After arranging his murder board, JJ was finally able to relax and slip into a good sleep, or so it seemed. Soon after getting into REM sleep, he began to dream. It was the same dream that had been haunting him for quite some time.
The dream stemmed from the loss of his mate, Charli, and he held this memory in a place in his mind that held all the bad and unsavory recollections throughout his lifetime.
This dream was the driving force for JJ becoming a peace officer. One day he would have the opportunity to settle the score and take from the Kong family what had been taken from him.
Kong is a Mississippi Kite, a raptor that migrates from South America in the spring with his family and mates here until fall. His family isn’t all that Kong brings from his homeland. He also brings his way of life and his inability to conform to societal expectations. His honor only extends to himself and his family.
The loss of JJ’s mate took place down at the creek, where the community had claimed a safe space. JJ and Charli were bathing and drinking leisurely when Kong swooped down and pinned Charli in his talons.
JJ immediately attacked Kong. But Kong’s mate, Midge, was waiting nearby for JJ’s predicted attack. She swooped down and, with her talon, delivered a stunning blow, knocking JJ unconscious. He fell into the creek, where the current swept him away.
When he awoke, he was at his parents’ home, with Reba attending to him. He had use of only one eye, with bandages covering one side of his face.
His recollection of the event was sound, and the family held him down as he was trying to get to Charli.
He vowed… One day he would get justice!
