Learning A New Path: The Chronicles Of David Robinson, #3

By Kory StJohn

THE CHRONICLES OF DAVID ROBINSON  LEARNING A NEW PATH : This 3rd volume takes us to David's first day of a public school setting. 

 

After the shooting at the police station, Claire is still feeling the emotions as if David was badly hurt. David has problems with a boy in one of his classes along with having to learn at a much slower pace. 

 

A plane crash takes him away to another part of the country to be the hero he is. This heightens the excitement of Beth who wants to have an interview with Maxx Pseudo, not knowing that it's David in the costume. David and his friends get harrassed on a date night, and David must expose himself to them in order to keep them safe. But will they all be as willing to adjust to the new information from their friend? Or will they give up on him for keeping it a secret from them for so long?

 

David has a new vision of the future and it causes a wedge in his relationship with Claire. Will they last?

 

In 350 pages you find out!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kory StJohn
• Release date: Oct 26, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201895730

Kory StJohn

I am far from your normal writer. Most of my life I spent doing physically demanding repetitive tasks to earn a living. That is until I became medically discharged from the working world.  I took up creative writing on my own after having a re-occouring dream that gave me the inspiriation for something to write about. Who knew that it would lead to a multi-volume book series.  I had a great deal of fun writing this series, and my hopes are that the readers have as much enjoyment reading it as I had writing it. 

Book preview

CONTENTS

New To The School

David was dreaming about going back to the club with Claire. Spending all night on the dance floor with her in his arms. His dream was so vivid and felt so real that even though he was sleeping as sound as a baby, to look at him he was smiling. This dream made him feel like there was nothing else in the world but him and Claire. That was until he was abruptly awakened by a sound he had never heard before. It was the alarm clock telling him that it was time to wake up and get ready for his first day at high school. When the first beep sounded off it startled David so much that he shot out of bed so fast, he hit his head on the ceiling of the trailer. 'OUCH!' He thought to himself. 'There's something I'm going to have to get used to.'

So much for being quiet in the trailer when he got up. When Harry and Janice felt the trailer shake and the thud of David's head bouncing off the ceiling, it startled them too. Are you alright David? Janice asked momentarily forgetting who her son is and what he can do.

I think the trailer got the worst of it Mom. He replied. That alarm clock is surely something I'm going to have to get used to. I was having a really good dream and then 'BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!' startled me so much that I jumped. I'm going to have to arrest the company that makes those things for disturbing the peace.

It was no surprise to either Harry or Janice for David to make a joke about something like that, even this early in the morning. He was always such a comical boy, which sometimes made it hard to tell if he was being serious or just being funny about something. But at least it kept thing interesting around the Robinson house.

His parents were going back to the farm today while he was away at school to check on the fields and see how long it would be before they were ready to harvest. David gathered his things for his shower and headed to the public washrooms. He knew he had a few things to do before he went to wait for the bus with Claire. He wanted to teleport them home and return to the trailer, but his parents wanted him to start getting used to not using his gifts until it was necessary. Remember David! Janice said authoritatively. You're supposed to be just another student when you are at school. Not Maxx Pseudo! So no using your gifts while you are at school.

Yes, I know Mom, David replied. Only the ones I can't stop from happening, like adopting another person's ability, figuring out problems rapidly, and um-mm! What's the other one again? He paused scratching his chin with his finger for effect. Oh yeah! Memory!

David made sure that he packed his school supplies, into his backpack to get ready to transport it on the bus to school. He took out his sheet with his class schedule and the map of the school to make sure that he knew his route for the day. His first class to his relief was History and Brad Jones was the teacher. His second course of study each day for the semester was Grade 9 Physical Education, Gym class. Since David didn't have any way of performing the tasks laid out in the curriculum and prove that he actually learned them properly this was one course that he knew would seem to be a repeat course for him to the other students. This was the class that he was looking forward to since Claire had told him that they learn about how to play sports for most of the class.

Mapping out your classes David? Janice interrupted him briefly.

Yeah, I'm just making sure I know my way around the school with my schedule so that I'm not late for any of my classes, David replied. Even though Claire is in my History class first thing in the morning, and in both my English and Math classes in the afternoon. Getting from point A to B then to C on my own is pretty important I think. Plus I have to keep an eye out for how to get to and from the washrooms when I need to use them. Not to mention make sure that I'm going into the right ones.

Harry laughed with the imagination of David walking into the girls' bathroom and the reactions that would cause. Yup! That's something to keep in mind David. Harry said with a laugh.

