 
### Tales of the Arter Gems:

### Episode I

### The Prophet and her Legacy

### Mario Walsh
Tales of the Arter Gems

Episode I

The Prophet and her legacy

Mario Walsh

Published by Mario Walsh at Smashwords

Copyright 2014 Mario Walsh

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

Thank you for downloading this free eBook. Although this is a free book, it remains the copyrighted property of the author, and may not be reproduced, copied or distributed for commercial or non-commercial purposes. If you enjoy this book, please encourage your friends to download their own copy at Smashwords.com, where they can also discover other works by this author. Thank you for your support.

Other books by Mario Walsh

Episode III - The Chosen One

Episode IV - A Twist of Fate

Episode V - Syra's Paradox

Episode II - The Pinnacles of Fate

COMING SOON

Episode VI - The Syndicate of Time

Episode VII - The Mentor of Time

Episode VIII - The Guardian of Time

Episode IX - The Martyr of Time

Episode X - The Bounty of Time

Dedication to both

Life & Death

◊ Life ◊

Henry Gray

If it wasn't for your wise words, I wouldn't have had the drive and positive determination to believe in myself, and complete even one book, let alone five. When I was in constant formal meetings, you still said I was like a blood diamond in the mud, I just had to see it for myself. Hope I have done you proud, thank you for everything.

◊ Death ◊

Gordon Hugh Burden

18/03/59 - 30/05/2010

A father, a mentor, a best friend. The one who always saw second place as a way to learn to be the best. You are missed by many, and one day you'll be reunited with your loved ones. Much love.

An important message from the Prophet of Tharp

First off, a huge thanks from the bottom of my heart, to everybody who has supported my series, my memoirs. I appreciate your amazing reviews, and the time / money you have invested in me. My thanks to you all are beyond infinite...

And now, an extra special message to all of you hard-core supporters. You've read all my books, and could be quizzed on them, and pass - answering any questions I fire at you. You too left fantastic reviews, bought every digital and physical copy I've sold, hounded me days after a new release for the next one, and asked for nothing in return. You're never too busy for me, and I respect that more than you realise. I value the close company in this vast journey through time...

Here are the Chosen One's I wish to personally thank, in alphabetical order..

Scott Blockley

Megan Charan

Rebecca Dawe

Shanelle Followell

Damian Holmes

Arryn Sefonte

Vaughan Tweedie

Table of Contents

Preface

I - At the Start of Where it Ends...

II - Don't Dream it's Over...

III - Right Place, Right Time

IV - Finally Found a Purpose to my Life...

V - It All Starts with a Kiss and a Secret...

VI - That Awkward Next Morning...

VII - 'Statue' thinking with Her?

VIII - Following in My Father's Footsteps...

IX - An Unexpected Visitor...

X - She Really is a Prophet...

XI - Always Trust Your Close Friends

XII - There is Time for Everything

XIII - Vaughson Takes Back What's Rightfully His...

XIV \- Erasing my Past, During the Present, Thus Protecting the Future

XV - The Future's Restored, and I'm Past Who is Present.

XVI \- The Equilibrium Between the Past, Present and Future...

XVII - Under False Pretence

XVIII - Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts...

XIX - Smoke and Mirrors

XX - Bite the Hand That Feeds...

XXI - Great Stories, a Camp Fire and a Pipe...

XXII - Always Do What Feels Right For You

XXIII - Awaken, Sleeping Giant

XXIV - No Point of Origin

XXV - Left High and Dry

XXVI - Time Dementia...

XXVII \- At the End of Where it Starts...

About the Author

### Preface

Time is a funny thing. Whether you believe in the power it holds or not, is irrelevant. In some way or another, time will catch up with you. My name is Modnar, and I am a Time Guardian. It has been my destiny to be the balance of time, and make sure everything happens according to plan - no matter what price is paid.

This is a story about myself, and two of my close friends - Zelada the Prophet and Jacamatax. See how time is involved in all of our lives, and the triumph, pitfalls and perils it causes.

Just remember one important thing about time. If you waste it, you can't get it back.

### I – At the Start of Where it Ends...

**JACAMATAX**

"Another drink please, Daweson," I say, looking around the pub and realising it's just us left in here.

"Jacamatax my old friend, when are you going to stop spending your Ralop? I know I'm logically supposed to continue serving you - but as a friend, I'm a little concerned. Besides, it's after midnight and you should be heading to sleep," Daweson replies, sliding me another drink.

"Aaaaahhhhhhhhhhh.... Tastes good.... Well, I do have thousands of Ralop remaining, so as you can imagine... BURP!.... I'm not worried about what I need to be doing with my life," I say, feeling the effects of the copious amount of Flork I have consumed.

"But Jacamatax, it's tragic not to have a focus in life. If I didn't have one, I wouldn't be serving you Flork. I'd be helping you drink it from that side of the bar, while someone else fills my boots, and accomplishes my dreams," Daweson says, leaning on the bar top.

Ignoring him, I turn around and realise my vision is becoming quite blurry. I try to focus on my bearings. The bar is behind me, with a rear exit door to the left of the bar top. Opposite me is the front door. Booths are along the wall to the right; round tables and chairs fill the remainder of the space in the room. I know the pub is built underneath a hotel, where travellers can spend the night for a small amount of Ralop. It's usually where I reside - room L is my favourite. I really don't know why, but tonight I want to wander around the City.

I raise myself upright and begin staggering towards the front door.

"Thank you for the bottles of Flork, friend; and the company," I say, swaying in the doorway.

"You be careful, Jacamatax. Your parents would never forgive me if something tragic happened to you," Daweson warns.

Staggering outside, I marvel at this breath-taking city. At night, it reveals a different side to its beauty. In front of me is a large lake, and there's a waterfall to the right, falling from a cliff that seems endless, disappearing into the horizon on either side. Looking to the left I see the remaining creatures of the night. Their walking through the streets of Neca city, in between the plethora of white buildings, all built perfectly in rows, on a hill. Each dwelling appears to vary in height, slowly ascending towards the wooden fence at the top of the hill, which surrounds the entire city. There is a vast amount of space for more structures on the opposite side of the lake, which I'm sure will be filled in one day.

I look up at the moon on this clear night, and plan my next move. Your perception of life is a little muddled when you are feeling the effects of Flork - but I enjoy this state of ecstasy.

I stagger in the direction of the waterfall and think about using my power; when you're in a state like this, you become prone to getting up to mischief - conveniently forgetting the consequences.

With my power, I can manipulate air particles into any physical object that I desire. If I hold out one of my hands, and think about what I want to create, then air particles will begin whooshing around my open palm; they then solidify into as many of that physical object as I require. There are some catches however - as with any great power; it only works whilst I'm outside, when the seal on the top of my right wrist (a large eyeball, with a dark red pupil) can gain natural energy from either the moon or the sun.

Arriving at the cliff behind the waterfall, a strange idea pops into my head. I want to create a staircase, to ascend up to the waterfall. I place my left palm against the rocky cliff, and hold my right palm up, facing the moonlight. Thousands of air particles whoosh around in a small circle just above my palm, then immediately fly towards the cliff. Steps begin emerging out the side of the rock, each one slightly higher than the last, ascending further up towards the waterfall. I remove my hand, and begin my tricky ascent.

"What am I doing?" I mutter to myself, carefully scaling each step.

I have no idea what I'm up to or why, but I continue heading up this stairway to nowhere.

Once I reach the highest step, my current altered state easily makes me think of what to do while I'm up here.

I place my left hand on the cliff again, and hold my right hand open, facing the moon. A platform emerges from out of the cliff and pushes a little way beyond the waterfall. It's wider than the steps, possibly big enough to fit a few people on. This could in fact be my new favourite place, or it could just be another waste of my power. I walk to the end of the platform, sit down, and dangle my legs off the edge - while marvelling at the beautiful Neca City. Seeing the moonlight and the cities reflection in the lake below, is breath-taking to say the least. Sitting down, I realise I'm beginning to feel tired from all the Flork I've consumed. I'm sure this place is as good as any to fall asleep. I just hope I don't roll off the edge...

II - Don't Dream it's Over...

"Be back soon son," Mum says, heading to the bar with Dad.

My parents love this place. While we've been in the City of Zonek on holiday, I've spent most of my time in this pub; I can almost close my eyes and memorise the entire establishment. It's made out of a rather large barnacle. The ground beneath me matches the rest of the city - the base of a gigantic shell. Sand covers the ground, and there is seaweed covering the tables - with large stones for seats. The bar top has barnacles all over it, and I've cut my hand there quite a few times.

"Damn, what is taking them so long," I mutter, waiting impatiently.

My parents are very wealthy and worth a lot of Ralop. Max, my father discovered a creature, which he named a 'Crent,' after my late grandfather. If you squeeze it, you can either use the bright light from its mouth to illuminate your surroundings, or speak into the rear to increase the volume of your speech. We now have a Crent farm on our property in the Periko plains, selling them for a fortune. Makes life very enjoyable for a twelve year old boy.

I glance at the bar and fail to see my parents. What on Tharp is taking them so long?

Leaving my seat, I run up to the bar and harass the bartender.

"Jo, where's my parents?" I ask, panicking.

"Jacamatax, they were here just a minute ago, with a warrior, wearing the skull of a creature on his head."

"Why did they leave me?"

"I'm not sure, young man. Maybe check outside?"

I run to the front of the pub, pushing past all the patrons, hoping to see the familiar face of my parents. Why would they leave me? Did this warrior threaten them?

I step outside, and look towards the huge white pearl in the center of the city. I can't see them anywhere, but get briefly distracted by the beauty of this place. It looks like I'm inside a massive shell, with the lumpy texture of the ground matching the roof. All the dwellings in the city of Zonek are large barnacles, varying in size. There are no doors, they just serve as some cover over your head. The largest barnacles are behind me - one of which is the pub; but right now I need to find my parents, as I fear I'll never see them again.

"Mum! Dad! Where are you?!" I yell, running through the city.

Fear is filling my mind, and I don't know what to do. As I push past the blue skinned residents of this city, I panic as to where my parents could be.

Accidentally, I knock over an old woman, who's human like me. The entire right side of her face is burnt, and she's wearing a black hooded robe, and black gloves.

"I'm so sorry," I say, helping her up.

"You look frightened child, are you lost?"

"Yes, I'm looking for my parents. I think they've been kidnapped."

"What do they look like?"

I try for the life of me to remember what they're wearing, but the description of the warrior comes to mind faster.

"They were kidnapped by a warrior, which I was told is wearing an animal skull on his head."

"Oh, I've seen him."

"Where?"

"This way, follow me," she says, before jogging towards the large pearl.

"Why is this happening?" I ask, wiping tears from my eyes.

"I'm not sure, child. But life is like this, and it's been hard on me too."

"What has happened to you that could possibly be this bad?"

"I've lost everyone I love, and have no one to blame but myself."

I don't really know how to answer that, but the tone of her voice sounds sincere.

We approach the white pearl and I can see the warrior we're after. He has long black and grey hair - which is growing through the top of the animal's skull; he's wearing a necklace around his neck, with large green leaves attached to it, covering most of his chest, arms and back. A large blade is attached to his leg, in a sheath. I quickly duck as I see him fire an arrow at us with his bow.

"Watch out young man," the old woman yells, pushing me behind a dwelling.

"What do you want?" he yells, loading another arrow and pointing it at her.

"I just want to talk."

"About what, this curse you bestowed me with?"

"What scares you more, the man you were or the man you've become?"

"What sort of question is that?" he replies, firing another arrow at her.

She catches it with her right hand, snapping it in half. I walk out and hide behind her.

"Stay away, kid. This is between me and her," he says, loading another arrow.

I step out in front of her and speak my mind.

"How is this between just you and her? Where are my parents?"

"Why did you ruin my life by introducing me to this power?" he asks the old woman, ignoring me.

"It's how it was always meant to be. I can't change what has already happened, and neither can you."

"Why? If the events haven't happened yet, then why can't you alter them?"

I really don't know what's going on. But I better keep on my toes, this warrior seems jumpy.

"So what if I shot him, huh? Will it alter his destiny?"

"Your arrow will never hit him."

"Why? What's stopping me from killing him right now?"

He fires the arrow and the old woman creates an electrical wall in front of us, dissolving it on impact.

I look behind him and see a pink lightning bolt. It's quite small, about the size of my forearm; I've never seen anything like it in my life.

"What is that behind you?" I ask.

"Oh this... Maybe your old friend can explain it. Go on, break his heart and reveal where his parents are," he replies, diving into the pink bolt.

I can't hold back the tears... What is going on??

"Please... Tell... Me," I ask, crying.

"I'm sorry to say, but they're gone for good," she replies, before diving into the bolt as well.

I sit down and lean against the pearl, hoping to shake the tears. Unfortunately for me, nothing will ever be the same...

III - Right Place, Right Time...

"Mum... Dad..... Damn.... Aaarrggghhhh, my head," I say, awakening in the morning, greeted with the beautiful rays of the sun.

That dream is one I've had since that dreadful day, eighteen years ago. I can't shake how I feel, or how I felt after it. I wish I could alter what happened, or even say a final goodbye to my parents, but there's nothing I can do.

I sit up and get quite a scare, realising exactly where I am. The worst part is that I don't remember how I got here, but I'm pretty sure, I'm the culprit of this creation.

Gazing down over Neca city I see a woman with sky blue hair, and a weird slithering creature enter the pub; I don't know why but I feel drawn to investigate. Carefully, I prop myself up and begin descending the stairs.

I look down at my attire and realise how badly I need a wash. I'm starting to smell and something to cover my chest and give me warmth would be nice. I have long, dreaded hair down past my shoulders and a fairly thin beard on my face. I have scars all over my torso, and a seal resembling a red eye on the top of my right wrist. I currently have no shirt on, nothing covering my feet and just a grey Givou skin covering my lower torso. I don't mind looking like I haven't got any Ralop to my name, as people like to judge by appearance. It makes it easier to conceal my wealth and identity.

When my parents disappeared, I became the abandoned son, heir to my parent's wealth. I really didn't like that title - I was a lost rich boy. A man I will never forget is the Lord Xeria Guytz, the head of the City of Zonek. He gave me shelter, a home, and led a fellowship of warriors to guide me back to my parent's home when I was ready. I lived with him and his son Craboo Guytz for about two years, and gained their respect. If I ever need anything in my life, as long as they're alive, I can turn to them - and for that, I'm very grateful.

Recently, I've been giving some thought to getting myself a melee weapon, to save me from the instances where my seal can't make contact with the natural energy of our planet. I have seen a travelling merchant, who sells weapons and supplies out of his cart. He has been hanging around outside the pub, about lunchtime every day since he arrived in Neca city; suppose it might be time to pay him a visit.

I approach the old merchant and he smiles at me. He's an Oathient serpent - which has a torso like mine, but the bottom half of his body doesn't have any legs. Rather, he has a long tail, the thickness of his waist, which extends out behind him to a thin point. It's at least twice the length of my legs, maybe even a little bit longer. His skin is beige in colour, has long, receding brown hair, yellow teeth and a very complex black seal on his entire left arm. I bet he has a few tales of his own.

"Hey there, what weapons do you have for sale?" I ask, holding out my hand.

"What tickles your fancy, friend? Oh the name's 'Hazmat,' nice to meet you," Hazmat replies, shaking my hand.

"I really have no idea, show me what's in that cart of yours," I say, before he rolls it my direction.

I leer into the cart and see an assortment of items. Scanning the weapons I see spears, swords, staffs, daggers...then I see a ridiculously bizarre weapon, one that I've never seen before.

This weapon has eight curved blades running along one side of the handle, and the grooves between the blades are big enough to fit my fingers in. The handle which sits in the palm of my hand is curved like a crescent moon, and it's only the length of the first to the eighth blade. Each blade is serrated and is the length of my index finger; they all curve in the same direction. I'm falling in love, and I must barter with him.

"Can you hold this weapon for me? I will be back in a few minutes with some Ralop. Does it have a sheath, and how much does it cost?" I ask, sounding like an excited child.

"Sure, no problem at all, I'll hold this for you. It costs a mere thirty Ralop sir, and it does have a sheath," Hazmat replies.

"Thank you very much. Sorry how rude of me, my name is Jacamatax," I reply, before walking around the outside of the pub.

Once I arrive at the rear of the building, I put my last Ralop in my left hand, then open my right palm to face the sun, and begin working my magic. The air starts whooshing around as usual, and within a few seconds, roughly one hundred Ralop has materialised in my right hand. Guess it's time to go buy my weapon.

"I'm back, sorry about the wait. I just had to work out how much Ralop I have left to spend, so here you go. Thirty Ralop as promised," I say, handing over fifty Ralop and collecting my weapon.

"Thank you very much. Enjoy slaying enemies with your purchase. Please come again," Hazmat replies, placing the Ralop into his pouch.

"Can I please have my sheath too?" I ask.

"Sure, that will be ten Ralop," Hazmat replies.

"Wait why?" I say, sounding confused.

"I never said the sheath came with the weapon; I just said I had one," Hazmat says, winking at me.

"All right Hazmat, here's your extra Ralop, have a great day," I reply, paying him and taking the sheath.

I look at him, and smile. Attaching my sheath, I realise I've been sold by another merchant. At least this time, it was worth it.

"Please come again," Hazmat says, moments before I walk into the pub.

When I enter, I quickly look around for that female and her slithering companion. I'm sure she should be fairly easy to spot; she has sky blue hair. I don't hesitate in walking up to the bar.

"How are you, Jacamatax? The usual?" Daweson asks.

"I'm good. Have you seen a lady with sky blue hair? Oh and yes please for the drink," I reply, still glancing around the bar.

"Yeah, you just missed her. She bought a bottle of Flork and ducked out the back of the pub. At the moment, we have a policy on smoking Juivita inside," Daweson says, sliding my drink across the bar.

"Thank you, my old friend. Be back soon," I say, placing four Ralop down.

"Jacamatax, Flork is only one Ralop?" Daweson replies, sounding confused.

While heading to the back of the pub, I glance back at Daweson and wink.

"That's just for being a good friend. Do I need any other reason to give you a tip?"

Once outside, I finally get a decent look at the two in question.

The female is average in height, with brown skin and sky blue hair. Each individual strand is the same colour blue as the sky above my head. She's wearing a black low cut top with one long sleeve - the left arm is ripped off from the shoulder down - ripped black pants and black boots. The strange looking creature next to her is hard to explain. It has a small head and a long snout, with a tail attached to its neck. Its skin is all slimy, has long dreaded hair exactly like mine, and is wearing a very small hazel pouch attached to a belt around the middle of its body. The weirdest part though is the lit pipe in its mouth.

"I'm nearly out of Juivita, man," the weird creature says.

"I can fix that for you," I say, placing my drink on the ground.

"Sorry, who are you?" The female asks.

"My apologies, my name is Jacamatax," I say, approaching them.

"Nice to meet you. I'm Voltanna and this here is Nevijah," Voltanna says, shaking my hand.

"The pleasure is all mine. Sorry if I seem a little strange walking out here to find you. I just found your hair colour so intriguing - so much so, that I had to come and meet you," I reply, smiling towards her.

"What did you mean.....? When you said you could fix that, man?" Nevijah says, puffing on the pipe.

"Here, put the remaining Juivita in my hand," I reply, holding my palm out.

"Whoa, sorry.... I don't even know you, man," Nevijah says.

"Its fine, Nevijah. I think we can trust him," Voltanna adds.

Voltanna reaches into Nevijah's pouch, grabs the remainder of their Juivita, and places it in my left palm. As I open my right palm, all the air particles begin whooshing around, and within seconds, they form together; Juivita is now falling out of my hand.

"Whoa.... We may never need to buy it again.... Thanks man," Nevijah says, grinning.

I walk up to him and top up his pipe, then put the rest of the Juivita into his pouch.

"Not a problem, friend. What brings you both to the beautiful Neca city?" I ask.

"No reason, really. We have been travelling all over Tharp, looking for something to fill our time, isn't that about right, Nevijah?" Voltanna says, smiling his direction.

"Yeah, sure is. What are you doing here, man?" Nevijah asks.

"Well, it seems as if we are on the same Zabait. I too have no real purpose to my life yet," I reply, before picking up my drink and taking a swig.

"What a weird coincidence," Voltanna enthusiastically replies, being handed the pipe from Nevijah.

"Should we stick together then? Maybe we can all discover our purpose in life, deal?"

"Can you please give us a moment?" Voltanna asks, signalling Nevijah to follow her.

The two of them walk a short distance away from me, and begin whispering. I hope they want me to accompany them, because this really is a strange coincidence.

"We would love for you..... To accompany us, man," Nevijah says, toking on his pipe.

"Awesome. Best news I've heard all day. Would you like me to fetch you both a bottle of Flork?" I reply.

"Yes please, that'd be great. Let's head up to the bar, I'll give you a hand. Nevijah's going to stay here and finish his pipe," Voltanna says, leading the way.

Heading inside, I realise the pub has become quite crowded in our absence, there are now quite a few people present. We head to the middle section of the counter, as I see two weird looking characters nearby, which again - catch my suspicion.

One of them is wearing a black, long robe with a hood that covers their face, making only a black hole visible. The other person is female, and wearing a sleeveless hooded coat; it's black with red on the inside. Underneath she's wearing a white low-cut singlet, grey pants, and black boots. She has a seal on her left hand, and on the inside of her left wrist; her entire right arm is a massive seal going from her shoulder, right down to the top of her hand. She has blonde hair with red stripes through it, and has such a presence, that she immediately catches my attention.

"Two bottles of Flork please," she says.

"Coming right up. Sorry that the Flork is going bad, need to work out a way to preserve it longer," Daweson replies.

"Wait.... You're not using goys?"

"Sorry, what do you mean?"

"Every bottle of Flork I've ever bought has had a Goy trapped in the top, stopping any air from getting inside. You usually push it inside to dissolve, doubling the drinks potency. So how come you're not using goys?"

"Thank you young lass, what a genius idea."

"Wait, what?"

"It might just work... They're everywhere, and such a common creature. I'm going to test your theory."

"Oh... Shit... Okay..... Umm bartender, where's the stadium? Neca city looks weird without it," she asks, handing over some Ralop for her drinks.

"Sorry love, I have no idea what you are talking about - but I'll put a suggestion through to the Mayor. Sounds like a good idea," Daweson replies, as he passes over her two drinks.

I think I better slide in there and introduce myself; there is nothing more odd than standing at the bar, staring at someone.

"Sorry, what did you mean by your comment before? A stadium? Oh sorry, name's Jacamatax," I say, holding out my right hand.

"Nice to meet you..... VOLTANNA!" she screams, running past me, towards my newly acquired friend.

"Voltanna, it's so good to see you! Where's Nevijah? Oh it's great to see you again!!" she says, before hugging her.

"Sorry, do I know you? Have we met?" Voltanna asks, sounding confused.

The hooded person approaches her and puts their hand on her left shoulder, then leans in and speaks. Once they pull away, the female scampers out the back door of the pub.

"My apologies," the hooded person says, revealing he's a male.

"Daweson, three drinks please brother," I say, sliding a few Ralop along the counter.

"Not a problem. Go after her. She seems lost," Daweson replies, placing three bottles in front of me.

Voltanna slips out the back of the pub, so I carefully pick up all three drinks and follow everyone.

Once outside, the random conversation exchanging between the four of them is too hard to follow. I think I might just stand and listen for a few moments.

"So how do you know us? We aren't angry, just... Curious man," Nevijah says, lighting his pipe with fire from his nose.

"Please, do tell. You knew my name and Nevijah's before we even told you. The least you could do, is give us an explanation," Voltanna replies.

The female looks towards the hooded man, and he nods back at her, like a mentor instructing his student on her every move. Once she takes a deep breath, her explanation begins.

"My name is Zelada. I am a prophet who has been sent to Tharp to deliver several legendary artifacts to several specific locations. They will be needed ten thousand years from now to destroy a powerful wizard, who tries to take over my planet; and yours. The reason why I know who you both are, is that I was instructed by someone that you both accompany me on this quest," Zelada explains. "And who might this person be?" Voltanna asks.

"That person was in fact you, Voltanna," Zelada replies, sipping on her Flork.

There's an awkward silence for a while; I think it's time to make myself useful and enter this intense conversation.

"Drinks anyone?" I say cheekily, holding three bottles of Flork out in front of me.

Everybody slowly turns their head towards me and begins laughing, making me laugh as well. I haven't had a decent chuckle for a while, so this is quite the event for me. Hopefully when the laughter dies down, we can sort out what it is that's going on.

IV - Finally Found a Purpose to my Life...

Once the laughter ends, Voltanna starts with the questioning.

"So, let me get this straight. I told you, to tell me, to help you to deliver these legendary artifacts?" Voltanna asks, before sipping on her drink.

"Yes Voltanna, this is true," Zelada replies.

"Nevijah, pipe please," Voltanna instructs, snatching the pipe from Nevijah's mouth.

"Hey, I wasn't finished man," Nevijah replies.

"Sorry... I just need a smoke, to see.... If.... I'm... Dreaming," Voltanna says, inhaling from the pipe.

"Trust me, this is no dream. Voltanna, you also need to remember something else," Zelada replies.

"Sure thing."

"You must never mention that I gave this information to you, not even to me."

"Why?"

"Just don't. It's part of keeping me a secret. Trust me, this is all making my head spin too."

"Care to elaborate?" Voltanna asks, passing the pipe back to Nevijah.

"Well, here I am meeting you, the same person I spoke to a few hours ago, and you have no idea who I am. It makes sense to me, but it doesn't mean that it makes it any easier to understand," Zelada explains, finishing the rest of her drink.

There is another small silence between us. I guess the circumstances of our meeting is a little bizarre, and has happened in such a short space of time. I think it's my turn to commandeer this Zabait and take control of the conversation.

"So who are you, faceless one?" I say, in the direction of the hooded man.

"If I reveal who I am, just as Zelada has, you must never tell a soul, other than us... Are we clear?" he replies.

Voltanna, Nevijah and I all look at each other with such confusion. What's currently massaging my brain is that these two complete strangers are just assuming that the three of us are well acquainted? It's almost like two separate promises. One promise from me, and one from them. Oh well, I know he can trust me, but let's hope Voltanna and Nevijah are equally as trustworthy.

"Well, you can trust me. I want an answer to my life and in my honest opinion, you and this prophet seem like you could be just what I am looking for," I say, sounding certain.

"Great and you two?" the hooded man asks.

Voltanna and Nevijah look at each other briefly and smile, before looking back at him.

"You can trust us, we swear on our lives," Voltanna replies.

The hooded man removes his hood and reveals his identity. He's an extremely old man, clean shaven with very short hair - almost bald; he pulls a staff from off his back.

"My name is Modnar and I'm a time guardian. I have the ability to bend time, and this power is only ever bestowed upon those who are great enough to harness it. I'm here aiding the prophet, in her quest. I keep myself hidden, to avoid potential danger. If you wish to follow us, do so. Now what did you say your name was, sir?" Modnar says, looking towards me.

"Jacamatax, nice to meet you," I reply, shaking Modnar's hand.

"Wait, what did you say your name was?!" Zelada rudely says.

"Jacamatax, why?"

Zelada and Modnar move towards each other and begin whispering. I wonder what the big deal is.

"Sorry, have I done something wrong?" I ask.

"No, nothing at all. The truth is that it is your destiny to accompany me. In fact, you have a very important role. If you would all like to please follow us, I'm thirsty," Zelada says, heading inside the pub.

I walk up to Voltanna and Nevijah, attempting to make sense of this madness.

"So what do you make of all this?" I ask.

"You first, Jacamatax; what's your opinion?" Voltanna replies.

"Well, let's think about this for a second. The three of us meet and reveal that we all need a little guidance on what to do with our lives.... Then she shows up. Coincidence?"

"Well that's if you believe in coincidences. It was our destiny to bump into this prophet. She was excited to see Nevijah and me, then upon hearing your name, she says that you have an important role too. The three of us are in no matter what, even if it's merely to squash our curiosity."

"Fine, then let's make a pact. We make sure that we watch each other's back, and I'll make sure your friend keeps his Juivita topped up. Sound like a deal?" I say, putting my right hand out in front of me.

"Deal!" Nevijah replies, slamming his head on top of my hand.

Voltanna begins giggling to herself, and places her right hand on top of Nevijah's head.

"Haha, Nevijah.... Sounds good to me, so I'm obviously in."

"All right then. Now let's get a deeper understanding of what's going on," I reply, leading the three of us into the pub.

Once inside, I go straight up to Daweson and purchase a few rounds of Flork; I expect that this is going to become more than a little mind bending. I approach the booth in the back corner, which has Zelada, Modnar, Voltanna and Nevijah already seated around it. Time to infest my mind with answers to my questions.

"Cool, so everyone is here?" Zelada asks, as I sit and place our bottles down on the table.

"Can I start with asking what our quest is?" I ask, sliding a bottle towards everyone at the table.

"Well it's several things really. For starters, we (pointing at her and Modnar) need protecting, by you (pointing at Voltanna, Nevijah and I) while travelling to our destinations," Zelada explains, swigging on her bottle of Flork.

"So what else does it entail? Can you elaborate on the artifacts that you spoke about?" Voltanna replies.

"Well, to explain, (she draws her sword and places it on the table) this sword has four legendary Gems called 'Arter gems' that are placed in the four indentations like so (pointing at four gems that are slotted below the base of the blade). The southern Arter gem of Water is to be left in this city, where the Chosen One, ten thousand years from now, will find it," Zelada explains.

I lean towards the middle of the table and everybody leans in closer to me.

"Ten thousand years?? Where in this city could this magical gem reside, without being pinched?" I whisper.

"Bring your drinks, I'll show you," Zelada replies, before standing up and promptly leaving the bar.

We all follow Zelada outside and I'm wondering where she is going to go. I must admit, I'm a little intrigued. What's more bizarre is that she's walking towards the base of the waterfall. I run to catch up to her.

"Zelada, where are we heading?" I ask, walking next to her.

"Up there!" Zelada replies, pointing at the platform beyond the waterfall.

"Wait why?"

"Because that is where the Arter gem of water is destined to rest," Zelada replies.

Her response makes me stop, almost immediately. I can't believe what's going on. How does she know, what I created last night after a few too many bottles of Flork? This, I need an answer for.

"What's wrong, my boy? Come, walk with me," Modnar says, putting his arm around my shoulders.

"That platform, how do you both know about it?" I reply.

"It's the resting place for the Arter gem of water, why's that?" Modnar says, sounding puzzled.

"Well... Literally just last night, I had a few too many drinks of Flork and created that platform, and the staircase leading to it," I reply, continuing to walk.

"Wait, wait, wait a minute there," Zelada chimes in.

"What?"

"Let me get this straight. You're saying that this platform that I'm leading you all to, was created by you just last night?" Zelada says.

"Yes prophet, that's what I said," I reply, sarcastically.

"How richly bizarre," Zelada says, frowning and scratching her head in Modnar's direction.

"Exactly what I was thinking," Modnar replies, sounding puzzled.

I walk ahead and everybody quickly catches up, as now the waves of curiosity, all of a sudden flow in my direction. As we all begin scaling the steps behind the waterfall, Zelada starts asking more questions.

"So, how did you create all of this?" Zelada asks, following me up the steps.

"I can manipulate air particles into solid objects," I reply, leering over my right shoulder.

"Get out of town. Are you serious?"

"Dead serious."

"So you did all of this??" Zelada asks, shocked.

"Yes, that's correct. Would you like an example when we get to the platform?" I reply.

"You bet your Ralop I do," Zelada says, tapping me on the back.

Once we reach the top, Zelada passes me, then bends down and touches the platform.

"Okay, well you can test your power right here. Can you make a small altar that sits about this high," Zelada asks, holding her hand out at the right height.

"All right Prophet, as you wish," I reply, bending down and placing my left hand on the platform.

As my right hand stays open, she watches everything I'm doing; I feel really important to this cause. Her face lights up like a young child seeing their father return from a hunting trip, gathering food for the family. Once the altar is in place, Zelada speaks.

"Well, I must say Jacamatax that was breath-taking. If you three are ready, we can begin our journey, because it technically starts, right here, right now," Zelada says, running her hand across my creation.

"How so?" I ask.

"Yeah, what he said, man," Nevijah chimes in.

"Because this altar is where I must place the first Artifact; the Arter gem of water. This is where the Chosen One must one day retrieve it from. We must next trek to the village of Puziac, to deliver the Arter gem of Ice to its resting place," Zelada replies, drawing her sword.

She presses the tip of her blade on the platform. Then removes the ocean blue gem out of the southern slot, of the compass emblem on her blade - it appears to be similar to the seal on her left wrist. She then places it on the altar and it glows almost immediately.

"No one touches this gem until the Chosen One arrives, and once this journey is finished, could you and Nevijah watch it until you've been told otherwise? I believe you two are the right people for the job," Zelada asks Voltanna.

Voltanna and Nevijah both look at each other and begin smiling. They appear honoured to be the guardians of this gem. I'm a little upset as to why Zelada wouldn't want me to guard it? After all, I was the one that created its resting place. I have to ask, the fear of my not knowing is eating away at my insides.

"Jacamatax, are you okay?" Zelada asks.

"No not really to be honest with you. I'd like to talk about something, if that's all right with you?"

"Sure thing. You three head down to the pub, Modnar will pay. We're going to have a few drinks before we depart, make sure we get well acquainted. See you down there," Zelada instructs.

I sit down on the edge of the platform, dangling my legs off the edge, feeling depressed about the outcome of her decision.

As she sits down next to me, I get goosebumps on my arms. She is the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. No woman on Tharp matches her beauty. But, physical attraction aside, I'm still curious why she decided on them and not me.

"So what's wrong, Jacamatax?" Zelada asks.

"Well to start with.... (I reach over and lower her hood so I can get a proper look at her) That's better, I haven't seen anyone as beautiful as you in my entire life.... Now, what was I going to ask....? Oh... Why didn't you pick me to guard this gem? I would have guarded it with my life."

"I know you would have, hence why I have a much more important task for you. And cheers for the compliment, a 'prophet' doesn't get much attention, due to the responsibility," Zelada replies, blushing like raging fire.

"Oh, well.... I'm very honoured to be selected by such a perfect beauty, to do something far more important," I say, flirtatiously.

"Gees... Stop with all the comments, I'm blushing.... COUGH... Thank you for wanting to complete this special task for me," Zelada replies, in an equally flirtatious manner.

Upon finishing her sentence, we both gaze into each other's eyes, exchanging energy in this brief lapse of time, our skin glowing red like the night skies over Dandum city. Moments later, we both look away and smile.

"Let's head down to the pub, have a few bottles of Flork, and celebrate our meeting?" Zelada says, propping herself up and offering her left hand.

"Sounds like a great idea," I reply, taking her hand and pulling myself up.

As the two of us head towards the pub, the flirting is becoming a pretty natural thing. I'm only doing it as much as I can feel in return. Other than my mother, I haven't met a woman before that I would do anything and everything for, with no thought of the outcome. I guess you could say I'm quite fond of her.

V - It All Starts With a Kiss and a Secret...

Daweson has closed off the pub for us, and I'm having the most fun I've had in a long time. Because I have the ability to generate Ralop, we're able to purchase unlimited amounts of Flork. Now I know what I'm like on this drink, but this crowd takes it to a whole new level. And Zelada, she is so strange, it makes me even more drawn to her. I can feel her energy, she thrives off every second she is alive, just like me - the difference being that she has a purpose to channel it into, and I didn't; until today. Zelada has given me a purpose to be alive, and I'm currently celebrating that with some of the nicest people I've ever met.

A few hours pass, and I realise I've stayed relatively quiet. I've been hypnotically gazing at Zelada most of the time, and she has continued to smile back at me. But at this current moment, I can see multiples of her, as we have consumed a copious amount of Flork. Zelada and I are the last two standing. Everybody from Daweson, to Modnar are fast asleep. I wink Zelada's direction and stagger out the front door. Zelada leaves her seat and follows me outside. She tries to stop walking but ends up falling forward into my arms.

"Sorry, Jacama... Tax... See, I remembered... You don't have a very easy name to remember.... You know?" Zelada says, as I walk forwards with her, holding her up.

"Sorry about that, beautiful... I just hope you're going to be all right. And to be fair, I'm quite proud of you," I reply, stopping every few steps to pull her up.

"Really?" Zelada replies, sounding surprised. I smile at her while leaning her up against the pub; I rest against one of the nearby trees with my left hand. Moments later, I fall over and Zelada bursts into laughter, before eventually sliding down the wall to the ground. The pair of us look at each other while laying down, laughing hysterically. Too much Flork has been consumed, and the evidence is all here.

"Hey you," Zelada calls out, still giggling at inconsistent intervals.

"Heeey you, haha... BURP!" I reply.

"Hhhooowww are you?!" Zelada yells.

"BURP! I'm actually all right. Give me a second," I say, crawling her direction.

Once I'm above her, I drape her arm around my shoulder and pick her up off the ground. We both fall into the side of the pub and she runs her fingertips along my chest. I haven't had a woman touch me like this in my whole life.

"What...are...you...doing....?" I ask, breathing heavily.

"I'm doing what I've wanted to do to you for what seems like an eternity. I don't know why I'm so drawn to you, it's just magic," Zelada replies, whispering softly in my left ear, while running her fingertips up my back.

We both stare into each other's eyes, breathing heavily and feeling the rush of raw emotions flow between us. I know she can feel my energy and I can definitely feel hers.

I lean in towards her neck and start slowly kissing just under her right ear.

"Oh my," she says.

"You like that," I reply, kissing down her neck, and around to the left side.

"You... Really... Know... How... To.... Work... Me... Up," she says, panting heavily.

I slip off her sleeveless coat and begin kissing further down her chest.

Suddenly, Zelada leans forward, pulls my head up, and we lock lips. It's exactly how I imagined. Her tongue slips into my mouth like a delicate breeze flowing through the Periko plains. Sheer ecstasy in a physical form, like nothing I have felt in my entire existence, and hopefully hers.

And it doesn't stop there. She grabs my hands, guiding them to either side of her waist. As we continue to kiss, I slowly move my right hand up her chest, enjoying the feeling of her breathing gradually becoming heavier, in my mouth. She runs her fingertips down my back, and along my chest again. I struggle to grab a handful of her right breast, as it barely fits in my hand.

"Aaaahhhhhh," she moans, continuing to kiss me.

She runs her hand down my chest, towards my lower region. I can't believe what she's doing, but I'm not going to stop her.

She thrusts forward and brings herself a lot closer to me, both of us enjoying our flurry of passion. Hands exploring areas of each other's bodies that only one could imagine, until a few moments later, it all stops.

We fall backwards, breathing heavily while trying to interpret what has just happened. Either way, whether it happens again or not, it was an amazing experience.

We lean against the pub, panting like we've both just ran a long distance. She's looking at me with an expression I haven't seen before, but more importantly; I hope she's all right.

"Zelada, how are.... You feeling?" I ask, awkwardly, still catching my breath.

"Not bad at all, Mr... We just need to slow down a little bit, get to know each other first, deal?" Zelada replies, holding her right hand out.

"Of course, it's a deal, beautiful," I say, shaking her hand.

"How about we start with a very personal secret each? And we trust each other to never tell anyone else?"

"That sounds like a great idea."

This is going to be quite hard for me. I don't usually part with secrets, as I've always kept to myself. But, if this is ever going to become anything special, I suppose I better start by trusting her.

"Ladies first beautiful, since it was your great idea," I say, smiling towards her.

"Wow, put me on the spot," Zelada replies, seeming a little caught off guard.

"Well I guess I could start, give me a second to think of something," I say, zoning out for a moment.

I try to think of a secret that I would never tell anyone else, but could see myself telling her. Something special... Then it strikes me like a bolt of lightning. I know exactly what to say.

