T.I.M.E.D.R.I.V.E.: Telescopic Infrared Multilaser Enhancing Delta Ray Integrated Video Emitter

By Titus D. Huxford

PREFACE
This story centers on a group of kids, their families and the invention of an extremely technical device. Known as the TIMEDRIVE, this multi-computer-integrated system operates a very unique video camcorder that allows a controlled adjustment of the time variable. Incorporated for playback into a state-of-the-art, internally contained, spherically domed, three-dimensional theater, it actually replays coverage of the space-time continuum. The system is capable of viewing only the surroundings within range of the zoom lens. Consider watching a movie while sitting in the eye of the camera, as everything happens all around you in perfect portrayal of realistic life-size examples. The only catch is that at one time, this show was for real.

Consider the sun, boasting a core temperature of almost thirty million degrees, well over ninety million miles away. Our nearest star spans about three million miles in circumference, while containing a spherical volume of nearly a million and a half times that of the earth. Composed of many different gases at extremely explosive pressures, we cannot begin to conceive the power. Try to imagine over 100 billion one-megaton nuclear bombs exploding every second, still, while for who knows how many eons. This massive titanic fireball in space emits heat waves or gamma rays of incomprehensible supply while in the form of electromagnetic energy. Theyre always present or constant and carry light energy, which Einstein called quantum photons. The atmosphere focuses this heat energy upon the earths surface much like a magnifying glass.

Our resulting weather factor, known as the quantum pinpoint, depends on the earth and how its seasonally tilted (winter, spring, etc.). Summertime brings about an intense concentration of focal alignment between atmosphere and surface conditions. Most people prefer spring and fall, as the earth begins nearing or slipping away from pinpoint focus, providing very comfortable conditions. Factors such as altitude, longitude, latitude, distance from the equator, water supplies, soil types, and many other environmental qualities determine atmospheric reactions in our individual regional global locality. The mountains are at a higher altitude, never allowing them to fully focus, thus explaining the snow-covered tops. Plants and animals need the suns heat or light energy in order to survive. If the human eye could focus on these heat waves in infrared, like a cat, we would be able to see at night. The suns core energy is released in the form of gamma radiation, as unfathomable quantities of gaseous matter interact in the form of nuclear fusion. In this process, a pair of hydrogen nuclei, combined into a single helium nucleus, undergo countless other changes, and the result radiates throughout the entire solar system. The heat energy is absorbed, chemically transformed by living organisms, then reflected, and therefore bounced off the earths surface.

The light photons reflect in your eye, as the dark pupil absorbs them. In only microseconds, a signal is sent to the brain, enabling sight. Think about wearing a black T-shirt on a hot summer day. How about the dashboard of your car when left sitting in the afternoon sun. The darker objects absorb the light or quantum photons while in a natural conductional transfer of chemical differences in potential energy. This is very much like unto the gravity of a mass in comparison to a spherical celestial body in motion. However, we wont get into that here. Where do you think the sunlight goes when its reflected off the earths surface? Its simply absorbed into space, as the cold darkness attracts the light or heat chemical energy. Einstein said energy could not be destroyed, only changed into another form. The universe is made of many strange abnormalities, which we don

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 9, 2004
• ISBN: 9781477178898

Titus D. Huxford

I was born on October 25, 1967 in Atlantic, Iowa to Carl and Vicki Huxford. My daughter, Kia Marie Huxford was born May 22, 1998. One year later, my wife, suffered a stroke and passed away. I am now single. I have a stepson from her previous marriage, Justin Micheal Benassi, born February 23, 1989. I have two younger brothers and two older sisters. I graduated from Turkey Run High School in 1985, reside in Parke County, Indiana in the town of Marshall and currently work maintenance at Rockville High School. I began this book in 1999. It contains a few poems, previously published by the International Library of Poetry.

Book preview

T.I.M.E.D.R.I.V.E.

(T)elescopic (I)nfrared (M)ultilaser (E)nhancing

(D)elta (R)ay (I)ntegrated (V)ideo (E)mitter

8058.jpg

Time Spies

into

Portraits of the Past

with

The Knight on the River

Titus D. Huxford

Copyright © 2004 by Titus D. Huxford.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

Xlibris Corporation

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

[e-mail]

24966

CONTENTS

PREFACE

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

This book is dedicated to Sondra Huxford.

I would also like to say thank you to those from whom

I’ve received support and advice throughout the good,

the bad and the ugly years, as well, for example family, friends

and my parents: Carl and Vicki Huxford.

