 
The Chronicles of the Jinn and their charges

Table of Contents

Book I: Toddlerhood

Chapter 1: Between the Realms of Angels and Men, Chapter 2: The Charges, Chapter 3: Amirah's Birth, Chapter 4: Milo's toddlerhood, Chapter 5: The Khara's move in, Chapter 6: Paradise Lost, Chapter 7: The Halfway Point

Book II: The Second Era-The Early Elementary Years

Chapter 8: The Sacramental Age, Chapter 9: The First Communion, Chapter 10: Two meetings between a trap

Book III: The Later Elementary Years

Chapter 11: The First Thrice Occurring cycle , Chapter 12: The Resolution and Daycare, Chapter 13: A Haunted Summer, Chapter 14: A Semi-haunted Fall and Christmas, Chapter 15: The transition from Childhood to adolescence

Book IV: The Third Era-The early Teenage Years

Chapter 16: The Second Thrice Occurring Cycle, Chapter 17: The Jafari's, Chapter 18: The Unified Summer, Chapter 19: The Khara's move again, Chapter 20: Spring Ambitions, Chapter 21: Summer Dreaming, Chapter 22: The Jafari Fallout, Chapter 23: The great rising

Book V: The Third Era-The First Year

Chapter 24: The Summer of Anticipation, Chapter 25: Amira starts High School, Chapter 26: The First Lost Revelation, Chapter 27: The Summer of Reflection, Chapter 28: The Fall of Contemplation

Book VI: the Third Era-The Second years

Chapter 29: The Secret Admirer, Chapter 30: The Spring of New Birth, Chapter 31: Summer Antics, Chapter 32: Milo Revealed, Chapter 33: The final stage, Chapter 34: The final Summer

Book VII: The Rakshasajinns Reign-The Fall

Chapter 35: The Tech School, Chapter 36: The resignation, Chapter 37: The Temptations, Chapter 38: Fundamentalist Catholicism, Chapter 39: The end of Fundamentalism

Book VIII: The Rakshasajinns Reign-The Battle

Chapter 40: Sussewago University, Chapter 41: The Second Resignation, Chapter 42: The End of College, Chapter 43: The End of Leftism, Chapter 44: The Nursing Home Job, Chapter 45: The Job Gets Worse, Chapter 46: The Pursuit of Thrill, Chapter 47: The Homecoming, Chapter 48: The Cafeteria Job, Chapter 49: The Drafting Job, Chapter 50: The Final War

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Book I: Toddlerhood

CHAPTER 1: BETWEEN THE REALM OF ANGELS AND MEN

Between the realm of angels and men exists a realm of creatures known as Jinn, but go by different names in different cultures. To understand the story, it is important to first off know about the Annogrammatrons. These are a league of nine different orders assisting humanity in particular crisis and supply them with the invisible resources to keep balance. The First Order known as the Moral Order preserves personal virtue. The Second Order known as the Altruistic Order acts as the bonds of friendship. The Third Order known as the Motivation Order gets goals accomplished. The Fourth Order known as the Artistic Order beautifies the world. The Fifth Order known as the intellect Order teaches and reveals useful knowledge. The Sixth Order known as the Secure Order provides the certainty and security over fear. The Seventh Order known as the Jovial Order give life enjoyment and abundance. The Eighth Order, known as the Strength Order supplies the necessary power to make things happen. The Ninth Order, known as the Peace Order resolves conflict and forgives trespasses. Each Order has Jinn of Diverse personalities, values and knowledge in creating a rich tapestry of existence and variety.

Every human is assigned a particular Sophunum-Dikpala at birth. The Sophunum-Dikpala act as wisdom guides to certain united kindred spirits, mystically united due to a single destiny. In fact, it is often said that people find their soulmates within their kindred group. At the birth of a new child, the Sophunum-Dikpala is informed through a trumpet, and attends a grand ceremony, in which the mission is announced by the angelic seers. Each Sophunum has a water bowl, in which they can immediately sense some form of danger that one of their charges is under, before they can often see. This often manifests in seeing dreams that manifest as nightmares, relative to particular terrors, reoccurring dreams revealing roadblocks and transcendent dreams of a deep desire. The Sophonum coordinate with the Annogrammatrons to decide which ones are needed to solve the particular problems. The Sophonum typically welcomes a multitude of Annogrammatrons from different orders and oversees that the differences do not cause too much chaos. In this story, the major Sophonum-Dikpala is Praedexit.

Besides the Annogrammatrons and the Sophonum-Dikpala's, there are other Jinns with other tasks, which would be a whole other book not able to fit into this story. In this story, there are another order of Jinns known as the Magnus.

Likewise, there are evil Jinn, who belong to different categories of the Sophunum-Dikpala, Annogrammatrons and Magnus. The Rakshasajinns are Fallen Jinn from the Annogrammatron Orders, who became arrogant about their position and sought to dominate over others in their order and even over other orders. These creatures were sent off to exile in a desolate region outside the kingdom of the Elders. The Elders who have remained under the leadership of the great mystery have remained under great positions, while the Rakshasajinns aligned themselves with the ever feared fallen angels known as Demons. In this realm, the Rakshasajinns are fragmented souls, who upon alliance with any other Rakshasajinns, unwillingly give a piece of their soul over to the other party, and creates a monstrosity of two divided pieces of two different souls united as one. The Framlejinns are fallen Jinn of the Magnus order. They have significant influence over the Rakshasajinns. They fell when they refused to cooperate with their counterpart, and exulted themselves as the master. Many of the Framlejinns sought to dominate their magnus counterpart, and were put on trial. However, these Framlejinns are harder to try, as they are very cunning, and can go years undetected. The final and most rare are the Necrojinns, who are fallen Sophunum-Dikpala who refuse to retire and stick to the descendents of a particular charge. These are the most subtle of the fallen Jinns, and can go for generations and even centuries undetected.

Our Story begins with the Sophonum-Dikpala of the Praedexit order. Their Magnuses as we recall, are known as the Puerubdi and Senexit. The Senexit is a middle aged Jinn, appointed to keep order, and make judgments for the sake of preservation. The Puerubdi is a young Jinn appointed to create innovation, and manifest novelty and passion. The Charges have a natural gift to manifest a persona of both youthfulness, and maturity beyond their years. Like all Sophunum-Dikpala, the current Praedexit is assigned to the mortals on earth, to assist those who exemplify the traits of youthfulness and maturity, and can naturally keep the balance. One Praedexit spans for about one century, and typically about two to five human generations. Some of their most well known charges on earth are from History figures as Lao Tzu, St. Julian of Norwich, Meister Eckhart, Frederick Handel, Charles Dickens and Mark Twain. This particular story begins with the Current Praedexit Maelendil. Maelendil had began his with his most well known charges being Alyssa Milano, Emily Browning, J.K. Rowling, Walt Disney and Matt Groening.

The Annogrammatrons work closely with Praedexit, and go on missions to assist their charges as needed, to aid in different stages and times of their life. The Eight order of Strength is the most active in the lives of the Charges, as they need the most strength to challenge the imbalance between too much chaos or too much order. Most often, the Eighth order appear to the charges in times of being under high handed powers, in humiliating the power and thereby providing a path to liberation. The Second Order of Altruism appears most often to the charges during their childhood. During this time, the charges are grounded in developing a nurturing and soft side to counter the hard side of the Eight order of strength. The Seventh Order of Joviality appears most often to the Charges in their adolescence, and young adulthood. The Joviality balances out the need for stable power, with the need for play and excitement beyond the confines of stability. The Ninth order of Peace works with the Charges in times of unfamiliarity, in order to cool the confrontational tendencies with new situations, and allow them to be connected to otherness. The Third order of motivation appears most often times of repetition, to apply experience in a particular endeavor in a successful way. Typically the First, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Orders do not show up, as they have limited contributions, and some are a bad combination. The First Order of Morality is only used to clear up moral confusion, but can devolve into cruel self righteousness. The Fourth Order of Art has limited contribution in being able to recognize balance in an aesthetic way. The Fifth Order of knowledge can give intellectual empowerment, but tempts a lust for power. The Sixth order of Certainty only appears in times of chaos, but easily devolves into dogmatism and rigidity.

At the beginning of Maelendil's reign, he created a land known as Kebsuda, which had been made as a gift to his charges. Unfortunately, one day a band of offspring Maludico's had invaded Kebsuda, and then were joined by their parents the Hypocordo's. Then a band of angry Maludico's invaded one legendary city.
Chapter 2: The Charges

Ciderpond, Ohio

The Micropolis in which this story takes place is located in the Rustbelt, which includes most of the Great lakes region that in the 19th and early 20th century had been a major region of manufacturing. Malendil has had many charges from this region, including our two charges this story will speak of, whose names are Milo Biancatello and Amira Sassani. Other charges connected to the town include Angela Costa, Lindsey Santorini, Justin Mcgill, Kaylee Schroder, Daniel Sampson, Jasmine Washington, Richard Espozito, Michael O'Brien, Bailey Kalowski and Parvati Kapoor.

This town had suffered under great recessions during the latter half of the 20th century when manufacturing began being outsourced to other countries, thanks in part to the refusal of either Unions or CEO's to make any negotiations. With the advent of air conditioning, regions once deemed uninhabitable became more appealing. Naturally the Southern and Southwestern States became more appealing with their mild winters not so common in the rustbelt. Otherwise, this town had been built by the labor of immigrants from Ireland, Italy, Poland, Germany and more recently Greece. In later years, the town had much immigration from South Asia, Arabia, China, Southeast Asia, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Central America, Brazil and West Africa.

This town being comprised of Italians, Irish, Polish and Germans established a strong Roman Catholic presence in the town, which like much of traditional religion in the United States is more cultural than a matter of observance. Otherwise, there are also the establishments of Lutheran Churches, an Episcopal, several Methodists Churches, three synagogues and one Mosque.

The primary setting for this story takes place in a suburb known as Ciderpond. This is where many unnamed charges grew up, and raised families. This Suburb has a vibrant life full of middle class neighborhoods, schools, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. This County has two other significant, yet older suburbs known as Noussonberg and Phyllisville. Ciderpond is the richest of the suburbs, while Noussonberg has had some poverty, and Phyllisville is the most impoverished. This region was once the major hub for industry, but never had been an appealing place to live, due to the constant odors emitted from the factories. Unfortunately Phyllisville had turned into a major hub for crime, gangs and drug cartels.

There are two major colleges in this county, being Whelon University, which is very close to the Mother Cathedral of the Catholic Diocese, known as St. James Cathedral. St. James is located in downtown Essex, which is the metropolis of the county. The other College is known as Sussewago University, which is located in the Countryside. The unofficial Mother Church of Ciderpond is known as St. Timothy's. This just means that this is the largest and considered the central hub of Catholic activity in Ciderpond. Ciderpond hosts a local amusement park known as Seewouden, and had recently added a waterpark known as Soaktown to stay modern. Alongside, there is also a well known zoo located right on the outskirts of Ciderpond, which like many zoo's, went through much transformation in becoming more concerned about animal welfare and conservation, as opposed to mere entertainment.

The Ciderpond School District has six Elementary Schools, known as Dinglebury, Dudlechip, Pleasant Tune, Hazelnut Forest, Kinsale and T.J. Purpleson. There are three middle Schools, with William Jettsons taking in the Hazelnut Forest and Kinsale Elementary students, Pecan meadows taking students from Pleasant Tune and Dinglebury and Northcreek taking students from T.J. Purpleson and Dudlechip. Ciderpond is the Public Highschool, which accepts students from all three Middle Schools.
Chapter 3: Amirah's Birth

The Announcement

This is what had been seen at the announcement of the birth. A great land resembling the long lost city of Atlantis on the realm of Kebsuda housed a great temple, with a floorplan shaped like the Pantheon of Rome and a Groin Vault Ceiling. All Four corners house a pedestal and the center has an altar. This temple had been built by the annogrammatrons Arybatas and Ludovum.

This was the contribution of the current Puerubdi Max. The Western Wall known as the Chaos Wall houses a decorated evergreen tree with a pedestal above the tree houses a statue of Shiva. Max declares that "Shiva is part of the Trimurti including Vishnu and Brahma, whom is the master of destruction. This is the reminder of the Charges ancient Heritage long forgotten. Shiva has not departed as guardian, despite having been long forgotten with the arrival of the traditions of Zoroaster and Muhammad". The priest announces that "Shiva is one of the Angelic beings of the destruction order as minister to the Indo-Aryan Peoples". Then Max announces "The Christmas Tree has been an ancient symbol in adopted by the Christians to symbolize the undying Christ". Then a mysterious figure announces that "Every winter, Shiva sends a great cold of death to all plants, but knows well that the Evergreens can endure his destruction, even though the Deciduous trees die every year to be born again constantly".

The Eastern Wall houses a wall statue of Ganesh with a Christmas wreath around his head. The current Senexit Oliver wisely setup this wall. Oliver announces that "Ganesh has also returned to minister to people, who have also been long forgotten". A Storyteller retells the account, "Ganesh was once killed accidentally by his father, but was resurrected through the head of an elephant, and has come to be a figure to empathize with hardship and the first to be interceded for help in such times". Oliver announces "The Wreath is this symbol Christians use during the holidays to symbolize Jesus passion and death, and the great circle of Eternity". Maelendil noticed the parallel Ganesh and Jesus.

The Northern wall houses a mural of a family from a yellow people inhabiting world existing near their own, and a statue of a priestly revolutionary from their main city. All the gifts were given by the Annogrammatrons. The primary order of the Eighth, Ninth, Second, Third and Seventh dedicated a statue of Ghandi. The Ninth Order representative announced "Ghandi is a reminder of the power of non-violence and self-giving love and service". The secondary order of the First, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth dedicated the mural to first off honor this new show that would become this culturally relevant show. This mural was the beginning of a world, which has a magic that can never be replicated. The Fourth Order representative suggested "So little is known and so much potential. It's the novelty that the mystical Beginning, without the conditioning of the past, like this birth". The Fifth Order representative suggested "Maybe it is the lack of other episodes to compare the show to". Maelendil announced "This is a great mystery which will probably never be answered". Then a poet sang "If we asked the Fourth Order, they would say deep simplicity. If we asked the first order, they would say wholesome family morals. If we asked the Fifth Order, they would say it's the most identifiable". This mural told of the families Christmas troubles when the patriarch lost his bonus and the matriarch had to spend the Christmas fund to get the sons tattoo removed. The Patriarch working as a Mall Santa barely paid, and the father and son lost all their Christmas money betting on a Greyhound Race. But Christmas was saved at the very end when they adopted the reject hound, and gave the family a truly meaningful gift.

The Southern Wall was a gift of a statue of Santa Claus dressed as a Sufi Dervish. This was the gift given by Paidisenexit as a way to always remember the lessons of balance between the extremes of indulgence and asceticism. For there are Sufi orders who can find oneness in the very detachment from material pleasures, while others understand these pleasures as a gift. Many take the balanced approach of times of fasts and feasts.

The pedestals on the corners of the wall bear statues of a Mermaid, a Flounder, seagull and crab. The Storyteller relays this story. "As the old legend tells, these four characters were responsible for breaking the schism between the naval and terrestrial realms. As revealed years later, King wife Athena had been killed by pirates, and had prejudice against the terrestrial world since. The mermaid loved the Prince, and took the initiative to become human and get him to fall in love with her. Hail the empathetic fish who stood by the mermaid, when her grotto was destroyed, and the witch stole the prince from her. Hail the Intelligent crab organized a plan to get the prince to fall in love with the Mermaid. Hail the Seagull, who by his scatterbrained tendencies never lost hope, and was the first to catch the witch into tricking the prince, and warning the other three."

The Altar in the center depicts a statue of a mother and father holding a newborn child and surrounded by gifts from the mortals. On the altar, there are four gifts given, being a wooden cross, Flat Bread, a bag of Saffron and a Hookah. The note on the Cross stated "I give this gift is a peace offering of a Cross in times when the religion honoring Jesus of Nazareth has been misaligned by political misconduct." The card on the flat bread state "This is a food offering of the most finest grain and providing sustenance". The card on the Saffron offered stated "This is a financial sacrifice as the most costly spice". The card on the Hookah stated "This is an offering transformed from a life taking device to an incense burner in order to emit most sweet aroma".

The Vision of the Fish

There was a mysterious dream identical to the opening titles of the Little Mermaid. A child had dreamed of being a goldfish caught in a net, tossed around by sailors and eventually returning to the sea with a sigh of relief. This fish swam through the blue waters to which he passed sea anenomes, a school of clownfish, floating jellyfish, two Humpback whales and Merfolk travelling to see the dedication of the temple. As to who this dreamer was, has not been revealed. What he was doing and how he had gotten into this realm is not wholly known, and may never be known. Some think it was an angel. The Paranormal investigators think it was Extra-Sensory Perception. All we know is that dreamer had seen what he needed to see. The Fish experienced this tiny and soft sound that turned into a great crescendo, which hailed a vision of an unexpected and bright light showing this great temple being transformed into a great and glorious city.

Amira's Birth

This is story of the birth of this child Amira. This starts with a Pashtun couple who had migrated from Southern Persia years back. This father's religious history comes from a Sufi order. and the Mother of a Zoroastrian order with vedic influences. The couples names are Kazeem and Zaida Sassani. Kazeem is an accountant working at Sudix and Parmin Accounting firm, located in Dayton, Ohio. Zaida worked as a professor for Wright State University. Nine months previous, Zaida had conceived a child, who would come to be on of Maelendil's charges.

Zaida had been in contractions for two weeks since having taken her niece Saira to the Movie Theatres to see the Little Mermaid. This movie had just hit theatres exactly one month previous to the baby's birth. Now the Little Mermaid was the first movie kickstarting the Disney Rennaissance, and had sketches dating back to the days when Walt was still alive. The Disney Rennaissance began after a period of movies that had been a total bust, such as the Black Cauldron. The theatre had been quite dark, and the movie was on the scene where the small fish was swimming from Eric's ship to Atlantica. During this scene, Zaida looked quite uncomfortable, which Saira could easily tell. Saira asked Zaida if she was okay, quite worried that she had gotten sick. Zaida explained that she is near to having the baby. Possibly this baby just liked the movie.

By this time, the Thanksgiving holiday had come and went, and the Advent Season was long underway. One Wednesday evening, during the television show "Who's the Boss" premiered the episode "Life with Father" from the Fifth Season. This is the show about an Italian American known as Tony Micelli, who moves his daughter Sam out of their dangerous Brooklyn neighborhood into the suburban Connecticut. Actually, Tony gets a job as a housekeeper for career woman Angela Bowers and her son Jonathan and mother Mona. During the show, it became clear that it was near time to have the baby. This was the episode with a clipshow recounting all the times that Toby had been overprotective and embarrassed Sam. This show "Who's the Boss" starred kindred charge Alyssa Milano, whom was the inspiration for Ariel from the Little Mermaid, and hosted the Disney Special "The Making of the Little Mermaid". One Jinn of the Seer order predicted that this new baby would grow to have a similar jaw to Alyssa.

A day later on a silently starry and quite snowy night, near the dawn of the Third Week of Advent, it became quite clear that it was time Zaida to give birth. That night, Kazeem drove Zaida to the Hospital. The Night had been quite chilly with a snowy ground, and a bright starry sky. Kazeem parked in front of the hospital, and a valet authority parked his car in the ramp. Then Zaida and Kazeem entered the Hospital and headed up to the Maternity ward. Zaida had been moved to her bed and begun her labor. The Doctor entered the room along with the nurses to begin the work. During the labor, there was this shadowy sight of a hideous figure giving a sinister look. Then a mighty hand knocked the figure out of the room, and he immediately disappeaered. During the second hour of the new day, after a short labor, a new baby was born. Upon this birth, the new baby let out her newborn cry. The Nurses cleaned up this new baby and the Obstetrician did a brief examination and announced to Kazeem and Zaida that they had a healthy baby girl, seven pounds and 4 ounces, and a full head of jet black hair. This new baby looked like Zaida, but had Kazeems mouth. Kazeem and Zaida named this new baby Amira, which means Princess in Semitic. During the birth, there had been another shadowy sight of a toddler holding a stuffed Flounder doll.

After a short time of rest, Amira had woken up to see her first television shows, which came from the TGIF lineup on ABC in her hospital room. The First Show was "Perfect Strangers", the episode "Everyone in the Pool" from the fifth Season. This was a show with the Character Larry moving on his own to Chicago, only to get a surprise roommate Balki from the Baltic island known as Mypos. This is the episode where Larry exploits Balki's shepherd's intuition to make sports bets. This had been quite a common trope in the show, and attempted to make a mockery of the idea of the naïve immigrant. Soon enough, Amira woke to the introduction when the shows theme song "Nothing's gonna stop me now". The Second show was "Full House", the episode "Joey, Stacey and Oh Yeah, Jesse", which is part of the Third Season. This is the episode where Comet rips up Stephanie's stuffed Bear and Joey's girlfriend Stacy encourages him to assert himself when Jesse becomes too bossy.

Two days later, Zaida was ready for discharge, and Amira was ready to be brought home for the first time. As the customs dictated, Amira was dressed in red at the hospital and the mother and daughter were discharged. On Sunday afternoon, Amira was brought home for the first time, and laid in the family room cradle with an eighties style television and a Christmas tree. Zaida came home to an abundance of gifts from various friends and family, many being artifacts that had been passed down. That night the Simpsons Pilot first premiered, which was the episode "Simpsons Roasting on an open fire". By the time Amira woke up from her nap, the scene she had seen was when Bart is sitting on Homer's lap as a department store Santa.

The Earthlings Vision

This is the vision the mortals saw in regards to the dedication of the Temple. There was a great family room. In the middle of the wall stood the Simpsons episode "Simpsons roasting on an Open fire" with the scene where Bart is on Homer's lap dressed as Santa Clause. On the left hand side is a Christmas tree with a Dancing shiva in place of a star. Next to the Television is a statue of Mahatma Ghandi on a Pillar wearing a Santa hat, a Hookah gift and a wall Cross as a gift. On the Right Hand side is a wall mounted statue of Ganesh mounted against the wall with a wreath worn as a necklace. On the Left center is Zaida dressed in a Hindu Sari, and on the right center is Kazeem dressed in a Sufi Dervish. In the center area are gifts of Saffron and Flat breads along with a turbaned Santa Clause, a package of red footie pajamas and durable diapers.

The Remainder of the Year

During this time, they had long figured out who the little boy of 15 months was who had dreamed of being a fish. His name was Milo Biancatello. For some strange reason, something had connected these two spirits since the day Amira was born. During this time, Milo was at his aunt and uncles wedding. The whole family took a picture which shared much resemblance to the wedding picture of Larry and Balki, with their brides Marianne and Jennifer. However, this episode known as "The Wedding" from the Seventh Season had not premiered until a little over a year later.

Seamus from the Seer order of the Jinns had come to read the picture and tell of its meaning. Upon looking at the picture, this is the vision Seamus had. He saw a woman putting a puzzle together, but found a piece that she could not figure out how to use. At this, the woman threw the piece in the garbage, believing this to be a defective piece. Months later, this woman had gotten quite far after a fair amount of toil and difficulty. There had been a section of the Puzzle that had a missing piece, and the woman could not find any pieces that could fit together. Then the woman remembered the piece she had long threw away and headed to the unemptied garbage and rescued this missing piece. To this womans surprise, the piece fit perfectly.
Chapter 4: Milo's toddlerhood

From the Fall of 1990 till sometime in the summer of 1991 had been lost to history. From the standpoint of television history, this had been an eventful year. The Simpsons had aired their first standard 22 episode Season. Speaking of the Simpsons, David Geffen from Geffen Records pitched the idea for a Simpson's album, which was recorded in the September of 1990 and released that Christmas. The album was known as "The Simpsons sing the Blues", which gave us the infamous song known as "Do the Bartman". Perfect Strangers had been in its final good season before the show got downright silly, with its milestone being Larry's proposal to Jennifer. Full House was in its Fourth Season, with the defining moment being Jesse and Becky's marriage. In Disney News, the Studios produced the movies "Duck tales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp" and "The Rescuers down under".

Brutus the Sketchy

There was one Jinn in training to become a Senexit who was known as Brutus. Brutus loved order above all else, and above all else, considered breaking rules, no matter how miniscule to be the unforgivable offense. One day, a fearful figure above the Jinns appeared to Brutus known as Galtron. Galtron warned Brutus of a child whom could be his downfall. Galtron informed Brutus that this child, Milo Biancatello was a charge of the Praedexit Maelendil. Brutus had kept a keen eye on Milo, and began to dislike him.

Brutus overheard a seer known as Durnil, whom he overheard speaking with Maelendil, Oliver and Max of a series of visions he had seen. This is what Durnil spoke to Maelendil, Oliver and Max about: The Achamenid house of Daryava and the Macedonian house of Alexander the Great reaching an alliance, and calling of a family to leave the place of the banks and financial extortion full of Pirates and Theives and to start a new life on the land of great beauty full of beaches and natural beauty.

Brutus developed a fear of this prophecy, and sought out the quest to find out who was from the Achamenid house. Brutus met with his disciples to tell them of what he saw. Brutus disciples inquired about who this child was. Brutus told his disciples about this child, and ranted about how he hated him. Brutus complained about this child being a hard headed danger, and had quite an infatuation of a Mermaid princess. Brutus then went on a rant about the movie with the mermaid glamorizing rebellious brats. Brutus then complained how movies of this sort would give the generation ideas that they would think they were above social conventions, and went on to sarcastically thank the philosopher Lyotard.

Brutus disciples had a superstition that anyone born during the popularity of a certain movie would become a spitting image of the main character. Brutus feared what this meant, and sent out his disciples to enter into the territories where the Dudenhoeffer clan dwells. It had long been rumored that a Necrojinn has dwelled, which also has remains in Waterford Ireland from the 19th century during the Potato Famine, and other places in the United States. Brutus had no knowledge of this rumor, and completely blundered in sending his disciples out to this place. As it was, these disciples searched and found nothing, but crossed into some dangerous territory. These disciples never returned to Brutus and were officially declared as traitors.

The end of the terrible twos

As summer approached, Milo had been nearing the end of the terrible two's. During the time, Milo would spend many hours, watching the Little Mermaid over and over again. This had been a reminder to Milo of that night over a year ago, when Amira was born and dedicated. This drove the babysitter and her daughter crazy, but would be quite a laugh years later. Being a Boy, and a boyish one at that, had befuddled many on why Milo love the Little Mermaid so much. Of course no one knew of the connection, let alone Milo remembering this dream as a small child. All he could truly remember was one night in his crib when the world was preparing for the Christmas Season, an angel appeared and took him off. Milo had for a long time this vague picture in his head of the city of Atlantica and the Temple dedicated so long ago, but never understood it. Milo had a stuffed Flounder doll that he absolutely adored, and slept with at night and during nap time. Milo had got this as a Christmas present the same year that the movie came out.

This is Milo's family. Milo's parents are Margaret and Ray Biancatello. The woman who is babysat Milo was Marilyn Shumacher. Margaret and Ray met Marylin through his sister Dianne, who lives on a street adjacent to Marilyn. Dianne has three boys Julian, Jesse and Rory. She had been divorced from a man named Tom, whom the nephews and nieces still called uncle. Marilyn is married to Ralf, and has two kids Sam and Courtney. They also have a poodle mix named Snuffles. Aunt Dianne and Marilyn's families had been family friends for a long time. This was before Milo was born or the Biancatello's had moved into the Neighborhood. As for established families from the Biancatello's there were two others. The second oldest was Rays brother Georgio and his wife Judy. They have two boys Corey and Rob. The third is Rays brother Mike and his wife Jackie. They have a boy Ben and a girl Emma. Emma is only three years older than Milo. Rob and Ben are very close, as they are very close in age and in the same year of school.

Milo's favorite song was "Under the Sea", which had been a perfect description of his personality as had developed. Milo from the beginning had been a stubborn child since he was able to say "I". Not that this was a bad thing, as he is one to know what he wants, and no one is going to change his mind. In fact, Milo saw Ariel as a role model, and greatly admired her strong will not to be swayed by a calypso timeshare advertisement. The funny thing was Milo had this mixed memory of Scuttle singing "Under the Sea", which of course was sung by Sebastian.

During that summer, Marilyn took Milo to Soak Town a few times when her kids had school picnics. Milo loved was Soak Town that reminded him of the Little Mermaid, obviously because of the nautical theme. Milo also had vague memories of a picnic area resembling an ampitheatre, some kiddie rides and with the water park, the kiddie area. At that time, Milo was still too little to go on the big slides. What Milo did remember was a kiddie pool with small slides, a red mushroom fountain, and some spongy toys.

Husisha's Vision

Another Seer known as Husisha spoke of a vision he had seen when having read the song "Under the Sea" of a lovesick warrior. This is the account according to Husisha: I saw this Spartan warrior, who cannot be lured to give up on his quest, to rescue his lover from Angra Manyu. Apollo advised this warrior "Move on, and take on some pragmatic ambitions". The warrior could not accept Apollo's offer of comfort. The warrior goes on a long journey to find his lover and met by many trials along the way.

Max had quite a chuckle about what he had heard, and stated "people do such crazy things when they are in love". Maelendil sighed a great sigh of uneasiness, knowing full well of some destiny his charges would have at this time. Maelendil devises that Max setup a play date in the future with a neighbor of the Charge's cousins, when the time comes. Oliver suggested that these television shows from the Friday Night lineup maybe of some help in the future.

The Prelude

On September 20th 1991, a new show had come to boot Full House out of the T G I F lineup, the television shows Family Matters and Step By Step predominated. Family Matters was actually a spinoff from the now silly Perfect Strangers, where Harriet Winslow the Elevator operator got her own show. Step By Step went in a direction of writing a show with a blended family when two characters with completely different families impulsively elope, despite one family is refined, and the other is blue collar.

When it comes to Disney, the studios re-released the 1961 classic One Hundred and One Dalmatians in theatres. To commemorate this milestone, Mcdonalds fast food restaurant featured One Hundred and One Dalmatians toys in their happy meals, and a 300 piece jigsaw puzzle based on the Movie poster was released. Disney was in the process of producing its second feature picture known as Beauty and the Beast. The world was first introduced to Beauty and the Beast, via the Jungle Book home video re-release previews. At this time, the first song from Beauty and the Beast the world was introduced to was the song "Belle", which is known as an "I am" song written as a minuet expressing discontentment with society full of sound and fury signifying nothing. Milo is the perfect representation this song, as we now learn that he is an idealist who will never say "Just the way it is" or "That's life". This will come to be fully apparent later in the story. For Milo, the standard repetitive lifestyle of constant repetition in order to get buy does not cut it. He is a romantic who needs to commit to meaningful pursuits and loves anything novel and exciting.

The New Families

Milo's paternal Grandparents are Rosa and Tony. Grandma Rosa came from two Italian Immigrant parents, and settled in the Little Italy of Noussonberg, back when the Suburb had been in its prime. Grandpa Tony on the other hand also had parents from Italy, who settled in Ciderpond. In fact, they owned this land that was once fields. Margaret is about Seven months pregnant with Milo's little sister. His maternal grandma is Pearl Schuster, and step Grandfather Paul, who is Pearls boyfriend. Paul had been a family friend with Grandma Pearl, and had been friends since Margaret and her siblings were children. In fact, Paul had walked Margaret down the Aisle at her and Ray's wedding. Milo's maternal grandfather is Clarence, who left Pearl when Margaret was seven, and moved to Orlando with his new wife Carol. Milo never knew Grandpa Clarence and his step Grandma Carol, whom she preferred to go by Maple instead of Grandma. The only time Milo had met Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol was when he was first born and they had stopped over when they were in town visiting Maple's family. However, Grandpa Clarence bought Milo a stuffed Grey bear, and made some wooden toys for him.

Sometime before the Summer of 1992, before a great change was to take place, Milo and his mother and father went on a short trip to visit his aunt Marie and uncle Matt O'malley. The O'malleys have a girl six months younger than Milo named Alicia and a nine month old Matthew named after his father. Marie is Ray's younger sister, who got married the same year along with another sister Michelle to Ottavio Filentino. This family also has a son Salvador three months younger than Milo and another son one year old named Gianni. The Aunt and Uncle who just got married are Leo and Jane. Leo is Ray's youngest brother. In fact, Uncle Leo was the best man in Ray's wedding.

During that Winter, Milo had very limited memories. Over Christmas, Milo remembered Marilyn taking him to Breakfast with Santa at the mall, and a man dressed in a snoopy costume. On Ash Wednesday, Marilyn took Milo to Church, which had confused him, considering some of the rites being quite different than he was familiar with. Plus Milo remembered creepy purple flags with white silouettes of nails, hammers and a cross.

The Leprechauns

At this time, another council had been held with Maelendil, Max, Oliver and Clurichain, to speak of what they had known. Clurichain is a small leprechaun, who is one of many species of small human-like creatures known as Mistivants. There are several different orders of Mistivants, who dwell in households of a particular family, usually throught the middle boy. What they had observed was that the prophecy that Husisha had spoken of recently was in the process. The council had discussed this new movie known as Beauty and the Beast, and what this meant. Clurichain currently resides in the United States with an Irish patriarch and spoke of the little girl's bedroom having Beauty and the Beast themes throughout the walls. Max inquired what this meant, and Maelendil explained that his charge would have to see this place. Max had this idea that Maelendil knew something that he did not. Maelendil told Max that he would find out by the springtide.

The Visit to the Omalleys

Getting back to the Biancatello's, the Omalley's live in a suburb an hour away similar to Ciderpond known as New Seneca. The O'Malleys had lived in this suburb after moving away from Aurora Ohio, due to an entrepreneurial offer for an office company. The irony of ironies is that Aunt Marie and cousin Alicia bear some resemblance to Zaida and Amira. Of course the resemblance was in no way genetic, but moreso superficial. One Saturday afternoon, the Biancatello's took a trip up to New Seneca. When the Biancatello's arrived, the O'Malley's greeted the Biancatello's. Aunt Marie and uncle Matt gave Milo with a One Hundred and One Dalmatian sippie cup that was put on the market in commemoration of the theatrical release and upcoming V H S. Being a small child, what transpired chronologically was not fully processed for Milo as he played with Alicia.

The next event to be remembered was going out to dinner at an Italian restaurant known as Paula and Italo Sanfrantella's family restaurant. The Waiter seated the two families to their table, which was located next to a mesmerizing mirror. To a small child, a mirror is quite a fascinating item, which turns out to have a long lasting legacy. This restaurant strongly resembled an Italian villa with yellow stucco wallpaper, vineyard paintings and restaurant booth dividers. What had been recounted is the family got a Gnocchi platter, while Matt jr could only eat cheerios. Milo slept in Alicia's room, which had all sorts of Beauty and the Beast themes.

The Next day, the whole family went to a strange church. The first thing Milo remembered was entering a vestibule with a crucifix on the wall. The next thing Milo remembered was seeing the crucifix before leaving the church. For some reason, Milo remembered the church being like a maze that took a while to get to the sanctuary. The final event recounted involved going to a mall. After Church, the Biancatello's and O'Malleys went to the New Seneca Mall. Upon entry, Milo noticed this Mall full of staircases, stores and restaurants. The next thing Milo remembered was going into a glass elevator, which he remembered being outside the mall.

The episode of Talespin known as "It came from beneath the Sea Duck" would remind Milo of this trip, as the episode had a glass elevator. The legacy of this trip would be that Milo would return to these memories for consolation in the preschool times to come. As to why this memory was so powerful, no one knows. As to what was so consoling? This had been a great mystery. But this is the time of paradise for Milo and most children his age, where the Family Unit was the place where love came first and all things revolved.
Chapter 5: The Khara's move in

The Announcement Sequel

The time had come to build a bridge between the Island of Atlantis and the mainland. On Atlantis, the Temple had been erected, that houses four different walls as mentioned two chapters ago. The seer Junous had received instructions from the angelic ministers Dyonisus and Demeter. The instructions stated that the bridge needed to go upward on a slight angle to the Pedmontus Cliff overlooking the legendary city known as Londinium. This bridge was sustained by a set of doric columns and the path was made of Roman Arches. Arybatas from the Annogrammatron from the Fifth Order with expertise in engineering was responsible for placing the columns and arches in place. Ludovum of the Fourth Annogrammatron Order, and expert in architecture carved several shamrocks throughout the railings of the bridge.

At the completion of the bridge, Ludovum, Arybatas, Oliver, Max and Maelendil walked up the bridge to Pedmontus Cliff. To their surprise, the Jinns found a community of dormant Mistivants known as Cobolds. The Cobolds have some relatives dwelling on earth, mostly in Germany and regions inhabited by significant German populations. The Jinn found out that the Cobolds had been dormant in eggs, as their region was a dry and desolate plateau unable to sustain life. The only way for the Cobolds to hatch, is if the environment is cleansed and the air is purified.

Arybatas and Ludovum designed and erected a great circular wall encompassing this region of the planned gardens. Max contributed a shrine to the Bull Tarsus, while Oliver contributed a shrine to the Angelic minister Aprodite. The Garden was not growing, despite having waited for great many months. To the Jinns fortune, a tribe of local tribe of Bees contributed a candle they had worked on. This candle could only come to life if lit. One night at sunset, the Jinns processed the Candle to a golden stand crafted by Aprodite as a gratitude for their dedication. The Bull had struck a torch made of dead branches with fire in gratitude for his dedication. At this, the Jinn raised the torch to the candle, and the grounds were lit. Maelendil dedicated these shrines and called for this story to be remembered throughout the ages.

At this point, a great rain poured on the land, giving way to fertilization of the dead land. Over the course of the weeks, the Jinns tilled the land and planted seeds. In time, much foliage grew, and the air was purified. Within weeks, the Cobolds hatched and dwelled in the garden in long ages of peace. The Garden was secured by the Jinns, where the Cobolds lived in a time of peace and security. All the Cobolds knew was of stories of this mythical city known as Londinium, via rumors heard from the air.

The Khara's and Lydia

In the Spring of 1992, Margaret had just given birth to her second child name Lydia. The night Margaret went into labor, Ray called Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony to babysit Milo. When Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony arrived, Grandpa Tony put Milo to bed, as it was quite late at night. Milo was a bit confused, as he did not understand why his Grandparents were over, but had to go to sleep. Ray arrived home that night, to announce that Margaret had given birth to a baby girl.

The next day, Ray and Milo went to the Hospital to visit Margaret, and his new little Sister Lydia. After Margaret came home, Grandma Pearl came over every day to help out with the new Baby.

Shortly after Easter, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy were named the Godparents at Lydia's Baptism. Milo sat with Grandma Rosa, Grandpa Tony, Grandma Pearl and Grandpa Paul during the rite. Milo did not really understand what was going on, as the Church was empty, and he was not sitting with his parents. After the rite, the Biancatello's, Grandparents and Godparents met the Schumachers at a banquet hall across the street from the Church.

The second great event of significance was that a family from the Pashtun community moved in next door to the Biancatello's whose last name is the Khara's. This was a family of a husband and wife with two young boys. The husbands name is Maziyar, the wife's name is Kamaria, and the two boys are Razoul and Navid. As destiny would have it, this family is good friends with the Sassani's. The Biancatello's and the Khara's became friends immediately upon their move in. In fact, they had brought over gifts to commemorate the birth of Lydia. This is what happened when the Khara's brought gifts over. Maziyar and Kamaria bought Lydia a Mickey Mouse play gym that looked like a swingset. As is also the custom so to not make the other child feel jealous, the Khara's gave Milo a bucket of large crayons. Razoul and Navid took Milo in the newly added basement to play.

The previous summer, the Sassani's moved to Ciderpond, as Zaida was offered a job at the Jamusohn exclusive university. The Khara's community in Ciderpond consists of Pashtuns, Elamites and Kurds, and in general, speakers of Indo-Iranian Languages who are part of the Farsi Association of Ciderpond. Indo-Iranian Languages are a family of languages related to North Indian and European languages. It is believed that the Indo-Aryan culture began in the Caucasus, and one group went into Europe, while the other went into Iran and India. Getting back to the point, the Khara's were the first friends they had made when first moving to Ciderpond.

During this summer, it was inevitable that Milo would have got some glimpse of Amira, the mystery girl. Whether they actually met or not is a great mystery that has been lost to the past. This summer the Disney Singalong "Be Our Guest" was released that very June, which plays an important role concerning the revelations of things that are and what is to come over the years. This Singalong had been a gift from the Seer order of the Jinns to the Biancatello's for their hospitality they had shown to the Khara's. Oliver had seen that popular prejudice in the United states against people from the Middle East, countries with significant Muslim populations and dark skinned Caucasians. Much had come from an increase of Islamic terrorist groups in the Middle East. Much had come from Fundamentalist Doomsday sects in the United States in competition with Islam and the desire to usher in the apocalypse through starting wars in the Middle East and take possession of the Holy Land. Much has come from greed centric interests, courtesy of major oil companies such as Haliburton to dominate the oil fields of the Middle East. The Biancatello's knew well that the Khara's were nothing like the popular society had told them, and broke the social taboo's against inhospitality and prejudice similar to how the servants from Beauty and the Beast broke the rules and showed hospitality to Belle, which lead to great rewards.

The earthlings meeting Vision

Here is how Milo and Amira remember first crossing paths. Milo being a three year old child at the time was under certain boundaries and was forbidden to cross the line and leave the backyard without an adult. Being the curious toddler, Milo saw a bunch of people gathered in the Khara's backyard. At the very back of the patio was the neighbor Maziyar, and likewise his good friend Kazeem with two Elamite men and a Kurdish man. The Kurdish man and one of the Elamite men had a baby on their lap. In a small area of the Patio were three toddlers playing, two were the daughters of two of the Elamites, and the third was Amira. Something drew Milo over to want to play with Amira. Much to their surprise, Milo, Amira and one of the Elamite children were wearing Beauty and the Beast themed shirts. Milo had a picture of Beast, Amira a picture of Belle and this Elamite child a picture of Lumiere.

The Jinns overseeing this vision were Maelendil, Oliver, Max, the hopeless romantic Andreas from the Fourth Annagrammatron order and his wife Vesta, a compassionate deliverer from the second Annogrammatron order. Andreas and Max started to joke that Milo had a crush on Amira. Vesta interjected that she sees Amira and Milo as destined to be deliverers, to which Oliver agreed that such a thing would be utterly more constructive than some Romance. Both Andreas and Vesta had both given the screenwriters and character designers for Lady and the Tramp as early as the late 1930's. Andreas reminded Vesta of how he gave the studio the idea of the idea for the Candle lit dinner, and inspired the song "Bella Notte". Andreas also reminded Vesta about how Lady and the Tramp was one of the few utterly romance based movies, and things turned out great for them without the need for some battle of good vs. Evil. Vesta then reminded Andreas that she did setup the plot with a story line, and that Tramp rescued Lady from some vicious street dogs, and Lady in the end rescued Tramp from the life of living on the streets as an unwanted mutt. Luckily Maelendil interjected and told both Andreas and Vesta that they both had points.

The Seer Husishah discreetly called Vesta over, as he had something urgent and utterly private to talk about concerning something he had seen. Husishah had read the shrines in the garden and the shirts that Milo, Amira and the Elamite girl were wearing. Husishah knew well that Vesta was the brains behind the character Belle in the movie "Beauty and the Beast". In fact, Belle had been the spitting image of Vesta. Husishah had confided in Vesta that he had seen a vision what would likely happen in years to come. Husishah had explained to Vesta that her character as portrayed in the movie may have some earth based occurrence, and that the shirts the children were wearing were not an accidental coincidence, but were worn for a reason. Husishah handed Vesta a scroll that only she could open, in which the seals would fall off when the day of revelation was at hand. As the rules dictate, the meeting was to remain top secret until the proper time.

The Seers Secret Meeting

The Seer of doom Yuriyama had summoned Maelendil, three Cobolds, Vesta, Herb the optimist from the Ninth order of the annogrammatrons and Mairead the efficient from the Eighth order of Annogrammatrons for a secret meeting. Vesta and Herb had offered themselves as the inspiration for the Mary Poppins character Bert, while Vesta and Mairead had offered themselves as the inspiration for Mary. Yuriyama informed them that the Seers had given the Biancatello's this gift of the Disney Singalong as a thanks for their hospitality to the Khara's. He had also informed them that the Mary Poppins song is spot on of what is to come very soon. Vesta knew well that this meant that she had a new mission of deliverance along with Mairead and Herb. Maelendil explained what had also happened with the Legendary city of Londinium. Maelendil explained how the realm of Kebsuda, which had been his first gift to his charges had been invaded by a series of Rakshasajinns. This city had been hijacked by the Hypocordos. The Hypocordo's are the Rakshasajinns once part of the Sixth order of the Annogrammatrons, but had given into cowardice and chose security over excellence. Londinium had once been a city that excelled in the arts, science, philosophy and culture until the Hypocordo's took over. Excellence had been halted for the sake of security, and has turned into a financial cesspool. Yuriyama explained that the prophecies that he received tell that the cesspool Londinium resembling what could one day happen in the United States.

Maelendil then brought them back to the point on the Charges. Vesta admitted that she wishes that she could protect the charges from ever having to come in contact with danger. Vesta knew well how such exposure to the dark side breaks the primordial trust. Maelendil explained how this was prone to happen some day, but the primordial trust would still last side by side with a strong skepticism. Vesta then explains how she had seen before the experience where one is introduced to negativity for the first time, and how that oneness seems so utterly broken.

After the meeting, Yuriyama called Maelendil over to share some dark tidings after the others had left. Yuriyama informed Maelendil that he had seen a vision of utter chaos and theivery at the hands of Hubritaiji and their fallen masters of the Angelic realm. The Hubritaiji were once part of the Annagrammatrons of the Fifth order, but became intellectually arrogant to the point that they had a perverse transcendence from the realm of forms to this realm of abstractions full of nothingness. The Hubritaiji gave up their shape and the only form that they have left is a hand in order to manipulate the world of form on earth and in the world of the Jinn.

Yuriyama explained to Maelendil that the Winnie the Pooh from the Singalong resembles his vision of what will one day come in future years, particularly from a monster known as the Kronos. Any Jinn knows well that the Hubritaiji are not a monster that can be easily reckoned with, and not able to fight on their own. But Maelendil knew well that the only way the Hubritaiji's could fight is if they had a host controlling them. As the Jinn know well, Hubritaiji's have no will of their own, but have powers to manipulate reality as the mortals know it in horrible ways, should the host will it. Yuriyama and Maelendil agreed that this horrible tiding was never to be shared until the time comes. Yuriyama explained how terrible things have come when doomsayers come before they are needed. According to Yuriyama, these doomsaying predictions turn into a self fulfilling prophecy, often at the hands of the doomsayers. Maelendil understood how such a prophecy of a frightening future would be too horrible for mere mortals to handle, especially small children. Not to mention, had this fearful future had been revealed too soon, the Charges may avoid their destiny, making things much worse. This had been the great burden that Maelendil alone was to carry, but also a great blessing, as he could at least do something, despite his efforts never able to measure to great significance. Not to mention, that this Mary Poppins prospect of money and toil would not be so desirable.

Milo's Third Summer

As to whether Milo had seen Amira, it seems pretty likely that he had at least gotten a glimpse. As to exactly when that happened is not known. During this summer, Margarets sister Bertha and husband Wayne were driving from Arizona to Ciderpond and then to their new home in Alaska. Uncle Wayne was in the service, and had previously been stationed in Arizona and transferred to Alaska. In fact, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl visited the Rumcorns in Easter just two springs previous. On the way to Alaska, the Rumcorns decided to visit Grandma Pearl. Wayne and Bertha have two children, Kyle and Kevin. Kevin is only a few weeks older than Milo, while Kyle is three years older.

On some other occasions, Ray and Margaret had some weddings to go to. On one occasion, Corey and his friend June babysat Milo. Then on another occasion, Coreys cousin from Aunt Judys side of the Family also babysat. Milo only remembered wanting to play with a ceramic pitcher Margaret and Ray got on their Honeymoon in Mexico. On another occasion, Marilyns son Sam babysat Milo, while they were at a wedding for one of Ray's cousins. Before leaving, Margaret and Ray bought Milo a milkbox of licorice allsorts.

On the Fourth of July Weekend, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy were out of town, and Rob stayed with the Biancatellos. The Biancatellos were invited to Grandma Pearls cousin Elaines for a Fourth of July Party. Milo has a great great grandmother living, who is Grandma Gladys Dudenhoeffer. Her husband died ten years previous from cancer, as he was a chronic smoker and drinker. Gladys has a daughter Mary, who is Grandma Pearl's aunt. Mary's husband is John Williamson, and they have six kids, including Elaine and several Grandchildren. At the party, Rob was photographed with the other Williamson grandchildren. The major event Milo remembers from the party was Rob swimming in the Jaxons pool in his gym trunks. The Williamsons had been the only other family from Margarets side except for Grandma Pearl and Grandma Gladys. In fact, Aunt Mary and Uncle John sent Milo a birthday card the previous year for his third birthday. After this party, the Biancatellos went to Margarets co-worker Ron, who had thrown a party and invited them. The party was mostly Margarets co-workers. This house was located near one of the colleges that launched fireworks. This picnic was located in a backyard with a high rising deck, as is common with many split level houses.

Later that summer, the Biancatellos and Grandma Pearl went on a trip to Cedar Point. Milo had vague memories, such as Soak City kiddie pool, their hotel the Breakers, and a Berenstain Bears show. On the way home, Margaret and Ray decided it was time to buy a van, as their car was too crowded. A few days later, Ray and Margaret dropped Milo off at uncle Mikes while they were shopping for a new van. Emma played with Milo for the duration of the babysitting. At this same time, the family got a new Television set that lasted for six years.

By this time, Milo had his fourth Birthday and would soon be starting Pre-school at St. Timothy's along with Salvatore. For Milo's birthday, he remembered getting a fake Mcdonalds play toy and a play cash register.

During that summer, Margaret's brother Doug came in town with his daughter and two step daughters. His daughters name is Dana and his step daughters are Nikkita and Kalisha. Uncle Doug was recently divorced, as his ex-wife Hortenzia had been a recovering prostitute when she met him. However, she returned to prostitution and had a child with a black man, thereby exposing the prostitution.

Over this summer, the Jinns who oversaw this time, including Maelendil, Max, Oliver, the Seers and Annagrammatrons knew that this was a time of peace. Seer or not, there was one matter that could be utterly predicted. The Jinns all knew what the Sleeping Beauty Song had established. Like the movie, both Aurora and Phillip had met as small children and remembered eachother as "Once upon a Dream". The Jinns understood that this cinematic potentiality had been founded on earth and would continue, thanks to the Khara's destined move.

Chapter 6: Paradise Lost

As it came to pass, the time of toddlerhood was near its ending. This is the account of what transpired over this time. Milo had just started Pre-School at the local Church along with his cousin Salvatore. On a more joyful note, Zaida was pregnant with her second child, therefore giving Amira a new little sister. In Disney news, Aladdin was near the end of producing the third Film of the Disney Renaissance known as Aladdin. The Simpsons had reached its fourth season after a successful third season and a somewhat morbid Second season. This season of the Simpsons produced the classic episode known as "Lisa's first word", which had been quite similar to the events to transpire at the time. This was the episode retelling the story of Lisa's birth. In this episode, the Simpsons are living in the inner city of Springfield, and Marge gets pregnant with a new baby. The family moves to their new home, and Bart becomes jealous when Homer moves him into a scary clown bed, drops him off at the Flanders while Marge is in labor, and is ignored by Aunt Patty and Selma.

The Garden Invasion

As feared by the Seers and the Cobolds, their paradise garden that had been built in the previous chapter could not forever be kept safe. Many of the Cobolds had some curiosity about what lay outside the walls of the garden, but not enough to climb over the walls to see what lay beyond. The only Cobolds who knew of Londinium were those three that attended the secret meeting not so long ago. The Cobolds have a strict code of never refusing to welcome strangers, no matter how suspicious they were. At the time, the population of the Cobolds had begun to increase, as the clean air and the garden had made them a bit too fertile. This increase in population started to create inner conflicts within the community, as the increase in population created some conflicting interests. One day, a stranger made his way up to the bridge and up to the door to the garden, waiting to be let in. Most of the Cobolds sensed a great cold iciness in this strangers voice, but the elders insisted that this stranger was to be welcomed in, and that the other Cobolds were just being prejudiced and close minded. The elders got a scroll from the stranger, who stated that he knew that the Cobold community had some disagreement, and his business was to assist in resolving the conflict. The other Cobolds knew well that this was a great scam, but the elders still refused to listen, despite the overall plea.

Upon the entry, this stranger revealed that he was part of the Londinium Municipalities, and that by order of their leader Hilectivus, the Cobolds of the Foerster Clan needed to come with him. This stranger was actually a Hypocordo, who brought backup of creatures known as snatchers to take the Foerster clan away in case there was resistance. At this, the Foerster clan was knapped by the Snatchers and taken into Londinium. In the center of Londinium, there was an tower with a giant crystal ball with Hilectivus keeping a stern eye on the residents of Londinium.

The experience for the Foerster Cobolds had been a horrible experience. The Foerster Cobold's were placed under the power of Rakshasajinns known as Maludico's. The Maludico's once were part of the first annogrammatron order who took their calling too seriously to the point that they believed their virtue specialty was more important than all others. They had become excessive in their positions, and sacrificed and condemned any virtues that did not fit into their excess. Over time, the Maludico's became more and more angry to the point where their skin turned a scaly red. The Maludico's refused to renounce their pride, and booted from the council of the first order annogrammatrons.

These Maludico had a strictly reciprocal loyalty to the Hypocordo's, but were quite zealous in defending their honor, and quite offended about the Foersters who did not comply with their wishes. The Maludico's constantly berated and lectured the Foerster clan, and constantly claimed the role of being their elders. This landed the Forester clan in big trouble, when they were subjected to a prisonlike institution.

The Earthlings Memory

This is the official story of how the charges remember how Paradise had been lost. As it came to pass, Zaida was in the final term of her pregnancy, and therefore the time was declared for Amira to transfer from the crib to the bed in order to make room for the new baby. So the day came where Kassim built Amira her new big girl bed, and was wearing a sweater similar to the sweater Chaz wore in the Rug rats episode "Under Chuckies Bed". This was the bed that Kassim built: behind the bed was a wooden billboard cutout of Jafar from Aladdin, and an Aladdin themed bedspread. For days Amira is having repetitive flashbacks of being babysat by obnoxious holy rollers while her mom and dad are at birthing classes, Aladdin nightmares and the Jafar billboard. This only makes Amira jealous and distraught about the new baby coming.

Maelendil, Oliver, Max, the seer Pandora, Beverly the protective of the Second Annogrammatron Order, Johannes the Contemplative of the Ninth Annogrammatron order and and Bartemius the Revolutionary of the Eighth Annogrammatron order had overseen this vision. Pandora knew well that this vision was like the myth many storytellers of past ages had known of the awakening of self consciousness that comes about at the conclusion of toddlerhood. Amongst the disciples of Abraham, they knew this story of the first people who ate of the tree of knowledge and first realized that they were naked, therefore becoming expelled from Eden. Amongst those of the East, they recount the story of the four sights when the young Prince first ventured outside the walls of the palace. There had been countless tales throughout different cultures and religions to emphasize this transition.

Beverly's imput was on the childs experience of moving from the crib to the bed, and how it often happens when a new baby is on the way, whether or not the toddler is ready to. Beverly then brings up the Simpsons Episode "Lisa's first word", when Bart has insomnia, due to his scary bed with a cutout of a creepy clown behind him, and the Rug rats episode "Under Chuckie's Bed", when Chaz accidentally leaves his patterned sweater under Chuckie's new bed, and is in a position that it resembles a monster. The imput from Johannes is that at this time, children first experience themselves revolving around anothers world, such as experiencing the birth of a new sibling or starting school. The imput from Bartemius is that the exposure to school has put them in a situation where they became subject to such structure and uniformity that they never experienced before. Pandora suspects that the Aladdin themes of the Vision foretell a time when History would one day repeat itself. Pandora discreetly informs Maelendil of what she suspects, and hands him a scroll that will loosen itself when the time comes. The only thing Pandora can explain is that there will be one like the bed billboard to keep a creepily close and unnecessary watch.

The first semester of Pre-School

At this time, Milo and Salvatore had both began Preschool at St. Timothy's Catholic School. Milo had some very limited memories of when he began school. The first thing Milo remembered was Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony mentioning that he would soon start school at this building. Before school started, Milo had been taken over to the classroom after Church one Sunday morning. All the pre-schoolers met the teachers, and they had been in the middle of a prayer. As for the first day, Milo barely understood what was going on, and remembered Margaret asking if he wanted to go to school. If anything, Pre-school was a bit of a strange experience for Milo. Over Halloween, there had been a costume day, which Salvatore had not attended, due to being a bit frightened. Over November, when Aladdin first hit theatres, Ray and Uncle Ottavio took Milo and Salvatore to see the movie. This had been when there was a theatre in the mall.

Milo and Salvatore's teachers were a warm lady who had been a neighbor Mrs. Savello and a coldly distant teacher Mrs. Slovak. The memories of the Christmas season had been vague at best. Milo did remember Marilyn giving him a Snoopy Christmas themed Toothbrush container and soap dish. Before Christmas, the Pre-schoolers were in a Christmas concert held in St. Timothy's Church. Before the concert, the Biancatello's went to Mcdonalds for dinner, and Milo got a Goofy toy from the new show Goof Troop, which just premiered that fall. As for the Concert, Milo was confused about being dropped off at school at night, and noticed an Elamite girl. Milo also remembered making a treat bag for Marilyn and Ralf of an unwrapped nutty bar and an unpeeled banana that was a week old. Keep in mind that Milo did not understand food sanitation or the need to refrigerate fruit at four years old.

Max's retirement

After Milo's first Christmas in Pre-School, at the dawn of 1993, the time had come for Max's retirement, and to move onto training to eventually become a Sophunum. As the custom dictates, once a Puerubdi grows past their youth, they must retire, as they have grown past that stage and need to move to the pre-elderhood level. Usually this means that it will take up to at least a year for another Puerubdi to get voted in. Max's last Winter holiday had been quite glorious. What had been remembered was not so clear, and had taken three years to recount, let alone comprehend the last moments of Max's position as a Puerubdi. The period after Max's retirement had been recognized as a time of much dullness, but quite a fair amount of peace. On earth, life had become a bit over-predictable, and nothing new had occurred. On earth, Children became restlessly curious. Doors to strange rooms, familiar buildings barred access to, and toys impossible to take apart had become these subjects of fascination, and the possibilities imagined were vast. Many of these mysteries were revealed, only to find nothing. Such buildings were revealed to be endless halls full of rooms no more interesting than closet. Toys had been revealed as full of empty spaces with no surprises.

The Last Semester at St. Timothy's

After Christmas, the Schumachers adopted a small white kitten whom they named Voltaire. Milo once played with the Kitten, and moved his head up and down. Voltaire had been in his cylinder two story playhouse. Whether Milo moved his head up, Voltaire would jump to the top story. If Milo moved his head down, Voltaire would go to the bottom story. Voltaire had an expression on his face that reminded him of his great great uncle John. Milo then developed this idea of getting a cat and naming him John.

During this spring, Aunt Jane and Uncle Leo had their first child Eustace in the spring of 1993. Milo's first year of preschool was with St. Timothy's, which was somewhat more appealing to Milo, as Salvatore was in his class. St. Timothy's is the parish the Biancatellos attend. Plus this was a place of familiarity, and would either be picked up by Aunt Michelle or Grandpa Tony. Grandpa Tony often took Milo to Mcdonalds and back to his and Grandma Rosa's house. Sometimes, Milo would go back to Aunt Michelles.

Around this time, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol were in town for a funeral and visited with the Biancatello's briefly. This funeral had been for one of Grandpa Clarence's relatives. Ray and Margaret took Milo and Lydia to the funeral home. This had been the first time Milo remembered ever meeting Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. Milo got a bit confused, as he was just beginning to understand what the whole concept of Grandparents meant, and wondered why he had three sets of Grandparents. Margaret told Grandpa and Maple about a trip to Disneyworld they were planning within the next year. Grandpa Clarence insisted the Biancatello's stay with them, as he could get them free tickets. Margaret felt obligated, even though that had not been hers or Ray's plans.

Over that Spring, Milo got some new Disney Singalongs, including Disneyland Fun and Zip-A-De-Doo-Dah. Lydia on the other hand had her first Birthday party. All Milo really remembered was Margaret making a set of treat bag, going with Ray to pick up some Bread and beer, and Grandma Pearl arriving early with a doll present. On one occasion during the Spring, Milo met fellow charge Michael O'Brien at Salvatore's neighbor Nate Superschmit's house. After playing with Nate, Salvatore and Michael, Aunt Michelle had Milo and Salvatore come back to her house, as she had to take Milo back to Marilyns. Milo was not too happy about this as he wanted to stay at the Superschmits. When Milo got back to Marilyn's, he had quite a temper tantrum, and started ranting about how he hates girls.

Deliverance

During this time, Maelendil held a meeting with Vesta, Herb and Oliver. Herb admitted things had become quite quiet with Max's retirement. Oliver admitted that he had missed having Max around, and how he always kept things interesting. Oliver explained that he is not so capable of creating the excitement that Max created, and would be long retired by the time that a new Puerubdi would be elected. Vesta told how she had not been a fan of the teacher Slovak. Vesta told Maelendil that Slovak had been a bit strict with pre-schoolers, and does not seem to understand how they think. Vesta had brought up Slovak complaining to Michelle about her son deliberately refusing to sing during song time. Oliver asked if Michelle went along with this, and Vesta explained that she thought the teacher was acting overly dramatic. Vesta explained that this is why kids often times hate teachers. Maelendil gave the stance that it is best to start the kids young, and understand that people in positions of authority are not infallible. Oliver explained his worries that such authorities will embitter this generation of authority altogether, especially when they are at an age when they need more guidance. Herb complains that authorities tend to disturb the peace, and only exult themselves above others, with no accountability.

Herb then reminisces about indigenous peoples who lived in peace and innocence until someone decides that they know better than everyone else, and then decide what is tolerated and what is not tolerated. Herb accuses these authorities bring evil into the world when they start establishing these narrow and intolerant standards and impose a shame sentence for not fulfilling these requirements. Herb then explains how it is the imperialists who make it necessary for the ordinary man to have to become the monster like the imperialist in order to protect themselves. Maelendil corrects Herb about how indigenous societies and small children have just as much access to the curse of evil as adults and those in indigenous societies have, and the primal innocence is just as accessible to the adult and the civilized man as it is to the child and the indigenous man. Maelendil explains that what happens is that civilization and adulthood can easily become complex, and the deep simplicity can be harder to access. Herb then mentions that much negativity and evil comes about from those who come with tidings of doom. Herb gives the example of how those fear mongering religious movements did not create peace and justice, but only manifested violent systems that ended up creating more negativity. Herb then admits that these doomsayers always claim to represent the light, while the other side is represented as the darkness. According to Herb, the doomsayers are the ones who get mocked, while those who bear both the dark and the light are the ones who end up getting killed. Maelendil explains his theory that mortals fear what they cant control, and the only way they can handle negativity is to dispose of the dark side. When the darkness cannot be denied, it is feared and the representatives are killed. Maelendil brings up how Martin Luther King Jr was only killed, because he did not seek to put the blacks or whites on pedestals, nor totally stigmatize either side.

One bright day, the seer of triumph Azeyas called an emergency meeting with Maelendil, Oliver, and Vesta of the Second Annogrammatron Order. Azeyas had a vision of the prophecy of the destruction of the legendary city. It had long been feared that Hypocordo's most greedy would inhabit the city, and that meritocratic Maludico's were planning to emigrate to this city, and achieve high places in business and society. Azeyas had announced that he had found Maugris the Magician of the Eighth Annogrammatron order, who possesses enough power to raise the weak of the society rise to greatness and conquer the system. What Azeyas knew well was that Maugris was the influence of the Genie in Aladdin, and like the movie possesses the power to raise the powerles. Azeyas summoned Maugris to the meeting, and offered her this task. Maugris accepted the task, and Maelendil displayed a great triumph in his eyes at the news. Maugris promised that she would return within the next summertide with a plan of deliverance to raise up a hero.

According to Maugris, smaller communities had been influenced by foul powers, and had such a tight grip that no mere mortal could unleash themselves. According to Maugris, a set of Hypocordo's led by a dark Maludico were infiltrating these particular communities, and had children under a dark guilt spell to think that the systems of tyranny were for their own good. Maugris promised that she would soon return, and use this curse to the victims advantage.

Pre-School Year Two

The next year from 1993-1994, Milo went to this institutionalized pre-school known as West Mesa. Ray and Margaret took Milo out of St. Timothy's, as they had not been fond of Mrs. Slovak. When Milo first started at West Mesa, Ray had been in Seattle for a business trip. Frankly, Milo had not been very happy at this school, and often thought about the Filentino's and his trip to the O'Malley's from when he was three. West Mesa had been a place of unfamiliarity for Milo, and the teachers were a bit strict. At the very beginning of school, Milo had been turned off, as many of the teachers had a less than warm look. This is often the funny thing about institutions as such, blatantly sterile, impersonal, and full of incompetent authorities claiming the right to take parental roles, when they never parented a day in their life. This is the time Milo started to become more distrusting of authority. Some sociologists and counselors have claimed that the lack of good role models and legitimate authorities would lead to a rebellion even greater than the ones of the 1960's. According to some, this had created a generation full of kiddults. Otherwise, every morning the teacher put Barney on Television. Milo had not even liked Barney, and became bored with the show only a few months ago. As to what happened, no one really knew what happened. Milo just one day decided that he did not like the show anymore, and wanted to get rid of all his Barney toys. When it comes to anyone over six, the reason is obvious that the show is just annoying, with unoriginal songs, one dimensional perkiness and dumbed down plots.

That November, Aunt Bertha gave birth to her thirdborn Bruce. Aunt Bertha had a Sepsis scare, and Grandma Pearl went on an emergency trip to Alaska in case this was a mortal situation. As it was, it was a false alarm, and Grandma Pearl got an unexpected vacation. In fact, Ray had called the Rumcorns, as they had heard no information and Uncle Wayne explained informed him that Aunt Bertha was fine, and that her and Grandma Pearl were out shopping.

As for Christmas, Grandma Pearl went back to Alaska for the Holiday. Milo had quite a list of gifts, such as this annoying game "Mr. Bucket", which looked much cooler on TV, and some fake Mcdonalds set. As for Christmas Eve, the Biancatello's went to Church, and then over to another neighbors for their family Christmas Eve party. Milo was given a stuffed Monkey. As for his Christmas presents, the Mr. Bucket was pretty disappointing, as it did not sing like in the commercial.

Oliver's retirement

As it came to pass, Oliver's time of retirement was near. The Senexits agree to step down when their agreement ends, as they have a tendency to become quite rigid and authoritarian if they are in office too long. Due to their willingness to renounce the office of Senexit, they move onto the level of elderhood. Oliver retired a few days after Christmas, as the agreement dictated.

After Oliver's retirement, the Jinn in training Brutus had began to campaign for the office of the Senexit. Brutus started many campaigns to get himself into office, advocating order. This had been a time of great anxiety and fear on earth, as there was no Senexit to keep stability. With no Puerubdi, there was nothing to dampen the load of fear, and the only source of security came from Brutus constant fear mongering campaigns. As to whether Brutus has a good or evil agenda has not been revealed. Maelendil did not take Brutus too seriously, and thought that he was just too young to be taking on responsibilities. With Oliver's retirement, things were not going well at all. Without either a Senexit or a Puerubdi, earth was in a state of utter chaos, that the mortals would have been willing to place trust in Brutus. Yet the mortals were quite fearful of the kind of order Brutus represented, as they knew the cost of such order was the loss of anything that made order worthwhile.

The End of West Mesa

West Mesa had no facility of their own, and they rented space at some creepy old church grounds. This facility had some danger around every corner, whether steep stairs, caustic cleaning supplies, poisonous plants or a basement off limits. This facility created a sense of a dangerous world. Not to mention, the school had taught them all about natural disasters such as floods and tornadoes.

Milo had his up's and downs at West Mesa. Milo still had frequent flashbacks to St. Timothy's and his days before starting school. On a couple occasions, Milo had gotten disciplined for some stupid things small children are often guilty of. One particular day, Milo ran into a teacher who constantly punished him. That same afternoon, Milo jumped off a plastic picnic table, procuring another teacher's anger. That afternoon, when the students were getting ready to leave, these two teachers were waiting for Ray to come and pick Milo up. Both teachers told Ray that Milo had a bad day. On the way home, Ray asked Milo if this was true. After that, Milo did not like either teacher, and had to be transferred to another room.

Late that spring, the Biancatellos went on a vacation to Orlando and they stayed with Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. As we remember, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol invited the Biancatello's to stay with them. One Saturday morning, the Biancatello's left for Toledo to catch their plane. For Milo and Lydia, this was destined to be a time of endless spoiling, and going to Disney parks. Milo had wanted to go to Disney World, as he had seen the Disney Singalong "Disneyland Fun". Milo did not comprehend the difference between Walt Disney World and Disneyland. On the trip, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol took the Biancatello's to the Magic Kingdom on the first day. The Biancatello's went on such rides like Snow White's Scary adventure, Splash Mountain, Country Bears, and the Haunted Mansion. Lydia got a bit frightened with the ride. Milo on the other hand thought the ride was very cool.

Frankly, Ray was not impressed with Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol's neighborhood, as it was a pretty bad area within walking distance to a plaza full of strip clubs. Not to mention, both Margaret and Ray were a bit annoyed with Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol, as they got moving slow in the mornings before visiting the parks. Naturally, Clarence and Carol did not care to get to the park early, as they had visited this park many times before. Plus this was awkward for Margaret, considering that she had not known Grandpa Clarence since she was seven.

In the middle of their trip, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol took the Biancatello's to the JFK Space Station. Otherwise, they later went to MGM Studio's, which Milo confused with the Magic Kingdom. A few days before heading back, Ray and Margaret went to Epcot without Milo and Lydia. Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol took the kids for the day and took them to a park. The day the Biancatello's left, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol took them to Breakfast with Mickey, and Lake Buena Vista, which is now "Downtown Disney". After Lunch, the Biancatello's headed to the Airport, and Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol met them there to say goodbye.

Returning had been quite traumatic for Milo, as he had to go back to this sterile school. Frankly, Milo believed that he would be staying at Disney World indefinitely and never return to West Mesa. After returning from Orlando, Milo never cared for flying. Milo had been plagued with nightmares about airports and leaving Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. In fact, Milo's most recountable nightmares occurred the Friday before Jesse's graduation party.
Chapter 7: The Halfway Point

When it came to West Mesa, Milo was a bit better off in his new class, as he was now only there for daycare. By this time, the Pre-school season had long ended. By the middle days of the summer, things had begun to look up. Some time in the Middle of the Summer, the Biancatello's went to Ray and Margaret's company picnic at Seewoulden. The Thursday before going to the park, Ray picked Milo up, and he told Milo to tell his new teacher where he would be going this weekend. Since Milo forgot about Seewoulden, he said that he was going to the Barbers. The teacher gave Milo a smirk, and Ray reminded him about Seewoulden. This had been the first year Milo was tall enough to go on some of the larger slides at Soak Town. Otherwise, it now felt more like summer, such as going sailing on their other neighbors sailing boat, and Margaret taking some days off to take Milo and Lydia on excursions such as the Toy Store. Over that summer, Uncle Doug and his daughters came in town a couple times, such as for the fourth of July. Other times, the Biancatello's went on some day trips, such as taking Rob on a day trip to a nature center and hiking trails.

This is the account of Milo's Sixth birthday shortly before entering Kindergarten. A few days after or before the Birthday, Marilyn took Milo, his two year old sister Lydia and two other children to Chuck E. Cheese. These two children were Shamus and Charlie Delaney. The parents are Roger and Denise. Marilyn had began babysitting this family when Milo was two years old. In fact, the Delaneys had lived just up the street from the Biancatello's, and moved to a different house a few months ago.

The morning before going to Chuck E. Cheese, the children watched the Little Mermaid and Peter. Peter Pan also was re-released the same year Amira was born. The song "Daughters of Triton" stuck out the most for Milo, along with the song "You can fly". Chuck E. Cheese had been one of Milo's best memories all summer, after a traumatic return from Disney World. In fact, this had been Milo's favorite memory of Chuck E. Cheese so far. Also during this time, Marilyn's mother and sister were in town from a county in between New Seneca and Ciderpond. They had all went out to breakfast at the Woodfire Grill, when it was still decent.

Flight through Londinium

Back in the city of Londinium, things had not been going so well. The Cobolds were subjected to living in a compound-like facility where the Maludico had put them on a strict schedule where the whole day from waking to bedtime had been completely structured. The first floor was the orientation area ran by the Hypocordo's, and where they promoted their facilities. The second floor was the dining hall where breakfast consisted of gruel, Lunch consisted of boiled vegetables with no flavoring and dinner consisted of boiled soft fish. Snack time was regimented and the only snack was this horrid tasting protein and fiber cracker. The third floor was the communal restroom that was only opened for an hour two hours after each meal. The fourth floor was the activity floor, which consisted of pointless activities, such as copying the alphabet, creating clay-doh boxes, and watching educational puppet shows. The fifth floor was the sleeping quarters with no private rooms, with regimented naptimes and specific hours to wake and rise.

One night, the Magnus in training Lance entered Kebsuda, and visited the institution when the Hypocordo's and Maludico's had been away. Lance had been a slightly mischevious Magnus who is very chummy with the Pixie order of the fairies. Lance's ambitions were to eventually become a Puerubdi and knew of the Londinium facility the Cobolds of the Foerster clan were kept captive. Lance and the Pixie flew over to the facility and into the bedroom of the Cobolds. Lance offered the Cobolds a chance to get out of this horrible facility and see the world. By this time, the Cobolds had been conditioned to believe that that this institutionalized life was keeping them safe, and became reluctant to join Lance. Lance convinced the Cobolds to have some faith and trust in him, and told them of this paradise peninsula not too far from their original home.

The Pixie spread her magic on all the Cobolds and Lance, and at once off out of the institution for good. At this, the Cobolds flew over Londinium and through the city, over the cliffs and to the Peninsula. The cliffs and the peninsula had been unspeakably beautiful. The place that the Cobolds had settled to was a beach with clear blue lagoons, fascinating jungles and white sandy beaches. The Cobolds had experienced a type of freedom and thrill that they had not remembered since being in the Garden so long ago. One day while enjoying this new island, a Cobold treked through the jungle and came across this carved stone region. Upon this trek into this carved stone, the Cobolds found a wall guarding a grand Atlantean temple that resembled a Roman Pantheon and a European Cathedral. There had been something quite familiar about this place, to which none of them had remembered.

The Seers Advice

A Seer who was temple ambassador to Kebsuda appeared to the Cobolds. This seer Adrino is the seer of the temple and is quite wise. He told the Cobolds that this temple is the great holy place, which is where it all began. The Cobolds had not understood these cryptic words of Adrino. Then Adrino promised that the Cobolds would one day return to this place, but now were needed at a place known as Beaubelles. This region was just outside of Londinium and mostly ruins of a prosperous settlement. However, the facility where the Cobolds were held captive had destroyed the settlement and still had absolute jurisdiction over Beaubelles. Despite the jurisdiction, the facility had very little involvement.

The Cobolds were not exactly thrilled about leaving this paradise and going to Beaubelles. To the Cobolds, they feared that Beaubelles would be nothing more than a reminder of when they were ripped from their Garden Paradise in Pedmontus, and forced into this hellish city. To their surprise, the Cobolds found that Beaubelles was very close to the cliffs, and got a great view of the Walls of the Garden that they once inhabited. This started off as a very frightening experience for the Cobolds, as they did not know anything of this land, and always had that fear that representatives of the facility would one day find this place, and take over. The Cobolds knew well that the facility owners would be in quite a fit after their pupils escaped. Shortly after, the Cobolds began efforts to cleanup this land and restore the ruins to the best of their knowledge. The Cobolds were not overly in love with being in the Londinium region, as it had been quite traumatic, but enjoyed the prospect of one day returning to the Garden, and being so close by.

Ciderpond School District

In the fall of 1994, Milo started Kindergarten with Pleasant Tune Elementary, as there was not enough room at Hazelnut Forest, which was the school designated for his district. Amira had begun her final year of Pre-School, and would soon be entering the Ciderpond District within a year. Milo stayed in school the whole day, as he was old enough to do so, and this had been quite necessary, as this was the only time the school bus would come over to the district Marilyn lived in. As it was, Marilyn was not able to drive Milo to the other side of town, as she had three other kids she was babysitting and her daughter Courtney was still in Middle School.

Milo had orientation the day before school began, and learned that he would be buying his lunch. This had also been Milo's last day at West Mesa, and would never return to this facility as they would be getting their own place. Because Milo was in school all day, he had one teacher in the morning and a different teacher in the afternoon. For the first few weeks, the Kindergarten did not have enough room, so Milo was in class with some emotionally disturbed students. The teacher running that class insisted that Milo be taken out of this class, as he was too well behaved, and did not see it fair for him to have to be under their discipline procedures.

