The Guardian

By Lydia Rodriguez-Clement

THE GUARDIAN is a story about how Sarah's spiritual beliefs are reaffirmed when the existence of Angels and Demons are horrifically revealed. Never had she dreamt that her mundane life would be caught in not only a struggle to stay alive in this clash of worlds, but also in a sadistic plan by the Dark Angels to lure Jacob, her own Guardian, to fall.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Apr 3, 2014
• ISBN: 9781491899564

Lydia Rodriguez-Clement

Lydia Rodriguez-Clement, a native Texan, grew up in the beautiful city of San Antonio where this story takes place, and where she attended a local college and university. It was in high school, however, where she was told she had a flare for writing, and decided many years later to persue this noble art. She has been married for 19 years, and has five children and two dogs. Her family life keeps her very busy, but after surviving Leukemia with the help of God, family and friends, she followed her life long dream to continue writing.

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© 2014 Lydia Rodriguez-Clement. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 03/31/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4918-9955-7 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-9956-4 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2014905661

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

CONTENTS

Chapter 1

New Beginnings

Chapter 2

First Sight

Chapter 3

Chance Or Destiny

Chapter 4

New Emotions

Chapter 5

Secret Plans

Chapter 6

Revelations

Chapter 7

A New Dawn

Chapter 8

Two Paths

Chapter 9

Within The Shadow

Chapter 10

The Covenant

Special praise to God, thank you for the second chance. I would also like to thank my family and friends who supported and encouraged me from the beginning, especially my husband Chris and my own Guardian Angel.

To my children Elizabeth, Felisha, Rebecca, Christopher and Naomi. Never give up on your dreams.

CHAPTER 1

New Beginnings

S arah’s life at this point had consisted only of school. Her studies were all consuming, leaving her a non-existent social life, and an empty bank account. So, one morning she found herself caught in the mundane act of commuting to her very first job.

As she waited amongst the parked cars on the highly trafficked highway, she turned up the radio to help pass the time. Like all the other summer months, the tourist were in town, which made the morning, and evening commutes unbearable.

Oh, that’s a good song. she said as she started to drum her hands to the music on the steering wheel. It was then that she noticed the purple hair band still on her wrist.

Ugh! Of all the things to forget, I forget to do my hair. she complained, frustrated with the mornings’ events. She hurriedly struggled to put her chestnut colored hair up in a pony tail as she tried to make it look at least a little decent.

She paused for a few seconds to survey the traffic for any movement, then complained again.

Man… I’m going to have to leave earlier next time to avoid all this mess.

Sarah was the kind of person who took pride in punctuality. Just the thought of being late to a job her best friend had pleaded with her boss to give her had begun to worry her. Her friend insisted it would be the perfect place to work until Fall classes started up again.

The two had met their first year at college during French class. Sarah had picked the table way in the back to sit; a safe place to hide—or so she thought. Genevieve, late as always, sat in the only empty seat available; which happened to be next to Sarah.

Sarah’s first impression of Gen was that she was a party girl, a wild child, extremely confident, and very, very pretty. She was tall, blonde and blue eyed, everything Sarah was not… complete opposites.

Hesitantly, Gen finally spoke to her several days later, and surprisingly enough the two made friends easily. She saw Sarah as a homely looking girl with potential. It was now Gen’s sole duty, and personal project, to help Sarah out of her shell. To transform her into the social butterfly she knew deep down Sarah could be.

The girls were practically inseparable from that moment on. With Genevieve’s animated personality, and Sarah’s quiet nature, they struck a perfect balance, and kept each other laughing.

Meanwhile, traffic started to flow again, and Sarah took the opportunity to change lanes. The car behind her vigorously honked his horn.

By the time she finally arrived at the ice cream shop, Genevieve was already behind the counter.

Rushed, and very flustered, Sarah blurted out in apology, Hi Gen, I’m so sorry I’m late. Traffic was just horrible, and I know you didn’t have to put in a good word for me, and I appreciate everything, Gen, really I do. Sarah then began to fidget with an apron as she tried to tie it around her waist.

