《The Book of The Gods》


 Chapter 1: The only God: Part 1

    Before the worlds of heaven and hell there was an empty place. Not dark, nor cold, an amorphous void. It is inexplicable. It was overflowing with the attributes of this world, yet, it was empty. It is called Ouroboros. It is the beginning of this story, and also the end. This place is not known, humans make many theories and guess as to the purpose of its existence. Some say it''s the dynamite to "The Big Bang" others say it''s the void before earth. Some even say it is God. After Ouroboros and from Ouroboros the God of Gods was born. The death of the beginning sparked the flame for the end.


    It is taught that this God of Gods created everything in the universes. However the story is a little bit different. The God of Gods, took it upon itself and made Gods. The Gods that not only govern the systems of this world, but are directly active in their roles. The first was "The Son of The Unknown, God of Time, Lumin."


    Clasp* as the story book closes. "Okay CJ time for bed." He smiled "Daddy! Just one more, pleaseee?" I begged. "No honey, you have school in the morning, remember?" He whispered "C''mon it''s your first day, it''ll be fun." He smiled. "Okay" I sighed.


    Father leaned his forehead against mine, holding it there for what felt like an eternity. Then he kissed my forehead and left. Father had the huge book on his shelf. When I asked what it was he said that it is an amazing story. I can''t read yet, so he said that he would read it every day to me. I think about it all as I doze off to sleep.


    Beep, Beep, Beep* a sound of an electric machine of some sort woke me. As I open my eyes  a bright light is blinding me. It moves over revealing a white ceiling. I try to lean up but notice im strapped down. Looking at myself I realize im naked, and covered in lines and drawings of marker. I began to scream, then I woke up, tears running down my face. "CJ! Are you ok?! What''s wrong?" My father said as he rushed into the room. As he saw me sitting in the corner of the bed curled up in a ball, he came closer and stooped down slowly. "CJ?" He whispered "It''s ok, talk to me."


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    As I looked up with my tear drenched face, I tried to say something, but before I could finish one word my heart sank. My eyes closed and my mouth agape, I mutteringly howled in soft agony. He slowly came onto the bed next to me, and hugged me. The warmth and protection I felt in my father''s arms made me cry even more. "I- I...mm-" I muttered "Shhhhh, Slowly" He whispered. I took some deep breaths, and turned to him. I trembled with every inhale. He brushed his thumb against my cheek, wiping away some of the tears and pulling away my soggy hair. "I miss mommy." I whispered. As I said it, it seemed to strike a chord in him. He got up and went to my dresser, and slowly came back with a brush. "I miss her too." He smiled, but his smile was one of pain. As he sat on the edge of the bed he tapped his lap, signaling for me to lay on it. I lied on daddy''s lap and told him about the nightmare.


    "Oh, that must have been scary." He said "But don''t be afraid, I won''t let anybody hurt you. Dad will protect you ok?" He promised.


    "I wish mommy was here." I said. "Me too."


    "I miss mommy''s butter, chocolate chip cookies, and her pancakes. Mommy would always smell like pretty flowers." I said


    "Yes, your mommy really loved flowers." He continued brushing my hair.


    "I miss the games we all would play, like hide, and seek." I began to cry as I tensed up


    "Yes, those just don''t feel the same without her."


    "Mommy has gone to pick flowers somewhere else. Right Daddy? In a world, where all the old people live." I cried.


    "Yes sweetie" he stopped brushing. I felt a drop of water on my cheek, so I turned toward him. I saw him smiling with closed eyes as tears slid down, dropping unto me. "It''ll be ok, Mommy has gone somewhere, and we won''t see her again, but we have each other." He assured me. Momentary silence*...


    "I love you." I said "I love you too CJ." He smiled, but this time it was one of immense joy. This was the third time we cried together, and everytime we did I would feel much better afterwards. I''m a crybaby, as some may call me, but Daddy is supportive.


    It has been 6 months since mommy died.


    "You''re not going to school tomorrow." He said "It''s 5 am and you''re not feeling well, so I will inform the teacher."

 Chapter 1: The Only God Part 2

    Orange light peeks through the blinds, unto my eyes. I open them to realize daddy is lying next to me. Since I didn''t go to school Daddy stayed home with me. The orange lights painted the room. They danced on the white walls and the ceiling entertained their embrace, as the blinds shifted and swayed. Tiny dust particles suspended in the air appeared to fall slowly. The bed seemed to gently sink as Daddy breathed. Almost like gentle waves at the beach. Looking at his chest''s hypnotic motion almost rocked me back to sleep. Sleep. Sleep. I woke up, again, and secretly left the bed to make breakfast. My feet sank into the soft brown carpeted floor. I put on my pink, furry slippers and I slowly squeezed through the opened door and scurried to the kitchen. I gently lifted my stool from the corner and put it at the island. Then I opened the tiny cupboard underneath the island and took out the peanut butter, jelly and cereal. I moved my stool again to the other counter and took up my plastic kitchen utensils and plastic plates and a bowl. I dragged my tiny feet as I moved the stool back to the island. I prepared two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and two bowls of cereal. Then I carried each to the table. Afterwards I took my stool once more and went to the fridge and took out the milk, strawberries and blueberries. I made a smiley face on daddy''s sandwich, using two strawberries for the eyes and blueberries for the mouth. Then I placed everything else on the table. A smile of gratification showed on my face as I hurried to wake daddy. That''s when he appeared, Lumis. I saw him as clear as day looking over my daddy. He was made of a black ash-like substance that seemed to shoot off of him in strings. He had no hands but two long legs, and I stood in shock as I stared at him. That''s when he turned to me, his hair was spikey and his previously black figure gave off a fragment of light in every string. He had no face, no eyes or nose, only a mouth. He smiled and as soon as he did I tried to scream, but I couldn''t. I was utterly frozen in his presence. My eyes were fixated on him. He moved very close to me and said "Dad will protect you." Then he vanished.


    I felt myself finally being free, so I screamed. "Hey, CJ it''s ok, Daddy''s here." He says. "You didn''t have enough water, or sleep, so you passed out." He continued. "What time is it? " I asked. It''s 10:00am I heard in my thoughts. "9:58am." He said. Confused, I asked him "Did we miss breakfast?" "No, you were only asleep for about 5 minutes. I saw that you made breakfast for me, thank you so much. You''re really thoughtful." He replied, smiling from ear to ear. We sat at the table and ate together. Swishhh and Gargle* as the water at the sink ran down the drain. I gently tugged my father''s shirt. "Can you read more of the God story?" I asked. "Sure. We''re going to read together, ok?" he smiled. I nodded.


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    Lumis the God of time, loved the body he had been given. Lumis'' name was from the latin word lumin meaning light. "Daddy? So that means that Lumis'' body is bright and shiny?" I eagerly asked him. "That''s not the case CJ." He replied. For Lumis the God of time was very peculiar. His body was covered in darkness. A mysterious darkness that was so great that it shot out in every direction from him. The irony of the God of infinity being born from the end.


    Thousands of years later, or perhaps it was a mere second in Their eyes, Lumis'' brothers and Sister were born. Out of the God of Gods came, the Meddle twins, God of Creation Borea and Her brother Hades God of Destruction. Finally the last foundation God was born. Death the God of existence. Death is the only God that had not gotten his name by the God of Gods. Lumis granted them all a gift of himself, immortality. Thus Lumis began his story. He had always been bored and felt lonely since the beginning of his existence. Even as the Meddle twins were born he felt an insatiable desire for a companion to become whole. For what is Time in nothingness? The tale of two brothers and a sister, for by the break of endless dawn Lumis had found himself an eternal lover. Even after Death was born, his pursuit continued. Lumis would not stop until she belonged to him. Hades saw this, and out of greed and malice he plotted to keep them apart, for he knew that Borea loved him also. Alas his attempts were futile and Lumis and Borea planned to be married. On their wedding day Lumis and Borea collaborated to make the galaxies and worlds.


    The kiss of the Gods, in an inexplicable way created everything in space. The devotion and vow they both took to love each other for eternity blessed this space with a never-ending and ever-expanding growth. Millions of millenia later Hades saw all the things that were made and was infuriated. Yet he held his temper, searching and longing for a way to destroy everything Lumis loved.

 Chapter 1: The only God: Part 3

    The news that a child was to be born unto Lumis and Borea, had gotten to Hades and he knew exactly what he would do. When it was almost time for the child to be born Hades broke down the doors of Heaven and stormed to where his sister resided. With an unfamiliar, dark magical power he chained Borea to the bed and approached. Hades, despite being held back by Lumis, perforated the stomach of his sister and spread a gaping hole in her womb. Light shone brighter than all heaven as her entrails glowed. Then Hades grabbed the child by the throat. "Oh the son of Lumis aye?" He said menacingly while still choking the child. "Hades please! We beg you to spare our son!" Lumis and Borea cried. He laughed. "No!" He said whilst severing the child vertically in two. The couple screamed, and silence followed. The child was not dead. Hades realized "So he''s immoral like the rest of us, as I thought." He said. In spontaneous rage Hades placed a curse on all the Gods and the child. Levitating into the air his dark power shook the heavens. "I WILL BE THE ONLY GOD!" He screamed. At that moment the curse was set. All things will come to an end, and everything will be destroyed, inevitably. All cycles will be disrupted and nothing will be eternal. Hades set an end to everything that ever began. Thus the time for the destruction of everything was set, at an unknown time. Ouroboros was no longer just in the past, but also in the future. The child that was born to Lumis was to be hailed as the God of Immortality, however the child was no longer capable of that title. For half of its body was infinite light and half infinite darkness. He was named Auro-darko God of Life.


    Clasp* The book closed. "Ok CJ that''s enough for one day." Daddy said. "Ok" I smiled.


    >>Flashback>>


    Just then the phone rings. Who could it be, I wonder. Then he answers the phone. Mommy!? I swear that I''m hearing her soft, frail voice from the telephone. I haven¡¯t heard from her for weeks! I wonder how she''s doing?


    "Daddy! Daddy! Can I please talk to mommy?" I ask excitedly.


    He turns to me in a face of nothing but brokenness and despair. I hear 4 words from the telephone, "I love you both" She says. Followed by the sound of a racket and static. Immediately, a long unceasing beep rings and echoes around the silent house. Noises of doctors and shuffling stands as the backdrop to the endless ringing. Confused, I ask again "Daddy, can I speak to mommy please?" He stares at me, "Mommy is gone now" He says as the ringing continues. The realization hits me after what felt like hours later. The ringing stops, and someone picks up the phone. "I''m terribly sorry but she didn''t make it." They say. I stand incredulous. The ringing continues for weeks. Her last words will stay in my heart forever, along with the regret of never saying goodbye.


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    >>


    "Daddy can''t we read just a little more?" I desperately asked him. "I''m sorry CJ, but we have to prepare dinner." He replied. Just then the phone rang "I''ll get it!" I said as I ran and leaped onto my father''s bed. Running back to him with the phone I said "It says unknown." He gently took the phone and answered. Moments later he eagerly said "CJ, a special person wants to speak to you." "Really!?" I questioned in amazement. As I put the phone to my ears I heard a voice I had heard once before.


    .


    "Who do you think it is?" He smiles cynically


    "You''ve been reading this, haven''t you, but isn''t there something missing?"


    "A part of time that was redacted? Perhaps it isn''t important, who knows? Not everything is as it seems."


    .


    The dark unforgettable tone in his voice shook fear into my bones. The room seemed to flash black, as he began to speak. "You''re coming to school tomorrow are you?" Lumis said. "CJ?" Mrs. Apate called. "Sorry?" I asked confused, "You''re coming to school tomorrow right? Your classmates are eager to meet you." She said politely. Her voice was high pitched and almost soft, soothing like a flute. Nothing sinister like Lumis, I must have been imagining things, I thought. "Yes miss, I''m nervous, but also happy." I said. "Great, looking forward to seeing you." She said "Can you put daddy on the phone?" She asked. I handed him the phone and he went outside to talk with her for a few minutes. "That was strange, I thought I saved Mrs. Apate''s number." He said "She must have called from her home phone. " He continued. I remembered that he called her earlier today, after lunch. He said he''d be sure whether or not I''d be happy to go, given I had fainted a few hours before, so I guess she called back later.


    We had spaghetti and meatballs for dinner. It was delicious, and by the time I had finished eating, I had already fallen asleep.

 Chapter 2: School

    Balalaba* The sound of daddy blowing on my tummy woke me. "Daddy!" I playfully yelled. He smiled, "Good morning sunshine, time to get ready for school." "Ok," I said while sitting up. "Race you to the bathroom!" I said in a dash. Daddy ran close behind me. We brushed our teeth together at the sink and he combed my hair while I was having breakfast. Daddy looked so nice in his work clothes. The night''s suit hugged his semi muscular figure, concealing the white shirt he had on underneath. The tie, untied, hung each side down his neck. He smelled like wild flowers and wood, his cologne was sweet and rural, like a forest. "Do you want pigtails CJ?" He asked, caressing the fragrant grease into my hair. "Yes please." I smiled admiring the painting on the wall. It was a sunrise in the desert. It looked lovely, and peaceful. After daddy finished eating he went onto one knee and asked me to tie his tie for him. I gleefully complied. We got into the car and before I knew it, we arrived at school.


