Chapter 3-3

Chapter 3-3

"We will clarify the details once we reach a decision about your acceptance of the quest presented by us and the Gods of Light.

“Or you can take (Door number one.) Where we will just leave, and you and your friend in there will die slowly. More so in here than in the world of mortals where you and I once lived. For real this time or choose to wink out of existence, all together. Or you can take (Door number two) take the quest we are about to give you. You can choose Option (A) to become the Dark Prince or Option (B) to become the White Solon.

“Both have their challenges and disadvantages. There is a distinguishing factor that sets them apart from each other. What makes the big prize for the whole enchilada truly special are the unique perks that the other lacks. Regarding which one you choose to become,

“Let’s make it easy and uncomplicated. By choosing option B and embracing the role of the White Solon, you will embark on a journey that allows you to mold your own destiny, providing a fresh start and the ability to set things right for you and your brother, Danny. My grandson that is just one perk.

“There is a second perk. This offers you the possibility of correcting all the mistakes made or about to be made by you and your friend in that case, depending on your viewpoint. A chance, son, To Save, not only you and your brother Danny, and all of humanity, to witness the beauty of a sunrise. Instead of complete darkness and misery. But to experience true happiness like you had when you were living with the Downings. For not only you, but for your brother Danny.

“Whichever option you choose, option A or B. You’ll have the chance to work alongside the Gods of Light and rid the world of the Shadow of Darkness once and for all. For all time and eternity. They will without question will provide protection: Giving you Special magic and Armor and Guidance. Not only from them, but from me. Your grandpa and Uncle Mike and the High Elders and many others that you haven’t even met yet. In the Light. Which I have explained earlier what this is. Love, unmistakably Love. The Shadow of Darkness holds nothing but hate, cruelty, and misery, leaving one feeling a profound sense of ultimate loneliness that you and your friend in there have yet to fully comprehend.

Certainly, you can choose to reject their proposal outright and vigorously oppose their agenda, a choice that will undoubtedly test both their determination and ours. However, proceed with caution. By aligning yourself with the enemy, the Shadow of Darkness, you will venture down the same foreboding path that your parents, Jim and Linda, had already taken. You will leave me with no choice but to destroy you before you can ruin everything. Others like me and your Uncle Mike have been working tirelessly to prevent this. You will have no choice but to choose Door number one. The coward’s way out.

“We both know that this path leads nowhere promising, and regrettably, it is the final destination for him and, perhaps, your mother as well. Nothing can match the sheer depths of Hell that await there, a place of unimaginable darkness and suffering. Their future looks grim unless they take immediate action to change their course. You might end up here as well, just like others before you.

“Although it may seem powerful, my grandson, the Light possesses an even greater force.” If you need a reminder, ask�"I’m more than happy to provide one. But you have always been a bright kid taken after me I am proud to say, and you have already gained that knowledge effortlessly. Your old friend, in there. Your older self will resemble you in about fifty years. Knowing that he had chosen Option B. A second chance. Knowing to do so would end his suffering and reset the wrongs choice he made.

“If he had chosen Door number One and rejected the help offered, he would have had no other options. The intensity of his bitterness would have made him secretly wish for the triumph of the Darkness. He would descend into the bowels of Hell, where his regrets would gnaw at him ceaselessly, until he made the choice to wink out of existence and put an end to his agony. Instead of facing his fears head-on, he opted for the coward’s way out.

Despite the temptation, he remained strong and resisted. “No, my dear grandson,” his grandfather gently said, his voice filled with love and understanding, echoing in the air. Now, you are aware of the memories you both share and the knowledge they bring. Through his selfless dedication to others, including your brother Danny, he unwittingly became entangled in the intricate workings of the Gods of Light. They provided him with a lifeline through this action, a golden opportunity to leave behind his past and embark on a fresh start. Alone, he couldn’t prevent the destruction of all he had worked hard for, but with help, he had the means to accomplish the tasks that would provide the help he needed.

The enormity of the tasks called for a joint endeavor, as it was beyond the capabilities of any lone individual. This would contradict his intention of fostering a feeling of belonging and being treasured by a close-knit circle of loved ones. Your parents constantly reminded you and your brother Danny that you were unwanted and unloved. Their intention was to make you two feel abandoned and suffer, but Uncle Mike, myself, and others made sure you both had constant guidance and protection.

