| When Roses Cry |
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When Roses Cry: Short Stories
Holly’s Sentinel
Silver
The Mysterious Ladon Smythe
Holly’s Sentinel
The best time to visit “America’s Roller Coast,” is during the weekday. At least that’s what Spencer heard Esmeralda say. He didn’t
know if there was a difference and thought it was a little arrogant to call yourself the best amusement park in America. He had a
fantastic time at the many amusement parks in Southern California. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry, and California
Adventure where places he visited regularly with dates.
“Are we there yet,” June said. She sat next to Spencer, her boyfriend, in the back seat of Louis car. Esmeralda, Spencer’s one-
year younger Aunt, sat in the passenger seat next to her boyfriend Louis. All four of the friends where on their way to Cedar Point.
June was excited at the impending rush of fast and scary rides. She loved roller coasters and thrill rides whereas Spencer was
shaky about both.
“Almost,” Esmeralda responded. “Once we get through the town we’ll be right there.” From Columbus, getting to Sandusky meant
going from a major freeway to riding through a few small towns. In spite of that, it never stopped people from the capital city to visit
the lakeside amusement park in huge numbers.
Spencer was a little weary of going on the trip due to the incident at the Iron Eagle club. They didn’t talk about it after they left but
falling in the bathroom, hurting himself, and accidentally dancing with a man was not what he intended. He had to assume that
nothing weird would happen at Cedar Point.
She has something, I know it, Spencer thought. If it wasn’t for the excursion, he planned to look up information on June. He knew
her switching behavior and attitude was not a coincidence. Spencer had his belief on what June was suffering from but decided to
forget about it. He wanted to enjoy himself while in Sandusky and rubbed his girlfriend’s hand. Ten minutes after June asked the
question they where pulling into the parking lot. They could see a few of the roller coasters from the car and Spencer thought he
could hear faint screams. His hands shook a little but he would over come them and get on whatever ride the group decided.
Spencer wasn’t fond of heights so even when he came to Ohio from California to stay with Esmeralda for a year, he drove. He
could’ve flew and had his stuff mailed, but he wanted to see America. While in California Spencer rode Ghost Rider at Knott’s
Berry, California Screamin’ at Disney’s California Adventure, and Riddler’s Revenge at Six Flags Magic Mountain. He was amazed
that he rode those type of thrill rides but when he’s in a group he goes to where they want.
“This is a real park, so no fighting,” Esmeralda said. She had a smile on her face as the four walked towards the front gate. The
group laughed. They knew the last time Spencer and June went to a park there was a huge fight between her ex-boyfriend’s
friends. Spencer and June was fine, but many of them where sent to the hospital.
After an hour Spencer noticed the lines where moderate and moving quickly. The weather was perfect and sunny. He didn’t tell
Esmeralda that she was right about going to the amusement park during the weekday. Spencer glanced her way and smiled.
“Told ya it was better to come during the weekday,” Esmeralda said.
“What?”
“You notice the lines, I can tell,” she responded.
Spencer was going to respond when he heard some yelling to the side. At first, he assumed it was the usual screams from people
on the nearest roller coaster to the front. His assumption changed when June looked over to the side with a scowl.
“No, I don’t wanna’ go on that,” a short blond hair women said. She struggled to break the grip from a tallish guy with pale features.
“It looks scary.”
“Shutup, you’re embarrassing me,” he said. “It’s only a glorified swing that spins.” They where pointing to a ride that Louis and
Esmeralda were heading towards. MaXair, was a large 140-foot pendulum ride that swung back and forth while the base spins in a
circle. Spencer read a blog that someone said it felt like being on a large figure-eight. When they first entered the park, the
foursome got on the Raptor. A bright green and black inverted roller coaster that was surprisingly smooth to Spencer. However, it
shocked his system with its speed and inversions, so Spencer had to rest for a moment until the dizziness left. When Spencer was
fine they walked to maXair and looked to the blond hair stranger. For a brief moment he felt like the unknown blond and didn’t want
to get on the thrill ride himself.
“I should help her.” Spencer looked down at his girlfriend and noticed her voice was different. It was low and had a slight rasp.
Normally her tones where light and bubbly.
“Who,” he responded. She tilted her chin towards the girl who reluctantly followed her boyfriend to the ride.
“Don’t worry about it,” Spencer said. He started walking towards Louis and Esmeralda. “I’m sure she’s fine.”
During the wait in line there where more arguing but almost everyone ignored it. Spencer tried to concentrate on the super swing
before him but his girlfriend thought otherwise. “I swear, he better not hurt her.”
“Let it go, June,” Spencer said. Her head snapped quickly at him and she sighed. Spencer assumed June was bipolar. He was only
partially right. June had Multiple Personality Disorder or sometimes referred as Dissociative Identity Disorder. This was a condition
where many personalities or identities take up space in one body.
The identity Spencer believed was June actually went by Hera. She was a strong take-action first kind of personality. Her only
thought was to protect those who needed it. Hera could tell the blond hair women needed help and made it her mission to fulfill that.
After the ride, Hera made her way to the restroom. She saw the blond hair woman go there after hurling some breakfast after the
ride ended. Hera had a map and told her companions that she would meet them at the next ride. She thought it was the stand-up
roller coater, Mantis or the U-shaped twisted one called Wicked Twister.
“Are you okay,” Hera asked and tapped on the bathroom stall. There where a few sniffs and some heavy breathing. The person
inside had been crying. Hera knew those tears where not from the thrill ride they exited, but from her boyfriend.
The restroom, which was dandelion yellow with a grey and pink border, was sparsely filled with women. Most had relieved
themselves of the highly priced sodas from the various vendors and machines. Others reapplied makeup that had been rinsed off
from the water rides.
“Yes,” she responded.
“I’m not talking about your stomach illness,” Hera said. The toilet flushed and she waited for the blond woman to come out. “I mean
about him.”
The blond paused, looked at Hera, and made her way to the sink. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she said. “But my
stomach is better.”
Hera paused and then stood next to the sink beside her. “June,” Hera said. She hated being someone else, but knew it was
necessary. It was easier for the different identities to have one name. Their condition was rare compare to other people with the
disorder. Her psychologist had never seen a group of identities work well with each other. Most people with MPD had identities that
barely knew each other existed, might alone work with one another.
“Excuse me,” the woman said.
“My name is June,” Hera said. “What’s yours?”
“Holly,” she responded. Her head turned down and continued washing her hands. There was an uncomfortable pause. Hera broke
the silence.
“I’m talking about him,” Hera said. She stopped washing her hands. A few people entered, others left. No one paid attention to
them. “I know abuse when I see it.”
Holly was going to refute her. She thought about lying to this stranger like she had to herself. Holly shook the excess water from
her hands and stared at Hera.
“I’m okay,” Holly replied and then her lips trembled. Before she could help herself, she hugged Hera and cried. Hera was unlike
June. She didn’t feel comfortable with soft emotions. Especially crying people. Hera looked, ignored the few women in the
restroom, and hugged Holly back. “Have you been through it too,” Holly asked.
“Yes.”
They talked for a while. Holly was from Columbus like Hera. She earned a college degree from Ohio Dominican but believed she
could do more. Holly met Scott, her boyfriend, at a party. They liked each other the instant they met. Holly felt like she was more in
love with him then he was with her. She didn’t mind. Due to his status she felt honored to be in a relationship with him.