It's going to be strange though, David said with a tone of interest. I'm used to spending three or four weeks on one subject just to get through the entire course layout, and these guys do four courses each day for five months. I know I can handle remembering all the material, but how do the other students keep it all together? Not to mention keep all that straight plus do the extra-curricular activities on top of all that. That's what I want to learn, how to juggle it all at the same time.

After the first few weeks, you'll figure it all out, honey, Janice said rubbing David's back.

David packed his map and course layout into his backpack and got up from the table. Well, I'd better get to the house and pick Claire up for school. Don't want to be late for the bus. David kissed Janice on the cheek before he opened the door. I'll be back here after school. He said as he walked out the door.

DAVID WALKED UP TO the house where Karl and Gloria were sitting on the porch drinking their coffee. Claire could feel his presence but was busy stuffing her book bag trying to get ready for day one of school with David. Ready for the big day David? Karl asked.

Yeah, I'm pretty excited. He replied. Is Claire ready?

She's just making sure she's got everything, Gloria replied.

The excitement will wear off David. School is where you go to learn about stuff that might sway your direction in life. Karl said frankly. Even if, like you, the direction is already laid out.

I'm going to talk to Mr. Romanov before classes today about just going into the police academy right after high school. I've given thought to everything you and William have told me about the military, and I think you're right about them only using me as an asset rather than just treating me like another soldier. I think Mr. Romanov will be surprised about my change in direction so quickly. David replied to Karl's comment about David's well laid out career path.

I'll bet the old goat Boris will think he had something to do with making you change your mind. Karl laughed. He seems to be a bit rough on a student that isn't holding up the marks to follow the career they wanted. But when a student exceeds the marks needed in the courses for their career choice, he still wants to see them achieve more. I guess he is just too used to thinking you can push everyone through to be successful, rather than assist and nurture them to it.

He's Russian! David responded quickly. Look how they train for the Olympics. Everything they do is push push push so they can be the best. I guess that's his philosophy. Every student from the school he works at must be the very best candidate or he feels he failed them. Probably why he seems so miserable all the time. Ron keeps him quite occupied I hear.

Claire walked out on the porch while Gloria and Karl were laughing about David's assessment of why Boris Romanov seemed to be a miserable old goat. Did I miss something? She said as she walked up straight to David and gave him a hug and a kiss good morning.

David will fill you in on the way to school, Gloria replied. Got all your things ready?

Got it all, Claire said tapping her book bag. She loaded it up on to the back of the golf cart, where she told David to do the same. Mom and Dad are going to the gatehouse to talk to Richard this morning. So they are giving us a ride.

Stephanie Came running out of the house like she was going to be late. She was always rushing to do everything at the last possible moment because she spent so much time in the bathroom doing her hair and makeup every day that it didn't leave much time for anything else. She's always running behind schedule, Karl said. A few times a year we have to drive her to school because she missed the bus trying to look perfect.

We're going to a school, not a beauty pageant, David replied. What's the big deal about what a person looks like? It's not going to make them learn any better.

HOW DO I LOOK? STEPHANIE asked her parents, re-checking her book bag. Hold on I forgot my pencil case on the dresser. She said as she ran back into the house.

Man, does Richard know what he's getting himself into? David asked jokingly. He looked at Claire with pride and sincerity. I'm glad that you are so organized.

Thank you, David, Claire said kissing his cheek. I'm not high maintenance either. I don't like all that makeup she wears. Lip gloss and zit cream, is all I need.

Karl laughed about the differences between his daughters. She's got a point there kiddo. Claire could be ready to go to the moon faster than Stephanie could be ready to go out for supper.

The panicky, and now out of breath Stephanie arrived and jumped on the back of the golf cart. It was only a four-seat cart, but it had a rear deck space for a small load of material or toolboxes that Stephanie used as a seat for the trip through the park to the gatehouse.

Hey, Richard, Karl said point blank. You know that Susan Pierce is leaving us to go to school in Colorado correct? Karl asked.

Yes! She runs the store, compiles the inventory and makes out the orders for filling the store for the campers. Richard pointed out her job responsibilities. We've talked a few times about our duties at the Christmas parties you throw for us. She's really good at her job. It will be sad to see her leave.

How do you feel about working here Richard? Gloria asked him. In the gatehouse I mean.

I LIKE THE GATEHOUSE most days, Richard replied. When it rains, it sucks getting all the mud trafficking in here and having to clean it up all day long. But as for here in general, I love it here. He paused with a smile. I'm treated like a valuable member of a family, with respect and dignity. The campers are usually super nice to me, and now that the ones that weren't always nice are gone. It's much better now. Why do you ask?