PREFACE

The following is a brief description for an extremely technical device known as the TIMEDRIVE. This multi-computer-integrated system operates a very unique video camcorder that allows a controlled adjustment of the time variable. Incorporated for playback into a state-of-the-art, internally contained, spherically domed, three-dimensional theater, it actually replays coverage of the space-time continuum. The system is capable of viewing only the surroundings within range of the zoom lens. Consider watching a movie while sitting in the eye of the camera, as everything happens all around you in perfect portrayal of realistic life-size examples. The only catch is that at one time, this show was for real.

Consider the sun, boasting a core temperature of almost thirty million degrees, well over ninety million miles away. Our nearest star spans about three million miles in circumference, while containing a spherical volume of nearly a million and a half times that of the earth. Composed of many different gases at extremely explosive pressures, we cannot begin to conceive the power. Try to imagine over 100 billion one-megaton nuclear bombs exploding every second, still, while for who knows how many eons. This massive titanic fireball in space emits heat waves or gamma rays of incomprehensible supply while in the form of electromagnetic energy. They’re always present or constant and carry light energy, which Einstein called quantum photons. The atmosphere focuses this heat energy upon the earth’s surface much like a magnifying glass. Our resulting weather factor, known as the quantum pinpoint, depends on the earth and how it’s seasonally tilted (winter, spring, etc.). Summertime brings about an intense concentration of focal alignment between atmosphere and surface conditions. Most people prefer spring and fall, as the earth begins nearing or slipping away from pinpoint focus, providing very comfortable conditions. Factors such as altitude, longitude, latitude, distance from the equator, water supplies, soil types, and many other environmental qualities determine atmospheric reactions in our individual regional global locality. The mountains are at a higher altitude, never allowing them to fully focus, thus explaining the snow-covered tops. Plants and animals need the sun’s heat or light energy in order to survive. If the human eye could focus on these heat waves in infrared, like a cat, we would be able to see at night. The sun’s core energy is released in the form of gamma radiation, as unfathomable quantities of gaseous matter interact in the form of nuclear fusion. In this process, a pair of hydrogen nuclei, combined into a single helium nucleus, undergo countless other changes, and the result radiates throughout the entire solar system. The heat energy is absorbed, chemically transformed by living organisms, then reflected, and therefore bounced off the earth’s surface. The light photons reflect in your eye, as the dark pupil absorbs them. In only microseconds, a signal is sent to the brain, enabling sight. Think about wearing a black T-shirt on a hot summer day. How about the dashboard of your car when left sitting in the afternoon sun. The darker objects absorb the light or quantum photons while in a natural conductional transfer of chemical differences in potential energy. This is very much like unto the gravity of a mass in comparison to a spherical celestial body in motion. However, we won’t get into that here. Where do you think the sunlight goes when it’s reflected off the earth’s surface? It’s simply absorbed into space, as the cold darkness attracts the light or heat chemical energy. Einstein said energy could not be destroyed, only changed into another form. The universe is made of many strange abnormalities, which we don’t understand, such as black holes. Consisting of the darkest and coldest substances in existence, there are many various types of these ominous monsters. This manual centers on the quantum verificator of the delta-band classification, as it links satellite communications into our space-time continuum. Described as tugging at both time and space while believed to be at the center of every galaxy, the gravitational pull of a black hole is so intense that even light cannot escape. You might even say light is the main attraction. Deflected sunlight or heat is actually absorbed by the cold darkness of the singularity, making an immediate impression. Stop to consider the negative material of an everyday ordinary camera. It exposes film with the flash of a brilliant white light while focusing on the scene at hand. The end result produces an exact video illumination in (from) time. You can recreate this image on paper, using a dark room and chemicals. However, with film, it’s usually more convenient to let a qualified technician develop these painted, pictured memories. If you have ever operated a computer, then you know. Thousands of images are stored on one little disk while in the form of trillions of bits of information. The black hole absorbs energy kinetically, storing all light or illuminated heat emissions as immediate impressions in time. It contains these replicated negatives in a circular ring or accretion disk, known as the ergosphere, much like the computer saves to a CD. Can you put a picture on the hard drive or a disk, then call it up later? This massive, swirling, heat-absorbing, vacuum-packed, delta-band hard drive, photonic-data storage unit twists and pulls at space-time, all right, and a whole lot more. It records time in space. Compared to a flat four-and-a-half-inch CD, the diameter of the black hole is many trillions of miles and spherical in shape. The space available for containment of data in this three-dimensional area at the core alone is actually equivalent to many quintillion times the volume of the sun. This natural video camcorder absorbs and stores light energy reflected off the earth’s surface. Much larger than we can begin to imagine, the delta-band quantum verificator is a super ominous monster of negative material. Simply put, it’s a huge roll of film for a very big camera. Note: the transformation change in chemical heat (light) energy ( 8074.jpg ) into kinetic (stored potential) energy at consumption into the singularity (K 8076.jpg ) as a derived mathematical formula. E = mc²; E = energy, m = mass or gravity of a planetary object in motion, c = speed of light. The reflected heat energy upon the earth equals the combined sum in the exchange of all biological energy resources and the unused remainder absorbed into the black hole. This is another conformation of energy conversion, while in respect to matter as we know it; 8078.jpg 8090.jpg 8085.jpg (tmc²) = (tmc²) 8080.jpg 8092.jpg ; if and only when in reference to a delta wave signature from the predetermined verificator. A delta wave signature is defined as a photonic impulse impression of gamma synthetic solar super cell resources upon absorption onto the circular mil of the spherical segmental cluster in respect to time, as they pass through the ergosphere in a conversion of energy’s, while being consumed and regenerated by the unfathomable forces making up the antimatter containment field within the singularity. The truth is obvious. We should take a look at history and learn to focus on what’s important. Remember, everyone said Columbus was crazy and the Wright brothers were flying high, all right. They thought Edison was seeing and hearing things, as well as Mr. Bell. So, before you laugh this thought off as a big joke, stop for a moment to consider the huge steps separating these pioneers and the advancements in modern-day technology. Take for instance cellular phones, satellite downlinks, computers, microwaves, and the many other countless technical instruments. A lot of us just take them for granted because they work. Have you ever looked at the electronics inside and how well do you really understand? The TV is nothing more than a solid state crystal ball. It uses millions of chemical switches and devices to pull in a signal from your antenna, then translates it back into the original video image. First, a television station chooses through an assortment of film presentations on stored signaturized negatives, then transmits them onto radio waves, and broadcasts them at the speed of light. Heat waves or gamma rays leave a signature of their own upon reflection and absorption into space. They can be converted back to their original video images as well. Remember, delta waves are infrared, therefore enabling night vision. Consider going online with your computer to a satellite, which generates its signal from a delta-drive laser downlink with the black hole.