Scott was well educated and had money. He was in line to become the president of a company that made fruit snacks. Didn’t seem
like much to Holly at first but the family business was worth three hundred million. Scott could not wait to take his place as CEO.
“So he thinks he can control you,” Hera said.
“Yes,” Holly responded. “Because he’s going to be an important man. He thinks he can rule my every action and thought.”
“He doesn’t want a girlfriend, he wants a handmaid,” Hera said. “A slave.”
“I wouldn’t go that far-but I do see…”
“Leave.”
Holly looked around the room and then at Hera. “Okay.”
“Not from here,” Hera said and grabbed Holly’s arm as she turned to leave. For the first time Holly noticed that, her new friend was
about the same height as herself. In spite of this, she appeared stronger compare to her size. “I’m saying from him,” Hera
responded.
“It’s not easy.”
“I know.”
“You had to leave,” Holly started, “I mean from an abusive man?”
“Yes,” Hera responded. “It wasn’t easy, but with force, I ended it.”
“I can’t leave now," Holly started, “he’s my ride.” She smiled and chuckled a little. Hera didn’t catch the slight joke.
“We have room.”
They talked for a few minutes and left the restroom. Just as the two exited the door, Scott grabbed Holly and slammed her against
the wall. Her breath was momentarily knocked out as she struggled to free his grip.
“What took you so long,” Scott shouted.
“Let her go,” Hera said. She wanted to revert to her former self and hospitalize Scott. Hera glanced around and noticed a small
crowd forming. She didn’t want to be kicked out of Cedar Point for fighting a stranger.
Scott’s head snapped around at Hera. “Who are you?”
“Let her go,” Hera demanded.
Holly continued to struggle. She was trying to free herself but couldn’t. Hera’s fist was clinched. She didn’t want to fight but would
do what was necessary to help Holly.
“You’ve been warned,” Hera announced.
Scott turned his attention to Holly. “I thought you left me,” Scott said.
Hera grabbed Scott’s arm. “No mercy,” Hera grimaced. Scott ignored her when Hera slammed her hand into his shoulder and
kicked him in the back of the leg. Scott shook off the hits and released Holly. Hera smiled and kicked Scott in the leg once more.
She stepped back when he threw a wild punch. Hera, from that one swing, knew that either Scott couldn’t fight or in pain. On the
other hand, Hera was a trained black belt in martial arts and have a variety of practice from the various prize fighting clubs in
Cincinnati.
Hera danced around Holly’s boyfriend and noticed some of the people in the area cheering. She punched him in the face a few
times. This was fun for her but she had to stop the fight. Scott stumbled towards Hera and was about to attack. He couldn’t muster
enough energy and fell down from the injuries. Hera knew there was at least five different ways she could seriously hospitalize him.
She blew out a deep breath and looked at Holly. She glanced around and noticed a few guards coming in their direction. Just past
them, she could see her friends from Columbus standing and watching the action.
“The offer still stands.”
Holly looked at Scott wheezing in pain and grabbing his face. She saw the other women who cheered Hera during the scrimmage.
A smile came across Holly’s lips and looked at Hera.
“You sure your friends won’t mind.”
“Nope,” Hera responded. “Besides you saw what I can do to him.” They both laughed. The security guards came and asked some
questions to decipher the situation. They apprehended Scott after realizing that he was the troublemaker.
Holly finished the day with Hera, who became June again, as well as Spencer, Esmeralda, and Louis. Holly knew it would be hard to
end her relationship with Scott but had hope because of people like Hera. The thought of someone seeking her out so they could
help was amazing. Holly’s new life begun at Cedar Point and it was all due to a stranger she met in the bathroom.
Silver
Newport Kentucky, home of a indoor/outdoor mall outside the Cincinnati metro area and a large aquarium. From the riverbanks,
visitors could see the two stadiums for the Reds and Bengals. Kit Lando loved sports but was not fond of aquariums. He decided to
choose this place because it was both public and private due to the lightening throughout the building. He wanted to make sure
there was enough people around him. Meeting up with an old ex-girlfriend can be eventful if the breakup was bad. In Kit’s case, his
ex was a master in the martial arts.
“Stand behind the mouth and I’ll take your picture,” an aquarium worker said.
Kit looked over at the jaws of a large mouth shark. It stood taller then him and six people could stand behind it. The aquarium
photographer wanted Kit to stand behind the replica for some souvenir pictures.
“I’m okay, thanks,” Kit responded.
“It’ll be fun.”
“I’m alright thanks.”
“Scared as usual,” a voice said from the side of Kit. He looked over to the right at the escalator and saw a silver hair women
coming down from the lobby. She had a sly grin as she brushed the hair from her face.
“Karen,” Kit said.
“Yes, I know who I am Kit,” she responded and stepped off the escalator. She smiled at the photographer and lead Kit behind the
jaws. They took a few pictures and received the ticket to buy their souvenir pictures. The two people continued past the worker as
he prepared the next people and walked through the aquarium.
“You owe me,” Karen said.
“For the picture, I wouldn’t have done…”
“No stupid,” Karen started, “for admission.” Karen stopped and held her hand out.
“Right now,” Kit asked. Karen nodded. Kit reached in his wallet to get the necessary cash and Karen snatched it. She took what
she wanted and gave the wallet back.
“That’ll do.”
“Just like old times,” Kit snapped back and placed the wallet in his pocket.
“What do you want,” Karen asked.
“Straight to business.” Kit sighed and Karen nodded. They stopped by an Amazon themed area with a variety of Sturgeons and
other fish swimming below a specialize bridge. Plaques lined the bridge so visitors would know the name of each marine animal
and its habits.
“I want to hire you for a special job.”
“To use my martial arts?” Kit nodded. Karen chuckled and shook her head. She looked at some of the fish and then at Kit. “Isn’t
that why you ended our relationship. Because of my skills.”
“You used it on me,” Kit responded.
“You where drunk and I defended myself.”
Kit looked away from the Sturgeons and continued to walk some. Karen followed and took little notice of the variety of fish and the
environment around them. The hallways where dark so the tanks could shine with the various aquatic animals living within them.
Slow groaning music was piped in above to give the customers the feeling of being out to sea. Some rooms had replicas of various
animals hanging from the ceiling.
“I was sorry for that.”
“So then you dumped me,” she said. They stopped again at a tropical section of the aquarium. The fish wasn’t as big but had
bright colors and a variety of looks.
“I got scared,” Kit said.
“I figured that. What about this job?”
“A friend of mine wants to teach one of his employee's a lesson.” Karen was confused but here interest grew. “He owns a strip club
and one of his dancers…got a little crazy.”
“Fire here,” she responded.
“I agree, but she’s been trouble.” They continued to walk and notice a few large fish in some over size tanks.
“How much?”
“She sent a few of my friends to the hospital. I had a little scrimmage and of course her boss.”
“You got messed up as well,” Karen said and laughed. “That’s what you get.”
“Why do you say that? He’s talking about paying well.”
“A bunch of guys can’t handle one female and you want me to clean up the mess.”
“Yes,” Kit responded.
“Tell me about her.”
Kit started searching through his pockets for a picture. “She’s not very tall but is extremely skilled.” He found the picture and
showed it to her. “Her name is June.”