Milo liked his morning teacher, but was not so fond of his afternoon teacher. Milo's Morning teacher was Ms. Zanto, who was an easy going and fun teacher. Milo did not like his afternoon teacher, Mrs. Jones. Mrs. Jones was not a bad person, but had only begun teaching. Mrs. Jones just did not have the patience to teach Kindergarten, and could easily get frustrated and impatient with the students. To Milo, Mrs. Jones was just a mean woman who he did not like, and started to further his dislike for authority. On the other side, Milo felt comfortable with Ms. Zanto, as she never got angry with him for expressing dislike for Mrs. Jones. When it came to school, this was the most comfortable Milo had been in a long time. Milo gradually began to make friends with some of his classmates, and found the school to be highly fascinating. This school had a cool library located in the center of the school with a dome ceiling.

One weekend, Milo spent the day with Uncle Georgio and Rob. Uncle Georgio took them to the Mall, and then to Church at night. After Church, Milo got separated, and went over to Ray and Margaret's car.

As for the Christmas Holiday, this had been quite eventful. During one of the weeks of Advent, Ray and Margaret took Milo and Lydia to a Santa's breakfast, which had a walkthrough putting on Christmas displays only a small child would find fascinating. At the breakfast, Milo saw quite a few classmates. Margaret bought some special edition Lucky Charms which came with a free small playdoh container. Another weekend later, Ray had a case of the flu, so Margaret had to take Milo and Lydia to Church on her own. Milo had to sit in the cry room with Margaret and Lydia, as Lydia was still a bit too young to be in the Sanctuary, and Milo was too young to sit in the Church on his own. Milo thought it was quite odd that he could hear the whole service from the cry room, thanks to a speaker. That night, Rob was the altar server, and Margaret invited him to spend the night after Church. Margaret picked up Long John Silvers for dinner.

When it came to Christmas, the Biancatello's hosted the holiday with Grandma Pearl, Uncle Doug, Nikita, Dana and Kalisha. What happened was that Shamus had caught the Chicken pox, and Milo and Lydia had been exposed due to being at Marilyn's. Plus, Aunt Jane was pregnant, and the baby could not be exposed to the virus. Over Christmas day, they got a visit from Uncle Mike, Aunt Jackie, Ben and Emma. As for Christmas Break, this seemed quite long. On one occasion, Ray took Milo and Lydia to the Essex Zoo. For New Years day, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony came over for dinner.

The Necrojinn and New Puerubdi

A mysterious figure known as Mortaneous appeared to Maelendil of news in regards to the suspicions of a necrojinn on the loose. According to Mortaneous, the necrojinns essence had split into multiple parts, and dwells in various parts his original charges descendents have resided. Mortaneous explained that the active part of the necrojinn has been defeated, and gone into dormancy. Mortaneous tells Maelendil of an old man who was married to one of the original charges descendents who just died. This mans wife died a long time ago, and had not been a good father to her kids when she died. This man finds out that a monster has been tormenting his family, and willingly sacrifices himself over to this monster to protect his family. This man is struck down alone at breakfast one morning, after taking out his will. This mans sacrifice has too much light for the necrojinn to handle, and he is utterly defeated. Mortaneous tells Maelendil of other inactive remains, which he knows not where, but vows to find them. Maelendil knows well that a fragmented necrojinn can easily get reactivated if coming in contact with one at their darkest.

In the realm of the Jinns, a new Puerubdi had been voted in. This new Puerubdi voted in was Alphie, who had been training since before Max. With the inauguration of Alphie, a new and more exciting time was at hand. Within days of Alphie coming into office, life on earth became very exciting. All the sudden, the world became a large and fascinating place again. Ordinary places became unexplainably fascinating. Colors became beautiful for the first time, and landscapes from mountains, forests, oceans, and deserts became deeply beautiful and inexhaustibly fascinating. Animals had also become unexplainably fascinating, and the most fascinating of the natural wonders. On the realm of dreams, there had been a great vision of a Carribbean resort with a beach house overlooking a beach and a pool system full of decks. The kitchen of the house oversaw the ocean and the pools.

End of Kindergarten

This is what had transpired In Disney News at this time. The Walt Disney Company released The Lion King in theatres during the Summer of 1994 and was released on Home Video in the winter of 1995. Milo and Lydia spent significant time watching the movie while out sick from school due to a nasty bug going around. The second movie to hit theatres was Pocahontas, which first hit theatres in the Summer of 1995, and was released on Home Video in February 1996. Milo first learned of the movie after watching the preview of the Lion King constantly.

Otherwise, in Milo's family, a new Baby was born. The first was Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes second born Samantha. She was born when Milo was in his second semester of Kindergarten. During Milo's final semester of Kindergarten, he was getting more comfortable with school, and started finding the experience to be more exciting than anything at West Mesa. This school experience was significantly more exciting, and felt a greater sense of belonging at this school than he had with Pre-School. Otherwise, Milo got some special privileges to work in the computer lab at lunch time, as he had quite a fascination with this new painting program. When it came to Mrs. Jones, Milo still could not stand her. Mrs. Jones as we know was not one fit to work with kindergarteners. Ms. Zanto was one with a natural patience, and did not make a big deal about students quirks, like not sitting in certain colored chairs. Milo was not one to hold back his feelings towards Mrs. Jones to his family, and complained about everything, from her being too grouchy to smelling like tuna, or as Milo called it cat food.

Milo did have only one nemesis, because a friend chose to play with this nemesis over him. In fact, Milo would later become friends with this nemesis Derek in highschool. In fact, one friend had been a charge Justin Mcgill. In another class, Milo did have a rivalry with a pog collector known as Bert Hollen, who had a bad temper. In fact, Berts mom was a substitute teacher. Many of these students Milo knew from Pleasant tune would one day cross paths in highschool. Many former rivals would grow up and a few would remain in their rivalrous ways well into Highschool.

Over that year, Milo became quite obsessed with the television show Scooby Doo. Now Milo had always been a fan of spooky shows. On one occasion, Milo drempt he was in a Scooby doo episode, and in the episode, Grandpa Tony had been very short and mowing the grass. While in school, there was an astronaut giving a presentation, and Milo mistakened him for Uncle Georgio. At the end of the School Year, Milo's kindergarten class went on a field trip to the zoo. On that trip, Margaret had been one of the chaperones.

Alphie's burden

Alphie's reign of excitement reached its climax one fateful day in the early Summer. With so much excitement without stability, life on earth started to become quite scary. The old forms of predictability were quickly dissolving and nothing was safe anymore. Anything and everything had become a danger, as there was no Senexit to keep order. Earth had entered this state of anxiety greater than had been experienced in a long time. Children had feared losing their teeth, and undergoing painful extractions with this procedure. Swimming pools and lakes became a place of great terror of drowning and some unforeseeable accident. With these scares, it became time to begin the process of looking for a Senexit, and restore a much needed balance.

Alphie knew well that he could not handle the instability, and called out to Maelendil for assistance from a Senexit. Brutus once again ran for the position, but displayed his incompetence a second time. Brutus ran a campaign smearing the office of the Puerubdi, calling them the reckless fools. At Brutus Audition, he went on his platitudes of the need to have order, and how it needs to be kept at all cost, and that sacrifices need to be made. One Annogrammatron from the seventh order asked Brutus what the point of his sacrificial preservation, if anything worth preserving is lost. The Jinns in council got quite a laugh, and Brutus declared that they will wish he was around, and after Alphie screws up, they will wish the Senexit office ran supreme. Maelendil gently explained to Brutus that he has still so much to learn, and sent him back to training with no worries.

The Summer Before Hazelnut Forest

This summer started off a bit slow. After School got out, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony threw a Pizza Party for the cousins, which had been an annual tradition that Milo, Salvatore and Alicia fully appreciated, as this was the first time they had experienced the concept of Summer Break. In the early days of summer, Milo started watching the show Flipper, as the show reminded him of his trip to Orlando the previous summer. During that summer on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Milo still had to go to West Mesa, which moved to their own facility away from that creepy Church facility. However, Milo found that he was not much happier there, as he was not used to being in school such long hours after his experience in Kindergarten. With being in Kindergarten, the days had seem to go much quicker, considering the time school got out. Around this same time, Marilyn had to have Snuffles put to sleep, as she had succomed to old age and was not doing very well.

During this summer, Milo got into a bit of an obsession with the show Muppet Babies. This was a semi-educational television show depicting the Muppets as children living in a nursery with a nanny. Milo's favorite episode had been "Nice to Gnome you", which was loosely based on the Jim Hansen Movie "Labyrinth". For some reason, Milo found the episode quite fascinating. Frankly the show was just fascinating for Milo, and found it quite cool how the muppets could find adventures in a nursery.

When it came to the summer, Milo had swim lessons at the Hazelnut Forest school pool. On a couple occasions, Aunt Michelle took Milo and Salvatore to some afternoon outings, such as this new restaurant known as Stacey's retro-diner. Otherwise, the Biancatello's had another company picnic at Seewoulden. On another occasion, the Biancatello's went on a road trip to the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium.

Over this summer, the Rumcorns moved closer to Ciderpond in Missouri. Before arriving in Missouri, the Rumcorn's stopped in Ciderpond and stayed with Grandma Pearl for the first time in three years. At one point, the families went to Aunt Mary's daughter Carrie's for a summer party. This was the first concrete memory Milo had of the Williamson's, and of meeting Aunt Mary. While the Rumcorns were in town, the Biancatello's took them to Seewoulden. That day, it started raining, and the Biancatello's and Rumcorns had to leave the park early. Milo had been pretty distraught over this. Now Milo had become a bit obsessed with the Rumcorns, most likely because he had not seen them in so long, and being around them was a new and exciting experience. That Summer, the Biancatellos, Rumcorns and Grandma Pearl went on day trips to Sea World, Putin Bay and Cedar Point. As for Sea World, this had not been much different than the last time he went to the park. That year, they added the Dolphins cove. This had been at a time when it was not so frowned upon to keep animals locked up for performances. When it came to Putin bay, this had been quite a disaster. On the way up, the Biancatello's got a flat tire, and were stuck for much of the time at the mechanic. When it came to Putin Bay, Milo had not been so big a fan of the bus tour they went on, and liked Sea World better. As for Cedar Point, this still was not overly fun for Milo, as he was too small to ride any of the fun rides, and would have to wait another year. However, Milo was still able to go on many of the water rides, which proved to be quite exhiliarating. That night, the Biancatello's stayed at a motel, as it was much too late to drive back. Later in the summer, Uncle Doug, Dana, Nikkita and Kalisha came in while the Rumcorns were visiting, for Milo and Grandma Pearl's birthday, and to see the Rumcorns after many years. Then a few days later, Milo celebrated his Seventh Birthday with his family one Saturday afternoon. Milo got a tent from Uncle Leo that ended up getting blown away. At the party, Eustace made new friends with Kalisha and Bruce.

Towards the end of the summer, Marilyn took Milo and Lydia up to her sisters house for her mothers birthday party. Around this same time, Ray bought a new truck, as the old truck had rusted out so badly and was undriveable. On the last day of Summer Vacation, Milo, Margaret and their neighbors Paula and Tyler visited Hazelnut Forest. Milo then found out his teacher that year would be Mrs. Mcgruder. After this tour, Milo, Margaret, Lydia, Paula and Tyler went down to the Beach and got dinner at Staceys Retro-Diner.

Book II: The Second Era-The Early Elementary Years

Chapter 8: The Sacramental Age

Ciderpond Part II

And so it came to pass that Amira started Kindergarten in the same Ciderpond School district as Milo, who was in first grade at the time. Milo Had entered the Ciderpond School District as a Kindergartener the previous year. However, both children were in two different schools, as they lived on two different sides of town. Milo begun at Hazelnut Forest, as that year they had enough room for him. Amira attended Dingleberry Elementary, as that was the school of her region.

The first part of First Grade had not been so easy for Milo, as he had a terrible teacher Edwina Mcgruder, was a narcissistic slave driver concerned only with her paycheck and status of being so qualified to teach in multiple states. Many first-hand accounts from Parent-Teacher night stated that this teacher had only spoke about her qualifications and time teaching without giving an ounce of information of what the children would be learning as the other teachers had done. This teacher was a year away from Retirement, and really did not care about students. One teacher Mrs. Watson, who taught computers knew that this teacher was terrible, and let Ray and Margaret know how bad she was. Mrs. Watson was pretty lenient with Milo's complaints about how horrible this Mcgruder teacher was treating him. On the first day of school, this teacher reprimanded Milo for asking to get a drink. Another time, Mcgruder put Milo in time out for being too pokey after getting a drink during singing time. While Milo was in Timeout, Mcgruder assigned the students to draw a leaf, and gave students the option of yellow or orange paper. After Milo was released from Timeout, Mcgruder gave Milo a yellow piece of paper. Milo then asks for orange instead, and Mcgruder flips out, and tells Milo not to mouth off, as he was in Timeout. Milo had a hard time with teachers since he started school, as many of the teachers he had lacked the patience and experience to work with pre-grade children, which as we know well are a handful.

Before school, Milo stayed with his neighbors across the street, Scott and Paula, with their son Tyler. Tyler is a year younger than Milo, and an only child, and just started Kindergarten at Hazelnut Forest. Milo and Tyler had their clashes at time, as Tyler like many only children could be a bit spoiled. Milo could easily get irritated with Tyler always having to get his way, and Paula reprimanding them any time they got into some clashes.

When it came to Marilyn's, she adopted a new black Kitten they named Jake. A few weeks later, the Schumachers also adopted a new Welsh Terrier whom they named Mikey. Now Milo considered both pets to be cute, considering they were juvenile animals.

Otherwise, Milo often times had difficulties with parties coming to an end, and would get mad at Lydia over this. As to why he blamed Lydia had not been wholly known. Milo had just started to grasp the concept of fun times coming to an end, considering that school for the first time in his life had been more work than Kindergarten was. One Sunday during church, Milo noticed some people whom he had seen in school. After Church, Milo and Lydia were signed up for Sunday School, which would begin the next week. That day, the Biancatello's went to Seewoulden for the last day of the Season.

Maugris and Mairead Return

By this time, Maugris returns, and calls for a meeting with Maelendil and Alphie. Over this time, Maelendil was still looking for a new Senexit with no such luck. Maugris comes with good news explaining that she has found a way to break the spell binding the school age charges and their peers. She then explains that the breaking of the spell will not be able to begin until the New Year, as many things still need to be arranged. Maugris gives Maelendil a business card for a Jinn known as Ihrvierner, should they have trouble in years to come.

Maugris also brought Mairead from the Eighth annogrammatron order to assist Maelendil while searching for a new Senexit. Mairead brought some stability, in first assisting the charge with trying to devise a plan to see his teacher as a Grandmother figure. Mairead knew well that this teacher reminded Milo of Marilyn's mother, but was nothing like her mother. Little did Mairead know how bad her plan would work out.

Sunday School

During these days, Milo had his ups and downs with school. On one weekend, the Biancatello's were invited to the Delaneys for the father Roger's 40th birthday. This party included old neighbors such as the Schumachers, the Glenns and other neighbors, such as Ray's Golf friend Dave and wife Violette. Milo had quite a bit of fun at the party, and was not too thrilled about going home. In fact, Milo was a bit cranky the next day about the party ending. In truth, Milo had a slight bug, and was not feeling particularly well.

That Sunday, Milo began Sunday School for the first time. For all of Milo's life, he had been raised Catholic, which should not surprise us in being in an Italian family. Church had been a very mysterious and fascinating endeavor for Milo since he was a small child. It is quite true Milo had some exposure, with all the other relatives being Catholic, praying before dinner, and the Church statues at Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's house. Milo was familiar with these figures referred to as God, Jesus, Mary and Saints, and knew of this book called the Bible. Milo also knew that the holidays like Christmas and Easter had something to do with Church. Back when Milo was at Pre-school at St. Timothy's, a teacher had brought a nail to school and explained that it went through Jesus hands. Some parents complained, as they felt it scared the kids. Milo had such memories as going to Ash Wednesday one morning with Marilyn at age three. Milo remembered these purple flags with white sillouettes of a cross, nail and hammer. What went on during Mass was unlike anything he had seen in his normal everyday life. The time had come for Milo to learn all about the mysteries of Church and what it all meant.

Sunday School proved to be a more pleasant experience than ordinary school, and was in a place of familiarity. As we recall, Milo went to this school for his first year of pre-school. Plus Milo had a nice teacher in Sunday school. This teacher had actually been Grandma and Grandpa Biancatellos neighbor. In this place, Milo actually felt a part of something bigger and more meaningful than the world of school that just emphasized conformity through threats of punishment. The great news Milo received is that he would be making his first communion next year. This is that strange ritual near the end of mass where adults go up and get a snack, so this is the mind of a small child. The only thing Milo understood of Communion was when he went to Emma's first communion party a few years ago, and when Margaret told him that Holy Thursday was the origin of Communion. Of course any Catholic with some proper Catechesis believes that Jesus is truly the bread and wine. But what does this mean to a first grader lacking the profound vocabulary to grasp at high theology?

For Milo, this simply meant an initiation into something great, and the path back to Paradise. Milo had been living in a fragmented world that seemed utterly dangerous and judgmental for so many years that religion seemed quite promising. Even to young Milo, the Mass always gave him this sense of unity not experienced in the worldly systems. Plus Sunday School had taught that it all came down to love. In this place, there was no judgment or fear, nor constant threats and danger. In fact, In Sunday School, Milo remembered learning about Morality through watching Winnie the Pooh, and being able to empathize with Tigger. Whatever this was not, one thing was certain, this space had been sacred. This place had reminded Milo of the Mystical beginning lost once he reached the second semester of Pre-School.

Late in November before Thanksgiving, Milo and Lydia went to Shamus birthday party at a kiddie play place known for hosting many birthday parties. After the party, Milo was a little bummed out about the party, despite having exciting plans the next day. That evening, the Biancatello's all went to Church. Over this time, Milo went to Sunday School while his parents were in Church, as he had not made his first communion yet. So this was the current set of rules.

The next day the Biancatello's headed up to New Seneca to see the new baby. A few weeks earlier, Aunt Marie had just given birth to her thirdborn Lily, and the O'Malley's hosted a party to meet this baby. That morning, Alicia felt a little under the weather, and was not seen too much.

By the time the Christmas season came about, School became slightly more fun than it had been for the past few years. Even Mcgruder had been in a slightly better mood during December. One Saturday, Ray and Margaret took Milo and Lydia to Breakfast with Santa. A week later, Milo and Ray went on a mock walk through Bethlehem at a Protestant church located in the county of Essex. Then that evening, Milo and Lydia went over to Grandma Pearl's, as the Rumcorns had arrived the day before, and Ray and Margaret had a work party to go to. Milo was happy to have the Rumcorns back in town, and despite envying Kevin and Kyle for being able to get out of school early, was looking forward to getting some time away from school.

On Christmas Eve, Milo went to Church with his family and the Rumcorns. This mass put Milo into a trance at the music played on the Pipe Organ and sung by the Childrens Choir. From what can be remembered, the opening hymn was "O Come all ye Faithful", as is the standard processional in all of Western Christedom. The other songs were "Silent Night", "Angels we have heard on High", "The First Noel" and "Hark the Herald Angels Sing". During Church, the family had to sit on the other side across from the choir, as like most holy days, many of the "Christmas and Easter Only's" went to that mass.

As for the yuletide season, this had gone quite well, and was a time of festivities. For two days, Milo and Lydia were at Grandma Pearl's, along with the Rumcorns and visits from Grandpa Paul. On one of the last days, Both Uncle Mike and Uncle Georgio held some parties, including a pizza and pop night, and a New Years Eve brunch. That night for New Years eve, the Biancatello's went to some Down Town Sussex festivities.

The Governor Hypocordo

In Beaubelles, the Cobolds had been a bit stumped, as they had no clue what they were to do there. The Cobolds often looked up to the cliffs and wished to just be able to return to their home up in the Pedmontus Gardens. Now the Cobolds had not heard from Adrino, who they expected would have arrived by now to give some instructions. Otherwise, Beaubelles was just an abandoned district overgrown, as there was something about this area that most Londinians strongly feared. There were legends that this district had once been the hearth of Londinium before the Orb of Hillectivus had taken over.

Around this time, there had been a great invasion of the Governor Hypocordo from the facility. None of the Cobolds had ever seen the Governor, as he dwelled in his own mansion full of henchmen known as offsprings. The Governor was given authority over Beaubelles by the Orb of Hillectivus, in order to give reports to the orb of the suspicious Cobolds. After the Cobolds had escaped from the Compound, the authorities became suspicious of the Cobolds, and wanted someone to spy on them.

Now The Offsprings are the joining of the split psyche of the hypocordo's. They become a monstrous creature with two ugly psyches and resemble monsters that mere earthlings remember in myths, fairytales and fantasy. The only offsprings anyone in Londinium had known of were these Goblins who worked for the Governor. However, there were rumors that there were offsprings dwelling in the mountains, which most Londinians feared to tread. This Governor and his goblin henchmen had taken over the Beaubelles, as he could not stand to see the Cobolds use land under his jurisdiction for anything against his ambitions for wealth and power. In fact, the institution had only been a place to keep the Cobolds busy, so to not have time to notice his ploys, and eventually break their will to be compliant slaves. When the Cobolds escaped the facility, many Maludico's lost their only means to a living, which is not about money, but their authority over the Cobolds was the only thing that kept them active, as without them the Maludico's would become dormant.

This Governor had faked being a Jinn of the First Annogrammatron Order, under the orders of Adrino. The Cobolds asked the Governor if he knew Adrino. The Governor got a great smirk, and said that he had, and that Adrino had some plans for them. According to the Governor, Adrino needed the Cobolds to scour the land, and trim the overgrowth. Now the Governor had a more sinister plan.

During this time, the Cobolds hated being under the Governor, and knew something had been wrong with him, but feared questioning his authority, especially one under Adrino's orders. Unfortunately the work had been an utter burden. This land had been filled with painfully thorny plants, and the work was utterly back breaking for the Cobolds. Nothing the Cobolds could do would clear the land of these plants, and was just fruitless busywork. When any Cobold brought a complaint about being unable to rid these plants, the Governor told them that they needed to work harder, and the the Goblins would enforce what the Governor said.

While on a toilsome day of labor, the Retired Senexit Oliver appeared to the Cobolds, as those Senexit advancing to elderhood have a sixth sense in which they can detect if someone is in trouble. Oliver knew that the Foerster Cobolds were in trouble, and needed some guidance. The Cobolds told Oliver about this Governor being a representative of Adrino, and then another Cobold admitted that Adrino needs a new representative, as he got a sense that Oliver was trustworthy. Oliver then gave a chuckle, and explained that Adrino does not send representatives, and comes on his own.

Oliver then explained that they were sent to this land to get in touch with the great mystery of Sat, or also known by this realm as the Great Dance, and re-establish the rule back to Londinium. They had heard wondrous legends about this dance who took on the form of Osiris to the Kemetic order of Angelic Ministers and Krishna to the Vedic order of Angelic Ministers. There had been a legend amongst the Jinns and Mistivants of a great king who would one day come in the name of the dance and establish justice and peace. Before leaving, Oliver handed the Cobolds a set of plans to build a house on this soil that could reach up to the Garden.

Eventually the Cobolds found out that the Governor was using the Cobolds to try and penetrate the secrets of Beaubelles. Now the Governor was too cowardly to penetrate the land itself, but still wanted to know why this land would not let the Londinium magistrates take power of the land. When the Cobolds were unable to penetrate the land, the Governor became quite paranoid that the Cobolds had possessed some powers and keeping them for themselves. The Governor then sets up an army of Goblins to attack the Cobolds, and the Cobolds likewise planned counter-attacks, as they had figured out that the Governor was up to no good.

Before the battles began, there was a great voice calling for a halt. All the sudden Adrino appeared with exposure of the governor and his henchmen. Adrino then banishes the Governor and the Goblin Henchmen out of the bounds of Londinium. Then Adrino places his staff on the overgrowth of Beaubelles, and the overgrowth immediately disappears. Then Adrino explains that the overgrowth had been guarding the land until the chosen people had arrived.

The New Senexit

After some months of agony and waiting, a new Senexit was voted in. The new Senexit was Theodore, who would be well equipped to handle these times. After Theodore took office, the great reign of peace began as had not been seen since the Holiday of 1992. Three years, the earth had waited for this time of peace, where life would continue right where things had left off so long ago. On earth, this set the course of sanctification of what had been made desecrated. This would naturally be a very difficult process that could take great amounts of time and sacrifice to have this dream come about.

Mairead's time as Maelendil and Alphie's assistant had come to an end, much to her happiness. Mairead told Maelendil that she was not equipped to handle this situation with Mcgruder. Mairead explains that Mcgruder is a nasty witch who cannot be worked with, no matter how Grandmotherly she looks, and that the boy needs to learn some dissent. Mairead then makes a referral for her colleage Billius if one like Mcgruder comes. Mairead knew well that Maelendil's charges attract a lot of negative attention from tyrants like Mcgruder, and knows well that these are not people that can be negotiated with.

Around this same time, Maugris arrived with some great news of having found a solution to break the spell the pupils had been under. According to Maugris, the spell tethering the pupils to the Hypocordo's headquarters is beginning to break. Maelendil asks Maugris what she did, and she gives a smirk, explaining that he will find out soon enough. Maelendil gives a skeptical look. Alphie starts anticipating all the possibilities for breaking this spell, while Theodore shares some concerns about reckless behavior.

The Spring Semester

Returning to school had been less than fun. The night before going back to school, Milo had a dream he was boarding a plane to visit the Rumcorns in Missouri. Then he was woken up, and came back to school with Mcgruder in a foul mood. On the first day, Mcgruder was complaining about how there being no songs to sing during song time, as the Holiday being over. Mcgruder decided to sing songs from the beginning of the school year. Milo did not like this, as it reminded him of the beginning of the school year, before the Christmas festivities. Otherwise, Milo took up playing Nintendo, and the game Mario 3 in particular. Before Martin Luther King day Weekend, Tyler showed Milo the Big world region, accessible via the magic flute.

Over the course of this journey, school became more enjoyable for Milo, though he preferred not to be in school. He had for every bad teacher one good teacher. But this year changed with Mcgruder. One day Milo had enough of her, and he defied her nastiness. When Mrs. Mcgruder began to mistreat the poor children, Milo put on quite a show and pretended to be a hibachi chef, distracting the class from her nasty reprimand. A few weeks ago, The Biancatello's, Grandpa Tony and Grandma Rosa went to a Hibachi style restaurant for Ray's birthday. Milo had apparently liked the show a little too much. Milo was placed in timeout for this act of rebellion, to which he fell asleep in the timeout chair much to Mcgruders wrath. Mrs. Mcgruder called Milo's parents that night complaining about how Milo shows strong dislike for her.

Otherwise, another student known as Dudley Spankenhoover was another hand full who knew how to agitate Milo. On multiple occasions, Milo and Dudley got into quite a few spats, which started to further enrage Mcgruder. On one occasion, Milo accidentally framed Dudley at recess. Dudley was launching Lincoln logs in the air and Milo continued playing the game when Dudley was done. Mcgruder had walked in the room and saw a Lincoln log flying in the air, and Mcgruder demanded to know where that came from. A few other students ratted Dudley out, and Mcgruder sent him in the hall.

Before Easter, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy bought Lydia the movie Pocahontas and Milo the movie "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" During this time, Milo became quite obsessed with both movies, and really did not like Governor Ratcliffe, as he reminded him of Mcgruder. Milo started to see Pocahontas as a role model, as she was a rebel who rejected the stoic warrior her father betrothed her to. Milo remembered the song "Heffalumps and Woozles" from the "Be our guest" singalong, which was from the short "Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery day". "The Many adventures of Winnie the Pooh" was a three part movie with three stories being "Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree", "Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day" and "Winnie the Pooh and Tigger too".

Otherwise, things were not going great with Milo and the Glenns. Milo was not getting along too well with Tyler, particularly when this got them in trouble with Paula. Milo got into further trouble when playing some pranks on Tyler, anytime he irritated him. Plus, a couple times, Milo walked on his own to school, as he did not want to walk with Tyler and his obnoxious friend. Paula did not like Milo walking on his own, and got mad at him for running off.

Easter had also been another trance for Milo when such hymns were sung at mass as Psalm 118, Alleluia give thanks, and of course the standard Catholic processional Jesus Christ is Risen today. Since that day, Milo has had a love for Sacred Music, as it did something for him that mere preaching could never do. Before Mass, the priest Fr. Sorbiewski invited the children to sit on the altar for the remainder of the service. At communion, Milo got confused and left the altar to return to his parents. Milo had been in a bit of a bad mood at Easter Dinner at his grandparents, when Ray told the family that he had tried to get communion, and the relatives telling him that he was too young. What really happened was, Milo had left the altar in order to sit with his parents, and got stuck in the communion line. Milo felt embarrassed with what Ray had said.

A few weeks later, Margaret went on her first annual business trip, and left early one Saturday morning. Ray took Milo and Lydia on a trip up to New Seneca for the weekend and visit with their cousins, as they had been quite bummed out that Margaret would be gone for a week. On the first night at the O'Malley's, Aunt Marie setup the basement for the kids to watch Pocahontas. The next morning, the Biancatellos went to Church with the O'Malleys. That afternoon, the Biancatello's returned back to Ciderpond. Frankly, Milo was happy to be back Home, as he was still having a hard time with Margaret being away. The Weekend before Margaret returned home, there was a family wedding with one of Ray's cousins, which the cousins were for some reason all invited to. The Sunday afternoon before Margaret returned home, the Delaney's hosted a birthday party for Charlie, and invited the Biancatello's along with the Schumachers. That night when Ray went to pick Margaret up from the Airport, Aunt Michelle came over to the house to babysit Milo and Lydia. Before Aunt Michelle arrived, Lydia was fast asleep, and Milo fell asleep while watching the Winnie the Pooh movie.

For the rest of the year, Milo purposely bought a Winnie the Pooh play toy to school. This toy greatly annoyed Mcgruder, which made Milo bring the toy back anyways. She then resorted to keeping the toy in her desk during the day. On a couple other occasions, Mcgruder had been very nasty to Milo over something trivial. Milo then raised his eraser and moved it like he was trying to erase the teacher. Mcgruder told Milo that he may be able to erase Watson, but was not gonna erase her. Otherwise, Milo started having too much fun rebelling against Mcgruders reign of terror.

Return to the Garden

The Seer Adrino from the temple had decided that the Cobolds needed a vacation to return to the Garden, which they had long been away from. For the Cobolds, leaving this place where the Governor had caused so much misery was a dream come true. There were a whole set of tools left behind, which the Cobolds had no interest in taking, and preferred to leave their pointless labors behind. Otherwise, the Cobolds had longed to return back to their garden home, which they had not seen since that horrible day long ago, when the representative captured the Forester Clan, and took them away.

Adrino summoned a cloud that took the Cobolds up to the cliffs, and the Cobolds got a last look at Beaubelles. The Cobolds then arrived at this pathway overlooking Londinium, which led to a set of doors to the Pedmontus Gardens. The Cobold Irugen knocked at the door, and the rest of the Cobolds waited for an answer.

Soon enough, the door was opened, and another Cobold still living in Pedmontus had a great look of elation. This cobold exclaimed that she had lost all hope that the Forester Clan would never return. The Cobolds entered into the Gardens, and noticed that it was quite a bit different than they remembered. The statues of the Bull of Tarsus and Aphrodite were still up, but a little weathered. The stone walls were covered heavily with green overgrowth, and the flowers were quite large and unkept. After the tour, the Forester clan told the Cobolds still living in Pedmontus all about being taken into the Compound, escape and flight through londinium to a temple, the meeting with Adrino, settling in Beaubelles and the victory over the Governor.

Otherwise, being back in the Pedmontus Gardens had been a bit strange for the Cobolds. For the Forester clan, this safety took a while to get used to. For the first time, the Cobolds no longer felt like they were being watched by sinister tyrants out to punish them. Eventually the Cobolds adapted to this life in the gardens, which became very blissful. This had been the happiest the Cobolds had been since the flight through Londinium.

The Summer Vacation

By this time, the School Year was near over. Within the last few days of school, Mcgruder held an activity of giving students worksheets and other papers and junk from the school year. Milo refused to take any, further provoking Mcgruder's wrath. Margaret took Milo shopping for body sprays to give to the teachers and Paula for the end of the year. Milo's plan was to make Mcgruder a cane. Milo in fact gathered sticks and took the sticks down to Ray's workshop in the basement and got pretty far on the project. Margaret insisted that this would be an offensive gift. Milo decided to buy Mcgruder the worst smelling body spray, but pretended to like it.

One glorious day came when Mcgruders reign of terror had ended with the close of the school year and her well needed retirement. On Mcgruders last day, she gave the class one last reprimand and told the students that she did not want to hear any talking for the rest of the day. Milo took his last stand against Mcgruder and clicked his tongue, thus further angering her. Milo was sent off to the timeout chair for one last time. Mrs. Watson agreed to take Milo back to the computer lab for the rest of the day. She had been nice to Milo, despite his disruption and she introduced him to her husband. Milo never got the chance to say goodbye to Mcgruder, as he spent the rest of the day in Mrs. Watsons, which had only been an hour at most. The last Milo saw of Mcgruder was her giving the class a final concert singing the hokey pokey.

At the end of the day, Mrs. Watson reminded Milo to take off his hat. As it was, the current principal was retiring, and Milo asked Mrs. Watson if it will be okay to wear hats in the building once the new Principal starts next year. Mrs. Watson explained the rule of etiquette on men not wearing hats in buildings.

This summer had been a great and exciting summer full of exciting activities and a great relief of being fee from this curse. Over this summer, the movie "The Aristocats" was re-released on Home Video, which was essentially a knock off of One Hundred and One Dalmatians. Like the movie, this summer was a breakaway from the snobbish school system and a time to run wild. At first, the summer seemed to be off to a slow start, but this was to be expected. All Milo knew was that he was happy to get away from Mcgruder for good.

In the early days of the summer, The Biancatello's went to see the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Milo had laughed hysterically when Judge Claude Frollo fell off the Notre Dame towers. Margaret had taken Milo to a counselor to talk about the way he laughed hysterically at the movie. For Milo, he saw in Frollo everything he had hated in teachers since beginning school, and Mcgruder in particular. Over that summer, Milo became particularly quirky about the legitimacy of any school authorities, particularly outside of school.

Otherwise, Milo wanted to get a pool in the worst way, but Ray explained that this would mean they would not get to go on Vacation to Columbus to see Beauty and the Beast on Broadway. Milo then said that Beauty and the Beast was too girly for him anyways. Margaret then pointed out that Milo had been putting together a Little Mermaid puzzle.

For much of the summer, Milo and Lydia were at Marilyns, and swimming in her pool. During this same time, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony held their annual Summer Pizza Party. In fact, the O'Malley's came in town for the party. ON the Fourth of July, Ray and Margaret discontinued going to their friend Ron's for the Fourth of July Parties, and went to this co-worker who had a pregnant Chocolate Havanese soon to give birth. They had considered adopting a puppy from this woman. Milo in the worst way wanted to get a Cat, Dog and Hamster. Milo's plan was to name the Cat John and the Hamster Paul. This party had different firework displays, as it was fairly close to Seewoulden. Milo befriended one boy known as Ryan.

During that Summer, Milo still had to go to West Mesa, but only on Thursdays. Unfortunately the teacher Milo had was a cranky woman with a nasty attitude, and unfit to be working with children. Milo always found a way to get out of going to West Mesa on Thursdays. On two occasions, Aunt Michelle invited Milo to go on activities with Salvatore and Gianni, and she asked what day worked best for him. Milo always suggested Thursdays, as he did not mind being at Marilyns swimming the other days. Usually Aunt Michelle took Milo, Salvatore and Gianni to some local small museums.

The Time of adventure came about when Milo, Lydia, Margaret and Ray went on a vacation to Columbus for a few weeks to see the Broadway "Beauty and the Beast". This was a sort of haunt for Milo, as the prophecy had spoken, his past would always return to haunt him. On the first night in Columbus, Ray found the Simpsons on TV, which was the first time Milo got interested in the show. The episode was "Two Bad Neigbors". This became utterly apparent when this Broadway version of the show gave Milo flashbacks to the days of his toddlerhood before starting school. That night, Milo had a dream about accidentally sliding into the Kharas new shed and breaking it, to which he felt horribly guilty. The Biancatello's found a Church in their suburb, and this hymn "Seed Scattered and Sewn" was sung. Frankly, Milo became quite obsessed with the hymn, and heard it a couple times back at St. Timothy's. Milo ended up liking "Beauty and the Beast" more than he expected. The Biancatello's also went to a theme park, which Milo really loved. Milo was a bit disappointed about having to leave this park. The Biancatello's also went to many Italian restaurants. On the way back from Vacation, the Biancatello's returned back to the O'malleys for a few days. This visit felt very similar to the visit taken four years ago, which is one of the few memories Milo has of his Toddlerhood. He had visited the O'malleys several times between, but this memory seemed so different. Maybe there had been a connection to Amira, who knows. After the Biancatello's got back, they found a message on the answering machine that Uncle Mike had gotten a new Jack Russell Terrier puppy. This was considering that the Biancatello's would be soon adopting a Puppy also.

A few weeks after the Biancatello's returned home, the Rumcorns and Uncle Doug with his daughters came in town. The Families returned back to Cedar Point and went to Seewoulden and Soak Town a couple times that summer. This year, Milo was able to go on more rides at Cedar Point. A few days later before going to Seewoulden, Milo found out he got a letter from Mrs. Watson. This had been a few days before Milo's Birthday. Milo was not exactly thrilled about this, as he knew that the summer was in the last weeks. This letter was telling Milo that she hoped he was enjoying his summer, and reminded him that it would soon be back to work. Luckily Milo forgot about this, and had a fun trip with Uncle Doug, Grandma Pearl and his cousins Dana, Nikkita and Kalisha. They had stayed pretty well into the night, near closing time. Milo had enjoyed his summer so much that he had no desire to ever return to school. In fact, anything about school terrified Milo. At Milo's Birthday party, Grandpa Paul gave Milo a new Hamster as a surprise, which he had named Paul. Courtney helped Milo setup the hamster cage, as she had some hamsters growing up.

The Temple Meeting

The Jinn had met at the Temple Grounds under the office of the Priestly Order. This temple was known as the Demuzidean Temple. This meeting was composed of Maelendil, the new Senexit Theodore, new Puerubdi Alphie, the Sacerdix Polyphanes, a Charism in the Spirit of the author of the Didache and the seer of restoration Daxividus. The Sacerdix performs the priestly functions at the Temples, and are the mystic guides of those on earth. The Charism is the Jinn equivalent to the spirit guide or guardian angel, assigned to a particular individual on earth.

This temple floorplan is shaped like the Sri Yanta symbol. The structure is a square with an overarching dome. On every side is a small rectangular vestibule with a mission style façade. In the center of the temple is a stone shamrock shaped altar with a three sided pyramid in the center. At the corners on the north walls are two shrines to the Angelic Minister Demeter while the south waslls are two shrines to the Angelic Minister Dionysus. On both sides of the entranceway between the temple and the vestibule are a set of flames that grow as the King in the name of the Dance approaches nearer. At this time, the flames are still medium sized.

These were the offerings brought fourth. Alphie offered a bag of grape seeds, Theodore offered a bag of wheat seeds and Maelendil offered a scroll with a list of names on earth that had not yet been revealed. Polyphanes explained that the wheat, Grapeseeds and scrolls shall form the great heart. The Charism of the Didache had come to offer aid to the charges on earth in the wisdom of the early patristic age. The Didache is an ancient text from the First century Christian community. Maelendil had summoned this Charism to spread his wisdom to those on earth, in relation to the state the charge had been in at this time. The Ceremony began with a reading of the fourth and Fifth chapters of the Didache as such:

And concerning the Eucharist, hold Eucharist thus: First concerning the Cup, "We give thanks to thee, our Father, for the Holy Vine of David thy child, which, thou didst make known to us through Jesus thy Child; to thee be glory for ever." And concerning the broken Bread: "We give thee thanks, our Father, for the life and knowledge which thou didst make known to us through Jesus thy Child. To thee be glory for ever. As this broken bread was scattered upon the mountains, but was brought together and became one, so let thy Church be gathered together from the ends of the earth into thy kingdom, for thine is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ for ever." But let none eat or drink of your Eucharist except those who have been baptised in the Lord's Name. For concerning this also did the Lord say, "Give not that which is holy to the dogs." But after you are satisfied with food, thus give thanks: "We give thanks to thee, O Holy Father, for thy Holy Name which thou didst make to tabernacle in out hearts, and for the knowledge and faith and immortality which thou didst make known to us through Jesus thy Child. To thee be glory for ever. Thou, Lord Almighty, didst create all things for thy Name's sake, and didst give food and drink to men for their enjoyment, that they might give thanks to thee, but us hast thou blessed with spiritual food and drink and eternal light through thy Child. Above all we give thanks to thee for that thou art mighty. To thee be glory for ever. Remember, Lord, thy Church, to deliver it from all evil and to make it perfect in thy love, and gather it together in its holiness from the four winds to thy kingdom which thou hast prepared for it. For thine is the power and the glory for ever. Let grace come and let this world pass away. Hosannah to the God of David. If any man be holy, let him come! if any man be not, let him repent: Maranatha ("Our Lord! Come!"), Amen." But suffer the prophets to hold Eucharist as they will.

After the reading of the Didache, Maelendil, Theodore and Alphie understood what this meant. Maelendil knew that the day of initiation was near, and the King was at hand. Theodore was summoned to end division and Alphie was summoned to promote diversity. After the completion of the summoning, Polyphanes brought out a parchment map and placed the seeds and the scroll on the map. Then the map was folded tightly and thrown into the sacred fires. The map did not disintegrate in the fire or become affected in any way.

After the burning rite, Daxividus declared this the day of fulfillment of the prophecies. Daxividus declared that the days of desire had been fulfilled, and the reuniting of the dancer and the dance has now come to pass.

The Building of the Foundation

By this time, the Cobolds got a visit from Adrino. Adrino explained that they were summoned back to Beaubelles for a surprise task. The Cobolds were not exactly thrilled about the prospect of leaving the garden, as their time there had been so peaceful and enjoyable. The good news Adrino gave was that the Cobolds were free to return to the Garden during down time on this particular task.

One evening after a great sending off feast, Adrino arrived on the cloud to pick the Cobolds up in a similar fashion as when they arrived in the gardens. The next morning after the Cobolds woke up back in beaubelles, the Seer of doom Yuriyama came to the Cobolds, and warned them of a great flood that would take out Londinium. Yuriyama gave the Cobolds instructions to build a water resistant subterranean shelter that could endure the flood. Yuriyama explained that there were others in the city not of the rakshasajinn race, known as the Londinians to be welcomed into the shelter when the floods came. Yuriyama explained that he had created a large number of coins, enchanted to repel the Rakshasajinns.

Yuriyama explained that many who appear to be rakshasajinns are only pretending to be out of fear of persecution, while many will pretend to be of different orders as to invade the shelter. Yuriyama explained that the Rakshasajinns had been warned of the flood, and invited to accept healing from the curse and to be restored to the Jinn status, and return to their own realm. The final instruction of Yuriyama was to accept anyone into the shelter who had a coin. Yuriyama explained how the coins could tell who was sincere, and the coins would burn the insincere, should they touch the coins.

Breaking ground began immediately. Many Londinians showed their coins and began to help dig the foundation. Now the Cobolds were not thrilled about working with Londinians at first, and were a bit prejudiced about anything of Londinium. After removing the silty and fertile soil, the workers found this solid stone. As the instructions dictated, the silty and fertile soil was set aside until use at a different time. The stone layers were specifically chiseled to create blocks to be set aside for a later purpose.

Milo's first Semester of Second Grade

By this time, Milo was officially done with West Mesa for good. This is despite the fact Milo spent very little time at the school, thanks to outings with Aunt Michelle. On the last day of Summer Vacation, Courtney took Milo to see the movie "The Adventures of Pinocchio". Milo did not know this was the last day of Vacation, and did not take the prospect of returning to school too well. For Milo, all he remembered about school was sterile trauma, thanks to Mcgruder.

The year had come where it was time for Milo to prepare for his First Holy Communion along with this other strange sacrament known as confession. In Milo's second year of Sunday School, he had a great teacher who just loved him. Her name was Mrs. Thompson, an older retired teacher who loved children and giving them this experience of the divine. Sunday School began after Ray and Margaret had gotten back from their anniversary weekend, while Milo and Lydia stayed at Grandma Pearls.

On the first day of class, the students learned of this sacrament of confession. This sacrament spoken of was pleasantly surprising to Milo. He had lived in the world of school where the only way to survive was to keep secrets from the teachers. Secrecy was the only way to avoid getting punished, and the tattle tale was the most reviled. Yet, this teacher explained that we could tell these people who say mass any horrible things that would get us grounding, and we could actually be forgiven. This was utterly strange to a child this age. Who wants to tell the adults bad things we did, all they will do is yell at us. But tell the priest these bad things, and we get forgiven? This is such a strange thing.

Otherwise, school had not been such a bad experience for Milo that year, as he had all good teachers that he got along with. His main teacher that year was Mrs. Sprinter, who just had a baby a couple months ago. Her husband Rick often brought the new baby Grace into school. Yet for Milo it took him a while to trust the teachers, after the ordeal he had for a couple years. Even if school was not this hell that he had experienced under Mcgruder, Milo still preferred to be at home. He longed to join the school at St. Timothy's, without realizing that Catholic School would not be any better. But he could not help but dream of all this fun he would have, and getting to be in school with his cousins.

That Fall, the Biancatellos adopted a new puppy from one of Margarets co-workers. This womans dog had three puppies. Milo and Lydia named the dog Jinny, as it was the only name both kids liked. For some reason, Milo wanted to name the dog Clarencia, but Grandma Pearl would not have this. Now Jinny was a small Chocolate Havanese they picked up one Sunday afternoon. On the way home, the Biancatello's stopped at Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's to show them the new puppy. Milo was a bit nervous about whether he would be able to do a good job caring for a pet, but quickly adapted very well.

School could be difficult for Milo, particularly with other students. Milo always had some rivalry with one or more students. At the beginning of the year, Milo had at least six enemies. Frankly, Milo was not one to tolerate bullying, or students acting like teachers. This had roots in his past years at school, and before with difficult teachers, and Mcgruder in particular. On one such occasion, Mrs. Sprinter explained that she was going to be visiting Mrs. Mcgruder, and asked the students to draw some pictures for her. Milo explained that he did not like Mcgruder, to which Mrs. Sprinter patiently told Milo that it would be a nice gesture. All Milo did was draw a picture of Marge Simpson a snake and a house that took about fifteen percent of the paper space. On another occasion, Milo even asked the principal if Mcgruder really got fired, and that he could keep this secret. The Principal explained that Mcgruder had really retired, but said this in a "nice try" way.

Eventually the Christmas Holiday came. A few days after Thanksgiving, Ray took Milo and Lydia to see the live action 101 Dalmatians. Milo found the movie quite hilarious, particularly when Cruella fell into Cow Manure. This movie had significant influence on Milo throughout the Advent Season. Soon enough, Christmas break came, in which was time for a break from studies and a time for Celebration. Christmas Eve Mass had been once again particularly pleasurable and enchanted. Milo got to go on the Altar at Christmas as the Priest invited all the children up. Lydia had not been able to go to Church, as she had been sick, and Grandma Pearl stayed home with her. Milo sat near Salvatore, who was also in Church along with the rest of the Filentino's. There had been one little girl running all around the altar, and her brother, who Milo recognized as a first grader was ordering her to come back. Then the mass began with the opening "O Come all Ye Faithful". Otherwise, this holiday pretty much stunk. After Christmas, Milo caught what Lydia had, and for the most part was cooped up in the house.

Chapter 9: The First Communion

The Students returned to school after the Holiday. Frankly this was not so bad, considering how dull the holiday had been, thanks to this bug. In Church, Milo became more perceptive to the music, and the hymnals used in church.

During the winter, there was a school boat race on a Friday evening. Milo along with his friend Jack, and his brother Flynn, and some kids Shawn, Josh, Shane and Dudley were also part of the competition. Now during the contest, Dudley's boat kept sinking during the race, and lost two out of three races. Every time Dudley lost, he started crying. Flynn taunted Dudley a couple times, by showing him the metal he won. This ended up making Dudley cry again.

Around this time, Jinny was setup for her appointment to be neutered. On Monday night, Margaret dropped Jinny off at the vet clinic before the procedure to take place in the morning. During this same week, Milo got in severe trouble after sticking his tongue out at a bully student. The wrong lunch aid who was just a sub took offense, known as Alecto Rentz. Rentz would be in the cafeteria for that day and the next. Now Rentz had sentenced Milo in the cafeteria time the whole week. Milo was furious about this, and got a bit mouthy with Rentz the next day. Milo told Rentz that he would not sit in the timeout chair. Rentz would not back down, no matter how much Milo complained. In fact, Rentz had Milo sent to the office for mouthiness. Milo told the principal that he was angry that he was being treated like this after his dog was in the hospital for surgery. The principal explained that he cant blame the teacher for what happened with the dog. However the Principal explained that Rentz had the authority to punish as she was in charge that day, but it would only last one day, as she would be done tomorrow.

Bartemius returns

Maelendil holds a meeting with Alphie, Theodore, Bartemius, and allows the Senexit in training Brutus to sit in. Maelendil explains what happened with his charge, and the draconian substitute. Bartemius explains that this substitute teacher is acting like a bully, who thinks a little bit of authority entitles her to act like a tyrannical bitch. Being a revolutionary type, Bartemius was not one to tolerate high handed authorities, and saw them deserving of the same accountability as anyone else.

Theodore explains that the Charge is not really upset about being punished when the dog is being neutered, but because the punishment has exceeded the penalty that many do not undergo. Bartemius explains that this only happened because he got caught. Bartemius then tells how people always get away with crooked behavior if they can be subtle, act in the bounds of the rules or claim some moralistic stance.

Brutus chimes in about how maybe there is a reason that those who lack moral intention, or act out of the bounds of the rules are severely punished. Bartemius does not take too well to this, and tells Brutus that he has no business even trying to become a senexit, and is nothing but a control freak. Maelendil explains to Bartemius that this is his domain to judge whether one is ready to be a senexit. Maelendil explains that Brutus is still in training, and it is too early to judge whether he can execute the role competently. Brutus gets a great smirk over this news.

Then Maelendil explains that Bartemius is right about Alecto Rentz. Maelendil then instructs Bartemius to inform the lunch assistant Mrs. Romero to keep an eye on the cafeteria, as she is a sharp woman who can detect bullying in its most subtle forms. Brutus' smirk turns into a look of great disappointment. Theodore was a bit uneasy about Brutus seeming like for seeing people get punished. Now Theodore had known that Brutus was a bit obsessed with order, but was not sure what his fascination with punishment was.

The Completion of the Shelter

Working on the Shelter had given the Cobolds the most enjoyment with being in Londinium. For the first time in Londinium, the Cobolds lived under no fear of the governor, or the compound. Yet the Cobolds could not help but wonder what great things would come of this flood, and possibly making the cliffs more accessible, allowing their home to turn into an island paradise, with beaches to replace this horrid Londinium. Yet the Cobolds were clueless as to how an underwater shelter would give them the possibility of returning to the restored beachside cliffs.

The Cobolds with the help of many different Residents in Londinium had completed this shelter. The shelter could only be reached by climbing the cliffs up to a secret entrance well camoflauged and covered by a great stone. The entrance led to a long staircase that led to the entrance of the shelter. The shelter was in the style of a Romanesque cathedral with barrel vault ceilings and the walls having one large decorative archway with two smaller archways. On the ceiling in the center is a great circle surrounded by stone moulding. In the circle is painted a celtic triangular knot.

These are the walls on the northern section of the Shelter. On the Left hand side is a painting of a great architect, known as Pitah to the Kemetics, surrounded by night sky. According to the Kemetic legend, Pitah was the great architect of the worlds. On the right hand side is a painting of the Kemetic figure Horus, surrounded by a bright day sky. According to the Kemetic legend, Horus was a righteous figure with expertise in the healing arts and was the path back to the morning star from whence he came. In the center is a painting of the Kemetic King Amun with the head of a ram. Legend has it that this ram was a righteous ram, made a deal with the land queen of the Crocodiles known as Ammit. The deal was that the ram allowed Ammit to slaughter him so long as no other rams would ever be harmed by the crocodiles. Aten rewarded the ram for his sacrifice and brought him back to life and gave him a status of being one of his incarnations. In the painting are a series of a jackal, Lion, monkey and a heron in prostration before Aten in the form of a ram.

These are the shrines on the southern wall. In the center is a painting of Devaki, who according to Vedic legen is the mother of Krishna. The background is medium blue with twelve stars surrounding Devaki's head. On the Righthand side is Krishna playing a flute, which according to Vedic legend, is a repellant. On the lefthand side is a seven headed red cobra, who is thought to be the king of the Maludico's, and known to many as the accuser. This monsters weakness is beautiful music, which scares him like nothing else can.

On the Eastern wall, there are barrels of wine, while the western wall houses bags of unleaven bread that could last for long times without spoiling. In the center is a great table for the days of feasting. There were other entrances on the north and south wall to the stables and dormitories where the Cobolds and other residents could sleep, dependent on how long the flood would last, and places where the animals could stay. The Eastern Wall also has a mysterious locked chamber that had been found during the construction, which none of the Cobolds knew anything about. The Cobolds never bothered to try unlocking it when they realized it was impenetrable. The only thing the Cobolds did was decorate the archway with an honorific brick trimming.

The Birthday Party and Easter

By this time, the season of Lent had been in full swing. As Easter was nearing and Lent was in full swing, much began to change for Milo. Early in the season, Milo made his first confession the day after the Marilyn took him, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie to see Space Jam, which proved to be highly fun. That Friday, the kids were off from school, and this day also happened to be Valentines Day. Frankly, Milo enjoyed the movie a bit too much. This movie reminded Milo of some obnoxious student who got in trouble for sitting near students to antagonize, and ended up getting an assigned seat, with much scowling. This was setup by Mrs. Romero, who knew this student was making up stories to get students in trouble, and could be obnoxiously bossy.

On the day of Milo's first confession, he was up early and watched the Rug-rats. The episode as Milo remembered it featured the neighbors known as the Carmichaels, with Randy the Dummy Bear's editor. Then Milo was taken over to Church, and he was seated with his class. Milo had Parochial Vicar father Ned for his first confession, and confessed the standard eight year old confession of the kids he fought with. Milo feared that Margaret and Ray would go into the confessional with him during the confession process, but was relieved to find that it was only he and Fr. Ned. Milo was not aware of the seal of confession at the time. After the service, the family went out to brunch. Milo had confession one more time before his first communion, this time with Fr. Sorbiewski, the older priest. Fr. Sorbiewski was an easy going man who like Fr. Ned would never think of reprimanding the children in the confessionals. In fact, Fr. Sorbiewski had blessed a set of Brown Scapulars donated by a benefactor Martin's wife Sue.

Over time, Milo had become infatuated with the Choir director Wilma O'connell's singing, and got so mesmerized when she was the cantor. Milo remembered all of this from Christmas Eve Mass. Otherwise, Milo also began to develop a love for Super Mario 3 for the original Nintendo. Milo had played Nintendo the year before, but had put it away, as he got a Sega that ended up breaking down. The Battle ship song even reminded him of the Easter Sunday responsorial Psalm that would soon be sung. Rob would relentlessly tease Milo about Wilma, and often referred to her as his girlfriend. Rob often imitated Wilma, by singing that responsorial Psalm. This particular Psalm was written by composer Richard Proulx and used a Gelineau tone. As it was, Wilma was a fifty year old woman, and Milo didn't even notice women at that age.

On another occasion, Ray took Milo and Ben to a Basketball game out at Sussewago College. This had been on a school night, when Milo should have been home early for bed time. However, Ray made the exception, as this was a tournament between Sussewago and Whelon colleges. Sussewago had seemed very familiar to Milo, and had a vague memory of Marilyn bringing him to the Sussewago arena when he was a small child. On the way home, Ray told Ben that Milo had a crush on Wilma. That weekend in Sunday School, Mrs. Thompsons Brown Scapular's arrived, and Fr. Sorbiewski did the blessing.

The day before Easter, Uncle Doug, Dana, Nikkita and Kalisha came in town for the Holiday. On Easter Saturday night, Grandma Pearl along with Uncle Dougs family came over for dinner. They had not been in town since the Biancatello's adopted Jinny, and met her for the first time. Easter approached one Spring Sunday morning. Milo was mesmerized by the Mass, as hymns not sung for such a long time were being sung at Mass not sung since last spring. The songs sung were Jesus Christ is Risen Today, This is the Day, Alleluia Mode II, Alleluia Give thanks, I Received the Living God and All Creatures of our God and King.

One Weekend later had been very eventful. On Friday night, Aunt Michelle took Milo and Salvatore to Pizza and Pop night at St. Timothy's. At Pizza and Pop night, Fr. Ned showed up. In the church hall, Milo confused a picture of the bishop for Fr. Sorbiewski. Milo went back to Aunt Michelles that evening, and Salvatore showed Milo his new Super Mario Game for the super Nintendo. Milo was utterly fascinated by this game, and the ability to save the game, and the powers Mario had.

That weekend, Lydia had two birthday parties after turning Four. Her first party was for her pre-school friends, which also included the younger cousins such as Eustace, Salvatore, Gianni, a few friends from Sunday School, and Shamus and Charlie. Shamus started laughing hysterically when he found Lydia's Sunday School friend Alex eating in the living room alone. That night in Church, Wilma was the cantor, and there was this haunting chant Milo remembered thinking something bad happening to a man named Thomas. Lydia's second birthday party was a small brunch with Godparents and Grandparents and the Schumachers. During the party, Milo played Nintendo with Ben and Courtney. Now Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy are Lydia's Godparents.

As for Milo, preparations for the big day were coming fast. Milo had been only a few weeks from making his First Communion. At this time, Milo, Salvatore and Alicia all made their first communions one week apart from each. Alicia was the first, then Salvatore and finally Milo. With St. Timothy's, the School made their first communion the first week, while the Sunday School class made theirs a week later. Alicia living in New Seneca was part of a whole different diocese, which had been quite lucky that there was no overlap.

The Saturday before Alicia's first communion party, the whole Biancatello clan went to this Spanish Church St. Estebans, as there was a mass for Grandma Rosa's parents, and a Chili dog night after. The presider was a priest from Mexico, who had been good friends Grandma Rosa's family. At the dinner, Grandma Rosa's brother, Uncle Luigi made Aunt Dianne a hotdog with excessive chili sauce, which forever became known as the Uncle Luigi special.

The Reel Ceremony

The Demuzidean temple got a notification that the Alument Father Time would be making a visit. The Aluments are creatures above the Jinn and deeply mysterious. The four Aluments are known as Father Time, Mother Earth, Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom. In the Demuzidean temple, when there is a visitor on the way, the symbol of the visitor appears on the Pyramid. In this case, three symbols appeared on the pyramid, being an endless knott, a ships steering wheel and an eight on a 90 degree angle.

One evening, Maelendil, Alphie, Theodore, and Polyphanes had met at the temple in a solemn fashion awaiting the arrival of Father Time. A great trumpet sounded at the arrival of Father Time, whom the Jinns bowed prostrate before. Father Time had in his hands two film reels and called the four Jinn over to the Altar. Father Time gave Theodore the Film Reel known as the Gratiarium and Alphie a film reel known as the Eriyal. Father Time gave Polyphanes an Alpha stamp, and gave Maelendil an Omega stamp. Father Time then instructed the Reelbearers to place the reels on different leaves of the shamrock altar. Then Father Time instructed Polyphanes to stamp the Center of the film reel, while Maelendil was instructed to stamp the end of the reel. At once, the temple fires blasted in great flames that had not been seen for many ages.

The First Communion Morning

This is how Milo's first communion occurred. For two days, Milo was taken out of school early and over to the Church to practice for first communion. On Thursday, Marilyn picked Milo up, while Margaret picked him up on Friday. On the morning of his first communion, Margaret took Milo over to the grocery store to pick out balloons for the party in the afternoon. As it was, the mass would not start until 11AM, and Milo still had two more hours to go. Milo was then taken to the Church and sent to his assigned seat in St. Timothy's school gymn dressed in his suit and tie. The Pastor Fr. McAndrew showed up in the gymn to welcome the communicants and dressed in the vestments ready to start mass. Beforehand, he gave his blessing to the students, and departed for the Sacristy. Meanwhile, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony arrived at the Church in the seat Ray saved. Margaret arrived at the church with Grandma Pearl and little Lydia.

The Great Flood

The day before the Flood, the Cobolds, coin holders and the Animals were all moved into the shelter. The fertile silt had grown a bountiful harvest with an abundance of produce to last while the great flood took place. That evening, there was a great feast of the produce, bread and wine. The seer who had joined them was Yurimama, who had declared that this night would bring fourth a mighty purification on the land of Londinium. At midnight, the firmaments of the heavens unleashed an otherworldly rain harder than had ever hit the land. All those gathered in the shelter heard the great thunder of the rain thrust upon the earth with great terror and awe at this sound. The waters of the heavens had shook and swirled throughout the city, destroying such horrid monuments as the great orb of Hillectivus and the facility the Cobolds were held captive at. During the ten days in the Shelter, the Cobolds and others present were instructed to offer ten percent of the produce, bread and wine before the icons of Horus, Amun and Ptah. After ten days, the waters had ceded and the Cobolds were free to leave the shelter. Beaubelles is on a significantly higher altitude than the rest of Londonium, and therefore had not been covered by the waters like the rest of the city. The Cobolds and others who dwelled in the shelters had seen that the hideous skyline of oppression was completely destroyed by the flood, and rejoiced greatly. Over the course of ten days, the waters gradually ceased, and the land revealed was in ruins but bountifully fruitful. At this, the remnants of this city sang a song of praise and thanksgiving to the Dance, as they knew well that this rain did not come from a mere Angelic minister, Jinn or Aluments. Then they sand a new song in honor of the great Amun when they understood who he was.

The First Communion Processional

This was how the Mass occurred. Before the Communicants entered the church, Wilma sang "On this day O Beautiful Mother" at a crowning of a statue of Mary. The Communicants were taken to the side entrance of the Church where the organ thundered the opening hymn "Alleluia Sing to Jesus", to which Wilma began to sing. This hymn was written by British Anglican William Dix, and originally known as "Redemption by the Precious Blood". The Hymn was written for the Eucharist on Ascension Thursday, which is when Christians celebrate the day that Jesus ascended into Heaven after forty days after his resurrection.

There was a great vision at the beginning of mass in which the King had returned in glory, sitting on the throne with a scepter at hand. There was a crowd of angels singing "Glory to God in the Highest, and to the Lamb who had been slain to receive blessing, honor and glory". Then a great veil between the holy of holies dividing earth and heaven had torn right down the middle, and a great terror and joy reached the earth. The mortals covered their eyes unable to bear the light, and began a long and trapping process to expose themselves to the light.

After the opening penitential rites, the Gloria was sung, which at the time was only reserved for special occasions. It should be noted that this was before the mass had been revised and the Gloria sung was quite different. During the Gloria, there was a sight in the church of an elder in a library having uncovered a dreadful prophecy of the destiny of her pupil would endure at the hand of the master of the undead hemophiliacs. This pupil, a teenage girl got this news and burst into tears upon learning that she had been a lamb led as to the slaughter. After much resistance, the pupil bravely went fourth to her fight to the death. Then the pupil crossed paths with the master, and she began to attack him unsuccessfully. Then the master bit the pupil, and her blood was taken, and she was thrown into a pool of water and drowned. Then the pupil was raised high with new strength and launched the master over a library window, and he fell on a wooden spike and was slain after centuries of terror and oppression.

Then the vision changed to a greasy haired man conversing with an old man explaining that the one he protected could only defeat the Lord of Darkness by sacrificing himself to his curse. This greasy haired man protested the old man, claiming that the protected boy had only been protected to be led as a pig to slaughter at the right time. Then the protected boy saw the oracle, and walked through the forest to meet the Lord of Darkness. On the path to death, the protected boy was walked on the path by his deceased mother, father, godfather and self defense teacher. Then the protected boy met his death, but was tethered to life due to the ignorance the Lord of Darkness had of the deeper magic. After a brief visit to the netherworld, the protected boy was raised, and the Lord of Darkness curse rebounded, bringing fourth his demise.

The Sprinkling rite had been sung to the song "Baptized in water" and the Responsorial Psalm was Taste and See. During these hymns, Milo was in a trance watchin Wilma sing. Years to come, whenever the video was watched, everyone who had seen it noticed Milo's attention.

The Gospel Acclimation used was the Alleluia Mode II, and the last verse of the haunting Easter Chant known as "O Sons and Daughters". This hymn recounts the story of the women who went to the tomb of Christ, and were greeted by an angel announcing that he had risen from the dead, and the doubting of Thomas and coming to believe when he personally met the risen Lord. This the new Vision before the recitation of the gospel was this chant declaring "This most Holy of days, let us sing to God in Jubilation, Alleluia Alleluia Alleluia".

Then there was a vision of a group of hooded figures standing around a set of Egyptian relics, and a young girl was instructed to assemble the relics to form a golden goblet. Then this girl was unable to do the magic, and the hooded figures departed in disappointment realizing that she was not the chosen one. The true chosen one arrived and the blessing was recited by the leader of her fellowship, and the goblet was put together in glory. Then the dark traitor arrived, and ripped the cup away, filling it with a false elixir. Then a set of scales had tipped, and the Ethiopian of the fellowship pretended to die, as the dark traitor knew well, had the true elixir been drank of. Then the dark traitor departed with a false sense of victory.

After the Gospel, sermon, petitions and offertory, the great rite of consecration began. When the priest raised the bread, a vision showed through the church of a Burning Bush as Moses had seen. This was when Moses asked the bush "Who are you", and got the response "I Am that I AM, I am the God of your ancestors, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob". Then there was a vision of the I AM in the flesh declaring himself as the bread of life, to whom others shall partake of, and be raised high on the last day. Then there was a sign in the sky of serpents consuming everything in their midst. Eventually the serpents consumed the universe, and even the high lamb. At this, the serpent exploded and the lamb restored and raised high all that the serpent brought to corruption in the serpents belly.

The time had come for the reception of Communion. This was the moment the communicants had long waited for. The Communion hymn was the Benedictine French hymn based on John 14 known as "I received the Living God". When it came time for Milo to first take communion, he made the mistake and crossed himself with his left hand, which was forever recorded on video. During the reception of this first Eucharist, there was a vision on the first Eucharist two millenniums ago at the Last Supper, when Jesus comforted his disciples before his death, where he declared himself as the Way, the truth and the Life. The first sign was when Jesus had promised to lead his disciples to a dwelling place amongst many of the mansions in his kingdom. Then the vision is a flashback to the days when Jesus was exposing the Fundamentalists and the Loyalists bondage to the lies of the prince of darkness, and bringing fourth the true liberation. Then the vision returns to the second day of the Passover, when Jesus calls for the communicants to always remain in him, and always remain in him. Then Jesus warns of the coming Pharisees of the days, who will speak in his name, but serve the vines of death, and specifically tells Milo that he is the life.

After the Reception of Communion, the children sang the hymn "I want to walk as a Child of the Light", which was written by Wesleyan Organist Kathleen Thomerson. The Jinns Maelendil, Alphie and Theodore had been present at this first communion looking over the whole congregation. Alphie had sung the first verse with the children as this song of childlike wonder that the Puerubdi display. During Alphie's song, the hand of the Logos called forth children of light dwelling on the sea, and raised them to the status of stars to give light to the earth. Then Theodore sung the second verse with the Children in this song of clarity and conscienciousness that the Senexit displays. During Theodore's song, the son of man came fourth bringing tidings of righteousness, and breathing new life on the shadows first proclaimed by Moses and expanded by the prophets. There was also a vision of a Greek Philosopher telling a story of a cave in a book known as the Republic. Then Maelendil sang the third verse with the Children in this song of Apocalyptic Paradox that the Sophunum displays. During Maelendil's song, there was a vision of a war, and a group of the righteous entering a stable. Then a Lion led the righteous through the darkness into a newly restored home. The king of the clocks was awoken and crushed the sun of the corrupted world, and the old world of corruption was utterly flooded, and a newly restored world was revealed. Then an old man with a gold beard told the newcomers that it was all in Plato. Maelendil, Theodore and Alphie sang the refrain with the Children in unison of both the night and day in the Holy city of the New Jerusalem with the Lamb.

The ending Hymn was "Hail Holy Queen", considering that this was May, which is when Catholics give special Honor to Mary. The exact origin of the Devotion is not wholly known. There was a vision at the recessional of the crowning of Mary as the Queen of Heaven, to whom the Cherumbim and Seraphim sang their endless song of Salve Regina to the woman who bore the son of God and those on earth call the new Eve, and the hope for the world. During the closing hymn, there was a vision of the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel along with the Seraphim and Cherubim in adoration before a woman trampling on an ancient ouroboros. After Mass, Milo got his picture with Mrs. Thompson, the family, the Priests Fr. McAndrews, Fr. Ned and of course Wilma.

The Drying of the Land

Soon it came to pass that Londinium dried up, and for Forty days, a peaceful wind flowed over the city with a cloud full of some indeterminant but non-pollutant substance. After Forty days, the wind departed and much of the debris of the old Londinium had been taken away to some unknown fires. After the Forty days, a great abundance of flowers grew throughout the ruins of the once mighty land dominated by the Rakshasajinns. The land had become greatly fertilized by the waters, and the wood that sustained the structures had rotted away, turning into fertile silt. There was a sweet aroma in this land that had been desecrated by the curse and corruption of the Rakshasajinns. The Cobolds were instructed to gather a bundle of flowers and offer them over to the icon of Devaki. After this, they understood who Devaki truly was, and who her son Krishna also was. At this, they bowed before the icon. Despite the fact that the flood had not stayed, and their island paradise was not realized, the Cobolds were utterly mesmerized by the site of the abundance of flowers.

Milo's Communion Party

That afternoon came the time for the party where neighbors and Family all attended. This even included the Khara's, who had bought Milo an educational toy, considering that they did not understand the customs. As it was, the other guests were mostly Catholic with a few Lutherans. So they also understood the customs well enough. Uncle Doug bought Milo a Wet and Whizzer Dalmatian toy inspired by the movie. This party was at the picnic grounds at Margaret's workplace. These grounds had a playground and plenty of green space and picnic tables. All the cousins agreed that Milo's first communion was the most fun. Salvatore was a bit jealous, as Alicia had her party at a cool hall with pictures from the Simpsons, and of course Milo's party was at a picnic ground, while his had been at a train station banquet hall. Frankly, the party was just one of those standard formal banquets.

After the party, Grandma Pearl, Uncle Doug, Dana, Nikkita and Kalisha came over to the house to visit, while watching Milo opening his gifts. Milo got a lot of Catholic devotional gifts, such as rosaries, statues of saints, medals, prayer books and crucifixes, along with large amounts of money. Dana started getting jealous and wishing she had made her first communion after seeing all the money Milo got.

Initiation Completion

Maelendil held a meeting back at the Demuzidean temple with Alphie, Theodore, Maugris, and the Charism of the Didache. The Temple had not been as bright as it had been when Father Time arrived, but the fires had still been blazing. As soon as the Charism of the Didache arrived, he congratulated Maelendil, Alphie and Theodore for accomplishing their task. Maugris then revealed the rest of her plan, and had kickstarted things earlier than the spellmasters blind spots would manifest. Maugris knew well that every bureaucratic spell had its loopholes, and the binding power of the curse has a weakness that can undo the power they have. Maugris reveals how she got the new principal to place a Pashtun boy who knows the Pashtun charge in the Latin Charges homeroom class. Maugris then explains that she got the matriarch of the charge to befriend this Pashtun boy, and that tonight, the second initiation shall be completed. Maugris then placed the Hypocordo's contract on the Shamrock altar along with the reels. Maugris had gotten hold of the Contract after having created an illusion of kids running wild on a playground, knowing full well that their orderly instincts would make them go after the kids. Maugris then snuck in their headquarters, and broke the seal of their treasure chest and found the gold contract, in its binding glory. Maugris revealed the final plan to make sure the graduates parents introduce their neighbors to their good friends.

Razouls Graduation

As it came to pass, all the excitement of Milo having made his first communion had come to an end. Milo was one day sitting in the park remembering the excitement of that day, and feeling a little bummed out that it was all over. But little did Milo know what would transpire that day. Milo was at the zoo park, because a pre-school teacher from Lydia's school was leaving, and this was a farewell party.

As destiny would have it, Razoul would be having his graduation party around this time. This is what occurred at the Graduation Party. The party took place at a sports hall, where they were greeted by Razoul. All the women had been dressed in traditional Pashtun garb, while the men were dressed in typical suite and tie. In fact, the Biancatellos were one out of two non-pashtun people. Their neighbors from up the street, known as the Glenns were also invited to the party. As destiny would have it, Maziyar introduced the Biancatellos to their good friends the Sassani's. For the first time, Milo met Amira and her little sister whom Zaida was pregnant with when paradise was lost so long ago. This sister's name is Roshanak. As to how much Milo knew, probably very little. As it was, he was a small child barely interested in Girls. A friend of Milo's also of the Pashtun Community named Rahim showed up at the party, to whom Milo played with for most of the time. Rahim was in his class, and they had been friends since November. At the party, Milo, Tyler, Rahim, Amira and Roshanak were playing in a back room nursery, while the adults were talking. At this party, Milo tried Iranian food for the first time, and was not a fan.

The next day, Ray left for a Golf trip with the neighbors including Marilyn's husband Ralph, Dave, Scott and some other men. Milo and Lydia were a bit bummed out, due to Ray being gone. Margaret explained that Uncle Wayne would be in Saudi Arabia for the Summer. That day, Margaret took Milo and Lydia to see "That Darn Cat" with Paula and Tyler. As we already know, Milo got along much better with Tyler and Paula after the previous year.
Chapter 10: Two meetings between a trap

Art School

This had what transpired this Summer of 1997. Early on in the summer, Milo developed a slight fascination with Chinese culture after seeing an episode of the show Rupert, where they went on a trip to China. As it was, the episode had many orientalist themes of great inaccuracy, such as onion shaped arches, and an emperor with an abnormally long mustache. That same day, Marilyn took Milo and Lydia to Seewouden for the school picnic. This was the first time Milo had been to Seewouden with Marilyn since her kid's school picnics, when Milo was two. For most of the day, Milo and Lydia were at Soak Town, and did not go to the amusement park until Mid-Afternoon. Margaret had been unable to take Milo and Lydia, as she was on a business trip in Florida. IN fact, that weekend, Ray, Aunt Michelle, Milo, Lydia, Salvatore and Gianni took a day trip up to New Seneca for the day.

That same summer, Milo had been enrolled in an afterschool art class at a local art studio. At one point, both Amira and Roshanak had been enrolled in the class for two weeks. On the first week, Roshanak cried when Amira got an art kit. Milo recognized Amira and Rosahanak from Razouls graduation party. After two weeks, Milo had not seen Amira and Roshanak in class afterwards. With the Summer, the novelty of this great sacramental milestone began to die out and the thrill was quickly coming to an end.

As for the summer, this had been not the most eventful. This summer had not been as much fun as the previous summer, and little to anticipate. For the most part, Milo played Donkey Kong for his new Gameboy, which he bought with some of his First Communion money. For the most part, Milo and Lydia were swimming at Marilyns, and watching television. This would be the first time in two years that neither the Rumcorns nor Uncle Doug would be in town. Plus, this had all seemed to be a bit of a letdown, as the novelty of Milo having made his first communion had died down after two years of anticipation. Plus Milo was done with Mrs. Sprinter, who had been one of his favorite teachers since ever starting school. Even going to Church had not been much of an experience for Milo, at least not compared to his first Communion.

Milo developed an obsession with Batman, and fantasized about designing a Batman theme park. Milo also became quite obsessed with the "Disneyland Fun" singalong, and wanted to go to Disney World in the worst way. Milo's favorite song was "Grim Grinning Ghost", and had become quite obsessed with the Haunted Mansion ride. That summer, Maple Carol was in town for a week, which reminded Milo of the trip he took to Orlando three years ago, and wanted to go back in the worst way. The Haunted Mansion theme got Milo interested in Halloween themes, like the spooky stuff, and started noticing some similarities with Halloween themes and religion.

As for the rest of the summer, the Biancatello's and the Filentinos went on a short vacation to SeaWorld and Geaugua Lake. This had been a short two day trip, as the Biancatello's went on big vacations every two years. This was the first of many times that Jinny would be staying with Grandma Pearl while the Biancatello's went on Vacation. Milo was more excited for Geauga lake, as he had not been to the park since he was five, and too short to go on the roller coasters. Now Milo remembered Sea World all too well from two summers previous when the Rumcorns were in town.

Otherwise, the summer soon winded down, and it was near time to return to school. Milo had his birthday party at the end of the Summer, and got the Gameboy game "Mario: Six Golden Coins" and a Batman game. Milo had gotten quite a lot of Batman presents, due to this temporary obsession. Frankly, Milo was not thrilled about the prospect of having to return back to school, and just wanted to start counting down the days before the new summer would begin. Milo knew that he had requested Mrs. Signato as a teacher, but still was not so excited about having to be in school for the summer. Possibly Milo just didn't get everything out of the summer as he had wished like the previous year.