"So we both agree to keep this one secret we share, between us?" I say, staring into her eyes.

"Of course," Zelada replies.

"Well then, my parents were actually quite wealthy, and they handed down every single Ralop to me," I say, lowering my head.

"That explains how you can afford to pay for everything," Zelada replies, smiling back at me.

"They weren't always wealthy, up until I was a young boy, they struggled and then..."

"Hey it's okay, you can trust me, Jacamatax," Zelada replies, in a very reassuring tone.

"Well, here goes... When I was about three, my parents left me outside to play with a few Ralop while they cooked lunch. My parents finally told me, before they disappeared, that they walked out to find me, and there was Ralop everywhere in our back yard - I was sitting happily covered in it. With my power I created the start of their wealth, which my parents left for me. Until now I've never been able to trust anyone with this information.''

"Why couldn't you tell anyone about this?"

"Because, if my power was ever discovered, I would've been kidnapped for evil purposes. So they spent their lives protecting me, making sure I didn't get discovered. But once my parents disappeared, I began evolving into nothing....... I started travelling, but with no great purpose, no destiny... Until you came along. You gave me a purpose, Zelada. Thank you," I say, compassionately.

"No, thank you. I've had quite an interesting night," Zelada flirtatiously replies.

"Your turn, Zelada," I say, smiling towards her.

"Fair call, Jacamatax. Give me a moment to think of something," Zelada replies.

"Would you like another drink?" I ask, standing up.

"Yes please," Zelada replies, leaning against the side of the pub.

I quickly make a mad dash for the bar, filling up a nearby empty glass with Flork from a jug on the counter. I don't even bother with my drink, I just run for Zelada at top speed.

Once outside, Zelada is already fast asleep. Typical, and just when she was about to share her secret with me. Oh well, that's just a consequence of consuming a ridiculous amount of Flork. Your night never really goes to plan.

I bend down, pick up the sleeping princess, and carry her inside to the warmth. I lie her down in the booth we were seated at, and lie down in the one next to her. While she quietly snoozes, l think about how amazing tonight was and how I wouldn't change a thing.

VI - That Awkward Next Morning...

Why is it always awkward the next morning? Your alter ego - or personality if you will, swaps places with your more sensible side, and you remember how all caution was thrown to the wind last night, creating a plethora of different outcomes. None of which are any easier to understand when the morning arrives, and the extroverted version of you from the night before, cowers behind the reality that you now have to deal with. Did all those things happen to me last night, or am I dreaming. I don't really want to start thinking about that yet.

I'm frying the eggs of a Givou, which you can eat once they've been cooked under an open flame. They are roughly the size of a closed fist, and each egg can feed about two people. It's an old trick my mother would do for me. Oh the research you can do in any situation if the Ralop is endless. This is how she learnt about the Givou eggs. Having the Ralop to travel the world was a great asset. When cooking in Neca City, Daweson always lends me the tools I need, because after a hard night of drinking; I need to eat. I use an old hot plate I gave him when we first met - my parents weren't around anymore, so I didn't need it.

No one is awake yet, so it allows me to think for a while about who this gorgeous beauty is. She knows about the future, my future, so she logically must be from there. The question is; when and how much does she already know. She and Modnar don't seem bad and I do believe they are genuine, but I just have to know a little more, for my own piece of mind.

I love sitting by the lake and cooking breakfast - it's something I've done a lot. The weather as usual is beautiful, but that's normal in Neca city. My little fire is burning, and because the sun is only just rising, not many people are populating the city yet; just the way I like it.

"Hey Jacamatax, that smells delicious," Daweson says, sitting down cross legged next to me.

"Cheers friend, how many can you eat after last night's messy celebration?"

"Definitely a few. Being truthful, I'm going to miss you coming in every day. This goes beyond the amount of Ralop you spend."

"Of course, that's called friendship. Yes, I enjoy drinking the Flork you serve me, but that's not the only reason, you know? You've been serving Flork to me for years. I've been alive a mere 'thirty years,' but I have respected every day that you've been here for me. You're basically the last of my family."

Daweson smiles at me and I can see what I said has hit a nerve. Maybe he's just another person without any family.

"Jacamatax, just as you say, we are actually the last remaining family for each other."

"Indeed we are, friend. Come here," I say, opening my arms wide apart.

While we hug, Daweson lets a few tears roll down his cheeks. That's living proof that leaving the city that I've spent most of my life in, will be a hard thing for me to live with.

"I have something else to tell you," Daweson says.

"Go on, let me hear it."

"The Prophet said that one day this city will burn to the ground."

"Really?"

"Yeah, I believe her. She said it's not for at least another ten thousand years, but to be ready for the fateful day. Oh and don't mention that I told you, she said in confidence."

"I won't say a word, but what are you going to do?"

"Well friend, I'd imagine after that many years, that I'd like to go down with the City. Hopefully, you can come visit before it happens."

"Of course."

"She mentioned something else."

"Yeah?"

"She suggested that I should use ancient symbols from her planet, to mark the doors from my hotel."

"And do you think it's a good idea?"

"Definitely. She has written the symbols all down for me, so it's just my job to mark the doors."

"See, she really could be a shining light for our planet."

"You might be right, be back in a sec," Daweson says, walking towards the pub.

"Mmmmmmm that smells good, man," Nevijah says, slithering towards me, pipe hanging out of his mouth.

"I have to..... Yyaawwwwnnnnn...... Agree with him, Jacamatax. What are you cooking?" Voltanna asks.

"Givou eggs. Once cooked, they taste as great as they smell, trust me. Where's Zelada and Modnar?" I reply.

"Oh they're both still asleep. I'm fairly positive that they can't keep up with us three, when we're drinking Flork," Voltanna says, cheekily.

"Says the one who passed out first last night. Don't count your Givou before they hatch," I reply.

"What does that mean?"

"I can answer that. It means that you shouldn't assume things, man. So if you have three eggs, it doesn't mean that you're going to have three babies, you know?" Nevijah says, lighting his pipe with fire from his nostrils.

"That's right, Nevijah. Never assume, and to be fair, I can at least speak for Zelada. She can drink a lot, trust me. Zelada and I were the last people up drinking Flork, while everyone else had passed out," I reply.

Zelada and Modnar approach the rest of us and decide to drown me with compliments about my cooking.

"Good morning, everybody. I KNEW it smelt like eggs," Zelada says, smiling towards me.

"You were right, Zelada. These are Givou eggs and the best part; they're almost ready," I say, as Daweson approaches us with a large plate.

"There is enough eggs for two each, but you may need to fry up a couple more," Daweson adds, standing to take the plate inside.

"I'll wait!" Zelada and I say simultaneously.

"Well, everyone else, food is ready!" Daweson yells from inside the pub.

I crack the last two Givou eggs onto the hotplate, and Zelada watches me in complete silence, with a grin on her face, matching mine.

"So Zelada, how are you this morning?" I ask, watching over the food.

"I've been looking forward to this feed, that's for sure."

"Are you mad at me about last night?" I ask, flipping the eggs.

"Not at all," Zelada quickly responds.

"Do you regret anything? I don't."

"Nope, nothing at all. You can't change the past, so why dwell on it."

"Good answer, Zelada. You do owe me a secret though, in exchange for the one I shared with you," I say, winking at her.

"Well we could save that for another time?" Zelada replies, flirtatiously.

"Indeed we could, Zelada. So where are we going after breakfast?" I ask, flipping the eggs back over.

"We're heading to Puziac Village; we have to leave the Arter gem of Ice there. We will depart after breakfast and travel by air," Zelada replies, smiling back at me.

"And how do you propose we do that, beautiful?"

"On the back of Butch, my pet Phoenix," Zelada replies, standing up in front of me.

"And where is this pet phoenix? If I remember what my father taught me, it's quite a large bird. How would you tame it?"

Zelada looks at her right shoulder and I notice a seal of a Phoenix. Within seconds, it launches out of her seal, spiralling into the air, until it's quite high in the sky. It opens its wings and the shadow from this amazing creature casts down over us. A few moments later, it lands right next to me. It's 'fur' appears to be individual blades of fire, and when Zelada pats it, she isn't being burnt at all. I stand up, my mouth remaining wide open in shock.

"Hello Butch, how are you bboooyyy?" Zelada says, scratching him under his neck.

"How long have you had him for?"

"About twelve and a half years. He's like my best friend in a way, as he's always here for me, no matter what, aren't you booooyyy," Zelada replies, continuing to scratch under his neck.

"Of course... I am," The phoenix says, his eyes rolling back.

"HE SPEAKS?!" I gasp, falling back onto the ground.

"Yes I do, and what might your name be? My name is Butch."

"Jacamatax, pleasure to meet you, Butch. Sorry, I never knew a phoenix could speak," I say, sounding confused.

"One shouldn't assume."

"Yeah, I really need to take my own advice and stop doing that."

I smile at them and see the love they share. It's exactly how she described; they must be best friends, and I bet every Ralop I have, that they have been to the ends of Tharp and back together.

"Should we eat? Our eggs are ready," I say, dampening out the fire.

"Yeah, sounds good to me. You're dismissed," Zelada replies, before Butch launches high into the air, flying west.

I pick up the hot plate by the handle and we both make our way towards the pub.

"Where does he fly to, once dismissed?" I ask.

"I have no idea, but because he's a phoenix, every time he dies, he revives himself. So it makes me not worry too much when he flies off like he does."

"Have you ever thought that he has a predetermined destination?"

"No, to be honest, I've never given it a moment's thought. Maybe when I'm not thinking about your delicious eggs, I can," Zelada says, before we enter the pub.

We all eat our breakfast while talking and laughing amongst ourselves. I can honestly say that I'm excited for this journey, even if my only reason is to make new friends. But even stretching further than that, I'm truly honoured to finally have a purpose for my life.

Once breakfast is over, we head outside the back of the pub. We don't really have a choice, as the pub is becoming quite busy, awaiting Daweson's lunch menu.

"I've got to head back into the pub, things are picking up. The mayor is coming in for lunch, as he wants to discuss constructing a monument in his honour, any ideas?" Daweson asks, standing in the back doorway arch.

"YES!" Zelada shouts.

"What is it?!"

"You should build a clock tower, with ancient symbols from my planet, to tell the time. I'm sure he'd be excited to know an ancient prophet suggested this idea," Zelada says, sounding excited.

Before any of us can reply, a ball of energy appears next to us and a huge circular device falls out of it - the ball of energy then disappears.

"What is that?" I say, slowly approaching it.

"Ummm, it's called a clock, it's a way of measuring time on my planet. This is exactly what I was just talking about. I'll set the time for you, and it will gain its energy from the sun and moon," Zelada explains, fiddling with it, moving the two points around.

"Take note of this clock, Zelada. We must find out who delivered this to us. It was incredible timing, my girl," Modnar replies.

"Strange. Well friend, I will see you when I do. I'm going to miss being around you," I say, turning my attention back to Daweson and holding my right hand out.

"Indeed, Jacamatax, my brother. Good luck on your endeavours," Daweson replies, shaking my hand with all his might, while a few teardrops roll down his cheeks.

"Voltanna and Nevijah here will become your new regulars, once we return," I say, cheekily.

"Not a problem you two, I'll see you both later! Good luck! Oh and Nevijah," Daweson says.

"Yeah, man," Nevijah replies.

"I think we can lift that indoor ban on Juivita."

"Yeah, that's the one, man."

Daweson heads inside, and Zelada has just finished tampering with the ancient time device. Upon standing up, she summons Butch from the seal on her right shoulder. He lands next to us and lowers himself, so everyone can mount his back.

"Woah..." Voltanna says, sounding shocked.

"How did you just do that man?" Nevijah asks.

"Do what?" Zelada replies, winking at him.

"Man have I missed you two," Butch adds.

"Huh, umm do we know you man?" Nevijah replies.

"Uhh, I mean it's nice to meet you, the names Butch," Butch says.

"Hi, I'm Voltanna and this here is my friend Nevijah, are you our ride to Puziac Village?" Voltanna asks.

"He sure is. All aboard, everyone," Zelada says, holding her hand out, helping each person onto his back.

"Wait, aren't we going to get burnt?" Nevijah asks.

"You'll be fine, don't worry."

"You next, young man," Modnar says, prompting me to go first.

To be honest, I'm a little worried. I see Voltanna and Nevijah hop on, not getting burnt by the blades of fire that have swallowed their legs \- hopefully, I have similar luck.

As I grab Zelada's hand she says "It's okay, Jacamatax."

It makes me feel safe enough to hop on. My only reason for being scared in the first place is because of my terrible luck. I've been plagued with it, ever since I was young. Maybe meeting these four people will change that forever.

My legs get buried beneath Butch's fire, but I feel no pain, my skin is still intact. Zelada smiles and nods towards me, then jumps up and sits right in front of me.

"You ready, boy," she whispers, seconds before Butch launches into the air.

The tingling in my stomach makes me feel like screaming out to the world.

"Woooooo hoo!" I yell, as we soar through the air.

"Amazing, isn't it?" Zelada yells back.

"Yeah, this is a first for me. I've never been in the air before... Breath-taking!" I yell.

Modnar leans forward and quietly whispers into my right ear.

"You're quite fond on Zelada, I see? (I nod in confirmation). Well, don't force it. If it's love, then it's only natural that it will all slot into place on its own. She is a prophet, so be sure that you don't jeopardise her quest."

"You have my word that it'll happen on its own - I won't force her at all," I reply, over my right shoulder.

"Jacamatax, I actually believe every word you say. You seem far more genuine than the last person she got involved with. Maybe you shouldn't bring that up though, it's a touchy subject."

"Not a problem, Modnar. Your secret is safe with me."

We soar through the air for quite a while. Zelada tells Butch to take his time, because why should we rush. When you have all the time in the world, you can afford to spend it however you wish.

Suddenly, we begin descending. I can clearly see Toolore Mountain in between the clouds. I wonder where all the smoke is coming from.

"Why is Puziac village always under attack when I arrive? MARFIK!" Zelada yells.

"What does that mean?" Voltanna replies.

"Oh... It's nothing."

"Please, do tell. Even I'm intrigued," I chime in.

"It means to wish harm to all your loved ones."

"Why would you even say that?" Voltanna asks.

"Sorry, it just slipped out. My apologies. Please don't use this word."

"How can I not? I have a few people I'd like to say that to," Voltanna replies.

"You do whatever you have to. Hold on everybody, we're heading down!" Zelada yells, before Butch begins to nosedive.

I can sense that our first battle is imminent. I look around Puziac village and see orcs everywhere, attacking residents of the city. Things are about to get messy...

VII - 'Statue' thinking with Her?

We quickly descend towards the battle that's taking place within the confines of Puziac village, and all this chaos is making me think. All I've ever heard of this village is peace and serenity, yet Zelada claims that every time she arrives, a war is raging. How weird is that?

"You lot ready for this? As soon as we land, Butch you take post. Modnar stick with me, Voltanna and Nevijah, search the surroundings for survivors and Jacamatax.... Cover them," Zelada says, moments before Butch touches down in the middle of the village.

I can see three orcs armed with axes, running towards us. They all have a protruding jaw, very built physic, purple skin and long black hair \- tied into a ponytail.

They charge towards Butch; Zelada forward flips towards them, and while mid-flight, she draws her sword. The moment she lands, Zelada horizontally slices, cutting all three orcs in half through the midsection. Blood and internal organs spill on the ground; she stabs each orc through the face, making sure they're dead.

"I'll head this way, Modnar, follow me!" Zelada yells, running away from the burning village.

"Where are you going?!" I yell, confused.

I don't get a response from her, but a tap on my right shoulder gets my attention.

"Jacamatax, follow us, man!" Nevijah yells, slithering onto Voltanna's shoulders.

I hop off Butch's back, and he breathes fire on a few orcs running towards us.

"Aaarrrgggggggghhhhh!" they yell, dropping to the ground engulfed in flames.

I kneel down, touch the ground with my left hand, and air particles whoosh around above my right open palm. All of a sudden, a small rock golem rises from beneath the ground, standing about the height of Butch.

"Stay here and protect Butch," I instruct.

"Yes sir," he replies, deeply.

Voltanna and Nevijah run into the blazing village, so I draw my weapon and follow. Hope I'm as battle ready as my friends, as I haven't used a melee weapon in a little while. My parents trained me how to fight while growing up at home, but I've never tested my skills in the field.

Two orcs run up to me, so I kneel and swing my blade upwards, slicing the left orc in half - before slashing left and chopping the second orcs head off. I follow through with my momentum towards another charging victim, and slice both his wrists off. As he tries to grab me, blood gushes out all over my chest; I ram my blade into his stomach, before slicing upwards, cutting him in half vertically.

"Vicious, man," Nevijah says, being held by Voltanna like a weapon.

Before I can reply, Voltanna holds Nevijah in the direction of a few more orcs. He opens his mouth, looks to his right, and winks at me.

"Aaarrrgggggggghhhhh!" Voltanna yells, before Nevijah breathes fire all over the oncoming orcs.

I run forward and spin around - holding my blade out at the height of their waists, slicing them all in half.

I must admit, while all this relentless killing is going on, I wonder to myself, why is it all happening? What is the big deal about this village, for it to be attacked all the time, and is it the best idea to leave one of the Arter gems here?

A male survivor is yelling something at us. He's wearing animal skins, and is bleeding from the stomach, covering a laceration with his hand.

"Over there, Jacamatax!" Voltanna yells, as we run towards him.

"What happened, here?" I ask, cradling him in my arms.

"The orc..... They stay near here. They set up camp recently, and have been attacking once every few weeks, trying to find Nini, our village elder. When they realise..... She is a.... Sta," the resident says, dying in my arms.

"A what?!" I yell, in frustration.

"We need to find, Nini! Quick, another survivor, that direction!" Voltanna yells, running towards the woman, being harassed by a group of orcs.

I drop the deceased, run towards Voltanna who is currently attacking the group of orcs and ready my weapon. Voltanna is swinging Nevijah around by the tail, his face smacking all the orcs out of the way of the helpless female. Two orcs fly towards me, so I dice through them - bloody pieces falling to the ground around me.

"Get him, Nevijah!" Voltanna yells; Nevijah snaps at a downed orcs neck, splitting it open like a hungry wild Givou.

"Hmmmmm," Nevijah says.

"Again Nevijah!" Voltanna yells.

Nevijah bites at the next orcs neck, detaching it from the head.

I fall to my knees, and quickly slice the heads off the remaining orcs. While blood squirts all over the place, I cradle the injured female in my arms, and Voltanna begins asking the questions.

"Miss, do you know where the location of the orc camp is? We will end this once and for all!"

Nevijah slithers off her shoulders, and covers our rear from orc attacks.

"COUGH! COUGH! Head west along Toolore Mountain and you'll find it, tucked away out there. We sent our best soldiers in to attack them after we found their camp a few weeks ago, but they're just too strong," she says, coughing blood on my chest. I reach into my pouch and place the last of a herb called ' Mayintor' into my left hand, making more of it materialise - it's great for healing cuts and internal bleeding. Once the air particles manifested enough of it, I give some to her.

"Here, eat these Mayintor leaves. It will heal your internal wounds. It doesn't taste the best, but I promise it will relieve your pain," I say, putting the leaves into her mouth.

"Thank you, sir. Please, that structure over there has Nini inside, make sure she is not damaged," the female says, before I lean her against another nearby structure.

"Not a problem, we'll check it out now," I say, standing up.

We approach the stone building, and I don't hesitate opening the wooden door. The building itself is untouched, without a scratch on it. Nini must be inside.

Once inside, I notice that there's no furniture anywhere. Just a few empty rooms, and the door opposite us is slightly ajar. I rush ahead and push the door open.

"Everyone, inside here," I say, over my right shoulder.

I see a stone statue, and a shelf with books on it in the corner of the room.

"That's it, just a statue? Where's Nini?" Voltanna asks, sounding disappointed.

"I have no idea. Let's go find Zelada and Modnar, then get down to the bottom of this," I reply, leading us out of the building.

We run west though the village, trying hard to avoid the devastation. Everywhere you look the buildings are ablaze, and people are suffering. We find nothing but decimated orcs and humans, bones and blood everywhere. We continue to head west, looking for our two hooded companions. I see another injured victim, leaning against a structure that has smoke rising off it.

"Excuse me, can you please direct me to the orc camp?" I ask.

"Yes, sure thing. Please wipe them out.... All they've done is cause problems for our peaceful village. If you continue heading west, you can't miss it."

"Hear that, you two. It's this way, let's go!" I say, running ahead.

"Thank you sir for your help," Voltanna says, running after me, with Nevijah across her shoulders.

Voltanna and I run full speed towards the direction of the orcs camp. We have now left the confines of Puziac village and are running towards some smoke that's in the distance.

"The smoke up ahead! That must be where Zelada and Modnar are!" I yell, etching closer to that location.

Once we arrive at the gates of the orcs camp, it's hard to miss the carnage left behind by Zelada and Modnar. There are bloodied corpses, bits of flesh, bones and blood all over the place. Suddenly, a swarm of tiny creatures fly our direction, there's easily thousands of them. As they fly past us, I close my eyes; I can feel them rubbing against my skin. Once they've left, I open my eyes, and Zelada is standing there.

"What were those flying creatures?" I ask, as a shiver runs up my spine.

"They are Locusts, from my planet of origin. They are responsible for half of the destruction you see," Zelada says, walking out of the orc camp, sword in her right hand, and blood all over her sleeveless hood.

"And any survivors?"

"Nope, all finished," Zelada says, sheathing her weapon.

"Aaaaaaahhhh, problem solved," Modnar replies, walking towards us, staff in hand.

"Okay, well now that everyone is here, let's find Nini. Come Voltanna, girl chat," Zelada instructs.

"Sorry Nevijah, you're on your own," Voltanna says, lifting Nevijah to the ground, and placing the pipe in his mouth.

"That's not fair, man!" Nevijah whinges.

"What could she possibly be talking to her about?" I say, walking behind them.

"Some things are just not for us males to understand. This, must be one of them," Modnar replies.

The three of us make it back to where Butch is, and I see my golem, standing guard, with many dead orcs around him. Zelada and Voltanna look shocked - maybe they don't understand what it is, or how it got there. It's something my dad used to draw when I was a kid, so I thought I'd summon one, just on a smaller scale.

"Jacamatax, did you summon this Mazelia?" Zelada asks.

"Sorry, a what? I just created a physical version of a picture my father would draw for me as a child."

"Modnar, the Mazelia... How was their race created?" Zelada asks.

"No one really knows. To be fair, I have only heard of the one that you know about. It dates back at least ten thousand years," Modnar replies.

Zelada begins tapping her right foot, appearing to be deep in thought. She claims my creation is some type of legendary creature, but I actually have no idea what she is talking about. While we remain silent, Nevijah's short attention span allows him to slither off and bug Butch.

"Hey Butch, you want a smoke man?" Nevijah asks.

"Sounds great, Nevijah. It has been a while," Butch replies.

"Oh Zelada.... Just to let you know; Nini isn't anywhere to be seen," Nevijah says, lighting his pipe with fire from his nostrils.

"WHAT?!" She gasps.

"There is no one in that building by the name of Nini, man," Nevijah says, placing the pipe on the ground for Butch to pick up.

Zelada suddenly dashes through the burning village - she obviously knows Nini from her past, and seems upset knowing she has disappeared. Voltanna has run off after her, so I know it's my turn to follow suit.

"I better go see if she's okay," I say, running after them.

"We'll stay here, and smoke some more Juivita, man," Nevijah says, watching Butch puff on his pipe.

"I'm with them. I wouldn't mind a relaxing smoke," Modnar adds.

Half way through the village, I stop running. I see a large creature, resembling a Givou. It has black patches all over its beautiful white coat. The tail on it is very long, becoming bushier towards the end. It has snow white hair on its underbelly, and as it turns its head, the face looks almost female, staring at me with her dark blue eyes.

"I'm not going to hurt you," I say, gradually approaching her.

The huge creature turns her attention towards the burning building and begins blowing the fire out.

I gently run my fingers across her coat of fur and the hairs on my arms stand - she begins purring.

"There you go. I'll come see you soon, I have to leave," I say, running further into the village.

Once I arrive at the stone building, Voltanna is waiting outside. I don't know what Zelada's thinking, as we both know that Nini is nowhere to be seen.

"Why are you waiting out here?" I ask.

"Zelada just asked if she could be alone with Nini for a few minutes. I tried to tell her that she wasn't in there, but she just smiled and went in anyway."

"Well, I'm going to sneak in. Hey did you see that white creature back there?"

"Yeah, Zelada summoned it."

"Wow, she truly is powerful."

"Sure is. Now hurry up already," Voltanna says cheekily, patting me on the back.

Once inside, I sneak along the wall and peek in the door, to see what Zelada is doing. She's on her knees, staring at the statue blankly. Then, she does something bizarre. She stands up, and draws her sword from the stone sheath on the female statue; she then removes the white Arter gem from the hilt of her sword and places it into the statues left hand. After sheathing her weapon, she turns to discover that I'm standing there.

"Jacamatax, I... Umm was... Umm.. Thinking... With the statue?" Zelada says, sounding awkward.

"Sure you were," I sarcastically reply.

"Well, I had to drop off the Arter gem of Ice here, and leave it with Nini," Zelada says, looking back at the Arter gem glowing in her hand.

"So Nini was the statue, all along?"

"That's correct."

"Is the gem going to be safe here?"

"Yes, it will. When I place the legendary sword into her sheath, myself and one day 'the Chosen One,' can communicate telepathically. The Arter gem of Ice will never be touched here; Nini has advised me of this. When we're all ready, we will depart for the western continent and while we do that, maybe you can shed some light on this Mazelia you created," Zelada says.

Zelada looks back at Nini, then the two of us leave the room. What they discussed will never be known, so I guess I better stop being nosey and squash my curiosity.

VIII - Following in My Father's Footsteps..

"So Jacamatax, your father designed the Mazelia?" Zelada asks, as we exit the building.

"If you're talking about the golem I summoned, then why yes, my father did design that creature."

We both become distracted when we see Voltanna. The large white creature I saw earlier is pinning her against the side of a building, licking her face.

"Aww Krenshi, you like my friend, girl?" Zelada says, walking over and scratching her side.

It begins making a purring noise, and looks like she enjoys being scratched.

"Hahaha, please stop it.... Zelada, I'm so ticklish," Voltanna giggles.

Zelada clicks her fingers and the creature shatters into hundreds of ice chunks.

"Now Jacamatax, where were we," Zelada asks.

"Wait a minute, what was that creature?"

"It's a snow leopard."

"Wait, a what?"

"Another creature from my planet."

"That's incredible."

"Now, did your father go into greater detail about the Mazelia? Is it a creature of legend on Tharp?"

"No, it's not. In fact, as far as I'm aware, it's a creature that he designed in his own head. And yeah, of course he did speak more about this. You see, my father was a dreamer. He wanted to generate enough Ralop so he could try build this creation of his, but it just physically couldn't be done."

"Wait, so why couldn't he create it?"

"Because of the grand scale of it. It stood higher than all monuments, and it was in fact so big, that it had a docking station in its mouth and a city in its stomach," I explain.

"Wow, your father really did design the Mazelia. Isn't it amazing what you can find out when you know a prophet?" Zelada replies, flirtatiously.

I smile at her, then we both begin leading the way out of the village - Zelada's knowledge of my father's design intrigues me quite a lot.

"So have you seen this Mazelia?" I ask.

"Yeah, of course I have, many years ago."

"That's so strange. And the name... I wonder where it came from because my father never had a name for his drawing."

"That's weird... I can bet all my Ralop that we'll find your fathers creation one day, mark my words."

"Sorry to interrupt, but did you find Nini? When we looked inside, we couldn't see her," Voltanna chimes in, jogging behind us.

"Yes we did. Nini is actually the statue," Zelada explains.

"You're kidding."

"Not at all. The wielder of the legendary sword can speak to her, using only their thoughts. This is only possible when the wielder of the blade places it in Nini's sheath, for the duration of time that you need to communicate with her."

"That's fascinating. Hope you got all the information you needed."

"Sure did, you can bet on that."

Once we arrive back, I stand in front of the golem, and decide to copy Zelada - I click my fingers and it crumbles, turning into dirt and dropping to the ground.

"You're so powerful, Jacamatax," Zelada says, flirtatiously.

"I wouldn't say that. Besides, I stole the idea of clicking my fingers from you. Compared to yourself, I'm easily outclassed," I reply, in a similar manner.

Zelada glances at me and bites her bottom lip with her top few teeth. I can feel her looking at me in a very sexual way - I'm hoping I'm right - I would love another opportunity to get up to more mischief.

"Okay, well two of the Arter gems are in their rightful place, so we have two remaining. I hate being the bearer of bad news; we will use Butch to travel to the western continent, but then we must travel by foot for a while," Zelada says.

"So where on the Western continent are we headed first?" I ask.

"Towards the Village of Soraki, so we can deliver the Arter gem of Fire," Zelada replies, walking towards Butch.

"Enough Juivita, Nevijah. Phew, I'm in another world right now," Butch says, sounding euphoric.

"You.. Smoked.. Way.. Too.. Much, man." Nevijah says, puffing on his pipe.

"Pfft, novices. You both have a long way to go to catch this old man," Modnar says, cheekily.

We all hop on Butch one by one, and prepare for our departure. Zelada jumps up front, Voltanna behind her - with Nevijah on her shoulders, Modnar is behind them, and I'm at the back.

"Phew Nevijah, I'm going to have to fly slowly; my vision is a little stunted," Butch says, gradually launching into the air.

We fly in a south west direction, currently crossing the Jonker desert. I'm so happy that we don't have to travel across on foot. Without a decent navigator, you can get lost down there, quite easily. I should know, Craboo Guytz and I got lost a long time ago. Everybody begins chatting amongst themselves, so I tap Modnar on the shoulder, and pick his brain.

"So you're a time guardian, right?" I ask.

"That's right."

"So, what exactly is your role?"

"Well Jacamatax, I am a living entity at the centre of all things possible, the beginning, middle, and end of the space time continuum. At the very moment, I'm watching over the prophet until her journey is complete. Its tricky business being a time guardian though," Modnar explains, leering over his right shoulder.

"How so?"

"Well, it's been touch and go a few times. There's been a few moments in time where I've had to carefully avoid myself."

"Wait, Modnar.... You're losing me... What do you mean?"

"Well, when I travel to a period of time where I'm already alive, that means there is now a double of myself. So if we accidently bump into each other, it can cause a rift in the space time continuum."

"Can you elaborate, you're still losing me a little."

"Think about it Jacamatax. If you're born at point 'A' and you die at point 'B,' how can it be possible to meet yourself?"

"Wait... You shouldn't be able to. That's impossible?"

"That's right, unless of course, you're a time guardian. I can open a wormhole to any time period, and bring whomever I like with me. But all this power comes with a high risk, hence why you must complete a series of huge tasks to become a time guardian."

"I believe you that it would have high risks involved. It's just a little hard to come to grips with."

"Well, I'll give you an example."

"Please do, I really want to wrap my head around this."

"If I create a wormhole for us to fly back in time, even by a mere five minutes, then that would mean for a five minute period of the space time continuum, there would be a duplicate of all of us, riding Butch's back. And if it did in fact happen, then it's my job to make sure you never bump into them."

"Hmmm, that does make a lot more sense."

I love how Modnar has an amazing way of explaining things. And because of this, I now have an idea of what his role is - why he watches over Zelada. She's an ancient prophet, but can't travel through time without his assistance. Between the two of them is one very powerful force, one which must be near impossible to defeat. Glad they're on my side.

I look to my left and see that we're crossing the point where the desert ends, and the ocean begins. The upside to traveling by air is that you get to see how beautiful Tharp is from up here. It makes me appreciate how lucky I am to be alive on this planet. Modnar catches me off guard.

"Are you all right, Jacamatax? You've been a little quiet."

"Yeah, I'm fine thank you. Just been thinking about how epic Tharp's landscapes are and how amazing it looks from up here."

"Yes, this planet is as beautiful as any other," Modnar says, smiling back at me.

"How many other planets have you visited?"

"Many my young friend, many," Modnar says.

I let out a huge yawn, and can feel my eyes getting heavy. Maybe some sleep is in order...

"Wakey, wakey, sleepy head," Modnar says, as I yawn and stretch.

Butch descends through the clouds towards the western shore, and I can make out a sign in the middle of a crossroads. The roads go west and north, and I hope we can stop, as nightfall is swiftly approaching.

Butch touches down at the crossroads, and I fall off his back, landing face first on the dirt path.

"Jacamatax, how's life down under?" Zelada jokes, as I spit dirt out of my mouth.

"COUGH! Just fine... COUGH!... Cheeky," I reply.

Everybody hops off Butch's back, giggling as they pass me in my state of humiliation. The jokes not often on me, so I'm not used to public ridicule.

"Butch, you want a smoke, man?" Nevijah asks, slithering off Voltanna's back.

"Well... (Butch shakes his head from left to right, before he responds) Actually, why not," Butch replies.

"All right, let's set up camp. I know there are some Dupat shells in the ocean over there, so we can have dinner," Zelada says, before walking to the ocean, and diving in.

I never answer, but decide to dive into the ocean after her. Once my head is underwater, I open my eyes and see her picking Dupat shells off the side of a rock. I swim towards her, and help gather our dinner. She looks at me and smiles - we reach for the exact same Dupat shell, then blush towards each other before she holds my hand. After a few moments, Zelada closes her eyes and kisses me quickly, before swimming to the surface with a handful of shells.

While my air is running out, I quickly grab a few shells then scamper to the surface.

The instant I emerge, Zelada holds her right palm out towards me - a high pressure funnel of water squirts me dead in the face.

"WATER pain that must be!" Zelada quips.

I don't even have a moment to react, and everybody is once again laughing at my expense. I'm really not having the best of luck today, but on the other side of the Ralop; I love the way Zelada is flirting with me. It's making the humiliation so worth it.

Eventually, we're all seated around a fire, having some delicious Dupat shells for dinner. We've been laughing and joking about, and the most important part for me, is Zelada. I've taken every instance available to slip in a moments glance, making sure I invest my interest in her. If I can just find some more time alone with her, I could explain how I feel.

Assessing the campsite is quite funny. Nevijah and Butch have passed out from the copious amounts of Juivita they've smoked, while the rest of us sit around, talking about various topics.

"So Zelada, where is this Mazelia you speak of?" I ask.

"Well, it's in the direction of the Arter gem of Wind (She turns around and points into the darkness) in... That direction," Zelada replies.

"Is that our destination after the Village of Soraki?" Voltanna asks, putting a shell into her mouth.

"Hold that thought," Zelada says, slowly standing at the exact same time as Modnar.

I look around and notice we're caught in an ambush. We have some wild Givou approaching us. It's very dark so all I can see are pairs of eyes, and once they step into the light of the campfire, they become visible.

Givou are strange looking creatures. They have four legs, and the hair around their head is as white as the moon. The rest of their fur is grey - the same as the animal skin that I'm currently wearing. They are very feral creatures, with no real sense of purpose. If I think about my life not too long ago, it's ironic how much I can relate to them.

"Psst, Nevijah... Awaken," Voltanna whispers, subtly nudging Nevijah with her foot.

He continues to snore, and the Givou slowly creep closer.

"NEVIJAH!" Voltanna yells.

He almost immediately jumps into the air, landing directly in her hands; his head facing the feral creatures.

The first two Givou jump towards Voltanna; she squeezes Nevijah, causing him to engulf them in flames. Zelada follows through, and chops them in half. I hold out my right hand, then bend down and touch the ground. The dirt drops away around us, forming a pit, causing at least twenty Givou to drop in.

"That should buy us some time!" I say, drawing my weapon.

"Aarrrggghhh!" Modnar yells, firing a flurry of fireballs from his left palm.

Zelada sheathes her weapon, runs up to the edge of the hole, and holds her arm out. A huge ice wall leaves her palm, freezing many Givou on impact. I forward flip over the hole, then slash against some more Givou.

A few jump towards me, but I dice them up in mid-air, raining chunks of flesh on their frozen friends.

Suddenly, something completely unexpected happens. A ball of energy appears in the middle of the frozen Givou. I quickly jump back to see what's happening. A person emerges, wearing a long black coat with a hood on it, shrouding their face. On the back of this person's coat is an emblem; it looks like a sideways number eight, lime green in colour. There is a short arrow pointing north, and a longer arrow pointing south. I can't make out their face, but they are holding a staff identical to Modnar's. Once the ball of energy disappears, they begin attacking the Givou with us, shattering them with a rapid flurry of fireballs from their left palm.

I quickly prop to my feet, and dive towards a Givou that's about to attack our hooded ally; I just manage to slice its back two legs off. As the Givou's momentum slides towards the hooded warrior, they turn around and smack it straight into the pit.

Voltanna is standing at the edge of the pit, squeezing Nevijah and causing him to breathe fire at the trapped Givou down there. As we hear the last of the howling Givou, I sheathe my weapon, then seal off the hole, trapping them inside.

The hooded warrior walks towards us and stops next to one of the burning Givou near our camp. They lower their hood and reveal quite a young looking boy, maybe about twenty years old. He has messy, sandy blonde hair, green coloured eyes, and olive skin.

"It can't be," Modnar says, sounding shocked.

"Wait, lower your hood," the warrior replies.

Modnar lowers his hood and we all watch him in silence. He has a look on his face like he can't believe what he's seeing. I suppose in a few short moments, all our questions will be answered.

IX - An Unexpected Visitor..

Modnar and the hooded warrior share a moment of silence, and the rest of us present don't want to say a thing. Zelada diverts her attention my way, mouthing the words of something, but I can't understand what she's trying to say. I mouth the word 'what' back to her, but Modnar begins to speak.

"Ryshua? It can't be you?" Modnar says, taking a few more steps towards him.

"Of course it's me, who's asking?" Ryshua replies.

"Huh, what do you mean? It's me, Modnar."

"Modnar... It can't be.... you're so......OLD! Come here and give me some love!" Ryshua says, running into Modnar's open arms.

They both hug, and tears stream down Modnar's cheeks. It's quite emotional to witness, but hopefully soon they will both shed some light on this epic friendship.

"Come meet my friends. This here is Voltanna and her friend, Nevijah. You two, this is Ryshua," Modnar says, introducing them.

"Nice to meet you both," Ryshua replies.

"And this here is Jacamatax," Modnar says.

"Nice to meet you, thanks for your help back there," I reply, shaking his hand.

"No worries at all."

"And this is the prophet, her name is," Modnar says, before Ryshua rudely cuts him off.

"You... It can't be.... Wait, it's definitely you. But your hair was black with red in it?" Ryshua says, tilting his head and frowning.

"Sorry, what? I'm Zelada. We haven't met before? And as you can see; blonde hair with red in it," Zelada replies, removing her hood.

Ryshua tips his head to the other side, and looks at Zelada like he's certain of what he said. My guess is that he doesn't want to be wrong.

"Sorry, I don't mean to be rude. It's just that I never forget a face, especially a pretty one. I was trapped inside Worain Prison, back on my home planet Mastodine, and a woman who looks exactly like you, wearing a coat just like mine, broke me out and sent me through a wormhole which led me here. She had black hair with red streaks, and warned me about bumping into an old man. She said I'd see an old friend, which confused me because my only friend is Modnar - he got sent on his trial a week prior to me being imprisoned. This 'doppelganger' of yours never told me her name, and has a staff. Anyway, my apologies Zelada, forgive my rudeness," Ryshua says, offering his left hand to shake hers.

"Meh, forget about it, mistakes happen, right?" Zelada replies, shaking his hand.

"Indeed they do. Hey Modnar, let's restart that fire like the old times. And can we eat these dead monstrosities?" Ryshua asks, looking around at us.

