Talent: Descended From Myth, #2

Each breath of scorching air seared my lungs. Heat waves shimmered above the sand like an endless ocean. The sky above was so bright, and the air so dry, even my eyelids felt gritty. I could taste the sand, the dirt, and salt crusted on my lips. In my dreams, I was always walking through the desert alone. I trudged through the rippled sand, fighting its weight as it sucked and pulled at my boots like a living thing. Shouldering my pack, I moved slowly forward. Inexplicably, I was suddenly in our Humvee and surrounded by my team. They’re laughing and cracking jokes, but I knew something wasn’t right. I knew there was something I was missing. I was supposed to tell them . . . something. There was this fragment of information lodged in my brain and I couldn't pull it out. Frustrated, I ripped off my helmet so I could breathe freely.

I yelled at my buddy, Jason. Shut your mouth! I need to concentrate! The words barely left my lips when the Humvee exploded around me, splintering into jagged shards of molten metal and flame.

I jolted awake, drenched in sweat, and fought for breath. My dream was always the same. While it remained unchanged, I never truly woke up from it. Even when I was awake, it was still there, lurking in the back of my mind. A car backfiring in the street, a group of guys laughing, an unexpected flash of light, that’s all it took and I was right back in it. I couldn’t even take solace in knowing that the dream is real; I’d lost the actual memory. I couldn't tell you what happened that day if you offered me a million dollars. Before my injury, I had the kind of brain that remembered everything. I could tell you what I got from my Aunt Sally for my eighth birthday, but I couldn't tell you how my best friends, my entire team, died. Even though I was right there with them, it was completely gone. But I had the dream. One of my therapists told me it was my subconscious' attempt to fill in the gaps. She said if I continued to talk about my emotions, and confronted the guilt I feel, then eventually the dream would go away.

Screw that!

I didn't want the dream to go away. It messed me up and forced me to think about shit I'd rather not face every night, every day, but it was all I had left of them. They died, but somehow I lived. I ought to lose sleep over that. I’m walking wounded, only a little brain damage. A mosquito bite compared to bleeding out in the sand. How was I supposed to go back to living life like a regular Joe after something like that? I never really had much of a life as a regular Joe in the first place. I enlisted before I turned eighteen, headed to basic the day after high school graduation, and spent the next six years active duty Army.

I understood life on a military post, but life on a college campus? It has a completely different set of rules. On the outside, I still looked like I fit. It's when they look closer that they realize I move differently, think differently, than most guys. Eventually, everyone seems to sense it. They know there’s something off about me. 

I got school paid for by the GI Bill, but they added the requirement that I go to therapy sessions and keep my grades up if I want the money to keep coming. If I didn't earn a degree, then I'd end up working in a factory or stocking shelves at a grocery store.

I spent the last three years in Army Special Ops. I thought I'd be military for life. No way am I fit for a life in customer service. I'd either end up suicidal, or in prison.  So, I went to the counseling sessions, kept my head down, and tried to keep my crazy from showing. Some days that was harder than others. 

I pushed through the doors of the mental health clinic, scoping everyone lurking in the lobby as I looked for a good place to sit. There was a guy sporting a ZZ Top beard sitting in my usual seat, the one with its back to the corner so you can watch both doors. I feel better when I can see if someone’s coming at me. None of the free seats felt safe, so I checked in with the receptionist. Porter McGavin, ma'am. I'm here for my individual session.

I avoided group sessions as much as possible. There weren’t many veterans at this clinic, and I had a hard time mustering up sympathy for the kids who feel like their parents didn’t love them enough.

Anna will be with you in a few minutes, the receptionist muttered as she picked up the ringing phone. Not ‘Doctor’ anything, just another one of the grad students. I'd met with Anna before though, and she was one of the better ones. I could go to counseling with the VA or this campus office. It was run by a bunch of pretentious grad students, but it was on campus and much closer to my apartment. Even at the VA, it's not like the counselors have seen any action. They didn't really understand, they'd just read a lot of books about it. Not the same thing, let me tell you. 

