Tales of the Protectors: The Elephant Path

By Lisa Pence

The Elephant Path, book two in the series Tales of the Protectors, continues the story of the Protectors, Maxwell, Jack, Eden and Gem, who return to Everwell where they further their training expecting to be assigned to another simple protection assignment.

The Protectors arrive at their long-awaited training grounds, Everwell, only to discover they now have access to a garden with one of them possessing special powers there. After strengthening their protection skills even further, the children stand together with another team hoping to prevent the loss of innocent life during an assignment no one could foresee. The Protectors find themselves in the middle of a civil war with more than one group of victims to defend, all the while keeping an eye out for Norris who continually has Maxwell in his crosshairs. Past friends and old enemies reappear in this sequel to Almost Heaven – Tales of the Protectors as the teams combine their strength and talents in a desperate attempt to save the world from a loss that cannot be regained.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Morgan James Fiction
• Release date: Apr 6, 2021
• ISBN: 9781631953415

Lisa Pence

Lisa Pence has a master’s degree in Adult Education and is the author of An Illness Observed with Reluctant Eyes and Almost Heaven – Tales of the Protectors (Book 1). Lisa and her husband reside in Charleston, WV with their two dogs, Rosie and Penny and two stray cats, Lulu and Winnie, who they have adopted. They are both pet enthusiasts who support animal rights and animal rescue originations, such as the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee.

Book preview

Chapter One

THE RETURN

After breakfast, Maxwell O’Malley ran out the back screened door, jumping over the two concrete steps leading down to the sidewalk beside the garage. He hopped on his bike without missing a step and sped off down the gravel road on his way to work at his grandfather’s stables. It was hard for him to imagine it had been nearly a year since he had served in the ranks of the Protectors. After returning from the Protectors headquarters at Everwell to his former life here on Mackinac Island, activities had returned to normal; so much so, his subconscious sometimes tried to convince him his time as a Protector was all a dream.

He knew, however, that it was not a dream due to his one, fleeting conversation with his grandfather the night he returned. That night in the stables, his grandfather could tell from observing him that he had been chosen to serve as a Protector. The following day, when Maxwell asked his grandfather how he knew, he told him of the subtle changes only one who had served as a Protector would recognize: Your arm movements were precise like that of a soldier; your posture emitted confidence; and your demeanor showed more maturity and confidence. Also, I saw a different look in your eyes.

What kind of look? asked Maxwell, puzzled.

A look of someone who has seen things not of this world, answered his grandfather, looking up as he paused his work shoeing a horse. Maxwell tried to ask his grandfather about his past service in World War II, but he wouldn’t discuss it. Other times when they were alone, Maxwell would try to bring up the subject of the Protectors, but his grandfather always managed to deflect the conversation. Several months had gone by since the last time Maxwell had mentioned the Protectors to his grandfather. So, one day when they were alone and closing up the stables, he mustered up the courage and decided to give it another go. This time, his grandfather sat quietly for a moment as he closed his eyes. His face grimaced, as though he was experiencing physical pain. His demeanor instantly changed as he insisted Maxwell should not serve as a Protector; it was far too dangerous. He was determined that Maxwell contact Everwell and resign from their ranks immediately. Shocked, Maxwell slowly stood up from the stool where he had been sitting and silently backed away.

His grandfather’s negative response left Maxwell feeling abandoned and confused. At that moment, oddly enough, he felt the weight of the necklace Adele had given him to return to his grandfather, which he still wore around his neck. Maxwell remained quiet as he pulled the necklace over his head and handed it to his grandfather. He didn’t know why he had waited until that moment to return it, only that this felt the right time. Alexander opened his eyes and reached out to gently grasp the hanging pendant and get a closer look to see if it really was the same necklace. The necklace he had given Adele. It was. He closed his eyes again as he bowed his head, but he said nothing.

Maxwell thought, Nothing on earth can ever make me leave the ranks of the Protectors. What could have happened to Grandfather to not feel the same? He decided as he walked out of the stables, that this would be the last time he brought up the Protectors.

The next day, as Maxwell walked his bike up Fort Hill—a particularly steep road leading to Fort Mackinac, overlooking the island—he reminisced over his past year. Recently, if time permitted, he would try to make his way to the top of the island to sit quietly for a few minutes on Anne’s Bench near the edge of the cliff, overlooking the town, to take in the morning view. He had stopped his daily treks to the old cemetery with the turnstile, where he had unsuccessfully willed himself to be swept back to Everwell. No matter how many times he went through the rotating turnstile at the entrance of the cemetery, he always remained on Earth.

After giving it much thought, he had decided it must be too dangerous for the Protector leadership to bring him back. That was the only logical excuse for him hearing nothing from Adele or anyone else at Everwell. If only he had exchanged addresses and phone numbers with the other three American Protectors, he would at least have their friendship and support. With his grandfather opposed to any conversations, it would have been comforting to tell his companions about the odd situation he found himself in here at home. He knew the other members of his team would come up with different scenarios for how to respond to his grandfather’s behavior, and the girls would definitely have ideas about how to talk to him.