Alright, alright, Sarah. Man, take a breath, and chill. I knew I should have warned you about the traffic. Don’t be so nervous, okay? I know you will do just fine. Anyway, the big boss is not even here yet. Gen reassured her. Here, let me help you with your apron. She said as she gestured Sarah to turn around so she could tie the apron strings.

Sarah quickly twirled around with a smile, and calmly continued, Did I mention how much I appreciate you helping me get this job?

Yes, only a million times. It was no problem. We always need the extra help during summer. Come on, let me give you the grand tour, said Gen, as she guided Sarah to the front of the shop.

Gen started her tour with an exaggerated wave of her arm, gesturing like a television game show host, As you can tell, the front of the shop is made of glass. The manager likes for us to wipe it clean everyday.

And the floor? Wow, a wonderful black and white checker board. Sarah chimed playfully.

Yeah, I know. I guess they thought it would resemble the old ice cream parlors. Hey, if you look at it long enough, you’ll get dizzy. they both laughed.

I’m sure you’ve tried it. Didn’t you? Yeah you did! Sarah teased.

Ah, you know me all too well. But I digress. Over here we have tables for two in the front, and regular tables everywhere else.

Gens’ feeble attempt for an Academy Award winning performance was rudely interrupted by Sarah as she reminded her that it wasn’t necessary.

Uh, Gen? I’ve been here before.

Shh, please leave all comments, and questions till the end of the tour, thank you.

Sarah knew it was best just to keep quiet as Gen gave her silly tour. She had always been good at making her laugh, so Gen resumed her guided tour with her overly stated arm waving again.

Over here is our work station with the assortments of ice cream, and the soda fountain machine. I’ll show you the cash register later. On your right, behind the counter, is a small hallway that leads to the manager’s office. Come, let’s go have a peak, shall we?

Gen impishly dragged Sarah to the back office steering her by the arm, as she continued, And here in the office we can put our belongings on the left, by the wall. That hook up on the wall is to hang up our coats, sweaters, and or aprons. Oh, and you don’t have to pay for parking, because we have our own little parking lot in the back. Tah-dah! Gen exclaimed wearing a huge smile on her face as she forcibly thrust open the back exit door, knowing that Sarah’s car was already parked there.

Ouu, aww, that’s going to save me money! Parking is expensive! Sarah responded in an energetic voice as she played along.

Well, that concludes our tour for today. Please pay the beautiful young blonde woman the fee of twenty dollars. Thank you very much, and please come again.

Sarah applauded enthusiastically as Gen gave her theatrical bow, and laughed loudly, as they leisurely walked back to the front of the shop.

Mr. Schmidt, the owner of the ice cream shop, had walked in, unbeknownst to the girls, and brashly cleared his throat to get their attention.

Miss Butler?

Startled, Gen jolted, and then quickly turned around. Mr. Schmidt! You scared me!

Who do we have here? he asked, as he looked straight at Sarah over his bifocals, and bushy gray eyebrows.

Oh, this is Miss De La Rosa. The friend I told you about last week, remember? You gave her a job for the summer?

Mr. Schmidt suspiciously glanced over at Sarah, looked her over, and then extended his arm for a handshake.

Very nice to meet you… Miss De La Rosa. So, you are Genevieve’s friend?

Sarah nodded slowly, Yes, sir.

You have my condolences then.

Ah… you know you love me Mr. Schmidt, and I’m a good worker too. Gen interjected, ending it with a comical smile.

Mr. Schmidt smiled slightly, and then instructed, Get to work ladies.

With that said, he walked to the back office as he put his hands in his cardigan sweater, saying nothing else.

Don’t worry about him, he’s a sweetheart. informed Gen. Here, now let me show you the register.

