 
ATLANTIS

AGE OF RAGNAROK

C M SHORT
Copyright © Sep. 10th, 2017 C M SHORT

All rights reserved.

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CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: THE MEETING

CHAPTER 2: SECRET PLACES

CHAPTER 3: IRON LADY AT WAR

CHAPTER 4: INTO THE PAST

CHAPTER 5: LEGENDS

CHAPTER 6: SANDS OF DESTINY

CHAPTER 7: RIVER OF LIGHT

CHAPTER 8: CAT'S PAW

CHAPTER 9: REVELATIONS

CHAPTER 10: TIMES TWO

# CHAPTER 1

THE MEETING

"Can I rub some oil, on your back"?

The soothing touch of the Riviera sun, and the gentle kiss of a breeze, were interrupted by a deep, masculine voice. Slowly turning over on the white, sandy beach, she looked up at the source of the voice: a tall, handsome, broad shouldered man. Kind, light blue eyes, and a warm smile, greeted her from beneath a ball cap, while the mid-summer sun made his bronzed muscles glow.

"Hi, I'm Jean-Leuc."

Normally, she would not pay much attention to a stranger, but this one was different somehow; a sense of being able to trust him-prompted a reach for his outstretched hand.

"Hi, I'm Angel. I could use some oil. What's the SPF? With the sun being hotter these days, I've got to be careful."

"It's 40."

"That'll be good for a while," she replied, turning back onto her stomach.

"Where are you from, Angel"?

"Paris. And you?"

As he answered, soft hands started a gentle massage.

"Originally from here, from Toulon, and now I live on New Earth 3. Are you here by yourself?"

"Yes, for a summer of relaxing. Which one, is New Earth 3?"

"That's the one, hovering above Greece."

"I've been approved for a residence in New Earth 7, which is floating just off the French coast. I'll be moving there, in about a month."

"You'll love it"!

"I believe I will"!

After a couple of minutes, Jean-Leuc stood up and brushed summer blonde hair away from his eyes.

"I should probably, get back to my friends."

He pointed at two men, sitting on the beach a short distance away.

"If you like, come on over and join us, and we'll find some dinner after a while."

"I'm almost done tanning, and I'll head over after that."

"Great! See you in a bit"!

Walking away from the green eyed, curvy lady was difficult, and among churning thoughts-he dared to hope she really would come over.

Getting back to soaking up the blissful radiance, warm thoughts spoke of how Jean-Leuc was enchanting somehow, and dinner with him sounded nice! Another 15 minutes of tanning, and it was time to stop: before getting burned. It only took a minute to gather things up, tie a cover around her waist, and begin a walk that included enticing thoughts of the handsome man she'd just met.

He is so good looking! And there's something mysterious about him!

She was curious to find out what-knowing-it would prove to be unusual; a glimpse of movement, and all curious thoughts were pushed aside-by the uneasy feeling-of being out of place!

The air had started to ripple, as though from scorching heat, but it looked different: it had a blue sheen. In another second, an ominous roar split the sky directly overhead, and icy claws of fear gripped tight-digging-painfully deep! Knowing it couldn't be thunder, since there wasn't a cloud in the sky, her eyes turned skyward, afraid, of what would be seen.

"Another daydream?" she questioned out loud.

In a blur of morphing reality, the beach gave way to a giant black dome. She stood on a second level walkway, and suspiciously observed the surroundings: many buildings circling an empty central area, people walking, and a large neon sign that read 'Space dock 7, Mallora 3 now arriving'.

For a moment, one person in particular-caught her attention: a three-legged man walking a Saber Tooth Tiger on a leash; the moment was over in a flash, when a large golden disc descended into the center of the dome.

Her senses screamed the next direction to go: down! Listening to them, she dropped to her knees behind a four-foot-high metallic cube.

Ow! The floor's hot!

Those were thoughts-that almost escaped!

Looking down showed hot sand, then, she had another burning awareness: the dome had disappeared! A heart-pounding scan of surroundings brought relief, upon seeing the familiar beach. At that point, confused thoughts managed to channel into sound.

"Good lord! What just happened?"

After what felt like an eternity, she was able to halfway collect her composure and continue on, making watchful eyes happy!

"Ah! Here she comes"!

"Hey, pretty one! Looks like-you soaked up all the sun"!

"Tried to! I'm trying to get really dark."

"You're doing a pretty good job, and what a beautiful tan: you glisten! You look a little shaken; did you get too much sun?"

"I'm ok-just a little on the warm side."

Scrambled thoughts raced inside a fog of confusion, coming to rest on the idea, that it must've been a hallucination. Sitting down in the chair he offered, it felt good, for frazzled nerves to be relaxing in the shade of a beach umbrella.

"I've got just the thing to cool you off! How about a nice, cold, Desperado beer?"

"Sure, thanks"!

His charming, boyish grin-rewarded him with a smile.

"You know, for a moment, it seemed you disappeared into a blue haze; then, you reappeared and fell. Are you ok?"

"Yes, I'm fine," she lied, figuring he'd never believe her. "Somehow, I managed to trip."

After a short time of conversation, a stroll brought them to the many elegant restaurants and shops, edging the horse-shoe beaches. The cobblestone sidewalk carried a flurry of people-excited-about pouring through the touristy treasures, while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze, and enticing aromas that beckoned from the many famous restaurants.

Peace and contentment, nestled, within the fragrant flower of summer in full bloom. Numerous people were enjoying the powdery white beach and crystal water, as horizon dotting sailboats gently bobbed to the mystical rhythm of an unheard song.

With entrancing magic, thoughts of the green-eyed beauty were willingly held captive.

She's perfect!

"This place is _magical_ , Jean-Leuc! I could stay here- _forever_ "!

"It's one of my favorites, and I thought you'd like it; another place I think you would enjoy, is full of unique little shops. Would you like to see them?"

"Sounds fun! Lead the way"!

A handful of narrow, winding streets, led to a most wonderful discovery: charming, warmly decorated shops, that boasted the most fashionable and divine merchandise-successfully stirring a woman's desire to shop.

"Look at those boots! I've just _got_ to go in"!

"Ok, let's go."

Mother nature had other plans, and the ground shook beneath their feet, prompting a rescue by strong arms.

"Thanks! Boy, these quakes are getting to be an almost everyday thing"!

"I know, it's crazy! You ok?"

"I'm fine-just a little unnerved. I hope scientists hurry up, and figure out what's causing all these earthquakes around the world! Some scientists, are saying that it's only going to get worse!"

"The answer will probably, be found soon."

Secretly, he found himself wishing for more quakes: for an excuse to hold her!

Just minutes later, she was the ecstatic owner of a fashion flattering pair of suede and leather boots! A little more looking at shops, and hunger resulted in a decision of where to eat: the famous restaurants along the beach.

The restaurants were seductive, with aromas of succulent fresh seafood being cooked. In no time, an elegant place invited them to choose a cozy little spot, with a hypnotizing beach view.

"What would you like to drink, pretty one"?

"Red house wine. The house wines, are usually the best!"

"I agree. Let's have some, while we decide on what to eat."

The view was relaxing: sea waves gently lapping the shore, and dozens of tourists enjoying the beach.

"What does a pretty girl like you, do for a living"?

"I'm a writer, of science fiction; I've already got six books out, and number seven is almost done."

"That's wonderful! I've been thinking about writing a book."

"What about"?

"A war I was in."

"I would be interested, in reading it"!

"How long have you been writing"?

"About seven years. What do you do, for a living?"

"Nothing. I just travel, and do whatever I want. I've never worked."

"I'm glad you've had it easy"!

"Easy, yes, but sometimes bored. I could use a little action!"

"So could I"!

"We've been expecting you, Angel"!

The startling comment, was from a small group of people in Greek style gold and silver robes, who were standing there looking at her; then, one spoke again.

"Sha-ra revealed-it was time for you to come"!

"Huh"?

The question was repeated.

"Is Angel, short for a longer name"?

"It's Angelique-Angelique Bourque. What's your full name?"

"Jean-Leuc Rousseau."

Curiosity was overwhelming, and she just had to know.

"Did you see that group of people, in the gold and silver robes"?

"No. What was going on?"

"I don't know. An odd group of people were standing there looking at me, one spoke, I looked away for just a second, then looked back-to thin air!"

"I bet you saw entertainers, that moved on to other guests."

"That must be it"!

She puzzled about it: one of the people had known her name, and the decision to come to the restaurant-hadn't been made-until just before entering!

"May I take your order"?

A waiter had appeared, and stood ready: politely waiting for the lady to go first.

"I was so busy talking, I forgot to think about what to eat! Do you have seafood pasta?"

"Yes. We have a splendid assortment of delicacies from the sea, that can be arranged on a bed of fresh pasta for you!"

"I'll have that tasty dish"!

"And you, sir"?

"I'll have the same."

"A good choice, sir! Your tasty meal, will be here in about 20 minutes. Enjoy the wine!"

Among sips, her thoughts ran back to the group of people-that somehow-had known she was going to be there.

"Angel, I couldn't help but notice the trident tattoo on your right shoulder, and the tattoo of multi-colored spots running down from that-unique-to be sure"!

"Thanks! I like to be different"!

She wondered what he'd think, if he knew, and if he would even believe her!

The guessing was cut short, when their food arrived-looking like a work of art! Tantalizingly placed in front of them, were cleverly decorated plates of fresh, steaming seafood, carefully arranged on delicate French pasta, with a colorful sauce lightly designed across the top.

The mouthwatering meal quickly satisfied taste buds, and was a nice bonus to the enjoyable company.

"You have unique tattoos, also! What made you decide on the gold lines, by the outside corners of your eyes?"

"Like you, I just want to be different."

He found himself trying to imagine what she'd say, if he told her the tattoos-weren't-tattoos!

The superb dinner was followed by savoring their wine, blending with the intoxicating summer atmosphere, and talking of adventurous destinations to explore. Minutes, melted into hours, and bright ribbons of scarlet and purple were streaking across the sky.

"Well, I guess I'd better head back to my hotel."

"I'll walk you back, pretty one."

After getting to her door, he expressed a brave hope.

"I'd like to see you again"!

Looking up at him, there was a desire-not known before.

"I'd like that"!

"I promised some friends, I'd spend the next two days with them. Can I see you after that?"

"Ok. Friday morning after nine, would be good."

"Great! I'll see you then"!

She imagined him leaning down and kissing her goodnight, but, instead of a kiss, he winked and gave that boyish grin-and walked away. Alone again, and sitting on the balcony with a glass of wine, she watched the fading ribbons and wondered what, if anything, lay in store for her with this tall, good looking man-she barely knew.

Leaving the hotel, he listened to an awakened voice-saying-he was in for a wild ride!

For the next two days, the inviting streets of downtown Toulon shared irresistible shops, and historical sites; however, thoughts kept returning to the handsome new friend. His natural charm could warm anybody, and his chuckle of a laugh-was like soothing vibrations.

Friday morning came, and a cute outfit was picked: Capri pants, an arm baring shirt, and sandals; make-up and hair were carefully done, and accessories were bikini earrings and a light, French perfume. One last look in the mirror, and a cup of coffee was taken to the balcony, to greet a wakening city. Shops were being opened, a few people were out walking their pets, a car motor was starting, and various birds were happily chirping the song of a new day. Feelings of curiosity surfaced: about how life there would be.

"Hey good looking"!

A look to the sidewalk below, was met by a sun-kissed face smiling up at her! Along with well-fitting shorts, a muscle shirt, sandals, and dark blue sunglasses perched on his head, a broad smile showed anticipation of a day of fun in the sun.

"I'll be right down"!

On the way down, she had a hope: of looking as good to him, as he did to her! Moments later, a boyish grin was spreading its charm.

"You are so beautiful"!

"Thanks"!

She didn't know what else to say, and could feel her cheeks turning red.

"Today is going to be fun, gorgeous! Any ideas?"

"We could go for a walk, and explore Toulon."

"Many fascinating things are here; also, we could take a trip. I know of a neat little place, about two hours farther up the Riviera, and close to the Italian border. If you want, we'll take a taxi there."

"Let's go"!

Soon, a speeding taxi was taking them to a day of adventure.

After about an hour, Jean-Leuc was falling asleep, and decided closing his eyes for a bit would help; however, an abrupt increase in speed-changed the plan.

Why is the taxi driver going so fast? his sleepy thoughts questioned.

Open eyes revealed the taxi was gone, and he was in a plane, with Angel, flying through a lightning storm of near constant bolts of bright blue light. Seeing her snuggled up next to him, brought a feeling of contentment-a feeling short lived. Blasting out of nowhere, came hurricane force winds pummeling them from every direction, and a rude awakening took place for Angel on the floor!

Strong arms, were quick to the rescue.

"You ok, baby"?

"I...I think so. What's going on?"

"We're in a lightning storm; it came up all of a sudden, and I didn't have time to grab you"!

"That's ok."

"Hold on back there! It's getting bumpy!" the pilot called.

Seconds later, it happened: a collision with terror, after it darted through the sky scorching fire and slammed into the plane!

Looking out a window was a searing mistake, and a slap in the face with the unholy vision-that their reality had vanished and been replaced by- _the depths of hell itself_! Among the raging fire, reared a bone-chilling sight that brought them to the point of panic; what their eyes saw was impossible: mythical demons from the past- _fire breathing dragons_! Just feet from the plane, an ancient evil stretched its massive demonic jaws wide, and a split second later, a deadly fireball slammed into the window and covered it with a suffocating layer of black dust. No longer able to see out that window or any others close by, was a small relief. Another hit, and that relief went up in smoke, as the deathly sound of metal tearing began to rip their sanity to shreds! Painful heartbeats joined a feeling of helplessness, as the long hook of fate-sliced into the plane!

"That's a claw!" he yelled.

She only had time to scream once, before the mind-numbing certainty of impending doom froze her with fear.

A loud hissing of escaping air-vital cabin pressure-was luck, going from bad, to worse; the mythical demon was peeling the plane open like a banana, and there was no way to stop it!

Within a split second, the frigid, blood-chilling eyes of death spotted its prey and pushed in for the kill: preparing to strike-from a life ending two feet away. Mammoth blood stained jaws became an abyss of primal hunger, as 12-inch saliva dripping fangs-anticipated-a juicy meal.

Looking into deaths door, a fighting spirit gave rise to a knight in shining armor-a knight determined to protect his lady love!

"We'll find a way out of this"!

A desperate search for a weapon, resulted, in a failure to protect and a plummeting heart-as the end closed in. With lightning speed, he was crunched in the mighty, life draining jaws of despair; nothing was going to save them now!

Like a nearly empty Pandora's box, hope remained: of life-after death.

Right on cue, the rescuing wings of destiny flew in, and a split second later-the hell born horror disappeared straight backward: seemingly, yanked by its tail! Afraid to dare hope it wouldn't come back, they stared out the hole-all breathing stopped-and then, a sickening feeling emerged: of being in a hopeless, uncontrollable spin!

"We're going to die"!

Hugging her tight, he closed his eyes and wondered if she was right.

Unexpected, was the end of the spiral and the plane veering hard to the right.

"Missed it"!

That jarred his eyes open and strangely enough-he was back in the taxi!

"Sorry about the swerve. An animal was in the road; it wasn't like any animal I've ever seen or heard of! Must've been a mutant. You two ok?"

"We're fine," she answered, and noticed a troubled face.

"You ok, sweetie"?

"I just had a really bizarre dream, but I'm fine."

His thoughts questioned: was it really a dream? It had been so real, yet, what other explanation could there possibly be?

In another hour, the taxi was pulling up to a quaint little fishing village. Life looked relaxingly slow there: sun soaked fishermen were mending the nets of weathered boats, a handful of children were sailing Frisbees to their fetch playing dogs, and a small string of shops at the waterfront was attracting several people.

"A wonderful step back in time"!

"That it is! Would you like a tour?"

"Sure"!

"This way, pretty girl."

She enjoyed the feeling, of a warm hand enveloping hers throughout the romantic day of walking the soft, pristine beach, exploring the shops that overflowed with local handcrafted items, and delighting their taste buds with the town's exclusive cuisine. As if always knowing each other, talk was about anything, and everything.

Toward evening, the almost two-hour ride back started, followed by a dinner of French pizza and Desperado beer.

"Guess what, pretty eyes"?

"What"?

"I've decided, to see if there's an extra room at your hotel, so we can be close"!

"I hope there is"!

As it turned out, a room was available for a week-right across the hall! Both of them were happy about that, but not about saying goodnight.

A light stroke on her face, and endearing words, brought a smile.

"I'd like to keep seeing you, pretty eyes"!

"I'd like that"!

"Goodnight, gorgeous! I'll go get my things, and see you tomorrow"!

"Goodnight"!

She saw a longing in his eyes-that was hard to pull away from!

# CHAPTER 2

SECRET PLACES

Sleep was elusive for a while that night, as sweet thoughts of the charming man next door-swirled-in the endless sea of possibilities. After finally getting seven hours of pleasant dreams, the warmth of softly filtered sun, mingled with vibrant sounds of a beautiful summer day already in full swing. A sense of excitement filled the air, with an anxious desire to get ready. Heading out to the kitchen to make coffee, a little yellow surprise was discovered: a handwritten note had been pushed under the door.

"Look on the other side of your door."

A silky red rose was taped to the knob, with another handwritten message.

"I'll fix us some breakfast. Come over when you're ready. Jean-Leuc."

Like a volcano erupting-the words exploded!

"Wow! This guy's really romantic"!

Her knock was swiftly met with a broad, boyish grin.

"Hey, gorgeous"!

"Hey, handsome"!

His boyish grin got even bigger.

"Come on in! I've got fresh coffee made"!

"Coffee would be great! I was about to make some, when I saw your note."

At the breakfast bar, a cup of coffee came along with an offer.

"If you like, we can have a bigger breakfast, since it's almost noon; perhaps coffee, and croissants, will not be enough this time."

"My tummy agrees"!

"What are you hungry for, pretty one"?

"I'm hungry, for an _American_ style breakfast! How about scrambled eggs, and do you have any ham slices?"

"I do! We have the same tastes! You relax with the coffee, and we'll chat while I cook it up."

Soon, a tasty breakfast was being enjoyed, and the chef just couldn't take his eyes off the wondrous creature sitting close to him!

"You really have the most stunning green eyes I've ever seen-they're like jewels-like emeralds"!

"Thanks! Boy, you sure are a good cook! And Americans, _really_ know how to have a good breakfast"!

"They do! I have a gift for you"!

"What is it"?

With a big smile, he replied.

"My favorite place in Toulon. It's a one-in-a-million place, that's off the beaten path."

"Ok, I'm game. When do you want to go?"

"How about today"?

"Today is good"!

"Cool! You'll need a swimsuit under your clothes, and a beach towel, sunscreen, and change of clothes."

After talking another hour, they packed a few things, while the soul warming summer day whispered a promise: another show stopping adventure was just around the corner!

I can't wait to show her!

The anxious thought kept repeating, while leading through the downtown streets, and out into the back edge of the city, where a desolate road ran parallel to the beaches. There were few businesses and homes for the next 45 minutes, but then, an interesting object came into view: a large, run-down building with smokestacks. It had a history, that would not have been guessed: it used to be a button factory! Soon, the road ended at a handful of old houses that were built right beside a hill, and the next step-would be into someone's yard!

"Are you sure we can go in there"?

"It's ok. Just try to be quiet-going by the house."

Following close behind, the sneak within just a few feet of the house, was uncomfortable, but trust covered the fear. At the back of the house, a big surprise waited: stairs, carved right into the side of the hill! After a tiring climb up many dozens of steps, the sight at the top was a relief!

"Hey! There's a road up here"!

"Just wait, till you see where it goes! We need to go this way, a little farther."

He pointed to the left, where the highway tightly hugged a brushy hill, as it continued a long rise that eventually curved to the right. Another 15 minutes, and he stopped.

"We go down here, pretty eyes."

A road went over the left bank, and forked after only 50 feet: one branch disappeared to the left, and the other, was a lengthy straight down that vanished to the right.

She pointed at the longest route, and posed a question-somehow-already knowing the answer.

"This one"?

"Good guess! The other one goes to a house."

The road was narrow, resembling a large goat path more than anything.

"It doesn't look, like there's anything down there"!

"Let me show you"!

Hand in hand, they descended-into the unfolding mystery-a mystery he knew would thrill!

Rounding the corner, unveiled a breathtaking wonder that sparkled under the brilliant sun: a peaceful little cove! Sea waves were gently caressing the shore, while the searching cries of seagulls floated on a whisper of a breeze, becoming one, with the brisk magic of the sea. Having withstood the sands of time, a weathered building, sat 200 feet back from the beach. In quiet repose, it waited, waited, to open the doors to forgotten secrets.

"This is amazing"!

"Let me show you the rest"!

"There's more"?

"Yes"!

Going barefoot now, in the silky white sand of the water's edge, their prints immediately filled with the light blue sea.

"This is breathtaking! And we have it to ourselves, at least, for the moment."

"Not too many people know about this place. That building, is incredible on the inside: it has a restaurant on the bottom, and rooms for rent, on the one floor above."

"So _that's_ what that building is"!

"Maybe, after a bit, you'd like to try the mouth-watering food"?

"I would"!

Within a couple of minutes, the beach ended at a large rock that stood in the water's edge, and against a low rising cliff.

"We'll have to step into the water, and walk around the rock, but it's easy going: the water here is only about knee deep."

"What's over there"?

"You'll see"!

That peaked curiosity to the max, and she followed him around the rock-into-a cave!

"Wow! I would not have guessed this was here!" she said, observing the 10-foot bubble of rock.

"We may be, the only ones that know! Would you like another surprise?"

"There's _MORE_ "?

"For this one, we need to be in the middle of the beach, in our swimsuits. Our things will be safe, in here."

"I'm game"!

Soon, their destination was pointed out, among the inviting, summer waves.

"See those two pointed rocks, sticking up a bit, about 100 feet beyond the surf"?

"I see them."

"That's where we need to go: it's underwater. When we get there, hold your breath and follow me down; you won't have to hold it for long. The water channels between the rocks and makes a swift current, so be careful of that. Can you hold your breath-for a minute?"

"Yes. A couple of minutes, actually."

"You've got that down-real good"!

If he only knew! she thought.

Once out at the rocks, a few last words spoke encouragement.

"Ready? Deep breath, dive!"

Taking a deep breath, she followed him beneath the calling waves, eager to find out what could possibly be down there-that he wanted to show her! Five feet down, the onset of a strong current made the swimming more difficult. After another five feet, he stopped, and motioned for her to follow through a small opening.

I hope that wasn't it! she thought.

Heading back up, a glow began to surround them-getting brighter-as they ascended.

Breaking surface, transported them to the inside of a jewel! Hundreds of intense light beams reflected off colorful minerals, for an unexplainable result: light in every direction, and a solid, pulsating shimmer-that felt like a life force!

"Oh my God! This is so amazing! I bet _NO-ONE_ else knows about this"!

"You're probably right! There's a ledge over here, so we can get out for a bit."

Standing on the ledge, breathless wonder became a special sense of wellbeing: the surroundings slipped away, and she merged with the colors-as if color-were a tangible thing!

The merging was familiar, and alarming!

"Pretty eyes"?

Snapping out of it, she focused on a question.

"How did you ever find this place"?

"I was swimming underwater and checking out the rocks, saw the opening, swam through, and found this! Talk about a major find"!

"It sure is"!

"You're shivering! Here, let me warm you up some."

"I am? I hadn't even noticed! I think I could stand here-forever!"

"I know what you mean! The first time I came here, I felt the same way, but I didn't have someone to pull me out of it, and by the time I finally did come back-a few hours later-I was extremely cold"!

"In the center of the glow, I saw the Great Pyramid and Sphinx! Did you see that?"

"I did, when I was here before. The vision must mean something; perhaps this place is a space/time link-to Egypt."

Her thoughts ran wild, as arms pulled her close.

Here I am, in this enchanting place, in the arms of a tall, handsome man. What more could I ask for?

Looking up at him-her heart skipped a beat-and she could think of nothing but him! That boyish grin started its charm, as he bent his face toward hers, giving one of the most desirous of feelings: the heart-thumping hope of a kiss! A second later, soft lips were wildly exploring hers, in the most sensuous kiss she'd ever had: long and gentle-yet insistent! Wrapping her arms tight around him, she kissed him back just as passionately, while running her fingers up and down his strong, sculpted back. Trembling with anticipation under his touch, she could feel his whole body quiver, and waited for the next move.

Soft hands cupped her face, followed by the voice of sound judgement.

"Come on baby. Let's get you back to the beach, and warmed up!"

She didn't want that magical time to end, but knew he was right.

Back on the toasty beach, and walking toward the cave, it didn't take long to warm up in the brilliant radiance of the afternoon sun.

"What a mystical place you showed me! It could've been-another dimension"!

"Interesting thought"!

Once beach towels were stretched out directly across from the secret jewel, rich lathers of tanning lotion were applied, for a relaxing soak in the rays.

After 15 minutes on each side, Jean-Leuc heard an amusing remark.

"Hey, are you roasted yet? We should get off this tanning bed, before we burn!"

"Right! Would you like to check out the local cuisine?"

"I'd enjoy that"!

With a covering of shorts and t-shirts, restaurant ready appetites led to the large front deck eating area, which had a mythical decor of mermaids and seashells-perfect accents to the gray weathered building. Over the main door, hung a curious sign that read 'Chateau de Rousseau'.

"A family business"?

"No, It's just a coincidence."

Stepping in, revealed a refreshing cool breeze and tantalizing aroma, which seduced them to enjoy a romantic meal inside. A warm and elegant sea life design spiced up the interior, blending with sky blue silk linens, that graced the tables beneath delicate vases of red roses. Richly paneled walls boasted an assortment of art: portraying Parisian life. Walking through the welcoming restaurant, a cozy window table was found, and nestled into.

"This place is exquisite! And we almost have it to ourselves"!

"Not too many people know about this place-not even the locals."

"Hello, I'm Pierre. Can I get you a drink to start with?"

A somewhat short, paunchy man had arrived; he looked dark overall, with short brown hair, brown eyes, and a dark tan-but he had a bright smile.

"I'll have some lemon water."

"And you, sir"?

"The same."

"I'll be back in a minute, with your drinks."

"What are you hungry for, pretty one"?

"I think, a Tuscan salad, and a summer plate of fruits and vegetables."

"That would hit the spot! I'll order it for both of us"!

The enjoyment of a light, flavorful meal-blended perfectly-with watching the ever so gentle exchange of kisses between the sparkling sea waves, and shimmering sand. An unheard Ballad played for the two lovers, as the sun danced magically across them. Thankfully, the romance was undisturbed by the few people on the beach.

"What a soothing, romantic place you've shown me! I could _easily_ stay here for weeks"!

"We _could_ stay awhile; there is a twenty-four-hour kitchen, twenty-four-hour room service, and maid service! Would you like to stay?"

"Sure! Let's get two rooms for a few days, and during that time, we'll decide what else we want to do."

With the meal over, a surprise met them at the check-in desk.

"You also run the check-in?" she asked Pierre.

"The person who is normally here, is on break. As the owner, I help everywhere. What can I help you folks with?"

"We'd like two rooms, for three nights."

"Part of that request is available, sir. I can give you one room, for three nights; it has a large living room, with a couch that turns into a bed."

The offer was accepted, and a short walk up beautifully carpeted wooden stairs unveiled a spacious, sea life decored room. Setting their things on the plush, blue velvet couch, they walked out to the private balcony, and a cozy view. The view was made so much better, when strong arms hugged from behind.

"What a place! Thank you for bringing me here"!

"I just had to share it with you"!

Ah, this is where I belong! she thought.

His embrace was enjoyed for a minute-then she made an announcement.

"I'm going to take a shower; I'll save you some hot water."

"Ok."

The shower was refreshing, even though the set up was different than she was used to: it had no enclosure, and drained into the middle of the bathroom. She'd seen those around Europe, but had never used one.

One thing about it-there's plenty of room for two! she thought.

After the shower, she found the object of her affection relaxing on the balcony, and looking thoughtfully at the sea. He turned upon hearing her-sporting a boyish grin.

"Hey beautiful"!

Slowly, she ran her fingers through his slightly wavy hair.

"The shower's all yours."

"All right, I'll be out shortly."

After a few minutes, pleasant tunes were mingling with the falling water.

"He's got a really good voice!" she realized out loud.

Dreamily looking out at the sea, she mused about what fate had in store for them. Her thoughts were busy exploring a multitude of possibilities, and she didn't hear the exit from the bathroom.

"What are you doing"?

"Watching the waves."

Turning around-he was nowhere in sight! A bit confused, she turned back to the sea.

"Hey baby, did you miss me"?

"I did! Are you just now coming out of the bathroom?"

"Yes. Why?"

"I thought-oh, never mind."

Momentarily, her face was held by gentle hands, and the earth trembled-as desire pressed warmly upon her lips.

"Jean-Leuc."

"Yes"?

"I'd like to say you make the earth move for me, which you do, but I think that was another quake."

"I believe so, but I'm sure it's nothing to worry about."

Leading her to the bed, he gently pulled her on top of him; she could feel his heart pounding hard, just as hers was, and a deep, soft passion lay in his eyes. Hearing voices from outside, she rose up, and was nervous to see people walking on the beach.

"They'll see us"!

"No they won't: It's too bright out there-they can't see in here"!

The boyish grin did its charm, and his light touch enticed her down to the silky sheets. Propping himself up on one elbow, he looked into her eyes, and voiced loving emotions.

"Welcome, to Toulon"!

Hungry for his embrace, she instantly forgot about the people outside-and gave in-to the passion.

"Here you are, sir! Just as you requested"!