Yuriyama's Vampire Vision

According to Yuriyama's account, a man had been given drink of the sacred goblet in accord to the great initiation before battle. However, the wine in the goblet had been spiked with blood harvested by vampires. The man drank of the goblet, and falls to his death. After a peaceful dream, the man awakens in the form of a vampire, and surrounded by several vampires. The vampire was quickly welcomed by the mother vampire, and started to enjoy the attention she gave him. Unfortunately, another vampire came into competition with the new vampire for the mother vampire's favor. When this soon stopped working, the Vampire tried returning to the initiators, and they rejected him. According to the Initiators, they were now of different species, and could no longer fraternize. The vampire then found out the only way he could free himself from his vampire nature was to tip off the vampire hunters to the locations of the roaming vampires. However, the catch was after ones vampire nature is stripped, they are cursed to have to become a child again, and return to the orphanage the new vampire hated so much. Before the Vampires initiation, he grew up in this horrible orphanage. The Vampire became resentful about this hopeless prospect and staked a jock vampire who constantly bullied him. This caused upheavel, and the new vampire was put under probation by an officer vampire who constantly kept an eye on him. This officer vampire was extremely difficult to avoid, and reprimanded the new vampire for the staking. Over the course of weeks, the new Vampire had to plan secret trips to the mortals world in order to tip the vampire hunters off. The first tip off was of the competition vampire. The competition vampire caught the vampire hunters and told the rest of the vampires that they had been betrayed. The officer vampire knew that the new vampire had been responsible and told the whole vampire community, including the mother vampire. The vampires all started to shun the new vampire, including the mother. After that, the new vampire became angrier, and sold out more vampires, further angering the officer vampire. After enough agitation with the harsh punishments of the officer vampire, the new vampire staked the officer vampire himself, leading him to being cast out of the vampire community.

Yuriyama brought this vision to a Sophunum known as Maronattaar. Yuriyama then advised Maronattar to keep an eye on his Magnus. Maronattar was a bit stumped, and quite disturbed. As to what, Maronattar was unsure.

A Period of Dryness

That fall of 1997, Milo started third grade while Amira started in second grade. Things were not so well that year. At the beginning, things ran smoothly, but still fairly dull. Milo still found himself in a divided and dangerous world. This great sacramental experience was so amazing that standard school life could just not match up. Around this same time, both Mother Teresa and Princess Dianna passed on.

In the first part of the year, the teacher Mrs. Signato absolutely loved Milo, and gave him special privileges. Milo specifically requested Mrs. Signato for a teacher, as Marilyn said great things about her. Now Mrs. Signato had been known to pick favorites, and Milo was first given the privilege to choose which job he wanted for the classroom for the week. Milo picked the song leader. The first time such a privilege caught up with Milo was one afternoon where the whole class got punished and had to miss recess. The only ones who were given the recess privilege were Milo and some girls for their good behavior. Milo felt utterly emasculated. Milo then started to worry about being too feminine, and that he was not really one of the boys.

Meanwhile, Rahim broke the news to Milo that his family would be moving away next year. This is not something Milo took too well. Milo remembered quite well Razouls graduation party, and how much fun it was. Plus, Milo always felt a strange connection to that community he could not understand.

One long weekend, the Biancatello's and the Delaney's went on a day trip to a state park a few miles east, on the border of Ohio and Pennsylvania. As for the park, Milo had some odd fake flashbacks to being at this place. On the way back, Roger got stuck in the New Seneca Mall parking lot.

Around this time, Milo developed an interest in Geography after Ray got a discount on a Globe from work, and in school, the librarian showed the students how to find books based on different subjects. Milo often times rented books on different ancient cultures like Egypt, Rome and Greece. In fact, Milo wanted to go on Vacation to Egypt in the worst way. Now Milo did not understand the cost, language barriers and major cultural differences. Ray also explained that the food would probably be similar to the food from the Khara's party. Yet Milo felt utterly bored with life, and always wanted some new stimulus. This had been a reoccurrence since the end of the Spring.

Before Thanksgiving, Milo noticed that the girl over the video announcements was always the same girl. In fact, this was one of the girls who got permission for recess along with Milo, when the rest of the class had to miss. Milo had then found out this girl shared the same birthday as him. That night, Milo started designing a rec center where only boys would be allowed.

When it came to the holiday season, Milo first became exposed to the autrocious Beauty and the Beast sequel the Enchanted Christmas. This would unfortunately sour Milo's like for the original movie, and was under the impression that the original was darker than it really was. Around this same time, Milo got strep throat for the first time after going to the hospital for a hearing test. Over that Holiday, the Rumcorns came in town two days after Milo recovered. One night, Milo asked Uncle Wayne all about his trip to Saudi Arabia. Uncle Wayne told Milo all about being serve poorly prepared rice, sandstorms and living in a tent.

The Cobolds Rebellion

Some Maludico's had survived the flood and were quite angry with the Cobolds. Most of the Maludico's and Hypocordo's had perished in the flood. These Maludico's were still highly sore with the Cobolds, and considered them trespassing invaders. Now the Cobolds had been quite disappointed that the Flood had ceased, and their dream of Pedmontus becoming and island paradise had not been realized. All the Cobolds saw was this wasteland.

The Seer Daxividus had given instructions for the Cobolds and Londinians to figure out the next plan over the subterranean shelter and rededicate the shelter as a cellar temple. Daxividus had this plan to see if the Cobolds would know what to do, and would return in a year to see if they had figured out what the plans meant.

In the beginning, the breaking ground of the flooring had been quite successful. The next page was a set of instuctions to extend the borders above and beyond. Other than that, the plans were not specific, and only told the Cobolds that it was their job to figure out. The Cobolds interpreted this to mean that they were to build a high tower that extended upward, and offer services to the other Cobolds in the garden who also suffered under the reign of Hillectivus. The Londinians interpreted the instructions to go outward and help rebuild the town of Londinium. The Londinians had remembered how great Londinian was ages back, and dreamed to have their city rebuilt. The Cobolds had only known of Londinium as a great place of trauma, as all they knew was being held captive at the facility so long. Not to mention, memories of the compound had not felt so victorious like the defeat of the Governor.

By this time, the flowers that had grown after the flood had all but died and revealed the site and stench of several rotting corpses of the Maludico's and Hypocordos, along with debris left over from the Hillectivus Londinium. This greatly repulsed the Cobolds, and further wanted nothing whatsoever to do with Londinium. This made the Cobolds more disappointed that they did not get this paradise island.

The Maludico's who did survive had been utterly bitter over the loss of their power, and were not about to let the Cobolds survive unscathed. At this point, the surviving Maludico's invaded Beaubelles, as they had been able to smell the red and black shadows. When a Rakshasajinn renounces their status or dies, they shed their old skin, which evaporates into a ghostlike substance resembling a shadow. The Red Shadows are known as furors, and the remains of the Maludico's, while the black shadows are known as timoras, and are the remains of Hypocordos and likewise offsprings.

The Maludicos who arrived had a great sense of entitlement, and had been quite bitter and offended with the Cobolds over the flood. These Maludico's believed in their superiority and privilege they had in the Old Londinium and had been quite angry that the Cobolds escaped the facility without their permission, established their own community in Londinium and saw them at fault for the flood. The Maludico's had bullied their way into Beaubelles, and ruled with an iron fist, and were harshly punitive towads the Cobolds. This had made the Cobolds angrier, as it felt like they were back at the facility, and put them in a constant state of rebellion. As any Cobold knows well, they do not stand a chance against a Rakshasajinn, and needed help from a good Jinn. Still, the Cobolds saw this as a great regression from all the progress from leaving the compound, defeating the Governor and creating shelter from the great flood.

The other Londinians were getting quite frustrated with the Cobolds, as they believed that it was time to extend outward, and work to rebuild Londinium. The Londinium residents had not endured the same misery as the Cobolds had, and the Maludico's were not so bad to the Londinians. The Cobolds gradually became possessed by the shadows. At this time, the Overmaster known as Supradolfter, who is the king of the fallen Angelic Ministers had convinced the Cobolds that he was the one who sent the flood and would send another one and this time keep Londinium a place of disgrace as long as they keep the Shelter perfectly clean and free from all defilement. Supradolfter warned that should not the covenant be kept, unspeakable horrors would come about.

The Cobolds interpreted this to mean that the headquarters should go upward, so that the next feast of the flood, they would have a way of reaching Pedmontus from the Shelter, and therefore keep Londinium flooded.

Many Cobolds had become possessed by the Timoras, and gave allegiance to the Overmaster out of fear. They could not tolerate seeing the shelter desecrated. On one such occasion, these Cobolds had become quite fearful when some younger Londinians broke in and got mud and dirt all over the shelter. For several months, the Cobolds possessed by the Timora's were constantly fasting, in hopes that Supradolfter would relent his wrath, and constantly begged for mercy. The Cobolds possessed by the furors had longed for the day of another flood, and became resentful towards the Maludico, and had become quite tense with the other Londinians, and despised their frustrations. This eventually led to constant conflicts with the other Londinians. The Londinians began to despise the Cobolds, and saw them as an arrogant people who had no respect for Londinium. As it was, the Cobolds possessed by the Furors had been pretty nasty to the Londinians. On multiple occasions, the Furor Cobolds started fights with the Londinians, and still held their past allegiance to the Hypocordo's over their head. This was despite the fact that these surviving Londinians before the Flood. Another disagreement occurred over what to do with Londinium. The Londinians wanted to restore the structures of the old Londinium, while the Cobolds wanted to light all of Londinium on fire, and start fresh. The Cobolds also longed to burn the corpses of the dead Maludico's and Hypocordo's as they hated the stench.

Then there was a great schism, and the Londinians and Cobolds parted ways. This left the Cobolds stuck under heavier tyranny from the Maludico's. One Maludico started taunting the Cobolds that Supradolfter works for them. The Cobolds possessed by the Timora's became greatly terrified, and retreated to the shelter calling out to Supradolfter to cleanse their ears from the blasphemy spoken by the Maludico's. The Furors on the other hand fought this Maludico, with little success.

Third Grade, Second Semester

Before Martin Luther King day weekend, Milo had started becoming more standoffish with his classmates and school in general. For the first part of third grade, Milo had been loved by Mrs. Signato. At some point, Milo started getting annoyed with this girl from the Video Announcements. This girl had been annoyingly like Milo, but outdid him on academic matters. Milo started getting a bit jealous that he was no longer the apple of the teacher's eye. Alongside, Milo found anything that said he and Rahim were different became greatly annoying, and did not like being associated with the announcements girl. For Milo is not one to judge people by their ethnicity, and knows full well that cultural differences are superficial at best. He had to learn this lesson early on in living next door to the Khara's. But this became a difficulty for Milo, as living in a culture that still groups people by such arbitrary labels is quite an annoyance. Plus, Milo did not like being grouped with anothers teachers pet, whom he felt no chemistry with. There were three other girls whom Mrs. Signato favored, who also got recess privileges earlier in the year. Milo could not stand these other three girls, as they were the teachers pet types, and were those wannabe informants, always trying to enforce classroom rules.

The first time Milo became standoffish was during a class activity, where he just seemed not himself, and was in the group with the announcements girl. By this time, the teachers knew that Milo had not liked this girl, as he complained to his parents about her. Now Milo had not been feeling great that week, but the teacher still suspected that this had something to do with the announcement girl. On Saturday, Milo and Ray had haircut appointments. In church that night, Lydia had gotten sick. That night, after church, Ray and Margaret took Milo and Lydia over to Grandma Pearls to spend the night.

One week later, some teachers feared that Milo's standoffish attitudes were the early signs of a sociopath. As a result, the teachers agreed to have Milo attend counseling with the School probation counselor colonel Renz. This woman was a manipulative and abusive prize who would always look for the easiest way to handle problems. In fact, Renz got fired from a previous caretaker job after falling asleep on the job. Colonel Rentz had been Alecto's sister. Colonel Rentz methods centered on trying to punk Milo down, and constantly blamed him every time he had a minor conflict with another student, and even went so far to make a deal to get two girls to keep tabs on him. As most people know well, elementary students are just learning how to interact with a diverse group, and such conflicts of misunderstanding are quite normal. Otherwise, Renz was a creepy vigilant woman with a stockerish obsession with keeping an eye on Milo, and would not let him make any mistakes.

The weekend after Martin Luther King Day weekend, Milo began suffering from chronic nightmares, and could find no peace. Milo thought this was over Lydia getting sick in Church. By this time, Milo started to develop this superstition that he had to go to Church only on Saturday nights, as according to his experiences, if this was the case, he would not suffer from nightmares on Sunday nights. Milo also developed this superstition that if he had his haircut on Saturday mornings, that was an omen for a good weekend after his experience over Martin Luther King Day and Valentines day weekend. However the superstition soon enough was discredited as time moved forward.

A few days before Valentines Day break, Milo got a secret valentine from this girl who was the teachers pet, and discreetly threw it away. Unfortunately this girl saw the valentine in the garbage and told Colonel Renz and she let him have it. For Milo, he felt threatened by this girl, particularly since Rahim was moving. Little did Milo understand his real fear. Naturally Milo would not have acted so insensitively, but strongly felt this girl was just agitating. Milo knew well that he could not compete with this girl, and he did not want to sacrifice his own individuality to become liked, but still could not stand the standard this girl setup.

Luckily Valentines Day weekend got off to a good start with the teachers ending class to put on Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This was the first time Milo had seen the movie and developed a temporary entrepreneurial spirit to start a candy factory. That Saturday, which had been the first in a long time Milo had no nightmares, he had another haircut appointment.

Shortly afterwards, the Biancatello's went on a weekend trip up to New Seneca for Alicia's birthday. Despite only spending one night, Milo got a little homesick, and once again became perturbed for an extended period of time. Milo then went back into a regressive state, and became disturbed over the weekends.

Otherwise, things with Marilyns were not going too well. Marilyn had accepted two new families, in which one of the families had two small children who were obnoxious brats. With these new kids, Marilyns was no longer fun any more. Before, the Delaneys and the Biancatello's were Marilyns only clients, and were a fairly easy bunch to entertain, and she could easily take them out in public for day trips. With the new clients mischievous streak, Marilyn was not in the most pleasant mood, and the clients parents were no better. These parents required that Marilyn drive far out of the way to drop these kids off at the parents work place, while still needing to pick Courtney up from her sports practice. This meant a lot of time in the car. Otherwise, Milo could not stand how obsessed these kids were with Barney, and could not stand seeing it on TV, hearing the songs, or even seeing the stuffed Barney toys. In fact, Milo even hated Barney as a child. Milo then developed a grudge with Marilyn and saw going over there as the source of his problems.

Milo became even more resentful and distanced from school life in the final quarter of his third grade year. Over Palm Sunday weekend, Milo, Ray, Lydia, Aunt Michelle and Gianni saw Mouse Trap. Milo got a little freaked out with the movie, as the beginning showed a funeral procession including a dead body. This had been primarily because Milo was getting some severe indoctrination with Sunday School of frightening deities, thanks to a fanatical nun. This nun had always taught Church purity, and gave severe warnings about matters, such as not shaking hands with someone three pews in front, and gave students the impression of a God who could not tolerate any impurities in a church.

When it came to school, Milo started to become more antisocial and resentful. For the most part, Milo constantly gave more people the cold shoulder, and was full of snark. Otherwise, Milo started developing an obsession with religion, and could easily get defensive about anything that interfered with his piety. In fact, Milo's biggest pet peeve was swearing. For a while now, Milo had started becoming fearful of his own piety, but feared admitting this. For Milo, Religion was a refuge of acceptance for him at a time when school had been largely judgmental and fear mongering. Alongside, Milo was taking it harder and harder as the school year was coming to its end, and knew Rahim would soon be moving. This just got Milo to have more dislike with the announcements girl. When it came to Colonel Renz, Milo found out that two girls were acting as spies for her, and let the spies have it. When there was a substitute, Milo took this opportunity to use these two girls as examples of how not to treat people. Renz did not take too well to this, and forced him to stay in her office the whole day.

A few weekends after Easter, Milo started having nightmares, particularly a disturbing dream about Lydia getting a tonsiliectomy and him staying with Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony. A few days later, Margaret left for a business trip in Tampa, which had been very difficult on Milo. One weekend, Ray took Milo and Lydia up to New Seneca for the weekend, as it was also Matt's birthday. This time, Milo did a much better job with not getting homesick. When the Biancatello's arrived in New Seneca, they stopped at the New Seneca Mall. Milo had not been to the mall since he was three. Ray told Milo and Lydia about how Roger got lost there on that trip, which seemed like a lifetime ago, compared to how Milo was at his lowest now with school. Compared to how Milo was the Apple of the Teachers Eye not that long ago. Another weekend, Margaret had to stay in Tampa longer, which got the Biancatellos a short vacation in Florida. Before travelling, Milo was a bit apprehensive, as he started having flashbacks to his previous flight home from Orlando, and still was not so keen on flying. As for the trip, Milo was happy to get out of school for a few days.

The Annogrammatron Meeting

Maelendil called for a meeting with the Annogrammatrons Beverly, Maugris, Mairead, Johannes, and this Third Order Annogrammatron Susan the Diplomat. Beverly requested this meeting, and brought Susan to help out with some conflicts. Maelendil had been concerned with what had happened to his charge, and decided that Maugris and Mairead could help.

At the very beginning, Maugris admitted that her plan worked too well. Maugris retells the story of breaking the spell, and setting the stages for deliverance from the guilt imposed on the peers, and how the charge began to find himself having no use for the school systems. Mairead confessed that she may have departed too early, and admitted that someone like Mcgruder could not be sanely endured. However, Mairead confessed that this deliverance from Mcgruder also worked a little too well to the point where the charge could barely endure hardship, and only used religion as a hope for escape. Maugris explains that the hardship had come from the Maludico who started the curse on the childrens community. According to Maugris, an informant Hypocordo known as Weemzlak had figured out that there was a plot against his bosses plans, and informed the Maludico about this. The Maludico held a stronger grip, and put his other two Hypocordo's known as Warnelson and Wilbob on specific tasks to make sure he would not be undermined. Maugris explains that Warnelson and Wilbob were responsible for getting Colonel Rentz that job at the school. Warnelson was a Hypocordo who believed censorship from anything dangerous would keep the world safe. Wilbob was a hypocordo who believed in conformity at all costs, and would do anything to enforce conformity.

Maelendil then interrupts Mairead and Maugris with a thanks for their imput, indicating they made their points. Maelendil explains how part of the reason for the sudden power the Maludico gained had come from Father Time withholding his protection after the Graduation Party. Mairead asked Maelendil why Father Time withheld his protection. Maelendil explained that the ways of the Aluments are beyond his comprehension, but Father Time has a good reason for doing so. Maelendil then calls for Beverly and Susan to take the floor. Beverly makes her case first. Beverly starts off explaining the confusion the charge is experiencing: The charge had been the apple of the teachers eye, only to be outdone by another student. This rival has raised the bar so high to a point where the charge would have to lose his playfulness to meet the standards. However, this poor girl never asked to be held to these expectations, and feels bad that someone would hold this against her. With the Babysitter, the charge feels betrayed, and knew that things were better when it was just his sister and two friends. Betrayal can often be much more painful and noticeable than clear cut maliciousness of the phony probation officer. This is also hard on the babysitter, as she is not enjoying having to take care of these high maintenance clients, and would prefer to be the babysitter taking the kids out to movies, breakfast and the zoo like in days past. This also has not been easy on the babysitter, as she also knows how infantilizing her house has become for the charge. As for the charges friend, this is one of the few connections he has to the other charge. When a connection is present, such things like ethnic differences don't matter, and such similarities that this rival shares with the charge can feel utterly threatening, and not sure how to handle this.

Maelendil then gives Susan the floor. Susan first off admits that no negotiations can be made with the probation officer, and explains that she will inform the principal of this officer's crooked behavior. Susan then explains her plan to give the charges mother the idea of making amends with the rival. Susan then explains that pains of betrayal can take long to recover from, and realliance with the sitter will best wait until all hallows eve. Maelendil approves of the plan, and gives Beverly the task to tell the school guidance counselor everything she has just relayed. Maelendil explains that the guidance counselor is a very understanding woman, and the charge trusts her. In fact, this woman is one of the only school staff the charge trusts. Even the teachers who once were trustworthy have lost the charges trust after all the malicious propaganda the putrid probation officer has spewed. Maugris then implores Maelendil to use Ihrvierner, as she knows things have gotten out of hand.

Mairead asks why the Charge should care about the choices this other girl made. Mairead explains that the charge made his decision, and so has the rival. Mairead explains that the charges choice works for him, and the rivals choice works for her. Susan then explains that this is coming from the Cruxix Sophunum order. Susan explains that one magnus has become a bit domineering, and the universe gets thrown off. Susan explains that there is only balance and peace if both Magnus are working in harmony. Susan explains how a magnus who exults themselves above their partner is never safe, as their partner is so long oppressed that this partner could strike down the one who exults themselves. Susan then tells Maelendil in private that she had seen the anti-climactic syndrome, where the future is over-anticipated, and ends in a great disappointment. Susan explains how many Christmases had been ruined by such anticipation. Maelendil then summons Mairead and Maugris to work on a plan together, in order to break the Maludico's curse, but in a way that will go under the radar.

The Needed End

In the early second to last week of school, Milo and Margaret meet with the guidance counselor Mrs. Haubenfield. Margaret tells Mrs. Haubenfield all about what has happened with Marilyns over the past year, and how the new kids have severely tested her patience. Margaret then explains Milo being jealous of this rival, and Mrs. Haubenfield explains that the accusations of Jealousy are only making Milo feeling invalidated. Mrs. Haubenfield asks Milo about what happened with the announcement Girl. Milo complained that this announcement girl gets everything, and how Mrs. Signato barely gave him the time of day after she came into the picture. Mrs. Haubenfield asks Milo about how things are working out with Colonel Renz. Margaret interjects that Milo had been utterly moody and more isolated since meeting with Colonel Rentz. Mrs. Haubenfield asks Milo what kind of interactions he had with Rentz. Milo tells the story, and then unintentionally blurts that Rentz is a stupid jerk.

In the room, there is a vision of a teenager who had suffered from shell shock after a near death experience. Over time, this girl smashes the bones of the monster who had tormented her, in order to prevent his return. Then this teenager gets into a relationship with a monster ensouled by a vengeful gypsy. Then a Seductress monster and a smart mouth monster take residency in this teenager's town. This unleashes a host of problems, with her friend dating a werewolf, competition with a carribbean warrior, gross betrayal at the hands of the boyfriend, and a fight with her mother. After the seductress kills the carribbean warrior, the boyfriend is slain and the mother kicks the teenager out, she runs away from home.

By this time, Renz had gotten an early and well deserved sacking. After Rentz got sacked, another student she counseled, known as Zack and a year younger punched Rentz in the nose, nearly breaking it. Now Zack had some emotional disturbances, and got quite violent when getting counseling from the Colonel. Before Memorial day weekend, Margaret bought Milo and Lydia the Rug-rats vacation VHS. This VHS includes the episodes Vacation, Ice Cream Mountain and Graham Canyon. After this meeting with Mrs. Haubenfield, Milo was in a much better mood than he had been in a long time. That weekend, Ray brought Milo home a surprise. Grandma Rosa's brother Uncle Victor had an old electric organ from St. Estebans that the church had wanted to get rid of. Grandma Rosa knew Milo wanted a keyboard, and arrangements were made. On Saturday, Grandpa Tony and Ray went down to the Church to pick up the organ. That Sunday, Margaret and Aunt Jane took Milo, Lydia, Eustace and Samantha out for Ice Cream. On Monday, the students were off, and Milo watched the Muppet Babies episode "Nice to Gnome you". This reminded Milo of three summers ago, when he had first got the VHS as a birthday present. Milo thought a bit about those days, and started to think that the summer three years ago was so great. One weekend later, Milo was invited to his friend Todd's house. Todd was a boy with autism Milo had befriended a few years ago. Todd's parents Bill and Cheryl really liked Milo, and his family.

Shortly before the school year ended, Aunt Jane gave birth to her third born Sylvester. On the Saturday before the party to meet Sylvester, Milo and Lydia were at Grandma Pearls, as Ray and Margaret were out of town shopping for a new van. Lydia had not taken too well to getting rid of the van, as this had been the only van she ever knew. At Grandma Pearls, a new playground was installed across the street. That afternoon, Grandpa Paul came over, and took the three out for some snacks. The next day was the presentation of Sylvester, whom Eustace said looked like him as a baby.

As it was, another School year had ended, and in good timing. On the last day of school, Milo made amends with the girl he had shunned, and found out her name was Hope. Neither Milo nor Hope ever had such chemistry or ever even considered anything romantic, but remained friends throughout the remainder of Elementary School. Milo ended the school year at the principals retirement, telling him he looked too young to retire.

The Bilocation Meeting

During these days, news got out that Weemzlak had been brutally murdered by a Framlejinn. After the Colonel got sacked, both Wilbob and Warnelson went into a great funk. When the School year ended, the age of the teachers favoritism had come to an end, and Warnelson had nothing to protect, causing her to turn to booze. According to Maugris, Wilbob and Warnelson were now just loitering around school buildings, looking for other students to do their bidding. The Maludico, revealed to be Cittimerk had been looking for some new Hypocordo's to do his bidding, and waiting to strike again.

Maelendil knew that one of his charges was in trouble and in danger of slowly forfeiting allegiance to the dance, and taken as slave to the most terrible of the fallen angelic ministers. Maelendil knew well that all this perverse religiosity, obsession with one friend and irrational fear of a girl were a cry for a savior. Maelendil headed to the hall of prophecies, and looked over a scroll of the neighbors moving in, and remembered the Annogrammatron Vesta's words regarding a prophecy of two children of deliverance. Maelendil called for a meeting with Theodore and Alphie about calling fourth the Savior. Alphie suggested bilocating the savior to the Charge in trouble. Theodore opposed this, calling this a dangerous task that would wreck havoc. Alphie and Theodore argued their cases, as Alphie saw that risks were necessary, but Theodore saw this as breaking all the laws of nature. Maelendil put a stop to their arguing, as he knew that neither would budge their positions. Maelendil decided that he would have to summon Ihrveirner the Cosmologist of the Fifth Annogrammatron order, as Maugris recommended. Maelendil does not typically interact with the Fifth Annogrammatron Order, except in very dire circumstances. The kinds of people Maelendil has as charges often make very dangerous scientists and philosophers.

Ihrveirner showed up as summoned, to which Maelendil explained the situation. Surprisingly, Ihrvierner agreed with both Alphie and Theodore. Ihrveirner informed the three that this bilocation would only be permitted to last for two years, or the consequences could be disastrous. Ihrvierner explained how after this time, the bilocation would expire, and there would be no need any longer. Maelendil understood exactly what this meant. The deal made was that the Bilocation would only occur at three particular occasions, one very soon at the dawn of the warm season when studies have ended, two in the days when the leaves fall and the third before the solemn preparations for the Christian celebration of the Pascal Festival. The next part of the deal was that the bilocation would have to be disguised on the second and third apparitions. The final piece of information was that the bilocated charge would not be fully aware of this. Maelendil then gave Alphie the task to remind the charge of his first visit to his cousins, where it all began.

Londinium Rebuilt

Back in Londinium, the Londinians were pretty desperate for help. They had to sneak into the shelter from the flood, in order to look for some help. Unfortunately, the Londinians had to sneak in, as the shelter was constantly under the supervision of the possessed Cobolds. The Londinians hatched a plan to toss some dirt from Londinium on the shelter grounds, knowing full well that this would be a desecration on Supradolfters covenant. As expected, the Cobolds possessed by the Furors were horrified about what happened, and nearly attacked the Londinians. However, the cobolds under the Timora's fled out of fear of Supradolfter.

When the Cobolds under the Furors had been fast asleep, a few Londinians snuck into the Shelter, and called for help. Then the icon of Devaki gave a wink, and she left the icon.

The Londinians began to rebuild the city that had been destroyed by the great flood. As it was, the Cobolds did not help them in these efforts, as they were in no way well enough, and were still in a schism. The Londinians were starting to develop some suspicions that the Cobolds were not really themselves, and had possibly been cursed. Many Londinians suspected that the Maludico's had something to do with this. The last Maludico who had subjected the Cobolds to harsh treatment and severe discipline was hunted down by a particularly brawny Londinian known as Wilbur. Wilbur found this Maludico known as Teesis, and ripped her head off, therefore making Maludico's extinct in Kebsuda.

Either way, the Londinians began their efforts for rebuilding the city. The main palace where the city elders once held council, and made magisterial decisions had been restored to its former glory. The tower that once held the Orb of Hillectivus was raised back up, but without the orb. Where the Compound once stood, a new academy had been built, ran by teachers with no political motivations, or any interest in compulsion for the students.

The Khara's Backyard

As had occurred, Rahim moved away as Milo feared would happen. Kamaria told the family about the news, which Milo was not so shocked over. Times were definitely changing. Milo and Lydia would be starting a summer camp where they would be around more kids their own age. This was the same Sports Hall Razoul had his graduation party at. Life at Marilyns was coming to an end, as is the necessary conclusion of a long service used, and the inevitable time that kids can take care of themselves. Plus, it was no longer fun, as Marilyn had some high maintenance clients, and that year before, it was not just Milo, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie. On a more joyful note, Zaida was pregnant with the Sassani's thirdborn, and would be in the same year as Sylvester.

That first weekend off, Milo felt a bit bad about having been so standoffish, and sort of wished to begin a new school year. That Saturday, Ray was out of town for a Golf trip with his neighbors. That evening, Lydia had a dance recital at William Jettson Middle School, and could not go to Church that night. Now Grandma Rosa, Grandpa Tony and Grandma Pearl all attended. At the recital was a student he went to school with, and his Grandparents. Margaret thought that it was quite cruel of his Grandparents to take him to such a boring recital. After the recital, Milo saw two little Pashtun girls and a one year old baby playing in the Khara's backyard. Milo recognized the girls from somewhere, but could not put his finger on where he had seen them. Milo immediately went to these two little girls to see the baby.

The next day in church, the opening hymn was "Alleluia sing to Jesus" like at Milo's first communion. This had been the first time Milo heard the hymn since his first communion. By this time, Milo was freed from the superstition of only going to Saturday night mass, and was no longer being tormented by nightmares.

As it was, Milo came out of his antisocial rutt, and had started to feel somewhat comfortable at the Sports Hall summer camp. Lydia on the other hand had some trouble at the beginning, as she missed going over to Marilyns. Milo still felt a little bitter about Marilyns, and had been angry with her for accepting these clients that changed everything. This grudge was not permanent, and would soon come to an end. Despite Milo's comfort with the Sports Hall, he never truly loved being there. Milo had made friends, but the friendships were all superficial at best. On Monday's and Friday's, Milo and Lydia still went over to Marilyn's, but it was days that these hand full clients. However, with the Summer, being at Marilyns was not so bad.

This year for the first time, Margaret and Grandma Pearl took Milo and Lydia to their School Picnic at Seewoulden. For Milo, this just meant a day at the Amusement park, as he really did not care to socialize with other students. On Thursday, Milo and Lydia returned back to the Sports Hall. Frankly, this was a bit disappointing compared to Seewoulden. The Field Trip that day had been a bit boring, and time at the pool was pretty short.

One week during the Summer, Milo had a day camp, which had been ran by Dudley's dad Petey. Margaret was also one of the chaperone moms at the camp. During the week, the campers earned beads for learning such skills or completing crafts. On the last day, at the end of camp, Petey called everyone front and center and lined them up to the site of Dudley balling. Petey started off saying "You know what you did, its not nice to steal". What happened was Dudley had lost his beads, and Petey assumed one of the campers stole them. Then another camper found Dudley's beads, which had fallen out of his cubby.

During that summer, Milo came across the Home Alone Franchise. Marilyn showed the movie early in the summer, and Milo rented the movie "Lost in New York" in the middle of the summer. Another event worth noting was that one day while Ray and Milo were on a bike ride, they came across Liliana, a good friend of Aunt Marie and Aunt Michele's. That night, the Biancatello's went to Olive Garden for dinner after Church. Out of nowhere, Milo brought up a memory he had of an Italian restaurant they visited in New Seneca from their first visit. Margaret confirmed that this was true, including the mirror they sat by. Ray told Milo the restaurant was Italo Sanfrantella's. Alongside, Milo and Salvatore made up a rumor that Eustace had ripped the hymn known as "The Servant Song" from the hymnals. Milo said that Eustace ripped it out because he was selfish. Now Milo and Eustace had a bit of a rivalry over their differences, as Eustace like many small children could be a bit bratty at times.

For the rest of the summer, Milo had constant flashbacks to the summer before starting first grade. Despite that summer being less than desirable, Milo had a great amount of nostalgia for the Summer before entering First Grade. Milo remembered that summer being the great prelude before entering Sunday School and Hazelnut Forest School. Over that summer, Milo frequently watched his Muppet Baby video's, which he got as a present for his seventh birthday. All Milo could think of was when he first started Sunday School, and how it all seemed like this great climax was beginning, and now just over like that. For Milo, he was not sure what was next, no matter how many attempts he sought of replicating the old glory.

On one occasion, the Rumcorns were back in town, and they went to Cedar Point for a day trip. Milo kept thinking about his trip to Cedar Point three years previous, when he was six years old. For some reason, something did not feel the same to him. To Milo, his memories of Cedar Point were like an oracle from a different world. What Milo had really been remembering were very selected events, primarily of the month of August. Most of what Milo was remembering had been from late August, and the week of going to Sea World, Niagara Falls, Cedar Point, his birthday, and the last days of summer before starting school. Like that summer three years earlier, Milo had been just as stuck, but remembered being delivered after being enrolled into Sunday School. Little did Milo know that he was to experience something new like those three years ago, but in a radically unexpected way.

Book III: The Later Elementary Years

Chapter 11: The First Thrice Occurring cycle

Daxividus Message

For quite an extensive period of time, the Cobolds and the other Londinians had been very stiff necked, with both sides refusing to listen. The Cobolds believed the plans for the new structure was meant to extend towards the garden, and minister to their people, while the other residents native to Londinium believed the structure was meant to give the Forester Clan and opponents of the Maludico's easy access from the Shelter to the cliffs once the next and permanent flood comes. The confrontation had died down significantly, but the heavens had grieved at this, as no progress was being made on the great project. The seer Daxividus had been sent to the Cobolds and Londinians to resolve their dispute and get back to work on the building project. Daxividus being diplomatic was able to get the attention of the Cobolds and Londinians. When the Cobolds told Daxividus their case in regards to the next flood, he became utterly horrified. Now Daxividus knew well that there were no plans for another flood, or a flood that would only protect the cliffs.

Daxividus then understood that many of the Cobolds had been possessed by the Timoras and Furors, and that this was the work of Supradolfter. Daxividus knew that those under the Timora's had suffered the most, and cast out the shadow, and publicly announced that the Overlord Supradolfter was a manipulative liar worthy of no allegiance. The particular Cobolds had realized that their allegiance with the Overlord had only tormented them with constant terror, and not worth it. The most difficult exorcist for Daxividus would be to exorcize the Furors from the other Cobolds. These Cobolds had a distorted love for the Furors, as they gave them a perverse sense of purpose, and boosted their sense of superiority. Daxividus spoke with great authority to not be hardend from the message, and hear the voice of truth. One Cobold shouted that the shelter is their master, and the flood was their glory. Daxividus declared that this shelter will one day wither away as the flood that destroyed Londinium. The Cobolds then told Daxividus that the days of flooding will return, and the banquet in the shelter will rise again, more glorious than before. Daxividus explains that the flood fulfilled its purpose, and implored them not to mistake the mighty flood as the complete revelation of the Dance. The Cobolds possessed by the Timoras got angry and claimed that Supradolfter was their true master. Daxividus explained that he knew how they suffered much under Londinium. Daxividus explained how he knew that the Old Londinium brought pain and loss into their lives, and were treated like slaves in a horrible compound. Then Daxividus explains that destroying Londinium will not let them go home again.

After a long struggle and arguing, the Cobolds one by one froze and immediately fell to the ground as the shadows of the Furors had been cast out. One Cobold broke down in lamenting about the glory days, and how Supradolfter promised them a return to the days of glory. Daxividus explains that nothing happens the same way twice, lest they be barred from their glorification.

After a few days of rest, Daxividus called back the Londinians to a meeting. Many Londinians protested, and expressed revilement of the Cobolds. Daxividus implored them not to be hardened against the message he has come to deliver. Daxividus explained that the Londinians were right about their interpretation in rebuilding Londinium, to which the Cobolds protested. Daxividus calmed the Cobolds and explained that their interpretation of ministering to the Cobolds of the garden was also correct. Yet Daxividus explained that this shelter is to make a way to the cliffs. What had concerned both the Cobolds and Londinians were the Maludico's. Daxividus instructed them on a plan of cooperation that could make them completely sufficient, and could dissipate any need they have of the Maludico's. With the Maludico's being ignored, and no longer needed to handle Cobold and Londinium disputes, the Maludico's slowly rotted away and dissolved into dust.

The 18th Sunday of Ordinary Time

As the summer of 1998 drew to its end, there was one responsorial psalm sung in church on the Saturday Night of the 18th Sunday of Ordinary Time that had haunted Milo for the remainder of the evening. This Psalm used for the responsorial 95 and the verses were based on Psalm 90. This is one of the only responsorial psalms to do this.

In church, there was a great vision retelling the history of writing of the document known as "The Fundamental's: A Testimony to the Truth". This vision recounts the writers who sought to defend Protestant Orthodoxy in order to have the same voice in society as the Scientists and rationalists had. However, the story tells of how this movement decayed into constant battles over petty matters, with endless splits. The corruption of the Political systems that had come from this movement, and the compromises in attempting to baptize militarism, greed and domination. Then it was recounted how many of these groups had fled the Old World where Monarchs had done the same thing.

Those words "If Today you hear his voice, Harden not your Hearts" stuck with Milo throughout the evening, even during the Baseball Game Ray had taken him and Milo to that night. Milo had felt quite disturbed about how stale life had become, and how doing more of the same things he had done three years ago did not bring him the same joy. Matter how much Milo tried, he could not figure out what was missing, and felt utterly perplexed. Milo kept hearing Psalm 90 in his head all night, recounting the constancy of change. Then there was a vision at the game of the Blessed Sacrament departing the monstrance, and ascending far away, leaving only an empty relic.

Maelendil and the Cruxix

Maelendil met with the Cruxix Sophunum, who in this age is Marronattar. Marronattars most well known charges of this age are Native Spiritualist Russel Means, Franciscan Priest Richard Rohr, Christian Hospice Chaplain Boyd Purcell, Ignatian priest Matthew Linn, Cognitive Linguist George Lakoff, Libertarian Politician Ron Paul, Psychiatrist Carl Jung, Mythologist Joseph Campbell, Psychoanalysis Jordan Peterson and Lord of the Rings Author J.R.R. Tolkien. Throughout history, most of the charges of the Cruxix of the past have typically been the storytellers, mythmakers, Priests and Shamans. It has often been said that the native indigenous peoples and the early believers of the Abrahamic religions had the clearest connection to the Cruxix.

Marronattar brought his Magnus known as the Ouranos and Solum. In this time, a new Ouranos was voted in, as the old one, known as Feeney had been impeached, and may have become a framlejinn. The new Ouranos was Theodolph, and the current Solum was Agnes. In this order, the Ouranos is a male jinn and the Solum is a female jinn. Now Agnes could be a bit feisty, as she was greatly undermined, due to Feeney's domineering attitude. Now Feeney believed strongly in exclusion and was not one to include anything that threatened the majesty and purity of his understanding. Agnes on the other hand was strongly distrusting of the Ouranos order, and saw them only as the source of authoritarian bigotry.

Two Charisms were summoned, being the Charism in the spirit of the Didache and and a new Charism in the spirit of the inventor of the Tibetan Sand Mandala's. Agnes had not been thrilled to see the Didache Charism, and accused him of promoting a religion that referred to outsiders as unworthy dogs. The Charism explained that they had to be cautious, as they were living in a world where they were under Roman rule, and could not afford to merge with the worldly systems that lorded over their citizens. Then the Charism reminded Agnes what happened when Constantine took over and forced a state religion like the religion of the emperor before had done.

Theodolph questioned the Charism of the Mandala about creating a practice of working hard creating beautiful pieces of art, and then just tossing them away into this brown blob. The Mandala Charism explained that they do not destroy their art, they offer it up to the dance, as they do not recognize themselves as the artists, or the art as something to get attached to. Theodolph is still confused that such an endeavor is just pointless labor yielding no fruits. The Charism then shows Theodolph a site outside where the Mandalas still exist in a great and unseeable pattern. Maelendil put an end to the Jinns bickerings and explained that they would all need to work together in order to progress to the next step. Maronattar reminded both Theodolph and Agnes that they both need each other.

Maelendil tells Maronattar, Theodolph, Agnes and the two Charisms what has happened with one of his charges. Maronattar explains that Yuriyama had given him a warning before all this took place after seeing a vampire vision. Maelendil had been quite astounded about the Vampire vision being so spot on with what had taken place. Maronattar then explains that Susan told him everything about the charge. Maelendil and Maronattar talk over a plan, as to help restore the cruxix order and help Agnes learn to trust Theodolph. Maelendil and Maronattar come up with a plan to help both their charges on earth. Theodolph, Agnes, the Charism of the Didache and the Charism of the Mandala are told of this plan of cooperation. Theodolph is assigned to work with the Charism of the Mandala, while Agnes is assigned to work with the Charism of the Didache. Agnes reluctantly agrees, but they all accept the task to dialogue over their differences.

As soon as Maelendil is about to depart, the Satyasha Ahamkara approaches him, tense and glad to see him. The Satyasha are an order of Jinns where there is a matriarch who is mother to up to three children. Jinns do not reproduce through physical means as done on earth. In fact, very few Jinn orders reproduce to begin with, with the Satyasha being one of the few. Jinns are neither born nor die, but do have a beginning and an ending. The Jinns come from fire, and return to fire and given a seat in the hall of heroes once their mission is completed. The Satyasha Matriarch reproduces by emitting gold dust over certain eggs, which have a variety of three forms. The Angelic Minister Athena distributes the Copper Eggs, Astraea distributes Silver Eggs and Aprodite distributes Golden Eggs. A Matriarch is only allowed to have three sons, and only one from each egg type. The Satyasha are the most sufficient Jinn, whis has often times made them in need of help from Sophunums like Maelendil.

Ahamkara, the Matriarch Satyasha had been having difficulty with her two sons Skeeter and Vulterian. Skeeter was born first of a Golden Egg, and Vulterian was second born of a Copper Egg. According to Ahamkara, both Skeeter and Vulterian had been fighting. Skeeter had hatched long before Vulterian, and Vulterian had just hatched four years previous. According to Ahamkara's complaints, they had been fighting since the day Vulterian hatched. They had never been able to agree on anything, and both wanted to get their way without compromise.

Maelendil had met with Skeeter and Vulterian individually. Skeeter is fairly instinctual and romantic, while Vulterian is very empirical and rational. Skeeter explained to Maelendil that Vulterian has always been putting down his ambitions since he hatched, and thinks that he knows everything. Skeeter tells how Vulterians conclusions are always boring and predictable, and his ideas of what is feasible. Then Skeeter goes on about how Vulterian is so arrogant, and only considers anything possible if he can figure out answers through strict analysis. Skeeter then goes on to complain about Vulterian crushing the imagination of the earthlings, and turning them into skeptics who think that the only feasible possibilities of living are the profit motive, dull chores and cold pragmatism.

Vulterian explained to Maelendil that Skeeter is too compulsive, and puts ideas in peoples heads of completely infeasible possibilities, but no plans. Vulterian explains that Skeeter makes no sense, and can never prove a single claim he makes, and assumes just cause he believes it, that it is true. Then Vulterian admits that he finds Skeeter constantly putting down his use of logic and observation as a dead end making life not worth having.

Maelendil goes off to think, and comes to the conclusion that both need counselling. In fact, Maelendil sets up an assignment where both Skeeter and Vulterian have to work with the two groups. The plan is for Skeeter to work with Ouranos and the Mandala Charism, while Vulterian is assigned to work with Solum and the Didache Charism. Then there will be a switch, and the third project will be for Skeeter and Vulterian to do some dialogue.

A New School Year

This new School year began in quite a similar fashion as occurred three years ago when Amira had entered in the School District and Milo first became exposed to Religious Education. This year, Milo had been the first year Milo was not so depressed about returning to School after Summer Break. Possibly Milo realized that the sports hall was not so much fun as he thought it would be, and school could give him more options that he did not know of. For the first time, Milo lost his standoffish tendencies with School for good. For Milo, this would be the first time School became a place of belonging for him as his family life is.

When it came to religion, Milo started to understand that Church was not without flaws, and did not have to fear the words of the fanatical nun on propriety in the Church, lest hell should break loose or God would be furious. Not to mention, Milo was not so fanatical about having to go to Church on Saturday night only, or entertaining conspiracies that school was a satanic experience.

On the 23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, the Gospel of the Lost Sheep, Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son was read, along with Psalm 51 being sung. The Biancatellos had went to Mass on Saturday night, as is a common custom in Western Christianity. In Church, there was a great vision of Jesus speaking with the crowds, while the Pharisees and law teachers had been repulsed with Jesus fraternizing with the enemies. The Pharisees had referred to the tax collectors as traitors fraternizing with their Roman enemies. Jesus then tells the story of the Lost Sheep, and how the shepherd would leave the 99 in order to seek out the lost sheep and the Lost Coin. At this, the crows had recognized that Jesus rebuked the Pharisees standoffish attitude towards their enemies. The next vision was of the prodigal son who had gained a great inheritance. The son had squandered his share on self absorbed pursuits, which eventually lead to loneliness and realized this was not working out. The Son returned to the Father in utter humility, to which the father brought back the son unconditionally and threw a banquet. The Son having been shown mercy became more merciful. The final declaration that stuck was "I will rise and go to my Father".

After Church, the Biancatello's went out to dinner with the other Uncle Leo and his Family and the Filentino's. What had transpired was Milo became able to make more friends and actually enjoy school as it was for the first time in his life. At this time, some new students from Pleasant Tune elementary had transferred over to Milo's elementary School. Milo's new friends were Travis Finster, Clayton Luther and Ivan Squatari. Milo also reconnected with old classmates from Pleasant Tune. Along with new Pleasant Tune transfers, Milo's former Kindergarten Teacher Mrs. Jones transfers to Hazelnut Forest, and is his science teacher. Mrs. Jones proves to be a much better science teacher than a Kindergarten teacher, possibly from the past years of experience, or better at teaching more mature students.

The rebuilding of Londinium

Daxividus intervention had done great wonders with the Cobolds and Londinians. For the first month, the Cobolds helped the Londinians continue their cleanup of Londinium. During these efforts, the Cobolds had found an abundance of materials that could be used in order to build the walls for the first story over the Shelter. After Londinium became clean, the old glory of the city became more apparent. The Cobolds never realized how Beautiful Londinium could be, and how it could become just as much of a home as the Cliffs of Pedmontus are. The day had come to build the first story of the new structure. After the walls went up, it was time to put a stone roof over the walls. The Cobolds had walked on the roof one morning and saw a horrid site. They got a view of a set of snowy mountains, which was full of structures that had the signature ugly style of the offsprings Rakshasajinns known as trolls. After this horrible site, the Cobolds feared working on a second story, and never wanted to return to the roof.

The Cobolds asked the Londinians what this had been all about. The only thing the Londinians knew were that there were trolls inhabiting the mountains. The Londinians had considered this a great shame, as they knew well that this could give them access to lands beyond Londinium and the Gallicanium region. One Cobold Elrich remembered how he had a map passed down that ne never understood. He brought it out from the Shelter's cedar chest that contained important artifacts they had been given from their last trip to the Gardens of Pedmontus. Elrich showed this to Londinians to make some observations. According to one Londinian, this was definitely a map of secret tunnels through the mountains where the Trolls reside. This Londinian advised Elrich to hold onto this, just in case.

Dudlechip

As it was, Milo and Lydia were no longer being babysat by Marilyn, but were now going to an after school program held at Hazelnut forest. This after school program was run by the Alpha-Fi Fitness club. On days off, the program used space at Dudlechip Elementary. On a few occasions, Milo had two counselors he did not like. This first counselor Kris was an unfriendly woman who could be a bit bossy. There was another woman who came in one time, known as Kathy, who would not let the kids play in the morning, as she had work to do, and wanted noiselessness in order to concentrate. Because one kid talked, they got banned with playing sports for a week, all because Kathy did not like this.

One day in early October, Milo and Lydia had a day off from school, to which they were sent off to Dudlechip for the first time. Upon arrival at this school gym, Milo and Lydia knew no one at this camp much to their displeasure. There was another little girl at the program with short brown hair whom Milo had seen before, but could not figure out where she came from. Frankly this girl strangely had middle-eastern features resembling some girl he had seen over the summer. Frankly, Milo hated Dudlechip after that day, and dreaded ever returning. Margaret understood that it would be hard to make friends if they were to go to this place so infrequently.

During this time, Milo started having more flashbacks to his earlier years, particularly Kindergarten at Pleasant Tune and his first year of Pre-School at St. Timothy's. Ever since Milo started Sunday School, he had flashbacks to Preschool at St. Timothy's. But this had been the first year Milo was quite happy to stay at Hazelnut Forest. As we remember, the previous summer, Milo had some unrealistically myopic memories of the summer before starting first grade. Milo was just as stuck both summers, but could only see the good of that summer years later. This is the strange thing about the human condition. Bad memories can be easier to appreciate years later, when they have produced good fruits.

The flashbacks of this time were of the early Holiday Seasons. As it was, with this incoming of Pleasant Tune students, this may have been a set of flashbacks of being at that school, even if for only a year. Milo also had a flashback of the nasty treat bag he made for Marilyn and Ralph for Christmas. With Milo's first year of Preschool at St. Timothy's of the fall, this had been shortly after the Summer when the Khara's moved in. Possibly this was the first time Milo had remembered Amira as Once upon a Dream.

Milo had wanted to meet some of his old classmates from St. Timothy's, even if he only knew them for a year. Milo had some slightly myopic ideas about St. Timothy's being something so great. Little did Milo remember that his pre-school teacher, Mrs. Slovach was a not a nice lady. Years later, Milo found out from Aunt Michelle that this teacher complained about Salvatore blatantly disobeying Slovach's orders to sing. Aunt Michelle thought the teacher was acting stupid, as no small child blatantly disobeys singing order. This has often been the strange thing about teachers, there are way too many who get so offended if a young student makes the wrong gesture. Take one teacher who had gotten so offended about the child who accidentally turned off the light when leaving the classroom, and goes ranting off saying "didn't it occur to you that I would still be using the room?" Of course the kid habitually turned the light off like their parents had taught them before leaving a room.

The weekend after Milo had gone to Dudlechip, he had a birthday pool party at the YMCA. This friend Millhouse had gone to CCD with Milo, and lived close by. Actually, Millhouse lived in the Filentino's neighborhood. Millhouse had been friends with Salvatore, along with his neighbor Nate and some other neighborhood kids. The party was also attended by Milo's new friend Travis. Milo suspected he had swim lessons with Travis two years ago, but no such claims had ever been verified. But this is the same Milo who also believed that his uncle Georgio was the astronaut visiting school when he was in Kindergarten back at Pleasant Tune.

Around this time, Ray told Milo and Lydia that the Glenns would be moving soon. Scott had gotten a new job in Kentucky. Milo feared that with the Glenns gone, that Kris and Kathy would move in across the street and spy on the Biancatello's. Milo had not always handled disappointment too well, and felt the need to focus his attention elsewhere. This is the common tendency to hate replacements, and see them as being at fault for a loss. So Milo needed a potential bad neighbor to hate, and a justification to hate them other than being a replacement.

The construction of the Guest Floor

The next step for the Cobolds according to the plans was to transform the first floor into a guest house. This guest house is meant to function as a shelter to anyone who shows up at the doors without judgment. Their reasoning is that anyone could show up, including the most needy, unexpected relatives, Jinn Elders or even the King in the Name of the Dance.

Daxividus returned this time to dedicate this guest house as a shrine to honor the great temple built long ago, whom the Cobolds had only glimpsed in passing, and otherwise only know about from legend. The temple was located beyond the cliffs, which no mere Cobold could easily reach. A day of Joy came when the guest house was dedicated, and the whole of Londinium journeyed with jubilation upon seeing the new shrine. The rumors that spread were that with the dedication of this guest house, a great guest would arrive, whom none would expect, and was very near.

Then the Seer of joy Azeyas appeared to tell the Cobolds that one was soon coming who would pave the way to the Temple beyond the Cliffs. The rest of the prophecy spoke of the uniting the Gallicanium, which included the city of Londinium to this land beyond the border and the region of the Cliffs known as Atlantis and Spartustica. Spartustica is the region which is from Gallicanium to Atlantis and includes the whole of the cliff regions. At this news, the Cobolds and Londinians rejoiced greatly.

The Advent Season

This Advent had been particularly fulfilling for Milo, since the events that transpired at Dudlechip over a month ago. For Milo, the season of Advent always had some significance for him since one particular day late one December night when he was one years old. Frankly, Milo started getting into the Christmas spirit right before Halloween. That Halloween, Milo and Lydia went trick-or-treating with some neighbors, including one girl Lucille. At this time, Milo started getting more interested in socialization with school. Around this Halloween, there was a chain going on of giving secret Halloween bags, and the Biancatello's got one from Lucille's neighbor. Milo wanted to return the favor by giving a treat bag to some girl on his street several houses down. Unfortunately Ray decided that they should give the treat bag to Salvatore and Eustace instead, much to Milo's annoyance.

That Advent Season had been very exciting for Milo. This had been the first year that Milo observed the Advent Season, and understood the whole timing. When it came to Thanksgiving, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony hosted. Before Thanksgiving, Milo and Lydia's friend Shamus from Marilyns invited them to his pool party at the Alpha-Fi main center.

The day after Thanksgiving, Milo could feel himself getting into the Christmas Spirit. At Church that Saturday Night, Milo noticed this haunting opening chant known as "O Come O Come Emmanuel", which had been this haunting chant commonly sung during this season. This hymn is based on the O Antiphons used in Western Christedom based on the Prophecies from Isaiah in regards to the coming of the promised Messiah. The responsorial Psalm for the first Sunday of Advent was Psalm 122, which Milo noticed used the word "Rejoice", and its commonplace use in Advent Hymnody. In fact, the Psalm was used the previous week for Christ the King Sunday. In Church, Milo saw his social studies teacher from the previous year.

In Church, there was a vision of a temple some pilgrims had been travelling that had been in the far distance. According to the residents of the land, this land would take seven years to travel to. Despite the time distance, the pilgrim had greatly rejoiced when some other pilgrims invited him to travel to this temple. Then there is a figure dressed as a high temple rabbi promising a great meeting of those of kindred spirits within the course of Seven years. Then the Rabbi points to one congregant, asking him to call for peace in this place of meeting.

That Saturday night after Church, the Biancatello's had the Filentino's over for Pizza. Actually Milo insisted on this, as he had quite an interest in cooking after renting a beginners guide to cooking earlier that year. Milo, Lydia, Salvatore and Gianni watched the Rug-rats Santa Experience, which Margaret had bought on sale. This is the episode where the pickles are preparing for Christmas, Chuckie is afraid of Santa Claus, and the four families travel to a cabin in the mountains to celebrate the festivities. Milo watched that episode during the whole Christmas season.

The Thursday after returning from Thanskgiving Break, the Gym was being used, so Alpha-Fi had to stay in the Library. That day in the Library, Milo had so much fun playing this game as a Christmas store order clerk with the counselor Patrick, Erin and the other kids at the program. Before Patrick arrived, Milo was not a fan of the program, as Jonathan the counselor before Patrick was overly strict. Luckily this counselor got fired, much to the relief of Erin. Erin considered Jonathan to be immature, and acts like a five year old.

On that Friday night, Milo got invited out to dinner by Aunt Michelle, with Uncle Ottavio, Salvatore, Giani and the grandparents, in celebration of Uncle Ottavio's mother Dora's birthday. Milo had been invited for dinner at Salvatores Grandparents Dora and Juan's on a few occasions. These were Uncle Ottavio's parents, who were born in Italy. Milo could remember Grandma Dora and Grandpa Juan, along with Uncle Ottavio's sister Maria since he was four years old and went to St. Timothy's pre-school with Salvatore. Plus, one of Uncle Ottavio's cousins Angelo was dating a woman who lived on the other side of the Khara's. Milo was a little reluctant, claiming that he felt like he was intruding on Uncle Ottavio's family gathering, but they insisted he come. In reality, Milo was just not that hungry that night. They chose to eat at woodfire grille, which Milo remembered going to frequently when he was in his first year of Pre-school. At dinner, Milo told Grandma Dora about some people who he was in school with, who had Italian sounding names, to ask if these names really were Italian.

During the Third week of Advent, Milo and Ray went to Church on Saturday Night, as Margaret and Lydia could not join them due to a previous engagement. During Mass, Milo saw a classmate with her friend, who Milo knew was Presbyterian. The song that stuck out for Milo was this haunting Lutheran hymn known as "Savior of the Nations Come", which is a paraphrase of the Nicene Creed, and set to a Medieval Chant. The song was originally rooted in a text written by Ambrose of Milan, and adapted by the reformer Martin Luther. Milo could tell that this song was from the Middle Ages, despite having limited knowledge of Medieval Music. Milo had started to wonder why Advent Music was so dark. Either way, Milo had been haunted by that song for four years, before figuring out what the name of this hymn was.

After Church, Ray and Margaret had a party at a neighbor's house down the street, and the kids were sent over to this neighbors next door neighbor. Two girls in their late teens threw the kids party. At this kids party, they watched "How the Grinch stole Christmas", much to two of the boys annoyance. Two of the boys got into a wrestling match, and one of the boy's sweatpants was wripped. In fact, Milo knew the two boys who got into a fight from school. After the party, one of the mothers really let one of the boys in the fight have it. For whatever reasons, Milo liked the party so much that he wanted to throw another party the next Christmas, and already began to plan. Unfortunately the plans would get a bit too big to be feasible.

Tuesday was Amira's birthday, which Milo remembers on that day going on a field trip to a Planetarium. The Friday before Christmas break, the Elementary Students were taken over to William Jettson middle school for the Choral student's concert. That night, Milo had another Christmas party, which Ray made Pizza for. The next evening, which was the fourth Sunday of Advent, the Biancatello's went to St. Timothy's for Mass, and had a Folk Band. Milo noticed this haunting Christmas song "Innkeeper", which he remembered being sung the Choral students and then again in Church by the Folk Choir after Communion. Milo also remembered the Choral being practiced by the fifth grade Choral students. This was a Choral written by composer Roger Emerson, which recounts the Pious Legend of Mary and Joseph searching for room at the inn and being rejected throughout all of Bethlehem.

The day before Christmas Break, Milo's classroom had the annual Christmas Party, which both Margaret and Travis' mother ran. In that School system, the mothers ran the holiday parties. After school, Milo and Lydia both had art class, which was the same class Amira and Roshanak attended twice and never returned to. Milo wore a Santa Hat to class and brought a special recipe of chocolate chip cookies with red, green and white chips. During this time, Milo had been quite obsessed with holiday baking after renting a cookbook specializing in cookies from the School Library.

The Unexpected Guest

One night, while the Cobolds had been attending to the guest house, they had a mysterious knock at the door. One Cobold got the door to find a woman elf who had been pregnant and ready to give birth. This elfess was all by herself, but the Cobolds kept to the command dictated that they were to turn down no one. The Cobolds brought this elfess into the Guest House bedroom, and prepared the bed with sheets, a basin of water and a cloth as to keep her comfortable during labor. They also setup a cradle and blankets to place the baby. The Cobolds had been stumped about how this elfess had known to come to this place of all places, and where she had come from, or who the seed of the baby had come from.

The Cobolds had been fearful of entering in this room, as they sensed that there was something out of the ordinary about this elfess and her child. The time had come when the Elfess had given birth to a baby elf and it felt like a great quake had shaken the guest house. At this point, the Cobolds dreaded going into the labor room. The Elfess called the Cobolds in the labor room, and told them not to be afraid. In the room, the Cobolds found a glowing mother and baby elf, whom they immediately prostrated before, as they knew that he was no ordinary baby. The Cobolds had been utterly mystified.

After twelve days, the Elfess quietly disapparated the guest house with her child. Before leaving, she left a letter thanking the Cobolds for their service, and that they do not know how great their deed was, which will greatly be rewarded. The last part of the letter informed the Cobolds that they would see her son again on higher grounds arrayed in red wings, in an unexpected way. Along with the letter, there was a set of plans for building the second story thought to be a set of living quarters for the Cobolds.
Chapter 12: The Resolution and Daycare

Returning back to school from Christmas Break was no pleasant experience. On Milo's last day of break, he had watched the Lion King II: Simba's pride. This had reminded Milo of his Kindergarten years, when he had watched the original Lion King quite frequently. This was the time that the Lion King had been released on Home Video, as most already know. On the first week back, everyone was in a foul mood. At the Alpha-Fi program in the morning, three of the boys had been very cranky, and taking out their agitation on everyone else. As we know well, it is never fun to come back to school after a holiday, as it is just a long winter with little to celebrate, and of course, being back in school.

Breaking Ground

At this time, the Cobolds started to build the second story of the structure over the guest house, which had no revealed intention at this time. However, they began to realize that this was not living quarters, as their own houses were already being built in Beaubelles. What had been quite curious was that the plans had a bridge to go into the cliffs. The Cobolds put the walls up in a fairly efficient manner, so as to not have to see a view of the mountains full of Offspring Rakshasajinns. Mind you, they were still quite frightened of the Mountains, and could still not bear the site.

After a short amount of time, it became quite clear that this second story was to be a set of offices functioning as a new Headquarters for the Cobold Ambassadors to Londinium and a Museum to remember the towns dark recent past. One particular exhibit had been the broken orb of Hillectivus. What the Cobolds and Londinians found carved on the inside was the inscription "It is not about you, its about the society".

One older Londinian Zephyr tells the story about how the Orb would recite this every morning. Zephyr tells stories about how life had really been under the old Londinium. According to Zephyr, the Governor and his band of Hypocordo experts, including a pro-Hypocordo loyalist known as Timothy and the foreman Elmer had assigned people into roles at birth to either be workers or snatchers. The working class was kept ignorant in cushy jobs. Zephyr tells how he knew from the beginning that the system was setup to keep the people ignorant with pointless busywork, and how their concept of the society over the indivudal was nothing more than authoritarianism disguised as selflessness. Zephyr explains the real reason the snatchers came after the Cobolds so many years back, and told how the Governor along with his hench-hypocordo General Shrub convinced the Londinians that Pedmontus had been under the rule of a savage nation on the other side of the mountains. However, Zephyr knew well that General Shrub and the Governor had this fantasy that there was an abundance of mysterious resources to exploit. When the Snatchers found out Pedmontus was under no threat, they captured the Forester clan to cover up the Governor's blunder.

Zephyr then tells the story of the flood from the Londinians point of view. After the Governor had been dethroned, General Shrub took over. General Shrub had taken the warnings of the flood seriously, but told the working class that the threats were nothing but fear mongering, and reminded them that an idle mind entertains conspiracies. The Snatchers on the other hand were given instructions to leave, and gave speeches about the greater good of Londinium, and saying the flood will cleanse the great city of the debris. One Snatcher Wilber, who had been good friends with Zephyr recognized the signs of what was going on, and renounced his status. Wilber, his lover Azelia, Zephyr and the displaced royal family with the Queen and princess Balina led a movement to tell the truth about the Flood. They knew of Yuriyama's warnings, and took the coins. Within days before the flood, the Loyalist Timothy tried to explain to General Shrub that the flood would take him out to. General Shrub scoffed at Timothy, and he began to realize what General Shrub was really up to. Timothy renounced his allegiance to General Shrub, and joined the Cobolds at the shelter. After the flood, they found that General Shrub had died in the flood, along with countless Hypocordo's and Maludico's.

Meanwhile, a set of Londinians sisters from the Naofaspring clan known as Shanen, Hallicia and Ariella are called by the seer Junous. Junous explains that these sisters have been chosen by the Jinn to vanquish the remaining Hypocordo's acting as spies in Londinium. Ariella had just returned from trying to make it big in this city known as Gairmsoiled, which the other two sisters disapproved of. Ariella returns after realizing that Gairmsoiled was a pretty rotten place. Shannen is quite bitter with Ariella over this, and is gives her the cold shoulder. As for Hallicia, she is just happy that Ariella is back. Junous shows the sisters a book their Grandmother left them, which can tell which hypocordo's are where, and how to find them. Each sister is also given a special power. Shannen has the power of air to blow objects, Hallicia has the power of ice to freeze people and Ariella has the power of fire to read the Rakshasajinns plans.

Junous summons Shannen to work for an antique shop, where some suspected Rakshasajinns are suspected looking for an artifact. Hallicia is summoned to work at a tavern where many hypocordo's frequent. Ariella is summoned to work from her estate, keeping tabs on her Grandmothers book. Junous also places the magistrate and good friend of Shannen's Drewbert on duty to inform her of any leads.

The Winter Season

In the world of cinema, 1999 had been a very eventful year in particular with the Disney and Dreamworks Company. Dreamworks released two classics known as the Prince of Egypt and Antz. Disney released the movies Mulan on Home Video, A Bugs Life in theatres and the Parent Trap on Home Video. A few days after Christmas, Milo saw the Prince of Egypt with his family. Milo had a hard time understanding the movie, as the Moses story he was accustomed to the Rug-rats Passover Special. Milo had a special fondness for the movies Mulan and Antz at this particular time, as they were both released on Home Video in February.

Once the post-Christmas Blues died down, the time for Martin Luther King day weekend was near. On that Friday, Milo and Lydia watched some old Scooby Doo episodes. On Saturday at Church, the organist Tom was not there. Milo got a bit freaked out, as Tom never missed as far as he remembered, and some woman had played the organ. Milo had just met Tom not too long ago, and he gave the Biancatello's a tour of the Pipe organ. This lady had not played to Milo's expectations, to which Salvatore agreed. From that point on, Salvatore referred to the Sub-organist as the dumb lady. In retrospect, she had been a better organist than many of the subs over the next few years. Milo developed this phobia that Tom had retired, and this new lady would be the new organist. That night, Milo had a dream about the Christmas Party at his neighbors house being held at a stadium luxury box, and an old man playing an organ. On Martin Luther King Day, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony took Milo, Lydia, Salvatore and Emma out to breakfast. Milo saw a couple student teachers and a counselor from the sports hall.

One week later, Tom returned, and Wilma had the Choir at that mass. The next day, Milo and Ray saw the movie Antz as a last minute plan. Milo found the movie very humorous, particularly with Zee mistaking a penny with Lincoln as a real person, and the indoor swimming pool at the end. This sparked in Milo and interest in the world of bugs.

Over Valentines Day, Milo got a nasty case of the flu, much to his disappointment. Milo had all kinds of plans for that weekend, which instantly got ruined. Luckily, both Milo and Lydia got some Valentines Day presents to entertain them for the time being. Milo got the movie Antz while Lydia got Mulan. As we already know, Milo was thrilled with getting the movie Antz, but did not have the same expectations for Mulan. As we remember from the summer after Milo made his first communion, he had become fascinated with Eastern Cultures after seeing a particular episode of Rupert. Mulan had re-ignited Milo's fascination with Eastern Cultures, and China in particular. For Milo, Eastern Cultures felt like a religious experience similar to when he first found out about the Catholic Rites. By this time, Church facilities, and rectories in particular had been highly fascinating to Milo. In fact, Oriental Architecture evoked the same fascination in Milo, which he saw as full of mystery and impenetrable discovery.

When it came to the movie, Milo was fascinated by this song "Honor to us all", with the pentatonic melody and the Confucian honor culture. Milo quickly figured out about pentatonic scales in Chinese music after playing with the organ, and finding out that the black keys could easily play this song. Milo at this time did not even know what a Pentatonic scale even was, or music theory at all.

Counselling Graduation

By this time, Vulterian and Skeeter had completed their counselling with Maelendil. After having worked with Solum, Ouranos, and the Charisms of the Didache and Mandala, Alphie gave Skeeter some counsel, while Theodore gave Vulterian some counsel. Skeeter and Vulterian learned how to work together. Vulterian came to appreciate Skeeters intuitions and ability to imagine new possibilities, while Skeeter came to appreciate Vulterians level use of logic and pragmatism to manifest the possibilities.

Ahamkara was highly grateful for Maelendil's efforts, and promised to offer assistance any time he needed. By this time, Mairead and Maugris joined forces to work as pragmatic spell breakers. Vulterian joined with Mairead to assist with utilizing creative ways to use the spells to the victims advantage. Skeeter joined Maugris to assist her in coming up with new possibilities and loopholes beyond the spells. Their first task had been to take care of the spells well present within a school district, and kickstart the new possibilities.

The Beginning of Lent

This is the Lent that the Community mass by Richard Proulx first hit St. Timothy Roman Catholic Church, and this exotic hymn known as "Tree of Life". After two years, the Sacred Harp hymn "What Wondrous Love is this" returned to St. Timothy's. This Sanctus for the Community Mass is quite joyful for a Sanctus, and the Community Mass in general, which is quite somber. For Milo, this had been the first Lent that he had observed properly. This was the first Lent he made the sacrifice, which yes was candy.

As for Early Lent, this had been fairly interesting. At the beginning of Lent, the Biancatello's household had been a haven for the cold and flu season. Milo had just recovered from a nasty cold that began on the night before Valentines Day, which Ray ended up catching later. As it was, that first Sunday of Lent, only Margaret, Milo and Lydia were able to attend Mass

During Mass, there was a gloriously reoccurring vision of the King of Glory riding on a donkey entering into the battle grounds in Glory while Angels shouted "Holy Holy Holy is the Lord of hosts", while those on earth sang "Hosanna in the Highest, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord" at the moment the priest began the Eucharistic prayer. According to the Catholic theology, the Eucharistic Liturgy is the eternal occurrence of the triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and Sacrifice at Calvary. Once the bread was consecrated, the vision continued to the King of Glory foregoing victory and allowing himself to be lead as a lamb to the slaughter out of love for his friends.

The communion hymn "What Wondrous Love is this" reminded Milo of the music that played in the Mulan Scene when the soldiers found the burned out village. This hymn originated during the Great Awakening in the year 1811, and published under Sacred Harp, compiled by William Walker. This hymn was written as a reflection like many of the Great Awakening hymns, with little emphasis on profound theological treatises, but much simplicity. Legend has it that whoever wrote this song experienced great awe with the Great Awakening, and could not help but penn this hymn. The Churches have always been haunted by this hymn, and has been a musical inspiration throughout different denominations.

During Communion, there was a vision of a great round table known as the great training. On the table, three large plates were set in a triangular fashion, known as the Ceremonial plate at the bottom left point, historical plate on the bottom right point and personal plate at the top center. There were three types of bowls known as the Bright morning, Luminous Midday and the Dark Night. All three plates had a bright morning bowl placed on the bottom left and a Bright morning bowl placed at the bottom right. However, the Dark Night bowl placed at the top center only for the Ceremonial and Historical plates. The Personal plate was given an extra Luminous midday plate, and a dark night was placed in the center. Then a general and a severe man entered the room. The severe man proclaimed that the Ceremonial Plate represents the great Bright Morning, the Historical and Personal plates the great Luminous midday and then placed a strange plate, and placed the bowl on top, proclaiming the center bowl as the great dark night. Then the general held a light blue stone, a purple stone and a crystal clear stone. The general called the blue stone the birth stone, the purple stone the death stone and the crystal clear stone the resurrection stone. The general placed the three stones in the bright morning bowl on the Ceremonial plate. The center dark night bowl immediately fills with a liquid-like substance showing a battle between men and these horrific creatures, some wrathful red creatures, some humanlike cowards, some shallow inflated items, some troublemakers from nightmares and others disembodied hands. Then the bright morning bowl on the Ceremonial plate starts to fill with a substance, and the rocks glow brightly. Then the general calls for a child in church to prepare for battle.

This hymn "Tree of Life" is this exotic hymn that uses images of nature to emphasize the paradoxes of death through resurrection, through images of Jesus teachings on death, and analogies from Nature. The style is said to have Celtic, Native American, Middle Eastern and Oriental properties. This song reminded Milo of the music from Mulan, which made him believe the hymn was Chinese in origin. Milo had limited knowledge of Chinese music at the time, and actually believed that the scores for the movie had been based on Chinese music. It is true that the scores used the Dizi, a Chinese flute frequently, but the scores were in the style of Western Cinema. The only song that resembles the Chinese style is "To bring Honor to us all".

After Church, Margaret took Milo and Lydia to the Grocery store to buy Grandma Pearl some food, as she just had her teeth pulled, and still not feeling well. That afternoon, Milo and Lydia were invited to play at Aunt Jane's. Milo and Eustace played a One Hundred and One Dalmatians game on the computer. Eventually the boys had to give Lydia and Samantha a turn, but had been stuck on a particularly annoying level.

Around this time, the Biancatello's Family Room TV broke down, which they had for six years. This was the Television Set they bought before Milo started Preschool, and around the time the Kharas moved in next door. Milo had been bothered about getting rid of this Television set, but ended up liking the new one they got a week later better. Milo remembered well the time they had gotten a new van was the same time that they had gotten this television. This gave him a flashback to that summer so long ago. With the new Television, Milo watched both Antz and Mulan on video. That Sunday Night, Milo, Ray, Salvatore and Uncle Ottavio went to a Hockey Game. At the game, Salvatore told him about some new student who had been baptized the same day as himself. Milo had found stories of his or his families past to be very fascinating. Alongside, some friends of Shamus who were at his party were also in attendance at the game, and some students from Hazelnut forest known as the Snakespeares.

The Call to Battle

One night while on guard, one of the Londinian security guards had caught the troll offsprings loitering on the border between Londinium and the mountains. Word immediately got out when the guard rang the emergency bell. There are emergency bells are situated all over the city to tell of an attack. The policy is that if the bell ringer hears distant bells, he is obligated to ring the bell, and so on.

The City held a council, which they determined that the Veterans of the warrior league would fight this battle, also known as the former snatchers. The Veterans kept a secret eye on the mountain borders. After a time of investigation, the Veterans discovered that the Trolls were intending to wreck havoc on Londinium. As most know well, the Rakshasajinns are not native to Kebsuda, and officially had no business being there. Several ages ago, long before Londinium had become corrupted by Hillectivus, the Trolls had invaded Londinium, and constantly plundered and terrorized the residents. With the wars between the Trolls and Londinians, much blood had been shed, and neither side had backed down. Both the Trolls and Londinians had their feuds over their losses. Eventually the Trolls and Londinians came to agreement that the Londinians were to stay away from the Mountains, and the Trolls would stay away from Londinium. Unfortunately, the Trolls got sick of the agreement, and had a taste for Londinian flesh. As the agreement was broken, the Londinians called war.

Around this time, the Cobolds had finished up the second story, and found instructions to build a bridge that lead to a platform on the cliffs with a set of stairs leading to an unknown location. After some exploration, the Cobolds found that the stairs led to Spartustica, which is where Pedmontus is located.

Word had spread that the defense council of Londinium would go to battle against the Trolls. The Cobolds had been horrified at this prospect, as they had become friends with many veterans, and knew well they were too old to endure battle against these creatures. One night, a group of Cobolds gathered on the new roof of their headquarters, and looked over the mountains, which had been just as scary as they remembered. This view of the Mountains further grieved the Cobolds, knowing what would happen to their veterans friends, and knew it was a losing battle. Then one Cobold Yoshiahu saw the reflection of a beautiful temple, and the rest of the Cobolds recognized a majestic city on the other side of the Mountains and the glimpse of a mysterious temple often dreamed about. At this site, Many Cobold declared that the would fight in the place of one Veteran. Then another volunteered, then another until all the Cobolds on the roof that night volunteered.

At dawn the next morning, the Cobolds told the Veterans that they would like to take their place in battle. The Veterans at first blatantly refused this prospect, but after the Veterans recognized the Cobolds would not back down, they relented and agreed to bring their case to the council of defense. After some reluctance, the council had agreed, as they knew well that the Cobolds would not back down, as they needed their moment of Glory. The Veterans only agreed to this so long as they were willing to undergo training at their hands, and would be only allowed to fight when the Veterans deemed them ready. The Cobolds returned back to Beaubelles to gather anything necessary for the fight. Elrich brought his map of the Mountain Tunnels. A few nights later, the Cobolds left Beaubelles and travelled to the training camp at the borders of Londinium.

At the beginning the Cobolds were not very good, and the Veterans nearly gave up on several occasions. The Cobolds being a people who placed brains before brauns developed a strategy of not having to start any wars, but luring the Trolls into the underground Mountain Traps. After some weeks of training strategizing, the veterans assigned the Cobolds Elrich, Yoshiahu, Lymurd, Jamus and Ioannes to positions of leadership.

Milo's Change of Heart

Spring Break was quickly approaching, which is to take place over Holy Week. Milo had long dreaded ever returning to Dudlechip, where he knew no one, but had a change of heart. Milo had been writing a story for a school assignment with several children. One of the characters Milo could not help but imagine in this story was this mystery brown haired girl from Dudlechip. This story was about finding an old abandoned house, and these children taking these items to be donated to the Museum. The house had been based on a rundown house Noussonburgh, which he assumed Mcgruder lived at. Originally, Milo thought the house had belonged to Mrs. Jones, but since having come to respect her after proving to be a better science teacher, he changed the owner to Mcgruder. Milo had been in class with his friend Jack, who was an awkward kid who was often bullied by other students. Milo had known Jack since first grade. Jack did not have the best social skills, as his parents were a fairly interesting people to begin with.