The register had indeed proven to be a more difficult skill to master than Sarah had anticipated. Hours later, she was ready for the clock to scream shift change. She knew it would all take time, but after her first day at work, she wanted desperately to join the masses that gathered outside in the warm sunshine. The picturesque Riverwalk taunted her as she looked out the glass wall of the shop, always busy, and filled with music. She found it a great place to just blend in, and enjoy her surroundings. It was one of the few places she felt like she could be herself, and unfortunately, a place she barely had time to visit. The only other place was her relaxing Cathedral, which held a special place in her heart. It was where she had spent most of her childhood. Many fond memories of playing with the children of other parishioners, and watching her parents, who were very active within the church, organize fundraisers. The ice cream shop was perfectly located between the two, which guaranteed her plenty of opportunities to visit them both more often.

It was several weeks later, and a cloudless day, as the summers usually are in Texas, when the sun finally reached the 100-degree mark.

What a great place to work during these hot summer months. Sarah stated when they both finally had a minute to talk after the lunch hour crowd left.

Are you going back to school for fall classes? asked Genevieve.

Absolutely, I’m taking this summer off so I can save up money for my books, gas, and maybe an apartment. Oh, but don’t worry, I think I’ll keep working here. Well, depending on my class schedule. God knows we all need the money just to scrape by now a days. said Sarah, as she started to wipe down the counter.

Yeah, tell me about it.

And another good thing about this job is that you don’t have to spend any money on a stupid uniform… just jeans and a shirt.

You know, I’ve noticed that about you, Sarah. Don’t you ever wear… like… a dress and make-up?

"Yes, I’ve worn a dress! I’m just not that girly, you know. But don’t get me wrong, I’ll wear make-up, just not a lot. My Mom has always told me, ‘less is more’, on that part. A natural look is better."

Less is more, huh? Well, I think the guys like that idea too, but I think they’re talking about the clothes part.

Gen! Is your mind always in the gutter? You nasty thing. Sarah giggled.

What? You know you thought that too, Sarah. Don’t lie to me. Gen started to giggle too.

Anyway, like I was saying before, said Sarah, as she tried to get Gen’s mind off of boys, primarily because it always highlighted the fact that Sarah was still single. This job is ideal for me. When I start school, and if I stay working here, I won’t have to change clothes. Well, at least until we have to start wearing scrubs. I can just come here right after my last class.

What is your major anyhow? Gen asked as she realized that she had never asked before.

Pediatric Nurse. I should be graduating pretty soon, and I’ve already received some information from several hospitals around town that I’m interested in. And how’s your P.R. classes?

Sarah glanced up at Gen after stacking more ice cream cones, and noticed that Gen was just staring off into space.

Gen? You weren’t even listening to me, were you? Sarah asked with a grin on her face.

After a few seconds Gen asked, Huh? What? looking back at Sarah with a blank expression.

Never mind. Sarah said, shaking her head as she walked over to the dining area to start cleaning the tables before shift change, unaware that her plans for the future were never in her hands from the beginning.

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There have been strange, and mysterious occurrences that have happened which we have not understood, nor have we even noticed for that matter. Maybe humanity lacked the spirituality to understand and see, or maybe… we have just simply chosen to close our eyes. While it was true that our world was highly guarded against the world of the paranormal, the change of plan that took place within the Angelic realm on this particular day caused a chain of events that lifted that very veil for Sarah.

The day had started like any other in this unseen world; with a Guardian Angel perched on the peak of the tallest building in the downtown area. It was a common post this vigilant and highly ranked soldier used to survey the whole city. He was an exceptionally handsome Angel, forever young, tawny brown hair, and with eyes the color of golden honey, that conveyed trust, but commanded respect

The warm breeze whipped through his hair, and made his white sleeveless shirt cling to his muscular chest. His wings had unfolded which made his brown, white tipped feathers visible as he cautiously stood up. His eyes were fixated on something in the distant sky.

It was another Guardian Angel, who soared toward the gothic building. He carefully circled the building, and landed on the ledge just below, stood at attention, and waited for permission to speak. This Angel was just as magnificent. Adorned with raven black hair that was slightly wavy, pure white wings, and piercing clear blue eyes that could glimpse through any soul. His forearms were strong, and both wrists were covered with leather bands, which clearly branded him as a soldier. He was the epitome of the word perfection from head to toe, and wing tip to wing tip.