    He opened the door and we immediately turned a corner and began walking down the hall. I felt a sense of unease. Distant chatter and noise trickled into the halls from the first grade classrooms. As we walked past the footsteps and screeches we made onto the floor, only heightened my discomfort. I squeezed daddy''s hand, just a little tighter. He looked down on me and smiled. Then he turned to the door. It was decorated with various stickers and numbers. In the center was "Mrs. Apate''s class." Then as daddy was about to knock on the door I whispered. "Wait! What if they don''t like me?" I clung to him. "They''ll love you, trust me." He smiled.


    Knock Knock Knock* "Ohhhhh someone''s at the door." Mrs. Apate said in a cartoony way. "I wonder who it is?" She playfully continued as the children laughed. "Come in," She said while opening the door. The room was like a wonderland. Pink, blue and purple items and objects were everywhere. The colors on the wall were bright and vibrant as if it were painted by God herself. Tiny paper birds danced around in circles from the ceiling fan overhead. Hesitant, I look at daddy, "Are you ready?" He smiled. "Mmm-hmm," I nodded slowly and we walked in.


    "Class I would like to introduce our new student, CJ¡­" Mrs. Apate paused "Last name?" She whispered "Just CJ." He whispered.


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    "CJ? Would you like to take a seat?" Mrs. Apate politely requested.


    "S-sure" I stuttered, as my knees shook quietly. As I sat down and placed my bag onto the desk, I rested my chin on it. Daddy waved at me while he was leaving, and at that moment I felt so scared that tears began to well up inside me. I hid my face into my bag as I silently cried.


    After the bell rang, "CJ?" Mrs. Apate called as she walked toward me. "Are you ok?" She asked. I looked up at her. "I noticed that you began crying when your father left. I didn''t say anything, because I didn''t want everyone to know." She continued as she bent over to talk to me. "It''s ok." She said, as I smiled in gratitude. As I hurried outside to play with the other children, I heard laughing. Before, I turned the corner of the hall to go outside. I stopped. "She''s so weird." A girl said "Yeah, I was looking at her when her dad left, and you would not believe what I saw." Another added. "She was crying!" They laughed. "Uhgh, crying like a first grader, I''m definitely not playing with her." A boy said, I felt so insecure and sad. "What was her name again?" A girl asked "CJ, more like Pee, J. " They laughed. I ran back into the hall and saw a lady that seemed to be dressed up like a teacher. I slowed down, because running became harder as my vision blurred. Wiping my eyes with my wrists I walked up to her. "Ohh, are you lost?" She kindly asked. "Where''s the bathroom?" I asked. Then She walked me to the bathroom.


    I went into one of the stalls, curled up on the toilet and cried. After some time I heard my name. "CJ?" Mrs. Apate called.


    *Knock Knock Knock. She knocked on the stall. "Go away." I said. "CJ, don''t you want to tell me what''s wrong?" She asked, "Don''t say my name." I cried.


    "Hey, we can talk about this together. No more class today ok? Just you and me." She softly pleaded. Her request was almost irresistible, as if her voice was seductive. "Ok." I said.


    She took me into the teachers'' lounge and I saw the lady that helped me earlier. She looked at me with pity. "I miss daddy." I said "I wanted to play with the other children but¡­ but I was too scared" I said. I didn''t tell her about the mean things the children said, I was afraid she would laugh at me too. "It''ll be ok." She comforted me. "I''m here if you want to talk ok?" She continued. I heard a memory whisper in my mind "Dad will protect you." She hugged me.


    Buzzzzz, Buzzzzzzz* Her phone began ringing.

 Chapter 3: Ridicule

    The God of Existence was a very diligent God. He took up the mantle of order after Hades cursed both the heavens and the earth. The moment that Hades cast the curse he dissipated into all of Creation, even the Gods themselves. His power was immense and almost unstoppable. As the universes began to collapse and all existence began fading, the God of Existence knew what he had to do. The lack of order caused Ouroboros to begin immediately. For what is Time without order?


    Taking up the mantle meant that he would have to control existence for everything that was ever created, and a cycle for its recreation. He would be the valve between creation and destruction. The God of both death and life.


    As time went on he cherished human life as it was so intriguing. One day he took on a disguise as a human by changing his form. Even as a God he was not fully knowledgeable of the human body, and thus was not capable of replicating a perfect figure. Darkness drenched most of his face, and his body as floating glass of ash.


    He wore a cloak to conceal his poor excuse for an impersonation, and lived around the humans for what they perceived as centuries. He roamed around the world walking and observing everything in the villages and the landscapes. He observed as civilization and inventions advanced. Then the eras of plagues and pandemics came. Knowing that the humans were dying he went into the towns and villages to find out why. As he roamed and observed rumors went around saying that he was the God of Death. That he had come to collect the souls of the living. Soon the humans began cursing, ridiculing and throwing trash unto him. He was disappointed that the humans treated him like this even when he was trying to help. Walking down the street it screamed. The roads yelled curses and threw waste on him. Dripping, as he staggered over garbage scattered throughout the street. He walked, without lungs to breathe or a heart to beat. Suddenly a blade ran through his spine and out his chest. Then several men held his arms and legs tearing off his covering. The sound of breathing was the only thing to be heard throughout the entire village. "The God of Death!" A woman screamed. "He''ll kill us all!" A man screamed. He bowed his head in acceptance as the sword fell out his black bones. "Death." He said, then disappeared. From that moment the God of Existence was called Death.


    "Hello? Oh, that sounds inconvenient. Perhaps I can take her to my house, because she can''t stay here." Mrs. Apate said as she held the cellphone against her ear. "Oh, well even more reason for her to come over to my place. I will be happy to accommodate her as long as I have to." She smiled as she looked at me. "Ok," She said.


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    "Your father wouldn''t be able to pick you up on time because he got held up at work." She said to me, "So he allowed me to take you to my house to stay for the evening until he arrives." I nodded slowly, hesitant and anxious.


    Before I knew it, school was over and we were both heading to her white car. I looked out the window in awe as we pulled up to her house. It was larger than the big home we lived in. The driveway was huge and featured a lot of beautiful cars. I stepped out onto tiles to my surprise. I noticed the dancing and singing of the wind chimes near the door we were approaching. She took out a shiny rainbow key attached to a butterfly and unlocked the door. Her husband was standing at the door smiling. She closed the door behind me. My eyes dashed to the floor as they leaned in to kiss each other. I uncomfortably rubbed my fingers together as the gentle sound of succulent lips suctioning and releasing between each other sneaked through the air.


    She slowly drapes herself onto him, and my face ripens like cherry season. As they continue I turn away so that I''m no longer seeing their embrace, and I begin twirling, the single platt hanging down from my head.


    She giggles "Stop, CJ''s watching." She whispers, leaning back onto the sideways serpentine wall of air. "I love you." Daddy giggles. "I love you t-" Mommy whispers only to be interrupted by what sounds like another kiss. My pink T-shirt looks like a nice thing to distract me I think to myself. I untuck a tiny piece from my skirt. Then suddenly both Mommy and Daddy are hugging me. My face becomes parallel to theirs in an almost suffocating cuddle. "We love you CJ." Lumis whispers.


    I snapped out of my daydream. "Oh, please forgive my rudeness, little miss. My name is Alexander. Make yourself at home." The man took off his hat resting it unto his chest, with an arm outstretched to shake mine. I looked at his face and saw nothing but black terror. He was the spitting image of Lumis The God of Time that appeared to me yesterday. I knew that if I tried to scream I wouldn''t be able to. So I hurried behind Mrs. Apate, and peaked at his featureless face in anxiety. My hand rested on her lower waist, unto the fabric that her tube skirt was made of. "Oh, I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to frighten you." He said.


    "She''s just shy and uncomfortable, she''ll warm up to you eventually." She smiled. "I''m going to change. Do you want to change too, CJ?" She asked, "I- I don''t have any clothes." I muttered with my eyes on the floor. She turned around and stooped down to me. "I can have Claudia prepare some new clothes for you." She whispered. "Or do you want me to get your clothes at home?" I looked at her, my mouth slightly awry and pupils wide. My fingertips kissed and my knees touched. "Can I go to the bathroom?" I politely requested. "Sure." She smiled, holding my hand as we briskly walked away.

 Chapter 4: Sleepover

    I walked out of the bathroom, to be greeted by Mrs. Apate. I was oddly surprised by the fact that she waited outside for me. "Don''t you want to dress up CJ?" She asked "Umm, yeah¡­ I wanna dress up for when daddy gets here." I said twirling my left ponytail. "That''s sweet." She smiled, holding out her hand for me to follow her. We went to her guest room, I stood in awe at the size of the door. "Claudia, we have a young lady as a guest." She called as she opened the door. I was astonished by the beauty of the room. Every color was displayed in a beautiful array, like a new world. The glistening of the walls and sparkles of the ceiling amazed me more and more. "Wow!" I gasped in amazement. "You like it?" She giggled. "Mmm-hmm." I nodded, stepping onto a furry carpet. I hesitated, looking down on the floor. My bare feet sank into the fur of a white and black striped carpet. The entire floor was carpeted with striped fur that looked like it was from a white tiger. Mrs Apate sat on the bed looking at me with a smile. The bed was huge, like daddy''s bed but even bigger. The sheets were themed in a purple galaxy. Even the smell of the room was wonderful. Like sweet due and cherries in a magical forest.


    "Tell me what you like." She said kindly, gently brushing her hand on the bed, the spot right next to her. "Okay." I sat. My eyes were still glistening with wonder. "I like flowers, and the color pink. I really like the color yellow and fluffy pillows." I replied. "Yes, those are nice things." She agreed. "Oooh I really like doggies too! They''re Adorable!" I screeched. "Is that so?" She giggled. "Mm-hmm." I nodded proudly. "Don''t you like astronomy?" She asked. "What''s astrownomy?" I curiously asked. "Well it''s looking at stars and space. Don''t they look pretty?" She continued. "Yes they''re beautiful! I like these too!" I said falling back unto the bed. Her hair spread out onto the bed as she did the same.


    Knock, Knock, Knock* "Lady Wilis? May I come in?" A young lady called at the door.


    We both sat up, one after the other. "Yes of course, Claudia. " She replied. Claudia opened the door and came inside, softly closing it behind her. She was dressed in a maid outfit. Even so it was evident that her figure was that of a model, she was so developed and strong. I admired her. She bowed her head, "How may I be of service malady?" She politely asked. "CJ, our guest would like to dress nicely for when her father arrives." Mrs. Apate said, "Can you arrange her clothing?" She continued. "Yes Lady Wilis, I will retrieve a selection immediately." Claudia affirmed and walked out of the room briskly.


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    Moments later two men dressed in all black wheeled in a huge clothing rack, covered in dresses, tops and jeans, all around my size. I stood up and said, "Amazing!" Then another pair of men wheeled in another, and another. I giggled happily as teardrops sprinkled from my eyes.


    Mrs. Apate giggled. "No need to be emotional." The six men stood at the side of the room, bowed then left as Claudia entered. "Let''s get you dressed up." She smiled.


    After I was done dressing, we all walked out to the dining room. The light from the sun somehow reflected into my eyes. I looked out the glass door to see a pool. The water gently swayed in the afternoon breeze. We sat at the table with menus like a restaurant.


    Claudia took our orders. Moments later another pair of men dressed in tuxedos brought our food. "Daddy never took me to a restaurant since-" I stopped¡­ "I know, CJ." Your father told me all about it." Mrs. Apate said. "Happy thoughts now, ok?" She continued. "Mmm-hmm" I nodded. I had garlic bread, rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes with a side of garnished mushrooms and apple pie. It tasted heavenly. I went to brush my teeth in the bathroom, when I noticed my shoes were still there. After brushing my teeth, I took my shoes to the guest room. I lied on the bed, I looked up at the starry ceiling. The faint pink light of sunset broke through the cracks of the window and lit up the stars.


    I admired it and fell asleep.


    "CJ." An unknown voice whispered my name. "Prediction." He said. "We have a prediction," Lumis said. I instantly opened my eyes. When I did, I realized that even though I was in the same room. The ceiling was furry and the floor was covered in stars. Then I woke up. "I am Death." The God of Existence whispered. His figure was otherworldly, but not frightening. He was covered by a white robe and his skin glowed colors I never knew existed. He was hovering above me still as a tree stump, seeming to stand on top of the air. He faced me even though I was lying in bed, I found it strange. "Go away." I said, and just like that he disappeared. I slowly turned to the slightly open door, as my eyes wondered. "You really thought that you could get rid of me that easily?" A dark sinister voice whispered behind me. Ahhhhh! My girlish scream echoed throughout the room.

