Connor Harris and the Storms of Time

By Brad Patterson

A group of six teenagers and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier go camping overnight on a cattle property in Central Queensland, Australia. Things start to go amiss with a personality clash and get worse when a huge electrical storm brews. The campers seek shelter in a large shed and are amazed at what they discover inside. The conflict and tension builds between the characters with the mounting storm until someone in the group sets things in motion by activating a prototype time machine and the teens are transported back to prehistoric Australia. The group must now depend on their wits and each other as they explore this land previously unseen by human eyes. They encounter, battle, and attempt to outwit dangerous megafauna and witness the savage struggle for life. The unusual wildlife of early Australia feature largely in this adventure story. The creatures of Australia's past are brought back to life through museum accurate depictions with a touch of drama. The teens must come to terms with their situation and focus on sorting out their problems. They have to set aside their differences and pitch together in order to survive and overcome the dire challenges they face. Will the group be able to make it back alive? A real page-turner from start to finish.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brad Patterson
• Release date: Sep 18, 2012
• ISBN: 9781301302598

Brad Patterson

About the Author:Brad Patterson was born in Brisbane in the sixties and grew up on the Gold Coast before moving to Central Queensland where he spent about 20 years. He enjoys camping, archery and motorcycles and is passionate about the creatures of the past – especially Australia’s megafauna. He now works full-time lecturing on law enforcement, legislation, polices and procedures. This is his first book.

Book preview

Connor Harris and the Storms of Time

By Brad Patterson

Copyright 2005 Brad Patterson

Smashwords Edition

Cover design by Jeremy Taylor. http://www.jeremytaylor.eu/

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Prologue

Connor looked out from his perch some thirty metres from the forest floor. The gently swaying branches of the eucalypt tree gave him warning of the rising wind. He looked up from his work and watched the approaching storm clouds with a mixture of hope and a little fear. Everything relied on the storm getting here. He froze in alarm when a movement on the ground across the clearing caught his attention. "Oh no, no, NO! Simon get out of here now – get back into the shed! It’s back! He rasped in a harsh whisper to his older cousin waiting at the base of the tree. Hearing the warning, the muscular boy immediately tensed and started scanning the bush. He looked up briefly, fear plainly evident in his young face. Where Connor? The alarm in his voice showed he was close to panic. The little general made an executive decision and gave the order to save the bigger boy’s life. Go now! It’s sniffing something on the ground on the other side of the shed." The fourteen year old was relieved to see Simon sprint for all he was worth across the uneven ground and into the safety of the shed.

Hastily, Connor finished securing the wire to the trunk above his head. Now it was a waiting game – for the highest possible stakes. If that animal caught anyone of them it meant certain death. Last night was a very close call and they were all still shaken. Connor’s wary blue eyes peered between the gum leaves, studying the beast as it circled the shed. It was pausing every now and then and scenting the air. He was sure it didn’t know he was out there watching. He felt trapped, he couldn’t get back to the shed with it searching the area, and he knew that he couldn’t stay hiding up in the tree waiting for the storm to come. There was too much he still had to do! "Why did it have to come now? How am I going to get back with the others?" He looked in his pack for anything that might provide an answer. As he felt his way through the contents he thought back to when he first packed it for this trip – only three days ago now, but from a time that was far, far in the future.

Chapter One - A long awaited opportunity.