This is how it works: the TIMEDRIVE (1) connects with prerecorded prismadical delta-ray signatures of concentrated photonic transformations while upon laser downlink into the black hole; (2) zooms in on the global location; (3) tunes into the desired time; (4) begins playback; (5) converts this signal into a three-dimensional light effect; (6) and views this as the original video image. Television programs are mostly half-truths and made-up stories. Although, even if the news might, time doesn’t lie. An audio reference signal accompanies the energy wavelength during absorption, enabling sound as well. A domed screen theater with surround sound produces the best results while viewing this three-dimensional effect. However, any video emitter can be integrated for playback. If you doubt the technological possibilities, then ask yourself this: What would the American Indian have thought of the infrared scope? How about a radio or a television in Salem at the witch-hunt? They wouldn’t have heard or seen a thing, will you? Remember, just because something seems unbelievable, it’s not necessarily impossible or magic. We must search for the truth and not fear the unknown. Although, if you think the movies can be scary, how about watching the real thing? This device is like unto many other instruments and the scientists, who, throughout the years, have worked to perfect their inventions. We must take the time to check it out, have a little faith, and then use it for the good of mankind.

Think about this for a moment: What if you could hear and see anything that has ever happened anywhere on the globe at any time in history? All you need to do is get there and take a look for yourself. Now tell me, where would you like to go and what do you want to know?

CONTROL ANALYSIS

1. Computer locks downlink with orbiting satellite (deep-space probe receive/transmit).

2. Computer directs orbiting satellite to laser-lock downlink into the black hole.

3. Second system calculates and pinpoints given Earth’s coordinates with mobile satellite dish/built-in digital camcorder through use of a Global Positioning System (GPS Receiver).

4. Computer focuses and interprets these coordinates (longitude, latitude, altitude) while on a spherical segment, as a three-dimensional axis point for a celestial object.

5. Computer control directs these image coordinates to an exact match of the identical coordinates, while from data-absorption signatures previously recorded by the astronomical clock. The little hand of this clock is called the moment hand. It records these spherical segmental delta-ray negatives through time in controlled sequences by the continuous concentrated absorption of energy transformations into the black hole.

6. Computer suspends time in a paused video spectrum and accesses the desired ring of the stellar circulate mil. This is done in reference to each moment, second, minute, hour, day, month, and year. The resulting absorbent delta-band signature-wavelength negative integrates verification and echoes replay of the space-time continuum.

7. Computer allows for this video spectrum to be analyzed by frequency or speed while in forward and reverse procedures. Thus, time becomes a variable constant.

8. Computer directs this video output to any projected image device. A domed three-dimensional effect is the best reference of the original signature effect upon absorption.

