Guarding Paragon

For Lisa, Nathan, and Cole

1 Timothy 4:12

Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young.

Be an example to all believers in your love, your faith and your purity.

Prologue

Ophidian paced, his black form throwing a shadow on the golden gates. He could see portions of the Garden, a place he knew so well and still longed for. The desire to conquer and rule pulsed through his veins.

His wings pressed tightly against his back, hidden under his cloak. Retracting his talons, he glared at the two beings dressed in white, their wings outstretched and glowing. Their mouths were opened and praises floated from their lips.

A feather on his wing twitched.

He’d sung those same words once, but now his insides churned. The Creator was near.

What is it you want, Ophidian? The Voice came from just beyond the gates as a sudden brightness forced him to look to the ground and kneel. Twigs and dead grass surrounded his feet, a stark contrast to what lay beyond the gates.

I want your creation.

It is not yours to have.

You believe so much in what you've made and yet they deny you. They worship other gods. They mock you and curse your name. When will you learn and give up on them?

Never.

You know what I want. Boldness strengthened his words. He could never be The Creator’s equal and envy burned like fire inside of him. One he could never extinguish. His legs ached to stand, to show his own power.

Your arrogance has always been your downfall. I know My creation. And I don’t need anyone to defend Paragon, or anything else you desire.

He curled his lip into a smile. He was clever and this new idea would confirm it.

Prove it then. Prove they would choose to come here and fight for you. Give me a chance to conquer Paragon. Bring your humans to defend it and we'll see how faithful they are.

Humans—a weak and selfish lot. Paragon would easily become his. Ophidian narrowed his eyes as he lifted them toward the gates only to have the fierceness of the light force his head down once more.

He waited. He wanted to remove his cloak and reveal his wings, but he could not in the presence of The Creator. He’d lost that privilege when he chose his own way, a decision that cost him much. All the more reason to conquer and rule.

I will allow this.

He grinned at his good fortune.

The light intensified. He threw his hand over his face and growled. Heat burned in his chest and stole his breath. With a whoosh, the light disappeared. Ophidian panted and tried to regain his composure. Once able to look up, he noted the guardians of the gate had folded their wings. Cowering before them made him hate the guardians all the more.

He stood, removed his cloak and opened his wings to their full span. With his arms outstretched and fists clenched, he leapt toward the sky.

Chapter One

Avery could feel each blade of grass under her feet, sliding between her toes, soft and smooth. Once again she walked among various fruit trees, colors so rich and deep her eyes paused at each one. There were oranges, bananas, and mangos. Other fruits she didn’t recognize–large, lavender-colored orbs with green sprouts on top lined the ground. Her tongue tingled as if she tasted them. She felt weightless. Each breath of crisp, clean air invigorated every part of her being. The bushes were like velvet as she ran her hands over them, each touch sending a tingle up her arm. She looked out on the horizon. The setting sun cast a yellow and orange glow across the valley beyond.

A movement to her right caused her to turn, but she saw nothing. She looked left. Still nothing, but he was there.

Hello? The desire to befriend him overwhelmed her. She moved through the trees, closer to where she sensed him.

A bush rustled and he emerged from behind a tree, only a few yards away from her. He was even more beautiful up close. His brown eyes flickered with gold in the sunlight and he was tall. Drawn to him, she reached out to touch his face. He took a step back, and she withdrew her hand.

I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to frighten you, he said, his voice soothing her.

You didn’t.

She took a step closer, relieved to see he didn’t retreat this time. What’s your name?

Nick. And you’re Avery.

"How do you know my name?

I know everything about you, Avery.

The faint echo of a bell rang out, but looking around, Avery couldn’t see its source.

His gaze held hers, but as the ringing grew louder, his form began to fade. She reached out to hold onto him, but the ringing continued and he drifted further away. And then he was gone.

Avery! Avery, wake up! You were talking in your sleep again. Your alarm’s going off. Didn’t you hear it?

Joss turned off the still ringing alarm and looked at Avery.

You’re starting to scare me a little with these dreams. You were calling out ‘Nick’ and grabbing for something.

Sitting up in bed, Avery focused on her surroundings. The dullness of her dorm room replaced the allure of the garden.

He told me his name.

Dream Boy’s name is Nick? Wow. This gets weirder by the minute.

Why is it weird that he has a name?

It’s not. It’s just weird that you’re having these dreams almost every night and now this guy’s talking to you. It was one thing when he was just a vision, but now he has a name.

It feels so real. Avery lowered her voice. She looked at her hands folded in her lap.

Joss crawled up the L-shaped bunk onto Avery’s bed and sat next to her. You’re starting to scare me. They’re just dreams. When Avery blinked back tears, Joss reached for her hand. But I believe it feels real to you.

She leaned on her friend’s shoulder. Sorry for putting you through all this.

You’re not putting me through anything. I’m your friend and I want to be here for you.

You are. Thanks.

Anytime. Come on. Let’s get ready for class.

She hugged her pillow to her chest as Joss climbed down and grabbed her caddy of toiletries from the closet.

Where would I be without you? Avery smiled.