The perched Guardian purposefully jumped down to the ledge, and clasped his hands behind his back. He began to examine this newcomer, inspecting every inch of him with extreme prejudice.

Speak. he demanded.

The newcomer respectfully explained, Captain Caleb, sir, I am reporting to my new post, sir.

Captain Caleb knew full well who this was before him, and yet he remained quiet and serious as he unnervingly got within inches of the soldiers’ face. His disagreeable expression conveyed that a reprimand was imminent, but suddenly, and most unexpectedly, the Captain’s face, and demeanor changed completely. He now wore a huge grin from ear to ear, and opened his arms wide.

Jacob, old friend… my brother! It is good to see you again! The two gave each other an embrace with a strong heavy-handed pat on the back.

Caleb continued with a chuckle, I did not think I could hold back my joy for that long. We can forget the formalities this time. It is just wonderful to see you. How long has it been… two… three hundred years?

Jacob gave a sigh of relief and smiled, Yes, I believe so. For a moment there I thought you were going to reprimand, or dismiss me.

Not to worry Jacob, I have kept some of my humor these long years. When I was informed of a new soldier being posted here I never would have thought it was you. What an outstanding surprise.

Same here my brother. You look well.

As do you. I see you have not added to your many scars.

"And I see that you have added to yours." Jacob said as he gestured to his own forehead above the right eyebrow.

Ah… yes… I will tell you that story later. the Captain said as he rubbed his scar, remembering the incident with fondness.

They both turned to view the city to see the multitude of people, and cars below. The people were going about their lives on the hot city streets… oblivious to the symbiotic existence of the Guardian Angels.

Caleb pointed down at the city, Well, this is it. This downtown area, as the humans call it, will be part of your new post, along with your new charge. Oh, but do not worry, I will not put you to work immediately. Do you still burden yourself with all those human artifacts?

Jacob just looked down, and smiled as he nodded ‘Yes’.

Well, I will give you enough time to put your affairs in order. I suppose you will need to find a place to store those dusty old things. Caleb stated with a grin as he shook his head in bewilderment. It was then, that a very curious expression had come over the Captain, and inquired, Jacob? I have always wanted to ask, why do you collect those things, anyway?

Jacob glanced up, turned his face to view the city again, and with all sincerity answered, Well… everything changes so fast here, and the places I have been posted throughout the ages are all so different. It just amazes me how humans have transformed into intelligent and wonderfully inquisitive beings.

Caleb tilted his head toward Jacob, and in confidence admitted, Unfortunately, not every human acts intelligently, or wonderfully. Here in the city you will be witness to humanity at their worst. They are all too easily swayed by evil. The Fallen Ones hardly have to whisper their lies to lure them into sinning anymore. Their faith can be paper thin.

Jacob looked down again, almost discouraged, but he seemed more concerned than anything else after hearing this disheartening news.

Oh Jacob, I apologize for sounding so hopeless. There are many who are steadfast to their faith in Father. We just need to continue doing our duties. By encouraging, and comforting them, we can help them find their way back to him. Caleb paused and then continued, But now, a word of caution.

Jacob turned his full attention to his new Captain as he warned, The Fallen Ones have far more vices to inflict upon, and corrupt these humans than ever before. They have been destroying lives by the thousands. Most of the time they disregard the rules. They simply do not stop at just whispers. They go as far as possessions, or outright attacks. These attacks, Jacob, are on humans and Guardians alike.

His voice now had become more authoritative, and he heavily emphasized each word, So be… on… your… guard. We have been experiencing a high volume of confrontations between us, and the Fallen. Their demon dogs have been known to coordinate ambushes as well. That is why we have two other Captains with their own battalions posted here, and I will introduce them to you later. You know, I believe they might have served under you when you were a Lieutenant Commander. In any case, for the most part, we have been the victorious ones. I pray that my warning has not diminished your anticipation of this new post?