 Chapter 5: Innocence

    "CJ?! What''s wrong?" Both Mrs. Apate and Mr. Alexander rushed into the room, almost falling to the floor. "I- I had a nightmare." I stammered, sitting up. They both sighed with relief. "If you''re scared, why don''t we read you a story?" Mr. Alexander asked. "Wonderful idea." Mrs. Apate agreed. "Well¡­ I like the story about the Gods. Daddy reads it to me." I said shyly. "Ohhh the Book of The Gods." Mrs. Apate said. "Yes, when I was little I liked that book as well." She continued as she walked across to the bookshelf. "Here it is." She said as she walked toward me. Mr. Alexander sat on the chair next to the bed and Mrs. Apate sat down next to me. "Let''s read the story about Death." She said, then she told me all about Death, The God of Existence.


    After the story she clapped her hands twice. "Do you feel better now?" She asked kindly. "Yes." I smiled. "Where''s Daddy?" I asked. "He''s on his way he will be here in a few mi-" She was cut off by the sound of the doorbell. The intercom turned on, I only just then noticed the box by the door. "Lady Wilis, Mr. Ummm, well a man is here to see you." Claudia said. "Alex you go greet him at the door." Mrs. Apate said. "CJ, let''s go meet your father." She smiled at me. As she combed my hair again and tied the bow, I looked at the deep orange light stickered onto her skin. "All done." She glowed. Her face was smooth and soft. She kissed my forehead and took me to my father. "Daddy!" I yelled as I ran toward him. "CJ! I missed you so much." He said as he crouched down to catch my hug. He smelled faintly of cologne and dry sweat. His strong arms cradled me like puzzle pieces. "Thank you so much Apate for looking after her in my absence." He said as he released me. "Did you like it here CJ?" He asked me. "I love it here. It''s amazing!" I replied glowing with joy. Everyone laughed. "You should come again." She encouraged me. "You''re always welcome." She looked at Daddy, her tone was like before, when I was in the bathroom. She sounded ever so soft and alluring. "Well we better get going." Daddy said. "Oh, why don''t you stay for dinner?" Mrs. Apate requested. "W-" Daddy muttered but before he could get a word out his tummy grumbled. I looked up at him and smiled. He became red with embarrassment. "I insist." She smiled.


    We sat at the bare table and before we knew it the stars were looking at us, blinking and glowing. The food was brought out a few minutes afterwards but idle chatter added a cacophony of bliss that smoked into the atmosphere before it was. Then finally the thump of two almost overflowing pie dishes silenced the table immediately. Then a few men in tuxedos set plates and utensils in front of us. They moved quickly and efficiently. Then another few came and tossed pizza dough over us. We all gasped in awe, but the show was only just beginning. Soon it was tiny boxes and ribbons flying over the table. I sat with sparkling eyes staring at it all. They placed the boxes next to our plates. The sound of classical music softly began to hug the dining room. It echoed from the kitchen and sounded like it was right in front of us. They were playing Vivaldi - Spring. Then the men switched places with a second group of men, some holding pots and others holding baskets of some kind. Then the men with baskets began tossing shrimp to the men with the pots. The sizzling and frying added an exciting ambiance to the beautiful synchronization that was displayed thus far. Two more pairs of men brought out bread, butter, limes, sauces and glasses. Then they all went back into the kitchen. Finally Claudia came out to take our orders. "What may I get for you?" She asked, and as soon as she did the music melted into Tchaikovsky - Waltz of the flowers. I felt so happy. Daddy and I both had a slice of apple pie, a piece of garlic bread, pasta and bacon. With a side of strawberry shortcake. The salt grains were still visible on the torn piece of bread. Along with the clear sugar grains on the apple pie. The apple filling oozed out of the side and the eye shaped hole on the top. It was almost so perfect that I didn''t want to eat it. It tasted delicious.


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    When we arrived home it was already past my bedtime. "CJ, you look beautiful." Daddy said as he opened the door and took me out of the car. I smiled softly, twirling one of the strands of hair hanging in front of my face. Daddy put the golden key into the keyhole and opened the door. "Time for bed ok CJ?" He said. "Okay." I replied. I went into the bathroom and took a bath and brushed my teeth. Then I walked into my room and changed into my PJ- My nightgown. I put that on instead. I lied on my bed and as I was falling asleep, I heard Daddy shouting in his room. It was barely loud enough for me to hear. "I told you she wasn''t ready!" He yelled. "What if you weren''t there!? What would''ve happened then!?" He continued¡­ Momentary silence. I crunched and covered myself in the blanket. "Are you absolutely sure that she''s ready for school!?" He yelled once more. Then I couldn''t hear his voice anymore. "I wish you were still here." I whispered. "So do I." Mommy said, holding a bouquet of dandelions. Her dress was white but stained at the bottom with black mud. The sky was the color of pacific opal and the clouds were like white quartz. Mommy looked sad, she looked like she was holding back from telling me something. Then she began walking away. "Goodb-" she disappeared before I could finish.

 Chapter 6: A New Friend

    "Hey, CJ. Wake up." Daddy whispered, brushing his hand against my face. I rolled over in tiredness and groaned. "You have school today." He continued. "Ok." I whispered, as if I was at peace with the idea.


    My tiredness spills over into everything I do. I feel so tired, my body hurts. I roll off the bed and slowly walk upstairs to the dining room. Every step I take is a surge of pain. The dark oak spiral stairwell connecting my room and the dining room is beautiful. I grasp onto the rails looking at the open space through the holes. The gloss of the rails catches my attention and I stop. I breathe heavily as I sit down, listlessly staring at the light oak floor, my white bed and colourful decorations around my room below. "Is everything alright?" Grandma whispers behind me. Her voice is ever fading and the way she suddenly appears behind me would''ve been scary, but it strangely isn''t. "Yes Grandma, I''m fine." I whisper, "It just hurts from yesterday that''s all." We both smile.


    "CJ? Can you hear me?" Mrs. Apate asked loudly, making a silly face in front of the class. Everyone laughed. "Can you tell us what the fire department does for us?" She asks. "Sure, the fire department saves people from fires, and protects our homes and lives." I stood up and said. Everyone seemed amazed by my answer, they must not have known. "You really shouldn''t be sleeping in class." A girl behind me whispers to me. "Oh I''m sorry." I politely said. "You know you shouldn''t be talking in class either. " I continued. I glanced at the grey clock above the chalkboard. She was silent for the remainder of the class until break time. I thought she didn''t like me, because I was rude. I tapped my feet together and twirled my hair. The colors and ribbons of the small classroom became the angler that I admired. The ceiling fan spun round and round with blue and red ribbons. "CJ!" Mrs. Apate yelled. I quickly look at her as my heart gallops. "If you have better things to do than pay attention, I would have to put in a word with your father." She continued. "Ooohh!" The entire class teased. I squeeze the hair between my fingers and my face contorts slowly. I tried my best to stop but I couldn''t, so I covered my face as I began crying. "I''m sorry." I pleaded in muffled disarray, and just then a silence devoured the entire room. It was only for a moment however, the bell rang, and when it did everybody ignored me.


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    "I''m Isabel." The girl from before said touching my shoulder. I looked up at her smiling with sympathy. "Isabel Arora." She continued. "Do you want to be friends?" She asked. I was confused by the gesture but reluctantly agreed. She was ecstatic and pulled her chair closer to mine. "Can I¡­ hug you?" She asked, shyly. I stood up and looked at her. She was wearing a blue ribbon to her ponytail, I was surprised that I only just noticed it. She was barely shorter than me, and her smile was like a picture. Her eyes were blue. I hugged her, and she was quite warm. She smelled of expensive perfume and cosmetics. "Do you feel better now?" She asked me, while letting go. "Yeah! Thank you." I glowed. From that day Izzy and I were best friends.


    It was the second semester, and we all sat in class awaiting the bell for lunchtime. "Hey, CC." Isabel called me. "Mm-hmm" I hummed. "I know you like dogs, my dad brought a puppy for me yesterday." She said as the bell rang. I spun around, "Really!?" I screeched in excitement. "I bet he''s adorable! Oh wait- Is it a he or a she?" I rambled. "I don''t know yet." Izzy replied. Her knees pressed together. "Woww!" I giggled. "I wish my daddy would get me a puppy." I pouted. "Yeah." She smiled uncomfortably. "Hey, would you like to come over to my place, to play with him?" She asked. My eyes lit up in glee. "I would love to!" I said. "I''d have to ask Daddy first, so maybe tomorrow. Ok?" I continued. "Sure, I will ask my parents too." She stated.


    The moment I saw daddy I rushed and gave him a big hug. He laughed, and patted my head. "Can I go to Isabel''s house tomorrow?" I asked him. He looked down slightly concerned. "Sure, but I''m going with you ok?" When I heard his approval I jumped for joy.


    That night in my dreams, I saw a God for the first time in months. This time it was D?v¨¦ the God of Peace. He didn''t say anything, he just whistled. The sound was one of drastic receding tides. A calm before calamity.

 Chapter 7: The Gods

    Auro-darko was a very peculiar boy. He admired plants and animals, and the intelligence they displayed. His power stretched throughout the galaxies, just like Borea the God of Creation. Unlike the other Gods, Auro-darko was treated like a pitiful child and a disgrace to the Gods'' Infinite power. He was scorned and mocked even by his own parents. Despite all of this He was undeterred, and marveled by the life that he gave to all. After centuries of painstaking tolerance, Auro-darko left the heavens and ventured into the universe. He made a throne of impure gold. He sat and admired life in all its forms. As time went on, He grew up to be quite the adonis, but he was not the only one to leave the heavens.


    After Auro-darko left Borea the God of Creation felt lonely without her only son. Despite His frail figure and laughable imperfection, She still felt as if a part of herself was lost. At the same time, Lumis the God of Time lost His humility and stepped above the other Gods. For what is Time without Pride? He exalted himself not being born but created. Borea the God of Creation despised Him for this, so She went unto Death. For Borea The God of Creation was fair. Her figure was young and her skin supple. She was the most beautiful God ever created. Her eyes were the incomplete blend of many colors. The universe could be seen in her eyes that was constantly transforming. She bore twins unto him, D?v¨¦ the God of Peace and R?v?n the God of Chaos. This was the beginning of the war in heaven.


    D?v¨¦ the God of Peace pleaded with the Gods. He persuaded them to forgive, and encouraged them to keep heaven in one piece. This was directly contrary to His brother however, He preached words of discord and encouraged the Gods to fight. These different beliefs divided Heaven into three parts. The first, the peace faction led by D?v¨¦. Second the war faction, led by R?v?n and finally the neutral faction without a leader. These divisions birthed The God of Order Iustus.


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    The God of Gods sat at the pinnacle of the heavens, having never spoken a word throughout His entire life. Lumis, placed His throne right next to Him, declaring The God of Gods as His brother. Having nothing to say and no resistance, The God of Gods was presumed to hold Lumis'' beliefs. Overtime as more and more Gods were born, the tension only grew. Finally the war faction enough, they all rose up in anger to war with The God of Time and The God of Gods. The war in heaven lasted moments, but to humans it was millenia. The God of Gods sat in his throne drinking indifference. After taking a beating, Lumis ran in fear. The God of Gods did no such thing. He allowed them to take his life. The entire Congregation was satisfied with this. All factions were happy the war had ended. The peace faction were relieved the animosity was put to an end. The neutral faction was happy heaven could go back to normal and of course the war faction was happy that they won. They murdered their creator.


    Heaven was silent for a moment followed by a rave. The entire universe bloomed with chaos and creativity. Stars collapsed and nebulas formed all as an expression of the Gods'' celebration. This celebration happened over millions of years and created the worlds we know today.


    There are 4 generations of Gods. The first generation was not born of a God but created or formed. The second was born of a single God. The third generation was born of more than one God. Finally the fourth.


    Auro-darko The God of Life was the first third generation God. Soon after His birth, Borea defiled and begat His twin brothers, D?v¨¦ the God of Peace and R?v?n the God of Chaos. The brothers of the first generation then looked down on the other Gods as subordinate. This built animosity between Them and the other Gods. Eventually the hate built up and they all banded together and killed The God of Gods.

 Chapter 8: Uncomfortable

    Knock Knock* "CJ? Are you ready?" Daddy called behind my bedroom door. "Just a minute!" I yelled while scrambling to put on my clothes. "Ok see you outside." He said.


    I rushed into the dining room, hanging up my backpack on the chair. Daddy set the plate in front of me. Pancakes and eggs with toast and bacon. I looked at it and hesitated. "D-Daddy- you never made this since-" I muttered. "I know." He whispered heavily.


    >> Flashback


    I stand up and hug mommy as she lifts me up. She rubs her nose on mine as we walk out of the dresser and into the dining room. Daddy puts the three plates of food on the table. Pancakes, and eggs with toast and bacon. Even as I look into mommy''s brown and blue eyes the Sunday sunrise echoes unto her face. Her small nose and pink cheeks that hold dimples. I gently put my hand unto her cheek. "You''re really pretty." I giggle.


