Darrigo-The Ancient Code of the Universe
Ancient Code of the Universe by James Darrigo Author’s Note: The author, a lover of nature and science has always wondered how and why, when and where; as it pertains to the workings of our vast universe. The mechanism to life, fitting into the realm of the universe’s power and control, continues to fascinate him and inspired his imagination. This novel is a reflection of this passion. Copyright 2012 by James Darrigo Published by James Darrigo/Smashwords edition All Rights Reserved No part of this book maybe reproduced in any form without permission from the author PART One
The Beginning
HE staggers into the room as the suited men shove him through the doorway. The sweat streams off his face, echoing as it falls to the floor. HE tries to keep the pace as his captors nudge him further down the aisle. HE notices a slight chill coming from within the spacious room – their final destination. The room appears to intertwine multiple dimensions. Once positioned onto the assigned chair, HE struggles to comprehend the actions in his midst and tries not to appear disheartened. HE knows the proceedings will determine his destiny – forever. HE stretches his neck to look around several large pillars and observes only a wooden desk. The desk seems to allude gentility and vehemence. This décor intimidates his mood and he becomes restless. HE wonders why he feels like “Big Brother” is watching him. The lack of control is unnerving to him. Who could harbor such an air of authority?
Suddenly, his emotional stability unravels – an indiscreet shadow is flittering across the room, heightening his sense that he is in danger. HE realizes the shadow is cast by someone of great importance; more of a scholar than a figure. His unease only becomes greater as the agenda aligns to reality. Change is sure to come, and soon. His attention diverts to the curvature of the walls as his impatience grows, becoming almost overwhelming. HE admires the lights as they reflect in a counterclockwise – yet simultaneously clockwise – fashion. “How odd,” he thinks to himself, and then finds himself somehow admiring their beauty. HE sighs. HE notices (with some irony) that there is a plaque high above the desk; it reads: “In God We Trust.”
The bang of a gavel alerts the acquaintances again to guide him toward the desk. The shadowy figure before him is clearly one of absolute authority, his only goal to create unimaginable harm beyond the bounds of probability.
The figure, with little affection, fixates on his aura, and they glare into each other’s eyes. This exhausts the depths of his soul, and HE desires not to continue. However, not doing so would be impossible – uncharacteristic of his emotional matrix. The two attempt to control each other using their minds and thoughts. Careful not to succumb to his power, the figure stands erect and stares down at the subordinate beneath his realm. The figure in an orchestrated pattern of order, gathers his thoughts only to glance into space. Silent and methodic, the figure musters all of his internal energy to bellow out, “MAD DOG! Do you have anything to add before I continue?”
Nervously, HE shifts his weight onto his powerful legs, a gift of his past. HE thought of his dear, unyielding mother who departed in her youth, and his father, who had been inconsolable as he attended to their ranch. HE gathers his thoughts in relevance and in prudence, only to inhale deeply. HE surveys the room and realizes he had to defend against an audience enthusiastic to entangle the circumstances.
“Sir, I must counter the indebted emotions of this room. What I want is not revenge, nor comfort, but the truth of the knowledge and involvement, which I will award to this assembly. I am hasty to accomplish this task because if I do not, it will not only lead to my demise, but to the demise of everything in existence. I plead to your highest will and glory to listen to the words I am about to say.
My judgment, and therefore, the judgment of all, rests on today’s outcome. I hereby give my story about a close friend of mine named Joseph. A story manipulated under uncertain circumstances – circumstances that were unimaginable to the conscious mind. The motives of such an episode were arbitrary and capricious. What occurred was an abuse of discretion, unsupported by substantial evidence. Evidence that contained excessive penalties against nature, shocking the laws as I understood them. I wish not to belabor my point, but this is my story, so help me God.”
Chapter One
The stars shimmered, signifying the light of years gone by, and the brisk air tingled against Joseph’s skin. He was glad for the temporary distraction, the calmness giving him a moment of reprieve, a reward in itself; a reward to those who accepts its raptures.
Joseph could barely make out what he thought were the outlines of shadows perched on the power lines above. (What were they-real, or something else unknown? He couldn’t be sure.) He noticed the shadows were arranged in some sort of predetermined code of hierarchy. He smirked and grinned, for he too was well-versed in this type of order. He squeezed his fists and remembered the time he had been reprimanded by a certain authoritative figure who himself had a closet full of deplorable skeletons. Nevertheless, it seemed that this odd hierarchy dictated the decision that would determine his fate, and all he could do was suffer the consequences. This particular night was no different from the last.
Grains of stalk lined the road, swaying in the breeze – sparkling and flavoring the mood. He closed his eyes and inhaled. He searched beyond his soul to appreciate this moment. Suddenly, right before his eyes, a town unfolded as rooftops popped into view.
The church with its belfry and bell stood next to the pompous Firehouse. Joseph assumed he was late, for the fire horn laid dormant. In close proximity, next to the Firehouse, was the Facility, with its eerie graveyard. He recalled in his youth how he had had a job guarding a broken-down fence near the Facility for one of the towns “elders,” a feeble old man. Joseph never knew what became of the Facility after he left, since the elder had since passed. Rumor was the man planned for and executed “formalities” at the Facility, and was buried (and there were related burials) within the same graveyard. The old man’s work was held to secrecy, leaving the townspeople to come to their own conclusions.
An abundance of dilapidated windows and crumpled bricks were visible along the Facility’s structure. Joseph thought, “What a shame for such a building to fall into ruins.” Windows slammed shut and doors were closed. In fact, the townspeople were in the process of securing their homes, perhaps for a coming storm? Joseph had finally arrived, snapping his boots heavily on the porch steps. The tell-tale signs of decay and desolation conveyed how others before him had fared. Joseph approached the door of the Depot, and through the window, he could perceive occupants about to perform what he imagined were their assigned duties. This way of doing things had persisted for many years, through one generation to the next.