"Thank you! And a little something for you"!

"What generosity! Thank you"!

Opening her eyes, it dawned on her-that she had been asleep.

"Are you here"?

"I'm here"!

He walked into the room, carrying a dozen, long-stemmed red roses, and holding a bottle of wine.

"I've got a secret admirer"!

"Admirer, yes, not so much of a secret!" he replied, with irresistible charm. "Would you like to have some wine, on the balcony"?

"I would"!

She got dressed, and joined him under the magical starlit sky, where he had a tasty glass of wine waiting for her.

"This wine-it tastes familiar, and so good"!

"It's Chateau de Bretagne. Only the _best_ , for you, baby."

"Thanks! You know, you showed me your home city, I would like to show you Paris"!

"I would enjoy that, and also, a lot of other places with you! Have you ever been to Cartagena, Spain?"

"No, but I'd love for us to travel there, and also to most of Europe-especially the countries of Greece, Egypt, Israel, and Turkey."

"If we go to Greece, I can show you around New Earth 3"!

"I've been nervous about being up in the clouds, but with you, I'd be ok. When I'm living in New Earth 7, I can show you that!"

"How about South America"?

"That is a must visit, along with Australia, Alaska, Canada, the Philippines, Cambodia, and several islands. I could actually name dozens more places, but those are the top of my list."

"Where should we go first, pretty face"?

"How about, I show you my home city of Paris"?

"I'm all for that"!

"This place is incredible! Why don't we stay for the days we've paid for, and fly out the next?"

"We can do that! In the morning, we'll need a taxi for the rest of our things. Are you hungry for dinner yet?"

"I _am_ getting hungry, but would you mind if we catch the news first? I haven't listened to it, in a few days."

The soft velvet couch was an inviting place to sink into, for the nightly news, which was just about to start.

"Good evening, my friends! We have a lot of gripping news for you, tonight! As you know, it's been unusually hot this summer. The great river Euphrates, is almost completely dried up, and it's getting so warm on our planet, that animals are moving away from the equator-at a never before seen rate-of 60 feet a day! A number of top scientists, have detected, that global warming is happening on _all_ the planets in our solar system! These scientists, are blaming the sun, because of the increased activity from its solar maximum. Their celestial forecast, _does_ have good news: as soon as the sun is past its active period, things will return to normal.

Also, a few of these top scientists, are sounding an alarm about the Magnetic North Pole: it's heading toward Russia, at a rate of 50 miles a year! By their calculations, the more the pole moves, the faster it will move-until both poles suddenly flip! The flip, will cause the earth to start turning the other way, and this will immediately bring an apocalyptic scenario: tidal waves several miles high, and many other major disasters! Most of humanity would be wiped out!

A handful of scientists, think the earth is experiencing a Global Crust Shift, which is causing all the earthquakes. On a peculiar note, a lot of Christians believe that these major disasters happening, precede God's son returning to Earth-to get his people. Personally, this newscaster would prefer to believe what the majority of top scientists are saying-that once the sun is past its solar maximum, things will get back to normal! We go now, to our scheduled commercial break, and will join you again in a few minutes. Please stay tuned, for the best, up to date coverage."

"Good lord! I'm sorry I wanted to watch the news"!

"It'll be ok, sweetie. Think about this-most of the world's top scientists are saying that things will get back to normal, as soon as the sun is past its active period. Since most of them are saying this, it must be true! Don't you think it's logical-to believe them?"

"You're right, I should trust them! Hey, you ready for some dinner?"

"Dinner sounds good, pretty one. Let's go down to the restaurant."

Mouthwatering aromas of fine dining welcomed them, along with gentle tones of classical music. The tables were softly lit with flickering candlelight, enhanced, by warm glows of pink, purple, and orange, that gently touched through lace curtains.

"What a unique, and cozy place"!

"It's _much_ cozier with _you_ here"!

"Thanks!" she replied, choosing a sunset kissed corner for two.

His thoughts were warmed, by the beautiful and charming woman sitting across from him; he laid a hand over one of hers resting on the table, and noticed, she appeared somewhat troubled.

"What is it, pretty one"?

"Do you think there's any possibility, that the earth really _is_ about to have its poles flip"?

"I don't think that's likely, because it's not what _most_ of our scientists are saying! We should believe the majority"!

"I suppose you're right! On a different note, how about those New Earth countries! Now that the world has anti-gravity technology, it's not a farfetched idea-to think we'll have spaceships soon"!

"I can imagine us-living on other planets"!

"Hello again, my friends! What can I get for you tonight?"

Thirsty eyes, managed to look away from the breath-taking woman, long enough to answer Pierre.

"We were talking, and hadn't thought about it! Could you recommend some things?"

"Today, our chef is making a once a week feast: stuffed duck with orange glaze, and a distinctive twist to the classic chef salad, which is a heavy drizzle of lemon and lime juice."

"That would be wonderful"!

"I agree with her"!

"Good choice! This will be out shortly"!

Pierre turned and went into the kitchen, returning just minutes later, with a large tray of food and a bottle of wine.

"Oh! I forgot to order our drinks"!

"It's ok, sir. I'd like to offer a bottle of our signature wine, if you feel like having wine tonight. It's on the house, and if you want any other drinks, just let me know. Classy wine, for a classy lady!"

The comment was flattering, but a little embarrassing.

"Why, thank you"!

Turning to leave, Pierre had some kind words.

"You have a _beautiful_ girlfriend"!

"Yes, she is! Thank you"!

The meal was excellent-an enjoyable mix with stimulating talk of places to go, and things to do. Taking the place of dessert, was a moonlit stroll on the beach, upon which a million stars were smiling. With glasses of fine wine in hand, and toes digging into the wet sand, they relished the perfect paradise that led to a relaxing place close to the restaurant: next to a large tree. Leaning up against the tree on one side, and having a handsome man close to her on the other, she looked up at the stars, and thought out loud.

"Do you think there's life out there"?

"I'm inclined to think so."

"Logic tells me, that it'd be a pretty big waste of space, if it's only us! I think...oof."

The words cut off, because of losing balance against the tree.

"Baby"?

"The tree moved"!

"A little too much wine, baby"?

"I don't think so: this is only my second glass! Guess I'm a bit tired."

"Perhaps we should go up to bed," he replied, amused, at her funny sense of humor!

Sliding between cool, buttery soft sheets, quickly opened the portal to the dream land of love.

# CHAPTER 3

IRON LADY AT WAR

After two more blissful days and nights at the enchanting beach, a private jet took them on a forty-minute hop, to the famous city of Paris. Waiting at the end of the runway, was a teal green Lamborghini, from which the driver emerged as they drew near. For the most part-he had normal looks: tall, strong build, short brown hair that was slicked back, and blue eyes. Not a normal look, was a star-studded tattoo on his right forearm: the big dipper. The unique tattoo stood out, but something else did-much more!

"Hi! I'm Jacques."

"Hi, Jacques! I'm Jean-Leuc, and this is Angel."

"Hi, Jacques! You would not believe who you look like"!

"I might!" he replied, with a smile.

"You sure do look like the American president-Ronald Reagan! Have you ever heard that?"

"A few times!" Jacques answered, with a big grin and a wink. "It's nice to meet both of you! Where would you like to go first, sir?"

"Our hotel. It's the Marriot Paris Champs Elysees."

"Right! That's the best five-star hotel around, and it's close to many outstanding points of interest"!

Upon arriving at the hotel, Jacques was told of unsure plans.

"I don't know, what time we'll need you again."

"Call me anytime, sir. You are my only clients while you're here in Paris, so I'm here for you-at all hours! My business card."

The royal suite on the tenth floor, was the picture of luxury; with their bags set down in the plush bedroom, the ravishing view of the balcony was a big draw! The magnificent Arc de Triomphe was just down the street, and behind it, sculpted buildings adorned the landscape. Extending out of sight, were numerous shops, bistros, and cafes, with inviting and sophisticated décor. Easily seen in the distance, the world-famous Iron Lady proudly reached for the radiant summer skies-portraying a symbol of strength, and freedom. Among it all, a most enticing hint of culinary masterpieces-stretched up to caress them.

"Ah, Parisian life! It's good to be home"!

"This is a stunning view of your city"!

With a hand on a strong arm, she gazed into baby blues-and spoke three special words.

"Welcome, to Paris"!

"I have a feeling, gorgeous, this stay in Paris-is going to be extraordinary"!

"My city has so much to offer, including a great little bistro down the street, where we can get a bite of lunch."

"I could go for some Parisian food. Do you want to unpack first?"

"It can wait."

A thousand sounds greeted them, in the haze of a sun-scorched bustling street, where the fashion capital of the world beckoned to them, with its signature charm. Hundreds of people were walking along, many of them carrying bags of expensive, designer merchandise. Vehicles were almost bumper to bumper on the avenue-proving the fact-that it doesn't pay to be in a hurry in Paris!

"This awesome bistro, is just two blocks to the right."

"Lead on, Emerald Eyes"!

"I like that! Emerald Eyes-it's nice to be called that"!

The bistro was appealing, with its stylish Eiffel Tower designs that extended to the napkins, and salt and pepper shakers. Delicate vases blooming with cream and lavender tulips, adorned every table, complementing the soothing shades of cream and beige in the petal soft, Le Tower designed carpet.

"I feel comfortable here-good choice of where to eat"!

"I've been enjoying their divine food, for several years"!

"What are you in the mood to eat, Emerald Eyes"?

"The sandwiches are really good! My favorite, is the Pastrami and veggie sandwich, and vitamin water. What are _you_ hungry for?"

"A really big Chef salad, and spring water."

After ordering, a watch of the flurry beyond the lace edged window-was interesting: dozens of people were walking by, and a great number of voices drifted in. Some of them were odd: more like clicks, and insect buzzes, than anything.

"You know-I've never seen this kind of haze here! Normally, it's easy to see the people on the sidewalk, but now, it's hard to make them out"!

Trying to focus on someone, the grip of familiar panic clenched tight, as a fearful sight came into view: a three-legged man, walking a Saber Tooth tiger on a leash! Eyes closed rapidly, amid the terrifying thought of what would be seen-if anything-when opening them again! Confused senses were again bombarded with the sight, but then, it mysteriously vanished!

"Where'd they go"?

"Where'd who go"?

"The man walking his cat"!

Looking out the window at the crowded sidewalk, the reply, was one of astonishment.

"Anybody who can get a cat to walk along _this_ busy street-is _amazing_ "!

The food came, and all thoughts of the man and his cat were happily replaced, by thoughts of how good the meal was.

"It's easy, to see why this is one of your favorite places"!

"I figured, it'd be a hit! Hey, I was thinking, the Louis Vuitton store is right up the street, and it would be nice to pick out a new handbag."

"Louis Vuitton, it is"!

"Is there any shopping you want to do, while in Paris"?

"No, I'm just happy to be with you"!

A slight rumble and shaking of things-suddenly rattled everyone's nerves; with a strong voice of reassurance, a waiter calmed everyone about the mini-quake.

"There's really getting to be a lot of quakes, these days"!

"There certainly is, pretty eyes! I guess we'll have to put up with them for a while longer, until the sun is not as active anymore. I can't wait-to see more of your city!"

"There's no place like it"!

She hoped, that he could one day love Paris as much as her, but that thought quickly faded.

"What is it"?

In a lowered voice, he replied.

"A strange thing-I was watching a little boy flying a kite, and, well, the kite turned into a Pterodactyl, and flew off in the direction of the tower"!

"There must've been another child close by, with another kite."

"That must be it."

The tasty lunch was followed by a stroll, along the many fashionable, and famous shops of the Champs-Elysees. After a few hours of exploring the Avenue, blissful sunbathing and swimming at the hotel's luxurious pool, was a must, followed by another must: a romantic movie in their suite.

That evening, the room service menu provided a dish made famous in the nearby region of Burgundy. The Burgundy distinction was called Boeuf Bourguignon, and consisted of savory morsels of beef, that had been marinated, and cooked with a complementing assortment of foods: red wine, mushrooms, onions, carrots, and bits of bacon. Dinner also consisted of two appetizers: Celery Remoulade and Hors-Doeuvres. Brie cheese, and Black Truffles, accentuated the elegant dinner. A perfect touch to it all, was a bottle of Cote d' or Red, and a special old recipe dessert from the southwest of France: Pistachio cream cake, with candied tangerines.

"Your choice of dinner is excellent, my pretty Parisian, and the dessert-is one of my favorites! It's _easy_ to understand, why people say that Paris is the culinary capital of the world"!

"I'm glad you really enjoyed it! Now that we've indulged our taste buds, why don't we take this wine to the balcony, and soak in more Parisian life."

"Sure thing, Emerald Eyes"!

The endearing nickname raised a smile, as the warm embrace of the setting sun, enveloped them, with deep hues of orange and scarlet.

"Ah, the mystical City of Lights! Your city is enchanting"!

"It is! It has a seduction all its own"!

"Any suggestion, on what we should do tomorrow"?

"What do you think-about going up inside the Eiffel Tower"?

"That's always been on my to do list! Have you been there?"

"No, I have a thing about heights, so this will be my first time"!

After a short talk, the emerald beauty heard something she wasn't ready for.

"Why don't we go catch the news."

"I'm kind of afraid to listen to it"!

"I understand, but just remember what the majority of top scientists are saying"!

"I will."

After getting comfy on the couch, the news channel was tuned in, with only a few minutes to wait.

Emerald thoughts-were on the nervous side.

I'm not sure I want to hear this, but I suppose it wouldn't be wise, for me to make like an Ostrich. I need to know what's going on!

"Good evening, and welcome to the nightly news. We have important information-from top scientists around the world-that we need to share with you. You'll want to stay tuned for this! The Yellowstone Super Volcano is rumbling more than it ever has, causing major concern among volcanologists studying it. According to them, it's just a matter of time before it erupts, and the resulting ash cloud blocks out much of the sun around the world for years; crops will fail, and food-will be scarce! These volcanologists, are saying, there is no immediate danger of eruption, and these pre-disaster rumbles could go on for hundreds-or even thousands-of years!

The result of their studies-which mirrors the answer of most top scientists-is that the Yellowstone quakes, and other quakes around the world, are due to the sun being in its Solar Maximum-which is causing an increased gravity pull-on the earth. The sun is throwing an enormous number of giant flares our way, which are crippling everything electronic, and also raising fears of an increase in Cancers, and other health problems-due to a big surge in radiation. Top medical experts, are warning people to limit their time in the sun, which is scorching the earth-killing trees and grass.

A lot of Christians, are saying, these things are mentioned in the book of Revelation-in the Bible-and are predicting doom and gloom on the earth! And, as if all that is not bad enough, now, many top scientists are speculating that a giant planet-called Planet X or Nibiru-is swinging into our Galaxy, and will pass close enough to Earth, to cause worldwide devastation! They also say, this giant planet is causing the unusual earthquake activity. Scientists don't yet have any solid proof that Planet X exists, but say, there is reasonable cause-to believe it does! I, personally, believe the top scientists that say-Earth's problems are because of the solar maximum, and as soon as the sun gets beyond its super active phase, things will return to normal.

Now, it is time for a word from our sponsor, and we'll rejoin you in a few minutes. For the latest in breaking news, please stay tuned."

"See baby? Most of Earth's top scientists still agree-it's just because of the Solar Maximum!"

"Yes, apparently, our problems are only temporary! And this planet X theory-scientists should _not_ be scaring people with it"!

"I agree"!

"Well, handsome, we should get a bit of sleep before long; tomorrow's another full day of fun!"

The early morning sun found them, and filtered through the lace window panels-softly whispering-of magic and adventure!

Eyes of emerald looked over at the handsome, sleeping man, and took a deep breath of contentment. A gentle kiss on the nose, had a wonderful result: a huge, charming grin, and flattering words.

"Good morning, beautiful"!

"Good morning! Are you ready for a day of fun?"

"Definitely! But first..."

His priority-was a kiss and hug-before getting up and ready. A call to Jacques, was followed by room service of coffee and croissants, and a short trip through the already crowded streets of Paris, to a new adventure, standing tall in front of them.

"I don't know, how long we'll be. Can you wait close by for us"?

"I will! On your way back down, give me a call, sir, and I'll tell you exactly where I'm at."

The stairs were an exciting challenge; after tackling the exhausting 1,665 steps to the top, the feat was rewarded with benches nearby, for a relax, with spring water. After about 10 minutes, a tour guide shared the most interesting bits of knowledge.

"Welcome to the Eiffel Tower-the most famous symbol in Paris! Also known as The Iron Lady, and Eiffie, she is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world! She was built by French Engineer Gustave Alexandre Eiffel, for the 1889 World Fair, and was never meant to be permanent! Mr. Eiffel was famous for his iron bridges, and he also designed the Statue of Liberty's framework. The Iron Lady joins the clouds-with her incredible 1,056 feet! I would like to give a specific congratulation, to those of you-who accepted the challenge of climbing all the stairs! It's a rare opportunity, as the area between the second and third floor, is normally closed to the public.

Amazingly, the 7000 tons are distributed so well, that her force against the ground, is no more than a 200-pound person sitting in a chair! She is held together by 18,030 wrought iron sections, and 2.5 million rivets. When Eiffie was first built, many Parisians hated her, and called her terrible names: The Iron Monster, Ugly Factory Chimney, Giraffe, Ridiculous Factory Fireplace, Gigantic Skewer-Good For Poking The Clouds, and, The World's Greatest Lamp Post. Now, most Parisians are _proud_ of this majestic symbol of the city! Thank you for visiting the Iron Lady! With such clear skies today, you can see 40 miles-to enjoy your breathtaking, panoramic view of Paris!"

"This view of my city, is out-of-this-world! It could inspire _any_ writer"!

"I think, any _non_ -writer too! Does this height bother you?"

"No. I'm all right. With you with me, I could..."

Her response was blasted into silence-as the tower was engulfed by a thunderous roar! Terrified eyes froze skyward in disbelief, at dozens of planes screaming down at them-following blazing bursts of gunfire! From out of nowhere, came a lightning flash, and the sickening crunch of a missile shredding one of the planes! Somehow, the tower had been transported to the ghastly front line of a war! Panicking people raced for the exits-their screams of terror-drowned out by the descending death machines!

Eyeing the fast approaching firestorm of debris, survival instincts took over: a hand grab, a yell for her to run, and a bolt for the inner wall-which only took a few seconds. A fearful look back, revealed nothing to see or hear: as mysteriously, and suddenly, as the war had erupted-it ceased! Several people were lying motionless on the floor-no doubt-too scared to move!

"My God, Jean-Leuc! What just happened?"

"I don't know, but I could swear those planes were doing a Strafing run"!

"What's a Strafing run"?

"Back in World War 1, and 2, low flying aircraft would attack ground targets, and fire at them from automatic weapons, that were mounted to the bodies of the planes. In fact, some planes were designed _specifically_ -for strafing."

"We _couldn't_ have been seeing aircraft-from World War 1, or 2"!

"I know! That _had_ to have been-something else! An air show maybe?"

"Perhaps. Let's go ask!"

A tour guide was located, for the answer.

"Excuse me, sir-we'd like to know about the air show we just saw"!

"There are none scheduled for today, sir! It must've been a holographic prank"!

"All right, thanks."

"I've had _enough_ of this place"!

Her feelings were highly visible on both their faces, as they quickly bypassed elevators jammed with confused people-for an escape to the stairs-and a desperately fast descent!

During the retreat into the car, screaming sirens pounded their ears from approaching ambulances, fire trucks, and police-that were racing to the tower!

"What happened up there? I saw a lot of planes, and heard gunfire! Was there an air show, sir?"

"We were told-none were scheduled for today; the tour guide, said it must've been a holographic prank"!

"Apparently, a lot of horrified people didn't handle it too well-for the emergency vehicles to show up! Do you still want a tour of the city?"

A look at the emerald beauty, supplied the answer.

"We do."

The drive was very informative, and interesting, since Jacques used to be a tour guide. A few hours later, a charming café provided lunch, and pretty eyes was a little disappointed in the options.

"Too bad we didn't get to eat at Le Jules Verne restaurant, on the Tower's second floor; from what I've been told, their food is the best in the world! I looked at a menu online, and planned on having the Buttered Sea Urchins, and Truffled Vegetables."

The choice ended up being Chef salads, and lemon twisted Glacier water-a meal that refreshed, and sustained, for another five hours of tour.

"Thanks for the tour, Jacques! I've lived here my whole life, but you were able to tell me things-I never knew"!

"I, too, really enjoyed it"!

Back in their hotel room, the early evening was seasoned with room service pizza, and house wine.

"You have _such_ an enchanting city"!

"Thanks"!

Looking into his loving blue eyes-showed untold depths-depths just waiting to be explored, and her curiosity was stoked: to find out what mysteries were a part of this man.

After dinner, she had a mystery of her own to share.

"While we still have a good amount of daylight, I'd like to show you a surprise"!

"Lead on, Emerald Eyes"!

He tried to imagine what he would see, but didn't have to imagine for long, as the short walk led to the restaurant of the day before. Continuing along the side of it, showed a back section, bordered by a tall fence; a small gate in the middle, opened to the surprise.

"Duck your head"!

Following her, he entered the most beautiful rose garden he'd ever seen: having roses of almost every shade imaginable!

"I _love_ your surprise"!

"I _knew_ you would! Look at this"!

She pointed out a section of roses, that were sculpted into the form of lovers-embracing.

Clearly, there was only one thing to do! He pulled her close, and there, under the warm kiss of the setting sun, he planted one of his own! Emotions raced, as passion swept them away-in the magical city of love!

Back in the hotel room, glasses of house wine were a nice compliment to the colorful experience.

"Babe, that was the most remarkable rose garden I've ever seen! Thanks for showing it to me"!

"You're welcome! I _knew_ you'd enjoy it"!

Relaxing on the couch, a talk of the next day's adventures-was enlightening.

"It's funny, I've lived here my whole life, and have not been to the Louvre yet"!

"Why not"?

"Somehow, it never felt right to go yet. I know that doesn't make much sense!"

"That's ok-I'm glad we'll both be experiencing it for the first time-together! I'm really looking forward to it"!

Splash! Angel leaned over just a little too far, and fell out of the boat. Caught off guard, she entered the water with almost no air in her lungs. Keeping calm and breaking the surface, she took a deep breath, and scanned for the boat-the sight of which-caused a sinking heart: it was rapidly leaving her behind!

"Wait"!

"Swim, Angel!" they both shouted.

"We can't slow down! You'll have to swim for it!" Jean-Leuc yelled.

Swimming as hard as she could-proved no use: the boat was still pulling away! The burn of failure was devastating, and swiftly joined by painful thoughts of despair.

_OH NO_! I'm not going to make it!

Only one option remained: swim for shore-even though the river looked exhaustingly wide! It was a good plan: one that could be accomplished, one that could save her, one that could ease her troubled mind-if only, for a moment.

A hidden terror had been lurking beneath the surface-waiting for a new victim-waiting-for dangling legs. Hoping beyond hope, it had just been a plant, she stared into the water as a knot formed in her throat, and saw a most beautiful sight: a forest of elegant plants.

With a deep breath of relief, she looked toward the shore, ready to swim, but not ready for the movement of fins on the surface-a few feet away! In a flash, the attack began: her back seized by the creature's hard, slimy grip, followed by an inescapable push through the water, and a desperate cry for help!

"Jean-Leuc! Something's got me"!

"Baby"?

He was sitting on the couch next to her, holding his wine, and looking concerned.

"Did you get bit by a bug"?

It took a few seconds, to gather senses enough-for a reply.

"I had a daydream! Sorry. I've got a very active imagination, but it's a plus, for being a writer!"

"It certainly is! I've read your first book already, and _what_ a fantastic read"!

"Thanks! Lately though, my imagination has developed a life of its own"!

"Well, my gorgeous writer, the news will be on in just a few minutes. Do we dare listen?"

"We should! Maybe we'll find out what happened at the tower today"!

"Good evening, friends. I have sad news for you tonight. Today, the Eiffel Tower was the scene of tragedy! While dozens of tourists were enjoying the view from the top, a nightmare of small planes bore down on them, firing weapons! Seven people were killed, and ten more injured! Two of the injured, have life threatening wounds, and are fighting for their lives-at this time!"

A loud gasp, led to the prettiest of green eyes-flooding with tears-as she choked on the three words that neither of them wanted to believe.

"It was _real_ "!

"Police, and government investigators, are still trying to find out who's behind the senseless attack! We'll keep you updated, as new information becomes available. In other news..."

The angering news was shut off, at that point.

" _Un_ believable-that people could _do_ such a thing, in your wonderful city"!

"It _must_ have been a terror attack-like what happened in America-with the twin towers"!

"Probably not, or the pilots would have stayed there, and done a lot more harm"!

"That makes sense."

For hours, their minds replayed the chilling events of the unbelievable attack; around two in the morning, a wine assisted sleep-finally brought relief.

# CHAPTER 4

INTO THE PAST

The new day, started off almost perfect: with warm sun rays, and eye-opening aromas. Disappointment briefly took hold-as tall, dark, and handsome, was nowhere to be seen-but then came a flash of knowledge, that would more than make up for it: he was behind the glorious smells! After a fast visit to a toothbrush, and shirt, a hurry into the kitchen-showed a masterpiece being stirred up! With the speed of lightning, the familiar boyish grin activated its charm.

"Morning, beautiful"!

"Morning! Smells divine! What are you making?"

"French toast, and a special coffee! Hope you're hungry"!

"I AM! This is heaven-waking up and finding you cooking breakfast! I'm getting spoiled"!

"You _deserve_ to be spoiled"!

"I could get used to it! You know-somehow-today is going to be special: I can feel it"!

"Same here! It feels like-I'm about to get a present"!

"That's _exactly_ what I was thinking"!

After a leisurely breakfast and a call to Jacques, the wait consisted of coffee, and chatting about their plans for the day.

"Well, my dazzling jewel, it's about time for Jacques to be knocking on the door."

"Right. I'll go get sandals on."

A frantic yell, caused a dash to the entry door, where eyes of green _really_ stood out- _against a face turned pale_.

"Baby"?

She was almost in tears, as she quietly handed him a sandal.

"That looks like-a _bullet_ hole"!

"I thought so too! It _barely_ missed my toes"!

Immediately, she was comforted by a loving hug.

"You had a _really close call_ "!

Soon, Jacques arrived, and chauffeured them to their adventure at the Louvre.

The Louvre's magnificent glass pyramid entrance-was a spectacular first impression-of the wonders, within its walls. Right inside, a convenient stack of brochures awaited eager guests.

"Hey! Listen to this, handsome! According to the brochure, this is the world's largest museum, and, the world's largest palace! There is art dating all the way back-to 5000 years B.C.! The newest stuff, is 1848"!

"That's some pretty old stuff"!

"Also, the Louvre has more than 300,000 famous works of art"!

"We could spend a week here, and not see it all! Let's see, it was built around 1200, as a fortress, in the days of Charles the 5th, then, rebuilt as a royal palace in the mid-16th century. In the 18th century, squatters took up residence there, along with their animals-and the palace was a place where _anybody_ could live! Napoleon got rid of the squatters, and it once again, became the beautiful palace it used to be! He then used the palace for his wedding to Marie-Louise, and it became a royal residence until 1793, when it became the world's biggest museum-at almost a half mile long!"

"Those tidbits are good to know, and it's a good thing we have a floor plan: we could easily get lost in here! Ok, there are seven sections: Egyptian Antiquities, Asian Antiquities, Roman Antiquities, Greek Estruscan, Sculpture, Paintings and Prints and Drawings, and the last one is called Objects d' art. What would you like to see first?"

"There's so much I want to see, but the Mona Lisa tops the list"!

"Sounds good to me"!

After a half-hour of adoring the Mona Lisa, next, was admiration of the Venus de Milo, followed by a search for Winged Victory-a headless figurine uncovered at Samothrace, and dating back to around 200 B.C. After that, the thought of mummies-lured them-to the Egyptian exhibit.

"This is _fascinating_ , Jean-Leuc"!

"It is, and the mummies are so well preserved-as though only asleep"!

"I halfway expect one to open its eyes, or grab me"!

A broad laugh, introduced his reply.

"Well, better not walk too close"!

After a couple of hours-watching out for mummies-the search for the next exhibit was eagerly embraced.

"That was a step back in time, pretty eyes"!

"And _what_ a step! I especially liked the mummies, and ancient books; the book of the dead was _beyond_ words"!

Walking down the hallway, a slightly open door intensified their awareness of low rumblings; then, another awareness made itself known: a right shoulder itch-that became unbearable-after walking a bit farther!

"This is crazy! My right shoulder itches so bad, I can hardly stand it"!

"Maybe a flea"?

"Maybe," she answered, but her thoughts were different.

It's never itched this bad before! This may be one of those times, and I better not take any chances!

"Let's go in here"!

"What is it, pretty eyes"?

"The noises-are intriguing"!

He followed her inside an enormous room, full of machinery, and piping.

"You found the machinery room, my girl"!

"And it's huge! Come on, let's walk through it"!

Many an odd sound, echoed, as they walked through the maze of equipment.

"There's some relics here, my beauty! Many of these-could be hundreds of years old"!

"And, certainly, the dust hasn't been disturbed-for hundreds of years"!

With that comment, an emerald finger swiped, and created a half-inch deep groove.

Arriving at the far end of the room, an observation peaked curiosity even more.

"Pretty eyes, there's a piece of machinery by the right wall-that is much taller than all the rest"!

"I see it! Let's go take a look"!

Two things, stood out on the approach: the silence, and a four-foot-high foundation-made of unusual red bricks. The walk around it, was a puzzling hope for clues.