    >>


    I picked up the knife and the fork and I ate. It tasted delicious, just like back then. I hid that my hands were trembling, because it''s been almost a year. "I need to be a big girl now." I thought to myself confidently.


    "CC, the boys are acting really strange aren''t they." Izzy said to me. "Yeah, boys are weird but this is even stranger than usual." I replied. "Well they are boys." Isabel giggled, covering her mouth. I laughed. "Some of them aren''t that bad." She continued. "Jeremy hasn''t changed, he''s always in his seat reading a book." She pointed. "Oh I didn''t even realize, it seems like you''ve been watching Jeremy a lot." I smirked. "W-what!? No!" She waved her hands and blushed. She laid her chin down unto her hand on the desk, then she looked over at him. I saw a scar on her lower neck inside of her clothes. I looked away, because I shouldn''t have looked. "Tommy, James and Luke don''t seem to be involved with the boys'' games either. " She turned back at me. "Ohh, okay. " I said. Then the bell rang to end the break.


    At lunchtime we ate together and after school my daddy and Isabel''s dad talked and seemed to get along. "CJ, let''s go to Isabel''s house." Daddy smiled, holding out his hand to me. "Yay!" I jumped and took his hand as we walked out into the parking lot. He opened the door and took me up by the waist and put me up into the truck. We followed their car to their house. As daddy took me out I looked down into his emerald eyes and I smiled. The house was beautiful, it was much smaller than ours, but it looked lovely. Izzy held my hand as we walked up the porch and into the house. Daddy followed close behind holding our backpacks. We greeted her mother, she was sitting on the sofa, then we went upstairs into her room. It seemed like Isabel was more excited about it than me. I laughed as we climbed up the stairs. When we opened the door there the puppy was. We rushed to pet and play with it. It was white, and it had a blue collar. "We should see if it''s a boy or a girl." I said as it licked Izzy''s face. "W- wait. Stop." She laughed. The puppy ran into the corner of the room and whimpered. Knock Knock Knock* "Girls, may I come in?" Isabel''s dad asked. "Yes dad." Izzy replied. "Hello, my name is Hobbinson, but you can just call me Mr. Hobbs." He kindly introduced himself to me. "Nice to meet you Mr. Hobbs." I politely replied. He was a fat man, but he seemed very strong. He wore suspenders and a checked shirt. He went to Isabel next to me and kissed her forehead. When he did, Isabel flinched. Perhaps it''s her shyness, she probably doesn''t like to be kissed. "There are snacks downstairs, where we''ll be watching the game." He said. "Okay." We both replied, as he closed the door. "Come here boy." I tapped my lap calling the dog. The puppy ran and leaped onto me, licking my face as I laughed. "CJ?" Isabel called. "I don''t want to check if it''s a boy or a girl." She confessed. I sat up in concern and the puppy did as well. "Why? Is something wrong?" I asked. "Well it''s just¡­ What if it''s a boy?" She blushed while looking at the floor. "I''ve never seen it before." She covered her face. I laughed "It''s just a dog!" I said. "It''s uncomfortable to think about, ok!?" She raised her voice. I stopped¡­ "Well¡­ ok, we won''t check." I whispered. "I''m sorry, I''m sorry." She apologized profusely, then held my hand. "Apology accepted." I whispered. Suddenly the door behind me opened and I heard her mother¡¯s voice. "I brought snacks!" She sang. Izzy squeezed my hand, just a little tighter. "Thank you mom." Isabel said, as her mother put the dish of snacks and sweets onto the table. "Let''s have a tea party!" I excitedly yelled. "Yay tea party!" Her mother¡¯s British accent showed. "My name is Michelle. You''re quite an adorable young lady, CJ." She complimented me.


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    At sunset Izzy and her mother began talking about having a bath together. "CJ, Would you like to have a bath with us before you leave?" Mrs. Michelle asked me. I felt uncomfortable, the only person who has seen me is my parents. "Umm¡­ I- Im not sure, let me ask daddy." I replied, walking out of the room. Daddy had on a football T-shirt and cap when I saw him standing next to the couch. He was yelling in excitement about the game and talking with Mr. Hobbs. I hurried down the stairs as Isabel and her mother were close behind me. I rushed to daddy and hid behind him. "CJ? What''s wrong?" He whispered as his entire demeanor changed. "We were wondering if it would be ok to take a bath together, just us girls." Mrs. Michelle stated. "Oh, no that''s ok. CJ isn''t comfortable with it." Daddy said politely. "Oh that''s fine, we hope you get home safely then." She said, then she looked at Isabel. "Go give CJ a hug goodbye." She gently said. Izzy hugged me and we left. At home in the shower I wondered how I would feel bathing with other girls. I wondered.

 Chapter 9: Little things

    The next morning I walked into the classroom and saw all the chairs empty. I would never be the first one in school on a normal day, but daddy had to leave earlier for work that morning. He was going to the gym before work. When mommy was still alive we would both exercise together. Now, every once in a while daddy and I would exercise together. Grandma always said exercise and a healthy diet are the most important things in a healthy lifestyle. Gradually I became the fit young girl I am now, but I always felt as if I was too plain. I wish I was more like Mrs. Apate.


    I look at the deep orange light stickered onto her skin. I gently put my hand on her cheek. "I wish I was more beautiful like you, because you look just like her." I whisper to Mrs. Apate. She smiles, "Why, thank you. Your mother was very pretty and endearing, it''s an honor to be compared to her." She leans into my hand. Her face is smooth and soft. "Let''s go meet your father, now." She kisses my forehead.


    The door opened at the front of the classroom. I turned away from the window to see Jeremy. "Good morning." He said, just barely loud enough for me to hear. "Good morning." I replied, my high pitched voice echoed. It was chased after by silence as Jeremy made his way to the back of the classroom to sit. He seemed calm, and at peace, which gave rise to the indifferent mist he emitted. He was cool, I understood what Isabel saw in him. Wait. Where was Isabel? I looked around in confusion because I knew she was usually the first one in class. Then the door opened again, it was Isabella Courtney. I looked away with distaste. Isabella was the popular girl in our grade. She would always grab the attention from everyone and she was rude. She wasn''t very smart but she didn''t allow anyone to win in anything if she had a say. Isabella was so annoying and overbearing, she acted like she''s perfect and superior to everyone else. I didn''t like her at all. She flung her brown hair over her shoulder as she sat at the front and center of the classroom. Jeremy was unfazed by her presence, he kept reading the book in his hand.


    As person after person walked through the door my anxiety built up. Isabel hadn''t arrived and class would start in a few minutes. I looked up at the ceiling fan while shaking my leg, squeezing my fingers together and biting my nails. Every second elongated to a century, as I rested my head down on the desk. The only thing I could hear was the gentle tapping of my damp fingertips on the wooden desk. "Ok class, let''s begin." Mrs. Apate said. "A few students would be missing today because they called in sick." She continued, as I leaned up and listened. "Isabel, Candice, James and Vanessa. " She said. Then she rested her phone onto the desk. I sighed with relief, but throughout the day I felt lonely.


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    At break time I layed down and listened to the cacophony of the classroom and halls. I heard that Daniella likes whales, and that Tommy wanted to do a backflip on the moon. I heard whispering about Isabella doing ''naughty things'' but that''s as far as the rumor went. All the boys would talk about was race cars, trains and animals. They seemed to have a particular fascination with the great white shark for some reason. I saw the boys talking and running around, but Jeremy never left his seat. I stared intensely at him slouched in his seat. I looked at his brown eyes buried in his book as he continued to shovel them deeper and deeper. His straight hair fashioned together into a comb over. His bushy, curved eyebrows looked painted onto his face.


    Unsurprisingly, the bell rang, and Isabella walked into the classroom with at least 3 boys following her. She had a smirk on her face, I hated her stupid face. One of the boys following her was Justin. Justin was like her brother in blood, they were so similar it was as if they were made for eachother. Justin always kept a mischievous smile on his face, and ''his parents were rich'' apparently so he was just as proud as her. Justin always sat right next to her, almost under her shoulder. She never showed but it was evident that she wanted to do the same.


    Mrs. Apate entered the classroom and sat at her desk, and picked up her phone from where she left it. She went on to teach until the bell rang once more. The horde of boys followed Isabella outside again. A few girls followed as well, but they all acted strange as if they were up to something. I looked at Mrs. Apate''s phone, lying helplessly on the desk. I looked out of the window panes, to the children playing on the grass outside. Observing everyone like this, I wondered why Isabel was my only friend. What would I ever do without her sky blue eyes and wonderful smile. I want to be best friends with her forever.

 Chapter 10: Gravel in my voice

    The next day I opened the door to enter school. "CJ!" Isabel rushed and hugged me. "Izzy! I missed you!" I whispered with gravel in my voice. "CJ don''t cry, you can come over to my house this afternoon. We already called your dad." She said, "We''ll have so much fun!" She continued. I lit up with joy. I saw one boy whisper into another''s ear, and they both started laughing hysterically. It didn''t really bother me until he pointed at me. I squeezed my bag strap and looked at the floor as I walked quickly to my seat. "Don''t let them bother you. " Isabel whispered in my ear sitting next to me. "Do I¡­ look ok?" I brushed my hair behind my ear. "You look great!" She replied. "Ok¡­" I whispered. "Why did you leave me alone yesterday?!" I pouted. She looked up at the ceiling. "Umm I was sick, and I woke up late." She said, confidently, but for some reason it sounded rehearsed. "We got a bed for ''Terry'' yesterday!" She continued. "Terry?" I questioned. "We named the puppy Terry, for Terrance." She stated. "Ohhh ok." I nodded. We talked and talked until class began.


    Mrs. Apate walked in and took the role on her phone. Then she placed it onto the table and began to teach the lesson. She spoke about justice and what is right and wrong. "So children it''s wrong to take things that don''t belong to you, and to hurt others. You shouldn''t disobey your teachers, elders or parents either." She explained. Then the bell rang for break time and immediately afterwards the intercom turned on. "Classroom cleaning will take place at lunch, so we kindly ask that the students leave their classroom at lunchtime. Thank you." The principal stated.


    At lunchtime Izzy and I went to the cafeteria. It was the first time I had been there, and the constant chatter made me anxious. "Do you want me to buy you a crepe CJ?" Isabel asked me, holding out her hand. "It''s ok we can share." I took her hand with both of mine. "Okay." She giggled. It tasted absolutely delicious. The strawberries were so sweet and the whipped cream was great. "There''s nothing better than enjoying a meal with your best friend." I said as I pressed my cheek against hers in the bathroom mirror. The bell rang. We washed our faces, stepped down and left for class.


    "Where''s my phone?" Mrs. Apate asked, searching around the table. "Did anyone see my phone?" She asked frantically. But nobody had seen it. Then the cleaner entered and took the garbage bin from the corner of the class. "Did you see my phone?" She asked her. "Yes, it was right there on the table." She replied. "Well it''s not here now!" Mrs. Apate raised her voice. "You probably took it!" She continued. "Yeah!" Some students agreed. "Madam, I was the only one here, but the only reason I noticed your phone is because of a message from David saying he''s looking forward to tonight." He said. "I-" she held her tongue. The class was silent, probably because none of the other students understood what was just said. "I''m going to take it up with the principal." She stated, if any of you took it you''ll be in big trouble. Student''s cell phones weren''t allowed in our school, especially before 7th grade.


    After school one of the security guards searched each of our backpacks before we left. Isabel was scared that she would get in trouble somehow. She was shaking as we walked out to her mother¡¯s car. "Don''t mention it to her, ok?" She whispered to me and I nodded. As we arrived at her house and we drove into the driveway, I noticed her father''s truck with a green tarp thrown in the back. "Does your daddy like fishing CJ?" Her mother asked. "Yeah he does, sometimes." I said. "Wow, so does Mr. Hobbs. That''s nice." She said, as we closed the car doors.


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    We both rushed upstairs just like before. "Terry!" We both screeched as he ran toward us. We brushed his white curly fur. We played with him and his squeaky toys to both our hearts'' content. Mrs. Michelle brought freshly baked cupcakes and tea so that we could have another tea party. We all had a pillow fight on Izzy''s bed before sunset and the entire day was wonderful.


    Every day for the next week we played together at her house, just like this. I was excited to invite her over to my house. As I went to bed I had a dream of my parents'' wedding. All my family and friends were there. It all looked wonderful but when they kissed the all the white turned black and began to ash away in the wind. Then mother left and looked back at me.


    "Happy Birthday CJ!" Daddy said as he popped confetti over me. I was surprised, because I seemed to have forgotten. My breakfast was great, daddy hired a chef that would make all the meals for the day. I was incredulous. "I love you daddy!" I said hugging him tight enough to break ribs. In the living room I saw a memory tree and under it was a ton of presents. I began crying, because I couldn''t believe it. I couldn''t believe the last time I celebrated my birthday was in the hospital with mommy. On the memory tree there were pictures of me throughout the years. They hung gently off of the branches. The brown and orange leaves glowed in the sunrise light.