The doorbell chimed, and the welcome smell of coffee filled his nostrils. Joseph felt a twinge of nostalgia as he approached the counter. He placed his list onto the elliptical counter. The clerk, a very patient person, seemed much wiser than his humble appearance allayed. Joseph patiently watched the clerk select the items needed and place them in a large sack. Beyond the shelves, Joseph listened as the clerk mumbled, “I see you need a shovel there, my friend. Boy, with this lousy weather, you are sure to have a difficult time to dig.” Joseph shifted his weight as he leaned onto the counter.
“Whatever your plans, make sure you obtain those permits. You know how vicious they can be if you defy them. Why, I just had one of them fellows in here the other day to inspect my boiler. It took him longer to walk the steps than to check it. Then, he had the audacity to put his hand out for a fee.
“In addition, get this! Last week, I had the damn Fire Inspector in here. He came the same time I smelt something burning. I thought, oh good, he’s here to protect my building. However, he was here for a routine inspection and fee. On top of that, he gave me a summons for empty bottles on the porch. Before I got a chance to inquire about the smell, he was gone.
“With a little detective work, I found the odor to come from an extension cord. I guess I should have been a Fire Inspector. Anyway, here you go my friend; here is what you need. Now, stay warm and you come back soon.”
Joseph took the supplies with earnest and grunted thanks. He proceeded to step onto the porch. His nose tingled, and crystallized mist swirled through the air with his every breath. He grabbed onto the banister, clutching the contents of the sack against his chest. He again caught another glimpse of the Facility, which lie dormant just a little ways past the shop. The structure looked authoritarian, perhaps even a bit elitist. Joseph began to feel eager to fulfill his passion and desire for change. However, it would not happen until he was ready.
The familiar trail home was a comfort, and he noticed the shadows typically overhead were absent. He assumed their diligence had rewarded them. The stars continued to shine their wealth upon the landscape. The day had been an ambitious one, and Joseph was eager to get home to the comfort of his bed. This thought soothed his psyche. He felt his whole self becoming one with the universe’s free association of trinity.
Suddenly, in his haste, he tripped over a pothole, and he was startled back to reality. He instantly felt a pop in his ankle and became overwhelmed with lightheadedness. Joseph quickly sat down on the curb. He started to knead his calf muscles before realizing how late it was and that he needed to get home. As he anchored himself upright and started to hobble along, he noticed a subtle movement from the corner of the field. He froze. The movement appeared to be a silhouette, and he thought that maybe it was something waiting for its prize (or perhaps its prey). His fight-and-flight response triggered; the object moved closer. Joseph tried not to panic as he started to hobble away. However, the faster he ran, the faster the object followed. Suddenly, he felt he was temporarily blinded; he tried to yell, but couldn’t.
“Hey, boy, what are you doing out here this late?” one of the town’s elders demanded from aside the road.
“I just came from the store. I had to pick up supplies, and I injured myself.”
“Well, you get a move on. It’s not safe out here.”
Joseph didn’t care for the elders, but at the same time, he respected them. Once, he had gotten into an altercation with one of them while filing a report against a perpetrator on his property. The trespasser had been one of the police department’s colleagues. Of course, in the end, the only repercussions were those taken against Joseph himself. The elders could do no wrong in the eyes of this mad world.
Joseph watched the elder disappear into the darkness and he hobbled on.
He was happy once he was finally back in the comfort of his abode. Tired, Joseph put away the supplies and settled onto the couch to catch up on his book. In due course, his eyelids began to droop and he struggled to focus. As he neared the brink of deep sleep, a noise could be heard from outside the kitchen window. How odd for this time of night, he thought. He grabbed his lower leg and pulled up into an erect position to investigate. Once outside, he noticed the clouds overhead and struggled to adjust his eyes. He inched to the far side of the porch, but there were no visible signs of intrusion or a possible visitor. He turned back only to hear a low-pitched voice, soothing and calm, then bellowing in a tone of urgency. The voice commanded and instructed him to keep his hands away from his pockets and to step away from the house. Unsure if danger was lurking outside the realm of the porch, Joseph requested the speaker to do the same and to provide identification.
The voice ignored Joseph’s demands and continued to inquire as to if he lived here, and for how long if he had. The voice sensed Joseph’s anger, and with reluctance, conveyed to Joseph that someone of interest was in the neighborhood.
“I don’t think so, whoever you are,” Joseph said with caution. He managed to convince the voice that he didn’t know anything about any persons of interest in the town. Finally, the voice allowed Joseph to retreat to the comfort of his couch. Soon, Joseph drifted into the world of sleep…
***
The alleyway was clear of obstacles, and Joseph took his routine position. This afforded the advantage point he sought, despite the light from the stars. A cover of darkness enveloped the landscape, and the mood was appropriate. The buildings, compiled of designed bricks, aided in Joseph’s hidden plan. He poised against doorframe of one brick building, and he became intrigued by the many underground entranceways that he saw, which were never traveled by anyone – except the unfortunate. Joseph shifted his weight, feeling hopeful, only to glance over his brawny shoulders. He noticed the buildings were aligned in perfect relations – in fact, they were all too perfect. Even the universe was not perfect in this moment of time. The only sound heard was that of his heartbeat. He lay discreet and waited for his desired moment of opportunity. He became restless and impatient; however, he was grateful for the luxury to fulfill his wishes. These wishes would grant him much satisfaction, more than he might be able to bear.
His breathing and heartbeat escalated, for a shadow then emerged. The image reflected off the walls in a counter-clockwise pattern. Joseph ceased all of his movements and tightened every muscle in his body. His mind twirled, circular, while he calculated the exact moment of impact. He had to assess the speed of the footsteps and the distance between himself and the shadow to assure a precise outcome. If his calculations were misaligned by even one degree, it would lead to an unsatisfactory fate.