"A mystery, handsome, is why someone made bricks full of holes, and used them here"!

"It's a tough puzzle! Hey! Here's a triangular set of three holes, and there's a crown etched above them"!

A strange draw, pulled the three middle fingers of his right hand into the holes, and a chain of events began: a loud click, followed by low rumbling, from somewhere below their feet.

"Uh oh, I think I pushed a button"!

With no warning, the floor gave way in front of them, activating, the backward jumping springs on their feet. First guess, was another earthquake-but the square edges of the gaping hole-proved it wasn't: the machine was being lowered somehow. Astonished eyes watched it all but disappear into darkness, before stopping with a thump, followed, by the unmistakable click of stairs moving into place.

"An entry! Let's check it out"!

He smiled at her brave curiosity.

"I admire your adventurous spirit, and it _would_ be fun to explore what's down there"!

Pulling out a tiny flashlight, which he always carried in his belt pocket, he offered a guiding hand.

"What if-we're seen on surveillance cameras?" she asked.

"I didn't spot any of those in here. It's ok. No-one will know."

Adrenaline was flowing, with the excited climb over the machine, and down age-old metal steps. Odd creaking noises mingled eerily, with the faint light, that flickered on half seen objects in their new surroundings.

"This is _amazing_ , Jean-Leuc! Who would have guessed-anything was down here?"

"I know! I see a torch over on that wall; maybe, we can figure out a way to light it."

Pulling it from the holder, he was immediately startled by rumbling behind them. A turn back to the stairs-gave rise to the unsettling thought-of being in trouble!

"The close must have been triggered, when I removed the torch! I imagine, that putting it back-will open it again. Let's wait for it to finish closing, and I'll try that."

"Ok. That's a good plan"!

The stairs and machine finished moving into place, and with the torch replaced, came a wait, a wait, for nothing. Deciding maybe it would take a bit, they waited patiently for two uneasy minutes, still, nothing.

"Guess that's not going to do it, pretty one; we'll have to find another way out"!

"That's ok. We'll figure it out! Is it my imagination, or is it getting lighter in here?"

"It is! Can't tell where the light is coming from, but it's definitely lighter now; we won't need my flashlight anymore"!

Walking down what appeared to be a tunnel, a familiar structure soon came into view.

"A brick house"!

That makes sense, pretty eyes: according to history, the Louvre was built on top of a city."

"I've _heard_ of cities being built-on top of others! This is incredible! It's hard to believe-we're in a buried city of the past-and, are the first visitors in centuries"!

Being the first visitors in centuries, was an ever-present thought during the walk of many directions, as the street descended into the long-forgotten city. The air was getting colder, and bringing a staleness, as of old, dirty shoes, even through the flowing of a slight breeze.

Winding ever deeper into the past, it seemed as though history was trying to speak: through the broken houses, and walls. The voice found its path-after a new discovery: a large, open area, encircled with high stone walls, that were telling a story with impressively detailed carvings. A crack stretched along the ground and up a wall, between two magnificent arches of welcome, for the now divided street. Various leaf designs of green and blue, covered the arches, that had special paintings on the bricks above: gold crowns with emeralds.

"Pretty eyes, these crowns-are similar to the one in the machinery room! That crown, is also gold, but only inside the groove of the outline."

"The crowns really stand out, and so does this crack! A few years back, Paris had a good-sized earthquake, and that might be when this happened," she replied.

"It would take a good-sized earthquake, to do this! Look how wide it is: at least two feet"!

"What a shame-that these are broken!" she commented, looking at pieces of clay pots.

"It is a shame! I wish, we could go back in time and see this place in all its glory"!

She agreed, and turned her attention to the cracked, foot-thick wall.

"Oh wow! You've _got_ to see this"!

Itching to explore, she led the way into the splendor of royalty. A warm, unknown light, revealed surviving remnants of centuries past-that stood in dazzling defiance-against the sands of time. Breathless beauty filled the large, circular room, that was richly bordered by silver pillars-covered with elaborate gold carvings of winged cats.

They stood, majestic and proud-knowing-they would be noticed-quickly!

"Pretty one, we've got magical company!"

He walked toward an arch of incredible marble designs, and, guardians: on each side of the arch, stood a lion sized and catlike creature of gold, stretching silver-tipped wings high! Tracking from the arch, and circling in front of the pillars-were mysterious golden paw prints: a set of large ones, followed by two small sets, on each side.

"Calling them 'magical', certainly fits! They're-amazing"!

"This room, _surely_ was part of a king's palace, babe"!

Managing to pull away from the powerful gaze, their focus shifted to the center of the room, where a different looking pillar lay in pieces, alongside the damaging crack.

"A lot of curious things are down here, handsome, like this strangely beautiful pillar: it has gold, blue, purple, and scarlet paw prints all over it! Part of cat worship, I guess"!

After saying that, she noticed a hole in the floor at the pillar's base; a look inside-was met with a reflection.

"There's something in here! It's stuck in the dirt-on the edge of the hole"!

She was just about to touch it, and abruptly jerked back: startled, by whispering, from within the shadows. A wide-eyed scan of surroundings, could find no-one, but alarm still gripped her voice.

"Did you hear that"?

"I did! Someone else is down here! I'll scout the area, and be right back"!

After a thorough search, he returned a few minutes later.

"I didn't find anybody; we must've scared the person away"!

"That's good! I wasn't expecting-to find anyone else down here"!

Turning her attention back to the hole-curiosity took over.

"What could that be"?

"I'll dig it out, with my pocket knife."

A sculpted wonder emerged-to a gasp of astonishment-at what lay cupped in his hands: a most spectacular silver marble box. The middle of the lid, and the handles at each end, boasted exquisitely detailed gold carvings: cats, with silver-tipped wings in flight. Hinting of powerful knowledge-were Egyptian hieroglyphs-delicately carved into the middle of each side.

"I can't believe what you're holding! The cats are just like the ones-by that entry"!

"It's a curious thing, and so is the weight: kind of heavy, for such a little box! Here-you do the honors; let's find out what's in here"!

Swimming in a rising tide of excitement, she lifted the latch-uncovering a view fit for a king!

"Gold coins, and a beautiful necklace"!

The necklace had a unique design: a delicate gold chain, from which hung a four-inch-long emerald green crystal-shaped like a trident.

" _What_ a find, and the stone is the same gorgeous color as your eyes"!

"Such a beautiful necklace! I believe these are Egyptian hieroglyphs on it; I wish one of us-could read them"!

"These coins are unbelievable, pretty eyes! There's a mermaid, trident, and island, on this side, and the other has a pyramid, sphinx, and stars"!

"We'll have a _lot_ of research to do-after we find a way out!" she noted, slipping the jewel around her neck.

With the treasure wrapped in a handkerchief, and safely tucked away in her handbag, the step back through the crack and into new adventure-was an unfortunate step: out of remembrance of the frightening whispers.

"Ok, pretty eyes-which way"?

"This road to the left has a breeze, so perhaps, we should go _this_ way."

"Good logic"!

Only minutes later-an eerie feeling-stopped the emerald beauty in her tracks.

"What is it"?

"I can't explain it, but it feels like we're being watched"!

"I feel it too! Stay close to me"!

Continuing on, a half mile saw the journey-once again-split.

"Time for another decision, pretty eyes."

"The breeze, is to the right."

For what had to have been at least a mile, the road followed many brick houses, and open areas, and then dwindled to little more than a path; a few minutes later, it ended altogether: at the site of a cave-in.

"Uh oh, handsome-end of the line"!

"Maybe not. Feel that breeze? Let's find the source!"

A mere 10 feet of search provided what she needed: for a welcome announcement.

"Air is flowing by this giant boulder"!

"Good find! I'll see if I can move the boulder."

Displaying superhuman strength, he proved the boulder was no match, and also proved what had been suspected: he had a major secret!

"Talk about muscles! I should call you Hercules"!

Smiling at the comment, he offered to go first, and check for dangers.

The all clear was given, to enter a vast, solid rock cave, where reflections bounced from a gently flowing stream of water.

"This is amazing, Hercules"!

"Another incredible place, sweetie, and I can only guess about what supplies the light! I think the stream was a water source, for the city."

"Logical."

That word was barely said, before feeling a mad flurry of wings, and a tug at her hair.

"Bats"!

She screamed, and fell to the ground-arms swinging wildly-but, oddly enough, no longer was there anything to protect against, and strong hands were pulling her up.

"It's ok"!

"I _hate_ bats"!

"Don't blame you! They know a way out, though, and I saw their line of retreat"!

"That's a good thing"!

After a reassuring hug-that the evil bats were gone-she was ok.

"Come on, pretty eyes-let's find the way out."

Now that the danger was over, their journey led toward a far wall of the immense cave.

"Trespassers! Prepare to die"!

A flood of chills poured over them, and facing the loud, threatening voice-made their blood run cold! Glaring at them, from the other side of the water, was an enormous, armor clad warrior! A long, braided ponytail, hung on his massive chest-as he aggressively pointed a blood-stained sword-in their direction!

"A samurai? What's a samurai doing down here?" Hercules questioned.

Their worst nightmare let out a cry of attack, and raced toward them, and, the unavoidable confrontation!

A short gasp of air, was all she could get-nothing worked anymore-except her heart: it was hammering so hard-her ears hurt!

Instantly, he became a brave shield-waiting for the inevitable-waiting for the fight; it was a fight that never came-as the warrior- _suddenly_ vanished!

"What the...where'd he go"?

Confused beyond measure, he still managed to provide comfort.

"It's all right! He's gone"!

Filled with overwhelming relief, she buried her face in his chest, and felt the terror-fade.

"Where is he"?

"I don't know, pretty eyes, but let's get going-in case he decides to come back"!

"Right! Let's go"!

All senses were on high alert, and a run to the far side of the cave revealed a possible escape route: a jagged crack in the wall.

"That earthquake you had a few years ago, might have done this. I think-the bats went out here."

"It's barely big enough to get into, and is pitch black, but I'd rather take my chances in there-with the bats-than the warrior"!

"You go first, and if ugly comes back, I'll be the one closest to him"!

With every fiber of her being on edge, she darted inside, thankful, to be the first one in!

In the eerie glow of a small flashlight, a painfully slow escape was made between jagged edges of rock. The passage was so narrow, it was almost impossible to keep an eye out for trouble! After a couple of minutes, bringing up the rear-turned into a _new_ kind of danger: a moving object fell on his head, and then, the loose dirt at his feet. Hoping, it wasn't a snake, he watched the grand entrance of a fuzzy ball of cuteness: a mouse, that scurried a few feet up the rock, and disappeared into a small hole. Debating whether or not to mention it, he decided he should-but not say it fell from above.

"Babe, I just saw a mouse-so step lightly"!

"Nice! On top of _everything_ else- _now_ -I have to deal with critters"!

For the next 15 minutes, the passage moved steadily upward, turning directions often, and closing ever tighter; finally, it narrowed so much-it threatened to bring their escape to an end! There could not have been a worse time-for the poisoning strike-of the long fangs of terror.

"I see you there!" boomed a cold voice in the semi-darkness.

"He's back!" she yelled, reeling under the sudden blow of panic!

"Hurry! We've got to get out of here"!

Going forward looked hopeless: the walls almost touched-a few feet ahead! Fighting the panic, she desperately searched for another way out; going back, was _not_ an option! Then, she saw it-a glimmer of hope by her right foot: barely visible in the whisper of light, was a man-size hole-a last chance to escape!

It was a chance immediately crawled into, with no time to worry-if it would be a dead end, or lead out to a cliff. A minute later, a flood of relief washed over them, as the tide of fortune changed and carried them to the other side of the blocked crack. The gap was spacious now, and moving, would be comfortably quick. No longer trapped, and temporarily having escaped certain doom, the emerald beauty felt a warm calm and the panic began to fade-but a flicker of light-made it threaten to stay.

"Bad news, sweetie! The flashlight is giving out"!

She couldn't believe it: now this! A deep, slow breath to draw courage-helped a little bit.

"That's ok, we'll manage."

Fighting her fears, she felt her way in the flickering light, noticing, the walls had a growing number of twinkling orbs in them; she puzzled over what the rocks were made of-to have little ball shaped nodules-that gave off periodic flashes of light. Before long, the flashlight completely gave out, leaving them to feel their way in the dark, which soon yielded a surprise to searching hands.

"Hey! The crack divides now! There is fresh air to the right, so I think we should go that way. And guess what? The fresh air-smells like pizza!"

"Pizza? I'm right behind you!"

The occasional flicker of light could have helped, when her right hand found a warm, soft spot among the cold, hard rock. Rubbing curious fingers over it-proved-to be a mistake: the warm spot squealed as it ran across her hand-provoking a scream!

"Love"?

"Something was on my hand"!

"It sounded like a mouse, and it's gotta be more scared of you, than you are of it."

"That's a toss-up"!

Having crept in, it swiftly pounced: the horrifying truth-that the orbs in the rocks-were actually eyes! Continuing on, she was afraid to touch anything! A few stressful minutes later, a mysterious faint light revealed countless nodules, and something worse: the walls were closing up again! Avoiding the blinking eyes was almost impossible, but, she was careful not to place her hands by anything-that glowed!

Several minutes later, a new discovery surfaced after rounding a corner.

"There's another large crack up here-with a light behind it"!

"Can you see anything, beyond the crack"?

The sight, was one of extreme satisfaction!

"You won't believe this! I'm looking down into a wine cellar"!

"Cool"!

"There's some large wine kegs, stacked against the wall below us; we should be able to climb down on those."

"Be careful"!

The descent was easy, followed, by two sighs of relief.

"Boy, am I glad we're out of there, handsome"!

"So am I! And _what_ a way to get out"!

Rows of wine barrels lined the small cellar, and snuggled between two giant drums, was a most refreshing sight for their tired, but grateful eyes: wooden stairs!

Listening at the top, gave assurance to enter a long hallway, that thankfully, had dirt hiding lights. Stealth mode, took them down its length and into another hallway-to the sounds of dining.

Then, she spotted them!

"Bathrooms! Time to clean up and find some food-if it's not too late"!

"It's not. It's only 10 p.m. I'll meet you back out here."

Looking in the mirror, a raccoon looked back at the only thing recognizable: green eyes!

"Good Lord!" blurted the raccoon.

It took some doing, but she managed to clean up well enough-to be among people again-and Hercules was impressed.

"Hey baby, you cleaned up pretty good"!

"You too! Let's go find some dinner! I'm starved"!

"My thoughts, exactly"!

The hallway led into a charming, candlelit café, that only had four diners. A secluded corner booth was available, and finally being able to relax-was a huge relief!

"What would you like to eat, my pretty explorer"?

"How about Pizza? That would be fast to make."

"I could go for pizza! You know, we were lucky the cellar door did not creak, and give us away"!

The waiter came at that point, and candlelight was a welcome shield: covering a less than perfect appearance.

"How much longer are you open"?

"We close at 11:30, sir."

"That's good! We'll have a large Mediterranean pizza, with double the black olives, and two large bottles of spring water. How long will that take?"

"About 20 minutes, sir. I'll be right back with your drinks."

Alone again, their minds tried to process the bizarre string of coincidences.

"Well, my pretty one, how about _that_ for an adventure"!

"No kidding! And _what_ on Earth, was a Samurai warrior doing in that old city?"

"Babe-about that warrior-he was running on top of the water"!

"What do you mean"?

"He was actually running-across the _surface_ of the water"!

"How can that be"?

"It doesn't make any sense, but that's what I saw"!

"That's incredible"!

"Yes, as this _whole day_ has been"!

" _That's_ an understatement! If people _only_ knew-what is below their feet"!

After dinner, a call to Jacques was placed.

"You two had some fun!" he observed, as soon as he saw them.

"We _did_!" Jean-Leuc agreed.

"Jacques, how far are we from the Louvre?" the dirt covered beauty asked.

"About two miles. Do you want to go there?"

"No, we'd like to go to our hotel," she answered, smiling at the secret.

"Sure thing! Hop in"!

Back in their room, that charming, boyish grin-dared a challenge.

"Race you to the shower"!

The clothes came off in a flash, and the emerald beauty won the race. Within moments, a black river of age-old dirt was pouring down the drain. After a renewed claim on humanity, a cozy on the couch was next-with world famous Chateau de Bretagne.

"Beautiful, can you believe the treasure we found"?

"It's amazing! And Hercules, so are the coincidences-leading to it! I _never_ would've thought I'd have a day-like today"!

"I was thinking, tomorrow, we could take a coin and your necklace to a few antique coin shops-for expert opinions. Considering where we found all this, it _must_ be highly valuable! Perhaps, we should hire a bodyguard and take him with us. What do you think?"

"Good plan, and I have a feeling-we'll need a bodyguard"!

"Do you feel like catching the news, pretty one"?

"Ok. Maybe we'll hear about that Samurai!" she joked. "And, here's to buried treasure"!

The toast was well deserved after the exciting, and almost deadly, underground adventure!

Listening to the news, their minds tried to relax on other things.

"Good evening, friends. Welcome to the nightly news, and boy, do we have some news for you! As you've heard, the world's governments have speculated-that food and/or water-has been contaminated with some sort of hallucinogenic drug-in a new type of terror plot! There's a new theory now, by a scientist who is known for his way-out theories. He's claiming, Earth is experiencing pockets of time displacement! I know, it's an out there theory! Great numbers of people are having hallucinations, and being taken to hospitals for treatment. One of our field reporters shot the following clip-this afternoon."

The unfolding scene, was one of horror: dozens of people hauled away by force, after showing great fear-for no reason!

The newscaster continued, after the clip.

"Don't worry, friends! The police are getting people the needed help, and society will be safer, with them off the streets! We now go to our weather forecast and will be back shortly, with more of the news that matters"!

She couldn't listen to anymore, and turned off the TV.

"This is crazy-the things going on in the world! You know-I've seen some things"!

"We both have, pretty eyes! For God's sake-don't tell anyone"!

"Not a chance! Do you think, the earth really _IS_ experiencing pockets of time displacement?"

"I suppose it's possible, but I'm more inclined to think the food and/or water has been tampered with."

"Tampering could have been done; still, it doesn't explain the dead and hurt people on the tower: hallucinations can't kill"!

"Good point! On a cheerier note, we're about to discover the fascinating story behind our treasure"!

Their underground adventure kept them spellbound for hours, until sleep finally won out; comfortably safe in each other's arms, dreams of buried treasure wrapped snug and warm around them-like a cozy blanket.

Startled awake by something hot on his face, he looked around in a brief daze, before realizing the heat of the morning sun; then, another realization surfaced: destiny was waiting to be fulfilled.

"Morning, pretty lady"!

She turned over, to see the charm of a boyish grin.

"Morning"!

Anticipation soared, of the revelations the day would bring, which made the morning coffee taste better than usual!

"Muscles, what's your idea-on how to pick a coin shop"?

"We could pick ones that have been in business the longest, or, that deal in Egyptian artifacts-since the coins look Egyptian. If we're lucky, we'll find a good one that fits both! Let's look at one of those coins again!"

After a brief bag cleaning, she carefully removed the exquisite jewel box, and one of its hidden pieces of history.

"It _does_ look Egyptian, at least, the pyramid side does," she said. "This other side-it's mythical-and I don't know how that can tie in with Egypt! Any thoughts?"

"The mermaid, trident, and Island-is a _complete_ mystery! It's going to be an interesting research! And babe, we need to find a soft bag for it."

"I've got the _perfect_ bag"!

From a small drawer, she took out a little velvet pouch, pulled out earrings, and handed him the pouch.

"This will do nicely! Are you ready for some breakfast, Spots?"

"Spots-that's cute! Yes, I'm ready, and why don't we have a snack of croissants and coffee, so we can get going."

"I'm anxious to visit the coin shops, too"!

Pouring over the phone book, uncovered an interesting bodyguard for hire.

"Sweetie, this one sounds good! His name is Rafael, and he's also an Archeologist! How's _that_ for luck, pretty eyes"!

"He might be a big help in our research"!

"Indeed! I'll give him a call"!

The bodyguard made a good, first impression on the phone, with his pleasant personality; he agreed to meet up with them in about an hour, at their room.

Fresh baked croissants, and coffee, helped the search for coin dealers to be a success: two sounded promising. Right after making fresh coffee, there was a knock on the door.

Standing before them, was a muscular man of seven feet and thirty years, who was comfortably dressed in jeans, and a loose Hawaiian shirt. His light brown, slightly wavy hair, barely touched his shoulders and gave him a look of rugged sophistication. An odd thing though-the man was surprised for some reason!

"Hi! I'm Rafael."

As Rafael held out his hand, a friendly smile lit up his unique eyes-that were a light shade of purple.

Brief introductions led to fresh cups of coffee, and a relax on the couch.

Normally, a protector would be discreet, and not stare-but he just couldn't believe what he was seeing-and his thoughts filled with confusion!

They're just like that person I saw-years ago!

"Angel and I were very pleased, to find a bodyguard who is also an Archeologist! How did you happen to become both?"

"I was on a dig in Belize, and the need for a bodyguard came up, so I stepped in to help; I'd had training in weapons, and martial arts, which made me the obvious choice. After that, whenever an Archeologist or important find needed protected-I was their man! Having grown accustomed to fulfilling that need, I decided to keep doing it. The thought of helping you research Egyptian coins-is intriguing! May I see one of them?"

Strong hands gently pulled the velvet pouch from a shirt pocket, and took out the coin.

"You're going to _love_ this"!

As both sides were slowly admired, a smile joined with eyes of wisdom!

"This is fascinating! I would venture to say-it's ancient Egyptian-since one side of it depicts monuments to that culture. How old it is, I can't be sure, but I've never seen or heard of _anything_ like this; I'm guessing-it's so old-that knowledge of it has been forgotten! The mermaid side is puzzling! Where did you find this?"

"I sense we can trust him, Jean-Leuc."

"Ok. We found this and many other coins, and her trident necklace-under the Louvre-inside an intricately carved marble jewel box!"

"Really! I can't wait to hear the story, but first, can I look at your trident?"

"Please! We'd _love_ to get an expert opinion! Can you read the writings?"

"How interesting! This is a crystal of some sort, and these are Egyptian hieroglyphs. One side says 'God of Light', and the other says 'Ancient Guardian of Tomorrow'. I don't know the meanings, but I'm sure we'll figure it out. Considering where you found these things, there's no question-as to their authenticity and extreme age-and I'm betting, there's a special purpose to the trident! It wouldn't hurt though, to get a few more opinions."

"Our thoughts exactly! We've got the names and addresses, of two ancient coin dealers in Paris. Also, we were thinking, that maybe you could get a room here at the hotel?"

"Already done! I just checked in, and was fortunate enough to get a room-right next to yours"!

"Since I wear this night and day, it's not likely to get stolen, but the coins and jewel box are another story! Jewel box! It's got hieroglyphs on it too! Be right back"!

Looking it over-unveiled a most intriguing message.

"What a stunning box, and the gold cats are unique! This is _far_ different from anything I've seen! The words carved around the sides, are repeating, and say 'Wings of light guard the light'. I know that makes no sense, but something tells me we'll figure it out!"

"An _odd_ engraving!" mused the spotted beauty, voicing the thoughts of them all. "I'll go put the jewel box back and pick a different shirt, and be ready for the coin shops."

The change from a half-sleeved shirt into a short sleeved one-uncovered the _biggest_ of coincidences.

"Your tattoo! It's just like the one my aunt has-except-she doesn't have a trident"!

"Really! What a coincidence"!

Confusing questions suddenly overwhelmed her mind, which was anxious, to know the answers.

How can that be? How can that be-since it's _not_ a tattoo!

Her thoughts happily faded into the background, when Muscles asked a question.

"Are you both ready: to solve the treasure mystery"?

"Sounds like fun-my new friend"!

"It does! I'm ready too"!

Waiting in the garage for them, was a ride of deja vu: a teal green Lamborghini.

"Hey babe, another ride that matches your beauty"!

It didn't take long, to arrive at their first stop: 'Ra's place'. Walking in with high hopes, it seemed likely the knowledge was there; after all, the place was liberally adorned with many dust covered books and antiquities. Standing on the other side of a counter, a tall and elderly man of medium build, squinted at them with beady blue eyes from behind a mess of blonde hair. Offering a hand, he introduced himself.

"Hi, I'm Ra."

A brief round of pleasantries, set the stage for what would certainly be a helpful experience.

"What can I do for you folks"?

"We have an old coin, and her necklace-that we'd like your opinions on."

After carefully looking at both sides of the coin, Ra smiled, and made a disheartening comment.

"I've seen _numerous_ ancient coins, and this is _nothing_ like _any_ of them! I hate to tell you folks this, but it looks like you got ahold of a fake! It's cleverly made, but a fake-none the less"!

Hoping for a better answer about the new fashion statement, it was offered up.

"It's a lovely piece! There are Egyptian hieroglyphs on it, that read 'God of Light' in one spot, and in another, 'Ancient Guardian of Tomorrow'. What a choice of words! This was probably made for healing rituals: a lot of people, are into using crystals for healing. Crystals don't naturally form in a trident shape, so I'm sure, it's just a touristy trinket and not valuable, but it looks nice! Here you go."

Ra was thanked for his time-even though his time-had basically, been _no help_ at all! Back in the car, the emerald beauty let off a little steam.

"Touristy trinket my butt! Why would fake coins-be under the Louvre?"

"Not to worry, sweetie-we'll find the answers"!

"He's just one expert. My years of archeological study, lead me to believe that no-one in recorded history has ever seen them! Let's see what the next dealer-has to say!"

Another 10 minutes, brought them to the next shop: a place called 'All Things Egyptian'. Red bricks designed the store front, and a sphinx proudly guarded each side of the entry door. Inside, a heavy smell of cigars slammed into them, through dim lighting that cast eerie shadows onto map covered walls, and neatly organized antiques. A well-dressed, older man of sixty or more, was straightening a picture in the entry. With noses wrinkling and eyes squinting, the urge to walk out-was resisted.

"Welcome, my friends, welcome! I'm Sola. How can I help you?"

"Hi, Sola. I'm Jean-Leuc, and this is Angel, and Rafael. We need your opinions-on two items we have."

"I'm here to help! Come, let's see what you have"!

Sola led them to a well-lit counter, where he ducked his tall, thin frame, beneath a gated portion.

"It's broken-I keep meaning to have that fixed."

The mysterious coin emerged, and was placed in Sola's hand.

"It's so thrilling-checking out new things"!

After retrieving a pair of glasses lying on the counter, he slowly turned the coin-looking at both sides with extreme interest.

"This is curious! I've seen hundreds of ancient Egyptian coins, and a few of them slightly resemble the pyramid side of this coin, but the mermaid, trident, and Island-doesn't look at all like anything I've seen! My guess, is that someone did a lot of research, and put together a clever fake. I'm sorry-I don't believe you have anything of value."

The room was silent, as thoughts proved to be a challenge.

"Unless, my friends, this is a coin so old-that no living person has ever seen or heard of it"!

"Something interesting"!

Curtains parted 10 feet behind the counter, for a short, rather stocky man, wearing jeans and a tank top. He was not one to be easily forgotten, with his flaming red hair, stone cold grey eyes, and a black patch over his right eye. Colorfully inked on his left shoulder-a detailed tattoo of a treasure chest, and pirate, completed the rough look.

"This is my assistant, Daron."

"You can call me-Patch."

After all the greetings were over, Sola handed Patch the coin.

"What do _you_ make of this"?

Slowly, he looked at both sides, and gave a confident answer.

"I agree with you: it's a clever fake."

"Yes, that's what it looks like; still, perhaps we should test it and be sure."

Turning back to his customers, he asked a most helpful question.

"Do you mind, if I test the age of this coin? I have a liquid, that I can rub on the edge of it. The testing won't cause any damage, and I can do it right at this counter."

After receiving approval, Sola disappeared into the back, and promptly returned with a small bottle and Q-tips. Carefully, he rubbed liquid on the edge of the coin, and instantly, there was a new color: bright red!

"Would you look at that! It's the same color as Patch's hair!" Sola exclaimed.

Amid a loud eruption of laughter, Patch developed a case of bug eyes!

Rafael found himself host to unearthed passion, as the truth of what he was seeing-sunk in!

"This is unheard of"!

"What does it mean?" Spots questioned, with rising anticipation of the knowledge about to be shared.

Running a hand through short, straight black hair, Sola took a deep breath and replied.

"The older the coin-the brighter the color! Today's coins, would show up as blue, or green. I've seen ancient coins turn a light pink-but not red! I would say, this coin pre-dates the Egyptian civilization, by _at least_ -a hundred thousand years! Would you be willing to sell it, sir?"

"Perhaps."

"You could get millions for it; I can only offer one million, but _please_ consider selling it to me! It would make me famous, and the envy of _all_ coin dealers everywhere! I would have the acquisition of a lifetime: a one-of-a-kind! Please, consider me! This _is_ one-of-a-kind, sir?"

"We'll sleep on it, and give you our answer tomorrow, and no, we have more."

"Thank you, my friends! Thank you"!

"Oh! I almost forgot! My necklace! What do you make of _this_?"

"The trident is genuine quartz crystal, but it _must_ be pieced together somehow: a trident is _not_ a natural formation. There are some Egyptian hieroglyphs on it. Let's see, this line says, 'God of Light', and over here it says, 'Ancient Guardian of Tomorrow'. Most likely, the purpose is for special healing; this kind of thing, is becoming widely popular these days. I do not see value here-except in the beauty-which matches your eyes!"

She was disappointed, but respectfully acknowledged his time.

"Ok. Thank you."

The new knowledge stirred up an exciting afternoon at the hotel: reliving the daring adventure under the Louvre.