    I went to school and told Izzy all about it. She laughed, "I already knew, I''m coming over tonight." I looked at her in awe.


    When I got home, Izzy held my hand as we opened the door. Everyone jumped out and said "Surprise! Happy Birthday CJ!" I was overflowing with joy and excitement. "Thank you!" I said with gravel in my voice. I began crying. The crowd of friends, family and teachers expressed their sympathy. "Awww!" They all sang.


    After running around and eating tons of snacks, Izzy wanted to take a bath. Her parents allowed her to sleep over, so she wanted to bathe because she was getting tired. "CJ? Can we bathe together?" She asked shyly. My heart raced when she did. I didn''t want her to think I didn''t like her. I was afraid that she would be upset if I said no¡­ "Sure." I smiled. I sneaked into my room and got the shampoo, comb and grease. I realized as I picked up the comb my hands were trembling, but I pushed on. Izzy brought her new butterfly backpack into the bathroom. "Wow, it''s big in here!" She said, and her voice echoed. "Shhhh!" I giggled. "It''s not sound proof." I whispered.


    ¡­


    She began taking off her clothes, and my heart began racing. "Don''t laugh at me, ok? I have a few scars¡­" She whispered. "Ok¡­" I replied. As she removed her shirt I saw countless bruises and cuts from her belly button to her upper chest. As she pulled down her skirt her upper thighs were freshly bruised. She wasn''t lying, she was covered in permanent scars. She turned around, "Could you tie my hair for me?" She asked. The white light bounced off of the white walls and finally hit her back. There it was the worst, there seemed to be repetitive scarring on her back, like whips. They were so severe that her back seemed to be missing parts of flesh. I wrapped up her hair into a bun at the back. She quietly got into the tub and looked at me. "Don''t be scared. You trust me right?" She asked. "Yeah I do." I hastily replied as I began taking off my clothes. I stopped at my underwear¡­ She laughed, "There''s nothing to be afraid of."

 Chapter 11: Cleo

    "Cleo you know mommy loves you right?" Mommy smiles holding me in the grocery store. I excitedly nod, as my short hair brushes against her face. She kisses me profusely as I scream out in laughter. "Ok ok, I love you too mommy!" I surrender. "Good." She whispers rubbing her nose against mine. We get home and mommy gets a phone call. I can''t understand the big words she is saying, but she looks upset. I hug her leg and she looks gently down at me with a plastic smile, as she continues to talk on the phone. "CJ, mommy is going to the doctor tomorrow." She says immediately after hanging up. "I wanna come too!" I pout. "Sure we''ll go together." She says, patting my head.


    We have dinner at the table together. Then we go to bed. I snuggle under mommy''s T-shirt as I always do. I put my cheek onto her stomach. I love to feel the wave of her muscles, it rocks me to sleep. The bumps on her tummy feel funny as well.


    The doctor is a nice lady. It scares me the way mommy lies on the bed in front of her. I rub my thumbs on each-other as I wish that mommy doesn''t get hurt. I''m even more afraid of my turn¡­ She usually holds my hand and the doctor gives me a lollipop afterwards. As the doctor finishes up mommy helps me put back on my clothes. She stands talking to her behind the curtain as I sit on the bed.


    When we get home I play with my doll house in my room when I hear mommy calling.


    "Cleo, could you come here please?" Mother calls from the bedroom. She always calls me Cleo when she''s in a funny or playful mood. I run into the room. When I fling open the door I see her sitting next to daddy on the bed. She taps her lap for me to sit down on it. "Mommy? Is something wrong?" I ask, slowly walking with my hands together. I glance at daddy sitting on the bed looking intently onto the floor"No no, sweetheart. We''re just going to talk about something, ok?" She says gently, bending over to pick me up. I look over to daddy, it''s strange that he hasn''t said anything yet. "Daddy''s going to leave for a minute ok?" She whispers, then looks at him as he leaves. I tense up in uncertainty. "Cleo." She smiles. "You''re a very special person, ok? Nobody in the whole world is like you!" She falls back onto the bed, as we both giggle. "Mmhmm, mommy''s special too!" I say, but her smile fades. "Mommy is sweet, but mommy isn''t different from the other girls." She says, quietly. She pulls up my jersey and blows on my tummy. I laugh as I roll over and do the same to her. "Cleo, you''re not like normal girls." She says, quietly, unbuckling my skirt. I laugh as I pull down her sweatpants. Then we both stopped. "See? You''re not like mommy." She whispers. "When you were born, they wanted to cut and change parts of your body." She says quietly as I hug her. "You''re not going to go through surgery ok? I won''t allow it. You may not be like other girls but that''s part of what makes you special." She cries. "I''m not going to let the doctors change you!" She raises her voice in frustration. I hug her and wipe her tears. We lie quietly on the bed, I look down to our shameless state as I rub my hair against mommy''s white T-shirt. "You''re just like mommy and daddy,'''' she says, as her breathing rocks my head. "Don''t let anyone see your private parts except mommy and daddy, ok CJ?" She sits up. I nod, pressing my hands together. "CJ! Promise me! Not even the doctor!" She yells. "I- ok¡­ I promise. " I mutter. She hugs me."Let''s go for ice cream." She says.


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    ¡­


    I looked at Izzy laughing and remembered what mommy said. "I''m a big girl now." I whispered, pulling down my underwear. Isabel immediately stopped laughing. I looked up at her, and she freezed, as if something was wrong. I cover my face as my knees buckle. "CJ¡­ you''re a boy¡­" she said quietly. "I''m a girl!" My voice cracked. I heard her get up, and I tense up hearing her wet footsteps get closer and closer. When she touched my shoulders I flinched. "It''s ok. Let me tie your hair for you." She said kindly. "So, you''re not afraid of me? Don''t you think I''m weird?" I whispered as she stood behind me. "Not at all, you''re beautiful." She said, as she hugged me. We both got into the warm bath. "So, that''s why you didn''t want to bathe at my house?" She asked. I nodded shyly. "I was born this way." "Wait!" She said, "So how do you pee?" She whispered. I giggled. "Just like any girl would pee." I laughed. We splashed water against each other. "So how did you get all of those scars?" I asked. "Well, I play outside a lot, so I fall off of trees and down hills sometimes." She said, "Well that''s what my parents want me to say¡­" She looked down into the water. "Oh. Well I do naughty stuff too, but daddy puts me in the naughty corner." I assured her. She gently smiled and took my hand. "CJ, my parents brutally abuse me." She smiled. "Every day." She said as her voice began to crack. I held both her hands. "It all started when I was 5. One night both my parents got drunk and beat me." She confessed, "It was every month at first, then every week, then every day." She cried. "They always hurt me in places that nobody will see. They demand that I hide it from everyone." She continued. "That''s terrible." I said, squeezing her hands. "Glass, whips, bats, even their bare hands. I got used to it." She said, as I leaned in toward her. She grabbed on to me in a hug, "Don''t tell anyone about this ok?" She desperately begged. "Of course, pinky promise." I said, holding out my finger.


    After everyone left daddy came to tuck me in bed. "Read more about the Gods." I eagerly requested.


    After the war in heaven Hades, the God of Destruction took the power of the perished God and he cast it throughout all of heaven. This birthed many Gods and strange beings. The God of War, Demons and the God of Death. The children devoted themselves entirely to Hades and formed the Evil faction. They formed a dwelling place for themselves, a place that was neither past nor present. They called it Hell. The God of war was quite fond of the R?v?n The God of Chaos. She desired Him but knew that she would never be able to be with Him. Dwellers of Hell were forbidden from entering Heaven. So she sent a servant, who went onto R?v?n and told him where his brother was. "If you kill your brother, you would gain His power." The servant said. Immediately R?v?n rose up in search of Auro-darko. As soon as He saw him He hit Him shattering his throne. The pieces of his throne drifted throughout the universe. Auro-darko The God of Life, fled. Then suddenly the God of War appeared and took him into the depths of Hell where he would never be seen again.

 Chapter 12: Devil in heaven

    In R?v?n''s absence the war faction dissipated. It''s members led quiet lives, like bombs that failed to detonate. In his brother''s absence D?v¨¦, The God of Peace, took over heaven. He preached high and low, causing his followers to grow. D?v¨¦ desired power. He was always jealous of the God of Gods, who made everything. In his mind the generations showed the hierarchy within heaven, which was correct. Power is a burden that should be given only to those with the shoulders to bear it. His pride and desire  drove him to success in his innocent plan. However when he got the status that he wanted, he was corrupted by it.


    R?v?n''s former supporters attended the meetings of the peace faction, aimlessly, and they did so routinely. They were wolves living as sheep for a time, but the shepherd knew their secrets. They had no intention of attack or conflict, they had lost all desire for chaos.


    Finally when D?v¨¦ had half of the heavens in the palm of his hand he slowly changed his message, to one of immortality and misconduct. He turned the honor of heaven to shame and taught everyone to glorify these shameful things. The God that did the most of these things would be crowned the greatest of all. The humans followed him preaching peace as well but it only brought the fruit of war. Preach love, preach of a God''s will and preach peace. Anything unknown to oneself cannot be taught correctly. In that love is hate, in that will is chaos and in that peace is deceit, it''s just hiding between the lines.


    His devoted followers, both God and man, eventually did whatever he said without question. They all had children in forsaken ways with multiple partners. They fought for status and authority, amongst themselves. They sacrificed their children unto him in an attempt to gain favor. Their children were taught the same disgraceful teachings and eventually, all of heaven was evil. Families formed overtime, and each family conducted themselves differently. Most of the families kept the blood within themselves, procreation from the same womb.


    From these activities many of the Gods were very similar, sharing roles, and lessening their power.


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    The humans formed families as well, creating royalty and prestige, following the same laws.


    "Izzy? Did you like the story?" He whispered to Isabel behind me. "Mm-hmm, thank you Mr. CJ." She said, Daddy laughed. "Call me Mr. Lockingham."


    "Okay, goodnight." She said, quietly. "Don''t stay up too late girls." He said. "Wait, Daddy, Izzy-" I hesitated as her hand gently rested on my shoulder. He turned back, "Is something wrong?" He asked. "No no, Izzy is just shy, she said she is grateful for the accommodations." I said, and he smiled. "Happy to have you, you''re always welcome." He said, slowly walking out of the room.


    "So your last name is Lockingham?" She asked. "No, I don''t know my last name." I whispered. "Oh okay." She whispered. "Let''s have a fun day tomorrow." She whispered. "Yeah, too bad we have to go to school¡­" I grumbled. "Silly CJ, tomorrow is Saturday." She giggled. "Ohhh!" I turned around to her. "That''s cool! Let''s have fun." I said, she nodded.


    "Call me Mr. Lockingham." Daddy says to him, holding me against his chest. "Would that be a ticket for two Sir?" The man asks, smiling at me."Three, first class, and could you add in a few margaritas served by our personal attendant?" He says, boastfully. "Oh, I''m sorry, what was your name again?" He asks, underminingly. Daddy takes out a card from his jacket and gives it to the man. "Oh¡­" He stands in shock. "I''m Terribly sorry, Mr. Lockingham, I was unaware of your reservations. Please, forgive me and come this way." He said as he showed us upstairs. "What took you so long?" Mommy stands up in excitement. "We had a bit of an issue." Daddy glances at the attendant. "Your flight arrangements will be organized in a few minutes. Please, enjoy your stay." He says handing the card back to daddy. "That''s a souvenir, my gift." He smiles, shaking his hand."


    "CJ? Do you know your full name?" Mommy asks, looking up at me laying on her tummy. "Is it Cleo J?" I ask. She giggles, "No, it isn''t. Want to guess again?" I shake my head. "Aww, that''s cute, you don''t know that we have the same name?" She tilts her head, playfully. "No, I don''t remember your name..." I say quietly, as my high pitched voice sneaks like a mouse. "Oh my, Well let me tell you a story about our names." She says, I look at her hair spread across the pink sheets, flowing over the pillow on the bed. "Let me tell you about the owners of this hotel, and my name, and your father''s name." She says sitting up. "The story of kings."

 Chapter 13: Name

    Once upon a time there was a king in a land far different from ours but very rich. There were no cars, no trains, no boats, but there was food for all and more. The king and his only wife, the queen, had many children. Over time the kingdom was in disarray, and the justice system was corrupted by the rich throughout the land. This corruption spread like a disease, soon even the soldiers stopped training. There was no honor or order in the land. The entire kingdom lived wastefully and carelessly. The king saw this and commanded everyone to change their ways, but even when he pleaded as he did, nothing changed. Then suddenly a rival kingdom appeared and attacked.


    The king was overthrown and killed. Before he died however he cried out unto the Gods.


