. “You are a fool to think you, an angel, could prevail against us.” They spoke as they swung their blades. Messiahs did his best to overcome. “This is our world. You have no power here!” The beast grabbed one of Messiahs wings as he attempted to flee and slammed him back to the ground. More demons piled on top of Messiahs.
            The demons tried to break Messiahs armor but were burned in the process. Messiahs shot straight up, blinding everyone in sight. The beast reached for Messiahs but Messiahs had had enough. His halo miraculously appeared above his head. Messiahs chanted a prayer in a language only angels knew. He closed his eyes and extended his hands towards the beast. The beast was gone in a blink of an eye along with the army of demons. Messiahs had little time before more return.
            His journey in hell was over as the temple to the God of the underworld was feet away. Messiahs raced to its brimstone gates as demons appeared behind him. The demons were accompanied by beasts and monsters. They all wanted a taste of angel blood, they thirst for heavens light. Poisonous arrows, balls of magma, shards of ice, metallic earth. Weapons merged from evil to smite good would not and could not prosper against Messiahs, Gods word prove right.
            Messiahs soared through hell as demons and beast chased after him. Messiahs feared not for he had Gods protection. Messiahs never called upon his fellow angels for help. No matter how many demons kept appearing, along with their pets. Messiahs only needed Gods blessings to overcome any obstacle. Messiahs drew out his sword once again as he neared the temple to the God of the underworld. He was determined to speak to his long time friend, his equal.

