Ridge Mountain Halo

By Jered Abrams

I wrote Ridge Mountain Halo as a testament to my upbringing as a child. I grew up in a small town east of St. Louis called Collinsville, IL. It is here that I was introduced to the woods, girls, basketball, and youthful mischief. My experience in Collinsville still impacts me to this day. At school, my brother and I knew what it was like to be different. We were the only two African Americans in our elementary school. We were oddly popular. Our large house was right next to the school. I have fond memories of playing basketball on the outside courts. Learning to play the trumpet also kept me busy. I played little league football and consumed endless amounts of video games.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jered Abrams
• Release date: Oct 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781801284158

Book preview

Chapter 1

The sun shone brightly over the plains of West Virginia. Golden fingers reached down as far as the eye could see and lit up everything in their path. The visibility was excellent, and the blue ridge mountains could clearly be seen off in the distance. It was the dawn of a new day in Jefferson. The city streets were busy with a flurry of early morning activities.

Thomas was not part of those activities. He was getting ready to go caving with Robert, his best friend. He checked his caving gear and looked at Robert. At sixteen years old, Robert was well seasoned in caving.

We should have told the grotto where we are. What happens if we get lost? Thomas said. He loved caving as much as anyone, but he was extra cautious since he was new to the sport.

Relax Thomas, you worry too much. I know that you’re not a West Virginia native like I am, but chill. I’ve been caving here since I was ten. I’ll take care of you. Robert was unusually confident, and that put Thomas at ease. It was customary for them to let their local grotto know that they were caving. This was a basic safety issue. This was the first time that they were attempting this without letting them know.

Let’s go over the gear one more time before we descend into the cave. Robert checked his gear thoroughly and then checked Thomas’s gear. They both wore layered warm clothing with knee pads, gloves, and safety harnesses. Each of them had three light sources, a helmet, and dried meat.

Looks like we’ve got everything. Let’s secure ourselves to the rock and see what’s down the cave. It has never been tried before.

Thomas tried not to look down as they slowly descended into the cave. He put on a brave face but deep down, he was terrified. Once he gave a quick look downward, it seemed like the dark was reaching up to grab him. He felt dizzy and quickly looked away. What was waiting down there? He thought. Would it ever end, or are we going to descend forever? May such thoughts came into his mind – thoughts meant to frighten him. He shook his head. I’m doing well for an amateur, he said to himself.

Robert was the one who knew what he was doing. He stepped confidently and boldly led the way quickly down the cave. Hurry it up, Thomas.

Thomas did as Robert asked and quickly lowered himself into the cave. Finally, they reached the bottom. The cave was massive. They couldn’t see the end of it. They turned on their lights for a better look. It reflected across the cave. The waves of light danced around the cave, giving it an eerie look. It looked scarier than it actually was.  Robert reached in his backpack and pulled out a map of the cave.

Where did you get that? Thomas asked.

I borrowed it from our grotto. They’re too scared to explore this cave, so they won’t be needing it, Robert answered with a sly smile as he studied the map. They were on the west side of the cave. They needed to head east to see the rest of the cave. Follow me, said Robert.

He placed the map carefully back into his backpack and led the way. Their lights danced around as they made their way to their destination. Thomas looked up and saw that the cave was filled with dangling stalactites. Crystalized rock formations that looked like icicles. There were also plenty of calcite deposits within the cave. Small stones littered the floor of the cave, making it hard to walk straight. The noise they made as Thomas and Robert stepped on them echoed around the cave. All in all, it was one of the most beautiful things Thomas had ever seen.

This is incredible, Thomas said. He stopped and took a moment to look at the wonderous cave.

Robert looked at him thoughtfully. I’m glad you’re impressed. It's why I brought you here. You’re my best friend, he said, emotions creeping up in his voice. Even though you’ve only been here for a few months, I wouldn’t want anyone else here with me. He took Robert’s hand.

What are you doing? Robert snatched his hand back from Thomas. Thomas sighed and continued east toward the lower levels of the cave. The entire journey was uneventful, apart from the few places where they had to crawl and squeeze through the tight spaces. They even had to rig themselves up again to descend into the lower levels. The deeper they went, the darker and colder it got. Thomas was glad they had brought multiple lights with them.

Let’s take a break here Thomas, Robert said as he reached into his pack and grabbed some dried meat. Thomas followed suit.

I can’t believe it’s already November, said Thomas. It was already cold outside, but inside the cave, it was absolutely frigid.

Robert placed the empty wrappers inside his pack. You and me both. Come on, we don’t have much further to go.