Joss stopped at the bottom of Avery’s bed. Nowhere. I’m your reason for living. Hang in there, friend. We’ll find Mr. Right someday and he won’t just come to life when we fall asleep. She patted Avery’s foot and headed down the hall to the bathroom.

The room was quiet and a faint breeze blew through the window. It was early fall and the morning air was getting cooler. She laid back and looked up at the ceiling, picturing Nick once more. His light brown hair streaked with blond, his deep brown eyes, attentive to her every move. His blue jeans and tight T-shirt showed off his muscular build. He was beautiful.

Lost in thought, she didn’t hear Joss return from the bathroom until she spoke.

Get your lazy butt moving, roomie, or we’ll never make it to Old Testament class on time.

Avery rolled her eyes and jumped down to grab her gear. OT was a required course and taught by a professor old enough to have been alive when the Old Testament was written. Why did she think this class would make the Bible easier to understand? It didn’t.

"Cheer up! An hour of this class and your brain will be too numb to worry about anything."

*******

Avery wiped her hand over the mirror, fogged by the shower behind her. Her black hair, normally sleek and shiny, was knotted. The dark, puffy circles beneath her eyes betrayed her lack of sleep. Her fair complexion was something she was always proud of, but keeping it that way in Southern California was tougher than she’d thought.

Leaning forward, she ran her toothbrush under the faucet and then gently over her teeth. As she stood, she rubbed the mirror once more. In the misty reflection, a man stared back at her. His dark hair was mussed and sweatshirt soaking wet. Familiar but vacant eyes stared back at her as blood trickled down his head and over one eye. Startled, she dropped her toothbrush and spun around but found no one there. She turned back to the mirror and wiped it with her towel. The mirror cleared, but she saw only herself.

Dad? She scrubbed the mirror frantically as if that would erase her own face and bring his back. Dad? Her shout echoed against the tiled room as tears blurred her vision.

She turned again, but her father was gone. She took a deep breath. Afraid her legs wouldn’t hold her if she let go, she gripped the bathroom counter until her knuckles cramped. A girl peeked around the shower curtain and stared.

Are you okay? the girl in the shower asked.

Yes. Sorry. Yes, I’m fine.

The girl disappeared behind the curtain again and began to hum.

Avery couldn’t keep from glancing in the mirror one last time. Only her reflection stared back. She had to pull herself together. Cold water on the face was a good idea.

The shower stopped and the girl emerged wrapped in a bathrobe. A towel around her hair like a turban.

You sure you’re okay?

Yeah. I’m fine. Avery put her toiletries back in her shower caddy with shaky hands. I just thought I saw… No, I’m fine. Thanks.

The girl smiled and left the bathroom.

Avery faced the mirror. How could it be? Her father was…she shook her head. What was going on?

Another girl entered the bathroom, reminding Avery it was time to get past whatever she just saw and head to class before she was late.

Chapter Two

The neon clock glowed orange and yellow above the door of the nightclub. It was after one o’clock in the morning. Nefarius was late. The table vibrated to the beat of the music as Ophidian looked around. From a booth near the back, he breathed in the scent of insecurity and self-loathing, a sense of warmth flowing through him. Women sat on barstools in short, tight skirts while men draped themselves on the women. He loved these places. Humans seemed to seek temptation.

He glanced at the diamond-encrusted watch on his wrist, making sure the nightclub clock was correct. A General, and one of his highest ranking officers, Nefarius was ruthless and cunning, but never late. Ophidian feared what could be keeping him.

As if on cue, Nefarius entered the club and stopped, looking through the smoke-filled haze for his boss. Ophidian waved him over, amused when two women tried to step in front of Nefarius and divert his attention. Ophidian had taught Nefarius to use his tall, muscular form and attractiveness to draw people to him and do his will, but tonight Nefarius shrugged them off and made his way toward the booth.

Master. He nodded to Ophidian and took a seat.

A waitress placed two napkins down in front of them, leaning toward Nefarious while doing so.

Now what can I get you two handsome gentlemen this evening?

Why don’t you choose for us, sweetheart, Nefarius answered with a seductive smile and wink her direction.

I’ll be right back then.

Nefarius’ lips faded from a smile into a firm line as he turned toward Ophidian.

There is much to discuss, Master.

Yes. I noticed your tardiness. Tell me there’s nothing wrong.

He didn’t answer right away, causing the hairs on the back of Ophidian’s neck to stand up. Nefarius only hesitated when the news was bad and he feared Ophidian’s wrath.

Nefarius lowered his eyes to the table and said, The Creator has begun to set a team in place. We’re missing intel on three souls who seem not to be on earth, in the heavens, or our depths. Another soul is traveling between worlds.

Then they must be in Paragon. Ophidian steepled his fingers and frowned.

And I believe there are more being sought. The fourth soul, a young man, comes and goes to churches and chapels where I believe the portals to Paragon are found, but I don’t know as we are not allowed inside holy places.

Ophidian slammed a fist onto the table causing Nefarius to jump and lower his head even more. I know where we aren’t allowed to go!

He ran his hands through his black hair and scratched his neck. The General cowered before him. The red and blue hues of the lights reflected off Nefarius’ golden hair. Sit up straight! You look like a sniveling fool. What good are you if you can’t carry yourself the way I need you to?

