Shadow Dragon In The Trenches Farewell To The New Nation

"There is a place located in Earth's core known as The Garden. Unimaginable structures, the purest of air produced by its unlimited giant trees. They have a steady civilization of men, women, and children of different monstrous backgrounds, but they are all alike. This world under us was created by God's deadliest weapons long ago. His three dragons each with a special gift; one was a breather of portals, the other of ice, and finally, fire. And the only way to enter The Garden is through a portal. We must find this place, and we will. This story is true; this place does exist. Let us move forward and conquer." -Pope Xavier IX July 27, 1869.

***

Today 2022

Somewhere in Chicago. Tracey threw a surprise birthday party for her best friend, Grace. Grace was overwhelmed as more friendly, and unfamiliar faces poured in the door. Some guests went out on the balcony to smoke blunts, mingle, and take selfies; others stayed inside, popped pills, and danced under the red and purple party lights.

Grace decided to go into the bathroom alone to take a breath. Grace then looked into the mirror and smiled; she was free and having the night of her life. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

“ Hey, Grace, you in there girl? It’s me, Tracey.”

Grace quickly stepped to the side and let her friend in. Once Tracey entered the bathroom. Grace gave her a big hug.

“ Oh damn! Girl, fall back, yo ass slapt!”

“ Ha-ha! Tracey bitch! Thank you so much! This party bussin!”

“ No problem, you deserve it. We gottta get it in for yo dirty thirty!.”

“ Nah bitch, for real. Hair laid, brunch, my face beat to the Gods! Dinner at Ruth Christ, and now this! You my bitch for life!”

“Glad you are enjoying your bday. Imma miss you next week. You ready for Atlanta?”

“ Bitch you know when I get settled out there, you gonna be on the first thing smoking. I can’t believe imma be working on the set of Zombie Madness 2.”

“ Hell yeah girl, at least somebody getting in their bag.”

‘ Man Tracey, what you talking about? Bitch you are managing the hell outta Amazon, telling dem hoes to deliver them packages asap! Da fuck!”

“ Ha-ha. Yeah but Amazon for the burbs. That shit can get depressing; you are at least doing something you like. You move fast.”

“ Shidd! We both making moves, Imma need you to watch me. Because you know I work hard, and I like to party hard. The A aint ready, you fell me?”

“ You aint gone need me, especially when you find yo boo.”

“ Tracey, even though a bitch got a cute face, fat ass, waist snatch, and a dope ass writing gig. A bitch gonna have some fun before all that settling down ish.”

“Ha-ha girl you a mess, but for real, Grace. I look up to you.”

“ Ohh, thanks sis.”

The two embraced in another hug before they heard some breaking outside.

“ Well, let me get out here and watch those fools before the Hilton tax a bitch on these damages.

“ Ha-ha! Ight see you out there.”

The party continued as Grace eased around the suite enjoying the night with her guest. Suddenly. Tracey rushed outside to answer her phone, she then covered her free ear to block out the noise. Once she was done with the call , she made her way downstairs to the front desk; and there she was greeted by three mysterious men dressed in trench coats. The men wore detective hats and dark shades; they seemed socially awkward and focused. One of the men carried a dog cage containing an animal that rattled around. Tracey then gave one of the men her keycard; afterwards one gentleman placed his hand on her shoulder and told her she could leave. Once Tracey made her way outside, the men made their way to the top floor.

The party continued as Grace found herself standing on top of a table, taking a headshot from the gallon of Hennessey that she had been securing all day. Everyone cheered and took pictures, but amid the laughter and flashing lights. The three gentlemen had finally entered the party and let the door lock behind them. They looked around for a hot second until the gentleman holding the cage took one knee; he then unlocked the cage releasing the animal inside. It was a 24-inch pale creature with no eyes, muscle-bound, a massive spine, and razor-sharp teeth. One of the guests noticed the tiny creature and took a step back.

“Yo! What the fuck is that?”

And without warning, the gentleman pressed a button on his remote that caused a signal to go off in the creature's head. The beast then pounced on the young man attacking his face first.

“Ah, shit! Somebody Hel–!”

A few people started to scream when they saw the creature defacing the young man on the ground.

" Ah! Help! Please stop!"

When the creature saw it was compromised, it began to pounce on other guests and take a chuck from their necks. Everyone began to scream and make their way to the door, but the creature jumped from side to side taking out anyone that crossed its path. Grace got trampled on as she started to panic.

"Oh my God, what the fuck is that thing?"

The furniture got tossed around as the creature continued to slash away. Grace crawled into the bathroom and pulled out her phone; she then called Tracey but was forwarded to the voice mail.

With all the chaos and the strobe lights blinking, the creature was starting to grow into a seven-foot beast from each drop of blood it digested. The beast then made a clicking noise as it launched individuals out the windows of the 19 floor.