“With the paths explained, it’s time to turn our attention to the enticing rewards and perks that lie ahead. Whichever door you choose - Door One, Door Two, or Door Three - you will select either option A or B and receive a range of exciting goodies.

“Regardless of the path you choose, keep in mind. Whether you become the Dark Prince or the White Solon with Door two and Option A and B, your life will undergo irreversible changes.

“Making sacrifices is a necessary component for successfully completing both tasks. Be prepared to encounter danger at every twist and turn, I can assure you. Each bend of the treacherous path presents a lurking threat, where even the slightest mistake could have dire consequences - a serious matter indeed. This is as real as it gets. No matter which paths you choose, both will present extreme challenges.

“Yet the perks and the rewards, my boy, are the promise of fulfilling every longing that lives within your heart. In this incredible journey, you have the support of your family and friends, and with the responsibility of rescuing yourself and your brother Danny, while also safeguarding the existence of all mankind and the diverse worlds and realms they inhabit.

The reward at the end is slightly smaller if you decide to become the Dark Prince, in contrast to the other choices. All except for the opportunity to rescue the worlds from falling into the clutches of the Shadow. By choosing this path, you must be prepared to sacrifice your family, let go of Danny for good, and accept the company of undesirable friends. Conversely, the friends you will encounter are the type who will not hesitate to deceive you and stab you in the back if you become vulnerable. Their loyalty will forever be questionable, no matter the abundance of gold or power given to them. When you are at your lowest point, they will betray your trust and leave you behind.

While it has its downsides, there are also many upsides and advantages to it, such as the opportunity to form deep connections with loyal friends who will offer unwavering support. A significant benefit is having the powerful Gods of Light, as well as your Uncle Mike and other allies, accompany you, providing constant support throughout your journey. Unfortunately, opting for the Dark Prince means giving up the opportunity to indulge in the enticing goodies of Option B. Yet won’t go without and find them just as rewarding even though they are smaller in comparison.”

His Grandfather’s words hung in the air, urging the boy to weigh his options. “Don’t forget,” he reminded him, “every door presents its own set of dangers and delights, so ponder deeply on your heart’s truest desires. We will give you a few minutes to make a decision, so take your time. It’s not like you have all the time in the world to pounder your choices, but sad to say we cannot stop time indefinitely while make your decisions.

“Let’s keep in mind that we’re all in a hurry, so let’s try to make that decision quickly. I want you to know my grandson; for being a good boy and for minding your adopted family, the Downings. And minding your grandma, choosing to walk in the Light, like we have taught you. We have provided you with an additional perk that is sure to pique your interest and make your mouth water.

“Enlisting the aid of the mighty Gods of Light, your Uncle Mike and I had no choice but to remove you by your ear. However, fear not, for if you select the right door and either option A or B, you will discover that everything has remained untouched since your departure. In a powerful alliance, we and the Gods of light seized control over Time, rendering it motionless in its tracks. Moving at a sluggish pace, like a snail, to give you the time you need to make your decision on which path you will to take. There’s no denying it. Gods of Light Magic is absolutely badass.

“Which will you find out if choose Door number two or Door number three Or of course Door number one? Dying slowly or winking out of existence and giving the quests to someone else that wants it. Plus, there will be no chance of saving your brother Danny and the chance of having a family that loves you and Danny more than life itself.

“However, there is a fourth option: Door number four. It leaves you in a state of indecision, with nothing but a reminder of what you could have had. Time seems to stand still as you sit there, trapped in indecision, watching everyone else move forward without you. But then again, does anyone really care? Who needs them when there are so many other options? It’s important to note that your old self didn’t follow the lessons we taught you. Rather than addressing his problems and coming to Danny’s aid, he fled.

“The outcome was that he missed out on everything because he was too afraid to take a chance. Besides, these people are nothing more than lowlife hillbillies. Not worth saving from destruction and total annihilation. Why extend a helping hand to them when there are countless others who would also offer help, selflessly and without expectation of even a simple thank you? Yes, you can sit there and do nothing, taking in the sights and sounds of the passing world. They hold no significance in your eyes. Even if it meant endangering your own life, taking action would have been a priority, regardless of the potential risks involved.

“Maybe you should let your father, Jim, my terrible son kill them all and wipe them from existence all together. Right Mike? Who needs them gumming up our worlds? We will just find some other smock to do our dirty work. I am sure there are others who will be glad to do it for a gigantic pile of gold, gems and all the glory he can stomach.”