With one deep breath, he said a prayer, and then lunged forward, hoping to strike his mark. He realized too late that his calculations were indeed misaligned. His victim was able to predict the assault and desperately spun around into an advantage point facing Joseph. Joseph panicked, for he felt a sharp pain against his upper torso. The shadow, of a woman, continued to grapple to counter his force, and she seared an instrument into his chest. Off-balanced, Joseph stumbled to the ground. He saw darkness swirling around him, and then it all went black…
***
Joseph sat up from the couch with a start, shooing the cat curled up on his chest. He scuffled to the kitchen and realized he had overslept. He thought about how much work still needed his attention. Top priority was to cut the grain stalks before the next frost; otherwise, all would be lost. The sunlight streamed through the kitchen window, reflecting images off the countertop. The cat danced and played in harmony with the sparkling reflections. Joseph squinted, rubbing his bloodshot eyes. He reached into the cabinet for the cat food. Dressed in his denim overalls, he bolted out the door toward his daily chores.
Once inside the barn, he mounted his special harvest-time vehicle, snuggled safe in the corner. Joseph straddled it, turned the key, and soon the modern-day apparatus sputtered into life. With the sun against his back, he forged toward the fields to accomplish the daily chores. Joseph steered the vehicle in perfect alignment, careful not to destroy the plants bedded in the furrows. The power underneath him buckled as the vehicle strained to carry him over the mighty terrain. Joseph observed the clouds overhead, and a light mist formed against his windshield. This did not help matters, for he had to harvest the crop quickly and efficiently. The rhythmic pitter-patter of the raindrops added to his worry. He struggled to maintain his focus…
***
Chaos had ensued. Joseph had to escape his assailant. His heartbeat increased to match his every breath. He maneuvered his vehicle into alignment to avoid turning too far to the right or left. The vehicle struggled as it careened over each curve, and Joseph’s assailant maintained his pace. Joseph knew he had to escape before the contents of the trunk were exposed to his predator. Joseph’s upper lip filled with perspiration. The gap between the two shortened. His assailant had timed his next maneuver so that his vehicle crashed against Joseph’s bumper. There was no hope. Joseph‘s forehead slammed against the steering wheel…
***
Joseph lifted his forehead. He had heard a tapping sound. He blinked a few times to orient himself as his engine sputtered and the vehicle’s tires spun against the wet soil.
“Sorry to have scared you, my friend. I saw you were in a bit of a problem, so I came over to assist. Boy, oh boy, you sure did make a mess of this field. Well, at least you are not hurt.”
Joseph nodded, grunting at the stranger. He stepped down from the vehicle to assess the damage.
***
“Joseph, I heard you did a number on the field,” the clerk said. “I hope you didn’t hurt yourself. Did I tell you about the time I hurt my back? It doesn’t matter. I will tell you anyway. It started when I picked up a heavy item for a customer. The pain was unbearable. I went to see my doctor. He practically told me it was all in my head. With my complaints, he had no other choice but to order an X-ray. Would you know it? The X-ray revealed minimal injury, but doggone it, I knew something was wrong – especially when the abdominal pain started. I then requested a MRI, but my insurance wouldn’t cover the damn thing. Therefore, I had to pay for it myself. Would you know it, the results proved I needed emergency surgery to avoid permanent nerve damage! Who needs these institutions? Oh, remember the last time I told you about the Boiler Inspector? Well, after that fee I paid for him to tell me the boiler had passed, I had to get the boiler serviced days later. Anyway, here you go. Here are the seeds you need. Oh my lord, how did you get those scratch marks on your arms?”
Joseph grunted and tugged his sleeves down, hurrying out the door. He caught a glimpse of the Facility out of the corner of his eye. Without further thought, he proceeded home.
***
Joseph locked the door, grateful than ever before to be home. The cramps in his legs had escalated, so the thought of a hot bath was delightful. He looked over at his pets, cuddled in the corner for companionship. He smiled. Joseph had purchased the cat from a pet store, and his rat had been a gift. The cat and the rat were inseparable since their youth. Joseph only wished his species could mimic their same, but he knew this was impossible. Joseph decided to head to bed early; he had a busy schedule the next morning. He expected a friend of his would help him do what he knew were necessary repairs around the house. He relaxed in his bed and drifted into a deep slumber…
***
The howl of a dog roared in the distance as Joseph balanced the trunk on his shoulders. He increased his pace in hopes to avoid his formidable opponent, but Darwin’s theory did not allow such an advantage.
“Halt, who goes there? Put down the trunk, and show me your hands. Why are you out here this time of night?”
Joseph shielded his eyes from the light while the officer struggled to hold back the leash in his grasp. The officer approached to investigate the situation and to inspect the contents of Joseph’s trunk.
“Officer, I’m on my way home with my supplies.”
Suddenly, the officer’s dog jumped against Joseph’s chest, knocking him toward the ground…
***
Joseph blinked a few times and realized the cat curled on his chest needed attention. Joseph squirmed, stretching as he awoke from his slumber. The clock indicated he had overslept, and his friend would soon be here. Joseph went to the kitchen and grabbed a cup of coffee. He gulped the last bit down before hearing the expected knock at the door.
As he edged the door open, Joseph observed his friend wearing a big smile, just as he had always done since he was a young boy. This smile complemented his large, hairy body, which had long ago given him the nickname Teddy Bear.
Teddy Bear had had it rough in his early years, without his mother; she was diagnosed with cancer in her prime. Apparently, her genes had replicated from generation to generation, for Teddy Bear’s grandmother had suffered the same. Teddy Bear’s mother did approach her doctor on the first signs something was wrong; nevertheless, the institution denied her the preventive care; alleging she did not fit the criteria for such treatment.