Porter? the pretty, green-eyed grad student called me into the lounge she used for counseling sessions. I nodded politely, walked into the room and settled into the arm chair in the corner, where I could see through both the window and the door.

Give me just a second, okay? she asked, leaning out the door to whisper something to a muscular guy I realized I'd seen before. I remembered talking to him at the VA. He'd been kind of pushy then, invading my space and asking me questions I didn't really want to answer. At the time, I'd kind of figured he was another patient. Seeing him here as well changed my mind. He might be the clinic equivalent of a bouncer. He sure watched everyone as though he was measuring them up. Of course, I probably look at people that way too, like everyone I come into contact with is a potential threat. He made eye contact with me, but didn't look away. His eyes widened slightly as he stared back at me. I accepted the challenge, staring back until Anna stepped between us.

You worried that I'm gonna cause a problem, ma'am? I asked calmly, irritated that she might think I was capable of hurting her, even though I'd wondered the same thing about myself in the past.

No, Porter, I'm not. Actually, this is my fiancé, Daniel. I think you've spoken to him in the past. He's waiting to take me to lunch. I apologize for the interruption. It was the first time any of the grad students had ever told me anything about themselves. I wasn’t sure I liked it. I appreciated the distance between us. It’s easier when it’s me versus them. 

She started in asking me about my week, my dreams, all the usual bull. At first it seemed routine, but as we got past the small talk, something shifted. It turned hot in the room and I was only feeling warmer as the conversation went on. My body began feeling tingly and itchy all over. I was answering another inane question about my feelings when Anna suddenly interrupted me. Porter, are you cold?

Cold? No, it's crazy hot in here.

Then why do you have goosebumps? she asked, almost accusingly.

I stared down at my arms, noticing for the first time that they were indeed covered in prickly gooseflesh. Was this another sign that I was losing my mind?

I don't know. I feel kind of prickly. I haven't had a problem with it before. I tried to keep the defensiveness out of my voice. The counselors didn't like it when I sounded too defensive.

Anna stared at me, as though she was coming to a decision. Okay... Porter, have you found a job yet?

Um, kind of a random question, but no. I haven't. My GI Bill pays for most things, so I'm still doing okay.

If I had a lead on a career opportunity I think would be perfect for you, is there a chance you'd be interested? Anna tapped her pen to her lips, fidgeting a bit in her chair.

I felt my eyes narrow, my skepticism growing with every word she spoke. Is this some kind of trick question? Or a test? Or are you selling something?

Anna laughed, tossing her wavy strawberry blonde hair over her shoulder as she gestured towards the door, waving in her boyfriend. No tricks. I give you my word. Daniel works for a group who provide security and protection details. They're looking for new candidates, and with your background and abilities, we think you'd be a perfect fit.

Stunned, I sat back in my chair. You mean, I'd be a bodyguard? Or is it mall security or something like that? I felt my pulse pick up. A big part of me missed action, craved the adrenaline rush I'd been so long without. But could I handle myself without freaking out when the shit hit the fan? Fear and panic would get you killed in a hot zone, likely taking some of your brothers with you. Bodyguards are supposed to take a bullet for the person they’re covering, risk themselves to keep the client safe. Fear and panic sure as shit wouldn't help with that either.  But then, what kind of action would I really see guarding someone here in backwater Indiana? It was much more likely I'd end up chasing kids off the mall fountain and escorting old ladies to their cars.

"It's far more like being a bodyguard. Only, a bit more intensive than that. I should really let Daniel explain," Anna answered vaguely.

Daniel walked into the room as though he'd been expecting to be summoned. He carried himself like he was military. The haircut sure wasn’t regulation, but I was certain the guy could handle himself. He wasn't just a gym rat, even if he did have hair like some male model. I absently rubbed my hand over my own blonde stubbled head. I hadn't let my own hair grow out in years. If I did, maybe it would cover up some of my scars, but for some reason I hadn’t been able to let it go. It just felt wrong. 

What about the brain damage? Seems like it could be a problem in that line of work. I'm not as sharp as I used to be. Still having flashbacks too. I hated having to admit that to a stranger, but I wasn't going to hide it either.