EJ’s eyes followed their movements as they stood up, and suddenly, a door manifested in a place where there had been nothing before. He didn’t waste a second before deciding. The instant his grandfather presented him with the opportunity to save Danny or himself, he knew exactly what he would do. The other was just icing on the cake. In addition, he had a deep, unwavering desire to have the Downings as part of his family. Not only for him, but for his little brother Danny.

There was nothing he wouldn’t do; no price he wouldn’t pay to have it. He will go to any lengths, even if it meant sacrificing his own life, to accomplish his goal. For him, neither glory nor riches were important. He ultimately hoped to have a circle of family and friends who loved him unconditionally and reciprocated that love endlessly. He had an abundance of the other and had no appetite for any more of it.

EJ quickly stopped them at the door, clutching his grandfather’s hand tightly. With unwavering conviction, he met his grandpa’s gaze and confidently declared, “I have decided,” his words resounding in the room. “After careful consideration, I have decided I want to go with door number two, and choosing Option B. I will take a leap of faith to save my brother Danny and give us the warmth and care of a loving family. Riches and glory have held no importance to me. The only thing that matters to me is ensuring my brother Danny’s happiness. I would willingly give up my life for him.

“I don’t want him or me to end up like that man in there. With nothing to look forward to, no family, no friends, nothing but pain, misery, and regrets for his only company. No, I want door number 2. The whole enchilada and nothing less. For right now, I have a whole lot of nothing but regrets. I want no more of that, thank you very much.

“And for information Grandpa, I love all lowlife’s and hillbillies and all the things that come with it. I and Danny are very proud of being one of those lowlifes and hillbillies. We wouldn’t trade anything or for all the gold in the world. The only thing more important is what’s right in here, Grandpa, the love we share.” EJ pointed to his heart. “Nothing is more important than that. You can keep your glory and the gold it’s not worth the headache. It has no value compared to the love you have with family and friends by your side. I would know considering neither I nor my friend in there has either.

“So, door number two is my decision with option B. Not door number one and definitely not door number three or even door number 4 has no appeal to me. That’s the coward’s way out. I am not a coward and not my father. Never will I be. Thank you very much. If you want one you, can talk to my father. I am sure he would jump at the chance to take the job. After all, he isn’t good at anything else. If you know what I mean?

“He and my mother are the real lowlife’s and if you see them, you can tell them I said that… as you escort them down to hell, but make sure you watch your back as you lock the door. He has a mean wicked belt, and I have the scars to prove it.” EJ removed his shirt and his pants, including his boxers.

Gave them a good view of his back and front. Listening to both growl Jim’s name. Having them trace the lines of the fading scars, EJ said. “My mother caused the little cuts and bruises, but she still didn’t stop him from trying to kill me the last time. I had no choice but to jump through a full plate of glass from mine and Danny’s bedroom window.

Once more, there was a loud growl, then a loud scream. “Jim! Linda! Your a*s is mine! How Dare you hurt my grandsons!” Just like his grandfather was gone, leaving El alone with Great Uncle Mike. Wanting to join his grandfather in tearing his parents apart. Yet Uncle Mike showed him a small glimpse of what he could expect when he got back and felt relieved knowing that his grandfather had things well in hand. Uncle mike told him to take a seat next to his sleeping friend on the floor and tell him goodbye. The only place he would be was right here, placing his hand on EJ’s bare chest where his heart was supposed to be.

Then laughed. “I don’t think you will need these where you’re going, son. No, I don’t think so. Considering I and your aunt Margaret happen to love lowlifes and Hillbillies like you and your little brother Danny. Since we are one ourselves and wouldn’t trade a single one for all the gold in the world.” With that, he made a nice little campfire with EJ’s clothes. Then vanish through the door.

Only to come back. “Tell your aunt Margaret that I love her, and I will see her real soon. We have a score to settle with a couple of lowlifes, providing your grandfather leaves me a piece for me. When he gets done.” He chuckled. “Take the keys and the door will be the second on the right. Always remember to follow your heart, son. It will never stir you wrong.” Then he, too, was gone. 

EJ took his grandfather’s and his Uncle Mike’s advice. Took one more glance at his old self and said his goodbyes. “Rest in peace my dear old friend, and safe travels, hoping to never to see you again. No offense, but it’s time we fix our mistakes so we both can have a happy life instead of unhappiness and a bunch of regrets. And take the risks.”