Joseph handed his friend a cup of coffee and soon both were engrossed in their projects. Their work lasted throughout the day. Finally, feeling exhausted, Teddy stood to stretch and to wipe his brows.
“Hey Joseph, what is in this box?” He lowered it off the shelf.
“Oh, that’s my radio. I use it to listen for extraterrestrial sounds.”
“I didn’t know you believe in that sort of stuff.”
“Yeah, I find it intriguing.”
“There’s certainly a lot that science doesn’t understand, that’s for sure,” Teddy said. “By the way, do you feel like going to a resort to meet girls for a few days?”
“I guess so, since I am finished with the harvest. This would be a good time to go.”
“Good, I will pick you up early next week.”
The two young men discussed when they would leave.
“Make sure you’re packed, and don’t be late,” Teddy reminded him.
Joseph was eager to pick up supplies for the trip. He could not remember the last time he had taken a vacation. It had been that long since he had been able to free himself from his daily chores. This trip would be good for him.
***
“Joseph, I heard you are to go on a trip with Teddy. The sleeping bags are in the far corner. You had better pick out a heavy-duty one, for the weather is supposed to be very treacherous. Oh yeah, and did you hear about Martha, who runs the tavern? They say she is not around anymore. She apparently left the kids to her husband for some young stud. Last I heard, she and her new friend are involved in the recreational substances you hear about. Can you believe it? I sure feel sorry for the husband. By the way, I have not seen your girlfriend around anymore. What was her name? Oh yeah, Dana; is she all right?”
Joseph, startled by the comment, tightened his every muscle and grunted, scurrying out the door. He did not want to talk about Dana. All the way home, the only thought on his mind was Dana’s image. He remembered that particular day like it were yesterday, introduced at a mandatory meeting. Soon after, they began a relationship that was to last forever. He recalled how beautiful she was, floating with grace across the meeting hall. Her black hair glistened, and her eyes sparkled. Her beauty mimicked the heavens. He remembered not being able to control himself; he was drawn to her and to her smile...
***
“I am sorry sir, but I am not allowed to covey such information. You can observe quite well for yourself that the statement receipt doesn’t have your signature. Therefore, the figures are true and can not to be disputed.”
Joseph stared into the clerk’s eyes as the glare of the windowpane reflected the bank’s lights in a circular pattern. He could not believe the clerk’s statement, since the signatures on the withdrawal slips were inscrutable and definite forgeries. The balance on his bank account registered insufficient funds. He knew who the culprit was, and Joseph demanded justice at once. His plight fell on deaf ears, however, and he was unable to restrain his emotions. He began to pound onto the teller’s counter…
***
“Joseph, Joseph, wake up, we are late. Come on!” Joseph stirred, then slowly unraveled his body from the bed sheets. He blinked and looked toward the sound of the pound at the door. He realized he had overslept. His body ached as if he had worked all night.
“O.K., O.K., I will be right there.”
Teddy and Joseph packed his luggage and loaded it into the trunk. They were finally on their way toward the resort. Teddy, with his headphones snug and secure, began to bob and hum to the rhythm. Joseph could not wait to get to their destination – not necessarily because of the girls –but because his friend’s off-key hum irritated his entire psyche.
Joseph was tired, so as he drove it was a struggle to keep the vehicle on the pavement. He intermittently drifted into a dream-like state, but they finally arrived at the resort. Joseph halted in front of the main reception building, grateful they had made it there alive. The six-hour trip had been brutal. Joseph got out of the vehicle, welcoming the brisk, fresh air. He and Teddy headed toward the main office.
The clerk at the counter was cordial. “Welcome,” he said. “How was the trip here? I hoped it wasn’t too bad.”
“It was fine,” Joseph said, wondering how the clerk had known they were on their way.
“You guys are to lodge in Cabin 144, just follow the outside trail.” Joseph nodded in appreciation, securing the resort’s welcome package under his arms.
The clerk added, “Oh by the way, if you wish, the dining room is available for service.” Joseph grunted and proceeded toward their vehicle to claim his luggage. Teddy still had his headphones on and was bobbing to the music. The duo followed the trail toward Cabin 144. Joseph was careful not to disrupt the flower petals strewn along the trail. The area was pretty, with plenty of trees and sunshine. Hungry after such a ride, both Joseph and Teddy were anxious for dinner. Upon their arrival at the cabin, they threw their luggage onto the bed and decided to unpack later.
Teddy rubbed his hands, grinning, and patted Joseph’s back. “Come on, let’s go, I’m hungry. Plus, we’ve got a lot of babes to meet.” Joseph could only nod. He was baffled with the decor of their room – plus he couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching them. He locked the cabin behind, but something did not seem right. However, by this time, he was too famished to worry.
***
The trail to the dinner cabin was considerable, and by the time they reached it, Joseph and Teddy were famished. A few horse stables were nearby, but fortunately, the smell of the swimming pool masked its origin.
They finally arrived, and the aroma of the cooked food was delightful, enough to stir one’s soul. They stepped onto the porch and were politely escorted to a table by the suited maitre d’. Joseph was intrigued and delighted by the beautiful artwork and murals lining the hallway. As they entered the backroom, the first conspicuous feature appeared – an elaborate, shining chandelier. It reflected glistening images onto the large circular wooden table beneath it. The couples already at the table were grouped side by side, awaiting their meals. Teddy introduced himself, extending his hand, and grabbed the nearest seat. Joseph was stunned. He stared, not on the chandelier, but at the table with all the couples.
The rest of the night, Joseph fixed his attention on the chandelier while he listened to Teddy socialize. Joseph could not understand how Teddy could be so oblivious to the situation. Joseph wouldn’t allow himself to think anything negative against Teddy’s well-being. He was unsure why Teddy remained oblivious to the situation. For the remainder of the night, Joseph tried to remain inconspicuous.