The Alpha-Fi counselor Erin had brought Milo the news that Patrick would be at Dudlechip over Spring Break. A few months ago, Patrick had been transferred to a different school within the Alpha-Fi system. However, the other counselor he had was Kevin, who had been just as much fun as Patrick. Patrick and Milo had created an imaginary world with two villains named Chris and Kathy and a major antagonist known as Charles Stevenson known for doing all kinds of stupid things. Milo had a change of heart and wanted to return to Dudlechip in order to see Patrick again, and though he did not want to admit it, but see the brown haired girl. Milo had not been a fan of short hair on girls, like this girl had. At this word, Margaret and Ray signed Lydia and him up for Monday at Dudlechip. Milo was a bit bummed out when he found out the day they were scheduled was a day with no field trip, and a counselor he did not like would be there that day. To make matters worse, Milo found out that on Wednesday, the kids would be going swimming at the Alpha-fi main campus.

The Battle against the Trolls

This is the account of the Battle against the Trolls. When the Cobolds marched into the Mountains, they were singing a song of battle and immediately found a settlement of veterans in on guard duty having been burned down by the Trolls. The Cobolds were distraught and amazed at what they had seen. The Cobolds had been highly distraught over this sight, and greatly grieved at the loss of so many veterans who were just keeping watch. They committed to the task of burying the bodies of the fallen heroes, and thrust their defense swords in place of gravestones, and consecrated this place as a memorial for those who fought in the war.

The Cobolds had been utterly frightened to go into battle, and realized that the Trolls were much bigger and stronger than them. Despite their strength the Offspring trolls were a fairly stupid Rakshasajinn, and acted more on braun than brains. On a couple occastions, the leader Lymurd went against the instructions, and tried taunting the trolls, in hopes that they would chase him on one of the paths leading to a trapdoor. Frankly, Lymurd only got the position because of his small size, but had no sense of strategy or discipline. This led Lymurd to getting kidnapped by a troll, who outran him, and brought him back to their cave, and preparing to cook him for dinner.

Elrich on the other hand had been more strategic, and knew the trolls had a custom that if one got trapped, the whole clan would go through the trap to try and save them. Elrich strategically lured a troll from the clan who took Lymurd, and placed a trail of food leading to the trapdoor. Once this troll fell through, the whole clan went to this trolls rescue before being able to eat Lymurd. After this rescue, Lymurd and Elrich became good friends.

Ioannes strategy had been to lure the trolls from their caves a half hour before dawn, as he knew well that at the rising of the daystar, the trolls would turn to stone. The Clans of Trolls who smelled Ioannes left their cave one hour before dawn, but could not find him, as he had been hiding in a small space between two cliffs the Trolls were too large to even fit through. The Trolls kept demanding the cobold show himself, and face his destiny for an hour, and were getting quite angry. These Cobolds lost track of time, and immediately turned to stone once the hour was up.

All the Cobolds gathered around the King trapdoor Elrich pointed them to, and they uncovered, and set off some fireworks that antagonized the remaining Trolls. The Trolls went on a chase, and upon nearing the Cobolds went on full charge and fell into the trapdoor. This trapdoor was a long hole leading to a pit which escape was impossible. Then there had been a sight of multiple Jinn binding the Trolls, and returning them back to their own realm.

After the great battle and Victory, the Cobolds travelled to a mountain and blew a trumpet of victory. The Cobolds had noticed this familiar city on the other side they had temporarily glimpsed at in Beaubelles. The City became abundantly clear, and most clear had been this glorious temple. The Cobolds stayed on the mountain just staring in amazement, that not even the losses that occurred in the battle could dampen their spirits.

After this, the Cobolds had to leave their view of the temple and travel back to Londinium in Victory. The Cobolds returned to Londinium in Victory. Before entering the City, the Cobolds came across a veteran, who asked them about the Battle. Jamus gave the grim reports that many had died in battle, but gave him the news that the Trolls were removed from the Mountains, and never to return to Kebsuda. The Londinan veteran thanked the Cobolds for their service, and acknowledged their bravery.

The veteran led the Cobolds through the city declaring "The Trolls had departed, the mountains are open". The Cobold Soldiers were greeted with claps and cheers. The Defense Council declared the day of glory on the Cobolds, and all the Londinians hailed them as the Victors. Then the day of feast came, when the Londinians and the Cobolds travelled to the temple shelter and had a great feast of Victory. Then the Cobolds and Londinians sang a song of victory to the Dance, and attributed a hymn of blessing and honor to Amun, as they had so many years ago when the floods hit.

Completion of the Enanian Temple

Sarcedix Polyphanes had been working with another Sarcedix Purpalbus. Purpalbus and Polyphanes had agreed to build a second temple, and turn these grounds into a temple complex. This new temple complex had been in construction for the last few months, and was near completed. The new temple was named the Enanian temple. This temple has a floorplan shaped like a Celtic Cross. The North and South walls are painted violet with a navy blue ceiling with stars, while the East and West Walls are painted white with a sky blue ceiling. The central ceiling is a great dome divided by a ying-yang curve. The Curve starts at the northeast corner and ends at the southwest corner. At the very top of the dome is an opening like in the Roman Pantheon. The Curved walls are painted green, while the ceiling wall is painted gold on the Northwest side and silver on the Southeast side. The south wall houses a shrine to the Angelic ministers Biera of winter and Persephone of anticipation. The East wall houses a shrine to Aine of Summer and Hera of fertility. The North wall houses a shrine to Carpo of the Fall and Anubis of Death. The West wall houses a shrine to Ostara of Spring and Osiris of Rebirth. In the center of the temple is a great tree, which is constantly watered by the clouds in the heavens, nourished by the earth and given light by the sun.

After this completion, the Jinns Maronattar, Maelendil, Alphie, Theodore, Theodolph and Agnes are summoned to the temple. Purpalbus has assigned Alphie and and Agnes to a deed at the Enanian temple, while Theodore and Theodolph are assigned to the Demuzidean temple. Purpalbus explains that this merge between tradition and inclusion will come to full fruition in the next three years.

Holy Monday at Dudlechip

This is how events transpired over Holy Week. On the Friday after school ended for Spring Break, Margaret drove Milo and Lydia to Easthill Bowling Alley located in a Suburb known as Winterpond, two counties east of Ciderpond, and just adjacent to Phyllisville. This bowling excursion was for Eustace's birthday. Milo started to anticipate this fun spring break, and on the way to the Bowling alley, noticed some man whom both Milo and Lydia thought was another students Grandfather. As for the party, Salvatore was also in attendance, along with St. Timothy student Milo did not know.

On Saturday after Ray and Milo got their hair cut, the Delaneys stopped over at the Biancatello's and asked Milo and Lydia if they wanted to go back to their house. Milo had not seen the Delaneys too much anymore, as they were no longer being babysat by Marilyn. That afternoon, Milo, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie played for about five hours.

On Palm Sunday, the Biancatellos and Grandma Pearl went to church for the early mass. On Palm Sunday is when they read the whole Passion narrative in relation to the year dedicated to a particular Gospel writer. That year, the Passion account would be from the Gospel of St. Matthew. That morning, the vision that had begun early in Lent went on full display in a more intense way. That afternoon, Ray took Milo, Lydia and Gianni to Summerwhite woods to hike, which is located past Phyllisville, and close to where Grandpa Paul lives. Grandpa Paul lives just behind Summerwhite Woods. Sadly, a few days earlier, Grandpa Paul's son passed away after an extended illness, as Ray explained on the Hike. That night, Milo had gone over to Aunt Michelle's while his parents went to the Funeral Home. At the house, a good friend had been visiting with Aunt Michelle. Her name was Liliana, and is also good friends with Aunt Marie. Liliana had her two twin daughters Shirley and Tammy to visit. Milo had met them a previous summer while he and Ray were going for a bike ride and came across them at a picnic area. Ray knew Liliana, as her brother Vinny is good friends with him. That night, the Simpsons episode "Maximum Homerdrive" premiered. This is the episode where Homer and some trucker got into an eating contest, which killed the trucker. So Homer atones for his supposed responsibility in the trucker's death and finishes his delivery to Atlanta. Meanwhile, Marge and Lisa buy a doorbell, which they have a hard time turning off. This is an episode that parodies Southern Honor Codes, and tendencies towards violence.

The day had come for Milo and Lydia to go to Dudlechip. The morning before going to Dudlechip, Milo watched 101 Dalmatians from 1996. This is the live action version of the film. Milo and Lydia had to go later, as Ray had to meet with Thayer Pools and decks, to order the pool that would be getting installed at the Biancatello's that summer. After ordering the pool, Ray drove Lydia and Milo out to Dudlechip. When they first arrived, there was an angry counselor Rufus reprimanding the children for some unknown reason. Ray was wondering what Milo thought of this man, as he was not one to like strict counselors. As it was, the counselor was not too popular to begin with, and there was an abundance of complaints. Things had not been bad at all for Milo, as the brown haired girl had returned, with another boy who was apparently her brother. There many students at Dudlechip that Milo and Lydia would later see in years to come, when they got into High School. Naturally this would be sooner for Milo than Lydia.

One Boy, from a family of three troublemakers known as the Snakespeers had been put in timeout, which had been etched in Milo's memory as one of the main events to take place that day, along with the brown haired girl, and the arrival of three important guests. For the first part of the Afternoon, Milo had been anticipating the return of his good friend Patrick. The brother of the Brown Haired girl had told Milo that Patrick would not arrive, to which Milo replied, that he would in an intense tone. Unfortunately a counselor Ursula, who Milo did not care for showed up. Ursula had left a bad impression on Milo, when she would not let him do his homework one day at Alpha-Fi, and ever since had always rubbed him the wrong way. However, Ursula only stayed a half hour. So it finally came to pass that Patrick had arrived holding a box of Wendy's fries along with Kevin. Patrick immediately asked Milo about Charles Stevenson, their virtual nemesis. During the rest of the afternoon, the kids went outside on the playground, and Milo and some other kids played tag with Patrick and Kevin.

Milo felt haunted over the rest of spring break. Most likely this had something to do with the girl he had seen at Dudlechip. On Tuesday Milo and Lydia stayed with Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony while mom and Grandma Pearl went to the Funeral. Margaret explained to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony some of the difficulties that Grandpa Paul experienced over the past few years, and how he had not been the same psychologically since a rough car accident.

That Wednesday, Milo developed a phobia that the organist currently at St. Timothy's would soon leave. Milo had become suspicious about this when he noticed a folk band frequently playing, instead of Wilma and the organist Tom. The folk band had its own musicians completely independent from the main music ministers. Otherwise, Wednesday was fairly eventless day of running errands and Art class. This is the same Art Class Amira and Roshanak attended two summers ago.

Holy Thursday consisted of seeing a Bugs life with Dad and Lydia, along with Aunt Michele, Salvatore and Gianni. When Ray was on the phone with Aunt Michelle, Lydia listened in on the other line, and blabbed the surprise to Milo. As for the movie, Milo enjoyed it, and had wanted to see this since he had been a fan of Antz. In fact, that night after the movie, Milo watched Antz again for the millionth time that Lent.

Good Friday consisted in going to church and visiting Grandma Gladys. This Good Friday service had been quite a strange experience, particularly with the intercessions where the priest constantly sang "Let us rise". As it is, the Good Friday service is not a mass, as no mass is celebrated that day in the Roman Rite. The Biancatellos visited Grandma Gladys twice a year, on Christmas and Easter. Margaret and Grandma Pearl did not particularly like visiting with Grandma Gladys, as she was quite a grouchy woman. As with having aged, she was nicer to Milo and Lydia than she had been to Margaret or Grandma Pearl when growing up. When it came to Holy Saturday, Margaret, Aunt Jane, Milo, Lydia, Eustace and Samantha had lunch at the Zoo playground. Milo started to develop a fascination with the creek, and wondered how long it would take to get to summerwhite forest from the creeks.

The Bilocation Expiration

Maelendil, Ihrvierner, Alphie and Theodore had a meeting to discuss where to go with the Bilocation, and it's soon expiration. The Jinns all knew that the three bilocations had been used up, and that it was near time for the bilocation to end, as its purpose had been fulfilled. Maelendil had asked Ihrvierner what to do with his charge, and what he suggested. Ihrvierner concluded that his charge would have to forget about the bilocated charge. They all agreed that with the upcoming festivities, this should not occur now. Alphie asked Ihrvierner if the Charge would ever be allowed to remember this, and Ihrvierner confirmed that one day, when he is ready. Ihrvierner knew that this bilocation went against the normal rules of space-time, and was a very dangerous undertaking that had to be done in a precise way. At this, the Jinns setup a day and a method of how the erasing of the memory would occur. However all four Jinns knew well that this memory could never be fully forgotten, as it had been deeply rooted, and only forgettable on a surface level.

Easter Sunday Mass

This is what occurred on Easter Sunday. The Biancatellos went to mass, which consisted of a Folk Band instead of the normal organ and choir. This is the day that Christians celebrate the day when Jesus rose from the dead. The opening hymn was "Jesus Christ is Risent Today". At this mass, the Gloria of a different sort was sang in a similar fashion as was done at Milo's first communion. Most of the Church had sung the Gloria for the first time since before Lent had begun. The Gloria used was from the Mass of Light by contemporary Liturgical Composer David Haas.

During the Gloria, there was a majestic vision of a group of four highschool students, including a fighting girl, a popular girl, an achieving girl and a compulsive guy. The vision starts off with the fighting girl returning as a prodigal having ran away from her past, and nursing a returnee from death whom she accidentally gave severe injuries to. Another fighter has become quite sadistic in fighting against darkness, and has become no different than the monsters she had fought against. This sadistic fighter joins ranks with an evil mayor who has dark plans for domination of the whole city. The sadistic fighter attacks the righteous fighter, and sustains severe injuries putting her in a long sleep. The time has come for the evil mayor to ascend to power, and his dark plans are near fulfillment at the highschool graduation. The fighter along with the other three had setup a plan to keep explosives in the school library. After the evil mayor ascends, he becomes a large serpentine creature. The four devise a plan that tricks the mayor into the school library, which leads to his demise, and the fall of the highschool. The four leave with a sense of relief of graduating highschool and conquering the monster.

Then there is a vision of a celebration held at a boarding school house after a series of great victories. A tyrannical ghost of an evil Egyptian queens diadem is destroyed, conquering her powers, along with a dangerous traitor after stealing a sacred mask. Both are vanquished to the netherworld. At this point, a father is released from prison, and a Grandmother is healed after she is freed from the ghosts curse. Then the headmaster finds a long lost tear of gold.

The offertory Hymn was "We have been told", based on Jesus teaching on discipleship from John 15. At offertory, there was a great vision of a great grapevine that had several healthy grapes. Some branches broke from the vine, and wanted to become their own vines. One branch attached itself to a poisonous vine and became quite sick. At this point, a farmer uprooted the poisonous vine along with the branch and threw it into the fire. After the branch was burned, the ashes were offered to the vine, in which the ashes transformed back into a healthy vine. In ages to come, many branches had fallen off, and tried to become their own vines. A dark farmer would spray this steroid on many independent branch that would make them appear to be fruitful, while those who did not get sprayed wants to reconnect to the vine, but can only reconnect until the successful vines are exposed.

Then the vision continues with a majestic lion being slaughtered on a table, in order to free a traitor from being property of a wicked witch. Years later, this lion has risen in accord to the laws of the deep magic, and has encountered a recovering fundamentalist. This lion proclaims "Peace Child", and explains to the recovering Fundamentalist that she had listened to the voices of fear. The Lion then absolves this fundamentalist from her fear, and reinstates her as a friend of the kingdom, and never fear walking in his footsteps.

The Communion hymn was the chant "O Sons and Daughters" and the closing hymn was the Triumphant Lutheran hymn "This is the Feast of Victory" based on Revelation 5. The ending vision was a continuation of the return of the King, who this time is surrounded and ascended into Heaven, with a Lion and a lamb and a crowd of worshippers singing "Blessing, Honor, Glory, Might to the Lamb, for thou hast been slain and has freed us to be the people of God". Then they shouted "Power, Riches, Wisdom and Glory are thine".

As for the Easter Celebrations, the Biancatello's went over to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's for dinner, along with all the other relatives. Both Emma and Salvatore told Milo about the outfit Tom the organist was wearing, which had been apparently a bit off. Milo had been slightly jealous, as he had been at the mass that had the folk choir. On Easter Night, the irreverent Simpsons Episode "Simpsons Bible Stories" premiered that night. This was the episode were Homer puts a chocolate bunny in the Easter offertory plate, and Reverend Lovejoy reads the whole bible from beginning to end. Then the Simpsons family all falls asleep in Church, and have bible based dreams of quite inaccurate form. They then wake up after Church to find the apocalypse has come, similar to the Left Behind series. On Milo's last day of Vacation, Aunt Michelle and Aunt Marie took the kids to see Doug's first movie, which was mediocre at best.

On the first night back after returning to school, the Biancatello's went out to dinner for Lydia's birthday, and Milo saw an old student teacher working. Within the weeks of Easter, Milo had developed more of a taste for the Simpsons. For Easter, Lydia got the movie "The Parent Trap", which Milo also became obsessed with. One weekend later, Lydia had a family birthday party.

A few more weekends later, Margaret left on Monday morning for her annual business trip to Florida. One Friday later, Ray took Milo and Lydia to the St. Timothy's Pizza and Pop night along with Aunt Michelle and Salvatore. Milo had been looking forward to meeting some old classmates from St. Timothy's pre-school. However, no such luck happened. As it was, Milo still had some overly Mypoic ideas about St. Timothy's for school. After Pizza and Pop night, the Biancatello's travelled to New Seneca to visit the O'Malleys. On the night the Biancatello's arrived, Alicia, Matt and Lily were watching A Bugs Life. This is the movie where the Ants rebel against the tyrannical Grasshoppers. In the morning, Aunt Marie woke the kids up to wish Grandma Rosa a happy birthday. That weekend, Aunt Marie took the kids to Arby's for lunch and they went to Chi-Chi's for dinner. As is common knowledge, this restaurant shut down in the United States, due to a Hepatitis outbreak. This dinner was intended as a celebration for both Lydia and Matts birthdays, which occurred at a similar time. On Sunday, the O'Malleys headed back to Ciderpond with the Biancatello's for Grandma Rosa's birthday party. Before leaving, they all went to church together, and arrived in Ciderpond by the mid afternoon. That afternoon after the Party, Ray, Lydia and Milo went for a walk and ran into Marilyn and Ralf. Ray told the Shumachers about getting a pool within a few weeks. By this time, Milo had gotten over any bitter feelings with Marilyn over the past year, and understood that she had to accept new clients, when his and Lydia's time was coming to an end.

The Reinstated Feast and Realliance

The Cobolds had an ancient feast in which they celebrated a victory over some Offsprings known as Reptilians, who were a band of despots who ruled over all territories of the Cobolds. This feast had been commemorated long before their dormancy. The Reptilians had absolute power, because they were bigger than the Cobolds, and demanded unquestioning adoration, and that half of their harvest was to be offered to them once a year. One Cobold was very innovative, and always experimenting with new ways to make an abundant harvest. One year, this Cobolds innovation backfired, and they had a horrible harvest in which there was not enough of an offering to please the Reptilians. The Reptillians made a deal that they would return at the end of the season, but would not be so merciful if this happens again. As punishment, this Cobold was expelled from their safe colony, and was only able to come back if he had brought back an army to fight the Reptilians. This Cobold did not know that the only creature to be able to defeat the Reptilian Offsprings were the mighty golden dragons. This Cobold returned to the Colony with a Wolf-Man, a desert elf, a Warlock and a mine goblin. The Cobold returned to the Colony with his new band of warriors, and got laughed at. The elder Cobold said they needed a dragon. This gave the exiled Cobold the idea to construct a fake dragon to scare off the Reptilian offsprings. When the offsprings returned, the fake dragon was released, and worked by the Cobolds. Many Reptillians fled except the king and his visiers. The King of the Reptilians suspected something odd about the dragon and lit it on fire. Their plan was initially exposed, and the king threatened to make life miserable for the Cobolds for this act of disrespect. At this, the Cobolds all stared the King Reptilian down. At some point, the Wolf-Man, Desert Elf, Warlock and Mine Goblin returned with a golden dragon. The King reptilian scoffed at the visitors and the dragon. This was the king reptilians downfall, when he walked into the mouth of the dragon looking for cobolds only to be devoured.

This feast had been reinstated a joined with the feast of the flood and departure of the Maludico's. This was the first year the Cobolds were able to celebrate the feast, as there were great rivalries from the previous year. As we recall, the feast of the flood is a commemoration of the great flood that cleansed Londinium of the reign of Hillectivus, and the departure of the Maludico's commemorates the day Daxividus appeared to Beaubelles and taught the Cobolds and Londinians cooperation, and the exorcism that dispelled the Shadows of the Timoras and Furors. This feast would go down as a memory and hope for the future.

The Final Stage

On the Saturday before Mothers day, Margaret returned home from her business meeting in Florida. On that Sunday Morning, the Biancatello's went to Church, which had been as crowded as Easter. At that mass, Wilma directed the Childrens choir, which had been her downfall at St. Timothy's. Parents started to complain, as the Childrens choir had not got the same attention the adult choir got. Milo had been a bit smug when he found out that Salvatore had the folk band at his mass time. As it was, Salvatore was not a fan of the folk band at church either. Frankly, this was just a matter of what Milo had been used to, and he liked having the organ as opposed to the more modern forms of music in church.

Sadly, Milo had forgotten about the Brown Haired Girl from Dudlechip as was destined to occur. During this time, Milo had watched the Parent trap quite a bit, as Lydia always put it on. Milo could not help but watch the movie, even if he had to do other things, like homework. What was really going on was that Milo had a slight crush on Lindsey Lohan. Keep in mind this is before certain matters of which we will not speak of lest we get into pointless gossip. What had been the nail in the coffin was that there was a girl at the playground Milo played at who strongly resembled Lindsey Lohan.

What most old timers know is that the Parent Trap was a remake of the 1961 version. What most people do not know is that the movie was based on a German novel from 1949 known as "Lottie and Lisa". This is the same plot of two identical twins meeting at summer camp, and finding out one parent kept them while the other kept the sister after they got divorced. Then the twins trade places and go with different parents after camp, so to force them to meet again.

Around this time, Milo ordered this Simpsons Drawing book through the School magazines reading program. At first, Milo was pretty disappointed, as there were only pictures of only Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. A teacher assured Milo that if he got these characters down, he would then be able to draw other characters.

A few weeks before School ended, Milo got a call from Cheryl asking if he would like to come over to play with Todd. Milo accepted the offer right away. That afternoon, Bill too Milo and Todd fishing. Milo had not proved to be a very good fisherman. That evening after getting home, Milo wanted to go to the playground in the worst way, because he wanted to see this girl who reminded him of Lindsay Lohan. Milo had become so utterly bored.

The next day, Milo had a special mass with his Sunday School class for the last day. That afternoon, Milo went down to the playground, and came across his friend Travis Finster. Unfortunately the Lindsay Lohan Doppleganger was still nowhere to be found. In fact, Milo would not see this girl again until his last day with Alpha-Fi.

The Vision of Yuriyama

Yuriyama had summoned Maelendil, Theodore and Alphie for a secret meeting regarding what they had seen with a certain movie. Yuriyama had seen a vision similar to a show that was cancelled two years ago.

According to Yuriyama, this is nineteen years into the future. There was a 40 year old woman Becky living in a small Midwest town. Becky works at a Mexican restaurant chain known as El Guapo's. Becy goes on her account on this website known as linkedin and under suggestions finds an account of another employee for Lecy who is using her picture for a profile picture. As it is, there is a convention in Nashville, which according to the roster, Lecy is also attending. Becky plans on confronting Lecy and gets her hotel room number. One evening at the hotel, Becky bangs on Lecy's hotel room door to which Lecy answers the door and both scream after realizing that they look identical.

After a brief shouting match, they calm down and Lecy allows Becky into her Hotel room. First Becky demands Lecy tell her who her parents are, and Lecy demands that Becky goes first. After going back and fourth, Becky reveals that her mother is Roseanne O'Hara, but has no father. Lecy then explains that her father is Dan McConnell. Becky suspects something strange and asks Lecy if she knows anything about her mother, to which she brings out a picture of her mother torn right down the middle. Becky also has a picture of her father torn down the middle. They both put the torn pictures together, and realize that they are long lost twins. Becky wants to confront her long lost father and Lecy wants to meet her mother, and both agree to switch places. Becky teaches Lecy about her family, including Roseanne, her aunt Jackie, her brother D.J. Grandmother Beverly and neice Mary.

Lecy teaches Becky about her family, including her father Dan, Grandfather Ed, sister Darlene living back at home with her niece Harris and nephew Mark. Lecy asks about her Grandfather, and Becky explains that he cheated on Grandma and died. Becky asks Lecy why Darlene is back at home, and explains that she lost her job in Chicago, and got no support from her ex husband David, who she last heard ran off to be an astrophysicist, live with an anal roommate in Los Angeles and remarried a blonde bombshell. Lecy then tells Becky that she ran off and married Davids brother Mark, but he had since died. Becky explains that Roseanne owns a sloppy joe restaurant, while Lecy explains that Dan owns a construction firm with his business partner Chuck. Becky wants to know what what Dan is like, and Lecy tells her about the time she came home crying after an untimely episode of flatulation in front of the class, and how she came home crying, and all Dan did was laugh, and Darlene taunted her. Becky told Lecy that Roseanne sang the national anthem at a baseball game and that it was so humiliating.

After the business meeting, both Lecy and Becky switched places and Becky went to Louisiana to confront Dan, while Lecy went to Illinois to meet Roseanne and her family. When Lecy came home, she went over to Aunt Jackie's, and found Grandma Beverly on the couch. Lecy started crying as soon as she saw Beverly. Beverly told Lecy it was about time that she visited her own Grandmother, and passive-aggressively told Lecy that she needs to control her emotions. Then Lecy met aunt Jackie and hugged her, which made her confused. A little while later, Roseanne started banging on the door demanding Jackie return some borrowed pans. Lecy let Roseanne in and started crying, to which Roseanne sarcastically mentioned that she was only gone a week. Aunt Jackie started becoming suspicious about Lecy.

Back in Louisiana, Becky went over to Dan's house to drop off some suitcases Lecy borrowed. Becky found Dan on the couch and gave him the cold shoulder, while returning the suitcases. When Darlene came home, Becky became very excited to see her. Darlene had Becky stay for dinner, and she met Harris and Mark. Dan had noticed that Becky was giving him the cold shoulder, while being so friendly with Darlene, Harris and Mark. Becky then revealed that she was not Lecy and relly Becky. Dan then explained that he only left because Roseanne because she was going to get a gender reassignment surgery, and change her name to Bro-zan. Dan then decided that it was time to switch Lecy and Becky back, and Darlene, Harris and Mark came along.

Back at Roseanne's house, there was a loud knocking and heard the dreaded voice of Dan shouting to let him in. Aunt Jackie, Grandma Beverly, D.J. and Mary were over for dinner. Aunt Jackie suspected something about Becky being Lecy, as she was being quite emotional. The real Becky confronted Roseanne, and called her Brozanne. Roseanne then introduced D.J. and Mary to Dan, while Dan introduced Darlene, Harris, and Mark to Roseanne. Roseanne got very mad at Dan, and coldly reminded him that he was never to bring up Brozanne. Roseanne and Dan then started talking about how they came up with the arrangement so the girls would not be separated. Then Dan and Roseanne had a laugh after he reminded her that Becky and Lecy are grown up, and they don't need to worry about custody anymore.

After Yuriyama finished telling of what he saw, Alphie sided with Lecy, and felt quite annoyed with Becky. Alphie liked Lecy's willingness to forgive her mother, despite having been in no contact with her since she was a baby. Theodore on the other hand is not so keen on Lecy's forgiveness, and did not see why Becky should trust her father, let alone want to get to know him. This got Alphie and Theodore in a bit of a bickering match. Maelendil came in to calm the two down. Maelendil explained that neither truly know the experience of abandonment by a parent, and can only look at things in accord to their natures. Maelendil commends Alphie for his optimistic idealism, but also commends Theodore for his willingness to hold people responsible.
Chapter 13: A Haunted Summer

The School Year was near its conclusion, and the time of the Summer was to begin. In Church, Milo had become more suspicious of something strange going on, as the Folk Band was playing in Church more than either the choir or the standard Organ and Cantor. Ever since Tom had a substitute that one week, Milo had been quite suspicious of something strange going on. With the arrival of the Folk Band, this hymn "How Can I keep from Singing" was introduced on Pentecost Sunday. This is a Baptist Folk Song written by hymnist Robert Lowry.

Over Memorial Day weekend, Ray and Margaret too Milo and Lydia shopping for some pool toys, as the new pool was near to being installed. On Sunday, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane threw a combined Memorial Day picnic and first Birthday Party for their youngest son Sylvester. After the Party, Milo, Salvatore and Matt were taken over to Uncle Mikes to swim, as he had a pool installed two years previous. Milo and Matt played this game where Matt was a Chinese Pirate known as Yah, while Milo was a navy warrior from Venice. Milo did not quite know that Yah was actually a Semitic title, particularly in Hebrew. On Memorial Day, Milo and Ray went Put Putting at a course in Sussewago County. That night for dinner, Grandma Pearl invited the Biancatello's for dinner, since Grandpa Paul was coming over and grilling barbequed ribs.

A few days after Memorial Day weekend, Milo saw an episode of the Simpsons known as "Homer and Apu". This had been the episode where Apu loses the Quick-E-Mart, and lives with the Simpsons. The most favored part is when Homer and Apu travel to India to speak with the Quick-E-Mart headquarters, which is located in India, and Homer wastes all their questions asking if he really is the Quick-E-Mart master.

On Friday, Milo got to sample a game at school known as "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego", and had to buy it. Milo used some Easter money the next Saturday. After buying the game, Margaret and Milo ran into Aunt Michelle and Salvatore. Aunt Michelle invited them to lunch at Wendy, and Margaret invited Salvatore to Milo's school picnic. This year, Milo had been looking forward to the school picnic, as he was looking forward to seeing his friends outside of school. That afternoon, Milo installed the game, and got up to the level that took place in Ancient Rome. Later in the afternoon, Ray and Milo went back out to the Putt Putt course for another game.

The Cobolds Grief

With the Cobolds victory over the Troll Offspring, they had been elevated to a high status of honor. The whole town of Londinium built a war memorial outside the headquarters to honor those who had fallen in battle, and acknowledge those who had fought. Unfortunately the Cobold warriors were greatly troubled, and had not felt like they succeeded at their mission. The Cobolds had wamted to build a path from Londinium to this mysterious land with the beautiful temple they got a tiny glimpse at. Often times, the Cobolds would go on the roof, where they could try and get a glimpse of this land beyond the mountains, but with little success. Why it reflected that one time, the Cobolds did not know.

In one of the offices, there is a water bowl that had been a gift from the Pedmontus Cobolds that would show them of things to come. A few Cobolds had seen horrible vision of this ugly hook instead of a hand shaking the earth, causing calamity after calamity. The only place the Cobolds could find consolation was on the roof of the Headquarters, where they could see the real, though faroff region beyond the mountains that gave them hope.

For the most part, the Cobolds had been utterly melancholy and quite anxious over the prospect of seeing their land shaken. Yet the fidelity of the Dance had kept them from shaking. The Cobolds remembered how they were rescued from the Compound, the Flood on Londinium, Deliverance from the Shadows and victory over the trolls.

Over this season, the Cobolds had little time even to return to the Garden, as they had been very busy with work at the Headquarters. At times, the Cobolds remembered that respite they had when delivered from the Governor and able to be back with their people in those glorious gardens.

The Beginning of Summer

As it was, the Alpha-Fi program would come to its conclusion and it would be time for Milo and Lydia to return to their old Summer Camp at the Sports Hall. Now that Milo knew two different facilities, this summer camp never felt quite friendly and warm like Alpha-Fi had. In fact, the Summer Camp was known to be quite authoritarian. Unfortunately, Milo and Lydia had to start their first day of Summer Vacation at this Summer Camp. Within the first few days, Milo found himself missing his friends from school, and the counselors from Alpha-Fi. Milo had started to develop more interest in the Simpsons, and became quite committed to seeing the show every night that it was on Television. Frankly, this was one show Milo never wanted to miss. During the second and third day of Summer Vacation, the Swimming Pool was being installed at the Biancatello's. That first Friday off, Milo rented the original Parent Trap. Lydia had preferred the new one, and did not find the father particularly attractive.

On Milo's first weekend of Summer Vacation, he saw the Khara's departing for a month long vacation in Iran. After the Khara's left, Milo had an eye appointment. This doctors office is located fairly close to Seewoulden, which he would soon be visiting. Milo came home to this surprise of these cereal mixes, and such additions like Marshmallows. With the game "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego", Milo was getting pretty far, and reached a level that took place in the Kingdom of Mali under Mansa Musa. That afternoon, Aunt Dianne hosted Rory's graduation party. The whole family was in attendance, along with Rory's girlfriend Lauren, his father Tom, Uncle Ottavio's parents Dora and Juan, and Aunt Dianne's friends.

After the Party, the cousins came over to swim in the pool for the first time. By this time, the pool was not fully setup, as the permanent ladder had not arrived yet. On Sunday Morning, the Biancatello's went to Church, and to his relief, the music was the Choir and Organ. For the past few weeks, Milo had noticed that the morning masses had the folk band. That afternoon, Milo went to a Baseball Game in a Luxury Box that Uncle Mike got through work. By this afternoon, Milo had already been anticipating his soon trip to Seewoulden for the School Picnic.

That Summer Milo had some more Orientalist tendencies, which after Easter had gone from the Far East to the Middle East. Milo had gotten to a Marco Polo level in "Where in time is Carmen Sandiego", in which a pseudo-Chinese melody known as Dragon and Phoenix was on a level with Marco Polo and Kublai Khan. The game "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego" reminded Milo of this game show "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego", which when he was small reminded him of Seewouden and Soak Town when Marilyn took him there for her kids school picnics. On the Monday before the School Picnic, Milo and Lydia had to go back to the Sports Hall. Luckily that evening, Margaret took the kids to Dairy Queen for Dinner. Milo thought he saw Fr. Sorbiewski, but did not believe it was him, as he did not know that Priests did not have to wear their clerical collar all the time.

That Tuesday came time for the School Picnic. As was the tradition, Margaret took the kids, and Grandma Pearl also came to the school picnics, as Ray never came due to working. On the way to the School Picnic, Milo and Salvatore were talking about the Simpsons episode "Homer and Apu". Milo felt like he was on a great adventure into some undiscovered oriental lands. Milo was still thinking about the summer two years ago, when he saw the episode of Rupert that took place in China before going to that school picnic.

Upon arrival, Milo found out that Seewouden had a new Magic carpet ride that instigated his orientalist tendencies. That day, Milo kept thinking this ride was called the Apu after thinking about that Simpsons episode too long. Frankly, Milo loved this new ride. At about mid afternoon, Margaret let Salvatore pick the activities, as he needed to leave early for a baseball game in a luxury box. Salvatore picked carnival games as the last activity for the hour. Now Milo was not too thrilled, as he preferred the rides. Unfortunately, the Biancatello's did not get to go to Soak Town, due to the weather being too cold.

That Wednesday, Emma started babysitting Milo and Lydia during the day, which gave them a break from the Sports hall. On Milo's first day back after the school picnic, he started getting a bit depressed, and could not understand why he was feeling this way. Fourth grade had been the first year Milo ever liked school, and did not like being away from his new friends. Not to mention, Milo was kept in the group with eight and nine year olds, who were blatantly annoying to him. However, the camp counselors kept Milo in the eight and nine year old groups, as they thought the ten to thirteen group would be too much for him. They had known well that the ten to thirteen years olds were pretty rambunctious, and did not cooperate with counselors too well. As most people know well, tweenagers do not like being kept cooped up in some institution, and this sports hall constantly patronized that age group for not being cooperative.

Maelendils Guilt

Maelendil had felt awful about this decision that he and Ihrvierner agreed to in regards to the Bilocation expiration. Maelendil knew that this was all for the best, and that soon enough, the fruits of this discontinuation would be testified. Not only did Maelendil feel guilty about the connection breaking, but the necessity of keeping his charge from the camp he felt most at home. At this, Maelendil held an emergency meeting with Ahamkara, as she understands this field very well. Maelendil was well aware of Ahamakara's offer to help in times of need. Ahamakara broke the dark prognosis on what happens when a connection just disappears, and how this sense of disconnection will decay in to utter nihilism and the end stage will be that the Dance will be utterly forgotten as mere child's play. Ahamkara also pointed out how this setup had not been so easy on the Charge, as she knew well that a rationalist and an idealist don't naturally get along, and rationalists can be quite domineering. Ahamkara then reminded Maelendil of what happened when his charge started school, and felt stuck in some sterile environment. Maelendil looked back, and saw how the charge had came along ways from three summers ago wanting never to return to this year missing school. Ahamkara reiterated the point of rationalism, with explaining that this new camp functions like a sterile bureaucracy that can only process cold rationality. Ahamkara explains that transforming a cold and sterile bureaucracy into a home is an art that can take years to accomplish. Maelendil understood exactly what Ahamkara was talking about when looking at his charges past in relation to school.

At this Maelendil summoned Alphie and Theodore to his assistance. Alphie suggested that the charge needs to be cared for and treated with love and compassion, while Theodore suggested the charge get some solid and powerful foundation of absolute certainty. Both Theodore and Alphie had some disagreement, and needed some diplomatic help. Maelendil remembered Susan the Diplomat of the Third Annogrammatron Order. Susan had been successful in assisting two disagreeing parties into coming to an uncompromised agreement. The students had hated school, and found the experience to stifle their spirit, while the education system believed that they knew what was best for students, and felt they needed structure. This agreement Susan forged had worked wonders, where both the student's spirit was not crushed, but could still work with the school systems.

Susan had arrived, and assisted Alphie and Theodore on coming to a deal. Alphie felt that Theodore's suggestions were a bit direct and insensitive, while Theodore saw Alphie's suggestion as coddlesome and inefficient. Susan forged an agreement where Theodore's suggestions of firmness and Alphie's suggestion of Compassion being implemented in an uncompromised and effective way. The one last thing that Maelendil requested was that the Charges heritage be always remembered. This was not going to be done in a direct way, or anything that would resurrect memories of the Bilocation, and would be more far past oriented like a seer had spoke of as once upon a dream. Plus, Maelendil knew quite well that the connection had such deep roots, that no tumult or storm can have any effect.

The Little Mermaid Happy Ending

On Saturday, the Biancatello's and the Filentino's went to a graduation party for Uncle Ottavio's cousin's girlfriend's daughter who lives on the other side of the Khara's. The Khara's were not at the party, as they were still in Iran for a month, and left a week ago. This party was located at a park next to a facility for Alpha-Fi, and close to the main facility that Shamus had his birthday party at. After the party, Milo went with Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ottavio back to their house in order to help Salvatore with a level he was stuck on with "Where in time is Carmen Sandiego". Frankly, Milo did not have much luck either. That night, Uncle Ottavio took Milo and Salvatore out for ice cream, and Milo was dropped off back at his house.

On Sunday, Wilma was the Cantor at Mass. What Milo had not known was that this was Wilma's last week. The responsorial Psalm had been Psalm 63, which Milo remembered hearing the summer after getting out of First Grade, and his return from his Columbus vacation. The ending song was "Faith of our Fathers", due to being Fathers Day weekend. That afternoon, Salvatore was over at the house after Church. Milo, Lydia and Salvatore watched a Berenstein Bears Video he had since he was in first grade. Then the Biancatello's and Salvatore went over to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's for a Fathers Day celebration.

That Wednesday, Milo was a day away from going on a camping trip with some friends when he had been over at Aunt Jane's house. That Wednesday, Emma was on Vacation with her family. At this time, Samantha was only four years old and Eustace was six, and as we recall, Sylvester had just turned a year old. At the house, Milo had been outside playing with Eustace when he came inside to find Samantha finishing the ending scene of "The Little Mermaid". The Scene Samantha was on was where Ursula accidentally kills Flotsam and Jetsome, calling them her poor little poopsies. What really haunted Milo was the scene known as "Happy Ending". This had haunted Milo in a more strong way than the Simpsons had. Milo was especially haunted by the scene in which Ariel hugged Triton and telling him she lover him. This made Milo really not want to go on this camping trip. When Ray and Margaret got home, they had Eustace and Samantha over for a Taco Bell picnic.

A day later, Milo left for the camping trip in the afternoon with a new friend Shane. Milo was miserable during the whole camping trip, but could not explain why this was. Milo did not like being away from his family, and was constantly haunted by the memory of the Little Mermaid scene. Over the course of three nights, three nightmares occurred. On the first night, an Angel summons a righteous man to sacrifice his son. Then the son is walked up on a death march to the mountain and bound. The father sharpens his knife, and the dream ends with the morbid words "To be continued". On the second night, there is a Mermaid, who seeks to become human, and makes a deal with a Sea Witch. The Mermaid realizes that she will not ever be able to see her family again. The Witch tempts her by the offer of being with her man. On the third night is from Roseanne, when Becky gets into a fight with her parents after they forbid her from seeing Mark, and she tells Dan and Roseanne that she hates them, and slams the door.

Otherwise, Milo just was not a camper, and was not a fan of the activities planned. Frankly, Milo was not very good friends with this family, and the father was a die hard boyscouts fan whose ideas of fun activities was constant demonstrations on how to tie knots, demonstrate how to use a pocket knife, gathering firewood and cooking iron pizza's, which were made of schwebels bread, ragu sauce and American cheese. Milo being part of an Italian family knew that this was a cooking heresy. Milo constantly had nostalgic flashbacks for early summer memories, such as Rory's graduation party, the baseball game Uncle Mike invited him and ray to, the School Picnic and Fathers Day a few days ago. Frankly, Milo just wanted to go home, but this trip just seemed to drag on way too long. Plus Milo kept thinking about a phone call Grandma Rosa and Ray made before he left for the trip. Milo could not help having some woe that something bad was coming.

Mountain Misgivings and Pedmontus

With the Cobolds working so much at the headquarters, they had very little chance to return to visit the gardens of Pedmontus. By this time, the Cobolds were getting very homesick, and started developing a fear of what lay beyond the Mountains. The Cobold Yoshiyahu had this sense that there is no point of return if they were ever to cross over to lands beyond the Mountains. Yoshiyahu feared that going into those lands meant that the Cobolds may have to sacrifice their loyalties to Pedmontus and their people in Spartustica. Lymurds stance was that the Forester clan needs to get over their past if they want to progress into the future. Elrich tried to explain that there is no identity without some past, and constant change is just being an uprooted people with no identity. Elrich noticed that Lymurd had some difficulties with loyalty, but had not known the dark secret that Lymurd harbored. Lymurd was one Cobold who was always looking to some future, and loved any novelty, no matter how superficial.

The Flashback and Fourth of July

When Milo had returned from his Camping trip, he immediately went to Church at noon with his family. The Filentino's strangely attended mass at that time, which had been highly uncommon for them. Milo came to church to hear Tom playing the Piano. Tom had rarely used the Piano in Church, let alone for the prelude. Tom had always used the organ in Church, except for the previous summer. Milo started to suspect something strange going on. The responsorial Psalm sang Responsorial Psalm 145 "I will praise your name", which reminded Milo of the Little Mermaid song "Part of your world". The Responsorial Psalm was not one of the Gelineau Chants normally used, and more hymns were being played on the Piano. The Psalm used was from the composer David Haas. In fact, this psalm would be used throughout most of the summer.

After returning from Church, Milo completed a level centered in Shakespearian England, and had found himself on a level on "Where in time is Carmen Sandiego" that had a guide, Poly Tix resembling Emma's one friend. This was the level based on the American revolution and writing of the Declaration of Independence. That night, Milo watched the movie "Tiny Toons adventures: How I spent my Summer Vacation". This was a silly movie telling of the tunes summer vacation, such as Daffy Duck going on a miserable road trip with Porky Pigs family, only to go on one ride at an amusement park. Bugs and Babs go on a boat ride, and Bugs tells Babs that she reminds him of Morey Amsterdam. In fact, this movie gained popularity during the summer of 1992, and has a reference to the Little Mermaid.

The next Morning, Milo saw a television show with Disneyland before being dropped off at Summer Camp. This reminded Milo of the Disneyland singalong he was quite obsessed with when he was four. That day at the sports hall, there was another girl who resembled another friend of Emma's. Both Poly Tix and the girl at the sports camp had reminded Milo of friends he remembered seeing at Emma's birthday parties from when he was a small child. As it was, Emma would be babysitting Milo and Lydia that Wednesday much to his excitement. Milo also remembered that Uncle Mike was throwing a Fourth of July Party that Sunday, which made him more excited. Then Milo's group watched a movie in a room with some Mickey Mouse pictures. For Milo, this created flashbacks to when he had just turned four, and Uncle Mike babysat him while Margaret and Ray were shopping for a new car. Milo also remembered when Emma showed him her bedroom. As for the week, Milo was looking forward to the party and going to this house that brought back pleasant flashbacks. Things had been much better at the sports hall, since they had a more easy going counselor that week. On Tuesday, the kids watched George of the Jungle in the tennis lounge, which reminded Milo of something as a small child.

That Wednesday, Emma babysat Milo and Lydia. This first year with Emma had been the most enjoyable, as she was most easygoing at this time. That afternoon, Milo and Lydia had the same art class they had been attending for the last three summers. Neither Milo nor Lydia enjoyed going to camp over the summer, considering that at least with school and the Sports hall, art class was a breath of fresh air. By this time, the Khara's had returned from Iran. Kamaria came over to the Biancatello's and gave them some gifts they bought them from Iran.

The Fourth of July weekend was quite enjoyable for Milo, as he got away from the Sports hall for a few days, and was happy to be at the party. Milo had been looking forward to this party all week, and was strongly anticipating seeing the house. These memories of that summer had sustained Milo in a way unexpected. On the Fourth of July Monday, Milo completed the game "Where in time is Carmen Sandiego".

On Tuesday, Milo was back at the Sports hall, but it had been a decent day. The sports hall took the kids on an outing to the beach, and Milo got to play Trivia Pursuit. That Night Milo got a surprise call from Rory. Rory took Milo to the Mall to hang out, and showed him where he worked. Rory also helped Milo pick out some new clothes for his wardrobe, and took him to Mcdonalds for dinner. Milo told Rory all about the Simpsons, and how he was a big fan. Rory gave Milo old Video's of taped Simpsons from the First Season of the Simpsons, including classics as "Homer's Odyssey", "Bart the General", "The Call of the Simpsons", "Life on the Fast Lane", "Homer's night out" and "The Crepes of Wrath". These were early episodes of the Simpsons. The episode "The Call of the Simpsons" saved Milo from being banned that spring after he and Ray saw the episode "Homer the heretic".

That Wednesday, Milo watches some of these new Simpsons episodes while Emma is over. That morning, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony take Milo, Lydia and Emma out for Breakfast. Even Art class is not such a damper. However, that Friday Milo had not done so well with the Sports camp, when the day had been extremely boring, and they had to sit through this awful movie. Frankly, Milo was happy for that weekend to begin. Yet Milo felt oddly depressed that Saturday, and felt something was utterly missing. On Sunday, the Biancatello's went to Church, then rock climbing, which had been quite enjoyable for Milo. On Monday, the Sports camp took the kids on an outing to a baseball game. Milo felt some nostalgia at the stadium, as he remembered at the beginning of summer, going to a game Uncle Mike invited him to.

The Naofasprings two battles

Around this time, Shanen had found out who the hypocordo in the antique shop. The manager of this branch was a Hypocordo and his assistant was his offspring, and a shape shifter who could transform into a Chupacabra or a particular Londinian woman. The hypocordo had a potion that could transform him into the missing shopkeeper. One day, Shanen caught the offspring and hypocordo talking about selling these artifacts, which housed furors from the remains of Hypocordo's who died in the flood. Shanen knew well that these artifacts could posses the Londinians, and cause much havoc.

That evening, Shannen broke into the shop with her sisters Ariella and Hallicia. The three confronted the hypocordo and shapeshifter. The Hypocordo threatens to have the sisters arrested for trespassing, and Shannen threatens to expose him and his shop. The offspring transforms into a hideous chupacabra who has no self control, and nearly devours Ariella. Hallicia freezes the two rakshasajinns, and Ariella repositions the two so that the offspring will accidentally attack the hypocordo. After Hallicia unfreezes the Rakshasasjinns, the offspring in the form of the chupacabra bites the Hypocordo's neck, causing it to break. Then the offspring returns to her impersonated form, and is distraught at having killed her parent, and then realizes it was the sisters who set this up. The hypocordo's corpse bursts into flames, and a great black smoke emits. Then the offspring screams that she was setup, and melts. An offspring can only be sustained if a parent is alive. Once a hypocordo parent dies, so does the offspring.

The second battle to take place occurs when a watchmaker invades the Naofaspring estate. This watchmaker is wearing a green hand, and uses this hand to first kill Ariella. Then Hallicia freezes the watchmaker, and beheads him. The watch is then reset, and the watchmaker has returned to the beginning of that day, but in an agitated mood after being beheaded. Drewbert heads over to the Naofaspring estate to warn the sisters of his coming. The watchmaker attacks Drewbert, who lays dying. The dying drewbert tells the sisters they must destroy the watch in order to destroy the watchmaker. Shannen casts a wind at the Watch, and Ariella casts a fire on the watch that causes it to explode. The watchmaker is furious about this, and goes to attack Shannen. Hallicia freezes the watchmaker, and Shannen does the Honor and beheads the watchmaker. The watchmaker ignites, and a white smoke departs from him, leaving Kebsuda. The sisters remove the green hand, and place it in a chest, while Shannen sends a mighty wind to blow it far beyond the Mountains and cliffs.

The Vacation

During that summer, the song "I want it that way" from the Backstreet Boys came out. Frankly, this song had greatly haunted Milo, but he had no understanding of why this was so. Milo for the longest time thought the song was saying "Your Fired" due to watching too much Simpsons, and episodes with Mr. Burns in particular. For some unexplainable reason, this song had perturbed Milo, and he could not help feeling like he was separated from the world where he really belonged.

On a couple occasions, one of the workers at the sports hall facility, working in the fitness area, known Dan would take Milo on small outings on his break once or twice a week, depending on the schedules. Now Dan had been a student teacher back at Hazelnut forest the previous year in his Social Studies class. One one occasion, Milo admitted he hated the sports hall camp, and that he missed school. Dan explained how he can understand how School has more options than a camp like this. Dan also told Milo about his summer camp experience in a camp in Canada. Apparently dan was not quite a fan of the place.

One Friday, Ray took the day off of work, in order to prepare for a Barbeque with the Delaneys. So naturally, neither Lydia nor Milo had to go to the Sports hall. Milo had enjoyed when Ray took off Fridays, as had happened quite a bit that summer. That evening, the Delaney's arrived, and Shamus and Charley got to swim in the Biancatello's new pool. That evening, Milo, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie made a fake water park with all their new pool floats. Then later in the evening, Salvatore arrived to swim. Actually he invited himself over.

Milo started to figure out how Church music systems worked, and understood that the times the standard organ and cantor or the Folk band played had varied between the 9:30 and 11:00 mass. Milo still had not known that Wilma left, and had wondered why the Folk Band was playing so often. On one occasion, the new Music directors introduced these modern hymns "With Drums and Dancing" and "Lift up your Hearts". They were still singing Responsorial Psalm 145, and had not changed since late June.

In Church one Sunday, there was a great vision of a shepherd who was taking his sheep on a three year journey to the great pastures. Many other shepherds knew of this shepherds greatness, and many bowed in great reverence when he travelled by, but only the sheep knew of his goodness. The shepherd had been bestowed great powers with his staff. On one such occasion, the Sheep were cornered by hunters near the sea, and the Shepherd raised his staff and dried the sea. At this, the shepherd led the sheep through the sea bed and into safety away from the Hunters. Other Shepherds were amazed and went to see these works. The Sheep knew well of the Shepherds compassion and fidelity. The sheep recounted on so many occasions that they had fallen, and the Shepherd had carried them. The sheeps trust of the shepherd was so strong that even through travellings in tumultuous places, they never feared, or felt lead to the slaughter.

That Summer, the family took a small vacation, as they had bought the pool. The first day, the Biancatello's went to the Cleveland Aquarium. Milo had some flashbacks to the summer from three years ago, when they had visited Columbus. Milo wanted to go to Cleveland, as he heard of a fudge shop from a counselor at Alpha-Fi. This trip to Cleveland also reminded Milo of a Simpsons episode "Two Bad Neighbors", as he had seen the episode thee summers ago while on Vacation. All summer, Milo wanted to see that episode in the worst way.

On the second day, Ray took Milo out golfing. Milo had proved to be a mediocre golfer at best. The Golf Course had reminded Milo of a medieval English farm, after playing the level on "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego" that took place during the siege of King William. At this time, the Middle Ages became another fascination for Milo, as eastern Cultures had. As most people know well, the Middle Ages is a common setting for much of western fantasy. Of course, man has always had a tendency to romanticize the unfamiliar, such as the Medieval times and Oriental societies.

On the third day, the Biancatello's went to Sea World. The Biancatello's had been to sea world two summers ago with the Filentino's. Before entering the park, there was a song playing on the checkout radio that reminded Milo of the song "With Drums and Dancing". As for that trip, it was similar to the trip from two summers ago. But it could never compare with Milo's school picnic at Seewoulden. Over that time, Milo often had nostalgia, thinking about when the summer first began.

On the fourth day, Ray went golfing and Margaret took Milo and Lydia to the Zoo. The zoo had added a new African Sahel exhibit, which made it possible to get close to Cheetah's. Then on Saturday night, the Biancatello's went to Church. Tom was the organist that night, but had played the Piano, and the hymns being used were hymns that the folk band normally sung. Frankly, Milo did not mind this, as he liked the new hymns, such as "Drums and Dancing".

On Wednesday, Milo mentioned to Emma seing Wilma on the news in the morning. Emma then tells Milo that Wilma had been fired. Milo was in disbelief at first, and thought Emma was joking. But this all made sense, such as why Tom was playing the piano so much, and why they were no longer using the Gelineau Psalms. In Church, they were still using the Little Mermaid version of Psalm 145. Emma explained that Wilma had gotten many complaints from the parents when the Childrens choir had not gotten much attention back in May. What Emma had not known was that this was more of a financial decision, as the church could not afford to pay both the folk band and Wilma, so had to let one go. The new pastor, Fr. Klaussen had some favoritism with the folk band director. Milo then started to fear that Tom would also leave, as he knew that Tom was by profession a classical organist, and no folk pianist.

The Seers Meeting

Yuriyama had summoned Maelendil to the Hall of prophecies to show him a troubling vision he had seen. This vision was of a great river with two buildings on different sides of the river. On the one side is a middle class town, while on the other side is a beautiful haveli. There had been a great bridge joining these two lands. Naturally, these two cities had their differences, and still had much fear for eachother. There are two ambassador families, one for each place. One family on the side of the Haveli is in a state of feud with the middle class side, and greatly pressures the ambassador family to sever ties with the middle class city across the river, or they would be branded as traitors. After the Ambassadors cave into pressure, the haveli town is off limits to the middle class town.

Then a group of industrialists invade the town, and blow up the bridge. These industrialists build a nasty factory that declines the property value of the neighborhood. Then the town turns into a ghetto dump. The industrialists tell the residents that life as they knew it is over, and its time to grow up. The residents were subject to pointless labor, as this was the only way they could get by. The ambassador family was even more disheartened, and became quite embittered with the industrialists. They were not even sure to be angry or feel pity for the residents for working with these industrialists.

Maelendil starts to get offended about the vision and shouts that he did what he had to do and had no choice. Yuriyama explained to Maelendil that the vision is not about the Charges present, but has to do with the Future. Maelendil informs Yuriyama that he still hates what he had to do, but knows that he had no choice. Yuriyama then explains that Maelendils decision is what could be the undoing of the vision he had seen.

All the sudden Alphie shows up quite disheveled. According to Alphie, a strange jinn in a hooded dark blue cloak had been following the charge around. Yuriyama asked Alphie if he was an old man with a walking stick. Alphie confirmed this. Yuriyama explained that this jinn is not dangerous, but only accompanies people. Alphie asked who he was, and Yuriyama explained he would find out very soon. Alphie explains that there is something creepy about this jinn, and Yuriyama explains that people only fear this figure over what he represents. Alphie tells Maelendil about having seen this hooded figure hanging around the Charge during a camping trip, and putting dark thoughts in his head. Alphie asks if the Charge is going to die. Maelendil explains that this is a no in the sense of the body, but someone will very soon. Maelendil explains that the Charge is dying to his childhood, and reminds Alphie of the Lindsey Lohan Lookalike, the girl at Dudlechip, and noticing certain body parts on girls in a game. Alphie explained that he knew this was coming soon, but did not understand what this camping trip had to do with this. Maelendil explains the camping trip is a symbol of being less reliant on his family in days to come.

The Remainder of the Summer

The Monday after Vacation, Marilyn invited Milo and Lydia over to swim, as Shamus and Charlie were over for a long weekend. Milo told Marilyn about his game "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego", as he used to watch the show "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego" at her house as a child. Milo remembered well that fall after the school picnics, how the game show first premiered. Milo also told Marilyn about going up to Lake Forest Illinois with his Dad, cousins and uncles to watch the Chicago bears practice. After Marilyns, Margaret took Milo shopping for treats to bring up to Lake Forest.

On the day before leaving for Lake Forest, Milo still had to go to the sports hall. Milo had a particularly better day, as he had seen a movie about going on some ancient Egyptian treasure quest. On that Friday morning, Milo went on a road trip to Lake Forest Illinois to watch the Chicago Bears practice. This trip included Ray, his brothers Uncle Georgio, Uncle Mike, Uncle Leo, and his nephews Rob and Ben. Milo and Ray were picked up at 6 am by Uncle Leo, and they said good by to Lydia, who was in bed, Jinny and Margaret. Then they picked up Uncle Georgio and Rob, and finally Uncle Mike and Ben. Milo heard their dog barking as they arrived.

On the way up, Milo got a little homesick, as he still did not like being away from home. This had been the first six hour road trip Milo had been on, which was a bit much for him. Milo had brought so many snacks, and on one occasion, someone left a bag of white chocolate balls open, and melted all over this new van. That afternoon, they went to the practice area to watch the Chicago Bears practice. Milo got some signatures from the players, and the coach. The security guard tried to stop Milo from getting the coaches signature, but the Coach told him it was fine, and signed Milo's brochure. That night, Milo ordered a fancy dinner at a 50's retro-diner, to everyones amusement.

On that trip, Milo laughed so hard when Ben took a picture of Rob walking out of a Port-a-Potty. They were taking a mini trip to Michigan just to say they had seen the state. That night, the boys all went to the Mall, and Milo had been utterly tired. He fell asleep during the movie "Iron Giant", which Ray had to take him to. Rob, Ben, and the uncles saw "Sixth Sense", which Milo had been too young to legally see in theatres. Milo woke up early in the morning, in a bit of a panic state. He started thinking about the morning he left, and got a fear something may have happened. That morning, they went to Church, and were on the road back to Ciderpond.

As for the rest of the Summer, Milo had his family birthday party early that year, as the O'malleys were in town that weekend for Jesse's fiancé Danielle's wedding shower. Jesse had just gotten engaged the previous new years. The day before the Birthday party, Margaret was off, and she bought Milo and early birthday present. This gift was a simpsons game for the computer. As for the party, Milo got many Carmen Sandiego games. That night, Eustace and Samantha spent the night.

The next morning, Eustace and Samantha went to Church with them at 9:30AM. As Milo had counted, this week would be a folk mass, as he figured out they switch masses every Sunday. Milo would have preferred to go to the 11AM mass, but could not, due to having Ray's company picnic at Seewoulden. Milo was frankly happy to be back at Seewoulden, despite being at the end of summer.

On the day of Milo's birthday, he got an electric piano for his Birthday. Now Margaret and Ray knew that the organ he had downstairs had been poor quality. Aunt Marie, Aunt Michelle and Emma planned a surprise party for Milo on his birthday, which was on a Wednesday that year when she was babysitting. Emma, Milo and Lydia went on a walk down to Aunt Michelles, telling them she had to pick something up. At the party, Milo took up a second taste in videogames after playing Donkey Kong Country II on Salvatore's Super Nintendo. This was the level where they rode roller coaster carts at a fair ground. Eustace started crying when it was Milo's turn to play the game.

That afternoon, Emma went up with the O'Malleys back to New Seneca for a few days. Now Lydia invited herself on the trip, which caused quite some hassle. Margaret was pretty mad at Lydia, for leaving on Milo's birthday, and going on a trip last minute. Lydia got a little choked up when she found out that she would be gone before Ray got home. As it was, Milo, Ray and Margaret went out for dinner at Red Lobster.

The Next day, Milo had to return to the Sports Hall, and was pretty angry, as Lydia went on a trip to New Seneca with Aunt Marie, when she had not planned this trip. Then the Filentino's were going to Statler Ohio to see the Lourdes Shrine. Milo felt like he was the only one stuck at the sports hall, while everyone was doing fun things, especially on his birthday week. This is often the case where we think the grass is greener on the other side. What Milo expected of New Seneca was that Lydia, Emma, Alicia and Lilly were doing all kinds of fun things with Aunt Marie. Milo had this idea based on his memories of the trip he had gone on when he was three.

The field trip scheduled that day was to a girl scouts camp. Milo had been to this camp before, and frankly hated it last time. Milo got the option to stay back, and took this offer. During that day, Milo started fantasizing about the upcoming school year, and imagined all these new possibilities once he gets out of this sports hall. Ray had not been too happy with Milo for staying back. That night, Milo, Ray and Margaret went out for Italian. The next Friday, Margaret was off, as Milo had a pool party planned for some school friends.

That weekend, Milo had anticipated for a long time. Milo was happy to see his friends again, as he could not stand his group at the sports hall, and just wanted to get back to school. The people in attendance were Travis, Clayton, Todd, Salvatore and Shane. The party had been quite fun, as this had been a pool party and Ray cooked hamburgers on the grill. In fact, Travis had talked about this party for several years, and well into highschool. During the party, Milo put some Simpsons episodes from the tape Rory gave him earlier in the summer. This was the episode "Homer's Odyssey", where Homer becomes the safety monitor of the city, and gets promoted to working safety at the Nuclear Power Plant. During the party, Uncle Mike made a guest appearance to drop Lydia off back home. Uncle Mike had gone up to New Seneca that morning to pick Lydia and Emma up. Then Todds dad Bill showed up a little early and met Uncle Mike. That evening, Uncle Mike invited Milo, Ray and Salvatore to another Baseball game in the Luxury Box.

The next day, Ray left early in the morning to go golfing, which left Milo, Lydia and Margaret on their own for Church. Milo knowingly picked the 9:30 mass, as he knew that's when Tom would be playing the Organ. That afternoon, Milo, Lydia and Margaret went to the Pet Store with Grandma Pearl to pick out a new puppy for a sixtieth birthday present. Grandma Pearl adopted this pup she named Sammy. Grandma Pearl gave Milo some money for his birthday, and he bought the game "Super Mario 2: 6 Golden Coins", which he lost two years ago.

Another occurrence of Milo having a flashback was a week later, near the end of the summer with the Simpsons episode "Simpsoncalifragilisticexpiala(doh)cious". This is a Mary Poppins parody where the Simpsons get a nanny. This episode had been a repeat from the Eighth season, which had the song "Cut Every Corner", based on the song "Spoonful of Sugar" from the "Be Our Guest" Singalong. Milo saw this episode when he had dinner over at Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's, along with the Filentino's.

Chapter 14: A Semi-haunted Fall and Christmas

At this time, the summer was near ending, for which Milo was entering his final year of Elementary School. On the last week Emma was babysitting, she had Milo call Salvatore to come over. Now Salvatore could not come over until the afternoon, as Aunt Jane had called Aunt Michelle for lunch. Milo was a bit bummed out that he, Lydia and Emma were not included. Emma explained that Aunt Jane probably thought Milo and Lydia were at the Sports Hall. Milo then went on more of a lament about how the Sports Hall has ruined his summer. Milo complains about how he is always excluded, while Salvatore is doing fun things, while he is stuck at the Sports Hall. Emma then has Milo construct a list of all the fun things from the summer, and the only thing not fun was the Sports Hall. All Milo's complains were pretty much about not having the freedom to do the things he wanted, such as not being allowed to buy a snack unless he finished his drink.

There was quite a great disappointment for Milo when he found out that the Alpha-Fi program would not be returning to Hazelnut forest, and would be staying at the sports hall, but it would only be on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. The Alpha-Fi program was still in existence, but in an inconvenient location that would be a long drive for Ray to pick Milo and Lydia up from. Milo would have preferred to stay with Alpha-Fi, and get the opportunity to befriend other kids who attended Dudlechip.

The weekend before School started, the Biancatello's went to Aunt Mary's daughter Elaine's son Jason's wedding. At the wedding, Milo met Aunt Mary and Uncle John, whom he had not seen since the summer before starting First Grade at Carries. Grandma Gladys also attended the wedding, along with many other Williamson cousins. Milo got a bit tired out at the wedding, and wanted to play a green level on Super Mario 3, located in the Sea region. Now that Milo knew how the music system worked with Church, he purposely picked the 11am mass, as he knew that was the week where the Organ would be playing at that time. Milo had been absolutely correct in his assumption. At Mass, they introduced a new Alleluia known as "Bernadettes Alleluia", which was quite festive. That afternoon, Ray took Milo and Lydia back to Summerwhite woods to hike. Before hiking, Ray took Milo and Lydia to Dairy Queen for lunch, where he saw another kid from the Sports hall. On the way to Summerwhite woods, Ray played the song "Last Kiss", in its original form.

The Feast of the Harvest

At this time in Londinium, the feast of the Harvest had been re-established. This was the feast in which anyone from different lands was invited to attend. At this time, the lands invited were the land beyond the mountains, Londinium and the Cobold Communities in the cliffs. After being so busy with their duties at the Headquarters, the Cobolds forgot all about the lands beyond the Mountains. This feast was re-established after the Headquarter duties of the Cobolds had been completed. Tents had been setup over the new park in Londinium, surrounding the former Orb of Hillectivus.

As it was, no one beyond the mountains showed up, so the inhabitants of Londinium built a fire in the tower where the orb of Hillectivus once stood and offered up spoiled crops to be burned, and lit a fire. This fire was meant to be a sign that could be seen by the inhabitants beyond the mountain. At this, they sang a song of hope that the peoples beyond the mountain will some day join them in the festivities. Azeyas had been in attendance, and declared that there would soon be a Harvest feast in which the isolated peoples days of strife and labor will be complete, and the path that was once rugged will be straight. As it was, no one from beyond the Mountains showed up.

Grandma Pearls Birthday and a new School Year

At the beginning of the school year, Milo started Fifth Grade and his final year at Hazelnut Forest, and Amira started Fourth Grade at Dinglebury Elementary. This had been the first year Milo was not sorry to return back to School after Summer vacation. Milo learned of all the fun stuff planned for the Fifth Graders, such as a two day field trip to Dinglebury acres. On the first day of School, the fifth graders were given the task to help the first graders through the lunch line. Milo assisted a little girl who was a kindergardener with Alpha-Fi from the previous year.

Grandma Pearl had just turned sixty, and Margaret hosted a birthday party at the Biancatello's over Labor Day weekend. The Friday before the party, Grandma Pearls brothers Uncle Al and Uncle Thordon arrived in town. This had been the second time Milo had met these uncles. Milo was also looking forward to seeing the new puppy Sammy. By this time, Grandma Pearl only had Sammy for two weeks. At this same time, Uncle Wayne got transferred closer to Ciderpond, located in Indianapolis, which meant the Rumcorns would be able to attend. This weekend at Grandma Pearls sixtieth Birthday Party, many from the wedding would be returning.

That morning before the party, Uncle Ottavio and Uncle Leo took Milo, Lydia, Salvatore, Gianni, Eustace and Samantha to Summerwhite Woods for a hike. For the most part, Milo and his cousins walked through the creek. During these days, Milo had found creeks to be utterly fascinating. They returned home by the mid-afternoon before guests arrived. The first to arrive was Grandma Pearl with the Rumcorns, Uncle Thordan and Aunt Leslie. Then Aunt Mary and Uncle John arrived. Several unfamiliar people arrived whom Milo had not known who they were. Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony arrived while Milo was swimming with Lydia, Kevin, and two cousins from the Williamsons. Then Uncle Al and Aunt Joan arrived wheeling Grandma Gladys in her wheelchair. By this time, Grandma Gladys was 98 years old, and could no longer get around too well anymore. Then Uncle Thordon and wife Aunt Leslie arrived.

All of Aunt Mary's six kids came, being Elaine, Ralph, Carrie, Tim, Jennifer and Leanne, and their spouses and kids. Tims daughter Charlotte played music on Milo's new keyboard that he got for his birthday. Kevin, Lydia, Katelyn and Taquanta swam in the pool most of the party. Katelyn is Jennifer's daughter and Taquanta is Leanne's granddaughter. Before eating, Milo got out of the pool to say hi to his relatives, and talk with Grandma Rosa, Grandpa Tony, Grandma Gladys, and Aunt Mary, who had been sitting on a table on the deck. Aunt Mary reminded Milo of Grandma Pearl. Grandma Pearl had been sitting on the steps with Uncle Al, Uncle Wayne and the new puppy Sammy. The dog Ginny did not come out too much during the party too much, as she still did not care for Sammy, and was jealous of him getting all the attention. After Katelyn got out of the pool, Milo was introduced to his cousin Jennifer, who was her mother. Then Milo met Elaine, who did not have a chance to talk to him at the wedding the week before. Milo almost confused her for Marilyn.

That night, Kyle, Kevin and Bruce spent the night. The next morning, the Biancatello's had to go to the 11am mass, and was sure that this would be a folk mass. As it was, Uncle Wayne would be over to pick Kyle, Kevin and Bruce up at 10, which would be when mass was still going on. Milo had been relieved they didn't join them for church, as he would have been embarrassed for them to see a folk mass. To Milo's surprise, this had not been the case, and the organ was thundering some new hymn known as "God we praise you".

That afternoon, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy had a Labor Day party, which the whole family attended. This included Aunt Judy's relatives, who also attended. Milo met a few of Rob's cousins. That evening, the Biancatello's went over to Jennifer's house, as they were invited to Katelyn's birthday party the day before. Milo was not exactly thrilled about this, as he wanted to stay back at Uncle Georgio's with his cousins.

On the Monday of Labor Day, Milo and Ray went for a bike ride down by the beach, and Stacy's retro-diner for lunch. Milo and Ray talked about the summer, and the Sports Camp. Ray understood how being at the sports camp was difficult for Milo, and how he had felt excluded from activities with his cousins. Milo brought up the Thursday after his birthday, when everyone was doing fun things. Ray explained that the trip to the Statlerville Shrine had not been so much fun for the Filentinos. What happened was on the way back, they ate at a restaurant, and got sick off of poorly prepared food. That evening, Milo and his cousins Salvatore and Eustace went putt putt golfing at Funland, along with Ray, Uncle Ottavio and Uncle Leo. This course got closed two years later, as they got bought by Kohl's.

The Horrible Vision

In the room at the headquarters where the water bowl is, there was a horrible vision of a strange colored arm wearing a sinister looking hook that he had sunk into the mountains, growing quite powerful. At this act, the whole world became robotized. Everything that had happened occurred in a predictable way, and all life forms and natural wonders became completely without will. Then the weilder of the hook, being the only free one started planning for all kinds of natural disasters, from floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and volcanic explosions. The Cobolds had seen this vision and were utterly horrified by what they had seen.

At this, the Cobolds summoned a Londinium Elder, Veteran and historian to identify this Hook. The Historian Xenophon recognized the hook immediately, and being quite old, knew something about the last to have possession of this hook. Xenophon brings the Elder, Veteran and Cobolds to the Library, and shows them a book known as "Every cause to every effect ever". The book was written by this Jinn Watsalvin, but used the penname G.T.R. Junky. The story was that Watsalvin mysteriously disappeared and when inspectors searched his house, all they found was the hook as seen in the vision. The Veteran had looked through the book, and found this preamble where Watsalvin would accomplish what no Jinn ever had the smarts to do, and uncover all the causes of every effect, and learn every effect of every cause. This book was never completed, and all that had been accomplished was that he had written of an effect, and only completed a section on the causes he observed. Xenophon tells the Cobolds the story of how this hook gave the inspectors this instant feeling of emptiness, and sought to destroy it by throwing it in the metalworker's pot of molten iron. The molten metal had no effect on the hook, and they realized that their only option was to box and bury it deep in the earth, in a far off insignificant place known as Doustonia.

The Elder realized that Londinium and the regions were in grave danger if this hook was still out there, and especially in the hand of a Troll Offspring. The Elder then addressed the town of Londinium with some sobering words of what they had seen. The Elder and Veteran then announced that the only thing we can do is stand together, and make strong alliances with the cliff communities. The veteran then warned the town to never become divided, and that they are stronger united.

Lucille Strikes

In late September, the song "Last Kiss" was remade by the band Pearl Jam. This is an old fifties ballad common of the time of tragic car accidents. In Milo's homeroom, his teacher Mrs. Dench played "Stand by Me" written by Ben E. King, while transitioning to different classrooms. This song reminded Milo of the Summer after first grade, and felt like he should have not been so keen to be back in school. Otherwise, classes were going good so far. With Church, Milo was still having a difficult time adjusting to the new Music, but had noticed the Folk Band had not played in a while. What had caught Milo's attention was this haunting jazz hymn known as "Sing of the Lords Goodness", written by Ernest Sands. In English, Milo had Mrs. Dench as his teacher, and she started reading "Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone" to the class. This had been one of the few times Milo had ever been interested in a book read at school.

Things at this sports hall had not been going so well. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Milo, Lydia, and two girls names Lucille and Taylor were picked up by the Sports hall transportation system back to the facility. As we remember, Lucille was a neighbor of the Biancatello's whom they trick-or-treated with the previous year. Taylor was a girl in Lydia's class that she did not particularly like.

Within weeks, this program had been put under very highly authoritarian management. The lady who used to run the program, Janet had gotten a new job, and this warden woman Hilda took over. With all due respect, this woman was one nasty bitch. She would shout at kids at the sports hall for running around or making noise. Milo hated this overly structured system, as he knew well that an after school program can be ran in a more flexible way, as he remembered Alpha-Fi. If Milo thought the Sports hall during the summer was bad, this was nothing. According to Milo's experience, the more strict the counselors were, thue more boundaries the kids would push. Take Patrick from Alpha-Fi, who could keep order, when he was the most easy going and fun counselors, while this Hilda woman seemed to only encourage rebellion. Milo had been signed up for racket ball lessons during the Tuesdays and Thursdays, which he had at least hoped it would get him away from this pernicious Hilda. To Milos misfortune, the racket ball teacher had quit unexpectedly, and Milo was stuck under their tyranny.

This girl Lucille had been a very fragile girl to be easily bothered about silly things. Lydia had played with Lucille over the summer, as she lived just down the street from the Biancatello's. One day during the summer, Ray let Lucille take Lydia for a walk down to her house. That day, Ray caught Lucille walking Lydia back and forth in the streets between the sidewalks. Ray told Lucille that he would not let Lydia play anymore if she did that again. Lucille did not take too kindly to this, and had been quite bitter with Ray afterwards.

One fateful day on the van, when "Last Kiss" was playing on the Radio, Milo was talking to Taylor about some suspenseful movie he saw to which Lucille blatanly demanded that they not speak of this movie, as it would give her nightmares. Milo and Taylor ignored Lucille's request, which got them in big trouble with the counselors. The Bus driver told them that Lucille did not want them to talk about the movie, and that they would go to the office for this one. Milo then started badmouthing the bus driver to Taylor, and referred to her as a stinkpot. As it was, the driver forgot, and the afternoon continued as normal. During the drive, a Hubritaiji known as the Causemos stuck its silver hook into the present moment, and a monstrous vision occurred of a couple driving their car, and a sinister figure on the road pulled over. To avoid crashing into this sinister figure, the couple swerved and crashed in a great explosion like this sinister figure had perfectly calculated.

Later it was revealed that Taylor got in trouble, as Hilda reprimanded here for ignoring Lucille's requests. After that, Milo never thought well of Lucille, and found her to be manipulative and bossy. Taylor and Milo hand neither gotten along since.

The Odinean Temple

Maelendil had seen what transpired that afternoon when Lucille conjured the Causemos. At this sight, he took Theodore and Alphie to the Odinean Temple to prepare for battle against the Causemos. The temple was in the shape of a mighty fortress with a fortification in the shape of a perfect triangular floorplan. At the three corners of the walls are great colums acting as corner posts with three different statues on top of the caps. The statues are a glass globe emitting light, a Celtic Cross and a Dove. The temple is shaped like a Medieval castle with six outer towers and one central tower.

The Trio entered in the gates of the temple grounds, and was greeted by a stern looking Sacerdix known as Gregory, who had told the trio that he was expecting them. Gregory brought them into the temple grounds and found a cathedral style altar with a circular roof with a painted Celtic triangular knott. The North wall houses a shrine to the Angelic Ministers Forseti the good, Minerva the Wise, Eleos the Merciful, Hathor the Loving and Fides the trustworthy. The East Wall houses a shrine to the legendary figures of Heracles the Powerful, Osiris the Resurrected Krishna the Teacher and Demeter the Sacrifice. The South Wall houses a shrine to the angelic ministers Gaya the Consoling, Athena Courageous, and Guanying the Forgiving. The West wall housed several instruments including a harp, trumpet, Cymbal and lute. These instruments were played before going to battle.