A tall plume of dust, visible for kilometres, rose behind the unlikely expedition. The five teenaged cousins, one Staffordshire bull terrier named Oscar, and a collection of packs, camping gear, and a canoe were strewn haphazardly in the rear crate of the cattle truck as it bumped its way across the paddock. They had been traveling for over an hour under the hot Central Queensland sun and there was still some distance to go. Connor Harris, the youngest and smallest member of the group spoke up excitedly as he braced his wiry frame against the timber slats, I can’t believe we’re finally going! This day has taken ages to get here – we get to set up the camp and have the day to ourselves before Clare’s Mum and Dad get there. I’m in charge of where we set up the tents his cousin Clare asserted. I want to make sure that we don’t get any campfire smoke getting in like last time we were out here. The enormous cattle property they were traveling across had been in the Harris family for generations and Clare was keen to get things organised. I wonder if we’ll find any fossils down by the lagoon? Riversleigh has thousands of fossil bones and it’s not that far away said Morgan eagerly, who at fourteen years of age, was something of an animal expert. So you’re going be digger of dead ones, and not a saver of sick ones now Sis? Connor teased his twin, their blue eyes locking as they joined battle in the playful banter. Maybe, maybe not. I think I might become a veterinarian just so you can tell people your big sister’s a vet because you might have trouble saying the word paleontologist. She said smiling sweetly. The others laughed at the joke. The twins were very similar in appearance, although Connor was shorter, and his cropped light brown hair was slightly darker than Morgan’s flowing golden locks. Chrissie, their older sister, was taller again and bore a close likeness, there was no mistaking that the three were related. Ha ha, very funny Connor said dryly but don’t go getting too big for your britches Morgan, you’re my twin – Chrissie’s my big sister. I’m older by a minute and that’s all it takes for you to have two big sisters little brother. The laughter erupted again as Connor shook his head in defeat. There’s no winning that argument. It must be time to change the subject. Hey Simon! Tell us about your new friend. How come he’s sitting in the front with Clare’s dad and not back here with us? Simon Archer changed position from where he was standing, peering through the slats across the paddocks so that he was now facing Connor. The sixteen year old footballer was strongly built and had an air of quiet confidence. The others moved in a bit closer so he wouldn’t have to raise his voice too much, no sense in being overheard if there was something confidential to be said. Simon looked over his shoulder briefly to make sure the pair in the truck’s cab weren’t paying him any notice. Patrick’s a bit of loner, he’s only moved in next door about a month ago and he hasn’t made any friends yet at his new school. He’s fairly quiet and he doesn’t play any sports but he seems okay. I haven’t really spoken to him at all, just a nod or a wave over the fence sometimes. I’ve only met his mum. She was talking with my mum about how he hasn’t got any friends yet, or relatives around here, and when mum told her about how we all hang out and go camping and stuff like that Mrs. Shaw asked if Patrick could come with us. Mum thought it would be good for him to come. Simon spoke softly and the others listened and nodded their heads. So why isn’t he out here making friends now? Clare asked pointedly. I guess he’s just shy Clare, why don’t we give him a chance before you decide not to like him? Chrissie spoke up in defense of Patrick. She swept her long blonde hair up and twisted it back into a knot to stop the wind blowing it over her face as she put her baseball cap back on. Clare wasn’t pleased with Chrissie’s comment and wasn’t going to let the matter drop. I saw him wrinkle his nose when we threw our packs and stuff in the back of the truck here. He didn’t like the smell Chrissie, and he turned his nose up at it. I think he’s a big soft city boy – you prove me wrong. Cow dung does have a certain aroma that takes a little getting used to. Connor joked, at least the stuff back here is all old and dried up. I saw a big wet one where you put your pack. Morgan teased as Connor jumped up and hastily checked his pack. The others all laughed as he smiled with relief. I’m the one who plays the tricks Morgan, that’s my job. Clare saw an opportunity, Well I reckon there’s a prime target in the front seat for some special attention, let me know if there’s anything I can do to help. Connor looked at Clare thoughtfully; she would be an ally all right. She was lean and fit and fearless, her piercing green eyes saw through pretenders and her sharp tongue had cost her friendships in the past. Clare was not someone whose help you could lightly dismiss. He smiled at her and gave her a nod and then looked across at Chrissie who had noted the exchange. Connor I hope you’ll behave yourself, Patrick may just need a little time to get to know us and join in. Don’t do anything that you could regret. "No Mum. Connor replied with a cheeky grin. I won’t hurt him, but I’m not going to miss out on a bit of fun either. Connor had a well-earned reputation for setting traps or playing tricks on people. His eyes seemed to be always on the alert for mischief. His easygoing manner and natural charm usually helped him get out of some sticky situations that his mischief had got him into. Like the time when he tossed live cane toads with empty drink cans tied to their legs onto the roof of the house next door. Every time the toads hopped about, the cans would make a racket on the corrugated iron and the neighbours would come out and yell, Who’s rocking the roof! Connor was found out because he was laughing so much that his Mum and Dad realised that there was something going on and made him go next door and apologise, then use the ladder to retrieve and then release the toads. Connor’s earnest apology and his charming manner saw him forgiven, but he was always the first suspect whenever anything unusual happened. Chrissie wanted to make sure he didn’t forget. Hey Connor, remember the time when you smeared the vegemite on the teacher’s toilet seats at school? Everyone but Connor burst out laughing. How could I? You keep reminding me and there was that week of detentions. Morgan joined in, What about the time when you made a goldfish out of a slice of carrot, and ate it at the pet shop after you pulled it out of the fish tank in the front window! The group was really rolling around the floor laughing now. Yes that was well done, a little too well done. I had to pay for a fish that I never really ate and I got banned from the mall for a month. They still won’t let me back in the pet shop. Connor admitted. Chrissie showed reason. Well just think about it before you do something next time. You’re so keen on joining the S.A.S., I bet they always have a plan B in case it all goes bad. I bet if you thought more about what might go wrong you’d probably not take the chance. Chrissie, I’ll think about it, but don’t forget the motto of the Special Air Service – Who Dares Wins I will join the regiment when I’m old enough. These are just practice missions."