“Hera.”
“No, June,” Kit said. “Although, she did say something about that one time.”
“Yes, I will do it.”
“You will, great.”
“Tell your friend not to worry about payment. This will be my pleasure,” Karen said. Her hands seemed to bristle as she talked
more about the potential fight. Kit saw Karen brush her hair from her face as she stared at the picture. He forgot about the scar
running across her face but noticed she was still attractive.
“You sure because he doesn’t mind,” Kit said.
“We have a score to settle.”
“Oh, wanna leave, talk it over a drink,” Kit asked.
Karen took her eyes off the picture and stared at Kit. “When?”
“After we leave here.”
“No, when do I get my revenge. The sooner the better.”
“Tonight if you can. Does that work for ya?”
“Yes,” Karen answered.
“And the drink?”
“No,” she responded. “Tell me the details; I’ve been waiting a long time for this.”
The Mysterious Ladon Smythe
“You can’t kick me out, I started this church,” Ladon Smythe yelled.
Village Assemblies Church was in an uproar over the decision to remove their Pastor and founder Ladon Smythe. This small
church, based in a tiny town near Chattanooga Tennessee felt like it was the right thing to do.
“We have too, you gave us no choice,” Deacon Bill Jessup said.
“No choice,” Ladon responded.
“Yes,” another church member said.
“You stole our money,” the oldest member in the sanctuary yelled. There were a few more shouts and some people pushed closer
to Ladon.
It was 1910 and Ladon had been Pastor of the Village Assemblies Church for a decade. Before being a minister, he was an
accountant and investor. He lost at least seventy-five percent of his investment in a bad deal. No one from the Northeast would
work with him and he owned a few gangsters some money.
Ladon moved south and figured to take on his father’s profession. Village was only supposed to be temporary but once he saw the
amount he could skim from the offering, he decided to stick it through. His plan was perfect until Bill found out.
“I was doing the Lord’s will,” Ladon said.
“Give it up Ladon,” Bill responded. “We know the truth.”
“You know nothing,” Ladon snapped.
Bill planned the event with various members of the church. On that night, the members came into the sanctuary, which doubled as
a meeting room. Ladon showed up assuming it was for the normal church business meeting. Once he ended his prayer to start the
meeting, Bill immediately accused him of stealing and the argument began.
“I know from the church treasure,” Bill started and looked at his brother, “that we have had a percentage of our money missing
every week. At first, we thought it was an error. Then we did some research.”
“Research,” Ladon asked. During that time the members where making their way toward him while he constantly stepped towards
the back. “What research?”
“That you use to do financial things up north.”
“What’s that to you?”
“Then you got in trouble and owe some folks money,” Bill said.
“That’s taken care of,” Ladon answered.
“I figured you paid them back,” Bill’s brother said. “Which is confusing? Why keep taking?”
Ladon looked around the room. He felt trapped like some of the witches he used to pronounce as evil. His mind turned to the
people from Salem who threatened others with being burned to a stake. “I already told ya, to do God’s will.”
“Don’t use His name for your fiendish ways,” Bill responded. “Leave.”
“I started this church,” Ladon grimaced. “Ya’ll leave.”
“Ladon we’re humble Christian people, but will do what is necessary,” another Deacon said.
“Ya got two choices,” Bill said. “Either leave and we won’t hurt you. Or stay and we throw you out.”
“And there will be harm,” and elderly woman said.
Ladon looked at each member. His breath was shallow but he made sure to make perfect eye contact with all of them. Finally, he
stepped at Bill Jessup.
“You’ll regret this,” Ladon said. “All of you. You will regret this.”
“Go take someone else’s money. We’re tired of being lied too,” Bill responded.
Ladon had a slight grin in the corner of his mouth and pushed past Bill and the church members. He stopped at the door and
looked at Bill one last time. He didn’t say a word and left the building.
There was a slight pause and the members looked at one another. They cheered and felt relieved to get Pastor Ladon Smythe out
of the church. Bill felt great that he stood up to him. To everyone in church Ladon was a powerful man and a person to be feared.
Bill’s wife gave him a hug while some of the members began to lead out in song.
Bill smiled at his wife and kissed her on the cheek. He was there at the church physically but mentally his thoughts were on the
church. They had some savings thanks to his brother. Plus he knew that for all of Ladon’s problems, he was good at making
people feel good. Bill wasn’t sure if he could do the same or preach like him. He knew that he would have to take over and that
could keep him in the small town. Bill loved the area, but had a strong desire to live in a larger city. Memphis, Nashville, or even
Chattanooga sounded like a place to start something new. The only problem is that his wife had no desire to move from her
current surroundings.
*******
Three months after Ladon’s departure a letter came to the church addressed to Bill. Village Assemblies was struggling and
membership was dwindling over that time. Ladon might have been stealing but his dynamite preaching kept many people in the
pews. Bill wasn’t as good of a preacher but spoke like a teacher. They still had enough money but Bill desired for the church to
grow. He didn’t want Ladon to get the victory in proof that the church needed him. Bill’s wife was proud of him and enjoyed every
minute of his sermons. The parishioners lied to Bill Jessup that his sermons were good, but told the truth by their attendance.
Bill’s wife gave him the letter and started cleaning up the office. He didn’t know who would send him a letter at church. Bill hoped it
was a mysterious donor giving money to the church.
“Maybe it’s a donation,” Bill said.
“You think.” Bill shrugged and opened the letter.
I know your secret. Meet me at the address below tomorrow at five. Bring the ten thousand I know you and your brother are hiding
at church.
Ladon Smythe
Bill swallowed hard and stared at his wife. “I assume it’s not money,” she asked.
“What,” Bill said and looked at the letter. “Oh no, its not that, I mean, actually it could be. But I have to meet them, alone.”
“That doesn’t make sense.”
“God,” Bill began, “works in mysterious ways.” She nodded and smiled.
“Yes He does. Go get that blessing.” Bill hugged his wife and kissed her forehead. He had an idea to the secret Ladon referred to
in the letter. He assumed that Ladon couldn’t possibly know something that he hid for a long time. No Pastor or minister was
perfect but he felt like his life was good in comparison to others.
His relationship has grown with his wife. Over time, he’s learned to love her. Unlike in the beginning where he felt pressured by
family and church members to speed up their engagement period to please them.
At five the next day, Bill walked into an abandon general store with a sack carrying the ten thousand dollars. Bill had a hard time
explaining to his brother why he needed it but convinced him to have faith that God’s will was being done. Bill felt bad about lying,
but knew once he talked with Ladon then he will return with the cash.
The general store went out of business when the store manager died right after the Civil War. None of his family wanted the
business and let the store go to waste. They took what they needed and left the rest. Over time, people had come in and taken
what they wanted. Some items where sold, others stolen, and some things where cleaned. The family didn’t care since they left the
south to live in Kansas, open a general store, and start a saloon for explorers traveling west.
Bill wearily entered the abandon store. He crept with each step clearing the cobwebs from the door. He noticed the thick layer of
dust and crawling bugs on the cabinets and shelves. He had heard of people cleaning the place periodically but at that time, no
one had been there in at least a few weeks if not months. A deer’s head hung on the sidewall behind what use to be the cash
register. Only two chairs with no dust sat in the middle of the room.
“Ladon,” Bill called. “Ladon are you here?”