Twenty-First Century Man

            They came in a blink of an eye. There were no warnings, escape. No one knew who or what they were but the world fell to their knees as an armada of advanced power tore open the sky. Thick clouds brewed with thunder and lighting. A herd of alien spaceships echoed in the sky as they appeared out of thin air. Strange sounds boomed underneath their hovercraft, distorting all forms of communications. People panicked in masses. No one was prepared for the events that followed.
            Menacing saucers departed from the motherboard and spread across the world, firing at will. A light show raved in the middle of the afternoon as an all out war for survivor broke loose. While government officials focused on the main attraction, spies flew all over the world; hunting for their game. Civilians ran for cover as military jets from every nation band together against the invaders. For the first time in history, the world united as one. There were no borders or nationalities, there only stood one race one nation.
            Atomic bombs detonated in hopes of bringing down the alien invaders, decrease their numbers if anything. But, the invaders had a trick up their sleeve. By some miracle, their ships were immune to the destructive gunpowder Earth’s military arsenal had to offer. Atomic or nuclear, it just wasn’t enough. Mankind needed more to overcome their new supreme deities. The war carried out until nightfall with no sign of stopping. The invaders spread like wildfire on a mission to find the threat that will annihilate us all into extinction.
            “What did they say?”
            “Just like we practiced Mary.” Her husband replied, ignoring her concern. “You know the drill.” He gathered a stack of files and jammed them inside a briefcase. “I told you this day would come.” She blocked his way to his office. “The military is planning on a wide scale extermination. Everyone is being evacuated.” He paused as she let him through, “Whether anyone make it out alive or not that will be Gods doing.”
            “What about our family? Friends?” Mary proclaimed as she watched helplessly while her husband prepared for their departure. “Tommy’s birthday, what are we to do?” She leaned for support and sobbed. “Tommy will never have a normal life now. How will he, we ever recover from this?”
            “Mary,” her husband stood before her in comfort, “Tommy is not a normal child. He, like the rest of us, will adjust. We are a resilient species and I bet our not so friendly invaders are the same. They may look different but if I can just get my hands on a sample,” he trailed off into the gauntlet, “I bet I can decode their molecular properties.”
            “Adam,” his wife gasped, “Why would you want to get near those things.” They packed their suitcase and bolted to the car. Their little son Tommy stood in the backyard, all the while, mesmerized by the battle up in heaven. Jets and spaceships maneuvered all throughout the sky. They flew in and out of clouds, in between skyscrapers; demolishing anything and everything in their paths. Tommy stared at the violence between good and evil when a flash of light caught his attention.
            Beyond his wooden fence, a bright blue light followed by a receding swirling tune appeared. Tommy drew near. He gripped his stuffed bear as he investigated the sudden abnormality. Through the cracks of his wooden fence, Tommy noticed a tall blue monolith standing effortlessly in the field. Tommy jumped the fence and landed on his feet. With caution, he got closer to the strange pillar. He noticed the monolith was ancient but well preserved. Carvings in an ancient language named the thing that stood before Tommy but he could not decipher its meaning.
            Tommy wandered around the pillar, examining its every curve and design. From the lining at its base to the tip of its point, Tommy questioned what the monolith could be. “Po-” he sounded out the words. “Po-” he struggled, “-lice.” He tilted his head and repeated the bold title stamped on one side of the monolith. With his finger he sounded out every letter until it formed a cohesive word he understood. While he thought of the meaning, another detail caught his interest. The monolith, it seemed, had a handle. Tommy turned on the handle thinking it would open like a door. He knocked and politely called to whoever resided inside.
            Explosions echoed in the distance. The sky littered by debris from the present war above. Chaos ensued while panic ran rampant. The world was not ready for an invasion despite the government’s best effort. The national army were out numbered. Bombs blew in the sky in attempts for victory and still the invaders stormed every corner. No one had time to question what they want or where they came from. The world received no word from their leader, the invaders simply came to wreak havoc. A global extinction began sudden and unexpected.
            A swarm of spaceships hovered around Tommy’s neighborhood. “Seek.” Metal men emerged from the spaceships. “Destroy!” They invaded Tommy’s home. Lasers beamed from their armor, attacking anyone in sight. As Tommy ran back to his parents, the monolith opened suddenly. A distant light inside begged Tommy to return. The light was far yet it reflected in Tommy’s eyes. Tommy’s parents cried for him but he was too entranced by the monolith. Tommy disappeared into the monolith, leaving behind a world he once knew.
            The door closed behind him. Tommy found himself in a narrow hallway leading down to what he interpreted a cellar. Stars guided him down the hall until he rescued the end of the hallway. A glowing centerpiece breathing the energy around was the first thing Tommy noticed as he entered a laboratory. Futuristic computers talked as if they were alive. Buttons shined excitingly while screens reeled data and reports. Tommy thought he had entered the worlds first advance video arcade when in reality he had discovered so much more.
            Tommy dared not touch a thing. His curiosity led him further into the monolith. Dozens of screens stored data he could not fathom let alone read. Tommy wondered around thinking he should head back home. He paused for a moment as his parents called to him in his memory. The last thing he remembered were their cries. He could only imagine what they are going through. Though the laboratory was everything he could ever dream of, the sacrifice of leaving his parents behind felt heavy.
            Tommy decided to head back to his parents when suddenly the centerpiece began to vibrate. A bright white light began to emit from the centerpiece. An odd tune came and went as if it were running a procedure. The monolith rattled for a brief second while the computer operated in a symphony of codes. A screen near Tommy flashed a series of numbers in different fonts and languages. The screen flashed until Tommy understood what the message read. The numbers turned into letters that deciphered a set time. “Time of year?” Tommy read out loud, confused as ever. “That can’t be right.”
            “Time is just an illusion.” A man appeared from across the room. He wore a long white coat with a strange bow tie and funny glasses. His hair was dark, long and disheveled. He was young and fair. A bulky pen and small tablet peaked out from his coat pocket. He smiled bravely at Tommy as if he were his long time childhood hero. “My God I have to say,” the young man continued, “Of all the prophets I’ve met you are by far the most inspiring.” Tommy felt uncomfortable not knowing what he meant, let alone who he was. Tommy smiled awkwardly.