“ Come on, Tracey, please answer the phone, please.”

Grace cried, praying for her best friend to answer when suddenly someone picked up.

“ Hello, hello.”

“Hello! Oh my God Tracey! Where are you? We gotta get help!”

“ Grace, Grace!”

“ Tracey! What?”

“ I’m sorry, but I just don't like you anymore.”

“What? Tracey fuck are you talking bout! Tracey!Tracey!

Tracey hung up. Grace stared at the phone, confused and lost; the screaming voices stopped as the music continued to play. With tears running down her face, Grace heard the beast breathing and sniffing outside the bathroom door.

Grace finally dropped her phone and prepared for impact; the beast burst into the doors, claiming the final victim. The three mysterious men quietly made their way out.

Tracey sat in her car across the street, watching as the police and ambulance pulled up. Tracey then looked down as she received an alert on her phone. Her phone displayed a thank you text from an unknown number and a transfer to her account for 75000 dollars.

***

The next day, it was slight wind chills outside, with the forecast reading possible rain and snow over the weekend. Honking horns and foul language from the drivers who had little patients. It was noon as the hardworking class filled the lines at Maxwell's Original, where they ordered a beef polish or pork chop sandwich to satisfy their appetite.

Just up the street, local barber Tray Nation and his friends argued and laughed over the Bulls game as they delivered some of the cleanest haircuts in Chicago's West Side. Eddie specialized in graphics using only a razor, Teddy and his brother Rick, students of Tray, were masters of the wavelength cuts, and Debbo kept it simple by going against the grain. Lady and her home-girl Luv kept the Chi-Town honies fly, and could do any style their clients picked from a magazine. With much personality and influence, the Chi Windy Drip was the place to be. Eddie laughed at Tray, bringing up a time he had to remove a few customers from the shop.

"Man, yo ass funny as hell, Tray!"

"Eddie, come on my dude. They always come in here to play the game, asking for deals on their haircuts. And you think you about to play our game and place bets?"

"But you rolled up on them like you was about to smoke they asses, bro."

"Hey. They got the message."

"Tray, yo' swoll body ass do be doing the most tho," said Luv.

"Hell yeah, girl. With 'dem all black Timbs, a scully, and a tight ass tank top on."

"Ha-ha, right, right! It's forty degrees outside- He don't know if he hot or cold."

"Yeah, girl, or if he DMX!"

"Arf! Arf! Arf!"

"Luv and Lady! Y'all got jokes; tell the truth tho. Where will y'all be without me?"

"Awh! We love you, too, Tray," said Lady.

"Hey," Tray turned to Debbo. "What you think about those dudes trying to bet on our game system and not give us a cut?"

Debbo looked out the rim of his glasses and continued to read his newspaper.

'Hey! Who used my damn clippers! I had them bitches sitting right here! Said Lady."

Eddie had admitted to borrowing them the day before. Then Lady went off and cursed Eddie out. Tray immediately calmed the commotion down before it got worse, reminding the two that they were a team. When everyone was calm. Eddie walked over and hugged Luv and Lady, as Tray cranked the volume on the stereo. With small arguments and petty behavior. The crew always kept it moving and stayed solid at the Windy City Drip.

***

Somewhere located miles underground, there was a meeting. The atmosphere was eerie and lit with hundreds of red candles. Standing at the top of a stage, a gentleman slowly emerged from the shadows. He wore a long black and red robe, long dreads, and a huge scar that went across his face. He stood with his hands behind his back and looked down upon the four hundred members in attendance. The members wore black hoodies and a red mask with a symbol of a golden dragon. The members were disciplined and waited patiently to hear what their leader, Brother Drexler, had to say.

"Welcome, my children, for our father has handed us this new day. You are a part of this unstoppable movement, this love, this power. Many may say you are the devil, a curse, a snake, or even a rat. But your purpose is beyond the simple. You not only serve Father John and the founding members of the Vatican Church, but you serve God within you, which is why you will inherit the Kingdom."

After Drexler's introduction, he slowly held his right hand up and pointed into the crowd. One of the members walked forward, wearing an all-white crown. Once the member made it to the stage, the individual got down on both knees in front of Drexler. He then removed the member's crown.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I want you all to meet Tracey Moore. Tracey has been with us for five years, and she is good at what she does. Seventeen fake friendships, delivering us those she captured. Keeping the dark market afloat with our Successful organ trade. Tracey also has witnessed our secret weapon, a creature with an unknown history and unexplained features. This creature was given to us by Father John; this creature who I refer to as Angel-X. In do to time you will all get a chance to meet the beast, but for now. Tracey didn't hesitate, nor did she fear its presence. Tracey is a soldier.

Drexler then offered Tracey a drink from the Grail.