Nefarius sat up taller but his eyes went no higher than Ophidian’s chest.

That’s better. Confidence was key for members of his army, but he relished the power he had over them. Control made him hungry for more. He wanted power over everything, over everyone. His eyes wandered to the two women who had approached Nefarius when he entered. They both smiled and waved. He returned the gesture.

Like moths to a flame, he said, marveling at the ease with which humans trusted someone they found attractive.

Nefarius looked him in the eye. I could send Apparions to see how many there are and test their strength. But our resources are limited. If we send too many, we could lose power here on earth.

I’m aware of my limitations, Nefarius.

Yes, sir. His eyes lowered again.

You decide how many we can spare from earth.

When shall we go and how do we get there? The General’s spine straightened at the thought of battle.

You leave that to me and wait for my command.

Nefarius nodded as he picked at his thumbnail.

What is it? Ophidian asked.

I feel it would also be wise to see if we can intercept any new recruits before they head to Paragon. Nefarius leered. In fact, I already know of one and have begun to test her faith.

Ophidian rubbed his chin. That’s good thinking. Keep me updated. His eyes wandered back to the bar. And have a little fun with those two before you leave. He winked at Nefarious who nodded and left the booth.

As Nefarius sauntered over to the women who now giggled like schoolgirls over their good fortune, Ophidian pondered his next move. So, The Creator had found a few poor saps willing to fight for Him. No matter. He could still defeat them.

The waitress returned and set two drinks down, disappointment showing on her face at Nefarius’ absence. Ophidian raised his glass in a toast to her and took a sip. She winked at him and wandered back toward the bar. Oh yes, he would conquer. Humans were just too weak. Paragon would be his.

Chapter Three

Avery’s cell phone vibrated. It was a text from David.

Where r u? Joss and I are in the caf.

I’m headed there now. Got caught up in a mtg with my advisor.

She slipped the phone back in her pocket and headed for the cafeteria. As she came in, she saw Joss and David at their regular table in the corner by the window and grabbed a salad and iced tea before joining them.

Why did your meeting with the advisor take so long? Joss asked.

She keeps hounding me to pick a major. I know I can’t stay in General Ed forever, but it’s a tough decision.

Come on, Avery. David shoved a handful of French fries in his mouth. It ithn’t that hard.

That’s so gross. Don’t talk with your mouth full, Joss admonished. I think it’s ridiculous they expect us to have it figured out by our sophomore year. And it’s easy for you to say, David. You’ve always known what you wanted to do.

Not always.

Joss rolled her eyes. Oh please, you’ve been drawing since the womb. Architecture was an obvious choice. She stole a fry from David’s plate and continued. "Plus, you had encouragement from your parents to study something you love, not just something that will make money."

True. You choosing to be a pastor must really irritate your parents, he said.

Yeah, well, I figured if anything was going to stick it to ’em, that would do it, Joss said, wiggling her eyebrows in an attempt to look sinister.

Well, you’re both lucky, Avery said. You were encouraged to follow your dreams, David. And although you joke about becoming a pastor just to piss off your parents, we all know you’re doing what you love as well, Joss. I, on the other hand, have no clue what I love or what I want to do with my life.

You could always spend your life sleeping and dreaming, Joss batted her eyelashes at Avery.

Shut it, Joss, Avery said. Not now.

David sat up straighter and glared at her. Still having those dreams?

Yes, she whispered, avoiding his stare and shooting daggers at Joss instead.

The silence and tension that followed was tangible. The look on David’s face made her regret ever mentioning the dreams. He didn’t find the situation as intriguing as Joss did.

He stared at his plate, the lines in his forehead betraying his frustration. It wasn’t that Avery didn’t love him. She did, but like a brother. Nothing more. Many girls on campus thought her a fool. A younger version of Denzel Washington, David played baseball and was popular, not to mention a gentleman with good values and a sensitive side.

‘Don’t you have a game later, David?" Joss asked.

His Yeah was almost unintelligible. I better go get ready.

Okay. We’ll see you later. We’ll both be there, won’t we, Avery?

She gave him a weak smile. Yeah, we’ll be there. Good luck, David.

Thanks. His lips curved into a slight smile, letting Avery know things were okay between them for now.

When David was out of earshot, Avery slapped Joss across the arm.

Ow! What was that for? Joss rubbed her arm and scowled.

"What do you mean, ‘What?’ Why’d you do that? You know my dreams make him jealous."

Oh please. How can he be jealous of some mystery man in a dream? The guy doesn’t even exist. David knows there’s no chance with you, so what’s the problem?

I know he knows there’s no chance, but I still don’t want to rub it in his face.

Look, I love David like a brother, too, but the sooner he gets over you, the better. He won’t find Miss Right if he keeps moping after you. Maybe if he knows you’re pursuing your dream man, he’ll let go.

"Okay, now you are talking crazy. I’m not pursuing a figment of my imagination who shows up in my sleep."

Did you ever stop to think that God might be trying to tell you something? We’ve been studying in theology how He spoke to people in their dreams. Joss popped a fry in her mouth