Gregory told the three what he knew about the Causemos. According to Gregory, the Causemos was once a brilliant scientist of the Fifth order of Annogrammatrons. The Causemos made great theories, and could make spot on predictions to scientific theories. Yet the Causemos became quite obsessed with finding out the causes to phenomenon that was never answered. The Causemos never took free choice into account, and sought to figure out the source of choice. Causemos broke things apart to find their causes only to find nothing. Causemos had only seen a world of objects that could be known only through dissecting something into parts, with no concept of an indivisible personality behind them. Over time, the Causemos became more depersonalized, and became reduced to a metal hook. To this day, the Causemos functions by sticking its hook into the world, and breaking it apart from its wholeness. In such a way, free choice is obsolete, as could show itself with what it did with Lucille.

Gregory made a call to battle against Causemos and called out several Jinns from the warrior order of a large number of locations. Gregory commissioned his warrior Deiden to keep an eye on Lucille. Gregory was quite suspicious of Lucille, and knew that she could strike unexpectedly. Maelendil asked what to do with Milo. A mysterious figure with pale skin and a dark cloak known as Mortanius informed him that it will not be too long, and will be under his domain. Alphie immediately recognized the figure in a dark cloak as the one who had followed Milo. Alphie asked Mortaneous why he had been following Milo around. Mortaneous explained that he will find out very soon. Mortaneous explained that he is only the messenger who guides and prepares.

Maelendil asks what is to be done about the Causemos. Gregory explains that this is the domain of Brother Volition. Gregory explains all that he knows, and how the earth when separated from Brother Volition, as the Causemos would have it, the future is utterly predictable, and the present is a fatalistic consequence of past causes. No Jinn, Gregory included understand the wisdom the Aluments possess, let the very function of action without mechanistic forward causation. Gregory walks with Maelendil, Alphie, Theodore and Mortaneous through the temple. Gregory explains that this temple is the headquarters on the realm of the Jinns for the Angelic Ministers of Battle, whom fight the mortals causes against the powers of darkness since the first Angelic Minister fell. Gregory then explains that the Ministers will reveal any messages needed from their shrine in regard to battle. Mortaneous explains that he will accompany Milo to meeting the witness of the Angelic Ministers of battle.

A Funeral and a Wedding

This is what transpired over the Fall of the last Millennium. Late in September, Milo joined the Hazelnut Forest Choir, which was opened to the Fifth Graders. They had a new music teacher who was experienced in music, but not in teaching. The performance the teacher chose was known as "Once on a Housetop". Around this time, Ray helped Milo install a Super Nintendo a friend from work had given him that he no longer wanted. Milo started playing this game "Super Mario World" for the Super Nintendo, which Salvatore had shown him when they were in Second Grade near making their first communions. Alongside, Milo started getting closer with his Dog Jinny. Possibly this had been after he missed her when in Illinois, and with Grandma Pearl getting a Dog. Both Sammy and Jinny are the same dog breed, though look quite different.

One Saturday afternoon, Ray took Milo, Shane and Jack up to summerwhite woods to hike. During the hike, they found a campsite full of candles, which resembled some type of new age or Wicca shrine. On the way back, Ray took the boys to Dairy Queen for lunch. Milo saw Fr. Sorbiewski at Dairy Queen, which furthered his theory that this had been father at Dairy Queen last time. Fr. Sorbiewski had a conference at the diocese center, and did not care for the food served there. On the way home, Ray and Milo became a bit annoyed, as Jack and Shane were singing this annoying song over and over again. Ray wondered why Milo was friends with these two to begin with, especially Shane.

Around this time, Grandma Gladys broke her hip and was unable to recover. The Sunday before, Margaret and Grandma Pearl went to the hospital to visit. Ray took Milo and Lydia to feed ducks at the lake, in order to distract them from Grandma Gladys. Frankly, Milo and Lydia, nor Margaret had ever been close with Grandma Gladys. However, they had seen her quite a bit with Jasons wedding, Grandma Pearls 60th Birthday and Katelyns Birthday party.

Sadly Grandma Gladys passed away the Wednesday afternoon before Milo started playing Basketball. That weekend, the Rumcorns came in town for the funeral, along with many relatives Milo never met, primarily Grandma Pearl's cousins and some Great-Great Aunts and Uncles. The Saturday before the Family Viewing, Milo and Ray went to a father and Son event hosted at a campsite including hiking and outdoor activities.

The morning before the viewing, Milo had Sunday School, and was given some prayer by the teacher to bring to the funeral home. Then the Biancatello's went to Church, and sat with Rob. Rob joined the Biancatello's for a spaghetti Lunch held in the Church cafeteria. That afternoon was the viewing. Milo had been a bit uneasy, as he had never been to a funeral home, or encountered death before.

The funeral was held at a Lutheran Church past Phyllisville. Aunt Mary and Uncle John also were at the funeral, along with Grandpa Paul, Grandma Pearl, the Rumcorns, the Williamson clan, Biancatello's and the Great Great Aunts and Uncles and Grandma Pearls Cousins. The opening hymn was "A Mighty Fortress is our God", which is a Spiritual Warfare hymn written by the founder Martin Luther. This hymn is most popular in the Lutheran Church, though used frequently in other western Liturgies. This hymn was even known as the Battle Hymn of the reformation.

During the funeral, there was a sign in the Church of a primordial tyrant from the netherworld wrecking havoc on earth whom helpless mortals trembled before. Then an otherworldy man showed up with great powers over this tyrant, and the great victor in battle. The warrior was carrying a bright iron cross, a scroll covered in Myrrh, and wearing a shroud of banners. There were four angelic beings, one resembling an Egyptian god, greek hero, Hindu Incarnaton and Roman goddess. At this, all the minions of the tyrant had been scattered, while all their threats were made obsolete. All the while, the earthly powers under the influence of the minions of evil completely toppled, with a new age of peace reigning. A metal hook tearing the fabric of the cosmos had been utterly melted by the power of the scroll.

One weekend later, the time for Jesse and Danielle's wedding came about. The day before, Aunt Mary and Uncle John, Grandma Pearl and Aunt Mary's brother Uncle Ed and Aunt Betty came over for dinner, as they were in town for the Funeral. Now Uncle Ed was Aunt Mary's brother, who is closer in age to Grandma Pearl. That night, Margaret made Hawaiian wings, while Ray made Pizza. Lydia had not come to the party, as she had a sleepover at her friends house. Lydia stopped over to pick up some stuff, but was a bit confused, as she barely knew Aunt Mary and Uncle John, and did not recognize Uncle Ed and Aunt Betty.

The Wedding took place at St. James Cathedral, which is the Mother Church of the Ciderpond region, and close to Whelon College, where Aunt Dianne works. The Cantor at the wedding was Wilma, as she transferred to this Church and joined their Choir. Before the ceremony, Aunt Marie had Milo go up to the Organ Loft to give Wilma a program. Having Wilma as the cantor brought back a sense of nostalgia for Milo, as he started to remember how it was not that long ago that the Music at St. Timothy's was like this. The responsorial Psalm was Pslam 118, which was the same Psalm Rob used to imitate Wilma so many years ago. Milo started getting nostalgic for the early summer, before Wilma left. The processional was "Jesu Joy of Mans Desiring", which he constantly had stuck in his head. This piece of music reminded Milo of an Irish Jig.

As for the Wedding reception, Milo kept thinking about the days when Wilma was in charge of the Music at St. Timothy's. Milo started finding himself annoyed with the current music at St. Timothy's, which he felt was not really Church music, but Country music that in no way belonged in a Church. As far as Milo was concerned, the Organ style was what Milo thought of with Church, and preferred it that way.

The Akashic death vision

Back in the Akashic hall of prophecies, one of the watchmen heard a break in and went to investigate. The watchman find an orb calling for Maelendil. As it goes, when an orb calls for Sophunum, this means that a charge had seen something of the future. Maelendil is immediately called in to investigate this orb, and takes it back to his office. The orb first shows a girl talking to someone, and explains that she has one deceased Grandparent. Then there is an uncarved pumpkin full of signatures from the girl's mother's co-workers. Then there is a disturbed feeling in the air with a woman playing an organ in a cathedral.

Maelendil immediately summons Yuriyama to explain this strange occurrence. Maelendil first theorized that this was speaking of the present, but feared this had something to do with the Future. Yuriyama confirmed his fear, and explained that this news was not meant to be revealed. Yuriyama then summoned Gregory and Mortaneous. Mortaneous first arrives, and Maelendil thanks him for walking with his charge, and showing him the one in the name of the dance, and cloud of Angelic Warriors. Mortaneous knows why he has been summoned, but has no answer to give. Mortaneous explains that he only walks with the survivors, and does not make predictions of others conclusions. Gregory confirms that the prophecy is accurate, but does not know who predicted this. Gregory theorizes that this is the work of an offspring who greatly admires the Causemos, and preys on the mortals most dangerous curiosities. Gregory then summons Deiden to make sure that this orb is destroyed, and the charge this concerns never finds out about this. Deiden explains that it is too late, and many charges had seen the orb, but none believe it, and have other explanations. Maelendil declares that the Crisis is averted.

Halloween and Thanksgiving

Around this time, Grandma Pearl went to Indianapolis for Halloween to visit the Rumcorns. Over this time, Milo was getting the hang of his game Super Mario world for the Super Nintendo. On the Thursday before Halloween, the class snitch underwent a major prank. This student was one to stock other students, and tattle for insignificant matters, just to see them get in trouble. One day, this student was told at lunch that his name was on the list to eat lunch with the supposedly cool teacher. What had happened was someone had seen another student with a feminine version of his name on the marker board. There was this hot shot teacher who had given up to five students the privilege to eat lunch with him, and watch a movie. After this student arrived to find he was not on the list, he walked into the cafeteria fuming.

On Halloween, Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony hosted a Halloween party before Trick-or-treating, which had been a long going tradition. Usually the party took place after trick-or-treating, as Halloween had been on a school day. During the day, Milo and his younger cousins were all dressed in their Halloween costumes, and were treated to cider and donuts. Rob was giving Milo a hard time about when he was little, and squirted a jelly donut on him accidentally. During the party, Aunt Michelle took Milo and Salvatore next door to Aunt Adriennes to show her their costumes. Milo was a pirate, and Salvatore was a hockey player. Aunt Adrienne was Grandpa Tony's sister. That night, Milo and Salvatore went trick or treating, and stopped at houses such as the Khara's, Aunt Dianne's, Marilyn and Ralphs and a their old preschool teacher from St. Timothys Mrs. Savello. Most of the residents let Milo and Salvatore pick the candy they wanted. Salvatore often had the complaint of past Halloweens, when there was a bowl full of good candies, and the house owner gives them the worst pieces. Margarets biggest Halloween agitation was when people would give out hard candies, such as mints, cinnamon or butterscotch candies.

In School during social studies, the students began to learn about pre-historic peoples, and how the original inhabitant's of the America's arrived. Otherwise, Milo got the original super Mario game for his Gameboy, which proved to be similar as the original Mario for the regular Nintendo. For the most part, Milo had indulged in his Halloween candy, and began looking forward to the holiday season. Milo was still fantasizing about throwing the Christmas party similar to the one held the year before.

The weekend before Thanksgiving, Milo, Ray, Shane, his father Stan, and another classmate Dudley and his father Petey went on a father son camping trip with a larger group of other boys. The other fathers on the trip had mostly been bums who just put the boys to work, so they could sit around doing nothing. Milo had not been a particular fan of Dudley, as he was quite obnoxious, and a bully towards his friend Jack. Ray initiated a hike by late afternoon, knowing the boys needed to do something more fun than serve a bunch of lazy bums. They found a wooden fort, and got to climb up to get a picture. After some time hanging on the fort, Petey called everyone down. Dudley still had not come down, and Petey continued to call for him. When Dudley did arrive, Petey called him over, and held his chin with both hands telling him "Next time listen". Dudley looked like he was about to start crying.

Ariella's spirit quest

There was this mysterious purple mistivant with an ugly bowl cut living near the Naofaspring estate. Ariella having the power to read minds could sense that he was in on the dark hook that could soon cause natural calamities. The sisters hatched a plan for Hallicia to freeze him, and then interrogate him for information on the hook. By this time, word had spread throughout Londinium that there was a danger within the land, including the sisters. Shannen suggested that they take position of the hook, and put the culprit in his place. One day when the purple mistivant walked by, Hallicia froze him. Before any more activity could take place, their crystal orb emitted a vision of Ariella being burned at the stake. The sisters went near the orb, and were sucked into this strange future. Shanen had become a powerful noblewoman with an extensive amount of wealth, while Hallicia had been recently divorced from Junous, whom they had a daughter. To their horror, they found that these purple people had quite a large amount of civil authority within Londinium. Ariella finds out that she is being prosecuted for mass murder.

According to what Ariella finds out, Shannen had harbored the hook, and had all of Londinium under her control for so long. At some point, the purple people resisted the hook, and started to spread hysteria, and tried to expose the Naofaspring sisters. Ariella committed a mass murder of protesters gathering by the estate, including Londinians and the purple people. Ariella was caught by some purple mistivant vigilantes, and locked up in the Londinium palace towers. Ariella was to be prosecuted by one purple mistivant who seemed very familiar.

Meanwhile, Shannen and Hallicia asked for help, and Junous appeared to them. Junous explained that Ariella had no choice, but to pay for her crimes. The sisters are distraught, but given permission to be near her at the execution. When Ariella was beginning to be burned, the sisters returned to the present moment. Ariella noticed the purple mistivant Hallicia froze was the prosecutor on the witch hunt. Shannen renounced her ambitions to take power over the hook, and no longer saw herself as anymore worthy to possess the item than these purple people. The sisters made a pact that they would not abuse their gifts, and would use the old fashioned way to uncover these purple peoples agenda.

The Christmas Concert and the End of the Millennium

As it came to pass, the Holiday Season was near. For Milo, this meant that he would be performing in a Christmas Concert known as "Once on a Housetop", which the students practiced since the beginning of the School year. The day of the Concert took place on Amira's birthday. Before the concert, the fifth grade choral students met in the music room, and soon processed into the auditorium. Milo passed by and spotted Margaret, Ray, Lydia, Grandma Rosa, Grandpa Tony and Grandma Pearl. The play opened with on of Milo's favorite songs "Once on a Housetop" "Once on a Housetop" is a Christmas Magic song, which is one of the few times during the year that childlike belief is not suspended. Milo had a short speaking part, as one of the house owners complaining about the ash heep in the Chimney. The only song Milo really could not stand was this rap known as "Ashes to Ashes". Frankly, Milo is no fan of rap, and does not consider ranting to a beat real music. There was also a song known as "Big red fellow", "Kwanzaa Child", "Just a Little Baby" and "Break the Pinata". The song Kwanzaa child was considered for the most part corny, as no one, not even the African American community even celebrates Kwanzaa. The song "Just a Tiny Baby" recounted the birth of Jesus, in accord with the play taking into consideration the Christian traditions.

Milo's other favorite had been the song "Lotsa Latkes". The Klezmer song "Lotsa Latkes" is a reminder of the first Channukah, when the Maccabees recount the Jews victory over the tyrannical successor of Alexander the Great, who persecuted the Jews, and desecrated their temple. At the rededication of the temple, the great miracle occurred when there was oil for only one day, but the menorah remained lit for eight days. The other song that had been quite popular was Break the Pinata, based on Mexican Christmas traditions.

Then the play ended with the ending reprise of "Once on a Housetop", with wondrous sites throughtout the auditorium. Bells rang loudly and reindeers and snowballs flew back and fourth. Some attendees even spotted a host of angels flying through the snow and Christmas elves crawling throught the floors. After the Concert, Milo got his picture with Lydia and his Grandparents. Grandma Rosa knew well that Milo liked the Jewish song, as they all heard him singing quite loud on that song.

During the last Sunday of Advent, this hymn "Awake, Awake and Greet the new Morn" had been the opening hymn. Actually, this was the opening hymn for three of the four weeks of Advent that year. This hymn was written by contemporary composer Marty Haugen, and in the style of a contemporary hymn and traditional carol. During that year, Milo kept the Advent observances like he had the previous year. This final Week of Advent, Grandma Pearl went to church with the Biancatello's. At mass also were Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony, Aunt Judy and her mother Isabelle, and Grandma Rosas sister, Great Aunt Barbera and her husband Uncle Rich. Fr. Sorbiewski was the presider, and had given a fairly long sermon.

Azeyas Message and Celebration

The anniversary of the mystery visitor had arrived. As we remember about a year ago, the Cobolds had constructed this guest house, which was used by a woman elf in labor with a child. The Woman Elf rewarded the Cobolds for their generosity with plans for the second story to add the headquarters. This particular year, the Cobolds and residents of Londinium were not in a celebratory mood, as they knew that some disaster would soon come about. Ther signs had been utterly apparent. The earth frequently shook, the skies turned deep blue, dark grey clouds formed, and there had been bright red explosions from the mountains.

Azeyas arrived in Londinium and asked the residents why they were so sullen on such a joyful occasion. They explained the prospects of disaster and their inability to stop them. The Cobolds had been no closer to finding the hook, and the Naifaspring Sisters have had no success finding out what these purple mistivants were up to.

Azeyas then told them that this is the day of anticipation and rejoicing. Azeyas led in the retelling of the story of the night the Elfess arrived to the Cobolds complete surprise. They felt quite nostalgic for those days, remembering meeting this light elf, whom they prostrated before. They also remembered how the Elfess provided plans to build the second story, and departed with a promise of return.

Azeyas told them that this was an anniversary for feasting, as this is a joyful anniversary to celebrate the one who will undo the disaster to come. Azeyas shared his visions of what was to come after the trials. Azeyas confirms that the days of darkness are ahead, but not to despair. The Cobolds know that one possesses a dangerous hook that is to cause such pointless upheavel, and the tyrants will be in charge, all because of their might. One Cobold asked Azeyas what was to come. Azeyas promises that at the point of gravest darkness, a seer will return, and exult the persecuted, and cast out the tyrants from their high places. Azeyas then tells the Cobolds and Londinians that they are only as weak as they are divided, and that joy and meaning can even be found in the bleakest of days.
Chapter 15: The transition from Childhood to adolescence

Theodore's Retirement

As it came to pass, the time for Theodore to retire was at hand. Brutus the Senexit in training applied for the position again, and was turned down after showing lack of qualifications. Brutus had looked uttely furious and hurt about being turned down for a second time, and walked off in a fit. Maelendil called Brutus back, and let him fill in for Senexit roles while the process for voting in a new Senexit too place.

Maelendil had his misgivings, but wanted to see why Brutus was so ambitious to get this position with so little experience. In case Brutus showed any incompetence, Maelendil summoned a backup whom Mairead recommended years back. Billius the dessenter arrived as summoned, and asked Maelendil who's causing problems. Maelendil explained that Brutus had been placed in charge temporarily, until they are able to get a new senexit. Billius had not been thrilled with this, and Maelendil explained that he knew how rigid Brutus can be. Billius suggested some assistance from Johannes the contemplative, as he knew that Brutus had a tendency to spread fear.

Return to Hazelnut Forest

Y2K came, and the computers did not go haywire as many feared, nor was there any strange apocalypse. The new day of the new millennium was like any other day. As for the Christmas Season, Milo had been a little bummed out. On Christmas Eve, Tom was the musician, but played the Piano instead of the organ at the Kids mass. Milo had been bummed out over this, but feared this would be so. As it was, the childrens choir masses always used piano hymns, and Tom only used the organ for the mass settings.

As it came to pass, it was soon time to return back to school after the Holiday Seasons. Coming back to school was no fun time, considering the last time the students were in school, there were plenty of festivities going on. When Milo had to return to School after Christmas, the whole school felt quite dead. Milo remembered how in gymn class before Christmas, they played Christmas themed games, along with the Holiday concert before vacation.

With the beginning of the new semester, Milo started to anticipate Ash Wednesday, and planned on going to Church for the first time. A few days upon returning to school, Milo had a dream about the Rumcorns being in town, and Aunt Bertha constantly taking Kyle to a music store to talk to a counselor for constant bad behavior all day. Aunt Bertha complained that Kyle refused to participate in the St. Patricks day memorial mass.

With the new semester, Milo had developed a greater appreciation for the Harry Potter seriese, due to the English teacher Mrs. Dench having read the novel to the class during English. For Christmas, Milo got a Nintendo 64 and had a new Mario Game, along with the books Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone and the Chamber of Secrets. Milo's favorite game was Super Mario 64, which is the game that takes place in Peaches castle, and Levels are in the paintings. Frankly, this game reminded Milo a lot of his pre-school years. The first level reminded him of a Pasta Fragiole dinner cooked by Grandma Rosa, a dream about their neighborhood, Aunt Adrienne's house, and being forced to watch Barney at West Mesa.

As for the Ordinary Time of this year, it was eventless for Milo. Frankly it felt like one long winter. On most of Milo and Lydia's days off, they were sent to the Sports Hall. The day camp had not been so bad, as they had a nice counselor during the day, and had some better activities planned. On one such occasion, Milo went to a Hockey game with Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore. At the game, Milo saw his cousin Jason with his new wife. Over these first two months of the New Year, Milo had constant flashbacks to his pre-school days, which he typically refused to think about.

Otherwise, Hazelnut forest was having a problem with snitches. As is common with many public school systems anti-bullying programs, complaints are taken so seriously to the point that their validity is often under-examined. The assumption is that if someone feels harassed, then they are being bullied, and no investigation is needed. Unfortunately, this system had been horribly abused, and fragile students had been using the system to bully their peers in very subtle ways. Basically, students complained about petty matters, claiming they were being bullied if something about another student offended, or claimed to be offended just to get another in trouble. The Teachers and parents had no clue how to deal with this problem, and endorsed this bullying. The teachers had been fearful of admitting that their approaches to handling bullying needed reform, and Parents often punished their kids for retaliating against bullying.

The Great Hurricane

After the Festival of the Guest, a great hurricane hit the lands, and had extensive damage on the mountain paths, cliff communities and the structures of Londinium, and Beaubelles in particular. As the Cobolds feared, the Headquarters underwent some severe damage where going on the roof was deemed unstable. This prevented the Cobolds from being able to go on the roof, let alone get a view of the temple beyond the Mountains. Over this time, the Cobolds did not even want to think about the temple and that region beyond the mountains. During this time, travel to the Cliffs had been forbidden, as the bridge that connected the headquarters to the cliff stairs had been destroyed. Due to the hurricanes, there had been yellow shadows throughout the lands thought to be the remains of deceased trolls from the battle. After the hurricane, their remains had been blown from their resting place throughout Londinium, and spread some strange plague. The Londinians then buckled down, and quarantined the whole city to near absursion.

Due to being in a state of emergency, the Londinian authorities became quite authoritarian. Residencies became heavily quarantined, many streets became off limits, curfews were set in order, and anything remotely suspicious was to be reported immediately. Residents had to watch anything they say, out of fear that their speech could be perceived as threatening. Punishments for breaking curfew, or defying quarantine were quite draconian. The Cobolds were only allowed to roost in a small refuge area within Beaubelles, far away from their headquarters.

The Naifaspring Sisters had been frustrated with the quarantines, as they could not even fulfill their destiny. Hallicia had enough of this, and looked through her Grandmother's Library for a way to kill this plague. At long last, Hallicia found that the shadows could only survive if they had a host to feed on. Hallicia understood the prospect meant that the cost of destroying the plague means that all those infected would die. Hallicia takes it upon herself to research ways of attracting shadows to her. Shanen and Ariella found Hallicia looking at this page, and were utterly horrified. Both Shanen and Ariella offered to take her place, but Hallicia insisted that Ariella and Shannen's powers are too important to sacrifice, and explained that this was her idea to begin with.

Over this time, Lymurd had been sneaking out, and peeping through windows. While this was going on, Lymurd caught a glimpse of Shanen, and developed a strong crush on her. Lymurd knew that Shanen had been grieved at Hallicia's decision. Lymurd snuck into the bakery and plundered a couple loaves of bread.

Meanwhile at the Naifaspring estate, Hallicia had completed of the brewing of a potion that would attract all the shadows to her. As they dreaded, Hallicia took the potion, and a great yellow cloud came into the estate, and entered into her. Hallicia lost strength, and Shannen and Alicia helped her into bed. After a few hours of Hallicia taking on the plague, Lymurd stops over, carrying a few loaves of bread. Lymurd offers his condolences, and Shannen gets a bit annoyed over his visit, but she is feeling lonely and welcomes the company. Lymurd acts nice to Shannen, and does much to help around their estate, so they can sit by Hallicia in her last days. Shannen starts falling for Lymurd, as he planned. The day had come when Hallicia was near to commending her spirit, and she was giving the death rattle, and died. Junous had been above the estate, waiting for Hallicia to be fully dead, along with the shadows. After the shadows had truly died, Junous sacrificed all his Jinn powers to resurrect Hallicia. At this, Hallicia woke, much to the joy and surprise of Shannen and Ariella. Junous knocked on the door, and Ariella answered to tell him the news. Junous went to see Hallicia having just resurrected, and still quite exhausted from her illness. Both Junous and Lymurd setup a small banquet to celebrate the resurrection and curing of the epidemic.

The Brutus Disaster

As Maelendil feared, under Brutus' fill in, life on earth became very ordered. Alphie had been greatly restrained from performing his duties as a Puerubdi. Brutus kept an order where humor was banned, and political correctness as exulted as the most sacred virtue. At this time, authorities were revered and untouchable, while the constituents were constantly subject to degradation and constant surveillance. Busybodies became crowned as heroes, while victims became subject to blame. Otherwise, earth was under constant fear mongering over some new threat that required unnecessary restrictions.

Billius requested aid from his colleagues Bartemius and Randolf the thick skinned from the Eighth order. Bartemius and Randolf soon arrived. Randolf had reports on a school system being fed this stupid system that turned students into over-sensitive pansies who chum up with those in power get their way. Randolf gave reports that a student at a particular school held a mini pepperoni stick like a cigar, and another student told on him, and the teacher had been dumb enough to take the complaint serious.

Billius told his theory that he suspected Brutus was in some way behind this. Billius pointed out how Brutus had been fear mongering so much, that it was any wonder that such claims are being taken seriously. Bartemius offers this solution to inform the teachers and parents whats really going on, and show them how to reform the current system to handle problems.

Maelendil is not too concerned about this, and still sees Brutus in need of more training. Maelendil tells the Annogrammatrons that Brutus will be back to his training as soon as a new Senexit gets voted. Maelendil explains that when there was no senexit for several years, there had been so much upheavel on earth, and Alphie could not handle the responsibilities of a senexit when he was first voted in.

The Doustonians

Back in Londinium, a band of travelers from some sketchy town outside of Londinium the Cobold and Londinians forgot the name of arrived. These travelers were feared at first, but soon gained the trust of the Cobolds and Londinians. The travelers revealed themselves as the Doustonians, and offered to help hunt down the one holding the power of the hook. These people were an abnormally pale people, with hair resembling a really bad toupee.

Not all the Cobolds trusted the Doustonians, and one by the name of Jamus constantly expressed his misgivings. Both Elrich and Lymurd became quite chummy with the Doustonians. They seemed like a nice people, but Shannen and her sisters were suspicious of these Doustonians, and sensed something eerily familiar about them. By this time, Shannen and Lymurd became an item. Over this time, the Doustonians enlivened Londinium society, and were the life of many parties. They had showed themselves to enjoy a good drink, and often got quite hammered.

One fateful day, the Doustonians went on a hunt to find the hook responsible for the earthquake. The Cobolds and Londinians bid the Doustonians farewell, and with apprehension. Most knew well that the Doustonians were not a very strategic people, and did not appear to have much self control. After they left, the Cobolds and Londinians feared that this maybe the last time they will ever see the Doustonians.

The Last Lent at Hazelnut Forest

Before Lent began, Milo had been pretty far in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets". Milo loved how so many of the plots within the book so well tied into the major theme of the story. In fact, Milo got very far in the book while on a trip up to New Seneca for Alicia's birthday party. When it came to the Harry Potter books, Milo only found the Sorcerers stone to only getting spooky when they enter the Forbidden Forest, and discover Voldemort was pursuing the Stone, and the battle in the dungeons. With the Chamber of Secrets, this book starts getting quite dark as soon as Dobby visits, and all kinds of strange occurrences take place at Hogwarts.

Lent had started that Ash Wednesday, much to Milo's anticipation. Frankly, Milo was looking forward to some variation in Church. As it was, the new Choir director had very little sense of innovation, and the same Psalm and Alleluia had been used for the last several weeks. The Alleluia had been the same since the Fall. That Wednesday, Milo and Ray walked to Church, as it had been an especially nice day for March. Both Ray and Milo arrived at Church, with the services within minutes to begin. Tom was sitting at the piano with the folk band present. As was the new setup, Tom also played the folk masses, but used both the organ and Piano. Frankly, Milo did not mind this one bit. The opening hymn was "Ashes", as is standard for most modern parishes. When they did the distribution of the ashes, the hymns "Attende Domine" and "What Wondrous Love is this" were played on the organ. During mass, Milo saw a counselor who worked at the sports camp. This was one of the counselors who had been most easy going. That Saturday Night, the Biancatello's went to Church, with the Filentino's and Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony also in attendance. After Church, Aunt Michelle invited Milo to join them for dinner. At dinner, Grnadma Rosa and Grandpa Tony also showed up at the same restaurant.

Dudley who had bullied Jack had been part of the snitch league at school. One day, his snitchcraft had caught up with him, and got in big trouble at lunch. The Lunch Head, Mrs. Romero was one who could detect bullying from its most obvious to subtle. Mrs. Romero looked through Dudley's snitchery claims, and found out that they were all bogus attempts to get Jack kicked out of school. Dudley hated Jack, and thought he would be better off out of this school. Dudley claimed he was doing what he believed in. Mrs. Romero had none of this, and sent Dudley to the timeout lunch chair for two weeks. At recess, Mrs. Dench talked to Dudley about his behavior and he went over to the bike post and cried all recess. Dudley was just sorry he got caught.

That weekend was a short spring break. On Thursday, Milo, Lydia and Ginny spent the day at Grandma Pearl's with Sammy. By this time, Sammy had gotten significantly bigger than Ginny. Over these past months, Milo had become quite fond of both Ginny and Sammy. That night, Milo rented the movie "A Goofy Movie", as he had an interest in the series after "An Extremely Goofy Movie" was released on Home Video. Now Milo had not seen any of the movies. On Saturday, Lydia made her first confession. That spring, Lydia would be going through many of the same rights of passage Milo went through only three years ago. That night, The Biancatello's went to Chuck E. Cheese for Lydia's friend's birthday party.

By the middle of Lent, Margaret bought Milo "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban", which had just been released the previous summer. So far, the Prisoner of Azkaban had been Milo's favorite book out of the Harry Potter series. Milo started to find this book to be the most creepiest of the Harry Potter books, due to the presence of Dementors. With Milo's first reading, he thought Harry fainted because the Dementors were so creepy looking. On the first day back from Spring Break, Milo got a nasty case of the flu, and could not return to school until Thursday. On one night of being sick, Milo dreamed that Marilyns cat died. That weekend during recovery, Margaret rented the Prince of Egypt. Milo started to understand the movie a little better, but still confused Seti with Ramses, and wondered what happened to the boy with the hare Krishna ponytail. This triggered Milo's fascination with anything Egyptian, which had also some roots with the beginning of the "Prisoner of Azkaban", where the Weasleys are visiting Bill in Egypt.

On Palm Sunday, Milo and Ray went over to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony for a visit. As it was, Grandma and Grandpa were going to Church on Holy Thursday, and Milo wanted to go, so Ray asked if they minded taking him to Church with them. Grandma Rosa mentioned news she heard that Bill would be leaving St. Timothy's. Milo was a bit horror struck at the news. Grandma Rosa said she was just kidding. On Holy Thursday, Bill arrived, and Grandma Rosa told Milo that it may have been just a rumor. Milo believed this, and was content with the Rumor. The opening hymn was "At that first Eucharist". During the washing of the feet, a man from Spain sang the "Ubi Caritas". Milo had never seen this man before. The Biancatellos and Grandma Pearl went to Good Friday the next day.

Over Easter Weekend, the Rumcorns came in town for the Holiday. On Friday, they got news that the Rumcorns were not going to be spending any time with them, as it was Uncle Wayne's mothers birthday. Then the Rumcorns changed their mind, and decided to spend Holy Saturday with them. This had been a highly enjoyable evening. On Easter Sunday, the Biancatello's went to Church to find that Tom was still the Organist. Margaret was disappointed with some of the song selections, as she had not been familiar with them. Milo had hoped the ending hymn would be "This is the Feast of Victory" like the previous Easter. As to why Milo liked that song so much, he had no clue.

The Traitors return

One morning, the Cobolds found some major acts of Vandalism in Beaubelles. The Cobolds had no clue who would want to get them, and suspected this had something to do with the Hook Bearers. One day, the Cobolds found their town being heckled by these purple bandits with this symbol of a hook. Elrich tied up the bandits, and handed them over to the Londinium magistrates.

The Doustonians returned back ready to make their case. Then the Londinium elders explained their catching of these purple bandits with terrible bowl cuts. The Doustonians appeared utterly angry about this, and claimed the Cobolds were never supposed to catch these Purple people, and claimed they were on the good side. The Doustonians claimed that the purple people were not the vandals, and started saying that Elrich only captured the purple people in order to cover up the vandalism, and was committing acts of vandalism by means of the hook.

Over this time, Lymurd turned against Elrich along with his infantry from the war. Elrich was furious about such a lie, and knew well that Lymurd liked the Doustonians, as they humored him. The other Cobolds knew well that Elrich was the hero who defeated the trolls, and saved Lymurd. Lymurd claimed that Elrich only went to war in order to steal the hook, and saved him to look like the hero.

Otherwise, the Doustonians were trying to turn the Londinians against the Cobolds. This started to work at the beginning. The Londinians were forced to remember the days when the Cobolds had been quite hostile after the flood. The Doustonians started telling the Londinians that they were fine before the Cobolds came and brought the flood that destroyed their society. The only Londinians not buying the Doustonians propaganda were the Naifaspring sisters. In fact, Shannen was a major player in exposing the Doustonians. Shannen threatened to break up with Lymurd unless he renounces his alleiance to the Doustonians. Shannen explained to Lymurd that the Doustonians were against his people, and reminded him that Elrich saved his life. Lymurd got sick of hearing about Elrich saving his life, but he did relent when Shannen would not budge. Little by little, the Cobolds regained the Londinians trust after the Naifaspring sisters vouched their case. The Naifasprings declared that these purple people the Doustonians support are not to be trusted. The Doustonians were outraged, but the Londinian council understood that the Doustonian side was full of holes and inconsistencies. At this, the Doustonians departed Londinium with pouts and mumbles.

The Last days of School

The week after Easter, Milo had his fifth grade class trip to the Imagination Station in Toledo Ohio and the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium. On this trip, Margaret was a scheduled chaperone. Before the trip, the students requested who they wanted to be in their mini group. On the day before the trip, Mrs. Dench announced the groups the whole fifth grade class would be in. Milo was assigned to be in a group with his friends Shawn and Josh. Milo had known both boys throughout elementary school, but was never in homeroom with them. Then Mrs. Dench announced Dudleys group, and he was placed with Jack. Dudley shouted in anger, and Mrs. Dench said she would see him after class. After this, Dudley started crying and ranting under his breath. Mrs. Dench told Dudley that he would not be going on the trip if he did not stop complaining. The exposed snitch league had been grouped with the hot shot teacher.

That morning Milo and Margaret got to school early. That morning, Shane was acting up, and Margaret asked Milo what he sees in him. Frankly, Margaret found Shane to be just as annoying as Ray did. Dudley was in the back of the cafeteria with his mother, Jack and the friend of Dudleys who requested Jack. Dudley was pouting and playing his Gameboy.

On the bus, Milo sat behind an old friend Travis Finster. Now Milo and Travis were in different classes, and had not seen each other too much. On the way up, Milo read Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Milo was on the chapter known as Grim Defeat, when Harry loses a match after seeing Dementors and the big dog.

The first activity was at the Imagination Station, which had its ups and downs. This had been a modern facility, like many science centers, has state of the art stations. The temporary exhibit at the time was an exhibit on the science of music and sound. There had been many large instruments to play on, and a place Milo got his picture behind a guitar jail. The other floors had plenty of interesting exhibits. Shane constantly tried joining Milo's group, and got yelled at by Millhouse's mother. Millhouse mom had been one of the chaperones on the trip. Then the class saw an IMAX movie on the Ocean. Then the class had lunch.

After lunch, the kids were taken to the zoo and Aquarium. The Zoo had been a fun experience. Milo had not been to the Toledo Zoo since before starting Elementary School. There was a new wolf exhibit Margaret took the boys to see, which had a very rustic feel. Then they went to the Aquarium area. There was an exhibit that resembled Mayan ruins, which reminded Milo of the game "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego?" After the Zoo, the class went to the Woodfire Grill for dinner.

That Sunday was Tom's last week as the Organist. Milo had not known this, as he still believed it was a rumor. The ending song that mass was "This is the Feast of Victory" as he had hoped. This was the last song Tom played on the St. Timothy's organ. That Sunday was the Sunday before Margaret would be leaving for Florida for her annual Business meeting. Later That day the Biancatello's visited Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony.

During the week Margaret was out of town, it came time for Lydia to make her first communion like Milo had three years previous. Milo had been a bit jealous, as she got to go straight to Church after school, and Aunt Michelle picked her up, and took her out for Ice Cream. Milo unfortunately was stuck at the Sports hall. The day before Lydia's first communion, Milo and Ray went bowling. Margaret came home for the weekend that Friday, as to not miss Lydia's first communion.

The morning of Lydia's first communion, Milo woke up feeling under the weather. At Church, Uncle Georgio, Aunt Judy, Grandma Rosa, Grandpa Tony, Grandma Pearl and Aunt Bertha arrived at different times. Lydia's first communion mass was the new Organist Jorge's debut. Milo saw the cantor from Holy Thursday from Spain, and wondered why he was there. Then Milo saw that Jorge was placing music on the Organ. Milo got a bit of a panic attack, and Uncle Georgio asked Milo if he was okay. Milo suspected that Jorge just plays for communions, and Tom would be back tomorrow. Frankly, Jorge did a good job, but Milo still had a bit of difficulties getting used to this new style. The opening hymn was "God we praise you". They used a new sprinkling rite known as "The Water I give" by David Haas. During the Mass, there was a vision of a team of warriors lead by the keepers of ancient wisdom, and another team of warriors led by a Government initiative utilizing technology. This team utilizing technology had been successful at defeating and chipping monsters. The head was a college professor with a sociopathic streak, who was willing to sacrifice her team for scientific advancement. Thie professor creates a monstrous hybrid made from the corpses of slain monsters to do her bidding. The monster one day turns on the professor, and tears her to shreds.

At the party, Milo was sitting with Salvatore and Emma, and told him that Tom was not the organist. Salvatore told Milo that Tom's last week was last week, and they announced his last week. Tom accepted a job as an organist at another church. Salvatore then tells Milo a girl was playing the organ the day before. Milo all the sudden got sick and threw up all over the picnic ground facilities toilet. Emma got mad at Salvatore for telling Milo that Tom left St. Timothy's. For the rest of the party, Milo was pretty depressed. When Lydia was opening her presents, she found one from Uncle Pietro and Aunt Helen. Lydia asked where they were, despite standing right next to her. Uncle Pietro is Grandpa Tony's brother. Lydia thought this was an Uncle Pietro from Margarets side of the Family, despite no such relative existing.

The day after Lydia's first communion, Margaret went back to Florida early in the morning. That Morning, Milo was more worried about Church with a new organist than feeling upset that Margaret would be gone the whole week. Milo then became more okay with the new organist than he suspected, as Jorge was more innovative when it came to playing the organ and piano. That day, Milo felt guilty about giving Margaret such a lousy send off. As for Sunday School, the teacher was in an utterly foul mood, and took some stuff out on the class. This teacher was a bit of a borderline Fundamentalist. That day, the altar server signup sheets went around, and Milo immediately signed. He was scheduled for training the next day and the day after in the sacristy.

After school on Monday, Ray took Milo over to St. Timothy's for training. Milo found the sacristy utterly fascinating, and became quite excited to start serving Mass. Milo thought it would be awesome to be behind the scenes. When Milo had training a second day, Grandpa Tony picked him up from School and took him to practice. Then Grandma Rosa made Eggplant Parmesan for dinner. On Saturday, Milo was invited back to Todds for the afternoon. Cheryl took both Milo and Todd for a drive around the beach. That afternoon, Ray took Milo and Lydia to the airport to pick Margaret up.

Later in the year, Dudley had been nastier to Jack, and he was getting quite sick of this. In art class, the teacher assigned the students to a group project. Milo had been assigned to work with Jack, and they hatched a pretty nasty plan. Milo told Jack all about what happened when Petey grabbed Dudleys head in front of everyone. They decided to name the piece "Next time listen", which depicted a father holding his sons head, while the son is in genuflection before the father. A few days later, Mrs. Dench called him and Jack over to a room with Dudley and his mother. Dudleys mother claimed that he came home upset from school over a picture Jack drew of his dad kicking him at Summer camp. Jack had been utterly confused, and Dudley referred to the picture they drew in Art Class. Mrs. Dench asked Dudley's mom why she would think it was about him. Dudley said that he just knew it, and told about his dad doing that to him before. Mrs. Dench then told Dudley to quit making accusations of other students. When Dudley was gone, Mrs. Dench advised Milo and Jack to always be careful to never put specific names on art projects.

The Threefold Amusement Park Vision

One night, the Sophunum Jebediah of the Goenus order is summoned by the watchman to the Akashic hall of prophecies. The Goenus has a system where his Magnus are known as the Viracho and Amona. The Charges of the Goenus order have the taks to balance friendships and relationships in a way that they neither become burdensome or neglectful. These charges can make great friends with an undemanding loyalty at their best, but can be quite neglectful, demanding or both at their worst.

The Watchman explained that there was a break-in, and found an offspring showing a cousin of a Charge of Jebediah's the content of the orb. According to the orb, there were three visions. The first one involved a boy missing a picnic at the playground after getting injured. The second vision involved some kids at a water park who were followed around by teachers, and not allowed to bring friends from other schools. The third vision involved a family going to an amusement park only to find it closed.

Jebediah asked more about who saw the prophecy, and the Watchman explained that it was a charge of Maelendil's. Jebediah summoned an emergency meeting with the current Virachos Rocky and the current Amona Heidi. Rocky like most Virachos is the ideal buddy who makes no demands. Heidi on the other hand like many Amona's can be a bit bossy, and has a tendency to put demands on others, while being quite of a groveler herself. When Maelendil arrived, Rocky gave him a fist bump, while Heidi prostrated before him telling him how great his presence is. Maelendil brought them back on topic, and explained that his charge only saw enough to know of what is to come in regards to a specific event.

Yuriyama showed up, knowing that one of his orbs had been tampered with. Yuriyama explains that the first vision is the disappointment that will throw things off. Then Yuriyama explains the second and third visions are the aftermath. Yuriyama explains that the supervised trip represents regimented and burdensome relationships keeping people away from the outside world, while the closed amusement park represents remains of a dead friendship over years of neglect.

The Transitory Summer

Milo started anticipating his school picnic at Seewouden, and had invited Salvatore. With this year, Milo had more myopic hopes for the summer, and had plenty of happy memories tied to Seewouden. For some reason, Harry Potter reminded Milo of when he first started Sunday School of both his first and second years. Milo remembered being signed up for Sunday School for the first time before going to Seewoulden for the last day of the season.

Around this same time, the Fifth graders got a tour of William Jettson Middle School, which was just across the street from Hazelnut Forest. On the second floor, Milo was given a view of the whole campus and Uncle Leo's neighborhood, which reminded him of the days when he started first grade.

One evening, Gianni was over at the Biancatellos, as Salvatore had a baseball game that night. Milo had gotten frustrated that night, because he was trying to get a game setup so they could play. Milo had no luck and had been irritated by the turn of events. That night, Salvatore broke his arm, and was down for the summer, but had not hit Milo, as he was still angry over the game. That night, Milo has a dream about Seewoulden. Milo then realizes that Salvatore will not be able to go to the School picnic with him. Milo does not take too well to this, and is pretty bummed about his plans being ruined.

Over Memorial Day weekend, the Biancatello's, Grandma Pearl, Ginny and Sammy went to Indianapolis to visit the Rumcorns. After School on Friday, the Biancatello's took the five hour trip from Ciderpond to Indianapolis. On the way up, Milo was near the end of the Prisoner of Azkaban, with the battle scene with the Dementors and Hermione's Time Turner. Frankly, this five hour trip was pretty tiring for Milo. Late at night, the Biancatello's arrived at the Rumcorns at their Military base in Indianapolis. This house like many military bases was pretty plain.

Like Milo's last trip camping, he did not do too well with travelling, and did not find visiting the Rumcorns to be as much fun as he expected. This trip to Indianapolis was longer than Milo was used to, and was a bit tiring for him, and had only been his second long trip. The Rumcorns are not exactly the best hosts, and did not have anything planned for their guests. Ray suggested visiting the NCAA hall of Champions. There was a special exhibit at the hall of Champions of a statue of Icarus. According to Greek Mythology, Icarus was the son of the Craftman Daedalus. Daedalus crafted Icarus a set of wings made of feathers and glued by wax. Daedalus warned Icarus not to fly too high. After disregarding his fathers warnings, he flies too near the sun, and his wings melt. Icarus then falls from the sky and drowns in the sea.

One Thursday afternoon, the school year ended, and it was time for Summer Vacation to begin. This last day of school was bittersweet. Milo had not fully comprehended being done with a school, and starting a new one soon. Every school Milo was ever done with before he had only attended for a year. For Milo, he was officially done with Hazelnut Forest, and would be starting at William Jettsons Middle School in the upcoming fall. Mrs. Dench gave the students a teary hug goodbye, knowing full well she would not see them too much the upcoming year. Milo entered the door of the sports hall van, and saw a fifth grader crying as the day ended. At the sports hall, many of the counselors who would be working for the summer had already started.

The night after school got out, Margaret took Milo and Lydia out to dinner, and then to the store where they could buy a game as a graduation gift. Milo bought the game Mario Party II for his Nintendo 64. Ray had been out golfing that night. As soon as Milo got home, he started playing the game, and was in a bittersweet mood about beginning summer vacation, but knew that he was done with Elementary School. The game opened up with the classic scene of toad welcome the player to the game. Then there was a scene of going through a green transportation tube ready to pick your characters. Milo always preferred Yoshi. The first level Milo ever played was the nautical board. The first mini-game Milo played was climbing this ship. Ray came home late at night, finding Milo still playing his new game.

For Milo and Lydia's first day off, they stayed at Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's. They took Milo and Lydia out to Long John Silvers for lunch, and on a ride by the beach. After coming home, Milo walked up to a supposed trail that had been a shortcut between his and Shane's house. Unfortunately there was too much overgrowth to even use the path. On Saturday, Ray opened the pool, and the Biancatello's got their first swim. That night, the Biancatello's went to Church, as Ray had to leave the next Sunday for his annual Golf Trip. Aunt Michelle and Salvatore also attended that mass, and they went to the Ice Cream social after Church. At Church, Jorge was not the organist, and an Asian woman was playing.

On Monday, Emma babysat Milo and Lydia for the first time that summer. After Margaret got home, she took Milo to Michaels, so he could by some foam board to build a model of St. Timothy's. That Tuesday later, Milo and Lydia had their school picnic. Milo had quite fun with his friends, despite Salvatore not being able to go. Frankly it was more fun this way. At first, the picnic looked like it would have bleak prospects, as it was quite rainy in the morning. However the day cleared up. At the beginning of the day, the park reminded Milo of his school picnic from the previous year. In the afternoon, Milo and Lydia were taken to Soak town, where he saw Dudley running through the kiddie pool acting stupid. After exiting the water park, Milo met up with his friends Shane, Josh and Travis. The Boys hit a record and went on all the rides they were able to go on, excluding the kiddie rides. When the Biancatello's got home, they found Ray had got back from his Golf Trip.

Over this summer, the sports hall was not so bad for neither Milo nor Lydia. The first day had not been ideal, as some in his group had been acting up, and the whole 10 to 13 year olds got a long speech. Milo was in the aerobics area, which brought back less than pleasant flashbacks to the previous summer. However, Milo did better with being with the 10 to 13 year olds, and had a better sense of belonging with that group. One of Milo's counselors Andy knew Ben and Rob from Highschool.

That weekend, Milo felt a sense of some important event was about to take place soon. Before school let out, Rob and Ben graduated from Higschool. Uncle Mike hosted a combined Graduation Party at his house, which the whole family attended, except Lydia. Lydia had been signed up for a week camp that began on Sunday Night. As Margaret and Ray were gone before the party began, and would not arrive till later, he went with the Filentino's. At the party, One of Milo's cousins must have gone through Mikes old videos and found Ben's first Holy Communion video. In the video appeared this young Elamite Girl also making her first communion, whom Milo had recognized in Church before. Little did he know that this little girl was part of a family who knew Amira, and sort of knew the Khara's. This little girl was at the time a recent graduate from Highschool as was Ben. The opening song for Bens first communion was "At that First Eucharist", which Milo remembered from Holy Thursday. The summer had started off very good. The first three weeks were the golden days of summer vacation, full of potential.

The Summer started going downhill after the Fourth of July. During that summer, the novel Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was released, which was long after Milo had finished the first three books. By this time, the novelty had long worn off, and the freshness had all but disappeared. Milo frequently experienced nostalgia when the thought about the beginning of Summer, but anticipated a trip to Toronto the Family would soon be taking.

In late July, the Biancatello's left in the late one Monday morning for Toronto. That morning, Milo got up early, but a bit bummed out about having to leave Ginny behind. Grandma Pearl was going to pick Ginny up after she got out of work. That Morning, Milo watched some Nickelodeon, and he saw a commercial for the Marineland Beluga Whales. That day, the Biancatello's would first stop in Niagara Falls. After leaving the house, they stopped at a Mcdonalds near the Sports hall before getting on the road. The Biancatello's arrived in Niagara Falls by the afternoon. During this first day, The Biancatello's went under the falls, and ate at Friday's for dinner. This restaurant was located at the Hotel. The next day, the Biancatello's drove to Hamilton, which is where the Drive through Animal Safari is located. On the way to Toronto, Milo was a bit worried that Grandma Pearl had forgotten to pick Jinny up, and she would starve while they were gone. Margaret called Grandma Pearl's but she did not get the call, as she was outside with Aunt Mary. That night for dinner, the Biancatellos ate at an Italian buffet known as Frankie's. On Tuesday, the Biancatello's took a Subway into Toronto to see the Lion King on Broadway. Being in downtown Toronto sort of reminded Milo of his trip to Illinois with the uncles the previous year. Milo started thinking about Jinny during the play, and thought he saw Grandma Pearl in the audience. Milo also was a little worried about why Grandma Pearl did not answer the phone. After the play, the Biancatello's went to the Medieval feast. Two little girls in line reminded Milo of characters he had seen in a show the night before leaving. The next day, the family went to Ontario Place, and got homesick after Lydia bumped her head and started crying. Milo remembered Lydia bumping her leg before leaving Ciderpond, and crying before leaving. That day at the water park, Milo started thinking about his Birthday party to soon take place at Seewoulden. On Friday, the Biancatello's went to Casa Loma, and then saw the movie The Kid. At the end, there was a small puppy that reminded Milo of Jinny.

By Saturday night, the Biancatello's were back in Ciderpond. On the way back, they stopped at a Canadian gift shop, and Milo bought a book on Canada. Milo also noticed some allsorts, which he remembered from the summer the Khara's moved in next door. After getting into Ciderpond, the Biancatello's stopped at Grandma Pearl's where Jinny was perfectly safe and thriving.

On that Monday after returning, Milo and Lydia stayed at the Biancatello's, as Emma was out of town, and would not be back till Tuesday. Salvatore was not doing too great, as he had to have his arm re-broken, as it did not heal properly. He had to have a metal plate installed in his wrist, which would not come out until the next spring. Milo could tell that Salvatore was just not himself after this injury, and very uptight. Not that Milo could blame him after such a break. That night, Milo had a weird dream of being in a play that he had been in Fourth Grade, and getting a puberty lesson and a hygiene bag.

A few Saturdays later, Milo served his first mass. This was a Saturday night mass. Milo arrived early. Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony arrived at the same time as the Biancatello's, as Grandpa Tony liked to get to Church especially early. Jorge's wife Meredith arrived at the organ, which Milo was slightly uncomfortable about. Milo had just gotten used to Jorge playing the organ, and was not a fan of changes at the organ. The mass began with the opening hymn "God we Praise you". Milo had looked around, and a bit anxious about so many people at Church. Luckily the senior servers helped Milo out. Jorge arrived before communion, and he played the organ while Meredith played the Piano. The Communion hymn was "I am the Bread of Life", which was the first time the hymn was used at St. Timothy's. The ending hymn was "Now thank we all our God". After Church, Ray thew a Pizza Party, and invited Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane and Aunt Dianne.

The Final Earthquake

One morning, the Londinian security team found several marbles had fallen into the lower bowl of the earthquake detector device. A warning went out through the city, requiring the residents to evacuate Londinium. The Veterans led a line, taking the residents to a land known Pinenbrehr. This land was located hight above Londinium, and a town full of caves. One fateful day, the Londinium earthquake could be heard all the way from Pinebrehr. The Cobolds and Londinians feared the damage that the Earthquake caused and retreated into the caves. This base camp was underground, and very far from the quake, so would have no effect. The Cobolds had known this was the work of a very malicious creature, and would be no small amount of damage. The Londinians were in no better of a position, and feared what would come of their restored city.

Lymurd complained the whole time, and thought that if they just cooperated with the Doustonians, they would not be in this mess. Shannen reminded Lymurd that the Doustonians were against his people, and his good friend Elrich. Lymurd then complained that Elrich and the other Cobolds should have just minded their business and not handed over the purple mistivants. Shannen reminds Lymurd that the Purple people committed acts of Vandalism. Lymurd gets mad, and accuses her of siding with Elrich. Shannen reminds Lymurd that Elrich has always been a good friend, and should trust his word, over these slimy Doustonians who just entertained him. Lymurd then dumped Shannen, and then told him that he was a sleazy boyfriend since they first met.

After the Earthquake, the Cobolds returned to find that the earthquake in Londinium had made quite a mess, but the level of damage was minimal. This was in no way as devastating as the damage done by the Flood. The Headquarters was in bad shape, and unstable, except for the underground shelter. At this, the Cobolds and the Londinians began to clean up this great mess. For a great long time, the Cobolds had been quite distraught over the mess and spent long hours mourning the loss of their headquarters, and only access to their home in Pedmontus. As for the Londinians, and cobolds when they recovered, spend most of their time just cleaning up. During this time, the whole city had no place for leisure or time to relax. With all this carnage, the Cobolds and Londinians forgot all about their mission into the Mountains.

The Downfall and Beginning of School

Over the last weeks, Milo had a strange feeling of anxiety and a feeling of being lost. Milo constantly felt nostalgic for the early days of summer, when he first graduated Elementary School, the School picnic and the Graduation party. With the summer coming to its close, the summer businesses started closing.

The major turning point occurred one Tuesday at the Sports hall. The counselors served pop during a movie that reminded him of some pop he had at the Rumcorns earlier in the Summer. That evening, Grandpa Paul also joined Grandma Pearl and the Biancatello's. Before leaving, Grandpa Paul gave Grandma Pearl a letter explaining that he would be getting Heart Surgery on Thursday, which was the day before Milo's Birthday.

On Wednesday, Milo and Emma got into a clash, as she did not like him making fun of a Macy Gray music video. Mind you, Milo found Macy Gray's hit song annoying. Milo had found that Emma was a little more bossy that summer than she was the previous year. Often times, Emma would make Milo get off the computer if she thought he was spending too much time playing, or listening to music. That day, Grandma Rosa had Emma, Milo, Lydia, Aunt Michelle, Salvatore and Gianni over for lunch to cheer Grandpa Tony up. Grandpa Tony had been a little out of sorts after some neighbors passed away over the past few weeks.

On Milo's birthday was the day Grandpa Paul had surgery, which went fine. On Milo's birthday, he went to Seewoulden with his cousins, including the Filentino's, O'Malleys, Eustace and Samantha and Emma. Milo was a little out of sorts, as he overheard Grandma Pearl talking with Margaret about Grandpa Paul being in surgery that day. After Seewoulden, Milo was all bummed out that this party was over, and wished he had not been so out of sorts that day.

One Monday night, Milo had a disturbing dream about Seewoulden getting ready to close for the season, and the rides shutting down. That day, Milo had to return to the sports hall, and had been highly disturbed with these odd dreams. In fact, Milo started to notice that even at the Sports Hall, all the summer attractions were getting ready for closing. That evening, Ray took Milo and Lydia out for Chinese. The next day, Ben left for college. On Friday Morning, Milo had orientation with William Jettson Middle School. Milo had been excited to see the school, but the orientation was anything but fun. Milo felt like he would soon be starting school in some unfamiliar place, which seemed quite sterile at the beginning. Milo started thinking excessively about the previous end of summer, and beginning fifth grade. He remembered these days in quite a nostalgic way.

In late August, Milo started Sixth Grade at William Jettson Middle School, while Amira was starting fifth grade at Dingleberry Elementary. Milo is more introverted, and this makes it more difficult for him to adapt to new environment. Frankly, this new school was a bit difficult for Milo. William Jettson took students from another elementary school known as Kinsale Elementary, which is the district adjacent to the Hazelnut Forest region.

In the early day, it took Milo a while to adjust to having a new set of independence he never had with Hazelnut Forest, along with the new responsibilities. What most annoyed Milo was how Middle School gave students so much responsibility, but little freedom. The only freedom the students had was they could chose who to eat lunch with. With Middle School, Milo saw several new faces from Kinsale, whom he had never seen in his life. Otherwise, the students got a heavy amount of homework, much to Milo's annoyance. Being tied to so much homework distracted students like Milo who preferred to do more meaningful activities than random assignments setup by some control freak teachers.

The little free time Milo did have, he spent researching Disney World, and wanted to go there in the worst way. Milo had seen many Disney World commercials celebrating the new Millennium, and this song "Put your hands on the Future". Milo did some research on the Disney Parks on the Internet, and figured out how the Magic Kingdom was divided into several mini-parks. As to why Milo wanted to go to Disney now, had been quite curious. Milo was not exactly in a fit state of travelling at the time, and did not do so well with the past four trips out of town.

Otherwise, Milo was still quite nostalgic over the early days of the Summer, and thought about the previous year when he was in Fifth Grade. Around this same time, Lydia also broke her arm while playing on the playground after school. This had been before Lydia and Margaret had a Mother-Daughter camping weekend.

Alphie's retirement and Meriwhethers Substitution

It came time for Alphie to retire, and this brought fourth many new changes. Without a Puerubdi, life on earth lost more joy and playfulness. Not to mention, Brutus was still a substitute. Brutus was not doing a very good job, as he was too rigid and could not tolerate anything outside his version of order, no matter how much joy out of life it took. Brutus had no sense of humor, and preserved this overall sense of fear. Brutus knew well that changes were taking place, and knew he could exploit the mortals fear of this unknown.

Maelendil knew well that this had been a time of great transition, and things normally taken for granted were no longer so feasible. Maelendil knew well that his charges were going through changes from Childhood to adolescence, and sources of identity would be changed. As most know well, with such changes, gender identity goes from preservation through segregation to preservation through integration.

Over this time, Herb the optimist returns with his colleagues Kabira the reassurant and Johannes. Herb explains that these upheavals have a way of working out, without the need for interference. This reminds Maelendil of a series of nightmares he had seen resembling a father sacrificing his son, a mermaid sacrificing her family ties and a mother having to sacrifice her parental role. Herb explains that all sacrifices are feared, but only out of fear of not getting back what was sacrificed. Herb explains that people feel the need to possess things in order to feel connected, and think that they cannot trust things to work without their possessive interventions. Kabira and Johannes propose a method of peace to fight the upheavals. Kabira offers to calm the charges over this time, and show them the glories, and hope for a restoration of what had been lost. Johannes offers to show the glories of the moment, despite the current state of upheaval.

The beginning of the End

By October, Milo adapted to his new school, and discovered some new pleasures. For the first time, Milo found himself noticing girls. These curiosities and fascination was an utter change, as just a year before, he preferred the company of other boys. So this whole idea that girls have cooties and are icky had come to its well-deserved end. Milo never really believed that stuff, but still was not a fan of Girls just a year ago. Milo remembered how just a year ago, working with a girl felt emasculating, where now such a thing was enjoyable, so long as she was pretty.

During this new school year, Milo became acquaintances with a boy Steve. Milo felt sorry for Steve, because he was overweight, and decided to talk to him. Milo was still friends with Shane, who reluctantly allowed Steve to join their friends group. There was also another hot head from Kinsale Elementary known as Davis Woznich. Davis had been bitter ever since his Grandpa died a few years back. Over this time, Milo was becoming more comfortable with being an altar server, and started to like Jorge's style more than Toms. By early November, Milo had his first crush on a girl, which would only last for a few months. However, this girl would prove to have a bad influence on Milo.

When it came to the Holiday Season, Milo started having these unexpected flashbacks to fourth grade. In Chorus, when there was a substitute teacher, Milo and another student were drawing pictures of houses. This girl Ellen made some suggestions for drawing a satellite dish on this house. This thanksgiving was the first Thanksgiving that Ray and Margaret hosted, as to give Grandma Rosa a break for one Holiday. At first, Milo was uncomfortable with this arrangement, as he knew this meant his Grandparents were getting older.

When it came to Christmas, this had been an interesting experience. Jorge introduced the hymn "O Come Divine Messiah", which had never been done at St. Timothy's before. Alongside, Milo was a bit disappointed the hymn "Awake Awake and Greet the new Morn" was not sung at St. Timothy's. In Sunday School, Milo's teacher Mrs. Alfonsi worked at Pleasant Tune as a Lunchroom supervisor. Milo wondered why she looked familiar.

Over Christmas, Grandma Pearl went to Indianapolis to spend the Holidays with the Rumcorns. Over this Christmas Eve, Margaret and Ray planned a quiet Christmas eve, much to Milo and Lydia's disappointment. They never had a quiet Christmas Eve since Milo was five, and Grandma Pearl was in Alaska with the Rumcorns. For Church, the Biancatello's attended St. Columba's, as it was not too crowded. During this time, St. Columba's was a smaller parish, where St. Timothy's was pretty large, and got a lot of CEO's on the Holidays. On Christmas Eve at night, Milo got sick, and did not feel too great that Holiday. For gifts, Milo got "Joseph: King of Dreams".

Milo got into quite a funk the day after Christmas, and kept thinking about the festivities before School ended. Frankly, girls made school significantly more enjoyable for Milo. Before school let out for Christmas break, Ellen left early due to a nasty headache. Over that week, Milo preferred to mope, and think over what happened before Christmas Day. Milo did not get a chance, as he spent the night at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's when Matt was also spending the night, and the next day when Aunt Marie, Aunt Michelle, and the cousins saw "The Emperor's new groove". This movie put Milo in a good mood, and he was no longer thinking about how depressed he had been about the end of Christmas Day. For Milo, his explanation was that he really couldn't celebrate a holiday, when the mainstream culture ended it after Christmas Day. Milo was well aware of the Advent season, and how liturgically Christmas just started.

Merriwhethers Substitution

Maelendil had seen what had become of the earth under Brutus, and needed a a plan to bring some aliveness. Maelendil still considered Brutus to still not be experienced enough to take on the responsibilities of a Senexit. As it was, Herb, Kabira and Johannes could only offer a dull comfort, and suggested one with a taste for danger.

Maelendil summoned Meriwhether the adventurous from the Seventh Annogrammatron Order. Meriwhether had been tasked at bringing some euphoria to this sullen earth. Meriwhether has an adventurous personality that gives off a great love for exploration. Brutus had not been happy about this in any way, and was furious at Maelendil for allowing Meriwhether to substitute for Alphie. Maelendil reminded Brutus that he has the obligation to keep balance, and that Brutus did not have the experience to be making such decisions.

Brutus had been unhappy at Maelendil, and considered him an old fool to allow Merriwhether any authority. Brutus knew that the only way he could get Maelendil to go along with his plans of order was to prove that his way worked better, and sought to humiliate Meriwhether. Brutus made a secret deal with Meriwhether that he could have influence on certain earthlings, and convinced him that he could have great influence with a smaller number. Meriwhether had been a bit gullible and went along with Brutus's plans. Brutus was going to influence the rest with his plans for order.

Rebuilding Plans and the Doustonians return

The Cobolds had completed their ordering of the headquarter grounds, while the Londinians cleaned up the town. At the headquarters, they were able to recover most of the books from the Library, the water basin and the items from the museum. After recovering these artifacts, the Cobolds became enamored in new pursuits. The Cobolds had sought to not only rebuild the headquarters, but to build a glorious palace. The Cobolds also developed countless ideas for Beaubelles. For the most part, the Cobolds spent more time coming up with ideas, and dreaming out big plans. Unfortunately, the Cobolds dreaming got in the way of starting anything, and committing to one plan to begin with. They had been utterly perplexed even where to go, and preferred to fantasize about the great possibilities.

The Londinians had looked through the books, and became fascinated by exotic places, and cultures from different regions. The Londinians developed ambitious plans to implement these exotic styles of architecture in the town. The Londinians also became quite ambitious to build roads to other exotic locations from the books.

Meanwhile, Lymurd had been spending time in isolation after he and Shannen broke up. The Cobolds thought he was just spending too much time moping, and never did any further investigations. Elrich was the only one who seemed remotely able to communicate with Lymurd. Over time, Elrich got Lymurd out of the rut he was in, and he was back in the community, though he seemed to be a whole different person.

One day, the Londinium elders got a letter from the Doustonians of apology for their behavior, and abrupt departure, and a request to state their case. The Londinium elders allowed this, but were not thrilled. Around this time, Lymurd all the sudden was in a very good mood. A few days later, the Doustonians arrived in Londinium to make their case. According to the chief Doustonian whom the Naifasprings recognized, the war against the Trolls was not a just war, and they were no real threat. The Doustonians claimed that the only reason the war was called was so the Londinians and Cobolds could gain the Mountains as their property.

With the Naifaspring Sisters, Junous and Hallicia became an item. Alongside, Ariella started dating this new Londinian Clayton. Now there were no records of Clayton in Londinium, and he never talked about his past with Ariella. Both Hallicia and Shannen had been suspicious. During this time, Shannen began an investigation on Clayton.

The Middle of the End

With the new semester Milo had an overload on exposure to new subjects, such as other religions, countries, cultures and vocations. Much of Milo's curiosity and interest for learning became an annoyance to the teachers, who just preferred that students would only be concerned with petty assignments. For the first time, Milo learned of other religions besides Judaism and Christianity. Milo knew that other religions existed, and had an idea that the Khara's were of a different religion. However, another religion was a mere abstraction to Milo. Unfortunately, Milo was taught a lot of bogus on other religions. For example, Milo was taught that Hinduism was Polytheistic, and that Jesus was arrested after giving the Sermon on the Mount. Alongside, Milo was taught that Sikkhism was a mixture of Islam and Hinduism.

By this time, Milo also befriended his crush Ellen. As we remember, Ellen did not have the best influence on Milo. The biggest problem came when Milo and Ellen exchanged Email addresses. Milo and Ellen went back and fourth on Emailing their class pictures back and fourth. On one fateful occasion, Milo emailed his first grade class picture, which had a picture of Dudley. Ellen was no fan of Dudley, and considered him an obnoxious jerk. Now Dudley looked pretty ridiculous in the picture, which looked like he had slobbered all over his chin. Ellen ended up forwarding the pictures to her other friends, and this got back to Dudley. Dudley was pretty angry at Milo, and told the principal on him. Now the guidance counselor called Ray about this. Ray did not get mad at Milo, but gave him a lecture on being careful about what he puts in emails.

In Sunday School, Milo learned about the Old Testament, which he knew very little about. Milo had been quite curious about this document that seemed so utterly foreign and old. For Milo, this was like stepping to a world of religion outside the walls of Church. In this regard, Milo started to develop an understanding of the Jewish world, which he had some curiosity about for a while. In fact, Milo's favorite movies at the time were Prince of Egypt and Joseph: King of Dreams. At the beginning, Milo got the Chronology of the Joseph story and the Moses story. As it was, Milo did not know the Bible account, where the Israelites lived in Egypt after Joseph is sold by his brothers, and rises to high positions in Egyptian society. The Israelites were called into Egypt during the famine. Even dreamworks intended "Joseph: King of Dreams" to be a prequel to the Prince of Egypt.

When it came to Salvatore, Milo did not see too much of him. For the most part, Salvatore had made very little effort, and always had some sports based excuse. During that year, Salvatore was always over-filling his schedule with sports camps, which offered very little flexibility. Otherwise, Milo was not a sports type person, and tended to do more things with Matt when he was visiting.

Things took turns for change with the beginning of Holy Week. On the day before Palm Sunday, Ray took Milo and Lydia to Stacey's retro-diner for lunch. Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony were going back to Church on Holy Thursday, which had been very different that year as there was a new pastor Monsignor Werner. Both the previous pastor left the priesthood, and the choir director left St. Timothys abruptly with no explanation. Jorge and Meredith took over for the Music Ministry roles at St. Timothy's.

In Church that evening, Milo was slightly disappointed with the new changes, such as limiting who could get their feet washed, and not using the leavened bread at communion like the previous year. In Church, there was a vision of a teenage girl who fights monsters. This monster inserted a sister into her family to be used to unleash a monster into their world. Around this time, this Girls mother dies after from an aneurysm after having a brain tumor removed. In the girls grief, she goes on a vision quest in the desert, and a shaman explains that death is her gift. An evil priestess then holds this sister captive in order to destroy the fabric of earthly reality. The only way to close these monstrous portals is for the sister die. This girl knowing that she has the same blood as the Key, sacrifices herself. This girl is mourned by her friends, sister and a former monster.

After Easter Sunday, Orientalist anticipations had begun to take over Milo for a second time, as he had looked through books on different countries all over the world, and this fascinating world history. There was a picture of the Middle East that reminded Milo of Seewoulden. That same afternoon, Milo played "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego" for the first time in two years. Milo started to anticipate another school picnic, and was especially looking forward to Soak Town. Milo was thinking quite extensively about the summer two years ago when he and Salvatore went to the School picnic and the Magic Carpet ride opened.

For Milo being quite fascinated with the world, he was still not a great traveler at this time. During that spring, Margaret went for her annual business trip to Florida. During the first week Margaret was gone, Milo developed a new crush on this girl Ella Doyle, after she found some note cards he dropped, and returned them back to him.

That Saturday morning, Ray took Milo and Lydia up to New Seneca to visit the O'Malleys for their annual trip. Before leaving Milo and Ray went to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's to pick up a cabinet kept at their house for the O'Malley's. Uncle Leo was also visiting that morning. After picking up the cabinet, Milo and Ray picked Lydia up from a friend, whom she spent the night at. For being a brief trip, Milo had not done so well, and got homesick upon arrival. Plus, Milo was thinking about Ella and Margaret. Aunt Marie had promised to one day take Milo to see St Katherine Mary Drexel Basilica three years ago, but had scheduling difficulties for two years. The O'Malleys took the Biancatellos to the Basilica for Mass on Sunday, which was quite an experience. This basilica had life sized stations of the cross, a Lourdes shrine, a large altar, and a giant pipe organ.

That Monday after coming back from the O'Malley's, Milo and Lydia stayed at Aunt Jane's for the afternoon after School, as Ray had Golf. That evening, Sylvester was watching the Aristocats, which Milo had not seen since he was seven. Sylvester was two and about to turn three. That night, Milo found this gift Pharoah. This is a city building game taking place in Ancient Egypt. The next day in School, Milo was so excited to finish the Aristocats and install his new game. On Friday night, Milo and Ray went out golfing in Sussewago. One Saturday morning later, Ray took Milo and Lydia to Eustace's first holy communion mass, as Ray was his godfather. After mass, Margaret came home with Grandma Pearl. Grandma Pearl picked Margaret up from the Airport, as Ray was unable due to Eustace's first communion.

One Thursday later, Milo had his chorus concert. This series was a concert with music throughout the decades. This concert was so well done that many parents wished this concert had been on Television. On that weekend, Milo and Lydia spent the day at Grandma Pearl's, as Ray and Margaret went to see a play in Cleveland. Milo started thinking about his trip to Cleveland after Fifth Grade, thanks to having just seen the Aristocats. Grandma Pearl then took Milo and Lydia to Dairy Queen for Lunch and to Walmart to buy a treat. Milo picked some multiflavored jolly ranchers.

For some strange reason, the Biancatello's returned back to visit the Rumcorns over Memorial Day weekend. As for going on the trip to begin with, Milo was not overly thrilled to be going, as he remembered how boring the previous year was. On the way up, Milo listened to his new Prince of Egypt CD and got a bit creeped out by the Burning Bush track. Now Milo was still anxious about this long travel to begin with. On the way up, Milo was still thinking about Ella, and could not get this girl out of his head.

This year, the Rumcorns had moved into their own house off of the Military Base. The year before, when the Biancatello's first visited the house with the Rumcorns, it was quite beautiful. This year, when the old residents had left, the house and landscaping were all pretty plain. Upon arrival, Milo looked at this house, thinking "This is where I'll be spending the weekend?" As it was, that Saturday was pretty boring. Milo had gotten homesick on this trip again, but also was not so keen on going back home either. On Sunday, Uncle Wayne did take Kyle, Kevin, Ray and Milo to the Indie 500, where Florence Henderson sang "America the Beautiful" and Steven Tyler butchered the National Anthem.

One Friday later, Milo got his yearbook. When going through the Yearbook, he noticed how little his class looked at the beginning of the year compared to the end of the year. Milo started thinking about the beginning of the year, when he first met Ellen. Ellen suspected that she maybe moving over the summer, and would be at either at William Jettsons or Pecan Meadows.

Brutus' Discharge

As it was, Brutus' plans resulted in a great disaster. On earth, not much was being accomplished. Those influenced by Merriwhether were aimlessly wandering, seeking new pleasures and experiences, but having no reliable foundation. Brutus' followers on the other hand had become quite tyrannical. Maelendil discovered Brutus had this new league of cold control freaks who had been so interested in others behavior, but no interest in their welfare.

Merriwhether stepped down from his position, as he knew that he did not have the skills to function as a Magnus, as he was part of the Annogrammatron Order. Maelendil promised that Merriwhethers humility would be greatly rewarded, and had vowed to keep him in the council of their meetings. Brutus on the other hand was not so humble, and was very reluctant to step down. Eventually, Maelendil and the council of Sophunums agreed to give Brutus a discharge, and send him back for six terms more of training. Brutus last statements were that he always stood for order, and he was always undermined. Brutus promised one day to return, when the Jinns all had persecuted him, and they will need him.

Meanwhile, Maelendil had other matters to sort out with Ihrvierner. Maelendil explained that a person from the deep past has offered an opportunity, and questions whether it is safe. Ihrvierner explains that nothing else has been forgotten except the bilocation. Ihrvierner explains that those memories from that past are still very much alive to the Charge. Ihrvierner explains that the Charge does not understand why he is haunted by these memories, and will definitely not understand, but that the memories will come back.

Liliana Returns

As it came to pass, Milo's year of Sixth Grade came to its end, and Amira was officially done with Dingleberry Elementary. Milo was a bit bummed about school ending, as he would not be seeing too many girls over the summer. Milo still feared that Ellen would be moving to a different school. During the talent Show, an eighth grader performed the song "Never had a Dream Come True" from SClub7. This song greatly bothered Milo, as he was thinking about Ellen moving. Luckily Milo found out Ellen would not be moving for another few years, when they would be in Highschool anyways. After School, Milo saw Ella walking home with some friends, and came under the assumption that she lived close by. This had put Milo in a good mood for the last day of School. After School, Ray and Margaret took Milo out to an Italian Restaurant for a reward. On the way to the restaurant, Milo noticed these train tracks, and ordered a double layer of Lasagne for dinner. After dinner, Margaret told Milo she would give him tips on Girls over the Summer. Milo still had the song "Never had a Dream come True", which he ended up forgetting the next day. That night, Milo watched a documentary on the Parthenon in Greece.

On Milo and Lydia's first day off, they stayed with Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony. During the day, Aunt Dianne stopped over for a visit and told Milo not to be kissing Lauren tomorrow. As Milo and Lydia knew, Rory and his girlfriend Lauren were going to be visiting that day, with her little brother Moe. The day before, Ray and Milo went to the store to buy Rory a Birthday Cake, as his birthday was a few weeks ago. Rory took them over to Aunt Dianne's for a cookout luncheon, and the surprise cake.

The School picnic arrived one Monday Morning. This year, Salvatore came, and he was excited to show him all the people he talked about from William Jettson. Both Margaret and Grandma Pearl took Milo and Lydia to the picnic. Milo got pretty excited when Ella showed up, and was waiting on Ellen. Milo and Salvatore went to Soak Town, and still had no luck finding Ellen. Milo did see a couple other pretty girls in his class. Salvatore had to leave early, as he had baseball practice, and spent the rest of the day with Steve and Shane. Milo met Steve's mom Doris. At night, Milo was all depressed about not seeing Ellen, and wondered when he would see her again.