“Yes.” Bill could hear from the back. It was dark but he knew by the rasp who it was.
“What did you want?”
“Have a seat, Bill,” Ladon said as he entered the room from the back.
Bill looked at the chair and then Ladon. He stood. “What’s this all about?”
“You betrayed me,” Ladon said.
“You stole from the church.”
Ladon smiled and pointed at the bag in Bill’s hand. “Easy isn’t it,” Ladon said. Bill glanced down at the bag and held it tighter. He
didn’t respond. “I did what had to be done. Besides who are you to judge me.”
“I didn’t have to judge, we saw the proof…”
“I know your secret, Bill.”
Bill swallowed hard. “Secret?”
“I see you got my money,” Ladon said. He stared at the sack. Bill’s grip tightened.
“We need this Ladon. Membership is low as it is.”
“You need me don’t you,” Ladon asked. His voice raspy but sharp like the hiss of a snake.
“You’re not a bad person, Ladon, but sometimes you do bad…”
“Why did you bring it,” Ladon interrupted. He pointed to the bag. “Doing God’s will?” He laughed. Bill looked at the chairs a little
harder. “Give me the money and you can at least have your dignity.”
Bill shook his head and continued his grip on the bag. “You think you know but…”
“You use the services of teenage prostitutes, Bill. I know I’ve talked to some.”
There was a pause. “That was a long time ago.”
“Last year Bill. You cheated on your wife with young girls you freak,” Ladon said and stepped closer to Bill. “Give me my money.”
Ladon snatched the bag from Bill and walked away. Bill was furious and looked at the back of his former pastor. “Now I can add
this to the sum in the back.”
“No,” Bill said. “I can’t let you have it.”
Ladon stopped, turned around and walked to Bill. “Did you say no?” Bill nodded. Ladon punched his former friend in the chest and
elbowed him in the face. Bill fell to the ground and touched his lips. Blood.
“You can’t stop me,” Ladon growled. He walked behind a dust and cobweb covered cabinet to grab a shovel. Ladon looked at the
tool and then at Bill on the ground. “You’re probably one of those guys who won’t stop, aren’t you.”
“What do you mean,” Bill asked. He was woozy from the blow to the head but looked at his hand with the few drops of blood.
“Like those girls you defiled, you can’t stop. I know your type. You will come after me for this,” Ladon said referring to the cash. He
walked over to Bill who was on his knees and not paying attention to him. Then the clang of the shovel scraped the counter.
Bill looked up and saw the tool in Ladon’s hand. “What are you doing,” Bill asked.
“Making sure you won’t come after me.” Ladon grasped the shovel and began to hold it up. Bill’s eyes widen and got off the floor.
“Ladon this is crazy.”
“Don’t worry, I won’t tell your wife about your dirty little secret.” Ladon raised the shovel ready to swing. “Besides I’ll be in
Chattanooga. I have a plan.”
Ladon swung and didn’t realize how heavy the end of it was. He missed and almost knocked himself down from the force. Bill
dodged the next attack and looked around the room. Ladon got himself together and swung again. He missed Bill but smashed
one of the cabinets.
Bill grabbed one of the chairs and held it tight. “You don’t have to do this,” Bill said.
“Yeah, I do.” Ladon swung again and missed. Bill tried to hit Ladon with the chair and missed as well. As soon as Ladon got himself
together, Bill flung the chair at Ladon.
The ex-minister took a swing at the flying object and smashed it. The chair broke in a few pieces with one clipping Ladon’s eye.
Ladon dropped the shovel and grabbed his face from the pain. Bill picked the tool up and without thinking swung the modified
weapon. He hit Ladon in the back of the head and landed four more hits before Ladon could retaliate. Bill stopped, stared at the
shovel covered in blood and dropped the shovel. He looked down at Ladon’s head and knew the pink muscle covered in blood was
his brain. The Deacon began to shake. He never killed anyone before and couldn’t believe what he had done.
“Excuse me.” Bill heard a voice from behind him. Bill, whose hands was stained with blood was startled and turned around. Two
men were coming into the doorway he had entered only ten minutes before. They where dressed like train operators and had soot
on their fingers and clothes.
“Yes,” Bill responded.
They stared for a moment at Bill then at Ladon. “I see you did it.”
“Did what?”
“Killed the man you where talking about. You said you wanted us to come over and take away the dead body of some guy you
planned on killing.”
Bill stared at Ladon. He didn’t feel guilty anymore. This was a set up and Ladon planned to kill him all along.
“Yes.”
“You got the ten grand?”
Bill looked around and then remembered where Ladon got the shovel. He figured that Ladon dropped the money when he picked
up the weapon. Bill also remembered that there was more cash in the back.
“Yes I do,” Bill said. He headed for the spot with the church money and saw the sack he brought.
“You’re still coming with us,” one of the men said. They walked towards Ladon’s body and turned him over. They examined the
area while Bill walked over to them.
“Coming,” Bill asked.
“Yeah, you said you’re coming with us to Chattanooga. Something about a new business venture.”
Bill nodded. “I got something in the back. Here’s your money.” Bill handed them the money much to their delight. Then he headed
in the back. The one guy mentioned to his friend to get the cutting tools and a sack. He could only assume that they where going
to chop the body, carry it in a sack, and use Ladon as fuel in one of the trains. “Clever,” Bill whispered.
Bill saw a large sack of cash, some papers in the back, and a diary. He glanced at the notes and saw something about a financial
venture to start a bank. It was all about fulfilling a vision.
Lucifer inspired the vision that Ladon wrote about soon after being exiled from the church. He desired a means to get back at
Village Assemblies but a new plan came into order. The financial plans were the means of starting a bank to gather as much
money as possible so he could serve the fallen angel.
A plan for a new society was in the formation and it was detailed. It contained the ideas for the name of the group, to the colors,
the robes, and even a few of the practices. This new group would allow a person to be who they are without being judged. No more
hiding. No more being forced to please others.
“Ominous Mephistopheles Society,” Bill said. “Interesting. I need to know more.”
“We’re all set,” one of the railroad workers yelled. Bill didn’t notice that he had been in the back for a long time. The two had the
front room cleaned and the body packed away.
“Yeah,” Bill said. “Here I come.”
Bill walked into the general store main room with the large sack. He placed the diary, notes, and other materials in the bag. Bill
stopped in front of the men, and grabbed a thousand dollars from the bag.
“Just a little something so I’m safe in Chattanooga.” The eyes of both men widen with excitement.
“Sure thing,” one of the men said.
“You all set,” the other guy asked.
“Ready,” Bill responded. There was a tug at his heart. He knew it wasn’t right to leave, but figured he could do right by this
financial plan and possibly send Village Assemblies some money. At least he hoped.
“We’ll take care of the body like you said.”
“Our train should really be moving,” the other train worker chuckled. Bill knew it; Ladon would be used as fuel.
“Sounds good to me.”
All three began to leave when one of them snapped around and looked at Bill. “I should have asked you this before, but, are you
Ladon Smythe?”
Bill remembered the line about not having to lie to yourself or anyone else. That he could do what he wanted without feeling guilty.
Even in the notes, he thought about some of the changes he could make. Some of the practices he would install. Even his own,
little secret, wouldn’t have to be so bad.
Bill looked at both men and smiled. “Yes I am. Now let’s go.”
