APPLICATION: Learning From the Past

With Paul gone, on his way to Rhode Island, Alva was free to retire to his office, at least until Evelyn arrived. Sinking down to sit on the first available surface, he rested his elbows on his knees and let his head fall wearily into his hands.

Doubt...in all his past, all his *life*, it was the one constant he’d learned to adhere to at all costs, and that was the total obliteration of all doubt in all things. It had no bearing on faith, belief, or even trust...only conviction. Even if he could not be certain of a thing, he could not waste his time and energy in doubting himself or others...he simply had to know that he had no answers, believe it with all his soul...be ready to die for the simple truth that he didn’t have a damned clue.

When he heard his mother’s voice among the English ravens in school, doubt had not touched him...he knew he heard that old nickname. He knew he needed more information. He knew he had to find it.

And so the journey began...no doubt, only the certainty that he didn’t know all he needed to. An all-encompassing confidence in all things, even his own flaws, rendered him untouchable. He didn’t second-guess himself, he either proved or disproved his own rationalizations and beliefs, not to mention those of others. That was usually the most entertaining.

For far too long, he’d been certain that interference in the great scheme of things could be a detriment to all involved, especially with the tide shifting as it had been in recent years. That was a lesson he’d learned all too well many years ago, and now again it had been tested with Paul Callan.

His role in things was significant. Crucial...Alva was certain in his heart of hearts that if an apocalyptic event...or, God forbid, the apocalypse itself was eminent, Paul would be a force that could turn the tide in favor, or against humanity.

He thought that objective observation...that remaining passive...was the right thing to do.

But now...now, there was doubt.

A Letter of Introduction

Sodalitas Quaerito
365 Midlothian Lane, Suite # 29
Boston, Massachusetts 02116
U.S.A.

14 July 2006

Dear Mrs. Riley,

You don’t know me, but I know a great deal about you based on the local media coverage relating to your family’s recent experiences, namely those of your sons, Michael and James. It is for this reason that I’m writing...I would like the chance to speak with all of you in regards to this matter, and I’d like to do so in person.

My name is Alva Keel. As the letterhead can tell you, I’m located in Boston, but it’s the United Kingdom I call home. I’m something of an academic...a student of all things delving into the paranormal or the unexplained. Mind you, I’m no tabloid journalist, religious fanatic or UFO chaser...I’m simply a man with a scientist’s mind and a cleric’s faith in that which we cannot define through the auspices of logic.

Sodalitas Quaerido is my organization...the name is Latin for ‘brotherhood in search of truth,’ for that is what we do. We are few in number, but strong in conviction, and truth is our driving force. We investigate and research strange occurrences and phenomenon such as that which your family has experienced. While we have no formal credentials, we *do* have experience in these matters...I, myself, have experienced several supernatural phenomenon, incredible as that may sound, and previously worked for the Catholic Church as an investigator of miracles. One of my colleagues also held such a position, while another is a lovely young woman who previously worked for the Boston PD, and is also the mother of a nine year old son.

Madam, I understand that you’re under a great deal of pressure from those around you, but I want to help, if it is within my power. First and foremost, let me assure you: you are not alone. The ability to foretell the future has been documented in dozens of other cases. The causes are varied but the results are the same, no matter what form they take. The aforementioned Mr. Callan himself has had prophetic dreams on occasion.

Enclosed, please find my business card, with all my information....my home phone number and my cellular are written on the back. I would be most grateful if you’d only grant me an afternoon in which to speak to you and your boys about their visions, I assure you that we will not rest until we’ve come to the root of your problem. Twelve year olds should not have to endure the kinds of visions your children have testified to having...but there is hope, my dear lady.

If you have faith in nothing else...have faith in that.

Best regards,
Alva Keel
SODALITAS QUAERIDO

fandom_muses: Topic 30 - Tell us a secret.

You want a secret, do you? Very well, then...I’m sure there’s something deep and dark enough to satisfy your prurient curiosity...ah. I know.

You ready? You’re quite sure? All right then...here goes.

I’m a closet Trekkie.

You heard me right...STAR TREK is one of my most closely guarded secrets. I’ve done a lot I’m not proud of, seen some horrible things and been responsible for worse...an academic’s life isn’t all moonlight and roses, y’know. But still, I must confess that despite all my bookish British behavior thank you, Evelyn, I really am just a stereotypical nerd at heart.

Now I’m fairly sure of what you’re thinking...and the answer is no. I don’t own a uniform or a communicator badge, and I don’t go to many conventions just the one and bloody hell, Shatner was there so bugger off, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity!...the whole thing is very hush-hush. I hide my Federation skeletons in the furthest reaches of my closet, thank you. Still, I do have issues with the telly being on when I’m doing anything short of a job in the field...if an episode pops on, then I’m fairly useless to anyone. Not to mention I’m a right bear if anyone tries to turn the station.

So there you have it...I’m a ex-pre med student, a former college professor, a paranormal investigator, and a bloody Trekkie. Have your laughs, then begone from my presence if you’re not providing me with some sort of information on a case, or bearing gifts of food. And tea. Or, for that matter, a good snort of single-malt scotch.

Right now, I’ve got work to do.

Muse: Alva Keel
Fandom: Miracles
Words: 286