"An Egyptian civilization-that _nobody_ has ever heard of! A _fascinating_ thing to find out, boys"!

"It's the find of a lifetime! This is the kind of thing, I always hope to uncover on a dig"!

"That would be an incredible dig, my friend"!

"One thing appears to be a fact: your coins are related to Egyptian history. Most likely, the answers are buried in Egypt."

"The jewel box and my trident have Egyptian writing on them, and considering the coins have images of a pyramid and sphinx, I think we should begin our search in Cairo, and the Giza plateau."

"Good idea, pretty girl! And what do you think of selling that coin, to Sola?"

"He was a very helpful, and nice man! I'd like to sell it to him"!

"So would I! We'll go see him tomorrow, and tell him the good news"!

A startling noise pulled the protector out to the balcony, to investigate; momentarily, he returned with a brief explanation.

"I think we heard an animal: a lot of animals come out at night, in Paris"!

"Night! No wonder my spots are hungry! Where'd the time go?"

"Guess we were having so much fun talking, we lost track of time, Emerald Eyes"!

"Emerald Eyes-that's a cute nickname"!

"Thanks! You're invited to stay, and have dinner with us."

Mouth-watering steak and shrimp dinners, candlelight, and a favorite wine, made for a joyful feast. Spicing up the meal, was exhilarating talk of ancient civilizations, and a trip to Egypt.

"You know, boys, it's _still_ hard to believe what we found under the Louvre"!

"It _is_ pretty amazing-that you guys happened upon all that! What a coincidence! The odds are astronomical"!

No sooner had he finished talking, than a quake prompted a desperate grab for wine glasses.

"Hold on, boys! This one's getting stronger"!

Feeling it subside a minute later, brought relief, but the hired gun was still concerned.

"Jean-Leuc, did you see that"?

"I did! How incredible"!

"What was"?

"Love-during the quake-your trident was glowing"!

"Really! I wonder what caused it"!

A few more hours of talk, and they drifted to the news.

"Breaking news for you tonight! As you are surely aware of by now, there have been abnormal numbers of earthquakes, hurricanes, and other disasters recently. Earth's leading scientists are trying to agree on the cause, and are tossing around ideas that range from Global Warming, to a Global Crust Shift, and, at this point-are willing to consider _all_ theories!

In light of the planet wide problems, leaders of the world have made a decision: until things settle down-air flight should be discontinued! In four days, all air traffic will be suspended around the world, for an indefinite period of time! We'll keep you posted, as new information comes in. Please stay tuned to this...hold on...something's happening! We're having another quake! Can you feel that?"

A snowy screen, abruptly cut off the news.

"I saw my trident glowing this time! Did you see that?"

"Sorry, babe, this time I didn't; I was focused, on what the newscaster was saying."

"I saw it, and I wish we had a way to know if it's causing the disasters-or picking up on them"!

Her reply, was undeniable logic.

"For the crystal to do either of those things-it _must_ be of a technology _far_ beyond anything Earth has right now"!

"Surely, you're right, pretty face, but is that civilization friendly"?

"Well," she replied, "my gut feeling, is that a highly-advanced civilization will have learned _peaceful_ ways, and desire to _help_ others- _not_ hurt them"!

"Spoken with _great_ wisdom, love, and I agree"!

"I agree, too, and perhaps we can find that civilization and get help for Earth! Looking in Cairo is a good bet, and we should leave as soon as possible"!

"First thing in the morning, I'll arrange a flight. Come by about nine, my new friend, and I'll fix us a mouth-watering breakfast."

"Sounds good! See you then"!

Alone again, wine glasses were refilled, and the night was polished off with dreamy talk of Egypt.

Early morning found them busy on the phone, arranging a private flight to Cairo. Once that was taken care of, they relaxed with Cappuccino and waited for their new friend to show up-which didn't take long.

Soon, three sets of hungry taste buds were enjoying the mouth-watering breakfast of fluffy buttermilk pancakes, scrambled eggs with ham, and cinnamon Cappuccino-all made by Chef Jean-Leuc, who also made an important announcement.

"We booked a private jet to Cairo."

"When do we leave"?

"Tomorrow afternoon, at four. Here's the information."

He briefly eyed the paper and laid it on the breakfast bar, for a return to Cappuccino.

"Good news! Also, this is a tasty breakfast! Thanks"!

"You're welcome, Guns"!

"I like that, and it's one I've been called before-along with digger, the watcher, and many others"!

"Appropriate nicknames-as mine are-like Spots, and Emerald Eyes"!

After the tasty breakfast, the first thing to do was visit Sola and his most enthusiastic greeting.

"Welcome! My friends, welcome! Did you decide to sell me the coin? Sir, I _hope_ you say yes!"

"Yes"!

"Wonderful! _Hoping_ you'd say that, I got the money ready for you"!

In a swirl of anticipation, shaky hands _hurried_ to pull a briefcase from under the counter.

"It's in big bills, so it's easy to count! I can't wait, to tell Patch about this! He won't see my new purchase for a day or two though: he called in sick this morning."

After a trusting glance at the money, a transfer of the coin sparked new light to Sola's eyes.

"Ah! So amazing! I will be the envy of everyone! Thank you so much for selling it to me! If you _ever_ decide to sell any more, _please_ come see me"!

Along with promises to keep Sola in mind, and hand shaking-came a blessing.

"Long life and happiness to all of you! Please come again, anytime"!

The emerald beauty was the first one through the hotel room door, and almost tripped over a couch cushion! Shocked eyes stared, at the furniture and personal belongings-that were scattered from one end of the place to the other-like a hurricane had went through!

"It's been ransacked! Who on Earth would do such a thing?" she said, with eyes glaring.

"A common thief was hoping to get lucky! I'd feel better if I could stay here and sleep on the couch: to be on guard"!

The suggestion was warmly received, and the place was made somewhat presentable as Rafael rounded up his things; in no time, he was knocking on their door again.

"You travel light, my new friend"!

"It is a bother to carry a lot of bags; all I really need, is one. You two straightened up pretty good!"

"We tried to hurry, but it's not done."

"That's ok, Angel. I wish I'd been here to catch the thief!"

"Lucky for us, the box and coins are locked up in the hotel safe; we planned, on taking them to her bank today."

A little more straightening up, led into a busy afternoon: a deposit at the bank vault, and purchases of Egyptian currency and other things needed for the trip. For dinner, Guns insisted on room service: so the place could be under professional surveillance.

Safe behind a shield of protection, an entertaining night was allowed to unfold and create special magic. Pizza and house wine accentuated the swapping of adventure stories, until midnight, when the over-powering pull of satin sheets enticed them to call it a day, and slide into slumbering bliss.

# CHAPTER 5

LEGENDS

40,000 feet revealed a magical landscape, clothed by the comforting warmth of the brilliant summer sun. Drinking deeply of the forever horizon, and snow-white puffs drifting far below, their souls were refreshed with a sense of wellbeing as they jetted toward a mysterious land full of long forgotten secrets-just waiting-to be uncovered.

Having always had a fascination with planes and flying, it didn't take the watcher long to show his enthusiasm.

"Think I'll go hang out with the pilot"!

"Muscles, I can't wait to be inside the ancient wonders"!

"Same here! I've always wanted to see those and never got around to it-not sure why."

Snuggling up, the emerald beauty closed her eyes and imagined romantic, starry nights-in the mystical, Egyptian desert.

Blindsided, and hit hard-the next thing she was aware of-was being on the floor!

"You ok, baby"?

A knot of remembrance churned in his stomach, as he took her hand.

"I...I think so. What's going on?"

"We're in a lightning storm; it came up all of a sudden, and I didn't have time to grab you"!

"That's ok."

"Hold on back there! It's getting bumpy!" the pilot called.

Seconds later, it happened: a collision with terror, after it darted through the sky scorching fire and slammed into the plane!

Looking out a window was a searing mistake, and a slap in the face with the unholy vision-that their reality had vanished and been replaced by- _the depths of hell itself_! Among the raging fire, reared a bone-chilling sight that brought them to the point of panic; what their eyes saw was impossible: mythical demons from the past- _fire_ _breathing dragons_! Just feet from the plane, an ancient evil stretched its massive demonic jaws wide, and a split second later, a deadly fireball slammed into the window and covered it with a suffocating layer of black dust.

No longer able to see out that window or any others close by, was a small relief. Another hit, and that relief went up in smoke, as the deathly sound of metal tearing began to rip their sanity to shreds! Painful heartbeats joined a feeling of helplessness, as the long hook of fate-sliced into the plane!

"That's a claw!" he yelled.

She only had time to scream once, before the mind-numbing certainty of impending doom froze her with fear.

A loud hissing of escaping air-vital cabin pressure-was luck, going from bad, to worse; the mythical demon was peeling the plane open like a banana, and there was no way to stop it!

Within a split second, the frigid, blood-chilling eyes of death spotted its prey and pushed in for the kill: preparing to strike-from a life ending two feet away! Mammoth blood-stained jaws became an abyss of primal hunger, as 12-inch saliva dripping fangs-anticipated-a juicy meal!

Looking into deaths door, a fighting spirit gave rise to a knight in shining armor-a knight _determined_ to protect his lady love.

"We'll find a way out of this"!

A desperate search for a weapon, resulted, in a failure to protect and a plummeting heart-as the end closed in. With lightning speed, he was crunched in the mighty, life draining jaws of despair; nothing was going to save them now! Like a nearly empty Pandora's box, hope remained: of life-after death.

Right on cue, the rescuing wings of destiny flew in, and a split second later-the hell born horror disappeared straight backward: seemingly, yanked by its tail! Afraid to dare hope it wouldn't come back, they stared out the hole-all breathing stopped-and then, a sickening feeling emerged: of being in a hopeless, uncontrollable spin!

"We're going to die"!

Hugging her tight, he closed his eyes and wondered if she was right-while the plunge continued with dizzying speed-toward the dreams end.

In a dream, anything can happen, and that also proved to be true for this demon filled reality. Against all logic, the plane slowed its deadly spin into uncharted depths-then stopped-hovering perfectly still in midair. All signs of the dragon storm were gone, replaced, by a miracle: a sparkling ribbon of bright-purple light flowed like warm honey along the torn edges of metal-sealing the pieces back together! Running to a window unveiled a mind-boggling sight: a sight-born of dreams!

A pulsing, bright-purple beam of light in the shape of a hand-was connecting to the plane! Suddenly, it vanished, as though it had _waited_ to be seen!

"Feel that, baby? We're moving again, and it feels like the speed we were at before any of this happened!"

"You two ok back there?" the pilot nervously called.

"We're fine"!

Their immediate answer, could not outpace the approach of running feet.

"Did you guys see all that"?

"We did, and I can't believe what we saw! Bout scared my spots- _right off of me_ "!

"The view from the nose of the plane-was unbelievable! Apparently, we entered the twilight zone- _of_ _another dimension_ "!

"You know, I dreamed this! Pretty eyes, that day in the taxi-this was the bad dream I had"!

The rest of the flight was spent discussing the possibilities, which hastened the touching down onto a private airstrip near Cairo. After stopping, the pilot hurried back to talk to them.

"I don't know what happened up there, but I'm glad you're ok"!

"Did you take a shortcut through another dimension?" Muscles asked.

"Perhaps I did! That was _totally_ unexplainable, and _beyond_ frightening"!

Underscoring the nightmare, pretty eyes of green showed a look that matched a shaky voice.

"I pray you _never_ go there again"!

"You were _incredible_ flying the plane! Thank you!" Rafael said, with his thanks instantly echoed.

"Enjoy your stay in Cairo, and be careful! These days, you _never know_ what's going to happen"!

Stepping from the plane, the blast of stifling desert heat was a shock, after the mostly steady air conditioning. A waiting taxi showed them a scenic route to the Inter Continental Cairo Semiramis-a luxurious hotel in downtown Cairo-famous for treating people like royalty.

The splendor of pampered life welcomed them all the way into lavish accommodations, and their things were set down, among the finest of silks and furnishings: rich enough-to satisfy a pharaoh!

"Tall, dark, and handsome! Check out this balcony view"!

"What a view of the Nile"!

"I _knew_ you'd be impressed! And, lucky for us, we are _only_ a five-minute walk to the famous Midan El Tahrir Square, and the Egyptian museum"!

Within a few minutes their protector showed up, and suggested trying some local cuisine. Walking along the edge of Tahrir Square, the unknown land of mystique grabbed them by the most cunning of fingers: fingers of culinary delight! Sneaking up from between restaurants and shops-drifted a most heavenly scent-enticing them down a side street in almost a trance, to a restaurant patio.

Displayed within a circle of picnic style tables full of happy customers, was an irresistible centerpiece: tempting flat rounds of bread, on the brick shelf of an enormous stone oven. The man tending the bread, smiled, and graciously offered samples. With delighted taste buds, their growing appetites led them inside, where an artful pyramid and sphinx décor cleverly blended with elegant wood and glass tables. Adding the perfect finishing touch, was the welcoming fragrance of baking bread.

Menus were waiting for them on a stylish window table, but looking at one-was a bit confusing for eyes of emerald.

"With so many dishes to choose from, how do we know which ones to try"?

"Perhaps I can help, ma'am?" suggested a waiter.

"This is our first time in Egypt, and we have _no idea_ what to try!" she said.

"Many of our dishes take some getting used to, but we have a wide assortment that most foreigners really like! I could make a suggestion?"

The offer was met with a grateful round of yes.

"We have a three-course meal, that starts with grilled Pigeon stuffed with seasoned rice; the grilled Pigeon is a national delicacy! The next course is a combination cheese platter of Gibna-which is similar to Feta cheese, and Gibna Rumy-a sharp, hard, pale-yellow cheese. The third course, is Wara Enab-boiled grape leaves, that are curled around small amounts of spiced rice and ground beef. For dessert, you would probably like our Baklava, which is baked layers of Phyllo dough, honey, and hazelnuts. With all of our meals, we serve a pita type of whole wheat bread, that we call Aysh Baladi."

The suggestion was a big hit and the waiter took off with their order, returning promptly, with three bottles of spring water.

Being in Egypt, held boundless magic for them and sparked eager talk of things to explore. Thankfully, their memories glazed over the mythical nightmare.

"This is going to be a special trip, boys! I think the first thing we should do tomorrow, is look up information at a library. After that, I could go for browsing the shops along Tahrir Square. More thoughts?"

"I'd like to visit the Egyptian museum"!

"Spoken like a true Archeologist! And me-the Great Pyramid and Sphinx tours are a must"!

"I hope we find out the story behind the coins, and my trident! Boy, that's a yummy sight to see"!

She pointed to the back of the restaurant, where a man was taking bread out of a stone oven. Within moments, another wonderful sight came into view: their food.

"Here you are! If there's anything else you want, I'll be happy to get it for you"!

The relaxing time took a turn for the worse, when the floor and table began to shake.

"Don't worry, friends, the mini-quake won't last long"!

The waiter was able to smooth frayed nerves, before walking to the man at the bread oven.

"The smell of baking bread...that's strange-I just saw him do that"!

"Pretty one"?

"The waiter-twice in a row, he walked away from our table and to the man at the bread oven"!

"Maybe, he had to come back to a table close to ours, and then went back to the oven," Rafael suggested.

"Yes, that must be it," she replied, curious of how he'd moved so fast.

Taking them by surprise, was how mouthwatering the meal tasted, and every little morsel from the kitchen of heaven was savored! After dinner, and picking up two bottles of wine from one of the hotel's restaurants, the new friend was invited for drinks.

The balcony was perfect-for breathing in the richness of Egyptian culture; fascinated, to be in such a timelessly wondrous place, imaginations ran wild about the adventures and discoveries that lay in wait for them!

Almost unbearable, was the sudden itch that crawled over the trident mark; after a few seconds, it stopped, leaving puzzling thoughts.

What was _that_ all about? Surely, I'm not supposed to go anywhere _this_ late at night!

Her thoughts were interrupted, by the voice of protection.

"It's getting late. You two ready for sleep yet?"

Morning showed them up early, anxiously getting ready for a day of exploring Cairo. The decision was made, to postpone the traditional Egyptian breakfast of Ful, since the breakfast buds did not want beans. What sounded much better, was a variety from the room service menu: scrambled eggs, ham, croissants, and Grande Cappuccinos.

The first stop of the day was a visit to Dar al Kotob-a captivating library in downtown Cairo. A timeless enchantment flowed through majestic statues of the Sphinx, and pharaohs, as they stood guard on each of the many levels: protecting the proudly displayed, impressive store of knowledge within the library's millions of books.

"May I help you"?

A well-dressed man of 40, had raised his six feet of medium build from behind a counter, and was smiling pleasantly.

"Welcome! I'm Aahmes. Whatever you need to find, I can help you!"

Jean-Leuc introduced everyone, and a special reply was given.

"Peace be unto you! What can I help you find, sir?"

"We need information about an Ancient Guardian of Tomorrow, and a God of Light."

"Ancient Guardian-could mean the Sphinx: it's called the Ancient Guardian of the Plateau. I don't know, what the tomorrow part could mean. God of Light-could mean the sun god Ra. I'll look up some information."

Lifting a pair of gold-rimmed glasses from their perch, on his short and wavy black hair, he added to the well-dressed look and boldly accentuated brown eyes.

"That's an interesting neck chain you have," the watcher noticed.

"I wear the sphinx on this gold chain-for good luck! Ah, here are the locations of some books for you to look at. I'll go get them, and be right back."

He took off to locate the books, which was the signal to stand guard near the entrance-while pretending to look at a magazine.

Soon Aahmes returned, with a mountainous load of 12 books.

"Here you go, my friends, and there are many more books available"!

A secluded, brightly lit corner was just the spot to get comfy on well-padded benches, and pour over the stack of books.

"I think we're going to be here _all_ day, pretty one"!

"Perhaps."

Two hours later, the skimming was done.

"What did you find, sweetie"?

"The Sphinx is called-the Ancient Guardian of the Plateau. I didn't find anything, about an Ancient Guardian of Tomorrow. Also, the Egyptian god Ra was called the God of Light-since he was the sun god. What did _you_ find?"

"The same things, and one other. Early Egypt had a sphinx worshipping cult called Light of Life, and that religion is still practiced today!"

"Really! I hope we find some of those people! Handsome, are you ready for an Egyptian lunch?"

Seeing them taking the books back, prompted a fast return: to question their findings. The findings were _fascinating_ , with one bit of news standing out from the rest: next, was local cuisine! First, though, some amusement surfaced with his new friends.

"Just out of curiosity, how many of your books reference these things"?

"Thousands, sir! Would you like more?"

"Uh, thanks, but not at this time."

"Peace be unto you"!

The blessing was appreciated, and the desert heat was braved once again, among hopes of having found some bit of information that would lead them in the right direction-a direction-the watcher was _glad_ to help with!

"You guys feel like trying some of that famous bean dish-Ful"?

Happy with the answers, he led a brief search that ended a few blocks away, where a sidewalk picnic table housed a dozen locals eating in a special style: scooping food out of bowls with pieces of bread.

Nearby, a man was cooking food inside a portable trailer, and soon the picnic table held three more and a coveted feast: three bowls of Ful, a small basket of bread, and three bottled waters.

Hungry to find out why the dish was so popular, the mashed bean scooping art was quickly copied.

"Hey, this is pretty good!" the source of protection drooled.

"Now I know, why the locals like it so much! What do you think, sweetie?"

"I like it-ok."

The interesting meal, led to several magical hours of being charmed by treasure shops: finding everything from scarabs to incense. One thing that grabbed attention, was an enticing display of sheer scarfs-neatly draped at eye level.

"So beautiful"!

A multi-colored one designed with small circles, was held up and admired.

"That's incredible! The sun is shining spots on your face-that are like the spots on your arm! You should buy it"!

"I think I will. Hey Rafael, what do you think?"

She realized he was gone, but a brief look showed him nearby: appearing to be studying the crowd. Wondering, if he was looking at anything in particular, she noticed something disturbing at a Café across the street: lounging on the patio with a drink, was a man who had a patch over his right eye, and resembled Sola's assistant-Patch!

No, it can't be! she thought. What would HE be doing here?

Shrugging it off, as someone who happened to _look_ like him, she made a decision.

"I'm going to buy this scarf"!

Haggling over the price resulted in a good deal, and she joyfully walked away with her prize. With perfect timing, as always, their shield of protection showed up.

"What's next, guys"?

The question just begged-for a girl's honest response.

"How about a few more shops, then a relax by the pool"?

To her delight, the search for treasures continued. The appealing bouquet of a perfume shop, drew them to a most alluring scent in a delicate sphinx bottle. The next discovery was a charming jewelry shop, where a clever idea sparked a boyish grin, and sentimental purchase: matching good luck rings of gold, with a silver sphinx perched on top of each.

Out in the challenging desert sun again, that charming boyish grin did its magic.

"A bit of luck to keep you safe, my pretty jewel"!

Slipping the ring on her finger, immediately brought him a warm kiss, and hug; smiling, he put on his own, held his hand close to hers, and intense reflections of good luck showered protection upon them.

"Ah! Don't you two look sweet"!

Walking a bit farther, a store entrance flashed blinding light from dozens of gold balls framing the door. Hanging on the brown brick wall, was a large white sign with gold letters, that read, 'Light of Life bookstore'.

"Boys! Light of Life-that's the name of the cult! Let's go inside"!

She walked in with bushy-tailed enthusiasm, and _almost_ walked right back out again! The place had poor lighting, an odd smell, and didn't appear to have very many books.

"I think this was a mistake, boys"!

"Perhaps, babe, but looks can be deceiving. Maybe we should stay a few minutes, and have a look."

A strange thunk on the floor, announced a grey bearded man hobbling thru a door, using a cane. He stopped a few feet in front of them, uncurled to a remarkably tall height, and stared at them with a dark blue intensity that matched his dark blue robe. Oddly enough, a familiar looking emerald trident and chain, hung from his neck!

"Welcome! I'm Kanebti."

The warm greeting was returned among handshakes and introductions, with Angel receiving a bowed head, instead of a handshake. Hoping there was something more to the place, she told of their search.

"We're looking for information about an ancient guardian, and would also like to know-what your Light of Life sign refers to."

"Light of Life is the name of my bookstore, and in these parts-ancient guardian probably means the Sphinx. It's called-the Ancient Guardian of the Plateau. You can find information about that, in libraries."

"Your trident-I have one just like it"!

"That's fascinating! May I see it?"

"Of course"!

"That's amazing! It _does_ look like mine. I...I don't suppose...you happen to have a trident shaped birthmark on your right shoulder, and spots running down your right arm?"

Floating in a sea of amazement, she turned up the sleeve and asked.

"How did you _know_ that"?

The timing was odd, to say the least, for the unbearable itch that crawled on her right shoulder-making it _impossible_ not to scratch.

"It's you! You three are the ones! I've been waiting for you-my whole 90 years! Come! I have something you need! Please! Follow me"!

He turned, and started to quickly hobble away.

Curiosity got the best of them, and they followed down a long, shadowed hallway-toward peculiar lights, and a spicy smell. At the end of the hallway, they entered a windowless room with hundreds of flickering candles around the edges, and a low table in the center, surrounded by floor cushions. Drifting from elaborate incense holders on the table-whispers of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet-mingled with barely audible chanting, that seemed to come from all directions.

"Here, sit here on the cushions. Would you like some tea?"

The polite thing to do, was say yes, and a colorful mixture of leaves and flowers became an odd, but tasty tea.

"This information you spoke of-what is it, and why do we need it?" Angel asked.

Looking directly at her, Kanebti answered with a smile.

"Normally, I would not speak directly to an Egyptian woman, as a sign of respect, but you are _definitely_ not Egyptian! An Egyptian legend says-that one day, three will come in search of a treasure greater than any other, and one of the three-a woman-will have the mark of a three-pointed spear! According to legend, these three will save the entire world"!

"That's an interesting legend, but we're not here to find treasure: we're here to find information," she replied.

"Sometimes, when you're trying to decide whether to go left or right, your right shoulder itches-then you go to the right-which turns out to be the correct way"!

Almost spitting out a mouthful of tea, she choked on a bit and asked the question.

"How... did you know"?

"It's all in the legend! You three have a journey you must take, and I will help you find your way"!

From a concealed drawer on the underside of the table, he carefully removed a ribbon tied scroll and two golden sphinx carvings. With immense care, he unrolled the age browned paper and placed a carving on each end. The look on his face, was one of earth shattering knowledge to tell!

"Here! Here is where you must go!" he said with great emphasis, while lightly touching a finger to the paper.

His pointing, was to an X-that marked a well in a cemetery.

"A well-in a cemetery?" questioned Jean-Leuc. "Why on Earth-should we go there"?

"To find your path to the light"!

Being a bodyguard-it was always necessary to evaluate everything: a problem could develop, from the safest of circumstances. This time, though, his thoughts told him there was nothing to evaluate: the situation was ridiculous!

Adding to the ridiculous situation, was a loud crash in another room.

"The cat is knocking things over again."

Once more, he pointed to the map, and his voice had a sound of apocalyptic urgency!

"You _must_ go here! All three of you- _must go together_! Ancient legend foretells, that one of the three will bear the mark of the triple spear-such as _you_ have"!

"Sounds like a pretty important legend!" she replied, with a glance that showed the guys were trying hard not to laugh!

"It's a one-of-a-kind map! Here, pretty lady, I'd like to give you this, but if you could be generous and donate some money to the bookstore, it would be appreciated! I've had candles and incense burning in here all day, every day, for many years: to be ready for today"!

Muscles had to give it to Kanebti-it was an elaborate scam!

Guess we have 'tourist' written all over our foreheads! he thought.

"Sure, I can do that"!

She grabbed some money from her handbag, and counted.

"Is 702 Egyptian pounds enough"?

"That would be a _big_ blessing! Thank you! Thank you! _Please_ promise me-that you three will go on this journey! _Promise_ me"!

Seeing approval from the guys-she decided.

"Ok, we'll go! I promise"!

"You are going to fulfill the legend! Your journey will be long, so take sleeping bags, and lots of food and water."

At the front of the store, Kanebti wished them all a blessed journey. Outside, things were not what they should be: the sun had been replaced by stars!

"Where'd the time go?" Angel quizzed.

"We stayed longer than we thought," Rafael said.

"Perhaps, my friend, but it feels like it shouldn't be past three"!

"Well, my stomach thinks it's time to eat!" replied the almost always hungry one. Choosing one of the classy restaurants at their hotel, a taste of home won out.

"It's been a _wild_ day, boys"!

"Yes, and we sure got suckered into that map, pretty one"!

"That was a tourist scam-if I've _ever_ seen one!" smirked their new friend.

"You both may be right, but how did he know that my right shoulder itches-telling me which way to go"?

"Sweetie, you were talking about it at the end of the street, and apparently, Kanebti overheard you."

"That's possible, but does coincidence explain him having a trident like mine, and the name of his bookstore"?

"Good questions, love, and certainly food for thought"!

"Meeting him was fun, and the trip will be too! When should we go?"

"Anytime, pretty one. I don't think there's a need to hurry, and we can sight see more first."

"I agree with him-we don't need to hurry. A visit to the Egyptian museum next?"

The replies were happily stowed away to memory, and dinner led into a night of cards, and hanging out with his new friends. The time was so enjoyable, that early morning arrived before the call of bed was too hard to resist.

The next two days were spent touring the Egyptian museum-where the Archeologist was in his element-like a kid in a candy store: needing to see, and talk, about everything!

After finishing with the museum and a superb Egyptian dinner, a change in scenery commenced: a move to a fabulous Giza hotel-the Mena House Oberoi, on Pyramids Road. The hotel used to be a palace for King Ismail the Magnificent, and their palace wing rooms offered royal luxury at its finest: from the velvet covered throne chairs in the living room, to the caviar and champagne stocked bar. After settling in, Guns took his new friends up on a wonderful invite: to come over for a toast.

With glasses of wine in hand, the balcony was a relaxing place to taste the alluring beauty of the famous desert. Shining like jewels against the star-lit night, were the mystical pyramids and Sphinx-with enchantment enough-to make one think they held the secrets of the universe! After a deserving toast to the timeless wonders of the plateau, they listened to unspoken words-that whispered-of magic and adventure! Then, the breeze carried another whisper.

"Angel."

"Did you boys hear that"?

"Hear what, love"?

"I was looking at the pyramids, and Sphinx, and I thought...oh, it's crazy...it must be the magic of being here...I thought I heard them call my name"!

"This is _definitely_ a magical place, love"!

"My imagination was having fun with me! What an _awesome_ view of the ancient wonders! I can't wait to explore them tomorrow"!

The magic of the plateau kept them spellbound for hours, before finally releasing them to sleep.

First light, found them already up and having a simple croissant and coffee breakfast-eager to get an early start. Soon, the exciting five-minute walk to the main gate started, and a young boy approached.

"Bracelet lady? Bracelet? Wear the good luck of the Sphinx! Only 20 pounds each lady! Only 20 pounds!"

"Ok. Let me see what you've got."

From a large shirt pocket, the boy pulled a wooden bar covered with metal bracelets; she picked two that were gold toned, with etchings of stars above the ageless Giza mysteries.

"Here, I'll take these two, but I'm only willing to pay 10 pounds each."

"20 pounds each lady! I've got to eat! Please lady"!

"All right, you can have 20 pounds each for them."

"Thanks lady"!

The young boy was all smiles, as he tried his luck again.

"Bracelets for the lady? Only 20 pounds each!"

Hearing no twice, the boy went looking for new game.

"Soft spot for kids, baby"?

"He's got to eat"!

"He probably eats better than we do!" Guns chuckled.

A roar of laughter, carried them all the way to the ticket booth.