Before Summer, Milo was signed up for a day camp that was ran by Liliana, Aunt Michelle and Aunt Marie's friend, whom Milo met two years ago. Milo was not overly thrilled about being signed up, as it was an every day program, and he was not so keen on being in a place like this every day. Plus, Milo did not appreciate being signed up without his permission, and before starting was quite apprehensive. Milo feared that this program would be like the sports hall summer camp.

Much to Milo's surprise, he actually liked the camp, and he never even looked at the clocks. That morning when the campers were entering through the doors, Milo came across Liliana. What hit Milo was when Liliana asked him if he remembered that day at Aunt Michelles two years ago. This gave Milo constant flashbacks to the Holy Week two years ago when he spent one day at Dudlechip. Milo still did not understand why he was thinking about this Holy Week so often quite yet.

As for the program, Milo liked this better, as there were smaller groups, and the whole purpose of the camp was for kids to explore their interests in particular subjects, and go on field trips to places like the Zoo, Museums, tours or places as such. This is what Milo needed, as school was more structured, and could not always cater to his interests.

On one of the first trips, the group went to a soup kitchen. Milo was at first a bit apprehensive at first about being exposed to homelessness, but was pleasantly surprised about how greatful they were, and not scary like the movies had depicted. Otherwise, Milo got along with his counselors, and made some new friends at camp. Two of the boys had gone to Pleasant tune with Milo back when he was at the school for Kindergarten. On one occasion, when Milo had not been feeling too well, he started thinking about when the school year ended, and looking for Ella. By this time, Milo looked through the Phone book, and found the house he thought Ella lived at.

The next day, Milo's group went on a tour of a Bowling Alley. This reminded Milo of Eustace's birthday party at the Bowling Alley past Phyllisville. Milo remembered how Salvatore tried to not let Milo have a turn at the Pinata. That afternoon, Liliana mentioned that her brother is good friends with Ray.

As it soon came to pass, the program was nearly over. The last weekend before the end, Ray began planning for a Fourth of July party to be held the Wednesday after the camp was done. On the last Monday, the campers got a tour of Arby's and the Zoo. Being at Arby's reminded Milo of some random day Ray took him for lunc at Arbys when he was in Fourth Grade. The Zoo reminded Milo of the Saturday before Easter two years ago, when He, Lydia, Eustace, Samantha, Margaret and Aunt Jane had lunch at the Zoo Playground. After that day, Milo always associated the Zoo with that particular Spring Break.

The fourth of July Picnic ran smoothly. The O'Malley's came in town for the party, and Uncle Matt brought his sister Jean, and her adopted daughter Nancy from Yemen. At the party, Milo told Aunt Marie about being in the program ran by Liliana. On that Thursday, Milo went golfing with Salvatore and Matt. Salvatore proved to be easily agitated with Milo and Matt, as they were not particularly good golfers. Salvatore was in a temporary golf phase for the time being.

Daxividus returns

As it was, the Doustonians were still in the city, and their presence was causing more divisions between the Cobolds and Londinians. The Londinians with the exception of the Naifaspring Sisters believed the Cobold's war against the Trolls was an unjust war. The Doustonians successfully convinced the Londinians that the Trolls were the rightful heirs to the mountains, and were viciously attacked.

Beaubelles was still a great mess. The Cobolds also had no workable plans to break ground on their elaborate ideas for a new palace. Lymurd was not making things any better. He constantly switches his loyalties to the Doustonians, then to the Cobolds. Elrich got frustrated with Lymurd, and the way he would constantly accuse him of being a war criminal. Elrich too often fell for Lymurds apologies. Frankly, Lymurd just wanted to go with who would best entertain him.

Before things got out of hand, like had happened with the Cobolds rebellion years ago, A Seer appeared as Azeyas promised. Daxividus announced that their first task is to rebuild the headquarters to its original state, and rebuild the Bridge to the Stairs. Daxividus also instructed the Cobolds to soon return up the stairs into their home at Pedmontus, to restore what was lost.

Then the Naifaspring sisters showed up to ask Daxividus about these Purple People. The Cobolds also brought up their complaints about the Doustonians. Daxividus gave a look of Suspicion, and called the Doustonians with a great voice of authority. They all trembled before Daxividus. Daxividus called fourth Shannen to send a wind at the Doustonians. Their hair and a white substance blew off them, revealing a purple people with ridiculous bowl cuts. Ariella explains what she knew of one Doustonian possessing the hook. Then the Cobold Jamus had a flashback to the Londinium Elder Xenophon mentioning this land known as Doustonia. As it was, Xenophon long passed away. Jamus remembered how the hook was buried in the insignificant land of Doustonia, which had not been as insignificant as believed. Ariella then tells of her reading minds, and knowing that a Doustonian, who she had seen walking by the estate knew something of the hook.

Daxividus then explains that the Doustonians inhabited the land of Doustonia, which was right on the border of the Mountains. This is how Daxividus story went: They had a deal with the Trolls. The Trolls went on Plundering sprees of treasure in the mountains, Gallicanium, Pedmontus and this land known as Atlantis beyond the Mountains. The Doustonians offered the trolls large tubs of ale in exchange for some of their booty. The Doustonians hoped to use their treasure to grow powerful, and rise to be greater than Londinium.

The Cobolds understood why the Doustonians were on the side of the trolls. The Londinium's memory returned again, and knew the Trolls were going to attack them, and had no right to the Mountains. Daxividus explains that the Doustonians got purple because they are suffering from Treasure fever. Daxividus asked the Doustonians who amongst them has the Hook. Ariella uses her mind reading powers, and finds it was the same Doustonian who walked by her estate. Daxividus raises a metal wand from his pocket near the Doustonian in question, and retrieves the Hook. Daxividus sentences the Doustonians involved with causing the earthquakes, volcanic explosion and hurricanes to community service cleaning the regions affected. Then the Doustonians once again departed in Pouts and Mumbles. Then Daxividus departs Kebsuda, taking the Hook back with him. Lymurd desserts the Cobolds and says "I know when im not wanted", while complaining about how mean the whole town was to him. Then Lymurd joins the Doustonians, hoping it would be more enjoyable.

That night, back at the Naifaspring estate, there was a break in. Ariella is awaken by sounds of clashes, and a blood curling scream. Hallicia searches the house only to find that the culprit left, but was somehow able to get in without damaging the house. All Ariella saw was the shadow of a red figure dressed in black. Then Hallicia became concerned about Shannen not having woken up and goes in to check on her. Halicia gives a great scream after finding that Shannen's throat had been slit. Ariella walks in, sees Shannen and starts crying.

The Rest of the Summer

When this camp had come to an end, Milo became distraught. As it was, he would be returning to the Sports hall camp on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the rest of the Summer. Milo missed the camp and seeing Liliana. As to why he missed seeing Liliana, he really could not explain. Now Liliana was a nice woman, but Milo had not known her that well. After the Sports Hall, Milo felt out of place, and could not explain why. Milo had been there for over a year just less than a year ago, but felt like this place was quite impersonal compared to the camp he just attended.

Otherwise, summer had been frustrating for Milo, as Emma was babysitting and had gotten to be a bit overcontrolling. Emma was not as easygoing that summer as compared to the first year, and Milo did not like someone only three years older than him telling him what to do all the time. This gave Milo more flashbacks to the latter days from two summers ago. Milo remembered his Simpsons tape that Rory gave him. Milo found part of his video taped over, and was pretty angry.

A few weeks later, Lydia went back to her week summer camp on a Sunday. On Wednesday, Ray and Margaret bought a new van that could play video's. They had Taco Bell for Dinner and went over to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's to show them the new car. On Thursday, The Biancatello's went back to the Italian restaurant they ate at on the last day of school. Now Milo was becoming quite nostalgic for the beginning of summer, and felt antsy and bored during this summer. Mind you, Milo was having a hard time with being out of school, and not seeing the girls. This was the first summer Milo had ever been attracted to Girls. On the way to pick Lydia up, Ray brought "The Santa Experience" from the Rugrats Series. This was the episode Milo watched almost three Christmases ago quite frequently.

That Summer Vacation, the Biancatellos went on their first annual tripe Drakes Forest State Park with the Filentino's, other Biancatello's and the O'Malleys. That first year, Aunt Dianne, Emma, Lauren and Danielle joined them. Milo was not a fan of the cabins at first, but got accustomed very quickly. As it was, Milo was still not a fan of travelling, and new places felt uncomfortable to him. That first night, Milo was fine, and had enjoyed being out in the woods. The next day had been the hardest on Milo. He felt a bit out of place at this state park, and felt like this place was too hillbilly for his tastes. What Milo greatly appreciated was this walk through the woods, and a natural spring. But at a luau that night, Milo started feeling homesick. That night, Milo had weird dreams about the summer camp, and going to the soup kitchen. The final day went better for Milo. The Family went to dinner, where there was this bossy waitress who told customers to "Please be seated" if walking around. After dinner, they went to this dark maze attraction.

As for the remainder of the Summer, things had cooled down quite a bit. When it came to Emma babysitting, she and Milo got into a minor spat. Milo wanted to cook burgers that day, but Emma did not want him to use the stove. By this time, Milo knew enough stove safety to cook without getting burned. Yet Milo still did not have experience making food good, but he did not think that another week of craft mac-and-cheese being a good alternative. As it was, both Emma and Milo have different personalities, with Milo being a more "outside the box", while Emma was more about walking in the lines. Emma took babysitting very seriously, and felt the need to act as an authority and keep a strict structure. Milo on the other hand was near turning 13, and knew that he was no helpless infant needing externally imposed structure, especially by someone only three years older than him. Plus, Milo saw this as a betrayal of trust, and did not like having a cousin once a peer being an authority to begin with. So Milo flipped out and told Emma that she was always being bossy. Emma did not take to well to this and threatened to quit. After both calmed down, Milo explained that he is old enough to make decisions on his own, and would like things back to the way they were two summers ago.

Milo was looking forward to a new school year and seeing Ella again. Milo found out the supposed house Ella lived at, but never saw her in his walks. The week before Milo's birthday, Ray was off, so he took Lydia and Milo on day activities, such as rock climbing. On Thursday, Aunt Marie, Alicia, Matt and Lilly came in town for an end of summer party the Biancatello's were hosting. Ray made Pizza and assembled them at Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tonys. That night, Alicia introduced Milo to this song "Never had a Dream Come True", which he heard on the last day of school. That night, the O'Malley's spent the night at the Biancatello's. The next day, the Biancatello's, O'Malleys and Filentino's went to Seewoulden. During the day, Salvatore was in a foul mood, and would flip out about small stuff. Towards the end of the day, Milo admitted to being tired after being kept up all night. Aunt Marie asked Matt if he kept everyone awake. Matt shamelessly said he had. The next day, Milo had his family birthday party. As it was, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol were in town, and he called that morning. Ray invited Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol to stop in for the party. That evening when the party was in full swing, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol arrived. Grandma Pearl left, as she was not a big fan of Grandpa Clarence, due to cheating on her with Maple Carol, and then abandoning his kids, while adopting Maple Carol's family. Lydia ran off to her room crying about how she did not want Grandpa Clarence at the party.

During the last week of Summer Vacation, Milo was looking forward to returning to School. On Monday, Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol invited Margaret, Milo and Lydia out to Chinese with some of her grandchildren. Milo was just at that restaurant a year ago before Starting sixth grade, and quite distraught. Milo was not anxious like the previous year, which he had little good to say about. The next day at Mcdonalds with the Sports Hall, Milo saw the cleric who performed Grandma Gladys' funeral two years ago. Milo felt these were good flashbacks to a peaceful beginning of the school year. On that Thursday, Milo was officially done with the sports hall for good, as he would never have to return to this place again.

A New Senexit and Puerubdi

Maelendil and the council of Sophunum's had voted both a Senexit and Puerubdi in office, as things had gotten quite out of hand. The council had been working for a long time to find the right candidate to fulfill the position. At this point, the new Senexit to be voted in was a well experienced Jinn Cashmir, while the new Puerubdi voted in was this innovative Jinn Alexander. Their first meeting was Maelendil giving an orientation of their new jobs.

A few days later, Maelendil held a meeting with Maugris to get Alexander caught up in regards to two of his charges. Maugris explained that she had kickstarted the breaking of a spell. Maugris showed Alexander the Charges and saw one of the charges being quite distraught. Maelendil explained the bilocation, and how seeing a woman from his past gave him flashbacks to something he does not remember. Alexander asked what was to be done for the Charge. Maugris somberly explained that the spell was near to being fully broken, but had to be completed with the help of Mortaneous. Maugris showed Alexander how Mortaneous had been guiding the charges since after the Fourth of July, which had been quite distressing for one charge. Alexander got a previous warning from Alphie on Mortaneous, whom he knew was not dangerous, but did not show up to bring happy tidings.

Book IV: The Third Era-The early Teenage Years

Chapter 16: The Second Thrice Occurring Cycle

The Long Lost Bridge

At Daxividus requests, the Cobolds had rebuilt their headquarters exactly like it was before it fell, and had plenty of plans for extensions. The bridge reconnecting the Headquarters Roof to the Cliff stairs was all fixed up. Also at Daxividus advice, a council was held in Londinium to scope out the cliff region, and see if this land was in need of disaster relief. This Cliff Region according to the Londinium world map was identified as Spartustica. The Council of Londinium agreed that only the relief workers had to go and pardoned the Cobolds from having to travel to their homeland. The Cobolds had feared facing the utter devastation that their homeland had endured. The Cobolds had felt very relieved about not having to undergo this burden.

The Cobolds then got a surprise visit from a long forgotten Seer known as Adrino. As it was, many had not remembered Adrino, as many had not been born yet. Adrino explains to the Cobolds that they should take a visit to the Cliffs. Now many of the Cobolds protested, claiming that they cannot bear to see what happened to their home. Elrich then claims that they would have to eventually return to the cliffs, and face the destruction. Lymurd whined about this, and he called Londinium his real home. Adrino then told the Cobolds that Elrich was right, and how he established this mission, which will be clear upon arrival in the Gardens. Adrino then reminded the Cobolds that they still needed to go to a Funeral before heading back up.

Before leaving, the Cobolds Elrich, Jamus, Iohannes and Yoshiyahu and his sister had Shannen's funeral to attend. Still no culprit had been identified. Elrich remembered well how Naifaspring sisters always sided with the Cobolds when the Doustonians turned the rest of Londinium against them. At the funeral, Ariella and Hallicia were utterly tear stained, and Junous looked quite solemn. Strangely, Clayton had an expression resembling a repressed smirk, while trying to look sad. There were also many Londinians present, such as the town elders, Timothy, Zephyr, Wilber, Azaelia and the Queen. There was also a red haired Londinian girl whom the sisters had never seen before.

Elrich led the Cobolds through the stairs up to the cliffs of Spartustica. On the way up, the Cobolds spotted many Doustonians working, while hearing them mumbling under their breath. Much to their surprise, the Cobolds found that their garden had been restored to its old glory, and found this mysterious arch that had been overgrown. This arch had a great bridge build so long ago, and lead right to this Temple District that the Cobolds had so long heard about. This was the temple built at the beginning, and ran by the seer Adrino. As it was, the bridge was not in great condition, so the Cobolds and Londinium Relief agents ordered the Doustonians to do some maintenance. Mind you, the Doustonians were not happy about this, as they had just finished polishing the Tarsus and Aprodite statues, planting new flowers, and reassembling the Candle.

The Cobolds had seen that the temple city and the West View of the Temple was very beautiful. The Temple had been guarded by a fortified set of walls, placed on a low cliff above the city, and separated by a moat. The Cobolds also got a view of people walking through this city known as Atlanteans. The Cobolds instantly became fascinated with what he observed, and was quite intrigued by this exotic city, and strange culture.

After looking at the city, the Cobold of the Forester clan shared with the Pedmontus Cobolds all the news over the past few years. The Forester Cobolds shared the stories of the War against the trolls, heavy workload with the Headquarters, the Hurricane that brought a plague, the invasion of these manipulative Doustonians, a devastating Earthquake, exposure of the Doustonian agenda. The Cobolds of Pedmontus had wondered why these mysterious purple people were doing maintenance on the gardens, and why they cleared the overgrowth of the bridge arch. Gwen, Yoshiyahu's sister explained that they were sentenced to community service by Daxividus, or would be banished into the desert. The Cobolds of Pedmontus immediately understood why the Doustonians seemed so cranky.

The Funeral Wake

Milo had just started Seventh Grade, and Amira had just begun Middle School at Pecan meadows. On Milo's last Friday off, he and Lydia were over at Lauren's house, as this was the last day they had to be over. Frankly, Milo liked being with Rory and Lauren more than Emma, as he considered them more easy going. That night, Ray and Margaret took Milo and Lydia to Stacey's retro-diner and Dairy Queen. That Saturday night, Milo and Lydia spent the night at Grandma Pearls, as Ray and Margaret had an engagement with their neighbors Dave and Violet. Now Dave and Violet are also good friends with the Schumachers and the Delaneys.

On Sunday morning, Ray and Margaret picked Lydia and Milo up for Church. At Church, Milo saw one of the heads of the summer camp he attended. Her daughters were the cantors at mass. That night, Milo started feeling a big ill, and lost interest in what was to come with the new school year. On Monday, which was Milo and Lydia's last day of vacation, Margaret took them to see Shrek. Milo was a little disappointed that Fiona turned into an Ogre, as he considered her a pretty princess. That night, Milo had nasty stomach cramps, and could not even eat dinner. As to what happened, Milo had just pulled a muscle. Milo thought it was just stress.

The night before starting school, Milo had this dream resembling being at Pleasant tune for Kindergarten, and teasing Lydia about a Boy who liked her at the Whelon basketball arena. On the first day, Milo came across Ella and noticed she had braces. Milo also saw Ellen, but felt less attracted to her. On Thursday, Milo saw an episode of Hey Arnold known as "Pre-Teen Scream", where Phoebe meets her favorite singer Ronnie Matthews only to realize he is a phony. Milo remembered seeing the episode a year earlier when school was still pretty rough for him. On Friday, The Delaneys invited the Biancatello's to have dinner at their Yacht Club.

On Saturday, Ray told the family that Scott Glenn's mother passed away. By this time, the Glenns had moved out of the neighbor, first in Kentucky and then back to the Ciderpond region. That same day, Aunt Dianne took Lydia to the new Whelon stadium, as she was the one to take tickets for the game attendees. Milo and Ray went down to the stadium with Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore. Beforehand, they had lunch at a sandwich bar, and got these carved out rolls stuffed with Lunch Meat. After the game, Margaret explained that there was a funeral service at the Funeral home, but told Milo and Lydia they could stay home if they wanted. Ray talked to Margaret, explaining that the service was right after church, and they would not have time to get from Church to the Funeral home if they had to drop Milo and Lydia off. Now Milo was a bit apprehensive about going, as he was not sure how comfortable he was with death. The last time Milo had encountered death or a funeral was at Grandma Gladys' funeral two years ago. Not to mention, Milo did not have great memories of funeral homes so far. That evening, Milo and Lydia watched Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory while Ray and Margaret were at a co-workers 50th birthday party.

The night before the Funeral, Milo had still more strange dreams. He was walking near the streets of his camp headquarters from the Summer, and was trying to get to St. Columba's for Christmas mass. That morning, the Biancatello's went to the Early mass. The opening hymn was "Gather us in", which was the same opening hymn the week before Grandma Gladys passed away. The Biancatello's had to leave after communion, as the funeral would be starting in 20 minutes. The son in law greeted the Biancatello's and brought them into the funeral room. The laying out had not been as bothersome as Milo feared. Of all strange occurrences, Milo noticed this Pashtun girl who was very pretty. This Pashtun girls family had been friends with Scott's sister's family. Milo recognized this girl from somewhere, but could not put his finger on where he knew her from. The only thing that Milo could think of was that he had seen this girl at the Khara's.

During the service, there was a vision of an author writing a book, and after finishing closed the book. Meanwhile, there was an artist painting a picture that took years to complete. After the piece was completed, he put away his art supplies, and hung the picture to show the world. Then there was a second series of visions continuing from the camping trip. The man who had sacrificed his son is confronted by an angel who tells him to stop, and had passed the test. Then the mermaid who had lived on land away from her family gives birth to a baby. The worlds of the oceans and land join at a ship where the baby is presented. The mer-father declares that this child will be the one to end the sacrifices.

Being that this was a funeral, Milo would not want to do anything inappropriate and start talking to girls in such an inappropriate setting. After the service, Milo spotted this girl and her sister playing with their youngest sister, while waiting for her parents. This had been bothering Milo, wondering if he would ever see this girl again.

Andreas and Vesta's debate

Andreas the Romantic goaded Vesta after he predicted right about Maelendil's charge. As we remember, Andreas predicted that the charge had a crush on another charge when the Khara's moved in. Andreas told Vesta that he had been right all along, and now has proof. Vesta then reminds Andreas that she was right about chargess saving the charge at a very dark time in his life, in reference to the first bilocation. Vesta explained that the baby with the Chargess had not been born yet.

Maelendil shows up with Maugris and Mairead, Alexander, Cashmir, Herb, Kabira and Johannes. Maelendil chuckles that Andreas had already heard the news. Mairead immediately gets to business, all come to the agreement that the plan has worked as planned. Maelendil commended the Ninth orders of Herb, Kabira and Johannes for assisting in a calm transitioin while voting for a new Senexit and Puerubdi. Maelendil then commends the Eight order with Maugris and Mairead for sanctifying what would otherwise be a very dull and oppressive experience. Maelendil then assigns Maugris to one final task, where a gathering of three schools is to take place, for one final breaking of the spell.

The Invitation

One weekend, the good news arrived. Maziyar and Navid asked Milo and Ray if they could help move some bricks for them. While moving bricks Maziyar invited the Biancatellos over for his 50th birthday party next Friday. The party would feature Iranian dishes to which Milo was a bit apprehensive, since his first time with food from that region at Razouls Graduation party had not been so pleasant. This kind of food comes from a region known as the spice belt, which includes all of Western and Southern Asia and North Africa. This is a food that has a staple of bread, rice, chickpeas, eggplant, yogurt, lemons, lentils and fragrant spices such as Cumin, Coriander, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and saffron. Naturally, one thing that often turns off western tastes is the mix of sweet and savory spices in a single dish. Otherwise, Milo was looking forward to the party, hoping that the mystery girl from the Funeral Home would show up.

That weekend, Margaret and Lydia were on a Mother Daughter camping trip. Later that day, Milo and Ray went to Arby's for lunch, as he had been craving this restaurant after feeling hungry for not eating well after his pulled muscle. On Sunday, Milo was an altar server at mass. That afternoon, Margaret and Lydia returned home, and they went to an open house at the Fire station. For a short time, Milo considered being a firefighter until the 9/11 attacks. After they got back, Aunt Michelle called, because Uncle Ottavio's brother in law passed away after a rough battle with cancer.

The September 11th Attacks

If one event has been ingrained into the American consciousness of these times, it would be the day that the Twin Towers fell after a terrorist attack at the hands of Al Quaeda. Most Americans remember exactly where they were when news reached them. Margaret and Ray were both at work when this happened. Margaret was filing commissions when there was an interruption of a national emergency, and the TV was put on. According to the first hand reports, the plane hit the first tower, which was thought to be an accident. Then a second plane hit the towers. Milo did not know about the attacks until a few minutes before school let out. The classes were called to their homeroom for the announcement, and were given a paper regarding the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon.

After the attacks, brotherhood rose to high levels than normal. There was much heroism that day of the attacks, with the whole N.Y.F.D, N.Y.P.D. and the Paramedic services attending to this tragedy. One report was the priest Fr. Mychal Judge. He was a firefighter and chaplain for the N.Y.F.D, and a martyr declared a Saint after heroism on twin towers rescues. The towers fell in the late afternoon after being unable to be sustained due to severe fire damage.

Not too far off, the Bush administration was beginning their reign of terror on America, in suspending the people's civil Liberties, constant surveillance, the Patriot Act and the T.S.A. Under the new Homeland Security, all constitutional amendments became treated as toilet paper. The whole clause from "Innocent till proven guilty" was reversed. Then the Bush Administration sent terrorism to Afghanistan on families who had nothing to do with Al Quaeda. When the search for Bin Laden failed, the Administration with no justification invaded Iraq. Why this happened, some believe was to avenge his father, others say it was all about oil. One thing was known that this was no coincidence. It is not hard to see why so many conspiracy theorists thought it was an inside job. But the inside job did not happen on earth, but on a whole different realm.

A less threatening, but still ideologically similar team to Al Quaeda in America exploited the tragedy for their own agenda. That Thursday morning on the 700 club hosted by the crackpot Pat Robertson, he brought on his long time friend and founder of Liberty institution Jerry Falwell. Falwell claimed the attacks were the first ever on American soil, with forgetting about the war of 1812, and Pearl Harbor. Then Falwell claimed that warhawk Donald Rumsfeld foresaw more attacks. Falwell then spews his propaganda that the attacks were Gods Punishment on the A.C.L.U, Abortionists, Feminists, Pagans, Gays and Lesbians.

The Second Harvest Festival

The time came for the Annual Londinium Harvest Festival, which had not occurred since two years ago, due to the earthquake from the previous year. As we recall, the custom of the Festival is to invite people from neighboring lands. At the opening of the Festival, the Fire was lit at the tower which once housed the Orb of Hillectivus. This year, the Cobolds were sent to invite the residents of Spartustica and Atlantis.

Meanwhile, Hallicia and Ariella were still distraught over Shannen. This girl who showed up at the funeral was revealed to be Daisy, who had been a cousin of theirs. Junous recognized that Daisy had the potential for Teleportation, once she got trained to control it. Hallicia was not a big fan of Daisy, and saw her as a replacement for Shannen. After Daisy was initiated into their team, Hallicia went on a spree of starting fights with Hypocordos. Over the years of fighting, she could immediately tell who the Hypocordo's were. However, she had developed such anger that her powers developed beyond freezing to blowing them up. Due to constant explosions, Hallicia was unable to extract information. After Hallicia had been going on too many sprees of fighting, Junous and Daisy came up with a plan to have her confront her motivations. Hallicia returned from a nasty fight, and Daisy and Junous teleported her to a mausoleum. Hallicia breaks down, and starts crying when she saw the crypt saying Shannen Naifaspring. Hallicia screamed in anger at Shannen for dying, and lamented that she never had no big sister, and does not know how to live without one.

By this time, Azeyas came to Londinium to announce the beginning of the Festival. Azeyas had reminded the residents of Londinium of the prophecy from the First Harvest Festival, and showed great gratitude to the Cobolds who have worked to pave the way, and gave credit to the Doustonians for their efforts. The Doustonians present mumbled "Shut up". At the lighting of the fire where once stood the orb of Hillectivus, the festival began. At the Festival, all the residents from Spartustica attended, along with many of the residents of Atlantis. The Londinians still had difficulty communicating with the Atlanteans, due to their language barriers. Due to years of isolation, the Atlanteans developed a whole different dialect of Hitarian quite distinct from the Hitarian spoke in Spartustica and Gallicanium.

That night, the stories were retold by both the Londinians, Cobolds and the Atlanteans about how the two peoples split up. From what could be understood, the story was that in many past ages, there was a great split between the two kingdoms in present day Spartustica. There had been a great famine in the cliffs, and they saw on both sides fertile lands, and the kingdom was split with half emigrating to Atlantis while the other half Gallicanium, which is where Londinium is located. Both Gallicanium and Atlantis had been split up and disconnected for so long that they became very different cultures. Some Atlantean residents had returned back to the cliff known as Pedmontus. Residents from the outskirts of Gallicanium also returned to Pedmontus and intermarried with the Atlantean people, therefore becoming the peoples known as the Cobolds.

The Birthday Party

Maziyar's fiftieth birthday party occurred three days after the 9/11 attacks. With this tragedy, prejudice against people from West and South Asia and North Africa became a frequent phenomenon. Anything deemed connected to Islamic culture was immediately deemed as being a breeding ground for terrorism. Dark Skinned Caucasians were feared, and tied to the dangerous peoples. In fact, one such incident occurred when a neighbor Violet up the street from the Khara's had been drinking and had freaked out when all the party guests arrived, parking all over the street. She called Dave, in fear begging him to come home, that the neighborhood was being invaded by foreigners. Of course, not a single guest was a terrorist, let alone capable of violence. It was true some of the small children were trouble makers who threw a swing in one of the neighbor's pool.

As what was recalled, Milo did not end up finding the mystery girl at the party. Whether she was present was not known. When the Biancatello's arrived, Margaret thought every Middle Eastern person from the city was present. Milo said he did not think so until seeing this girl Rokshana. Roksana, an Elamite Milo went to school with was at the party. Roksana had been friends Ella.

Milo then got a taste for this Middle Eastern food after being introduced to fried chickpea fritters known as kotlet, whom the caterers explained as like Vegetarian Chicken wings. Some other neighbors showed up, including Uncle Ottavio's cousin, whose girlfriend lived on the other side of the Khara's, and some neighbors across the street with two small children. Frankly, Milo was not so interested in sticking with the neighbors, and wanted to know where the kids from the Khara's community had congregated to.

Milo became overwhelmed by all the other Pashtun girls at the party, and had developed some orientalist fetish. The kids all congregated to Milo's old skyfort that Grandpa Tony and Ray built when he was five. Over the last three years, Milo had not played on the skyfort, but still wanted to keep it up. Milo fixed the skyfort swing, and Rokshana asked him if he was from school. A small boy jumped off the jungle swing and started crying after falling off. One of the girls ran to get help.

For dinner, there was a chickpea casserole, rice, flat bread, a stew of sorts and some yogurt dish. For desert, there were some milk based dishes. Ray was not a big fan of the desserts, and has to this day never considered Oriental cultures good at making sweets. Ray and Milo ate with Angelo and the Khara's neighbor, and he told them about this time Milo ordered a fancy dish in Lake Forest Illinois. Milo was starting to develop more fond memories of that summer and had quite a few flashbacks to two falls ago. Margaret and Lydia did not join Ray and Milo for dinner, as Lydia had plans and had to drop her off. Frankly, Margaret was not disappointed, as she felt out of place at the party, and did not like Persian food to begin with.

The Saturday after the Party, Aunt Marie brought Alicia, Matt and Lilly over to Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's for the day. During the visit, Aunt Marie invited Milo and Lydia to stay with them the next weekend, as Margaret and Ray would be going to Cleveland for their 15th anniversary. That night, Margaret and Ray treated Milo and Lydia to an anniversary dinner at Red Lobster. After dinner, Lydia rented the movie "Getting even with dad", starring Macauley Calkin from Home Alone and Ted Danson from Cheers.

One weekend later, Milo and Lydia went to stay with the O'Malleys. During this weekend, Milo never got homesick. Yet on Saturday, Milo knew that he would have to leave that night. At evening, Margaret and Ray returned to New Seneca, and headed home after dinner. Milo had not been so keen on returning home, and they watched the Aristocats in the car. Milo and Lydia started Sunday School the next day.

Another weekend later, Milo returned to Piano lessons, and saw that Rokshana had voice lessons at the same time. That night, Milo, Ray and Margaret returned to the Italian restaurant, as this had reminded him of the beginning of summer. That weekend, the O'Malleys came in town, and Ray took Milo, Lydia, Alicia, Matt and Lily to Dinglebury nature trails. The next day, the Biancatello's went on a fall trip to Sandusky, and there were no problems. The last time the Biancatello's had been to Sandusky was before they took Jinny home for the first time. On the way up, Milo got excited about this idea of eating at a Middle Eastern restaurant once they got back to Ciderpond. In Sandusky, the Biancatello's did some hiking, shopping, and a boat ride. Now the Biancatello's only stayed in Sandusky for a day, as it had been a long weekend.

Husisha's Advice

Maelendil, Cashmir and Alexander were summoned by the seer Husisha in regard to some instructions he had, and to announce the fulfillment. Husisha spoke with Maugris, and knew what was coming. Husisha instructed Maelendil to make sure the Irish relatives specifically asked the father if their kids could spend the night when they were in for an evening. Cashmir asked what the point of this was, and Husisha explained that this was a reward to the Charge for defying his Patriotic Duty, and showing hospitality and resisting prejudice. Alexander joked that it is hard to show prejudice to someone they find attractive.

Maelendil was still stumped about what such a reward had to do with the charges refusal to show prejudice has to do with his cousins visiting his house. Maelendil had always known that Husisha had very counter-intuitive ideas and strange insights. Yet Husisha never let Maelendil down, and had always been spot on. In fact, Husisha was the one of the seers to sense that the Charges family's hospitality to the neighbors would pay off. In all honesty, Maelendil was not so certain like Cashmir was about the reward, and he clearly knew there was more to the reward than a mere sleepover.

The Mountain Roads Completion

After two months of the Doustonians in toil and mumbling, the roads through the Mountains were completed. During the time that the Doustonians on the Londinians orders were building roadways through the mountains, the Atlanteans were doing the same. At some point, both met halfway and agreed to connect roads. After the road from Atlantis to Gallicanium was completed, there was a ceremony of dedication. With the completion, there was an open house where residents of Atlantis and Gallicanium were encouraged to walk the roads, and get to meet the different residents.

The Londinians and Cobolds still had difficulty communicating with the Atlanteans, as there was still the language barrier. This was making alliance more difficult, and the Londinians and Cobolds really were feeling helpless. Elrich found a path leading to an overlook of the city of Atlantica. The Cobolds made a covenant that they would learn the Atlantean dialect and alphabet, despite having no clue how to do this. During their sojourns through the mountain paths, they remembered the days of victory, when they defeated the trolls.

On their sojourns, the Cobold Irugen found Lymurd on a roadside abandoned and quite dirty. The other cobolds had been displeased to see Lymurd, who had been begging for help. Elrich ignored Lymurd, as he had been quite bitter with him after ditching them to join with the Doustonians. Lymurd wept about how he had been abandoned by the Doustonians when he could not do what they asked of him. Lymurd cried about how the Doustonians had been plotting revenge, and were going to destroy the Gallicanium. Lymurd told how he could not do it, and they kicked him to the curb. The other Cobolds had not wanted Lymurd back, and considered him a coward siding with whoever would entertain him. Irugen eventually was able to convince the rest of the Cobolds to give Lymurd a second chance.

The Fall Festival

When it came to School, Milo and Steve were becoming better friends. Now Shane and Steve had a love-hate relationship. Shane often made fat jokes about Steve, and the two often fought relentlessly. As we remember, there was a hot head Davis Woznich. Davis befriended Shane, much to Milo's annoyance. Davis was one to have constant temper tantrums over petty matters, which greatly tested Milo's patience. Now Davis was a neighbor to Ella and Rokshana. During the Summer, Milo confided in Shane that he liked Ella, and blabbed this to Davis. Otherwise, Milo did not like Davis flipping out at him over small stuff, and Davis did not like when Milo would taunt his anger problems, such as giving him pamplets on anger management.

One Monday, Milo and Ray ate at a Middle Eastern restaurant known as Byblos, since he had grown quite fond of the food at the Khara's. The restaurant was unfortunately empty, due to continuing prejudices. The food there had been fairly similar to the food at the Khara's, but not as spicy, as the restaurant was ran by Lebanese people, and had a menu more based on the Levant cooking. Levant cooking is more meditteranean, and relies more on ingredients such as Olive Oil, and less on spices. In comparison to Levant food, Iranian was closer to North Indian food. Milo got a platter which included Tabbouli, Ouzi, Hummus, Baba Ganouj and a Jerusalem Salad. Ouzi is a Syrian rice and meat stuffed pastry. Milo noticed that the rice was quite similar to the rice from the Khara's. Ray got a Couscous dish that he thought was quite bland.

On Wednesday, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl went to a Hibachi restaurant for Margaret's birthday. The last time they had been at this restaurant was two Lents ago for Lydia's birthday, when Milo ordered Shark.

On Thursday, Milo was in a lousy mood, as he had such a great dream of visiting some Islamic style palaces, going to a zoo attraction, meeting some attractive actresses and a teacher getting him to talk to Ella. Then Milo woke up and the dream was over, yet it felt so real. That evening, Aunt Marie called the Biancatello's asking if it was okay if Alicia, Matt and Lily spent the night at their house on Saturday Night. Milo and Lydia had been enthusiastic about this prospect. Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt were invited in town for a party with some friends from Ciderpond.

That Friday, Milo went to a football game at the local highschool with Ray, Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore. This game was between Ciderpond High and St. James High. Milo saw many classmates from school, including many pretty girls. Milo wanted in the worst way to see if he could find Ella, but it had been too utterly crowded.

On Saturday, Milo went to an event at school known as the Fall Festival. Every year, the middle schools would get together at William Jettsons, Pecan meadows or Northcreek Middle School, going on a three year rotation. Milo attended the festival the previous year at Northcreek, which is located next to a Greek Orthodox church that held the annual Greek Fest. This festival consisted in every classroom giving demonstrations on different vocations and hobbies of interest to the students.

Milo and Ray arrived at the festival and he met up with his new friend Steve, and his father Neale. As they all entered in, Milo spotted Roksana with her Ethiopian friend Tzappora. The festival held and opening ceremony in the Auditorium, to which the song "God bless America" was sung, as patriotic sentiment had been quite popular at the time. This song had been made popular after Celine Dion did a remake for the sake of Canadian support of America. To Milo's surprise, he had spotted a girl from the Khara's party during the ceremony. This was the girl who called for an adult, whom Milo recognized due to her frizzy hair.

The students got assigned to particular rooms for certain activities. To Milo's next surprise, while walking to his first activity, he spotted the girl he had seen at the Funeral home. Boy did Milo hope to be assigned to an activity this girl was in. Not to his luck. Milo's first activity had been this orientation to measuring car statistics. In this activity, Ellen was also assigned, but Milo was utterly distracted and could care less about Ellen being in this class. Milo was just thinking about this mystery girl, and still hoped she would be in his next activity. Frankly, Milo did not want to miss this opportunity, now that they were in an appropriate setting to talk. The second activity for Milo had been a demonstration and practice at rubber making. The Company that sponsored this activity is where his former neighbor and Uncle Ottavio's deceased Brother in law worked at. The third activity was in the gym, and was sponsored by the aquatic environment society of Essex. This activity was an orientation on fishes, and Milo got a poster for fishes that inhabit the Lake. Milo still has the poster to this day.

At the end of the festival, Milo saw a Pashtun woman with a small child talking to an Elamite woman. Milo immediately recognized all three women from the Khara's party. While leaving, Milo spotted the girl from the funeral home walking over to the woman with a small Child. This confirmed that he had seen this girl from the Khara's. Then the girl from the Khara's party came over to them, as this Pashtun woman was giving her a ride home. Then Rokshana went over to the Elamite woman. Milo at first thought the two girls were sisters, and that Rokshana was their cousin. Milo had not fully understood that ethnic communities often function like extended families. Milo felt so strongly about this mystery girl, but never let anyone know for the time being. Milo was afraid how Ray would react to this, as he was not so fond of Milo liking girls. Ray thought Milo was too young for girls, and had hoped he would just take his word for it. Milo had a rudimentary understanding of the birds and the bee's, and did not appreciate Ray's authoritarian approach. Ray was just having a hard time accepting that Milo was growing up, and how it just seemed to happened over night. This had caused some tensions over the months. Milo hated this authoritarian approach to seeing girls, which only gave him the inclination to be secretive, and only let Margaret know anything. Now Ray grew up in a family and a time where that stuff was not talked about in the open.

The Rest of the day, Milo had been getting ready for his cousins Alicia, Matt and Lily, who would be in town. Milo got a bit preoccupied with some foreign car at the Khara's, whom were most likely visitors. Milo kept a long eye on the backyard, hoping that the mystery girl would come outside. Milo suspected that they stopped over after the Fall Festival. No such thing happened.

As for the nights party, this had been fun. Ray invited Eustace and Samantha, which disappointed Lydia. Lydia preferred to have Alicia and Lily all to herself, as she did not get to see them too much. That night, the kids watched the movie "Cats and Dogs", which had been utterly stupid. Due to a late night at the sleepover, the Biancatello's and the cousins all went to the 11:00 am mass. At Mass, Milo spotted an Elamite family whom he had seen before. In fact, Milo recognized this family and remembered them for a long time at Church.

The Friday after Fall Fest, the first snow fell, and it was slipper day. Milo wore a new pair of Homer Simpson's slippers. Frankly, this day felt like Christmas had come early. That night, Milo was doing three way calling with his friends Shane and Steve. Milo originally called Steve, who had tried to get him to call Ella. Milo considered chancing it and calling Rokshana, but decided not to. As it was, Shane broke his arm, and Steve thought it would be nice to talk to him instead. That night, while three way calling, Milo came across the first Simpsons Treehouse of Horror, as this was around Halloween. Milo had really wanted to do some three-way calling with the mystery girl from Fall Fest. During Fall fest, Milo mentioned Rokshana being at his house, and seeing her at fall fest. Milo asked Shane and Steve what they knew about Rokshana's family.

On Sunday, Milo had Steve over, and took him for a walk through his neighborhood. Milo showed Steve the house he thought Ella lived at. Steve tried to get Milo to stop over at Ella's, but he did not think it a good idea. Steve tried to convince Milo that Ella was nice, but a little hyper. Then Milo took Steve over to Marilyn's neighborhood. Milo remembered seeing Marilyn's neighbors from Afghanistan at Maziyar's party. Milo and Steve walked through the neighborhood, and found Ralph outside raking leaves. Ralph had not recognized Milo at first, and told him he should give Marilyn a visit. Milo told Marilyn about seeing her neighbors at his neighbor's party. Steve told Marilyn about going by Ellas supposed house, and Marilyn told them that this house was actually one of their friends houses, who was also Ray's golf buddy. What Marilyn explained was that this friends wife kept her last name Doyle. They had quite a laugh about this error. Milo then remembered who this guy was, and started wondering what this neighbor was thinking.

On Halloween, Milo, Steve and Shane went trick or treating through the Biancatello's neighborhood. The first important stop was at Ralph and Marilyns, who had been happy to see Milo and Steve again. Then Milo took them over to Aunt Dianne's, and introduced her to Steve and Shane. Then Shane led them over to his grandparents house. Shane's grandparents are also next door neighbors to the principal Mrs. Howachan. Mrs. Howachan gave out cans of pepsi instead of candy.

On that Friday later, Milo and Steve went to a school dance. Milo wanted to ask Ella to dance, but she was unable to, due to working being the pizza booth. Milo was a little bummed out, but understand that she would have if she had the choice. During the dance, Milo ran into Todd mother Cheryl. That year, Todd started Sixth grade at William Jettsons. Milo told Cheryl all about trying Iranian and Lebanese food for the first time. Now Cheryl is a fan of Middle Eastern and Indian food herself. The Saturday, Milo and Lydia returned to the O'Malleys, as Ray and Margaret had a wedding in Pittsburgh. Marilyns son Sam was getting married in Pittsburgh, as that's where his fiancé was from. On the way up, Aunt Dianne drove up with them, which as we remember she is good friends with the Schumachers. Frankly, this trip had been much more fun. First of all, their longest day, Milo knew he would not have to go home at night. Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt setup a Taco bar for dinner. That night, the kids watched some movies. The next day after church, Ray, Margaret and Aunt Dianne arrived back from the trip to pick Milo and Lydia up. That night, Aunt Michelle held Salvatore's birthday party. On Monday, Milo went over to Todds house, after Cheryl invited him a few days ago at the school dance.

A few weeks later at a Family Party at Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony's, there was a church book being passed around in which the parishioners of St. Timothy's had family pictures taken. Milo spotted a picture of this Elamite family he had seen in church and asked Aunt Jackie where they were from. Milo had some idea that she would know, but was not sure how he knew. Aunt Jackie explained they were from Iran. The family's name was explained to be the Jafari's. Aunt Jackie knew who this family was, as her son went to school with this family's daughters.

As for the Holiday Season, it was nothing special that year. For thanksgiving, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane hosted. The Rumcorns were in town, and the Biancatello's hosted them for a second Thanksgiving dinner after Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes. On Friday, the Rumcorns took the Biancatello's to see "Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone" in theatres. This was the first time Milo really thought much about the Harry Potter series since he was in Fifth Grade. Milo had wondered what the characters looked like in real life, and according to the interpretations, some were a bit off. Milo always imagined Uncle Vernon to look like a slick haired mustached man with glasses, and skinny. Dudley Milo imagined was super-round, and had a bullcut and glasses. As for the movie, Milo felt like he was reading the books all over again. During the movie, Milo thought that Hermione was quite pretty. During the scene where the three went through the Forest, which was quite different in the book, Bruce got a bit frightened.

Then on Saturday, Aunt Judy threw a surprise 50th birthday party for Uncle Georgio at a hotel near the mall. Grandma Rosa introduced Milo to Aunt Judy's mom Isabella, whom he met at previous family parties. This party took place in a banquet room, and both Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's family congregated. That day, Salvatore was in a pretty foul mood. Eventually Uncle Georgio arrived. Aunt Judy had told him that some friends were staying at the Hotel, and were just going down to see them. During the party, Milo, Alicia, Lydia, Matt and Samanthat went out into the lobby to watch some Spongebob. Emma tried getting them back to the party, but ended up sneaking back to the party when she wasn't looking.

The next day, on Christ the King Sunday, Milo was an altar server at 11:00. Now Milo had expected to see the Jafari's, but had no such luck. The Christmas Season was nothing special. On Christmas Night, after getting home from Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's, Milo saw the Khara's had a guest at their house. That night, Milo kept going over to the door to see if they were still visiting. Ray asked why Milo was looking at the door. Matt blabbed that Milo was looking at the other driveway.

Chapter 17: The Jafari's

The Winter Storm

The lands of Spartustica and the mountains between Atlantis and Gallicanium got hit with a severe snow storm, which made these regions closed off and impossible to travel. As to where such a storm came from, this greatly mystified the Cobolds and Londinians, as they had never seen such a snow storm in this region, nor had there ever been a record of this happening.

The Doustonians were still working in the region, though they were no longer mumbling. Many within the Londinium region had become suspicious, as they knew well that the Doustonians were not happy about their community service. Irugen remembered Lymurd talking about the Doustonians up to no good.

One day while searching the Library Headquarters, Jamus came across a series known as "Atlantean dialect of Hitarian for Beginners". During this time of storms, the Cobolds made it their business to learn the Atlantean language in order to be somewhat fluent. These long hours of studying were quite wearisome. Now the Atlantean language had an identical grammar to the Sparto-Gallicanian dialect, but had so many different words utterly foreign to them, and some had completely different meanings. Much of the time, the Cobolds had been quite despairing, as the snow was quite relentless, without any forseeable future of the snow melting. Elrich and Lymurd made amends, and started studying together. Lymurd proved not to be the easiest to study with, and spent a lot of time complaining. Frankly, Lymurd did not seem to have much interest in Atlantis, or learning the dialect.

Otherwise, not much was going on in Londinium. Despite Londinium not being hit with the storm as severe, they had been unable to do much work, as it was quite frosty and sub-zero weather making outings a chore not worthwhile. Overall, the city of Londinium was under an epidemic of depression, and had ruminated that their plans they had made the year before would never be able to come to fruition. When it came to the Naifaspring sisters, Daisy was growing on Hallicia, and was willing to accept her as part of their trio. Ariella was still dating Clayton, whom Hallicia was suspicious about.

On one occasion, while Daisy was mastering her apparition skills, she accidentally ended up in a private room at a shady tavern. When Daisy heard someone coming in through the door, she hid in the wardrobe. To her surprise, Clayton was meeting with another Londinian woman. This woman was under a cloak, but Daisy recognized the accent, and knew she did not like it. This woman asked how things were going with the girl. Clayton told this woman the stupid girl doesn't suspect a thing, and thinks he lover her. This woman asks Clayton about the snooper, and Clayton tells her she was taken care of, right down the throat. Daisy became very frightened about what she heard, but knew that Hallicia was suspicious of Clayton.

After hearing this, Daisy apparated out of this inn, and ended up in a massive snow heap, quite irritated and frightened. Daisy rushed as quick as possible to the Naifaspring manor, and interrogated Ariella about Clayton. Ariella did not take this well, and accused her of listening to Hallicia, who was able to tell that she was suspicious of Clayton. Daisy explained what she heard, and her suspicions that Clayton had something to do with Shannen's death. Ariella was exasperated about such an accusation, and slapped her.

Daisy then walked off indignant, and asked Hallicia for help. Daisy explained what she overheard, and Hallicia was shocked. She knew there was something odd about Clayton, but never suspected him of murder, or cheating on Ariella. Both Hallicia and Daisy agreed to investigate this Clayton. Daisy agreed to brew a truth serum, and Hallicia agreed to keep an eye on Clayton and investigate his residency.

Back in Beaubelles, for many nights, the Cobolds and Londinians held vigil in the basement shelter of the Headquarters calling out to for deliverance from the brutal winter storms. The Cobolds and Londinians knew that they were promised an alliance with the land of Atlantis, and had called for the King in the name of the Dance to calm the powers of the frost and ice. A voice from the locked mystery chamber temporarily opened, and called "Heed the Naifasprings".

Husisha's Interpretations

The three Earthling memories in the early days of Milo and Amira's life had been transcribed onto a set of three scrolls. These Scrolls had the events that were seen recorded, and kept in the hall of Akashic records. The Jinns of the Seer order always keep an eye on the scrolls to interpret the information in accord to their specialty in prophecy.

Husisha had been looking over the third scroll of the legend in regards to the Khara's move next door to the Biancatello's. Husisha had found some disturbing information in regards of what was needed to be done, and started to understand why he had to send the O'Malley cousins to the Biancatello's for a sleepover. At this, he summoned Maelendil, Cashmir and Alexander.

Husisha explained to the trio that the Elamite Man holding a baby and the Elamite Toddler without a Beauty and the Beast Shirt need to come into the picture. Husisha explained that the weekend of the fall fest, Milo saw two families he needed to on their given days. Cashmir questioned Husisha, and he explained that the Elamite family maybe the only way to get entry into the community. Cashmir only saw this as asking for trouble, and feared that his would only create a roadblock leading to much heartache. Alexander on the other hand saw this as some competition, and saw this as making a very interesting game and stimulating challenge. Maelendil knew well that there was more Husisha knew, but could not speak of.

The Cold Semester

After Christmas, Milo started watching the Prince of Egypt, as this movie reminded him of the previous year, which he thought highly of at the time. Milo had some very mypic memories of the previous spring, and wanted to bring those days back in the worst way. Returning back to school was no treat, as all Milo's happy memories were over the Christmas season.

Otherwise, things were not exactly going great, as Grandma Rosa got sick and was in the hospital, and the prognosis had not been determined. One night, Milo had a disturbing dream about someone being burned to a crisp, and unable to survive, along with outings that took place over Christmas break. That next morning, Milo overheard Ray talking to Grandma Pearl about a tumor. Grandma Pearl came over in the morning to take Lydia to school. One night, Aunt Michelle, Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore took Milo out to wings and then to see "Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring". Frankly, Milo was not a fan of the movie, as he had no clue what was going on. Milo had never read the books before, and Aunt Michelle complained that the movies were too serious compared to the Harry Potter films. On the way home, Uncle Ottavio asked about when Grandma Rosa would be transferred the upcoming day.

That Sunday, Ray told Milo and Lydia the truth about Grandma Rosa having surgery in a few days, and that is was a very serious one. Ray also explained that the recovery would probably take a while if things turn out according to plan. On Tuesday, Grandma Rosa had surgery, which had gone successful in getting out most of the tumor.

Milo's Sunday School class had a special mass scheduled at 11am for the upcoming weekend. On Thursday, Milo had practice, as he was scheduled to be on shake of peace duty to shake hands with the cantor, organist and people in the front row. On Friday, Margaret and Milo went to the craft store to pick out some flowers for Grandma Rosa. That Sunday in church, Milo had a curiosity about the Jafari's and wanted to know what they looked like. Since Milo was going to that mass, he got the idea he would be able to find out what they looked like. At Communion, Milo saw Aunt Adrienne and got a brief look at the Jafari's, but not well enough to make any judgments. That night, Aunt Marie, Alicia, Matt and Grandpa Tony came over for dinner. Aunt Dianne stopped over, and told Milo how much Grandma Rosa liked the flowers he picked out. That night, Milo kept thinking about the Jafari's, and was happy to see them. On Martin Luther King Day, Uncle Ottavio took Salvatore and Milo to a basketball game at St. James highschool. In Elementary School, Milo was certain that this is where he wanted to go to higschool, but changed his mind after seeing the auditorium. Plus, Milo knew it was an all boys school, and had an intuition that this would be a bad road for him, with the new revelations.

As for school, it was pretty slow, as it was during the winter. Milo never saw the Khara's guests, as they were always inside due to the weather. When it came to Milo's social life, Shane told Davis that Milo liked Rokshana. Shane got the idea, as he had asked him and Steve about what he knew of Rokshana's family. Davis threatened to tell Rokshana, as he also knew Milo liked Ella also. Milo leveled with Davis, and told him about Rokshana's cousins from Fall Fest. Davis agreed, as he had seen Rokshana's cousins before, but he would only tell Milo anything if he bought him a snack at Lunch. Davis gave him the information, and threatened to blab to Rokshana if he makes any more remarks about him having anger issues.

Since the beginning of the year, Milo had been attending Youth Group under fellow charge Richard Espozito. With being at St. Timothy's Milo found out what the Catholic School crowd really was like. Frankly, they were no different than the public school crowd. The goings on in the church system were being discovered, which Milo learned were not as interesting as he thought. Milo also was learning this all while being an Altar Server. On one particular occasions, Milo noticed this dark skinned Middle Eastern girl who sort of resembled the girl from the fall fest, but strongly resembled Uncle Matt's niece Nancy from the fourth of July party. Milo had found this girl to be quite pretty, and could not wait for youth group. When some girls were talking, Milo almost blabbed that he liked Middle Eastern Girls in front of this Elamite Girl. Luckily Milo knew better. That night, Milo noticed many guests at the Khara's, and he wondered why this girl was at youth group instead of the Khara's. Milo also wondered if this girl even knew the Khara's.

Otherwise, Milo was getting annoyed with school, due to one particular teacher and the principal. The English Teacher had the students switch seats and Milo just so happened to end up over by the teacher, so he could sit next to Shane. This teacher kept an annoyingly close eye on Milo, all because he was within eye distance. This teacher would bark at Milo over stupid things, particularly if she thought he wasn't paying attention. Otherwise, the Principal Howachan would not allow students to bring anything study or non-lunch related items to lunch. As it was, Milo respected her, as she had always treated him respectfully, but thought that the rule was stupid, as he liked playing mad libs with friends at lunch. Milo often had fantasies about getting a phonecall from God commanding him to deliver the students of Ciderpond from the power of the Ciderpond school board, and raising the waters of Little Muddy Creek and walking through to freedom.

A few weeks later, Milo had a youth group event with a dino jump slide. Milo hoped that this Elamite girl would be back and was not disappointed. At the youth group event, Milo wondered if this girl was from the Jafari family, but was not so sure. Milo had noticed that this girl seemed a bit shy, compared to the other girls in youth group. At this time, Milo never even heard this girl speak.

On a few occasions, Milo went with Ray to visit Grandma Rosa in the Hospital, and then the Nursing Home when she was doing better. Milo had a bit of difficulty seeing Grandma Rosa this way, considering that his Grandparents were always active.

When it came to Spring Break, Milo had strongly anticipated this great week full of fun activities and being free from school. Milo had this fantasy about going to the zoo, which reminded him of the Spring Break from three years previous. Milo was still thinking about Liliana, and those three weeks also. Milo still had no clue why he was having these flashbacks, but they gave him such an unexplainable bliss. Milo found out a few weeks before break that both the Rumcorns and the O'Malleys would be in for the week of Spring Break. Milo's patience with Davis was waning, as he would get Shane on his side, and turn him against Milo. The only way that Shane would get back on Milo's side is if he made cracks about Davis' anger issues. In social studies one day, Milo doodled a picture of Davis having a temper tantrum, where his eyebrows were downwar, teeth clenched, smoke coming out of his ears and had a haircut that looked like a Dairy Queen single scoop. Davis got pretty angry about this, and told Rokshana about Milo having a crush on her cousins. Rokshana was a bit creeped out, as she had no clue how Milo would even know about her cousins.

The Great Melting

As it came to pass, the Seer Durnil appeared with glorious tidings to the Cobolds to acknowledge their sacrifice and discipline in learning the culture and language of the Atlanteans. Durnil had foretold that their days of allegiances were near at hand, when the walls of separation would melt away with the dawn of the spring. Durnil spoke in a grim way of a great payoff this sacrifice would have, not just now, but in the future, when such alliances would be utterly essential.

Soon enough, Hallicia got some information on Clayton, and found out that he had this strange potion. Hallicia discreetly froze Clayton, and broke into his house for a search and found these potions. By this time, Daisy long had completed the truth serum. Hallicia gave this potion to an alchemist, who identified this as a potion that could change one's appeaerance. Hallicia knew straight away that Clayton was no who he said he was, and maybe someone very dangerous. Hallicia confronted Ariella about Clayton, and she accused her of being jealous. Hallicia was in no way jealous, as she was in a relationship with Junous. Daisy explained that it was too late, and Clayton was on his way for a date she setup. Ariella was utterly scandalized, and wanted to hurt them. Clayton showed up, and Hallicia froze him. Daisy poured the serum down his throat. Hallicia unfroze him, and he got a bit confused. Daisy sat him down and interrogated him.

Daisy first asked Clayton who he was. Clayton explained that he was Pusperium of the Maludico order. Hallicia explains that she knows he has been taking a potion to change his appearance, and Clayton confirms this is so. Ariella crushed demands to know what the real story is. Pusperium tells the story as follows: He was the spokesman for the Troll Offsprings. The Trolls are of the Jinn order, and had the means to claim the mountains, and no one else owned them, and were the rightful owners. The trolls had been under a covenant to not conquer Londinium, despite being Jinn, gave them entitlements over the ambitions of the Mistivants. The Doustonians had long worked as dutiful slaves to the Trolls, until the meddlesome Cobolds refused to know their place, and had to drive out their superiors all because they did not like the trolls refusing to let them cross into Atlantis, and refused to accept their rules. Pusperium tells how he had seen what had come, and came down to Kebsuda to set things back to their proper order. Pusperium then explains that the Doustonians had been punished by that meddlesome Daxividus, and were forced to act as slaves to the disobedient Londinians and Cobolds. Pusperium tells of how he released the Doustonians from their bondage, and showed them how to make use of the little magic they had before Daxividus stole their source of power. He then taught them how to make a long lasting snow storm, so those insolent Cobolds could not return to their precious home, or go sticking their nose in the business of foreign societies. Pusperium explains that he knew some benefit would come if he could trick that man crazy bimbo Ariella, and weasel his way into the brat sisters. Ariella looked utterly devastated, and Hallicia looked ready to slap Pusperium.

Daisy asks how Shannen was killed. Pusperium explains that Shannen had stupidly stuck her nose in his business, and followed him back to interrogate him, thinking he could be knocked down by a petty wind. As soon as Shannen interrogated him, Pusperium sliced her throat, as he could not risk someone knowing why he was really dating the bimbo. Ariella was both devastated and utterly angry. Pusperium explained that the traitor Lymurd deserted the Doustonians when he was too much of a coward to send the ice storm, and went running back to Elrich. At this, a light emitted from Hallicia, Ariella and Daisy. Hallicia froze Pusperium, took him outside, and Ariella used her fire power to send Pusperium out of Kebsuda, and back to the realm of the Jinns. The Doustonians surrounded saw Pusperium rocket out of Kebsuda, and fled to the desert, therefore breaking the winter spell.

The day came where the ice in the mountain and Spartustica had melted away. The aftermath of the great melt was that the mountains and Spartustica had become quite flooded. There was a great effort by the Londinians, Cobolds and even some Atlanteans beyond the mountains to clean up the flood. The Cobolds had been able to communicate better with the Atlanteans than they knew the dialect, but did not understand their culture enough to know their culture and customs.

St. Patricks Day Mass

One Sunday in Church, Milo and Ray went separately, as Lydia was sick and Margaret had to stay home to care for her. At that mass, there was a vision of a heroine, who had just been ripped out of the rest of the dead into the land of war. During this time, the heroine is greatly depressed and gets into an affair with a tamed monster. This Hero's witch friend takes her powers too far and delves into the occult. The witche's girlfriend breaks up after this obsession with domination. Meanwhile, the two are being hunted by a band of misogynists who treat women as objects. The hero knows they killed a girl who would not submit to his misogyny, and threatens to expose them. The leader of the band shoots the hero and unintentionally kills the witches girlfriend. The witch goes to the library, sucks in occult knowledge, and cures the hero. Then the Witch grieved over what happens casts a spell on the murderer, causing his skin to be ripped off. Then this witch begins her reign of terror until confronted by an old friend. He shows the witch love, and recounts all their happiest memories with friends, which causes her to relent.

By this time, Grandma Rosa was well enough to recover in a nursing home. One day while Milo and Ray were visiting, Uncle Victor stopped in for a visit. That night, Margaret rented the movie "Wedding Planner" with Jennifer Lopez. One Friday later, Milo caught Davis eating a Hot Dog, which had been a Friday of Lent. Now Davis has a "More catholic than the Pope" attitude about acts of piety, such as being against missing church for any reason, even if one is sick, keeps extra-pious laws to the very letter, and treats certain feasts that are not Holy day of obligations as so. Milo knowing Davis' self righteous piety calls him out on his hypocrisy, and points out that he is eating a hot dog on a Lenten Friday. Davis screams Milo's name and does a pouting circle around the Cafeteria. Then Davis sits down and tells Milo that the fasting rules do not apply to him yet, as he is not fourteen till the next year. That night, there is a school dance, where Davis is still acting up, and acts like a bully making violent threats. At the dance, Davis is turned down by a girl, and he sits on a bleacher pouting. Shane tells Milo that Davis is in a bad mood, and to be careful. Milo then pretends to take a picture of Davis, much to Shane's humor.

That weekend, Ray and Milo go to pick up Lydia from the facility where his summer camp was held the previous year. Frankly, Milo felt like he had lost complete interest in the events from the summer, and the memories were honestly bland.

On the night before St. Patrick's Day, Milo dreamed of seeing a dark skinned family in church, and woke up thinking that this would not ever happen. As it was, the Biancatello's attended the early mass at St. Timothy's, which was attended primarily by older people. The custom was to go to mass, get a quick breakfast and go to Sunday School. That particular mass would be quite out of the ordinary. As the family walked in church and Milo noticed a dark haired family and walked by to recognize this mystery Elamite girl from Youth Group as one of the daughters of the Jafari's.

As soon as Milo recognized, this girl, whose name is Minu, he went into shock and ran over to where Aunt Marie and Grandpa Tony were sitting. Grandma Rosa was still in a nursing home still in recovery, and Aunt Marie had spent much time in Ciderpond. This mass had been particularly triumphant and completely unexpected. The opening hymn was "The Glory of these Forty Days", which is a hymn retelling the history of the Prophets Moses, Elijah, Daniel and John the Baptist, preceeding Jesus who fasted during their ministry. The version used at mass was the same melody used for the hymn based on Psalm 100 known as "All People that on Earth do dwell".

In Church, there was a great vision of propets Moses, Elijah, Daniel and John the Baptist standing around the throne of the Christ after a long fast. Moses spoke of the great awakening of such joy and childlike optimism when the new day began at the dawn of the new School year. Moses recounted the day when the fears of death were dissolved, and a new day of foundations had been completed when Milo encountered the Pashtun Community. Elijah spoke of the end of the days of labor, where faithful longing well endured with much strength when the Holidays ended. Elijah recalled how much suffering with sickness in the family, a cold dreary winter, disconnection from the community and social competition had been well endured. Daniel spoke of the dawn of the the return home, full of welcome and unconditional love, where the kindness would be revealed. Daniel referred to being liberated from the power of the Lion, and delivered from hardship to a new day of resurrection. John the Baptist foretold the coming days of sleep, where contentment in a time of healing was would come again. John the Baptist spoke of a day when the call to change would come, where there will be a division at the hands of a reptilian, who will pave the way for something unbearably great.

This had been the great glory of the fast declared in the hymn. The Ending hymn was "Lord of all Hopefulness", which is a popular hymn for St. Patricks day, as the melody to the hymn is an Irish folk song written near Slane Hill, where St. Patrick defied King Loegaire and lit the Easter Fire. This led to the legalization of Christianity in Ireland.

Husisha and Maelendils argument

What Cashmir had feared came to pass. At this, Cashmir started expressing his misgivings about Husisha. Cashmir told Maelendil that he thinks Husisha that bringing Minu into the picture was utterly irresponsible. Cashmir's reasoning was that Milo had not seen Amira in months, was a thirteen year old boy, Minu slightly resembled Amira, and that Minu was easier access on religious and residential grounds.

Maelendil told Cashmir that he did not like this situation anymore, and had all the same concerns. Maelendil then reaffirmed that he trusted Husisha, even if his ways were not so predictable. Maelendil explained that there is so much that cannot be understood, and trying to push for this predictable path is not the most humane. At this, Cashmir agreed to allow this to happen, even if this really pained him. Alexander gives his stance, and explains that a good story always needs a little mystery.

The Last Week and Spring Break

Milo decided to go through the Church book and figured out that the daughter he had his eyes on name as Minu, and a grade ahead of him at St. Timothy's. Minu's older sisters names are Parvaneh and Sanaz, and her younger sister is Nousha. He then checked the church directory and found out they lived in a neighborhood behind his house.

One morning, Milo saw a news report of elder abuse at Nursing Homes. Milo asked Ray about if this would happen at where Grandma Rosa was at. Ray explained that this usually happens with long term residents with Dementia. That evening, Ray took Milo and Lydia for a visit to the Nursing Home. Milo felt a little uneasy about being in a Nursing home after what he saw that morning. On the way to the Home, Milo saw Mr. Jafari walking with Minu and Nousha. Milo then got this idea that he had to take a walk up into the neighborhood ASAP.

That night, Milo had a rough night of sleep, thinking about Ella, the mystery girl from Fall Fest, and Minu. Milo remembered one time getting freaked out when Ella was not at lunch and Shane told him it was not the end of the World. Milo then remembered a Muppet Babies episode of nearly sailing off the edge of the world, and encountering sea monsters.

That Friday was the last day before school got out. On a snowy day after being let out of school for Spring Break, Milo saw Davis in the car with his dad, and had a great scowl on his face. Milo decided to wave to Davis. decided to trek the weather and walk up to the Jafari's neighborhood and find out where they lived. Of course they were not outside, as the weather would be unreasonably cold to walk in let alone go outside. That night while at Dairy Queen after bowling with his family, Milo had a flashback to Bens Graduation Party.

Milo then remembered at Ben and Rob's Graduation party, how one of his younger cousins put in Ben's first communion video. Milo had remembered that Parvaneh was in the video, which he knew about for a long time, but never thought anything of it when he saw the video. After this, Milo started to constantly have flashbacks to the end of Fifth Grade and that summer after graduation. Then Milo no longer had anymore bitterness with Emma, as he still had some grudges with her over the previous summer. Milo also was looking forward to seeing Mike over spring break, or at least Easter.

This spring break turned out similar to the spring break three years ago, when Dudlechip ended, but this time was thinking all about Minu, and wanted to see her in the worst way. On Saturday, Ray had Milo shovel the sidewalk, as the Rumcorns would soon be arriving. Milo hoped that some guests would show up to the Khara's. Milo had no such luck. That night, Milo watched the "Leave it to beaver" Movie, which had him thinking more about Minu. On Palm Sunday, Milo brought his CD player on the way to Church to listen to prince of Egypt music, and ready to see the Jafari's. As it was, the Jafari's were not at Mass at the time the Biancatello's were. Milo had been unpleasantly surprised, but got over it pretty quickly. The opening hymn was "The King of Glory", and the ending hymn was "All Glory Laud and Honor".

As it was, the weather was just not permitting, and it was always snowy. Plus, Milo was not doing all the fun things he had hoped to do while being off. For the first two days, Kyle, Kevin and Bruce stayed with them, which had not proven to be much fun. Milo had youth group on Monday Night, but Minu had not been there.

Milo took a walk up to the jafari's neighborhood on Wednesday, and saw Mr. Jafari coming home. On Thursday, Milo went bowling with the O'Malleys, but kept having flashbacks to Friday, when he remembered that Ben knew the Jafari's. That night, Ray took Milo and Matt to see Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone, which was much to his pleasure. By this time, Milo had been fully embracing his flashbacks to fifth grade, including the Harry Potter series. A few days ago, Milo had told Matt about Minu, and on the way to the movies, Matt blabbed to Ray about this. Milo just said he was kidding about this whole thing.

On Easter Saturday, Milo was in a massive funk, as the vacation was nearly over, and had been quite a dull week. That night, the Rumcorns came over for dinner, which slightly cheered Milo up. Yet Milo had a bit of a hard time getting to sleep, as he remembered the beginning of Spring Break, and how he had not seen Minu once. On Easter, Milo was the altar server at mass. Milo got a little confused, and walked the wrong way around the Choir and Organ. The Lector and Fr. Sorbiewski all looked confused. That afternoon at Easter Dinner, Milo asked Ben if he knew Parvaneh, but never explained why, and just told him that he had seen her sister in youth group.

The Dedication of the Temple Complex

The Demuzidean and Enanian temple complex were soon to be dedicated, as the right time was at hand. There had been a great struggle between Polyphanes and Purpalbus, and their disciples. Polyphanes has tended to attract a more conservative following who preferred to preserve their own traditions and keep loyalty to their own people, while Purpalbus tended to attract a more liberal following, who preferred new experiences and diversity.

The Alument Mother Earth announced her coming, as the pyramid in the Demuzidean Temple displayed the silhouette of the earth with its continents. Those summoned for attendance were Maelendil with his magnus' Cashmir and Alexander, Marronatta with his magnus Ouranos and Solum, the Satyasha matriarch Ahamkara and her offspring Skeeter and Vulterian, the seers Husisha, Daxividus, Azeyas, Yuriyama, Darnil, Annogrammatronites Susan of the Third Order, Billius of the Eighth Order, Kabira of the Ninth Order, and Merriwhether of the Seventh Order.

Mother Earth arrived right on time, and all the jinns bowed as they had when Father Time had appeared. Mother Earth raised her right hand, to which Cashmir, Ouranos, Vulterian, Daxividus, Yuriyama, Susan and Kabira all rose to the occasion and followed her gesture to the Demuzidean temple gates with Polyphanes. Then Mother Earth raised her left hand, to which Alexander, Solum, Skeeter, Husisha, Azeyas, Billius, and Merriwhether followed her to the Enanian Temple gates with Purpalbus. Mother Earth's last gesture was to raise her hand, at which Maelendil, Marronatta, Ahamkara and Durnil went over to the region between the two temples. Mother Earth gifted those in front of the Demuzidean Temple with a goblet and told them to keep the rituals. Then Mother Earth gifted those in front of the Enanian Temple a wooden staff and told them to keep the stories. The last act of Mother Earth was giving those between the temples their own shofars and told them to spread their word throughout the earth. Then Mother Earth gifted the temple with large sapphire globe with jade stones. Regions in trouble would glow brightly.

The End of Strife

With the upcoming spring, and a plan, the days of spring had begun, and Milo finally had a plan. By this time, Grandma Rosa was doing better and back home. The Ciderpond students were back in school from Spring Break. Frankly, returning had not been so bad, as the weather was nicer.

Milo started having constant flashbacks to Second and Fifth Grade, and began to get into Church again. Having seen the Jafari's in Church that St. Patrick's Day sparked Milo's enjoyment of the Liturgy. Milo had hoped that the Jafari's would start attending the early Mass that Milo's family attended, but no such luck. Milo had not told his family about Minu, or even the girl from Fall Fest.

That Friday night, Lydia had her birthday party, while Milo, Eustace, Ray and Uncle Leo went bowling. Milo saw his friend Shawn at the Bowling Alley. Shawn had been a semi member of his social group, but only liked Milo, tolerated Shane and was not a fan of Steve or Davis. Afer Bowling, Milo and Ray went back to Uncle Leo's for ice cream. Milo found one of Sylvesters musical storybooks, which was Christmas in theme. Milo felt this sudden appreciation for Christmas he had not had since sixth grade. The previous Christmas, Milo was sort of a Grinch with little Christmas spirit. When Milo returned home, he saw the Khara's had a guest over. Milo just stared at the Khara's driveway, waiting to see who was visiting, and suspected it was the Jafari's, as he knew what their car looked like. No one suspected, as Milo just explained that he was bored, and did not want to disrupt Lydia's party.

On the first Sunday of Easter, the offertory hymn was the great victory song "The Strife is O'er", which seemed to be a fairly consistend theme with Milo's important Easter's. Milo sat with Grandpa Tony, as Grandma Rosa was still not well enough to go to church. During Church there was a great vision, where a battle in the bowls of hell was started when the triumphant Christ tasted the sting of death and entered into the netherworld. At once, the gates of hell crumbled, and the legions of death were scattered. Then the prisoners of the ancient tyrant had been freed. Then the Lord burst out of the grave in triumph on the third day in eternal victory.

That Afternoon, Lydia had her Birthday Party at Grandpa Tony's and Grandma Rosa's, in which the whole family attended, including Grandma Pearl. Milo told Emma about Lydia's party, and how he went bowling. Emma asked what he did the rest of the night, and Milo told her he stared at his neighbor's house. Lydia overheard this. So far, the Easter Season was going quite well.

One Thursday, Milo found a Church Music website he used to visit a lot two summer's ago. This was one of the websites Milo liked to visit when Emma was babysitting two years back. That night, Milo had a flashback to Lydia's first communion, when the new organist Jorge started, and the sprinkling rite hymn "The Water I give". Milo remembered how he had gotten so sick when he found out Tom left, and how guilty he felt about not giving Margaret a proper goodbye out of fear of a new organist.

That Friday, when going for a walk, Milo spotted Minu and Nousha outside with her mother. The Girls were doing some gardening, and noticed them looking at him. They recognized Milo from St. Timothy's. Milo chickened out from speaking to Minu, but considered seeing the girls a success. When Milo got home, he started playing Mario Party II, which as we recall, he had played the summer two years ago when he saw Parvaneh's Communion video.

That weekend, Milo found a Midi file online of the hymn "At that first Eucharist" from the same Church Music website. This was the opening hymn on Ben and Robs first communion video, in which Milo remembered seeing Parvaneh filmed in. At this time, Milo started learning all the mysteries of Church music, and in particular that melodies are named and can be used for different hymns. Milo had some idea of this, as he noticed that the hymns "Love Divine, All Love's excelling" and "Alleluia Sing to Jesus" had the same melody known as Hyfrydrol.

On that Monday, the William Jettson Drama team held an ancient Egyptian themed play of these archaeologists investigating a cursed tomb. That evening, Milo had a youth group meeting, and asked for a petition for safe travels in regards to tomorrow's field trip out of town.

One day later, Milo's class was scheduled to go on an all day field trip out of town to a working farm re-enacting colonial life. Like Milo's Fifth Grade class trip, Margaret volunteered to chaperone. Rokshana's mom was also a chaperone on the trip, along with Ella's dad. On the way to the classroom, Margaret noticed the former St. Timothy's pastor working as a teacher at school, but no longer a priest.

This trip began to remind Milo of his Fifth Grade trip to Toledo two years ago. On the bus, Milo sat with Shane, and was listening to his Prince of Egypt CD, which had some otherworldy appeal to him he could never understand. At the farm, there was a creepy redneck guy giving metalworking demonstrations. He reprimanded two of the Kids, which Margaret thought was inappropriate for a tour guide. Then the students were taken to a glass blowing demonstration. Then the students were taken to a sheep herder, a revival church, and a 19th century doctors office replica. Milo had a flashback to the Science center gift shop after arriving at the farms gift shop. Milo then started thinking about Lydia's first communion, and his own trip to the Toledo Aquarium.

On the way back, the bus dropped the students off at a local mall for dinner in the food court. This is when a majestic experience happened. Milo and Margaret picked a steak sandwich restaurant. At that time, Milo developed a fascination with Mall Food courts, which he remembered from the New Seneca Mall he visited a year previous with Ray and Lydia before arriving at the O'Malley's. Steve joined Milo and Margaret's table, and Milo showed Margaret who Ella was. Steve told Margaret Ella was ugly, just to be a pain, and Margaret told Steve she was adorable. Milo then had some very intense flashbacks to the previous three years. Milo had remembered the previous year, when he first had a crush on Ella, when she returned him some notecards he dropped. Plus, Milo remembered his trip to the New Seneca Mall Food Court. Then Milo remembered fifth grade, when he saw Robs communion video and therefore the Jafari's, his Fifth Grade Class trip to the Toledo Imagination Station, Zoo and Aquarium. The final was that Milo remembered fourth grade, and some random event over Holy week Spring break, but he could not explain, and going out to dinner a week before Margaret left for her florida business trip. Milo thought that the memory of fourth grade was just because Lydia had been in that grade that year.

On the way home, Margaret talked with the former Pastor, Fr. Chet. Fr. Chet asked about Grandma Rosa, as he knew a family member was sick. Milo remembered how Mr. Chet had presided at Lydia's first communion two years ago, before his mysterious disappearance. On the way home, Milo overheard Tzappora telling Rokshana that these busses remind her of Airplanes. Milo was still listening to his "Prince of Egypt" CD, while still being entranced. Then the busses parked at St. Timothy's, as there was an event for the Sixth graders back at William Jettsons, and parking was unavailable.