Jacob’s face had an expression of determination, and his chiseled jaw was clenched as he stated, I am ready for some action.

Caleb grinned, and then bellowed a hearty laugh, Spoken like a true Guardian!

With his eyebrows raised at his old friend’s amusement, Jacob could not help, but laugh along.

The Captain felt much more at ease after hearing Jacob’s informal response that he walked to the ledge, and looked down over the side of the building onto the busy streets below. He glared back at Jacob, and with a playful look on his face he asked, Ready to take in the sights before collecting your things?

Jacob had been waiting for this. Caleb always had a challenge for him, and Jacob had never backed down.

Neither one of them waited for a reply. They both shouted Whoa! as they dove over, racing down the side of the building with their wings tucked in like a bird of prey at lightning speed.

As the street below rushed toward them, they glanced at each other, and grinned, then faced toward the ground again which was now twelve stories away. Their eyes narrowed, and without fear or hesitation, they both used such precision as they swooped up just inches away from colliding with the pavement.

Jacob yelled Yeah!, and with a strong flap of his wings soared over the trees. He continued on, flying until he had passed a serene Cathedral. His first impression of the Cathedral was that it was built in a Spanish Mission style, typical of the southwestern region. Further down was the Riverwalk, and he managed to catch a glimpse of the people strolling beside it. The river wound completely through the downtown area like a snake transporting barges, which floated along carrying tourist. It was lined with tree-shaded restaurants, and patio tables covered with colorful umbrellas that dotted both edges of the river like peppermint candy. He flew higher, and higher, making a mental note to visit the river again. ‘It would make a great place to watch the people go by’ he thought.

With a huge grin on his face, Caleb positioned himself next to Jacob. When they reached, and hovered around the park, Caleb announced, "Okay, the warm up is over. I want to see your evasive maneuvers, old bird!"

"What do you mean old bird?! You are as old as I am!" they both started laughing.

Then let us see if you can keep up! Caleb abruptly stopped in mid flight, and immediately veered left. He twisted, and turned back over again.

Jacob, a very skilled flier himself, mimicked every move perfectly. Then, he spotted Caleb heading toward a row of trees by a lonely sidewalk. He saw Caleb weave in between the trees like an obstacle course almost instantaneously.

Okay, let us see you try that! Caleb dared.

Not a problem. Jacob responded confidently, and flew to the starting point, anxiously waiting for Caleb’s signal.

Caleb shouted, GO!

Jacob swiftly zigzagged through the trees with no problem at all, and just as fast as his Captain.

When Jacob slowed down at the end of the last tree, however, he turned his head back to glare at Caleb with a smug face, but he had not anticipated the traffic light post to be so close which made him flinch, and he quickly covered his head.

Caleb began to laugh aloud, Did you forget that you can go through walls?!

Jacob stopped just before going through a cement wall, and began to laugh too.

I have not had this much fun since the last time we were posted together in Constantinople. Do you remember? Jacob asked as he started laughing again.

I recall you being a much more aggressive flier back then.

Why thank you. Jacob replied sarcastically. Caleb and Jacob continued flying over the downtown area, and soon found themselves landing exactly on the building from where they had started.

Not bad, Jacob. Caleb admitted as they both paused to catch their breath. You are a little rusty, but we can fix that. Not to worry, we will get you back into tiptop shape. You must have had a real sleepy post before.

If you call the Vatican City a sleepy post.

The Vatican City?! What an undemanding post! And now they throw you to the lions.

It was a sudden and peculiar change.

I must agree. The only information they gave me was that a new Guardian was being posted to one charge and a young adult girl no less.

Suddenly, the ever-vigilant Captain Caleb stopped for a moment, and took a minute to scan the city. He turned back around to Jacob, and placed his hand on Jacob’s shoulder to continue the conversation.

So… How are your skills in combat? he asked.

Jacob grimaced, knowing full well what was to come. His memories of vigorous combat training made him reluctant.

Exactly what I thought. Let us first get the introductions out of the way, shall we?