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1

It’s another beautiful day throughout the surrounding river valleys, the newsman says, concluding today’s forecast. Tuck stretches, nods his head in agreement, and removes the headset of his portable AM/FM radio. The warm sun begins to rise a little higher in the morning sky, and a gentle breeze lends a hand, drying the dew from the tall grass around them. A variety of birds sing all about the woodland area, and the smell of spring lingers in the air as they continue the search. I’m sure the time’s right, he begins telling the others. We’re going to find some, just watch. His girlfriend, Annette, seems to be very bored and appears to have other things in her mind. She looks at him for a moment but doesn’t respond. Tuck begins watching her as she moves along the deer trail. He can’t help but notice how cute she looks in her new outfit. Annette’s wearing a pair of white leather tennis shoes, blue jeans, and a Tweety Bird T-shirt. Not watching his step, Tuck almost kicks over the big black mushroom at his feet. He starts to comment on the find, but his friend yells from about thirty yards away. Oh yeah, here’s a real nice one, comes back the echo. Tuck looks up quickly and puts a finger to his lip. Hey, better be cool, Chip, he replies. We’re right on the line bordering old man Payton’s land, and if he catches us in here, he’ll probably— An explosive BOOM interrupts his thoughts as buckshot splits a tree to the right side of them. Silence stills the air for a moment, and everybody freezes in their tracks. An enormous burly-haired man drops to the ground from out of a tree stand nearby while pointing a shotgun in their direction. Anybody moves, and they’re dead, he begins telling them. And I don’t mean maybe.

You know, that’s strange, Tuck replies. I can’t believe I didn’t smell you sooner. It’s quite evident this old boy, a bearlike man, nearly seven feet tall, hasn’t bathed in weeks.

Well, looks like I finally caught you in here now, didn’t I, boys? he growls. I’ll take those. He continues to hold his eye and gun on Tuck while reaching for the mushroom bag in Annette’s hand. Now, there’s one thing Tuck knows from all his years of being on God’s green earth: never underestimate a woman, especially when she’s irritated. Annette jerks up the walking stick she’s carrying and just slams the man in the head with it. Don’t you ever point a gun at him again! she screams while indicating to the shotgun. The old brute reflects a dumbfounded look, takes one step forward, does a complete three-hundred-and-sixty-degree twist, then falls face first to the ground. EVER, EVER, EVER, and I don’t mean maybe, she continues to yell while hitting him over and over again. Tuck appears to be stunned in amazement due to her quick reflexes. He hesitates for a moment, then interrupts the scene telling her, Easy, honey, easy now, you’re going to kill him. Chip stands with an open mouth, staring in disbelief. Oh, man, we got to get out of here now, he tells them and continues to repeat himself. A few moments pass, then the enormous unconscious beast begins to stir. This is proof enough that he’s all right. Once again, Chip starts to grumble. Oh, man, oh, man, let’s hit it. We’re really in for it, now.

Oh, quit your whining and let’s go then, Annette replies. No need to start crying about it. She smashes Payton’s gun over the tree and tosses it aside. Gees, lady, you’re a wild child, Chip yells as they race back to the car. We better hurry if we’re going to get to school on time, Annette replies, ignoring the comment. They scramble into the car and drive out the road in seconds flat. Tuck looks in the rearview mirror, as they pull away. Payton stumbles out of the woods, shaking his broken gun at them and pointing. Tuck isn’t sure what to say and knows that trouble has only just begun. Well, here I go again, he begins telling them. Although, I keep searching for an answer, I never seem to find what I’m looking for. Annette shakes her head in agreement, rolls down the window, and jams the radio.

They continue to drive toward the school nearing the highway. Tuck turns down the radio and indicates with the wave of his hand. Man, too bad about those woods, he begins telling them. I’ll never be able to go back there again— Annette starts to reply, but Chip interrupts her thoughts. Hey, just feel lucky we’re not dead, he replies, telling Annette. "You’re an all-star, girl, slam, slam, slam! No wonder you bat cleanup for the softball team. I thought that guy was a dead man. It was like a Wonder Woman rerun or something, while there we were—"

Just sit back and don’t start it, Annette interrupts, reflects an irritated look, and turns up the radio. Okay, well, that’s just fine then, Chip continues mumbling. Just don’t beat me with a stick and leave me by the roadside in the ditch. Tuck decides to avoid another argument and points to the nearby woods. Hey, would you look at those elm trees? he interrupts them. I bet we’ll find some big yellow mushrooms there in a few days. Chip mutters a fake laugh, rolls his eyes, and raises both hands. Well, of course, we will, he replies. That is, if we don’t go to jail for trespassing or attempted murder first. I just don’t believe this. We’re really going to get it this time. Annette simply reflects a look that cannot be described and lowers an eyebrow. Or maybe we’ll play a double header, and I’ll warm up on the whiner in the backseat, she replies, What’ll that get us this time? Tuck blasts the volume on the radio before Chip can muster a reply. Well, crazy little things you do make me want to be with you tonight, he tells her, interrupting the scene. Red lights flash in the window, a siren howls, and everybody’s heart skips a beat. Oh, boy, I told you this was it, Chip begins mumbling. We’re going to jail. I knew it. Man, I can’t believe this. We’re all dead meat. Talk about the end of the line, gees—

Oh no, were getting pulled over, Annette interrupts, ignoring Chip. Tuck begins to decelerate and slows to a stop at the side of the road. The squad car follows his lead and pulls in behind them. Now, just calm down, he begins telling them. I was doing about seventy, and that’s probably about what it’ll cost me.