Early that morning, the hilltop was deserted as Maxwell made his way past the fort at the top of the hill. He steered his bike to the right, off the paved road, and into the gravel path that led to the white gazebo used in many of the wedding pictures taken on the island. Maxwell heard the seagulls calling in the marina below as he made his way to Anne’s Bench for his morning observation. Peaking over the ledge, he saw no movement in town, except for the flying birds swooping down then up again. He thought it strange because most mornings, docking boats were pulling into the marina for a day of fun. Maxwell quickly dismissed it, assuming everyone was sleeping in and reasoning it should be a slow morning at the stables. With some careful stepping, he made his way over to the wooden bench placed there for visitors, aptly called Anne’s Bench, and fell backward into the seat as he had done on most mornings for the last several months. But this time, the picturesque scene in front of him disappeared as he kept falling.

Norris is coming to get me! Maxwell’s first thought was of his grandfather’s enemy from the Protector world as he continued to fall backward. The bright light of morning went dark as though he had disappeared down a well with no bottom. He tumbled backward in several somersault rotations before he was able to straighten out into a flat fall. Within seconds of realizing he was alone, and no one had taken him, he felt the familiar, soft touch of feathered wings surrounding him as his fall slowed. The wings maneuvered him upright as his feet gently touched down on a solid surface. Maxwell’s heart raced with excitement as the wings opened from around him, and he found himself back in Everwell with Finnae, who was smiling and clapping her hands. Welcome back, Maxwell! We have missed you.

Maxwell ran to Finnae and gave her a big bear hug, which Finnae awkwardly received. It’s great to be back. Are Jack, Eden, and Gem here yet? Maxwell asked straightaway.

I believe Jack said he would be eating a quick snack in the dining hall, and the young ladies were going up on the flight deck to reacquaint themselves with their wings, answered Finnae.

Of course, I should have known, said Maxwell with a smile as he ran out of the room, thrilled to be back. He felt more at home here in Everwell with his friends than in Mackinac with his grandfather.

Maxwell stopped running when he came upon the GUST, remembering Josiah’s warnings from the previous rotation about jumping into the GUST and landing on other Protectors and trainers. Like a seasoned Protector, he stepped in and made his way up to Level Alpha and the dining hall.

Maxwell peeked through the window in the door leading to the dining hall. He saw Jack sitting by himself, eating his way through a stack of pecan pancakes covered in syrup with a side of buttered toast. Maxwell watched him roll up a pancake, put it between two pieces of toast, and chomp down. He couldn’t help but laugh before bursting through the door and doing his best impression of Josiah: Mr. Jack Lewis, we have had reports of you eating up all the food supplies for the day. Nothing will be left for the rest of us!

Jack jerked his head around, spotted Maxwell, and yelled out as food came flying from his mouth. He jumped up from the table and ran to Maxwell; he hugged him like a brother, giving him a slap to the back while still chewing the remaining food in his mouth. Afterward, they pushed and shoved one another as only best friends can. Both boys laughed and walked back to Jack’s seat at the table.

I’m glad to see you’re eating healthier, remarked Maxwell sarcastically, looking down at the food on the plate.

Hey, I’m eating wheat toast, replied Jack, pleading his case. Grab something to eat.

I’m not hungry, said Maxwell. Where are the girls?

They’re upstairs flying . . . I’m done anyway. Let’s go meet them. Jack crammed all the leftover pancakes into his mouth and grabbed a handful of toast for the walk. Both boys went through the door leading out of the dining hall and walked down the hallway to the GUST. What have you been up to? asked Jack, genuinely interested.

My time away was strange, replied Maxwell. I’ll tell you all about it when we find the girls, so I won’t have to go over it twice. Jack nodded in agreement, still chewing. The boys rode the GUST up and stepped out without incident.

I’ve really missed being here, said Jack, brushing the leftover breadcrumbs off his shirt as they walked down the corridor to the flight deck. Don’t get me wrong. Going home was great. Seeing Mom and my friends, riding my skateboard. I even got a part-time job giving lessons to new riders after school . . . it was all fun. But there is something about being here. This feels like I belong.

Maxwell slowed his walk as Jack spoke. I know what you mean. My grandfather didn’t react to me being a Protector as I thought he would. It just made me want to get back here as soon as possible. Maxwell and Jack stepped out of the hallway and into the expanse of the flight deck. They saw Eden and Gem off in the distance and began their walk over to meet them.

Both girls were working on their quick stops and starts while landing on target. They saw Maxwell and Jack walk up and immediately flew down to greet them. Both girls hugged Maxwell. I see you were able to pull Jack away from his food! teased Eden. Everyone laughed, even Jack.

Tell us what you did during your time off, said Gem. The three of us already caught up, but all of us wondered about you and your grandfather. What did he say to you?

Did he tell you about his assignments? asked Eden, not giving Maxwell time to answer.

Was he pleased you were chosen as a Protector? asked Gem.