On their return to the cabin, Joseph managed to control his anger only for a few minutes. He watched Teddy empty his suitcase onto the bed. It all made sense to Joseph; he glanced to the single bed in the center of the room.
Teddy was so involved in his humming that Joseph couldn’t help but exclaim in a high-pitched scream, “Hey stupid, you fool.” He grabbed Teddy’s arm. “Stop unpacking for one moment. This is not a resort for singles. Think about it, moron; couples at a dinner table and only one single bed in our room.” Teddy paused a second to face Joseph. He turned a bright red, “Oh, I messed up, now what do we do?”
“Come on stupid, repack your stuff and follow me.”
The clerk tried not to chuckle while Joseph explained their predicament to him. The clerk said it was fine, and that he understood. He reimbursed their money, minus their dinners, and bade them good luck. The clerk gave a smile and nodded toward their direction.
***
“Where do we go from here?” asked Teddy. “We are six hours from home and have nowhere to go.”
Joseph avoided his question and continued to stare out the vehicle’s window. He observed a cliff in the near distance. Joseph tried to erase the evil thoughts from his mind while he turned toward Teddy’s voice. “Joseph, I have an idea. There is a ski resort not far from here.”
“Oh great, you dare to mention another resort.”
“Come on Joseph, this will be fun. No way it’s a couple’s place. You ever went skiing?” Joseph, a virgin to the sport, decided since they had no better choice. “O.K., let’s go,” Joseph mumble.
The decision made, Joseph and Teddy’s vehicle struggled up the mountain slope. Finally, upon their arrival they parked and went to the rental area to get supplies and lift tickets. Teddy was very anxious to get onto the slopes and meet women.
As they approached the lift area, he said, “Joseph, stand here and wait for the lift to approach, and then jump backwards.” Joseph leapt; however, he did not leap far enough. Suddenly, he found himself hinged onto Teddy’s belt buckle for dear life. Teddy helped heave him onto the chair. They both couldn’t help but laugh. Once they gained their composure, the two friends marveled at the scenery. The treetops swayed in the breeze beneath the lift. The icicles resembled gorgeous ornaments against the snow-covered mountain. Joseph felt content. It was so beautiful – it roused the soul. Joseph stifled the possibility that this scenario was the creation by chance alone and not by a creator. Seeing the earth from that height was all much more beautiful than Joseph had ever imagined. Once the lift reached the ground again, they jumped off to gather their gear and begin skiing.
Teddy began to give instructions, only to watch Joseph tumble many times. After an hour, Teddy told Joseph he had learned enough and could ski on his own. Teddy pointed to the nearest slope and proceeded down, yelling that they would meet at the other end. Joseph pondered the best path to take, and with his poles secured, he rocked his hips and glided down the slope.
The trees zoomed by him, and all was fine. He gathered momentum, but something was not exactly right. He started to panic and he felt himself losing control. The wind whipped against his face to distort his features. His displaced lips turned ice cold, as did his vocal chords. Suddenly, his nightmare materialized right in front of him, an image of a shadow. Why didn’t this individual notice his presence?
In desperation, Joseph tried to scream as he hurdled forward. His next option was to fall and hope for the best or to just close his eyes and brace himself. He decided the latter.
The brunt of the impact was not all that fierce, and Joseph slid to a halt. The light above reflected onto his pupils as the clouds drifted past his line of sight. With caution, Joseph stood to assess the damages. He brushed the snow off; picked up his skis and walk toward the victim, in hopes to give assistance. However, the area was devoid of any signs of any type of life or conflict. No one was there. That was odd, he thought in disbelief. He decided to manage the remainder of the slope with his skis on his shoulder. It was easier.
Swirls of smoke danced between the tree limbs, a welcome sight. Joseph continued to hobble toward the end of the trail. He could not wait to be inside the warmth of the lodge. He imagined a cup of coffee in his grasp, the roar of the stone fireplace and Teddy smiling with two women on each arm.
Joseph continued to walk when suddenly; there it was in plain sight, directly in front of him – the steepest jump-off cliff he had ever seen in his entire life. Instantly, the image of Teddy with a smile, sitting on the couch in front of the fireplace, vanished from his thoughts.
Chapter Two
The clerk scurried over toward the counter as Joseph entered there room. “Joseph, I heard about the escapade on top of the mountainside,” the clerk said. “You didn’t break anything?” Joseph made eye contact with the clerk as he leaned onto the counter.
“This reminds me of a friend who broke his elbow,” the clerk continued. “He did not fall – his elbow just snapped like a Popsicle stick when he grabbed something out of his luggage.” The clerk shook his head. “Turned out the bone was weakened by a rare form of cancer. Poor guy was referred to a specialty center that made things much worse. The damn caregiver was second- guessed and didn’t even bother to fill out the paperwork that would have made all the difference.”
“Oh really? Tough luck,” Joseph said as he shifted his weight.
“I hope your friend did a good job around the house with those repairs. Haven’t seen him in awhile. Where’d he go? Hope he is all right. When he turns up, let him know he’s got an overdue tab.” He handed Joseph a sack. “Here’s your stuff. Tell your Grandmother I said hello when you see her. Come back soon.” Joseph nodded and bid him good day.
***
Joseph approached the rehab center with dread. Damn shame things like this have to be built, he thought. Still, beings needed these atrocious places, he thought, and the therapy they provided was always in demand. Taking pride in his healthy genes, Joseph allowed himself a moment of smugness as he passed the lush garden and ran up the steps two at a time.