Impressively dressed as a pharaoh, their tour guide looked every bit the part of royalty-which included six feet of bronzed muscles-flexing an authentic display. Intense desert rays, reflected his gold threaded white linen skirt against the many gold arm bands, and neck chains he wore. Dark brown hair curled out from under a cobra topped headdress, and completing the royal look, was a false beard, and Sphinx painted leather sandals that crossed straps to his knees. He had a commanding voice, as a middle-aged ruler of fifty would have, and spoke with charm-his gray eyes laughing, as he smiled.

"Good morning! I'm your guide, Kames. Welcome to the Great Pyramid, and majestic Sphinx! Follow me inside the pyramid, and let's make some discoveries!"

As he led the group of twenty inside, a captivating aura flowed from him: one of strength and high status-as though-he _actually was_ a pharaoh!

"I will tell you about the Great Pyramid, as we walk through it. It is also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, and the Pyramid of Cheops. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids, and is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world-still mostly intact! It's believed to have been built around 2,560 BC, with more than 2 million stone blocks-that were _manually_ put into place! The pyramid used to be 479 feet tall, and is now 449 feet tall, due to weather and stone removal. Originally, smooth casing stones covered the outer surface, but a lot of those stones were removed in the past: to build homes and businesses in Cairo. Today, that is no longer allowed.

As we explore, you will see three chambers: this lower one, the Queen's chamber higher up, and beyond that, the King's chamber. This one, is called the Grand Gallery."

The Grand Gallery was striking in size and beauty, and also, in the perfection of how the blocks were cut, and placed together!

"Pretty eyes, it's hard to believe-we're _actually standing_ inside an ancient wonder of the world"!

"I know! It's mind-boggling"!

Being ever watchful, beauty of a unique sort was spotted: a short distance from the group, was a woman dressed as an Egyptian queen.

She's beautiful! I think I'll go say hi! Guns thought.

Walking over close to her, he held out his hand and softly spoke.

"Hi! I'm Rafael."

For some reason, that terrified the woman and she ran down a different passageway-which then formed a brick wall behind her.

Huh? Where'd she go? he wondered, totally confused about how the passage disappeared!

Spots turned to speak to him, and was surprised that he was feeling a wall with his hands.

"What are you doing, Rafael?" she inquired.

"I'm looking for the hidden passageway"!

"What? How do you know there's a hidden passageway"?

"Can I help you, sir?" the tour guide asked.

"I'm looking for the hidden passageway, that a woman ran down; she was dressed like an Egyptian queen."

"There are no hidden passages down here, sir. You must have seen another tourist, near the edge of the group! Let's continue along the Gallery.

A remarkable study, called Pyramidology, shows that the passages were constructed to a scale of a geometric inch to a year, and major landmarks in the pyramid-line up with major historical dates! Pyramidologists have also used this measuring system within the pyramid, to show the average density and weight and temperature of the earth, among many other things! Some people, even believe the timeline shows what some Christians refer to as-the second coming of Jesus! Many historical events can be pointed out, such as wars, and the September 11th disaster of the twin towers! Also, there's an amazing reference to the end of the Mayan calendar!"

Within the silence of the captivated group, Kames put forth a fascinating theory.

"If all these things are _truly_ encoded within the measurements, then the builders _had_ to be of a race much wiser and older than the ancient Egyptians! That's my own speculation, and many scientists would say otherwise, but it kind of makes you wonder-doesn't it? On a side note, there is ancient Egyptian documentation-proving-that the leader had blonde hair, and blue eyes. No ancient Egyptians had blonde hair, and blue eyes, so, where did he come from? Any questions so far?"

After several questions were answered, the tour advanced to the Queen's chamber, then to the King's, with Kames continuing to point out major milestones in Earth's history. After finishing with the King's chamber, there were more questions.

"What influenced the Pharaohs dressing style?" a lady asked.

"The Pharaohs went to considerable lengths to set themselves apart: to show their magnificent royalty. As signs of wealth, a lot of gold jewelry was displayed, and their linen clothing was more see through than what other Egyptians wore. Part of their clothing, was a royal apron called a Shendyt, which was pleated and had a small piece of cloth hanging in front of it; partially transparent robes, went over the apron. A striking, pleated head piece, called a Nemes, brought major attention to the face; the headdress often carried a cobra figure-to protect them from evil. Also as part of their distinctiveness, they wore decorated sandals, and false beards. Khol was worn around the eyes, to protect against infections and sun glare."

"I have a question," Angel said. "Does Pyramidology, say _anything_ about all the earthquakes and disasters happening now"?

"Good question, babe"!

"As a matter of fact, it does! Pyramidologists have uncoded information-telling of a very turbulent period of earthquakes and other disasters-at this period of time! The information doesn't say how long it will last-but that knowledge from the stars will protect us"!

After answering a few more questions, Kames led them out into the unforgiving desert sun, which was almost unbearable after the steady 74° temperature.

"For those who have tickets to the Sphinx, I am your guide there, as well. Normally, there is a different guide for each place, but today's regular guide is sick. Let's move over in front of the Royal Sphinx, and I will share with you, of its rich history!"

"The Great Sphinx-has long been known-as the Ancient Guardian of the Plateau. It faces the rising sun, and was the focus of solar worship, so perhaps, that's why the king of lions is a symbol associated with the sun. This one of a kind marvel is 260 feet long, 65 feet high, and has a tail wrapped around its right hind leg. It's the largest sculpted statue in the world, and is carved right out of the bedrock.

No-one knows who built it, or why, but there are many ideas, and the speculations as to its age-are varied. In days of old, the Guardian was broken into by robbers, and its nose was supposedly used as target practice by some of Napoleon's troops. Various ideas exist, about who it resembles; many think its likeness is of the Pharaoh Khafre, while others think it bears a much closer resemblance-to an older brother of Khafre: Pharaoh Djedefre-Radjedef.

There are those who believe, that secret passageways and chambers exist beneath the Guardian; one of the chambers-called the Hall of Records-is thought to be under the front right paw. This Hall of Records-is said to contain all the ancient knowledge of Earth! It also, supposedly, has a record of the lost civilization of Atlantis! Some people, believe the Sphinx was built in 10,500 BC-by survivors of Atlantis! According to legend, the opening to the Hall of Records can be found at the right shoulder; legend also says, that three people will one day come looking for a great treasure, during a time of trouble, and will enter the Hall of Records-by using their voices! One of the three will be a woman-born with the mark of a trident spear. Of course, these are only legends- _not_ necessarily true-but are _interesting_ possibilities! Any questions?"

While Kames was answering questions, the three of them had plenty to think about!

"Thank you very much, for visiting the Great Pyramid and majestic Sphinx! Please, come again! Remember, to watch the Sound and Light show tonight. You'll find brochures about that, on this side of the main gate. Please, come again!"

An urgent announcement, highlighted the sudden look of a woman on a mission.

"I've got to see Kames for a minute"!

She darted off in mid-sentence, leaving a dust trail to follow.

"Kames, your presentations were extraordinary! Somehow, it felt like I was supposed to be here for them! I know that sounds crazy"!

"I'm glad you enjoyed them!" he answered, with a smile that said he knew something-she didn't!

"It's good-to see all three of you! This is a time of times, and time of three! The Great Sphinx will protect you, on your journey of truth! Remember-the _right_ path-is the path of the Sphinx"!

After saying that, he shook their hands and walked away.

"I wonder what that means!" she pondered.

"He probably says that, to a lot of tourists!" Guns pointed out, swiftly moving on to a more important matter.

"And now, to the next thing on the agenda! Anybody ready for a snack?"

The always hungry tummy, was a source of amusement on the way out to the many colorful shops and cafes, that bordered the end of Pyramids road. A grand feast waited for them: all the cafes offered samples of the best of Egypt. Many of the foods were familiar-but some promised a strange, new experience-such as the exotic Scarab soup.

She couldn't resist the urge-to tease.

"Hey, hungry one! Scarab soup! You want some beetle soup?"

"Uh, thanks. Maybe another time. I just found an Egyptian style gyro sandwich, with _my_ name on it!"

The rest of the afternoon was filled with sampling the fine foods, and searching for riches among the gem filled shops. Being completely intoxicated with the experiences of the plateau, made it hard to imagine how to end the perfect day, but the timeless wonders knew, and showed them later that night: at the Sound and Light show.

As lasers lit up the side of the Great Pyramid with historical scenes, music played, and the Sphinx told them of the plateau's history, and how it played a role in Egyptian history.

As the lights danced, there was the sensation of living throughout time!

"It's amazing-how rich the Egyptian culture and history is!" Muscles commented.

"Egyptians have a lot to be proud of, my friend! Plus, some _incredible_ artifacts have been found in Egypt, and I've been fortunate enough to have dug up a few of those myself"!

By the time the hour-long show was over, their afternoon of snacking had worn off, and Rafael was invited for dinner. The balcony was the sight of a room service meal fit for royalty: gourmet seafood pasta, a large variety platter of Egypt's tastiest morsels from the sea, and complimentary French wine. Even though the heat was still almost unbearable, the simmering desert night couldn't distract from the spellbinding view of the past.

It sounded like a replay: once again-the breeze brought the whisper of a name-tugging, with irresistible enchantment!

"What a day, boys"!

"Fascinating, pretty one! Those legends the tour guide told us about-I wonder how much of it is true."

"Perhaps more than we could possibly know!" she replied.

"Well, my friends, it's logical to think-that just because we don't know of something-doesn't mean it doesn't exist! And, I _know_ that woman in the pyramid ran down a hidden passage, and she _wasn't_ part of the tour"!

"We believe you, my friend"!

"The Archeologist in me, says the Great Pyramid and Sphinx were built for a galaxy changing purpose"!

"And," Muscles added, "if the pyramid time-line of the earth is real, that civilization was _far_ more advanced than us! With luck, some of them still exist, and we can find them"!

"I'm sure you boys have noticed, that it feels as though an un-seen force is guiding and helping us these days; maybe that advanced civilization is pulling us to them, and, perhaps, are even the people behind the crystal"!

"There _have_ been a lot of strange coincidences!" acknowledged their protector.

"Perhaps they haven't been coincidences! She may be right-an advanced civilization could be directing our path to certain discoveries"!

"Speaking of finding things, boys-the search for the graveyard well tomorrow-sounds intriguing"!

"That it does, my brave explorer! First thing after breakfast, we need to hire a guide and then buy camping supplies. Let's make a list of what to buy, and we should probably turn in after that: we've got a _big_ day tomorrow!"

# CHAPTER 6

SANDS OF DESTINY

It crept in during the night-soft and warm against her face; not really comfortable with finding out what was crawling on her, she raised a hand anyway, and peered at it through half opened eyes. The discovery, brought a sheepish relief: it was _only_ the warming fingers of the sun!

"Morning, gorgeous"!

His call from the couch was a surprise.

"Morning! Why didn't you wake me?"

"You were sleeping so well, I didn't have the heart to disturb you, and decided to sit here with coffee. Breakfast is on the way, and we can be munching in about 15 minutes."

"I'm up"!

With uncanny timing, the source of perpetual hunger arrived at exactly the same time as the food-with a special offer: to help devour the tasty breakfast of eggs, ham, croissants, and a type of Egyptian black coffee.

Satisfied, and ready for adventure, they bargained with one of the many taxi drivers waiting outside the hotel, and agreed on a price for a half days' use. First stop, was to find a guide-which were plentiful in Giza. For a mere 500 Egyptian pounds, a young man of 35 agreed to drive them to the southern cemetery: a mile into the desert. The guide, Anhur, had typical features for an Egyptian man: dark brown hair that curled, light brown eyes, and a slender, muscular build. Not typical, was the huge scar on his left forearm, and his height of almost six feet.

Setting things up, Jean-Leuc gave instructions to Anhur.

"Anhur, meet us at the front desk of our hotel at 7 p.m. tonight. Here's 200 pounds-you'll get the rest tonight!"

After saying goodbye, the hunt began for camping supplies, and before long, backpacks were being filled at the hotel. A light lunch of salads and refreshing pyramid water, left plenty of time to relax by the pool.

Even though only three other people were nearby, the watcher sat in a corner by the end of the pool-providing a soothing bubble of protection. Within such a safe environment, the padded loungers gave comfortable passage to another time and place.

"Can I rub some oil, on your back"?

The intimate words triggered sweet memories: of their first meeting.

"Sure, handsome"!

"You've got to be careful not to burn, pretty one! The sun is more vicious these days-especially, here in Egypt"!

A wink of agreement, led to another 10 minutes on her stomach, 10 on her back, and then a dash into the rescuing pool. Playful splashes mingled with a vague awareness: a scene was being played out-in the time traveling movie of legends. Soon, another scene emerged: a steak and lobster candlelight dinner for two, in their room.

"Hercules."

"Babe?" he answered, with his grin of charm-lighting up-at the new nickname.

"Why did you tell the guide to meet us at the front desk, instead of outside the hotel"?

"I've heard stories, of how some guides take people out into the desert and other places, and don't return for them! I want him to see me pre-pay for a week, so he knows we have lots of money; as a result, he'll return and pick us up"!

"Good thinking"!

Right on time, Anhur was waiting for them in the lobby.

"Hello, my friends! It's good to see you again"!

"Hello, Anhur! We'll be ready to go, as soon as I pay for another week."

"Ok, take your time."

The wad of cash _definitely_ got Anhur's attention, warming his mind, as he loaded bags into the back of his jeep and guided a brave journey to the unknown.

"I know of a side road, that is no longer used; it will take us to the back side of the southern cemetery, and it's not likely that anybody else will be out there."

The route was happily agreed to, but, unfortunately, the forgotten road ended up making the 10 minutes-tooth jarring.

"I'll unload your bags, but if you want a campfire-I can't help you: that's how I got _this_ "!

He pointed to the burn scar, on his left forearm.

After the jeep was unloaded, Anhur was handed more than the agreed upon amount-which was obviously-the good luck of the Sphinx!

"Here's the rest of what you asked for, plus 1000 pounds more! Return here in six days to pick us up, and I'll pay you another 1000 pounds"!

He couldn't believe the man had given him so much money, and the incredible good fortune, instantly created a face-size grin!

"Yes, yes, my friends! I'll be here! Have a good time"!

Driving away, the offer of big, easy money-kept the broad smile going.

The desert sand was soft, and it didn't take long to find a comfortable looking spot for the sleeping bags, with the watcher setting his up a short distance away. The moment he returned, he had an all-important question.

"Anything to snack on"?

"Always a hungry tummy, my new friend"!

"Well, what can I say? It has a mind of its own!"

Digging in a backpack, produced some tasty tidbits for his buddy.

"We've got granola bars, jerky, nuts, and stuff for sandwiches."

"Jerky! I'll take some of that"!

"And, we also have a special treat"!

The backpack of snacks, stopped being the hiding place of a silver bottle.

"I found a rare, French wine"!

"That's my guy"!

"That'll go good with the jerky!" realized the hungry one.

As they settled against the backpacks, streaks of amber softly painted the night with magic. Then, a presence began to emerge: entering their thoughts, with a promise of unfolding secrets!

"How incredibly awesome, boys-a giant cat-guarding the plateau"!

"You know, people used to worship cats!" informed Guns.

"That's easy to believe!" she replied. "You watch a cat, and you can swear they remember this: when you talk to them, they're apt to walk away with their tail up-as if to say-'Talk to the butt'"!

"That's pretty funny, babe, and I've seen cats do that"!

"And I have! Apparently, the memory _IS_ there"!

"This is nice, boys-to be able to afford expensive wine"!

"It is," Guns agreed. "Have you _always_ been rich"?

"I remember when I really had to struggle-even to buy food! Once the first book was published, that's when the money came in. I have a lot of respect, for people who are struggling to make ends meet! What about you? Have you always been well off?"

"Not always. I was raised by an aunt, because my parents died when I was five; we lived comfortably, but were never wealthy. After I became an Archeologist, I began to acquire a lot of money. And you, my friend?"

"I've been _most_ fortunate: I had rich parents, and never had to work a day in my life! My parents _always_ told me though-that life is not just all about me; I've lived by that, and it has served me well"!

Eyes of emerald glowed, as they reflected the vast expanse of winking sky.

"This is breathtaking! So many stars! Makes me feel kind of small! You boys think there's life out there-on some of those planets?"

"Well, sweetie, it'd be a pretty big waste of space-if there's not"!

"I agree with him; it _IS_ reasonable-to think that some of the many worlds out there-can, and do, support life"!

"All these worlds, and the vastness of space-it all had to have been made by a pretty awesome supreme being! Do you boys think-there's a god?"

"I think there's _something_ supreme out there, pretty eyes, but I'm not sure what I'd call it. Maybe there are multiple gods: a different god-for each dimension. What do _you_ think, my friend?"

"Creation has been pretty well analyzed, by many top scientists-who have compelling arguments for evolution"!

"Give us an example," Angel requested.

"There's the cosmic dust cloud: scientists have explained how everything evolved out of the big bang, which came from a cosmic dust cloud."

"But," she replied, "where did the cosmic dust cloud come from? Scientists could say it came from smaller particles, or another galaxy or alternate universe, but no matter the size or place, the particles couldn't be there unless _made_ by someone! Happening to exist all on their own-is not logical! And, there's Jupiter!"

"Huh? Sweetie"?

"Jupiter?" Guns quizzed. "What do you mean"?

"It spins the other way"!

"I don't follow you, pretty one"!

"Me either"!

"Scientists that promote the big bang theory, say, that when the big bang happened, everything went spinning off into space in the same direction. Like people jumping off a quickly turning merry go round-everything should have continued to move in the same direction-but Jupiter doesn't spin like all the other planets: It spins the _opposite_ way!"

"Oh! I've heard of this!" Guns exclaimed. "A few scientists have speculated, that in Jupiter's distant past, it went through a geo-magnetic reversal of its poles, causing the planet to stop-and reverse direction. Many scientists believe we are experiencing a reversal right now-and the deadly process will be complete-in the near future!"

"Possibly, that explanation is the correct one, but maybe a supreme being created everything and had Jupiter spin the _opposite_ way, so people could disprove the big bang theory and know how things _really_ came about! But, even if that _is_ what happened with Jupiter, you've _still_ got-the primordial soup"!

"Primordial soup?" questioned Guns.

"Ok, gorgeous-I'm intrigued"!

"Scientists, that support the big bang theory and evolution, say, that life evolved after millions of years-of rain hitting against rocks. Supposedly, that caused some kind of reaction between the rocks and the water-which produced life. Neither rocks, nor water, have animal proteins in them, and water hitting against rocks-will _not_ produce animal proteins-so there's _no way_ that animals, or people, could have evolved from that! It _just isn't logical_!"

"I hadn't thought of that!" Guns admitted.

"Me either"!

"And besides, everything works so _perfectly_ together-from the grass and trees, to the animals, people, earth, and sky! Figure the odds of this being so-if _not_ by creative design! Have you boys ever had the feeling-that you wanted to thank someone for all this?"

"A time or two, love."

"Me too."

"I believe, those feelings are the sensing of the supreme being who created it all, and I think that supreme being put the sensing ability in us-to know he's there"!

"Do you consider yourself to be-what some people would call a Christian?" Guns asked.

"No, I wouldn't say that, but I'm leaning toward their beliefs. Right now, I'm just questioning everything, and trying to find my way. Their beliefs-make a lot of sense!"

"Some pretty compelling thoughts, babe"!

"He's right-it's compelling"!

"I've been thinking about all this for years, and with all that's out there, I really hope we discover life on other planets! That would be-so fascinating! I wonder, how many solar systems and galaxies there are."

"More than your pretty peeps can count"!

"Tell you one thing-counting stars is more fun than counting sheep, but I always lose track after a while and my eyes get tired. Speaking of sleep, I think I'll go get some; I'll be right over there."

"Have a good one, my friend."

"Goodnight, Rafael. Don't forget to count stars!"

"I'll let you know, what number I got up to."

Watching him leave, there were good feelings from the enjoyable time just shared, but the good feelings vaporized-replaced by knots in their stomachs-at the sight: a swirling fog, and a woman, appearing behind their friend!

"Rafael"!

The call from his new buddy was full of alarm, and he hurried back.

"A swirling fog and a woman, appeared behind you! She was young, slender and curvy, and had lots of spots coming out from her eyes! As soon as I called your name-the fog and woman vanished"!

"Really! I wish I'd seen her! Perhaps, I should be on guard over here"!

The suggestion was happily received, and three sleeping bags ended up in close proximity.

"Guess I'll count stars from here"!

The ghostly encounter was a catalyst for several uneasy hours of talking, and trying to see through the veil of night. The steadfast watch was finally given up around three in the morning, when it was determined-there was nothing more to see.

"Beautiful."

Loving arms pulled the emerald beauty in for a kiss, and to say-four sensuous words.

"Welcome, to the plateau"!

An odd insect buzz woke them at six; still in a snuggle, they peered into the dim light and recognized the insect: the alarm clock! Although it was pre-dawn, and only three hours of sleep had been claimed, a pastry was going through a rigorous taste test.

"Time for you guys to get up"!

"Morning, Guns," yawned a waking beauty.

"Didn't take you long to find the food, hungry buddy"!

"You know me: I love to eat! Hey, you guys better get up! We want to hurry and find the well-in case any tourists head this way"!

"Right! Come on, my spotted one; time to get off the sleeping bags."

"By the way, I got up to 80 stars"!

"That's amazing! I think I'd get lost in the stars-by 20"!

"You and me both, gorgeous! Ok, let's see if Munch left us any food."

"Hey, that's a new one, and I like it! I've also been called Vittles"!

An uproar followed the mention of Vittles, with the amusement lingering through a breakfast of croissants and water, and into the dim light of the unknown-and a search for clues.

"Ok, boys, if people wanted to put a well in a cemetery-where would it go"?

"The well could have been here first," Munch offered.

"That's true," she replied, "but let's assume the sleepers were here first: to narrow the search."

"Good thinking, pretty one! If the well was added later, then I guess it would have been put along the edge."

"That makes sense," she replied.

Walking along the edge of the cemetery, luck found them in only five minutes, with a spotted arm accurately pointing out a barely visible circle. The discovery quickened their pace, and curious eyes soaked in the flashlight view-a view, that pulled disappointment from the protector.

"Some well! There's not a bit of water, and it looks like it's never been used! I don't see how this-could _possibly_ be important"!

"We've come this far-we might as well check it out! I'll go down first."

"How are you going to get down, handsome"?

"I could use a rope, or hang and drop, since it doesn't appear to be much deeper than seven feet, but some bricks are missing, so I'll use the holes to climb down."

Easing over the side, he descended remarkably fast.

"Piece a cake! The holes are good all the way! Come on down, sweetie"!

Joining him at the bottom, she thought about the weirdness: of being in Egypt-at the bottom of a cemetery well. An echo to her thoughts-was not at all unexpected.

"Pretty weird place we find ourselves, wouldn't you say"?

"Yes, and I have _no idea_ what to look for"!

"I suppose-anything out of place."

"Ok."

At first-nothing appeared out of place; moments later, he spotted them.

"Here! I'd say _these_ are different"!

He was pointing, at two exceptionally rounded plate size rocks-a foot apart-at chest level.

"The builders must've been short on bricks," he explained.

"Maybe, but if that's true, then I think the rocks would've been added to the end of their work-at the top-not-in the middle."

"Good reasoning"!

"Thanks"!

Resting her hands on the out-of-place rocks, she added a bit more.

"Decorations, with a purpose"!

As though triggered by the words, things took a dangerous turn: an ominous rumbling surged under their feet.

"Hold on down there! We're having another quake"!

Holding his love close, he wondered if they were safe in the well, and the answer, unfortunately, spoke in the form of a cave-in! They could only watch helplessly, hoping the bricks would somehow-miss them!

"Baby! It's not a cave-in! A doorway opened"!

The rumbling ceased, and astonishment took over.

"What do you guys see"?

"It's incredible, my friend! There are stairs, going down into a large space"!

"So, there was something to find after all! It's amazing-you guys opened it"!

"Buddy! Help us check it out! You see any tourists yet?"

"No, it's only 7:30; the attractions don't open until eight. I'll lower our bags by rope-then climb down."

Passing through the doorway to join his friends, was not without incident.

"Uh oh, I got snagged"!

Pulling to get loose resulted in a ripping sound, and then he was clear.

"Don't know what I was snagged on, but my shirt is torn."

A mysterious tunnel, awaited their excited steps into new adventure; the excitement flowed, until a familiar rumble brought the theft of a jewel most precious: freedom!

"Oh no! Boys-here we go again"!

As the prophetic journey began, they admired the technology of the perfectly round, twelve-foot-wide tunnel, and noticed, the thick layer of cushioning sand was revealing a secret: it likely, hadn't been disturbed for countless thousands of years!

"It's odd, how fresh the air is"!

"It _is_ odd, sweetie, and so is the light from the silver domes above us."

Eyes trained to find the smallest detail-found a new one.

"You two see those flickering lights ahead"?

Their curiosity grew with each step, until a minute later, when the tunnel curved into a cube shaped chamber-bringing them to the ancient riddle: of what was, and is not, but yet is!

Among the stares, the passage of time was unobserved-then-a hand-a touch.

Her hand jerked: as though bitten.

"Baby"?

"It's really warm, but I couldn't touch it"!

In a flurry, emotions blended into a mixed state of astonishment and confusion-at the flaming star hovering in mid-air. What happened next, took their surprise to a whole new level: it began to speak and move! As the strange words flowed, the star spun in every direction.

"Buddy"?

"I don't understand the language, but it resembles ancient Egyptian, and my gut tells me we're missing information we need! Probably, we are looking at advanced holographics, and I wonder what civilization it's from."

"It's anybody's guess, my friend; perhaps the answer, lies down one of those tunnels"!

Attention shifted to three new tunnels, where familiar stones, as in the well-were embedded in the entrances. One entrance had one, the next had two, and the third-showed three.

The possible explanation the protector thought of-was alarming!

"It's likely, only one of them is safe to go down, and the others are booby trapped"!

"I think the safe bet-is for my spotted one to decide which way to go."

"Only agreement here! She _would_ be the safe bet"!

The choice was made, when the passage of three made her scratch.

"It's this one! This is the safe one! Oddly, the number three has been everywhere the last few years! It's _got_ to be-this way"!

For a few minutes, the new tunnel was a mirror image of the previous one; then came the interesting twist: it turned into a giant corkscrew!

"Buddy, have you found anything like this in your digs"?

"There's never been anything found, that even _hinted_ of this kind of technology"!

The descent was monotonous, and after a while, the emerald beauty was ready for a change.

"My feet are killing me! I wonder how much farther this coil goes"!

"If it goes much farther, pretty one, we'll reach the molten core"!

That provided a bit of amusement for a few minutes, until the protector stopped, with a concerned look on his face.

"You guys feel that vibration"?

"I don't feel anything, buddy."

"The bottoms of my _feet_ are buzzing"!

Soon, the vibrations were unmistakable and mixed with faint thunder, and the voice of protection gave a solemn warning.

"Stay alert"!

Continuing down the corkscrew, the vibration and thunder got more intense with each step! Whatever was down there-was getting very close!

"So _that's_ what we've been feeling, and hearing!" Guns announced-his words dripping with awe-upon entering an enormous cone shaped chamber, which narrowed to the breathtaking source of concern.

With senses gone wild, and amazement running deep, they slowly approached the unearthly hues and refreshing mist.

"How can that be? A waterfall-of gold and silver? Boys"?

"I bet, sweetie-it's a result of certain minerals in the water."

"Or, my friends, there's a supernatural force behind it"!

Sometimes, things just have to take precedence, and her sudden alarm raced to the forefront of everything else.

"I don't see another way out"!

"Not to worry, Emerald Eyes. We can always backtrack."

Closing in on the spectacular waterfall, Guns noticed it first.

"Look! There's a ledge to the waterfall"!

Looking down below the chamber floor, he also noticed a dark green pool-swirling with more than just water! In a split second, the hair on the back of his neck stood up, when a fish creature raised its head-and stared at them!

Thick moss blanketed the foot-wide ledge, that didn't look like a promising path to anywhere, but, perhaps, something would turn up. The first imprints were made by superior strength-strength, that smartly relied on the safety tie of a rope.

The decision was made, to not mention the fish creature, and avoid foot slipping fear of what was lurking in the water beneath their feet!

The dangerous combination of vibrations and slimy moss, made the 10-foot walk feel like 50; at the waterfall, a search for another way revealed the only thing left to do: look behind.

"A hotel"?

The words couldn't help but slip out, at the warm sight. He decided to let the others enjoy discovering it for themselves, and simply told them-he'd found another way.

"There's a cave behind it, so we can continue this way! I'll come get my pack, and after I'm behind the waterfall and my hand is out, then you follow next, love. It's a bit slippery, so hang onto the rope-tight!"

Safely forming a puddle behind the waterfall, they stared at the wonders, while bathing in soothing reflections from a bubbling pool. Intricately carved pieces of stone furniture sat near the pool: a table and lamp, three chairs, three beds, and two couches.

The boyish grin got very big, with the joy of sharing what he'd found.

"Welcome, to the underground hotel"!

Speaking with astonishment, Guns offered the only explanation he could think of.

"Somebody was expecting us"!

"It _does_ appear that way, my friend, but how could all this have been placed in here"?

"It's good to have a nice place to relax, boys! And now, to change into dry clothes."

She picked up a backpack, and headed off to the darkened recesses of the cave-also packing along a troubling thought.

I hope there aren't any spiders, or other creepies in here!

"Ok, pretty one, we'll change here while you're gone."

Less than 60 seconds after she left-she was standing next to them again!

"And now, to change into dry clothes."

She picked up a backpack, and headed off to the darkened recesses of the cave.