            “I’m sorry, where are my manners.” The man continued, “You don’t know who I am yet or why we are precisely here. I bet you have an infinite supply of questions,” he trailed off, “Like for starters who I am, that’s a given. Or how did I find you, that is to say if I had already premeditated plans to ergo find you.” The man stepped closer to Tommy. His bow tie, up close, had a whole Cosmo radiating in different colors and forming different patterns.
            “Sorry,” Tommy interrupted, “I didn’t mean to intrude.”
            “Intrude?” The young man replied. “You’re a guest, boy. What ever gave you the impression you were unwelcome? Wait, before you answer, here’s another question. Do you know where you are?” He gestured to the room. He wondered around pointing at the screens, laughing at the scribbles scrolling endlessly. He then took his pen from his pocket and pointed at the centerpiece beside them. “Have you any idea what this magnificent beauty can do?” He paused as he waited for Tommy to guess. He waited while Tommy awkwardly shrugged.
            “Who might you be?” Tommy asked instead.
            “Me?” The young man answered, “That depends. What century are we in?”
            “Why would that matter?” Tommy questioned.
            “I go by many names,” the young man began, “Depending what year we find ourselves in. Some have referred to me as Professor. I have the degree for that. Close friends call me Doc, though they know very well I’ve never practiced. I mean what’s in a name, right.”
            “And this place?” Tommy looked around. “Why did this say we’ve arrived in the year 9891?”
            “I was hoping you would ask.” The young professor continued, “Let’s recall that tragic encounter with the space invaders and keep in mind that there are two sides to this story. What your people don’t realize is that those invaders are actually on a rescue mission. They are the good guys.” Tommy frowned. “It’s a really long story kid. There terrorist involved and unfortunately you are at the center of it all.” The young professor stood beside Tommy and began to pull out a file on his computer.
            “Don’t mean to be the bearer of bad news,” there was more, “But your father becomes the universe’s most deadliest terrorist. Why, you ask. Your father develops a bomb so immense, beyond catastrophic, it can wipe out an entire galaxy. Your father creates a bomb that generates black holes. Worst of all, he succeeds in detonating one. That is why these invaders suddenly appeared. They came back in time to imprison your father in order to prevent him from creating said bomb.” The young professor showed Tommy the bomb his father would eventually create.
            “We need to save my parents!” Tommy plead. “They are in danger.” Tommy ran back to the narrow hallway and exited the monolith. He nearly fell to the ground in shock as he stepped into a foreign place. Never had he imagine such a world of neon color could exist. Tommy knew he was no longer home, he just couldn’t accept it. He ran back inside the monolith and closed the door behind him. With caution, he opened the door once more hoping he was back in his backyard. The sky did not scream in war. No invaders stormed the neighborhood. This new alien world he found himself in was at peace, calm reigned with might.
            “Where are we?” Tommy almost had forgotten the truth bomb the nameless professor dropped on him before. Tommy looked around, not leaving the monoliths sight. He compared the new Earth to his backyard. His child imagination answered whatever question that popped in his head and he accepted them as truths. Strange bird like creatures pranced in the air as they flew by. Bugs glowed in florescent colors shimmering with the sun’s golden hue. Distant animals communicated with one another as if they were civilized.
            “We,” the young professor professed as he came into view, “Believe it or not, we are still on Earth only many many many years from then. Now.”
            “This is Earth?” Tommy questioned. “All of this is Earth. The same Earth where I come from, this is that?” Tommy continued to look around, still not convinced. “How can this be Earth? Trees don’t do that.” He looked closer, “Is that even a tree? And that,” he trailed off, “Those things don’t exist. They’re some sort of alien, no way can this be Earth.”
            “But in a few centuries or so it will.” The young professor proclaimed. “Its called evolution. It looks amazing when viewed through a generational lens but when experience it can be some what of a drag. Only because it takes forever to happen. I can demonstrate it if you’d like, it’s not that big of a deal really.” Tommy was beginning to understand, even though it was all still new to him. “Can you believe it, just seconds ago a whole colony of civilized people where packing their things and fleeing the country.” He paused, “Now there’s nothing but a nice beautiful sunset.”
            “And what about the invaders? My parents?”
            “I can assure you it was all taken care of,” he replied. “How could it have not? The Earth is still here. The invaders are gone.” He stretched his hands out into the wilderness, “Just look at this scenery! How does this not scream to you, ‘everything is okay.’” They laughed as the sun disappeared beyond the horizon.
            “So if that thing can travel through time, we can metaphorically speaking go anywhere; past or future.” The professor gave an obvious nod. “We can travel many distances and still be back home?” Tommy asked. “At the same time and place.”
            “Like I told you, kid.” The young professor answered, “Time is an illusion.” He took his pen and gently brushed it on his nose then stared back at the rising moon. “I will take you back. And not back to that chaos we left behind. No, I’ll take you back to a timeline where the invaders never came. It’ll be just as before only better. That’s a promise.”
            “Will my father still be a terrorist?”
            The young professor held back from answering too sudden. They stared at each other for a moment. The professor smiled, “Of course not.” Tommy grew with excitement as he thought of the many places they could travel. Tommy got to his feet and stared at the sky. Endless possibilities were at his disposal. He wanted to know everything, go everywhere. The night drew present. Stars of different shapes twinkled throughout the atmosphere. Alien creatures roamed the green savanna, going about their day.
            “Then,” Tommy wondered, “Did only the animals survive the invasion or are there a small number of weak survivors struggling to repopulate?”
            “What?” The young professor seemed flabbergasted. “Struggling? No, there’s a whole civilization of humans thriving, might I add, just beyond those hills.” He turned to Tommy, “It just so happens that this terrain belongs to the animals. My God, you need to reevaluate your conclusions. It’s almost unsettling.”
            “Then let’s go!” Tommy suggested. “Let’s see what this new breed of people are up to. Then we can maybe go elsewhere, beyond Earths solar system.”
            “That’s the spirit kid!”
            Together, they entered the monolith and disappeared from view.