In the vestibule, which smelled institutionally sanitary, Joseph nodded to the receptionist and trudged to Room 144, his steps slowing as he approached. He marveled at the clockwise (and then counter-clockwise) light patterns dancing on the corridor walls. It gave him pause. Joseph ran his fingers along the walls and tried to quell his turbulent emotions, as erratic and unpredictable as the light show in the hallway.
A nurse’s aide at the rehab center spoke to him as he reached the end of the hallway. “Joseph, Beldam is to wait for you as always. She is my favorite, I must say. I will be right back. Go right in and make yourself comfortable. I have to go up front by the station. She tells me she’s thirsty.”
Joseph entered Beldam’s room. He could see her lost in thought as she gazed out the window. Beldam loved to sway to the rhythm of the treetops, coerced by the wind through their branches. Joseph adjusted her lap blanket to bend and give a kiss on the cheek.
“Hi Grandma, how have you been? Sorry I was not here sooner, but I have been busy. A lot has been going on since I last saw you. How are they treating you?”
Beldam turned her frail neck toward the window and gazed to the sky.
“What, Grandma? There are only birds and trees out there.”
The nurse’s aide returned to the room. “Here you go, sweetie, here’s your water.
Joseph, if you need me, I will be by the counter at the station to do paperwork. Just ring the call button if you need my assistance. And one more favor, if you don‘t mind, can you wheel your Grandmother to the cafeteria in ten minutes?”
The nurse’s aide turned to walk down the hallway. Joseph could only stare and watch her indescribable beauty as she walked away. Joseph looked back out the window.
“Grandma, why do you always gaze out this window? What is it that fascinates you out there?” The only prominent view was the mountainside with its low ring of clouds. He thought maybe the clouds attracted her attention.
She turned her neck, slowly, and whispered, “This plane is going to crash.” Joseph redirected his attention toward the window. He had to admit she could be right, since there was an airbase close by. Joseph scanned the ground for any debris. For the rest of the visit, he noticed her extreme anguish on the subject of the seemingly impending plane crash. To relieve her anxiety, he bent toward her ear and stated,” Madam, I am the pilot of this aircraft, and I assure you the bumpiness you experience is just air turbulence. I can assure your safety.” Joseph could see her relax while he pushed the wheelchair toward the cafeteria. He struggled to keep control of the chair as one of its wheels wobbled.
“Bye Grandma, see you next time, very soon.” Joseph kissed her forehead and left. No one took special notice of his presence or absence.
***
“Joseph, I saw you visited your Grandma. How is she? There you go and here are the books you ordered. Joseph, I want to tell you about Betty at the library. Betty and her husband separated. Yep, they had been at each other’s throats since the first day of marriage. Vinegar and water, I always said. It just was not in their makeup to be together. Anyway, he left the house, but still had his belongings over there. I think she threw him out. Well anyway, with permission from his legal friend, he went to his house; excuse me, her house, to pick up his valuables. Wouldn’t you believe it; they charged him with trespass. Can you imagine, trespassing on his own property. Power and control; we do not need them.”
Joseph shook his head at the clerk’s statement and headed out the door. Again, he took notice of the Facility as he secured the package he was carrying under his arms. Reluctantly, he decided he would pay a visit to the Facility for the last time, no matter how painful this task would be. The first chance he got, he would accomplish this feat and find the answers he was seeking.
***
That night Joseph was restless and could not sleep. His mind constant, twirled circular over the image of the Facility. He made the decision to depart the next morning to quell his never-ending anxiety. He hoped this action would give him the answers and rest his mind for sure.
***
He walked toward the Facility, knowing his reasons were purely selfish. However, he forged ahead, only to watch the incredible structure gradually become more substantial against the sky. He rounded the courtyard and noticed the building’s wall took on quite peculiar angles. Light from the sky reflected the building’s contours, forming the shadow-like images that were becoming so familiar to him now.
The mammoth doors clanged and echoed as he entered the immense building. The honeycombed corridors aligned perfectly against the parallel doorways. How odd, he thought, for an architect to design it this way. He wondered what was behind each of these doors. He noticed the lights above formed various reflections, like rainbows. He trudged, his footsteps reverberating in harmony with the colors.
He approached the reception area with awe. The receptionist informed Joseph that she had been expecting him. She smiled and redirected him to room 144; he was glued to her every movement.
Joseph approached the door and announced his presence with a tap. He was mystified by the décor: shelves lined the walls in a strange manner, an organizational system probably only understood by the person who had created it. The floor’s cushioned carpet seemed comfortable, and Joseph stepped toward the large desk placed underneath a chandelier. Plaques strung along the walls symbolized some sort of hierarchy. Joseph became mesmerized by the wisdom of the divine messages hung throughout the room. A distinct, yet far-off, voice echoed from a chair, startling Joseph back to reality. The chair’s occupant fixated on the bustle and hustle outside the window. With indolence, he turned toward Joseph, and their eyes locked.
Indecisive, the occupant rose from the chair, but maintained his distance as he said, “Joseph, it’s been so long. How have you been? What brings you here today for this pleasant surprise?”
“Yes, it has been a long time, Professor. I bought you something to read and hope you will enjoy it. And how have you been, my friend?”
Joseph approached, and the Professor fell back onto the chair, once again facing the window. The Professor slowly swung his chair around to face Joseph. “Joseph, what do you see outside that window?”
The Professor continued to stare into the distance. Joseph was stunned and amazed by the switch in mood portrayed by his renewed friend.
“Well, I see a lot of people performing their daily tasks, going about their business.”
“No, Joseph, you see what appears to be what you understand. What you understand is what you do not seek. To understand is to find the truth.”
With this remark, the Professor began to rock in his chair while remaining fixated on the events taking place outside the window. Joseph eventually turned off the lights and closed the door, as the conversation was clearly over.
