The Croods

On 4/27/13, my family and I went to the movies. We watched the Croods, a movie fun for all ages. We went a little late so we had to sit in the front rows and we weren’t sitting together. Either way, it was a great movie and one that I will remember for some time!

Eep is a girl in a family of  Cavemen living and hunting in pre-historic times, talking about how her family is one of the few to survive nearby, mainly due to the strict rules of her overprotective father, Grug . When in their cave home, Grug tells a story to the rest of the family which includes his wife Ugga, his daughter Sandy, his son Thunk, and his mother-in-law Gran with a character that mirrors Eep’s curious nature. He uses this story to warn the family that exploration and new things pose a threat to their survival, and says to never not be afraid. This irritates the bored and adventurous Eep, and when the family falls asleep after dark, she ignores her father’s advice and leaves the cave when she sees a light moving outside the cave.

Seeking the light’s source, she meets Guy, an intelligent caveboy. She becomes fascinated with the fire he manages to create and  is eager to learn more. He tells her about his theory that the world is reaching its ‘end’ and asks her to join him. She refuses and Guy leaves, but not before giving her a noise-making shell to call him if she feels the need for help. Shortly afterwards, Eep is then caught by Grug, who had been frantically searching for her. Grug brings Eep back home, planning to keep her in the cave for the rest of her life. He is joined by the rest of the family, who Eep then tells them about Guy and shows them  the shell given to her, only for them to destroy it in fear of ‘new things’. An earthquake then occurs, sending everyone running for the cave, only to be stopped by Grug moments before the cave is destroyed by falling rocks. When they climb over the wreckage, they discover a land with lush vegetation, much different from their usual surroundings of rocky terrain. Grug takes his family into the deep forest to find a new cave.

While becoming aware of their new surroundings, the family are chased by a “Macawnivore” (a large, macaw-colored machairodont later called ‘Chunky’) and attacked by a swarm of “Piranhakeets” (deadly red-furred, piranha-like birds). In an act of panic, Eep sounds a horn similar to that which Guy gave her. Guy hears this and rushes to her. Thinking quickly, he creates a torch of fire, which scares the birds away. The rest of the family are then captivated by the fire, having never seen it before. After feeling impressed with Guy’s intelligence and mind of ‘ideas’, Grug bottles him in a hollow log to carry him in, then suggests that they take solitude in the cave of a nearby mountain mentioned by Guy. Guy is forcibly persuaded to lead the way, and soon begins to learn of the Croods way of living, which he thinks of as unusual.

Having captured something afterwards, the family greedily devours everything they caught. Guy and Eep are more sparing. The others realize their greediness and stop eating. Grug then tells another of his morale-lowering tales, this time mirroring the events of their day, mentioning a girl Grug and Ugga had before Eep was born who did venture away from her cave and died. Guy then tells a story of his own about a paradise he nicknames “Tomorrow”.

The next day, the family reaches a path coated in spiked rocks. A freed Guy then presents one of his various inventions called shoes. He makes some out of all the resources he can find, for each family member. This gains him some respect from the others except for Grug, who starts to feel jealous of Guy’s cleverness. Ugga, Gran, and Sandy have their first idea to get past carnivorous plants, Thunk encounters a crocodile-like dog who he calls Douglas, Eep and Guy grow closer together, while Grug is stranded in a ravine forcing Ugga to go back for him. They all reach a tree to stop for another night except for Grug, who feels distraught by his family abandoning his traditions of ‘Yesterday’ for Guy’s traditions of ‘Tomorrow.’ The next day, a ‘desperate’ and left-out Grug shows the others some of his ideas which all end up failing and humiliating himself. They soon reach the mountain, where Grug is unable to convince the family that settling in nearby cave is a better option, reaches to full anger, and proceeds to attack Guy. The two become stuck in tar and Guy reveals his family died drowning in it and their last words inspired his traditions of “Tomorrow.” Grug has a change of heart towards Guy.

As they are about to reach their destiny, an earthquake opens a deep ravine in their path. Grug throws each of them across the gap and reconciles with Eep, but is left behind. Will they make it to Tomorrow? Watch the movie to find out!

 

At the Nelson

Today I went to the Nelson to look at the 江山行旅, Journey through the Rivers and Mountains. This weekend is the last day they are showing it. After this weekend they will put everything back so that it won’t be damaged by the light and temperature, things like that. The next time I see this stuff will probably be in 10 or 20 years!

My favorite was the paintings. I couldn’t believe that such detail could be produced by brushes! I already went there for a school field trip last quarter. It meant much more when I knew more from our field trip. I could look at things more in detail. The other things like ceramics and pottery were amazing too. They didn’t have tools like we have today yet they managed to make beautiful works of art! I got to see so much of our culture, I am proud to be Chinese!

 

My Spring Break 2013

On March 23, 2013 I got off the boat, saying my farewells to Princess. Roatan, Belize, and Cozumel… I will really miss the warm touch of the brilliant sun, the gentle sea spray, or the magical feel of life in every nook or cranny, underneath every rock or behind colorful coral.