Well Karl and I were thinking, and with the vacancy in the store for next year that you might like to fill it, Gloria replied. There is a bit of a pay increase due to the extra work involved. And When Stephanie is finished school she can help you in the store whenever she has spare time. The hours are reduced a bit though but over the course of the year it is more money for you.

Thank you for the opportunity, Richard said shaking Karl and Gloria's hands. I'll take it.

Through the off season, we'll have to train you on the inventory and ordering systems. The cash register and such. But we think you'll be the right person for the job in the long run. Karl responded to Richard's acceptance of the new position. And this isn't just because you're seeing our daughter either. You've proven yourself very valuable to our business at this position, it's only right to advance you when a new position opens up.

Stephanie was excited about Richard being advanced to the store. Firstly it was less distance to walk to see him, secondly, it gave him time off at night to go out with her more often.

Well, the bus will be here shortly. Better get this lot to the pick-up spot. Karl changed the subject. We can talk more about this at a later date when we make all the arrangements. We're having a going away party for Susan after the park closes for the year. Kind of a happy send off for her.

They got the kids to the pick-up zone for the bus just about a minute or two before it rolled up. David, Claire, and Stephanie got on the bus and it slowly made its way out of sight. I sure hope he can keep it together with all the new things he's about to experience today. Gloria started to worry about David. It's going to be a brand new world for him to get used to.

Karl laughed. You sound like he's our son, and not Harry and Janice's. He'll be OK. Remember, what he showed us he can do. I just hope the teachers are ready for a student like that.

David and Claire talked through the mental bridge all the way through the route to the school. From the outside, they looked like two teens just happy to be sitting beside each other, but on the inside, they were talking about what new things David needed to get ready for. Stephanie sat near the back with a couple of her friends that got picked up earlier than her. Whereas David and Claire sat near the front where nobody else wanted to sit, near the driver.

When they finally arrived at the school, they stepped off the bus and went quickly to Claire's locker so that she could put her things away neatly inside. Then they had to go to the office for David to make his appointment to see Mr. Romanov sometime that day. They returned out into the hallway and found David's locker which to his delight was close to his first class of each day. Mr. Jones' History class.

A FAMILIAR VOICE GREETED David from behind him. How are you today David? Are you ready for your first day in a school? Brad Jones asked.

David turned and smiled. This is going to be a new experience for both of us I think Mr. Jones. He said with a wink. Now you've got more than just one student in your class. Are you ready too?

To be honest David. He whispered so that only David and Claire could hear. I threw up twice this morning worried about today. But at least I don't have to take a bullet to prove I'm here to help.

David laughed at the jest of Brad's statement. Claire was clearly not as jovial about the thought of David's being shot like that. It was still fresh in her mind about the media shooting and how she felt about David laying on the ground like that. And she knew that it would be a topic of discussion for some time to come.

I'm just glad you're alright David, Brad whispered. I saw it on television and thought the worst until you stood up. I've never been more proud of you as a friend as I was when I saw you risk your safety for others like that.

Thanks, Brad, David whispered back. But we shouldn't be talking about that here. Too many ears, not enough earplugs.

You're right. I'm sorry. Brad replied. You're both in my first class in the mornings. I hope that you'll mind your manners in my classroom. Brad said making the motion known to David for the mental bridge.

No worries! David replied with a smile. My parents will be super upset if I don't. David winked and wrapped his arm around Claire's waist as they headed towards where Lizzy and Derek were at putting their things in their lockers.

It was only across the hall and a couple classrooms down from where David's locker was to where Derek and Lizzy were standing. Ready for the new year? Derek asked David shaking his hand.

Well I'm here, may as well make the best of it. He replied. David saw Steve and Beth come around the corner walking like they were on a mission to catch up with their friends. This is when David knew the talks about the media shooting was going to start. Hi, Steve! Hi Beth! He greeted them with enthusiasm.

Hey did you guys see the media conference? Beth asked. Maxx Pseudo let me ask him a question like I was a real reporter. It was so cool guys! Out of all the newspaper and television reporters there, he let me ask him a question. And the only question that came to mind was if he would be doing any interviews. I was hoping I could get one with him in case I have to do the same school project that my sister's friends had to do in the journalism class.

Didn't seem like he was interested in doing it from what we saw on the television, Nikki said coming into the conversation. But it was cool of him to let you ask him a question though.

The way he just appeared out of thin air, then just floated down for some pictures with the police officer that introduced him was epic! Ron said with great zeal.