    The kingdom was reformed, its new ruler had many wives and many daughters. The 12 eldest daughters were the princesses of the kingdom. They were named The Daughters of the Sun. They separated into 12 sections of the kingdom all becoming queens. They respected and cared for each other, and they all had one husband. The daughters had families, and the families expanded. Then suddenly a great threat rose up against the nation. The queens feared that their kingdom would be destroyed, but were more fearful to escape with their lives, so they all changed their names and took on new names. When the kingdom was attacked and the civilians enslaved, the 12 sisters seduced the soldiers. They soon were the wives of the King and they were the most beautiful in all the land. Their children followed them and soon the kingdom was filled with their blood. The families gathered together once more and the kingdom was in their control. They worked as ministers, assassins, soldiers and many other jobs throughout the land. They disguised themselves and made peace with the invaders for decades. Slowly the beliefs, ideas and ways of the daughters were adopted. After the king''s death, they took their place as the rightful queens.


    "Mommy? What were the sisters'' names?" I ask. "I don''t know dear, but they all took on a mysterious surname. Lockingham." She says with scary eyes. My mouth opens widely like my eyes and pupils. "So daddy is the king!?" I ask loudly. "Shhhhh!" She giggles. "And mommy is the Queen!" I giggle in glee. Her eyes softly diverge as she uncomfortably smiles. "No, mommy is a princess. My name isn''t Lockingham and neither is yours." She says. "Your name is-"


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    "CJ. CJ, wake up." Isabel whispered in my ear. I opened my eyes and saw her standing in front of me all dressed up. "I''m leaving now. See you at school on monday." She smiled. "Byee byee." I whispered as my eyes slipped together.


    When I woke up I walked into the kitchen where daddy was cooking. "You''re finally up sweetheart, are you ready for lunch?" He stared gently. My heart sank. I looked at my hands confused as to why they were shaking. My heart started beating really fast and my face contorted from calm into sorrow. I helplessly worried as I couldn''t control myself, my hands instinctively went up to cover my face. Click* The stove turned off as daddy''s footsteps approached. Tap*... Tap* The darkness finally swallowed my eyes, and it hugged my face. I saw Borea The God of Creation. She was so beautiful, and her eyes were absolutely captivating. "Naughty girl." She pointed. I was ashamed. Tap*... Tap* his bare feet crawled across the wooden floor, and he hugged me. "It''s ok CJ." I heard him whisper. "Tell me what''s wrong." He said whilst lifting me off of the ground. "Everything''s ok." We sat down.


    "I don''t want to talk about it." I said tearfully wiping my drenched face."Sweety, if you continue to whelve your emotions in yourself, you will hurt not only yourself, but me as well. I won''t be able to help you feel better, if I don''t know what''s wrong." He said kindly. Then I broke, as my tears poured profusely. "I did a bad thing daddy¡­" I cried into his T-shirt. "What did you do?" He asked gently. "I showed Izzy-" I choked on the sentence. "What did you show Isabel?" He whispered. "I showed her- my- my body¡­" I muttered as I hid my head in his shirt shamefully. "Oh- what did she do?" He asked. "She said I was a boy." I cried. "I''m not a boy, I am a girl! I was just born with-" I stopped¡­ "You are a girl CJ. Your genes confirm it. You were born with both your and your brother''s reproductive organs. He didn''t make it." He whispered in the sobbing silence. I looked up at him. "You''ll be a big girl one day, with a family and friends." He whispered with a smile. "And boobies?!" I playfully asked. He laughed, "Yes, and boobies." I just realized the warmth that I felt on daddy''s lap. My arms wrapped around him and his white T-shirt. It was always so nice to be this close to him.


    When we ate lunch we had orange cheesecake for dessert. Then toast with pasta and salad. It was strange, but just the way I liked it. I really enjoyed the weekend, but little did I know, Monday would be the worst day of my life.

 Chapter 14: Mature

    .


    There is a girl you have heard of in this story before. She is quite a beautiful young lady, and she always smiles with her friends, even when she''s sad. This second grader is very responsible. She goes home by taking the bus every day, all alone. And every day she gets home she does the chores, makes a meal and does her homework all by herself. She uses her smartphone to watch videos so she can understand what to do.


    Her father is unknown, and she almost lives alone if not for her mother. Even so, her mother is never home at night. So, she tucks herself in. She sleeps alone in an apartment. The fridge would always be filled with beer and snacks. Her mother wouldn''t even leave groceries for her. No cereal, milk, bread or rice. Without anything to eat she often goes next door with a bright smile. "May I have two cups of rice please? Mommy forgot to buy." She asks, every day, a different door.


    She makes all of her meals, and carries lunch to school in a tiny pink panda bowl. She dresses up and goes to school, making sure to look her best. The few times she sees her mother, it''s never in a good way. She changed after she walked in on her with some guy. She never felt the same since that day.


    She knew that her mother did a dirty job. The first grade teachers always said it''s wrong to show yourself to others¡­ Especially boys. Her mother did it, and she was paid for it.


    Despite the challenges she refused to give up. Overtime she just got used to it. She would see her mother sleeping naked on the floor with a black eye and a bottle of beer in her hand and nonchalantly go about her day. Her mother never spoke to her. Her face was forever concreted with a stare. She always talks to herself when she''s drunk. Never smiling.


    The one time she did talk to her was with a scream. She had taken one hundred dollars from her mother¡¯s drawer to buy groceries. When her mother found out she called her a dirty thief. She screamed at the top of her lungs that she wished her daughter was never born. No need for bad words, after that she stopped listening. Her tears never fell, they soaked into her heart.


    She always fantasized of having a father. Daddy daughter time, she would dream and envy the girls in the shows. Just like she would look at delicious food in surrow. All she could eat was rice and an occasional can of beans. She always wanted to make meals but never had the money.


    She never told anyone about how she was living because she was comfortable. She knew that life could be better, but never wanted to complain. She keeps a smile for everyone to see. "Adults don''t complain about their life."


    .


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    "Good morning class I would like to introduce our new student." Mrs. Apate said standing in the front of the class. "Diana Lockingham." She said, as Diana gracefully entered the classroom. "It''s a pleasure to meet you all." She said with a British accent. Then she walked over and sat in a seat next to Isabella. I scoffed "Another pretty girl." She turned back toward me. Then she smiled and waved. At break time she came over to talk to me. "I like your hair, it''s very cute." She said, looking at my platt. "Thank you, but I don''t want to be friends with Isabella." I said. "Oh, you don''t like her. It''s ok, I don''t know her." She said kindly. "Oh¡­ I''m sorry." I looked down. "It''s okay." She laughed, "We can be friends." Isabel stepped in playfully. "I''m Isabel, you can call me Izzy. And this is CJ, you can call her CC. " She continued. I smiled shyly. "Where are you from?" I asked. "Oh I''m a foreign exchange student from London. I''m living with my aunt and uncle. " She said. "Wow!" We both were amazed. "What is it like in London?" Izzy asked. "Well there are huge buildings, lots of cars and pretty lights." She replied. "Why didn''t you go to school there?" I asked. "W- well I-" She muttered. "I just wanted to try somewhere new." She said, then the bell rang. "All teachers report to the staff room at lunch. I repeat that all teachers are to report to the staff room at lunch." The principal said through the intercom.


    When it was lunchtime Diana left to go to the bathroom. I looked around and realized Izzy, Jeremy and the 5 other girls in the class were the only people in the classroom. Sofia was sitting alone in the back of the classroom. "This is weird isn''t it?" Izzy whispered. Suddenly the front door flung open as Justin and all the other boys entered. "Alright, who''s paying to see first?" He said. They all began giving him money as they surrounded him. "I''m scared." Izzy whispered, putting her head down. "Hey time is up!" One boy said. "No!" Another replied. Then they began to fight, but it only lasted moments. Then A smartphone fell onto the floor. Justin hurried to pick it up. "It''s broken." He said in disappointment. The other boys sighed as they went to their seats.


    "Hey, hey we can get a glimpse of the real thing." He said to two other boys. They all giggled together, then Justin looked at Izzy with a perverted face. Suddenly they started approaching. "Hey Izzy let''s leave." I whispered to her holding her hand. As we both stood up they stood in front of us. "Why the rush?" Justin asked. "We need to go to the washroom." I said, squeezing her hand a little tighter. "Isabel would be right behind you. I just want to talk to her for a second." He said, stepping closer to her. Isabel looked down uncomfortably. "I- Go¡­with her." She muttered. Then he reached for her skirt. "Get away from her!" I pushed him with my two hands. "Ohhhh!" The two boys laughed. Isabel hid behind me. "I don''t like to hit girls." He said. I got so angry I punched him in the face. He grabbed onto my shirt and pushed me into a desk. Everyone watched silently but Jeremy stood up. "Leave her alone!" He yelled. "Lock the door." He said to one of the boys. Jeremy went to the door but the boy stood in front of it. "Grab her." Justin said, holding the side of his face. The two boys grabbed onto my arms. I tugged and pulled but I wasn''t able to break free."I''m going to embarrass you." He said as they dragged me to the front of the class. Then suddenly Jeremy pushed the boy and ran out the door. The boy ran after him. I looked across to Isabel curled up in the back corner of the classroom. I smiled.

 Chapter 15: Diana

    Justin stepped in front of me and bent down to touch my waist. I hit him with my knee then kicked him in the face. His nose began bleeding as he grunted in pain and frustration. "Okay, then." He said as he went behind me. I pulled and tugged to be free but the boys didn''t budge. Justin draped himself unto me and began pulling down my clothes. I heard his breathing that made me even more uncomfortable. My body instinctively tensed up as anxiety filled my bones. I was paralyzed with fear. I trembled subtly as the skirt left my waist. Tears began welling up as he began removing the thin cloth between privacy and indecency. Suddenly the boys let go of my arms. I opened my eyes to see everyone looking at me. "You''re a boy¡­" Justin said in shock¡­ Sofia vomited. I pulled up my clothes and ran into the bathroom.


    I looked in the mirror and saw the calm of my face. "I don''t wanna get in trouble." A girl cried. "I will protect you, don''t worry, ok?" I heard Diana''s voice echo from the bathroom stall.


    "Come with me." Mrs. Apate grabbed my arm and pulled me behind her. She opened the door to the principal''s office and took me inside. "Sit there." She commanded. Soon I heard teachers talking outside. "They found the phone in Isabel''s bag." My heart skipped a beat. "Disgusting. Why would they do that?" Another replied. "Well, let''s see what all the parents say." Another added. I anxiously looked up at the clock.


    An hour later I heard daddy''s voice down the hall. "CJ?!" He yelled. He violently flung open the door. I couldn''t look him in the eyes so my head bowed. He hugged me, and left to talk with the teachers.


    Isabel and her parents entered the office soon after. Her head was bowed and she looked like a sheet of paper. "Iz-" I was interrupted. "This is not the time! I am very disappointed in you two young ladies!" Her father said angrily. "You are a terrible influence on our daughter." Her mother gave me a look of disgust. "I can''t believe we let you into our home." She continued. "We trusted you. I hope you''re proud of what you''ve done." He said. "I-" I muttered. Isabel looked over at me and shook her head.


    The principal entered the office along with Justin and his parents. "Your father will be waiting outside, he prefers it for everyone''s safety." He said to me, as he sat down. "Justin told us everything. In the interest of time I will summarize." He addressed everyone.


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    "Since the beginning of the semester Isabel has been showing her private parts to the boys in exchange for money." He said indifferently. "This occurred at the break times and lunchtimes every day." He continued. "That''s not true!" I objected.  "Isabel was with me-" I was interrupted. "SHUT IT!!" Justin''s mother yelled at me. I looked down in guilt¡­ "Continuing, she voluntarily snuck in and out of the boys bathroom to do so, and was aided by Justin Cole." He sighed. "Justin has confessed to stealing Mrs. Apate''s phone and using it to take inappropriate pictures of Isabel." He continued. "We examined the phone and it indeed has these inappropriate photos on it." He stated. "Her face is excluded however, so there would be no need for further examination." He looked at Isabel who was frozen with fear. "The phone was used to lower suspicion and allow the boys to ''see her'' at any time." He looked at Justin. "A disagreement between the boys caused the phone to fall and break." He stated "Justin took it upon himself to talk to Isabel about it. However he was attacked by CJ." He looked at me. My heart skipped a beat. "He left the phone as he attempted to defend himself and Isabel put it into her bag where it was found." He said. I didn''t hear anything but ringing afterwards. I didn''t hear the rest of the lies. "Three days suspension." Daddy read. "Tell me what happened." He whispered kindly. "I wanna go home." I said, my voice quietly bounced off the floor. "Okay." I could feel his concerned eyes and feel the warm embrace in his voice.


    The soft afternoon sun hit my eyelashes as I leaned onto the glass. I stared intensely into nothing. The moving houses and passing cars, like looking through an old television. I blinked and I was sitting on the sofa looking at daddy stooping in front of me. He was at eye level, silently comforting me with his eyes. I looked away and tugged my skirt forward. "Oh¡­" He said standing up. Then he sat a space away from me. "CJ? What''s wrong?" He whispered barely loud enough for me to hear. "I was-" I broke down in tears as I got up and hugged him.