Changing the subject, Simon asked, Clare, do you think there’ll be enough dead trees around so we can have a big bonfire? Don’t get your hopes up Simon. Even if there are, we’re only allowed to have small cooking fires in the fire pit we used last time. Mum and Dad will be there around nightfall and Dad would be furious if he got a phone call from old man McConnell telling him to put out a big blaze that we’d lit while we were waiting. I didn’t think there were any houses anywhere near the lagoon. Well there’s not really – his place is about three kilometres as the crow flies, but he can see clear across the creek flats from his shed up on the hill. You’ll see when we get there, Clare stated flatly. Just cooking fires only was the deal, Chrissie said. Otherwise we wouldn’t have been allowed to come and set up the camp without an adult. I know, I know, Simon said. Anyway, its still going to be great, I just thought a big fire would be good, I’m not really worried. Morgan said, I’m more interested in of all those fish and frogs and turtles in the lagoon. If we can’t catch any live ones, you can all help me look for a skeleton or a fossil for my collection. Connor objected, You can find your own smelly bones, I’ve brought a fishing line so I’m going to try and catch a perch. I’ll just have to remember to keep some fishing line aside for later. Chrissie seized on his comment, What do you mean keep some aside for later? What else do you intend to use fishing line for? She asked, arching an eyebrow in a direct imitation of her mother. The twins rolled on the floor laughing. "Nothing Mum!" They chorused. Chrissie joined in the laughter that had spread to the others bouncing in the back of the truck. Even Oscar lolled his tongue and seemed to grin as only a Staffordshire bull terrier can.

Bill Harris steered the truck through a gap in the trees and forded a slow moving creek. Hearing a sharp intake of breath, his attention was drawn to the large 16-year-old boy seated opposite him. Patrick Shaw peered uneasily through the glass at the water swirling around the wheels. We’re gonna get across this alright aren’t we? Yes, nothing to worry about – there’s a good firm stony bed here, we won’t be getting bogged. Bill said easily. The youth relaxed visibly as the eight ton truck scrambled up the bank ahead and continued on its way to a chorus of cheers and yahoos and do it again! coming from the passengers in the rear. How far is it now Mister Harris? Not far now sport, probably about another fifteen or twenty minutes. I’ll drop you all off at the lagoon to set up camp, and then I’ve got a few jobs to do before I head back to the farmhouse and pick up Missus Harris. Then we’ll come back out to join you. We should be back just after dark. Patrick nodded as he reached into his pack and dragged out a chocolate bar.

Mum said camping would be good for me, but are there any wild animals or snakes and things out there at the lagoon? he asked between bites. There’s always a few things moving around out there, but if you don’t annoy them or chase them you’ll be right. As for snakes, just make a lot of noise with your feet when you walk and they’ll get out of your way. We haven’t seen any wild pigs out there for a while but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Oscar will keep them out of your way, a few barks tends to make them head the other way.

Bill looked at him thoughtfully, haven’t you been camping before? No not really, my uncle has a small property out from Roma but we stayed in the house. I don’t go outside much. Patrick dropped the empty wrapper on the floor before reaching into his pack for a bag of chips. I’m usually on my computer – I’ve got heaps of games, you know; fantasy and science fiction. I even play some on-line. I’m a great warrior too on account of how I take on bigger enemies and I always win. There’s been a few times when it’s been really close but I always manage to be victorious. I’m great at killing zombies and wraiths and even dragons. Patrick’s face glowed with pride. Give it a break sport, Bill said as he looked at the boy, weighing him up. Patrick was large for his age, overweight and soft looking. His dark greasy hair was untidy and his small piggy eyes, heavy jowls and upturned nose did not help his appearance.

Do you play any footy? No I don’t play football, I prefer thinking games, Patrick said with a sniff. I see, Bill replied. I don’t know how well Clare will get along with this bloke. Bill thought to himself. He thought about each of the kids in the cattle crate behind him. Clare, at 15 years old was the complete opposite of Patrick. She was competitive at any sport. Bill had taught her to ride horses and motorbikes; and she was worth her salt when it came mustering time. His brother’s kids Chrissie, Morgan and Connor Harris were all pretty active too, and Morgan was a great mate of Clare’s despite being a year younger. Simon Archer was his sister’s only son and was a good bloke – for a city kid. At least he was willing to have a go at anything and he played rugby league. Simon was tall and good-looking and a year older than Clare and Chrissie. He had his father’s muscular build and despite his looks and abilities, Simon was not vain. Bill considered taking Simon aside and talking to him about helping Patrick fit in this weekend.