So now in the car, I write this journal.
My favorite countries were probably Roatan and Belize. Roatan with its place teeming of life, and Belize with the wonderful snorkeling.
In Roatan we went to an iguana farm (they are so cute!) afterwards some monkeys climbed on our heads (they are also so cute!) Did you know that monkeys are known for their playful and lovable behavior?
Oh mama, Belize was just beautiful! We rode a boat to a small island. It had slightly rocky pale cream colored sand, with cool, crystal clear water. Palm trees were scattered here and there. There were two shacks for food and some gift shopping.
We went snorkeling in the crystal clear water there. The guide we had with us was very nice, I gave him a tip. Omigosh it was pretty! We saw a stoplight parrot fish, some blue angelfish, and even a barracuda! The sand there was very soft, unlike the rocky sand on the island. I was sad when we left the island.
After stoppingg by at Cozumel for some gift shopping, we came back to the boat for the last day. Princess Pop Choir preformed then after a few shows, we all went back to our beds for the last night at Princess.
So now, with a tan and warm memories, I write this conclusion: Princess, I miss your room service! But I also miss the sun and carefree times, although I know I must go home to my responsibilities. I hope to be on a cruise with Princess again, if not at least travel to Roatan, Belize, or Cozumel. Until then, I guess I’m gonna stay in Kansas for now!

Horse Back Riding

For my birthday, we went horseback riding at the same place we went to for my sister’s birthday, Saddle Creek Stables. Last time I went I had a beautiful and well behaved horse. This time I had a beautiful and, well, sort of lazy horse. Her name is Pocahontas, Poco for short because she was so slow. She had a very pretty dappled coat. Butterscotch, snowy white, and raven black. Poco is also a bit small, the perfect size for me. I would have no problem riding the beautiful thing; she is very nice and great for kids.

Poco can slack off a bit though, when the lady was introducing her to some people, she said that a snail could probably beat her! Poco is also very well behaved, she obeys all my commands and responds to the slightest twitch of the reins-of course in her own time. I would have to squeeze my legs together to get her to go a little faster. I said”walk” so many times it doesn’t seem like a word anymore!

The last time we went, autumn colors were dancing so the view was amazing. This time the view wasn’t as pretty but being in the woods with nature is still breathtaking. We got to see three doe! They were so graceful and pretty.

Just like last time, as soon as we neared the ranch, I felt my stomach drop and my heart bracing itself to say good bye to my horse. This time I actually moaned out loud. As slow as Poco was, she was still just as well behaved as Leah, my horse last time. I loved her and nearly cried when Poco was lead away. I actually did get misty, no one noticed though. God bless my beautiful Leah, and young little Poke. I hope I will go riding again sometime soon.

Snow Creek Skiing

What is skinny, long, and makes you fall on your butt? …… Skies!

Yesterday my dad and I went to Snow Creek to go skiing. My dad and I made the mistake of bundling up with the assumption of it being blistering cold. Actually, once you start moving, it can get kind of warm. It was our first time there so we took lessons. Our teacher wasn’t that great. She said a naughty word and she doesn’t seem really patient. She sighed when I fell. And she was like “You just made a big accomplishment – you realized that your feet are now as big as your skies!” how embarrassing!!

Anyways, skiing itself was REALLY fun. I think I’m a good beginner because I could navigate my turns pretty well. The next time I go, after a couple times on the bunny hill I think I can go to the big hill. My dad fell quite a bit and had to use the poles.

After a couple of hours my feet started hurting from the tight boots. I now have four blisters. The boots were really uncomfortable. Our teacher said they were supposed to be that tight. My feet hurt even when I walk and my dad wasn’t feeling too good either so we decided to go home. Skiing was a great opportunity. I hope I can come back next winter!!!

Holiday Movies – Rise of the Guardians

 Today we went to the movies as a holiday surprise. We watched the Rise of the Guardians. It’s a great movie but personally I think it’s nothing like the previews – still a good movie though.

Basically the Guardians (Santa, Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny, and Sand Man) have a job to protect the children and give them dreams. The villain, Boogie Man, hates being forgotten and longs to be known again. He comes back to the world and changes the children’s dreams to nightmares. The moon chooses another Guardian – Jack Frost – to help protect the children. At first, Jack Frost doesn’t want to be a Guardian but after figuring out who he is, together the Guardians stop the Boogie Man and Jack Frost accepts being a Guardian.

It sounds a bit childish but the movie is really good! My sister liked the Tooth Fairy and my favorite is the Sand Man. I hope you enjoy the movie if you see it. Merry Christmas!

 

Forever and Always – Part 4

Yes! Saturday! Carter thought. He jumped out of bed and quickly changed into a pair of jeans then slipped a sweatshirt over his pajamas.

After he finished brushing his teeth, a sweet aroma of pancakes and Grandma’s home-made maple syrup slithered up his nose – wait – Grandma’s maple syrup? Grandma was here!!

Skipping down the stairs two at a time like a three year old on Christmas morning, he ran towards the dining room yelling “Grandma, Grandma!!”

Carter’s grandma has white-blond hair with bright blue eyes. It was said that when she was younger she used to be a fashion model.

Carter’s grandma enveloped him in a bear hug, “Oh, my pumpkin-lumpkin, you’ve grown so much!!” Carter resisted wiping off a big and smoochie kiss and smiled back. “Yo mama’s running some errands so I’m ‘ere till lunch.” Carter’s grandma said. Whoo- hoo! Carter thought then asked “Grandma, can I go to Lakeside Forest?” crossing his fingers. “I ain’t care ‘bout nothin’ poochkins, just have some pancakes first.” Carter punched his fist in the air then generously dug in to a stack of pancakes.

***

Chloe smiled, soaking in the warm spring weather. She knelt by the lake, lazily dragging a stick through the water. With a feeling of happiness, she flopped down on her back, making out shapes from the clouds. “Hey Carter, I think that one looks like a heart” Chloe turned her head and smiled. With a pang of grief, she realized that she smiling at an imaginary Carter. Suddenly, the sound of footsteps interrupted her thoughts. Slipping into James Bond mode, she ran and hid behind a bush near the lake.