    "Justin touched me and took off my clothes in front of everyone." I said distraughtly. I heard his heart begin to race when I said that. His fist slowly clenched and his chest tensed up. "He was going to touch Isabel. So I stepped in." I continued. "Someone else was taking naughty photos, it was not Isabel!" I blurted out. "And I''m sorry¡­ I hit Justin and that was wrong." I said. "Are you hurt? I''m so sorry." He began crying. "I promised that I would protect you and I failed." He continued. We were both crying. "It''s ok to protect yourself, ok CJ?" He whispered as I sobbed. "Don''t let anyone take advantage of you." He said. "Okay."


    Later in the afternoon daddy bought ice cream and we ate it together. We played together and watched movies. I was so full afterwards it hurt to laugh. The bitter sweet warmth of daddy''s arms, like the day. A snuggle of warm comfort after a cold terrible experience.

 Chapter 16: Who did it

    My eyes slowly opened as the cold air brushed across my legs. I glance at the open glass door as it is the first thing I see. Cold wind blows onto me once more and I shiver. I look down at my shorts. I slowly blink, then jump up as I realize that I''m alone. I hurry to my room carefully looking at the drawn blue curtains. I dress properly and slowly walk down the hall tugging my blanket behind me. I brushed my hand against the white wall as I rubbed my eyes. "Get over here right now!" I heard a distant yell. I pulled up my blanket from dragging on the floor. I peeked into the dining room from the hallway. Daddy was pacing outside and held his smartphone in his fist. The soft orange lights cast unease on his white shirt. There was something that made me really uncomfortable about the way he moved. He looked like he was angry enough to kill someone. I stood there and stared at him moving up and down the yard. My eyes swayed left to right as if I was watching a clock.


    "Im here," I heard a familiar woman''s voice. "Come over here." Daddy said standing in front of the glass door. I covered my mouth when I saw Mrs. Apate hesitantly walked toward him. "I realized that CJ has a bruise on her left wrist." He said casually "Do you know what happened to her?" He went on to ask. "Oh- well¡­" She muttered. "There was a bit of a fight today and CJ abused a male student of mine. So I took her by force to the office." She said with confidence. "She hit him, and you violently grabbed her arm to take her to the office¡­" He said with an inconsiderate tone as crickets sang in the background. "Do you have any idea of what he did to her!?" He began raising his voice. "How do you know that she was wrong?! Did you even talk to her before treating her like a criminal!?" He continued accusing her. She looked down in guilt and apologized profusely. "Cithena!" He yelled as he grabbed her by her shoulders. "Yes?" She looked up slowly. "I told you she wasn''t ready for school. They all saw her-" he stopped himself realizing he was speaking loudly. I blushed. He whispered in her ear and she covered her mouth. "That''s terrible." She said, "Don''t let anyone know about this. Especially them." He said pointing up into the sky. "Okay." She said, "What about the boy?" She asked frantically. Snap* His phone screen shattered as he continued to crush it in his hands. "Make sure no harm comes to him. His family is forgiven." He said kindly as blood dripped from his hand. "The same goes for the rest of the people involved." He continued.


    "CJ said that Isabel was not the culprit of the misconduct." He put his hands in front of his pants as blood dripped. "Oh, well-" She interrupted. "They were together for all the breaks and are inseparable." He continued with a judgmental tone. "I wish I-" She muttered. "Are you calling her a liar?" He stared menacingly. "No, I''m sorry." She bowed her head. "Look into it, okay?" He said. She nodded.


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    I went into my room and closed the door. "Isabel." I whispered into my blanket. "There is no way she could''ve done that. She would never, she''s too shy and obedient to sell herself." I thought to myself. "Besides she was with me the whole time right?" I doubted. "Why would she do something like that? Did she need the money?" I whispered. "What if she was saving the money to run away?" I said quietly in amazement. "But¡­ That would mean she''d be leaving me." I said with a weight on my voice. "No, she would never. There has to be someone else." I whispered. I fell asleep.


    I woke up lying on daddy''s chest, on the couch. He was sleeping and I slowly got up so he wouldn''t wake up. I noticed bandages wrapped around his left hand. "So it wasn''t just a dream." I thought. As I began walking to the bathroom the telephone rang. Daddy woke up and rubbed his eyes as he went to pick it up. He lifted the phone to his ear and stopped for a moment. Then he turned on the television. "Breaking news, a little girl was found dead next to a dumpster on Dolorosa road. She has been identified as Isabel Arora." I turned around in shock. "She was found with multiple severe scars and bruises. The autopsy confirmed that she died from blunt force trauma. Furthermore, a dog assumed to be hers was found beheaded next to her." The news reporter continued. "Investigations are continuing." Daddy realized that I was watching and quickly turned it off. "W- what happened to Izzy daddy?" I asked him. "Won''t she be in school today?" My voice cracked. I blinked the water out of my eyes. "I''m sorry, Izzy''s gone now." He whispered as he hugged me. I felt my eyes open, and my heart sank into a burning fire. "I''m sorry!" I cried as my jaw shook. "I- I''m s-so sorry!" I muttered through the blur. As if the Gods had sympathy for my pain, rain began to fall. My tears flowed and soaked his shirt. I cried for hours, and I didn''t even realize that he was crying as well. I never got to say goodbye.


    Later that day I went into my backpack and found a letter.


    Dear CJ, I will be in big trouble when I get home. Thank you for protecting me, you''re the best friend I''ve ever had. You always make me smile and you''re really warm when I hug you. You''re really nice and I hope we could be best friends forever. I''m sorry, I don''t think I would be coming back to school anymore. My parents won''t treat me very nicely and I''m scared. Even if I never see you again, I love you CJ! Let''s be best friends forever, okay? I know you will miss me when I''m gone. Don''t cry, you look better when you smile. Your best friend, Izzy.


    I ran to daddy and hugged him again. I showed him the note. "I- I never got to say goodbye." I cried. "I never got to say I love you too." I continued crying. Daddy gave me a glass of water when I calmed down. "I never got to say goodbye." I whispered.

 Chapter 17

    I nervously walk down the hall to go outside. "She''s just another rich girl who has everything." Isabella says. When she notices me she smiles with a menacing stare. "I hate girls like that, nothing but a crybaby that clings to daddy." She says as she walks toward the rest of the children. "She''s so weird." Isabella says. "Yeah, I was looking at her when her dad left, and you would not believe what I saw." Another girl says. "She was crying!" Isabella says hysterically as they all laugh. "Uhgh, crying like a first grader, I''m definitely not playing with her." Justin says. "What was her name again?" Isabella asks deviously. "CJ, more like Pee, J." They laugh. "That''s mean! You shouldn''t be so inconsiderate!" Isabel says. "Yeah everyone is different." Sofia says softly. Isabella scoffs and walks quickly towards me. "You''re nothing but TRASH!" She screams in my face. "Go on and run home to daddy." She teases and I run away. I feel an uncomfortably warm fuzzy feeling in my tummy. I feel like something is wrong with me, it hurts.


    Within D?v¨¦''s rule forsaken Gods were born. These Gods were the result of affairs between families and thus had no parents. They were disowned and banished from entering heaven. They would be scorned and mocked by everyone that saw them. One God was born unto Borea in this way. She was without a name or title simply called Chance. She was thrown out of heaven and dwelled on the earth. She granted fortune and misfortune to all life. Especially humans that took the initiative to make bets with The God of Probability herself.


    "We''re going to grandma''s house tomorrow ok CJ?" Mommy says. "Wow! Can we go to the lake too!?" I ask excitedly. "We can see the big lake monster again!" My eyes sparkle. "No, we won''t be able to go there¡­" Mommy says with half a smile. "Onera, what''s wrong?" Daddy asks kindly. "Can we¡­ talk outside?" She says and glances at me sitting on the bed. "Sure." He gently takes her hand¡­ After momentary silence I sneak over to the door. "I''m afraid it will become a problem as she grows older." I hear the tears in my mother''s voice. "She''s just a child, it''s ok." Daddy says to comfort her. I return to sit on the bed as daddy walks back in. "Nimueh, the lady of the lake." He says, "She is the guardian of the castle. She looks like a monster to everyone except the king." He whispers. I smile.


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    When we get to grandma''s house we walk to the big gates. Mommy takes out a shiny rainbow key with a bird attached. I stare at its mesmerizing glow as she lifts it to the camera. Moments later the black gates of heaven opened just wide enough for us to pass. "Good morning William." Daddy says politely to the gardener. "Wonderful morning, your highness." The gardener bows. I look around the endless garden littered with flowers of every color. The knocking of our fancy shoes on the stone pathway is gentle and calming. The house we are walking to seems tiny. I look up at mommy''s smile. When we arrive at the door, the house is so large I can''t even reach the doorknob. Then the door magically opens up and we are greeted by various butlers. "Would you like to remove your shoes, malady?" Smith kindly asks me on one knee. "I''d be delighted to have your assistance." I smile at him.


    When we walk into the huge ballroom there are only adults. The dim lights and glitter floor catches my eye. The golden ribbons sway in the soft air conditioning. The faint aroma of alcoholic champagne caresses the air. I squeeze my hands together politely as I smile. Clink Clink Clink* Grandma and Grandpa knock their glasses. "Thank you everyone for being here." Grandma says, "May the Xander family live on for eternity!" Grandpa cheers. "Happy Anniversary!" They all cheer. The thump from the mic startles me. "David! What a pleasure to see you, my son." Grandpa points. "Come on over to give mom and dad a big hug." He continues. I feel mommy''s hand gently rest behind my back. Grandma and grandpa hug daddy. Grandpa picks me up and kisses my forehead. "You''re such an adorable air." He says. "Yes, you have such a beautiful daughter David." Grandma rubs her hand against daddy''s shoulder. I look over to mommy. She keeps on a bright smile.


    "CJ, I''m here for you, ok?" Daddy said as he kissed my forehead. I cried myself to sleep in his arms.

 Chapter 18: Justice

    Two days later I went to school. When I entered the classroom everyone looked at me with sympathy. I looked at the memorial that was in the corner of the classroom. "I''m so sorry CJ!" Isabella said as she hugged me. "We''re sorry for your loss." The class said in an incomplete cacophony. I sat at my desk, right behind Isabel''s. I almost could''ve heard her. "Don''t cry ok?" She whispered. That day we learned about Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt.


    When the bell rang Diana and Isabella asked me to go to the bathroom with them. "S- Sure." I hesitated. They nervously closed the door, but they left a small opening. "I''m sorry. It''s all my fault!" Isabella said distraughtly. "I put the phone in her bag. I- I didn''t think that she''d get hurt." Diana confessed. "I took the pictures for money. I just wanted money for food!" Isabella continued as tears fell. "My- my mommy does the same thing, s- so I thought I could too." Isabella said. "It''s okay." I smiled. "No it''s not! I have been really mean to you and your best friend died because of me!" Isabella blurted out. "I forgive you." I said with a hidden fist. Suddenly the door swung open and Mrs Apate grabbed their arms. "Come with me!" She said sternly as they both began crying. I saw the God of War smile at me in the mirror. "Make sure no harm comes to them." She said, as I looked away.


    As we drove back home I listened to the radio. "Michelle and Hobbinson Arora were arrested for the murder of their daughter." I glanced out the window. "Tomorrow, we''ll be going to Grandma''s house. You''ll be sleeping over. " Daddy said. "Ok." I sighed.


    When we arrived, we were greeted by my grandparents. "Hello David, it''s wonderful to see you again." Grandma said politely. "Yes, it has been quite some time." Grandpa agreed. "Please, come in." They welcomed us.


    I looked around as we entered the house. It had been remodeled since we last visited. The once yellow walls were now ordained with paintings of flowers and birds. The tiles had changed as well, now they look like marble. "We know you''ll have to be at work David so I assure you we''ll take good care of her." Grandma smiled down at me. I squeezed my interlocking fingers as I pressed them down in front of me. I smiled politely.


    We sat together and ate lunch. "Have you heard about the new president?" Grandma asked. "He''s quite the adonis, and a respectable young man." She continued. "Yes, it is very sad that Cobalt was assassinated before the election." Grandpa sipped his drink carefully. "Condolences to the family." They all said simultaneously. "CJ, so what have you been up to in school lately?" Grandma looked down on me. "Well, today we learned about Cleopatra." I said lifting my head. "Ohh really!?" She faked amusement. "Yeah¡­" I bowed my head once more. "Cleopatra was the greatest ruler that Egypt ever had. In fact, she is a symbol of female empowerment and strength." She said gleefully. I looked up at her in concealed confusion. "You''re just adorable CJ!" She squeezed my cheeks. "You''re precious." Grandpa said.


    When daddy left she took me to my room. "Pearl? Could you prepare a bath for our guest?" She called out to one of the maids. Quick footsteps came from the hallway. A thin young lady appeared before us."Yes of course, head mistress." She said quietly. When we arrived at my library the door was opened before we could even touch the doorknob. "Dia, Thank you. Could you prepare a dressing selection for her?" She addressed the maid. She was quite tall and wore red ribbons in addition to her black and white maid outfit. "I would be delighted to." She said, in a masculine tone. As she walked briskly to open the doors in front of us.