He was interrupted in his thoughts by a beeping sound coming from the passenger’s side. He glanced across and saw Patrick concentrating on a handheld computer game tapping furiously at the controls, no doubt battling some of the creatures he had talked about earlier. Bill shook his head. Not far now, he said aloud, more to himself than anyone else.

Not far now. Clare reported back to the others as she climbed up the side of the crate and peered ahead. The wind blew her light brown hair back from her tanned face. She smiled and breathed deeply, enjoying the smell of the eucalyptus trees as they passed on either side. The flat grassy paddocks had rolled by and now there were a few more trees and hills.

This used to be a huge lake years ago; according to some old timers that granddad had mustering for him. They reckon that the lagoon used to go from those hills right across this plain to the slopes on the other side. The aborigines back then used to tell tales of how dangerous it was to try to canoe across in the old days. There must have been some big old crocs in the lagoon back then Morgan. Morgan jumped up and stood beside her, eyes squinting to keep out the wind. I hope we can find some fossil bones. It would be really cool to find a croc skull. You two look like a pair of cattle dogs – all you need is to have your tongues hanging out. Ouch! Connor yelped as the two girls jumped down and started pinching and punching him. Remember what I said about thinking before acting Connor! Chrissie laughed as she joined in the fun. Simon save me! Connor yelled. Simon started to lift Morgan off Connor, but Chrissie and Clare grabbed his knees and pulled him over onto the packs with a thump. Sounds like he crushed the eggs Chrissie – you should have thought before you acted. Connor preached, before the group burst out laughing. This is gonna be a great weekend. Morgan predicted as the truck pulled up to halt.

Bill opened the door and jumped out into the grass, come on Pat, we’re here mate, come lend a hand. He invited. Just a minute. Patrick was still busy with his game and didn’t see Bill shake his head as he walked to the rear of the truck. How’s the livestock? Bill asked jokingly, You didn’t cop too much dust did you? I heard you cheering when we crossed the creek so I figured you were enjoying the ride. It was great Uncle Bill, I love riding in the back of the truck. Morgan was enthusiastic. Yeah no worries Uncle Bill, the girls smell fresher than daisies now. Ouch. Connor was too slow to avoid Clare’s punch.

Bill laughed as he pulled the ramp out from under the rear tray and then slid the gate across to allow the group to unload and walk down. Here we go – form a line and we’ll pass everything out like an old fashioned fire brigade with water buckets. We’ll start with the canoe. Connor, the little general, started giving orders like a natural leader and the others simply nodded and set to work. All the gear was unloaded and sitting in the grass when Clare looked about and said, where is he? Where’s who? Connor asked, Oh yeah, Patrick. I’d forgotten about him.

Clare strode straight to the front of the truck and opened Patrick’s door. We’re here at the lagoon Patrick; we’ve just unloaded the truck without your help. Patrick didn’t look up from his game for even a moment, yeah righto. I’ll be there in a minute. Clare glared at him. "You must be joking? Are you really playing a little game instead of helping out? You’ll have to pull your weight around here you know. Her emphasis on the word weight caught his attention and he sensed from her tone that Clare was seriously angry. He looked warily at her for the first time. I haven’t done anything. What are you so upset about girlie? That’s exactly it. You haven’t done anything! Now get off your butt and help us get the camp set up. And my name’s not girlie!" Clare turned on her heel and stormed off without waiting for a reply. In truth she wasn’t sure she could trust herself to say anything more, without really telling him off, and she wasn’t about to do that with her father within hearing.

Chrissie watched the whole exchange whilst Bill and the others started smoothing out tent sites and rolling rocks toward the fire pit. That could have gone better Clare. "That lazy boy is just sitting there twiddling his thumbs while we do all the work. If he thinks he’s going to be waited on this weekend he’s sadly mistaken. Clare looked back as she heard the squeak of the truck door and watched as Patrick gingerly made his way down out of the cab dragging his rucksack with him. He looked across at the two girls for a moment then casually wandered in the opposite direction without speaking. Oh that’s rude! Clare fumed. Ease up Clare; he’s probably not sure what to say to you after your little speech a moment ago. Just give him a bit of time. C’mon let’s start getting the camp set up." The two cousins joined the others at the campsite in moving bags and equipment into position ready for the pitching of the tents.

Bill winked at Connor and pointed at the stocky black dog sniffing around the area. "Make sure Oscar doesn’t chase any of my cattle, or I’ll have his hide on the shed with the other