Holly’s Sentinel
Silver
The Mysterious Ladon Smythe
Holly’s Sentinel
The best time to visit “America’s Roller Coast,” is during the weekday. At least that’s what Spencer heard Esmeralda say. He didn’t
know if there was a difference and thought it was a little arrogant to call yourself the best amusement park in America. He had a
fantastic time at the many amusement parks in Southern California. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry, and California
Adventure where places he visited regularly with dates.
“Are we there yet,” June said. She sat next to Spencer, her boyfriend, in the back seat of Louis car. Esmeralda, Spencer’s one-
year younger Aunt, sat in the passenger seat next to her boyfriend Louis. All four of the friends where on their way to Cedar Point.
June was excited at the impending rush of fast and scary rides. She loved roller coasters and thrill rides whereas Spencer was
shaky about both.
“Almost,” Esmeralda responded. “Once we get through the town we’ll be right there.” From Columbus, getting to Sandusky meant
going from a major freeway to riding through a few small towns. In spite of that, it never stopped people from the capital city to visit
the lakeside amusement park in huge numbers.
Spencer was a little weary of going on the trip due to the incident at the Iron Eagle club. They didn’t talk about it after they left but
falling in the bathroom, hurting himself, and accidentally dancing with a man was not what he intended. He had to assume that
nothing weird would happen at Cedar Point.
She has something, I know it, Spencer thought. If it wasn’t for the excursion, he planned to look up information on June. He knew
her switching behavior and attitude was not a coincidence. Spencer had his belief on what June was suffering from but decided to
forget about it. He wanted to enjoy himself while in Sandusky and rubbed his girlfriend’s hand. Ten minutes after June asked the
question they where pulling into the parking lot. They could see a few of the roller coasters from the car and Spencer thought he
could hear faint screams. His hands shook a little but he would over come them and get on whatever ride the group decided.
Spencer wasn’t fond of heights so even when he came to Ohio from California to stay with Esmeralda for a year, he drove. He
could’ve flew and had his stuff mailed, but he wanted to see America. While in California Spencer rode Ghost Rider at Knott’s
Berry, California Screamin’ at Disney’s California Adventure, and Riddler’s Revenge at Six Flags Magic Mountain. He was amazed
that he rode those type of thrill rides but when he’s in a group he goes to where they want.
“This is a real park, so no fighting,” Esmeralda said. She had a smile on her face as the four walked towards the front gate. The
group laughed. They knew the last time Spencer and June went to a park there was a huge fight between her ex-boyfriend’s
friends. Spencer and June was fine, but many of them where sent to the hospital.
After an hour Spencer noticed the lines where moderate and moving quickly. The weather was perfect and sunny. He didn’t tell
Esmeralda that she was right about going to the amusement park during the weekday. Spencer glanced her way and smiled.
“Told ya it was better to come during the weekday,” Esmeralda said.
“What?”
“You notice the lines, I can tell,” she responded.
Spencer was going to respond when he heard some yelling to the side. At first, he assumed it was the usual screams from people
on the nearest roller coaster to the front. His assumption changed when June looked over to the side with a scowl.
“No, I don’t wanna’ go on that,” a short blond hair women said. She struggled to break the grip from a tallish guy with pale features.
“It looks scary.”
“Shutup, you’re embarrassing me,” he said. “It’s only a glorified swing that spins.” They where pointing to a ride that Louis and
Esmeralda were heading towards. MaXair, was a large 140-foot pendulum ride that swung back and forth while the base spins in a
circle. Spencer read a blog that someone said it felt like being on a large figure-eight. When they first entered the park, the
foursome got on the Raptor. A bright green and black inverted roller coaster that was surprisingly smooth to Spencer. However, it
shocked his system with its speed and inversions, so Spencer had to rest for a moment until the dizziness left. When Spencer was
fine they walked to maXair and looked to the blond hair stranger. For a brief moment he felt like the unknown blond and didn’t want
to get on the thrill ride himself.
“I should help her.” Spencer looked down at his girlfriend and noticed her voice was different. It was low and had a slight rasp.
Normally her tones where light and bubbly.
“Who,” he responded. She tilted her chin towards the girl who reluctantly followed her boyfriend to the ride.
“Don’t worry about it,” Spencer said. He started walking towards Louis and Esmeralda. “I’m sure she’s fine.”
During the wait in line there where more arguing but almost everyone ignored it. Spencer tried to concentrate on the super swing
before him but his girlfriend thought otherwise. “I swear, he better not hurt her.”
“Let it go, June,” Spencer said. Her head snapped quickly at him and she sighed. Spencer assumed June was bipolar. He was only
partially right. June had Multiple Personality Disorder or sometimes referred as Dissociative Identity Disorder. This was a condition
where many personalities or identities take up space in one body.
The identity Spencer believed was June actually went by Hera. She was a strong take-action first kind of personality. Her only
thought was to protect those who needed it. Hera could tell the blond hair women needed help and made it her mission to fulfill that.
After the ride, Hera made her way to the restroom. She saw the blond hair woman go there after hurling some breakfast after the
ride ended. Hera had a map and told her companions that she would meet them at the next ride. She thought it was the stand-up
roller coater, Mantis or the U-shaped twisted one called Wicked Twister.
“Are you okay,” Hera asked and tapped on the bathroom stall. There where a few sniffs and some heavy breathing. The person
inside had been crying. Hera knew those tears where not from the thrill ride they exited, but from her boyfriend.
The restroom, which was dandelion yellow with a grey and pink border, was sparsely filled with women. Most had relieved
themselves of the highly priced sodas from the various vendors and machines. Others reapplied makeup that had been rinsed off
from the water rides.
“Yes,” she responded.
“I’m not talking about your stomach illness,” Hera said. The toilet flushed and she waited for the blond woman to come out. “I mean
about him.”
The blond paused, looked at Hera, and made her way to the sink. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she said. “But my
stomach is better.”
Hera paused and then stood next to the sink beside her. “June,” Hera said. She hated being someone else, but knew it was
necessary. It was easier for the different identities to have one name. Their condition was rare compare to other people with the
disorder. Her psychologist had never seen a group of identities work well with each other. Most people with MPD had identities that
barely knew each other existed, might alone work with one another.
“Excuse me,” the woman said.
“My name is June,” Hera said. “What’s yours?”
“Holly,” she responded. Her head turned down and continued washing her hands. There was an uncomfortable pause. Hera broke
the silence.
“I’m talking about him,” Hera said. She stopped washing her hands. A few people entered, others left. No one paid attention to
them. “I know abuse when I see it.”
Holly was going to refute her. She thought about lying to this stranger like she had to herself. Holly shook the excess water from
her hands and stared at Hera.
“I’m okay,” Holly replied and then her lips trembled. Before she could help herself, she hugged Hera and cried. Hera was unlike
June. She didn’t feel comfortable with soft emotions. Especially crying people. Hera looked, ignored the few women in the
restroom, and hugged Holly back. “Have you been through it too,” Holly asked.
“Yes.”
They talked for a while. Holly was from Columbus like Hera. She earned a college degree from Ohio Dominican but believed she
could do more. Holly met Scott, her boyfriend, at a party. They liked each other the instant they met. Holly felt like she was more in
love with him then he was with her. She didn’t mind. Due to his status she felt honored to be in a relationship with him.