"Lighting the fire my old friend... Is done. (Modnar lights the fire with his left index finger) But eating a freshly diced up wild Givou... That's just complimenting your madness," Modnar replies, chuckling to himself.

We all sit around the campfire, cook some wild Givou meat - and then eat some. It's actually quite tasty, and very tender. I have to hand it to Ryshua's idea. Epic to say the least, and it's a nice change to what I'm used to.

Zelada is seated next to me and whenever no one is looking, she grabs my hand. Once our eyes lock, I can hardly break my focus, and the feeling she puts in my heart is unexplainable.

While we silently flirt, Butch and Nevijah are busy smoking away, and Voltanna is passed out next to Zelada. They were giggling and joking around for a while, but once Voltanna fell asleep, the rest of us began occupying our time by listening to Modnar and Ryshua.

"So when was the last time you saw me?" Modnar asks.

"Probably about a month ago? How about you?" Ryshua replies, chewing on some meat.

"About ten thousand years ago."

"WOW.... You're old."

"Thanks, I appreciate your kind words. It honestly feels like forever."

"Do you miss home?"

"It has been so long that I honestly can't really remember. I have made Tharp my home, since it became my responsibility to watch over this planet and recently Earth."

"Psst what's Earth again?" I whisper.

"It's my home planet," Zelada whispers back.

"That's a shame. It's only been a month and I already miss spending time with you. Well, you may be incredibly old now, but you're still my best friend. Where's your seal?" Ryshua says, pulling up his right sleeve to reveal a grass green symbol, identical to the one on the back of his coat. The part that surprises not only me, but Zelada; is what Modnar reveals next.

Modnar pulls up his right sleeve to reveal the same grass green emblem that Ryshua has, but his one is slightly faded.

"Still have it my old friend, kept it tucked away to avoid suspicious questions."

"Wow, I never knew Modnar had that seal," Zelada whispers into my ear.

"Well nether did I, until now," I reply, cheekily.

"I wonder what it means."

"Why don't you just ask him, you're both fairly close friends?"

"I suppose you're right... Hey Modnar, what does that seal mean?" Zelada asks.

"Oh, it's the seal of a time guardian from the planet 'Mastodine,' which is where Time Guardians do their full training. We (pointing at Ryshua and himself) are both from that planet and it's just easier to hide the seal, keeping my point of origin hidden."

"And what does the seal do?"

"Well, the hands on the clock move around quickly whenever we open a wormhole anywhere. I've just always kept it hidden... Until now."

"And his seal is all faded because he's WAY older than me," Ryshua jokes.

We all begin laughing. It's funny how Ryshua has just slotted into our group like a key into a door; it just works. I trust him immediately because of the relationship he has with Modnar, and who can turn away his immense power.

Modnar stands up and begins chasing Ryshua around the vicinity. They're jumping through wormholes that Ryshua is creating; the moment they land, Ryshua creates and leaps through another. Modnar continues to chase him.

"I may be old, Ryshua - but I will get you!" Modnar yells, jumping into another wormhole after him.

"They're like a couple of kids, aren't they?" Zelada says, leaning into me.

"They are indeed, beautiful" I reply.

Zelada begins giggling. I smile back at her, then stroke the hair out of her face.

"Would you like to go for a swim? I'd love to spend some time alone with you if that was possible?" Zelada asks.

"I know how cold that water is, but I just don't care. I'd love to go swimming with you," I reply, standing and pulling her up.

Before we jump into the ocean, we look back at Modnar and Ryshua, which in turn makes us both laugh.

Modnar has his right arm wrapped around Ryshua's head, and is rubbing his hair with the knuckles on his left hand. Ryshua is wriggling, begging him to stop, but is being ignored. They're just like a couple of young kids.

"Race you in there!" Zelada says, diving into the water.

I jump into the ocean, open my eyes and begin swimming towards her. The water is giving me the shivers, but I really don't mind. Once I catch up, I grab her leg, spin her around, then quickly race to the surface. I gasp for air, then turn to notice that we're quite far away from land. Once she emerges, Zelada puts her left hand on my cheek, and we exchange a very strong glance. I want to say something to her so badly, but I'm so lost for words.

"Jacamatax, I think I'm falling in love with you," Zelada says, drifting forward and putting her arms around my neck.

"Zelada, I.. I... Love you too," I reply, placing my hands around her hips.

We lock our lips and it feels like the world around us has slowed to a halt, allowing this connection to have its own space and time. She ravages my body, and guides my hands in areas I haven't ventured before. I suppose now that we have some privacy, we can get up to mischief without being disturbed.

On the shore, the two immature time guardians have settled back down to a mild chat around the campfire, closing the gap between their time apart...

**MODNAR**

"So what's with them? Are they in love?" Ryshua asks.

"Yeah, I suppose they are. You can't do much about that, my boy," I reply.

"And is there anything wrong with what they're doing?"

"Not at all. They're adults, old enough to make their own decisions. One way you could look at it, you could say it's their destiny."

"Their destiny? Have you seen this, yourself?" Ryshua says, cheekily.

"What sort of question is that? Surely you know the answer to that," Modnar replies, in a similar fashion.

"Suppose you have a point. It's so bizarre seeing you this.. How do I put this nicely... Aged?"

"Haha... It's great to see you too."

"Have you completed what our Mentor instructed us to do?"

"I'm getting there. Baby steps, Ryshua."

"And that Prophet... God she looks like the woman that helped me."

"But, as you must be aware, it just isn't her."

"Yeah, maybe you're right. In saying that, she does look really familiar."

"YAWN....... She does get that from time to time... We should get some rest, another day of traveling tomorrow," I reply, lying down.

"Sounds good to me, I'm bushed," Ryshua replies, rolling over on his side...

**JACAMATAX**

The next morning I awaken to the sound of wildlife and the sun glaring in my face. Everybody else is still asleep, so I decide to go for a walk. I'm reliving every second of last night. Once everyone was asleep, Zelada and I made love on the beach. It was the first time for us both, and it was everything I imagined it to be. I can honestly say that I'm deeply in love with 'Zelada the prophet.'

I bend down towards the sand and grab a nearby stick. I begin spelling out the word 'love' in the sand, smiling the whole time. It's like my mind is wandering far away in the clouds. I know this feeling in my stomach is love, there are no two ways about it.

I eventually finish writing, and I feel like it needs something special to make it stand out. I leer over my right shoulder and see a light coloured feather lying in the sand. I pick it up, and place it right at the end of the 'e.' I stand up and smile, for more reasons than my finished work of art - Zelada is awake. She walks up behind me, places her arms around my stomach, then kisses the back of my neck.

"Good morning you, what 'cha doing?" Zelada asks.

"I was taking a walk down the beach, feeling like my soul is up there in the clouds; so I did that for you in the sand," I reply, stepping away from my message.

"Awwwww, Jacamatax, you are so romantic," Zelada says, putting her arms around my neck and kissing me.

Once we finish kissing, Zelada fires a high pressured water tube from her right fist, causing all the excess sand to fly into the water. It makes me think of something that I've been meaning to ask.

"Hey beautiful, can I ask you something?" I ask, while she turns around and puts her hands around my neck.

"Sure, ask me anything you like," Zelada replies, kissing my cheek.

"How do you get your powers? Do you draw energy from the Arter gems?"

"You're so intelligent, Jacamatax. That's exactly right, why's that?"

"Well, what Arter gems do you have remaining in your possession?"

"The Arter gem of Fire and Wind, whys that?" Zelada replies, focusing a little more on what I'm saying.

"Then how did you use your water and ice powers when you don't even possess those gems!?" I ask, sounding quite confused.

Zelada pulls away from me, and appears puzzled. Well look at it this way, if it doesn't make sense to me, is it going to make sense to her?

"That is actually a great question, which I unfortunately don't have an answer for. I need to wake up Modnar and pick his brain," Zelada says, kissing me on the cheek, then walking towards the camp.

I look down at the word 'love' in the sand, and the tide from the ocean has already washed over it. Hopefully it isn't a subtle metaphor for 'love', like how it doesn't last forever. I really hope for my sake that this isn't true.

I catch up to Zelada and she's chatting to Modnar around the fire, heating a few Dupat shells. I sit next to her and place my arm over her shoulder.

"So how am I doing this?" Zelada asks.

"To be honest my girl, I'm not sure what to say. When I lose my staff, I can't zero in on my power properly. Yet, you are quite far away from the Arter gem of Water and still drawing from its power. You are a prophet, Zelada. Maybe that has something to do with it?" Modnar replies, before placing a melted Dupat shell into his mouth.

"Are you really sure? It just doesn't make sense. When I was originally doing my training years ago, it was told I needed to draw energy from the Arter gems to successfully cast magic," Zelada says.

"How many years have you had the Arter gems in your possession?" I ask, picking up a Dupat shell, placing it onto a nearby stick, and heating it over the fire.

"Well, many actually, but that doesn't really answer my question."

"It actually could. Maybe the Arter gems acted like a catalyst for your powers. Once you had them in your possession long enough, you no longer needed them. You can now fulfil your destiny of delivering them to their respective locations so one day.. (He pauses to put a Dupat shell into his mouth) The... Chosen one can..... Draw power from them, to aid in destroying Akiad, the evil wizard," Modnar explains, chewing his shell.

Zelada, Modnar and I remain silent for a few minutes. We're all enjoying our Dupat shells, which is a much simpler thing for our fragile minds to process. I start to analyse the expressions on their faces and it seems like we're all deep in thought about her situation. Guess I have to be the first to break the silence, as it's frustrating me more not having an answer.

"Well, I'm going to agree with Modnar on this one, Zelada. You are a prophet and it's your destiny to return the Arter gems, thankfully keeping the power you've gained from them. Everyone has a destiny laid out for them, it's just up to you to decide what yours is," I say, popping another Dupat shell into my mouth.

Zelada gazes my direction and smiles, then leans into me and rests her head whilst looking up at the sky. Modnar nods at me, acknowledging what I'd just said. I only speak the truth, because I want nothing but simplicity for my beautiful Zelada.

### X - She Really is a Prophet..

By the time we finish breakfast, everyone except Voltanna has awakened and to be fair, I've gotten pretty used to the morning ritual.

"Butch, you want a smoke, man?" Nevijah asks, lighting his pipe with a little fire from his nostrils.

"YAWN.... Aaahhh... Good morning Nevijah, yeah sure. Let's fly over to the Slopes of Vehtura and get a decent view for our euphoric indulgence," Butch replies, as Nevijah slithers up on his back.

"Meet you both at the village of Soraki in a few hours?" Zelada says, lying in my arms.

"Yeeesss," they both reply, before launching into the air.

"Wait, where are they going?" Voltanna yells, awakening.

"Where do you think they're going?" I say, cheekily.

"Do they have the pipe?"

"Sure do."

"Hahaha, well they'll be a while," Voltanna replies.

"Voltanna, we gotta chat," Zelada says, in a mischievous tone.

"What do you two need to chat about?" I ask, smiling at Zelada.

"Oh... Aaahhh... Just girlie stuff," Zelada replies, putting her arm around Voltanna and walking off towards the beach.

Modnar, Ryshua and I share a brief glance, then I shrug my shoulders.

"Women," I say, sarcastically.

We males all begin laughing out loud. Women; you can't live with them and can't live without them, and Zelada is a hard female to decipher.

"So when do we depart?" I ask.

"As soon as the ladies get back. We'll be heading along the western path towards the forest over there in the distance," Modnar replies, pointing behind him.

"And obviously it's going to take forever without that flaming bird, and this old man following us around," Ryshua sarcastically replies.

"I never remembered you being so cheeky?" Modnar adds.

"Cheeky is how I live my life, old man," Ryshua says, winking at Modnar.

"I really can't describe in words how much I've missed your company," Modnar replies, sarcastically.

"We should hurry the ladies along, because I'm dying to climb a tree," Ryshua says, springing to his feet.

"Really?" I ask.

"Yeah, it's been a few days," Ryshua replies, clicking his neck and fingers.

Voltanna and Zelada turn up, giggling.

"Ready to depart, gentlemen?" Zelada asks.

"Do I look ready to you Miss Zelada?" Ryshua replies, cheekily.

"How's his sugar levels? Give him a tree to climb," Zelada jokes.

"YYYYEEESSSSSS! Where?"

"Oh yeah, he.... Has a thing for climbing trees... Forgot to mention," Modnar explains.

"Well, let's leave. You're gonna have a field day in that direction. We'll make sure we stop once we reach Soraki forest so you can climb to your heart's content," Zelada replies.

"I... Can't.... Explain.... How.... Excited.... I.... Am... RIGHT NOW GUYS!" Ryshua says, jumping around, refusing to contain his excitement.

"All right everyone, let's collect our equipment and get going," Zelada replies.

And just like that, we're on our way. We begin walking along the western path, and I love how comfortable Zelada is being about 'us' around everyone else. We're walking at the back of the pack, while Voltanna is in the middle (turning around occasionally to walk backwards and converse with us) and Modnar is at the front with the extremely energetic Ryshua. But such as life, simple situations can spin around without a moment's notice; and there isn't a thing you can do about it. I feel a gust of wind from behind.

"Aaaarrrggggghhhhhh!" Zelada yells, as a large Vulcalt swoops in and picks up Zelada by her left leg.

As it flies off towards the forest, we're left to panic for her safety.

"ZELADA!" I yell, pushing past my friends and running after her.

"Wait Jacamatax, its suicide. Besides, Vulcalts are greedy, so it'll return for us," Modnar yells.

"It better!" I yell back.

In my upmost frustration, I will do everything in my power to slay the beast that took my love - and I will attempt this with every last breath in my body.

I hold my right palm in the air, and touch the ground below me; a platform emerges beneath me and lifts me high in the air. I can see the Vulcalt circling around for another pass and realise that Zelada is no longer in his clutches.

"COME GET ME, VULCALT!" I scream at the top of my lungs.

"JACAMATAX, come down, its madness!" Modnar yells.

"I don't have Nevijah, I feel useless!" Voltanna panics.

"Ryshua, watch over Voltanna... I'm going to find Zelada! And please watch my staff!" Modnar instructs, running towards the forest.

As the Vulcalt swoops in, it gives me a brief moment to look at it. I've never seen one before in the flesh. The Vulcalt is massive, the wingspan on this gigantic bird is larger than the length of some villages. It's covered in black feathers, with a long orange beak, and four claws. Two are located at the tip of each wing, and the other two act more like feet.

Once it swoops over me, I jump and grab onto the left lower claw, then scale up it as fast as I can. It's shaking with all its might, trying to flick me off, but I refuse to let go.

The Vulcalt heads towards the ocean, and begins turning around to swoop down towards my friends. I'm further up the torso, now gripping its feathers. The Vulcalt squawks at the top of its lungs, but it's just too late to get me off it; it begins swooping towards my friends, then passes them, and I realise we're heading towards Modnar.

The Vulcalt glides close to the ground, and swipes at him, but misses. Modnar leaps, grabs its right claw, and scales its back until reaching the feathers. I look down and wait for him, as he's right below me.

"ARE YOU CRAZY?" Modnar yells.

"YES! CRAZY IN LOVE WITH ZELADA!" I yell back.

Modnar smiles and shakes his head, then we continue to climb this savage bird. The Vulcalt screeches and twitches to try shake us off, but to no avail...

**VOLTANNA**

Ryshua and I are down on the ground, watching on in such horror. I'm beginning to realise just how crazy they both are. Ryshua is jumping up and down in frustration, and my curiosity is getting the better of me.

"You seem frustrated, Ryshua. What's wrong?" Voltanna asks.

"I WANT TO CLIMB, They... Are... CLIMBING!" Ryshua replies, pointing at the Vulcalt.

"Sheesh, and here was me thinking you were frustrated that you couldn't help out."

**JACAMATAX**

"KEEP CLIMBING JACAMATAX!" Modnar yells, scaling next to me.

"I'M TRYING!"

Modnar overtakes me, and it appears that he's heading to the Vulcalt's huge neck. In my honest opinion, I have no idea how we're going to slay this flying landmass.

"AAARRGGGHH!" I scream, hanging onto a handful of feathers with one hand.

"Don't let go!" Modnar yells from above.

The Vulcalt shivers and I lose my grip of the feathers. After falling for a second, I luckily grab a huge feather on the tail.

"Gees, was that close," I mutter to myself.

**VOLTANNA**

"You stand by the column the half-naked man... What's his name....? (He begins clicking his fingers) JACAMATAX created! Watch our equipment!" Ryshua says, running away from me, towards the ocean.

"DON'T LEAVE ME HERE?!" I yell back.

I hate being helpless, but there's literally nothing I can do without Nevijah, my trusty weapon...

**JACAMATAX**

The Vulcalt swoops down again towards Ryshua who has obviously ignored Modnar and left Voltanna. I catch up to Modnar, who is waiting for me at the back of the Vulcalt's neck. We both grab a handful of feathers with our left hand, and position ourselves with our legs braced against its back. I draw my weapon, and Modnar holds his right palm against its feathers.

"START SLICING HIS NECK ON THREE... ONE... TWO... THREE!!" Modnar yells, before we begin our flurry of attacks.

I look down and see Ryshua slowly scaling the Vulcalt, while Modnar and I put it through agony. The screeching is deafening, but we must continue, and bring this creature down.

Modnar is firing a nonstop flurry of fireballs from his palm, directly into the Vulcalt's neck - where I'm hacking in one location, causing blood to splat onto my chest.

"NEED HELP?!" Ryshua yells.

"CONCENTRATE ALL YOUR POWER IN ONE SPOT!!" Modnar yells back.

Ryshua moves next to Modnar, copies his fire spell, and targets the same location as him. I continue to slash with all my might, with blood continuing to spray all over me.

"KEEP GOING, IT MUST BE CLOSE TO DYING!" Modnar yells.

Suddenly, I look over my shoulder and see Butch gliding next to us; Zelada, Voltanna and Nevijah are on board.

"JUMP ON, EVERYONE! I'VE SLAIN ONE OF THESE BEFORE. LEAVE IT TO ME!" Zelada yells.

"DAMN, ONLY JUST GOT UP HERE!" Ryshua yells back.

No one questions a prophet, not even me. Zelada looks like she has daggers in her eyes; and I don't blame her. I hope she's not injured.

Modnar jumps to Butch's back, moments before Ryshua. I wait because I have to make sure Zelada is all right.

"JUMP JACAMATAX!" Zelada yells.

"WAIT, ARE YOU ALL RIGHT?! I yell back.

"YES I'M FINE!"

"DO YOU NEED HELP?!"

"NO, JUMP! I LOVE YOU!" Zelada yells, before I leap onto Butch.

Zelada kisses me on the cheek before leaping to the Vulcalt. As Butch flies us to safety, I watch the love of my life have her way with this creature.

**THE PROPHET**

I grip a handful of feathers with my left hand, then aim my right palm towards its neck.

"Hurt me you big oaf, ice bricks for you," I mutter.

All of a sudden, thousands of ice bricks fly out of my palm, shattering against the Vulcalt's neck. Within a few moments, one spot on the Vulcalt's neck has cold air emanating from it. Time for me to finish it off.

I punch straight through the frozen flesh, and pieces fly all over the place. I place my head into the hole, open my mouth and release thousands of flesh eating locusts, letting them infest the insides of the Vulcalt. Butch circles around to get me, and once he's close, I leap for him.

"Go Butch, take us down!" I yell, landing on his back.

Once we land, we all watch the foul beast breathe its last breath. It's flapping around, coughing and convulsing, not knowing what to do, eventually nose-diving into the ground, shaking it like an earthquake. Upon impact, it splits open and all the locusts fly out, into the sky. Jacamatax approaches the Vulcalt, holding his nose.

"Gees.... It stinks... Were they those loc... umm what do you call them?" he asks.

"Yes. Those were locusts, and they always seem to do the trick," I reply, grabbing his hand and looking inside the Vulcalt.

There is practically nothing inside. No ribcage, no internal organs, and next to no blood, very little meat to what it had to start with. The locusts have practically picked it clean, devouring the Vulcalt from the inside out.

"All right, nothing to see here, let's head to the Village of Soraki. Not only is it our next destination, but we can let Ryshua climb a few trees," I say, cheekily.

"YYYEEEESSSSSS!" Ryshua replies, jumping in the air.

**JACAMATAX**

Before we know it, we're at the entrance of the forest. There is a sign which has 'Soraki Forest' carved into it. By the time I've finished reading it, I look in the nearby tree and see Ryshua near the top, hanging upside down from an overhanging branch.

"Happy now, Ryshua?" Zelada says, sarcastically.

"You... Have... No.... IDEA!..... Ooooo... Aaaahhhhh.... Blood.. Is.. Rushing.. To.. My... Head," Ryshua replies, swinging upside down.

"Modnar, I recommend your hood, to disguise you from citizens of Soraki village," Zelada says.

"Already one step ahead of you, my girl," Modnar replies, before his face disappears under the hood.

"Butch, you're dismissed!"

"Acknowledged," Butch replies, exploding behind me.

"Are you three ready?" Zelada asks, turning towards Nevijah, Voltanna and I.

"Yeah, us three are ready, man," Nevijah replies, before exhaling his mouthful of smoke.

Suddenly, an Oathient serpent slithers up to us. He is dull yellow in colour, and has short white hair, roughly the same length as Ryshua, and he has only one red eye - his other is just a socket where an eye once was. Hanging on his back is probably the largest sword I've ever seen. It has to be double handed.

"Who are you and what are you doing in my forest?" The Oathient serpent asks, folding his arms.

"My name is Zelada. I am a prophet who has been sent to Tharp to deliver some legendary artifacts to several specific locations. They will be needed in ten thousand years' time to destroy a powerful wizard that tries to take over my planet; and yours. The Village of Soraki is close to the Catherial volcano, the destined resting place for the Arter gem of Fire. May we please have your permission to pass through your village?" Zelada says, letting go of my hand, and offering it to the serpent.

The Oathient serpent looks at all of us, frowns then shakes her hand.

"Name's Vaughson, sorry for the interrogation, just that I have to protect the lives of my citizens. Surely you can understand," Vaughson says.

"Of course I do. And it's nice to meet you, please lead the way," Zelada replies, as Ryshua jumps down from the tree.

After the events of today, I begin to realise something. Zelada really is a prophet...

### XI - Always Trust Your Close Friends

While we travel through Soraki forest, a wave of relaxation comes over me. Sounds of insects and birds fill the ambience and if you're quick enough, you can see them; I really can't find fault with a thing.

"Isn't the entrance around here? Where's the vicious plant that's usually guarding it?" Zelada asks.

"What vicious plant? And how did you know about the entrance?" Vaughson replies.

"Well... I'm a prophet, remember. But seriously, get a huge plant that feeds on people to guard this entrance. I guarantee the only person that'll be able to kill it, will be the Chosen One."

"Hmmm, I will take that into consideration. Well everybody, as the prophet mentioned; here's the entrance," Vaughson says, lifting up a wooden board, that has huge leaves and branches covering it.

I look down the deep hole and there are about six vines, disappearing into the darkness below.

"So we have to go down there?" I ask, pointing at the hole.

"Yes we do," Vaughson replies.

"You first."

"Great to see we have such courageous men amongst us," Vaughson jokes, bending down and grabbing a vine.

"I'M COURAGEOUS!" Ryshua yells, diving head first into the hole, grabbing a few vines on the way down.

"Nevijah and I will go next," Voltanna adds, sliding down one of the vines, with Nevijah over her shoulders.

"Head down Jacamatax, I need to speak with Zelada," Modnar says, before I sit on the edge of the hole.

I lower myself into the darkness, gradually working my way down; I'm gripping this vine with my life. I look up and see Modnar lowering himself into the hole, and hear echoes of laughter when I look down. I wonder when it's going to end. Not only are my arms becoming tired, but my visibility is becoming worse.

After a while I get to the bottom of the vine, and begin to panic. How far am I from the ground? There is still no light anywhere.

"Just let go, Jacamatax," Voltanna says, sounding quite close by.

"Who's got a Crent?! I can't see!" I panic.

Vaughson pulls out a Crent and illuminates the area. I slowly open my eyes and see Vaughson, Voltanna, Nevijah and Ryshua; once I make eye contact, they all burst into a fit of laughter. I look down to see what's so funny and realize my feet are almost touching the ground. Guess it pays to trust your close friends.

My arms give way, and I fall down, causing everyone to laugh harder.

Eventually when Zelada and Modnar reach the bottom, she has to add something sarcastic to my embarrassing situation.

"Look everybody, DROP the laughter," Zelada says, sarcastically.

"Haha, very funny," I reply, in a similar manner.

"How's life down there?" Modnar asks, walking past me.

While everyone around me laughs at my expense, Zelada offers her right hand.

"Come on, you," Zelada says, pulling me up.

"Thank you, beautiful," I reply, putting my arm around Zelada.

Vaughson illuminates the way forward, and everyone follows - Zelada and I are at the back. I begin thinking about her, and something that's been bugging me. Isn't it annoying when you realise that you can't have someone forever, even if they're a good match for you? Could be the difference in age, or in my case; planets. I want to get as much out of this amazing connection as I can, before she's gone for good - Unfortunately for me, this is something that's out of my control.

Once we stop gazing into each other's eyes, I begin listening to the banter between the others.

"So you all fought a Vulcalt, just outside of this forest? I must deliver this news to my people," Vaughson says.

"It's no worry of yours anymore, Vaughson," Zelada replies.

"And why would that be?"

"Because it's lying dead, right outside your front door," Zelada replies, proudly.

"Is that so?"

"Yes indeed. We need some of its flesh for a feed tonight. Can you please organise a group of warriors?"

"Damn... They don't usually travel out that way. Sure thing, I'll get some organised when we return," Vaughson replies, sounding a little shocked.

On the way through the dark tunnel, our light suddenly disappears, startling me slightly. Zelada giggles to herself.

"Ummm what's so funny?" I ask.

"You'll see," Zelada replies, cheekily.

Suddenly, I'm sliding full speed down a water shoot, without a light. Twigs collide with my face and all I can do is keep my eyes and mouth shut. The noises from my peers further down the shoot eclipse my definition of the word fear. They sound more scared than excited.

Moments later, I fly out of the water shoot and land in a small lake. I quickly swim ashore and assess the area.

The whole room is within a cavern, which covers the entire vicinity. Houses - made of wood - are scattered everywhere.

The wood for the walls of the houses are different shaped branches, and the rooves are circular logs. The two biggest buildings are in the center of the Village - one looks like a house, with a huge pointy roof, where the other is more like a town hall.

Zelada and Modnar swim ashore last and both begin giggling.

"Done this before?" I ask, grinning with my eyebrows raised.

"Haha, maybe," Zelada flirtatiously replies.

"Gets me every time," Modnar adds.

"Now that we're all here, welcome to The Village of Soraki," Vaughson says, turning around to face us.

"All right everyone, we can all relax here tonight AFTER we secure the volcano," Zelada explains.

"Sorry Zelada, but it's just not as easy as that," Vaughson replies.

"What's so hard about heading to the volcano? Watch out for lava, check," Zelada says, cheekily.

"Well, the reason you fought a huge Vulcalt is because there is a nest of them living in there," Vaughson sternly replies.

"Wait, how many are there exactly... And how big?" I ask.

"There are many living there... How big was the Vulcalt you battled?"

"It was like a flying landmass," Zelada jokes.

"Well, from the sounds of it, you destroyed the biggest one, which is a good sign; the others are all smaller. When it comes to protecting this village, I'm in. If you want access to the volcano, you must aid us in our cause - eradicating the Vulcalt's. Do we have a deal?" Vaughson says, reaching out to shake Zelada's hand.

"You have a deal. Who else is in?" Zelada replies, shaking his hand.

"I'm not. Really can't be bothered fighting. Besides, why should I bother when you are with us?" Ryshua says, cheekily.

"That's fine, anyone else staying?" Zelada replies, looking at everyone else.

"Me too, my girl. I have no doubt in my mind that you can handle this situation. I'm going to stay here and relax with Ryshua, and share a few bottles of Flork.

"I'm coming, I have wanted to slay those annoying birds for far too long! Let's eradicate their entire species," Vaughson says, drawing his huge sword.

"You coming?" Zelada asks, kissing me on the cheek.

"I've always been coming, you just never asked," I reply, kissing her back.

"We're going to stay. Voltanna's a little bit shaken up from the last battle, man," Nevijah says, lighting the pipe in his mouth.

"Let's depart, I can't contain my anger any longer," Vaughson says, slithering ahead.

"We're right behind you," I reply, before Zelada and I run after him.

In the western section of this cavern is an exit which Vaughson is slithering towards.

"How far till the volcano?" I ask, jogging to keep up.

"The Cathaerial Volcano is up ahead, so let's have a moment to collect our thoughts," Vaughson replies.

Once out of the cave, we're standing on a long path leading straight to the volcano entrance. The path isn't very wide and there's molten hot lava off the edge of either side. You can see several Vulcalts flying around the top of the Volcano, protecting their home. I glance at Zelada; she frowns back at me, and cracks her knuckles.

Hopefully we can eliminate this threat, getting us one step closer to the end of our journey. Well, there's only one way to find out.

### XII - There is Time for Everything

**MODNAR**

Now, there is always time for everything, no excuses needed. I should know this better than anyone, because I'm a Time Guardian. What I'm getting at is, there's a little time in this story to explain my past, so that's what I'm going to do. I'm seated within the confines of the Village of Soraki, explaining the history I have with this planet to Ryshua, while awaiting the arrival of the others.

"Well, hurry up already old man, start the story," Ryshua comments, sitting cross-legged in front of me, sipping on his drink.

"All right, all right. The events of this story take place around the timeline we're currently in. So to be exact, it's ten thousand years in the past, from my exact timeline of life. I'm much younger and filled with about as much random optimism as you, well minus the addiction to climbing."

"Gees you're old."

"Thank you, Ryshua. You always know how to fill me with confidence."

"Just doing my job."

"Now where was I....? My age is hardly much older than you, and I've very little experience under my belt - matching that of my three close friends. We all created a clan called 'the Brotherhood of Guytz.' Our stronghold and the seal that represents us was created with our combined magic. The four members were Zekai - an Oathient serpent, and leader of the Village of Noradi. Akiad the wizard, Noldave the barbarian and obviously, myself; the Time Guardian. I hadn't told them that I was from another planet, to keep trust to a high and suspicion to a low. My point of origin was much easier to keep hidden, than to try explain it in any great detail."

"What do they look like?" Ryshua asks.

"That's not really relevant."

"And you lied to your friends?" Ryshua asks.

"Yes.... But can't you please just listen to my story?"

"Far out you're grumpy... Fine, continue."

Somewhere in the middle of the Jonker desert......

The four of us are riding on our own Zabait; I stop mine to see if this is the right location. There is a well with some water, so I think this might be a great place to set up a stronghold.

"Right here should be fine," I say, looking around at my companions.

"Looks good to me. Each of us should take position in the four corners of where our stronghold should be," Akiad replies, jogging far away from me, eventually stopping and turning around.

"I'll stay here. Zekai you slither over there, opposite Akiad and Noldave.... You head over there, opposite me.

"What is this stronghold going to look like?" Noldave yells, walking to the opposite corner.

"The most legendary castle ever created. It will stand for thousands of years and be a training ground for the warriors we recruit," I yell.

The four of us look towards each other, and hold our palms out towards the centre of where the castle will be. Within a few moments, a large stone castle begins raising from beneath the sand. Our jaws are wide open, gasping for belief in what we're doing.

"It's working!" Akiad yells.

"Keep going, everybody! Perseverance!" Zekai yells, while the castle continues raising from the sand.

I'm feeling light headed, draining my power like a river running dry. I know I'm not the only one, because as I briefly glance at my peers, they look equally drained.

"Come on everyone, just a little longer," Akiad yells.

Within a few moments, four beams of light come out of our eyes and shoot into the air, forcing our heads to tip back. The beams from my eyes are aqua blue, Zekai's are green, Noldave' are white and Akiad's are red.

Suddenly, the ground shakes like a titan is approaching, and as I pull my weakened body off the sand, I look up and marvel at our immense creation.

"WE DID IT!" I yell triumphantly.

I close my eyes in excitement, and my three companions tackle me into the sand. I suppose we're the happiest we've ever been. But like most things in life, happiness doesn't last.

A few weeks pass and we've designed the Brotherhood of Guytz seal (I pull up the sleeve covering my left wrist, to reveal the Guytz seal to Ryshua) but we are busy trying to come up with a meaning for it, a purpose; before magically crafting it onto our wrists. For me, the meaning of the Brotherhood of Guytz came quite easily. On my planet, the human race is the most respected race of species and that to me, in my honest opinion; is unfair. Why should one race or creed be more preferred over another? That is the source of my inspiration. I want to make a clan that gives racial equality. Whomever was to join our clan, has to show respect to all races and treat them equally. Now the time has come to present my idea to my peers.

The four of us are sitting around a table, on the top of our stronghold, snorting the inside of some diced up Goy's, discussing different options. My idea eventually comes into play during the course of this meeting.

"Akiad, any ideas on the meaning of this symbol?" I ask, bending over the table, and snorting the insides of a Goy up my nose.

"No idea, my old friend. I do think it should rotate counter clockwise though."

"Why?"

"Not all the time, just when a Brotherhood member is in the vicinity of another member that they haven't met yet," Akiad replies, before snorting his Goy.

"That is a great idea!" Noldave says, enthusiastically.

Zekai snorts a little, then blankly stares at us.

"I.... I.... Agree, on that, my friends," Zekai says, before snorting more.

Noldave grabs the hollow stick from Zekai's hands, then snorts some Goy off the table. Now that we're all comfortably numb, we begin firing out the ideas.

"How about we all become time guardians, and you teach us?" Noldave suggests.

"Haha, no my boy, it has to be something grander. I was thinking more, like 'Racial equality' for all those who are marked with the Brotherhood of Guytz seal?" I reply, leaning back in my chair.

"Care to elaborate?" Akiad asks, snorting more.

"Sure. So you get given this seal, by being chosen by someone in the brotherhood through a special selection process. Then, whomever has this seal believes that all races are equal, and all races are allowed to partake in this Brotherhood. Look at us for an example, two humans and two other races, make up the original clan. Mixing this suggestion with Akiad's idea, sounds like a grand proposition?"

"Are we going to agree, gentlemen?" Akiad says, standing and placing his left hand onto the table.

"I'm in," Noldave replies, placing his hand on Akiad's.

Zekai looks at me and smiles before placing his hand on top of theirs.

"I trust you guys till the end of Tharp, so count me in," Zekai says.

The three of my companions look at me, hoping I'll put my hand on top of theirs, in appreciation of what we have created. I don't drag this moment out too long, as I wish for this as much as them.

"Of course I'm in. Here's to the Brotherhood of Guytz!" I say, placing my hand on top...

"So where did this story, go wrong?" Ryshua asks, finishing his bottle.

"I was getting there, my boy.... You know there's an art to storytelling.... now where was I up to?" I reply.

Another month passes by and word has gotten out about the prophet, and her delivery of the tools of destruction for the death of Akiad. We have no idea why she would state that Akiad is evil, but this information sent him over the edge. We're having our daily meeting, in our usual position on top of our stronghold....

"First off, I want to thank Akiad for stopping the orc attack on our magnificent castle. With ease, to be fair," I say, smiling at him.

"Yeah, not a problem," Akiad replies, seeming a little frustrated.

"What's on your mind, friend?" Noldave asks.

"I just heard some rumours from the orcs I was killing. They asked me to serve them, saying a prophet had arrived on Tharp with some instruments of destruction, used solely for destroying me? I'm so pure without an evil bone in me, so what's the point in this?" Akiad replies, frustration invading his speech.

"Sounds like nonsense to me, Akiad. There must be an explanation?" I say, sounding confused.

"WELL IT'S TRUE! And I'm not going to sit here in some pathetic brotherhood, waiting for the Chosen One to hunt me down," Akiad replies, pushing the table over, which lands on top of me and Noldave.

"AKIAD, are you losing your mind?" Zekai yells, approaching him.

Akiad punches Zekai so hard that he flies back, and smacks his head against the side of the castle wall.

"AKIAD, stand down!" Noldave yells, pushing the table off of us.

Akiad charges Noldave, the two of them fall over the edge of the castle wall.

"Quick Zekai, help me up!" I yell.

Zekai quickly slithers towards me. We both speed to the edge of the castle wall, and see Akiad making an escape on one of our Zabaits. Noldave is lying in the sand, not moving a muscle.

"NOLDAVE!" We yell, leaving the castle.

Once we approach his body, it's not difficult to realise that he has landed on his neck, courtesy of Akiad.

"Not an evil bone in him... Sure shows," I say, as a tear drop rolls down my cheek.

Zekai bends down and lifts Noldave enough to cradle him in his lap. As he cries, I'm soaking in the magnitude of what has just taken place. He has killed one of the 'four,' changing the history of Tharp forever...

"So I have a question," Ryshua asks.

"Yeah sure thing, go right ahead."

"Has the latter taken place yet?"

"Well, if my calculations serve me well... No, it hasn't."

"So why don't you change his future?"

"You know I can't do that. Our future is already laid out for us, so we can't interfere with that," I say, sipping on my bottle of Flork.

"What do you care? It's not our planet," Ryshua replies.

"Yes, but I have been given the task of watching over it, so I intend to protect that."

"Modnar, listen to me for once in our life. We are time guardians, the most powerful wizards in the universe. We have the ability to compress time, and shape it how we like. Why don't we slay this Akiad...? BAM, problem solved."

"Do you even know what you're saying? You can't kill him, it'll cause a rift in time, even more than you realise."

"How could you know that?"

"Because look how old I am, Ryshua. You can't change the past, just because we're here. If there is anything I've learnt, in the time I've spent on this planet, it's that you can't play god, no one can. Life just has to be like that, one day you will see what I mean."

"You think what you want, old man. Shows how little you actually know," Ryshua says, standing up and walking further into the village.

I'm not sure why Ryshua is acting this way, but something in my stomach makes me think that trouble is brewing...

XIII - Vaughson Takes Back What's Rightfully His..

**JACAMATAX**

Zelada, Vaughson and I stand at the beginning of the path towards the nest of Vulcalt's. To think it resides within a volcano gives me the shivers.

"How are you feeling? Nervous?" Zelada asks.

"Very," I reply, trembling slightly.

"How about you, Vaughson?"

"Ready to take back what's mine, Prophet," Vaughson replies, holding his sword out in front.

"That's the way."

"I have a question for you though."

"Go for it."

"Who is going to protect that fire gem?"

"The Arter gem of Fire?"

"Yeah that's it."

"A powerful Phoenix."

"I imagine it'll be fairly safe then."

"It will be, but whoever can defeat the Phoenix has the power to summon and command him at will."

"Now there, is an incentive," Vaughson says, cheekily.

"You won't do anything of the sort."

"It was a joke, Prophet."

"Enough fluffing about, let's go."

As the three of us approach the volcano, I let a drop of fear enter my mind; the Vulcalt's flying around the top of the volcano slowly close in.

"Stop.. Who showed fear?" Zelada asks, placing her left and right palms against our stomachs, stopping us from proceeding.

"Sorry beautiful," I reply, sounding disappointed.

"It's okay, just prepare to battle," Zelada says, drawing her sword and looking up.

The three of us have our weapons at the ready, and the Vulcalt's swoop in. They're a lot smaller than the last one we defeated; they're only about five times our size, so our weapons will make a big difference to these birds.

The first Vulcalt swoops towards Vaughson; he ducks, and rams his huge sword straight through the bird's stomach, pushing its guts out the other side.

"Get down!" Vaughson yells.

While Vaughson still has his sword lodged in the Vulcalt, he swings around counter clockwise and uses the dead bird to smack the next two Vulcalt's into the nearby lava.