BUT WHEN HE WENT TO leave and saw the van screaming down the street to do a drive-by shooting! He just instantly got in the way and took all those bullets from the gun into his chest! Steve said excitedly.

I WAS RIGHT THERE BEHIND him. He hung his head. If he hadn't gotten in the way. He said solemnly. I wouldn't be standing here today. I'd like to thank him personally, he saved my life. And when he fell after taking all those hits from that gun, I went up to him and asked if there was anything we could do for him. Do you know what he said? He paused for effect. He wanted an evidence bag for the bullets he collected. Steve laughed. All he wanted was a bag for the bullets he stopped from the hit men. Then he asked if anyone else got hit before he flew off to catch the bad guys. That was amazing!

Claire was visibly uncomfortable about this topic. Are you alright Claire? Lizzy asked.

I'll be fine. She said with a sombre tone. Here comes a guy to show us that he's here to help us in time of dire need, and someone goes out of their way to try and kill a bunch of people at a media conference he's going to be at! Where's the sense in all that? Why would someone do that? I was happy that nobody else got injured, but he took the full brunt of that gun at close range to save those people. That was very heroic. My heart dropped when he hit the ground after taking the hit like that. A bunch of us standing nearby all thought he was dead. The thought of losing a hero like that in the times we are in now was sad. It made me sick to my stomach what our society has become. One person comes to give us hope of a better, safer future, and on the day he presents himself that happens. It felt like all hope was lost. Claire paused to wipe a tear from her eye.  I was glad that he was alright, and didn't die. When Officer Browning helped him up and took the bullets from him, he jetted off to get the gunmen. It didn't take him long to bring them in though. They will be spending the rest of their lives behind bars.

DAVID HUGGED CLAIRE tightly. It's alright. He'll be around for a while yet to keep doing his thing. He turned to the rest of the group. Can we not talk about that particular subject anymore. It upsets Claire to think that our community hero might disappear with the hope he brings us.

They all agreed with David not to talk about that incident anymore for Claire's sake. But even though Ron couldn't stop himself. Looks like you've got some competition, David!

I love the hope he brings us, and the stuff he does is cool and all. But my man is here for me all the time! Claire said putting her empty hand on David's chest rubbing up and down. Not just if there's a life or death emergency.

There was still about ten minutes before the first class was to start when an announcement came over the speakers. David Robinson please report to the office.

Classes haven't even started and you're in trouble already? Ron asked laughing. That's got to be a record!

David scurried to the office to have his meeting with Mr. Romanov when Claire replied to Ron's question. He has a meeting with Romanov silly.

David opened the door to the office and saw that Mr. Romanov was waiting for him. Come in David. He said calmly. To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?

Mr. Romanov, sir! David said politely. I just wanted to tell you that I've done some more research into my career path after hearing what you'd said the first time we met about the military. I talked with a few people about that path and like you, they all agree that it isn't the right choice for me. One of the people that I talked to was an officer of the police force here in town who thought the same way I did and actually was in combat. He told me that I'd get some really good training, yes, but the mental cost was too high for the time it saves in service. So for those reasons I'm clearing a path directly to the police academy right after high school sir.

Boris sat back in his chair with a smile on his face. Smiling wasn't something he was known for.  But when it came to a student that was doing very well in their courses or knowing that he'd gotten through to a student, this made old Boris glad, even almost happy. Thank you, David, for listening to what I say to you. It's not often that students do. They think I'm here to tell them what their courses should be and nothing more. But it's my job to guide you towards success. Steer you upon a path that best suits your grades and interests. He paused for a second and motioned with his finger for David to come closer so that he could talk in a lower volume. Let me tell you secret. I only come off as grouch so that kids don't take me for granted! Deep down I want everyone here to be successful. When a student I've helped becomes successful in the career they've chosen for themselves, Boris is happy inside for them. Now time for class is almost on you, better go!

When David left Boris' office the staff in the outer office looked shocked again that this one particular student was leaving with a smile on his face and Boris wasn't shouting like he normally did. David got out into the hallway when the warning bell rang meaning they had just three minutes to get to their next class. He scurried back to the doorway of Mr. Jones' History class and made it to an empty seat where Claire was on his left and Ron was in front of him. Steve and Beth were in the seats behind him and Claire.