The two boys picked up their things and started walking again. Soon, they came to a deep area of the cave.

This is it. This is where it happened, said Robert. He was referring to a local legend that happened during the Civil War. Apparently, at the height of a battle, a general fighting for the Union went mad and fled his post. He crawled in this cave and died in shame, or so the story went. Since it was a local legend, you could talk to a dozen different people, and they would give you a dozen different accounts. But this was the one that was accepted and told the most. Whether he had stayed here in shame and guilt or whether he was stuck and couldn’t find a way out was up for interpretation.

They both started looking around the area, hoping that they might find some clues.

Hey! Come here! Robert’s voice rang through the cave. Thomas immediately directed his light towards where he thought his friend would be. In a cave, it was hard to locate someone from the direction of their voice as there were a lot of echoes. Once he found Robert, he ran to him. Robert had found some inscription on the wall.

Here lies Samuel Collins, Thomas read. It had been carved into the wall, apparently with the point of a blade. He looked around and found a pile of bones and what looked like two artifacts.

The boys could feel their excitement rising. They had finally found the remains of Samuel Collins. This was the coolest thing they had ever done.

We could get famous. There could be TV interviews, visits by important historians and others, even a book deal! Thomas thought. Wait! His mind screamed at him. Let’s take this one step at a time and see what we have!

Thomas looked at the remains, especially at the two things lying right next to the bones. The first artifact was a metal ring with a stone set into it. The stone was cracked and old. It shone a bright gold when Thomas directed the beam of light towards it. The second artifact was a sword hilt. No blade, no nothing. Just a hilt. They both picked up one of the artifacts and started examining them close up.

Louis will love these. His birthday is coming up soon, Thomas said.

Louis was Thomas’s younger brother. He was ten years old and loved caving as much as he did. Robert gave Thomas a strange look.

That’s just a bunch of junk. Don’t give that to your brother. Now, hurry up and gather up the remains. We just confirmed that the legends were true about Samuel Collins.

Thomas ignored Robert and placed both the artifacts in his bag. At the time, he was too excited about Samuel Collins and what this discovery could mean for them to think about it, but the artifacts had a very peculiar look to them. Like they knew something that the boys didn’t and were having a quiet laugh. But it was a fleeting moment, and it passed.

*** 

You’ve made remarkable progress since you’ve been here, Louis, Principal Hawking said to Louis.

Principal Hawking was a stocky and tall person. It was reported that he used to have a full head of hair, but now there were just tufts of grey sticking to the sides. He was both tough and fair, according to the reports that Louis had gathered about him.

Right now, he was sitting across from the principal and wanted to be anywhere but here. He looked out the window at the grass and the trees. Another comment brought him back to reality. 

How have you adjusted over the last few months? We want to make your transition here as smooth as possible. Any problems that you want to report? Principal Hawking asked.

Louis knew what he meant and immediately spoke back. You want to know how I feel about being the only black kid at this school?

Principal Hawking sat back in his chair and gave Louis a stern look. Listen to me, young man. You’re either part of the problem or the solution. I better not hear you speak like that again.

Louis instantly began to regret his decision to speak like that. Can I go back to class, Principal Hawking?

Mr. Hawking still had a couple of things on his mind that he needed to discuss with Louis.

I’ve noticed that you’re reading level is off the charts for a fifth-grader. You read and write at a ninth grade level, and you have straight A’s. I think the fifth grade is too easy for you. How would you like to skip a couple of grades?

Louis was suddenly interested. That sounds good and all, but I can’t just leave my friends. Besides, look at me. I can’t make high school friends. At ten years old, Louis was skinnier than other kids his age. He didn’t even look like a 10-year-old, let alone passing for a ninth-grader.

Principal Hawking raised his palms up in the air in defeat and stood up. Alright, Louis. He walked over to the window and looked outside. You and your family are from East St. Louis, Correct? Tell me about them. Your older brother is named Thomas, right?

Louis didn’t like to reflect on his past, but somehow, he felt comfortable around Principal Hawking. Thomas and I grew up in East St. Louis with my dad Damien and my mom Latisha. I don’t know what else to say.

Principal Hawking went back to his seat, brought out a notebook, and began writing. Louis feared he was taking notes about him. He looked to the clock and hoped something important would happen that would break up the meeting.

Can I go now? It’s almost lunchtime.

Principal Hawking receded, reaching into his desk and handing Louis some pamphlets. One was titled ‘The joys of being different.’

Read those in your free time. Have a good day Louis. You’re free to go. Louis left Principal Hawking's office and headed toward the nearest trash can. He tossed the pamphlets in the trash and headed to the cafeteria.