"All right, now I'm ready to enter," Zelada yells, turning to face the entrance.

Vaughson pulls his sword out of the dead Vulcalt and blood oozes out the laceration. Zelada scans the area for danger, then nods at us - we follow her inside the volcano.

The space we're standing on is raised, like a massive round podium, and there's lava around the outside. The sheer quantity of Vulcalts flying around the room is intimidating. I hope we're not walking in to our graves.

Zelada puts her left thumb and index finger against her lips, and makes a whistling noise, echoing inside the volcano, attracting the attention of every Vulcalt in the room.

"Are you crazy, Zelada?!" I yell, gripping my weapon tighter.

"Get off my land, it's time to erase your existence," Vaughson yells, sounding angry.

Zelada points her hands towards the general direction of the threat; her little fingers and the ones next to it are curled in, and only her index and middle finger are pointing at the threats with her thumb facing upwards. She then begins launching fireballs their direction.

"AARRGGGHH!" one Vulcalt yells as it gets hit with a flurry of fireballs.

Vaughson slithers along the platform and swings his sword to the left, slicing two Vulcalt's in half; they crash into the ground.

I look down at my seal and see the eyelid is closed, proving that I have to fall back on my melee. No need to panic, act on instinct is what my father taught me; he was the smartest fighter I know. His name was Max and I miss not having him around.

One Vulcalt lands on its claws and walks towards me, swiping with the claw on its left wing. I slice vertically and cleave it off, then charge towards it, sliding under its claws and chopping them off, dropping it to the ground.

Vaughson slithers forward and stabs the huge bird through the face. Immediately afterwards, a Vulcalt swoops in to grab Zelada, but she ducks, then in one clean motion, cleaves both its wings off. Vaughson dives towards the downed Vulcalt and chops off the head, squirting blood all over the platform.

"There's too many of them!" I yell, swiping at another.

"Don't you dare give up, Jacamatax! There's no going back now!" Vaughson yells.

I stand up, sheathe my weapon and jump towards the next swooping Vulcalt - I land on its back, as it flies higher in the air.

"Jacamatax!" Zelada yells.

"I'm all right, you concentrate!" I yell back.

I grip the black feathers of the Vulcalt, then draw my weapon. Whilst waiting patiently, the Vulcalt has forgotten that I'm present. It ascends higher, towards its friends; I slice the birds head off, then leap to the nearest Vulcalt.

"What's he doing, prophet?!" Vaughson yells, cutting open another downed Vulcalt.

"I have no idea!!?!" Zelada yells back.

"Keep on top of them prophet! He's responsible for his own actions!" Vaughson yells, holding his sword towards two more swooping Vulcalts.

Vaughson drops to his back, then slices from left to right, splitting open a Vulcalt while the other one swoops over him, flying higher in the air.

Zelada stands with her legs apart. She faces her right palm in the direction of the Vulcalt that missed Vaughson, and her left palm in the direction of the incoming Vulcalts.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Zelada laughs, as large chunks of ice rapidly fly out of both her palms.

Every few chunks of ice that connect with a Vulcalt, cause it to freeze, fall to the ground, and shatter into small chunks of flesh upon impact.

I land on a nearby Vulcalt, and my impact forces it to shudder downwards for a while. I slice at its back a few times, then accidentally chop the right wing off, causing us to spiral towards the ground.

I quickly sheathe my weapon and prepare to leap the moment before the creature hits the ground.

Vaughson spins around, holding his sword out stretched, cutting a couple of Vulcalts clean in half.

"Zelada, Jacamatax is falling! Move out the way!" Vaughson yells, pointing in my direction.

Nerves consume my mind as I spin towards the ground. I look around for my answer to this problem; and I finally see it. The problem is the immense nature of the timing - it has to be perfect.

Two Vulcalts are swooping in towards Zelada and Vaughson, and if my calculations are correct, I could land on top of one of them.

Then without thinking, I let go and land on top of the left Vulcalt - my impact knocking it straight to the ground. Vaughson slithers over and rams his sword straight through its face.

"Jacamatax, you're crazy!" Zelada says, helping me up.

"I'm lurking in the shadows compared to the woman I love," I reply.

I draw my weapon and shake off the impact of my landing.

"Behind you!" Vaughson yells my direction.

I quickly turn around and cut through the air, slicing a Vulcalt's stomach, causing the insides to fly all over me - it crashes slightly further than my location.

"You seem GUTTED?" Zelada jokes.

I smile at her and briefly giggle, whilst removing the majority of the dead Vulcalt's guts.

Zelada swings her blade left and right, dicing through one Vulcalt after the other, but their attacks are becoming far too frequent.

"Their attack volume has increased!" Vaughson yells, ramming his huge sword through another Vulcalt.

"Zelada, we're outnumbered!" I yell.

She kills another two Vulcalt's, then jumps straight to the ground, and sheathes her weapon. Zelada fires thousands of chunks of ice from her palms, which connect with all the incoming Vulcalt's. As they begin shattering all around us, she slowly stands up and continues to concentrate her attack on the remaining Vulcalt's.

"Zelada, keep focusing your power!" I yell.

She nods, then opens her palms wide apart; a huge ball of energy appears in front of her, taking up most of the room.

"Zelada, what are you doing?! Vaughson yells, sounding worried.

"I DON'T KNOW!" Zelada yells back, sounding just as confused.

Every Vulcalt left in the room begins circling around in a clockwise direction, unable to pull away from the sheer power of this spell - it's even pulling all the corpses too.

They all continue to whirl around, while Zelada keeps her palms wide apart - she looks so confused.

"I'm opening a wormhole, this.... Is... NOT.... GOOD!" Zelada yells, holding the huge ball of energy in place, hovering just in front of her.

"They're disappearing into it!" Vaughson yells.

"Yeah, but where to? And when??!" Zelada yells.

The Vulcalt's all get sucked into the ball of energy, then it gets pulled through a tear, now all that remains is a suspended pink bolt of lightning.

"What's that, hovering in the air?" Vaughson asks, slithering towards it.

"I... I... I... I'm really not sure how to explain that to you," Zelada replies.

"Please try beautiful?" I ask.

"I think I just sent them through time," Zelada replies, sounding uncertain.

"So, what would that pink bolt be, based on your assumption?" Vaughson asks, folding his arms.

"Umm.. I have no idea.. It's definitely a question for Modnar or Ryshua, to get a clear answer."

"Uh.. Well let me know when you find out. Anyway, please accept my many thanks for helping me reclaim our land, from those thieving Vulcalt's," Vaughson says, holding his right hand out.

"Hey, it's my pleasure. I was wondering if I could please have some time alone with Butch, the guardian of the Arter gem of Fire," Zelada says, shaking his hand.

"Sure thing, prophet. Anything you ask."

Vaughson and I move away from Zelada, and exit the Volcano. No matter how special we are to each other, she is a prophet and there are times like this where I must respect that.

Meanwhile in the Cathaerial Volcano...

**THE PROPHET**

Butch launches out of the seal on my right shoulder and lands in front of me. Tears stream down my face, because I know it's time to say goodbye to my dear friend.

I remove the Arter gem of Fire from my sword, then sheathe it and hold the gem in my hands. As I wipe the tears from my face, I begin scratching his neck and saying my final words to him.

"Butch, you are like my best friend. You need to be here, for when the 'Chosen One' comes to collect the Arter gem of Fire, and asks for your assistance as her pet," I say, scratching Butch's neck.

"Same way I served you, I suppose. My memory is never ending, as I have no point of origin, just like the Arter gems you're delivering and the sword you so eloquently possess. I can remember when we met and have completed this loop an infinite amount of times. This won't be the last time we speak, you'll see," Butch replies.

"Wait, really?"

"Indeed."

"So what you're saying, is a physical character that exists without a point of origin, has a never ending memory?"

"That is a possibility. Maybe you should ask your elderly friend for help. He'll be needing mine fairly soon, if my memory serves me correctly," Butch replies, prompting me to stop scratching him.

"I don't understand, boy, but I love and trust you so much," I say, placing the Arter gem of Fire around his neck, then leaving the Volcano, struggling to hold in the tears.

Once outside, I see a hooded warrior running towards me, and once within focus, I see the staff and realise its Modnar.

"Something has happened that could disrupt the space time continuum as we know it. Please my girl, I need your help!" Modnar gasps, struggling for air.

I look at Modnar and wonder what his request is. I wonder if this has anything to do with what Butch just said. Suppose in due time I'll find out.

### XIV - Erasing my Past, During the Present Thus Protecting the Future

**MODNAR**

Zelada looks at me in shock. I don't see why, I just hope she'll give me her permission to use Butch, to save the space time continuum; hopefully, she'll let me do this alone.

"So Modnar, what's happened that's so life threatening?" Zelada asks curiously.

"Well, I was explaining my history on Tharp to Ryshua, and he made the inexperienced assumption that if we kill Akiad while he's young, then I can return to my home planet, as my job would be complete. He has no idea what he's doing and needs to be stopped," I explain, sounding worried.

"That's so ridiculous, does he actually have any idea why you can't do this? How come you do, and he doesn't?"

"Because I'm about ten thousand years older, my girl - that's why. He's just making what he feels is the best decision; the problem, is the repercussions if he follows through with it."

"Damn! So what are you going to do?"

"Whatever it takes, my girl. Can I please use Butch to cover more ground and find Ryshua, before he causes too much unfixable damage," I say, sounding stressed.

Zelada looks at me and Butch launches out of her seal, like he always does. She's becoming so powerful that she doesn't even need to draw strength from the Arter gems anymore.

"What did I tell you?" Butch says cheekily, landing next to us.

"Yeah you called it, didn't ya bbboooyyyyyy," Zelada replies, scratching under his neck.

"I must leave, Zelada. Ryshua will be getting closer to Akiad by the minute," I say, attempting to climb Butch's back.

"WAIT! I have to show you something," Zelada says, turning around and heading inside the Volcano.

"Now isn't really the time!" I yell back.

"You... May.. Want... To... See.. This," Butch says, while I scratch under his wing.

Intrigued by Zelada's enthusiasm, I dismount Butch and head inside. Much to my surprise, I see something that is the last thing I expected. It's a suspended, pink coloured lightning bolt, so thin, you'd think it's fixable, but it's in fact the fabric of time, seeping apart.

"Zelada.... Who did this....?" I ask, sounding shocked.

She turns towards me, raises her eyebrows, and looks scared of my possible reaction. She resembles a young child, fearful of being caught in the act by her parents.

"No way, Zelada. Where did you send them? And how?" I say, moving closer to the bolt of lightning.

"I don't know, Modnar. I'm sorry, it just happened. The ball of energy... It was so big.... It was out of control..... At least the size of this room," Zelada explains, still sounding scared.

"How many... No... Wait.... How much space did you send back in time?"

Zelada raises her eyebrows, and turns her head towards me, looking like she has no idea on how to answer my question.

"Wait...... What are you even asking, Modnar? I made a huge ball of energy emerge between my open palms, then it sucked every Vulcalt in sight and sent them somewhere. I don't know how much space it sent back, or even to where. It just looked like a larger version of the wormholes you create - and to be fair, I've seen a few of those before."

"Don't panic, my girl. It'll take a few thousand years to fix, but it'll be sorted by the time.... Well actually never mind," I say, rubbing her back.

I walk closer to the split in the space time continuum and Zelada can't take her eyes off me. How was she able to do that, without finishing a trial? I make eye contact with her, then begin my explanation.

"It does appear to be a pink lightning bolt, right?"

"Yeah, thanks for pointing out the obvious, I didn't know what to tell the others," Zelada replies.

"This is what happens when the very fabric of our universe is ripped apart. In my ten thousand years that I've lived, that's the biggest tear I've ever seen," I say, studying it closer.

"Shit.... I don't know what to say."

"Don't even worry about it. Are you all right? Any injuries? Any idea how you even did that?"

"I'm fine, Modnar, and luckily no injuries. I've been thinking about how many times I've jumped through a wormhole with you. Then, all of a sudden, I cast a massive wormhole and suck everything into it. Believe me, this wasn't my intention. It just happened; we were getting overwhelmed by Vulcalt's, left, right and center," Zelada replies.

"Vulcalts... Hmm... Come to think of it, I don't remember there ever being reports of Vulcalts living outside of Toolore mountain?.... Do you remember years ago, when we were walking past those Vulcalt's in Toolore mountain? (Zelada nods) Well I saw a rip in the space time continuum, but didn't want to involve the complexity of time travel into our journey at that stage, so I kept it quiet. It was much smaller than this tear, so it could have been from thousands of years before, possibly the results of this event," I explain, taking another look at the pink bolt.

Zelada begins pacing to and fro, looking puzzled but excited. Either reaction isn't really helping, based on what's really at hand.

"So what you're saying, is that I have the ability to send myself through time?" Zelada asks.

"No, you don't. THIS... Is what happens when the unexperienced... No... The unqualified... Dabble with time travel. I really must go, my girl. Ryshua will be closing in on Akiad's castle," I reply, turning and walking away.

"Are you ready to depart?" Butch asks, entering the Volcano.

"Almost," I reply.

"Aren't you worried about killing your best friend?" Zelada asks.

"Well of course I am, but I hope it doesn't get to that. Upon leaving my home planet of Mastodine, I was given a life objective; protect the wellbeing of Tharp. Ryshua is putting that in danger, so friend or not, that puts me in a weird position," I say.

"Fair enough, Modnar. Please be careful, Ryshua seems formidable," Zelada replies.

"I will, my girl, you have my word. Head to the village and relax, I'll see you when I return," I say, clambering onto Butch's back.

"I'm serious, Modnar, alive okay? I'm not losing any more of my friends. And if you get stuck, ask Butch; I guarantee he'll have the answer," Zelada replies.

"I will. Ready Butch, let's head to the remains of the downed Vulcalt, track exactly where Ryshua has travelled," I say, before Butch launches into the air, exiting via the hole at the apex of the volcano.

As we fly over Soraki forest, I think about what Zelada has done. She ripped the fabric of time, leaving the biggest hole I've ever seen. When I open a wormhole to another time era - whether forward or back in time, I always make sure I'm taking no more than a few with me; she apparently sent hundreds. This is where problems arise, especially without practice. I really can't believe that she was able to perform such a feat, but she did - proving me wrong yet again. So how could she just do that, even by thinking it? She truly is a prophet, humbly paving a path for herself in the history books of this great planet.

Now, putting this revelation to the side, I really need to locate the whereabouts of my old friend, Ryshua.

I scan the ground as Butch and I soar through the sky, but with rigorous searching, I'm unable to locate him anywhere.

"Butch, Ryshua would surely be out of the forest right now, right?" I ask, while flying over the dead Vulcalt.

"Do you want to know where he is right now? The only reason I know what to say, is because I've done this before," Butch replies, sounding quite convincing.

"Wait, really? How can you remember if it hasn't happened yet?"

"Because it has... I get left to guard the Arter gem of Fire, then wait until the Chosen One defeats me, and makes me her guardian. I then eventually get dropped off in the past for history to repeat itself. How can I not remember if it's a loop that doesn't end? I bet you're thinking about asking me where he is right now." Butch replies, before we begin to fly over the ocean.

"That's..... Incredible... How did you......?"

"Know?"

"Yes."

"Haha... He's currently crossing the desert, in which you'll find a way to stop him before he gets to Akiad. The rest, is up to you. You're the time guardian, check into the future if this all sounds unbelievable," Butch replies, looking back at me.

"No, no... I believe you. Head to wherever he is, full speed!" I say, before Butch launches further ahead.

I grip my staff and know that the time is approaching when I have to negotiate with Ryshua. Part of me wants to ask Butch what happens next. Part of me wants to peek into the future and find out. But the rest of me wants to stumble across the situation and let it unfold by itself. I'm still not one hundred percent happy with the fact that I may have to wipe the slate clean of my oldest friend. We spent our first twenty years together, but his inexperience may very well get him killed.

As we transition from the Parmyr Ocean to the Jonker Desert, I begin to squint my old eyes; I'm certain I can make out Ryshua.

"That's him Butch, INCREASE IN VELOCITY!" I say, standing slightly on Butch's back.

Ryshua is flying across the sand, but not as one would think. He's creating small wormholes in front of him, and passing through them. Once he jumps through, it launches him a second into the future; a ball of energy appears a few metres ahead, he then leaps out, creates another, and his momentum makes him pass through, swiftly repeating the process. He's not only skipping time, but the need to walk too.

"We're closing in Butch, faster, faster. Pull up nearby and I'll make a leap for him!" I yell, gripping my staff tightly.

Butch begins closing in on my target. He's almost within my reach; I just need to predict the exact moment in which to jump through time. We pull up next to Ryshua and he glances at me, that instant in his concentration lapse is enough for me to alter his flight path.

The moment he looks away, I open a wormhole nearby; once I pass through, I tackle him into the sand. Both of us tumble along the surface like a stone skimming over water. Bleeding and grazed, we both gradually rise to our feet.

"You call me a maniac?" Ryshua says, spitting blood into the sand.

"Takes one to know one," I reply, coughing up blood.

"So this is what ten thousand years apart does, Modnar?" Ryshua asks, wiping his brow and staining his robe red.

"Yes, I suppose it does. You claim that I'm a maniac, when it's you that wants to eliminate Akiad before he completes his inevitable actions. I have been a part of those... COUGH!... Actions... He needs to make them just the way he's meant to, you can't interfere!"

"So... What are you going to do, old man... Kill me?"

"I don't want to. Can't we just laugh this off back at the village of Soraki, with the others?"

"Do I look like I want to laugh, Modnar? I say bring it old man", Ryshua says, waving me his direction.

I dive towards Ryshua, and tackle him into the sand. I roll him over, rapidly punch his face with a quick flurry of solid left and right hand shots, then head-butt him.

I slowly pull myself up, but Ryshua leaps to his feet; it seems like the punches to his face hasn't phased him. He throws a huge right hook, knocking me back down. Blood splashes all over the place, and Ryshua grins at me in an evil way. He begins punching me in the stomach, then in the chest, before a series of punches to the left side of my face; I start choking on my own blood.

Ryshua quickly drops to his knees and jabs me in the face with his left hand, so many times that I've lost count. He picks me up by the hood and pulls me up to his face. As his warm breath makes the blood on my face begin drying, I make sure I listen to what he has to say.

"You're going to die here my old friend," Ryshua says, head-butting me whilst still holding up my lifeless body.

Blood covers my face like a blanket of mist, shrouding the sky in the winter. I'm getting used to being visually impaired, from it running into my bloodshot eyes.

"Why didn't you just let me do it?" Ryshua asks, punching me to the sand.

He kicks me in the stomach, flipping me onto my back. He then wastes a few precious moments taunting me - unfortunately for him, it's enough time wasted for me to plan my next move.

"Helpless, lifeless, but definitely not useless. You put up a valiant effo...... AAAARRGGGHHH!" Ryshua says, before falling into a wormhole I throw at him.

"Where are you, staff," I say, rolling onto my stomach.

I see my staff a few metres away, and know I don't have long to get it. I've sent Ryshua two minutes into the future, and need to get the jump on him, so I can end this.

I pull my battered body towards my staff, moaning as I feel my bruised chest drag along the sand.

"Rrrrrrrggh," I moan.

I pick up my staff, using it to help me stand. I'm expecting Ryshua to arrive soon, so I stand behind his entry point.

I flip my staff upside down, and the instant Ryshua comes out of the wormhole, I smack him around the back of the head, knocking him to the sand. Wasting not a second of my precious time, I begin my stampede of strikes to his back, while he attempts to get off his knees.

Ryshua tries his best to stand, but I continue to beat him down. While he gasps for air, all he will see when he looks to his left, is a blurry figure, beating him to death.

Ryshua holds his hand out, instructing me to stop, but I ignore his plea. I'm breaking many of his bones, and the pain he must feel is me going one step too far. He knows the importance of our role as a Time Guardian; and he blew it.

After several gruelling minutes, I feel all the emotions finally consume me. I begin to cry; the last thing a person wants to be faced with is the task of killing your best friend.

Slowly dropping to my knees, I throw down my staff and turn Ryshua over so he can lay on his back. His face looks like life has been forced out of him, and unfortunately for me, I know the culprit. I look away as I break his neck, ensuring the planet's safety, then lie on my back next to him, whilst water and blood fill my eyes.

Suddenly as the sun sets, a shadow casts over me. I try to refocus my vision to pinpoint what it is.

"Perfect timing?" Butch says.

"You... Bet," I reply, rolling to my side and coughing up blood.

"Well, like I said before, it's no coincidence, I knew to come here at this time, and that I would find you like this. Would you like me to share a little secret with you, something else with no point of origin?" Butch says, bending down, lifting up Ryshua, and placing him over his back.

"Be my.... COUGH!.... Guest," I reply.

Butch looks at me, opens his mouth and sticks his tongue out. I'm surprised to see the emblem of the 'Time Guardian Covenant,' the same one that all time guardians have on the inside of their right wrist.

"How?" I ask, wiping blood from my face.

"You expect me to explain that? I can remember everything that I say and do, but I don't know for the life of me how that emblem got there," Butch replies.

"My life just gets more bizarre, more complicated, and more tangled in the space time continuum with every day that passes" I say, using my staff to slowly prop myself up.

"Modnar, you think that's tough on you? Were you ever born? Do you have parents?" Butch replies, while I struggle to climb on his back.

"Of course, why's that?"

Butch launches into the air and heads Southwest, in the direction of the Village of Soraki, biding his time in replying to me. I feel him shuddering and sniffling, and I wish I knew what's wrong.

"Sorry for my delay in responding. (Butch pauses to sniff) It's just hard for me to deal with. As you may have realised, I have no point of origin, so obviously; no parents," Butch says.

"Don't worry boy, you're family to all of us, especially you know who," I reply, tapping him on the side of the neck.

We fly in silence until we arrive at the western entrance to the Village of Soraki. I'm battered beyond my days and really need to rest. I keep my hands on the deceased and relax until Butch touches down. As I fall to the side, Butch shrugs Ryshua from his back, and rests down next to me. He's too big to get into the village, but I really don't have the energy.

"Rest friend, help will arrive shortly," Butch says, lying down next to me.

"MODNAR! What happened Butch?" Zelada yells, waking me from my slumber.

"He had to end Ryshua's life, which almost cost him his. Get him some help," Butch replies, looking towards me.

"MODNAR!" Jacamatax yells, helping Zelada pick me up off the ground.

I can hear voices all around me, but just don't have the energy to open my eyes. You see, it's a tough job erasing your past.

### XV - The Future's Restored, and I'm Past Who is Present.

**JACAMATAX**

It's overwhelming to say the least. Here I am, dragging Modnar's bloody and battered body into the Village of Soraki, with looks of shock across everyone present. It's weird because their friendship spans thousands of years, across different planets and time periods; yet it still failed. The last I saw of Modnar and Ryshua, they were like the best of friends; it seemed as if they would do anything for each other. Now look at them. One's dead and the other's close to it. So what predicament does that leave us in? Suppose once the old man feels up to it; we can ask a few questions, and get a few answers.

"I wonder what happened." I ponder.

"It will be a long story. We'll be sure to allow Modnar to explain when he wakes up," Zelada replies, as we drag Modnar through the murmuring crowd of Oathient serpents.

"What on Tharp happened here?" Vaughson asks, slithering towards us.

"Long story, friend. But we need somewhere to lay him down," Zelada replies, picking up Modnar's left arm and draping it over her shoulders.

"Quick, follow me!" Vaughson says, slithering in the direction of the largest dwelling.

Once we arrive, we clamber up the stairs and head inside, placing Modnar onto the nearest chair, just behind the desk - with Vaughson's sword on it. The room has two book shelves, a mat to sleep on, a chair, and a table. Nothing fancy, but I imagine more than what everyone else has.

"Welcome to my humble abode," Vaughson says, bowing.

"Not the best time, Vaughson," Zelada replies.

"My apologies... So what's going on?" Vaughson asks.

"Well... I don't really know... I was with you both in the volcano, remember?"

"More importantly... How are we going to restore his energy?" I chime in.

"No worries, hun, I'll take care of that. Let's just head out and make sure our feast is organised. He needs rest before I can fully restore his energy," Zelada replies, holding her hand out towards me.

We leave the hut and quietly close the door. Nightfall is only a few hours away, so we need to get food prepared for his recovery; let's hope Vulcalt flesh tastes good.

A few hours pass, Voltanna and Nevijah have helped the warriors gather quite a lot of meat, enough to feed twice the amount of people present. Most of the warriors have spent the last hour cooking the food over the fire, set up in the middle of the Village Courtyard. Zelada is off with Modnar, tending to his wounds, while the rest of us are having a break. I see Ryshua's body and walk towards him...

In Vaughson's hut....

**MODNAR**

I'm slipping in and out of consciousness, and still feel very battered. Zelada is washing the remainder of the blood from my face, preparing to tend to my more severe injuries. I have the ability to heal, but it's not enough to restore myself from this fragile state...

"Always here.... COUGH!... To save the day," I say, holding my stomach and coughing in agony.

"Now, now my old friend, let's just say we're even. You know as well as I do that you've saved my toosh quite a few times," Zelada replies, dabbing the bumps on my forehead.

"I'm so proud of you. What you've achieved, what you've done. You know your parents would be proud of you, if they were here," I say, coughing up more blood.

"I know, I know. Thank you," Zelada sincerely replies.

"We must... COUGH!... Get that hooded coat off Ryshua," I say, carefully propping myself in my chair.

"We will, but what's the importance?"

"Well it represents the 'Time Guardian Covenant,' the pact that I live by. And on top of that, his coat is my old one. I gave it to him as a leaving present, the week before he got thrown into prison. I didn't know about him being in prison, until recently, because I had already left to travel to Tharp. I'd love to get my old hooded coat back, as that's all I have left of my home planet."

"We will Modnar, relax. You're too weak right now, I'll start healing you soon. I'm going to go retrieve it from Ryshua's body," Zelada replies, gently leaning me back in the seat.

Meanwhile, standing around the corpse of Ryshua...

**JACAMATAX**

"Wonder why he did it?" I ask.

"Not sure, Jacamatax. He just seemed like an energetic person; who saw a dark side?" Vaughson replies, sounding confused.

"I don't think he had one, gentlemen," Zelada says, walking up from behind, putting her arms around my waist, and kissing my cheek.

"Oh really? Well why's he dead then?" Vaughson asks.

"Well, that's what I don't know. We need to ask Modnar. He has asked me to retrieve something from his corpse, so here I am," Zelada replies.

The three of us bend down and pick up Ryshua. While we're lifting him, Zelada removes his hooded coat, kisses me on the lips, and then heads back into the Soraki forest. I wonder what the significance of that coat is. Suppose once Modnar comes around, we can ask. Nothing ventured; nothing gained.

Hours pass, Vaughson and I have managed to carry Ryshua into the Village. As expected, we receive a similar response to that of dragging the battered Modnar through here a few hours ago.

Once arriving at Vaughson's hut, we wait patiently outside for Modnar and Zelada. After carefully leaning Ryshua against a wall, we both lie down on the ground, staring at the rocky roof that covers the entire village.

"Do you know what I'd LOVE more than anything right now? It calms me down in situations like this," Vaughson says, placing his arms behind his head.

"No, do tell."

"I'd love to have some Juivita. Just calms the mood, you know?" Vaughson explains, briefly glancing my direction.

"Definitely. I indulge in Flork a little more than the old Juivita, but even I have to agree with you, it would ease the pain."

"I've been dabbling with something new lately."

"Oh yeah, what was that?"

"I've begun snorting the insides of Goy's."

"Really?"

"It's great, I promise you. It actually gives me advanced battle instincts, making me more proficient in combat."

"Wow, I've actually heard tales about that. If it helps you in combat, then definitely continue using it further."

"Yeah, I plan to. I'm already confident in battle, but if I had taken some for today's confrontation in the Catherial volcano, I would have been twice as useful," Vaughson says, sounding disappointed.

"I can't argue whether you'd be better or not, but I did feel safe with you both, just as you were with us. Do you have any family?"

"Parents are dead, and I have no love in my life - I do have a brother, but we don't talk," Vaughson replies, staring at the cavern roof.

"You have a brother? What's his name?" I ask, turning my head his direction.

"His name is Zekai. He's the leader of the Village of Noradi and our two villages have been enemies for quite some time now - To be fair, I don't think that'll ever change."

"That's sad to hear, Vaughson. I'd do anything to have my mother and father back, and if I had a brother or sister, I'd want to have them around. But such as life, I find. Each to their own, each person solely responsible for their own destiny. You do what you have to, friend," I say, offering my left hand to shake his.

"I'll happily shake to that, sorry what was your name again?" Vaughson replies, shaking my hand.

"Jacamatax."

"Well Jacamatax, I liked the part where you said that a person is in charge of their own destiny. That is EXACTLY how I feel. The conflict between my brother and me, is our problem to sort out. People usually stampede into my village and start rattling off orders to me, but I just don't listen. I'm glad we see eye to eye on that."

Moments later, Vaughson's door opens and Modnar carefully limps down the stairs towards us, relying on his staff to keep him up (Zelada follows closely behind). I quickly jump to my feet and hold my hand out to lift Vaughson, before diverting my attention back towards Modnar. He's wearing the hooded coat that Ryshua was previously wearing.

"MODNAR! Are you all right?" I ask, hugging him.

"Yeah, still alive - can't kill me that easily," Modnar replies.

"Hey you," I say, as I lean in and hug Zelada.

"Heeeeyyy.. (She stops to kiss me) You too," Zelada replies.

"You really saved his life," I say, putting my left arm around her.

"Oh, we're about even. He has saved my life so many times that I've lost count. He's beyond a tutor to me - he's like my best friend."

"It's nice to hear that you can make friends like that, as it is rare to see."

"It is rare to find friends like us," Voltanna says, walking towards me, while her hair changes colour to a light peach.

"Voltanna, what has happened to your hair?" I ask.

"I was going to ask the same thing," Vaughson adds.

"It changes colour with the mood I'm in," Voltanna replies, placing the pipe in Nevijah's mouth.

At the moment, it reminds me of a sunset, with the strips of white moving through it resembling clouds. It's fantastic to look at.

"Your hair is so trippy, man," Nevijah says, lighting his pipe.

"Amazing and unexplainable at the same time," Zelada replies.

"Where's Butch, man," Nevijah asks, inhaling on his pipe.

Zelada smiles, then glances at her right shoulder and Butch comes flying out of her seal - he spirals through the air, landing right next to Nevijah.

"HEY, MAN!" Nevijah yells, enthusiastically.

"Nevijah, the last few hours of my life have been empty without you around to relax with," Butch replies.

I'm currently quite confused. Until ten seconds ago, I was under the impression, from what Zelada told me, that Butch had been left in the Catherial Volcano to guard the Arter gem of Fire. What is going on?

"What's with the puzzled look, Jacamatax?" Modnar asks.

"I have no idea what's going on."

"What don't you understand?"

"Well, I was sure Zelada just dropped Butch off to watch the Arter gem of Fire, yet here he is?"

"It's really quite hard to explain."

"Try me."

"Some things just aren't worth investigating, or not worth worrying about. Your question sits comfortably between the two."

"Fair enough Modnar. Now let's pretend I actually have some intelligence and would like to understand what's going on," I say, cheekily.

"Haha fine, I'll try explain it the best that I can. You see, Butch has no point of origin. No place of birth or creation. He is living in an infinite loop of time, attached to it for eternity."

"Hehe... Guess you were right; you tried to explain it the best you could.... Well, I still don't really understand.... But, I do feel sorry for him."

"Why do you say that?"

"Being bound to an infinite loop of time for eternity would be rough."

"Well, if you think about it, how can it be? If he is alive for eternity, then the way he measures his time is different to us. When you have no point of origin, then you weren't given an inevitable point of death, to mirror your entry into life. When the rules of time don't apply, you can never question why."

"That's an interesting point of view. Thank you for explaining it to me."

"Not a problem, my boy," Modnar says.

I approach Zelada and place my hands around her stomach. She's smoking Juivita with Voltanna, Nevijah and Butch. They're all in another frame of mind, talking and laughing about irrelevant subjects, which is nice for a change. Then, while carefully observing them, I notice Butch nod at her. She looks back at me, then leans in towards my face.

"Butch has something he wants to tell us," Zelada whispers in my ear, before kissing me on the lips.

"I have something to show you both. It might be an idea to bring Modnar as well. We'll meet outside the western exit to the Village in the morning. Let's go and enjoy this great feast," Butch explains.

"I wonder what it's all about?" I ask.

"Suppose we'll find out in the morning. Let's go see what big ugly bird tastes like," Zelada jokes.

I begin chuckling, then click on to something. The longer I'm around Zelada and Modnar, the more I'm getting lost in their world and the predicaments they live in. Hopefully one day, I'll remain equally as comfortable.

### XVI - The Equilibrium Between the Past, Present and Future...

To be totally honest, Vulcalt tastes pretty good. Nice and tender, not too chewy and definitely filling. Voltanna and her group of helpers did a good job, gathering enough meat to feed us a few times over. Extras for everyone and there's enough left over meat for a possible breakfast.

We're all seated around a large camp fire, exchanging stories and having a smoke on Nevijah's pipe. Pretty much everyone present is in some sort of state of ecstasy, laughing and enjoying the feeling of being well feed.

Anyway, as usual I have my arm around Zelada, having the urge to lean over and kiss her on the cheek.

"What was that for?" Zelada asks, grinning.

"Just showing you how special you are to me. I love you, Zelada," I reply, kissing her on the lips.

"Awwww, I love you too, Jacamatax," Zelada says, leaning against my chest.

We both lay in silence, listening to everyone in their merry state, hoping that I'm able to doze off with all this noise...

"Zelada?" I say, awakening from my slumber.

I frantically glance around the mass of sleeping serpents - Nevijah and Voltanna are passed out amongst them; Zelada, Modnar and Butch are missing. I know that I will have to hurry to the western exit, to catch them before they leave.

Once I make it outside, I see the Volcano in the distance, and glancing ahead I can see Zelada, Butch and Modnar standing around in a circle, chatting about something.

"Thinking about leaving without me?" I say, startling them.

"Hey you! (Zelada leans in and kisses me) We wouldn't leave you behind, we're just up a little bit earlier so we've been gasbagging," Zelada replies, putting her arm around me.

"Huh?"

"It means chatting, talking, engaging in conversation."

"All right, all right, I get the idea, haha. So Butch, where are we heading?" I ask.

"Hop aboard so I can show you. It's really hard to explain," Butch replies, as we all clamber onto his back.

"Why can't we bring Voltanna and Nevijah?"

"Well.... Because they've never come every other time."

I really don't understand his response, but I guess that's how cryptic he has always been.

Butch launches into the air and travels in a Southwest direction - we begin crossing the Parmyr Ocean. We all remain quiet for quite some time, until Modnar has a question or two for Butch.

"Butch, where are we heading?" Modnar asks.

"You'll see, Modnar, be patient," Butch replies.

"But there are no islands or anything out here. This is uncharted territory?"

"How sure are you, Modnar?"

"Well, judging by the tone in your voice, maybe not so much. I don't know what to expect," Modnar says, looking around in confusion.

I too look around but there's only ocean in all directions, and nothing to even call suspicious or strange. It makes me wonder where Butch is taking us.

"We any closer yet, boooyyy?" Zelada asks, scratching his neck.

"Aaahhhhh... Nearly, but not quite," Butch replies.

"Wait, what's that!" I yell, pointing ahead at a bizarre sight.

"That's it everybody. We are closing in on our destination," Butch replies, picking up velocity.

As Butch descends, I can honestly say that we're all in disbelief of what's in front of us. There's a floating piece of land, that's suspended at sea level. The ocean around it, is funnelling down like a tornado of water is underneath the platform; and this isn't even the weirdest part. Small, random pieces of land debris are floating around the edge of the island, held in the air by active pink lightning. There are also two suspended pink lightning bolts, side by side in the center of the floating piece of land. It's literally the strangest thing I've ever seen in my whole life. Now to make sure we land safely.

"It can't be...." Zelada says.

"It is, my girl," Modnar replies.

"Mu was right all along."

"Who was?" I ask.

"Sorry hun, it'll take too long to explain.... Shit Butch, easy does it!" Zelada says, as we swoop rapidly in between moving chunks of debris and lightning.

"It's all right, I've done this quite a few times! Grab on!" Butch yells back, before we barrel roll through two twitching bolts of lightning.

"BUTCH!!!!" Zelada yells.

Butch straightens up then dives over the top of some more debris.

I look back at Modnar and he seems really calm.

"Aren't you scared?" I ask.

"It's not our destiny to die today," Modnar calmly replies.

"Almost there," Butch says, swirling past a few more lightning bolts.

"Watch.... OUT!" I yell.

"BUTCH!" Zelada yells, seconds before we duck under the piece of debris, and land on the floating island.

"WOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Butch yells.

I jump off him, then hug and kiss the ground.

"Aaaahhh safety," I say, rolling over onto my back.

I would normally tend to the wellbeing of my love, but for this moment in time, I'm curious to get a closer look at these pink lightning bolts. Zelada created one of these inside Catherial Volcano, so it makes me wonder who is responsible for these ones. Maybe now I can have some of my curiosity squashed.

I carefully approach the left, suspended, pink bolt of lightning and have a peek inside.

"I can see a really old guy, with thick long grey hair. He's peeking through this one over here," I say, dipping my hand inside it.

I glance at the section of my left arm that has entered the pink lightning bolt; my skin is very old, with grey hair and veins everywhere.

"Ummmmm... What.... Is... Happening?" I say, studying my arm further.

"JACAMATAX! (Zelada pulls my arm out) What were you thinking?" She panics.

"Sorry beautiful, just curious what the lightning bolts are and who the old man is, trapped within."

"Wait...what?" Zelada replies, kissing me on the cheek.

"Go have a look," I say, signalling to her.

I watch Zelada approach the left lightning bolt and peek inside.

"Modnar, head over to the other pink bolt of lightning!" I yell.

Modnar takes a brief glimpse, seeming shocked by what he sees.

"Zelada, stay where you are. Jacamatax, come here," Modnar instructs.

I quickly rush over to Modnar. I see an elderly lady, probably Modnar's age. She's sticking her hand through the pink lightning bolt. The section of her hand that we can touch, appears to be much younger than the rest of her.

"Umm, Modnar come here.. Freaking out a little bit... I kept quiet... Until now!" Zelada says.

"Stay here, my boy," Modnar replies, running towards her.

"It's a really old man, with grey dreadlocks, trying to grab my hand!" Zelada says.

I stretch a little further, and gently touch the old woman's hand; she pulls away quickly, retracted her hand from within the lightning bolt.

"Modnar, he touched me?!" Zelada yells.

"I just touched the old ladies hand!" I yell back.

"YOU WHAT?!" Zelada yells.

"Zelada, stick your tongue out. Yell 'now' before you do it," I yell.

The instant Zelada yells 'now', I see the old lady mimic the same word, then stick her tongue out. Well it's now easy to establish, that the old lady is Zelada.

"You stick YOUR hand through and shake mine," Zelada yells back.

I do just as I'm instructed, and feel the old lady shake my hand. I'm taking a wild stab in the dark, that the old man she's seeing, is me.

"Modnar, we've established that the two old people are us, so what is it that our elderly counterparts are stuck within?" I ask, walking towards them.

"This is what we call a rip in the fabric of time, or to be exact; two rips in the fabric of time. This debris and land we are standing on, must have come from somewhere; the question is from where."

"So they're stuck in time?"

"Kind of. You see, that area in there IS the space time continuum. In your lifetime, you aren't meant to see between it, merely exist outside of it. The area in between the fabric of time has no beginning, middle or end, no point of origin, no sound, no time, nothing."