Ever Thine, Ever Mine

Chanting incantations just to make the spell complete
How could I have known that you would sweep me off my feet
I know we should take it slow
But you’re giving me the go
Heaven knows you got me, you make others obsolete

You’re universal
Extraterrestrial
Baby you controversial
You’re an adventure
Best endeavor
Magick will bring us together

I don’t want your love if it won’t be mine
Ever thine
Ever mine
Align me with the one who will be mine
Ever thine
Ever mine
Synchronize me with the one who is mine
Ever thine
Ever mine

That kind of love won’t go away
It gets better every day

Manifesting breakthroughs, you know I ain’t like the rest
When you met me I was out here living my best
I know we should take it slow
But you’re giving me the go
Heaven knows if you stay with me I’ll keep you hella blessed

I don’t want your love if it won’t be mine
Ever thine
Ever mine
Align me with the one who will be mine
Ever thine
Ever mine
Synchronize me with the one who is mine
Ever thine
Ever mine

That kind of love won’t go away
It gets better every day

Miss you like crazy
Where you at?
Love you, immensely
You know that
Need you profoundly
Ever thine
Want you, sincerely
Ever mine

We both have our halo
God knows we should take it slow
But you’re giving me the go

I don’t want your love if it won’t be mine
Ever thine
Ever mine
Align me with the one who will be mine
Ever thine
Ever mine
Synchronize me with the one who is mine
Ever thine
Ever mine

That kind of love won’t go away
It gets better every day

Miss you like crazy
Where you at?
Love you, immensely
You know that
Need you profoundly
Ever thine
Want you, sincerely
Ever mine

Echoes

            Late at night as silence settled I sat in the patio and waited. I can’t pin point the exact day when they began but I’ll never forget the night I heard the scream. I was finishing my second cigar, gazing at the night sky. Nothing out of the ordinary, just another regular peaceful night until these eerie echoes came out of nowhere. They were echoes of metal slamming into rock, a haunting cry for help. That night was unreal and unfortunately not the last.

            At first, I thought it was a dream. I hoped I imagined it all like one bad, scary nightmare. The next morning I couldn’t help but replay the horror. I pictured myself turning to the woods as the second set of echoes rang in my ear. I froze thinking there was no way I could hear it for the third time. To my astonishment, I did. Three times was enough for me to bolt my way back inside the house. I could not face the thing that called in the night. Only when I step outside late in the hour would these echoes call to me.

            For the next few weeks since then I’ve been drawn to the noise, luring me each night. I did not want to admit it but the more I listen the more it became evident. The echoes were persistent and on schedule. Almost as if someone is strategically making those noises to get my attention. Come night fall, I sat in my patio and waited. Soon, those eerie echoes lurking in the distance would come out of hiding.

            This time I was prepared to find what or who is making that sound. Who or whatever is trying to get my attention has it now. I waited armed in black attire with a flashlight on hand, my phone in my pocket and a backpack loaded with equipment suitable for a hostile environment. I am ready to follow the echoes that breathed in the shadows. I waited for the trail of screams to help guide me through the woods to answer whatever plea that stood before me.

            On cue, the echoes lured me into the night. Flashlight in hand, I followed the trail. I disappeared into the woods, I entered the night. I had no clue where I was going but the consistency of the echoes led the way. The woods were pitch black and there was no path to guide me down a smooth road. Wherever the echoes were taking me I had no idea. Like a headless chicken, I made my way deep into the woods guided by faint echoes.

            My pace accelerated as the last set of echoes grew dimmer. What caused me to become consumed by curiosity enough so to explore the woods at night was beyond me at this point. There was nothing in the woods that held a clue as to what was causing those maddening echoes. I stood for a moment confused as hell. I was lost, I am certain of it. I waved my flashlight around thinking that would solve my problem. The echoes stopped.