Joseph was dazed and perturbed by his friend’s actions, so he did not notice a woman’s presence in the hallway as he left the room. “Oh, excuse me, I am sorry for that. I hope I didn’t spill your drink,” he said to her, noting the cup held in both of her hands.
She gestured no and smiled, drifting away. Joseph headed out of the Facility and down the steps, turning once again to face the formidable structure. He looked up toward his friend’s window and felt sadness sweep over him.
***
“I heard you went to see your friend the other day. What do you need today? Let us see…oh, flowers. How nice. They will need flowers for poor Billy when they catch up to him. Damn fool he is. He scammed many clients, not honoring his roof repair contracts, and I’d hate to be him when they uncover his whereabouts.”
The clerk handed Joseph a package and continued, “You tell your Grandmother I was to ask about her.”
With the package in his arms, Joseph quickly headed home. The visit with the Professor was still fresh in his mind. Joseph made it a point to revisit his Grandmother to deliver the flowers.
***
The next morning, his Grandmother was right where he had left her, in her wheelchair, once again swaying to the movement of the treetops.
“Grandma, how are you today? Here, I brought you something.”
Joseph walked toward the sink. He turned on the faucets and stated, “By the way, Grandma, I did it. I finally went to get answers, but I obtained only sadness. ”
She looked over toward the sound of his voice and gave a blank stare. Joseph was not sure if she was attentive to his remark, or if she was to have one of her spells.
He continued his conversation anyway, stating, “I went to the Facility to see my friend.” Immediately, her facial muscles tightened.
“You must leave now, I’ve heard enough.” Joseph was dumbfounded and did not want to leave disheartened, so he attempted to give her a kiss. However, she didn’t want him around. Joseph bade his Grandmother farewell and left to return home, where even his pets gave him a better reception.
Upon his arrival at home, Joseph bent over to remove his shoes, and by chance he kicked an envelope by the doorway. He realized it was a certified enveloped. He set it aside.
After crawling into bed, Joseph laid awake, bewildered more than ever about his friend and his Grandmother’s reaction to him telling her about the visit. The certified letter did not help matters either – he knew better than to open it.
All he could do was have faith.
***
The sun’s beam danced on the kitchen counter. Joseph lifted his coffee cup, staring at the letter he’d kicked aside last night. The letter was mysterious in appearance, and Joseph handled it very gingerly. He finally found the strength to open it.
The letter informed him – in bold words – that his better half intended to sue him, and wished to do so in a cordial and suitable manner (if such a manner exists in circumstances such as these). Joseph continued to watch the sunbeams dance along the walls, despite the letter’s drab contents. He and his wife been separated for over a year; he knew it was only a matter of time. He smirked to himself, then scuffled out to do the morning chores.
***
Joseph retained an attorney, certain the system would frown if strayed from too far. Upon making the appointment with the attorney, he was informed the session would take place on the third floor. He was to bring all documents in his possession, especially the bankbooks.
***
The day of his appointment finally arrived. Joseph ascended the stairs. He introduced himself to the receptionist; without a word, she pointed to a wooden chair. Joseph sat and attempted to make himself comfortable, fidgeted with impatience. He counted the ceiling tiles, which added to one hundred forty four.
Finally, the receptionist announced, “Joseph, he’s ready to see you.”
Joseph sat across the desk and admired the shelves of manuscripts. He wondered if these were truly used for knowledge or just intended for show. Joseph’s attention shifted from the disorderly desktop to his legal acquaintance. This new friend extended his hand and introduced himself, then sat down. Joseph realized this person resembled a scholar more than a just a preprogrammed member of society.
“I’m sorry to barge in so frazzled, but I had trouble getting here safely. Some primordial idiot almost ran me off the road.” It appeared his new legal friend was all business. They engineered a game plan and shook hands as it was finished.
Then, just as he was about to depart, Joseph caught a glimpse of a photo on the desk. The picture was of a young girl with a smile. Her long blond hair and blue eyes soothed Joseph’s inner core while he marveled at her beauty. Joseph asked the legal friend if this was his daughter.
“Yes, she was my daughter; killed in the schoolyard over a jacket. These types of acts are almost inbreeded and commonplace nowadays.” Joseph turned to leave, and the distraught father fretted, “I should have been more receptive to her emotional needs.”
“I am so sorry,” Joseph said. He had no more to say.
***
The day of the hearing finally arrived, and Joseph, along with his estranged wife, were to have their fates officially chosen by the court. The building reflected institutional authority and Joseph mustered all his will to clamber up the mighty steps.
The high ceilings peeked up toward the heavens. Joseph searched out his attorney and sat alongside him. The opposition took their niche across the aisle. Joseph observed a large desk in front and waited. After what seemed like hours, though it was surely only minutes, they all approached the bench. Joseph observed a plaque overhead, which read, “In God We Trust.” Joseph smirked to himself. The attorneys presented their cases, hashed out their premises, and soon the decision was set without prejudice. Or so it seemed to those observing the proceedings…except for Joseph.
***
That night, Joseph suffered mental turmoil, for he was unsettled over the outcome of the day’s hearing. The decision against his assets did not equate for his children. Joseph had done no wrong, and he was a good father. However, the horrible sanctions imposed against a normal father-child relationship were more than Joseph could bear. Joseph knew the style and mode of the system, and that for financial reasons; the system often turned children against their father. Repeated requests for decency and compassion yielded emptiness from the judge, and Joseph’s paternal rights were irreverent.
This challenged Joseph and his morals, as it seemed so very unfair, and it led to further legal actions being set forth- the demand to vacate all practicalities and for him to relinquish to the proper authorities. Joseph knew he must gather the entire universe’s inner strength of positive thought to resist the assertions set forth. This would be no easy task.