The footsteps came closer and closer. Chloe panicked, what if it was the police? How dumb could she be? Of course they’d notice if she had been missing for a week! She risked a glance from behind the bush and nearly fell. Carter!

Chloe stepped out from behind the bush and Carter stopped in his tracks. “Hey” Chloe said cautiously. “Hey” Carter replied back. Then, as if a spell was broken, they both ran into each other’s arms sobbing “I’m sorry, I’m sorry!”

After a tearful reunion, Carter invited Chloe to his home to teach her things she missed at school while she was gone. After that everything went back to normal. Almost.

***

“Chloe, where have you been?” Mrs. Tumberly asked. “I went on a…er… a vacation. My mom was supposed to…er…email you. Did you…er…not receive it?” Chloe replied, racking her brain for excuses. “I’m afraid not. Mrs. Dollarhide did not receive it, Mrs. Argentine and all your other teachers did not receive it and for heaven’s sake even the principal Mr. Gibbson did not receive it.” Mrs. Tumberly glared at Chloe. “Well, I’m terribly sorry, this won’t happen again. I promise.” Chloe gave the puppy face, staring at Mrs. Tumberly with her big brown eyes. Mrs. Tumberly sighed, “Go sit down. Do you know what we’ve learned?” “Yes, Carter taught me. Thank you Mrs. Tumberly.”

“Now class, these fractions – Carter and Chloe stop talking!! As I was saying…” Carter and Chloe sighed; Mrs. Tumberly will always be herself. Carter handed Chloe a note and winked. Chloe smiled as she read it. Lakeside Forest after school? I might have found a new herb. Finally Chloe had her Carter back, and Carter had Chloe back.

 

 

 

 

Forever and Always-Part 3

Chloe tumbled out of bed, her hair a mess. Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes, she got out her flint kit and quickly made a fire. The crisp, cool, morning air had already made its way through her clothes. Slipping on a coat from a hook near the door, she walked outside breathing in the fresh air. Dew drops shimmered like diamonds on dancing blades of grass. The lake sparkled in the rising sun.

As she walked back in, she noticed a note taped on the door.

Dear Chloe,

                        I’m extremely sorry about that night. I will admit I went a little crazy. I hope you know that I didn’t mean to call you what I called you. I wonder if you will ever find a way to forgive me.

                                                                                                Love, 

                                                                                                Carter

          At the bottom of the note was a necklace.  Flowers carved out of thin, delicate pieces of gold were grouped together. In the middle of each flower was some kind of precious stone. This was hung on a sparkling string of silver. The flowers were put in a way so that it made a shape. A heart. Chloe stuffed the necklace at the bottom of her bed then ripped the note in half.

She knew that the fight was the silliest thing in the world but, after what Carter called her, in her opinion, this was a great reason to be mad. After taking a couple of deep breathes, Chloe pulled out a knife and a loaf of bread then took a jar of honey. After eating a meal of rich honey and bread, Chloe took a basket and walked outside.

Without hesitation, Chloe took a path that led deep into the heart of the forest. She finally reached a clearing where herbs grew everywhere. She got to work right away.

Beep, beep, beep! Carter groaned as he reached out to slap his alarm clock then when back to sleep.

Five minutes later…

“Carter wake up!! You’re going to be late for the school bus and I’ll have to drive you to school again!” Carter’s mom yelled, banging on the door. Carter groaned and stuffed his head under his pillow. His mom walked in, ignoring keep out signs plastered all over his door. “Carter wake up!” his mom yelled again. Carter responded this with yet another groan. “Humph! It’s not my fault that you were up till midnight doing your homework because of what reason I don’t know. Sounds suspiciously like sneaking out to someplace.” Carter’s mom siged, “Two minutes and I expect you to be downstairs ready for breakfast.” then Carter’s mom walked out and slammed the door.

“Bossy old lady” Carter grumbled then tumbled out of bed. Three minutes later a boy with a ridiculous bed-head and his shirt on backwards walked downstairs. The way he was walking you would have thought he was a zombie.

Carter’s mom started the engine then turned around and glared at him. “This is the last time I’m taking you to school mister.” Then she snapped back around focused on the cars in front of her.

As Carter got out of the car, he was stopped by a girl named Ashley. She was part of the “popular crowd”, you know, every school has one.

“Hey Carter!” Carter rolled his eyes then slowly turned around. “What” he grumbled. “Awww,” Ashley cooed with mock sympathy, “You look tense. Up all night worrying about your girlfriend?” Ashley expertly tossed honey colored tresses over her shoulder as her friends broke down laughing. Carter turned red then walked away mumbling “She’s not my girlfriend.”

 

 

Forever and Always Part 2

Ring, ring, ring! “Ok, class, don’t forget to do that page of reciprocals and I need those essays on Wednesday…” Carter rolled his eyes, “Oh my god, hurry up “Mrs. Chatterbox”, the bell rang two minutes ago!” he thought. Carter could hardly resist jumping out of his chair when Mrs. Tumberly said her last sentence, “Have a good day!” Carter raced to his locker and grabbed a couple of books, hoping they were the right ones, then hopped on his bike and pedaled home as fast as he could.

While Carter was at school, Chloe had been at work tidying up the cabin. The cabin was surprisingly very roomy yet cozy. A coat hung on a hook near the door. There were two cabinets, one filled with different medicines made from herbs and berries from the forest or medicines from Carter’s house. The second cabinet had silverware and whatnot. Pushed to the corner, was a desk set with stationary. On the corner of the desk was a stack of yellowing papers tied with gold silk (actually, Carter and Chloe had dipped the paper in water with yellow food coloring and tied them with gold ribbon). The papers were the recipe for the medicines made in the forest.  In another corner was a fireplace. A small potbelly pot stood next to it. A bunk bed was pushed to one side of the wall.