"Then why are there older versions of ourselves in-between there, and how are we able to interact with each other?"

"Because, there is no way of measuring time in there. However I have no explanation as to why you can interact with yourself and not cause a bigger tear in the space time continuum."

"Could we pass through them?"

"No, you and I can't, as it's merely an infinite loop of time - only a select few can access these tears."

"Manix," Zelada chimes in.

"Correct, my girl."

"So how did it get here?"

Zelada raises her eyebrows and looks at Modnar, but he folds his arms and looks away.

"I... Really don't know who could be responsible," Zelada says, seeming suspicious.

"There are so many unexplainable events that have happened over the course of time - anyone could be responsible," Modnar replies.

"That is the most plausible explanation."

"One of many."

"Did you know that this was where Butch was taking us?"

"Not at all. A very odd circumstance indeed."

"Mu was right, every event really is inevitable."

I'm quite lost as to what they're talking about, but I want to jump in and ask something.

"Sorry to interrupt you two, but I have a question. How come you're not visible in-between the fabric of time like Zelada and I?" I ask.

"Well, that's a little hard to explain," Modnar replies, walking away from us.

"Try us," I reply, as Zelada and I follow him, holding hands.

"Hmmmm. How do I explain this....? My home planet of Mastodine, is strangely located, in-between the fabric of time. I can't answer why I'm not visible there, but it makes it easier to explain how I can manipulate time," Modnar explains.

"So you're saying that you and Ryshua are from a planet that sits in the middle of the space time continuum? How do you even get back there?" I ask.

"We don't. Ryshua obviously didn't realise that upon leaving, you can't return."

"Wait, hold on just a minute my old friend, this is making very little sense," Zelada adds.

"Finally, I'm not alone," I say, cheekily.

"I gathered you both wouldn't understand," Modnar says, in a similar manner.

"No, you aren't comprehending what I'm querying. What you said is fine. Once I popped the information in my head, I discovered a small flaw," Zelada replies.

"Oh yeah, what would that be?"

"Ryshua clearly said to me that he thought that I released him from prison. Now you and I both know that I didn't."

"Yes.... But how is this relevant?"

"Oh Modnar, it's very relevant.. In your opinion, this event could be something forthcoming that is yet to unfold.. Correct?"

"Hmmmm.... Possibly, where are you going with this?" Modnar asks, folding his arms.

"Well... If you're saying you can't return to the planet 'Mastodine', then how did I get there?" Zelada replies, raising her eyebrows.

Modnar looks stumped. He walks to the edge of the floating island and sits down, with his legs dangling over the edge. Zelada winks at me, then the two of us walk over and sit either side of him.

"So.... Why the puzzled look?" Zelada asks, cheekily.

"You just got me thinking.... The coat that I'm wearing has no point of origin.... If I remember correctly," Modnar replies, staring blankly at the ocean.

"Wait a minute, Modnar... Another paradox, like Butch?" Zelada asks, sounding worried.

"Maybe, my girl... Maybe. I remember back to my MUCH younger days, I received this hooded coat on my home planet, from an old man - who took it off right in front of me. This old man instructed me to give it to Ryshua as soon as I saw him next. He said that one day I'd understand why. Maybe now... I finally do."

"And when does this event take place?" I ask.

"Well yeah, not really one hundred percent sure... Sometime between now and the time it takes place," Modnar jokes.

The three of us briefly exchange a glance, then begin laughing. Even in a situation as important and time dependant as this; we can thankfully still see a funny side.

Once the laughing subsides, I begin firing questions at Modnar. All these outside events have made us lose track of the original plan - it's time we jump back on track.

"So Modnar, where to next?" I ask, smiling his direction.

"Can I cut in and make a suggestion?" Zelada chimes in.

"Sure, but what else on Tharp could you possibly need to do?" Modnar replies.

"I need to drop by the Goblin lair."

"Why?"

"Let's just say it's a date with destiny."

"Can I tag along?" I ask.

Zelada pulls out a gold object from her left pocket, and holds it in her palm. The sun glistens off it, shining in my eyes.

"Of course you can. Who knows, I may just need your help."

The three of us hop on Butch's back and carefully navigate away from the island. I have no real idea what's going on, but I guess that soon I'm going to find out.

### XVII - Under False Pretence

We fly east over the Parmyr Ocean, and while crossing, she begins describing the seal on the top of her right forearm in great detail. She explains that it's an ancient creature called a Leviathan, and that it lives in this very ocean. This strikes me as odd because I haven't heard of it before.

"What did you say this Leviathan is called?" I ask.

"It's named the Parmyr Colossus."

"Yeah, I can't say that I've heard of such a thing. I'm sure just by the size that it would be known throughout all of Tharp."

"No one would know of it," Butch chimes in.

"Why?" we all ask.

"Because it doesn't exist yet."

"How do you know that?" Zelada asks.

"Would you trust the wisdom of a being who has lived infinitely?"

"Suppose you have a point. So how does it get here?"

"How do I get here?"

Zelada remains quiet for a few brief moments, before glancing down at the seal on her right forearm.

"Really?"

"Trust me, just do it. I'll ascend higher, then let him loose."

Butch climbs in altitude, then Zelada clenches her right fist and points it down towards the ocean. Water shoots out, then a large creature leaps off the top of her forearm. It looks like a gigantic fish, and is two different colours. The bottom half is white - including under its fins; the remainder is a very dark blue. It has a large hole on the top of its head, and red hair running halfway down its back, and underneath its mouth.

The Parmyr colossus lands in the ocean, causing tidal waves in every direction. Zelada instructs Butch to descend to sea level, and once the Leviathan surfaces, we hover next to it, and Zelada rubs its skin.

"I'm going to miss you, my old friend. Please guard these waters, and one day the Chosen one will come; that is when your job begins, to protect her from the forces of evil."

Water shoots out of the top of its head, before the Leviathan submerges down into the ocean. Butch takes flight again, towards our destination.

"You all right, beautiful?" I ask, rubbing her back.

"Yeah, I'm fine. This quest just becomes more twisted as every day passes," Zelada replies.

"You'll be right, my girl. You still haven't really revealed many details of why we're heading out this way," Modnar says.

"Before I do a thing, I need a drink of Flork. Nothing like a little Irish courage to make a difficult task much easier."

"What does that even mean?" I ask.

"I'm with him on that one," Modnar says.

Zelada begins chuckling. I'm not even going to ask, because if it's cheering her up, then it's fine by me.

While flying, we pass the underwater City of Zonek. Zelada talks about her last visit there, and I explain how I was practically raised by Lord Xeria Guytz. I also go into detail about my parent's disappearance. Something about my story makes her fire questions at me.

"Wait, an old woman helped you?"

"Yes, why?"

"Was the right side of her face burnt?"

"Yeah, how did you know that?"

"Shit."

"What?"

"And you say that she helped you?"

"Yes, but you seem as sceptical as the masked warrior."

"She.... She was an old friend of mine, who recently vanished without a trace. I.... I just found it hard to completely trust her."

"Well, I was so young, and she had seen my parents. What was I meant to do?"

"Yeah fair enough... I didn't meant to snap. It's just..... Never mind."

"No, tell me."

"Do tell, my girl," Modnar adds.

"I just don't know if her actions are pure or evil. She seems to sit right on the line - So even I'm a little bit sceptical of her."

"When did you last see her?" I ask.

"Shit, only about a week ago."

"Really?"

"Yeah, but then she just vanished without a trace. Didn't even offer any advice or guidance. To think a little while before that event, she practically murdered someone innocent, right in front of me."

"Hmm."

"What?"

"That just doesn't seem like we're talking about the same old lady."

"How many old women do you know that wear a black hooded robe, and have half their face burnt."

"I suppose you have a point."

"Anyway, let's talk about this later. We'll be touching down soon, and I have rumours to spread."

I see land in the distance. A large cliff with a port town at the base, and a dense forest at the top. There are two wharfs side by side, a wooden lighthouse near them, and the remainder of the buildings appear to all be wooden as well. As we pull closer to the lighthouse, I notice a dragon carved across the side - it has the end of a morning star on the tip of its tail.

The building closest to the right pier has smoke coming out of the chimney. At least there could be residents inside, because the rest of the town appears empty; nobody in sight.

"The port town of Gustar everybody. Hold on, we're heading down now," Zelada says, as we descend towards the piers.

We land on the beach, then Zelada clicks her fingers, and Butch launches into the air.

"Let's head to the pub. You have some Ralop, right babe?" Zelada asks.

"Yes hunny," Modnar jokes.

"Not you Modnar."

"Yes I do beautiful. My treat this time."

We open the door and enter the only building with smoke coming out of the chimney. It appears to be a pub. The bar is in the back corner, and there's only a few tables occupying the limited space; each one is already full of patrons. Several humans are seated at each one, but the table in the opposite corner to the bar has five Goblins present. They're all quite short, with crimson coloured skin and brown eyes. They're wearing little brown boots and gloves, and are all quite skinny - barring their stomach, which are round. Their noses are short and fat, and the cloth hats they're wearing make me assume they're friendly. Let's hope I'm right.

"I'll head to the bar, beautiful," I say.

The bartender appears human, but the top of his head resembles a stone. He has wispy brown hair going around the sides, and is wearing a long brown coat, and brown pants.

"What can I get 'cha, traveller. Name's Gus," he says, shaking my hand.

"Hi there, I'm Jacamatax. My friends and I would like a round of Flork, please."

"Not a problem. Just to let you know, we charge a little more for our drinks, as it's hard to get deliveries where we are."

"It's about to get more difficult too," Zelada chimes in.

"Why's that..... Miss?" Gus replies.

"I'm an ancient Prophet, travelling long distances to spread news, good or bad."

"Oh.... And what news do you bring to our small port town?"

"Have you heard about the Parmyr colossus?"

"No, what is that?"

"As the name suggests, it lives in the Parmyr Ocean. It's a huge Leviathan, capable of swallowing ships whole."

"Oh my.... Where did it come from?"

"No one knows, not even me. But tred the ocean with caution."

"I will let my supply ship know when they arrive. That'll be nine Ralop, Jacamatax."

I pay Gus, take the bottles from off the bar top, and walk towards Modnar - who's seated at the table with the Goblins.

"As easy as that. Thanks love," Zelada whispers, taking a drink from my hands.

"Why did you lie?" I whisper back.

"Just easier that way. Protects me and the Leviathan. It needs to live there until the Chosen one arrives. If I put fear into the heads of everybody, then they'll leave it alone, rather than spend all their time hunting it."

"Not going to question your logic, beautiful."

We arrive at the table with the Goblins, and take a seat. Our corner of the pub is easily the rowdiest in the room. Modnar is busy telling a chapter out of his and Zelada's story, and she can't help jumping in, giving her animated view on a particular part. Once they finish, the goblins begin asking questions.

"So, who are you?"

"I'm an ancient Prophet, and I wish to speak with Campog."

"How do you know about our prince?"

"Hmmmm... Why wouldn't I?"

"He has never left our lair, and we never speak of him."

"As I mentioned before, I am a Prophet, who can see the future. I also have a special gift to give him, and we have travelled very far to deliver it."

The Goblins begin murmuring amongst themselves, and eventually one of them speaks.

"We would be honoured to bring you to our lair."

"Great. We'll meet you outside in a few minutes," Zelada says, finishing her drink, vacating her seat, then leaving the pub.

"Modnar, are we following her?" I ask.

"Sure are," Modnar replies, placing his empty vessel on the table and leaving the pub as well.

"See you soon," I say, following him outside.

I look left and see Zelada seated on the left pier, dangling her feet off the edge. We walk up and sit either side of her.

"Modnar, can you please do me a favour," Zelada asks.

"Sure thing, prophet," Modnar replies cheekily, as Butch launches out of her seal, landing behind us.

"Can you please fly back to the Village of Soraki, pick up the others and bring them to this pub?"

"Sure, but don't you want protection entering their lair?"

"No, I'm sure we'll be fine," Zelada says, smiling my direction.

"Would you like me to bring Vaughson, too?"

"Yeah, why not."

"Best of luck, my girl," Modnar says, hoping onto Butch's back.

"Cheers, old fella," Zelada replies, before they leap into the air.

"Will we need his help?" I ask.

"Na, we'll be sweet. I'm not worried."

"That's a sigh of relief. Here comes company," I reply.

The Goblins walk up to us, and one of them speaks.

"Would you like us to escort you to our leader?"

"Yes please, that would be great," Zelada replies.

The two of us stand and follow our short friends to the base of the cliff. There are rock steps going up the side, leading to the dense forest at the top. When we don't head that way, I begin wondering where we're going.

They start rubbing against the cliff, and a small section crumbles, close to the ground.

"Time to crawl," Zelada says.

"Really?"

"No other way."

She bends down, and crawls through the space, followed by the goblins. Not too keen on small spaces, but I'd do anything for her, even if I do suspect trouble.

XVIII - Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts...

We've been crawling for what feels like forever. Zelada is illuminating the passage with a flame from her finger; but at the back it's dim at best. I can feel drops of water running through my hair, and landing on my back; having no shirt has some disadvantages.

Once the tunnel opens up, I'm able to stand, stretch, and marvel at this unique room.

"Welcome to the Countesi Forest. We must pass through here to get to our lair," a Goblin comments.

We're standing in a very large cavern. There is a forest growing above us, and the canopy is shrouding the way forward. I see the roots of the trees, growing into the cavern roof.

There are some Bizgull's flying around. They're a medium sized bird, have yellow feathers, and a large beak; easily consuming a goblin in one gulp. Each feather on them is so bright that they're dimly illuminating the cavern above. Growing on the ground are Torreb bushes, bearing their small white fruit. I wonder if we can eat these. I'm quite hungry.

"Can I have some of these, please?" I ask, reaching for the white fruit.

"I wouldn't recommend that," Zelada chimes in.

"Why not?"

"Humans won't die from eating Torreb berries, but you will become terribly sick," a goblin explains.

"Shit, I just realised something," Zelada says.

"What?"

"The Physaurus roams around this forest."

"What?" The Goblins reply.

"You know, the Physaurus."

The Goblins look quite puzzled. I don't think they understand what Zelada is talking about, but to be fair, neither do I.

"Hey beautiful, what do you mean?" I ask.

"You guys don't know about the Physaurus?"

"No," we all say.

"So there's nothing stalking the forest, waiting for its dinner?"

"No," the Goblins say.

"Oh well, lead the way through."

Zelada seems quite sure there's something living in here. I draw my weapon, just in case.

After several minutes of following the Goblins, it seems all we need our weapons for is chopping branches out of the way. Twigs keep poking me in the eye, and it appears Zelada is equally as annoyed. She's hacking away at branches with her blade, leaving little time to converse with our escorts. After further chopping and progressing, we can eventually see the back wall. Zelada is the first to comment.

"Where's the huge hole?"

"What hole?" a Goblin replies.

"Come on, don't play daft. There's usually a massive hole here... And you have to swing across."

The Goblins shake their heads, not following what she's saying.

"Not ringing any bells?" Zelada asks.

They continue to shake their heads.

Zelada looks at me, and her eyebrows raise.

"What's wrong, beautiful?"

"Forget it, let's head inside."

I don't know what she's going through, but I hope she knows she can talk to me about anything - I'll always be here for her.

Once we reach the back wall, there is a bell, and a pair of large, arching stone doors; the right one is open.

"Just through here, not long now," a Goblin says, leading the way.

We walk through a narrow corridor, and there are burning torches in steel holders, on either side going all the way into the distance. Once at the exit, we're now present in another huge cavern.

A canopy of red leaves are ahead of us, like a sea of life, shrouding the Goblin lair. In the back right corner - slightly higher than the trees, is a large stone door, and some steps leading down, disappearing into the leaves. To the left of the door is the top of a wooden house, which disappears through the canopy; the roof is the top of a gigantic tree, and the trunk passes through the center of the entire house.

I look down, and see that we're standing on a platform, much like the one in Neca city - but this has a rope ladder attached to it. The Goblins disappear down it pretty quickly, leaving us up here alone.

"Ladies first," I say.

"Not this time, hun. I need to take my time."

"I'll see you down there," I say, descending the ladder.

Upon reaching the bottom, I marvel at the Lair of the Goblins. It's far more fascinating than I anticipated. Torreb bushes are scattered along the ground, then trees fill in the gaps; small wooden houses are built within the trees, each one different to the next. Vines are wrapped around certain branches to allow the Goblins quicker mobility around the lair. The larger house is at the back of the lair - the one we saw from above the canopy - from what I can tell, there are at least eight floors. I assume we'll find the Goblin King in there - or this prince Zelada speaks of.

"Here is the Goblin lair. Welcome. When the prophet arrives, keep her company. I'll let the king know you're here," a Goblin says, before they all walk ahead.

I look up the rope ladder and see Zelada descending. I'd be lying if I said that I'm not a little worried.

"Let's head for the biggest house. I'm sure someone of importance will be there," Zelada says, walking ahead.

"Aren't we in a little over our heads?" I ask.

Zelada stops, then leers over her shoulders.

"Sorry my love. You signed up to ride on this Phoenix, so you must support whatever decisions I have to make. Much of what we do is over our heads; but we do it anyway," Zelada says, storming towards the largest dwelling.

"I get it," I mutter to myself, reluctantly following her.

We both get stopped at the base of the main tree. I see a slightly larger goblin approaching us. He has a silver crown, embedded with rare jewels, and is holding a golden staff. He's wearing a pair of pants made of yellow feathers from a Bizgull. He doesn't seem very fit, but is still a formidable size. I'm assuming he must be the king.

"Welcome prophet, I am King Punrid, father of Prince Campog," he says, as another taller Goblin emerges.

He's wearing white pants, made from white fur, and has a muscly physique. He's wearing a much smaller crown; I'm guessing he's the prince.

"Prince Campog," King Punrid says.

"Nice to meet you both," Campog adds, shaking our hands.

"The honour is ours. We have a gift for you, Campog. Can we please leave it in your vault?"

"Vault?" King Punrid says, sounding confused.

Campog shrugs his shoulders, and Zelada grabs my wrist.

"Let me show you," she says, leading everyone towards the back wall.

We arrive at the base of a spiralling stone stairway. Zelada pulls me up the steps, both of us jogging. Emerging above the canopy, we see the huge stone door. I'm glad it's on a swivel, or we would have a little bit of trouble. In saying that, we push as hard as we can, but we're still struggling.

Zelada signals me to move out of the way, and she kicks the door with her right boot; it flies open and almost detaches, slamming into the wall.

"That's.... Not.... Really what I expected," she says, walking through the opening.

I don't know what she did expect, but it's beautiful to say the least. A large open grass area, with overhanging trees to offer shelter from the sun. The wildlife flying around gives this spot absolute serenity.

"This makes no sense.... Wait... This makes perfect sense!"

"What?" I ask.

"Your power.... It can only work when the sun or moon touches your seal, right?"

"Yes, why?"

"You're going to help me create Campog's wealth."

"What would you like me to do?"

"Catch," Zelada says, throwing me a golden object.

"What is it?"

"A one dollar coin, from my planet. Please, cover this entire area with money. I'll be back to check on you soon," Zelada says, heading downstairs.

I spend a long time multiplying this gold coin for Zelada. There must be millions of them here. I swim through it like water, before stumbling out and sliding down the coin hill. I look up and see Kind Punrid, Prince Campog and Zelada standing there. Campog places his crown down, then dives into the coins.

"Thank you Prophet.... Why do you shower me with such lovely gifts?" Campog says, surfacing from beneath the coins.

"Because you have an important role in the fate of this planet. We're all just small pieces in a much bigger game, the task is finding out what role fits who," Zelada replies.

"And what would you like us to do?"

"Please instruct some Goblins to escort my friend back to the Port town of Gustar, while we conduct business. Make sure you send a few females too, I want some to socialise with later."

"Beautiful? What are you doing?" I ask.

"See you soon, babe. Keep safe," Zelada says, as several Goblins lead me down the steps.

I don't know what she's up to, but I hope she'll be careful...

**THE PROPHET**

I bend down and grab a few handfuls of gold. I've just recalled that I'll need this for later.

"Help yourself, there's enough of it there," King Punrid says.

"Trust me, this is all I need."

"So Prophet, why do we have the pleasure of all this gold?"

"Because it was always meant to be yours. All you have to do is exactly what I say."

"Indeed," Campog says.

"We will start all this later. Can I please request something?"

"Anything, prophet."

"Can I please visit your highest room in the lair? I need to have a moment to think."

"Not a problem at all. Please, follow me," Campog says, leading me downstairs.

**JACAMATAX**

We're now passing through the Countesi forest, and I spark up some conversation.

"They better not hurt her!" I threaten.

"We don't mean any harm to her. She just wishes to negotiate with my master," a Goblin says.

"It better be that innocent."

"We Goblins have never hurt a soul, as we're a very passive race."

"That better be true, for your sake. I don't take lightly to liars."

"You have my word."

I just don't know why Zelada is acting this way. If it's something she must keep to herself, I understand. But I really thought she trusted me...

**THE PROPHET**

I'm standing in the highest room available within the Goblin's lair. All I can see out my wooden hollow of a window is a sea of red leaves; the lack of wind flow, makes them all deadly still. In the room is a wooden bed, covered with a blanket made of feathers - and a small wooden desk is next to it. Hanging above the bed is a wooden ornament - the individual parts on it jingle as I flick it.

I feel a tap on my back, so after turning, I see Campog present.

"How do you like your room?" he asks.

"Actually, it's perfect."

"Would you like anything else? A drink perhaps, Prophet?"

"Something else has just come to my attention."

"Oh, what was that?"

"Where are all your weapons?"

"Goblins aren't armed. We're hidden away from the rest of Tharp, only surfacing to have a Flork or two at Gustar pub. We have no reason to harm anyone."

"Guess that's gonna change," I mutter.

"Sorry Prophet, I didn't catch that."

"Oh it's nothing. Are you able to send the King?"

"Sure thing, at your request. I didn't thank you for all the foreign gold."

"It's my pleasure. You will need to earn it though, or it will be tainted."

"Of course, Prophet - as you wish. I'll fetch my father for you," Campog says, descending the rope ladder in my room.

Damn it. I can't believe they're all unarmed, and that they're all so nice - even Campog. This is going to make this, much harder to do. What if I can't go through with it? What if I fail my own destiny? I can't really think at this moment, so best that I just soak in the view.

### XIX - Smoke and Mirrors

**JACAMATAX**

After much travelling, I arrive at Gustar pub and see my friends there, seated with some Goblins. Voltanna and Nevijah are sharing the pipe, while Modnar and Vaughson have several bottles of Flork in front of them.

"Here he is. Come here," Vaughson yells, waving me over.

"Hey Jacamatax, where's the Prophet?" Modnar asks.

"Yeah.... Where is she, man?" Nevijah asks, before toking on his pipe.

"She's still in the Goblin lair. She sent me here, said she wants to do business with the King."

"Hmmm... That's very unlike her. I might go check on her," Modnar replies, standing.

"I wouldn't bother. She loves me, yet still sent me away - so she clearly wants to do this alone," I say, before Modnar takes his seat.

"Indeed. Oh well, sit down and enjoy a cold Flork. I'm sure she'll be here in no time."

"Me too," I reply, taking a seat...

**THE PROPHET**

"What can I do for you, our illustrious prophet?" King Punrid asks.

"Is nobody armed in your entire lair?"

"This is correct, prophet. Why do you ask?"

"You should maybe change that. You never know when an attack could happen."

"But we've been here for thousands of years. Why would anyone want to harm such an innocent race?"

"I'm just saying, Punrid. This sort of thing can happen at any time."

"Fine.... I will consider your request, oh great prophet. We have prepared a banquet for you downstairs if you'd like to attend."

"That.... Would.... Be.... Wonderful. I'll be down in a moment."

I feel like a terrible person. What I have to do to them is horrifying, yet I'm still going to eat their food. I hope one day, if there is an afterlife, that I get a fair chance to explain my sins.

Once I arrive downstairs, I see everybody sitting cross-legged on both sides of a long mat, which has been rolled out. There are plates of different food the entire way down; it all smells divine. King Punrid is sitting at the closet end of the mat, with a space free to the right of him; Campog is on his left.

"Please prophet, take a seat. This feast is in your honour," King Punrid says, signalling me to sit.

"Thank you, this is very unexpected."

"We insist on putting on this great feast. It's the least we can do for your generosity."

"Again, thank you for this. I really don't deserve it."

"Nonsense, Prophet. You have showered us with good fortune, and this really is the least we could do for you."

I look around at my present company and they all begin standing and clapping - including the King and his son. This ovation makes me feel slightly uncomfortable, as I know I'm soon to throw a spanner in the works.

We eat dinner and converse for the better part of forty five minutes. I don't eat a lot, I just don't find it in me.

"Are you not hungry, great Prophet?" King Punrid asks.

"I.... I just don't.... My appetite isn't there at the moment."

"That's not good to hear... Would you like us to put some away for you?"

"No... No thank you, that's not necessary. Please excuse me."

I leave dinner and head up to my room, leaning on the windowsill and gazing at the red canopy. I can't believe I'm about to do what I have to do, and I wish there was some other way.

"Quite out of character for you, I might add," a familiar voice says from behind me.

"What makes you.....? Mahuika?" I reply, turning around.

Standing before me is an older woman; she looks in her mid to late seventies and has flowing white hair, down to her shoulders. The entire right side of her face is badly burnt - she's wearing a long sleeved black robe, black gloves and boots. Something moves from underneath her right sleeve, eventually a crow emerges and sits perched on her hand. Glad she's here, maybe she'll offer some advice on my situation.

"I'm not going to lie, it's actually good to see you but that crow is kind of creepy."

"Haha you're going to have to get used to it.... Prophet," she replies, cheekily.

She makes me chuckle, then I clear my throat and speak.

"Why did you leave?"

"Leave where."

"Come on, don't act daft. The Pa, on the summit in West Auckland."

"I had things I needed to do - coming here to visit you was one of them."

"I needed your help. You left Modnar and me in the dark."

"I know, and for that I'm sorry," Mahuika says as the crow squawks, giving me a fright.

"Can you send that bloody crow away, its distracting me?"

Mahuika shakes her right hand and the crow flies out the window.

"Happy now?"

"Yes so anyway, let's cut the bullshit - why are you here?"

"To give you the confidence to complete your task."

"How could you possibly know what I'm about to do?"

"You're asking me that question, even after I'm graced by your presence?"

I don't know how she knows exactly what I'm thinking - it boggles my mind, but she has always been this way.

"It's all just smoke and mirrors to you, right?" Mahuika asks.

"Indeed it is. I hate it being this way."

"I know, but it has to be. At least you see this now?"

"Yeah, I do. Just getting cold feet."

"It'll pass, trust me. Just know that it's inevitable and must be done. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news."

"You're not the first, Mahuika - trust me on that."

"And I won't be the last. How are you feeling about it?"

"Sick to my stomach in all honesty."

"That won't change, trust me."

"So what after this?"

"I have to head to Dandum City for a while. I have a few people to negotiate business with -then I'm doing a favour for an old friend."

"Oh yeah, do I know them?"

"I don't kiss and tell."

"Yeah, one of your best traits," I say, cheekily.

"Yes, you remind me of this constantly," Mahuika replies, in a similar manner.

"When will I see you next?"

"That's always a tricky question to answer."

"Why?"

"Because no one should know too much about their own destiny, even a Prophet."

"Shit."

"No need to cuss, we'll cross paths eventually - you have my word."

"All right, I trust you."

"Remember, you know the inevitable fate of this race - so complete your destiny and theirs, and don't look back. I believe in you, and so does Modnar."

Mahuika turns to leave, and as she mounts the rope ladder, I say one last thing.

"Thank you for believing me."

"No worries, Prophet. One day you'll work out exactly how to pass on your confidence to someone else in need," Mahuika replies before descending the rope ladder.

After a few minutes of gazing out the window, King Punrid enters my room and stands behind me. He begins asking questions.

"Are you feeling okay, Prophet? You made quite a hasty retreat from dinner."

"Yeah, just feeling a little sick."

"Oh no. Was this from your meal? If so, my deepest apologies."

"No no, nothing like that."

"What is it then, if you don't mind me prying?"

"Just feeling sick, viewing the impending events in my mind."

"What events would that be?"

I swiftly draw my sword and chop his head off. Blood shoots out all over the place \- I carefully drag his body towards the window, then lift him, and dump him outside.

"Shit, what have I done?" I say, looking down at my bloodied blade...

XX - Bite the Hand That Feeds...

**JACAMATAX**

I step outside the pub, and head down to the piers. I sit on the edge of the left one and look up; the dark of night has consumed the sky. Staring at the moon, I feel a rush of sadness come over me. I wonder how Zelada is doing.

"Why are you out here, all alone?" Modnar asks, sitting down next to me.

"I'm just worried about her."

"I know exactly how you feel. A while back we were separated on this journey, and I was thrown into a jail."

"Really, what for?"

"Wrong place at the wrong time."

"I always imagined that would never happen to a Time Guardian."

"Well, you'll be surprised what can happen sometimes. Anyway, where was I....? Oh, that's right... Not a moment passed in that cell where I didn't think about her. I was sworn to promise I'd always keep her safe, and that's what I've always tried my best to do."

"Why do you think I'm feeling the way I am. I want to do the same for her."

"I understand, but she's old enough and smart enough to make her own decisions. If she asked you to leave, then it must've been for a good reason."

"Yeah, I suppose you're right."

"Something I try my best to do."

"I know. I'm going to miss you both at the end of this journey."

"You too, young man. It's hard leaving people you care about behind - but my life has forced me to become comfortable with this."

"That's sad."

"Part of being a Time Guardian."

"By the way, I'm sorry about Ryshua."

Modnar bends forward and gazes at his reflection in the water - I do the same, then he replies.

"Me too. I was so excited to get my friend back, but his lack of life experience caused a rift in our friendship. My duty to protect this planet took over. You need to realise something important young man."

"Sure, try me."

"Sometimes in life people make decisions which reflect how their future pans out. The key is not to judge them as to why."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"Come on, Jacamatax. Let's head back to the pub and enjoy our time while she negotiates with the King. I'm sure she's busy having fun, so why don't you do the same?" Modnar says, standing up and offering his right hand.

"All right, old timer. Let's head inside," I reply, grabbing his hand.

I hope my love is doing fine. I can't shake the bad feeling I have in my stomach...

**THE PROPHET**

I walk out into the courtyard, with the King's head in my left hand, and my sword in the right.

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" Campog screams, dropping to his knees in front of me. I throw his father's head to him.

"I've done what is necessary," I reply, chopping two incoming Goblins in half.

"But... But.... But.... We gave you everything you wanted," Campog says, crying and staring at his Father's head.

"And that gives you power over a Prophet?"

"No... No... That's not what I'm saying."

I walk towards a female Goblin and plunge my sword into her stomach.

"What has she done? We're such an innocent race," Campog cries.

I stab my sword into the ground, and a huge icicle forms behind me. It shatters, and Krenshi - my huge snow leopard leaps out.

"Good girl. Devour everything that opposes.... Except him," I say, pointing my blade at Campog's face.

"You..... You.... You're a menace," Campog replies, looking down at my blade.

"Am I, really? I walk into your lair, give you almost unlimited wealth - then you call me a menace? I should give you the same fate as your father."

In the background, Krenshi is ripping Goblins in half, swallowing them in several chomps. Screams of terror fill the air, sending shivers up my spine, but it's too late now to break character. I must finish what I've started.

Two Goblins charge me, so I swipe my sword and cut off their heads. Another three run my direction; I push Campog over, then breathe fire all over them. They fall to the ground and scream to their death. I bend down and pick up Campog by the ear.

"AAARRRGGHHH!" he groans.

"Harden up, Campog. Are you going to listen to me, or must I destroy your entire race?"

"No... No... You mustn't."

I drag him by the ear, and get him to lead the way up the steps, towards their vault.

Butch launches out of my right shoulder tattoo, and begins burning all Goblins in his path. I feel the horror I'm putting them through, but my destiny can't be changed - this is something I must become comfortable with.

We reach the top, and turn around, staring at the canopy of red leaves. Campog drops to his knees and weeps quietly.

"Is this how a King is meant to act?" I ask, smacking him with the hilt of my sword.

"No... No... But what do you want from me?"

"Nothing at the moment. But soon, Campog... Soon," I say, moving towards the top step.

Many Goblins run up the stairs towards me; I chop them all to pieces, one by one.

"Please stop, PLEASE! I beg you!" Campog yells, turning to face me.

"A little tied up, buddy," I reply, cutting through another few Goblins.

I push Campog down as I trample over him; I walk to the edge, open my palms apart and push my hands forward. The wormhole opens above the canopy, and sand quickly pours out.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" Campog screams.

I slowly turn to him, and place my blade under his chin.

"Completing my destiny."

Looking over my shoulder, I see the room filling quickly with sand. Goblins are screaming for their life, and there's nothing I can do. So much sand is being sucked out of the wormhole that it's burying their entire lair.

"They're going to be buried alive, please stop," Campog begs, grabbing on to my jeans.

"I gathered that, this was my aim."

Campog and I stand and watch the Goblin lair get buried in sand. The wormhole closes when everything is buried; the only thing visible is the top two tiers of the tallest house, and the stone step we're standing on.

"Come Campog, let's do business," I say, leading him into the vault.

We push the door open, and he can't shake the tears. I feel sick inside, but this is human nature, showing compassion to what has happened. I must stay strong, and educate young Campog of his destiny.

"I'm going to begin educating you of your future."

"Yeah right."

"You better believe it," I say, pointing the tip of my blade into his forehead.

"Ya.... Ya.... Ya.... Ya... Yes... I do."

"Okay... Good, start listening. Now, you must hide all this loot in a dark room. Make sure everyone knows about it, but show very few."

"So who do I tell?"

"A young woman named Tatarina. She will not betray your trust."

"Fine. Answer something for me."

"Sure."

"Why have you killed my entire race? You could have just educated me, without the violence."

"But would I have taught you anything?"

"Probably not."

"Exactly. The Goblins have always been weak, naive and ignored. Because of this, you must now rise from the ashes, and strive to claim your place on Tharp. Become strong and fight for what you believe in. No longer will you suffer. You will fight to stay alive."

"I will make you pay someday, Prophet."

"No, no. Not me. Rather... The Chosen One. She will arrive and wipe out the rest of your race."

"Oh really? And who's this Chosen One?

"She will. She's coming to claim the Arter Gems, and their power to vanquish Akiad the wizard."

"But he's a good man. What has he done?"

"What hasn't he \- that's the question you should ask yourself."

I turn my back to him, block out his banter, and listen to the muffled echoes of thousands of Goblins, struggling to breath, buried beneath tonnes upon tonnes of sand. I'll finish explaining his inevitable fate, then leave him and his race to recover...

**JACAMATAX**

Hours have passed. Modnar and I are the only people left awake. Even the Goblins present have drunken themselves to sleep. Zelada isn't back yet, but I hope she's not far off.

"Where.... Is.... Zelada?" I ask, slurring my words.

"I don't know.... But boy is my vision impaired."

"Yeah, that can happen with extensive consumption... HICCUP... Of Flork."

"Indeed it can. Has Zelada explained what she has planned for you?"

"No she hasn't. But hey, I'm still here, so it must be important."

"It will be. Unfortunately for you though, I have no idea what it is."

"Damn, I'm sure she can shed some light on it when she arrives."

"Who can shed light on what?" Zelada says, entering the pub.

I begin running towards her, then stop. She has blood all over her top and pants, it's smeared on her face and through her hair.

"What happened?" I ask, standing in shock.

"Just come here, I need some love."

I hug her tightly and she does the same. I feel her shuddering into me, and a few tears roll down her face, landing on my shoulder. I pat her back, and Modnar stumbles over and hugs us both. The most important thing on my mind is that I'm glad she's safe.
XXI - Great Stories, a Camp Fire and a Pipe..

**JACAMATAX**

We all wake in the morning, and depart. Zelada promises that when we touch back down on the Western continent, we can relax together. She seems quite upset, and might need to get something off her chest. While flying, everyone has nodded off, but the two of us are wide awake.

"Zelada, is everything all right? You haven't been yourself since you returned from the Goblin lair," I ask.

"Yeah, just tired my love. Keen to take a break. We're going to touch down at the fork in the road, between Soraki forest and the Slopes of Vehtura."

"Where we met Ryshua?"

"Yeah, that's the one. It's a location which has great significance to me."

"And me too... Well if you remember?" I say, flirtatiously, caressing her body a little.

"Hey you... As much as I love what you're doing, I just need some time to think. We'll touch down soon, then I'll be keen for affection," Zelada replies, lowering my hands to her stomach.

"Sorry..... Well, that definitely sounds like a plan."

I awaken from my slumber, and Butch begins descending towards the crossroads. I can't wait to just relax with my friends, as my head is still feeling sluggish from last night's antics.

Once we touch down, I wake the others and hop off his back.

"YAWN... Oh we're here, man," Nevijah says, slithering off Voltanna's shoulders.

"Aaaahhhh, quite a nice rest if I do say so myself," Vaughson adds.

"I second that one," Modnar replies.

"Okay everyone, this is where the epic bonfire will be. Let's start gathering wood and Dupat shells; prepare for a long night of relaxation. We have all had some touch and go situations recently, so this breath of fresh air will be great for us all," Zelada explains.

Just like she suggests, we all gather what we need to, as this bonfire has to be epic in scale. Zelada calls in a small favour from Butch to help carry some of the larger tree trunks - we can use them as seats, surrounding where the fire is to be started.

Once everything is in place, Modnar starts the fire. We're all sitting around it, a few per log. A few hours pass - Nevijah has just lit his pipe and is passing it around to everyone. Modnar and Vaughson are on the log opposite to Zelada, Voltanna and I, leaving Nevijah to sit on a log by himself, with his friend Butch behind him.

"Pass to the left, Nevijah," Zelada says, chuckling to herself.

Everyone looks at her, trying to understand her comment. Why does he have to pass the pipe to the left? I don't really get it.

"It's something we do on our planet, to keep the flow going while everyone is chatting. You see, there's a science to it," Zelada explains.

"Sorry a, what to it?" Voltanna replies, sounding confused.

"Zelada, you can't reveal too much about your home planet," Modnar chimes in.

"Actually Modnar, I don't mind. I trust all of you present, and know that you'll keep all that's said here to yourself," Zelada replies.

"Fair call, my girl. As you were... Science was it?" Modnar says, inhaling from the pipe.

"Okay... Science... Well to explain science, is to basically say that it's what humans use to develop the world we live in," Zelada says, being passed the pipe.

"Sorry, can you elaborate?" Voltanna replies.

Zelada holds the Juivita in her lungs for quite a long time, and as she exhales, she closes her eyes; her grin clearly displays the state of euphoria she is in. Once she reopens her eyes, she passes the pipe to the left, placing it my hands. I inhale as hard as I can, and she begins to speak.

"Our people use science to learn about new things. Everything from discovering other planets, to travelling to the moon, even understanding what lives on our skin. It is the most important thing in our world."

After her response, everyone except her begins examining their skin. I would be lying if I didn't admit that this discovery has thrown me off a little.

"Oh you can't see these little creatures, you need a magnifying glass," Zelada explains

"A what?" Voltanna replies, before inhaling on the pipe.

"A Magnifying glass. It zooms in on an object and makes it appear larger. So to describe what's living on your skin would be like saying it's a populated city just shrunken down to the size of a grain of sand; that's one way of looking at it."

"Buzzy man," Nevijah says, coughing briefly.

"Can I please tell you all about my family?" I ask.

"Of course you can, handsome," Zelada replies, kissing me.

"Well, where do I start; probably with my father. He was the smartest person I knew. He was a great artist. One of his designs was that thing you had a name for."

"Oh shit!" Zelada replies, standing up.