Scott was well educated and had money. He was in line to become the president of a company that made fruit snacks. Didn’t seem
like much to Holly at first but the family business was worth three hundred million. Scott could not wait to take his place as CEO.
“So he thinks he can control you,” Hera said.
“Yes,” Holly responded. “Because he’s going to be an important man. He thinks he can rule my every action and thought.”
“He doesn’t want a girlfriend, he wants a handmaid,” Hera said. “A slave.”
“I wouldn’t go that far-but I do see…”
“Leave.”
Holly looked around the room and then at Hera. “Okay.”
“Not from here,” Hera said and grabbed Holly’s arm as she turned to leave. For the first time Holly noticed that, her new friend was
about the same height as herself. In spite of this, she appeared stronger compare to her size. “I’m saying from him,” Hera
responded.
“It’s not easy.”
“I know.”
“You had to leave,” Holly started, “I mean from an abusive man?”
“Yes,” Hera responded. “It wasn’t easy, but with force, I ended it.”
“I can’t leave now," Holly started, “he’s my ride.” She smiled and chuckled a little. Hera didn’t catch the slight joke.
“We have room.”
They talked for a few minutes and left the restroom. Just as the two exited the door, Scott grabbed Holly and slammed her against
the wall. Her breath was momentarily knocked out as she struggled to free his grip.
“What took you so long,” Scott shouted.
“Let her go,” Hera said. She wanted to revert to her former self and hospitalize Scott. Hera glanced around and noticed a small
crowd forming. She didn’t want to be kicked out of Cedar Point for fighting a stranger.
Scott’s head snapped around at Hera. “Who are you?”
“Let her go,” Hera demanded.
Holly continued to struggle. She was trying to free herself but couldn’t. Hera’s fist was clinched. She didn’t want to fight but would
do what was necessary to help Holly.
“You’ve been warned,” Hera announced.
Scott turned his attention to Holly. “I thought you left me,” Scott said.
Hera grabbed Scott’s arm. “No mercy,” Hera grimaced. Scott ignored her when Hera slammed her hand into his shoulder and
kicked him in the back of the leg. Scott shook off the hits and released Holly. Hera smiled and kicked Scott in the leg once more.
She stepped back when he threw a wild punch. Hera, from that one swing, knew that either Scott couldn’t fight or in pain. On the
other hand, Hera was a trained black belt in martial arts and have a variety of practice from the various prize fighting clubs in
Cincinnati.
Hera danced around Holly’s boyfriend and noticed some of the people in the area cheering. She punched him in the face a few
times. This was fun for her but she had to stop the fight. Scott stumbled towards Hera and was about to attack. He couldn’t muster
enough energy and fell down from the injuries. Hera knew there was at least five different ways she could seriously hospitalize him.
She blew out a deep breath and looked at Holly. She glanced around and noticed a few guards coming in their direction. Just past
them, she could see her friends from Columbus standing and watching the action.
“The offer still stands.”
Holly looked at Scott wheezing in pain and grabbing his face. She saw the other women who cheered Hera during the scrimmage.
A smile came across Holly’s lips and looked at Hera.
“You sure your friends won’t mind.”
“Nope,” Hera responded. “Besides you saw what I can do to him.” They both laughed. The security guards came and asked some
questions to decipher the situation. They apprehended Scott after realizing that he was the troublemaker.
Holly finished the day with Hera, who became June again, as well as Spencer, Esmeralda, and Louis. Holly knew it would be hard to
end her relationship with Scott but had hope because of people like Hera. The thought of someone seeking her out so they could
help was amazing. Holly’s new life begun at Cedar Point and it was all due to a stranger she met in the bathroom.
Silver
Newport Kentucky, home of a indoor/outdoor mall outside the Cincinnati metro area and a large aquarium. From the riverbanks,
visitors could see the two stadiums for the Reds and Bengals. Kit Lando loved sports but was not fond of aquariums. He decided to
choose this place because it was both public and private due to the lightening throughout the building. He wanted to make sure
there was enough people around him. Meeting up with an old ex-girlfriend can be eventful if the breakup was bad. In Kit’s case, his
ex was a master in the martial arts.
“Stand behind the mouth and I’ll take your picture,” an aquarium worker said.
Kit looked over at the jaws of a large mouth shark. It stood taller then him and six people could stand behind it. The aquarium
photographer wanted Kit to stand behind the replica for some souvenir pictures.
“I’m okay, thanks,” Kit responded.
“It’ll be fun.”
“I’m alright thanks.”
“Scared as usual,” a voice said from the side of Kit. He looked over to the right at the escalator and saw a silver hair women
coming down from the lobby. She had a sly grin as she brushed the hair from her face.
“Karen,” Kit said.
“Yes, I know who I am Kit,” she responded and stepped off the escalator. She smiled at the photographer and lead Kit behind the
jaws. They took a few pictures and received the ticket to buy their souvenir pictures. The two people continued past the worker as
he prepared the next people and walked through the aquarium.
“You owe me,” Karen said.
“For the picture, I wouldn’t have done…”
“No stupid,” Karen started, “for admission.” Karen stopped and held her hand out.
“Right now,” Kit asked. Karen nodded. Kit reached in his wallet to get the necessary cash and Karen snatched it. She took what
she wanted and gave the wallet back.
“That’ll do.”
“Just like old times,” Kit snapped back and placed the wallet in his pocket.
“What do you want,” Karen asked.
“Straight to business.” Kit sighed and Karen nodded. They stopped by an Amazon themed area with a variety of Sturgeons and
other fish swimming below a specialize bridge. Plaques lined the bridge so visitors would know the name of each marine animal
and its habits.
“I want to hire you for a special job.”
“To use my martial arts?” Kit nodded. Karen chuckled and shook her head. She looked at some of the fish and then at Kit. “Isn’t
that why you ended our relationship. Because of my skills.”
“You used it on me,” Kit responded.
“You where drunk and I defended myself.”
Kit looked away from the Sturgeons and continued to walk some. Karen followed and took little notice of the variety of fish and the
environment around them. The hallways where dark so the tanks could shine with the various aquatic animals living within them.
Slow groaning music was piped in above to give the customers the feeling of being out to sea. Some rooms had replicas of various
animals hanging from the ceiling.
“I was sorry for that.”
“So then you dumped me,” she said. They stopped again at a tropical section of the aquarium. The fish wasn’t as big but had
bright colors and a variety of looks.
“I got scared,” Kit said.
“I figured that. What about this job?”
“A friend of mine wants to teach one of his employee's a lesson.” Karen was confused but here interest grew. “He owns a strip club
and one of his dancers…got a little crazy.”
“Fire here,” she responded.
“I agree, but she’s been trouble.” They continued to walk and notice a few large fish in some over size tanks.
“How much?”
“She sent a few of my friends to the hospital. I had a little scrimmage and of course her boss.”
“You got messed up as well,” Karen said and laughed. “That’s what you get.”
“Why do you say that? He’s talking about paying well.”
“A bunch of guys can’t handle one female and you want me to clean up the mess.”
“Yes,” Kit responded.
“Tell me about her.”
Kit started searching through his pockets for a picture. “She’s not very tall but is extremely skilled.” He found the picture and
showed it to her. “Her name is June.”
“Hera.”