Chloe shouldered of her backpack and unpacked her things, water bottle, water purification tablets, flashlight, flint kit, energy bars, rain poncho, and a picture of Carter. Chloe looked at the picture with misty eyes. All of a sudden she was at her house, the night of the fight.

“I don’t want a crossbow for my birthday, I want a bow and arrow!” Chloe said irritably, “You’re just greedy, you’re making me spend my money on an expensive bow and arrow!” Carter shouted. Chloe rolled her eyes, “I told you already, I wanted a bow and arrow but if that’s not the case then I’d rather get something else!” Carter muttered a word then walked out and slammed the door. Chloe stood, mouth open and eyes wide with shock. She had never imagined that Carter would say that word, especially calling her it. Her surroundings swirled before her and she was back in the cabin.

Chloe sat down on the bed , sinking into the worn out mattress. She clutched the picture, chest tight. Staring at the picture, what she saw was a good friend, someone who listened, someone who would be able to work things out.

Carter had blond hair that swept over his eyebrows, mischievous blue eyes that sparkled like the sun over the ocean, and a crooked smile. Angrily Chloe ripped the picture in half and threw it in the lake.

About 10 miles away, Carter was arguing with his parents. “I’ll finish my homework later, right now I need to go to Lake Side Forest!” Cater sighed. “No, you and Chloe are probably going to do those strange things you’ve been doing such as taking MY MEDICINES  and you’ll get so into your little game that you’ll forget to do your homework!” Carter’s mom said while washing the dishes. “But Mom, I will do my homework-’’ “CARTER DAVIS, you are not going to Lake Side Forest, DO YOUR HOMEWORK!!!!!” Shocked and terrified, Carter ran up to his room. He took a second to catch his breath then smiled slyly.

Carter opened up his window and went to his closet. Hidden in the forest of clothes was a ladder. Carter carefully extended the ladder to full length and lowered it out his window. With small careful steps, Carter slowly descended down the ladder. At last his feet landed on firm ground. He folded up the ladder then hid it behind a row of bushes on the side of house. Taking a shaky breath, he sprinted towards Lake Side Forest. Carter was off.

Forever and Always-A Story of Fights in a Friendship

 

Part 1

            Chloe ran into Lake Side Forest, tears streaming down her face. Her feet pounded on the mulch covered trail, leading away from her crazy mother, away from her so called friend.

The trails winding through the forest would confuse anyone, but Chloe knew them by heart. She and her friend Carter have roamed these trails every day. They knew the secrets of the forest, where the sweetest berries grew, where herbs grew in luxurious clumps, and where poison ivy ruled, ready to brush upon your skin.

Last night’s fight with Carter crept into Chloe’s mind. Chloe blinked back tears and pushed the thought out of her mind. Somewhere far away the school bell rang. Chloe smirked, let Carter have a kick out of that. Chloe was skipping school, just like she and Carter had planned. They both knew the plan would never take action, their parents, or rather Carter’s parents (Chloe’s dad died and her mom went crazy, now she basically lives with Carter) would find them or call the police.

Chloe finally reached a beautiful lake, the lake that gave this trail its name. She walked towards a magnificent old willow tree. Pushing past the willow’s long graceful branches, she arrived at a small cabin, sheltered by the willow’s branches. Carter had taken some lumber that his father wasn’t using. He and Chloe built this cabin together. The cabin was big enough to fit two.

Meanwhile, Carter stared at an empty desk as Mrs. Tumberly babbled on about reciprocals. Mrs. Tumberly’s voice grew fainter and fainter as thoughts churned through Carter’s head; she must have gone to our hideout, he thought. Carter thought about Chloe, how her soft caramel colored hair tumbled down her shoulders perfectly, her warm chocolate eyes and brilliant smile. Chloe was very attractive. If you asked anyone, they would say “Athletic and incredibly pretty”. Carter thought about how he had taken Chloe as a friend for granted all those years. He couldn’t bear it to think about losing Chloe. Carter decided to go to Lake Side Forest after school. And that was final.

Horse Back Riding – A Great Experience.

For my sister’s birthday we went horseback riding at Saddle Creek Stables. The experience was amazing! Those who know me would know that I love animals! There was an old man that taught us commands and how to ride then assigned us horses. I was old enough to have my own horse. My horse was a beautiful albino speckled in brown. Her name was Lea.

We got to ride on a trail in the woods and then had barbecue in a meadow. I was a little nervous at first because I was actually riding alone – like without anybody holding the reins. But, Lea was so sweet and gentle. Riding a horse was actually really easy. At first I was horrified at the idea of kicking the horse on the sides but all the horses feel is a little tap.

I really like my mom’s horse too, Peanut Butter. Peanut Butter is a BEAUTIFUL bay. The perfect shade! My sister rode with my dad, she was too small. My dad’s horse’s name is Valentine. Peanut Butter is actually Valentine’s mom! There was another family with us too. Their horses were Irish, Pocahontas, and Ms. Gunner. All of the horses were females.

Finally, after the two hour ride, we came back to Saddle Creek Stables. I was so sad that I sighed out loud and moaned under my breath. Right now I still miss Lea a lot. After all, she did take me over streams, up steep hills, drop offs (now you see why I was nervous). I really wish we could go back again!!