That’s all right, don’t worry about it, Annette replies. It was Chip’s beautiful plan to go mushroom hunting. He can pay for it.

I don’t think, Chip grumbles in reply. Tell me about it, Annette agrees. Now, there’s something I didn’t know. She hesitates a moment, then turns around in the seat, and reaches over the headrest. Chip jumps back quickly, avoiding any further violence at this time. License and registration please, the policeman calls out, repeating himself. He removes his sunglasses and looks into the window of the car, observing Chip’s reaction. Well now, what’s this? he continues asking them. Is there a problem here? Oh, no, we’re just goofing around, Annette replies. We’re really good friends and all. She pats Chip on the head and smiles at the policeman. Can it, sweetie, the cop replies and looks at her T-shirt asking, Or would that be ‘Tweety’? Not waiting for a reply, he lowers an eyebrow and continues to ask, Goofin’ around, huh, what do you think this is, the ring? You kids are like a bunch of maniacs, terrorizing these roads while taking everyone’s life in jeopardy. I oughta take you all downtown and see what your parents think of that. He flips a page on the clipboard, clears his throat, and asks, Well, for starters, we’re looking at a speeding ticket, a reckless driving charge, and possibly a personal assault here? I’ll tell you what, I can come up with a lot more. Yeah, but you have no idea just how much, Chip mumbles in reply, then stops quickly with a look at Annette. She reflects an aggravated look and raises her hand again. Tuck senses the tension and interrupts the scene. Now, wait a minute, he replies, telling the policeman. I was the one speeding here. Just leave them out of it!—sir, that is, he adds, noticing the look the officer reflects due to his quick tongue. Okay, buddy, you want to be smart too? Then fine, the officer tells him. We’ll just do that. He rests his clipboard on the window seal, hesitates a moment, then continues to ask, So, where are you heading today? Tuck points to the turnoff, not even seventy-five feet from where they’re sitting, and replies, We’re just going to school, sir.

Well, OOP, there it is, the cop replies, hesitates again, then continues to ask, How does a failure to use your turn signal, a reckless driving charge, speeding, and a ticket for everyone not wearing their seat belts sound to you today? He beams with a huge smile from ear to ear. Oh, man, or I mean sir, Tuck replies and gets excited, telling the officer, I can’t afford that on my driving record, and I never meant any disrespect. I was just getting ready to flip my turn signal on, and we’re really late for school. We’ll be sure to wear our seat belts, and I really will slow down. Problem is, if Annette gets in any trouble, her dad’s gonna—, Tuck interrupts himself while turning a dark shade of red. Gees, kid, take a breath, will you? the policeman replies, What are you, studying to be an auctioneer or something? License and registration please, he continues to say, not waiting for a reply. Tuck fumbles for his wallet but knows instantly that it’s in his other pants. Oh no, not again, this can’t be, he replies, telling the officer. You’re never going to believe this.

Let me guess, the cop says, raises an eyebrow, and continues to ask, you left it at Grandma’s or something, right? I don’t care. You’re in deep trouble, pal. Tuck hesitates a moment and reflects a look of disbelief due to the officer being aware of this fact. He glances at Annette, then turns back to the policeman, and asks, Well, how did you know? This is crossing the line as far as the cop’s concerned. He becomes instantly irritated, lowers both eyebrows, and begins to raise his voice. Now, you listen here, boy, he tells Tuck, I’ve had enough of your smart mouth, and if I don’t see a license or registration in my hand right now, you’re all going for a little ride.

Oh, we’re going for a little ride, all right, Annette tells him with a smile. The wind gusts sharply, and a large branch falls from a nearby tree, landing only yards from the front of the car. Annette opens the glove box to begin a search, while silence remains. There’s nothing in here but a bunch of junk and a box of donuts, she insists, shrugs her shoulders, and offers the policeman one. Okay, you kids just sit tight and I’ll be right back, the cop replies, shaking his head. He flips a page on the clipboard and walks back to the squad car. Gees, wouldn’t you know it, kids these days. Sometimes, I just don’t know. Tuck points to the school, helps himself to a donut, and indicates to the large crowd gathering at the entrance. Man, this is not going to help my grade in government at all, Chip tells them. So much for any support from the local charter.