Caleb kept Jacob very busy teaching him new procedures, and showed him several key locations around the city. He then led him to an abandoned warehouse located on the west side of town where the Guardians held their training exercises. Captain Caleb started the introductions there.

Jacob, this is Captain Marcus, and this on your right is Captain David.

Yes, yes I remember you, Captain Marcus. We were both stationed in Judea.

It is definitely a great honor to join forces with you again, Lieutenant Commander. Captain Marcus said as a feeling of great admiration came over him.

Oh, I am no Lieutenant Commander anymore, Captain.

My apologies, sir. Captain Marcus replied visually confused at such news.

No, no need to be. I exist to serve Father in any capacity I can.

Captain Marcus was one of the many that Jacob had commanded over in Jerusalem. At that time, many Guardians had admired Jacob for his skills, bravery and ferocity on the battlefield.

Well, I remember you were the best in evasive flying maneuvers. You were tough as nails with us during training. How are you now? Do you have any new moves I could learn?

No. I am pretty rusty, or so I am told. Jacob glanced over to Caleb.

You should have seen the three together, Captain David. They were invincible when they battled the Fallen Ones. Captain Marcus said as he looked at Captain David with a huge smile.

The three? asked Captain David.

Caleb, Jacob, and Samuel. Captain Marcus explained.

Jacob glanced over to Caleb again, Yes, they were my brothers, and my very best friends.

Oh yes! I have heard many stories of the famous three. Where is Samuel now? Captain David interjected, but Captain Caleb hung is head down, and did not utter a word.

Jacob paused for a moment, and then said with a hurtful voice, Samuel was seduced. He fell soon after we were given new assignments. Caleb had received orders to go to Germania, and I to Macedonia. I do not know which of the Fallen Angels recruited him, but I hear that he is now doing some recruiting of his own. It was at that time that I was demoted with no explanation.

That is so disappointing to hear. I wish I could have seen you three in action. said Captain David.

Well Jacob, if ever you need anything, please do not hesitate to call on me. You will always be my Lieutenant Commander. Captain Marcus said as he extended his right arm out for a forearm handshake.

Yes, same here Jacob. It is a privilege and an honor. said Captain David as he also extended his right arm for a forearm handshake.

Caleb continued on, filling Jacob in on his new duties. Many things had to change, simply because it was a larger, and more crowded city than Jacob was used to guarding. Captain Caleb even managed to squeeze in a few combat training sessions. Every Guardian was required to be trained with all three weapons: sword, spear, and battle-axe. Jacob had mastered all three, but his weapon of choice was the sword. He was all too unaware that his combat skills would be put to the test soon enough.

CHAPTER 2

First Sight

I t was only after all of the introductions, and preliminaries were over, that Jacob was afforded enough time to locate a place to store his artifacts. In order to do so, he knew he would have to materialize into a flesh, and blood body to look, act, and in every sense of the word… become ‘human’.

He would need to be able to first acquire monetary funds, and then secure a suitable place. So, Jacob searched the city streets, and found a dark empty alley to land, and materialize completely undetected. When his feet touched down on the wet and dirty pavement, his wings slowly disappeared behind him, and his clothes transformed into a pair of black slacks with a white button down shirt. His attire was identical to the clothes on a mannequin he had just seen in the window of a clothing store several streets over. He looked quite exquisite in his human clothes.

When Jacob walked out of the alley, he paused for a moment to check his bearings, and made sure he was about one block away from the Cathedral. He had noticed an art gallery on a street corner when he was flying with Caleb earlier, and thought to himself as he casually adjusted the cuffs of his shirt, ‘That would be a good place to start.’

He set out toward the gallery, and was relieved to see that the streets were only sparsely dotted with people. A sprinkle of rain had whispered down that morning which caused everyone to seek shelter inside the well air-conditioned buildings. The early prelude of rain always indicated sweltering temperatures to follow. Fortunately, he did not walk very far when he found the beautifully decorated glass door bearing the name of the art gallery he had seen. He confidently opened the door, and walked in, greeted by a most melodiously ring. Unlike many of his Guardian brethren, he had plenty of experience in speaking to humans, and he honestly enjoyed it.