The Odd Life of Timothy Green

              Over the weekend I went to see the movie The Odd Life of Timothy Green. The Odd Life of Timothy Green is a humorous and touching story. It lets us appreciate nature in a different way. Here’s a little summary.

                Cindy and Jim Green have always wanted to have a child but recently the doctor said they couldn’t. Cindy and Jim wrote down traits that their imaginary child would have then stored it in a box and buried it in their garden. Overnight Timothy Green grew OUT OF THE GARDEN! Timothy has leaves on his legs but overtime the leaves wither and fall of. When Timothy’s leaves fall go, he goes. Of course, not before the Greens and a girl named Joni go through wonderful adventures. To find out more, go watch the movie!

My First Week of Middle School

My first week of middle school wasn’t as bad as I thought. I thought I wouldn’t be able to open my locker in time and I would get lost in the hallways. I also thought I was going to be bullied like crazy, but looking back I was just plain dumb to think those things!  There are these eighth graders called Web Leaders that are SO helpful. By Wednesday I was a pro!

My first hour is language arts, then I have Art, Social Studies, Lunch, Pre Algebra, PE, Science, Orchestra, and the last 30 minutes of school is Bulldog time or study hall. All my teachers are very nice and understanding. The staff have made California Trail a great middle school.

Lunch is SO much better than elementary school. They have so many more choices which also means choices for you too. You could be the person that gets planet sub, two slices of pizza, a soft pretzel with cheese, smoothie king, an ice cream bar and propel zero. To be honest with you I don’t even know how they finish that!

School is so close to my house that I walk there every day. Every morning I wake up at 7:00 and change and all that good stuff. Then I leave at 7:30 and I should get there by 7:40. Class starts at 7:50.

Middle school is so fun and different. I look forward to going back on Monday!

 

 

JCCC

I’ve been going to the summer program in JCCC this summer. The classes I have taken are On the Campaign Trail, Music Technology and You, Stretch Your Thinking, Animal Planet, Authors Wanted, and Smash Booking.

My personal favorite was Authors Wanted. When they say you get to make a book-you get to make a book! First you write and illustrate obviously, then you actually get to sew your pages together. The book cover is cardboard covered in wallpaper. Mrs. Stucky and Mrs. Martin, the teachers Authors Wanted, are beyond nice. I had a great time “publishing” my book!

Second place goes to Music Technology and You. You got to make music on the computer. At the end of the week we did a recital and parents were allowed to come.

This summer had some really good classes. I look forward to next summer!

The Shield of Destiny (full and edited version)

The Shield of Destiny

Pylony’s Gift

 I swiveled to the right as the monster snapped at where my waist had been seconds ago. Leaping in the air, I twisted and turned entwining the necks of the two- headed monster. The monster staggered around helpless and dazed, venom dripping from the foaming mouths. Reaching back, I pulled out a pair of twin katanas from their sheaths on my back. Sensing this, the monster lunged at me, unfortunately legs still fully operational. I moved in a blur neatly slicing the heads off. With a thud, the heads landed at my feet. I breathed a sigh of relief then hurried out of the room; the others will be coming soon.

            “Get the Stealth Planes ready” I spoke in the mic on my ear. I spun around to see Professor Pylony jogging toward me. “Good morning Professor” I said managing a small grin.

 “Hello Natalya, I have something for you.” Pylony handed me a watch with multiple buttons. He pressed a small silver one on the top right-hand side. Immediately a shield sprung up from the watch. The shield glistened in the sun with a majestic feel to it. It glowed silver with an intricate design around the border and in the center was a pure white unicorn. The more I looked at it, the more the unicorn seemed to be moving, alive and prancing around. Then another figure moved in the scene, a monster with a muddy yellow coat and two heads. With a chill I realized that was the monster I fought in the history classroom less than ten minutes ago.

“Natalya?” Professor Pylony asked breaking my trance. His brow furrowed concern in his eyes. “You look awfully pale. Is everything alright?” Pylony continued. I looked back at the shield; it was just the unicorn again. “Yes, I’m fine. Your shield was beautiful, thank you.” I said. “Seriously Professor, you have endless knowledge about technology!” I laughed.

“Well thank you” Pylony smiled, definite pride in his voice.

“The plane is ready, preflight checks have made certain that it is perfectly safe. Stealth system is working and fully operational.” Chief Henry reported. “Good” I replied, pressing the identical silver button beneath the top one. The shield sank back into the screen on my watch. “Fare well.” I said to Pylony.

“Good luck” he replied. I climbed up the steps then sank into one of the chairs. Hope my brother made it to the safe house; we have some things to discuss.

Nick’s Reunion

“Stealth system on” I spoke through my mic as we approached the world’s most populated city. I looked out my window at the busy streets, shops, and people bustling about, unaware that the world’s about to be in the hands of a super villain.

                  “Roger that” the pilot replied, immediately the engines hushed down. Next, there is a thermoptic camouflage outer cloak, designed by Professor Pylony himself, over the plane. When activated the plane is pretty much invisible to the human eye. If you were expecting it, you’d only see a slight shimmer through the sky.

The plane landed next to an old brick warehouse. I jumped out as the stealth plane took off with a rush of wind. I sighed then pulled out a single loose brick. Underneath it was a numeric key pad. I punched in the code then stood back as the metal doors slowly slid apart.

I stepped inside cautiously, security is high but that two headed monster had no trouble getting inside the school. Seeing no signs of monsters, I walked over to the security cameras.