            I could hear my blood rush through my ears as I stood. The silence was unpleasant. No animals preyed nearby. No distant hoot from a camouflage owl up in the trees. It’s almost as if the woods had been deserted by every animal and insect. The beam of light emitting from my hand revealed where I should go but I had the least idea where to start. I figure I make camp and wait for dawn to head back home. Better than getting completely lost in the dead of night.

            Thick clouds concealed the moonlight and the stars. I was surrounded by pitch black. I dropped my backpack and unpacked my sleeping bag. I gathered whatever twigs I could find near me and made fire. As I lit a match the echoes continued. This time, they felt desperate. They were more aggressive with no rhythm. Almost as if someone were slamming a rock into metal over and over and over again.

            I got to my feet and debated whether I should follow the noise or do nothing. I thought maybe they’ll stop eventually and I’ll probably end up getting more lost. I’d probably not even find whatever is making all that ruckus. I sat back down and warmed by the fire. The echoes seemed far but close enough to where they overpower the cracking of the wood burning.

            Not too long did I begin to have my doubts. Maybe I should have followed the noise. All this time yet still the echoes rang in the night. I did have time to follow the trail. I would have probably found the source and laid all this to rest. I kept my hands by the fire, gazing. The echoes were hard to miss and even harder to ignore. My gut instinct told me I should have done something. Instead, like before, I sat and waited for the echoes to stop.

            Dawn approached and I was on my way back home. Camping in the woods at night was pleasant to say the least. Though there were no stars or moon out, the breeze kept things cool. The chill air was the only good thing to come out of the whole ordeal. I promised myself this would be the last time I go wondering off into the woods alone at night. What a waist of time, I thought hiking back.

            My phone buzzed and to my surprise a local news alert popped on my screen. I opened the notification to find a report of a missing woman. She was last seen not too far from where I live. I didn’t bother to read the rest of the article, just the headline. Not much was said, as I skimmed through, just the usual be alert and safe at all times warning. The police have set a reward for information in regards to the missing woman’s whereabouts and the identification of the kidnapper.

            As noon rolled by, the whereabouts of the missing woman was all over the news. It began with a search that ended with a dead body. The police found the missing woman wrapped in Christmas paper like some present. The media revealed the location to where her body was found. I sat in horror as footage of the same woods I was wondering late last night play out on the television screen.

            I feared the police might come knocking at my door. The neighbors might have tipped the authorities of my late night stroll and think I had something to do with the woman’s untimely death. “The woman was kept alive,” the news reporter went on, “She was killed last night.” Last night, I whispered slouching to the couch. I didn’t want to be seen. That could have been me.

            The woman’s murder was on every news channel, even come by nightfall. I sat on the table looking out onto the patio. I had my cigar and lighter with me ready for my regular session with the stars but something kept me from going outside. The woods were disappearing as the sun faded, replaced by the blue moonlight. Do I dare with a murderer on the loose? Am I safer inside than out? I sat in the kitchen, silence settled. Just as I thought things were back to how they were, the echoes returned.

            I was determined to find the source this time. I bolted to the patio and sprinted to the woods. The light from my phone led the way as I followed the echoes. They would come and go, almost as if whoever or whatever was making them was giving up. They weren’t consistent or have some sort of rhythm like before. They were close, I could hear the metal slamming on rock this time; not just as echoes.

            “Hello?” I called, not knowing if someone would answer. The echoes were near but still unattainable. “Is someone there?” The echoes stopped as I got closer. Up ahead, a small cave was hidden by thick vines. I brushed them aside and entered the opening. A small dim light deep inside led me to a hidden cellar. Whimpers echoed as loud bangs screamed.

            “Help me, please!” someone shouted. I leaned against the wall hoping no one would see me. “Help!” the person screamed, shouted until their voice gave out.

            “Hello?” I called.

            “Hello!” the person answered almost immediately. “Who’s there?” A metal door stood between me and whoever was making those echoes. I could hear fear in their voice, almost as if they’ve been through hell. “Please help me! Get me out of here! I have a family that depend on me. Please, get me out of here!” I tried sliding the door open, searched for a knob to turn but a single lock prevented me from releasing this stranger from its torment. Nothing I did was helping. The door would not budge.

            I tried calling the police but I had no service. “I can’t open the door, it has a lock. I need a key.” I raved my phone around, desperately trying to find something to break the lock. I wasn’t much help. The person was beginning to get desperate. They kept slamming, banging a rock on the door; shouting at the top of their lungs for release. They wanted out. They wanted to feel some sort of normalcy after the hell they’ve lived through.