With one final soldier salute, he watched his old self fade away. He picked up the fallen keys and picked door number two. After all, how could he miss it with a large number two painted on the door with his grandfather’s bandana tied to the doorknob?

The key he had picked was in the shape of his Pa’s faded red Ford pickup. Again, stating the obvious that this door was the one he should pick. EJ held his head high and walked through the door. Finding himself lying on the ground near the edge of the pond. His Ma holding his head in her lap, stroking his disheveled hair. She had tears streaming down her face, shaking him awake and pleading to the Gods that he was alright. Once he opened his eyes, she cried even more, hugging him to her exposed chest. It wouldn’t have bothered him if as his Pa’s or his brothers, but I was his Ma’s, and she was a fledged woman.

Touching her chest, EJ blushed as a strange sensation washed over her. The sensation was completely foreign to him, and despite his attempts to loosen his Ma’s grip, she clutched onto him even more tightly. His face turned bright red, but she didn’t pay any attention to it. Not until his voice cracked. “Ma, I can’t breathe and we’re naked. “

With a touch of exasperation, Ma answers, “Yes, son, so what?” as though it were an obvious answer. “I am your mother,” she said, her voice filled with warmth and love, “and you are my son.” We are family, and it’s ok. As she held him close, Ma had an epiphany: all those times she bathed him and his brother Danny, she had never experienced the same intimacy as she did in that moment. It might be appropriate to have a genuine and open-hearted discussion about the marvels of women’s anatomy. While reading about it in a book can provide some insight, one experiences the true magic when witnessing and physically connecting with it. Even as babies, she doubted Linda, their biological mother, had ever embraced EJ and Danny with such maternal warmth. Yes, it was time for a more in-depth conversation, but this was the time nor the place to have that talk. Instead released him not embarrass more and give a more careful examination with a mother’s eye.

“We were so worried about you when you collapsed and nearly drowned. What happened? Are you in pain? Did your father stab you anywhere? We saw blood, but when pulled you out there wasn’t a single knife wound on you. Only a small scratch right where the heart is. When your father threw the knife, it fell to the ground as if had hit a stone wall.

“No, Ma,” he said, his voice cracking slightly. “I am fine,” she reassured him, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. But trust me, the events that unfolded and the individual behind it all will defy your wildest imagination. EJ looked around, his eyes darting in every direction as he tried to regain his sense of direction. With a sudden realization, he acknowledged his grandfather had been correct all along. Everything looked the same, with only a few minor differences here and there. His body was unmarked by knife wounds, save for a small, superficial scratch near his chest. Aside from feeling extremely weak, he seemed in good health, except for the intense headache he was experiencing. Plus, traveling through the door and back. He could live with that.

The moment he turned towards the road is where things were a little out-of-place, Seeing his father on the ground in heaping mess. Hog-tied up by rope his feet, legs bond and hands tied behind his back. With his grandfather’s bandana stuffed in his mouth, glaring angrily at him. His Pa, uncle Steve, were busy making sure he couldn’t move.

Someone tied up his mother and two sisters and gagged them with socks and strips made from their car left of Steve’s boxers and straps of his overalls. Other than that, everything else was the way he had left it, just like Uncle Mike and his grandfather said it would be. He had to admit it things couldn’t have been better. However, that too was about to change, seeing three police cars pulling up with Richard driving the wagon, and his two sisters Julie and Anna with him. Julie was sitting next to Richard and Anna was in the back of them. They were each wearing a swimsuit. Which made perfect since seeing the police cars not far behind them.

The three Aunts hurrying out of the tent, wrapping a quilt around them as they quickly hand out towels to everyone so they could be somewhat decent. His two younger brothers were unconcerned, seeing them ignore the towels. Then again, they were seven, so it was no big deal.

EJ to didn’t bother covering up considering the police were men. Beginning naked was nothing to them. He just calmly watched and waited for the things to calm down. Not that could do much at the moment. Beginning, he couldn’t walk yet or run. If he had a bowl of popcorn, it would just add to the calamity to the show that was unfolding before. In truth, it was the best show in town.