“Hey Natalya” a familiar voice said behind me. I whirled around.  “Nick!” I cried running into my brothers arms. “Cypher’s back! He’s looking for an object t-to rule the world! The monsters-.’’

“Shhh, I know” Nick said soothingly stroking my hair; I pushed myself away from him.

“Have you seen the monsters?” I asked, Nick nodded, I sighed then flopped down on the bunk bed. Nick sat next to me, eyes staring into space. I suddenly remembered, I held out my wrist, the watch glistening.

Nick stared at it, unsure what it was. I pressed the button. The shield sprung up. Nick looked at it, a worried expression on his face. “What is it?” I asked “Do you see the unicorn moving too?”

Nick sighed, “Worse, it’s the Shield of Destiny.”

Betrayal 

“GET ME THAT GIRL NOW!” Cypher banged on his desk.

“Natalya’s a master at martial arts and she can tell fake from real better than anyone. I’m afraid that’s easier said than done.” Cypher glared at the calm face on his computer.

“You dare speak to me like that!” his face red as a tomato.

“No master” the boy on the other end mumbled,

“Good. Now get me the Shield of Destiny, and you shall not fail. Do I make myself clear?” Cypher said “No one has lived to tell the tale of what happens when somebody fails me” Cypher left the threat in the air as his face disappeared from the boy’s computer.

***

I sat up in bed breathing hard; it’s been years since I’ve had a nightmare like that. I replayed the events of my dream, the silver shield flashing in and out with Cypher laughing in the background. I shook the nightmare out of my head then climbed up to the upper bunk. Nick was staring at the computer screen as if he’d seen a ghost.  

“Nick? Are you okay?” Nick jumped then adopted a fighting stance; he stared at me then dropped his hands, his face turning a shade of pink.

“Sorry” Nick mumbled. I laughed.

“You okay? You seem really tense” the smile melting off my face.

“Oh, yeah, I’m okay” he gave me one of those smiles that always warms me, but this time it looked more forced. Something was wrong; he usually doesn’t act like this, “Is it about the shield? I’ve been having nightmares too.”

 Nick shook his head “I’m okay” he mumbled.

“Hey, can I see your computer?” I asked, Nick shook his head again, “Why not?” There’s something really wrong, Nick never keeps anything from me.

“Why don’t you go back to bed? It’s still kind of early.” He suggested. Nick was always an early bird too.

“Ok” I said, climbing down the ladder, I waited a few seconds before I spun around grabbing the computer. Nick opened his mouth to say something but quickly closed it as I raised an eyebrow.

The computer screen was black with the words “Cypher Disconnected,” I stared at Nick in disbelief, tears pricking my eyes, realizing there was betrayal in the air. Nick was working with Cypher! “Natalya, I didn’t have a choice!” Nick said hurriedly but I barely heard it.

 “Nick” I whispered, tears of anger streaming down my face, “How could you!” I screamed, smashing the computer on the floor “Is there anything else you can use to get in touch with your….master?” I asked, lingering on the word master.

“Natalya, listen, he’s not my master. I have to, please—’’ 

I cut him off with a slap across the cheek. “How long have you been doing this?” a note of utter hurt in my voice.

“Ever since we first defeated Cypher” Nick said quietly, his own eyes brimming with tears. Before he could stop me I ran out the doors, “No Natalya! It’s a trap! Natalya! Come back!” Nick screamed. Ignoring him, I kept on running.

A dark silhouette rounded the corner; I turned around only to be blocked by another man. “Good job boys” a familiar voice said. A man walked towards us, he motioned with his hands for the men to back off. Cypher leaned in close to my face. “Hello my pretty.” My nose stung with the smell of spoiled milk and rotten eggs. Cypher smiled “Long time no see.” One of Cypher’s men clamped a hand over my mouth as a canvas bag lowered down on me.

Cypher Reveals his Secret

I trudged down the halls in Cypher’s mansion with two of Cypher’s men following close behind. Rows of cells lined the walls. Behind the cells were different breeds of monsters. I instantly recognized a group of monsters, the long-necked two-headed demon. They had the head of a cat, body of a leopard, and tail of a lion. Their feline eyes stared at me menacingly, almost as if they knew I had killed one of their brothers. At the end of the hallway there was an empty cell. “This is where you will be staying Miss Natalya,” Cypher said with a smile.  The two guards pushed me in. With one more smile, Cypher walked away.

I waited until the guards rounded the corner, then pulled out the soul of my shoe. Inside was a complete lock-picking set. There were varieties of bobby pins, keys, and little gadgets. Checking again to make sure no one was watching, I picked out a small silver key and two bobby pins. In no time the lock was picked.

The metal door swung open as I stepped outside. I checked again, then sprinted down the corridor. I almost bumped into one of the guards. He snarled then slowly walked towards me. I aimed for a punch towards the jaw but the guard blocked. He pulled a sword from his belt. Reaching back I pulled out my own katanas. The guard swept at my feet but I leaped in the air, my katanas hitting the guard’s sword sending it flying down the hall. I somersaulted then landed on my feet behind him. I instantly took off running. All of a sudden, Cypher stepped in front of me, a nasty smirk on his face.

“Now you listen karate kid, one more clever kick of yours and Nick is gone, you hear?” I nodded, knowing that Cypher was not lying. Cypher pointed at the guard, “You! Take her back to her cell.” The guard nodded then grabbed me roughly in the back and pushed me toward the cell. I waited until Cypher was gone then turned around and kicked at the guard’s shin. He gasped in pain, then reached for a gun on his holster. I jabbed at the wrist with two fingers, numbing his hand then reached up and jabbed at the spot behind the ear. The guard sank down unconscious as I dragged him in the cell then locked the door.