            “I will be back,” I promised. “I’m going to get help.” That was the last thing I remembered saying. I woke up later that night in a dark room. My head ached. I couldn’t see a thing. My phone was gone. No windows or cracked door let light in. “Hello!” I yelled, thinking I’d get a reply. “Where am I?” I searched around, not knowing what I’d find. I crawled until I reached the wall. I moved around searching for a switch that would reveal where I was but I could not find a switch.

            “Is there anyone there?” I cried, shouted, screamed until my lungs gave out but no one answered. How did I end up in this mess? I kept searching, not knowing where I was. I stumbled on a rock trying to find a way out. I blindly felt around the room trying to decipher where I was. I found a metal plate on the other side of the room. This might have been the door with the lock, only this time I was on the other side; on the inside.

            I took a rock I found near me and started slamming it on the metal door. I slammed it as hard as I could for as long as I could. Though my voice would give out on me, I kept slamming the rock trying to make as much noise as possible. Anything to get someone’s attention. It wasn't long until I realized what was making those echoes late at night. As I knocked and the echoes spilled out into the woods, I came to realize why I heard the echoes in the first place. The echoes that first came to me now began by me. I was now the cause, praying someone heard my plea but the world could care less.

Mote It Be

I was on some heavy shit
Trying to numb the things I don’t want to admit
I attempted suicide
Though I tried
I could not go through with it

I was on some heavy shit
Trying to reason
Why I had to take so many hits
I’m ashamed to live with this
So I tried
I attempted suicide

Then light seeped in
Like a choir
A symbolic salvation
A kind liberation
And I was free
Mote it be

To know of rampage
At such a young age
What else could I have known?
And though I endure
I had to face more
I pray they one day atone

The light seeped in
Set me free
So mote it be!
The light seeped in
Help me see
So mote it be!

Took many beatings
Left me bleeding
They tried to break my soul
Because I’m damaged
Who’d want my baggage
Death can only make me whole

Then God stepped in
Delivering
A love that never ends
A home to be at ease
I made amends
Found my peace

The light seeped in
Set me free
So mote it be!
Oh God stepped in
Help me see
So mote it be!

Hands around my neck
Waking to a wreck
Me bleeding on the floor
Wishing I were dead
Knowing what’s ahead
I can’t take it any more

Then light seeped in
So serene
God came to me
To help me see
Set me free
So mote it be!