“No, June,” Kit said. “Although, she did say something about that one time.”
“Yes, I will do it.”
“You will, great.”
“Tell your friend not to worry about payment. This will be my pleasure,” Karen said. Her hands seemed to bristle as she talked
more about the potential fight. Kit saw Karen brush her hair from her face as she stared at the picture. He forgot about the scar
running across her face but noticed she was still attractive.
“You sure because he doesn’t mind,” Kit said.
“We have a score to settle.”
“Oh, wanna leave, talk it over a drink,” Kit asked.
Karen took her eyes off the picture and stared at Kit. “When?”
“After we leave here.”
“No, when do I get my revenge. The sooner the better.”
“Tonight if you can. Does that work for ya?”
“Yes,” Karen answered.
“And the drink?”
“No,” she responded. “Tell me the details; I’ve been waiting a long time for this.”
The Mysterious Ladon Smythe
“You can’t kick me out, I started this church,” Ladon Smythe yelled.
Village Assemblies Church was in an uproar over the decision to remove their Pastor and founder Ladon Smythe. This small
church, based in a tiny town near Chattanooga Tennessee felt like it was the right thing to do.
“We have too, you gave us no choice,” Deacon Bill Jessup said.
“No choice,” Ladon responded.
“Yes,” another church member said.
“You stole our money,” the oldest member in the sanctuary yelled. There were a few more shouts and some people pushed closer
to Ladon.
It was 1910 and Ladon had been Pastor of the Village Assemblies Church for a decade. Before being a minister, he was an
accountant and investor. He lost at least seventy-five percent of his investment in a bad deal. No one from the Northeast would
work with him and he owned a few gangsters some money.
Ladon moved south and figured to take on his father’s profession. Village was only supposed to be temporary but once he saw the
amount he could skim from the offering, he decided to stick it through. His plan was perfect until Bill found out.
“I was doing the Lord’s will,” Ladon said.
“Give it up Ladon,” Bill responded. “We know the truth.”
“You know nothing,” Ladon snapped.
Bill planned the event with various members of the church. On that night, the members came into the sanctuary, which doubled as
a meeting room. Ladon showed up assuming it was for the normal church business meeting. Once he ended his prayer to start the
meeting, Bill immediately accused him of stealing and the argument began.
“I know from the church treasure,” Bill started and looked at his brother, “that we have had a percentage of our money missing
every week. At first, we thought it was an error. Then we did some research.”
“Research,” Ladon asked. During that time the members where making their way toward him while he constantly stepped towards
the back. “What research?”
“That you use to do financial things up north.”
“What’s that to you?”
“Then you got in trouble and owe some folks money,” Bill said.
“That’s taken care of,” Ladon answered.
“I figured you paid them back,” Bill’s brother said. “Which is confusing? Why keep taking?”
Ladon looked around the room. He felt trapped like some of the witches he used to pronounce as evil. His mind turned to the
people from Salem who threatened others with being burned to a stake. “I already told ya, to do God’s will.”
“Don’t use His name for your fiendish ways,” Bill responded. “Leave.”
“I started this church,” Ladon grimaced. “Ya’ll leave.”
“Ladon we’re humble Christian people, but will do what is necessary,” another Deacon said.
“Ya got two choices,” Bill said. “Either leave and we won’t hurt you. Or stay and we throw you out.”
“And there will be harm,” and elderly woman said.
Ladon looked at each member. His breath was shallow but he made sure to make perfect eye contact with all of them. Finally, he
stepped at Bill Jessup.
“You’ll regret this,” Ladon said. “All of you. You will regret this.”
“Go take someone else’s money. We’re tired of being lied too,” Bill responded.
Ladon had a slight grin in the corner of his mouth and pushed past Bill and the church members. He stopped at the door and
looked at Bill one last time. He didn’t say a word and left the building.
There was a slight pause and the members looked at one another. They cheered and felt relieved to get Pastor Ladon Smythe out
of the church. Bill felt great that he stood up to him. To everyone in church Ladon was a powerful man and a person to be feared.
Bill’s wife gave him a hug while some of the members began to lead out in song.
Bill smiled at his wife and kissed her on the cheek. He was there at the church physically but mentally his thoughts were on the
church. They had some savings thanks to his brother. Plus he knew that for all of Ladon’s problems, he was good at making
people feel good. Bill wasn’t sure if he could do the same or preach like him. He knew that he would have to take over and that
could keep him in the small town. Bill loved the area, but had a strong desire to live in a larger city. Memphis, Nashville, or even
Chattanooga sounded like a place to start something new. The only problem is that his wife had no desire to move from her
current surroundings.
*******
Three months after Ladon’s departure a letter came to the church addressed to Bill. Village Assemblies was struggling and
membership was dwindling over that time. Ladon might have been stealing but his dynamite preaching kept many people in the
pews. Bill wasn’t as good of a preacher but spoke like a teacher. They still had enough money but Bill desired for the church to
grow. He didn’t want Ladon to get the victory in proof that the church needed him. Bill’s wife was proud of him and enjoyed every
minute of his sermons. The parishioners lied to Bill Jessup that his sermons were good, but told the truth by their attendance.
Bill’s wife gave him the letter and started cleaning up the office. He didn’t know who would send him a letter at church. Bill hoped it
was a mysterious donor giving money to the church.
“Maybe it’s a donation,” Bill said.
“You think.” Bill shrugged and opened the letter.
I know your secret. Meet me at the address below tomorrow at five. Bring the ten thousand I know you and your brother are hiding
at church.
Ladon Smythe
Bill swallowed hard and stared at his wife. “I assume it’s not money,” she asked.
“What,” Bill said and looked at the letter. “Oh no, its not that, I mean, actually it could be. But I have to meet them, alone.”
“That doesn’t make sense.”
“God,” Bill began, “works in mysterious ways.” She nodded and smiled.
“Yes He does. Go get that blessing.” Bill hugged his wife and kissed her forehead. He had an idea to the secret Ladon referred to
in the letter. He assumed that Ladon couldn’t possibly know something that he hid for a long time. No Pastor or minister was
perfect but he felt like his life was good in comparison to others.
His relationship has grown with his wife. Over time, he’s learned to love her. Unlike in the beginning where he felt pressured by
family and church members to speed up their engagement period to please them.
At five the next day, Bill walked into an abandon general store with a sack carrying the ten thousand dollars. Bill had a hard time
explaining to his brother why he needed it but convinced him to have faith that God’s will was being done. Bill felt bad about lying,
but knew once he talked with Ladon then he will return with the cash.
The general store went out of business when the store manager died right after the Civil War. None of his family wanted the
business and let the store go to waste. They took what they needed and left the rest. Over time, people had come in and taken
what they wanted. Some items where sold, others stolen, and some things where cleaned. The family didn’t care since they left the
south to live in Kansas, open a general store, and start a saloon for explorers traveling west.
Bill wearily entered the abandon store. He crept with each step clearing the cobwebs from the door. He noticed the thick layer of
dust and crawling bugs on the cabinets and shelves. He had heard of people cleaning the place periodically but at that time, no
one had been there in at least a few weeks if not months. A deer’s head hung on the sidewall behind what use to be the cash
register. Only two chairs with no dust sat in the middle of the room.
“Ladon,” Bill called. “Ladon are you here?”