I made a run again when a voice called behind me, “Natalya!”

I turned around, “Nick!” I cried out in relief, but something was wrong. Nick handcuffed my hands then pushed me roughly forward. “Come on! Cypher wishes to see you.”

 “Nick? What are you doing?” For a fleeting moment, a look of pain flashed across his face, but it was gone as soon as it came.

“What do you think I’m doing?” he said gruffly, “Move it! Cypher’s not a patient man.”

I stepped into Cypher’s office, my mind buzzing trying to find a way out. “No more playing games Natalya. I believe you have what I want, the Shield of Destiny.”

Nick Comes Back

“And once I have the shield, everything will be mine!” Cypher cackled, slowly morphing into a hawk, talons sharp as daggers. “Do you want to fight this?” Cypher laughed, spreading his gigantic wings over me, covering me in a veil of darkness. “Nick!” Cypher screeched, “Hold her down!” Nick walked towards me. Just as Nick held his hands over my shoulders, he cried out in pain then fell to the ground clutching his head as if he had a terrible headache. Nick looked up at me, his face a mask of torture.

“You have to kill me now. I can only fight him for so long. Please, when I’ll let you kill me,” Nick whispered to me. As if on cue, Nick gasped in agony. I knelt down next to him, stroking him tenderly. I turned to Cypher, pure ice in my eyes.

“What have you done?!” I screamed.

Cypher just examined his talons casually, “Oh yes, you mean the device I invented? So you’re a new fan now, how exciting!” Cypher turned to look at me, his eyes laughing. “Would you like to see it?” Cypher held up a small black box. There were buttons on it as you would see on a video gamer. He turned to look at Nick’s struggling body on the ground, “Yes, Nick has been an obedient servant. Stronger than I thought.”

Anger surged through my body, “He was just a toy you’ve been messing with!” I yelled, “He was your mouse under your claw!” my shoulders rose up and down.

Cypher’s face darkened, he began to press a button on the device but I swatted it out of his claw. Nick’s struggling seemed to have decreased. Cypher pulled out an identical silver device. “This one’s for you,” he sneered.

Suddenly, Nick called out behind me. “You!” he yelled.

           I turned around. Nick was holding the black device. Both Cypher and I looked in surprise. He must have taken it when Cypher and I were busy. Nick smiled, “Hey Natalya,” I smiled back. Nick turned to Cypher, holding the device out in front of him. “This is for everything you’ve done to me,” Nick said, his voice laced with anger. Slowly Nick pressed down a button.

The Shield of Destiny Gone…Almost

              Cypher bowed at our feet, “How may I serve you master?”

             Nick suppressed a smile, “Go far away and never come back.” We watched as Cypher turned the corner then Nick turned to me, the light gone and replaced with sadness. “Natalya, I’m sorry for what I did. Cypher got me before I left, I…” Nick trailed off looking down.

            I put a hand on his shoulder, “You were as much a victim as everyone else.” Nick shook his head.

           “You don’t understand, I was conscious the whole time. I knew what I was doing but I was powerless to stop it.” A tear rolled down his cheek. I tenderly wiped it.

             “It wasn’t you’re fault,” I smiled. Nick was still for a while when he suddenly looked up with his usual smile.

             “I guess this is over now,” Nick sighed.

            “Not yet,” I replied marching out the door of that creepy mansion. I threw the watch as far as my arm could throw. It disappeared in the forest surrounding Cypher’s mansion.

            “Good choice,” Nick said walking up to me. He sighed, “The Shield of Destiny, with its powers still unknown to us is gone.”

 

Look out for

Cypher’s Return

The Shield of Destiny’s Secret

Shield of Destiny-Part 3

  “GET ME THAT GIRL NOW!” Cypher banged on his desk, “Natalya’s a master at martial arts and she can tell fake from real better than anyone. I’m afraid that’s easier said than done.” Cypher glared at the calm face on his computer, “You dare speak to me like that!” his face red as a tomato, “No master” the boy on the other end mumbled, “Good. Now get me the Shield of Destiny, and you shall not fail. Do I make myself clear?” Cypher said “No one has lived to tell the tale of what happens when somebody fails me” Cypher left the threat in the air as his face disappeared from the boy’s computer.

 I sat up in bed breathing hard; it’s been years since I’ve had a nightmare like that. I replayed the events of my dream, the silver shield flashing in and out with Cypher laughing in the background. I shook the nightmare out my head then climbed up to the upper bunk. Nick was staring at a computer screen as if he’d seen a ghost.  “Nick? Are you okay?” Nick jumped then adopted a fighting stance; he stared at me then dropped his hands, his face turning a shade of pink. “Sorry” Nick mumbled. I laughed, “You okay? You seem really tense” the smile melting off my face. “Oh, yeah, I’m okay” he gave me one of those smiles that always warms me, but this time it looked more forced. Something was wrong; he usually doesn’t act like this, “Is it about the shield? I’ve been having nightmares too.” Nick shook his head “I’m okay” he mumbled. “Hey, can I see your computer?” I asked, Nick shook his head again, “Why not?” There’s something really wrong, Nick never keeps anything from me. “Why don’t you go back to bed? It’s still kind of early.” Nick was always an early bird too. “Ok” I said, climbing down the ladder, I waited a few seconds before I spun around grabbing the computer. Nick opened his mouth to say something but quickly closed it as I raised an eyebrow.