Brad Jones started the class by introducing himself as he handed out the textbooks for the semester. My name is Mr. Jones. I'll be your History teacher this year. It's nice to see some familiar faces, and just as nice to see some new ones as well. To start off let's make a deal. I'll be fair with you and your grades if you'll be fair with me and yourself in learning the material. If you don't understand something please let me know so we can figure a way that you can understand it. We're here not only to learn about the past but to learn not to make the same mistakes that were made then too. He paused a moment for them to grasp his concept. My philosophy is that we learn more, absorb more if we are having fun doing something. So let's have some fun learning about the hiccups of history. We'll be examining what really happened, and discuss if there is time what could have been done to give them a better result.

Brad went on with his talk about the hiccups of history, giving examples of major mistakes humanity has made throughout the course of history and what the course he was teaching was going to cover. Important dates and events throughout history that shaped the society they live in today. He discussed two projects that needed to be completed at certain points of the course of study, one being a solo project and another being a group project.

When the time for the class was just about done, Brad felt it necessary to set out the next day's itinerary so the class could be prepared for what's to come. Be prepared, you don't want to make the same mistake twice! He said just before the bell rang. He stopped David who was the last to exit the room. How'd I do for my first class?

Wow man! You had everyone's attention, You did great! David replied. Even Ron thought it was going to be a fun course this year. And he hates school. He only comes here for two reasons. One is Nikki, and the other is his parents make him.

Thanks, David, Brad said. Well better get to your next class. Gym is it? You're going to have fun there.

Yeah, I'd better get going. I have to change into the sweat clothes we bought from the school. David replied. David went into his locker, put his books away and got his gym bag.

After he locked the locker and was walking through the maze of the school to the gymnasium, the familiar voice of Norman Hardy beckoned him. A moment of your time Mr. Robinson? He asked.

Sure Mr. Hardy but can you walk with me? I don't want to be late for gym class. David responded with urgency.

Alright, David. Norman appeased him. How was your first class with Mr. Jones?

It was great! And that's not just because I already know Mr. Jones. David replied. He had the whole class hanging off every word he said. Even Ron was dangling by a string.

That's good to hear, that someone finally got through to him. Norman laughed.

I think Nikki is going to have something to do with Ron doing better this year too, sir, David said cheekily. Is there anything else you wanted Mr. Hardy? David asked as they got to the gymnasium.

Norman handed David an envelope. It has been deemed by the government that every high school student must perform at minimum 40 hours of community service in order to complete their diploma. In this envelope is your hour sheet and how to seek out and find your places to complete your service hours.

He paused for a moment thinking about this being David's first experience in a physical education class. Just make sure you go into the right change room. The students all change at the same time and we wouldn't want the girls to be screaming because you went into their change room instead of the boys' room.

Yeah! David laughed. I'll keep that in mind. He said as he walked into the gymnasium. David looked around at how huge the room was. The basketball nets were retracted upwards and out of the way, the different lines on the floor indicating many different sports that could be played in this classroom. The thoughts swirled around in David's mind about how fun this class was going to be. He couldn't wait to get this part of his day going.

Most of the boys were already halfway or better changing into their gym outfits. David found an empty spot and began changing into his. He smiled the entire time he was changing thinking about what fun things they were going to be doing today in this class. Some of his classmates didn't look as happy as David, but they didn't have the same, first time, new car smell, feel about this class.

What are you smiling about? Are you gay? One of the bigger boys asked David.

No, I'm not gay, David replied. I was home-schooled until now. So I've never been in a class like this before. I've been excited about a class where we get to play games ever since I heard about it.

Well, you look gay to me! The bully boy said raising his fist ready to punch David. And I beat up gay boys for breakfast!

Well, it's a little late for breakfast Johnny! Ron's little brother Gary said grabbing Johnny's fist so that he couldn't swing at David. Leave him alone! I hear this one is connected with the police.

Gary was a tick bigger than Johnny, but not quite as tall as David. He's just an idiot David. He thinks he's tough, but I think Nikki could take him in a fair fight. Gary laughed.

Thanks, Gary. Nice to see you again. David responded to Gary's interception of the punch he was about to receive. I could have handled that you know.

No problem, Gary replied. Ron told me that since you were in my gym class to look out for you and he'd help me out too. He told me that this would be your first gym class and to show you the ropes so you can get along better. He gave me fifty bucks.

If you ever need help with any of your classes I can help you out there too you know. Studying, figuring out how you can remember things. David offered. Teamwork right?

Thanks for the offer, David, Gary replied pulling up his shorts. But I'm an A student, unlike Ron. He got the looks and the brawn. I have the brains for the two of us. If there is any pairing up things to do I'll pair up with you OK?

Deal, David said. And thanks again.

Bruce Armstrong was the teacher for the boys' Gym classes. As the co-ed classes didn't start until Grade 11 this was David's way of getting