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    I was surprised that there were still so many options of clothing for me to wear. It was as if they bought more and more every day that I was away. When I was all dressed up, we went to the second living room. When Dia opened the door 12 maids stood in a line facing us. They all stood shoulder to shoulder without a smile. I looked at the beautiful chandelier and wavy ceiling design. The tiny rainbows from the chandelier made the late afternoon sun sparkle like stars across the room. The paintings of the ocean on the walls and the distant whisper of the waterfall outside. "Sapphire, step forward." Grandma said. A very young girl stepped out from the side of the line. "Yes, head mistresses?" She asked shyly. "This is CJ, The Princess of the Xander house. From this moment on you are to serve her." She stated. I looked at her as she walked toward me, then quickly looked at the golden pattern on the marble floor. "Select the secondary maids that will serve under you."She said, quietly. "Ruby, Opal, Moon, and Alex." Sapphire said without hesitation. "Very well. Return to your duties ladies." She said, clapping her hands.


    "CJ and Sapphire come sit down." She said walking toward the sofa. The other girls left the room.


    "The Xander family is the largest and most powerful family on this continent. We will not tolerate insolence of any kind." Grandma said. "Sapphire is one of the many servants that understand this and she is going to be your servant." She continued. "From now on, you will conduct yourself as if you belong to this family CJ." She said sternly. "Oh, ok..." I looked down at my shoes. "That means that you will be living here from now on." She said, as she looked down at me. "Grandma- I-" I muttered. "You will have no say in this matter, your father already agreed to the arrangement." She smiled. My heart hurt as my mouth began to sink... "You are the heir to the throne after all." She said, "What is an heir?" I questioned¡­ "You will take my place as the head of the Xander family." She smiled kindly. "Let me tell you both a story." She said with a grin.


    There one was a young boy and girl that were in love. The girl was an orphan and the boy was the son of a farmer. The boy took the girl to the beach so they could both gase at the romantic night sky. They stumbled upon a cave, and the girl decided to offer up her flower to him there, but before she could speak to him a great light came out of the cave. When they both investigated, there was a great treasure that had been hidden in the cave. The treasure was so grand that they both became rich and got married. They cherished their wealth and desired to share it with their descendants. However, they would both carry a curse for discovering something hidden by the Gods. They had 2 sons and 6 daughters together, but the wife was cursed to be without any more children. So the husband had concubines come unto him and bear children unto his house. Those children were not of pure Xander blood and were not fit to inherit the wealth. Therefore, after much time, a pureblooded daughter was born to take the throne.


    "I don''t understand¡­" I grumbled. "You will soon enough." Grandma whispered.

 Chapter 19: Adultery

    When she was done talking to me I asked Sapphire to come to my room. She courteously closed the door behind her as she smiled at me. "Yes Malady, was there something that you wanted to discuss in private?" She asked with honey in her voice. "How old are you?" I asked her. "I''m 10 years old." She responded. "Oh, you look pretty." I blushed. She bowed in thanks. "What did she mean by you''re my servant?" I asked. "Simply put mistress, I provide all your wants and needs. Your wish is my command." She gently put a light fist to her chest. "So you''ll do whatever I say?" I asked deviously. "That is correct." The light flickered unlike her endearing gase. "Explain grandma''s story to me." I took her hand as I went to the sofa. She remained standing when I sat. "Why won''t you sit with me?" I pouted. "I was not told to sit down malady." She rehearsed. "Sit with me and don''t be so stuck up." I urged her. "Very well."


    The Xander house is separated into two parts, the masters and the servants. The pureblooded children, that were born from the lord and head mistress of the family and the impure. The impure are the servants of the Xander family, and they hold the title X. If an impure does something horrible, she is stripped of her title and thrown out. You are the princess of the Xander family because you are the last pureblooded daughter.


    "I don''t understand!" I grabbed my head in frustration. "It doesn''t matter. I''m the princess and that''s all there is to it." I giggled.


    Suddenly we heard a gentle bell ringing down the hall. "It''s dinner time Madam." Sapphire smiled. "Could you just call me CJ?" I took her hand. "I''m afraid I can''t do that." She whispered. "Lady, Cleopatra Jasmine Onera Xander." We went to the first dining room where everyone was gathered to celebrate my visit. I looked around at the magnificent colors displayed throughout the room. The painting of the magical night sky blended with the subtle purple lighting. I looked up at the purple sapphire chandelier. It was beautiful. I noticed there were no male servants in the room, as she took me to my chair. The occasion was so unexpected and unusual that I thought they were going to sing happy birthday to me.


    Soon, the food arrived and the display was even grander than what I saw at Mrs. Apate''s house. Even the sweet aroma of the food danced around the room. I looked at the black and gold tablecloth and the meal that was set before me. I looked down at it and remembered that daddy wasn''t there with me. My expression grew dim as I sat and ate quietly like a good girl. When we returned to my room my heart dragged on the floor. "Is there something that I can do to cheer you up, malady?" Sapphire asked with concern painted on her face. "I miss daddy." I mumbled as I lifted my hands to my face. "Oh. Would you like to go back home then?" Sapphire asked. "I- Yes, can you take me home?" I requested earnestly. "Very well." She walked outside and returned 5 minutes later. "Would you like to change your attire?" She asked. I nodded.


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    When we left I was escorted by a few maids into a fancy car. I still found it strange that all of my servants were female so I asked the driver when we entered the car. "The head mistress requested it for your safety." She replied. "Who is that?" I whispered to Sapphire. "That is Jet, she is your bodyguard." She replied. I hadn''t realized when the car had started, I just felt it moving.


    When we arrived at my house, all of the lights were off. They all walked with me to the front door. "Let me go in alone, I don''t want to startle him." I said to them as they unlocked the door. The lights were on in the living room and it smelled sweet of candle wax. The sweet floral fragrance embraced the evening warmth. I looked at the dining table where there was a candle that had fallen over. As I walked to the hall flower petals were littered onto the floor. They melted under the soles of my shoes. When I entered the hall I saw women''s socks and shoes. Subtle rustling creeped across the hall and stopped. I peeked into daddy''s room. The dim yellow light from the lamp on the nightstand draped itself unto a woman. She was covered by black sheets and her black hair hung hiding her face. As she breathed her shoulders rose and fell slowly. She looked as if she was hiding something. Then I heard a whisper, "Apate, I love you." Daddy''s heavy voice breathed fear into my heart. "Daddy?" I called as I slowly opened the door. She turned to me as if I was a ghost. "CJ, I- I''m sorry." Daddy said as they both scampered to hide skin and embarrassment. "What are you doing here!?" I raised my voice at her. She faced the other way in shame. "Onera! You''re Such a burden!" Apate screamed. "Wake up!" She yelled as the scenery immediately changed to a dark office. "Why couldn''t you have just left us alone!?" Mrs. Apate yelled at me. "Where am I?" I whispered. "Then the strange man I thought was my father sighed in relief. "We got found out by a child." He smiled innocently. I kept my eyes on the dim light as he put his pants on. "Don''t you tell anyone about this ok?" She said gently, turning faces like a card. "I''m scared¡­" I whispered. "What was her name again?" The teenager asked, as if I wasn''t there. "Onera, she''s just an orphan." She replied in pity. "Oh. Don''t worry then." He giggled as he walked out of the classroom.


    "Onera? You ran away from the orphanage again didn''t you?" She spoke very carefully and thoughtfully, making sure that I understood her. "The orphanage?" I asked in confusion. "But I was just with daddy." I continued. She looked down on me with immense sympathy, as if she was about to cry. "Let''s get you back to your caretakers, ok?" She said quietly as she took my hand.

 Chapter 20: The End

    "Oh she was at the school at this hour? I''m very sorry for the trouble. " Ms. Campbell said. "It''s okay, I''m just glad she''s okay." Mrs. Apate said kindly. I tugged her hand, I didn''t want her to leave. "See you soon, okay?" She smiled at me as she walked away. "So you did it again you little brat!" Ms. Campbell threw me inside. "No food until lunchtime! Go to bed!" She yelled. I hurried into the girls room. I wished this wasn''t real. The next morning Carl took me to the psychiatrist. "There''s something wrong with you." He said under his breath. I squeezed my fingers together.


    "Onera, wake up." I heard in my mind.


    >>Present time.


    "Onera, you''ve been running away from the orphanage." She says "Tom told me that you snuck into the grocery store last year." She continues. "No, I was with mommy." I smile. She looks down into her notebook. "I heard a little girl laughing loudly. She said ''I love you too mommy'' but when I looked into the aisle the little girl was there alone." She looks up at me with pity. "Onera, your mommy is gone ok?" She says quietly, touching my hand. "Mommy?" I ask. "She died when you were in the hospital, remember?"


    I sat on the chair next to her bed. I listened to her soft, frail voice next to me. I hadn''t seen her in weeks, and I struggled to understand what she was saying.


    "Onera. Come over here." She whispered. I go toward her and listen carefully.


    She turns to me in a face of nothing but brokenness and despair. I heard her last words loud and clear, "I wish you were never born!" She said, followed by the sound of a long unceasing beep ringing and echoing throughout the room. The doctor and nurses rushed in and took me out of the room. After a few moments the ringing stops. "I''m terribly sorry but she didn''t make it." They said, as I stood incredulous. Her last words stayed in my heart forever, along with the regret of never saying goodbye.


    "Yeah I remember." I begin crying.


    "You were at the school last night as well." She continues unfazed. "Yeah daddy was-" I mutter "Onera your father is dead." She said loudly. "No!" I cry. He died in war before you were born!" She continued. "No!" I screamed. "What is your name Onera!?" She asks with a yell. "Cleopatra Jasmine Onera Xander!" I scream. She stands up in frustration. "You are Onera Xander! Both your mother and father are dead, that''s why you live in an orphanage!" She continues. I curl up in a ball and cry on the seat.


    "Onera? It''s ok, I''m here for you to cry, ok?" She says kindly. "Why were you yelling?" I cry. "Yelling? I wasn''t yelling." She says in confusion. I look up at her and then Carl in the back of the room. Carl shakes his head. "You''ve been through alot. Why don''t you stay in the hospital for a day where we can monitor your condition?" She asks kindly. "I''ll take her to pack her bags." Carl says.


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    When I arrive at the orphanage, Ms. Campbell dresses me up in the best clothes. The yellow dress was beautiful and frizzy. I look like a flower and the perfume makes me smell like one too. Then she puts a special necklace on my neck. "This was from your mother." She whispers to me. While eating lunch I was so hungry that the food tasted like it was from heaven. I squeeze my fingers together under the table. When they open the car door to take me back to the mental hospital I run away. I hide behind Jerald''s Candy store as I cry. "Isabel''s really dead? And so is mommy and daddy. Why is everyone so mean to me? I guess I really am a burden." I say to myself. "You should go back." Sapphire says, stooping to comfort me. "You''re not real." I whisper. "Of course I am mistress. Are you afraid?" She asks kindly. I stand up and dust off my dress. I begin walking and get caught up in a daydream of flowers and birds. As I waltz into the woods a feeling of unease drafts over me.


    "Don''t be scared, daddy is here to protect you. " Daddy says as he holds my hand. "I''ve found you!" Hades whispers and the scenery suddenly changes to the back of an alleyway. I look up at his tall dark figure. "You''ve been too much trouble you little brat!" He says in a dark captivating voice. "Leave her alone!" Daddy steps in front of me. He laughs and walks straight through him like a ghost. As he gets closer I look at his hand, it is as sharp as a sword. I start running away as fast as I can. Moments later he grabs my shoulder and turns me around. In an instant he drives his hand through my chest. "That should put an end to you." He whispers. I look down at my yellow dress and the gaping wound. The blood slowly turns my dress black and I fall backwards as I lose all my strength. The dirty water splashes as I fall into it. I feel no pain for the first minute. I am just covered in blood, sweat and water. Then I feel my stomach turning inside out as the pain begins. I start screaming and crying profusely, as the blood drains from me.


    "Your time has come." Chance says as she descends upon me. "You can now become a God." She continues. "The Xander family made a bet with me concerning the birth of their queen" She states. "Since both your mother and father are siblings it was highly unlikely that you would survive to be 8 years old." She giggles. "So we gambled with a few human lives and came to the conclusion that when you die you would have the opportunity to switch places with me." She says, "Cleopatra Jasmine Onera Xander, do you wish to keep your human life or become a God?" She asks. "I don''t wanna die." I cry. "Well you need to die to take my place." She says, "Do you wish to remain human?" She asks¡­ I lay down in the bloody water and think to myself. "I want to stay alive." I whisper.


    I wake up in a hospital bed with a doctor standing over me. He is holding my diary. "The book of the gods, quite the imagination." He smiles. "That is my life." I struggle to speak. "I wish it were all real. I wish it wasn''t just the bad parts." I whisper as a tear drops from my eye.


    "Onera Xander suffers from serious mental health disorders. She''s been through a lot." The psychiatrist says to the doctor. "Everything will be ok now." She smiles as she gently rests her hand on mine.