"Now let us prepare for our mission; we must catch the individual known as Tray Nation. Retrieving his charm and the book known as The Power of Paradise, this mission won't be easy. But with your focus, loyalty, and our Angel-X. We shall be victorious. And Tracey will aid you in this Grand Final."

After Drexler blessed Tracey into the movement, he handed her the official red mask. Tracey took her side next to Drexler while the rest of the members began to clap. Even though Tracey had to give up her best friend Grace and multiple innocent lives, she understood that all was forgiven, and her new home was within the Hoodie Mob Society.

***

Meanwhile, at OSF Hospital. Trina Cobb waved to her coworkers as she power-walked through the double doors. Parked across the street, waiting in his truck, was her boyfriend, Tray. Tray watched her, he admired her thick thighs, hips, and firm, juicy rear. Most days, he couldn't believe that Trina was his. Finally, when Trina opened the door, sitting in her spot were a dozen fresh-cut roses. Tray reached over, grabbed her coat and purse, and sat her things in the back seat.

"Aww, thanks boo."

"No, shorty, you know I gotta surprise Chicago's future superhero. And baby, you know what? Yo ass be sluggin'."

"Tray, boy, you better stop. I'm not anyone's doctor yet, and what have you done? Why are you talking 'bout I'm sluggin'?"

"What you mean? That ass is fat; you gotta classic Dj Slugo."

"Hmm, I guess. You missed me."

"Shit, that depends."

"What? Depends on what."

"You gon' let me smash tonight? It's been a minute."

"Boy! Stop talking to me like I'm some side bitch."

"Ha-ha, but naw. Yeah, shorty, I missed you."

"Yeah, right."

"For real, I'm 'a take you to meet some people, and we really gon' be on some cool shit today. Ight?"

"Ohh. Okay, Zaddy."

Tray and Trina had pulled off to begin their day, they joked and laughed while bumping the dope sounds of Erykah Badu. Light snow flurries and fighting through the forty-minute traffic standstill, Tray and Trina finally came to a stop.

"Tray, are you bringing me to church?"

"Nah, well, yeah. But we ain't going to service or nothing like that; just follow me."

Tray and Trina entered the doorways for St. Catherine's Church for the Youth. Tray dipped his two fingers in the golden bowl on the wall and crossed his forehead and heart. He and Trina then entered a room where they stumbled upon a group of kids having the time of their lives, supervised by nuns. One of the nuns noticed Tray and Trina, so she made her way over. The nun immediately gave Tray the biggest hug.

"Sista Haywood, what's up!"

"Hey my Trazy Wazy, what brings you in, sweetie? I wasn't expecting to see you until Sunday."

"Sista, I wanted you to meet somebody."

"Oh, okay."

"Sista Haywood, I want you to meet my girl, Trina."

"Girl! As in girlfriend?"

Trina stepped forward with a handshake. Instead, Sister Haywood settled with giving her some dap.

"I would shake your hand, honey, but I've been playing with the children, COVID, and I'm trying to stay hip. Ha-ha,"

"Oh, that's okay, I understand. I'm 'a germ freak myself. I'm a Health-care Tech at OSF."

"Oh, okay. Well, anyways, Tray, can you do me a favor?

"Sure, Sista. What's up?"

"Well, I was wondering if you could get some volunteers to do the kids hair."

"Enough said, Sista Haywood. Just let me know what time."

"OH! Great! Great! The boys will be so excited." Suddenly, two of the kids were fighting over a basketball. "Well, you guys, I gotta get back to my little ones. They keep us old nuns on our toes. But stop by anytime. And it was nice meeting you, Trina."

The two returned to his truck. Tray looked over and noticed Trina had her arms folded.

"What's up, babe? You straight?"

"Do I look straight? I didn't like shorty's vibe."

"Oh, come on, don't be like that."

"Fuck you mean, Tray? Shorty's attitude was rude as hell."

"Look, babe. Sista Haywood raised me. She like my mom. You know how moms get when a particular lady gets in their son's life; she is protective. That's all, and she knows you ain't going nowhere."

"Is that right? So I'm yo' special someone?"

"Relax shorty, we finna have a cool evening."

"Ight. Trazy Wazy."

***

After roaming around Michigan Avenue; and grabbing a bite from Tao Chicago, the two finished the evening at his condo. There was an almost empty bottle of Remy, four blunts, and R. Kelly playing in the background. The two love birds' night couldn't have ended any better. Trina came from under the covers and rested her head on Tray's chest. Tray grinned until Trina noticed the charm he wore. Trina asked Tray about the object, and she was interested in his black book laying by his pillow.

"Tray, what is that book you always reading?"

" It's called The Book of Paradise."

" Is it like a Bible or something?"

"Something like that, it's in a different language. But I only know one story. Sista Haywood used to read it to me."