"That was strange!" Guns observed.

"Agreed, but there _has_ to be an explanation for it"!

Soon, a dry explorer came walking back with a _big_ smile on her face.

"Much better! Now for a water"!

"Love, why did you come back and tell us a second time-that you were going to change"?

"What do you mean? I didn't come back until now!"

"We saw you here, and you told us again-that you were going to change! You then picked up a backpack, and walked away!" said a confused protector.

"I don't understand! This is my first time back"!

"There _must_ be logic behind this!" her other half reasoned.

"Let's figure it out while we eat! _I'm starved_!" Vittles announced.

"It's only been a couple of hours at the most, since we came inside the well! How can you be starved?" the emerald beauty asked.

"My tummy agrees with my watch: six p.m."!

"That's impossible!" she replied.

"How can that be?" Jean-Leuc questioned, quickly looking at his watch.

"I've got six, too! This doesn't make any sense"!

"If the time is somehow correct-that would explain why you are so hungry, and why my feet hurt so bad"!

"Well, my girl, since your feet are hurting and he is starved, then perhaps we should spend the night here."

"That sounds like a good plan. Perhaps Vittles would like to choose the meal."

"Oh yah! I can do that"!

Happily rummaging through the backpacks, it didn't take long to come up with a meal.

"How about beef stew, and bread rolls"?

In mere minutes, the table was a sight of eager feasting.

"Nice to have a hot meal!" the green-eyed beauty reflected, while digging for another spoonful of stew.

"Ah, the magic of Sterno!" her tall one responded.

As a moth pulled to flame, Vittles reacted to the light green cube shining at the center of the table-his touch-bringing a joyful response from his spotted friend.

"Nice! A touch lamp! You made it brighter"!

She couldn't resist playing with it, and figured out the fun: an upward motion made the light brighter, while rubbing down-softened it.

"Now that we're eating and I'm not starved anymore, let's see if we can figure things out"!

"Where do you want to start, buddy"?

"How about, with Angel coming back a second time, and saying she was going to change"!

"Which I didn't do, but you guys _saw_ me do it, so-somehow I did"?

"It seemed like a replay in time, love"!

"A replay in time?" she questioned.

"I _might_ have an answer, my curious friends. Remember the newscast in Paris, where we heard that one scientist-who is known for his way out there beliefs-thinks the earth is experiencing pockets of time displacement? What if-that's true! What if-time is changing: moving faster, slower, standing still, and repeating itself! That would explain a _whole lot_ -of what's been going on lately! Also, scientists have been talking about a much greater gravitational pull on the earth, because of the increased activity of our sun. Maybe, the gravity change is affecting time."

"That might explain what you boys saw. I know birds use the magnetic fields to navigate, and the gravity increase must be really disrupting the normal flow of the fields, because a great number of birds are falling out of the sky-dead!"

For a moment, superior knowledge blended with superior strength-bringing the impact of a freight train!

"I bet the magnetic field changes-are causing time fluctuations"!

"That's an awesome theory, bud, and scientists have been saying the magnetic poles will flip-in the near future"!

Growing concern, splashed into his response.

"I remember scientists saying-it would cause a sudden tidal wave _several_ miles high"!

"What a horrid thought!" Spots uttered-her remaining peace of mind devastated-before the doom drenched explanation could continue.

"The scientists said, if Earth were to abruptly stop and begin turning the other way, the oceans and seas and other bodies of water-would _not_ be able to stop on a dime! They'd _have_ to continue in the same direction-for a time"!

"That's logical, and I've discovered something in my archeological travels, that perhaps goes along with this! I've studied cultures from all time periods, and have found a _staggering_ fact: all cultures of the world share a common legend"!

"What legend is that?" his buddy asked, with great curiosity.

"All of them vary a little in the details, but basically are the same: a flood covered the earth, and a man, his family, and some animals, survived the flood by living in a boat"!

"Oh! The Noah's Ark story!" he replied.

"That's the one! My digging and research, have pointed to a strong probability that _all_ legends have at least a _little_ bit of truth to them"!

"I wonder what the truth is-about the Ark story," the emerald beauty pondered.

"The evidence that Archeologists have uncovered so far, is proving a worldwide flood! Such an event-could be explained by a sudden stop and reversal: the stresses would've broke apart the earth, and allowed _enormous_ volumes of water to surface"!

"And it's about to happen again!" she cried.

"Don't worry, love! We'll find help for Earth before it's too late! It's been obvious, that a more advanced civilization is protecting us, and guiding us to them"!

Fears diminished, as memories replayed the events that had guided them so far; their minds started to relax, and like fish to water, the hotel's pool drew them to dangle their legs in the light green bubbles, for a cooling, skin softening massage. The idea of meeting a superior civilization, stirred up fascinating talk, with a big portion of the night slipping by before realizing the time, and deciding to call it a night.

"I'll take that bed, since it's off by itself."

He dimmed the light before walking away and getting comfy on his sleeping bag, and then asked a rather unexpected question.

"Do you think I should count stars tonight"?

"You can't count stars!" Spots answered. "We're underground"!

"Wanna bet? Look up!"

"I don't believe it! How can there be stars? Muscles?"

"Somebody must've had a good sense of humor, and painted stars on the ceiling"!

"That must be it, but I wonder how the stars were made to twinkle-like _real_ ones! Ok, you count stars"!

"I'll let you know, what number I got up to."

Under a painted sky, the beauty was pulled in for a soft kiss, and loving whisper.

"Welcome, to the underground"!

The legs brushed lightly, as it crawled on her face; startled, she raised a hand to brush it off and hit something big! In a split second, the journey into the realm of night visions came to an end, and the intruder was revealed: the face of charm!

"Bad dream, baby"?

"I thought I had a bug on my face"!

"I kissed you. Sorry for scaring you!"

"That's ok. What time is it?"

"It's eight. If my watch is right-that's what time it is."

"I do feel pretty rested, so that probably is the right time. Hey, that's a switch: Vittles is not eating already!"

That was amusement with a capital roar, to which the object of their laughter woke up and looked sleepily at them-trying to figure out what all the noise was about!

"Hey, buddy-time to join us! It's eight."

"Eight? I must've been _really_ tired, for both of you to beat me up! By the way-I only got up to 10 last night."

"Definitely, tired!" agreed the beauty.

The morning came alive in a tasty way, with the chef providing room service of hot coffee, croissants, and various dried niblits of fruit. As the grateful empty spots were filled, a question burned bright on the emerald mind.

"Vittles, do you have any knowledge of Egyptians-having lived underground"?

"I know the underground was used for burial rites, but I haven't come across anything that shows proof-of actually _living_ underground. All of this-points somewhere _other_ than the Egyptian culture. What do _you_ think, my friend?"

"I believe this underground was visited by a people-not even from Earth"!

"I sense the verge of discovering the truth, boys, and in the meantime, we should look for a different way out of here; surely, there is one"!

"Well, my pretty Spots, an entrance was close to the waterfall, so just maybe-an exit is too. Since we're done with breakfast now, let's go look at the other side."

Between the water and cave, a promising two-foot gap curved out of sight.

"I'm going to see if this leads anywhere."

"Be careful, Muscles"!

After giving a bit of reassurance, he cautiously felt his way around the corner and between two boulders-for a painful lesson: that caution was not enough! An ominous scraping sound, gave a one second warning of imminent danger and then he was flat on his back, desperately battling a cascade of falling rocks! The final battle score was bruising: rocks-one, human- _zero_!

Back in the hotel, the emerald throat was being squeezed by the paralyzing grip of unknown danger, and, almost choked on a yell.

"You ok"?

Moments later, soothing relief joined the rush into the strong arms of a hug!

"Thank God you're ok"!

" _I'm_ glad you're ok, too, but I'm not going to hug you"!

"Aw, buddy! Hey guys, I found another tunnel, and somehow managed to upset a big pile of rocks; they're widely scattered now, so we'll have to step lightly"!

As thrilling as entering a new adventure was-it was equally confusing! Their curiosity mounted as they approached the glowing blue lights, that beckoned from the other side of the tunnel.

"How curious! A giant clam shell molded into the tunnel, and full of lights and symbols! I bet it's a control panel, and sweetie-no touching this time! We don't know what might happen"!

"A control panel? But for what?" she responded, not expecting a knowing answer.

"Are these hieroglyphs, bud"?

"I don't think so. I agree-this appears to be a control panel; it's unfortunate, that we don't know how to use it! We'd better stay alert!"

That pearl of wisdom served them well for the next two minutes, until blindsided by the unsettling awareness-that things were not right!

"You boys notice-how slippery the floor is? It's like walking on dirt covered plastic! Perhaps we should dig down, and see what it is!"

"I've got a _bad_ feeling-that I can't protect _either_ of you in this place! Let's hurry up and get somewhere else"!

Seconds later, the premonition of danger proved all too real, when a deafening thud smacked them helplessly to the floor.

"What was that? A giant sledgehammer hit the tunnel?" Spots asked, afraid the answer was going to be more than terrifying!

Those words had barely escaped her mouth, when another hit, sent her sliding to the right. A moment later, she felt the horrifying truth of why: the floor was giving way like a giant trap door! Survival mode instantly took over, and found the only sliver of possible escape: the floor edge that was quickly rising out of reach! Adrenaline pumped hard, as she desperately lunged for the edge-managing to connect with a death grip-that _nothing_ was going to break!

"Jean-Leuc"!

"Hold on! I'll pull you up"!

Safely held by strong hands, she relaxed in a bubble of comfort and was able to let her guard down-or so, she thought. Midway into a sigh of relief, the piercing cries of a new nightmare burst the bubble, and consuming fear launched its deadly takeover. Her skin was crawling, as she tried to see what was below the orange mist swirling at her feet, and, like it or not-the truth was realized: she was a worm on a hook, and the dinner bell was ringing! An eruption of splashes, triggered a face to face with dozens of dolphin like creatures-hungrily snapping their razor toothed jaws, and getting close enough to touch!

There could not have been a better time to be lifted out of danger, and she was overcome by relief; almost to safety, there could not have been a worse time for another hit, which knocked her rescuer onto his side-breaking his grip!

He could only watch helplessly, as his love plunged into the swirling fog; with a sinking heart, he wondered if she could _possibly_ survive.

With the odds against her, she only had enough time to yell one word, before hitting water.

"NO"!

Dropping like a rock into the murky unknowns, she fought to keep her wits about her, and was ready to punch whatever decided to come by for a taste. She was being sucked into the creature infested depths by the backpack, and once out of that-rapidly stroked for the surface!

"Help me"!

"Baby"!

"Get me out of here"!

"I'm dropping the rope"!

The water suddenly boiled in a frenzy of jumping; an attack was imminent, but for some odd reason-nothing happened other than squealing! The sight was a confusing one for frazzled nerves, but then came a better sight: the rope!

The rescue from the dinner plate, spurred a short run and collapse.

"You all right, baby"?

"I'm still in one piece, and I don't know _how_ I avoided becoming a meal"!

"Maybe, you were saved by your perfume?" he suggested, trying to lighten the situation.

"Maybe."

Burying her face in protective love, made a bit of humor possible.

"And here I was glad-that I didn't have to take a shower to get into the new tunnel"!

A deep breath of contentment stirred his soul, as he held his precious one tight, and thanked, whatever lucky stars were responsible for bringing her safely back!

"Is she all right"?

"Yes, but really shook up"!

"Understandable"!

"Are you cold, sweetie"?

"No, the water is really warm"!

"That's good! You stay here, and I'll help Guns over to this side."

"I'm _not_ moving"!

Back at the edge, one more rescue got underway.

"Ok, now to get you over here; if we can find some good things to tie the rope to, you can shift into monkey gear."

"These low wall lights-stick out a bit."

"Good thinking"!

Within a few uneventful minutes, the rescue was complete.

"I'm here, but we've lost the rope."

"Who knows, we may need it here again."

"Nice to see you-without tooth marks"!

"Thanks! I'm glad you made it over"!

"Babe, do you want to rest for a while"?

"I want to get _out_ of here! This has NOT been a fun tunnel"!

Those were sentiments deeply shared, and not a bit of time was wasted in setting a hurried pace!

"I wish I hadn't lost my backpack! It had all my clothes, and the breads, and snacks"!

"We'll be ok without it, babe."

Stunningly beautiful, didn't begin to describe the bright warmth that surrounded them five minutes later, when the tunnel of horrors gratefully came to an end, and opened into a gigantic cave.

"Wait a minute"!

The protector was looking at the end of the tunnel, and explained, what he realized too late!

"The clam shells, must be for operating that trap door"!

Putting voice to each person's thoughts, emerald wisdom proved to be good logic.

"If we see any more tunnels with those-let's avoid them"!

The experience faded to memory, by the mesmerizing light of countless gems that reflected their beauty, as if, there was a dance floor! Then, the music started: a low hum, that grew louder with every step into the cave.

"Incredible! This must be-the treasure greater than any other!" the protective one marveled, as he stood in the promising glow of immense wealth.

Disagreement, took the boys by surprise, but the reasoning made sense.

"I don't believe so. Extreme wealth has been found _many_ times, and it sounded like-we'd find wealth of a _new_ kind!"

"That's my girl: flawlessly logical"!

"Thanks. That hum-it's getting louder!"

Years of digging and research, provided confidence in a vast store of knowledge.

"See those giant, dark purple crystals-on each side of the blank wall? I'm positive, the sound is coming from them!"

Getting puzzled looks for a response, he continued to explain.

"All crystals and stones, vibrate at specific frequencies. The density and configuration of the crystal or stone-determine how easily the vibrations travel through it, and in some cases-if the configuration is just right-an audible sound can be heard! A few types of crystals have multiple frequencies, which cause a unique thermal reaction: the closer one gets to them-the more they sing!"

"That's _fascinating_ , buddy! How do you happen to know all that?"

"Being an Archeologist, wisdom told me-to know as much as possible about what I was digging into."

"I agree, that _is_ fascinating, and, is it my vivid, writer imagination, or are the wall stones on the other side of the cave-arranged in animal designs? Has archeology, ever uncovered anything like this"?

" _Nothing_ like this, has ever been dug up! Check it out! The two winged cats facing each other-there's an arched area of no stones between them: like a doorway of sorts"!

"That's _got_ to have special significance, and those fabulous stones- _all_ of them look like emeralds! I wouldn't mind having another necklace-made from several of those"!

Like an emerald charm, the beauty was magnified times ten.

"Baby! Your eyes have the most incredible sparkles"!

"Ah!" she said, batting her baby greens.

Their playfulness, was interrupted by the unexpected roar of silence; as a result, it could be heard: rushing water-from somewhere beyond the pillars.

Curiosity kicked into overload, as the sound led them to the floor at the back wall, where a gaping hole revealed the source. Circling the hole, was a foot-high barrier of round stones-a small buffer against entering the afterlife-which allowed Guns to breathe easier and observe a possibility.

"Ok, it's not a fire pit; this could be the one from yesterday."

At a depth of about 10 feet, was a spectacular waterfall-whose blanketing mist almost completely shrouded a winding staircase of moss covered steps.

In a burst of unbridled passion, the brave spirit of adventure escaped from its spotted host.

"How _exciting_ it would be-to find out where those stairs lead"!

"It _would_ be, pretty girl, but we'd have a _very slippery_ adventure"!

All thoughts of exploration immediately vaporized, as a fear inducing chorus of high pitched squeals blasted up through the haze.

"That's the same noises those fish things made!" said a now subdued brave spirit, at the remembrance of the close call.

"Wouldn't want to fall in _there_ , sweetie! They _might_ be hungry"!

" _Definitely_ don't want to go down there, boys! Don't want to be-fish food"!

"It's _probably_ not the way were supposed to go anyway, my friends, from the look of things."

"My shoulder is not itching, so our path must be in a different direction: perhaps through the emerald arch."

"Your shoulder is _always_ correct, my girl! And, surely, this place was designed for a grand purpose"!

As if to confirm, the splendor of the gems dimmed and a shocking chain of events began: a hum, preceded a brief pulsing of white light up the two giant crystals-then all was quiet-as the blank wall lit up with familiar images.

"That's _us_ , boys! It's like-we're in the center of time-seeing time play out"!

The remarkable images, showed them entering the underground and traveling to the present cave, at which point, the images vanished and the gems once again-warmed with stunning brilliance.

"This is a theater!" Muscles announced.

"I believe so, minus the very important popcorn and drinks!" Munch noted.

"That was an _awesome_ surprise, boys! No doubt, there's going to be many more, but first, a rest."

After retrieving waters from a pack, and taking several thirsty drinks, the emerald explorer leaned against a cushiony backpack.

"Now, to relax"!

"Wanna bet?" a deep masculine voice bellowed, from somewhere near one of the pillars.

A glint of silver-foreshadowed things to come-as a metallic object came into view: a pistol-followed by a short, stocky man, with flaming red hair, and a patch over his right eye.

"Patch! What are _you_ doing here?" Guns flared-his neck bristling in the sudden presence of evil!

"I've been waiting for hours: for you to come back! Thanks for the rope"!

"Come back?" Angel questioned. "But, we only _just now_ got here"!

"What are you trying to pull? How can you be getting here for the first time, since I followed you"?

She must think I'm stupid! Patch thought, puzzled, at her lack of a better excuse.

"Time twist, baby"!

She immediately understood the hidden message, and posed the question.

"Why did you follow us, from Paris"?

"I know valuable coins when I see them! Hand them over"!

Hoping to get him to ditch the weapon and rely on brute strength, Guns played the competitive angle-knowing-he could take him.

"You wouldn't be so _tough_ -without the gun"!

"Rafael! You shouldn't antagonize a man with a gun"!

"You should listen to her! Now, hand over the coins, or the pretty lady is gonna need some plugs"!

"All right! All right! Here"!

Desperate to save his love, a hasty reach was made to an inside shirt pocket, and a black velvet bag holding seven coins.

"I hope the coins bring you bad luck"!

"And now, the map"!

Again, an inside shirt pocket gave up its secret-this time-a carefully folded piece of paper.

"There's not much here; it won't tell you anything"!

" _I'll_ be the judge of that! Set it down, and back away"!

Reveling in greed, Patch took a glance before scrunching it for a quick stuff.

"Now, to get rid of you three! Over to the hole"!

"Oh no! Not there!" came a fearful cry-born of the knowledge of the trident.

Her thoughts whipped into a frenzy, teetering dangerously on the edge of control-a control that bolted for the realm of panic, when an ear-splitting crack echoed through the cave and sent them scrambling to their feet.

Years of being a bodyguard had taught him to think on the run, and now, those years armed him with a solution: grab a pack, and swing it fast enough to knock the gun away.

"Leave the bags! You won't need those! Get over there"!

There's _got_ to be a way out of this, but how? Muscles wondered.

As he followed orders, he knew that superior strength was not enough against a bullet, and the answer, unfortunately, remained- _elusive_.

"Down the steps!" Patch smirked.

Still trying to figure out what to use instead of superior strength, he questioned the plan: hoping the answer, would shine some light on a possible course of action.

"What are you going to do? Shoot us? While we're going down the steps"?

"Now _that's_ an idea! But no, I thought it'd be fun-to feed you to the fish! Those steps are so moss covered-you'll slip and fall before too long"!

As much as they didn't want to believe it, the fact could not be escaped: it was most likely true! Adding insult to injury-was the evil laugh of foreboding that slammed into them.

"Ok, I'll let you guys decide: who-dies-first"!

Strength of character matched strength of body, and the decision was made. Taking one last look at his forever love, he cautiously stepped over the edge and started to inch along the treacherous descent, which was obviously going to be bad: with all the moss, and slime, on the foot-wide steps.

"Ok, now you-pretty one"!

"This is _not_ the right way to go! We're _not_ supposed to go down there"!

"Well, you're going to, so move it! Or do you want a little help?" Patch asked, pointing the gun at her.

Knowing a disaster waited at the slightest miss-step, she ignored the heart-pounding pain in her ears, and listened to the voice in her head: concentrate on stepping carefully, look for things to grab-just in case!

"Your turn! Get in there"!

Another shot rang out, piercing the much-needed focus and jolting her into a deadly slide toward oblivion! In a moment-she'd be airborne-and the odds were _not_ in her favor! Then, she saw it: _a vine_ , growing out of the wall, and coincidentally close! A desperate grab, and the odds changed-the plunge into the fishbowl _narrowly_ avoided! Calling upon a dwindling reserve of courage, she continued on-pushing through fears of what lay ahead.

This is _not_ going to be fun! Guns thought, stepping lightly, as though barefoot on broken glass.

"Feel free to slip and fall, _anytime_!" Patch yelled with amusement.

The game ending carpet of green squished and moved beneath their fragile balance, as they gingerly descended the spiral, into a darkening, soupy mist. Straining to see, the emerald sacrifice tensely felt her way for what seemed an eternity; then, like the promising dawn of a new day-a soft glow spread a welcoming light. A few more steps, revealed, a shape forming in the glow: fingers, an arm, reaching for her-becoming a rescuing arm of deliverance-that provided a lifeline into the safety of another tunnel!

The rescuer motioned for her silence, and carried on: another rescue, another caution about noise, and a whispered plan.

"These rocks-that are partially blocking the entrance-let's push a few of them out, while we yell, and make Patch think we fell in and became dinner for those-whatever they are"!

Savoring the sweet taste of escape, they played their hand of aces, and then, with cunning silence-waited-for the game to be realized.

Seconds later, Patch knew he'd gotten the upper hand! The resulting squeal of joy, echoed the heart felt pride of success!

"Hah! Fish Food! That takes care of that! Now, to find the treasure"!

After listening quietly for a few minutes and not hearing anything more, the rescuer motioned for them to stay quiet and follow him. A couple of minutes later, he stopped.

"Ok, we can talk."

A torrent of words broke loose, as pretty eyes of green filled with tears.

" _Now_ what? He's got our food, and everything!"

Drained by overwhelming sadness, she hung her head low.

"I'm sorry I got you boys into this"!

Momentarily, a comforting arm was pulling her close.

"It's ok! We've got each other, and we're good at figuring things out! And, we _wanted_ to come"!

"He's right-we _wanted_ to come! Don't worry-things will turn around"!

"Guess what? He didn't get _all_ the coins I brought! I still have three in a separate pocket: to be our _lucky_ coins!"

This time, it was a _joyful_ reach to an inside shirt pocket, and the black velvet bag it held.

"These will bring us-good luck"!

"That'd be nice! We sure could use some right about now! Here, you hold on to mine for me, handsome; you've got safer pockets"!

"Happy to oblige! Good thing most of the coins are safely tucked away in a bank vault, so Creepo didn't get them"!

"It's a relief to have the fishbowl behind us, my friends! We should get going and see where this tunnel leads, and keep an eye out for food, and water."

Gradually, the path sloped down in a straight line for the next five minutes, until, the curious change: a fork in the road.

"We've got another choice to make!" Guns announced.

"Sweetie pie, which way"?

The meaning of the message, became crystal clear.

"Kames told us, the path of the Sphinx is the right path, and the one straight ahead has golden paw prints running down its center"!

With the assurance of good logic, the royal path was eagerly followed in a steady descent-deep into the earth's guarded realms. For an hour they trekked, with the unexplainable feeling that the gentle slope was leading into a powerful world of supremacy!

So gradual was the change, it first posed, as imagination. A few short pulses of light rapidly grew into a kaleidoscope of merging colors, beautiful beyond words, but not holding a candle to what was seen two minutes later-when the path of royalty opened into the dazzling source of mysterious lights!

As if standing on the edge of an ocean-an overwhelming feeling of being very small took hold-and awestruck silence met the endless cavern of bending light.

It was a new world: one that stared back through guardian eyes-searching-for those worthy to enter the portal of wings. The two guardians looked like a moment frozen in time: standing regal and poised, with front right paws raised and silver tipped wings arched high.

"Beyond words!" Spots declared, after somehow managing to free her captivated voice.

"Imagine, all of this being under the Plateau!" her other half said.

"Serious cat worship!" remarked Guns, as he cautiously looked at the realistic figures of gold-halfway-expecting them to move any second!

Thoughtfully looking at the 20 feet between them and the portal, Muscles realized something.

"The prints are different now: marbled, with strange designs of emerald green."

They approached the portal with mounting anticipation, sensing an invite to descend the seven crystal stairs beyond, and enter a new realm-a realm bordered by a narrow liquid jewel-that rippled with priceless beauty past the guarded steps of old.

"The coins! It's like the coins! I'll show you"!

Once again reaching into a shirt pocket, one of the two bits of luck was retrieved.

"Look at this! One side is a mermaid, trident, and island-just like these paintings! And WHAT paintings"!

He pointed at the center of the steps, where rich colors flowed on a canvas of crystal: swirling, rising, being stroked by invisible brushes into a mosaic of living art-that bordered the royal prints-as they tracked to the water's edge.

"We're at a very important entry, boys, but to _where_? Vittles"?

"I'm at a loss for an explanation! Hopefully, we'll run into the answers"!

# CHAPTER 7

RIVER OF LIGHT

Irresistible, and insistent, was the silent call that pulled them to the river's edge-and a new beginning. On the right, a half-moon shoreline quickly grabbed their attention.

"A boat! Boys, there must've been people living down here"!

"Several of the digs I've been on, showed that many caves in Egypt have been used for storage, and hiding. We haven't seen any proof, of living down here. Another thought: maybe the ancient Egyptians carried their dead pharaohs to this place-to send them on their journey to the afterlife! The same type of boat-has been found with pharaoh mummies!"

"Good points, buddy, and the path leads into the river, so the river _must_ lead to someplace extraordinary"!

"Preferably, not the afterlife!" he replied.

"How about a romantic boat ride, babe."

"Sure, but we'll have to postpone the wine, and snacks"!

"What about me"?

"Come on, bud, we wouldn't leave you behind"!

They climbed into the royal ferry, picturing a beloved pharaoh surrounded by a bountiful store of food, and other essentials, needed for his trip to the afterlife. The warm thoughts of the past were abruptly cut short-when Vittles made an announcement.

"Now _this_ could be a problem! No oars! Other than that, it looks ready to go."

"It's not tied up, so the current must be keeping it by the shore. One of you boys could push the boat out, but then, how would we steer it?"

While the dilemma stirred their thoughts for an answer, a slight bump launched the boat, and a chorus of surprise.

"We're moving"!

Caught in the watery grip of the current, the boat was gradually pulled to the right, and into the river's center. Floating through the endless cavern of light was almost hypnotizing, and a vivid imagination gave in to dreamy visions of being a mermaid princess: gliding through the tranquil, light blue waters.

"Buddy, in all of your archeological travels, have you ever seen such an incredible place"?

"Never! And this would be a geologist's dream! I'm guessing that a lot of this light-is from diamonds-but I need to see them up close to know for sure."

"Diamond light!" the mermaid exclaimed.

For 20 minutes, their wild chatter resounded like music, then, the song changed: when they drifted into a narrow passage, full of turns, and only inches wider than the boat.

"Good thing none of us are claustrophobic!" the protector said, just before touching one of the walls.

"It's warm"!

"Oh my! Gotta get that"!

In a flash, the emerald beauty was up, and grabbing above her head.

"Darn! I missed it"!

"What was it, baby"?

"I think it was a giant emerald! I wish I were as tall as the sky-as you are"!

"Sky! That would be a good nickname for you to call him"!

"I like it! You can call me that"!

After what must've been a couple of miles, the narrow turns opened into another giant cavern-that was a bit different: the water had a light shimmer of green, and the current was very fast.

Within a protective scan, a flash of movement took being on guard to a whole new level!

"What's that"?

"I don't see anything, my friend."

"Neither do I."

"I saw ripples, but they're gone now."

A minute later, a repeat in words-raised alarm.

"What's that"?

This time, the ripples continued.

"What do you boys think-could be causing those"?

"Maybe, one of those fish things."

"Thanks, Guns! You just _had_ to remind me of the close call I had"!

"Sorry, but if a dangerous creature is out there, we need to know"!

"You're right!" she agreed.

The mysterious deep, resisted the two green probes that searched with bated breath, and offered up only one thing: silence.

"It could've just been high rocks, pretty one."

His words did little to ease frazzled nerves, and the search of the depths continued, with the hope, that nothing would be seen; however, a fleeting blur of a gray cigar shape-changed everything!

"I saw something"!

She nervously pointed, and touched the water.

"Watch out"!

He warned his love-too late!

Splash! Angel leaned over just a little too far, and fell out of the boat. Caught off guard, she entered the water with almost no air in her lungs. Keeping calm and breaking the surface, she took a deep breath, and scanned for the boat-the sight of which-caused a sinking heart: it was rapidly leaving her behind!

"Wait"!

"Swim, Angel!" they both shouted.

"We can't slow down! You'll have to swim for it!" Jean-Leuc yelled.

Swimming as hard as she could-proved no use: the boat was still pulling away! The burn of failure was devastating, and swiftly joined by painful thoughts of despair.

_OH NO_! I'm not going to make it!

Only one option remained: swim for shore-even though the river looked exhaustingly wide! It was a good plan: one that could be accomplished, one that could save her, one that could ease her troubled mind-if only, for a moment.

A hidden terror had been lurking beneath the surface-waiting for a new victim-waiting-for dangling legs. Hoping beyond hope, it had just been a plant, she stared into the water as a knot formed in her throat, and saw a most beautiful sight: a forest of elegant plants.

With a deep breath of relief, she looked toward the shore, ready to swim, but not ready for the movement of fins on the surface-a few feet away! In a flash, the attack began: her back seized by the creature's hard, slimy grip, followed by an inescapable push through the water, and a desperate cry for help!

"Jean-Leuc! Something's got me"!