The smells wafting from the cafeteria told Louis he was in luck. Jefferson elementary was serving pizza and fries. Louis paid for his lunch and sat next to his best friend, Micah. Micah was a country boy through and through. He had a thick southern accent, an athletic body, and was very flexible. This earned him the name spread neck.

Where ya been? said Micah.

The principal’s office. It’s a long story. He thinks I should skip a few grades.

Micah made a strange noise that garnered a lot of attention. You should have taken the offer.

Louis scoffed. And leave you behind. What kind of friend would I be?

They both hurriedly finished their lunch and headed outside for recess.

Let’s play some soccer, said Micha. Louis, however, wanted to play basketball.

Why don’t you ever want to play basketball, Micah? Does it remind you of the NBA? Too many black players for you?

Micha looked apprehensive. He cautiously approached his best friend. Awww, Cmon, man! You know I hate playing basketball. I’m no racist, and you know that.

Louis sighed. You’re such a spread neck. Fine, I’ll play soccer today. They made their way to the soccer ground, where the two captains were already in the process of choosing players for their teams.

I’ll take Zach, said Roy, one of the captains.

Louis began to shiver in fear. Zach was the biggest kid in the grade, and he always picked on him. Suddenly skipping grades didn’t look like such a bad idea. Louis got selected by the other team. Thankfully, the game was uneventful, and they played until the bell rang for recess to end. Thinking he had nothing more to fear, Louis hurried over to the school, but Zach suddenly appeared in front of him, blocking his way.

Hey blackie, how are ya? He said with a wide grin. It was as if someone had doused Louis with cold water. He pressed his lips tight and kept his head low as he waited for the inevitable to happen. What is it?

Zach grabbed Louis’s underwear and gave him a wedgie. That’s what, he said, laughing maniacally. Louis headed to the bathroom to fix his underwear. Micha was nowhere to be found, but that was by design. Months ago, when Louis first started to be bullied by Zach, he had told Micah to stay out of their business.

Louis walked back to class and took his seat in the third row. Two seats ahead of him was a girl named Haylee. Louis was fascinated by her, but he never knew how she felt about him. Mrs. Morris quieted the class down and had them put away their cell phones. Louis’s phone began to vibrate at that precise moment. He figured there would be no harm in checking it this one time. Louis opened up his phone and selected the Guidebook app.

He looked at his direct messages and found Haylee’s message.

Do you like me? The message was clear and concise.

Louis immediately replied. Of course, he wrote.

Haylee sent him a smiling emoji back. Louis felt elated. He had never been with a white girl before, and the thought of it fascinated him. He tried to contain his feelings, but they were spilling all over the place. Haylee was interested in him, and he was interested in her.

I told you to put that phone away, Louis, Mrs. Morris’s voice whipped him back to reality.

Louis hurriedly placed his phone in his pocket. He sat patiently in class. His eyes constantly checked the clock, wondering when the class would be over.

Don’t forget we have a special presentation from Lixra president Ashley Tatum in the cafeteria after school. Half of the students groaned at the thought.

Louis raised his hand. Why is Lixra even here? I thought the endangered trees and Wild Life Act kept them out of Jefferson, West Virginia.

Mrs. Morris rolled her eyes. You can ask Mrs. Tatum that when you see her.

The rest of the day went by smoothly. Louis walked into the large cafeteria and sat next to Micah. The fifth graders were joined by the sixth graders and the fourth graders. The students took their seats on the floor, and Louis took the time to gossip.

Guess what, Micah? Haylee is into me.

Micah put his arm around Louis like a proud parent. Attaboy. Let’s just hope she doesn’t have cuddies

Louis pressed the issue. Why would she have cuddies?

Micha tried to explain. You know, the whole thing about girls and their time of the month. That kind of stuff.

Louis simply shook his head. You’re a real treat, but you’re lucky you’re a good friend.

Principal Hawking took the stage and got everyone’s attention with his booming voice reverberating over the microphone. Can I have everyone’s attention? Thank you. Our next speaker was a councilman for Jefferson before becoming president of the Jefferson chapter of Lixra. Please welcome Ashley Tatum.

Only a handful of students clapped for her. Lixra was the boogeyman to a lot of small communities.

Thank you, principal Hawking. Ashley wore a wide smile. She was a tall woman and held a commanding presence.

She began, Lixra stands for live extra. It was and still is a self-help group that seeks to transform the lives of our society. Today is student appreciation day, so I and my coworkers are spreading the good news. You must have lots of questions. Please hold on to them until the presentation is over.