Oh, wow, that’s cool, Annette interrupts them. I’ll bet we make the school paper. Chip smacks his head against the window a few times and rolls his eyes. The cop returns with a look of glee in his eye and smacks the clipboard on the windowsill. Well, guess you lads had a little fun in the woods this morning, he begins. Or am I just mistaken?

Oh, man, this is it, oh, man, Chip begins to mutter. See, what did I tell ya? Annette sits up in her seat and turns around to reach for Chip. He jumps back even quicker, once again avoiding the rush. If you don’t stop your whining, you’re going to get something much worse— Annette begins to reply.

I don’t think so, honey, the officer interrupts and hesitates for a moment. If I were you, Tweety, I would just cool it, he continues telling her. Your boyfriend’s in a lot of hot water, and you’d better listen up.

Oh, that’s all right, Annette interrupts and looks at Tuck while telling him, I like it hot. The cop bites his lip, shrugs his shoulders, and taps the clipboard. Well, that’s better yet, he replies, because none of you are going to school today. You’re coming downtown to contact your parents, and we can all have a little chat. Although if you ask me, something seems a little fishy. Anyone wanting to press trespassing charges should know better than to lift personal property out of the glove box of the car. Some people are just plain ignorant, you know.

Well, we didn’t take anything and no one asked you anyway, Annette interrupts him. You really should keep your opinions to yourself. Silence remains for a moment while the cop reflects a series of irritated looks. That’s it, young lady, he tells her. I was talking about the other guy, and I’m not putting up with any more lip out of you either. You can’t just expect your boyfriend to keep beating up people every time you say so. It just doesn’t work that way here in the real world. It’s time to wake up and take a good look around you. He hesitates a moment while looking directly at Tuck. Excuse me, sir, Chip interrupts him. But here in the real world, it’s her you better keep your eye on. The cop smacks the clipboard in his hand and raises his voice while asking in reply. You know what, that’s the last— The FM radio on the policeman’s waist interrupts the scene, sounding off. The officer reaches for it, holds it up to his mouth, and activates the transmitter. Roger. Seventeen Adam seven, go ahead, he replies. I have the suspects in custody, comeback. He takes a couple of steps backward and holds the radio so that only he can hear. It continues to relay information, and a few moments pass before he comes back to the window. Well, it seems plans have changed, he begins telling them. I’m told the registration to your car showed up down at the station, all right, right along with the guy we’ve been investigating for grand larceny. Now, didn’t I tell you something seemed peculiar? I’ve been instructed to thank you for your help in this matter and need the three of you to please come to the sheriff’s office to identify this man. Your parents will be notified as well. Since he won’t be busting into cars for a while, there will be a reward. The officer reaches into his shirt pocket, pulls out a white card, and hands it to them. You need to be there tonight, between seven and eight o’clock, he continues telling them. There’s a phone number listed, just in case something should come up. Like I said, there’s a reward, and if you want it, don’t be late. He hesitates a moment, then points to the school and tells them, Now, if you will follow me to the office, I’m sure I can clear this up for you. He turns and walks back to the squad car. I really don’t believe this, he mumbles to himself. Gees, talk about another one of those days. Annette sits up in the seat and reflects a now what do you think look. She winks at Tuck, gets that little smile on her face, and turns up the radio. Well, you can’t deny it, she begins telling them. I’d guess the truth is up, the news is out, and they finally found him.

2

The four of them approached the school entrance, while everyone gathered around. It seemed like the movies to Annette, minus the lights, although something to last a lifetime. The crowd blocked the entrance to the school and cheered them on, while wadded paper and silly string flew everywhere. It was a definite moment; none of them would ever forget. Annette walked on slowly, like it was parade day at the fair. Tuck never spoke a word and moved along silently toward the entryway. Chip waved to the crowd, held the mushrooms high, and continued to take a few bows. The cop forgot his hat in the squad car and carried on with a very bad hair day. The wind sent a mighty gust, reminding him of this fact. Although, it seemed like an hour passed in slow motion, they finally walked into the office of the school and up to the desk.

Oh, phooey, you can take a pill for anything nowadays, one teacher continues to tell another. Nothing heals the body, like eating right and getting adequate exercise. Rehabilitation begins with cutting out all the unnecessary poisons that an individual voluntarily ingests. Whoever said you start dying the minute you were born didn’t take my biology class.

Yeah, we know, Mr. Jones, the other teacher replies. A biological body is born to life, then it begins to grow. Nothing begins to decay until after it stops growing properly. He hesitates a moment, then continues to ask, Am I right?

That’s exactly right, Mr. D., Mr. Jones replies while motioning with one hand. Mr. D. taps his fingers on the desk, looks away, and then asks, So, what is your point?