The computer screen was black with the words “Cypher Disconnected”, I stared at Nick in disbelief, tears pricking my eyes. “Natalya, I didn’t have a choice!” Nick said hurriedly but I barely heard it. The tears now replaced with anger. “Nick” I whispered, tears of anger streaming down my face, “How could you!” I screamed, smashing the computer on the floor “Is there anything else you can use to get in touch with your….master?” I asked, lingering on the word master. “Natalya, listen, he’s not my master. I have to, please-“I cut him off with a slap across the cheek, “How long have you been doing this?” , a note of utter hurt in my voice. “Ever since we first defeated Cypher” Nick said quietly, his own eyes brimming with tears. Before he could stop me I ran out the doors, “No Natalya! It’s a trap! Natalya! Come back!” Nick screamed, ignoring him I kept on running.

A dark silhouette rounded the corner, I turned around only to be blocked by another man. “Good job boys” a familiar voice said. A man walked towards us, he motioned with his hands for men to back off. Cypher leaned in close to my face “Hello my pretty” my nose stinging with the smell of spoiled milk and rotten eggs, Cypher smiled “Long time no see” one of Cypher’s men clamped a hand over my mouth as a canvas bag lowered down on me.

 

Help! Starving Children in China!

At Guizhou, China, kids are suffering from lack of food and shelter. A group of four others and me are starting a fundraiser for them. Our goal is to raise enough money to give all the students a good lunch so they can have a good education. One dollar is enough for two student’s lunches.  We’re open to any help!!

Shield of Destiny – Part 2

               “Stealth system on” I spoke through my mic as we approached the world’s most populated city. I looked out my window at the busy streets, shops, and people bustling about, unaware that the world’s about to be in hands of the world’s best super villain.

                    “Roger that” the pilot replied, immediately the engines hushed down, next, designed by Professor Pylony himself, there is a thermoptic camouflage outer cloak over the plane. When activated the plane is pretty much invisible to the human eye. If you were expecting it, you’d only see a slight shimmer through the sky.

The plane landed next to an old brick warehouse. I jumped out as the stealth plane took off with a rush of wind. I sighed then pulled out a single loose brick. Underneath it was a numeric key pad. I punched in the code then stood back as the metal doors slowly slid apart.

I stepped inside cautiously, security is high but that two headed monster had no trouble getting inside the school. Satisfied I walked over to the security cameras. “Hey Natalya” a familiar voice said behind me. I whirled around, “Nick!” I cried running into my brothers arms. “Cypher’s back! He’s looking for three objects t-to rule the world! The monsters-“, “Shhh, I know” Nick said soothingly stroking my hair. I pushed myself away from him. “Have you seen the monsters?” I asked, Nick nodded, I sighed then flopped down on the bunk bed. Nick sat next to me, eyes staring into space. I suddenly remembered, I held out my wrist, the watch glistening.

Nick stared it, unsure what it was. I pressed the button. The shield sprung up. Nick looked at it, a worried expression on his face. “What is it?” I asked “Do you see the unicorn moving too?”, Nick sighed, “Worse, it’s the Shield of Destiny.”

 

 

Boulevard Drive In

I went to a drive in to see the movie Brave with some of my friends. To be honest with you I didn’t know that drive in’s existed anymore! The drive in that we went to was called Boulevard Drive In and as I was informed, this drive in has been around since the 1960’s, of course, now a more improved one. The movie was really fun; I think it features the lesson of following your own dream. I really liked it and had a good time at the drive in!

Ernie Miller-Best Summer Camp Ever

        For the last two weeks I went to a summer camp called Ernie Miller. Ernie Miller is a nature center. We do lots of fun stuff such as fishing, boating, creek hiking, plain hiking, and swimming. There’s a small little woods where campers have nicknamed it “forts” over the years. There are sticks to build forts in and it kind of turns into a contest. People bang rocks together to make this dust that we call moon dust. You can buy moon dust with sticks or rocks. There are red rocks that make red moon dust and is supposedly “rare”. It costs a log. Some people do weird entertainment that also gains sticks. This year there was a carnival.

            There are advantages for 11-12 year olds too. We can do things such as archery and BB guns. My favorite part is the counselors. This one girl, Andrea, has been here every year and I really like her. Andrea tells the best stories ever! They’re mostly Indian stories, almost all about the coyote. Molly is also a favorite, although she moved to the Shawnee Mission camp. Her stories are really good too. Actually, I think Andrea gets her stories from Molly! I was really sad when Molly moved. This year’s counselors, Andie and Tony, are awesome! They are the most fun ever! Tony said he would be there next year. I don’t know about Andie but I really wish I would be able to see her next year!

            Field trips are also part of it. We got to go to the Overland Park Flower Garden and go creek hiking at Walnut Grove this year. There are fun games too. We play capture the flag, only this game is called Rescuers and Poachers, splash, and a bunch of other games that teach us about migration and such. My favorite is splash. There’s a splash person in the middle and everyone else gets in a circle. If the splash person points at you, you have to duck and the people on both sides of you have to say splash. If the other person says splash first, then you’re out. When there’s two people they stand back to back. When the splash person says “ten” the two people turn around and say splash. Whoever says it first wins. If the splash person doesn’t say ten then the two people each take a step forward.

         So as you see, these two weeks have been fascinating and fun. I’ve made some new friendships and most importantly learned a lot. Did you know that monarch butterflies arrive at   Mexico every fourth generation? They start from Kansas then fly to Oklahoma, have babies then die. The new butterflies fly to about the middle point of Texas, they have babies then die. To the edge of Texas, the third generation. By the time they get to Mexico, they’re ready for the fourth generation. Fascinating? I can’t wait till next year!