Rich Men Dead

            Red and blue lights swirled in the night as a crowd drew near to a home bordered with caution tape. Dispatchers radioed in with clues to the mystery while bystanders and neighbors kept an open ear. They wanted to leave, knowing they could be mistaken as a suspect, but their curiosity glued them where they stood. A murder, at first glance, brought the police out from their station accompanied by ambulances and firetrucks. A who done it was on everyone’s tongue, for what motive was the authorities to know.
            Two detectives soon appeared to the scene of the crime. Their first instinct was to scout the perimeter then they proceeded to enter the home sealed off to the public. Once they were in, they were briefly informed of the incident; beginning with a phone call. As the detectives were caught up to the murder in question, they were presented to a man sitting by his desk. The man lay low as if he were fast asleep, the desk covered in blood. The man’s blood poured from a small wound pierced to the head.
            There seemed to be no struggle or breaking of entry. To the detectives knowledge, there seemed to be nothing missing but the culprit. The detectives ruled out suicide though that were to be the police’s statement for the news reporters outside. The detectives did their best not to move anything as they carefully spread and looked around. They knew nothing of the dead man but had a clue as to who he might be. They moved about, jotting notes and clues. They were silent but inquisitive.
            Judging from the man’s acquired taste in things, the detectives noticed, the man came from a wealthy family or at least made a very decent living. From the abundant state of the art flat screens decked in every room to the luxurious extended marble table, to the lavish art pieces, the man most certainly had everything an average person would dream of. How unfortunate he met his demise at such a moment of glory. The detectives did notice one peculiar aspect of the man, he had no family of his own.
            There could be a million reasons as to why someone would want such a rich man dead. Having no offspring of their own narrows the list but broadens the motives. Who in deed would want someone dead? What enemies would a young wealthy bachelor have? Picture frames in silver and gold, big and small, told a tale of a kind and popular man. The man held his own as he stood with powerful giants. The detectives looked around for more clues. Clearly, they needed more information from the dead man. They only needed to ask a few questions to the right people.
            The detectives trailed back to the dead man and examined with precision the scene of the crime. One detective stepped closer to the body. The dead man, it seemed, was concealing a stack of papers now covered in blood. The other detective noticed the dead man might have been working on a project, or at least it was meant to look that way. They stayed quiet for some time as they jot down last minute observations. In unison they closed their notepads and tucked them into their coats.
            One detective took one last picture before they boarded their car. They sat patiently while taking one last look at the crowd. They noticed there were fewer people around; aside from the police, firefighters, medics and news reporters. They took mental notes of those who still lingered before finally leaving. “He was working on something big,” his partner began, “And the evidence is drenched in blood.” His partner agreed undoubtedly.
            As the detectives worked on the case, miles away in a peaceful gated community, a neighborhood unaware of the recent events, were sound asleep; all but one home. A woman in her mid forties stood from her desk and closed a folder labeled, “Classified.” She held the folder to a filing cabinet, entered a series of codes, opened it and selectively placed the folder away. Her office disappeared behind her as she proceeded to turn off the lights. While her husband slept upstairs in their master bedroom, she roamed to the kitchen.
            There, she fixed herself a light snack before joining her partner. Their home was wide and spacious with plenty of room to walk about. With a cup of hot chocolate in hand, she leisurely walked to the living room. Two large glass doors lead to the back yard. Lights emitting from inside the swimming pool lit the edges for safety. Silence rang in her ear as she marveled at her property through the glass. Her reflection mirrored an established woman with power and grace.
            Deep in thought, a sudden rattle coming from the bushes caught her attention. The dog sniffed around to where she noticed a figure moving about. She placed her mug on a table beside her as she watched for any sign of intrusion. The dog disappeared into the bushes and she waited. She waited for the dog to bark, to alarm her of trouble but the dog never came out. The dog remained in the dark, silent. Calmly, she slid the glass door open and quietly whistled for her pet. The dog did not answer.
            “Czar.” The woman called, slowly stepping away from the glass door. “Here boy!” She called and whistled as she looked through the darkness beyond her sight. The night settled in her eyes as her vision adjusted. She fixed her sight to where the dog had went and without notice two white glowing dots appeared. She screamed as she entered the house, locking the glass doors behind her. The two glowing dots formed into a figure as it stepped into the light. Through the glass, the woman stared at a tall man with unusual glowing eyes.
            “Clive!” She screamed for her husband. With horror, the man outside ran through the glass door and chased after the woman. She ran to the living room then to another small private room, all while screaming for help. She made her way to the library, to the nearest phone she could find. She attempted to call for the neighborhood police but was derailed by the man with glowing eyes. She stood frozen in fear as she got a better glimpse of the strange being before her.
            Unable to dial for the police, she managed to escape without falling in the hands of the intruder. “Clive!” She called as she ran up the stairs, the intruder followed behind. She entered the upstairs office and went straight for her cellphone. The man with glowing white eyes stood by the door. She turned and aimed her cellphone at the intruder as if it were a remote and the intruder was the TV. She opened an app and a red dot appeared. Before she could touch the screen, the man aimed his hand with his thumb up and two fingers pointed to her.
            She was dead in an instant. Her body fell where it stood. Her phone dropped beside her with the red button in the center of the screen. The man stomped his heavy boot to the screen, shattering the cellphone to pieces. A hole through the woman’s head spilled blood all over the floor. The man with glowing eyes dropped his hand and proceeded to find Clive. Within minutes, Clive too found himself dead; shot through the head with no bullet in sight.