"Oh, read it to me."

"Come on, shorty."

"Tray, come on bae, let me hear the story."

Tray was shy and reserved when it came to his personal beliefs, but he viewed Trina as his a-one. Tray finally reached over and grabbed the book from his dresser, and began to read from the ancient pages.

"Ight. In a time before the clouds, God sent his ships to Earth. They held two hundred men and women, no kin to one another, but were of God's creation and were placed to live peacefully and follow the Lord's laws. They were the first beings, and God called them The New Nation. Over time, the civilization gained knowledge from the cosmos, and with that, they disobeyed the laws of the land. The New Nation used the animals of the land and created others. They combined lizards and enormous beasts, turning God's creation into an abomination. So full of pride and greed, The New Nation built a device to wage war on God and the Heavens.

"Before the New Nation could carry out its plan, God sent his most potent weapons to Earth: Trojan, the dragon who could breathe portals to other worlds. Next, there was Glacier, the dragon who breathes ice so powerful that it could freeze hell.

Last, but not least was Ozza, the fire-breathing dragon. Her flames caused mass destruction, but the aftermath brought life to the planets. The three giants soared the skies, followed by an army of shadow dragons that formed from their spirits. The dragons were victorious against the Superior Nation, but now it was time for a new direction and another chance under God's orders.

All life-forms created by the New Nation were ordered to live in the new paradise and never return to Earth's surface. So Trojan created a portal deep into the Earth's core, where Ozza and Glacier combined fire and ice to create the new paradise. Once the new world was complete, reptilians, cave dwellers, and other beasts created outside God's law had a new home in Earth's core. No man or woman on Earth shall pass in the underground world known as the Garden.

The creatures stepped into the portal where their new homes awaited. Ozza, the fire dragon, heard a child's cry on the old Earth, so she followed the sound, leading her to a forest. She discovered a human child of the New Nation.

God granted the prayers of Ozza, and told her she could keep the human child and raise him as her own. Ozza took the child, who she named Nation, and raised him in the Garden. She trained him to fight and taught him the ways of the shadow dragon, but as time went on—the human child Nation disappeared. The legends say he stopped coming around; others say Ozza hid him. But the young shadow prince will rise when the sun touches the moon. And claim the throne over the Garden, and be the watcher of both underground and the surface world."

Trina looked at Tray for a second and slowly cracked a smile. She rolled over to get out of bed and started to laugh.

"Ha-ha! Oh my God, Tray!"

"What? See, that's why I didn't want to show yo' ass this shit."

"No, no, baby it's cool, I think it's cool. I just ain't never heard nothing like it before."

"Yeah. Ight."

"Naw, baby," Trina walked back over to the bed, climbed on top of Tray, and kissed him. "That was dope as fuck. So you mean to tell me, big-foot, mermaids, reptile people, dinosaurs, and dragons stay under us?"

"Shit, whatever you think."

"No, Tray bae, again. I'm sorry for laughing; that was bogus. It just lets me know you take us seriously." Trina kissed Tray on the lips and hugged him tightly, then she got out of bed to gather her things.

"You not staying?"

"Naw, I got shit to do tomorrow. Run some errands, see my mom and dad, and we can link back up."

"Ight, bet. Stay safe, shorty."

"Ight bae, see you tomorrow."

Tray picked up his blunt, sparked it, and laid back down, staring at the ceiling. With so many thoughts running through his mind, being open and committed to a relationship was the new move. He understood his life was getting ready to change.

***

The next day at the shop, Tray and the crew were back in action, and it was a busy Thursday. The good people of Chicago were trying to get fresh for Friday night, as the United Center was sold out for the Lil Durk concert. Eddie struggled to keep up with his clients, feeling a little under the weather as he ran to the bathroom every thirty minutes. Teddy and Rick didn't show up, nor did they call. Luv and Lady did hair under the fan, but both were still sweating and seemed fatigued. Debbo, as always, was reading his newspaper. Tray zipped threw fifteen heads, and he was only four hours into his shift.

A young lady walked into the door. She stopped and wiped her feet on the rug before proceeding; she wore a red pea coat, black shades, and red lipstick. Tray had just finished a client, and his chair was now free. That's when the lady walked in his direction.

"Excuse me, but my name is Tracey. Do you have anyone in front of me?"

"Not for another fifteen, but I can take you, Miss Tracey."

"Okay, thanks."

"My name is Tray."

"Nice to meet you, Tray."

Tracey sat back in his chair and got comfortable. Tray gently prepped her to receive a lining.

"Okay, Tracey, you just want the back lined up? Any designs or taper on the sides?"

"Hm. Nah, not today. I wanna keep it simple for tomorrow's Grand Finale."

"Grand finale? What? You talking about, the Durk concert?"

"Nope, it's another event. Only a few are selected."