“Yes.” Bill could hear from the back. It was dark but he knew by the rasp who it was.
“What did you want?”
“Have a seat, Bill,” Ladon said as he entered the room from the back.
Bill looked at the chair and then Ladon. He stood. “What’s this all about?”
“You betrayed me,” Ladon said.
“You stole from the church.”
Ladon smiled and pointed at the bag in Bill’s hand. “Easy isn’t it,” Ladon said. Bill glanced down at the bag and held it tighter. He
didn’t respond. “I did what had to be done. Besides who are you to judge me.”
“I didn’t have to judge, we saw the proof…”
“I know your secret, Bill.”
Bill swallowed hard. “Secret?”
“I see you got my money,” Ladon said. He stared at the sack. Bill’s grip tightened.
“We need this Ladon. Membership is low as it is.”
“You need me don’t you,” Ladon asked. His voice raspy but sharp like the hiss of a snake.
“You’re not a bad person, Ladon, but sometimes you do bad…”
“Why did you bring it,” Ladon interrupted. He pointed to the bag. “Doing God’s will?” He laughed. Bill looked at the chairs a little
harder. “Give me the money and you can at least have your dignity.”
Bill shook his head and continued his grip on the bag. “You think you know but…”
“You use the services of teenage prostitutes, Bill. I know I’ve talked to some.”
There was a pause. “That was a long time ago.”
“Last year Bill. You cheated on your wife with young girls you freak,” Ladon said and stepped closer to Bill. “Give me my money.”
Ladon snatched the bag from Bill and walked away. Bill was furious and looked at the back of his former pastor. “Now I can add
this to the sum in the back.”
“No,” Bill said. “I can’t let you have it.”
Ladon stopped, turned around and walked to Bill. “Did you say no?” Bill nodded. Ladon punched his former friend in the chest and
elbowed him in the face. Bill fell to the ground and touched his lips. Blood.
“You can’t stop me,” Ladon growled. He walked behind a dust and cobweb covered cabinet to grab a shovel. Ladon looked at the
tool and then at Bill on the ground. “You’re probably one of those guys who won’t stop, aren’t you.”
“What do you mean,” Bill asked. He was woozy from the blow to the head but looked at his hand with the few drops of blood.
“Like those girls you defiled, you can’t stop. I know your type. You will come after me for this,” Ladon said referring to the cash. He
walked over to Bill who was on his knees and not paying attention to him. Then the clang of the shovel scraped the counter.
Bill looked up and saw the tool in Ladon’s hand. “What are you doing,” Bill asked.
“Making sure you won’t come after me.” Ladon grasped the shovel and began to hold it up. Bill’s eyes widen and got off the floor.
“Ladon this is crazy.”
“Don’t worry, I won’t tell your wife about your dirty little secret.” Ladon raised the shovel ready to swing. “Besides I’ll be in
Chattanooga. I have a plan.”
Ladon swung and didn’t realize how heavy the end of it was. He missed and almost knocked himself down from the force. Bill
dodged the next attack and looked around the room. Ladon got himself together and swung again. He missed Bill but smashed
one of the cabinets.
Bill grabbed one of the chairs and held it tight. “You don’t have to do this,” Bill said.
“Yeah, I do.” Ladon swung again and missed. Bill tried to hit Ladon with the chair and missed as well. As soon as Ladon got himself
together, Bill flung the chair at Ladon.
The ex-minister took a swing at the flying object and smashed it. The chair broke in a few pieces with one clipping Ladon’s eye.
Ladon dropped the shovel and grabbed his face from the pain. Bill picked the tool up and without thinking swung the modified
weapon. He hit Ladon in the back of the head and landed four more hits before Ladon could retaliate. Bill stopped, stared at the
shovel covered in blood and dropped the shovel. He looked down at Ladon’s head and knew the pink muscle covered in blood was
his brain. The Deacon began to shake. He never killed anyone before and couldn’t believe what he had done.
“Excuse me.” Bill heard a voice from behind him. Bill, whose hands was stained with blood was startled and turned around. Two
men were coming into the doorway he had entered only ten minutes before. They where dressed like train operators and had soot
on their fingers and clothes.
“Yes,” Bill responded.
They stared for a moment at Bill then at Ladon. “I see you did it.”
“Did what?”
“Killed the man you where talking about. You said you wanted us to come over and take away the dead body of some guy you
planned on killing.”
Bill stared at Ladon. He didn’t feel guilty anymore. This was a set up and Ladon planned to kill him all along.
“Yes.”
“You got the ten grand?”
Bill looked around and then remembered where Ladon got the shovel. He figured that Ladon dropped the money when he picked
up the weapon. Bill also remembered that there was more cash in the back.
“Yes I do,” Bill said. He headed for the spot with the church money and saw the sack he brought.
“You’re still coming with us,” one of the men said. They walked towards Ladon’s body and turned him over. They examined the
area while Bill walked over to them.
“Coming,” Bill asked.
“Yeah, you said you’re coming with us to Chattanooga. Something about a new business venture.”
Bill nodded. “I got something in the back. Here’s your money.” Bill handed them the money much to their delight. Then he headed
in the back. The one guy mentioned to his friend to get the cutting tools and a sack. He could only assume that they where going
to chop the body, carry it in a sack, and use Ladon as fuel in one of the trains. “Clever,” Bill whispered.
Bill saw a large sack of cash, some papers in the back, and a diary. He glanced at the notes and saw something about a financial
venture to start a bank. It was all about fulfilling a vision.
Lucifer inspired the vision that Ladon wrote about soon after being exiled from the church. He desired a means to get back at
Village Assemblies but a new plan came into order. The financial plans were the means of starting a bank to gather as much
money as possible so he could serve the fallen angel.
A plan for a new society was in the formation and it was detailed. It contained the ideas for the name of the group, to the colors,
the robes, and even a few of the practices. This new group would allow a person to be who they are without being judged. No more
hiding. No more being forced to please others.
“Ominous Mephistopheles Society,” Bill said. “Interesting. I need to know more.”
“We’re all set,” one of the railroad workers yelled. Bill didn’t notice that he had been in the back for a long time. The two had the
front room cleaned and the body packed away.
“Yeah,” Bill said. “Here I come.”
Bill walked into the general store main room with the large sack. He placed the diary, notes, and other materials in the bag. Bill
stopped in front of the men, and grabbed a thousand dollars from the bag.
“Just a little something so I’m safe in Chattanooga.” The eyes of both men widen with excitement.
“Sure thing,” one of the men said.
“You all set,” the other guy asked.
“Ready,” Bill responded. There was a tug at his heart. He knew it wasn’t right to leave, but figured he could do right by this
financial plan and possibly send Village Assemblies some money. At least he hoped.
“We’ll take care of the body like you said.”
“Our train should really be moving,” the other train worker chuckled. Bill knew it; Ladon would be used as fuel.
“Sounds good to me.”
All three began to leave when one of them snapped around and looked at Bill. “I should have asked you this before, but, are you
Ladon Smythe?”
Bill remembered the line about not having to lie to yourself or anyone else. That he could do what he wanted without feeling guilty.
Even in the notes, he thought about some of the changes he could make. Some of the practices he would install. Even his own,
little secret, wouldn’t have to be so bad.
Bill looked at both men and smiled. “Yes I am. Now let’s go.”