Can I help you? a very feminine, but professional voice asked.

He quickly turned around, Yes… I was wondering, does this gallery buy artifacts, or does it only sell art pieces?

Well, you are in luck sir. We happen to have a co-owner of this gallery visiting us today. He is always buying, and selling artifacts of all kinds. Just follow me, and I’ll introduce you to him. the young, attractive sales clerk in stiletto heels directed Jacob to a rather hefty gentleman with a silver beard, and thinning hair.

Mr. Montgomery? I would like to introduce to you… she glanced over at Jacob, and waited for him to fill in the blank.

Oh sorry, my name is Jacob. he quickly extended his right hand for a friendly handshake.

As they shook hands the gentleman asked, What can I help you with, Jacob?

Well, Mr. Montgomery, I’m in need of an artifact dealer.

Do you have something that would interest me?

I hope so. Jacob replied as he looked down his right side to a black case on the floor. He casually picked it up, and walked over to the counter to reveal one of his many treasures. There, inside the black case, cradled in red velvet was a silver goblet.

I didn’t see you come in with a case. I guess I need to go get my eyes checked again. stated the sales clerk. The bell over the door had begun to chime again. It announced loudly that a new potential customer had entered the gallery, and in a blink of an eye, the sales clerk had suddenly left their side.

Mr. Montgomery, on the other hand, was intensely looking over the goblet, and had to ask, May I hold it? Jacob nodded his head ‘yes’, and gently slid the case over to him.

He was so excited that he quickly pulled out a pair of white gloves from his waistcoat pocket, and put them on to examine the goblet.

Oh my, Jacob, this is a magnificent piece. It looks like… 16th century. Very well preserved… rubies and emeralds. The patina is just right. Well Jacob, you definitely have my attention. he stated, on the verge of giddiness at this point.

Good. It is very hard for me to part with it, but it is necessary, I’m afraid. I have recently moved here from abroad, and I have no bank account. So, if you decide to buy… I must ask for cash. Would that be a problem? he asked as he gently took the goblet from Mr. Montgomery’s clingy hand, and returned it to its cradle.

Oh, I think I can make an exception this time. You see, I too have a little black case just for such an occasion as this. Mr. Montgomery smiled, and gestured for someone to bring him his money.

What is your offer, then? asked Jacob, having deliberately closed the case slowly.

Mr. Montgomery glanced over to the closed case greedily. I’ll pay… one-hundred thousand.

Jacob was taken aback. He had no idea it would sell for that much. All he wanted was enough to pay for an apartment to store his collection in, so there was no need to haggle with the robust artifact dealer.

Mr. Montgomery… you have a deal.

Wonderful! the man ecstatically said as he hastily shook Jacob’s hand to seal the deal, and as not to give Jacob an opportunity to change his mind.

Jacob handed over his case with the goblet, and Mr. Montgomery in turn gave him the case full of money. The overjoyed collector then called over another woman that was behind the front desk.

Can you please put this in my safe, dear? he asked, carefully giving her the case with his new treasure to the woman, and then turning back around to speak to Jacob.

Jacob, it was my absolute pleasure doing business with you. If you come across anything else I might be interested in, please, do not hesitate to call me first. Here is my card. Oh, and a little advice, if I may… open a bank account. It’s far too dangerous to be walking around with a case full of money.

Yes, of course. Thank you very much, Mr. Montgomery. Jacob replied, amazed at how quickly, and easily things were done in this part of the world.

He took the card from his curvaceous fingers, and examined it as Mr. Montgomery walked away happily. There was no doubt in Jacob’s mind that the man was extremely eager to gloat over his new possession.

He placed the card in his pant pocket, and then turned to search the gallery for the woman he first spoke to, since he was obviously dismissed.

Um, excuse me miss?

You can call me Deidra. Is there anything else I can help you with?

"Yes, Deidra… I was wondering if you happen to know of an