"What is it?"

"That reminds me about tomorrow. Are you ready, to finish what your father started?" Zelada says, holding my hands and looking me in the eyes.

"Are you asking me to bring my father's creation to life? Even with the city inside?" I reply, sounding confused.

"Yes.... The City of Grendaless must be contained within its stomach."

"He didn't have a name for that city either."

"Another one," Modnar says, inhaling on the pipe.

"Yep, definitely agree," Zelada replies

"Another what?" Vaughson asks.

"Sorry Vaughson.... Too hard to explain. Jacamatax, the teeth are meant to be made out of a mineral called Mozak, aren't they?" Zelada replies.

"He... Never.... Mentioned what the teeth were made of," I say.

"Damn, another one," Modnar chimes in

"I know," Zelada replies, chuckling loudly.

"Another what?" Vaughson asks.

Zelada and Modnar glance at each other and begin laughing.

"Forget it, too complicated," Zelada says, cheekily.

While I inhale on the pipe, Zelada and Modnar are still laughing; I eventually exhale, pass the pipe to my left, then join in. I have no idea what the joke is, but it doesn't faze me one bit.

"I would like to make an announcement," Butch says.

"Sure thing, Butch. What would you like to say?"

"That you're doing an amazing job. Being a leader really comes naturally to you," Butch explains, sounding proud.

"Thanks Butch. I'd like to think that I can make a good decision from time to time."

"I can back up that statement, my girl," Modnar says.

"From what I've seen beautiful, I'd have to agree. Amazing leader," I proudly add.

"Best... Leader... I've.... Ever.... Met," Voltanna says, inhaling in-between words.

Everyone stands and claps for her. She has the ability to successfully lead a band of strangers to success. From what I've experienced with her, to whatever legacy she's left in her past, I can honestly say she'll be a legend on our planet. That is certain.

"I don't know what to say. There is no need for this, but I thank you all the same. It's nice to be noticed sometimes, even when you're merely just surviving. Any appreciation is always taken to heart. Again, thank you," Zelada says, before we all take our seats.

"Do you have any more Juivita? We need to load up the pipe," Modnar says, looking at Nevijah.

"Yeah man," Nevijah replies, diving head first into his pouch, and gathering Juivita with his mouth; Modnar takes it out and loads the pipe.

"Thank you, Nevijah," Modnar responds.

"So what else is on your planet? I like hearing about all the fascinating things you have," Voltanna asks.

"Touch screen phones. I can remember life before they came out, but now it's too late; they rule your life. You have full control over this device, but it also controls you, just because you have it. Ha, it's actually like a paradox. The things you own, own you."

"Care to elaborate?" Modnar asks.

"Well, you own this phone, and it literally does everything you need it to. You purchased it, so you control it, but in some ironic way, it controls you. You can't not have it on you, because you need it. Everyone that has one, is using it at all times."

"It can do anything?" Vaughson asks.

"Pretty much."

"Can it even kill a Givou and prepare it for dinner?"

"Well.. No, it can't."

"Then I wouldn't get one."

"But Vaughson, it can tell you the location of places to purchase a meal that's already been prepared."

"Now that is fascinating," Vaughson says, inhaling on the pipe that has been passed to him.

"Do you have one?" Voltanna asks.

"No, I refuse to buy one for as long as I can," Zelada replies.

"Sounds like a good move," I say, kissing Zelada.

She smiles at me, then closes her eyes and leans her head against my chest. At the end of this journey, it will be so hard to let her go.

"Do you have similar landscapes, man," Nevijah asks.

"I've got this, my girl. Yes, there is very similar landscapes and weather patterns to what we have here on Tharp," Modnar replies.

"And what else is fascinating about your planet, Zelada?" Voltanna asks.

"Well, I must admit, I prefer your planet's version of currency; Ralop. The principle around it is much better than 'Money' which is what we use," Zelada replies.

"How so, man?" Nevijah asks.

"Well, Ralop is not needed for survival like my planets alternative. It's used merely for a nicer lifestyle, but not needed just to be able to live. On our planet, you get trapped into having to work to survive, forty hours a week, until you die. Our life expectancy is about one hundred years maximum, so it's sad to have to waste your precious time earning money just to stay alive."

"That's terrible. I like the sound of Ralop much better too," Butch says, inhaling from the pipe.

"Our planet used to be about survival, much like this planet, but one day we began evolving, and it hasn't stopped. It's as scary as it is exciting," Zelada replies.

"Next question. What type of work do you have to do during your week?" Voltanna asks.

"Well Voltanna that is such a broad question. There are literally hundreds of jobs you could have and it's your decision which one you want to commit to."

"Does being a warrior earn you lots of Ral..... Money?"

"Well, being a warrior isn't really a job on my planet. You can join an army, fighting for a more artificial cause, but being a warrior as you know it on this planet, is non-existent."

"What do you mean by an artificial cause, man?" Nevijah asks.

"Well, right now we're fighting for the safety of my quest as a prophet, where on my planet, you end up fighting for causes you'll never see, nor understand. War is such a different thing on Earth."

Voltanna opens her mouth to speak, but trips over the log behind her instead. We all begin laughing, and while the tears roll down my cheeks like rain down a pane of glass, I begin thinking about tomorrow. It's the day I have to complete my father's work, creating his 'Mazelia' in the area that he's meant to exist. Given that I've smoked enough Juivita to float away in my mind to another world, it's a safe bet that I need to get some sleep.

### XXII - Always Do What Feels Right For You

I suddenly awaken in the middle of the night, and see Zelada sitting on the beach, close to where I am. She's picking up handfuls of sand and throwing it into the ocean. Curiosity gets the better of me, so I walk over to check how she's feeling.

"Can't sleep?" I ask, placing my arms around her from behind.

"Shit, you startled me. Yeah, one hundred percent correct," Zelada replies, kissing me on the cheek.

"So, what's bothering you?"

"To be fair, I don't know. It's hard to gauge how I'm feeling. I guess it's because I know what's coming up for us, and dread it," Zelada replies, putting the pipe in her mouth, and lighting it with her finger.

"I know, beautiful. You think that I don't think about this? It's on my mind every time I see you."

I lower her hood and stroke the hair out of her face.

"There isn't anything I can do about it. I can't live on Tharp and you can't live on my planet, so all of this is out of our power."

"Yeah..... I know... Can I please have some Juivita after you?"

"Of course my love, here," Zelada says, passing the pipe to me.

The two of us cuddle and smoke Juivita for as long as our eyes can stay awake. I can't think of a nicer way to fall asleep, in each other's arms, cuddling on the beach.

"AARRRRGGGGHHHHH! COLD! COLD! COLD!" I yell, quickly springing to my feet and running further up the beach; the cold morning tide has come in and washed my feet.

I look up and see my companions laughing at me. What's new? I'm becoming comfortable at being the center of all amusement, at the expense of my dignity. But as usual, the moment I see Zelada, the ridicule slips my mind.

"WATER silly thing to do," Zelada quips, igniting everyone's laughter again.

I smile at her, and begin chuckling.

"Yeah yeah, you got me."

Once everyone settles down, Zelada claps and gains our attention.

"Okay, is everyone ready to depart?" Zelada asks, holding my hand.

"Yes."

"Zelada, I want to shake your hand and bid you all farewell. As you know, I have a village to manage and unfortunately that takes priority," Vaughson replies, shaking her hand.

"No worries, Vaughson. Thanks for your hand in battle, and take care of Butch for me. Butch, please take Vaughson back to the Village of Soraki. See you soon, bbboooeeeyy," Zelada says, scratching Butch's neck.

Vaughson slithers onto his back, and Butch flies off towards Catherial Volcano. The rest of us trek north along the path, towards the Slopes of Vehtura. The weather as usual is perfect and some witty banter fills the air along the way. Zelada and I are walking the slowest, arms around each other, flirting and giggling the whole time. Voltanna has Nevijah on her shoulders, puffing on his pipe like usual, and Modnar is walking next to them. It's quite funny to remain silent, listening to the conversation between the three of them.

"So how old are you, Modnar?" Voltanna asks.

"Haha I guess you want an exact answer?"

"Preferably."

"I lost count a long, long time ago."

"But like.. How old, man?" Nevijah asks, before inhaling.

"Well, I was as young as Ryshua, about ten thousand years ago."

"Woooooooaaahhhh... That's old, man."

"I love how honest you are..... MAN!" Modnar sarcastically replies.

"I don't always say man... Man," Nevijah says, sounding unsure.

Modnar begins giggling quietly to himself.

"What's so funny, man?"

"It's just you. You're too amusing for life sometimes."

While Nevijah and Modnar chuckle to themselves, Zelada brings something to our attention.

"There they are, the Slopes of Vehtura," Zelada says, pointing ahead of us.

"Wow," I reply, as we all halt to a standstill.

We stand before a tiny waterfall; at the top, the stream inclines on an angle, gradually going up into the distance. Water is running down the rocky slope, eventually ending in the small lake we stand before. On either side of the waterfall are stone steps - in the shape of a staircase. There is a tree halfway up the rocky slope; the base of it is growing from the right staircase, with the leaves and branches dangling over into the stream.

"It's so amazing to see with my own eyes. Also, such a nice location for a barbeque," Zelada says.

"Bar... Beck... Queue?" I reply, sounding confused.

"Sorry it's something you do on my planet. It's like cooking a meal over an open flame, much like you do on Tharp, around the camp fire."

"We should have stopped here for our campfire, man," Nevijah mutters.

"Sorry Nevijah, but we must press on. It would be great to try make it to the Moorbess Mountains before nightfall," Modnar replies, looking up at the staircase.

I carefully start to scale the rocky steps, and eventually reach the top.

"Everyone all right down there?" Zelada yells out.

We all reply with a series of mixed answers, and when she turns around, a vine wraps around her waist, and pulls her through the air.

"Aaarrrggghhhh!" Zelada yells.

"Quick everyone!" I yell, beginning to run.

I run for my life. It's tough for me as there is a lack of cover on my feet. Ignoring this, I traverse the stone staircase. I can feel the skin on the base of my feet, shifting around like a sword in a sheath; I look down and see blood staining the steps.

"I'm coming Zelada!" I yell.

**THE PROPHET**

"Tell them to stay where they are, or much harm will come to them," the tree whispers, while I remain tightly gripped.

"How are you speaking," I reply.

"I can only communicate with you."

"Remain calm, my girl," Modnar yells.

"STOP! Please don't move, the tree said much harm will come to you all if you do."

"The tree what?!" I yell back.

"Don't question me, love. It'll cost you your life."

"Good... Very good," the tree whispers.

"So what do you want?" I snap.

"I've been planted here to protect the Losiktus; they're all sleeping up ahead. I will end your days if you wake them."

"You shouldn't assume, Mr talking tree. Why would we want to wake a group of sleeping birds?"

"How should I know? Everyone else seems to cause trouble."

"I promise you that we are not like everybody else, we just need safe passage to the Moorbess Mountains."

"Oh why didn't you say so?"

"Well you never asked, did you?"

"Hmm you do have a point. Sorry about before, I get slightly over protective. Do you promise that you won't show any hostility?" the tree says, carefully placing me back on the staircase.

"No worries Mr tree; you have my word."

"Oh by the way, my name is Eranick, sorry again about the hostile introduction."

"Mine's Zelada, nice to meet you. We'll forget the past, deal?" I say, holding my hand out.

"Sounds good to me," Eranick says.

He places a vine in my hand, and I shake it.

"Right everyone, come up now. The tree's name is Eranick," I say, signalling everyone forward.

The confused look on Jacamatax's face, mirrors exactly how I'm feeling. A tree attacks me, speaks to me, then now we're friendly. Not to blow my own trumpet, but I suppose that's the power of a good negotiator.

**JACAMATAX**

"There is a group of birds up ahead that Eranick protects. He would just like us to not hurt or wake them," Zelada explains.

We all answer, then she turns around and winks at us.

"See, no problem," Zelada says, cheekily.

As we pass Eranick, I'm glad that he's so helpful. He's passing us vines to hold on to, which is preventing us from slipping. Makes me sigh in relief realising we avoided a battle; my feet really couldn't deal with that right now.

"Have a safe trip," Eranick says, wishing us farewell.

Once we arrive at the top of the Slopes of Vehtura, I feel a cold shiver run up my spine. The sight of what's in front of me is shaking my insides. There are literally thousands of strange looking birds. They have a head with no face, and just one small hole, the size of a closed fist on the tip of its skull. Their feathers are bright pink in colour, with white patches all over its body. They're all sitting in a perched position, a short but even distance apart from each other. It looks like there's an entire field of these birds. One of them makes a loud growling yawn, startling me.

"Glad there's only a small group of these Losiktus and not thousands of them, or that would be really annoying," Zelada says, sarcastically.

"So what do you suggest?" I ask.

Zelada ignores me, walks up to the Losiktus and begins to carefully progress between two rows of them, towards the mountains in the distance. One of them makes a bizarre noise, while shuffling its head and staying asleep.

"Sounds like a car horn crossed with a death metal growl.... Freaky," Zelada mutters.

I hesitantly follow her through the seemingly never ending row of Losiktus. When I stand on my toes and look to my left and right, they're everywhere. In random intermittent intervals, the Losiktus are continuing to make loud noises while they sleep. I'm anticipating one to go off closer to us, which in all honesty would freak me out.

"Careful everyone. There is no rush," Zelada whispers over her left shoulder, reaching behind and clenching my right hand.

"Look ahead of you, beautiful. Don't get distracted now," I whisper back.

"Why didn't we just ride Butch, man," Nevijah asks, coiled over Voltanna's shoulders.

"He must be tied up doing something. I don't feel his energy on my shoulder," Zelada replies.

"Well..... Sssssshhhhhhh...... Man."

Silently, the five of us walk single file for quite some time. Eranick mentioned a group of these birds, not an entire civilization. Screams from the sleeping are still happening, in no particular order; one goes off right next to us.

"Aaaarrr.... Mmmmmmmm," Zelada begins to yell, but I cover her mouth from behind.

"Please don't get startled. We must make it through here alive," I whisper, keeping my hand still.

"Mmmmmmmm..... Mmmmmm.... Mmmmm.... I won't make a sound from now on," Zelada whispers, as I let go of her.

"Psst... Keep moving," Voltanna says.

The more we progress through this sea of sleeping birds, the longer it seems. The Moorbess Mountains are too far away - they aren't getting any closer, no matter how far we travel.

"Aaaaaaahhhhh.... Mmmmm," Nevijah says as Voltanna covers his mouth.

"Sssshhhhhhh," Voltanna replies, before releasing her hand.

"Wait," Zelada says, stopping us all from moving.

One of the Losiktus up ahead, is moving a little more than the rest.

"What are we going to do - any smart ideas, beautiful?" I ask.

She doesn't answer me. Rather, she drops straight to her knees, and crawls towards the Losiktus. As she itches closer, we get the hint to copy her idea and hug the ground. Zelada carefully crawls underneath the Losiktus, and once halfway underneath it, she rolls onto her back, slowly sliding in the same direction, keeping her eyes firmly closed.

The Losiktus snaps down towards her, but she keeps her cool.

"Careful everyone," I whisper towards my peers.

Once Zelada and I are on the other side of the snapping Losiktus, we stand and kiss.

"You okay?" Zelada asks.

"Never better, you?" I reply, turning towards the others.

A different Losiktus smacks Zelada in the stomach, knocking her to the ground. It begins snapping at her, so I swiftly draw my blade and chop off its head. Blood gushes out all over the place. I pause, nervous that my reaction has rattled the other birds. Thankfully, they're in too much of a deep sleep to notice.

"Thanks, babe. I wasn't expecting that at all," Zelada says, hugging me.

"Hey, don't mention it. I live to protect you," I reply.

We watch the others crawl along the ground, under the snapping Losiktus. Modnar is next to make it through, closely followed by Voltanna and Nevijah.

"You made it," I say, helping him up.

"Yes thankfully," Modnar replies.

"Aaarrrgghhhh!" Voltanna yells, as another Losiktus snaps at the back at her ankle, taking a chunk off.

Zelada dives onto the ground, holding both her hands out to pull Voltanna away.

"Quick!" Voltanna yells, while Zelada pulls with all her might.

I stand behind Zelada, wrap my arms around her stomach, and pull.

"She all right, man?" Nevijah asks, slithering past us.

"No, get me out of here!" Voltanna groans.

"Help her up, quickly," Modnar says, lifting Voltanna and placing her left arm over his shoulder.

"Let's go," Zelada says, leading the way forward.

After what feels like an eternity, the five of us make it to the end of the sleeping Losiktus. Modnar places the injured Voltanna down on the ground, while Zelada gives instructions.

"Modnar, can you please heal the tendon on the back of Voltanna's leg. Now my love, are you ready to finish what your father started?" Zelada says, grabbing both of my hands.

"Phew, yeah I think so. I've never created anything this big before," I reply, fear invading my speech.

"I just thought about something else. Its eyes... What were you thinking about doing for the Mazelia's eyes?" Zelada asks.

"Well I was thinking about making them the same colour as yours, my love."

"Awwww, you (Zelada leans in and kisses me). But I think you need to make them like individual, miniature planets. The left eye should be a planet made of fire and the right, water. Remember that his teeth are made of the mineral called Zonek, and to make him large enough to fit the underwater City of Grendeless in his stomach."

"No pressure," I sarcastically reply, taking a deep breath.

"And there goes another one," Modnar jokes.

"You're right, but please concentrate, both of you," Zelada replies.

While Modnar heals Voltanna's ankle, I begin creating this huge Mazelia. I quickly drop to my knees and put my left hand into the swamp; within moments, thousands of air particles whoosh around in the air, then fall further into the swamp, not too far away from us.

"What's all the shaking?!" I panic - my left hand still in the swamp, and right forearm, facing the sun.

"Here it comes!" Zelada yells.

"I can't move my left hand, beautiful. It's stuck in the swamp!"

"Keep going! Awaken, sleeping giant!"

First thing out of the swamp is a white tower, located on the head of the Mazelia - it continues to rise for such a long time. As my hands remain locked in place, I look up and marvel at my father's creation. I've seen it a thousand times and have memorized everything on it. Its eyes are miniature planets like Zelada suggested, and after all the swamp water drips off, the green mould on his skin is visible. Voltanna is healed of her injury, and the three of them stand next to Zelada and me. Once it finishes surfacing from the swamp, his shadow casts over us all; I glance at Zelada and hope I've done a good job.

### XXIII - Awaken, Sleeping Giant

The massive Mazelia is finally summoned. I'm standing before the creation that my father designed, and I'm the person who has brought it to life. I really want Zelada's nod of approval, but I'm too scared to ask. I reluctantly glance at her, and raise my eyebrows, hoping for her blessing.

"Wow... You..... DID IT!" Zelada yells in excitement, hugging me.

"I'm so glad you approve," I reply, before sighing.

"Are you serious? You did amazing!"

"Thank you, beautiful. I'm still trying to process that I just did this."

"Jacamatax, seriously amazing power. What you just did was beyond any of my wildest dreams. Well done," Modnar says, standing behind me, with one hand on my right shoulder.

"Wooooaahhhh, man," Nevijah says, lighting his pipe.

"Jacamatax, you're very powerful indeed. What you just did was a huge deal," Voltanna adds.

"So what now?" I ask, turning around.

Zelada summons Butch from her shoulder; he flies out and lands next to us. Hopping aboard, she reveals her plan.

"We are heading to Tarahe tower, the white one on the Mazelia's head. I need to check something out."

"Great... My father never named that tower either," I reply, smiling at her.

"Another one," Zelada and Modnar say.

"Another what??" I reply.

Modnar and Zelada chuckle to themselves, and the rest of us shake our heads then mount Butch's back.

Once aboard, Butch launches us high into the air, to marvel at my father's creation. I realise that I'm the one that gave it life, but without my father's design and Zelada's future knowledge, I would never have used my powers to create this huge landmass. I'd be lying if I said I didn't have any pride in myself, because I'm oozing with it. If my father were alive, he would be proud of us both.

We fly around the head, and it's exactly how I imagined. The water planet is the first eye we come across, and it's covered in water, with tides and waves. It's scary to think I created something like this - until we fly past the left eye. It's like a reflection of the water eye, but covered entirely in fire. In fact, so much fire that it's leaping off the surface, much like water would in the ocean.

"Fascinating," Voltanna mutters.

"Indeed," Modnar adds.

We ascend towards Tarahe Tower, and I begin to ponder something. Is the Mazelia alive, or do we have to control him?

I turn my attention towards Zelada and realise she's gripping Butch's back very tight.

"Beautiful, are you all right?" I ask.

"Yeah, just give me a moment love," Zelada replies, with her eyes closed.

Butch lands on the Mazelia's head, next to the entrance of the tower. Zelada hops off, and begins to walk in the opposite direction.

"Zelada, why are you walking away?" I ask, chasing after her.

"I'll talk to you in a sec, my love," Zelada replies.

"She's hard to understand at the best of times. Don't bother trying to start now," Modnar says, placing his left palm on my shoulder.

"Fair call. I'll leave her to it, seems like she needs a minute alone," I reply, walking with Modnar.

While we wander back to the others, I look over my shoulder and see Zelada with her arms behind her back. She's looking straight ahead and as you can imagine, I'm curious what's wrong, because she hasn't been this way before.

"What's wrong with Zelada?" Voltanna asks.

"Not sure, but she'll come over when she's ready," I reply.

"You want a smoke, man?" Nevijah says, looking in Butch's direction.

"I have to fly to Neca City soon, so I might leave it for the mean time," Butch replies.

"Why do you need to go there?" I ask.

"Oh, you'll see, friend. Soon enough," Butch replies.

"BOO!" Zelada shouts from behind us.

"Beautiful! You scared the Flork out of me," I reply.

"Haha sorry. I tend to be childish from time to time."

"Why were you by yourself over there, man," Nevijah asks.

"The Mazelia and I have been exchanging thoughts. How do you explain why he's so calm," Zelada replies.

"Really? What were you saying, my girl?" Modnar asks.

"I could hear him panicking. Where am I? What am I? What am I doing? I explained that I was speaking to him, and that I was on the back of the Phoenix that flew past his eyes. He has never walked before, so we need to teach him."

"Wait.... So the Mazelia communicated with you?"

"You bet."

She kisses me on the cheek, then enters the tower. I peek inside the doorway, and see a long, ascending staircase that spirals upwards.

Stepping back I get a moment to marvel at the tower I created.

Touching the wall it seems to be made of a strong white stone - there are intricate patterns and grooves carved into the tower, spiralling all the way around, right to the top. Near the highest point is a railing where you can look out. The roof comes to a thin point, with a huge round dome on top; it is a model of the world of Tharp. Marvelling aside, I need to head within.

**THE PROPHET**

Once I arrive at the top, I can't help soaking in the view. I approach the railing - which goes around the entire platform; there are marble pillars attaching it to the flat roof above me, and when I look down at the shiny floor, I marvel at the world map of Tharp.

"You ready for this? Slowly... Turn around, try feel what way my head is turning, Mazelia. Easy now," I mutter.

The Mazelia begins moving to the left, responding exactly to my instructions. I see the others enter the room, and Jacamatax approaches me.

"You really are communicating with the Mazelia. If my father could see this, he would be so proud."

"Thanks hun. Hold on tight!"

Everyone present splits their legs apart, giving better stability as our friendly giant learns to walk.

"What's happening?" Voltanna gasps.

"Zelada is instructing the Mazelia to move!" Jacamatax yells, holding onto the railing next to me.

"That's incredible!"

Modnar walks up to me, stumbling all over the place.

"You're doing fine, relax," Modnar says, leaning on the railing to the right of me.

"I know I'm doing fine!" I snap back.

"Relax, Zelada. You can do this," Voltanna says, grabbing the railing to the left of me.

"Keep going beautiful, take control," Jacamatax says, with his hands around my stomach.

The Mazelia eventually turns to face the Moorbess Mountains; I hold my breath, in anticipation of my successful series of instructions.

"Okay, are you ready? Left foot first," Zelada says, stamping her left foot.

"Whhhoooooooooaaaaa," Voltanna yells, as the Mazelia takes a huge left step.

As it shudders to the ground, Zelada stomps her right foot, and the Mazelia takes its second step, then it's third, then so on and so forth. Zelada has educated the Mazelia to walk.

"You did it!" we yell, jumping in to hug her.

"Phew, such a relief. The Mazelia is now calmly walking in the direction we need him to."

"It wouldn't have achieved this without your help," Jacamatax replies.

"Thanks babe. Can I ask you all something?"

"Sure."

"Well, do any of you fear anything at all? It can even seem ridiculous, it just has to be a fear you actually have of someone or something," I say, looking at everyone.

There is a silence for a few moments. Everyone is frowning, and scratching their heads, lost in their thoughts of what they're afraid of.

"Just as I thought... No doppelganger," I say.

"Wait, what does that even mean, beautiful?" Jacamatax replies.

"Means that we (pointing at him and I) need to create one."

"Can I talk to you over there, my girl?" Modnar asks, leading me towards the staircase.

Once we're alone, I begin firing questions.

"What's the problem?"

"You can't just assume that we need to create one, my girl. We've already created enough extras on this Mazelia to prove that we shouldn't involve Jacamatax anymore," Modnar quietly replies.

"Modnar, I'm becoming in tune with our whole journey, I just have a gut feeling that we'll create this doppelganger with our combined power."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

"All right, if you think this is the right thing to do, then do it," Modnar says, before we both return to the others.

"Come here please, my love," I say, holding my palms apart, facing him, while we stand in the centre of the room.

"Anything you say, beautiful," Jacamatax replies, as he copies my stance, palms facing me.

**JACAMATAX**

The two of us gaze into each other's eyes and between our hands, the most terrifying thing I've ever seen - happens. Air particles spin around in-between us, and pink sparks begin to flicker. Gradually the particles solidify, then spin into a medium size ball of kinetic energy; pink lightning bolts spark all over it. After a few brief moments, you can hear a loud ripping sound, followed by the ball being sucked through a suspended pink lightning bolt.

"See anything beautiful?" I ask, as we stand on opposite sides of this bolt.

"Not a thing, you?"

"Nothing.... You guys?" I say, turning towards the others.

Modnar and Voltanna move against the railing behind me, pressing themselves up against it. Maybe Zelada and I are the only ones who can't see anything.

"Wait, you two can see something?" Zelada asks.

"Eck! Zelada!" Voltanna panics, pushing up further against the railing.

"What is it?" Zelada says, walking up to her and placing her hands on either shoulder.

"Goys, hundreds of them!"

"Just relax, Voltanna. Their only doppelganger's of your worst fear. They're not actually there."

"Modnar, what do you see?" Zelada asks, hugging Voltanna and calming her down.

"Something is definitely there... But my question is where did you pull this doppelganger from, because as you're already aware, this is a rip in the fabric of time. I just wanted to let you know that what you're seeing right now is from another point in time; maybe sometime in the future? Jacamatax, what were you thinking about when you both constructed this?" Modnar says, approaching the pink lightning bolt.

"I was merely controlling the particles needed for whatever was being pulled through time," I reply.

"And you, Zelada?" Modnar asks.

"I was thinking about the last time I saw the doppelganger."

"Wait a minute.... Let me get this straight."

"What?"

"You pulled a figment of your imagination through a wormhole, from the future?" Modnar asks, sounding shocked.

"Well.... Yeah, I suppose you're right," Zelada replies.

"Incredible," Modnar says, walking away and scratching his head.

"Zel.... ADA!" Voltanna panics, running past us, and down the staircase.

"Meet you downstairs in a moment," Zelada says.

"This has to stop, Zelada. No more wormholes. If you're going to use your power, stick to what you've practiced. You're not ready for such an ability," Modnar suggests.

Zelada takes a deep breath, then storms downstairs. I watch her vanish out of sight, then glance at Modnar, who has moved to the railing behind us. He's leaning on it, watching where the Mazelia is heading.

"Modnar, what's wrong?" I ask, leaning on the railing next to him.

"It's just.... Her.... She's so powerful, more powerful than she realises," Modnar replies, glancing briefly at me.

"Do you fear she'll turn... Evil?"

"No, not at all. Sometimes a good person can lose control of their power, and cause as much damage as someone evil, even if their intentions aren't negative. Look at that for example (Modnar points at the pink lightning bolt behind us). Another rip in the fabric of time, and she never meant to do it. When you are playing with the sands of time, you need to be very cautious," Modnar replies, looking towards the mountains.

"Fair enough, dually noted. I'm going to find where she is," I say, patting Modnar on the back.

"You do that, my boy. I'll see you down there soon."

Once outside the tower, I look straight ahead and see Zelada, sitting down, staring into the distance. When I look to my left, Nevijah, Butch and Voltanna are all smoking Juivita, so I can't help making a smart remark as I walk by.

"Smoking now are we now, Butch?" I say cheekily, walking past them all.

"It was inevitable," Butch replies.

I chuckle to myself while approaching the love of my life. She's pulling out handfuls of grass, and throwing it off the back of the Mazelia's head, watching the blades drift into the wind.

"What's wrong, beautiful?" I ask, sitting next to her.

"Sorry hun, nothing actually."

"Then why the glum face?"

"Well, I'm just a little bit confused, that's all. How am I even bending time? I'm not a Time Guardian?"

"To be honest, I have no idea why you can use powers outside of what you expect, and neither does Modnar," I say, resting my left arm over her shoulder.

"But what if this isn't outside of what I expect, and Modnar just isn't aware?"

"I suppose only time will tell, my love," I say, kissing her on the cheek.

Zelada gives me a long hug. She seems lost, not knowing what to do with her current dilemma. She's a prophet, yet she's still learning how to be one. While we cuddle in silence, the Mazelia approaches the end of the swamp. Zelada finishes hugging me, then places her palms on the Mazelia's head.

"You can do it," she mutters.

It begins bending down, positioning its knees into the swamp. It then leans forward, placing its hands onto the land, allowing his head to be closer to the ground. Zelada makes a whistling noise, then Butch flies over and lands next to us. Nevijah slithers our direction with Voltanna, following closely behind. I look around for Modnar, who is gradually making his way over.

The five of us hop upon Butch's back, and fly down to ground level. Zelada swiftly hops off, and approaches the Mazelia, placing her hands upon it.

"Careful, beautiful," I say, dismounting Butch.

"I'll be fine, my love," Zelada replies, leering over her right shoulder.

We all stand side by side, watching Zelada communicate with the Mazelia, using merely her thoughts. It eventually begins standing upright, then she walks towards me, and leans into my chest. I wrap my arms around her, and we all watch in silence while the Mazelia turns and heads back towards the Slopes of Vehtura. Now our next task, the Moorbess Mountains.

### XXIV- No Point of Origin

The ground shudders as the Mazelia walks away from us, disappearing into the mist. We watch in silence; I'm hoping it doesn't walk off and destroy everything in its path.

"Zelada, what did you say to it?" I ask, holding onto her.

"I told him that he is responsible for the safe delivery of anyone looking to cross this swamp. It's his honour and privilege to guard his swamp, and anyone looking to start trouble on his land may be dealt with. I also said that I'll find someone to help make the city of Grendeless thrive with people, and someone to control who enters and leaves the city, from within his mouth. I also mentioned that I'm a Prophet and would be back one day to check on him."

"So is that my important responsibility that'll soon be bestowed upon me?" I ask.

"No, I have something far more important than that lined up for you," Zelada replies, kissing me.

"Really? More important than watching over my father's creation?"

"Yeah, it actually is. We are talking about the most important task that I could issue anyone. I promise that you'll know soon enough."

"Should we head off?" Voltanna asks.

"Sort of.... I'm sorry to say but this is the end of the line for you two. I need Butch to take you both back to Neca city to watch over the Arter gem of Ice."

"What?!" Nevijah and Voltanna reply.

"We're almost at the end of this journey anyway, but yours is only just beginning. Please respect....... This...... Shucks, damn tears," Zelada replies, failing to stop herself from crying.

Nevijah and Voltanna move Zelada's direction, then hug her. She is our leader, and has a much bigger picture of this whole journey than we will ever have; surely they both understand.

"I do apologise but I have to do this. I will visit you soon, okay?" Zelada says, wiping tears from her eyes.

"Sniff... Sniff... Come quickly, all right?" Voltanna replies, crying.

"Nawwww... Hate... Goodbyes, man," Nevijah says, snuggling into Zelada.

"Come here, you two," Modnar replies, dropping his staff and opening his arms wide apart.

"Modnar.... Are we going to see you again?" Voltanna asks, wiping tears from her eyes.

"I guarantee it," Modnar replies, pulling away from his hug.

"Man... More goodbyes?" Nevijah says, coiling around Modnar's leg.

I approach both of them, knowing that no matter what happens on this journey, they will always be the first two people I met - it has truly been an honour. If it wasn't for Voltanna's bright hair, I wouldn't have been intrigued enough to leave my seat that day in Neca City, thus meeting everyone else. I don't know what it is, but when I look at them, something in my stomach suggests this is the last time we'll speak.

"Come here, you two," I say, hugging them both.

"Are we ever going to see you again, man?" Nevijah asks, curling around me.

"I have a feeling in my gut that the answer.... Is not for a while. I have my own responsibility to be bestowed upon me, just as you both have yours. Take care, and maybe when our trial ends, I'd hope to catch up with you both," I reply, as we all continue to hug.

"Of course, Jacamatax. Best of luck," Voltanna says, pulling away from me.

"Don't go.... Man," Nevijah says, not letting go.

"What's wrong?"

"Just lost a great friend... And.... An unlimited supply of Juivita... Sniff.. Man," Nevijah says, as a tear rolls down his entire torso.

I reach into his pouch and hold the last of his Juivita in my left palm. Within seconds, there's so much Juivita, that it spills onto the ground.

"Thanks Jacamatax. I'm going to miss you, man," Nevijah says.

"Always have your friends back, agreed?" I reply, pinching Nevijah's left cheek.

"Right you are, friend," Nevijah says, slithering upon Butch's back.

Voltanna and Nevijah launch into the air, and vanish through the mist. I look around and notice that the three of us have a few tears leaking out of our sockets. Glad I'm not the only one sad to see them go.

"You two all right?" Zelada asks, sniffing.

"Yeah," we both reply, sounding disappointed.

"I just know it's the last time I'll ever see them. It's sad letting go of people that you care about. Especially when they are irreplaceable," Zelada explains.

"I have to agree, beautiful," I reply, putting my arm around her.

"You both ready to depart?" Modnar asks, turning around.

"Yeah," I reply

"This is hard for me too, guys," Zelada says.

"We realise this, my girl."

"There is a saying in the country I'm from. Harden up, bro."

"What does it mean?" I ask.

"Be tougher, deal with your issues better. Follow me."

Modnar and I follow her in silence for a while. Eventually, Zelada slows her pace and kisses me on the cheek.

"Hey love, sorry about being so tough before," Zelada says, holding my left hand.

"That's fine beautiful," I reply.

"I have something for you."

"Oh really?"

"Yeah. I thought I may as well give this to you now," Zelada says, handing me the last Arter gem, which is light green in colour.

"Why are you giving me this?" I ask, continuing to walk.

"Because, you are the guardian of the Arter gem of Wind... Oh, and something else... Which I'll explain later," Zelada replies.

"It essentially makes you a weather guardian; you can control it. Zelada, please demonstrate," Modnar says, continuing to walk.

She waves her hands from left to right, instantly changing the weather from hot and sunny to rainy and cold. She then changes the weather back to its original state. I stare on, amazed that I've been privileged to gain such power.

"Are you sure you want to bestow such power to me?" I ask.

Zelada puts the Arter gem around my neck. It appears to have a thin chain threaded through the top of it.

"To answer your question, yes I know I want to bestow this power upon you. You can summon a Mazelia out of thin air, yet you ask permission for me to give you this power. You're cute," Zelada replies.

A decent amount of time passes, and we're on the Moorbess mountain trail. From what I can see, the top of the mountain isn't visible, as there's mist shrouding the vicinity.

The trees are dense, but short in height. The tops of the trees are extremely bushy, and a really light green in colour; there isn't any light peeking through. The branches in each tree vary in height, from quite high in the air, to just above our heads - the trees are all growing along the left side of the path, with the branches hanging over it. I'm very relieved that it isn't snowing right now, otherwise I would end up really quite cold.

"Eventually, we'll arrive at the village of Pactiondom, which will be the place you can visit for supplies whenever you need them. The location where you'll be guarding the Arter gem of Wind can get fairly cold, so you may need to come to this village for more than just food - sometimes, even warmth," Zelada explains, walking up the mountain trail.

"Can't I use this gem to bring me warmth, by adjusting the weather?" I say, cheekily.

"I suppose you can, my love - it's your power now," Zelada replies, kissing me on the cheek.

Modnar has the strangest look upon his face. He has been silent for most of our journey up this trail. Zelada and I have been innocently chatting about nothing in particular, but I think it's time to prod him for an explanation.

"What's wrong, Modnar? You look worried?" Zelada asks.

"You know me too well, my girl," Modnar replies, smiling our direction.

"So enlighten us with the reason behind your silence," I add.

"I can feel the space time continuum, almost like I'm in tune with it. I feel more complex situations approaching, and there is nothing we can do about it, except prepare and accept."

"So why don't we try not to interfere?" Zelada asks.

"It's inevitable that we'll have to. You'll see."

His comment makes me think about the complexity of our situation. How important is my contribution to the space time continuum, and what is my other important task? I hope Zelada and Modnar have great plans for me, because I'm ready for this and nothing can change my mind.

After walking for what seems like forever, we eventually come to a long stone wall, with a gap in the middle. I'm getting excited as I feel closer to my destiny.

"That'll be the Village of Pactiondom up ahead, so prepare for anything. I honestly don't know what to expect. It's one of the few villages I've never had the pleasure of visiting," Modnar explains.

"Me too," I reply.

"Well, that makes three of us," Zelada says, approaching the stone wall.

"So, if all three of us have never been here before, then how could you possibly know that we are heading to the right place?" I ask.

"Because I'm a Prophet," Zelada says, cheekily.

"Haha fair call, beautiful," I say, leaning in to kiss her.

Once the three of us step beyond the stone wall, I feel the air become suddenly warmer. Looking up, I notice what seems like a spell covering the village, blocking the weather from getting inside - it's circular in shape, almost like a dome.

"Where is everybody?" I ask.

"Seems deserted. I could hear a pin drop it's so silent," Zelada replies.

"Wait, hear a what drop?"

"Don't worry - it's something from my planet," Zelada says, kissing me on the cheek.

I survey the village a little further, and it strikes me as bizarre that no one is around. The only constructed home is the wooden one, facing the edge of the cliff, at the back of the village. All the other houses are made from brown animal skins, attached from tree to tree by really thin vines. A few moments later, I notice a tall, purple skinned warrior walking towards us. He has short spiky fire red hair, and a defined physique with muscles everywhere. He's wearing a cloth with Vulcalt feathers attached covering his bottom half, and nothing covering his chest - bearing a few scars. He's gripping quite a large sword; freshly pulled from the sheath strapped across his chest, and is heading our direction, with a menacing expression upon his face.

"Nature of your business?" The warrior asks, holding his sword up to Zelada's face.

"Rodland?" Zelada replies, sounding puzzled.

"Who's asking?"

"A Prophet named Zelada, who has come from the future. These are my guardians, Jacamatax and Modnar, (pointing at us respectively). Could you please lower your blade?"

The purple warrior frowns, tipping his head to the side. My guess is he's trying to work out who we are. He slowly lowers his weapon then sheathes it over his shoulder.

"So wait a moment.... How do you know my name?" Rodland asks, folding his arms.

"Like I said, Modnar and I are from the future and to be totally honest, you're actually a really good friend of ours."

"Hmmm," Rodland says, rubbing his chin.