Two students grabbed the lights while Mrs. Morris turned on the projector. The presentation took about thirty minutes. When it was finished, the lights were back on, and Ashley was back on stage.

So, I hope you took mental notes. How many chapters does Lixra have across America?

One hundred and three, said the students in unison.

Why is Lixra in Jefferson, West Virginia?

Aciana.

Very good. Aciana was the major attraction and landmark to the town of Jefferson. It was a giant two-thousand-year-old tree that sat in the middle of the town. It had blue leaves and was worshipped by some townsfolk. The tree was rumored to have healing capacities. Ashley asked a few more questions then opened the floor for individual questions.

Louis raised his hand high and was the only one brave enough to ask questions. Isn’t Lixra a front for a religious cult, and why do you have so many contracts with the military? You’re supposed to be a peace-keeping agency.

Ashely appeared visibly flustered for a second but quickly composed herself. We’re not a cult, we’re a self-help group. That’s how we started. We have our brilliant scientists to thank for those military contracts. Primarily active camouflage and the AM-39 Assault rifle. These things are separated into different divisions. So, don’t expect to see rifle training at our self-help groups.

Ashley looked around the room for questions from anyone else, but Louis was the lone student asking questions. She pointed at Louis told him this was his last question and to keep it brief.

What do you want with Aciana? Why can’t you just leave our tree alone?

Ashley was relieved that Louis was done with questions. It’s true that Aciana has kept Lixra out of Jefferson due to the Wild Life Act, but Lixra believes it can create cures for diseases with its healing properties. Aciana is not just your tree. It's America’s tree.

Her last comment drew sporadic clapping. Ashley handed the microphone over to Principal Hawking, who ordered the class to a table full of candy. The children were eager to get their hands on the free candy except for Louis. He felt it was his duty to resist what he believed to be an evil organization.

The school was finally out, and Louis walked with Micah to their homes. See you tomorrow, said Micah.

Louis waved goodbye and walked into his home and was immediately greeted by his mother, Latisha. My baby’s home. How was school?

Louis dropped his bag to the floor and began to gripe about Lixra. Why does it seem like Lixra is following us? They showed up in East St. Louis, and now they follow us here.

Latisha walked over to Louis and gave him a giant, suffocating hug. My baby’s growing up so fast. Are you hungry? I’ll fix something up for you.

Mumbling an answer, Louis walked upstairs to his room. It was filled with comic books and posters of his favorite TV show called Sentinels. It came on every day at four. Louis looked at his watch and saw that it was three-fifty. Louis turned on the television in the living room and took a seat on the couch. His father, Damien, noticed him on the couch.

Hey, son, how was your day? He still had on his CSA uniform from working at the airport.

I don’t want to talk about it.

Damien sat down on the couch next to his son. You mother told me you’re worried about Lixra. Don’t worry about them. We’ll keep you safe.

Louis hated being talked to like a kid. He was wise beyond his years. Thomas entered the house moments later.

Boy, where have you been? Damien asked.

Thomas has dirt all over his shoes. His outfit was fresh, but the shoes were a dead giveaway. Nowhere special. I just got my shoes dirty from PE class. What’s up, birthday boy?

Louis smiled. He was a week away from being eleven, and he couldn’t wait for his birthday to arrive.

Chapter 2

The alarm clock rang furiously on that Saturday morning. Louis repeatedly hit the snooze button, hoping to get a few more moments of sleep.

Louis, wake up. It’s time for breakfast.

His mother, Latisha, was often the first to rise. Today was no exception. Louis opened his eyes and looked at the alarm clock. It was eight o clock in the morning. He had four hours before work, yet still, he scoffed and got up.

Louis worked as a semi handyman at the local farmers' market along with his brother Thomas. Once he struggled his way out of the bed and into the bathroom, he spent a great deal of time looking at himself in the mirror. He then headed down to the kitchen for breakfast. Latisha, on the other hand, had her hands full cooking breakfast. She had eggs, bacon, and pancakes cooking all at once. Damien had his feet up on the table, reading a newspaper.

Good morning, Louis stated, in between yawns.

His mother replied back, but his father was too engrossed in his newspaper to notice Louis. Louis began to eat his food and glanced at the front page of the newspaper. He didn't pay attention to what it said exactly, but he was sure it had something to do with Lixra. The mysterious self-help group started in the late eighties had now evolved into a nationwide enterprise.

Anything I should worry about, Dad? Louis asked in an attempt to get his father's attention. 

Damien put down the paper for a second and looked at his son. Son, all you should be worrying about is your schooling. Don’t mind us grown folk. I told you yesterday not to worry about Lixra.