The Next day, Milo was in a grouchy mood, as the day before on a field trip had been utterly exhiliarating, compared to being back to mundane lessons. Plus, Milo had a science test that day, much to Margaret's annoyance. This teacher only did it just because he could. This teacher had been a goof-ball, who liked to do stupid things, like showing off having authority.

That night, Milo came out of the closet and admitted to his parents that he liked Minu, and indirectly admitted he liked Amira. Milo asked Ray if they had to attend any communion party's that year. Ray mentioned Navid's upcoming graduation party, and seeing Minu. Then Ray asked if Minu was real, and who she really was. Thus, Milo revealed that Minu was from the Middle Eastern family from St. Timothy's. Ray knew exactly who Milo was referring to, as he recalled four girls, and the father looking sort of like Maziyar. Milo had feared how his family would react. As it is, they are a tolerant family, and by no means racist. But they knew a different culture would be difficult, and may not approve of a romantic relationship. As it was, they were fine with it to Milo's relief. Then Milo admitted that he first noticed these girls at Maziyar's Fiftieth birthday party and Fall Festival. Milo was not going to admit that he first noticed the girls at a Funeral. In School the next day, Milo's English class reads the story of Icarus. Milo remembered this story from the museum in Indianapolis when he visited two years ago.

That Saturday Night, the Khara's had guests over, and Milo had suspected one of the cars was the Jafari's. That night, Alicia, Matt and Lily spent the night, as Aunt Marie did not want too many people over at Grandma and Grandpa's at this time. Milo was not sure if the Khara's even knew the Jafari's, as he had never seen them over their house in all the years. Ray suspected that the religious differences were the reasons why.

At another get together at Grandma Rosa's and Grandpa Tony's the next day, Milo admitted to Mike that he liked Parvaneh's younger sister Minu. Rob started talking about how Parvaneh never said anything the whole time they were at St. Timothy's. Word got to Grandma Rosa, and she credited Milo for not being racist. Just a year ago, Milo had told Grandma and Grandpa that he would only marry a Catholic girl. Technically this was true with the Jafari's. This would be Margarets last night in Ciderpond for two weeks, as she was going back to Tampa for her annual business trip. That night, Milo saw on Television a creepy movie starting off with a man driving on a dark night getting a phone call. Then the scene changed to an elderly woman rushed to the Hospital, and the father and son sent into the waiting room. The father said the old lady was fine earlier. Then the scene shows a boy getting dropped off at school, and his mother hugging him goodbye.

That morning Margaret left bright and early. This had been a fairly good day for Milo, despite Margaret leaving. During that afternoon, Milo got to talk to Ella, as she was showing a presentation for her colonial project. Milo had just completed a ship project. After school, Milo had to stay a little later, as he had to wait for Hazelnut forest to get out. Milo had to wait for Lydia, and walk her over to Aunt Michelles. While waiting, Milo saw Rokshana's mom walking in school with Minu and Nousha. Then the three of them walked out with Rokshana. This put Milo in an outright good mood for the rest of the evening.

Yuriyama's visit to the Cobolds

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds enjoyed having their acces back to Spartustica, and enjoyed having back their views from the bridge. Unfortunately, one day a great frost came and made the mountains and cliffs off limits again. The Cobolds had been quite distraught over this, and felt like the days of freedom just came back, and moaned about why a frost had returned.

A Few days later, the seer Yuriyama showed up. If there is any seer no one looks forward to seeing, it is Yuriyama. It's not that people don't like him, but that his messages are always warnings of doom. The Cobolds became very dreadful when Yuriyama came to them. Yuriyama explained that he brought the frost to show them what could happen if alliances are not made soon. Yuriyama shared the following vision:

There was a shepherd with his flock completely gathered in one place, but with no time to start again. Several wolves had invaded the flock, and different sheep ran into different locations to hide from the Wolves, and ended up getting lost from the shepherd. When the Wolves subsided, the sheeps started forming their own clans and customs. This began to create tension and conflict, as they did not understand eachother's communication. Many sheep had bleated throughout the horizon to find their shepherd, in hopes of ending these divisions. They had bleated for the shepherd to find the sheep and bring them back to the fold, and the vision ended without resolution.

The Cobolds had an idea of what this meant, and asked Yuriyama what the point of this vision. Yuriyama explained that they can prepare, and advised them to start making alliances right now. At this, the Cobolds requested a meeting in the Basement Shelter that they had gathered at so long ago when the floods came. At this meeting, they had a great feast, and preserved their unity, after vowing to boldly go forward with their alliances.
Chapter 18: The Unified Summer

As it came to pass, the 2001/02 school year came to its inevitable end. Over the last days of the school year, Milo took frequent walks over to the Jafari's with no such luck. On the last day of school, the school year video was released, known as "Friends Forever", which had the Graduation song by Vitamin C. Milo had remembered when the song came out two years previous, which goes back to seeing Ben's communion video. This song is based on Pachelbel's Canon commonly used at weddings. As for last days of school, this had not been so bad. Before school ended, Milo heard Dudley singing "No more Hubris, no more Cable". What that meant, Milo did not understand. That year, Milo had not really much to do with Dudley, as he ditched his and Shane's social group. Davis did not take well to this, and considered Dudley a traitor.

The night after School got out, the Biancatello's went out for wings. Milo had not been to this place since the day after Thanksgiving two years ago with the Rumcorns. Milo wanted to go to Eat-n-Park, as that's where Margaret took he and Lydia when he graduated Fifth Grade. On the first day of Summer Vacation, in the Evening, Margaret took Milo and Lydia to the toy store to buy a present for completing the school year. Milo bought the Third Mario Party that night. This game reminded Milo of the first time he played the Second Mario Party for the first time two years ago.

By this time, Minu had graduated St. Timothy's elementary and about to start Highschool, to where Milo had no knowledge. He presumed she would go off to a Catholic Highschool. As it will soon be revealed, this is far from the case. Amira was finished with her first year of Middle School at pecan Meadows.

On Friday, Milo and Lydia spent the day at Aunt Janes. Margaret had them stocked up with Mickey Mouse themed drink boxes. In the afternoon, Milo played a Disney paint game that he remembered playing two summers ago. This game had animated setups, with different scenes and music. That night, Aunt Jane said that she had met Mrs. Jafari, as she owned her own business, and made some contributions to the St. Timothy's PTA.

On the day before the school Picnic, Milo took Jinny for a walk in the Jafari's neighborhood, and with no such luck. Some little kids who had recognized Milo asked if he was up to anything. These kids knew the Jafari's, and had been babysat by Rokshana. How they knew of Milo having a reason for being in the neighborhood, he did not know. Milo had just ignored these kids. That evening, Milo watched Harry Potter and the Sorcerers stone, and was taken aback by Snape mentioning the kids being up to something. Milo found this highly cryptic, in remembering what those kids knew. In the Sorcerers stone, Harry got the sense that Snape could read his mind, which Milo suspected those kids could do in the Jafari's neighborhood.

As for school picnics, this had been unmemorable. This year, Hazelnut Forest, Kinsale and William Jettson had their school picnics the same day, so Milo and Lydia did not have to decide who's they would go to. Salvatore had not been able to go, as he had another basketball camp. When it came to Salvatore, it almost seemed like sports took over his life, and Milo had some sense that he was connected to some power that purposely arranged events to occur in a way where sports always overlapped with other activities in an unbalanced way. Milo saw Ella at Soak town, much to his pleasure, and talked to her for a little. After getting back to the park, Milo came across Shane, but he ditched him after a ride in order to hang with another friend. This was the same Shane who got mad when his friend Josh wanted to go on some rides with a girl two school picnics ago. Milo had a silent falling out with Shane after Margaret said that Shane was not a good friend. Margaret had been saying this for years, but Milo had a hard time hearing it from someone else, and needed to see it for himself. After that, Milo was utterly sick of Shane, as he knew well that he was the type of friend who could switch sides based on who entertained him, and he only was friends based on his personal mood. Some days, he would be easy going and fun loving, and the next he could be an uptight jerk who attacked his friends due to their flaws. After that, Milo knew he deserved better than a convenience friend. This is often times the way the over-friendly behave, where they can go on extreme highs or extreme lows in an unpredictable way, easily turning people off. Steve had not been at the picnic that year, which Milo did not care about. When it came to Steve, he did not like Milo's old crush Ellen, despite not being interested in her any more.

The Cobolds Alliances with Atlantis

The Cobolds had a shaky start in making alliances with the Atlanteans, as they still had a very limited understanding of their customs, and were a people hard to find. By this time, the second mild freeze from Yuriyama ended. Often times, the Cobolds hiked through the mountains, as they knew the Atlanteans had recently set up vacation cave houses in the mountains where they would go frequently for retreat. Their main city of Atlantica was very hard to get into, and was fortified and did not allow foreigners in. The only way one could get in was through the main palace. So the Cobolds had to rely on the Atlanteans being on vacations in order to communicate. In the early days of their missions, the Atlanteans were very rarely visiting the mountains, much to the Cobolds annoyances, as weather still had not permitted, and the houses were not finished quite yet. Then one day, one of the Cobolds had spotted some Atlanteans, and started to speak with them. As it was, they were able to communicate a little bit, as they knew the dialects. Elrich told the Atlantean how nice this place was, and should tell his friends about this place. Lymurd had little interest in joining Elrich, and had been in a frosty clash. Frankly, Lymurd had no interest in Atlantis, and considered the Cobolds having no business interfering with their culture.

In other news, the Pedmontus cliffs were deemed safe to travel, therefore making travel to Spartustica and their home gardens possible again. Then the Cobolds realized that they could travel into the Atlantis region through the bridge that went from the Gardens to the Temple District. The new plan arranged was for one half of the Forester Clan of Cobolds to interact with the Atlanteans through the mountains, while the other half was to interact through the Atlantis Temple District. The Temple is in a temple city located outside of Atlantis. As the season drew on, more Atlanteans visited the mountains, and communications between the two had greatly progressed. When it came to the temple city, the Cobolds went down into the region once in a while, but still believed the temple was part of Atlantica, and stayed in the outskirts near the bridge. On many occasions, the Cobolds told the Atlanteans whom they came in contact with that they were always welcomed to visit their gardens.

Navid's Graduation Party

The day after the School picnic, Milo knew well that Navid's graduation party would be coming up real soon. Milo was excited in hopes of seeing the girl from Fall Fest, Minu and some other exotic girls. This party would be Milo's glory. Plus he would get to eat some Middle Eastern food again after being deprived of the food for so long.

On the Wednesday before the party, Milo had gone for another walk to the Jafari's. Milo saw Minu out, and became quite frozen, as he was planning on talking to her. Before mustering the courage to say anything, Milo heard Mrs. Jafari ask him from a second story window if he goes to St. Timothy's. Milo explained that he did, and said that she had seen him in Church before. That night, Milo watched some old Simpson's episodes, including "Call of the Simpsons". Then the next day, Milo, Ray and Lydia went for a bike ride in a historic town not too far from Drakes Forest. Milo remembered going to this bike trail two summers ago, before the Fourth of July. Milo remembered around this time his orientalist tendencies to be instigated after seeing a "Wild Thornberrys" that took place in India.

This is how the party took place. It had been a cold and unpleasantly rainy day. The prospects of the party did not look too great. However Milo was optimistic and took a nice long shower with several body washes in hopes of impressing these girls. Milo and his family arrived at the party as one of the few Europeans at the party. The party was confined to the garage due to the rain. Rokshana and her family arrived soon enough, and she and Milo said hi. Later on at the party, Rokshana found this mystery girl known as Amira. Milo immediately recognized her from Fall fest. Unfortunately Milo was not thinking as much about Amira with Minu dominating his mind. The next people Milo was waiting on were the Jafari's. Frankly Milo did not even know if the Khara's knew the Jafari's as they had never seen them over their house. But Milo knew well that Rokshana was close with the Jafari's, if her mom picked them up from school. Milo then suspected the Jafari's were also cousins to Rokshana. By now, Milo figured out that Rokshana and Amira were in no way related, as they looked nothing alike. Now Milo did think that Rokshana resembled the Jafari's. Unfortunately the Jafari's never showed up, and Rokshana and Amira went in the house, as it was too rainy. Milo was stuck under a canopy with his neighbors on the other side. So this party was a pretty disappointing experience for poor Milo. Foodwise, Milo enjoyed the food served. Milo got something known as a Chicken Koresht in a yogurt sauce, some bread, rice, and some chickpea side dish. Margaret still was not a fan of the food, as she never liked Middle Eastern, South Asian or north African food. Margaret did not like the mix of dessert spices like Cinnamon, ginger, Cardamon, nutmeg and cloves mixed with savory spices like Cumin, Coriander and garlic used in main dishes.

After this party, Milo fell asleep from being too bummed out. Milo could not believe he lost his chance, and wondered if he would see Amira or the Jafari's this summer. Milo did not know how wrong his doubts were. Eventually Milo woke up and found Billy Madison on. Being fairly groggy, Milo became easily humored by a scene "O'Doyle Rules" when they slip on a Banana peel and fall off the cliff.

The First Enanian Rite

This is the account of the first of a set of three rites in the Enanian Temple. The scroll in the temple requested the rite of protection from the Archon known as Galtron. An Archon is a fallen creature's of the same level as these mysterious being known as Guardians. Galtron is said to be the king of the tyrants, and keeps an eye out for one who will meet the tyrants match. The first thing that Galtron does is informs the tyrant of their challenger, and instructs him to commit mass murder. When this does not work, Galtron attempts to tempt the match into going on the road of power, particularly when they are in vulnerable situations. At the end, the Galtron attempts to destroy the challenger, and corners them in a situation that they have to either call on a greater power or give into the tyrants.

The first part of the rite that occurred was the rite of rememberance, in which the jinns light candles in memory of those, often infants who had been victims of the tyrant's wrath. The second part of the right was the rite of purification, in which the Jinns spend a period of time in silence, while monstrous creatures are released. The final part of the rite is known as the rite of Victory, in which they sing song of joy, retelling past victories over the powers.

After the rite, Maelendil started to see his burden etched in the very rites. Maelendil recognized how the rites had been a spot on overview of what had happened by some strange force over his charges life that occurred every three years. Maelendil remembered how this was first enacted when three years earlier, the Liturgy had been setup to prepare the charge to face his fear, and further efforts to break the spell in going to that foreign school. Maelendil saw how his charge went through quite a similar battle three years later, just that previous school year, which ended in a great victory. Maelendil foresaw this battle would be re-enacted in a similar fahion, and summoned Alexander and Cashmir to make preparations. Cashmir was given the task to tell the stories of the laws, while Alexander was given the task to tell the stories of the Liberation.

Milo's Musical interests

On Monday morning, Milo had started back at the Camp from the previous year. This year, the camp had not been so much fun. As it was, they had limited resources, and the place they used that year was a hot church building with no air conditioning. The original headquarters were being renovated. After the previous school year, Milo had more particular interests than when he had gone to the camp the previous year. At this time, Milo started to recognize his interest in sacred music. The first hymn Milo found was a haunting Medieval carol known as "The Coventry Carol", which is an old English Mystery play retelling Herods fear of the newborn King of the Jews, and his slaughter of the Holy Innocents from the mothers perspective.

The weekend after Navids graduation party, Milo, Lydia and Margaret went to their other neighbor's daughter's graduation party, which the Khara's were present at. Ray was on a golf trip with his friends. Maziyar asked Milo if he had a girlfriend, and Margaret explained to him and Kamaria that Milo liked Middle Eastern Girls. Lydia mentions Milo liking Minu Jafari in particular. Maziyar explained he knew Minu and the Jafari families, but their family had not gone to too many functions. The new revelation is that the Jafaris are good friends with Rokshana's family, and had come from the region of Iran where a significant Elamite population resides. Milo had gotten some other good news when Kamaria explained that all the Jafari Girls went to Ciderpond high.

That evening, Aunt Marie came in town with Alicia, Matt and Lily, as Grandma Rosa was having a rough day. By this time, Grandma Rosa was not getting any better, was losing more mobility and confined to a wheelchair. The next day, Milo had a beach scavenger hunt with Richard Espozito's youth group, and had to leave his camp a little early. After the game, Richard did a cookout, and the group got their picture taken. One night later, Ray arrived home from his Golf trip, and Milo told him everything Maziyar said. By this time, Ray was getting more okay with Milo being interested in girls, as he had time to get accustomed to this, and Milo was proving to show that he could try to be friends with the girls first.

During that summer, Milo found two other Seasonal Hymns on this Anglican online hymnal. The Anglicans are very similar to the Catholics, particularly on sacramental theology, Liturgy and the Bible. Most of the differences are about politics. The Second hymn was "Forty Days and Forty Nights", which is a fearful hymn retelling of Jesus time in the wilderness, fasting and being tempted by the Devil. The Third hymn was an Easter Victory hymn known as "At the Lambs High Feast", in keeping with the customs of a victory hymn. This hymn parallels the Passover with the Last Supper and the Exodus from Egypt with the first Easter.

At this point, there was a vision in the sky over the Biancatellos pool of both the lives of Jesus and Moses. This starts off with Jesus being hunted down by Herod with the children under two being slaughtered, while Moses is hunted down by Pharoah and the firstborn infants being cast into the Nile. Then Moses is placed in a basket through the Nile, while Mary and Joseph flee with Jesus to Egypt. The next scene is of Jesus in the wilderness being heckled by the Devil, who temps him to power, food and wealth. Moses flee's to the desert to escape the wrath of Pharoah, and is taken in by the Midianes to learn of his Jewish heritage. The scene then turns to Moses and the Israelites preparing for the Passover, and spreads the blood of the lamb on the doorway before the angel of death slaughters the firstborn of Egypt. Meanwhile, Jesus is celebrating the Passover, blesses the bread and wine and shares the last meal with his disciples. Jesus then prays in the Garden of Gethsemete, before Judas betrayes him, and is brought to Jerusalem to be crucified. The Final scene depicts Moses and the Israelites being cornered by Pharoah's army, and the waters being raised, while the Israelites walk through the Red Sea, and the armies of Pharoah being conquered. Meanwhile, Jesus dies at Calvary, goes into the bowels of hell, destroys the Devils power, rescues the prisoners held captive and rises on the third day.

The Pedmontus Feast

When it came to the Naifaspring sisters, there was some mayhem. Ariella was so overwhelmed with what had transpired that she left Londinium, went through Pedmonts, and down the bridge through the temple city into this enchanted creek dividing the Atlantean Temple from the rest of the Town. This creek would turn anyone who swam in its waters into Mermaids. Ariella did not care, as she could no longer stand to be herself anymore and wanted to run away. Ariella had been quite distraught over being betrayed by Pusperium in the form of Clayton, felt stupid for falling for him, when she thought she should have known, and responsible for Shannen's death. She jumped into the enchanted stream, and swam off as a transformed Mermaid into the Atlantean Sea of Kebsuda.

On a more joyful note, the month of the Feast recounting the flood from years back was nearing. As it was, the feast had been later, as the spring did not start till later this particular year, due to the great frost. This had been the first year that the Cobolds had been able to celebrate the feast, due to the city being in no state for the festivities with the Hurricane and earthquake thanks to the Doustonians. This year, Durnil appeared to the Cobolds to give them new instructions for the celebration for the Feast that year. Durnil instructed the Cobolds to move the feast to the Garden of Pedmontus, and to light a set of fire bowls on the new Column caps of the garden walls.

The day of the feast, the Cobolds, Londinians and Durnil packed up their food, consisting of Bread, roast flesh, apples and ale for the journey up to the cliffs. During the days of preparation, the torches were lit, which could be seen throughout Spartustica and Atlantis. Durnil revealed that anyone who came to the gates of the garden was to be invited, and never turned down. A few residents from Atlantis saw the flame and walked the bridge to inspect this fire. Many Atlanteans accepted the invitation with much gratitude.

On the days of Feasting, the Atlanteans who accepted brought gifts of their finest crops of Pomegranates, dates, figs, Raisins and Apricots to contribute to the feast. Alongside, many of the Cobolds still living in Pedmontus brought long aged barrels of wine for being included in their feast. The Atlanteans and Cobolds living in Spartustica had not experienced the flood like the Foerster Cobolds and Londinians had, which gave them more reason for gratitude.

At this, all those in attendance gave thanks to the Dance, who had been very present. Then the icon of Amun was displayed next to the statue of Aphrodite, and Daxividus blessed it. After the festival, the Cobolds sent food back with the Atlanteans, as they remembered being provided for during the flood years back.

The First set of Meetings

As for the camp, things were not going great. Milo liked it better the previous year, when everything seemed new. This year, the camp lasted two more weeks, and not a whole lot to do. They had one of the same counselors from the previous year. Another Counselor Andy knew Minu's sister Parvaneh, as he went to highschool with her. Milo did not explain his real interests in the Jafari's, but told him that he knew who they were from St. Timothy's.

One Friday afternoon before the Fourth of July, when Americans celebrate Independence Day, the Sassani's had been invited over to the Khara's for the evening. As destiny would have it, Milo was in the backyard at the time the Khara's were outside. Amira, Roshanak and Parisa had been the back yard with their older cousin Saira. Saira was the niece Zaida took to the movies when she had contractions with Amira.

This is what had transpired that afternoon. While Milo was outside sitting around, the girls said hi to him. Milo was exicted that this mystery girl from Fall fest was back, and around on such a nice day this time. Maziyar had called Milo over and to ask Amira if she knew Rokshana. Before going up, Maziyar introduced Milo to the little girl Parisa, who preferred to go by Paris. Of course Milo knew this girl knew Rokshana, as he remembered from the Fall Festival. Milo went up to the hill and asked Amira if she knew Rokshana. Amira told Milo that she was friends with Rokshana. Milo then knew that Amira was not related to Rokshana, and that Davis rumor mongerings were all in vain. Milo had no cold feet about doing this. Milo sat on the hill with the girls for a good long time. In fact, Milo had a real sense of confidence that he never really had with girls before. Amira felt different to Milo. Even Amira felt comfortable around Milo in getting into a minor spat with Roshanak. Saira calmed Amira and Roshanak down. Of course, Milo is not one to judge, as he has gotten into spats with Lydia on a number of occasions. Amira talked about her grandmother from out of town, and told Roshanak that she missed her.

While in the yard, Milo's dog Jinny had been running around after Margaret let her out. Jinny, who is a Chocolate Havanese likes to run through the yard. Now the Biancatello's have an electric fence. Amira asked Milo if that was his dog, and he told her about Jinny. Milo liked showing Jinny off, as she got much attention, thereby giving him attention likewise. That is the strange thing about cute pets.

In the sky, there was a vision of the Shepherd from Church. He had brought the Sheep through hell and highwater into the great pastures as he promised three years ago. At this moment, there was a great gathering of many shepherds leading many other flocks. The Great shepherd called the other flocks over, and a great banquet of wheat was held at a stone table in the middle of the pastures. The Shepherd implored that nothing should ever drive the different flocks apart.

Maziyar told Margaret all about these girls, to which she shared the information with Milo. Margaret told Milo that the girls were going into Fourth, and Seventh grade. Then Margaret asked Milo who the prettiest was, to which he blatantly affirmed Amira. Of course, Milo still knew not Amira's name, and Margaret agreed with him.

The next day, Milo had substituted as an altar server, as he was called Wednesday Night to substitute. That Morning, Milo and Ray went over to Grandpa Tony's to do some landscaping work. As it was, Grandma Rosa had been in the hospital after an infection, which had been declared stable for the time. Aunt Adrienne then asked Milo to do some yard work for her. For a few days, Aunt Marie was in town, and Milo told her about Amira. On the way home, Milo saw Parvaneh driving Minu and Nousha. Ray referred to the girls as Milo's buddies. The mass unfortunately had an incompetent sub-organist, and the music unfortunately was terrible. This weekend, the hymn "At that First Eucharist" was the offertory hymn, which was the Opening Hymn on Ben, Rob and Parvaneh's First Communion, which was the video Milo saw two years ago. The Communion song was "Gift of Finest Wheat" and the ending song was "Let there be peace on Earth", as it was near the Fourth of July.

A few weeks later, after camp, Milo was taking Jinny for a walk back in the Jafari's neighborhood. Milo had a strange custom of taking a different route that took him to a church before reaching the Jafari's and walked over to the church and pray that the Jafari's would be outside. One time, this worked, and Milo found the Jafari's outside. Milo spoke with Mrs. Jafari briefly, asking if she knew Rokshana, the Khara's and the Biancatello's. Mrs. Jafari remembered only Rokshana and Ben, but had forgotten about the Khara's and never mentioned Rob. Milo told Mrs. Jafari that he went to School with Rokshana, and that Ben was his cousin. Mrs. Jafari somehow knew that he and Rokshana were classmates. After coming home from his walk, Milo found Ray talking with Kamaria. Ray asked where he went, and Kamaria asked how the Jafari's were. He told them they were nice, but did not want to tell Kamaria that the Jafari's did not remember them.

The Coming Divisions

Yuriyama, Husisha, Durnil, Maelendil, Cashmir and Alexander had a solemn meeting at the Demuzidean Temple to speak about the future. Maelendil remembered years ago, when the bilocation had expired, and how trying of an experience it was. Maelendil had remembered the vision of the shepherd in Church who led the sheep to the present through hell and highwater to reach the fertile pastures of the present.

What these Jinns all knew well was that things as they were could not continue. Cashmir had been happy about this news, and gave a great declaration of gladness. As we know, Cashmir never was so keen on the Jafari's being in the picture, and felt their daughter was a distraction from Amira. Yuriyama explained that this would not be quite as simple, and that this was more complicated like that horrible song released that year mentions. Yuriyama explained that there would be splits with the Khara's, and this will one day lead to times of superficiality. Durnil interjected at Yuriyama's pessimism to explain that it was not fair to say nothing could be done, just because he did not know of a solution. Durnil then explained he would keep an outlook, and that this superficiality maybe able to be worked out for good.

The Last Visit

Around this time, Grandma Rosa was transferred to a nursing home, and she and Grandpa Tony decided to forego all burdensome treatments. Now the family understood what this could mean, but knew well the treatments before were quite dreary. That weekend, Milo was preparing for his final week with summer camp, and quite relieved to hear it was almost done. Milo was not disappointed when the end of camp came. Milo had gotten sick of over-educational field trips primarily in some park, the hot building and boring activities like looking at the newspapers.

The last time Amira and her sisters had been at the Khara's house was one Friday evening after Milo ended his summer camp. So this evening, Amira, Roshanak and Parisa were playing in Milo's skyfort by his invitation. Milo and Amira said hi, but did not talk too much. Amira had her hair done in a ponytail. Milo was on the swing most of the time while the girls were up in the fort. Little did Milo know that this would be the last time.

The next day, Milo was a bit out of sorts, as he felt something was weird about his meeting with Amira the night before. That morning, Milo invited to a Baseball game with Salvatore's Baseball team in the luxury box, as one person bailed out. That afternoon, Ray took Milo and Salvatore to see the Rookie, as Margaret and Lydia were on another mother-daughter camping trip. This was the movie starring Dennis Quaid as a baseball coach and science teacher. After getting back from the movie, Milo listened to the song "At that First Eucharist" while reading the lyrics to the hymn. Milo went over at Salvatore's before leaving for the game. Before leaving, Milo looked at a St. Timothy's yearbook picture of Minu when she was in Seventh Grade. At night, Uncle Ottavio drove Milo and Salvatore to the Stadium. On the way to the game, Milo waved to a cop. At the game, a few boys watched Austin Powers on the TV in the box. After the game, Uncle Ottavio dropped off one of the boys at a house near Uncle Mikes.

That night, Milo had a dream Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane owned a second mansion in the neighborhood Uncle Mike and Uncle Georgio lived in. Then the dream changes to Milo and Ben breaking into the Jafari's house in the middle of the night to find a box of donuts.

The next day, Ray and Milo went to the early mass. The opening song was "Morning has broken", which was sung last time Milo saw the Jafari's in Church on Mothers Day. As it was, there was only one altar server, so Ray made Milo help out. The girl Milo served with was the daughter of one of Margaret's old friends from work. At church, Milo saw a substitute teacher whom he was not particularly fond of. She came to mass after Milo was already on the altar, and therefore late. The Communion song was "We Remember".

There was a vision in church of the Last Supper, and those gathered knew this oneness would come to an end when the shepherd is stricken, and the sheep are scattered as predicted. The master implored them to take heart, as he would one day return in glory. They remembered the time that these longing souls had come to this flock longing to be made whole. Then the master looked upon the Congregation, and reminded the server to keep recreating the love from this summer. Then the master declared a great Amen to this hope that was so fleeting, therefore the peace in times of division that passes all understanding. Then the master disappeared and his spirit entered into the whole church.

The Memorial Acclimation

The Charism of John the Baptist held a secret emergency meeting with Maelendil, Husisha, Durnil, Cashmir and Alexander in regars to what was seen in the Church. The Charism of John the Baptist asked Maelendil if he remembered what happened in Church the first time the charge saw the Elamites in Church. Maelendil was quite aware that his Charism appeared, along with the Charisms of Moses, Elijah and Daniel. The Charism of John the Baptist reminded them of his declaration that he had come to herald some changes to come in the upcoming fall. The Charism explained that the visit in the skyfort was the very last, and divisions are coming where a choice between a full yes or a full no will be of utmost importance. The Charism then explained that the Charge needs to remember the song until the day comes when the Charges cross paths again.

The Rest of the Summer

This is how the summer went on. After Church, Milo and Ray went on a bike ride down at the Beach. Gianni had been down at the beach with his Church group, as there was a mass that afternoon on the beach. When Milo and Ray got home, Margaret and Lydia soon were back from their camping trip. Then shortly after, Milo got a call from Steve, asking if he would like to go to the Toledo Imagination Station. This is where Milo went for his Fifth Grade class trip two years ago. As it was, the Biancatellos were preparing the house, as they were getting the Kitchen redone.

On Milo's first day off, he went on a road trip with Steve and his mother Doris and her new boyfriend Merle. Doris and Neale got divorced sometime after the Fall Fest. Milo had almost lost the opportunity to go on the trip, as Doris and Merle were running a little late. Margaret feared letting Milo going on a trip with Merle without meeting him first, and she had to get back to work. As soon as Margaret was ready to take Milo back to Aunt Janes, Doris and Merle arrived. Before getting on the road, Doris stopped at a tanning salon her brother owned.

As for the trip, this had been interesting at best. At the Imagination Station, there was a temporary exhibit on the Titanic. This exhibit showed replica's of different rooms in the Titanic. The final area was a replica of the night the Titanic sunk, with a man telling stories of the night, the temperature of the room being cold, the room was dark and there was a great chunk of ice to feel. Frankly, the exhibit was pretty depressing like the movie. After they went through the exhibit, Steve wanted to buy a remote control titanic. Doris thought the gift was utterly inappropriate to be selling in the first place. This room was the same room that hosted the music exhibit Milo visited two years ago. After leaving the exhibit, Steve tried getting cash out of a water machine, and ended up having to buy a bottle of water to get his $10 back. Steve took three sips and tossed the water. Milo would never let Steve live this down.

As for the facility, this had been a cool place, and gave Milo flashbacks to his fifth grade class trip. Milo felt more intriqued by Science, and it did not seem like the dull pursuit that he experienced in School. This facility had a great view of the lake, and all the same exhibits Milo remembered from his previous visit. After the Science Center, Merle took them to the mall food court for dinner. Milo got a greek pita, which was mediocre at best. Milo found the food court utterly fascinating, and this gave him flashbacks to the previous trip to a Food Court. On the way back, Doris was telling all kinds of strange gross out stories she heard on the web. Such stories shant be repeated here.

That week the Biancatellos were getting their kitchen redone and could not be in the house during the Day. Milo and Lydia stayed at Uncle Mike and Aunt Jackies. Milo was excited about this prospect, as he would finally get to see Bens communion video. Milo asked Emma if they would like to watch Bens communion video. Emma suggested watching hers first, which Milo was fine with. Milo was not so keen on telling the real reason. Milo noticed that they sang most of the same hymns at Emma's first communion as his own. The only difference was the communion hymns were "One Bread One Body" and "Here I am Lord". In that video, Tom was the organist and Wilma was the cantor. Now Bens Communion video was a whole different story. The organist was a nerdy guy and the cantor was a heavy woman. Fr. Sorbiewski looked significantly younger. At the beginning, as Milo expected, the opening song was "At that first Eucharist". Then Milo, Lydia and Emma all saw an elamite girl with large glasses in the procession dressed in her communion dress. Lydia and Emma then figured out why Milo wanted to see the communion video.

The next day, Milo told Rob about having met the Jafari's and how the Khara's knew them. Milo then told him how Maziyar gave him some extensive information about what part of Iran they came from, and how they knew another girl he went to school with. Then Lydia blabbed that Milo goes to the Church and prays that the Jafari's will be out before going over to their house. That evening, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane invited the Biancatello's, Filentinos and Grandpa Tony over for dinner. Milo and Salvatore had planned on going to the Altar Server picnic, but Salvatore had a surprise Baseball game. Milo was quite disappointed, as he knew that Minu was an altar server, and maybe going on the trip. Without someone else to go with, Milo would not be allowed to go on the trip.

One day, Milo took a long visit at the Jafaris when the girls were outside. Milo met both Minu and Nousha, and later met her sister Parvaneh, who went to St. Timothy's with both his cousins Ben and Rob. Minu remembered the Khara's and recognized Milo from Church. This is what occurred the day of the walk. Milo was walking Jinny, when he spotted the mother and daughters all walking through the neighborhood. Eventually Milo just stopped over and talked to Minu. He asked her about how she knew Rokshana, and if she knew Ella. Milo told Minu that her neighbors were the Khara's whom Minu knew. As to how well, was not known. Minu was not as easy to talk to as Amira was. Minu was just a shy girl, which he noticed before at Youth Group. Milo told Minu that he normally goes to the early masses, to which Minu explained they go to the later ones, but have gone to the early masses occasionally. Milo met Parvaneh when he mentioned Rob and Ben.

That Wednesday, Milo went to Cedar Point with his Youth Group. Milo had not been to Cedar Point since he went with the Rumcorns four years ago. Milo was with Richard Espozito's group, which proved to be quite fun. The Youth Group took nice buses up to Sandusky, which had movies. On the way up, they watched Shrek. Milo met a fourth cousin Will, who was a chaperone on the trip. That day on the Trip, Milo thought he was seeing Minu, as he had wished she would have gone on this youth group trip. Otherwise, Milo enjoyed his group with Richard Espozito and some other kids. For lunch, the priest suggested eating at Midway Market. In the restaurant, Milo saw some Nuns eating lunch. On the way back from the trip, Milo could not help thinking about his last road trip with Steve, Doris and Merle.

Chapter 19: The Khara's move again

As it came to pass, the time for the new school year had begun. This time, Milo was starting eighth grade and Amira was in Seventh Grade. Milo started school transformed from the Summer. Milo had become better friends with Steve after he and his old friend Shane Birdich went their separate ways. Plus, Milo had positive memories of his trip to Toledo. For the first few days, being back in school had been weird for Milo, and wished the summer could have lasted a little longer. Milo looked at the Khara's house, and came to realize that he may not be seeing much of his guests within a few months, just like the previous long winter.

Otherwise, Milo made some efforts to talk to Ella, but was not so good at it. Frankly, Ella was not bothered in the slightest that Milo liked her. Now Rokshana had not been a big fan of Milo, and thought he was a bit strange after getting faulty information from Davis. Milo still told Rokshana that she met the Jafari's over the summer. When it came to Davis, Milo had very little interaction so far. Frankly, Milo found he had better things to do than worry about Davis, not to mention no longer concerned about keeping friendship with Shane. In school, Milo had math class with an old friend Jack. Somehow, the topic of Petey and Dudley came up, possibly from the art project with the "Next Time Listen" theme that Dudley whined about. Then Milo asked Jack if he remembered when Dudley lost his beads. Jack started laughing, and imitating Petey saying "Its not nice to steal".

Milo was still thinking about the summer, and fantasizing about the trip to the Imagination Station and seeing the video with Parvaneh, along with his visits with the Jafari's and Amira. Milo was already looking forward to his final Fall Fest, which would be held at Pecan Meadows. Otherwise, Milo got a taste for a game he bought known as Roller Coaster Tycoon. He named his parks after St. Timothy's Dunes, Forest or whatever the particular park was called. Milo would give goofy names to rides based on people he did not like in particular, and even made some pretty advanced theme parks. Milo also had Steve over a couple times, and on one occasion went to Lazer Tag. That night, Milo stayed over for Pizza, as Ray was having Grandpa Tony, Aunt Marie and Alicia over for dinner. Steve developed a slight crush on Alicia.

On the weekend of Ray and Margaret's anniversary, Milo went to a football game with Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore. Ray and Margaret went to a comedy club. During the game, many emergency vehicles drove by, and as this was a few days after the anniversary of 9/11, he feared there was a terrorist attack at the comedy club. That night, Milo looked over Salvatore's yearbook with pictures of Minu. On Sunday, at a football game at Uncle Mikes, Uncle Georgio mentioned he saw the Khara's driving through his neighborhood. Milo thought there was something a bit odd about this.

The Condemned Bridge

The Cobolds had enjoyed using the bridge between the Gardens and the Temple District of Atlantis. Frankly, They were also making great strides in creating alliances amongst the Atlanteans. Naturally, the Cobolds thought this uncovering of the Bridge was the greatest contributions that the Doustonians made, that they had no anger at them.

One fateful day, the Cobold Jamus was walking the bridge, and felt it being a little shaky. Jamus thought that it was just a matter of a loose brick, and walked the bridge like nothing happened. Over the days, more Cobolds complained about the shaking bridge. Elrich summoned the Londinium Architect to check this out. The Cobolds knew that this bridge could be very old, as they did not know how long it was there before finding it.

The Architect did a five day analysis of the structure, and had the prognosis. The analysis was grim, and the architect explained that the structure had been broken beyond repair. It was a matter of time before the bridge would become too unsafe to even cross, and would one day collapse. Luckily, they had a few more good weeks.

The Cobolds had been quite disheartened, as they had just found the bridge, and now have to see it collapse. They feared that all their progress in alliances with Atlantis would break. Plus, this bridge had much easier access to Atlantica and the Atlantineans than the Mountain pathways. Many had been angry that they had just found the bridge right before it was to collapse, and did not know what they would do.

The Weekend at Doris and Merle's

One Thursday, Steve invited Milo over to Merles house on Saturday, as Doris had custody of Steve that weekend. Frankly, this had been some good news of that week, as he had to work on a project on viral infections for Biology. Plus, Milo saw some strange lady at the Khara's taking pictures of their house. Milo felt quite uneasy about this, and feared what this could mean. Now Milo was excited to see Doris and Merle again, and Steve bragged about how cool Merle's house was.

On Saturday, Milo was taken over to Merle's at 1PM, and they drove out to the border of Phyllisville into a pretty ghetto neighborhood. The house Milo noticed reminded him of Grandma Gladys' old house. The first thing was that life at Merle's house was a bit cluttered, and he discovered that Doris and Merle were quite redneck. Milo being a tolerant person did not like coming to terms with his own xenophobia. Now Milo had never been inside a 1920's house with a large front porch and small rooms. Steve's family had been quite dysfunctional as Milo knew from his last few outings with them. During the afternoon, Steve put on the movie Time machine, which to Milo had been utterly one science fiction abomination. The whole idea of time travel freaked Milo out, and the whole premise of such a far off future where society started over again was not exactly Milo's idea of an uplifting movie.

Steve's family tends to handle disputes through shouting and cussing, and Doris always told Steve to behave more like Milo. One such case was Merle had taken Milo and Steve to McDonald's, and the food was put together incorrectly. Steve got a big mack with two patties on the top and nothing on the bottom floor. Merle got a large piece of hair in his "Big and Tasty". Merle started going on abouto the terrible ghetto workers. Merle and Doris got into a minor spat, as he had not been paying attention when she called McDonald's to complain.

That evening, Milo was taken to an art show with Steve, Merle and Doris. On the way to the exhibit, they drove by the stadium that just a weekend ago, Milo saw a football game with Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore. This is one family that does not fit in with high class art exhibit openings. Many of Doris' cousins were there, as her one cousin designed the exhibit. Milo saw one older family from St. Timothy's. So far, Milo felt that his memories were being crushed. Little did Milo know that he had not seen anything yet. When they left the exhibit, Steve told Doris the place was cool as crap. Doris snapped at Steve that he was embarrassing her, and told him this is a refined place.

When Milo returned home, Ray asked him how things were that afternoon. Ray explained that he had some sad, not so much bad news. Milo got quite anxious and knew this could not be good in any way, considering the circumstances. Ray explained that the Khara's would be moving. Milo was utterly distraught. Ray explained that they wanted a bigger house, so they had more room to entertain when guests stay over. Milo had nightmares over the past year of this happening, and knew something was off with them driving in Uncle Georgio's neighborhood and the lady taking pictures.

That night, Milo had a difficult night of sleep, as he started to realize that the way things as they were would be changing. Milo liked the system, with Amira being this girl who would show up once in a while at the Khara's. This prospect of such a change further terrified Milo. Milo did not know when he would see Amira again, and realized it may not be for a long while. When they would meet again, this would be when they are in the vicious world of school. Not to mention, Milo could also not stand the idea of his world being closed, or possibly getting neighbors from Hell. Milo had prided himself in having neighbors from a different country, and felt utterly unsure.

The Tense Gathering

When Cashmir found out the news, he became very angry with Husisha, and went to the hall of prophecies to confront him. Cashmir found Husisha and starting accusing him of being responsible for what had happened. Cashmir blamed Husisha, and claimed that he did this just so give the Jafari's more prominence in the picture. Husisha became very furious and let Cashmir know that he has no such intent, and to gain Cashmir's trust, confided in him that the Jafari's would decrease from the picture in a year. Husisha admitted that he did not know why this happened, but knew well that this was something planned by some sinister entity.

Then Maelendil arrived with Alexander to calm the situation. Maelendil further assured Cashmir that Husisha had not been at fault. Cashmir still complained that this was only permitted to happen for bringing the Jafari's in the picture to begin with. Cashmir then complains that something good is just taken away. Cashmir goes on about how this was such a stupid timing, that had the neighbors left a few years early, the chargess would not be missed, or a few years later, the two charges would have had more time together. Maelendil does admit that the short time they had together is cruel, but explains that pointing fingers will not help anything.

All those gathered in this emergency meeting had a bad feeling about the news. Alexander gives his complaint, that the neighborhood will be like any other boring, stuck up segregated neighborhood full of the same color. Then Alexanders next complaint is that the Charge will lose something he prides himself in, just to have new yuppie bores living next door. Maelendil explains that having neighbors from a different country is no personal accomplishment to define oneself.

Maelendil assures them that he is just as concerned about this, and does not like this situation anymore than they do. Cashmir and Alexander protest that something needs to be done. Maelendil gives this look of concern and says that he will see what can be done. Cashmir and Alexander suspected Maelendil knew something that they did not. Husisha felt responsible, and offered to help out in any way that he can. Maelendil assured Husisha that he was in no way responsible for what happened, and that this would have happened regardless of whether or not the Jafari's had come into the picture. But Husisha still volunteered to assistance, and joined all efforts. In truth, Husisha knew well that bringing the Elamites in the picture had anything to do with this. The only thing that Husisha could think of was that more time using the Elamites as a substitute would make such exposure easier, but knew this was a great stretch.

The Next weeks

On Sunday Morning, Milo was still pretty shaken up before Church. After Sunday School, Milo saw Minu and Mrs. Jafari signing up for Highschool Sunday School. Milo was not exactly excited to see Minu, as it just reminded him of the Khara's. That Sunday, the "For Sale" sign went up in front of the Khara's house, and Milo found out that they would be moving a few houses away from Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy. Milo also had a hard time with the idea that neighbors his family liked would no longer living next door. In fact, the Khara's had been one of the Biancatello's favorite neighbors. Frankly, this felt like Milo was losing his identity, and could not stand this. Milo just hoped a friend of theirs would at least buy the house.

Over the week, Milo gradually adapted to the news of the Khara's moving. Milo optimistically held out the hope that someone from the Khara's community may buy the house, the neighborhood could still have diversity, and they would be friends with others who know Amira. Over these weeks, Milo feared crossing paths with Rokshana, as she would know well the Khara's were moving, and as far as he was concerned, no news was good news.

For the next two weekends, Milo went on outings with Steve, Doris and Merle. Frankly, this kept Milo's mind off of the Khara's. Milo started becoming more comfortable with Steve's family, and could allow himself to see them beyond the myopic memories of the trip to Toledo. As it was, that Friday was the last day before a three day weekend. Frankly, Milo was looking forward to some time off.

On Sunday afternoon, Milo went to a Sports Park with Steve, Doris and Merle. When Margaret dropped Milo off at the Sports Park, she mentioned Grandma Rosa being sick to Doris and Merle. Now Milo preferred to keep this private, as he did not want to talk about this with others, nor to have people feel sorry for him. Despite feeling a bit perturbed, Milo still enjoyed his outing. For dinner, Merle took them to the Golden Corral. Steve got three pieces of steak. When Milo got home, he found that the Khara's had given the Biancatello's some brochures of their house for sale. Milo strongly considered taking the Brochures and putting them in Rokshana's locker, in hopes that she would give them to members of her community.

That Friday, Lydia saw a Tom and Huck play that Ella had starred in. Ella played Becky, and Milo was a bit jealous of whoever got to play Tom and wished he had auditioned. One day later, Ray took Milo and Steve to a football game at Whealon College, as Aunt Dianne had gotten them free passes to see the game. That night, Doris and Merle took Milo and Steve to a haunted house out in the country. Steve did not want to go in, and had been frightened. Milo could not help but make a parody of "O Holy night" as "O scary night". Frankly, this haunted house wasn't that bad. While they were walking, Milo told Steve, this isn't so scary. Only Milo screamed the last part, as he had been shoulder tapped by one of the house workers wearing dark clothes. Merle got quite a laugh about that. At this haunted house, there were several wandering tiny cats, with kittens the size of hamsters. After Doris and Merle dropped Milo off, they stayed in the foyer until Ray invited them in to visit. Now Ray was not thrilled about this, as he barely knew Doris and Merle. Lydia offered Merle a coconut popsicle that he enjoyed. Merle, Doris and Steve stayed a good two hours, and Ray and Margaret were ready for them to leave as soon as they did. Margaret knew well that Doris was not one to get out much, and could give too many details about her personal life that no one needed to know. Otherwise, Milo was a little annoyed with Steve for getting Lydia to play with them. Frankly, Milo just wanted to talk about guy stuff without Lydia to hear.

The next day, Milo was an altar server. The Communion hymn had been "One Bread, One Body" and the Closing hymn was "Sing to the Mountains" just like at Bens first communion. After Sunday School, Milo saw Minu. Minu had started Highschool at Ciderpond High, which was where Milo was now planning to attend instead of St. James high. Sunday School for the Highschool students took place after the Elementary CCD. That Sunday, the Khara's had an open house. Milo had been pretty confident that someone from their community would buy the house. Luckily Milo was not around, as he was at a Chicago Bears game at Uncle Mikes.

On Monday, Aunt Marie was in town with Alicia, Matt and Lilly, as the kids had off that day. Matt asked about the for sale sign in front of the Khara's house, to which Milo confirmed the news was true. Matt asked if Milo was mad, which made him feel uneasy and admitted he was not thrilled about this. Aunt Marie expressed condolences after she found out that the Khara's would be moving. Milo was not so comfortable with the pity, and could sense something was not quite right. That night, another car was visiting at the Khara's, whom Milo feared was the person to buy the house. Milo feared this would be a neighbor who was not part of their community. The same visitor was back at the Khara's that Tuesday.

That Wednesday, the Khara's house got sold. Milo walked home to find that the "For Sale" sign had a plaque saying "Sold". Milo became quite uneasy about who would be moving in. That week, Milo's English class began reading a disturbing book known as "The Pigman". This is a book by Paul Zindel about two highschool students who befriend an old man who dies at the end. That night Grandma Pearl came over, as this was also Margarets Birthday. When Lydia got the news, she did not take this too well. Lydia even wanted to get a picture of the Khara's house while they still lived there. The Biancatello's went to Red Lobster for dinner. Many teachers from Hazelnut forest had a dinner that night, and Mrs. Romero talked to them for a little bit.

For the rest of the night, Milo could not concentrate, but had to read the Pigman. Milo could barely concentrate on reading the book, and could not stop thinking about the new neighbors. That night, Milo had some disturbing dreams about mall food courts, and strangely his cousins Dana, Nikkita and Kalisha, whom he had not seen in years.

The Cobolds Vigil

Back in the Pedmontus garden, the Cobolds spent long hours keeping watch over the Bridge they knew would soon fall. The Cobold Petestor spoke of coming up with plans to fix the bridge. The remaining Naifaspring sisters Hallicia and Daisy spent days keeping vigil with the Cobolds, as they knew the bridge was the only way to travel to Atlantis without having to go through Atlantica. Hallicia and Daisy knew well that they had to travel the bridge if they were going to find Ariella. As Hallicia and Daisy walked as the last to ever walk the bridge, the Cobolds saluted them, and those with with caps removed their hats in prostration.

During the Cobolds vigil, they spotted some suspicious hooded figures loitering around the arches keeping the bridges. The Cobolds could tell quite well that these hooded figures did not want to be watched, and had some secret agenda. After this, the Cobolds informed the magistrates of Pedmontus of these suspicious figures. The magistrate had the high eagle of the Cliffs build a nest and she agreed to place these egg-shaped orbs in place. These Orbs have the power to detect sinister figures, and can read their intentions.

Elrich wanted to catch the culprits responsible, and sentence them to community service and repair the bridge. Lymurd objected and complained that it maybe better to just let the Bridge fall. Lymurd still thought the Cobolds had no business in Atlantis, and are intruding on their culture. Elrich told Lymurd that the Atlanteans don't need him to speak for them. Lymurd looked like he had just been slapped. After Lymurd got his composure back, he tried to speak his piece, but was ignored. Lymurd then shouted that he knows when he's not wanted and returned to Londinium.

The Final Fall Fest

Milo had one final fall fest, as this was his last year of Middle School. This year the fest was at Pecan Meadows, which was Amira's Middle School. Not that long ago, Milo was looking quite forward to the Fall Fest, as he remembered how great the previous one was. Milo had not been feeling well that day, as all that was happening had given him quite a headache.

The morning of Fall Fest was quite dark and dreary, as Ray and Milo drove off to Pecan Meadows. Ray and Milo reached the school, and Milo was still feeling pretty under the weather. At the Fall Fest, Milo saw Amira enter in the auditorium and sat with her friend whom Milo had recognized from the previous year. In fact, Milo just saw this girl at the dentists over the summer. Still Milo thought about whom from the community could have bought the Khara's house. Little did Milo want to accept that this would be the last time he would see Amira for another two years. Milo had thought about if Amira's family had moved in next door. Ray understood why Milo got a big smirk when Amira walked in. Ray did not know that Amira was the girl he met at the Khara's.

Then Milo's friend Shamus arrived with his dad Roger. This is the same Shamus Marilyn babysat. Shamus had started sixth grade at Pecan Meadows, and his first time with Fall Festival. As like the previous year, Milo did not get assigned to an activity with Amira, sort of to his disappointment. Milo had feared speaking with the Khara's or any of their friends, because he did not want to find out any worse news.

That afternoon, Ray took Milo and Shamus to Dairy Queen for lunch. Shamus mentioned speaking with Maziyar recently, and Milo explained that he would be moving soon. That Afternoon, Milo had pondered over why the Khara's have to move, and if it was truly necessary. Milo knew they moved because they wanted a bigger house for when family stayed with them. Milo wished to be able to go back in time and talk the neighborhood planners into building a bigger house. Then Milo had this feeling that such a thing could be very dangerous, and would not be the best course of action. That night at a Ciderpond football game, Milo got an unexplainable sense of joy, despite this great disappointment.

The next morning in Church, the opening song was "Sing a New Song", based on Psalm 98 and written by St. Louis Jesuit Dan Schutte. In Church that morning, there was a great vision of David singing a song of gladness and joy singing a new song of jubilation with a trumpet and tambourine. Meanwhile the Prophet Jeremiah sang of the turn from sorrows to joy, and announced the coming of the messiah. Paul the Apostle sang a song of resurrection to new lives and confidence in the Messiah. At this, their song was heard over the mountains, to all those in despair and anguish.

That afternoon, Aunt Michelle stopped over, because she had just visited a house for sale on the Jafari's street. Milo had hoped it was the Jafari's house for sale, and that they were planning on moving next door to the Biancatello's. Aunt Michelle told Margaret the location, and Milo knew it was not the Jafari's. Milo felt a little jealous at the prospect that the Filentino's maybe living near the Jafari's, while the Khara's were moving.

That week had gone well for Milo. That Monday, Milo had a youth group event at the roller skating rink, and met a so called cousin of his. Technically he was his great aunt Adrianna's deceased husband's brothers Grandson. Milo told him that he was Salvatore's cousin, and explained the so called family tree.

As for the rest of the week, life ran pretty smooth. On Friday Milo, Ray, Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore went bowling while Lydia and Margaret hosted a Halloween Party for her school friends. After bowling, the Biancatellos and Filentino's went to Dairy Queen. After Dairy Queen, they went back to Aunt Michelles, as to not interrupt Lydia's party. Milo got another chance to look through Salvatore's yearbook, and pictures of Minu. Milo also talked about how he refuses to use the term "Family and Consumer Science" and prefers to call his class Home-ec. Frankly, Milo did not like his Home-ec class, and found the teachers to be hot headed, and did not like their healthy eating projects. In one case, the teacher setup a project to make stir fry, which had just been microwaved brown rice with bagged vegetables and soy sauce. Milo referred to the dish as microwave instead of stir fry. If there is one cooking pet peeve Milo has, it's forms of healthy eating that is made healthy through skimping on flavor.

In Church on Sunday, Milo saw Minu and Nousha in church with their mother. Minu noticed Milo, and he gave a slight wave. The opening hymn was "Holy Holy Holy, Lord God almighty". The Communion hymn was "We have been told", which was the same hymn used on Easter a little over three years ago. This still was before the time Milo would be able to make the connection. In Church there was a vision of the vine returning this time extending an invitation to branches falling off to rejoin. These branches had become afraid of what would become of them, and wanted to stay the same. The vine asked the Branches how they were faring, which had not been very well. The vine showed the branches what would become of them if they tried to sustain themselves on their own efforts, and only saw a living death.

As for that day, Milo was in a surprisingly good mood. Milo knew that he had a youth group Halloween Party on Wednesday. Milo had gotten some fantasies that Minu would be at the party. This had put Milo in a good mood for the time being, until the upcoming week. That afternoon, Milo went to Walmart to pick out a Halloween costume for his youth group party in a few days.

The Eagles News

An eagle known as Nick from the Cheapan tribe had been acting as spy for the Londinium defense league. These eagles are able to produce a replica that looks like an egg, but records what it sees and can be viewed as often as possible. The Eagle came with news to the Cobolds, and handed their egg orbs over to them. The eggs revealed that the hooded creatures after them were the reptilians. The Offsprings known as Reptilians were out for revenge on the Cobolds, as they had their master destroyed by a dragon ages in the past, and had their allies, the Offspring Trolls, who were defeated and drove out of the mountains. For many ages, the Reptilians were living in caves under the cliffs of Spartustica,

The Cobolds and Londinian defense league led by Alrich, Jamus, Johannes and Yoshiayu prepared for battle, and sought to drive the Reptilians away from the Bridge, and Petestor then setup for repairs to be made. One morning bright and early, the leaders were all ready for battle, like in the days of the battle on the Mountains. Before being able to walk down to Atlantis, and find the Reptilians, the bridge had collapsed. At this, they were sore and angry at the Reptilians. They had seen the bridge declining, and deep down knew that it was beyond repair. But nothing could prepare the Cobolds from seeing their glorious bridge that made alliances with Atlantis so convenient. The Cobolds understood well that the only way for them to be able to make alliances with the Atlanteans was through the Mountains. Their plan of action was to start battle with the Reptilians, drive them to the wastelands, and rebuild the bridge.

Petestor made a request for Nick the eagle to bring some remains of the bridge to see what could be done in regards to preparations. Nick returned with the pieces, but warned them not to get their hopes too high. An architectural historian from Londinian did some observation of the remains retrieved, and he explained that this had been the work of Jinns, and that this was something no Mistivant had the power to put together. Now the Cobols were even angrier with the Reptilians, and wanted to see them utterly destroyed.

Moving Day

Milo had a Halloween Party at St. Timothy's gym with the Youth Group. At the party Milo made some friends with some Seventh Graders. At the party, Milo went dressed as a king of darkness, with a hood and red makeup. One of Salvatore's friends from school asked Milo what he was, and Milo thought he was asking who he was. Milo told him he was Salvatore's cousin. This kid was quite feisty, and said he already knew that.

On Halloween night, the holiday had been depressing at best. Grandpa Tony came over for dinner, and Margaret ordered KFC. Milo had seen Maziyar handing out candy for the last time. Milo felt a bit bad about not going over to the Khara's, but could not bring himself to want to find out who was moving in next door. This Hallowneen was the first year that Milo did not go trick-or-treating, as he lost interest in the whole thing in general.

This was the beginning of November, which is when western Christians remember the dead, and pray for their deceased family. On that Friday evening, the Biancatello's went to Church for All Saints Day, which is at the beginning of November, right after Halloween. The opening song was this triumphant hymn "For All the Saints", written by Anglican William Howe to commemorate the observance.

In Church, there was a majestic vision of the King of Heaven surrounded by innumerable soldiers standing with confidence in victory within a mighty fortress. At this, the soldiers are given a blessing and promised a crown of glory. Then the Soldiers are sent off into a fierce battle against the powers of evil, and wear armour of great courage. At this the soldiers sing songs of confident Halleluiajahs throughout the world. Then a seer spoke of the dawning of a glorious day after battle, where the soldiers awake brightly arrayed in a day of glory.

That night, the Biancatello's got dinner at Eat-n-Park. That Saturday had been pretty slow at best. Milo and Ray had haircuts in the morning. A Salvation Army truck showed up at the Khara's. That night, Milo and Lydia rented Time Stoppers, and watched the movie at night.

That Sunday, the opening hymn was "Come ye Thankful People Come", which is an English Harvest hymn written by Henry Alford to give thanks and express trust in the Lord. This hymn is often sung in November in the United States in preparation for the Thanksgiving Holiday. There had been a vision of what was to come two years later, in which a great harvest was completed, and the wheat was gathered into the storage house, while the tares had been cast into the fire. Mrs. Dench was at the service that morning.

That night, Milo saw the Sassani's car before leaving for the Filentinos. That Sunday, they were throwing a birthday party for Salvatore, whose birthday was on the first of November. Milo saw the Sassani's car as a good sign of things to come, and was quite relieved. Milo also prided himself in creating this awesome thrill park on Roller Coaster Tycoon, which had been the last level on the original pack for the game.

At the party, Milo was in a strangely good mood, despite what was going on. Emma told Milo she heard about the Khara's were moving and expressed condolences. Now Milo had been a little uncomfortable with the condolences, as he had heard this from many relative several times.

The Monday after the holiday, Milo was up early, and gave Ray a song book from the Library, and pieces of music marked that he wanted Margaret to copy. Milo was taking his hobby on learning to play the piano more seriously, and had a set of Christmas carols he was practicing. This day was a teacher's inservice, and Milo was off from School. In that morning, Milo noticed that Kamaria's car was parked in the street. While watching TV, Milo heard Jinny barking, and milo went to see what was going on. Milo had seen the moving truck in the Khara's driveway.

There had been a sinister Rakshasajinn on the roof of the Khara's house staring with a serious expression, and put a skull and crossbone stamp of approval above the houses garage door. This Rakshasajinn is known as the Grey Alien on earth, and is the offspring of two hypocordos known as Sheepus and Pecunia. This Grey Alien is the offspring of division, who would one day return.

Soon enough, the moving truck was gone by the Afternoon. Now Margaret had a half day, and would be home pretty soon. That afternoon, Margaret took Milo and Lydia to the mall. Milo bought an expansion pack for Roller Coaster tycoon and Yoshi's story. Milo had played that game when he was in fifth grade. That day after work, Ray ran into Maziyar, who explained that he had moved his house, and told him about the new neighbors coming in after Thanksgiving. That evening, Grandpa Tony came over for dinner, and Milo had a youth group meeting. A professor on Church architecture from Whelon College came as a guest speaker to give a talk on the design of St. Timothy's. The professor explained how the Church had much in common with gothic cathedrals, and explained the design of the Groin Vault ceiling. This humored the kids. Then the professor spoke of funerals, and asked how many had been to one. Milo had been reminded about going to Grandma Gladys' funeral three years ago.

Things did not go particularly well that week, since the Khara's had gone. On Friday, the Rumcorns were in town, and Ray, Milo, Uncle Wayne and Kevin went bowling. Things did not get better until Saturday, when the Khara's came back to their old house for the afternoon to pick up some stuff. On Saturday, Milo had Steve over. Milo got a bit agitated with Steve, as he always wanted to force Lydia to do stuff with them. On a walk down to the Hazelnut Forest park, Milo explained that he did not need to have his sister around all the time. Steve then started lecturing Milo about how he needs to accept his family. That night, the Biancatello's hosted Lily's birthday party.

The St. Matthew Charism

After the news was fulfilled, the Jinns Maelendil, Husisha, Cashmir and Alexander had an emergency meeting at the Odinian Temple on the next step of battle. They had seen the Grey Alien, and knew well that he was responsible in some way, and had more sinister plans. The Sardexit Gregory told the others what he had known about the Grey Alien. Gregory explained that a Grey Alien like other offsprings tempt mortals into pursuing things they think they want, but in the end makes them unhappy. The Grey Alien likewise thrives on division. The Grey alien convinces mortals that vain pursuits will make them happier than their relationships and connection to others. Gregory explains that their parents the Hypocordo's above all love safety, and each hypocordo gives priority to one thing to keep them safe. Sheepus is one to value blind following, and sees it as the best way to keep ones nose clean. Pecunia on the other hand finds security through the pursuit of wealth. When the Grey Alien's offers are exposed, mortals can easily get stuck in following divisive trends to keep in the good graces of the crowd and preserve financial security.

The Charism in the Spirit of St. Matthew appeared to the other Jinns to make a suggestion. The Charism started off telling this story about a planter planting seeds, and one day, the powers of evil casting tares into the field. The farmers sought to rip out the tares, but the planter warned that he could rip out wheat, and advised him to wait until the harvest is complete, and then throw the tares in the fire. Maelendil explained that this meant that they should not be so eager to banish the grey alien.

At this, the rest of the Jinns present understood that they should not be so eager to fight off the Grey Alien offspring. The Matthew Charism suggested that the four keep an eye on the Grey Alien, until his role has been fulfilled. Cashmir questioned this decision, and the Charism explained that the use of aggression is not always wise. The Charism explained that many have destroyed goods for the sake of fighting evil. Cashmir being one of order has a difficult time with complexities that Alexander is more comfortable with. Cashmir was not sure what this meant, but argued the assumption that by not fighting the monster, he is just allowing the monster to grow stronger out of some assumption that one good is superior to another. The Charism explains that this is the conclusion of the Calculating mind, and commends Cashmir's office for being able to design strategies. Then the Charism calls Alexander over to ask him about this. Alexander explains that there is still a deep peace even with the Alien Offspring making trouble. The Charism asks Alexander what his gut tells him will be the good decision. Alexander explains that he knows that this is strangely a good through and through, though it looks evil.

At once, a Messenger had flown into the temple and apologized for the disturbance. The Messenger explained that he had urgent news. He explained that he saw an occult offspring harassing his charges. Afer the news had been reached, they venerated the three pairs of shrines in the temple as they had when the Causemos had come to power three years earlier. Husisha understood what was going on, and knew well that the Occult was going to try and interfere with the last part to play of the Grey Alien. Then the Charism explained to Cashmir that this was one of those times to fight. At this, the messenger had dusted them, and led the way to find the Occult Offspring.

The great disturbance

One Saturday night shortly before Thanksgiving, Milo had a nightmare about walking on a Halloween night over to the Jafari's. Out of envy, Milo feared going into the Jafari's neighborhood. Before even getting to their street, a strong wind blew Milo on Marilyn's street. Milo had been fearful of Marilyns street too, as he had been quite envious that their neighbors from Yemen still lived there, and had been in that house before the Khara's. Then Milo was transported into a theatre similar to the movie Halloweentown. A Rakshasajinn, believed to be the offspring of the Seductress and the Scapegoat approached Milo. This figure was known as the Occultist in the form of Kalabar. Milo became terrified, as the Kalabar was offering him great power if he joins the dark side. The Kalabar told Milo that the wind was terrible, and promised him that this does not have to be. The Monster made Milo the offer of deep knowledge with great power, and that he could bring the Neighbors back to their house if he just followed him.

The next morning in Church, Milo had to serve at the later mass, and the opening song was "Sing of the Lords Goodness". This hymn had not been sung for three years at St. Timothy's. That morning, this barely remembered dream was quite a temptation for Milo, as he saw a future of division, which he associated it with the Khara's. During mass, Milo saw Aunt Adrienne in the congregation, along with several other people he rarely saw, including the lunch lady and one of Rays former co-workers. At that mass, Meredith was the organist, as she always played at that time.

In English class, they were just finishing the Pigman. What had particularly perturbed Milo was this nightmare Lorraine had on seeing a coffin in the Pigmans pig room, the sacred space others fear to tread. Thus Milo knew that death was coming. Milo had thought about the book that Sunday night and the nightmare from the night before, making him fall into an uneasy sleep.

The day after the nightmare occurred, Grandpa Tony came over for dinner as Grandma Rosa was still in a nursing home not doing very well. After dinner, Milo had a youth group meeting, and Grandpa Tony came along so Ray could drop him off back at his house. On the way, Ray asked if Milo would miss seeing the Middle Eastern girls now that the Khara's had moved out. Milo still held hope that something could change, but truly got the sense that this was just a mere fantasy.

That night, Milo had more morbid thoughts about the nightmare in the Pigman and the nightmare from two nights ago. Milo was utterly stumped about what this was all for, and was utterly confused about this nasty curse. Milo felt frightened of the unknown, and was in a sort of state of terror and awe at a God who had such strangely dangerous plans. When Milo did fall asleep, he had a weird dream about accidentally getting Ella and Rokshana stuck in a cadd home design program. Milo recognized this program that he used in Shop class the previous spring.

Jamus and the Great Chamber

This passage leads to a shrine that is always locked, and rarely opens. This Shrine is said to be a shrine to a great mysterious power called Treenisat or Perichoresis. One day, while the Cobolds were planning for battle in the basement shelter, the doors of the locked chambers opened and a voice kept calling for Jamus. Jamus was one of the Cobolds leading in battle against the reptilians. When Jamus was summoned, he ignored what he heard, thinking that he was just hallucinating from long hours of preparation.

Then one day Jamus surrendered, when he heard the voice again only in the shelter, and saw a great light emit from the unlocked shelter. The chamber starts as a narrow hall that is too low and can only be crawled to, and leads to Shrine area that has four front walls and an overhead gate. All that can be seen is a painting of a Celtic Knot with three points, and an inscription saying "Perichoreis est Treenisat". Above what can be seen is a bowl of fire emitting a bright light. Jamus crawled to the chamber shrine, and fell on his face, as the light was too bright to look directly at. This voice told Jamus he had seen what happened to their bridge and heard their cries. The voice then told Jamus to cease their battles. Jamus felt scandalized and this voice read his mind. The voice promised that he will send back the ones who built the bridge, and paths will be restored. Then the voice told Jamus to go fourth and announce the tidings. After this, Jamus left in wonder and terror.

After this, Jamus blew a horn specifically blown to end a battle. The Cobolds had been angry and began a plan to attack Jamus, ready to kill him. Jamus heard the Cobolds grumbling and shouting insults such as traitor, coward and tyrant sympathizer. Before the Cobolds could attack, Jamus announced the day of restoration. Then Jamus gave a speech how the bridge can no longer be protected, and all attacking the reptilians is nothing more than angry vengeance. Jamus then told the Cobolds that it profits them nothing to fight monsters only to become monsters themselves. Then Jamus explained that the one who built the bridge would return again to rebuilt the highway between the two regions.

Milo's Closure

The next day, Milo had been quite anxious about this prospect, as he knew there was something sinister going on. Milo feared that the new neighbors were mass murderers, and ready to snoop for information, and get them arrested. Frankly, Milo just could not believe that having something just found being taken away would possibly be in the plans of a just universe. However, the monster Milo met in his dream was making offers for dark knowledge that would only lead into monstrous powers no human should ever have.

After School, Milo came across his friend Jack, and his brother Flynn, who was a sixth grader at the time. Flynn mentions having seen the picture Milo and Jack drew in Fifth grade with Petey grabbing Dudley's head. Flynn tells Milo about having shown Dudley the metal he won in the boat race after he was crying after losing.

Then that night on November 19th, Maziyar called the house to speak with Ray. Lydia had found the message on the phone, and let Ray know as soon as he got home from work. Maziyar invited the Biancatello's over for dinner on Saturday to show them the new house. Frankly the house was not so far away from their old house. Milo became better off that week, and felt liberated from the nightmare. Milo got some closure on their move, and realized what he truly feared was losing friendship.

On Friday, Milo had a school dance, and had not enjoyed himself. As it was, Ella did not show up. Frankly, the dance did not get much attendance due to a snow storm. One night later had been enjoyable with the Khara's. The Khara's ordered a Pizza. They thought about making an Iranian dish, but did not know if the Biancatello's would like the food. When the Biancatello's arrived, Maziyar showed them around the new house, including the bedrooms. After Ray and Margaret spoke about their normal every day lives, Lydia asked about the Jafari's. Kamaria explained that they did not know the Jafari's that well, and were kind of different. Maziyar explained that he had not seen the Jafari's at a function in years, and their primary friends were Rokshana's family. Ray told the Khara's about how the father never seemed to smile much at church. Milo then asked about the girls form the summer. Maziyar explained that the Sassani's were good friends of theirs, the girls names Amira, Roshanak and Parisa.

In Church the next day, which was Christ the King Sunday, The Jafari's were in church at the same time as the Biancatello's were. The opening hymn was "To Jesus Christ our Sovereign King". The offertory hymn was "The King of Love". For some reason, it had always seemed like the same hymns were played when the Biancatello's and Jafari's were in church at the same time. That afternoon, Milo and Ray went to Uncle Mikes for a Chicago Bears football game. Both Ben and Rob were at the game, as college got out for the Thanksgiving holiday. Milo mentioned to Ben and Rob that he saw the Jafari's in Church.

As for thanksgiving, the Biancatellos would be hosting again. This was the first of the Biancatello's annual hostings of thanksgiving. On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving break, Milo's English class watched the Telltale Heart and the Veldt. The Veldt is based on a short story by Ray Bradbury, with a futuristic house that has a realistic room that can turn dreams into reality. The parents wanted to move away from this house, and the kids turned the room into a savannah with man eating Lions. This movie reminded Milo of the Simpsons Treehouse of Horror mini episode known as "Bad Dream House". The only real similarities were both shows had similar music.

On Thanksgiving morning, Milo was outside shoveling snow when his new neighbors brother in law asked him for some help taking a snowblower out of his truck. Milo was still having a bit of a hard time with not having neighbors from a different country, and felt like something that made him special was just gone like that. Over the day, Milo quickly recovered from this concern, realizing it was silly. However, the holiday went on, and the guests all showed up. All of the Biancatello's came over for a large dinner. Margaret tried out many recipes Ray's family still was not so keen on trying, which meant more leftovers. As for that Friday, the new neighbors arrived. That afternoon, Alicia was over, and the Delaney's called to have dinner with them. Alicia came with the Biancatello's at the Delaney's Yacht club. The food was okay, but the desserts were pretty humiliating. Alicia got an ice cream sundae with Chocolate sauce all at the bottom of the bowl.

On Saturday, the Rumcorns were in town. Margaret, Milo, Lydia and Grandma Pearl met the Rumcorns at the movie theatre to see "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets". This had become a common Thanksgiving custom that began the previous year, but would discontinue with the scheduled production of the movies. By this time, Milo was only starting to get re-interested in Harry Potter again. Milo had forgot about many things that happened in the book, such as Harry ending up in Nocturn Alley after a floo powder incident. Some stuff was added, like Uncle Vernon falling out of the window. That evening, the Rumcorns joined the Biancatello's for dinner.

The Charism of Isaiah

Over this time, there were posters placed over the realm of the Jinns to keep watch for this occult offspring. The watchman who first saw when the hall of Akashic prophecies was broken into recognized the pictures of the occult offspring as the one who had been breaking into the hall, and showing mortals prophecies they were not meant to see. This watchman kept a close watch, and one day found the occult offspring having broken in, and loitering the premise. The watchmern had the offspring tied up and summoned Maelendil. Maelendil asks if he had been the one to be sharing information on the orbs. The offspring gives an evil laugh, and tells Maelendil that the prophecy of the stupid little girl and the pumpkin full of signatures is very close at hand, and the information is already made public. Maelendil then tells the offspring that he has no business sharing future death days that cannot be prepared for or changed.

After Maelendil sent the offspring off, a Charism in the Spirit of Isaiah had showne up and was happy to see Maelendil. The Charism then asked Maelemdil to summon Cashmir, Alexander and Husisha to the Demuzidean temple. Both Maelendil and the Charism departed to the Demuzidean temple grounds. The Charism in the Spirit of Isaiah arrived and made an offering on the altar of rose seeds, and a rose from his garden. Husisha had brought the Charism a Scroll with five rose shaped seals as he requested. This was a scroll no one has ever opened, and was in the written hall of prophecies. The Charism instructed the Sardexit of the Enanian temple Polyphanes to establish a garden shrine to Cybele the great mother, and to plant the rose seeds offered at the altar once the spring arrives. The Charism promised that he would deliver the scroll to the Charge in due time. After the offering, the Charism, Polyphanes, Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir and Husisha held a great feast, and sang songs of anticipation of the great unveiling. The Jinns noticed something similar to what the Charism of St. Matthew had done when the neighbors moved.

The Holiday Season

After Thanksgiving, Milo had a strange dream one night about there being a terrorist attack in Uncle Georgios and the Khara's new neighborhood. Uncle Georgio, Uncle Mike and Maziyar go on this quest to fight off these terrorists.

That Holiday Season, Milo started to develop his keyboard skills, and got especially good at playing the Christmas songs "Go Tell it on the Mountain", "Lo how a Rose E'er blooming" and "Away in a Manger". Milo had learned "Lo how a Rose E'er blooming" the Wednesday after finding out that the Khara's would be moving. Milo remembered the hymn being sung at St. Timothy's one advent two years ago. This is an old German hymn retelling the restoration of the root of Jesse, prophecies of Isaiah concerning the messiah, and the Virgin Mary. There had been debate amongst Christians over whether the rose in the hymn refers to Jesus or Mary. "Go Tell it on the Mountain" is an Afro-American spiritual retelling the Shepherds visit to the newborn Christ. Away in a Manger is a traditional lullaby hymn originally ascribed to Martin Luther, but no longer accepted by music historians.

As for the Holiday Season, this was very eventful. On the First Week of Advent, Milo found out that Salvatore was scheduled to serve mass with Nousha at the early mass he normally attended. On Wednesday, Doris stopped over, as Milo left his lunch bag in their car before Thansgiving break. On Friday, Salvatore called Milo to ask if he could substitute for altar serving, but was unable to, due to a hair appointment. Milo was not too happy about this, as he missed an opportunity to serve mass with Nousha.

On Saturday, Milo and Steve went to the mall to do some early Christmas shopping. Steve went on a complaint about too many fat girls. That evening, Milo and Lydia were scheduled to spend the night at Aunt Jane and Uncle Leo's, as Margaret and Ray had a dinner party that night. What the original plan was Milo and Lydia would go with the Biancatello's for dinner and that they would take them to Church at the early mass in the morning. Milo was doing some work in the basement when there was a change of plan. Ray told Milo and Lydia to get ready, as they would be getting picked up for Church in a half hour. Milo asked where, and Ray explained at the Hospital Chapel. Milo was utterly distraught, as he hated going to mass without music especially during church seasons, not a fan of hospitals and would not get to go to the mass Nousha was serving, of all weeks. Milo waved his fists, thinking of all the days to go at a different time for a musicless mass in a hospital, the last place he wanted to be. Milo explained to Margaret that he was not too happy about this arrangement. Margaret agreed that they would pick him up for church in the morning and could go twice that week. The next change of plans was that Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane ended up taking Milo, Lydia, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester to St. Timothy's, and had a folk band. Lydia thought the folk band singer was weird. This man was the Filentino's neighbor from across the street. After Church, they went to dinner at this restaurant bar that had a stuffed lion. This place was actually close to where Milo took Piano lessons at.

That night, Milo had a rough night of sleep, as he felt guilty about not giving the hospital mass a chance. Milo still went to Church with his parents, but neither Nousha nor Salvatore were altar servers, as both had substitutes. Over this time, Salvatore was getting tired of being an altar server, due to not liking the times he was scheduled. After Sunday School, Milo saw Minu with some St. Timothy's friends talking in the Choir section of the Church. Milo had to return a music book to Meredith. That night, Margaret watched a Christmas movie known as "The Preacher's Wife" with the angel Dudley. Milo had been designing a jungle themed Roller Coaster tycoon park.

