School of Angels

Chapter 8 - Echoes of Duty

Meanwhile, shortly before the incident with Daisy, half a continent away in a quiet, friendly small town, Jim was devouring his breakfast. It was a sunny Saturday, still part of the summer holidays, and he didn't have to worry about school. Having just celebrated his fourteenth birthday with friends, he felt stronger, ready for whatever came next.

Outside, Brian was working on a car, and as soon as Jim had finished his eggs, he rushed out to help his mentor.

"Was it good?" Brian asked, sliding out from under the car on a mechanic's crawler.

"Yeah. But I still prefer waffles and pancakes," Jim said with a grin.

"Hand me that wrench, will you?" Brian pointed to the tool at Jim's feet.

Jim picked up the wrench and handed it over. "Hey, I've got a question," he added, curiosity getting the better of him.

Brian chuckled. "You and your questions. Go ahead."

Jim sat on the ground, watching his mentor work. "If I chose a Spanish baby as my ward, and they could see and hear me, how would they understand my language?"

"Simple. You always hear yourself in your own language, but the human hears you in theirs," came Brian's muffled voice from under the car.

"Huh. I never thought of it that way."

Brian pulled himself out from under the car, wiping his hands. "So, what's your plan for the day?"

"I was thinking of relaxing, maybe drawing. Oh, and I might have Adam and Sally over for dinner."

"Good idea. But if they do come over, you'll have to help with dinner," Brian grinned. "Nervous about second year?"

"I'm excited, actually," Jim replied. "I've missed Mr. Mortimer's telepathy classes."

"What about combat training? Not as much fun?"

"Don't get me wrong, I like it. But I'm not a natural fighter like Adam. The excitement of combat makes me nervous. To be honest, I don't even enjoy hurting demons, even if I know they can't die from it."

Brian raised an eyebrow. "So what would you do in a real fight?"

"I'd fight if I had to - protecting people comes first - but it's not something I'd want to do full time."

"I thought you'd say that after some experience," Brian nodded. "So, no elite warrior training for you?"

"Not really. I'd rather concentrate on studying. I want to be a good mentor one day, maybe even assist Mr Mortimer," Jim added with a grin.

Brian laughed and shook his head. "You've got some big plans."

"What made you think I'd feel that way?"

"I chose a student like me."

"But you were a warrior once."

"Yeah, and I'm not anymore. Don't want to be, either. I'm done with that," Brian replied, his tone casual.

Jim watched Brian closely. "What are you thinking about?"

"Tomorrow, I could introduce you to Daisy. She still sees angels, and I think you're ready to practice hearing your inner voice with her help."

"That sounds great! I'll tell Adam and Sally tonight!"

Brian smiled and finished with the car. "Glad to hear you're excited."

"Hello!" Sally called out, teleporting into the yard in a flash of light. Adam followed with a splash of water, his usual teleportation style.

"Come in!" Jim beckoned from the window.