Louis stood his ground. Ashley Tatum visited my school yesterday. I pressed her regarding some of the issues people have with Lixra, and she had no answer.

Damien was now suddenly interested.

Well, why didn’t you say something yesterday, son? he inquired.

Damien put down his newspaper and took his feet off the table.

At the time, it didn’t seem like a big deal. There’s something weird about that Ashley Tatum. Also, why is Lixra even here? I thought Aciana would keep them at bay. I guess I was wrong again. Louis spoke in a manner that was well beyond his years.

Damien reached across the table and grabbed his son’s hand. Stay strong, Louis. One day you’ll get the answers you seek. Thomas entered the kitchen and took a seat next to Louis.

Morning, everyone, he said in his usual, carefree manner.

His words fell upon seemingly deaf ears. All Thomas got was a grunt from his father. Thomas grabbed the newspaper his father had placed on the dining table and began reading it.

Lixra is holding a community meeting this week. That should be interesting. Dad, can I go? Thomas asked.

Thomas had a habit of getting his way. This irked Louis, but there was nothing he could do.

Sure, son. I’ll meet you there.

Louis raised his hand, hoping his father would see him. 

Yes, Louis?

Louis already knew the answer he would get, but he still asked his father. 

I want to go too. Can I come?

Damien stood up from the table and grabbed a plate of food from Latisha.

I told you not to mind grown folk business, Louis felt somewhat insulted.

Thomas is only sixteen. He’s not a grown-up, Louis argued.

Damien paused from eating his breakfast, I’ve told you this, Louis. Thomas is next in line if something were to happen to me. I need him as my right hand. Do you understand, son?

Louis no longer had an argument. He would have to be forced to accept his role as the younger brother.

Thanks for the food, mom. It was really good, Louis placed his plate in the sink and headed upstairs to his room.

H

Louis hoped he wasn’t watching what happened between him and Rebecca.

I saw the whole thing. You’ve got some moves, my friend. You remind me of a younger me. So bold and full of passion. You just want to talk to girls. Am I right?

Louis placed his hand on his face. He couldn’t stand to be embarrassed any further.

I guess you’re right, Louis let out a small sigh and dropped his head in dismay. 

Doug gave Louis a quick shoulder-rub and guided him to the company truck. It had all the lawn-keeping gear that was needed. There were lawnmowers, weed whackers, and blowers. As they walked, Doug texted Thomas and Robert to meet them at the truck. Louis took out his durag and wrapped it around his head. Doug put his phone away and asked about the mysterious rag Louis had put on.

Is that a durag? You don’t see too many of those around here. What are you some kind of thug, Louis?

Louis shook his head.

What are you, Doug? Some kind of racist, He shot back.

Doug threw up his hands, See, now you’re taking it too far. I have a legitimate issue with your durag, and you call me a racist. You’re on thin ice here, kid. Doug was pissed; Louis could see this clearly by looking at his flared nostrils as he spoke.

Louis enjoyed confrontation, but he also enjoyed getting paid. This was his first real job, and he didn't want to lose it. He did his best to cool the situation down.

I’m not saying you’re a racist, Doug. Look, I’ll take the durag off if it makes you feel uncomfortable. I’m just trying to protect my wavy hair, Louis tried to offer an explanation.

Doug gave Louis a curious look then turned his attention to Thomas and Robert, who were approaching the vehicle.

There they are. Don’t you two make a cute couple, Doug laughed alone for a moment before gaining his composure.

What is it, Doug? said Thomas.

Doug made mocking sounds before answering, You're to mow the Smiths yard, the Turners, and Harvey's yard. Doug tossed Thomas the keys, and he got in the driver's seat while Louis got in the passenger side. The two of them watched Robert walk with Doug back to the farmers’ market.

This is whack, Thomas. I like this job, but I’m nobody’s slave, Thomas kept his hands on the wheel and his eyes on the road.

Just let it go, little bruh. We’re not here to fight with the man.

Thomas pulled up to the Smiths’ driveway. They checked, but nobody was home. Louis pulled the lawnmower out of his truck and went to work. It didn't take long for him to cut the grass, but something was amiss. While the two of them worked, a police car pulled up. Louis ran to his brother’s side.

Don’t say a word. Just let me do the talking, Thomas said, with his face gray with fear.

He approached the police officer politely. 

Good afternoon, officer. How may I help you?

The officer put down his sunglasses and looked Thomas straight in his eyes.

We’ve heard reports of suspected gang members in the area. You two match the description.

Louis stomped the