Anna and Daniel exchanged a look I couldn't interpret. I think I have a way to help with that, too, if you decide to take the job, she answered vaguely.

I'm not taking any pills, I growled. The pills didn't help, they only made everything foggy and I became even more paranoid.

No, I wasn't talking about pills. I meant something else entirely. Porter, how open minded are you? Anna asked.

This whole situation was getting weirder by the minute. I started to get up, feeling the need to get the hell away from the source of my confusion. I never used to get so confused. I was the one who put all the pieces together, who always saw the big picture.

Another wave of heat rolled over me, my arms and every part of my body tingling as I felt myself weaken and drop back into the chair. What the hell was that?!

Daniel sat in the chair next to mine and leaned towards me. Do you feel something unusual, Porter? What does it feel like?

Like I'm getting shocked by a freaking electric blanket set on high! I groaned. I tried to remember what I’d been about to do before the heat hit me, but couldn't quite grasp it. The sensation vanished almost immediately, leaving my skin feeling oddly cold and exposed.

What you just felt is a kind of psychic energy. There are very few people on the planet who can sense it. I happen to be one of them, Daniel explained. I stared at him, unsure what to think.

Psychic energy from you? I asked, beginning to feel like I was being taken for a ride.

Not me, it’s from Anna, Daniel answered, looking at his companion. He’ll never believe us if you don’t do something more extreme.

I’d had enough. My mental state was fragile enough as it was without having people messing with my mind. I stood to go, saying, Look, I’m sorry, but I don’t think this is helping. I’m not interested in whatever the two of you are selling. I tried to move forward, but the thick sole of my boot was suddenly fused to the tile floor beneath it. I jerked and twisted, trying to break my foot free. The pins and needles continued to stab me mercilessly and the heat was suffocating. Stop it! I growled. The sensation stopped immediately. My foot shot from the floor so quickly I almost fell on my face.

Like I said, psychic energy, Daniel chuckled. 

What the hell are you? Both of you? I gasped.

I'm a member of a group who provides protection to people with special abilities. People like Anna. Our group requires a life-long commitment from its members, but you'll never have to worry about health care, expenses, or feeling like an outcast again. It's sort of like a private military, only with a much longer history, Daniel explained.

Okay... I said, my mind racing to process this information. What do you mean people with special abilities? There are more people who can do this kind of thing? I nodded towards Anna, my mind boggled. I’d always believed that psychics, mediums, fortune-tellers, and all those types were scam artists. Maybe I’d been wrong?

I know it sounds ridiculous, but I’m descended from a Greek goddess called Callista. She was a Muse. Are you familiar with the concept of a Muse? Anna asked, glancing over at Daniel. I got the feeling they were leaving a lot of information out.

Yeah, I’m not a big fan, but I’ve heard their music. No, I know, I held up a hand before they rushed to correct me. "I know what you’re talking about. Goddesses of inspiration, patroness of the arts and sciences, yadda yadda. Problem is, they’re mythology. Myth, as in not real," I enunciated.

They existed. Their children existed and their descendants continue to exist. My brotherhood protects them from those who would harm them, Daniel replied irritably. 

Wow. This sounds like some kind of a cult, buddy. No offense, but I'm not looking to drink the Kool-Aid, I scoffed. What could have a longer history than the military anyway? Was this some kind of weird Freemason type society?

Anna laid a hand on my arm. Normally I would have flinched and pulled away, but for some reason a strange feeling of peace flowed over me instead.

Porter, this has nothing to do with religion. You’re free to worship whomever, or whatever, you wish. This is about honor, courage, integrity, and service. I see all those things in you. I also see the parts of you that are damaged. It's like sand in a clockwork. If you train with the Guardians, we can help you heal. We can help you find the answers you have locked away inside. You don't have to keep feeling like part of you is missing, Anna said, her voice soft and compelling.

I eyed them both skeptically. Classes were about to end for the summer and I'd been dreading the weeks of unregulated time. I have a harder time coping if I don't stick to a strict schedule. I would’ve ended up spending too much time in the gym and library...alone.