Well, it’s really quite simple, Mr. Jones replies. If we could just keep growing right or recontinue the growth pattern, we’d never decay and die. Seems to me, according to your beliefs, that due to the actions of mankind, God changed this in the ancient days. Doesn’t your Bible tell you that the tree of life was taken with the Garden of Eden? I would be willing to bet, that’s what we’re missing in our diets. What do you think? Well, I would guess so, Mr. D. replies. But don’t blame God, because we screwed the world up. The class bell interrupts their conversation, sounds off for a moment, and then discontinues after a few seconds. However, the policeman continues to pound the one on the counter instead. BING-BING-BING, the bell echoes off the wall. Hey, fellas, lend me an ear, the policeman calls out to them. I’m sorry, I don’t have time for today’s advanced lesson in ancient discoveries of archaeological sciences. But listen, Mr.—, he interrupts himself and hesitates for a moment. The officer continues to repeat himself, hesitates again, and begins to get a little aggravated while waiting for a reply. Mr. Jones extends his hand to the policeman and introduces himself. It’s Mr. Jones, he replies. What can I do for you today, sir?

Mr. Jones, is it? Well, Mr. Jones, the officer continues, what’s that Indiana to me, or can I just call you Indy? The cop chuckles to himself for a moment but stops with a look from Annette. No seriously, if you ask me, it was the oxygen supply that changed everything, he tells both the teachers, as they questionably look at him in silence. The tree of life, guys, you know trees produce oxygen. I’m guessing the whole composition of the air we breathe is different, now days. Well hey look anyway, these three youngsters are a bit late for class. They were a major service to the state today by helping to abduct and detain a wanted fugitive. The door to the office opens, and the principal walks inside, followed by a mob of spectators. Abducting and detaining criminals, huh? he begins telling them. Well, I’d say that’s good reason for missing first period. He hesitates a moment, then yells down the hallway to the gathered crowd of inquiring minds. Now, I mean it. Let’s on with it already. Second-hour class now, or the afternoon convocation will be called off. Man, kids these days, they just don’t listen. He motions to the crowd with the wave of his hand, then closes the door. Excuse me, Mr.—, the officer interrupts, extending his hand. It’s Mr. Hawk, the principal exclaims and looks at his badge, So, how are you today, Officer Sims?

Let’s don’t even get into that, the policeman replies and hands him a clipboard, If you will just sign this, I can be on my way.

Well, all righty then, here you go, Mr. Hawk says, scratches his name and hands it back to the policeman. Officer Sims turns toward the door, opens it, and exits the office. Well, keep up the good work, sir, Mr. Hawk calls out, as the door closes behind him. Seventeen Adam seven, all’s clear on the home front, Officer Sims tells the radio while on his way out the entrance of the school. The radio cackles back and echoes down the hallway as he heads for the patrol car. Annette makes her way into the intercom room, locks the door, and inserts a CD into the system. This one’s for my man, she whispers over the loud speaker and begins to serenade the entire school. I don’t want to sleep, I just want to keep on loving you, she continues to tell them. Such a heart, such a soul, when you find me there, you’ll search no more.

Annette, that’s going to have to cost you detention for a week, Mr. Hawk tells her as she exits the intercom room. He’s still humming along while she shuts the door. Thanks, Mr. Hawk, she replies.

You know, I always wanted to do that. Annette, just forget about detention, he continues to tell her. It really was quite pretty, and besides, it’s not every day you catch a criminal before lunchtime. We just don’t want Rex to come down here and assure us these are the best of times or get hung up on the wall while he’s out this way. Mr. Hawk hesitates for a moment and chuckles to himself. Or he could decide to remind us that Tuesday’s gone with the wind again, he continues to tell her. "That would probably lead to Ellen wanting to do a cantata on Beethoven’s third. Brrrreeruur, better not go there. He hesitates for a moment, shivers, and then continues to tell her. That’s enough to really scare you. Now, that you mentioned it, I’ll tell you what worries me, Annette tells him. You might turn the intercom radio back to that local station during activity period again. Speaking on behalf of the entire student body, I seriously don’t think we can survive another golden oldie show."

Annette, get to class, Mr. Hawk tells her while pointing toward the office door. Yes, sir. See ya! she replies, grabs her CDs, and walks down the hall. Mr. Hawk walks into his office and begins to fumble through a pile of mail on his desk. He opens a small package with a return address from the State Department and reveals a VCR tape. He activates the remote control and prepares to open the tape as the television tunes into a local network. Catching the scene at a moment’s notice, Mr. Hawk hears the man on the screen continue to say, This voice speaks the mind, baring both heart and soul, while expressing all emotion for any person in every land. Most ancient of the arts, it has inspired, influenced, comforted, and uplifted the generations. Born in the wind and the waves, it is older than life itself but forever young. A moment of silence follows, then a young lady asks, What is music?