The bad luck was unbelievable: once again, to have fallen among the fish creatures-and this time-things would not likely go so well! Oddly enough though, she was heading in the direction of the boat, and a small glimmer of hope materialized: if only it could be reached-without becoming a meal! Then, hope was firmly touched-and the pushing ceased.

"Grab my hand, baby"!

In the blink of an eye, two pairs of strong arms gave a lift to safety.

"Are you ok, love"?

"I _think_ so"!

"You gave us a _major_ scare, my friend"!

"You! Those things gave _me_ -a major scare! I thought I was going to be a fish dinner"!

"You're lucky you weren't, love! Did you get bit?"

"No, I don't think so, and that doesn't make any sense"!

Guiding insight, emerged from years of protective experience, offering a possibility.

"Perhaps, they were trying to _help_ you"!

"Now _that_ is interesting! It _would_ explain-why-I didn't get bit"!

"It would, pretty one! I bet that's _exactly_ what they were doing! Talk about a rescue! Are you cold?"

"No, the water is warm here, too. I'm all right-just a bit unsettled still!"

" _That's_ understandable, and babe, no more leaning over the side of the boat"!

"I won't! You know-this happened before"!

"Love"?

"I remember being here, falling in, and being attacked! This is our first time here, I know, but I experienced it"!

He _knew_! Vittles just _knew_!

"A twist in time"!

The boat was moving into a narrow tunnel, and slowing down. Only a minute later, a grand entrance was made into another endless cavern, and, a secret!

"There's your proof, Vittles!" Spots proclaimed, eagerly pointing to the dazzling white city.

"That's...so...incredible!" Vittles replied.

"Buddy, anything like this-in archeological history"?

"The outside of the city does not look familiar, but maybe something inside, will"!

The royal ferry nosed right up to a stair-stepped beach, and the side pulled in close-like it had a mind of its own!

"End of boat ride, love."

Hand in hand, the step onto the pristine sands created an odd, yet strangely familiar feeling: of coming home.

It was an Archeologist's dream: to be standing on the edge of a great discovery, and Rafael marveled at what lay stretched before them- _somehow knowing_ -it was woven among the threads of tomorrow!

# CHAPTER 8

CAT'S PAW

They came from behind, their sneak attack ending with blood curdling cries that sent chills racing down Angel's back, and words of fear, racing from her lips.

"That's the sound of those fish things"!

Instantly on the defensive, she whipped around to face her fears, and realized, several of them were floating on the surface-dangerously close!

One of the creatures tossed its head and flicked an object through the air-to land at her feet. Staring with unbridled passion, at the elegance that stood out among the sands of many colors, she dared to hope-it was-what it looked like.

"An emerald?" she questioned, eagerly accepting the gift.

"It's like holding-unwrapped desire"!

"Someone knew you wanted an emerald, my beauty, and decided to give you one! That was nice"!

She agreed, and thanked the creatures, who answered in a language of head tossing squeals before quietly slipping away, beneath the surface.

"So, those things are tame after all!" Vittles observed.

"Yes, and wanted to save me both times I fell in"!

"I think so, babe. Now, let's have a look at your present!"

Questioning eyes, gazed upon the unearthly beauty that lay nestled in her hands: a polished oval of emerald hues, and light green ribbons.

"It's getting warm"!

Overwhelming curiosity, exposed the warmth below their fingertips-with admiration turning into excited confusion as a chain of events unfolded: the ribbons began to move-becoming a small oval-into which a dark green spot appeared in the middle.

"They gave me-an eye"!

"It _does_ look like one!" Vittles agreed.

"I suspect, your present has an incredible purpose, babe"!

"I hope we discover that purpose, and I can't wait to see what else we find!" she answered, and carefully tied the mysterious eye into the bottom of her shirt.

Now that the eye was ready to travel, they anxiously headed for the continuing path of the Sphinx, hoping the city of mystery-was also-a city of answers.

The two sentinels guarding the path of royalty, had a different look than those already seen: a surprising pose.

"What do you think, bud"?

"Most likely, the heads resting on extended front legs-is a sign of welcome; in many societies, a head down-is one of welcome"!

The special welcome was deeply felt as their steps became part of a city stretching into forever, and flowing, with a strong undercurrent of simmering mystique.

"My friend, you've studied many civilizations. What can you tell us?"

"This life was centered on cat worship and the people were close-knit, judging from the many walkways joining the rooftops, and the countless cat statues. These buildings lining the path look like houses, and the gold cats with wing tips of silver-on each side of the doorways-have special meanings! Notice how one has head and wings up, while the other one's head is down against front legs. The poses are symbolic of things highly valued: humbleness, and strength. Why the domed buildings all spiral up to a point-is a mystery. I wish, we could know what life was like here; maybe, this house will offer some clues!"

A cloak of invisibility covered the clues, and this time, the powers of the trident could not provide the answers or prevent the disappointment of its keeper.

"There's nothing here! If only-the walls could talk"!

She leaned against a wall, and quickly jumped back- _startled_.

"Baby"?

"The wall! It's warm"!

The technology was a magnet of touchable intrigue, that sent them on their way-with hopeful talk of finding the builders.

Walking through the glowing city, was a walk, through Christmas morning: a soft breeze drifted magical promise-of things to come! A few minutes later, anticipation turned to sheer delight, after rounding a bend and finding themselves face to face with a most skillfully adorned gift-just waiting to be opened!

"A temple! That's _got_ to be-a temple!" Guns confidently announced, with saucer eyes reverently glued to the ancient wonder.

Almost blinding-was the vision: a silver dome, hugged by a circle of golden wings that joined an emerald entrance, in hinting, of the power and glory inside! Rising toward divine enlightenment, were seven elaborately inscribed stairs, boasting ends, crowned with creatures of royalty that resonated a silent call to worship: with wings and heads high, they displayed a dramatic invitation to pass between the pillars, and through the arch!

"It's obvious, what the people worshipped! What does archeology say about this, bud?"

"My research into the past, has proven that cats were considered divine entities in many cultures"!

"Like I said before-you watch a cat, and you can swear they remember this: when you talk to them, they're apt to walk away with their tail up-as if to say-'Talk to the butt'"!

A stream of laughter flowed to the temple steps-an inviting place-for weary travelers to relax.

"I don't know about you two, but my spots are hungry for a nice, cold, diet Pepsi, and a black olive pizza"!

"I could use some lasagna, and beer!" her other half drooled.

"And I wouldn't mind a _big_ bowl of seafood pasta, and a frosty beer"!

Looking out at the stunning city, the emerald mind could _almost_ imagine the bustle of life there once had been; somehow, it felt as though that life was still __ there-and watching her! She decided to be logical and shrug it off as her vivid imagination, and focus, on their once-in-a-lifetime surroundings.

"I never would've thought, I'd be miles underground and sitting on the stairs of a temple-inside a sparkling city"!

"It's a hard to believe sight, my spotted one"!

"You boys have any idea-why it looks and feels like the sun is shining over the city"?

"It could be, that giant lights and heat lamps are built into the ceiling!" her love suggested.

"Or, my friends, perhaps it really _IS_ the sun! The builders of this place, might've had the technology to allow heat and light to travel through ground"!

"Now _that's_ a gripping thought, buddy! And, it _could_ explain the warm light in the old city beneath the Louvre"!

" _Another_ gripping thought-is what might be in this temple! You boys ready to explore?"

"Right behind you, my brave explorer"!

Anxious to learn the secrets of the temple, a rush through the arch led her to a most amusingly accurate comment.

"It's a hall of eyes"!

The short, narrow hall, was lined with winged cats watching their every move to the other end, and a unique exit: seven emerald paw prints ascending to another arch.

"Appropriate steps!" Guns pointed out.

Filled with growing excitement, they stepped through the portal and into a place-where the crosshairs of time-had zeroed in on sacred rituals in progress. An undeniable godlike presence filled the chamber, originating, from five golden cat deities that sat in a row on four-foot-high emerald pedestals. With heads down against extended front legs-they waited patiently for worship-their ageless perfection revealed in the glow of soft torch light.

"Did we just go back in time?" the beauty pondered, halfway expecting to see a priest come walking in.

"Possibly, my girl, but depending on the fuel source, these torches could've been burning now-for _thousands_ of years"!

"I was on a dig once, that uncovered similar torches. I'm at a loss to explain it, and the statues, also, need some explaining: the big one is the same size as the one on the roof, but these two little ones on each side-are _all different sizes_! That _must_ have some kind of religious significance, but for now, it's a confusing piece of the puzzle!"

"But what a _beautiful_ piece"!

"That it is, love-it took some _real skill_ -to make those"!

"And, I see a puzzle piece by that wall, my friends! The two light blue pillars of crystal don't reach the ceiling, so their purpose could not have been for support! Another puzzle, is why the distance separating them is about 10 feet. I wonder what got these people so intensely dedicated to their cat worship, and why the choice of colors-for the big cat's collar: gold, blue, purple, and scarlet."

"Lots of mysteries, bud"!

"This must be-where they prayed to the gods!" the spotted beauty guessed.

It called to her with crystal clear instructions: to journey forward, she had to journey up! In obedience, she stepped onto the raised emerald triangle, and their attention was arrowed to the largest of the gods.

"I _almost_ feel like I'm in the past, worshipping with the ancient people"!

Once again, the holy place saw bended knee, and it was then-another mystery surfaced.

Curious designs of silver and gold, formed a message of hidden importance on the triangle. Five silver lines pointed to the gods from a large circle-each line preceded by gold symbols. Adding to the mystifying message, was a silver trident at the center-its prongs ending at hexagon shaped holes. Below the trident were more gold symbols, waiting, for eyes of knowledge.

"Hieroglyphs?" she questioned, looking for an expert reply.

"Down here, is ancient Egyptian: 'New life begins, unlimited treasure'. These other symbols before each line, are of a language I don't recognize."

"Perhaps names-that were given to the gods"!

"Sky! Good guess"!

The nickname resulted in a smile and warm thoughts, but then-with the onset of a rumble-all trains of thought were lost.

Bracing for the earthquake did not help: it was over, almost immediately! The startling event, was a cause for uneasy words from Guns.

"We haven't had any earthquakes since we came underground, and I think the rumble was something else! Stay sharp"!

Already nervous from the unknown danger-a movement seen from the corners of green eyes-took a toll!

"What? I could _swear_ -the little cat on the far right- _moved its head_!"

"You're jumpy from the strange noise, pretty one."

"Perhaps."

Turning back to the mystery beneath her, a search began, for anything more that could be a clue.

"From what these markings say-we're about to find a treasure beyond belief! These holes..."

She touched the crystal of her necklace, and a wild hope. A perfect fit was followed by another rumble, and the front of the big cat's perch disappeared into the floor, revealing, a secret chamber!

" _That_ must be where the _treasure_ is, boys"!

"And it's _all_ mine"!

Good feelings turned to disgust, as familiar trouble stepped out from behind the center platform.

" _You_ again!" Jean-Leuc snarled.

"Nice to see you, too! I gotta thank you guys, for finding the treasure for me! I've been here lookin-for three whole days! The map led me here, but it doesn't exactly say where the treasure is"!

"You've been here for _days_ -and couldn't find it? You're not too smart, Patch!" Angel sneered.

The remark was barely spoken, when a rumbling triggered the floor shaking and a grumbling comment, as Patch moved in front of the big god.

"Fine time for an earthquake"!

Already irritated at her foolish attitude, the timing of the earthquake made him even more angry; he aimed the pistol with deadly accuracy, and tried to give her a bit of wisdom.

"You think it's _smart_ -to say that to a man holding a gun on you"?

"I hate to say it, but he's got a point!" Rafael admitted, _not at all happy_ to be agreeing with the enemy.

She was _totally_ fed up, by now.

"If you think I'm going to talk nice because you've got a gun, then you're losing your marbles"!

"Well, maybe I'm just crazy enough-to shoot you"!

She gasped, and pointed behind Patch.

"The statue is moving"!

Three sets of bug eyes stared in horror at the deadly force behind Patch, but he saw through the deception!

"Yah, like I'm going to fall-for _that_ one"!

In the face of approaching danger, they cautiously backed away-knowing-that only mercy would save them!

"Stay where you are"!

The retreat-continued.

"I won't tell you again"!

He was ignored, one more time, and his anger flashed out of control!

An ear-piercing crack split the air, and smoke drifted above an unholy scene of sadness: the beautiful woman of spots-flat on her back-with blood dripping _rapidly_ to the floor!

A fearful check, exposed a minor left shoulder wound. Loving hands applied pressure, and relief swelled like a flood as they watched what happened next: the giant cat raised its right paw-and smacked the evil one to the floor!

The pain couldn't stop her, from reveling in the opportunity for some payback.

"Hah! Cat food"!

Twisting to see what had him, Patch couldn't believe his eyes!

"Come on guys, help me! I'll give back the coins, and map"!

Now the tables were turned, and Rafael offered a bit of sarcastic advice.

"Talk to the paw"!

"We'd _rather_ see you be cat food!" Jean-Leuc added with contempt.

The big cat laughed, and spoke words of comfort.

"Angel, Jean-Leuc, Rafael-do not be afraid"!

Thunder suddenly shook the temple-as divine evidence-of a mew that could strike fear into the heart of anyone!

A smothering panic started to overwhelm Patch, and more than just the noise-was to blame: he was paralyzed-the only thing he could do-was think!

What's going on? Oh my God! I can't move!

"Come. Take back what he took from you, and also, take his gun."

Upon saying that, the creature lifted its paw.

Grimacing through the pain, she asked the first of a million questions.

"Are you a cat"?

"As you understand it-yes! Cats were fashioned after me-minus the wings, of course"!

"Do you have a name?" Sky questioned.

"I am called-Merlin."

Stretching his mighty wings for a powerful display, Merlin waited.

A flurry of questions came from Guns, questions, that surely would have remarkable answers!

"Where are you from, and why are you here? And, how did you know our names"?

"I am from the land of Sha-ra, and have existed since before your world was made. I'm here, to guard the tunnel of light. Your names are _well_ known-in the annals of time!"

"Tunnel of light?" Guns replied.

"You'll see! Angel, I'm sorry you were shot"!

"That's ok. It's not serious. Thank you for helping us!"

"Take back your items, and get his gun; don't worry-he's paralyzed and can't hurt you"!

Stepping up to the task, Guns provided his helpful services again.

"Now back away some, and I'll put a protective shield around you. Then, I'll let him go."

Reigning supreme, was the power of a soft mew that spoke into existence-miraculous ribbons of dazzling light. Gold, blue, purple, and scarlet-streamed from Merlin's mouth-to become a swirling dome of godly protection!

Another mew sounded, and Patch was able to move. He jumped up and instinctively went for his gun, having to settle for a warning, instead.

"The treasure is mine, and don't try to follow me"!

Patch bolted inside, with his heart full of greed, and the entrance closed rapidly behind him.

"He won't trouble you, anymore"!

Destiny brought a sound of rushing wind-then a brief scream-followed by silence.

Merlin was happy to answer-the unspoken questions he saw on their startled faces.

"That has been the final resting place of ancient pharaohs, and others. Inside, is a device that basically does what you call cremation. The chamber holds-no treasure."

"An Egyptian man, sold us a map and said we'd find a treasure-greater than any other!" Spots replied.

"And you will, but it's not here; I will show you how to get to it, but first, I'd like you to meet my kids! It's ok, little wings. Come say, hello!"

The little gods began to move and immediately created a game of chase, returning a minute later, with noses engaged in every new smell.

"Hi! I'm, Baby"!

"I'm, Fuzzy"!

"I'm, Apollo"!

"I'm, Tootsie"!

Staying in one spot abruptly came to an end, and a new game of running started.

"It's hard for them to stay still, when they want to play! To finally see you three-is a fulfillment of prophecy; we've been expecting you"!

"Expecting us?" Sky quizzed.

"Sha-ra revealed the time-for you three to arrive"!

At that moment, Baby came walking over to Angel, and sat down.

"I've heard, that you are going to do exceptional things"!

"I'm looking forward, to finding out what! Is it ok, if I pet you?"

"Sure! I like that"!

Not wanting to be left out, the other little gods joined up for the special attention.

"Wow! So soft"!

She wasn't prepared for what happened next: a rumble-that seemed to be everywhere!

"What is that"?

Baby answered, with a cute little wave of wings and tail.

"We are-what you call-purring"!

"Is that what we heard just minutes ago-when we thought there was an earthquake?" she asked.

"Yes!" Baby answered.

"They've really taken a liking to you-more than with anyone"!

"I really like them, too"!

With an excited flutter of golden wings, Baby spoke again.

"Guess what? I was recently sick a little, and Sha-ra healed me! See what I can do now!"

Launching a secret of the gods, Baby lifted her golden wings of power and was airborne-sparks flying from her wing tips!

A look of remembrance, flashed, in eyes of emerald.

"Wings of light"!

After a minute of showing off her flying skills, Baby came back to her new friend.

"Awesome flying! You are sooo adorableish"!

"Adorableish? Is that a word?" Baby asked.

"I just made it up."

"Catch me if you can, adorableish"!

In a flash, Fuzzy was streaking through the air, followed by a rush of wings as the other little gods gave chase.

Portraying knowledge beyond understanding, they soon returned to their father and sat quietly: waiting for him to speak.

"You have a destiny to fulfill, and you must be on your way: time is short"!

"What do you mean?" Guns asked.

"You'll see! I don't want to spoil your surprise! _Behold_ -the tunnel of light"!

The supremacy of a higher lifeform-was clearly visible-when Merlin raised his right paw and stirred up the powers of creation. A rainbow of unknown colors briefly joined the crystalline pillars, and became a key of cosmic importance: unlocking a vortex of splendour-sensed-to be a gateway to the gods!

"Walk into the tunnel of light; it will take you-to all the answers you seek"!

"Will we see you, again?" Spots asked, which pulled the little gods back to her side.

"You will"!

Just then, a certain oddity-again-made itself known.

"Babe! Your crystal is glowing"!

"It must be sensing the tunnel!" she replied.

"It is! Take care"!

The journey to the gods-was a journey into omnipotence-with the brief sensation of being at all points in time and space-simultaneously! Then, another sensation arrived: one full of mystery, and discovery, as their one-way ticket brought them into a garden of Eden, and the entrance vanished behind them.

# CHAPTER 9

REVELATIONS

Surely, this was the home of the gods-the birthplace of all life-giving energies! They stood in the middle of a small meadow, seemingly, standing in the middle of creation in the making: the sky was an endless palette of hues-that blazed and churned-dusting the land with countless twinkling stars.

"Welcome"!

Behind them, a group of seven people had appeared at the edge of the meadow, with a very tall man in the lead. Drawing near, the man spoke.

"Welcome home-Angel, Jean-Leuc, and Rafael! May Sha-ra, be with you"!

Continuing his warm welcome, a heavenly necklace of never before seen flowers, was gifted, to the keeper of the tridents.

"Hi! I'm Salik-the leader here"!

"Hi, Salik!" came the unified chime.

Salik looked every bit an impressive leader, with his seven feet of dominating strength, and light blue eyes, from which five commanding lines of gold-ruled the outer corners. Above his masculine face of thirty years, was short, slightly wavy, summer blonde hair.

"You know us?" Jean-Leuc asked.

"Yes, we've been expecting you"!

"Where are we?" Rafael questioned.

"You're on the planet Atlantia-in a far distant galaxy from Earth! The distance is so vast, Earth's most powerful telescopes can't even see the haze of the universe it's in"!

"We have so many questions for you!" Angel said, with growing anticipation of the answers.

"We'll be happy to answer all of them, but first, let's heal your shoulder."

Salik motioned toward a woman in the group, who smiled at her, and spoke.

"We've been expecting you, Angel! Sha-ra revealed-it was time for you to come"!

I've seen this! Angel thought.

The woman came close, and showed the magic of a now open hand: a trident shaped crystal.

"Hi, I'm Shona. This crystal, can heal your shoulder; will you let me help you? It won't hurt at all!"

"Sure! Thanks"!

Shona cupped the crystal for a moment, and then held it above the wound. A pleasant feeling of warmth covered the area, and the pain was instantly gone! The healing was complete-even the dried blood had disappeared!

"Thank you"!

"I'm pleased to help"!

"I'll introduce the others, starting with the women," Salik told them.

A unique looking people stood ready to meet them, in Greek style, gold and silver robes. Two of the women's faces were graced with various colors of spots, that stretched from the outer corners of captivating emerald green eyes. Shona looked a bit different: only her arms had spots, and she had light green eyes. Glossy light blue and silver hair, lay in gorgeous waves upon the women's shoulders. The other three men, had silver lines extending from the outer corners of light purple eyes, and had short, slightly wavy, light brown hair.

"This is Mironah, you just met Shona, and this is Vilas. The men, are Jora, Koras, and Neertu."

"That's her, buddy! Vilas is the one we saw following you-on the plateau"!

"Really! The explanation for that must be incredible!" he replied, almost hypnotized by her stellar beauty.

"It is!" Salik assured them.

"Salik, why did you say 'welcome home' when you greeted us?" Rafael asked.

"Because, this is where- _all of you_ -are from"!

"But, we were born on _Earth_!" he replied.

"All of your parents are from here, which makes this _your_ home, too! They've been anxiously waiting for you, Rafael"!

"Who"?

"Your parents"!

"But they died-when I was five"!

"No, they are alive and well, and living here"!

"My parents are alive? I can't hardly believe what I'm hearing! We have a lot-to talk about!"

"Yes, and I'm looking forward to the talk, but first, let us show you some of Atlantia"!

A red sandy path, curled with intricate design through a lush forest of blooming flowers, and took them beyond the meadow-to a new wonder: a silver waterfall, tumbling quietly down a rocky hillside, and into a shimmering pool of gold.

"Amazing! The waterfall doesn't make any noise, and it changes from silver to gold!" Jean-Leuc observed.

"Many things, are different here"!

A short distance farther on the path, was a mystifying lake-dotted with many large fish. Their high-pitched squeals sounded eerily familiar, but before a question could be formed, the lake revealed something else: several people, were lounging along the edge of a giant rock in the center of the lake. The lake people saw them, and immediately showed great enthusiasm!

"Those people seem _glad_ to see us!" Rafael noticed, waving back.

"Yes, and they've been waiting, and watching for you"!

"Why?" he responded.

"It's a long story, and we'll be happy to share it _very_ soon! This place is called-Mermaid Lake."

A flutter of wings brought the magic of the phoenix, as a fiery red bird appeared out of nowhere and landed on Salik's right shoulder.

"Meet Jolar-he's come to greet all of us"!

Admiration swelled in green eyes, at the majestic sight.

"He's beautiful! Can I touch him?"

"Hold out your hand, and he'll walk down my arm to you"!

Within moments, Jolar was rubbing his head on her arm, much to her delight!

"He likes you"!

"He's charming!" she replied.

"And now, it's time for _another_ surprise"!

From a pouch Salik wore, came the catalyst for the surprise: a walnut sized, light blue crystal. Waving the crystal in a small arc, sent a brief ripple through the air-making the unknown-become known: a breathtaking city of silver and gold!

As with incredible discoveries of his archeological past, a monumental rush of excitement was overpowering.

"It's like the city we found-under the Giza Plateau"!

"Some of our people used to live there"!

Exercising the soft side of extreme strength, a lucky coin was pulled out, and also, a burning question.

"Is this from here"?

"Yes, it is."

"And my necklace"?

"That too, is from here."

"What a relief! We've been hoping to find the people behind my necklace-to get help for Earth"!

"We are the people, and will help you-but first-a meal! You must all be _really_ hungry, and thirsty"!

"I could eat!" Vittles announced, providing a source of amusement.

A warm welcome greeted them, from people walking by, and several on rooftop walkways; it certainly did, feel, like coming home!

Soon, an open area in the center of the city was reached, where several tables and benches were.

"We have prepared a unique meal for you! Let's make ourselves comfortable, and it will be out shortly"!

"I'm curious," Jean-Leuc said. "Why are the building tops-spiraled"?

"To catch rain water."

The technological superiority revealed impressive simplicity-creating some awestruck guests!

The food arrived, and was laid on the table in front of them, prompting grateful words of joy to burst from a very hungry girl.

"All the foods we'd been wishing for"!

"Whoa! This is nice!" Vittles managed to say, even though he was digging in-while still talking!

"Ah! Lasagna and beer! This will hit the spot!" Sky said, not wasting any time sinking taste buds into the feast.

"How did you know?" Spots asked.

"We've been monitoring you, ever since the crystal led you to the machinery room in the Louvre," Salik answered.

"But my shoulder itched, so I knew to go that way! We hadn't found the coins and crystal yet"!

"While I explain, please, enjoy the food! Our people visited Earth long ago and lived there for many thousands of years, in a remarkable city that your legends tell of: the city of Atlantis. The reason, was to observe Earth people and help them. A time came to leave, because of a flood that gradually covered the earth; eventually, the journey back, brought them to various places. One of those places-was under the Giza Plateau. From time to time, our people chose someone from Earth, to learn of us, and have powers for helping Earth and its people. One such person, was a king who lived in the city beneath the Louvre; he was given a crystal and some coins-which you found.

You have a celestial destiny, Angel, so you were given the trident mark-a symbol of Atlantia. The crystals, make its directional effect more pronounced. That's why, your shoulder itched more than it ever had, when you were outside the machinery room. All Atlantians have an instinct, that naturally draws them in the correct way to go, but it was so important for you to make the discovery when you did, that you were given the mark, also."

"I always thought my trident was just a neat birthmark, and I always figured, that knowing which way to go-was coincidences."

"You were being guided"!

"For some reason, I had always felt it wasn't time to visit the Louvre yet. Was that because of being guided?"

"Yes. Besides your trident, you were given special abilities, and one of them has already surfaced: a sense of time-that no other Atlantian has. When you found the buried city under the Louvre-the time was right-to help shape the future in the best way! We think this sense of time-is responsible for your eye color. Atlantian women, have light green eyes until 1000 years of age; yours are emerald green-and you are not even 100 years old! Literally, and figuratively-you are seeing things through one of a kind eyes! We also believe, your special abilities-have resulted in you having dark brown hair; Atlantian women, have silver blue hair-from birth. Probably, in time, your hair will change to silver blue."

Not knowing how to respond, she could only sit quietly and try to soak in the enormity of what she'd heard, and was relieved-that Sky kept the ball rolling.

"After a time, we noticed that when Earth was having a really bad disaster-the crystal would glow! We didn't know whether it was causing the disasters, or sensing them, but we figured that a civilization with the technology of the crystal-surely had learned to rise above evil tendencies! It seemed logical to believe the crystal was sensing them, not causing them"!

"We're pleased, you came to that conclusion!" Shona responded.

As Shona continued to speak, Angel puzzled about the differences in spots among the women.

"I am the keeper of the crystals, which have various properties and are used for many things, including healing, transporting, and communicating. We have healing crystals for you, as gifts, and I will show you how to use them. The trident you are wearing-is a healing crystal."

Admiring the special gifts, they listened intently as Shona explained the power from the gods.

"Cup your hands around the crystal for a moment, while you think about what needs to be done; then, hold it a couple of inches away from the area that needs healed. A momentary sensation of warmth will be in the area, and the healing will then be complete!"

"That's great to know! Thanks, Shona!" Angel said.

Her appreciation was happily echoed, and, within seconds, Vittles thoughts were back on eating.

"This is tasty food! Even better than on Earth"!

"We're glad you're enjoying it!" Salik commented. "Since we don't believe its right to eat animals, it's not real meat, but we have a device that makes food taste different, and we used it to prepare this meal. Also, the beer has no alcohol in it, although it tastes like it does."

"That's ok, real beer is full of a vitamin we don't need anyway," Vittles replied.

"What vitamin is that?" Salik curiously enquired.

"Vitamin-P"!

The Atlantians were briefly quiet and thoughtful, then a burst of laughter mingled with an observation by Salik.

"You're very funny! We could really use that around here"!

Just then, Spots felt a soft push against her back. Turning around, she could hardly believe her eyes!

"A unicorn! They're _real_ "!

She gave it a gentle stroke on the neck, and received an affectionate lick on the arm, in return.

"That's Jabarrah. He's the leader, of his kind. You have a special link with animals!" Salik observed with delight.

"Animals, are so amazing!" she replied, petting his soft, golden fur.

Jabarrah gently nuzzled her and walked away, to join a small group of unicorns nearby.

"I always thought unicorns were a myth!" Sky marveled.

"My years of research into the past, have shown that all myths have at least a little bit of truth to them"!

"Your perception is refreshing, Rafael; most people don't believe in myths at all-and the percentage of truth they hold-is very high!" Salik revealed.

"What a chain of events-all the coincidences that led to us being here-and finding my necklace, and the coins"!

"Those things that happened-were not coincidences; all of you had been guided, and protected"!

"At times, it felt that way! There was the hand of light that steadied the plane, and the fish creatures-that almost had me for dinner! Talk about guardian angels"!

"You had several!" informed Neertu, with a smile that crinkled his three silver lines.

"I track inbound travelers: for safe arrival."

_Now_ she knew-who to thank!

"Thank you, for that steadying hand of light on the plane"!

"I'm glad all of you were saved, but that wasn't me! We do have the technology to send out a beam of stabilizing light-but not in the shape of a hand. That happened, before I had a chance to send a beam out. Sha-ra does things like that, sometimes! It must have been him!"

"Please tell him thank you, for us!" she requested.

"I will"!

Jora, was next to speak. His broad smile lit up his tall frame, reflecting, on the five rows of lines by his eyes.

"Those fish creatures are called the Vori, and I am their keeper. We sent them to the waters under the plateau, to watch over you. The first time you fell in, nothing was done, because the rope was available to pull you out. The second time-you needed help-because the water was moving too fast. The Vori were not trying to hurt you-but help you!"