Tracey continued to ask Tray random questions; she was becoming annoying. She finally pinched a nerve when she asked about Trina.

"Sorry if I came off strong, like I said. I don't have too many friends."

Even though the music was playing, the shop felt silent and uncomfortable. Tray remained focused and continued to do his work. After a few more cuts to the sides and a dab of alcohol, Tray was finally finished.

"Oh, wow. That looks great. Thank you, Tray."

"No problem. You stay easy."

"Oh, what is that around her neck? I've seen that before."

"It's nothing, a little something my moms gave me."

"Oh, can I have a closer look?"

Tray moved back while pushing Tracey's hand away.

"Nawh' nawh', you good shorty. Keep it moving."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Let me pay you," Tracey reached into her purse to grab Tray's cash; she also handed him a red card.

"Here you go, Tray. Thanks for the cut. And take that card; I'll see you tomorrow night at the Grand Finale."

Tracey gathered her things and made her way out the door. Tracey then texted Brother Drexler; with the shiny charm on his neck and suspicious behavior. Tray Nation was their rightful target.

***

Later that night, after getting the kids to bed and shutting down the church, Sister Haywood walked outside to meet Tray. Once she got into the truck, she reached over and gave him a hug.

"OH what's wrong, Trazy Wazy? Your hug was a little off."

"I don't know, Sista, got so much going on."

"Well, you can work it out. Is it the girl, Trina?"

"Nah, I still think about my people, you know? My mom, dad."

"Oh."

Tray was admiring the charm on his neck. Sister Haywood watched Tray; she saw pain reading across his face.

"Well, Tray. You got one of those stress-free sticks on you?"

"Huh? You talking about a blunt? Sista, stop playing! Ha-ha."

"No, no baby, I'm for real. Fire one of those bad boys; I'll let you in on many things. You deserve to know the truth about your family, the book I gave you, the story, and that charm around your neck."

"On God,"

`Tray sparked up half a blunt and passed it. Sister Haywood took one good pull, inhaled, and exhaled. Tray looked at her in amazement and started to laugh.

"You know, Tray I wasn't always a nun, I was out here in these streets hard."

"Word?'

"Yeah, I used to run with this drug dealer. Weed, coke, pills, and I helped him run his escort service to keep the ladies in line."

"Ehhh."

"Yep. But I got hooked on drugs badly. I disappeared from family and friends, hiding out in crack houses. I prayed so hard. Damn I prayed, and this lady showed up in the alley I was in. She wore a long robe and a beautiful smile that shined like the harvest moon. She asked for a favor; the first was to get right with God. And second, was to take care of you."

"Was she my mom?"

"No. Your mother was from a faraway place, and she sent you here as a test and, most importantly, to find love. When the time is right, you will return home a leader."

"Wait, wait. I don't remember none of this shit; excuse my language."

"Don't worry, it will come to you, and that charm around your neck. Well, it contains a power."

"What?"

"That liquid substance inside that charm possesses amazing things, made only for you. Tray, I'm not telling you this because I love you, but I feel that time is near. Be careful, baby, and watch your back."

"Sista? This shit is wild."

"Hold on, before you finish. What I told you tonight, take it the way you want. But it is the truth, and I love you Tray. "Sista Haywood kissed Tray on the forehead, got out of the truck, and headed to the church.

With such a bombshell that sounded unreal, Tray decided not to call Trina and to spend the night trapped in his mind.

***

The next day, Tray took Trina to breakfast, shared a few stories, and laughed. Trina then reached over, and placed her hands on top of his

"Tray, bae you good?"

"Yeah, yeah. Me and Sista had a dope conversation last night, that's all."

"Okay. What y'all talk about– Me?"

"Nah, shorty. We were coolin', that's all. Hey, what are you about to do today?"

"Nothing much, just get ready for work tomorrow. What's up?"

"Well listen, shorty. Drop me off at the gig, and scoop me up around six."

"What? Is you serious, you giving me the keys to the whip?"

"Shorty, take the keys."

"Okay, look at you…"

"Do what you need to do today, and we can chill later."

"Ight, thanks boo."

"Love you, Trina."

"Ooh. Love you, too, Trazy Wazy.”

***

Back at the shop, the radio was blasting a drill mix, as Chicago prepared for the arrival of Lil Durk. The traffic at the shop was heavy during the day, but steady for Tray, with him only having nine heads to cut. Luv and Lady teased him for his tardiness, and Tray kept his comebacks short and sweet.

As time went on. Trina had texted Tray that she was on her way. The sun started to set, and the street lights began to shine. Seven black trucks pulled up outside.

"Who the hell?" Said Tray.

Stepping out one of the vehicles, dressed in black, red heels, black shades, and her hair blowing in the wind. Tracey came forward with a speaker in hand, staring dead in Tray's direction as she made an announcement.