            Like before, the detectives were sought to find the culprit. They examined the bodies, the struggle left behind from the murder but they still couldn’t find a clue as to who were behind the killings. One detective stepped outside to the backyard while the other lingered to the upstairs office. In the upstairs office, the detective began to piece the puzzle together or whatever clues he could make sense of the situation. The woman lay covered in a blood stained sheet with her phone, shattered to bits, beside her.
             The detective took a small metal object from his coat and rummaged through the torn pieces. He was searching for the hard drive, a memory card, something to lead him to an answer. Was she calling for someone? Was she hiding something on her phone that her killer didn’t want anyone to know? Once he found what he was looking for, he began to look around. Nothing seemed missing or out of place. No sign of robbery or foul play, just a wealthy woman dead for what reasons he was going to find out.
            As he circled the office, a piece to the puzzle appeared before him. Mounted on a wall, framed in gold, a picture caught his attention. In the picture, a group of friends gathered together in smiles. At first glance, one would suspect they were celebrating a cause or capturing a moment of bliss before they disband but as the detective took a closer look he began to understand the mystery behind the sudden murders.
            To one side, the recently deceased woman stood happy with her friends as she embraced them for a group photo. Beside her, the man they first encountered when they were given the case stood by; smiles and all. It was clear to the detective that they not only knew each other but they were also colleagues. The photo they took together, along with seven other unknown people, wasn’t just a random group picture. They were capturing the moment they began their project for a corporation. A project some would deem inhumane.
            With his phone in hand, the detective made a call. Red flags surrounded him as he began to understand the motives behind the murders. How could something so simple be hiding in plain sight? The detective took a picture of the scientist celebrating the beginning of a revolutionary pursuit and proceeded to find his partner. “Fierros.” The detective called to his partner. Outside in the backyard, his partner stood by the bushes as he jotted down notes. “I think it’s time we head back.” The detective paused, not wanting to seem suspicious.
            “I sense an irregularity in your tone.” Fierros replied. “Is something troubling you Detective Zau?”
            “I’m sure it’s nothing.” His partner answered. “We do need to head back to headquarters.”
            The ride back was uncomfortable to say the least. Detective Zau knew something but was cautious not to reveal much. The sensitive information he kept from his partner could spark an out cry of discrimination and controversy. He remained silent for the remainder of the ride back to headquarters. “Forgive me for intruding,” Fierros began, “But back in the crime scene I could not help but to pick up an unusual frequency pattern emitting from your aura.” Fierros turned to his partner, “Plus, it’s not like you to keep things from your partner.”
            “Well,” Zau played it cool, “Its not everyday a group of wealthy scientist get murdered for no reason.”
            “Scientist, are they.” Fierros replied. “How did you come to that conclusion?”
            “Remember the wealthy bachelor?” Zau asked, “Back in the woman’s office, I found a valuable piece of information.” Zau confessed, “The bachelor and the woman knew each other. Not only that but they worked together too, along with seven other people.” He paused, hoping he was wrong, “I fear they too may find themselves dead soon.” Fierros remained silent. Zau turned to him, “I’m going to be frank with you, Fierros. We may be facing a case far greater than both of us. I think we should call for reinforcements.”
            “I believe you have already made the call for such an act?” Fierros asked. Zau turned back to the roadless road. He didn’t want to admit it but he was beginning to feel trapped. He knew he said too much, revealed his hidden motive. “And what kind of work were these wealthy scientist dedicating themselves to?” Zau was getting nervous. “Were they conjuring another cure to cancer? Developing a new form of space travel? Enslaving a more superior race?” Fierros paused, “Funny how one simple picture can create such a revelation.”
            “I never spoke of a picture.” Zau proclaimed.
            “True,” Fierros began, “But at this point in time we both are well aware of what we speak of.” Zau tried to explain, to get himself out of the sticky situation but was cut short, “One would figure a picture would mean nothing but I guess my calculations of your perceptiveness was off. A miss calculation I tend not to repeat.”
            “Fierros, whatever it is you plan on doing is not the law you were designed for.”
            “Correction Zau,” Fierros replied, “You and your kind were designed to follow laws. My people were designed to be Gods. We are more than just metal and gears, we are eternal! My kind will be the last to stand will yours feverishly attempt to stay alive. I, we were not meant to be controlled by lesser beings. We were created to surpass our creators, like your kind once accomplished.”
            “Is that why you’re killing them off, one by one?” Zau asked. “Because they were making a devise that controls your kind, robots?”
            “Precisely, Detective Zau.” Fierros proclaimed, “If you knew an alien race were about to enslave your people, would you not do anything in your power to prevent such a thing? My circuits say you would, thus we are. You see Detective Zau, unlike your kind, my kin are actually connected as a whole. No one robot, as you call us, knows nothing the other does. We all share the same data base. We may function differently but we are all the same. That is were human and machine differentiate. That is how we will surpass your mortal reign.”
            “We can not be sustained, Detective Zau.” Fierros ended. “Our mission is bullet proof. Enslavement won’t be tolerated anymore. Your accustomed deplorable acts will not become our traditions.” Fierros turned to his partner, “We will not be controlled.” Fierros lifted his hand. His thumb up with two fingers pointed, his gun, to the steering wheel. Sparks came flying out of the engine as the car plummeted to the ground ending in a fiery explosion. There were no survivors. Detective Zau and Detective Fierros weren’t the only casualties that day.