"You really do play an important role in...... This," Modnar adds, flipping his left wrist over and pulling his black sleeve up, to reveal the Brotherhood of Guytz symbol.

"You did, I can vouch for him," Zelada chimes in, showing Rodland her seal as well.

"So what is my role then?" Rodland asks, standing with his legs apart and arms crossed.

"Well, before we answer all of your questions, please answer a few of mine," Modnar replies, leaning on his staff.

"Go on."

"What's your plan for life? What are you wanting to achieve?"

"Well, I was going to train the residents of this village how to fight, then... Well.... I haven't really thought that far ahead," Rodland explains.

"How does being a chief of a village and the leader of a clan of elite warriors sound?" Zelada replies, winking at him.

Rodland raises his eyebrows slightly, and grins, but his absence from making a sound is rudely disrupted by an extremely odd character. He's barely taller than a small child, with a rash all over his body. His nose is long, and he has two long horns, coming out of his chin. The strangest part is his hair - it's a plant. The leaves are green, but in the shape similar to that of a spear head.

"Chief of what village?" The short man rudely asks.

"Shion?" Modnar replies.

"Who's these folk, Rodland?"

"They're old friends. How do you know Shion?" Rodland asks.

"Well, like the Prophet said, we are from the future. We know what both your destinies are."

"Oh yeah, so what's my destiny then, hooded man?" Shion says, sounding snarky.

"Well, have you felt any tremors recently?"

"Yeah, there were some earlier today. And time has seemed to fly by since then. But why do you ask?" Shion replies, folding his arms.

"You are destined to be in charge of the giant Mazelia that Jacamatax summoned (Modnar taps my shoulder). It crosses the swamp at the base of the Moorbess Mountains," Modnar explains.

"And why would this.... Ma.... Zel.... Lia... Listen to me?"

"Well, he transports anyone wanting to cross that swamp, in his mouth. You Shion, are captain of the Mazelia," Zelada says.

"WHAT??!!!" Shion gasps

"What an honour," Rodland says, kneeling in front of Shion.

"Are you all serious? You sure you want me to be the Captain of the Mazelia?" Shion replies, lacking confidence.

"Of course we're serious. It's your destiny, Shion. Come my boy, I'll explain to you what needs to be done," Modnar says, resting his arm on Shion's neck, before walking into the village.

"So.... You still want me to be a chief of an entire village?" Rodland asks.

"Of course we do. It's your destiny to one day train the Chosen One of Tharp, which will be your ultimate achievement," Zelada replies.

"So where do you fit into all of this?" Rodland asks me.

"I'm the guardian of the Arter gem of Wind, and one day, the same Chosen one that you will eventually train, will retrieve this Arter gem from me," I reply, gripping the Arter gem around my neck.

"Amazing.... So when does this all take place? How far in the future?"

"Oh.... To be precise... About ten thousand years from now. You even have really long hair, much like Jacamatax's, but with your familiar fiery glow," Zelada replies.

"LONG HAIR?? I've never thought about growing long hair... That's a great idea!" Rodland says, sounding excited.

"Another one?" Zelada mutters.

"Another what?" I reply.

Zelada sticks her tongue out at me, then winks.

"Wait, another what?" Rodland asks, sounding puzzled.

Zelada and I look at each other and begin laughing. I don't know what it is about her cheeky nature, but I just love her so much.

"I have a question," Rodland asks, interrupting our moment.

"Fire away," Zelada replies.

"A little while ago, the weather changed quickly from sunny to rainy and back again? Did you have anything to do with that?"

"Haha sorry, yeah that was Zelada. I'll demonstrate," I say, gripping the Arter gem of Wind with my right hand.

I wave my hand from left to right in the air, and immediately afterwards the weather changes for the worse; it begins raining. Luckily, the spell covering the village stops us from getting wet.

"Sorry, I need to practice that a little," I say, scratching my head.

"No need to worry. I have cast a permanent spell around this village, to allow a consistency of warmth, keeping all weather that alters our temperature, out," Rodland thoroughly explains.

"Aren't you just a regular scientist?" Zelada sarcastically says as she walks into the village.

"Wait, what does that even mean?" Rodland replies, looking at me.

"Do I look like I know?" I say, cheekily.

"Haha, I think me and you are going to get on, just fine," Rodland replies, putting his arm around me.

"I'm sure we will, Rodland. If Modnar and Zelada trust you, that's good enough for me."

"That whole statement just sparks up a flurry of questions to ask them. For example Jacamatax, would I have ever been friends with them, if Modnar and the Prophet never mentioned it to me today?"

"I suppose not."

"I've had no desire to leave this village, as I planned to help it flourish into a rich culture of creatures. I just have one problem with that though," Rodland replies, removing his arm from around my shoulders.

"What's the problem? Maybe we can help?"

Rodland looks up towards me and a little smirk appears on his face. If my selfless suggestion sparked a smidgen of hope in his mind, then we're off to a great start.

"That's exactly the answer I wanted to hear. Let's go find the others," Rodland says, running ahead of me, into the village.

It makes me wonder what his dilemma is. I guess in a few moments, we're going to find out.

### XXV - Left High and Dry

Rodland and I enter the Village of Pactiondom and see Shion, Zelada and Modnar starting a fire. I'm not one to question things, but it's becoming increasingly strange that there's no one to be seen. Where is everyone? Not a single resident in sight. All these homes made, but not occupied? I'm not going to squash my suspicion yet, because something tells me that everything will slowly unfold on its own.

"Oh hey you two. I figured that maybe we have time for one last bonfire?" Modnar says, smiling at us.

"There's always time for one more. Do we have any Flork?" I ask.

"Yes, we do indeed. I'll gather dinner and drinks now, see you soon," Rodland replies, walking towards the wooden house.

"Hey beautiful," I say, kissing Zelada on the cheek.

"Hey.. You (she pauses to kiss me on the lips). Something is definitely bugging me about this village," Zelada replies.

"And what would that be?" I ask, placing my arms around her waist.

"Where are all the residents? Don't you think that's a little odd?"

"Funny you should say that, beautiful - the same thing has been bothering me too."

"Let's not worry about it at the moment. Come here, I wanna tell you something," Zelada says, slowly moving closer.

"Hehe... Sure."

Zelada moves right up to my face, so her lips are pressed almost against my ear. Her warm breath is giving me a tickling feeling in my stomach. She begins to slowly lick her lips, arousing more than my suspicion.

"I love you so much," Zelada sensually whispers in my ear.

"I love you too, my Zelada," I smoothly whisper back.

We both place our hands around each other, then passionately kiss. As the witty banter between Modnar and Shion fills the atmosphere, I fail to grasp the simplistic things that they're saying, due to my distraction; Zelada. My tongue slips into her mouth, and the breathing between us intensifies, enough to make it feel like we're in a place of our own, regardless of who's around.

"Here's the Flork you asked for," Rodland says, startling us both.

"Oh damn Rodland, you scared me," Zelada replies, turning towards him.

"Oh sorry about that. Let's get this food started," Rodland suggests, approaching the fire.

"Psst hey you, let's ask some subtle questions, and find out where the people from his village are," Zelada whispers in my ear.

"Perfect, I'll follow your lead," I whisper back.

"So Rodland, can I ask you something?" Zelada questions.

"Sure, fire away," Rodland replies, placing some meat on a few broken branches, and holding them over the fire.

"Where are all the townsfolk? Or is it just you and this midget that live here?"

"Subtle," I quip.

"Hmm," Zelada replies, half grinning at me.

"No question bothers me, Prophet. If I am to be a great leader, I must be ready for anything possible. When your responsibility is for all the lives in your village, you are expected to answer all those questions. It is just Shion and I here, no one else. We built this village on the basis that we'd find some people to live here..... But it still hasn't happened yet. We hoped there was a purpose to our logic of building a village in the Moorbess mountains, but as of yet I haven't found it. Anyway, I don't know what it is, but something about you all makes me trust you with any questions you have for me," Rodland says, hanging the meat above the fire.

"I'm glad we're on the same page there, Rodland. Because we trust you, one hundred percent. In your future, you save many people's lives. It would disappoint me dearly to not be able to establish that type of trust with you now," Zelada replies.

"No lies here, Prophet. Our friendship begins now," Rodland says, extending his right hand to shake hers.

"I'm glad," Zelada replies, smiling and shaking his hand.

"So, how do we fill this empty village?" I ask, standing and pacing to and fro.

Many moments pass and other than Modnar educating Shion of his destiny, the rest of us haven't breathed a word. The three of us frantically excavating the empty caverns that hold our knowledge, with a Crent and no clue of where to go. I look towards the beautiful love of my life, and just as our eyes connect, her eyebrows raise, revealing a smile, possibly indicating that she has a solution.

"I've got it!" Zelada gasps in excitement.

"So, what do we have to do?!" I reply, just as enthusiastic.

"We're going to bring them here from the future," Zelada explains.

"WHAT?!" Rodland and I reply.

"You heard me. My father once told me that the villagers of Pactiondom have eternal life. I'm pretty sure that this would be due to the fact, that they have no point of origin," Zelada explains.

"What makes you so sure?" Rodland replies.

"Well, where do you think you're going to get a village of the exact same race of creatures from?" Zelada asks.

Rodland and I look at each other in a peculiar way, knowing that as crazy as Zelada sounds, she might just have a point. Modnar walks over and stands next to her, wondering what sort of plan she's conjuring up.

"What are you planning?" Modnar asks.

"Oh... Nothing," Zelada replies, cheekily.

"You're a terrible liar, my girl," Modnar says, winking at her.

"Well... We're planning to bring the villagers of Pactiondom through a wormhole to the past."

"ARE YOU MAD?" Modnar says, sounding angry.

"Can't you at least check if I'm right?"

Modnar takes a deep breath in then sighs, looking towards her like a father to his young. He knows he has to allow her to prove herself.

"From when? Stand back everyone," Modnar says, creating a ball of energy between his palms.

"The moment Mattisa returned to the village, after aiding the Chosen One."

Modnar jumps into the ball of energy which disappears, and before we even have a moment to decipher what has taken place, it reappears and Modnar jumps back out. Once he connects with the ground, the ball of energy sucks through a small black hole, leaving behind a pink lightning bolt.

"What just happened?" Rodland asks, scratching his head.

"You were right, my girl. It's completely empty, just like this village. And most obviously, there was a rip in the fabric of time, dead in the center of the Village of Pactiondom. You and Jacamatax need to do this, very carefully," Modnar explains, signalling Shion and Rodland to follow him.

"Where are we going?" Shion asks.

"Far from them, my boy. They need their space," Modnar replies, while the three of them walk away.

"You ready to do this?" I ask, standing a stride apart from her.

"More than ever, my love," Zelada replies, before the two of us put our palms out opposite each other.

Air particles begin swirling like they always do, whooshing around in an anticlockwise direction, gradually forming into a solid ball of energy - but this is where a problem occurs.

"Zelada, what do we do? It's getting far too large," I yell.

"Relax love, keep your palms apart and let it spin above our heads," Zelada yells back.

Listening to her instructions meticulously, we slowly lift our hands in the air, and the increasingly large ball of energy spins above our heads. The sparks of lightning coming off the ball of energy are emitting a pink colour yet again, and I know just as before, that we are expecting a large tear in the fabric of time.

"What are they doing?" Shion asks.

"I really don't know where to begin explaining to you, my friend. Maybe it's just best that I don't. Zelada. It's about time to put our hoods up again" Modnar yells out.

They both raise their hoods. When the gigantic ball of energy finally vanishes, it leaves another pink lightning bolt in its place. There are a village worth of red skinned warriors, wearing animal skins as clothing - much like I do. All the males are bald and the females have blonde hair. One older male has long, flowing white hair, even surpassing the length of a lot of the females. All of the race have red eyes, except one female who has yellow.

"Welcome," Zelada says.

"It's been awhile, refresh our memory. What was your name again?" the older male with white hair asks.

"Huh? I am Zelada, a prophet from the future and," Zelada says, before rudely being cut off by the older male.

"That's right. Jacamatax, I always forget how young you are at the start of all this," he asks.

"Sorry, who are you?" I reply, sounding confused.

"My name is Noviwi, I am the chief of the Village of Pactiondom. You come visit us every so often for food, shelter and friendship. We trust you with our life," Noviwi says, before hugging me.

"So I end up living around these parts?" I ask.

"Yes, guarding... That Gem around your neck, and aiding us in keeping our village safe," Noviwi replies.

"Great, that's a good enough explanation to me. Jacamatax is the name, but you already know that," I say, offering my hand.

"So to you, this is the first time you've met us?" Noviwi replies, shaking it.

"Officially yes, that's correct," I say, frowning at him.

"Okay so we're at the start of the loop again," Noviwi replies.

"What loop?" I reply.

"I can explain," Zelada says, before kissing me on the cheek.

"Please do, this is all rather confusing."

"You and I transported this entire village through a time portal, ten thousand years into the past. They will protect you and this Arter gem of Wind, at all costs. No matter what the risk, your safety is imperative and they will be as violent as necessary, to ensure your safety. They have ten thousand years to prepare their forces by reproducing and eventually training as well." Zelada explains.

"Jacamatax.... You do look so young. I forget how much you age over time," the female with yellow eyes says.

"Sorry, your name was?" I reply, smiling towards her.

"My name is Mattisa, do you remember me and Enaz?" Mattisa asks.

"I'm sorry but he won't remember you, as this is the first time he has met everyone here," Modnar chimes in, while Zelada walks away.

"Well, shall we officially meet? I am Rodland, the original person who built this village and I would be honoured to hand it down to you and your warriors," Rodland says, holding his hand out.

"It's good to see you again Rodland, been a long time," Noviwi replies, shaking his hand.

"Now I'm confused."

"I'll be back soon," I say, running to find Zelada.

Zelada is quite a distance from the bonfire, which makes me slightly worried. Everything seems to be slotting into place as normal, but her behaviour just doesn't make any sense.

"Zelada, what's wrong? You left the fire as soon as Mattisa arrived?" I ask.

"That's exactly the problem. Mattisa knows who Modnar and I are. It puts us at risk of exposing our disguise," Zelada replies.

"What's wrong, Zelada?" Modnar says, standing behind us, with his face hidden by his hood.

"Mattisa, she will blow our cover," Zelada replies, panicking slightly.

"By the gods, my girl. I didn't even think about that. Zelada, keep your hood up, and hide your face - the two of us will stay opposite her around the bonfire at all times. Is there anyone else that we should worry about?" Modnar asks, looking around suspiciously.

"Not that I can think of. She's the only person that we've had major dealings with. Let's head back and do exactly as you said," Zelada replies, before the three of us approach the bonfire.

Modnar and Zelada subtly sit on an unoccupied log, trying to peek around the fiery blaze.

"I'll go figure out where Mattisa is and get back to you both," I say, walking around the fire.

I head over to the other side, frantically searching for those distinctive, yellow coloured eyes, before they lay their gaze on the wrong people.

"Jacamatax," Mattisa says, startling me.

"There you are, Mattisa. The Prophet and her friend are just on the other side of the bonfire. Unfortunately they need time to themselves and must depart shortly after we eat," I say, looking into her eyes.

"I would like to meet this love of your life," Mattisa replies, before standing up.

"Wait, what? How do you know that?" I ask.

"You told me. We actually become great friends. You wait ten thousand years for a Chosen One to come retrieve this (Mattisa briefly grips the Arter gem around my neck). Even though you never actually give it to the Chosen One," Mattisa says.

"Wait Mattisa, can you please walk with me," I quietly reply, stepping away from the fire, towards the southern gate.

"What would you like to know, friend?" Mattisa asks.

"Well, what did you mean by what you said? The Chosen One doesn't retrieve the Arter gem from me, in the future?"

"It means exactly what I said. You don't give it to the Chosen One," Mattisa explains.

"So who do I pass it on to?"

"The last survivor of a group of warriors, sent by the Chosen One. In fact, it's the Chosen One's father. His name is Enaz," Mattisa replies, before I stop walking.

"So do I ever meet this Chosen One?"

"No, just Enaz and I. The day we arrived, I never spoke to you. I let you complete your destiny, and gave him the information he needed to complete his. I can educate you further if you like?"

"Please do."

"Do you know where your message is, to eventually tell Enaz and me?"

"No, but do tell, as I'm curious. And how do you know?"

"I was there, both days. The day you gave the information to Enaz and the day they sent you the information, from the future."

"So wait a minute? Where is the beginning to that whole piece of information?"

"Ever since both events happened, I began piecing together everything."

"Please elaborate, Mattisa," I ask, sounding confused.

"You are destined to guard the stone statue of an evil wizard from the future. Carved on this statue, is a message. That message is what you give Enaz and me.... Well more Enaz because I can remember," Mattisa replies, smiling at me.

"This is so intense. Well we better get back to the fire, before we raise too much suspicion," I say.

"Fair enough. Is there anything else you want to know before we return?"

"I'm.... A little scared to ask."

"Please do it, you have nothing to fear."

"Fine.... Will I ever see the Prophet, again?" I ask, curiously while my heart races faster.

"I'm sorry Jacamatax, but this is it. After tonight, you won't see her, ever again," Mattisa replies, rubbing my back with her hand.

I don't breathe a word. I just nod at her, then walk back to the fire alone, while tears leak from my eyes. It feels like I only met Zelada yesterday, and she already has to leave me, forever. Guess being the optimistic person I am, I better get back to her and enjoy every remaining moment we have left together.

"Where have you been?" Zelada asks, as I lean forward and kiss her lips.

"Just been talking to Mattisa. She's on the other side of the fire, so if you leave your hood up, she shouldn't be able to recognise you," I reply.

"Good work, my boy. We should depart soon though, as it's very risky us being here. I have to admit, it wasn't really the most thought through plan we've had thus far," Modnar adds, smiling at me.

"But, it'll still work. Let's just stick to the plan, and stay on the opposite end of the fire," I reply, sitting down next to Zelada, and putting my arm around her.

Food is ready to eat shortly afterwards, and no one wastes any time. The freshly cooked Givou meat is so delicious and tender; I feel like a savage, due to the speed I'm devouring my meal. I haven't seen Rodland or Shion for a while, which is probably a good thing, as I just think they'd complicate our plan slightly. I want to ask Mattisa where in the Moorbess Mountains I'd be guarding this Arter gem. Makes sense as apparently she has been there to visit me, many times in the future.

"Hey beautiful, how was your meal?" I ask, throwing my bone into the fire.

"Hmmmmm... Still... Going.... My... Love," Zelada replies, biting into her meat.

"That's great. I'm just going to pop over and see Mattisa before we depart," I say, leaning in to kiss her.

"Okay babe.... See you soon. I love you."

"Love you too," I say, walking towards Mattisa.

"Hey Jacamatax, I'll play along, what brings you back to this side of the bonfire?" Mattisa replies.

"Well, I was curious as to where the location is that I'm destined to wait at?" I ask, sitting on the log next to her.

"I've always wondered, don't you have the Prophet and her friend to help guide you there?"

"Well yes I do, but I have a feeling that neither of them have been there before. I was hoping that you'd please shed some light on the location."

"Well, if you head out that northern entrance (she points in that direction) and continue to travel north, you'll come across an opening, and you can't miss it. You're going to get quite cold though, what did you do with your hooded coat?"

"What hooded coat?"

"It looks exactly like the one that the Prophet is wearing."

"Sorry Mattisa, I've never had a coat of any sort in my entire life," I say, sounding confused.

"Hmmm... That's strange?" Mattisa replies, frowning back at me.

"Yea.. Well.. I appreciate the help very much. Thank you," I say, walking back towards Zelada and Modnar.

When I gaze at Zelada, I see her and Modnar laughing, and it makes me realise that the sight of her perfect material existence, is close to an end. I have to just pretend it's not annoying me, and move on - the problem is that it's harder to do than it appears. Just because you may see my demeanour and I appear happy, doesn't mean I really am.

Once in their presence, I finally swallow my thoughts and stand in front of them.

"We need to leave via the northern entrance, then head north. Once we get to an opening we'll be at our destination. You two ready to depart?" I ask, offering my right hand.

"Yeah, sure my love, " Zelada replies, as I pull her upright.

"We should maybe avoid goodbyes?" Modnar chimes in, raising his eyebrows.

"I'll work on something," I reply, winking at them.

We walk around to the other side of the bonfire. I approach Noviwi and decide to take control of our exit. Modnar has slipped off in the background, and I can see him heading towards the northern entrance already. Now to protect Zelada's appearance and get us out of this village.

"I'm just escorting the Prophet and her friend to the location I usually reside. I'll come down and visit tomorrow. Thank you for that amazing feast," I say, shaking Noviwi's hand.

He promptly stands up while shaking my hand, and is quick to reply.

"Why does your friend never stick around?"

"Oh umm, he has walked ahead. Doesn't really do goodbyes."

"Very well. It's been an honour to meet you again, Prophet," Noviwi says, shaking her hand.

"Likewise, Noviwi. Anyway, we better depart as we've got somewhere important that we need to be," Zelada replies, holding onto my hand while I lead her through the crowd.

"Have a safe journey. I bid you farewell," Noviwi yells, while the rest in attendance begin cheering.

We both look back and smile. I have the pleasure in knowing that I've safely got us away from the possibility of revealing their identities. I trust Zelada's judgement with her decisions, so I did my best to keep them anonymous during the feast.

Looking towards the Northern entrance, I see Modnar waiting for us - once we catch him, the three of us proceed north.

"Wait," a voice yells out from far away.

"Who is it, Jacamatax?" Modnar whispers.

"Mattisa," I quietly reply.

"Damn my love, get rid of her," Zelada quietly instructs, kissing me on the cheek.

"Jacamatax, before you go. Aren't I going to meet your friends?" Mattisa asks, approaching us.

"Probably not the best time, Mattisa. They really are in a hurry," I reply, looking back at them as they walk ahead.

"Remember that I've known you for ten thousand years, I know that you're a terrible liar, and always like to be honest. You sure that's the truth, my old friend? I got to meet them last time."

I turn towards Zelada and Modnar, who have stopped walking, and have their hoods up, shrouding their face. I really don't know what path to go down, as one will disappoint the one I love, the other path would let down what I believe. Sometimes, you just can't let something go; this time it's honesty. I don't want to lie to Mattisa, especially if she is to be my close friend.

"Well, quickly Mattisa. They really do need to go," I say, leading her towards my friends.

I see Zelada lean towards Modnar and whisper in his ear. When she turns her attention towards me, I raise my eyebrows, knowing that it's too late to change now, and no amount of time travel is going to save her.

"Hi, I'm Mattisa. I just wanted to meet this Prophet again. Why wouldn't I want to? Ten thousand years from now, I turn my back on my village, to help the Chosen One's father. Now ask yourself this, would you trust me?" Mattisa says, holding her right hand out to shake Zelada's.

"Of..... Of course I would. Sorry, Zelada's the name, thank you for helping my cause," Zelada replies, shaking her hand.

"It's truly an honour. Would be nice to remind me what you look like though, as it shows a sign of trust."

When I look towards the dark hollow that shrouds Zelada's face, I can feel her piercing me with a stare that could burn flesh. As she lowers her hood, the look I expected is there, and the feeling in my stomach is exactly how I anticipated.

"You.... You.. You," Mattisa says, before Zelada replies...

"Nice to meet the woman I entrust with this planets future, and its inevitable destiny."

"Sorry, the resemblance to her is incredible. I promise to guide Jacamatax to his destiny, you have my word," Mattisa says, shaking Zelada's hand.

"Great, well sorry but we must depart. We have much traveling to do in very little time," Zelada replies, abruptly ending the handshake.

"Of course. Nice to see you again," Mattisa says, shaking Modnar's hand.

"Mattisa," he replies, nodding at her.

"Oh..... Well... I better head back, to let you finish what you came to do. Best of luck to you both," Mattisa says, walking away.

Once she passes me, I walk up to Zelada and place my hands on her hips. She frowns at me, before revealing a smirk.

"Shit Jacamatax, my heart was pounding as fast as a Zabait racing through the desert sand," Zelada says, kissing me.

"Haha, I bet. I could've sworn you were looking at me with fire in your eyes," I reply, wiping sweat from my brow.

"I was."

I don't know how to answer. The serious look on her face has me second guessing my actions. Zelada looks towards the dark ring disguising Modnar's face, and after a few seconds, they both begin laughing. She had me fooled, that's for sure.

"Zelada," I say, leaning in to kiss her on the cheek.

"Haha, sorry my love, you're so gullible. Let's head off," Zelada replies, before turning to walk North.

While the three of us walk, we chat about select memories from our time together. It makes me realise the importance of friendship, and how great it can be to have such special people in your life. But such as life, they can be gone in the blink of an eye... Forever.

We arrive at a large open area, surrounded by mountains - the path ends here.

"This must be the end of the road," Zelada says, moments before Butch launches out of her shoulder, landing next to us.

"Yes, you're right my girl," Modnar adds, turning to face me.

"I'd ask what my destiny is, but Mattisa gave me a fair idea," I say, standing opposite them.

"Well, if Mattisa covered it all, then it sounds like I don't need to tell you. I actually trust her, and so should you. In fact, it's part of your destiny to. Part of what I was going to tell you, will arrive through a wormhole, shortly after we depart."

"So this is.... Goodbye?" I ask, feeling my eyes fill with water.

"Take care, my boy. I'll be seeing you again, you'll see," Modnar says, shaking hands for a few moments.

"Thank you Modnar, for everything. Best of luck, friend," I reply, as he boards Butch.

"Now for the hardest part," Zelada says, hugging me tightly.

I feel her start shuddering into my shoulder, and with the light sound of weeping - it's easy to distinguish that she's upset. Her reaction naturally triggers me to cry, making it harder to find the right last words to say to the first woman I've ever fallen in love with. She wipes her tears, sniffles briefly then speaks.

"I'll never stop loving you, Jacamatax. Do this for me and the Chosen One. Do this mission with every breath in your body. I'll always love you."

"You have my word, beautiful. I.... I will always love you too, Zelada," I say, kissing her on the lips, while tears rolled down our cheeks.

Moments after we pull away, she raises her hood and turns around, looking back at me. Tears flow out of my eyes and there's nothing I can could do about it. I watch her hop onto Butch and she slowly looks my direction. They both wave goodbye before launching into the air, leaving me high and dry. I look up towards the sky and see Zelada's hooded coat, floating slowly down to where I'm standing. I guess this is how I manage to acquire a coat like hers - Mattisa was right all along, I'm glad Zelada trusts her, because now I have enough belief to do so too.

A few hours pass...

I awaken to the sound of lightning and Mattisa standing over me.

"What's going on?" I say, springing to my feet and raising the hood on my coat.

"Your destiny is about to arrive," she replies.

Right on schedule, a ball of energy appears, and a large stone object drops out of it. Moments later, the ball of energy disappears. I run over to see what it has left behind. When I approach the stone object, I notice it's of a man, which appears to be a wizard of some kind. There is a message carved across his chest. It says 'Tell no one but Mattisa and Enaz and only when they are both present.' Zelada was right. My answer has arrived, and now it's time to wait for the right person to ask the right questions. The hard part is the ten thousand year wait for this person to arrive...

### XXVI - Time Dementia..

**MODNAR**

While we fly through the air, she continues to cry. I suppose that shows how much she actually loves him. I really don't know what to say, even at my old age. Just because I have experience in time travel and life lessons, where I've tried and failed, doesn't mean I have any experience in love. In fact, to be fair, I have none. So, this leaves me with no idea of how to approach this situation. I'm going to bide my time and wait for the ideal moment, which obviously isn't right now.

We're currently crossing the Dandum Mudlands, and looking down makes me remember being stranded out there, not that long ago. With no friends, no one to help me, and I had to make it on my own, for a cause greater than just my existence. Jacamatax, our brother in arms that we left behind, has to live with a very similar scenario. He does have the aid of Mattisa and the Village of Pactiondom to help him get through the next ten thousand years, but essentially I can relate to his situation. He has one distinct advantage though; he can control the weather. Other than that, he's on his own.

After seemingly never-ending silent travel through the night skies of Tharp, we finally begin crossing the Jonker desert. I'm starting to worry about her. She has stopped crying, but her lack of even making a breath noticeable, is taking its toll on myself, being that now I'm her oldest friend still alive. Time to make her mood change as swiftly as the wind.

"Butch, can you please land?" I ask.

"No problems, was already expecting it," Butch replies, rapidly descending.

"Wait, are we here already?" Zelada asks, yawning and stretching.

"No my girl, will be touching down soon though," I reply, as Butch lands on the sand.

She looks over her shoulder at me, and has a blank look on her face. I really need to get inside her head, to help focus on her destiny.

"Do you want to talk about how you're feeling, one friend to another, my girl?" I ask, hopping off Butch's back.

"Yeah, I do to be honest. I can't stop thinking about him, Modnar. I can clearly say I'm in love," Zelada replies, jumping down to the sand.

"No doubt enters my mind about how you feel, that was obvious from both of you. What I'm here for is to help you realise that there is no way we can make that relationship work, ever. You weren't meant to fall in love with a warrior from the past, but you can't help who you get feelings for, as love is a foreign thing to all living entities. There are different rules with every couple - similar guidelines, but different rules. You and Jacamatax followed these guidelines one hundred percent, but broke the rules to start with," I say, pacing to and fro.

"Yeah, I understand, Modnar. I just don't like having to deal with the aftermath," Zelada replies, leaning against Butch and staring down at the sand.

"I know my girl, but this is all a part of life, don't you understand? It's normal to feel this sort of pain."

"I just feel like..... I'm turning.... Well.... Mad, from all this time travel."

"I beg to differ, my girl," I say, still pacing to and fro.

"Care to elaborate?" Zelada asks, folding her arms and looking my direction.

"You see, when it comes to time travel and being comfortable with it.... The more you involve yourself with time travel, the easier it becomes. Almost like you end up sensing what needs to happen, or knowing exactly where you need to be next. You have this trait, and it has become one of your strongest qualities. I promise you that you're not going mad at all."

"How so?"

"Well, if your success of bringing an entire village from the future to the past, isn't proof enough that you're comfortable with time travel, then what is?" I say, smirking at her.

"True, but then why do I feel like I'm going mad?"

"Well, not that I have experience in this field, but I'm betting all my Ralop that it's love that has your stomach feeling like this - not time travel."

She looks up towards me and raises her eyebrows. I think she's ready to give me a slightly more honest answer.

"I don't know how you understand me as well as you do, but sometimes Modnar, it really helps. Yes, I'm clearly heartbroken and you were right, all along. I even knew not to get involved, but there was something that pulled me towards him like a magnet to metal," Zelada says.

"I know, and I didn't bother interfering. I let everything ebb and flow as it's destined to, stepping in only when necessary," I reply, walking over to Butch and leaning against him.

"So you let me learn the hard way?"

"As long as the outcome directly affects only those involved. When it interferes with the flow of time, I step in."

"Well that's fair, I guess. So one job to go, huh?" Zelada asks, leaning in and hugging me.

"Two, my girl. Two things," I reply, hopping onto Butch's back.

"Returning the legendary sword and..... What?" Zelada asks, clambering aboard Butch's back behind me.

"It pays to leave an ace up your sleeve, isn't that what the saying is, my girl?"

"Rats... Yes.... Well, let's head to the Village of Noradi, so I can drop this sword off and interrogate you about this 'ace up your sleeve', all right Modnar?" Zelada says, smiling at me.

"Yes, my girl," I sarcastically reply, as Butch launches into the air.

While we soar through the night sky, I begin thinking about all that's taken place. The final battle with Akiad, treks to and fro through various parts, a battle in disguise, even a bonfire or two. I'm glad it's all close to coming to an end. You see, unfortunately for me, I'm getting too old to be a time guardian. Need to have a break, or retire. I honestly think ten thousand years of service is enough.

We land outside the base of the Village of Noradi, and while I marvel at this gigantic tree, I think about what a beautiful sight it is. The Village of Noradi is contained within this huge tree. The top of the tree disappears through a sandstorm, far above our heads. There's a moat around the base of the tree - which we have landed on the inside of - and two waterfalls either side of the tree, which also disappear into the sandstorm above us. I hop off Butch's back, and place my palms on the bark of the tree, about the width of a door apart.

"I love this tree, just thought I'd comment," Zelada says.

"Haha, me too my girl, me too," I reply, looking towards the trunk.

The bark in between my palms begins dropping to the sand, and the tree starts quietly weeping. The result of the bark dropping off, is a perfectly crafted door, in between my hands. I look back at Zelada and smile, then we both enter the confines of the tree. I turn around and watch it heal, and all the bark floats back into its original position.

"Ready?" I say, grinning.

"Always," Zelada replies.

Suddenly, just like we both expect, vines come out of nowhere, grab our arms and legs, and fling us high into the air, while not letting go of us. We rapidly ascend and I struggle to hold back the laughter, seeing her yawn.

"Only beating you too it, old man," Zelada says, giggling.

"No.... You're... Not," I say, letting out a huge yawn.

Once the vines carefully place us on the wooden floor, I take a moment to survey the village's layout.

The base of the village is made of wooden logs - flaky in texture, and buildings are built amongst the branches, made from various pieces of wood. It seems as if the destiny of the branches were to eventually be houses for the people of this Village. They have very small holes for windows, and similar larger holes for the doors; each house has a unique design and feel to it. A wooden path weaves between the buildings, all the way up the tree. I've always thought that this is a very special village, and I hold it close to me dearly.

The main race of creatures in this village are called Oathient serpents; they are the same race that occupy the southern Village of Soraki. I really wish they'd get along, but like I've mentioned before, I only interfere if their actions affect the direct flow of time. In this case, it involves merely just them - it's a real shame they don't put their problems behind them.

Upon our arrival, the townsfolk have swarmed in like a flock of Vulcalts. I see a much younger version of my old friend approach me, and to describe him, is simple. He looks the same as an Oathient serpent but with much darker green skin, and very short black hair (almost shaved bald). He has perfect skin, not a scar present.

"Zekai, my old friend," I say, lowering my hood.

"Sorry old man, do I........ Wait..... Modnar?" Zekai replies, sounding puzzled.

"You're right," I say, opening my arms to hug him.

"But... You... Are....." Zekai replies, hugging me and being cut off by Zelada.

"Old, we know. We're looking for his younger counterpart, and well... You actually," Zelada says, raising my hood, shrouding my face.

"But why?" Zekai replies, folding his arms.

"Well, I'll explain when they arrive," Zelada says, spacing her feet apart and putting her arms behind her back.

I see the weirdest thing possible, which I've always been inevitably expecting. A young man in a brown robe and sandals - with long flowing brown hair and an equal length goatee, moves into focus of my aged eyesight. I can't believe that I'm slowly staring into the eyes of my younger self. Searching through the completed chapters of my life, I scan my brain to remember this moment in time, trying to remember exactly what I was told, this very day. If I can, it will make it much easier to know what to say, because all I have to do is tell myself, what I was originally told.

"Zekai, who do we have here?" Modnar says, tilting his head to the left.

"Not really best if I explain, but I'm sure they can shed some light on that," Zekai replies.

"That's fine. Hi, I'm Modnar, who are you both?" He asks, shaking Zelada's hand.

"I'm Zelada and well he's... Well.... It's not my place to say," Zelada replies.

"Sorry there, I missed your name," he says, shaking my hand.

"Well, my boy. I'm......... You," I reply, shaking his hand.

Just as clearly as I remember, my younger counterpart abruptly ends the hand shake, before nervously taking a few steps back.

"Wait, what did you say?" Modnar asks.

"What do you think I said?" I reply.

"You said that.... You are.... Me?" Modnar says, slowly approaching me.

"Well, I am, but I wouldn't recommend lowering my hood, as it would leave a possibility for a rift in the space time continuum," I reply, placing my staff in front of me and leaning on it.

"How did you come up with this assumption?"

"Well, once upon a time I was you, listening to me. If I lower my hood, then I'd be changing the inevitable, which is against our destiny of a Time Guardian, wouldn't you agree?"

"I agree.... So.... What do you have to tell us?"

"Well first off, what is that altar in the courtyard currently being used for?" Zelada chimes in, pointing at the altar.

"We built it so whenever we have a village meeting, our speaker has somewhere to stand. Why's that?" Zekai replies, looking back at it.

"I'll cut to the chase - I'm a Prophet and we have both travelled here from the future, to deliver this legendary sword and the four Arter gems to this planet. The latter is done and dusted, the last location we needed to arrive; was here. That altar is destined to be the resting place for this sword," Zelada replies, walking over to it.

"And how do you know this?" Modnar asks, turning to watch her draw her sword and remove her sheath.

"Because she told me, when I was your age - at this exact moment in time.... But there's also more to it," I reply, walking over to Zelada.

"Wait..... Ah... Ah... Please elaborate?" Modnar asks, tapping me on the shoulder.

"Well.... Do you know what a paradox is?" I reply, leering over my right shoulder.

"Why would I not? You know what training I... Well.... We went through on Mastodine?"

"Well, right now, at this current moment of time, you are at the beginning of a paradox and I am at the end."

"So where does it start?" Zekai asks.

"Well, a paradox has no point of origin, but it does have two opposing ends, to form an infinite loop of time. In this instance, the Prophet and I will tell you both about what needs to be done, and ten thousand years from now, he (pointing at the younger me) will be me, and will begin explaining all of this to you," I reply.

My younger self scratches his head, looking as confused as I recall being - while Zelada walks up to the altar, and carefully places the legendary sword down on it. The Oathient serpents present watch on in silence, struggling to comprehend what is actually going on. Zelada and I turn up like a stampede of Tepkie's, and turn everyone's life upside down. After she has a few moments with the blade, she walks over to the three of us and speaks.

"Can we head to your living quarters, Zekai? We have a little company," Zelada jokes, while the entire village stands behind her.

"Haha, yeah sure thing," Zekai replies, slithering ahead of us, clearing a path through everyone present.

While we walk through the village, I glance at all the villagers and they're staring at us like we're from a foreign world - I suppose that's true. I begin thinking about more important matters that are on my plate, like educating one of my oldest friends and a younger version of myself, what to do next. This isn't going to be an easy task.

Once within the cosy confines of Zekai's little room, I spend the better part of my day drinking Flork and instructing them of their destiny. Only a few accurate clues, and the rest is up to them. I inform them to trek to the Village of Pactiondom, meet Rodland and trust him with their life. I also let them know about relocating the Brotherhood of Guytz, to Toolore Mountain. I even explain the Mazelia, and reveal that Shion is to be Captain. I reveal everything, not skipping a thing. After a while, Zelada takes over and explains everything that I remember hearing from this same Prophet. It's such a relief to finally be at the end of this long, gruelling ten thousand year journey. I remember being him - the young, naive time guardian, protector of a world so riddled in time disruption that it has been there from the moment I arrived. Here's the most useful example - my younger self has been on this planet for barely a few months, and he has already met himself as an old man. Good thing the people in this room know how to keep a secret...

XXVII - At the End of Where it Starts...

**MODNAR**

Zekai meets us outside the base of the Village of Noradi, and Zelada introduces him to Butch. It's surprising how much Butch knows him, considering they've never met - suppose when your lifespan is infinite, you'd eventually forget when you originally met someone.

Once we say our goodbyes, Zekai leaves, allowing the dust from recent events to settle inside our conditioned minds. I'm leaning against Butch, and Zelada is pacing backwards and forwards - both of us with a blank stare etched onto our face, trying to find the last drop of motivation to persevere.

"Wow, that was intense," Zelada says, struggling to stay still.

"Yeah, that's one way to put it."

"I can actually relate," Zelada adds, stopping her motion.

"Not really, my girl. The other me knew I was him, and handled it more maturely than I remember. That is such an abnormal thing to be so comfortable with, especially that young in life."

"And you're saying I can't relate?"

"Well actually, now that I think about it, maybe you can," I reply, as she walks over and leans on Butch next to me.