Daniel stood and handed me a thin notebook. "Anna says you can be trusted to keep this safe. I trust her. You have yet to prove yourself. This is a history of the Order, our traditions, expectations for novices, training regimen, and responsibilities. You'll learn more if you choose to come with us to our headquarters after finals. Do not allow anyone else to see this book, understand?"

I recognized the tone of someone who was in the habit of giving orders and having them followed. I used that voice too, not so very long ago. It didn't chafe the way it should have, being told what to do. I must have missed having orders to follow too. That didn't mean I was going to blindly follow these two though.

I'll look it over. But I doubt very much that I'm going to be joining you.

Anna smiled. All we ask is that you consider the opportunity.

Movement by the lounge door caught my attention as a girl who looked about 17 peeked through the glass pane, her pale blonde hair shimmering even under the fluorescent lights. She glanced from Anna to me, caught me staring, and quickly ducked away from the door.

Ready to go? Anna interrupted, obviously aware that she'd lost my attention.

Yeah. Thanks, I guess. This has been eye-opening, if nothing else. I'll give you my answer at my next session, ma'am.

She nodded, not seeming at all worried about what I'd decide.

I shoved the pamphlet inside my jacket, unwilling to look at it in front of them, and headed for the door. Daniel beat me to it, holding it open, and offering a firm handshake. Remember, nobody else, he muttered. As if I had anyone else to show.

The blonde wasn't in the hallway anymore. She was too young for me to be checking out, but there was something about the look in her eyes that captured my attention. She looked damn near as scared of life as I was.

I spent a week reading and re-reading that pamphlet. I did research on Greek mythology and Muses in particular. I couldn’t get the idea of there being another reality out there I knew nothing about out of my head. My finals didn't go very well. Mostly because I just couldn't focus.  I completely bombed one of them when some jerk pulled the fire alarm in the middle of the exam. I didn't even bother to go back in to finish, my nerves were too shattered. My future was crumbling away like the damn sand in my dreams. I kept thinking about the Guardians, and wondering if maybe the offer Anna and Daniel had extended wasn't total bullshit. The way things were going, I didn't have anything to lose. The next appointment, I returned to the clinic and told Anna I was in.

One Year Later...

Anna sat in an office chair, leaning forward and listening intently. She was counseling a lady whose face was covered in purple and yellow bruises about battling depression. I was supposed to be assisting, but I was too distracted by the woman's brain. Brains fascinate me, the pulsating colors and racing patterns of light that represent neurons firing and various chemical responses. I see them all so clearly that sometimes I forget to look at people's faces instead of through them.

Claire, could you lend me a hand here? Anna asked sweetly. She was using her doctor voice on me again.

"Depression isn't even her issue. Who wouldn't be depressed about having a husband who knocks the crap out of you every night?" I pointed out in exasperation. The battered lady sucked in a sharp breath, and red lights flared in her brain, (that's anger), followed by yellow, (fear or panic). I could see the places where her thought processes and motivations were all twisted up. It'd be easy to just reach out and untangle them. I could so easily set her straight, but Anna didn't like me to do that without consent, so I probably shouldn't have ticked off the patient so quickly in the process. Ooops.

Anna let out a frustrated sigh, waved her hand in the air like a Jedi, and the lady's brain flashed a bright white. Poof! Claire's insensitivity forgotten. I got another do over, courtesy of my mentor. If only I had Anna's abilities. But she’s an actual Muse, the first one in thousands of years according to the Guardians. I was just a diluted version, a mere Talent. But I could do one thing that Anna couldn't. She can bend people's minds and wills all over the place. She can even break them, but I can fix them. Shooting me a stern look, Anna whispered, Start over! and jerked her head toward the patient.

Mrs. Alderidge? I said, my voice all sweetness and honey. I'm Claire Montgomery. I was wondering if I could help you with some of your depression issues through hypnotherapy?

The lady with the colorful brain, Mrs. Alderidge, shot me a look that I was all too familiar with and I knew what she was going to say before the words even left her lips. Aren't you a little young for this? You don't even look old enough to drive.

I