That is correct, the man replies. Okay Jill, go ahead and make another selection.

Let’s try ‘History for a Thousand,’ Alex, she continues to tell him. Mr. Hawk presses a button on the remote control and interrupts the scene as the television switches channels. He places the tape into the machine and begins to rewind it. Another local network channel continues to air a program as he glances at the screen. A man and a woman sit at a piano, while the lady begins to play. The man smiles at her, and they begin to say, Boy, the way Glen Miller played songs that made the hit parade. Folks like us, we had it made.

Those were the days, Mr. Hawk agrees, then hits play on the remote control as the bell rings again.

Second-period class turned out to be a complete flop, and absolutely nothing was accomplished. Everyone wanted to know everything, nobody cared to do anything, and, of course, Chip had to explain. Annette mostly wanted to snuggle with Tuck and simply ignored Chip, as he narrated this morning’s event. Tuck was not at all happy about the plan these two had come up with. Annette wanted everyone to think that Tuck single-handedly outfoxed and outmuscled this legend of the outback. What worried Tuck more than anything was Chip agreed with her. He thought it was the best idea for both of them as individuals and as a couple. Tuck disagreed and saw this as a problem that might come back to haunt them in the end. That was the way with lies, every time you tried to cover one up. There always seemed to be a follow up told, needed to fix the first, then another to adjust the both, the next, and so on. This only added link after link to the rusting chain that connected the old bull and the outhouse door. One forgotten detail and the chain would be broken every time. Then you found yourself stuck in the mud in the barnyard, or worse, while the bull was on the loose, anyway. It seemed to Tuck that in the end, the truth was always found out. Why not just go with the punches to get to what’s real? Tuck was a realist and knew his weaknesses. One was giving speeches, and the other was Annette, when she begged. However, truth be known, the two of them had managed to talk him into it without much protest. Annette said please with that little smile, and Tuck crumbled like week-old brownies. After all, the plan made him out to be a hero that protected his girl from the bad guy. It had great potential, sounded like a winner, and surely wouldn’t hurt anything. Old Grizz Payton himself was the only one who knew any better. He probably wouldn’t remember anything anyway, after the beating Annette had given him. Tuck reluctantly agreed to go along with the plan but told them it could cause problems in the end. Oh, just trust me and don’t worry about it, Chip assured him for the third time. The bell rang and ended second-period class, while everyone exited the hallway. Tuck opened his locker door, exchanged a few items, grabbed the portable radio, and pressed play on the CD. Oh, yeah, but you got another thing coming, he replied and continued to repeat himself as they moved toward third-period class. Chip decided to ditch keyboarding and joined them in history instead. Annette objected to the idea but reluctantly gave in and agreed with Tuck. He said the three of them should talk this over anyway. Annette knew there was a film to be shown today called Conquest of America’s Northwest Territory. This meant two things to her: darkness and noise. The teacher would not object if she snuggled with Tuck after what happened that morning and all. The fact simply remained. Nothing would be heard over the film or Chip when he pestered them anyway.

What’s up, Tuck? a voice calls out as they enter the room. Tuck turns to see who’s calling his name, while everyone takes a seat. Last year’s All-Conference and this year’s All-State defensive end, Jediah Teek, slaps him a jolted blow to the shoulder. Good thing I’m quick, Tuck tells him. I might have felt that.

However, his being quick was an understatement, and everybody knew it. His dad had been quite influential to him at a young age while teaching him self-control, take-down methods, and how to properly defend himself. It was no secret his father was a martial arts expert, had a third-degree black belt, and was once part of the United States Nationals Team. Tuck was very quick, moved at speeds most couldn’t, and hit with enough force to stun. He had earned the reputation for making key tackles, led the division in interceptions, made the All-Conference Team and received an honorable mention for the all-state safety position. The season came to a conclusion just last week and ended their junior year on the team. They won the conference and regional championships but lost a real close one in the semifinals.

You wait until next year, Jediah tells them. We’ll all be seniors, and we’re going to mash ’em, huuhhh! He sits down with a look from the teacher, who’s obviously in a bad mood. Jediah is exactly one week younger than Tuck but more than twice his size. He continually reminds everyone daily that next year will be the year for the team. They boast four All-Conference Juniors and there’s a lot of other talent that needs mentioning as well. Tuck agrees the possibilities to be excellent and believes that come next year; they really will be tough. He starts to reply as the lights go out and the teacher begins to speak.

I want everyone to pay close attention to this film, as much of the information will be on our next quiz, he begins telling them. Mr. D. takes a big drink of his coffee and nervously sits down. Now, let’s all try to stay awake, okay, and remember, he continues telling