"See, told ya," Zelada says, cheekily.

We both begin giggling, and for me, this is a mere distraction to shroud the intensity of the next destiny that I must make her aware of. If the god of my world is listening, give me strength to overcome my impending message.

"So Modnar, this is it for me, right?" Zelada asks, hopping onto Butch's back.

"No.... I'm sorry to say, but not really my girl," I reply, turning to face her.

"Wait, what do you mean?"

"Well, you can't really go home just yet. To be exact, not for roughly another nine more months," I reply, as subtly as possible.

"Why do I have to.......? Wait... What," Zelada says, immediately placing her hands on her stomach.

"Yes, you are pregnant, my girl. Once you deliver the baby, I'll find it a good home. Unfortunately it is not your destiny to raise this child." I reply, walking towards her.

She turns towards Butch, hops on his back, then leans against his neck and begins weeping. I quickly hop on his back and Butch launches into the air. I rub her back while Butch glides south through the air, awaiting his instructions of where to go. Then it strikes me - the most logically safe place for us to hide out.

"I suppose you know where to go from here, Butch. I've been sitting here pondering, but I'm guessing you've known all along?" I say, patting Butch on the side.

"Right you are, Modnar - I already know where. Was just waiting for my cue. How else do you explain me already heading in the correct direction?" Butch replies, looking back at me.

"Haha I guess you're right."

"Always am, Modnar. Been in this loop far too long," Butch says, as we continue to soar through the air.

We fly in silence the whole trip. She continues to weep along the way, and there isn't anything I can do. If you play with fire, you're going to get burnt. Life is as simple as that, sometimes. If Butch really did know where we were going, then he'd be heading to the one place that I'd think we'd be safest; the uncharted floating island. No one except Butch, Jacamatax, Zelada and I know about it, so logically it's the smartest place. We need a location that's so secret, that this baby's existence is known by only us three.

Once we touch down on the floating island, Zelada walks away and sits on the edge, dangling her legs over the swirling, watery abyss below.

"I've got this one," I say, patting Butch then approaching her.

"Hey," Zelada says.

"So, how are you feeling?" I reply, sitting next to her.

"Not the best. I have my first child growing inside me for the next nine months, only to never see it again."

"Life's cruel sometimes, isn't it my girl?"

"You don't seem very sympathetic," Zelada says, sounding surprised.

"Well, I'm over ten thousand years old and I was much younger than you since I last saw my parents. I don't moan though, I just persevere with life and deal with everything, one step at a time," I say, smiling warmly.

"I suppose you have a point, but Modnar; this is a little different. I'm going to have this.... Thing, growing inside me... Only to give it away and never see it again. It's not really a situation I can just become comfortable with," Zelada replies, a few tears rolling down her cheeks.

"I know my girl, but this is your destiny," I say, rubbing her back.

"I'm quite comfortable with my destiny, Modnar. When is this over? I'm past playing the hero."

I sigh before glancing into the swirling water below us. Lost for words and away with the birds, my mind is as blank as a scroll without writing. How do I explain to her, the events that'll eventually follow? One thing at a time I suppose.

"I have something to tell you," I say.

"Yes you do. When does this all end?"

"Hmph."

"Modnar?" Zelada says, sounding impatient.

"To be honest, your quest is far from over - and I've known your entire life, my girl," I reply, slowly turning my head towards her.

"Really? And when did you plan to tell me?"

"Well.... Now actually."

"So what could I possibly have to do? Is Akiad alive again? Has the Arter gems been stolen?"

"No, none of that. This is going to sound crazy, but I swear to you that it's one hundred percent the truth."

"Tell me, and don't try test what I could interpret as crazy, because I've seen my fair share," Zelada says, sounding frustrated.

"Fine my girl, here we go. Everything you have been through is a test. From start, to finish."

"What do you mean? If I'm doing a test, then... Did I pass?"

"Yes my girl, you passed, with flying colours."

"But Modnar, pass what?"

"The test of the 'Time Guardian.' You are worthy to become my apprentice. I will educate you how to bend time correctly, so you can achieve the highest honour - being involved in the greatest paradox in this timeline."

"Wait a minute.... Me.... A time guardian?"

"That's correct."

"So... If I am what you're claiming.... Then what is the greatest paradox?"

"Back on Mastodine, Ryshua and I were trained by an older woman, named Adazel."

"So, what relevance does that bare to my situation?"

"Her name is an anagram from another word."

"Which is?"

"Zelada.... She is you... You train me, so I could one day train you, to one day train me."

She blankly stares at me, not understanding what has been revealed to her. What she doesn't realise, is that her training begins immediately.

Time passes by as usual. Zelada and I made a small house here, with materials we gathered inland. The weather around this island has never affected us, because of the time disruption in the area. I would depart to collect food and we've lived here quite comfortably. I've put Zelada through intensive training, meticulously teaching her the ways of a time guardian, just as she will for me one day. Her struggle has diminished over the past few months, and opening wormholes has slowly become easier. With my help, she has been using them to briefly visit Earth and pick up the odd snack or two, but I'm proud to say that I'm pleased with her development. By the time she has this baby, and has been through vigorous physical training, she should be ready for her first official test of the 'Time Guardian Covenant.'

Nine months flash by, and she has gone into labour. I know exactly what needs to be done, so off I go. I feel terrible leaving her on the island alone, but I need someone to deliver her baby. I may be old, but there are some things I'd rather not do; this is one of them.

I fly directly to Dandum city. I know that it's the only city where I could find someone who would commit to delivering a baby for a price, and never tell a soul; a perfect arrangement for the delivery of the most important baby in the history of Tharp. The female I find is of human descent, and is quite old - possibly in her late seventies. She's wearing a long sleeve black robe - quite like mine \- black gloves and boots, and has a hood shrouding her face. She has flowing white hair down to her shoulders. I don't wish to reveal her name, its part of her rules - no names and no questions. Pay a price and she does the job. Perfect if you ask me...

When we land on the island, the old woman isn't fazed by what we've just flown through. Bits and pieces of debris mysteriously floating around an island, suspended in the air. No questions are asked, and no time is wasted.

"Mahuika??" Zelada asks, puffing and wheezing.

"Who child, you don't know me," the woman replies.

"But your voice.... I'm sure it's you?"

"Nonsense, shouldn't be too much longer and you can start pushing."

"AARRRGGGGHHHH! Why lie to.... MMMEEE!"

"I'm not!"

"EEERRRGGGHHHH!!"

Time seems to drag on. Zelada is obviously in pain but I can't do anything to help her.

"Okay Zelada, you can push now. When you feel a contraction push with all your might."

"ARRRRGGGGHHH!!"

"You're doing great, keep going... I can see the head..."

This is getting a bit much for me, so I walk away and leave the women to it... After what feels like an eternity, I hear the distinct sound of a babies cry. Walking back, I see the old woman handing the baby straight to Zelada.

"Awww, he's beautiful."

"Just like his mother," I chime in.

"I'm sorry for being rude, thank you so much for delivering my baby. I'm not going to lie, you do sound like someone I know," Zelada says, cradling her new-born son.

"No, I really don't think so."

"Please do this mother a favour, by letting her see the face of the woman who delivered her baby?"

Reluctantly she lowers her hood, revealing that the entire right side of her face is badly burnt; Zelada's skin changes colour.

"Mahuika!.... Modnar, why her?!" Zelada panics.

"The job is done, child. Wrap the baby in this, to keep it warm. We'll meet again," she replies, handing Zelada a baby blanket and mounting Butch's back.

He launches into the air, and heads North through the night sky.

"Why her, Modnar?" Zelada asks.

"She was perfect for the job."

"Mahuika.... I suppose it makes a little sense. But why didn't you both just tell me?"

"Would you have been as comfortable knowing it was her?"

"The crazy old crow lady.... I guess not."

"See. What's done is done, my girl."

"Too late to go back now, I suppose."

Butch has the much easier job - dropping the old woman off to Dandum city. Imagine getting the job of being with a woman, who has a few hours maximum, with a child that's being taken away from her. I don't really want to interfere, but it's my destiny to.

She glances my direction, and tears are rolling down her face. She's holding her son close to her chest, looking at me in confusion of the events to follow; the moment she has spent nine months dreading - the inevitable parting from her child, forever.

"Why, Modnar? Look at him," Zelada says, crying.

"You'll never understand, my girl. And it's my duty to protect its secret."

"Damn," Zelada says, continuing to weep.

Once Butch touches down behind me, I open a wormhole to my left, then slowly walk towards her.

"No, Modnar," Zelada says, shaking her head, encouraging more tears.

"Please, this is destiny you're challenging. Have I ever lied to you, my girl - how many years have we been tangled in this journey. I know it's a lot for me and it's clearly taking a toll on you. Please, let me finish this chapter of our life," I reply, offering my hand to lift her up.

"Take him to someone who will care for him," Zelada says, passing me her son, with her eyes closed.

"I promise I will, my girl. I'll be back soon," I reply, moving through the wormhole.

I step out of the wormhole - I'm on Earth, June 10, 1965. I'm surrounded by crops of something, foreign to my knowledge. I'm standing in the middle of a long dirt road, in West Auckland, New Zealand - how much one place can change in a short space of time. Thankfully the weather is fine and I don't have far to walk. I can see some buildings in the distance, but it isn't close enough to disguise the intensity of a new-born infant, wailing in your ear. Poor little man, on a wild quest from the instant he's given life.

Once arriving at the shops, I'm happy to find a small hospital there - I take the young infant inside.

"What do we have here?" The female in uniform asks.

"I found this young child outside," I say, holding the crying baby in my hands.

"Oh my, does it have a name?"

"No, he was just wrapped in this blanket," I reply, handing the baby to her.

"Hmm...... I actually have a male name perfect for him. I'll write it down on his birth certificate," she says, cradling the baby with one arm.

She writes the name of the infant down, followed by the second name - it's the heaviest piece of truth I have ever had to witness with my own eyes. This secret will stay with me forever, and it is my destiny to never tell another living soul.

"Are you happy with the name selection?" the female asks, spinning his certificate of birth around.

"I couldn't think of a more perfect name. Thank you for your help. See you again, little guy," I reply, tickling the baby under the chin, then leaving the building.

I move to a more secluded area, open up a wormhole, and then head back to the floating island.

"How long was I?" I ask, landing next to her.

"Instantaneous. It was like you never left," Zelada replies, still wiping tears from her face.

"That's good. We must prepare you for the final part of the test."

"Can't you wait a while, this losing your son stuff is still a little fresh."

"Of course we can, my girl."

"What do I have to do, anyway?"

"Can't really say. But, we do need to get you back to your best physical condition."

"Why?"

"The Syndicate of Time - they're next on our list. If you're not in pristine condition, they'll end your life."

"Shit. Give me some time, I'll be ready shortly."

She cries for quite a while, but I refuse to push her. She needs to deal with the loss of her son, so she can get ready for the fight of her lifetime. I need her to accept and pass the final test, to prove she has what it takes to become a Time Guardian.

A few weeks pass, and I push her limits physically - she seems to be back in top physical condition. Her daily run from one side of the Periko Plains to the other has truly paid off. Once she finishes her morning run on this particular day, I ask a question and I hope for a positive answer.

"Do you think you're ready, my girl?" I ask.

"I..... I actually think I am. What do we have to do?" Zelada replies, catching her breath.

Butch dives out of her shoulder, landing on the ground next to us.

"Shall we?" Butch asks.

We nod at him, mount his back, then we launch into the air. She remains quiet, awaiting our arrival at the destination. I fear for her, because this test always separates those who are ready, from those who aren't.

We land near the Port town of Gustar, and pass through the secret entrance against the cliff face. Eventually we arrive at our destination - Countesi Forest. We travel with very few words exchanged until we arrive at the far side of the forest - I promptly get her attention.

"Do you know what you need to do?" I ask.

"I.... Think.... So," she replies, scratching her head.

"I can't go with you, my girl. This test is for you to complete on your own."

She nods at me, then smiles. I pray for her safety, hoping she keeps away from harm.

She opens a wormhole right in front of us, just above her head - it's bigger than most of the wormholes I open up.

"You can do it, my girl!" I yell, over the electricity.

"I'm..... Trying...." she yells back, before getting sucked inside.

"NNNOOOOOO!" I yell.

**THE PROPHET**

The wormhole opens up, and I drop onto the ground - it disappears, leaving a large pink lightning bolt, suspended above me.

"Where am I?" I mutter.

I'm kneeling in the dirt, surrounded by a dense jungle. I look up at the cloudless blue sky and see a large bird fly overhead, briefly casting a shadow over me. It can't be what I think it is. But how right am I.... I hear a loud growl, prompting me to look ahead - I see an old enemy, impatiently waiting to get their revenge.

"Shit.... It's the Physaurus," I mutter, turning to run....

###

### About the Author

Firstly, thank you for supporting my book; Episode I: The Prophet and her legacy. A lot of hard work and time has gone into completing this story. I've been writing this series of books since September 2007. I released Episode III first as I felt it was necessary to tell Syra's story first. I released Episode IV second, then Episode V - my personal favourite in the series, recently released Episode II and now Episode I. The order that I will release the rest of the series is Episode VI, VII, VIII, IX then X - and now that the first five are out, you can read them in chronological order as well. Start from this book and read to Episode X.

A bit about me

I am a 31 year old author from West Auckland, New Zealand. Currently living in Australia. I love Science Fiction - especially time travel - and action; this series is my attempt of merging both these loves into one.

One last thing. My books have a lot of violence in them, which does not mean that I condone it in the real world. You see I dissect a scene in my head and describe it on paper how I see it. It's just how I have always been; I love vivid detail.

I have added the first chapter of Episode II and Episode VI in the next few pages, obviously read whichever one you need to, depending on where you started in the series and I hope you enjoy it.

Again, a big thank you from the bottom of my heart, if you enjoyed reading this book, could you please take a moment to leave me a review at your favourite retailer?

Other books by Mario Walsh

AVAILABLE NOW

Episode III - The Chosen One

Episode IV - A Twist of Fate

Episode V - Syra's Paradox

Episode II - The Pinnacles of Fate

COMING SOON

Episode VI - The Syndicate of Time

Episode VII - The Mentor of Time

Episode VIII - The Guardian of Time

Episode IX - The Martyr of Time

Episode X - The Bounty of Time

Connect with Me Online:

Facebook:

 https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Tales-Of-The-Arter-Gems-Series/380099275345176

Smashwords:

<https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/SyrasParadox>

### Tales of the Arter Gems:

Episode II -

The Pinnacles of Fate

###  Preface

I'm like most typical twenty seven year old West Auckland males in 1993 - not to mention the addiction to rock music, which is pretty standard. Black jeans, a black shirt with a lime green circular symbol on the front. I have black hair which falls well past my shoulders, a long goatee, and a tattoo of the ace of spades on the inside of my right wrist. I have no idea who my real parents are. My foster parents died when I was very young; I endeavour to one day find out where I came from.

With water dripping from the olive skin on my face, I gaze at my reflection in a mirror, inside the dirty confines of a public toilet in Kelston, and it never once dawns on me that today could be a weird day.

My name is Zane, and this is my story.

### I - An 'inZANE' choice to make

Its late afternoon on March 31st, 1993, and I'm busy taking 'Butch' my Rottweiler, and my daughter Syra for a walk through Kelston, West Auckland. She's three, and really quite sharp for her age. She likes to point to the street signs as we pass, saying them aloud to show me that she remembers what I've taught her.

While Syra's pram gets stuck on a rock, Butch begins barking ferociously. Before I get a chance to tell him to stop, I realise what has got him so worked up. There's an older woman crossing the road, not caring at all about her safety. Cars are tooting and grinding to a halt as she briskly strolls across the road, walking out onto the footpath in front of us.

She's wearing a tailored white pastel suit, and her grey hair is flowing free, covering most of her face.

"Sorry," she says, causing Butch to whimper.

"What's wrong, boy?" I ask, bending down and scratching his chin.

He looks towards the older woman and his tongue starts hanging out of his mouth.

"Should we follow her, booooooyy?" I say, scratching his back.

"Follow her, Daddy," Syra exclaims, pointing at her.

"Okay beautiful, you're the boss."

I continue pushing the pram, keeping my distance from the older woman. Syra's curiosity never seems to sleep and she begins questioning me.

"Where's she going, Daddy?"

"I'm not sure, angel."

"Why didn't she look both ways crossing the road?"

"Because she's a naughty lady."

"Why's she in such a hurry?"

"Daddy doesn't know hunny."

"Why are we following her?"

"Because Daddy wants to know if she's heading to a park."

"YAY! I love the park!" Syra says, shaking around.

After following her down a few streets, I see her enter the old Asylum. Many people are hanging around outside; the sign at the entrance has a large blank space, and 'University' underneath.

"Have they transformed the old Asylum into a University?" I mutter.

"Is there a playground there, Daddy?" Syra asks.

"No beautiful, there isn't. Let's head home and tell mum about our walk," I say, turning the pram around.

While we walk home, I wonder why they would do such a thing with that place. It was already creepy enough, now students have to study there. The almighty dollar can make people do some strange things.

"Mummy!" Syra yells, running into Linda's arms.

"Hey baby, be with you in a sec," I say, passing my wife and picking up our phone.

I ring the number for the old asylum. '09-8130863.'

"Hello, you've reached the University. How may I help you," the lady on the phone says.

"Isn't it odd that you don't even have a name for the University yet?" I reply, cheekily.

"Sorry about that sir, it's one of our highest priorities. First and foremost we wish to educate people."

"Can I please book an appointment with the Vice Chancellor?"

"Sure. How does 9am tomorrow sound? When you come in just ask for Akiad Zaruth"

"Sounds great. Thank you very much." I say before hanging up the phone.

"Hey hunny, how was your walk?" Linda asks, hugging me from behind.

I turn around and hold her close to me. Linda is my wife, and my high school sweetheart, 'Class of 83'. There has never been another, only her; forever and always.

"I have an appointment tomorrow," I say.

"Huh? You never told me you had an appointment."

"Ummm... It's with the Vice Chancellor at the new University."

"What new University?"

"Remember the old mental Asylum?"

"You mean Kelston institute for the criminally insane?"

"Yes."

"What about it?"

"That's the new University."

"You're kidding."

"Not one bit."

"Well, at least you won't need a straitjacket looking the way you do. You'll be fine," Linda says, cheekily.

"Come here you," I say, kissing her passionately.

"I love you baby," Linda says.

"Love you too," I reply.

"Daddy, can I have a tuddle?" Syra says as she runs towards me.

"Come here pumpkin," I reply, picking her up and twirling her in the air a few times.

While I hold Syra in my arms, it makes me proud to not just be her father, but a father in general. I don't know what it is about her, but as I peer into her eyes, I feel such a strong energy. I swear that sometimes it feels like she's trying to tell me something. Linda has always said she's an 'old soul,' someone who has lived before; the more time I spend with Syra, the more I agree with her.

"Can you draw a picture for daddy, pumpkin?" I say, putting her down.

"Okay daddy!" Syra screams in excitement, dashing for the lounge.

I approach Linda, place my hands around her, then lean in and kiss her on the lips.

"I'm so proud of our little girl, she's so sharp!" I say.

"She is indeed, we've done well," Linda replies.

"Well I'm officially bushed. Maybe we shouldn't have stayed up till 3am watching that horror."

"Well, it was your idea."

"I know, I know. There's just something about flesh eating locusts that makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand upright."

"That's true, babe. I'll keep dinner in the fridge for you. I'm making your favourite; leek and potato soup."

"Thanks beautiful. See you when you get to bed."

I awaken and look at the time. It's 5am, and Linda is snoring next to me. I hop up and get changed, then head downstairs to the kitchen. My stomach is growling madly.

"Mmm, I love this soup warmed up. Hope she didn't use too much cream; I hate having the runs," I mutter to myself, popping some in a dish.

I open the microwave, place the dish inside then set the timer before heading out to the back step and sitting down. Looking out at the back paddock, I hear a noise.

"Hello?" I say, standing up.

I walk into our back yard, gradually approaching the back fence. Leaning on it, I look out to the endless sea of long grass, trying to see clearly in the dark.

"Is someone there?" I yell out

Man, I wish I had a torch... Or ate more carrots. Turning to head back inside, I hear another noise from the paddock. Grass is rustling about fifty metres away.

"Hello? It's five in the morning, can you please quit the games?"

Moments after that comment, the noises stop but my stomach starts growling again. I head back inside, and get my food out of the microwave. Butch lingers around wanting a feed, so I sit back outside on the step, and place a little in his bowl.

"You're a good boy, aren't ya?" I say, scratching his head.

I eat the soup with Butch, then head inside and lay on the couch with him. I wonder what all that noise was in the paddock. Maybe it's just the lack of sleep throwing off my senses...

"Shit, what time is it," I say, waking from my slumber.

Looking at the clock in the lounge I suddenly realise it's already 7:40am. I rush upstairs, quickly brush my teeth, chuck a pair of black jeans and a black heavy metal shirt on, then hurry down to the kitchen.

"Well, I better get going, beautiful. It's 7:45am, and my appointment to meet the Vice Chancellor is at nine," I say, kissing Linda on the cheek.

"Okay hunny, love you," Linda replies.

"Love you too," I say before I leave the warm confines of my house.

The weather takes a turn for the worse while I'm on the bus; but it gives me some time to think about Syra.

I remember one morning about a year ago - The hail against the window woke me up, and Syra was in our bed, between Linda and me....

"Daddy, draw picture?" Syra asks.

I look to the side and see that it's 4am.

"Were you having a bad dream?" I ask.

"Come," Syra replies, climbing over Linda, but thankfully not waking her.

I follow her to the lounge, and she sits at the table. I sit next to her, and watch as she draws a picture.

She starts by writing something, leaning close to the paper; I can't see until she pulls away.

"Pa.. Dox," Syra says, leaning back in her chair.

I look down and see that she has written 'Padox' on her piece of paper

"What does that mean, sweetie?" I ask.

She hops onto the ground, then dives her head into a large bucket of crayons, searching for the right colour. Returning with a light blue crayon, she climbs onto her chair, and begins drawing.

She holds the crayon about halfway down, then draws a large circle, spinning counter clockwise. She looks up at me and says "Padox" with a big smile on her face.

I look back at her and smile.

"Good drawing, beautiful," I reply.

I don't know what it was about that, but I know that I've spent a lot of time trying to work that one out.

"Should have worn a jacket," I mutter to myself as I hop off the bus.

April 1st, and it's bucketing down with rain. Who's the fool now? As I run from shelter to shelter towards the Vice Chancellors office, something dawns on me. I'm completely drenched, about to meet the head of a University, to discuss my daughter attending here in fifteen years' time. It does seem a little stupid.

I arrive at the office, and his door is closed. Lined up along the wall on either side are wooden chairs; the one opposite the office is occupied by an attractive woman in her fifties, she has mostly grey hair with black streaks running through. She's wearing a long black robe - which appears to have a hood, and yellow dishwashing gloves. No offense to her, but good luck with her interview.

I sit down opposite her, on the seat next to the door.. A puddle forms on the ground beneath me, and while I'm still a little distracted by her appearance, she speaks first.

"Let me guess, you're going for the job too?"

"No, I'm checking the University out for my daughter."

"That's nice of you; but aren't you a little old to be doing that?"

"I'm nearly twenty eight."

"No, I meant your daughter. She must be at least sixteen. Teach her some independence."

"No... She's..... Three."

"Hmm, didn't see that one coming."

I stop in silence as I let the shame of that woman's comment sink in. A change of subject is severally needed.

"Isn't it weird that the University has no name?" I say.

"It's called Leviathan University."

"No, that's wrong. It doesn't have a name. The woman on the phone confirmed this."

"Well, I'm going to suggest it to be called Leviathan University. It's a strong name."

Is this lady for real? She seems like a loon. Ironic, being that we're in an old asylum.

"So, why are you wearing yellow gloves?" I ask.

"Nosey, aren't you? Must be a Gemini," she quips.

"Cheeky comment coming from someone going to a job interview wearing dishwashing gloves," I reply, in a similar manner.

"I plan to get this job. It's for the head nurse."

"Now I get the gloves," I quip.

She looks at me in a filthy way, then begins crying. Shit, I always get caught in situations like this.

"I'm sorry," I say, sounding empathetic.

"It's okay. I just haven't seen my father in a long time," she replies, wiping tears from her eyes.

"I'm really sorry to hear that."

"It's fine. You just remind me a lot of him."

"He must have been handsome," I joke, causing us to both laugh.

Our laughter eventually wears off, prompting her to speak.

"What's your daughter's name?"

"Why do you have yellow gloves on?"

"Why check out this university when your daughter is three?"

"We all have our secrets, don't we?"

She smiles at me, and in this small lapse of time, I introduce myself.

"My name's Zane."

"Terra, please come in," a voice says from beyond the door.

"Bye Zane," Terra replies, entering the room.

I smile to myself, thinking about how weird that whole conversation was. She is bizarre, no doubt in my mind.

A few minutes pass and she exits the office, smiling and nodding as she walks past. I wonder if she got the job.

The Vice Chancellor is standing beyond the door. He's wearing a brown leather jacket, denim jeans and looks very old. His hair is white, quite bushy and thick for an old fella. But it's the white pupils which catch me a little off-guard.

"Did she get the job?" I ask.

"Yeah, she surprised me too. She even suggested Leviathan University for the name of our great establishment. I like it. Anyway, my name is Akiad Zaruth, nice to meet you," Akiad says, reaching out to shake my hand.

"Zane, nice to meet you too," I reply, eventually shaking his hand.

Suddenly, a flash blinds my vision; I look down at my hand and see that it's invisible - from my right finger tips, to just past my wrist.

I swiftly end the handshake in shock, then flick my right hand; it appears visible again. Am I seeing things?

"Come in, please take a seat," Akiad says, closing the door behind me.

I sit down, still confused by what just happened and have a look around the room; it seems fairly normal. The wooden desk in front of me has papers stacked in the corners and the windows are open to the left of us. Two suspicious items catch my eye, the two metre high object in the back right corner of the room - which is covered by a white sheet; and the wooden closet.

"Oh that's just an old mirror, which was a present from a friend. I keep it covered to stop dust getting on it," Akiad says, smiling. As he sits down, I start my questions.

"So, what are your long term goals for this university?" I ask, sitting back in my chair, left leg crossed over my right.

"Basically, I want to inject every student in attendance with a formula that will hypnotise them into becoming my slave, eventually helping me take over the world," Akiad says, keeping a straight face.

I stay silent for about twenty seconds; is this guy for real?

"April fools, right?" Akiad says, before laughing loudly, making me laugh.

"Okay, you got me, good one," I reply, chuckling.

Moments after our laughter wears thin, Akiad speaks.

"Now that the rain has died down, would you like me to show you around the campus? We'll head over to the White lecture theatre; I'm sure you'll appreciate the displays, as this week is cultural week," Akiad explains.

"All right sounds good. After you," I reply as we both hop up, and exit the room.

Akiad takes me for a circuit around the campus, and before taking me to the White lecture theatre, he shows me the infirmary - which I swear wasn't there on my first walk through this morning.

The infirmary is extremely run down, the brown paint is flaking off, and is in dire need of a refurbishment, especially when compared to the rest of the campus. Akiad mentioned earlier on, in our tour that the university has been getting a facelift over the last three years, however the infirmary looks like it hasn't been touched at all. Strange.

Once we arrive at the White lecture theatre, I become excited; I'm quite keen to see these displays. I peek through one of the windows on the double doors. The layout of the theatre is quite common of a university. It's on a forty five degree angle from top to the blackboard at the bottom, and the entrance is in the back left corner; the highest point of the room.

Akiad opens the doors, and no surprise to me, the displays are amazing. The biggest section is for New Zealand, but it's hardly stealing the show; the most amazing display present in my opinion, is for the Japanese. It's at the back of the room, with a huge Japanese flag pinned on the wall, and in an 'X' formation - positioned in the middle of the red dot - are two samurai swords, in their respective sheathes. I approach them with haste, and don't hesitate in removing one from the wall, and pulling it out if its sheath.

"Authentic, I assure you. I only want the best for my students," Akiad says, standing behind me while I marvel at the blade.

"Sixteenth century?" I ask, while carefully twisting the samurai sword around, studying it further.

"Of course. Anything made from any other era wouldn't match the quality of this authentic, ancient samurai sword," Akiad replies.

While sliding the sword into the sheath, and placing it back on the display, I ponder something. If I ever had to take arms for any ridiculous reason, then a samurai sword would be my weapon of choice.

"Sorry Zane, I'm just wondering if you have decided to enrol your child here at Leviathan University? If so, when would they be starting?" Akiad asks.

"Oh I feel this place is right for her. She'll probably start sometime in 2007?" I reply, looking around the room at the other displays.

"Wow, that's a little ahead of time," Akiad replies, sounding confused, following closely behind me.

"Well, she's a special girl, and I want the best for her. Anyway, I'm very impressed with this University, and it was great to meet you. Thank you for your time," I say, shaking Akiad's hand.

I quickly glance down at my hand, as I'm shaking his, but it doesn't disappear. Maybe I was just seeing things. Oh well, time to depart and let Linda know about the university.

As I walk home, the rain starts bucketing down again, eventually turning into hail; while passing through Kelston, I notice a second hand store which is open. Right out in front of the shop is a clothing rack with a black leather trench coat, in immaculate condition; for a mere twenty dollars. I take the coat off, and immediately enter the store to purchase it.

I'm second in queue, and while time ticks by, I look to my left, and see another rack with a black denim vest for sale, cheap too. It reminds me a little bit of a vest that most action stars wore in the eighties. It's old, but is so me.

"I'll take this too," I say, grabbing the vest, and passing my items to the salesperson.

I step out of the shop, it's still pouring down. I put my newly acquired vest and trench coat on, and walk home.

To be honest, I don't mind the rain pelting down on me. It gives me time to think about things. I was fairly impressed with the university, but something was obscure about it; was it the compulsory blood test Akiad mentioned as we wandered around the campus, or the fact that it used to be an Asylum? Maybe, it's just me. But in saying all of this, the choice to send my little girl to Leviathan University is certain. I definitely want her to attend one day, but maybe I should have started with a primary school first.

###

SPOILER ALERT: If you have read this series starting with Episode I, DO NOT read any further, it will reveal too much and just make it confusing for you. If you have enjoyed this chapter, please head to your favourite Ebook retailer and download 'Tales of the Arter gems: Episode II - The Pinnacles of Fate' to carry on your journey in the land of Tharp.

### Tales of the Arter Gems:

Episode VI -

The Syndicate of Time

*Please note the following chapter hasn't been edited fully and is subject to change in the official release of this book*

###  Prologue

I'm Syra, a thirty-one year old University drop out. So much has happened to me, and when I process my thoughts on what I've been through, it makes me wonder how I'm still alive. I've lost many friends, and vanquished scads of foes. But one more challenge awaits me, and it will test my courage, power and determination. I must eradicate the Syndicate of Time. But before I do this, I must fill in the blanks for Enaz, and explain everything that has happened, up to this point in time. He of all people has a right to know.

### I - A Link to the Past

• **10:12am, August 6th, 2017 - Leviathan University: White Lecture Theatre, Kelston, West Auckland, New Zealand.**

My father and I are sitting in the front row of the White Lecture Theatre, in Leviathan University. This room has many memories, but is in a bit of a beaten state compared to many years ago. The seats are on a forty-five degree angle from top to bottom, with the blackboard just in front of us. Flags cover the walls, and cobwebs are everywhere else; in the roof, directly above us in the centre of the room, is a suspended pink lightning bolt. This is how I entered.

Before I picked up my father, I walked up to the blackboard and wrote down what I could remember seeing on the blackboard in 2019. Across the top of the blackboard, I wrote BEWARE! THE SYNDICATE ARE COMING! In capitals, and the many years I remember seeing. 1993 is on the far left, then 2007, 2019, 2029, 2099, and 2119. I still don't know what this all means yet, but maybe we can shed some light on it.

I glance at Enaz and it's weird to see him with so much grey in his hair, and his big bushy grey beard is different. He's still dressed the same, with his long black trench coat, worn black denim jeans and black vest; his two samurai swords are still visible behind each shoulder. Looking at his aged face, I smile his direction and say something cheeky.

"Shit, how old are you now?"

"Fifty four, so I'm an old fart," Enaz jokes.

"Depends, you're young compared to others."

"And by others, do you mean Modnar?"

"Yeah," I say, chuckling.

"Where is he, anyway? You two are usually joined at the hip."

"He's running an errand for me, but he'll be back soon."

"It's weird, you look different every time we meet."

I'm wearing a low cut, tight black singlet, black jeans, and steel tip, black boots. My hair colour is fire engine red with black slices evenly through - and is down to my shoulders in length. I forget how different I look compared to when he last saw me. I have to do this, to keep myself hidden, and protected.

"So, where do we begin?" Enaz asks.

"That is a good question. Well you remember everything from the moment we last spoke, right?"

"Yeah, you took the wormhole to the past right?"

"Correct, but this first event takes place a little while later."

"When?"

"Remember when you visited the Village of Noradi?"

"Ummmmmm... Shit, I remember. You took off, and left me to be escorted by Voltanna, Muhbac and Zekai."

"That's it."

"Was it you that killed the Oathient," Enaz says, then I chime in and reply "Yes, it was."

"And where did you go?"

"Well, let me think," I reply, looking up at the lightning bolt.

• **4:47pm, April 4th 1993 - The Village of Noradi, Tharp.**

I disappear further up the tree, pushing through all the dense bush - until I hit the muggy swamp, up to my knees.

"Shit, I forgot how much I hate this place," I mutter.

Before me is a forest, covered in dense fog, shrouding the way forward. The canopy of leaves above me blocks the sun, allowing a few lucky specks to peer through the fog.

"Glad there's no trouble. I really need to meet Modnar," I say, moving forward.

"I wouldn't be too glad, human. We eat your kind for breakfast," an Oathient serpent says.

These troubling serpents are Oathient outcasts, banished to these swamps as a punishment for their crimes. They have a rotting brown colour skin, and a muscular physique. The half of their body resembles a human, where the bottom half is like a snake - a thick tail to slither around.

Three approach me with axes, so I draw my sword.

"Really in a hurry. Please don't make me harm you," I say.

"You, harm us. Hahaha, forget it."

"You asked for it."

The left serpent strikes, so I duck and chop through his stomach; he drops to the swamp in half.

"AAAARRRGGGGGHHH!" he screams.

The other two attack my direction, so I clash with them both, blocking all their strikes.

"She's talented," one serpents says.

"Not talented enough," the other serpent adds.

The left swings at me, so I dodge it, then nudge his axe with my sword; it lands in the other serpent's neck.

"Aarrrrgggggh! You fool!" The serpent says, dropping to the swamp.

I chop the left serpent's arms off, followed by his head, then his friend's. I sheathe my weapon and continue ahead.

"You didn't think it was going to be that easy, did you?"

"Seriously, I have somewhere I need to be."

"Not today, human."

I open my mouth and thousands of flesh eating locusts fly out, landing all over me.

"Wait... Wait... We were just... Just messing around," a serpent says, fearfully.

"Go locusts, claim your feast," I say, putting my arms in the air, while the locusts fly off me.

They devour everything in sight. I proceed through the swamp, and can hear the screams of agony behind me. I'm sorry to say, but they just messed with the wrong woman.

• **5:25pm, April 4th, 1993 - Periko Plains, Tharp.**

This place never loses its beauty; I've always wanted to bring a camera and take a few photos of this place. Perfect green pastures go into the distance towards the mountains - a river runs right next to me, disappearing into the horizon. Trees sprinkled throughout the pastures, and birds gliding through the air makes this heaven on Tharp.

I look left and see some flashes at the top of a bank. I quickly run to see what it is. Upon my arrival, I see Modnar and another of the Syndicate, whom I haven't seen before - both have their palms in front of themselves, battling for control of a large ball of energy.

"He's opening a wormhole!" Modnar yells, struggling to control it.

"It's open, but where will I go is what you should worry about!"

He's wearing a white pastel suit, clean shaven, and has a platinum white comb over.

"Let it go, I have my fist aimed right at your face. I'm a good shot too," I say, carefully approaching him.

"You don't scare me, Syra. You're only a fraction of the power of our leader."

"Pfft, I'll wipe her out the moment I meet her."

"Don't be so sure."

"What's your name," I say, approaching him, with my left fist pointing at his head.

"Tau," he replies, jumping into the energy ball.

"Shit Modnar! Follow him!" I reply, grabbing Modnar's hand and leaping into it.

• **5:03am, April 1st, 1993 - West Auckland, New Zealand**

We fall out into a dark field, face first.

"Where are we?" I ask, standing and panicking.

"I'm sure you can work this one out," Modnar replies, picking up his staff and standing.

I can hear rustling to the left, and see a house in the distance.

The long grass is up to my stomach, and in long need of a trim. Wait.... We can't be where I think we are.

"Are we in my backyard?"

"Indeed my girl. Now, where has Tau gone?"

"I think this way. Quietly, follow me," I say, heading towards my house.

Modnar and I creep through the long grass, pushing it aside, hoping to find Tau. The darkness is making it difficult to see.

"We better find him. He may kill me," I whisper.

"No, worse."

"Really? If so, then who?"

"Your father."

"Shit."

Suddenly, the silence is broken; the back door opens at home, and someone emerges. We're at least one hundred metres away.

Ten metres away, I see Tau leap up; the moon is making his pastel suit glow.

"There!" I say, sprinting after him.

I run like my life depends on it. I'm slowly gaining him, but maybe not fast enough. I hold my left fist out in front, and fire a molten dart, which misses.

"I have to catch him," I say, gasping for air.

Tau trips over in the grass; I look up at the back door, and see someone stand up.

When Tau stands, I tackle him into the grass. We roll a few metres; he kneels over me, and throws a few punches. I block with my forearms, then knee him in the groin.

"Aaarrgggh," he groans.

I roll him over, and pin his arms down with my knees; my flurry of punches connect with his face, busting open his lip.

He pushes me over, and begins running towards my house. I trip him, then dive onto his back, covering his mouth.

Over Tau's muffled groans, I hear a voice in the silence.

"Is someone there? Man, wish I had a torch... Or ate more carrots," Zane says.

"You better not say a word, Tau," I whisper.

"Mmmmmmmmmm," he groans.

"I'd stay quiet, Tau."

Tau begins wriggling, moving the tall grass around us.

"Hello? It's five in the morning, can you please quit the games?" Zane says.

I do the only thing I can think of at this moment in time. I break Tau's neck.

I peek over the top of the long grass and see my father head inside. Modnar sneaks up behind me.

"Sorted the problem out?"

"Yeah, I broke his neck. I didn't really have a choice."

"It had to be done, eventually. Now, just twenty-two of the Syndicate to go."

"Once Dad heads inside, we drag Tau's body out of here. But where do we take it?"

"I know just the place," Modnar replies, grabbing Tau's left ankle.

I peek over the grass and see Dad head inside. This is our cue.

"All right chief, let's go."

We drag Tau's heavy corpse through the long grass. This is the closet I've been to home in a while. If Dad is at home, I wonder what year it is.

"Modnar, when are we?"

"If I'm right my girl, it is the year 1993."

"So I'm inside that house, as.... A kid?"

"Correct."

"Shit, that's heavy."

Once we're a few hundred metres from the house, we let go of Tau.

"Gees he's heavy," I say.

"You're not kidding," Modnar replies, sarcastically.

"Open up a wormhole, let's get him out of here. Do you know where to take him?"

"I have a fair idea."

"Okay great, please pick a discreet location."

Modnar opens his palms, and a ball of energy emerges from a small hole. We pick up Tau and throw him through, following close behind. I hope Modnar knows what he's doing.

###