"All praise, Father John, and great thanks to all His glory. Tonight is the Grand Finale, and we choose you, Tray Nation. Please come forward!

Tray was confused and a little worried. Debbo removed his toothpick, lowered his newspaper, and watched the window. More trucks pulled outside as every shop and building on the block closed.

"Yo. That's that same bitch that came in yesterday. The fuck is she on? Hey Luv, call the police."

"Way ahead of you, Tray. But the lines are dead."

That's when Tray saw Tracey, smiling in the middle of the streets while the Hoodie Mob crew jumped from the trucks. Standing in their positions, two of the members stepped forward unmasked.

"The hell, yo. Is that Rick and Teddy?"

Tray witnessed his two students stand outside along with Tracey and forty masked members armed with weapons. Lady and Luv started to walk back from the window.

"Oh my God. What's going on, Lady? I'm scared."

"Me too, Luv- Keep calm, baby. It's just a crazy bitch playing a big joke."

Debbo began to laugh as he removed his glasses, throwing everyone off guard.

"Debbo, the fuck is so funny?"

"Ha-ha. Don't you see, Tray? All these peons around here is some fuckin' snakes!"

"Fuck you talking bout?"

"Drop the act, Lady, and come on Tray. During the time I served, there was "talks" about this society, some real twisted bitches that roll deep. The Hoodie Mob. A Chicago mob family run by the Vatican Church. Prostitution, drugs, human trafficking; you name it."

"Chill, Debbo. Ain't no time for that internet shit you talking 'bout."

"This ain't no internet shit Eddie; this some actual shit.

"Debbo! Are you serious right now?"

"Yes, indeed, Luv. Yo creepin ass"

"Creepin! So what you trying to say?"

"Shit. I'm stating the obvious, you crazy bitch. You, Lady, Eddie, Rick, and Teddy were sick the other day. Sweating hard, looking pale, had the runs, shit if you ask me. Y'all asses were drinking blood the night before, a blood oath from the Grail. If you ask me, Tray, the bitch outside, Lady, Eddie, Luv, Teddy, and Rick have been watching you. One big set up!"

"Man fuck this!"

Eddie quickly walked over to Debbo and slit his throat with a razor, and at the same time, Debbo shot back with the pistol he was hiding under his newspaper. Tray fell back against the wall trying to take cover, and that's when Luv ran over with a razor and started swinging at Tray.

"Oh, shit! Luv, what the fuck!"

"Give up, Tray! In Father John's name, you coming with us!"

Tray swung at Luv and knocked her out, then Lady grabbed a razor and charged at Tray next. With his last breath, Debbo fired four shots and hit Lady in the back. She fell forward as her body started to rattle on the ground. Tray immediately crawled in Debbo's direction to check on him, but it was too late.

Tracey raised her finger while still outside, signaling Hoodie Mob to make the next move.

Tray quickly escaped from the back into the alley, and then he covered his eyes as a car came his way. Trina had just pulled up.

"Hey, bae– What you doing? Oh my god, are you bleeding?"

"Move, move! Get out the way!" Tray made Trina get over as he took control of the wheel; he then sped off, not knowing where to go.

"Oh, God, Tray! You scaring the shit out of me! Who did this to you!"

"I don't know, Trina! Now, pipe down while I figure some shit out!"

Drexler was on standby inside a chopper, watching the action from above. He informed Tracey that they had an hour to catch Tray before the police arrived. When Tracey received confirmation, she and the rest of the squad were in hot pursuit.

"Oh my god! Tray– You' leaking everywhere! Please be careful!"

"Trina, please!"

Two black trucks were speeding from behind. Once they were close enough, one of the members hung out of the passenger window and began to open fire with an mp9.

"Oh, shit! Trina get down!"

Tray spun around the corner, swerved, and dodged oncoming traffic while the bullets tore his truck. When Tray saw he had a chance, he quickly did a U-turn causing the two trucks to almost hit one another. The coast was clear, and the expressway was just up ahead.

"Oh my god, baby, are you okay?!"

"Yeah, Trina– I think I–"

Two individuals on motorcycles pulled up alongside Tray and opened fire.

"Oh shit, Tray! Watch out!"

When one of the bullets grazed Tray across the cheek, he hit the brakes and made a hard left causing his truck to flip over. Tray and Trina found themselves upside down and slightly dizzy.

"Trina baby, wake up, wake up! We gotta move!"

Badly bruised and injured, the adrenaline caused Tray to ignore the pain. He desperately crawled out of the window; and made it to his feet to aid Trina on the other side.

"Come on, Trina baby! You good, you good! Stand up!"

The two individuals hopped from their motorcycles and started in their direction . As the two made it closer, they were caught off guard.