Why did he give Adele the necklace? asked Eden. Maxwell, come on. You’re not telling us anything!

Give him a chance to answer, girls, interrupted Jack, turning to face Maxwell as he continued speaking. Start from the beginning. Tell us everything. Leave no details out—no matter how small. Maxwell knew everyone would want a report about his time away from Everwell with his grandfather. He couldn’t blame them. He would be just as eager for answers.

The friends decided to walk over to the edge of the flight deck and sit down away from the other flyers. They sat close, cross-legged, facing each other so they could speak softly but still be heard. Maxwell had everyone’s attention.

My grandfather knew almost immediately that I had been chosen as a Protector. He asked me the evening I returned when we were alone in his stables.

How did he know? asked Eden.

I guess since he had formerly been a Protector, he knew the signs, answered Maxwell. But he wasn’t happy or excited. It’s like he was scared for me, which I can appreciate. What we do can be dangerous, but I thought he, of all people, would understand. But he didn’t. In fact, before I left this last time, he forbade me from serving as a Protector and insisted I resign.

The other three Protectors sat quietly in disbelief as Maxwell spoke. Every time we were alone, I tried to bring it up. I wanted to know about his time as a Protector and how he was a hero during the war, but he wouldn’t even discuss it. He would ignore what I said and talked about the horses or the tourists he met that day or an upcoming festival on the island—anything but the Protectors. I know there is more to his story than what we know. The question is how do we find out the rest?

Well, your grandfather proved to be a disappointing source of information, said Eden in a depressed tone. We are going to have to turn to individuals here at Everwell who are likely to talk. I think Deborah or Rachel would be a good place to start. During our last rotation, they seemed to want to tell us more.

And maybe Josiah, added Jack. He said last time he felt you should know all the details.

Sounds like we have a starting point, said Gem with a clap of her hands as the four stood to walk to their resting quarters. They made their way down the hall and into the GUST. The group dropped down to Level Sigma and hopped out just in time to see the Protectors from China whom they had met last time. The boys high fived with Kai and Tao, and the girls hugged LuLu and Wen as they discussed another rotation at Everwell. Both groups of four had to move out of the way as four rookie Protectors tumbled out of the GUST. Maxwell and Jack couldn’t help but laugh out loud as the others chuckled.

Is something funny, Mr. O’Malley and Mr. Lewis? asked Josiah, who stepped off the GUST behind the new Protectors.

No, not at all. Nothing funny here, answered Maxwell and Jack, talking at the same time. Well, gotta go, said the boys as they waved goodbye to Kai and Tao and made their way toward their room. Josiah winked at Eden and Gem as they quickly said goodbye to the Chinese girls and followed the boys down the hall.

The four Protectors passed many friends from different countries as they made their way to their resting quarters. The British group stopped to talk for a moment, catching up about their time away. They introduced the other two Protectors from their group, which the American four had not previously met. Katie and Jacob introduced Jordan and Harrison, the other half of their foursome. The group chattered on about the possible upcoming assignments. The English Protectors couldn’t help but poke fun at the Americans about their last assignment, guarding senior citizens at an assisted living facility, as they had the more esteemed assignment of guarding the prince during the deployment of his armed forces.

Maxwell, Jack, Eden, and Gem all held their tongues and said nothing of the actual adventure they had really experienced during their last rotation. In contrast, the British Protectors had done very little protecting since the prince had received bogus threats on his life and had been kept on light duty at his airbase until their rotation was up. The four Protectors laughed along with the kidding and lightheartedly told the Brits they had heard enough and would see them later at dinner or in training the following day.

When the four children arrived at their respective doors, both pairs paused and looked at the flags posted there before walking in. It’s really great to be back, said Maxwell to the others. I can’t wait to get a look at our training schedules to see what we will learn this time.

We should get a better assignment now that we’re not rookies, Jack speculated.

Hopefully, this rotation, they will not assign us to protect someone who is really protecting us, added Gem.

The problem is, they know the real threat, and we do not, reminded Eden. We know bits and pieces of your grandfather’s past, but we need to fill in the gaps. Perhaps after dinner, we can find Josiah, Rachel, or Deborah alone and have a chat. With that, she turned the knob on her door, and both girls walked into their room. The boys did likewise.

When the boys opened their door, the room looked the same. It appeared as though they had just left for a day and returned. Jack ran over to the behold-a-scope and turned on his home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. He cheered and laughed as he scanned up the highway and saw a herd of bison in the middle of the road with a line of cars crawling along behind.

Maxwell followed Jack’s lead, turning on his behold-a-scope to see his home back on Mackinac. He scanned quickly down Main Street and then turned down a back alley to check on his grandfather’s stables. His grandfather, Alexander, stood in front of a group of customers, instructing them on the rules of horseback riding before they began their outing. He placed a small step stool beside the horse and demonstrated the proper technique for a beginner to mount a horse. Maxwell watched contentedly for a few minutes but remained confused in his thoughts over the mystery of