With everyone finally there, they looked presentable enough for a day spent by the pond. Swiftly and without hesitation, the officers emerged from their cars, bringing his grandmother along, and the scene unfolded before her in a matter of seconds. Pa swiftly broke things down, moving quickly to point out his furious father and then his mother Linda and sisters Peggy and Donna, who were still wearing their bathing suits. That they hadn’t gone home suggested that they must have come straight from the farm. Pa gestured towards the two knives and his father’s worn belt, both items lying on the hood of the car, as if telling a silent story. As soon as his grandmother caught sight of the knives and discovered the truth, she promptly confronted his father and administered a resounding slap that sent his head recoiling.

Taking charge, the officers promptly hoisted his father onto one of their shoulders and unceremoniously deposited him into the backseat of the police car. They wasted no time, swiftly lifting his mother Linda and restraining her with handcuffs. With Peggy and Donna right beside her, they gripped her arms and propelled her towards another car. Her eyes fixed on the scene before her as she witnessed an officer meticulously gathering the evidence, carefully securing it in a baggie. With a quick motion, he sealed it shut and stowed it in his car, eager to catch up with his comrades who were already heading down the road. Allowing everyone to return to have their fun. The show was truly unforgettable, especially for EJ and Danny’s parents, although no one else seemed to care. All they could say was a hushed whisper that hung in the air. They hoped Jim liked the look behind bars, because he would be there for a while. Everyone wondered how long it would take for Linda and him to be released.

His grandmother’s expression turned sour as she approached him, her brows furrowed in disapproval. She rushed towards him, pulling him tightly into her embrace. It was a completely different when she hugged him compared to when his Ma did, because he was at least wearing clothes. She didn’t pay any mind to his nudity, as she had become desensitized to it from years of raising him, bathing him, and caring for his injuries. As she examined him more closely, her desire for him intensified. Unable to resist her urges, she mischievously delivered a swift swat to his exposed bottom before engulfing him in a firm embrace, eliciting a gasp from him as he cried out, “Grandma, I’m breathless!” As emotions flooded her, she clung to him tightly, knowing that each embrace was a reminder of the peril he faced from his parents’ repeated attempts to end his life.

However, EJ had some serious explaining to do, and the weight of the situation hung heavily in the air as he prepared to speak. Yet he doubted anyone would believe the incredible story he had to tell. There was no choice but to tell them all what happened, and so he did. The moment mentioned how he had fallen through the gateway of time, and suddenly, he found himself in the presence of his grandpa and Uncle Great Uncle Mike. He recounted the details of their brief visit. As they looked at him with raised eyebrows and narrowed eyes, they didn’t believe a word of his story.

The disbelief on their faces was understandable; what he was saying was beyond ordinary and hard for them to believe. He skipped the rest of the story, brushing aside the epic quests assigned to him by the Gods of Light, involving the Dark Prince and the White Solon. He suspected they would dismiss his story about his grandpa and Uncle Mike coming to see him, assuming it was nothing more than a made-up tale. The events that unfolded after that were so extraordinary that accepting them was a challenge for them. He made the choice to remain quiet for the moment and not say anything.

Following EJ’s return from his own private adventure behind the looking glass, everyone gathered to analyze and discuss the events that transpired. The hours slipped away as they reveled in each other’s company, the soothing sounds of the pond’s gentle waves providing the perfect backdrop to their joyful conversations. With the day ending, they packed up their belongings and made their way back to their tents. Compared to the enjoyment they were experiencing, they had serious doubts that EJ’s and Danny’s parents, and their two sisters were having a similar level of fun. It was a somber truth that they failed to acknowledge the profound joy that comes from the presence of loved ones and cherished friends.

His grandmother reluctantly had to go back and bring the two girls, Peggy and Donna, to the farm. With their parents locked away, it fell upon someone to ensure their well-being. In addition, the thought of being left alone in that house with them sent shivers down her spine. The house exuded an eerie atmosphere, serving as a constant reminder of the evil that lurked within its walls.

Once breakfast was over and they dismantled the tents, Pa and Grandma reluctantly went and retrieved them, their hearts sinking when they realized the authorities could only hold them for at least forty-eight hours. The law’s inability to prosecute parents effectively for abuse and attempted murder can be both infuriating and perplexing. The authorities should have been stricter and should have given them the harshest punishment possible, ensuring their life imprisonment, while arranging for the girls to be sent to a reform school to undo the damage caused by their parents. Personally, we all thought it was too late, as we could already hear the familiar sounds of their stubbornness.