"Fuck y'all!" Tray unloaded five shots from his glock that he got from the glove compartment, causing the two individuals to take cover.

"Okay, Trina, baby, we gon' make a run towards the– Ugh!!!!" Tray froze in place. He couldn't finish his sentence as he dropped his gun and began to shiver. He turned around slowly, only to witness Trina stabbing him in his lower back with a kitchen knife.

"Yeah, that's right, baby, take it easy. It will be over soon, Trazy Wazy."

Tray got down on his hands and knees as he stared into Trina's eyes.

"Damn, bro! Yo' ass a terrible driver, you almost killed a bitch."

"Tri, Tri, Tri."

"Tri, Tri, Tri, what. You mad?"

"What the fu–"

"Damn, bro! I was getting tired of yo ass; lowkey. I like bitches. But for a hundred K, a bitch couldn't refuse. Six months is a long time, oh well. Farewell, Tray Nation."

More vehicles surrounded Tray as he slowly made his way to his feet.

Tracey stood in front of one of the trucks laughing hysterically, "Yes indeed. I told you, Tray. The Grand Finale would be far more interesting than some stupid concert. Ha-ha! Get em'!"

When Tracey gave the order, members of the gang rushed Tray. One by one, they took turns punching and kicking him around; he became deaf in one ear as his sight blurred. Trina then hobbled over by Tracey holding her hip.

"Damn, Tracey– Y'all almost killed my ass!"

"I'm sorry, Trina. But you did a great job."

"Thanks, sis. Now pay up. A bitch gotta eat."

"Ha-ha! You so funny, Trina, and your funds have already been transferred to your account. Brother Drexler and Father John are pleased."

After receiving a brutal beating, the members of Hoodie Mob finally let Tray hit the ground. The members backed away as Tray struggled to breathe, and he felt his heart slowing down as his life flashed before his eyes.

Remembering what Sister Haywood always told him, Tray grabbed onto his charm and inserted it into his mouth. Once he bit down, the black unknown substances started flowing through his veins. Tray had finally blacked out. Tracey then radioed Drexler.

"Brother Drexler, sir, are we done here?"

"Not yet, Tracey. Just wait."

"Okay, sir."

The rain started to pour as the Hoodie Mob watched. Trina sat in the passenger side of Tracey's truck, resting her head, and she noticed Tray's body jerking.

"Hold up, y'all. Look."

The black substances traveled through Tray's system, repairing his insides and empowering his mind with The Book of Paradise. He saw life and death, heard heavenly voices from the dead, and understood the purpose of time. With so much knowledge forced in a matter of seconds, it caused Tray to stand up to his feet with dilated pupils.

Tracey pointed in his direction, "Get him!"

The gang members rushed him again. Tray blocked and swayed from side to side; he felt and heard their movements. He returned the favor by fighting back, but each blow paralyzed or instantly killed his enemies.

Drexler was leaning forward in his seat, smiling.

"Yes, now we can have some fun. Tracey, standby."

"What was that, brother? Do you see this? The tray is still alive!"

"I can see that, Tracey. I need you to get out of there. It's about to get intense."

"Okay, sir."

More Hoodie Mob members tried their hardest to take Tray out, but their training was insufficient. When some of the members had enough, they reached for their guns. Tray watched as the rain poured slowly, and then the street lights started flickering. Tray's shadow detached from his body and stood by his side.

The shadow stared at Tray and said, "You ready?"

When Tray nodded yes, the shadow zipped back inside of him. Tray was now in all black and chrome Samurai attire, complete with a chrome half-mask that covered his mouth. Tray was ready for war.

Drexler quickly radioed Tracey.

"Tracey, press the button on the remote I gave you. Unleash Angel-X!"

"Okay, King."

Tray ran over as he and his shadow took turns annihilating as many members as possible. The shadow disappeared and reappeared, gutting and dismembering at will.

Trina watched on in terror from the truck, "Oh my god, bitch! Tracey, let's go! Pull off!"

"Okay, Trina. Hold on."

"Fuck you mean, hold on?"

"I'm coming, stop yelling at me!"

As blood splattered on the window of Tracey's car, it was too late. Tray and his Shadow had beheaded the two girls in a blink of an eye. Afterward, Tray continued to fight like a barbarian. Using his bare hands gave him the upper hand; he ripped nineteen members from limb to limb.

Drexler was patient, even though Tracey died before she could push the button, "Oh, Tracey, dear, so sad. But luckily, I always come prepared."

Drexler had another remote in his pocket; he slowly reached for it and pressed the button.

Then Tray turned around. He heard a beast punching and roaring through one of the trucks. Once the beast made an opening, he jumped from the truck's roof and landed on his feet. The beast stood front and center, ten feet with razor-sharp teeth, blind eyes, and twenty-foot wings. Angel-X prepared for action.