***
Feeling energized, Joseph approached the doors to the domain that towered above him; his fingertips tingled while trying to release the secured latch. He entered into the honey-combed corridors that define hierarchy and the lights twirled circular before him. Trembling and disheartened, Joseph was guided only by the wisdom from his heart. His faith encouraged him onward.
Joseph noticed an opened doorway and became curious, only to be interrupted by an eerie sigh. The figure at the reception desk scolded him: “That encrypted door is not of your concern.” She pointed him in the direction he needed and instructed him to leave his valuables at the desk. She rattled off some other rules before he was to enter the cubicle.
Joseph tried not to trip on the cubicle’s tubes and wires, which were strewn out from a steel table. The wires seemed to end somewhere inside the back wall of the room. The cubicle adjacent secured another patron in the same predicament. This individual rambled how he was unaware of his Grandmother’s death and that is why he neglected to report the incident in a timely manner.
Joseph’s room was absent of any windows, and he waited against one of the walls. Out of nowhere, two authorities appeared and faced Joseph, communicating with him in different dialects. Joseph stared at their rounded faces and their large, slit-like eyes and waited for their attention to be on him. Clearly, one of them was the “boss,” for the other saluted and stepped closer at his superior’s orders.
Suddenly, the subordinate lunged toward Joseph’s belt buckle. Joseph automatically stepped away in defiance, squeezing his hands into fists. Startled, the authorities simply turned and left the room, saying nothing as they went. Joseph despised this intrusion, yet his acquaintances returned.
Joseph was to follow them down the corridor to a much more spacious room. Here he was ordered respite and after much adieu, he was finally released on his own accord. Informed and instructed to stay away from all parties in question, Joseph left the premises. Joseph was happy to be free once again, and he headed back to the safety of his home…
***
Joseph drifted into a twilight state, and the universe aligned once again with the stars. Daunted by the day’s activities, with adrenaline coursing through his veins, he wanted nothing more than to sleep. He stared at the bedroom ceiling, the tension of the day taking its toll at last. His psyche twirled…
***
That morning, Joseph was exhausted as he strained to lift his legs out of bed. He felt as if he had worked all night. He dallied toward the coffeemaker and tried to motivate himself, when all of a sudden the phone rang. He could not fathom why someone would call at this time of day. He answered, and an eerie voice explained that Joseph needed to retrieve a package as soon as possible.
This would be a hassle for Joseph, as he needed to prepare his land for the upcoming harvest. However, the urge to get dressed and obtain this package was more powerful than it had ever been for Joseph, so he headed toward the train station.
***
Joseph sat in his assigned seat and he observed the landscape, the buildings that needed repair. Their foundations lay crumbling, and he questioned how these structures were able to not collapse beneath their weight. The train’s soothing motion erased the tension from Joseph’s mental realm, and finally his muscles began to relax. Joseph’s eyelids drooped while he readjusted his body, trying not to disturb the patron adjacent to him...
***
His determined grip tightened, and he leaned forward. He struggled to take a deep breath of her musk. The more she resisted, the more he enjoyed the expression she displayed. She locked her eyes onto his and she began to scream wildly…
***
Joseph jolted up to the wail of the train, signifying the next stop. He gathered his gear and marveled at the adjacent woman’s perfume. Joseph headed toward the platform, and the conductor acknowledged him with a nod and a smile. He waved for a taxi.
“What brings you here into these parts of the woods?” he asked. Joseph kept a watch on the scenery and knew the driver was attempting to hold onto his inner will. Joseph tried to elude his question. “I am here on business,” he said simply.
“Well, you be careful, for the signs are to align.”
The courtyard now in sight, he paid the driver and soon entered the hotel’s foyer. It was extravagant and spacious, and Joseph darted between the towering pillars toward the counter. The mist from the waterfall created elaborate, multicolored rainbows like those he had ever seen before. He leaned on the counter of the register.
The young clerk cordially greeted him, “Joseph, we have been expecting you. Your room number is one hundred forty four, and here is your special key. Stairs are over to your left.”
Joseph grunted, grabbed the keys and ascended the steps.
At the top, the spiral stairs erupted into a hallway, and it was there that he caught a glimpse of a woman with mid-length black hair. The woman seemed to progress effortlessly across the entryway, only to point to Room 144. Joseph wondered how she knew which room was his. When he glanced up, she vanished. He shrugged his shoulders, unlocked the door, and placed his luggage on the couch.
Exhausted from the trip, he collapsed onto the nearest chair and closed his eyes. Joseph had made it here successfully, but here he sat, in an empty room. His body relaxed and he succumbed to sleep: only to be awoken by a brash undertone. The sound gave comfort, yet it disheartened his soul. He tried to move in the direction of the noise; however, he could not. He seemed frozen in time. His eyes struggled to track the sound, but his vision was limited. He screamed, but no sounds could be heard coming from his mouth.
Joseph jumped to his feet, his heart pounding and he scanned the premises for intruders, but there were none. He glanced toward a table and observed a certified, secured and sealed package. The package’s cover had a note indicating that he and only he could open the contents. He tried to rip open the contents, but realized this would require some sort of key. He wondered why such a package would require a key. In addition, how was he to obtain such an item? Just then, there was a knock at the door. Joseph was reluctant to see who was there, so he peered through the key hole. “Yes, how can I help you?”
“Are you all right, sir? We heard a loud hammering sound.”
“Yes, I’m fine.”
“Well, your cab is here. Shall I tell him you will be right down?”
“Yes, I will be down in a minute.”
Joseph did not remember calling a cab. He figured he had to go home anyway, and this was good a time as any.
The taxi ride was uneventful. Joseph held on tight to the package. He was very anxious to get home to open it. The cab driver watched Joseph from the rearview mirror.
“I see you have the package, did you have a good vacation?” Joseph just grunted while he squeezed his arms. He continued to watch the landscape breeze past his vision. It seemed there were many mysteries going on now.