"After pushing me to the boat, I thought maybe that was it, then, on the beach, one of them gave me a gift: this beautiful emerald"!

Showing the emerald-triggered the timing of the gods-and it began powerful flashes of light green, which brought a unified gasp from everyone!

"The Eye of Ra!" Salik proclaimed.

Full of questions, they waited, for what would surely be an eye-opener.

"We have a legend, that tells of Merlin bringing the Eye of Ra from the land of Sha-ra, when he first came to us. It's been lost for a hundred thousand years, and the legend speaks of it-someday returning. It contains divine powers, that will help us during a time of trouble. The legend also tells of you, Angel, bringing it back!"

"Then it belongs with you!" she offered.

Overwhelmed with gratefulness, Salik quietly held the emerald and could only smile his infinite thanks. As though showing gladness to be home-the Eye of Ra briefly enveloped him with its light-that faded away after a few moments.

"Your connection to it-is obvious!" commented Sky.

"Yes, my lineage has always had possession of the Eye of Ra. It's been called many things since Merlin first brought it to Atlantia-one million years ago. One of my ancestors-Ra-had it when he was ruler of Egypt, and it's been called the Eye of Ra ever since. My family line is easy to spot, with hereditary factors that are unique: blonde hair and blue eyes. Jean-Leuc-it's true-what you are thinking: you're of my line!"

"I thought so! What an amazing thing to find out! Also, that explains the Egyptian legend of a ruler with blonde hair, and blue eyes! But, how could a place like this-have a time of trouble?"

"Physical disturbances in all the dimensions-are warping into our realm-through malfunctioning black holes; we've been able to keep them at bay, so far, but with increasing difficulty! The Eye of Ra-returns at a fortunate time"!

This time, superior knowledge did not join with superior strength, and the abundance of questions-needed answered.

"I'm curious about the varying numbers of eye lines, and rows of spots. Also, am I really seeing a glow around everyone? Under this bright sky-it's kind of hard to tell."

"Yes, all Atlantians have a glow about them; we can only see it on others, and only Atlantians, can see the glow. No doubt, you three have seen it around each other."

Among nodding heads, Vittles mentioned the glowing person he had seen years before, that looked at him-like he was from another world!

"Only the women, have spots. When very young, the spots run down their right arm; between 100 and 1,000 years of age, both arms have spots. After that, rows of spots extend from their eyes, and the others fade away. Each row represents 1,000 years. When the men are 1,000 years old, their eye lines start to form, and are silver; the leader, always has gold lines. Each line represents 1,000 years. Atlantians, live to be about 10,000 years old.

Jean-Leuc, legend tells of you having knowledge beyond years; we think that's why you have three lines already, and are not even 100 years old! Also foretold, is your superior strength! And, legend tells of you, Rafael, which is a bit more puzzling! It says-you are a new lifeform!"

"I'm a new lifeform? What does that mean"?

"We do not know, but think the answer will be recognized-soon! Chances are, you will never have eye lines-since you are a new lifeform"!

"Here's a bit more. Atlantian women, mature to a height of six feet; the men, attain seven feet. When 8,000 years is reached, a change begins: evolving within a couple of months-into a lifeform-that is fish from the waist down. This is why Mermaid Lake exists, and why your parents had to fake their deaths, and come back to Atlantia! It's been hard on them-not being able to tell you the truth, but if you had been told-your life would not have followed the correct path!"

"Can I see them soon"?

"Yes, they've been anxiously waiting for you"!

"Were my parents among the people-that were waving from the middle of the lake"?

"They were, and you will be with them again-before this day is out"!

Vittles looked at his friends- _happier_ -than he could express!

"I'm going to see my parents"!

"I'm happy for you, buddy"!

"Same here"!

"On another exciting subject, what can you tell us about Merlin, and the other cat creatures?" Sky questioned.

"I'll be happy to answer that!" Vilas responded.

Her six feet of beauty, included a fully blossomed hour glass figure, and a smile-that was invitingly warm. She looked to be no more than 25, but the five rows of spots by her eyes-showed 5,000-at least.

"I'm what you would call a priestess-to the Merlas. That is what the cat creatures are called, because of the first one-Merlin. We don't know how old any of them are, but we guess-many millions of years! They come from the land of Sha-ra, are very wise, and sometimes relay messages from Sha-ra, when stopping by to say hello-which is often."

My God! She's so beautiful! Vittles thought. Captivated, he couldn't take his eyes off her, but somehow managed to find his voice.

"That's fascinating! Are the Sphinx of various cultures on Earth-a direct reflection of the Merlas?"

"Yes, and there have been many cat worshipping cultures. In some cases, even the children got involved."

"Children-I haven't seen any children!" Spots observed.

"There are seven," Vilas replied. "We can only have two in our lifetimes, and we view this as a good thing since we are so long lived. This prevents Atlantia from becoming crowded to the point-that people have to live off world."

Getting to the heart of things, Vittles presented the all-important question.

"Do you know-what's causing the problems on Earth"?

"We do!" informed Mironah, a woman of elegant style that stood apart.

A trident inspired belt of emeralds and pearls hung in a v from her hips, and matching designs on gold upper arm bands, completed the look of distinctiveness. She looked only 30, but with three rows of spots-she was a bit more than that.

"I'm the top scientist on Atlantia, and I can tell you, Earth's sun is being affected by two supermassive black holes-that are merging-in the center of the Milky Way galaxy! The pull from the black holes, is causing a 75% spike in solar flares, which is causing a drastic increase in the gravity pull on the earth! This pull, is resulting in a global crust shift-which explains the dramatic surge of earthquakes, and other disasters! Also, Earth's magnetic poles are in the process of flipping, due to being short-circuited by the sun"!

Knowing it may be difficult to hear the answer, the emerald question was posed, while a stomach knot grew _very_ big.

"What do you mean-by-short circuit"?

"Think of a magnet. When lightning strikes a magnet, the magnetic poles reverse; Earth is like a giant magnet, with north, and south poles. The huge increase in solar flares-has made the poles begin to flip! The sun is about to have a magnetic field reversal more turbulent than _any_ it's ever had, and when it does, it will hit the earth with a flare strong enough-to cause the poles to immediately reverse! Just as when an electric motor turns the other way, when its poles are changed, Earth's iron core will turn the other way-which will make the whole planet spin the opposite way!

Earth's ancient civilizations, _knew_ about future disasters! The Mayans, Aztecs, and Egyptians, were actually highly advanced and able to precisely calculate polar reversals, based on the sunspot cycle theory, and the magnetic field theory. All of those civilizations, had early Earth documents-telling of previous and future polar shifts, and planet rotation reversals. Both the Mayan and the Aztec calendars ended in the year 2012, because those civilizations predicted a major event would happen-that would be the beginning of the end for Earth! Extending their calendars further-seemed pointless!"

"But nothing major _happened_ in 2012, and it's 2020 now! The Mayans and Aztecs-were mistaken!" she replied.

"Actually, something major _DID_ happen! The universe that the Milky Way galaxy is in-has always had an invisible force keeping its galaxies stable. On December 21st of 2012, that force vanished, when a space time rift formed near the center of the Milky Way galaxy. This set in motion-a cosmic countdown-to a collision with deadly forces!"

Not sure he wanted to know the answers, Rafael asked anyway.

"A second black hole? When did _that_ arrive, and where did it come from"?

"The second black hole appeared, just after you arrived on Atlantia. My science team, has been keeping me informed by way of this device on my wrist. The space time rift that formed on December 21st of 2012-never sealed back up-and major disturbances in a neighboring reality caused the displacement of the black hole: sending it through the rift. Unfortunately, it was not the only thing to come through: a gravity filament, came with it. A gravity filament looks like an enormous ribbon of gold energy, and is attracted to objects of immense gravity, such as black holes, and suns-somehow, being able to withstand getting pulled in. This filament has positioned itself between the merging black holes, and Earth's sun-becoming a conduit-for the pull of the black holes!"

With shocked eyes staring at her, Mironah continued to explain.

"Normally, Earth and its sun are a safe distance from the center of their galaxy, but every 25,800 years-they enter the cosmic dust cloud-getting close enough to the galaxy's center, for the black hole effect to cause a polar shift, and rotation reversal. When this happens, it's almost immediate-that walls of water are miles high-poised to wipe out most of humanity! This is because, all the bodies of water on the earth will continue to travel in the same direction for a short time! _This_ reversal, however, will be _much_ worse!"

Somebody had to ask, and Jean-Leuc was the one-who braved the question.

"How, can it be _worse_ "?

Sanity challenged ears, listened through a torrent of emotions and hung on her every word and voice inflection-knowing-that devastating knowledge was _still_ to come!

With a deep sigh, Mironah answered.

"For those who survive the waves, life will be a struggle with _unimaginable_ horrors! Extreme solar flares will cause a rapid increase in Cancer, and other diseases! Super volcanoes, like Yellowstone-will erupt-adversely affecting the whole planet, making it hard to grow food, and people will go hungry! The clouds from the super volcanoes will cover the earth, and block out the light of the sun, moon, and stars, for a third of each day-and-it will be _extremely_ cold"!

"Somehow, this sounds familiar," Angel pointed out.

As Mironah continued, great fear surfaced: of what she was going to say next!

"Earth has seen, a number of unusual events in recent years. In 2010, there was the Annular eclipse of the sun on January 15th, which happened to be about four minutes longer than any had been in a _thousand_ years! Also that year, a planetary alignment happened on June 13th, in which all of the planets in Earth's solar system-were lined up in such a way- _as to form a cross_! On July 11th of the same year-for the first time in _1400_ years-Easter Island saw a total eclipse of the sun!

In 2012, Earth saw the Venus transit on June 5th and 6th, when Venus traveled across the face of the sun; this happens only once-every _12,500_ years! Also in 2012, the constellation that's visible during the spring equinox-changed from Pisces to Aquarius. On December 21st of that year, besides the space time rift-a rare event took place: Earth lined up perfectly with its sun, and the center of the Milky Way Galaxy! This lining up, only happens _once_ every _25,800_ years, after entering the cosmic dust cloud, and moving a lot closer to the center of the galaxy!

Beginning with 2015, Earth's sun has been having _extremely_ large flares, and sun spots; in 2015, a sunspot covered one sixth of the sun on January first, and since then, the sunspots have been gradually __ increasing in size. Just last year, temperatures _plunged_ in many parts of the earth, when a giant sunspot cooled _half_ the sun! What a heavenly show- _like signs_ -that things were about to change!"

"SIGNS! THAT'S IT! _Now_ I remember-why it all sounds so familiar! I've been to church a couple of times, and heard a pastor talk about how there will be signs in the heavens-just before God's son-comes back for his people! When he does, _millions_ of people will _suddenly vanish_! Do you have such a belief- _here_?"

"We _do_! _Many_ of our people-believe this _also_ ," Mironah answered.

That bit of information was a nice break from the bad news-which wasn't over yet!

"Another thing that Earth is dealing with, is pockets of time displacement. Time and space are fluctuating, causing the past and future to merge with the present!"

"We experienced that several times! Do you know what's causing it?" Jean-Leuc asked.

"In some places of the earth, the magnetic field is unusually weak. When the vastly increased gravity pull from the sun, hits those areas, there is a temporary folding of space and time, which allows the past and future to join with the present. This effect, usually lasts between a few seconds, and a few minutes."

"We went through many terrifying situations-in getting here-that _almost_ scared my spots right off of me! You are advanced, and have been watching us, so why didn't you help us?"

"Because, you wanted an adventure!" answered Koras-a muscular man sporting two rows of silver lines, and, a mischievous grin.

His comment was met by silence, which gave way to acknowledgement.

"Well, you did, Emerald Eyes"!

"Yes, I know"!

"Emerald Eyes?" Salik quizzed.

"It's a nickname he has for me."

"I like it! I think we should do nicknames _here_!" suggested Vilas.

Looking at Rafael, she gave a slow wink and heart-warming smile, as their eyes connected for a stirring pause in time-a pause over much too soon-when Koras again spoke.

"I'm in charge of what you'd call entertainment, so I made sure you had plenty"!

"Uh, thanks!" she replied.

"That-we did!" Jean-Leuc agreed.

"We were _never_ bored!" added Rafael.

Sadness, and alarm, were highly evident when Mironah spoke again.

"What you experienced, was nothing, compared to what will _soon_ happen to the earth"!

Salik's next words-underscored the gravity of the situation.

"May Sha-ra protect the people of Earth"!

Curiosity was strong, and the time had arrived: for her to ask.

"You've spoke of Sha-ra, often. He is your main leader?"

"Yes. I speak for him, on this planet."

"He's in charge of other planets, too?" she responded.

"He is! All of them! All universes and dimensions"!

"That's a pretty big territory!" Jean-Leuc marveled.

"Can we meet him?" Rafael asked.

"He's in that place-where we hope to go after dying"!

Now it all made sense, and the understanding swept over the emerald mind, like a refreshing breeze!

"Heaven! Have you been talking about God?"

"Oh, I'm sorry! I should've remembered that those on Earth, don't know him by Sha-ra! We've been calling him that, for untold thousands of years! Atlantians _hope_ to one day-go back-to the land of Sha-ra"!

"Go back?" she questioned.

"We believe-that prior to birth-we exist in the land of Sha-ra. Another belief, is that this life-is to help us prepare for the eternal one."

"It's time!" Mironah informed Salik.

"We wish all of you could stay, but you can't: Angel and Jean-Leuc, you need to go back! Rafael, you're not needed on Earth at this time, and we'd like to invite you to stay"!

"Hey! You bet"!

"But what about your payment, my friend"?

"Payment? What kind of payment can compare with all this"?

"Good point, buddy"!

A tone of urgency overcame Salik's voice, filling them with a premonition of-bad news!

"Earth is running out of time! Observe"!

Salik activated two crystals on the table, creating a view screen, and apocalyptic scenes played out in front of horrified eyes!

"How can this be?" Rafael wondered. "Things were _nowhere_ near this bad-when we left! Are you _sure_ -you dialed the right planet?"

"We are, unfortunately, looking at Earth! You've been gone longer than you think: an hour here, is a month on Earth, and you've already been here four hours"!

Within the quiet of astonishment, Mironah reluctantly added more.

"In the past, after Earth entered the cosmic dust cloud and lined up with the Milky Way center, it would always take about 10 years for the poles to flip. This gravity filament, has advanced that speed from years-to weeks! Earth is being devastated by earthquakes, volcanoes, and every kind of storm; no super volcanoes have erupted yet, but _all_ of them-are rumbling! Heat from the sun is getting unbearably hot, and all of the green grass has died! The earth's crust is moving in many places-and soon-the whole surface of the planet will move! Also, the magnetic poles are within days of flipping!"

"What can be done?" Jean-Leuc boldly asked-sensing a plan was already devised.

"Earth's sun is dying, and there is only one thing that can be done! We have two reality crystals for you to borrow, and take back to Earth; activating them-will twist time and space-like a rope-taking the planet into another dimension! A sign of protection will be seen in the cloud high rings of scarlet, and gold-latticing the skies. Time and space will gradually untwist over the span of a year, during which time, the rings will fade. At years' end, Earth will return to normal space and time; by then, its sun will no longer exist, and the return-will mean exposure to the deadly cold of space!"

Mironah's words caused a massive jolt to their senses, and a struggle, with the finalizing reality they were being forced to absorb. Understandably, Angel was a bit jumpy-when something cold and wet touched her arm.

"Jabarrah! My backpack! I thought it was lost for good"!

"The Vori, retrieved it for us," Salik explained.

"We've cleaned and sanitized everything, but none of the food could be saved."

"That's ok! Thank you"!

"You're welcome"!

After a few moments of sharing affection with Jabarrah, she gratefully accepted his gift.

"We've got to get you back to Earth! Please, follow me!" Salik said, as he stood up.

Jabarrah walked alongside his newfound friend, whinnying, and tossing his head-making her long to understand him!

Vittles couldn't resist telling his friend, but did so, with his voice barely above a whisper.

"That Vilas-sure is pretty! How about those spots"!

"She sure is"!

The future rushed to meet them with an inviting touch of wellbeing-upon entering the chamber of hope: a spacious chamber, empty, except for three emerald mermaids reclining in the center-with tail fins raised high-offering gifts from the gods. The center fin held a light blue crystal sphinx, that began to come alive as they approached: a repeating wave of emerald green-rippled-from nose, to tip of tail. A small label by the fin, held the names Rafael, and Vilas, and showed a not yet seen date of two months away.

"I've _never_ seen it do that"!

"Perhaps, it's sensing that we're here!" Vittles suggested. "May I hold it"?

"Of course."

The instant the transfer was complete, silver eyes blazed gold, and there was great wonder about the undefinable link-with the shape of things to come.

"That, too, I've never seen"!

Back in Salik's hands, all activity ceased. He placed it back on the fin, and turned his attention to what the others held: identical stars, consisting of three joined stars each. The centers were the size of large apples, and had a gold tone; topping those, were light blue stars the size of apricots, and the bottom stars were white, and also the size of apricots.

Picking up the triple star by Jean-Leuc's name, Salik began a fascinating explanation of the space shifting powers-that would hopefully-prove to be Earth's guardian angels!

"You will be sent to widely separated locations, since they have to be at least 5,000 miles apart. After the crystals have done their job, they'll create doorways, and return here. Normally, the doors are only open for a second and are just two feet square, but we've modified things.

Jean-Leuc, your crystal is the only one that's been changed: the portal will stay open for 30 seconds, and be large enough for you. After you activate it, step inside while thinking about where you want to go, and it will take you there. The places you both are going to will be private, so nothing will distract, or prevent you, from activating the crystals. The locations, have been pre-determined by Sha-ra.

Angel, you will go to the cave-at the end of the secret beach in Toulon; Jean-Leuc, you will go to a Mayan temple in Belize. So far, those places are not having any disasters or problems. Right now, it's about 5 p.m. in Toulon, and in Belize, it's about 9 a.m. the same day. Remember, you only have 30 seconds to step into the portal, but that should be more than enough time! I'll change a setting on this one, so it won't do anything when I show you how to activate them."

The wave of a small emerald crystal, turned the gold star clear, paving the way for a vital demonstration.

"First, fold all the middle points up toward the blue star. Then, move the blue star seven clicks to the right. Next, move the white star three clicks to the left, and let go. The device will hover in the air, and the stars will separate, and spin. After one crystal has been activated, the sky will turn bright silver; when _both_ have been activated, the silver will change back to the normal blue, and you'll see the rings of scarlet and gold!"

After changing the settings back, Salik handed each of them their crystal, and soft pouches to put them in.

"One more thing."

He reached into a pouch, for a wonderful surprise!

"We don't use coins for money anymore, and now regard them as sentimental history. These are many thousands of years older than the ones you found under the Louvre, and are made from a material-not of Earth. You can keep, sell, or do whatever you want with them."

As each of them received their gift, gratitude and excitement sparked a boyish grin, that ignited into a full-blown smile as the potential was realized.

"These would buy _several_ -New Earth stations"!

"Probably, all of them"!

Salik couldn't help, but smile, at her response.

"But only if you hurry back and get Earth protected-while there still _are_ New Earths!" Salik warned.

"Right!" came the agreement, among a continuing full-blown smile!

She hoped, the answer was going to be-yes!

"Can we come back"?

"Both of you are welcome to come back, and Sha-ra told me, you would! We need to hurry, to the tunnel of light! Oh, speaking of the tunnel of light-weapons disintegrate in the tunnel; sorry, Rafael, but yours are gone."

"I hadn't even noticed!" he answered, patting where they used to be.

Amid the silent hoof falls of magical feet, they walked with _great_ purpose-carrying the hope-of all mankind.

"Look, pretty eyes! You still have your little buddy"!

"Ah, Jabarrah! What a sweetie you are"!

Jabarrah stretched his neck, for an adoring rub.

"He's going to miss you!" observed Salik.

"I'm going to miss him, too"!

Another minute, revealed a structure that mirrored the temple under the plateau. Inside, two Merlas watched ever so closely, waiting, for the emerald question.

"Are you real"?

"These, are only statues."

This time, the tunnel of the gods emerged from the joining of two emeralds: a triangle, and a sphere.

"We were honored-to meet the three of you! Angel, you get to go first."

"Meeting all of you, and being here, has been incredible! Thank you, for your help"!

Jabarrah whinnied, looking at her-as though he were losing his best friend!

"It's ok, Jabarrah! I'll be back soon"!

Petting his face, she gave him a kiss on the head before walking over to the tunnel, where she turned back, to say goodbye. At that point, Salik offered a priceless gift: words of wisdom.

"Sha-ra, will be with you! Remember-there's no such thing as a coincidence! Also, things happen when they do-for a reason"!

"I'll remember"!

"Bye, Angel. I'll come back to Earth, in about two months."

"Bye, Vittles."

"See you soon, pretty eyes"!

She blew a kiss, and disappeared into the tunnel of light.

"Ok, now it's your turn. Remember, you will only have 30 seconds to step into the portal. Also, remember to be thinking about where you want to go!"

"Piece a cake! See you later, and thanks for everything"!

"Later, my friend. Go save our planet!"

He answered, with a knowing smile.

"Have fun, buddy"!

He vanished among the lights, and entered the forgotten past of a Mayan temple. Torch light circled the chamber, without adding life to the cold remnants of a people long since gone. Eerie jungle noises, echoed off the crumbling stone walls, and blended, with unknown shadows that snaked their dark fingers through high set windows-shape shifting-as though having a life of their own! The horror scene played out further, upon noticing red stains flowing down the steps, of what looked like-an altar!

Watching over it all and guarding the exit, were two giant Merlas, who waited for the inevitable question.

"Are you alive"?

After a long, but patient wait-without any movement-it appeared the answer was no. Beyond the sentries, a long passage lined with Merlas, opened to the jungle. Again, the question, and again-no answer.

The time of questions ended, on a bad note, with the ominous growl of an earthquake and the temple moving under his feet!

"No time like the present"!

Reaching for the crystal, that safely waited in the soft bag hanging from a belt loop, his hand brushed up against the coin pouch-and thoughts returned-to the unique possibility: of buying New Earth stations!

# CHAPTER 10

TIMES TWO

Familiar surroundings welcomed her, as she entered the cave. A deceiving bit of calm, blue sky, could be seen past the rock at the entrance, contradicting the urgency, that had been stressed.

"You'd never know, anything was wrong"!

Instantly, the knowledge of having spoken too soon-crashed home like a tidal wave-as the sky darkened, and thunder roared its ugly head.

"Uh Oh! I better hurry"!

Nervous fingers pulled the crystal from its bag, and quickly activated it. The stars became a spinning triangle of bright silver, increasing to a blur that waited silently: for the order of things-to be achieved.

With a heart full of hope, she hurried to the beach and saw the promise of a silver sky-a promise fulfilled just over two minutes later-when the sky turned blue and a lattice of rings appeared.

"He did it"!

Expectation burned bright for the next few seconds-turning to pure bliss-as the portal filled her with reassuring knowledge: her love, would be the next thing she saw! Something did come through: a shiny, quarter sized object, that dropped 10 feet away-becoming an almost hidden mystery-of the sand. For 30 long seconds, she waited, and received only despair.

A far cry from the joyous expectation of moments before, were the painful words, now spoken.

"Where is he? What is that"?

The hot sand yielded its soul piercing truth, along with a haunting echo, of Salik's last words.

"Things happen when they do-for a reason"!

Under the crushing weight of wisdom, the collapse to the beach was inevitable-and the heat of it-not even felt! The only thing noticed-was the terrible secret of the sand: a polished, sphinx topped ring!

Fighting back the tears, she remembered his desire to buy New Earth stations, and understood: he would rather be buying the stations, than be with her, and couldn't bring himself to break-up in person, so he sent his ring to do it for him!

The breakup, was a script that wrote many heart-broken hours on the beach, wondering, how she could've been so wrong about him! She'd thought, she really knew him!

Finally, around midnight, she managed an exhausted walk to the beach house, to rent a room.

The owner, Pierre, was at the check-in desk. Barely holding back the tears, she rented a top floor room for two weeks, knowing it would take a while to figure out what to do next. Once inside her room, the tears came like a flood until almost three-when sleep took pity-and mercifully, provided a shielding blanket of comfort.

Puffy eyes, woke to the new and wonderful sight-of scarlet and gold rings covering the sky! As depressed as she was, she couldn't help but feel awe, and voice her relief at being in a new dimension.

"Earth is saved"!

Having not had dinner, an extra big breakfast was on the menu of to do things-which was a very short list: room service all day, and sitting on the balcony.

The next morning, she decided to visit the restaurant for breakfast, and avoided the other two diners, by sitting at a window table on the opposite side of the room. With a cup of coffee in hand, and deep in thought, she didn't hear the footsteps of a man approaching.

"Excuse me, may I join you for a minute"?

Looking up, she saw Pierre holding a cup of coffee, and motioned for him to sit down.

"I noticed you were sitting alone, and looking sad. You also looked sad-when you checked in. Are you all right?"

"Yes. I'm ok. My boyfriend was supposed to meet me here, two days ago, and he never showed up!"

"That's hard to believe! You're _much_ too pretty, for a guy _not_ to show up for"!

"Thanks, but that's what happened."

"I'm sorry! If you decide, you want somebody to talk to-I'm here."

"Thanks."

She had another uneventful day of staying in her room, followed by a dinner of pizza and wine, in the restaurant. Worn out from all the stress, it didn't take long to succumb to a night full of tormented sleep.

The next week was spent, either staying in her room, or walking on the beach and dining at the restaurant. At the end of the week, Pierre noticed her having brunch and took a break from his duties.

"Hi, pretty lady! Are you feeling better today?"

"Hi, Pierre. I'm better. There are scientists I've got to see, but it's hard to make myself do anything!"

"That's understandable! I can tell you're a strong woman-you'll be able to do it! Remember, I'm here for you, if you want to talk."

"Ok."

After he left, she finished eating and walked on the beach, sadly knowing, the days held nothing special-anymore! The days blurred together, and with no decision in mind, she ended up at the check in desk.

"Hi, pretty lady"!

"Hi, Pierre. I'd like to rent the room, for another two weeks."

"Sure thing! It'll be nice-to see you around here longer! You know, we should have breakfast together sometime, and talk. By the way, occasionally, room 2C is used for private get together meals for our guests; if you hear extra noise across the hall-that's why."

"Thanks for letting me know."

Ignoring his comment about having breakfast together, she finished paying for the room, and was about to leave.

"Have a good day, pretty lady"!

A wink from Pierre, suddenly made her thoughts-uncomfortable.

Uh Oh! He likes me in a way I don't want!

That was a day, the sad emerald beauty chose to stay in her room. A few days later, as she walked on the beach, the sea offered a peace and healing that only it could give. The cries of seagulls among the salty mist, was relaxing, but with the speed of lightning-it all changed! There, at the end of the beach and walking toward her, was a tall, strong looking figure of a man-that looked- _familiar_!

"He's here"!

The voice of relief, was instantly joined by a heartbeat so loud, that nothing else could be heard-as she raced-through the soft, wet sand, toward a tender embrace!

Excitement, paled to realization-then dismay: it wasn't him! Depressed beyond measure now, she retreated to her room and stayed there.

Several mornings later, she noticed a light blue piece of paper-poked under the door. Wondering who would've done that, and why, she picked it up and saw a typed note.

"It's not good-to spend all of your time in your room! Come over for breakfast. Let's talk! Room 2C."

A flare of angry words, threatened a bad start to the day!

"Why can't he figure out I'm not interested! I'll go set Pierre straight-once and for all"!

Stepping across the hall, she paused briefly, dreading the confrontation about to begin.

Three loud knocks, and Pierre was swinging the door wide.

"Look, I'm sorry, but I'm just not interested..."

Abruptly, the words stuck in limbo-then new ones formed!

"Jean-Leuc! You're here"!

"Hi, beautiful! Long time, no see"!

"I've missed you _so_ much!" she cried, jumping forward into his welcoming arms.

"Same here! I'm _sorry_ it took me so long to get here"!

"That's ok! Where have you been?"

"Let's relax on the couch, and I'll explain a _peculiar_ chain of events"!

As she listened to the tale of a harrowing journey back, she could almost feel what he had endured!

"I activated the crystal, and let go; right at that moment, an earthquake hit-toppling statues-and one of them broke my left leg! By the time I could use the healing crystal-the portal was closed. The hike out of the jungle took two weeks, and there was a bit of a wait for an airport to resume service. Interestingly, the only room available when I got here-was right across from you! What a nice coincidence-wouldn't you say, babe?"

"Salik said-there is no such thing-as a coincidence"!

"It _does_ feel as though-circumstances have been arranged! Pretty eyes, near the temple, I found a huge crack in the ground; at the bottom was a tunnel of light-much larger than the ones we've seen-and it stayed activated! There's a problem, and we've _got_ to go back"!

"I sense you're right, and if things had not occurred the way they did, then you wouldn't have found the tunnel of light! So, that explains that, but why did you send your ring through?"

"When I was reaching for the crystal, my ring got snagged on the pouch of coins. I had to take the ring off, to get it loose, and was still holding it when the earthquake hit. My fall-sent it flying into the tunnel!"

"I thought...I thought you went to buy New Earth stations"!

"Without you? Not a chance!" he replied, with magical, boyish grin charm-providing assurance enough-of his eternal love!

"Sky, we've got to get Earth's top scientists-to Atlantia"!

"We will, but today belongs to us, my beautiful Emerald Eyes"!

He pulled his emerald beauty very close, and for a few moments-time stood still-then, she heard those familiar words.

"Welcome, to Toulon"!