Tray tackled the beast. Angel-X matched Tray's strength as Angel-X tossed him into one of the trucks. Once the truck exploded, Angel-X flew into Tray, attacking him to the ground. Tray got out of the way as Angel-X tried to deliver a final blow.

Trays shadow moved as he did when he was close. Tray's shadow morphed into multiple weapons as Angel-X became more robust and faster. When Tray was able to roundhouse kick the angel into a live wire, the angel roared while being violently shocked.

"Roarhhh!!" Screamed Angel-X.

Once Angel-X realized that Tray was just getting started, he flew into the skies. Tray quickly hyper-jumped and followed behind him. The two passed the chopper that Drexler was in, causing it to shake.

"Steady, steady, this is unbelievable," said Drexler.

Then the pilot asked, "Sir, should we turn around and go?"

"Not yet, I need to see this."

Tray and the angel continued to battle high above the clouds; with every twist and turn, and Tray was ripping the angel apart. You could see them moving in the heavens as the lighting pinpointed their location. Drexler looked up, wondering what happened as he lost sight.

"Where are they?"

When the clouds cleared. Tray and the angel came crashing into the chopper, instantly killing Drexler and the pilot. The impact caused the ground and buildings to crumble when the scrapers slammed into the streets. Tray rose from the dust as the victor.

Tray watched the angel struggle to breathe. He then stood back to give himself room. Tray's eyes rolled in the back of his head as he summoned his shadow to detach from him once more. Only this time, his shadow morphed into a real-life 17-foot black dragon. Angel-X was too delighted to fight back. Tray held his hand to the sky, and once, he balled his fist. His shadow dragon set the Angel-X on fire.

"Rahh Kehh Rahh Kehh!!!"

The angel screamed bloody Mary as the fire cooked him. The dragon chomped down on the angel and swallowed him whole. When it was all over, Tray and his Dragon stood tall amid the rampage. As the Chicago Police, SWAT, and ATF made their way to the scene, Tray and his shadow dragon vanished like a cloud of smoke.

***

Later that night at Saint Catherine's church, Sister Haywood had just put the kids to bed and then made her way up to the rooftop. When Sister Haywood walked around, she felt a cold wind blow.

"Hello, is anybody there?"

Sister Haywood jumped when she saw the glowing eyes of the dragon, but was calm when she saw Tray.

"Oh my god, Tray, is that you?"

Tray's voice was deep as it echoed into the night.

"Yes, Sista, it's okay. He won't bite."

"Does it have a name?"

"Ha. I'm a' call him Flesh."

"Okay, Flesh. Look at you, so I guess you are the little child in that story."

"I guess so."

"Well, uh, wow. You look–"

"Scary?"

"No, no. You look amazing, my mission is complete. I raised you into a fine young warrior. So what's next?'

"I need to return home."

"Wait, how old are you if you're that kid in the story?"

"Sista, time is funny in The Garden."

"Yeah, I know that much. But that story is–"

"Eight hundred thousand years old. Inside The Garden, time is different. After finding me in the forest. Ozza the fire dragon, sent me through the portal to come here to Earth at the age of ten; the reason is unknown. Inside that charm was a piece of her shadow. I gotta return. I feel she, Trojan, and Glacier are in danger. The Garden needs me."

"Wow, okay. So I guess this is goodbye."

"For now, but I promise to return."

"How will you get to Earth's core? Kind of far."

"There's an opening in the caves in Antarctica; I'll travel there. Hopefully, someone will answer the portal doors when I arrive."

"Well, okay. You be safe, Trazy Wazy. Hey, you're not too mighty to give an old friend a hug are you?"

"Yes."

"Huh?"

"Not to hug an old friend, but a mother. I love you, mom, and thank you."

Tray gave Sister Haywood a hug and kiss on the forehead, and then he took off with Flesh as they made their way to The Garden. Tray Nation. Earth did not deserve him, and Chicago built him into the king he is today. He and Flesh were one. Tray Nation, son of Ozza, the fire dragon and soon-to-be King of The Garden. He was on his way to truth and maybe a far more dangerous fight, but most importantly, he was on his way to reclaiming the throne.

***

Later, Sister Haywood sat in the confession booth, after she crossed her heart. The preacher on the other side began to speak.

"Good evening, Sister Haywood; I hope all is well. You did a good thing at raising that boy. Did you complete the mission?"

"Yes, I placed the tracker on him

"Good. Now we will be a fly on the wall as Tray leads us into the doors of The Garden. With Drexler dead, I'll need someone to jump-start the Hoodie Mob. Would you be interested in that task, Sister Haywood.?"

"Yes, sir, Father John. It would be an honor."

"Good, Sister Haywood. Time to start phase 2. The founding fathers over at the Vatican will be pleased."

THE End