On Monday, Milo and Lydia spent the evening at Grandpa Tony's, as Ray and Margaret had a work dinner party. Margaret explained that this was only done because Grandpa Tony preferred to be home, as Grandma Rosa she predicted would not live much longer. Otherwise, Milo was having frustrations with Piano lessons, as the teacher kept trying to hold him back. This teacher was very by the book, and tried to break Milo out of his talent to play the piano by ear.

That Friday, Margaret dropped Ray off at the nursing home, while taking Milo and Lydia to Michaels to buy some supplies for a Santas village he was designing with his toy train and Christmas Merry-Go-Round. The Grandkids did not visit Grandma Rosa too much, as she did not want to be remembered this way, and preferred to be remembered as she was before.

On the Weekend of the Third Sunday of Advent, Grandma Rosa was declared terminal. Ray got a call early in the morning from the Nursing home that Grandma Rosa had fallen into a coma, and would likely not awake. Ray told Milo, who took it better, as he knew Grandma was suffering for a year. Lydia took it harder, as Milo was able to get closure due to visiting with Ray more.

That afternoon, Ray took Milo and Lydia along with Eustace and Samantha out to get their Christmas tree. On the way home, Ray went through the same Mcdonalds that Merle took Steve and Milo to so many months ago. As for the rest of the day, Milo saw the Rugrats Channukah Special and the Doug Christmas special. Otherwise, Margaret played clue with Milo, Eustace and Lydia. Milo proved to be utterly terrible at the game.

On Sunday was Amira's birthday, but Milo did not know this. The opening hymn in Church was "O Come Divine Messiah", which had just been introduced to St. Timothy's. In Church, Milo saw a substitute teacher he was not overly fond of. In Church that morning, there was a vision of a newborn baby, whom three strange otherworldly, but very fleshly figures stood around. Then an angel flew over many counties to announce this babies birth to some child. Then the baby was sung a lullaby by the angel, and implored blessing from the Baby Jesus in his Creche with the cattle. The Children asked who the Angel had spoke of, and why this message was announced. This Child then offered to give a toy for the angel to deliver to the child.

At Sunday School, Milo found out that he was scheduled to serve mass Christmas Day. Milo was not thrilled about this, as the Biancatello's had their own traditions for Christmas Eve. Margaret suggested that Milo could still serve on Christmas day, and still go on Christmas Eve. As for the last week, this was very busy. On Tuesday, Milo had his Holiday Chorus concert. That year, Milo lost all interest in Chorus, as he was not a huge fan of many of the songs the teacher chose. On Thursday, Salvatore and Gianni stopped over while going for a walk, but had to leave as Grandpa Tony was coming over for dinner. Lydia had her Christmas play that evening, which was based on the Mexican Christmas tradition similar to trick or treating, but re-enacted Mary and Josephs search for an inn. On the Friday before break, Milo got into a bad mood. Milo was unable to play any school piano's, as Davis had one booked, and proved to be mediocre. The teacher promised Milo he could play the piano in the chorus room, but got a last minute audition from a sixth grader. The teacher told him he could play in January. Now Milo would not do this, as he wanted to be playing music to be heralding the festivities to come, not play when the festivies were forcibly over. Otherwise, Rokshana had not been in school, as he had some Christmas candy bags for Ella, Rokshana, possibly Amira and Minu and Nousha. Milo ended up smashing the candy. Otherwise, the teacher planned on putting "How the Grinch stole Christmas" on, but the kids picked "A Christmas story" instead, which Milo found to be an annoyingly overrated Christmas movie put on more out of obligation.

Over that weekend, Holiday preparations went underway. As it was, Grandma Pearl was going back to Indianapolis for Christmas to spend with the Rumcorns. On Sunday, the Biancatello's had Christmas dinner at Grandma Pearls, and Grandpa Paul made Prime rib. Grandpa Paul aged significantly since the Biancatello's last saw him.

That Christmas Eve Milo and his family attended St. Columba's along with Aunt Michelle, Salvatore and Gianni. Uncle Ottavio was back at his parents Grandma Dora and Grandpa Juan with his sister Zia Maria, cooking Christmas Eve dinner. Angelo, his Father Rafael and his girlfriend, also the Biancatello's neighbor Marge also joined them for dinner. St. Columba's was considered to be the mother Cathedral. The Church is considered to be one of the most beautiful Catholic Churches in the region. During Church, the post communion hymn was "What Child is this?" which is a mystery hymn asking who the child is and why he came and set to an old English Folk Tune.

That Morning, Milo and Margaret went to Church, as Milo decided that he could go twice for Christmas. This had been the first time Milo had been to St. Timothy's for Christmas Mass since he was in Fifth Grade. Most of the hymns were the same, such as "O Come all ye Faithful", "The First Noel", "Away in a Manger", "Silent night" and "Joy to the World". After Church, Milo and Ray went to drop off some desserts to the Khara's that they liked. Milo impressed the family with his new skills in playing Christmas songs on the Piano. On Christmas Day, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane hosted the Christmas gathering. This had been quite a Christmas.

As for the Holiday break, Salvatore had to serve mass every morning. This was one scheduling matter where the altar server schedulers would set things up so the same server would serve every day for one week at the early morning masses. Salvatore was mad about having to get up early on his holiday break, all due to the schedulers bureaucratic inflexibility. As for the rest of vacation, things slowed down a bit. The Biancatello's had been in Church frequently due to two weekends and two Holy days.
Chapter 20: Spring Ambitions

So the year of 2003 began on a sad note. Grandma Rosa had gradually gotten worse over the Christmas break, and passed away within days of the New Year. Milo found out on Friday afternoon when he saw Ray home as soon as Milo had arrived home from School. Milo knew exactly what was going on, as Ray had been done with his Christmas half days. This had been exactly a year to the day Grandma Rosa got sick. Lydia knew what was going on as soon as Margaret picked her up from school, and she was driving Ray's truck. Around this time, Lydia was quite observant about any unusual occurrences.

Over the weekend, the public viewing was held, and the whole family attended. Grandma Rosa's and Grandpa Tony's remaining sibblings attended, including Uncle Pietro, Aunt Helen, Aunt Adrienne, Uncle Luigi, Uncle Victor and Aunt Barbera. The hymn "On Eagles Wings" was used, as had been used at Grandma Gladys' funeral three years earlier. Being an old school Italian, Grandpa Tony did not know how to cook, so continued once a week to eat dinner with one of his kids. On Wednesday, Grandpa Tony ate with Milo's family.

Milo was not too thrilled about returning to school after the funeral. Now Milo did not want to be asked a lot of questions, or have people feeling sorry for him. Frankly, anyone knowing about this gave Milo quite a bit of dread, and having to answer questions was not exactly on Milo's high priority list. That first day back, Shane confronted Milo about a picture he had drawn saying "The S.S. Burdich crashed at St. Timothy's dunes" along with a spell check correcting Burdich to the alternative Birdbath. Milo had forgotten all about this, as he drew it before Christmas, on a day where Shane was being extremely self righteous. This had been based on a fictional ride at a roller coaster tycoon park Milo named "St. Timothy's dunes". On a lighter note, any time Shane heard the words St. Timothy's, or just the name Timothy, he would go on angry tyrades. This started reminding Milo of the summer, when he saw Alicia, Matt and Lilly pretty frequently.

Around this time, Milo had been in his last semester of eighth grade, and would be done with Middle School pretty soon. This semester had been a time of preparation for High school and celebration for having made it through Middle School. Amira was in her last semester of Seventh grade, near to entering eighth grade.

The Cobolds Adjustments

As it was, the Cobolds adjusted to the new circumstances with the Bridge. The Cobolds did not travel into the Mountains much, as the Atlanteans were not visiting their mountain homes at the time. As to why, the Cobolds did not know. Maybe the Atlanteans had feared after what they saw happen to the bridge.

Overall, the Cobolds and Londinians had significant leisure time, as they had no necessary projects that had to be completed. They spent much time working on plans for expansions on the Headquarters. Their plans had become more feasible, and had begun to narrow down their options. Otherwise, the Cobolds were anticipating more adventures through the Mountains, with their bridge being gone.

At this time, a representative from Atlantis came from the Mountains into Londinium and offered the Cobolds the privilege to visitation rights to Atlantica. This representative commended the Cobolds for their clearing of the mountains of the Trolls. This representative explains how Atlantis had been cut off from the outside world for so long and never able to use the bridge until the Doustonians cleared the overgrowth. Then the representative gives the Cobolds condolences over the loss of their bridge. Then he explains how the Atlanteans greatly appreciated being invited to the feast before its collapse. The Cobolds agreed to this offer.

After some time, there had been many mixed feelings. Some were quite thrilled to have this offer to trek into this exotic land. Others feared committing to a foreign land and being away from their home so long. Others liked the current setup, where they experienced Atlantica as an occasional and pleasant surprise. Some had no interest in this adventure, and preferred to just stay in Beaubelles. In truth, Atlantica was this scary prospect to the Cobolds, as they had never ventured full on into Atlantean culture. For the Cobolds, the mountains and occasional encounters with the Atlanteans had been of very little demand, and no more than special treats.

The Beginning of the Transition

This is what happened once the end of Middle School began. One Monday, Milo and Ray went to an orientation at Ciderpond High, as he would be starting at this school in the upcoming fall. The idea of starting highschool was a bit of overwhelming prospect. This had been the first time Milo would ever be going to school farther away from the walking distance he knew with Elementary and Middle School.

The orientation took place at the Ciderpond junior Highschool theatre. Milo saw many of his classmates, along with many students from Pecan Meadows and Northcreek. As for the school, this was significantly larger than William Jettson, and quite a maze to get around. This school is one designed in thirds, unlike the more normal architecture designed in halfs. Milo met some of the teachers, but ended up forgetting who they were by night. During the orientation, Milo had a line "In Ancient times did give the Law" from the hymn "O Come O Come Emmanue" stuck in his head.

One day later, the eighth graders were brought down to the Auditorium for a surprise announcement. The announcement came that the Eighth grade class would be going on a trip to Six Flags at the end of the school year. Milo started having flashbacks to fifth grade, and all the celebrations that took place three years ago, such as the trip to Toledo and the Zoo and Aquarium in particular. Milo thought about the aquarium, and wanted to return back in the worst way. Milo had never gone to Six Flags, and heard great things about the place. The Biancatello's were supposed to go the previous year, but were unable to as Grandma Rosa was in the nursing home. Milo knew that this park had many rides, a renovated Seaworld and a waterpark.

On Friday, Milo had a substitute teacher who was a student teacher back at Hazelnut Forest when he was in Fifth Grade. This class was for Biology, and the students gave reports on biologically inspired technologies. Milo's report had been on the ability of airport surveillance to be able to recognize suspicious facial expressions. That Saturday Night, the Biancatello's went to see "My Big Fat Greek Wedding". The family had really enjoyed the movie. The father Gus Portokalos reminded Milo of Grandpa Tony and Grandma Rosa's brother Uncle Victor. The Mother Maria reminded Milo of Uncle Ottavio's sister, Zia Maria. Aunt Voula reminded Milo of Mrs. Jafari, and personality-wise like Aunt Adrienne. Milo's favorite scene was when Ian got baptised into the Orthodox Church in a blow up pool, while the priest chanted the liturgy. Margaret believed that Grandma Rosa would have loved the movie.

On Sunday, Milo wanted to play Mario 64, but was unable to find the game, as Lydia accidentally gave it away to Matt. Milo was a fan of this game back when he was in Fifth Grade. Having seen the teacher reminded Milo of those Fifth Grade days of celebration, and being at the top of the school hierarchy. The Levels Milo was most interested in were "Tick Tock Clock" and "Rainbow Road". Milo remembered playing the levels around the same time that he was far into the Chamber of Secrets. Milo spent long and frustrating hours that week searching for the game with absolutely no luck.

One weekend later, Milo was at Steve's dads house for a snowball war. Steve brought his obnoxious friend who just preferred to go by dude. Steve thought that Merle thought the world of him, but had been really laughing at his stupidity. While visiting, Steve and Dude started playing a game of breaking Hotwheel toys. What Milo did find out was that Steve was trying to get rid of his Mario 64 game, and he agreed to buy it off him. On the Thursday before a Long weekend, Steve brought the Mario 64 game to school, while Milo brought the money as agreed. That afternoon, Milo had some valentines candies for Ella, Rokshana, Minu, Nousha and possibly Amira. Unfortunately, Milo could never get Ella and rokshana alone, and the only time he could, they just got on the bus. Milo was pretty angry about having so much trouble getting himself to talk to Ella. Milo remembered how easy it was over the summer, and started asking if this was just some cosmic curse setup just to make it harder when the Jafari's left. Milo started thinking this was the point where it all went downhill.

Cashmirs blooper and Billius assistance

Alexander had been watching over the charge and wanted to know why the luck seemed to die away. Alexander asked Maelendil, who knew nothing, then Husisha who also knew nothing. Alexander then asked Cashmir, who just changed the subject. For a good while, Alexander and Cashmir talked about other topics, and Alexander brought the topic up again concerning the charge. Cashmir just continued the previous topic, which aroused Alexander's suspicions. Alexander then asked Cashmir why he was trying to change the subject. Cashmir acted confused, asking which subject. Alexander explained the subject regarding the Charge. Cashmir just asked which Charge. Alexander then shouted about Milo Biancatello, and why he is not having any luck with Ella Doyle. Cashmir knew he was confronted, and was straight with Alexander, explaining that this was his doing this to protect Milo and the girls from getting hurt. Alexander got a sly look on his face, and told Cashmir that he was going to tell Maelendil.

Before getting to Maelendil, Alexander found that Cashmir already arrived at Maelendils office. Cashmir told Alexander that he was going to tell Maelendil. Cashmir explained everything to Maelendil. Cashmir explained the Folowing: Cashmir knew Davis Woznich told Rokshana that Milo was in love with her cousins, which as they knew well was based on faulty assumptions. Cashmir knew that Milo was only interested in friendship with these girls Ella, Rokshana and Minu. Ella knows clearly that Milo has a crush on her. Rokshana on the other hand knows that Milo was talking with Minu, Nousha, Parvaneh and Amira over the Summer, and thinks that he has a crush on her cousins. Rokshana has this idea that Milo has a fetish for eastern girls, and also assumes he likes her too. Milo had been very selective about who he picked for friends, and specifically initiated friendship with these girls out of the blue. These girls could interpret this as wanting to have many girlfriends, and could lead to a lot of pain. Plus, Rokshana could be very hurt if she were to find out Milo did not feel the way about her as the other girls, and end up feeling used.

Frankly, Maelendil was shocked about this, and concerned that Cashmir had not consulted Alexander or himself first. Maelendil admitted that Cashmir had been right about what he saw, but trying to keep Milo separate from the Girls without any explanation was not a very good idea, especially after the Khara's moving. Maelendil did not get mad at Cashmir, and explained that all they can do is go forward.

Maelendil suggests that the first order of business is to continue with keeping Milo and Rokshana separate. Frankly, Milo is not exactly a fan of Rokshana, and finds her a bit abrasive. Maelendil then admits that he does not see Milo and Ella ever becoming more than friends, though they have more compatible temperaments for friendship. Maelendil then gives Cashmir instructions that he must let Milo know the truth about Rokshana, and to be straight.

Maelendil then summons Billius for assistance. Maelendil brings Billius up to date without giving him any information about the source of the problem. Maelendil hatches a plan to get Milo into some contact with Minu. According to Maelendil, Milo had been put under a spell, and needs to know that his bad luck was not some fate that only got some respite just to make the neighbors moving harder. According to Billius, the setup does not make allowance, but that he will push for some dissent, right within the Church.

Last Lent at William Jettson's

This Valentines long weekend off had given Milo more flashbacks to long weekends he had in Fifth Grade. After School, Milo tried out his Mario 64 game for the first time in several months, and played the levels "Tick Tock Clock" and "Rainbow Road" for the first time in three years. Frankly, playing the levels was not as much fun as Milo remembered them being. Frankly, this was one situation where the memory is more beautiful than the actual event.

The same night after School ended for this short break, Milo and Lydia watched Harry Potter and the Sorcerers stone. Milo remembered well how he had read the first three books in Fifth Grade, and watching the movie only instigated the Flashbacks. On Friday, Margaret had a half day, and took Milo and Lydia to Panera's for Lunch. That night, Uncle Leo had his fortieth birthday party. Aunt Marie told Milo about how Matt was given a large valentines day surprise by some girls from school. Milo said that Matt was so lucky, which Aunt Marie guessed he would say. Milo then told Aunt Marie about seeing "My Big Fat Greek Wedding". Aunt Marie told Milo about how Uncle Matt could not stop laughing unable to breathe when Aunt Voula talked about the twin growing inside her, and Ian's parents looking weirded out.

A few weeks later, Uncle Matt's father passed away. They never did a public viewing, and only had a burial mass two days later. On that same evening, the Biancatello's and Grandpa Tony went to a retreat service at St. Timothy's that would be hosted by a hermitage outside of the Essex region. That weekend before a Basketball game at Whelon College, Milo and Ray tried out a new Irish pub down town known as Connor Finnegans. The next day, Milo saw Minu at St. Timothy's, while a coffe and donuts social was going on.

One more week later, Uncle Pietro's wife Aunt Helen died. That evening, Milo had a youth group penance service. Milo felt a little strange being in Church, knowing that in a few days, the church would be decorated in purple and Lent themes. Before Ash Wednesday, Lydia had a basketball game at William Jettson gymnasium. Around this time, Lydia developed a friend group with a third cousin Morgan, and two girls Rachel and Barb.

The night before Ash Wednesday, Milo had a strange dream about being kicked off the altar, as he did such a bad job serving mass. On Ash Wednesday, the Eighth Graders went on a field trip to Ciderpond High. Milo had not been to the school since January for the orientation with Ray. This time, the students were given a whole tour of the School. They took the students to the shop area, art class, students services center and the primary academics areas. This made Milo feel pretty overwhelmed, and began to really not look forward to starting Highschool within the upcoming year. Milo had hoped to see Minu, but no such luck.

After school, Milo watched Lydia's first communion video, which he knew happened nearly three years ago, when he was in fifth grade. This mass was the first mass Jorge was the organist. That evening, the Biancatello's went to Church, and Milo was the Altar Server. Milo waited in the sacristy with all the priests, deacons, lector and other altar severs. Meredith was playing the Old Hundredth hymn on the organ before the service was to begin. The mass began, and had felt like the first Ash Wednesday that Milo attended. After Mass, the altar servers were given ashes first. Milo had to leave a little early for the Funeral home. After mass, The Biancatello's went to the funeral home. One of Rays cousins told Margaret about Aunt Adrienne calling St. Timothy's to get a dispensation for the guests attending the intermission dinner between the Funeral showing hours. If anyone is wondering, a dispensation is exception from a particular church discipline. Monsignor Warner rejected Aunt Adrienne's request, and as it was a fast day, she served vegetable lasagna and fish.

That Saturday, Milo went on a day trip with Steve and Merle to Toledo for a Car Show. In the morning, Margaret dropped Milo off at Merle's house. Doris was not able to go, due to having to work. This had been the first time that Milo had been to Merle's since the day that he found out the Khara's were moving. Frankly, Milo had feared going to the house for a while. As soon as they got on the road, Milo started having flashbacks to the day that he found out the Khara's were moving, which was still quite traumatic for him. This memory would haunt him for another two years.

After an hour and half drive, Merle, Steve and Milo arrived in Toledo. As soon as they got into the facility, Milo noticed this giant food court with a diverse choice of meals. This building had so many cars covering the whole area and a ferris wheel in the middle visible no matter where one stood. So far, things were going pretty good. Milo saw many cool cars with fancy amenities like dvd players and mini-bars. After a while, Milo had seen enough cars, and noticed they were all the same. The trip went pretty lousy when Steve wandered off, and Milo and Merle spent most of their time trying to find him. Merle was pretty angry with Steve over this. In fact, Merle told Milo that he would smack Steve black and blue once he found him.

Eventually, Merle and Milo found Steve. Steve asked Merle what they wanted to do now. Merle told Steve that they would have to go home soon, and missed out on some important sights looking for him. On the way home, Milo felt a bit off, as this trip to Toledo with Merle and Steve had been nothing like the trip the previous summer at the Imagination Station. For dinner, they stopped at Mcdonalds for Dinner, and Milo accidentally sat on his drink, getting pop all over Merle's back seat. Merle shouted "SHIT!" when this happened and asked Milo to order a bucket of water from Mcdonalds. Milo thoughtlessly ordered, and the cashier told him they didn't sell buckets of water.

That night, Milo had strange dreams about nursing homes. That morning the Biancatello's went to the early mass. In Sunday School, Milo got good news when he got the Altar serving schedule. Milo found himself scheduled to serve with Minu and Nousha over Mothers Day weekend. Milo had attributed this to Grandma Rosa, as he had never been scheduled to serve with the girls once before. Then the teacher announced that they had a CCD mass in which both the Middle Schoolers and highschoolers would attend in two weeks. This would mean Minu would be at this mass, which was more good news.

The weekend before the Mass, Milo spent the whole time working on a school video project on Coyotes. On Sunday in Church, the hymn "God of Day and God of Darkness" was sung, which Milo remembered from three lents ago. After all the preparation, the Biancatello's began the filming process. This video included scenes with both Jinny and Lydia. The Video was shown on Tuesday. Frankly, this video was hilarious, considering that neither, Milo, Ray, Margaret or Lydia knew about filmography or video making. Milo did get an A on the project, as his information was all correct, and for creativity. This teacher even showed the honors Class, and Ella even complimented his video. Milo included Jinny in the video, to keep with the canine themes. The whole family got quite a kick out of the show, such as Milo saying cut at the ending of a scene.

Two weekends later, the war in Iraq began. The night before the Iraq war began, Milo had a weird dream about being stuck in a school food court. Milo had also been on a second short break that weekend. So far, this break had been nothing special. On Sunday morning, Milo woke up after a strange dream about the Jafari's and Rokshanas family. Then it came to pass that Milo was dropped off at St. Timothy's. Eventually it was time for this mass to begin. Nousha was singing in the childrens choir and Minu was sitting with the Highschool students in the Aisle right next to him. At this mass, the priest gave a sermon on Zeal, and admitted he hated the Opening Hymn. The opening hymn was Ashes, which is most often used on Ash Wednesday. Otherwise, the communion hymn was "What Wondrous Love is this", and the ending hymn "Lord Who Throughout these Forty Days".

After Church, Milo was shocked at how quick the mass went after two weeks of anticipation. That evening, Aunt Marie was in town with Alicia, Matt and Lily, and invited the Biancatello's over for Pizza at Grandpa Tony's. That evening, Milo looked at the pictures used for the funeral showing, which ranged from several years to the present. Then Milo and Matt saw an episode of Spongebob where they act as Mermaid Man and Barnacle boy, and spy on a fish with a teddy bear who says "Hey man, that's not cool".

The End of the Fast

Around this same time, Elrich and Lymurd were in a silend conflict, and not working with each other. Both Elrich and Lymurd, along with Jamus, Joshiyahu and Iohannes were appointed to positions of leadership for the upcoming mission to Atlantica. During this time, the Cobolds re-read the series on the Atlantean dialect, and maps of Atlantica. The Cobolds realized that Atlantis was not part of the Temple area, and was the capital city of the region. From what they read over, Atlantis was a huge city larger than Londinium or any towns in Pedmontus.

Still, Lymurd was trying to use his leadership role to get the Cobolds to renounce their mission to Atlantica. Elrich would then pass out pamplets telling the Cobolds to ignore Lymurds warnings. Elrich also claims that Lymurd is a small minded philistine who just has no interest in other cultures. Lymurd had not taken well to this, and started acting like a brainless simpleton calling the Atlanteans "dem brownies" in front of Elrich. Any time content from the pamplets was repeated, Lymurd would go on rants about how he had been slandered and persecuted. Frankly, Elrich did not want to miss out on this opportunity of a lifetime, especially at a traitor's hand.

The Cobolds were under a period of fasting to commemorate the previous years great frost, and spent time committing to strict studies for four weeks. This fast started to remind the Cobolds of the days in which they were under the frost, and how the melt heralded the days of travel into the mountains. The Cobolds had longed for the Bridge, as they liked travelling this way rather than through the Mountains. With the upcoming summertide, the Cobolds were a bit dreary, due to losing the bridge.

The Fast ended one bright morning, and the days of festivities began. When the festivities started, the seer Azeyas appeared to give tidings of joy. Azeyas spoke of the beginning of the days when the sun would shine brightly and the inhabitants of the foreign lands would leap from their abodes and go fourth into the high places.

The Bart Simpson vision

One night, the watchman of the Akashic Hall of prophecy finds an orb for Maelendil. Maelendil is summoned to the orb, which reveals a vision of a stupid kid who put a Simpsons episode on that starts off funny, but abruptly turns into a horrific battle scene resembling a bloody war, and Bart as two year old trying to use the potty. Then the vision changes to a teacher welcoming in sixth graders to their first day of Middle School. Then this same teacher is given a kiss by a former student. Then the scene changes to a teacher helping an elderly substitute teacher who is using a cane.

Maelendil summons Yuriyama over this vision. Yuriyama soon shows up, and gives a pretty grim prognosis. Yuriyama explains that he sees a battle coming where there will be a great clash between the offices of the Senexit and Puerubdi. Maelendil does not know of any such conflict, as he knows well that Cashmir and Alexander have no major problems. Maelendil knows well that they disagree, and see things differently, but knows they would never turn on each other. Yuriyama explains that the mortals will be longing for earlier days deemed more innocent, and resort to the same tactics to eliminate the harshness they feel burdens them. Maelendil explains that those memories of primordial innocence are not in time, but the original nature that was written before Time. Yuriyama jokingly asks Maelendil how there can be something before time. But Yuriyama explains that the past can feel like this place of timelessness for those stuck on the river of time, full of danger and destruction. Yuriyama mentions that the kid putting the video on indicates that mortals have a tendency to try solving the problem with the same solution that started the problem in the first place. Maelendil explains that this trap in time, destructiveness and insanity all seems to occur when one looks elsewhere for sustenance than the Dance.

The Last Days of Middle School

On Friday night, after a dreary day of school, Margaret and Ray took Milo and Lydia to dinner at Eat-N-Park, then to Sams to pick food up for a party. That night, Ray helped Uncle Georgio move some furniture. That Saturday, Milo and Ray went through Ciderpond to pick up food for Lydia's birthday party that would be hosted at Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's that year. Ray took Milo to some Italian deli in Noussonburg, and picked up some olives, bread and specialty lunch meats. Then Ray took Milo a bakery close to Ciderpond High to pick up pastries. That afternoon, Milo went over to Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes, as Matt had been over at their house. Milo had played an obnoxious French principal with Samantha, and gave her a few detentions.

On that Sunday, Milo was an Altar Server. The other Altar Server was another Charge Kaylee's niece a year younger than Milo. The Ending hymn was known as "Lord Let me walk with you". That afternoon, Lydia had her birthday party at Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's newly finished basement. Uncle Georgio held get-togethers pretty frequently after Grandma Rosa passed away. After dinner, Milo showed the family a video school project he made on a report for Coyotes. The most favored scenes were when Milo said "Cut" when the scene was over. Many got a laugh about Lydia, when she mistakened the environment deserts for gardens.

On that Monday, Milo and Ray went to a retreat held at St. Timothy's. They sang "We have been told" at the retreat, which reminded him of the Jafari's from the mass before Halloween. Milo then got news that the week after getting back from Spring Break, he would get to meet the student service group at Ciderpond High. Then the teacher would take Milo back to William Jettson. That Friday later, Spring Break began. That night, the Biancatellos and Lydia's friends went to TGI Fridays for her birthday dinner.

As for Spring Break, Milo did not have high hopes, considering the disappointment the previous year. Luckily Milo was not haunted ceaselessly by a girl this year. On Palm Sunday, Lydia was sick, and unable to go to Church. During that day, Milo and Lydia watched Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and the special features. As for Monday, Lydia was still sick, and Milo watched "Big fat liar" with her, and played a new wario game he just bought for his Gameboy. Over the week, Milo looked over "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban", and had been anticipating the movie coming out next Thanksgiving. On another occasion, Ray took Milo, Lydia and Grandpa Tony to a restaurant past Phyllisville for dinner, and passed Grandpa Paul's house on the way. On Holy Thursday, Milo and Lydia spent the day at Aunt Janes. Then Ray picked them up, and took them to Uncle Mikes to drop off tables for Easter. An obnoxious boy in Lydias class known as Pyotor who had a crush on her started hanging out in Uncle Mikes backyard. Uncle Mike gave him a blunt eviction. This had been the second year Milo did not go to Church on Holy Thursday, as Grandpa Tony no longer went to the mass without Grandma Rosa.

On Easter Saturday, Aunt Marie, Alicia, Matt and Lilly came in town, and their new puppy Tiberius. Ray and Milo went back to the Noussonburg Italian store to pick up more food for the upcoming Easter festivities. That evening, Milo took Jinny for a walk, up into the Jafari's neighborhood. Milo did his same ritual of praying at the Church that the Jafari's would be outside. To Milo's luck, Minu and Nousha were outside. Nousha had been playing with chalk in the driveway, writing "Happy Easter". Milo talked with them for a little bit and told them about serving mass, and talked about the upcoming Holiday. Minu knew from Ella that Milo did a video projects on coyotes. That evening, Milo called Steve to see what he was up to. Neal answered the phone, and gave Milo a "Wazzup" greeting. Steve was not around, and Neal told him that he would have Steve call him back. Then Neal said he would have to write the notice on the markerboard in case he fell asleep. Steve was actually spending the night at his friend Saul's house, and went to his dad megachurch for the Easter Morning service.

On Easter, The Biancatellos met Aunt Marie, Grandpa Tony, Alicia, Matt and Lilly at St. Timothy's for mass. The opening hymn was "Jesus Christ is Risen today". Easter dinner was held at Uncle Mike and Aunt Jackie's. As soon as Milo saw Ben, he told told about seeing Minu and Nousha. Ben asked what Milo said, and admitted to saying "Hi". Milo had not quite gotten to explaining what else they talked about. During the afternoon, Lilly wanted to see Ben's first communion video. Ben pointed out Parvaneh in the video.

The day after Easter, Margaret left for a business trip in Tampa early in the morning. This Monday had also been Milo and Lydia's last day of spring break. Milo was a little bummed out about returning, but was now looking forward to serving with Minu and Nousha in a few weeks.

Over that first week back, Ray had to make some new plans with Margaret being out of town. On Wednesday, Milo had the meeting at Ciderpond high with the student services. One student advisor Mrs. Jansen told Ray that she knew Aunt Michelle and Aunt Judy. Now Aunt Judy was a secretary at the senior highschool. Milo found out some bad news that Ciderpond High does not do school picnics, which he had sort of expected. That night, Ray took Milo, Lydia and Grandpa Tony to the Golden Corral for dinner. Milo had not been to the restaurant since going with Doris, Merle and Steve.

Milo had re-developed a stronger taste for Harry Potter after renting the Chamber of Secrets. Milo had been reminded of the book when he had worn a hooded sweat-shirt on the way to Aunt Michelle's after school. That evening, Milo had a meeting with an interest advisor to talk about preparing for Highschool. This guy was quite a goofy aptitude tester who asked Milo many questions about his interest, computers and his plans for the Summer.

On Friday, Lydia had her Fifth Grade class trip to the Toledo Imagination Station and Zoo and Aquarim as Milo had done three years earlier. That Friday, the Biancatello's were going on their annual trip to the O'Malley's. Before leaving, Ray and Milo had Mcfish sandwiches at Grandpa Tony's for dinner. Milo had the song "The water I give" stuck in his head, which he remembered from Lydia's first communion. After the class got back, Milo spoke with Mrs. Dench for a little bit, and he mentioned "The Order of the Phoenix" coming out over the summer. Then the hotshot teacher whom students ate lunch with shook hands with Milo, and asked him if he remembered when he went on the trip. Milo remembered this all too well.

On the way up to New Seneca, Milo started to read the Prisoner of Azkaban. Mil had not read the book since he was in Fifth Grade over the spring. Milo had been quite euphoric about this trip to New Seneca, as he developed quite a taste for travelling, and saw visiting new places as this exciting experience. Plus, Milo was still reminiscing about Lydia's fifth grade trip, and the excitement he remembered from the trip. Travelling and arriving in New Seneca had been quite euphoric for Milo, but this quickly ended the next morning.

Milo got a little depressed that morning, when the travelling euphoria came to a quick end, and life in New Seneca felt too ordinary. That morning, Milo, Alicia, Matt, Lydia and Lilly watched "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets". That afternoon, Aunt Marie took the kids to Subway for lunch while Uncle Matt and Ray were out golfing. By the late afternoon, Ray took the kids putt-putting. Milo felt in a slight funk about the euphoria dying, and did not know what had changed everything. That night, the O'Malley's took the Biancatello's to Chili's for dinner. Alicia recommended the Fajita pita. The next day, the Biancatellos and O'malleys went to Church. The Biancatello's left by the mid afternoon, and headed back to Ciderpond. Milo was in a pretty big funk after getting back, and was unconsolable.

That week after the Biancatello's trip to New Seneca, Milo started anticipating serving mass in two weeks. That same week, Uncle Ottavio's father was declared terminal, and was only given a few days after suffering Heart Failure. The Thursday before Margaret returned home, Ray took Milo and Lydia to the Cemetery. That Saturday later, Margaret came home and Samantha made her first communion. That evening, Rory and his fiancé Lauren had their Stag and Drag. This stag and drag was held at the same facility that both Lydia and Milo had their communion parties.

That week in class, Milo had a silent confrontation with this new kid in his English class known as Henry Robertson. Milo had forgot a textbook, and had been taking notes. When the teacher found out he forgot, this Henry started telling the teacher that he was just sitting around doing nothing, and not paying attention. Milo had never even talked to Henry before, and quite irritated that he would tell on him for no real reason. The teacher nearly busted Milo, and said she wanted to see him at homeroom. The story behind Henry was a massive redneck with poor English.

So the big day was near to serve Mass. Earlier that week, Grandpa Juan passed away. The Biancatello's went to the showing on Thursday evening. One of the Funeral directors reminded Milo of Uncle Vernon. At the Funeral Home, Aunt Michelle told Milo that she and Salvatore would go to Church to see him serve with Minu and Nousha. This was done in case the girls did not show up, and Salvatore would serve with him. The next day, Ray was a Pall Bearer for the Funeral. In school, the math Substitute played some creepy music. This music was basically new age elevator style music. Milo remembered this teacher playing this music for a week after the Khara's had moved, which made Milo feel even more uneasy that day. Plus, Milo found out that Ben would not be able to come to Church at that time, even though he planned to, thanks to his job at the grocery store.

That Friday Milo had finished the Prisoner of Azkaban. That night, Milo started looking over "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire", which he never read seriously. Milo stopped reading the book once he got into sixth grade, and did not even remember anything about the book. That Saturday Steve came over to Milo's house and put on some obnoxious videogames. Milo had intended to invite Steve to go to St. Timothy's for mass, as he said that he wanted to get Merle and Doris to go to St. Timothy's for a Sunday mass. Both Doris and Merle were in a short spree of going to Church on Sundays. That night, the Biancatello's rented a stupid movie known as Master of disguise.

On Sunday Morning, the big day came. Milo was downstairs playing Super Mario before Church, as he woke up early excited to serve mass. Ray interrupted Milo to give him a game plan to serve correctly. Then Milo got ready, knowing that it was near time to leave, as he had to get there early. The Biancatellos had entered into St. Timothy's, where they spotted Mr. and Mrs. Jafari. Both Minu and Nousha were in the sacristy, with the older priest Fr. Sorbiewski being the presider. Nousha lit the candles. Before mass, a nun spoke with Minu about how Highschool was going. The opening song was "The King of Love" as it was Good Shepherd Sunday. This hymn was sang on Christ the King Sunday one other time Milo saw the Jafari's in Church. Church had the normal crowd that week, as it was an early mass.

During mass, there was a vision of a multiple villains seeking for redemption, including a reformed witch taught how to control her power, an ensouled vampire in love out for remorse, two cowards who fled to Mexico, and a reformed sadistic fighter. Then the king of evil comes to earth in the form of a necrophile, seductress, Dragon principal, an engineered cyborg made of corpses, an evil goddess and a human misogynist in a taunting way. The final incarnation the king of evil takes is this fundamentalist fire and brimstone preacher, quoting punitive and violent bible verses. The righteous warrior trains up an army of potential soldiers to take down the vengeful preacher. The Warrior has been recruited to work in a school by a victim of vampire violence to counsel students into joining her cause. Near the time of battle, the potential soldiers and redeemed witch and sadist turn on the righteous warrior. The redeemed Vampire is the only one to trust the warrior's mission. The Vampire then helps the righteous warrior find the scythe that she alone is worthy to possess. There is a great reconciliation after the warrior destroyed a bomb that only the scythe can destroy. Then there is a sudden departure from the town, as they can detect an evil presence. The Fundamentalist evil powers are revealed after his recitation of fire and brimstone sermons manifest a great violence on the land. The warriors unite under the power of the scythe, and destroy the power of the fundamentalist. After the Fundamentalist is destroyed, the whole town sinks, and the ghost of the King of Evil is sucked down into the netherworld.

The offertory hymn used was "Hail Mary: Gentle Woman", which was based on a prayer of the same name. The Communion hymn used was "Shepherd me O God". While serving, they unintentionally switched seats three times, first at offertory and second at communion. The ending hymn was an easter hymn using Beethoven's ninth symphony as the melody. Margaret had noticed that both the girls were wearing sneakers, to which she did not think too highly of.

That afternoon, Ray and Milo went to hit Golf Balls. After Milo and Ray got back, Grandpa Tony called to ask Milo how mass went in the morning. Grandma Pearl came over for dinner, as this was mothers day.

The Transition Meeting

Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir and Husisha had a meeting to talk about the Future. Maelendil knew well that the spark was dying that began a year ago. Now Maelendil brought up how different Milo was with Amira, and much more comfortable with her than Minu. Maelendil had seen the trip to New Seneca, and Milo being in a funk the morning after arriving, and that he barely spoke with Minu in the sacristy before Church. Cashmir had been quite gleeful over the prospect, and Alexander had been indifferent. Husisha shared what he knew in regards to Milo and Minu. Cashmir suggested letting Milo know now, while Alexander told him he needed to chill and Let Milo enjoy the Summer. Maelendil stated that he agrees with Alexander, and it will be best if Milo finds out on his own. Cashmir objected, and feared that this was not going to end well. Maelendil summons Cashmir to make arrangements so Milo could remember Amira, in order to lighten the blow when the end comes. Husisha agreed with Cashmir, but also agreed with Maelendil. At this time, Husisha still was wondering why the Jafari's were needed in the picture. Alexander questioned what this whole bad ending was, and Husisha explained that they were too much alike. The Jinns understood exactly what this meant.

Chapter 21: Summer Dreaming

As for the remainder of the school year, this had been an interesting time. Steve got banned from the trip, as he had pushed someone off him and, this other boy made a dramatic scene of being hurt and fainting. Frankly, this kid was not even hurt, and the assistant principal over reacted. After School, Milo was furious, and told Ray about what happened with Steve. Ray told Milo that the school had their reasons for what they did, and Steve maybe leaving out some information. Milo did not take too well to this, as he knew that authorities could be wrong, and found any assumption that authorities as being by default right utterly stupid.

A few days later, Milo called Steve as he was in out of school suspension. Steve explained that Neal would be taking him to Six Flags. Margaret and Ray thought this was inappropriate of Steve to do at first. Milo told Margaret that she knew the punishment was excessive. Margaret explained that it id not matter what they though, as the school chose the punishment, and that settles it. For Milo, this was a faulty position that presumes right and wrong are relative to what people in positions of authority think. This was not considering that students paid for the trip, and is not given their money back if kicked off.

Over Memorial Day weekend, Milo had bought "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" on DVD. With the Holiday weekend, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane threw a party on Monday. During the party, Salvatore, Milo and Matt went for a walk over to the School basketball courts and playground area. Milo had seen some friends from school and wanted to go over and talk to them. Matt would not go with Milo.

That Thursday, Milo had his eighth grade trip to the now closed Six Flags, which had been Sea World and Geauga Lake years before. Before the trip, Milo, Shawn and Jack formed their group. That morning, the Eighth Graders met in the auditorium, and boarded the busses. On the way up, Milo sat near Shawn and Jack. Milo had been pretty far in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire", and read the chapter "The First Task". Milo told Shawn and Jack about Steve coming up with his dad. Shawn did not believe that Steve would do this, as he thought that Steve would get caught and get in trouble. Jack laughed about Steve skipping his detention day to go to an amusement park.

When the Eighth graders arrived at Six Flags, they went to the front gates to go through check in. Milo noticed that Rokshana was held back, and had her bags checked. Milo wondered if they had some ulterior motive for doing so. The first ride Milo, Shawn and Jack went on was a yellow steel coaster. A few rides later, while Milo, Shawn and Jack were waiting in line, Dudley was whining about his group wanting to ride the X-flight. One teacher got off the X-Flight looking quite disoriented.

By 12, the boys got lunch at a sub shop, and hit some more rides, including a wooden coaster, a water ride, inverted red roller coaster and a standing blue roller coaster. After the rides, the boys walked the bridge from Six Flags to the Animal Park. This is where Sea World was, but had been transformed into a park to include not just sea animals.

As it was, Steve's father Neale took him to Six Flags himself, much to the annoyance of the principals. After getting off a ride, Milo noticed Neal talking on the phone, and said hi to Milo. Jack asked who that was, and Milo explained that was Steve's dad. Then Milo, Shawn and Jack met up with Steve, who just got out of the bathroom. Frankly they did not see much of Steve, as he did not go on too many rides, and preferred the Batman show.

That Friday, the Eighth Graders had their first formal dance for eighth graders only. Frankly, the dance was boring, and formals were really not Milo's thing. Now Milo never liked school dances in his life. Milo had caught Ella crying, and feared that she would not be attending Ciderpond High in the next year. What had happened was that Ella's friend would be attending a different highschool. That night, Milo watched The Chamber of Secrets, and had his attention on the scene where Tom Riddle frames Hagrid.

On Saturday, Margaret and Lydia went for a girls day at the Pittsburgh Science center. Milo and Ray likewise got Italian for dinner and watched an M. Night Shyamalan movie unbreakable. During Milo's last week of School, he was in the Goblet of Fire Chapter "The Yule Ball". That day, the Biancatello's were invited to the Delaneys for dinner Friday night. Before leaving for the Delaney's, Milo was looking through the hymnal website that he first visited the summer after fifth grade, and came across a hymn known as "As Saints of Old their first fruits brought", set to an English Folk tune. At the dinner, Ray told Denise about Steve's dad taking him to Six Flags, despite being banned from the trip. Ray had admitted the assistant principal may have overreacted.

The night before the last day of School, Milo had a youth group meeting, which Margaret assisted. After youth group, Ray told Milo "Get a good look at middle school tomorrow, you wont see the place for a long while". This really hit Milo, as he understood well that he was done with a school that he had spent three years of his life at. As for the last day, this was a field day and an awards assembly. After lunch, Principal Howachan let the Eighth Graders play on the Hazelnut forest playground. After school let out, the highschool seniors started pelting the middle schoolers with water balloons. That night, Lydia watched some "Sister Sister" with Tia and Tamara Mowry. For dinner, Ray brought home some subs from Subway.

Preparations for the Feast of the Guest

Many years past, the Cobolds hosted a pregnant Elfess ready to give birth to an extraordinary child. The Elfess repaid the Cobolds hospitality by giving them a set of plans for a second story of the structure that created the bridge to the cliff stairs joining Spartustica with Gallicanium. Plus had it not been for the second story, the Cobolds would never have joined in defense and gained glory at the defeating the Offspring Trolls and opening the way to Atlantis. The Cobolds had long credited this child for their victory, and the one who opened the doors to Atlantis and Spartustica. The Festival had not been celebrated since before the Hurricane hit, and could only be celebrated when the seer Azeyas arrived to give the say so.

This year, Azeyas came at an odd time, right at the end of spring and beginning of the summertide. This Summertide was the last season before the Cobolds would be spending a term in the city of Atlantica. Azeyas gave instructions to Londinium that the festival was to be celebrated in the Gardens of Pedmontus. According to Azeyas' reports, a special guest was due to arrive at the cliffs for this feast with a special task.

The Forester Cobolds arrived into the Pedmontus gardens for to assist in preparing for the festival, and explain to the Pedmontus Cobolds the news from Azeyas. Now the Pedmontus Cobolds were a bit shocked at having the festival at such a strange time. The Cobolds had no explanation either. One Cobold Aerondin told the Pedmontus Cobolds about how they had been summoned to a term in Atlantica in the upcoming months. One Cobold looked a big grieved, and he asked how long the Forester clan would be gone. None of the Cobolds knew how long they would be gone. Yet they knew of the deal that during this first term, the Cobolds could not leave Atlantica or they would not be able to come back. The Pedmontus Cobolds understood that it maybe a long time before the Cobolds could come back for a visit, but understood about making alliances.

The Beginning of Summer

Milo had finished Eighth grade that June and would be starting High School that coming fall. Milo had felt slightly depressed on the first two days at having ended Middle School. Milo was not sure who he was anymore, and felt a sort of loss in identity. On Milo's first day of summer vacation, Ray gave him a motivational speech about how much he had grown over the past three years, and it was only going to get better. Milo did not feel he could believe this, and liked the way things were. Milo started watching Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone after Ray left for work. That Summer, Milo became obsessed with the Harry Potter movies.

Later that day, Milo started downloading music from Kazaa. All the music Milo downloaded was Christmas Music, being mostly from Kings College or the Mormon Tabernacle. Milo's favorite downloads were "Good Christian Men Rejoice", which is a loose translation of a poem by mystic Heinrich Suso, "Christ was born on Christmas Day", which is a loose translation of an old latin chant, "O Little Town of Bethlehem" set to an English folk tune and "O Come O Come Emmanuel" by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

On the second day of Vacation, Steve came over. Milo took Steve down to the park, and he saw some teachers he remembered from Hazelnut forest in the parking lot. Milo could not believe how he just graduated Middle school, and remembered elementary school like it was yesterday. Then Milo took Steve over to Aunt Janes to meet her, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester. Milo then took Steve over to a neighborhood close to where Uncle Georgio and Uncle Mike live. Before Ray or Margaret got home, Merle stopped over to pick Milo up. Merle mentioned goint to somewhere like Cedar point over the summer. On Friday, Milo went bowling with Shawn in a Friday league they just started. Technically this was an unofficial league.

On Saturday, Ray's work was sponsoring a family evening at the Huntington Center in Toledo. This would include a dinner and a basketball game. Now Milo still had quite an obsession with all things Toledo, thanks to the previous year. The Biancatello's headed off to Toledo in the late afternoon, and got to the Huntington center by dinner. The evening served picnic foods like fried chicken, a smores bar and French fries. At the game, Milo noticed a luxury box that reminded him of the Hotel where Uncle Georgio's birthday party was held almost two years ago. Milo remembered how the day before, he saw "Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone" with the Rumcorns.

That night, Milo had strange dreams about his last days of Fifth Grade, involving someone who was moving. On Sunday, which had been Fathers day, the Biancatello's went to Church and out to Perkins for breakfast. That afternoon, there was a picnic at Grandpa Tony's. At the Picnic, Salvatore mentioned having to do service projects for Highschool. After the picnic, Milo read some more of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire". Milo had gotten pretty far, and was in the chapters about the Pensieve, Mr. Crouche's madness and Padfoots return.

On Monday, Milo prepared for the School picnic by watching Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone in the morning. That afternoon, Milo and Lydia were at Aunt Janes with Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester. Margaret then took Milo and Lydia to Taco bell for Dinner. After dinner, Milo watched Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

The next day, Milo had his final School Picnic at Seewoulden. An acquaintance of Milo's, Jimmys mother asked if I would go on rides with him. Jimmy proved to be annoying to hang around with, as he would not go on any rides with lines. Plus, Jimmy wanted Milo to ask Ella if she would go on rides just with him. Milo would not have this, and ditched Jimmy. After ditching Jimmy, he came across Doris and Merle. Milo had thought about going to Soak Town, but saw clouds coming.

Milo then went with Steve, Doris and Merle. Milo then came across Ella, and they talked for a good long while, which put him in a good mood for the rest of the outing. The first ride they went on was the Sea Dragon, where Merle was quite comedic. They hit other rides like the roller coaster, the Tilt-a-Whirl, Scrambler, the log fume, fun house, magic carpet, wipeout and the paratrooper.

During a short break, Milo ordered an elephant ear. Then towards the end, Margaret and Lydia joined Doris, Merle, Steve and Milo on the Ferris Wheel. Doris tells Margaret that out of all Steves Friends, Milo is her favorite. Doris tells Margaret that she cannot stand her friend who goes by Dude. Milo remembered exactly who Dude was, and his hobby of breaking toy cars. Doris also mentioned that she did not like Saul either. Milo knew Saul was kind of creepy, and neither did Shawn like him.

On Wednesday, Steve came over to Milo's house. Milo took Steve for a walk up to the Jafari's. Now Milo had not been up to the Jafari's since Easter. Milo did show steve where the Jafari's lived, but they had been in Iran over the summer. Frankly, Milo did not see the Jafari's once.

That weekend, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" came out. Milo looked through the book, and found out that Sirius Black had died. Milo did nto take this too well, as his favorite book so far "The Prisoner of Azkaban" felt so ruined. Milo then stopped reading the Goblet of Fire, as he was too depressed about this outcome with the books.

The Bittersweet Festival

This year, the Cobolds and Londinians celebrated the feast of the Guest at Pedmontus as Azeyas instructed. The days before the Festival, the Cobolds decorated the garden with Holly and evergreen wreaths. Legend has it that the Holly has the power to ward off Rakshasajinns, as they are said to hate the smell. Large wreaths were placed on the tables, while smaller wreaths were stored to be given out as mandatory crowns to wear by guests. In the center, the Holly with red berries is placed in the middle of the table wreaths. The Aprodite and Bull statue are crowned with the guests wreaths.

As soon as the guests from Londinian and Spartustica arrived, Azeyas declared this as the great festival of Freedom. Azeyas retold the story of how this Child by the occurrence of his birth set fourth in motion the great victory over the Trolls, and became free to enter Atlantica. Azeyas recounted how had it not been for that second story, the Cobolds would never have seen the trolls in the mountain, who made travel between the lands impossible. Then the Trolls were removed, and the walls of division had been broken.

Over the days of feasting, many of the Cobolds had looked over the arch that once housed the bridge leading down to the district of the temple. The Cobold Aerondin had looked with a great sense of nostalgia, as he remembered when they first found the bridge after the Doustonians and began to remember the day when they first found this long forgotten bridge, and invited the Atlanteans to their Harvest Festival. Elrich started to anticipate going through Atlantica in order to get to the Temple District. What Elrich did not know was that they would have to travel through Atlantica first before ever getting to the Temple.

During the Festival at midnight, there was this song in the air going as such "Night of sorrow; the mighty bridge once stood is now gone. Morn of Joy; the paths through the mountains. Night of sorrow; Goodbye to the cobolds for a term. Morn of Joy; Alliances will be made. Night of sorrow; the battle of the trolls. Morn of joy; the celebration of the guest. Night of Sorrow; the bird shall be slain. Morn of Joy, the mount of darkness shall be destroyed". "Night of Sorrow; the days of desert wanderings. Morn of Gladness; return with glory".

Then a majestic Phoenix flew into the Garden, whom the celebrants all prostrated before. The Phoenix requested that four particular cobold's come fourth. The first Cobold Irugen got a rubin chalice intended to be used as a peace offering in times of conflict before the spirit of revenge takes over. The second Cobold Yusefus was given crest from the Temple to remind them of their task. The third Cobold Aerondin was given a book of advice written by those who had travelled Atlantica before. The Fourth Cobold Zadok was given an incense burner to fragrance their guest house they would be staying at.

The Yearbook Picture

Milo went for his final year at the summer camp, but was apprehensive as the previous year kind of sucked. Plus, Milo also had bad memories of the summer he first attended the camp. Milo was angry about being signed up for the program against his will, and was pretty insistent that this would be a bad idea.

However, this year would prove to be more fun. Milo's counselors were two men who were willing to stick to some particular types of activities instead of being over-generalized like the last time. Plus, the counselors Bob and Zach proved to be more interested in listening to the kids. Now Bob had a daughter these girls age, and knew quite well how teenagers think. Zach was still in college, and remembered being a teenager all too well. What had been established was the campers for the most part liked Harry Potter.

On the first week, Milo was a little skeptical, as he still was not sure this would be like the previous year. Within days, they had all kinds of activities that were not so blatantly educational, and actually fun. On one occasion, Milo designed a replica of a cruise airplane. That Friday afternoon, Milo had bowling with Shawn in their unofficial league.

That Saturday, the Delaney's invited the Biancatello's on their boat for the afternoon. Now Milo liked the speed that came with boats, and Roger was known for going very fast. After getting back on land, Milo had remembered being at this place after starting Seventh Grade, and before the Funeral Wake. Milo knew that this was a Yacht Club. This has been the second flashback Milo had of early Seventh Grade.

Before the fourth of July, a friend of Milo's named Jimmy brought his yearbook. Milo had known Jimmy since his Sunday School days, and hung with him at Seewoulden, until he ditched him. In fact, He made his first communion at the same time as Jimmy. Jimmy was supposed to go to William Jettsons for Middle School, but they did not have enough room. Jimmy ended up going to Pecan Meadows. Now Jimmy did go to Kinsale, which was why he knew Ella to begin with.

Milo looked throught the yearbook to see if he could find a picture of Amira in this book. Frankly, Milo did not know if Amira even went to Pecan Meadows. This was the first time that Milo had actually seen Amira's name in print. She looked very pretty in the picture. Milo started to feel some nostalgia for his first semester of Seventh Grade, which had been going on for a while, since seeing the Luxury Box and the Yact Club. Milo then became dedicated to make sure that sixth grade did not repeat itself in his Freshmen year. Milo knew well how much Fifth grade had repeated itself.

Then there is a majestic vision in the room. There is an insignificant neighborhood in the middle of a mighty metropolis on a dreamless and cold winters night. Stars are crossing the horizon gazing on this light in a maternity ward, resting the fate and hope of the greater rustbelt region. Then a host of morning stars travel over the ward and glimpse a baby born of woman. The gathering of the morning stars travel over the region to a small child sleeping in his crib, not much older than the newborn to proclaim these tidings. The rest of the region had been long asleep, little knowing that moments from now, the little girl had been destined to rescue the region from the powers of greed and pride. Then there is a great song of thanksgiving to the one who sent the blessing, with the stars declaring the glory of the most high one.

Yuriyama's vision and the Charisms Story

Yuriyama summoned Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir and Husisha over a horrible vision he saw. Yuriyama had been trying to figure out what this meant, and had spoken with a number of Sophunums, and had no success in understanding. Meeting with Maelendil would be the key to understanding what this meant.

Here was the vision. This vision involves a phoenix known as Tithonus who feared combustion, and sought a way to avoid this. Tithonus remembered how the aging process was before, and did not want to go through this again. For months, he sought out a legendary alchemical stone from the fountain of youth that could produce this serum preserving youth so long as frequently drank. This time, Tithonus had no luck in finding the stone, and grew old and burst into flames. For several years, Tithonus had lived in prosperity until one day starting to age. A Hypocordo offered Tithonus the stone, but had a terrible cost. By this time, Tithonus had aged significantly and what he did not understand was that the serum could not reverse youthfulness. The more Tithonus drank the serum, he started to loose his feathers, and his skin started to become white and like a burned texture. By this time, Tithonus became very possessive of the stone, and developed the ability to breathe fire. Tithonus started becoming a monster who would breathe fire on anyone who came near his stone. Eventually Tithonus saw what he had become and disposed of the stone. Soon enough, Tithonus exploded in flames and his ashes were scattered all over the place, and would take a long time to find before being able to be reborn again.

Then the Charisms in the Spirit of St. Gregory of Nyssa, St. Clement of Alexandria and Blessed Heinrich Suso showed up. They explained that they had overheard the dilemma, and understood something going on. The Clement Charism told the story of the Six Theological Schools in early Christianity, the Pharisees and the Accuser. This is how the story went.

In the days that the Messiah was on earth, there had been a group of clergy known as Pharisees under the power of a great serpent known as the Accuser. They had been quite a proud and judgmental people who had been the one to call for the death of the Messiah. When the Messiah rose and their greatest Pharisee became Paul the Apostle, the Accuser left, and the temple fell.

Four of the schools of Alexandria, Antioch, Caesaria and Edessa believed that all were worthy of the Kingdom. One school Ephesus was undecided, while the Latin school of Carthage believed that only a select few were worthy of the Kingdom. The School of Carthage had been aligned with Roman Politics, and sought to integrate the kingdom of the Messiah with the worldly kingdoms. They knew that the other schools outnumbered them, and the Accuser returned to aid them. This time he placed in power the horrible king Justinian, who banned all theological schools except the Carthaginian School. By this time, many had sacrificed through burnings at the stake in the name of the accuser.

The Heinrich Charism told the story of six medieval mystics who had slain six heads off of the accuser, including Blessed Heinrich Suso, St. Francis of Assisi, Julian of Norwich, Hildegard of Bingen, Meister Eckhard and John Duns Scotus. With the 14th century reformation, the accuser grew more powerful at the hands of the Genevan Reformation and spread their iconoclasm and terrorism to Scotland, the Netherlands and eventually the new world. There had also been noble groups such as the Anabaptists, Quakers and early Evangelicals who travelled to the new world and brought a spirit of religious tolerance.

The Gregory Charism then tells the rest of the story of the Accusers return to the Evangelicals and Wahabist movements. In the 18th century, the teachings of Muhammad ibn Al-Wahhab spread throughout the Middle East, putting and end to the noble golden age. Meanwhile, in the 20th century, the Accuser appeared to many disciples of Arminius, Pelagius, Calvin, Finney, Darby, Savanorolla and the Order of Mens. The spirit of freedom amongst the Baptists began to decay, while the spirit of tolerance in of the Muslim world became diluted. Many skeptics, priests, philosophers and prophets had swiped the numerous heads off of the Accuser. A new one was needed, and comes from one of the Charges of Maelendil.

Maelendil, Cashmir, Alexander, Husisha and Yuriyama were a bit confused with the Charisms testimonies. The Heinrich Suso Charism explained that this maybe the kind of purification needed to train the Charge. Cashmir then became horrified when remembering how his charge seemed to not want to go through the dark transition, which could be very dangerous.

The Fourth of July Weekend and the Wedding

Milo's 4th of July Weekend consisted in throwing a party at the Biancatello's house. The morning before the Party, Uncle Wayne took Lydia, Milo, Grandma Pearle and his family on his new speed boat through the lake. All the kids got a turn with tubing, and had many incidents of falling off due to the speed. Frankly, everyone had some laughs about this. Milo had a verson of "O Come o Come Emmanuel" from the Mormon Tabernacle stuck in his head while on the tube.

At the party, all of Ray's brothers and sisters and Grandpa Tony showed up, except for Uncle Mike, Aunt Jackie and Emma, and Aunt Dianne, as they had been on vacation in South Carolina and Danielle was in labor. That summer, Jesse and Danielle were expecting their firstborn Ashlyn, who was born on the Fourth of July. Ben stayed back, as he had an internship. Ben told Milo that Parvaneh was in his internship. Aunt Bertha, Uncle Wayne, his mom, Kyle, Kevin, Bruce and Grandma Pearl were also at the party.

On Saturday, Ray joined Milo and Lydia on Uncle Wayne's boat in the morning. At the evening, the Biancatello's went over to Grandma Pearls, as Uncle Wayne was hosting a cookout. Uncle Wayne told hilarious stories that night about how his car had gotten stolen. According to the story, one morning, Aunt Bertha was ready to go to work, only to find their car missing. Aunt Bertha called her workplace to tell them that their car had been stolen, and that she would be unable to come in. Aunt Bertha's boss could not stop laughing at this news. They called the police, and sought out some witnesses. Their neighbor across the street admitted that she heard the car leave at 1am, but thought they were just going out for a drive. After weeks of the police unable to find the car, the case was almost declared a lost cause, and the insurance company would pay for a new car. Right Before the cause was considered lost, the police called that they found the car, and had the hooligans arrested. The car had been in bad shape and needed to go in for repairs. The car was returned after the repairs were made, and the back seats were loose. Uncle Wayne called to complain, and the mechanic on the line asked if the seats came like this when he bought the car. A few days later, Uncle Wayne called again, and found out the mechanic who fixed their car just got fired.

On Saturday Night, Milo had some strange dreams about the day before he started sixth grade when he got a private orientation, and coming home watching Loony Tunes Wiley Coyote shorts, while thinking about Kindergarten. Then the dream changed to Merle with a flying car rescuing him and Steve from two home Ec. Teachers let loose at a school, out to purge the students. Merle then takes Milo and Steve off to a secret hideout with inside walls colored deep blue with stars painted over.

That morning in Church the Biancatello's sat with Grandpa Tony. Monsignor Warner broke the news that the parochial vicar was leaving, and that Fr. Nick would take his place. Then he also explained that Richard Esposito was just offered a job at St. James high to teach Theology. As this had been the fourth of July weekend, the ending hymn was "My Country Tis of thee". That afternoon, Milo invited Steve over to his house. Steve had some news that Merle maybe getting a job with Margaret's company. Steve asked Milo to talk to Alicia for him. Steve had been begging Milo for a long time to see Alicia since he saw her during the past fall. That night, Milo had more nightmares based on Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone, based on the chapter where Harry did not know how he made it through exams when Voldemort could be walking through the classroom any second.

Two summers ago, Rory got engaged to Lauren. Rory asked if Milo and Salvatore to be the Altar servers, and both accepted. This day was near. The weekend before the Wedding, the O'Malleys, two Biancatello families, Grandpa Tony and Filentino's went on a short vacation to Drakes Forest State Park, a few hours south of Ciderpond. This was the same place that they had all gone two summers ago. Last summer, they did not go up, due to Grandma Rosa being sick.

At lunch on the way to Drake's Forest, Aunt Michelle explained that Salvatore could no longer serve, as he had a basketball game. This was the biggest reason that Milo tended to do more with Matt than Salvatore. Salvatore would often go through phases on and off of obsessing on certain things, and becoming imbalanced. At this point in Salvatore's life, he could be very unreliable, as for him, sports unquestionably came first. Such was the case with the wedding, where Milo would have expected Salvatore to put a commitment to a family function, and a cousins wedding on higher priority than a basketball game. So what happened was Aunt Dianne got Matt to serve in Salvatore's place. Lydia was scheduled to be a Junior Bridesmaid.

Getting back to this vacation, Lydia ordered a Shrimp salad from Burger King, and was utterly disgusted. Then they were all off back on the road. The two years ago that the family went was the Summer before Milo started Seventh Grade and would be attracted to Amira for the first time. That first evening, Milo was playing his new "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" for Gameboy advanced. This game's main melody constantly haunted Milo for years to come.

The next day, when going on a hike, Milo started anticipating his freshmen year being moreso like Seventh Grade, as he remembered the same woods from two summers ago. The further Milo got into the summer, the less appealing his memories of the Fifth grade summer became. This national park reminded Milo of the Forbidden Forest, sort of.

That night at a restaurant, Milo told Alicia about his friend Steve, as he had wanted Milo to talk to her for him. Alicia was a little freaked out that Steve had any interest in her. Milo explained he saw her that night when Aunt Marie and Grandpa Tony were over for dinner. This still did not help his cause. Alicia then considered that Milo needs to find less strange friends. Milo then knew this was a lost cause, but did not exactly have high hopes, let alone care. That night, the kids were taken back to the dark maze, where Milo saw this as a perfect Voldemort hideout.

The weekend of Rory's wedding came. On Friday with Milos Summer Camp, they were taken fishing by invitation of an estate owner, who let them use his private pond. That afternoon, Milo took a walk through the Jafari's, and had no luck. Frankly, Milo had not taken Jinny for too many walks so far. Ray had just got back from a business trip in Alabama. Then they went out to dinner at the Italian restaurant, and stopped at the toy store to pick up a "Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone" game for his Gameboy advanced.

The morning before the wedding, Milo and Ray cut Grandpa Tony's grass, and found that Aunt Marie and Alicia were already in town. Aunt Marie came in the night before, as she was doing a reading. At 12:30, Ray dropped Milo off at St. Timothy's, to which he proceeded to the Sacristy. Milo found Jesse, Julian, Rob and Ben by the Organ, as they were groomsmen. Milo ended up waiting in the sacristy for a good amount of time. Soon enough, Matt arrived and then the Priest. Both Milo and Matt lit the candles while the people were arriving in the Church for the ceremony. Being that neither the Priest nor Matt had assisted a service at St. Timothy's, Milo had most of the leadership roles. Milo, Matt and the Priest congregated to the Altar before the wedding team began the procession. Then the procession began and the wedding took place. The processional piece used was "Jesu Joy of Mans Desiring", which was also used at Jesse's wedding almost four years ago. The piece used at the entrance of the bride was "Canon in D", which is the stereotypical wedding piece.

After the service, the reception took place. As far as receptions went, there were no surprises. Milo liked having his moment of glory, when everyone commended him and Matt for doing a good job as Altar Servers. That night, the O'Malleys left right after the wedding, as Matt had to serve mass back in New Seneca the next morning. Milo thought this a bit odd, considering that they had always switched with someone else when they were in Ciderpond.

The next day, Milo and Ray went to the early mass, and saw Grandpa Tony. After mass, the three went out to Breakfast at Mcdonalds. Lydia and Margaret went to a 9:30 mass that the Parochial vicar who was leaving had presided. After mass was a farewell social, and the church clapped for him. This priest had given a sermon about leaving from his last assignment, and visiting a patient in the hospital who complained that he was leaving, but not recognizing him. Alongside, Milo was in his last week of his Summer Camp. On Monday, Milo got invited by Steve to go to a small amusement park past Sussewago with him, Merle and Doris. When they arrived at the park, it had been closed due to a rain storm. So Merle drove them back to Ciderpond and went to Seewoulden instead. Frankly, this had been more fun, as this other park was on decline for several years, and had pretty dull rides.

Departure Plans

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds were preparing for a discreet leave to Atlantica. Frankly, they did not want to be noticed by anyone, nor have an elaborate sending off. Elrich had bragged about his plans to get these quick alliances done, and getting an early agreement to get into the temple area. Lymurd was still not keen on going, and complained about leaving Londinium. Yoshiyahu had been pushing the Cobolds to read the book of Advice the Phoenix gave to Aerondin. Elrich took this request lightly, and chose not to read the book over. The only thing Elrich cared about was the Crest Yusefus had, as it reminded him of the temple. Undernead this bravado, Elrich really feared failure. Elrich remembered all too well when the Doustonians had so much prominence in Londinium, and how much they made the war against the trolls seem like a huge failure.

One evening at dusk, the Cobolds departed Beaubelles, looking back at their headquarters, and a last look at the Cliffs of Pedmontus. They quietly walked through the districts of Londinium late at night until reaching the city limits. By this time, the Cobolds got over the border, into some stony pathways and near the Mountains.

For the next weeks until they were scheduled to arrive in Atlantica, the Cobolds made camp in the Mountains. Lymurd still was trying to implore the Cobolds to turn back, and making the same arguments that the Atlanteans did not want them there in the first place. Iohannes hushed Lymurd, as he did not want to draw any attention to them. The Cobolds ended up making a pretty large tent city in the mountains, and knew that it would not be so easy to hide. Every morning, before dawn, they took down the tents, and different groups stuck to different regions of the tent.

The Three Vacations

One Friday later, Milo had a private orientation with Ciderpond Highschool, and got a tour of the school. Milo had felt even more uneasy after visiting the school, and the prospects of starting highschool were not overly appealing to him. Possibly, because the time was coming much closer than Milo cared to admit. The lady giving Milo the orientation explained the many differences between Highschool and Middle School, such as earlier start times, different classes every two days, and how the lunch system worked. Students were not assigned to eat based on grades, but was divided into four periods, and who the students ate lunch with depended on what time slot the teacher had. Otherwise, this was still a foreign facility that did not feel much like a home to Milo. After orientation, Milo attended a pizza party for his final day of the summer camp. That evening, Milo and Ray Mowed Grandpa Tony's grass, and they ordered a Pizza. The only thing Milo was thinking of how at least his upcoming vacation would distract him from thinking about School.

On Sunday, the Biancatello's left for Tampa. Margaret was able to get this trip, because the resort that hosted her work gave her a great deal on rooms. The Biancatello's arrived at the Ciderpond Airport, which was quite easy to navigate compared to larger airports. Once they boarded a plane, they got a last look at the ciderpond area before flying off to Detroit. The Detroit Airport reminded Milo a lot of the Toledo Imagination station, which had not made him feel so positive about these memories. This was frankly a long day in the airport, and a two hour flight into Tampa. Milo felt exactly the same when he arrived in Tampa as he had when he arrived the first time. That night, the Biancatello's ate at Sonneys Barbeque.

The first day, Milo felt a bit out of place in Tampa, and could not believe he was still in the United States. For Lunch, they got Thai for the first time. Milo ordered duck. They then stopped at a drug store, which reminded Milo of being in fifth grade, and the Hogwarts express for some strange reason. Then they got Italian for dinner at some supposedly renouned restaurant.

The next day, the Biancatellos went to Busch Gardens. So far, this had been Milo's favorite outing. Milo's favorite area was the Morocco, Timbuktu and Egypt area, as they most strongly reminded him of the Middle East. For the most part, Milo and Lydia went on some rides together, and only got into one fight. They went on a water ride, and Milo saw a girl who resembled Rokshana. They also went on a Safari ride, which reminded Milo of the Indy 500 with the Rumcorns years back.

The next day, the Biancatello's went to the Beach during the day, and Chili's for dinner. The drive through Tampa had been quite a nightmare. This city was overwhelmingly big, and traffic was everywhere. Then on Thursday, the Biancatello's went to the water park Adventure Island. That morning at Krispy Kreme, Milo had a flashback to his trip to Sandusky two years ago, when they stopped for donuts on the way. After lunch, they went to the Science center, which proved to be a massive disappointment compared to the Imagination Station. On their last day, the Biancatello's went to the Aquarium in the morning, which reminded Milo of the Toledo Aquarium. That evening, Gino, who is a friend of Rays invited them over for the afternoon, bought some lunch and took them out to dinner. Towards the end, Milo started getting quite anxious, knowing that he would have to fly the next day. This made Milo like flying less, as he remembered the trip to being quite overwhelming.

After returning from Vacation, Milo went on his second Cedar Point Trip with his Youth Group. This would be the last activity that Richard Espozito would schedule, as he was taking a job at St. James Cathedral High school. As for the day, this was not as much fun as the year before. Milo saw a ride that he remembered waiting in line for, and thinking that he was seeing Minu. During the day, Milo had this unshakeable uneasiness that he just did not understand. Maybe it was just Milo knowing that he would be starting Highschool soon. For the day, Milo was with Richards group, and some other kids he knew from youth group. At Cedar Point, Milo heard the song "You Cant hurry Love" on the radio. Towards the end, Milo got a superman ice cream cone at one of the Ice Cream shops in the park. This had been a bittersweet moment, as Rich had been a great Youth Minister, and Milo would never get to enjoy the activities that the Highschoolers did. After the trip, he thanked them all for his years of service, and one of the kids gave him a big hug. Rich also promised to be back to chaperone with youth group in the future.

That night after Cedar Point, Milo had some strange dreams about visiting the Rumcorns, Ella swimming in the ocean and starting school. Milo had been so distraught about starting school that he called his old crush Ellen, who had been pregnant with twins. As for that day, Milo was back at Aunt Janes, and was playing with Sylvester. Eustace and an obnoxious neighborhood girl gave Milo a hard time, as they though he was being too rough with Sylvester. Now Milo knows that Sylvester likes to play rough, and was begging him to. Sylvester was only five at the time, and quite a feisty little guy. Lydia had tried to get Milo to listen to the two, out of convenience. That evening, Rays advice was that if three people are saying something is problematic, it probably is. Milo didn't really care for such rules of thumb, and thought the three were just acting stupid.

That Friday and Saturday night, the Biancatello's had a condo on the Lake that Margaret got to use through work. They went down to the Condo and ordered a pizza on Friday night, but went home by 11pm. That Saturday, the Biancatellos spent more time at the Condo, including the night. They even brought Jinny to the Condo, and Lydia brought Emily. For dinner, they went to Stacy's retro-diner. That night, Milo fell asleep watching some mystery movie. That morning, Milo had to serve mass, and Ray took him to Church. Then Milo and Ray returned to the condo. That afternoon, the Biancatello's had Ray's company picnic at Seewoulden. This time, being back at Seewoulden didn't feel as glorious as his school picnic or going back with Doris and Merle.

On Sunday Night, the Biancatellos stopped back at the house, picked up some clothes and drove Milo and Lydia to New Seneca to spend a few days with the O'Malleys. When they arrived, Milo told the O'Malleys about his recent trip to Tampa. After Ray and Margaret left, Aunt Marie took the kids out for frozen yogurt.

The first few days had been fun. On Monday morning, Aunt Marie made pancakes for breakfast. That evening, the O'malleys took Milo and Lydia back to Chili's for dinner. Milo had noticed that Alicia had been a bit off. Milo suspected that she was just nervous about starting highschool, but she talked like she was real excited about this. Yet there was some red flag Milo could not put his finger on. The whole time, Alicia insisted that Milo find a friend besides Steve.

The Praedexit Meeting

Maelendil summoned a meeting with Alphie, Theodore, Cashmir and Alexander over upcoming changes. Maelendil first thanked Cashmir in having made arrangements to remind Milo about the roots dating back to his seventh grade year. Cashmir explained how Milo had roots with the Harry Potter series that began in Fifth Grade, and then was forgotten for a while, until Seventh grade in the movies after Thanksgiving. Cashmir explained how Milo was only interested in Harry Potter because it reminded him of the last semester of Fifth Grade, which he remembers as being before seeing Parvaneh in Bens Communion video. Maelendil explains how all good literature has deep themes applicable to all glorious days. Maelendil then credits Cashmir for reminding Milo about the glories of early Seventh Grade, and the connections to fifth grade. Cashmir asks if this is a good idea, as he knows well that Milo had been thinking about Seventh grade significantly. Cashmir explains how Milo does not have too many positive memories of either Sixth or the early days of Eighth grade. Alexander asks if he can blame Milo, considering that was when the Khara's moved.

Alphie interjects that he sees the same thing happening like three years ago, when Milo had started Middle School for the first time. Maelendil explains that Alphie is right, and brings up such dreams about the orientation the day before starting school, and the most recent dream with an old crush. Alexander then explains that it looks like Milo does not really want history to repeat itself like three years ago. Maelendil explains that people tend to always seek out resurrection, but always fear going on the path of death. Cashmir starts to understand that Maelendil gave him the task to remind Milo of Amira, so that the end with the Jafari's will not be such a hard blow. Cashmir told Maelendil how he believes Milo knows all this, but is fearful of coming to grips with this. Maelendil somberly said this was all so. Maelendil then asks if Cashmir tempers Milo's optimism with a less than pleasant dream.

The Rest of the Summer

On Wednesday morning, Milo woke up from some off putting dreams. Milo first dreamed about the funeral where he first saw Amira and Maziyars birthday. Then Milo dreamed that a church cantor escorted him to the Airport for a family vacation. That Wednesday, Milo had started to become anxious about starting Highschool in a few weeks, and bummed out that the summer had gone by so quickly. That afternoon, Aunt Marie took the kids to the New Seneca Mall. This was the same mall that the Biancatello's visited on their first visit. Milo had been utterly distracted, and could only thing about how his life was all changing. Milo feared that history was going to repeat itself exactly like Sixth grade.

On Thursday, the O'Malleys came in town for Milo's birthday. On the way up, Milo felt more uneasy when talking with Matt about his airplane trip to and from Tampa. That night, they went over to Grandpa Tony's, and then Church for the Assumption mass. After Church, Ray stopped over, as Margaret was on her way home from a business meeting, but stuck in the Detroit airport due to an electric outage on the Great Lakes. Margaret would not be able to get back until the next morning, and had to spend the night in the Airport. Milo and Lydia had one final dinner with the O'Malleys, Grandpa Tony and Aunt Dianne. Aunt Dianne dropped Milo and Lydia off back at their house.

On Friday Morning, Margaret got home and took Milo and Lydia to Seewoulden to meet with the O'Malleys and Filentino's. Frankly Milo felt exactly like he did at Seewoulden three years ago, before starting Middle School. Before leaving, Milo was watching a scene in Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone, with the mirror of Erised. As for the day at the park, Milo was a bit anxious about the uncertainties about starting school in a few weeks. They did not have a very long day at Seewoulden, as Margaret had been pretty tired from the night before at the Airport. After coming home, Milo swam in the pool, and just thought about the weekend before, which had seemed so long ago, when he was serving mass. Milo just could not comprehend how he had so little anxiety, and now felt utterly helpless. The Birthday party did not go much better, as it rained and everyone left early. The O'malleys even left Ciderpond that night. Milo had been pretty disappointed, as he knew this end of summer party was a hit, where Ray built a bonfire, which lasted well into the night. That evening, Salvatore and Gianni watched Ernest Scared stupid with Milo.

On the day after Milo's birthday, he had one more orientation before starting school. Before walking into school, Henry caught up with Milo and Margaret. Henry acted all nice to Margaret, telling her all about his boring summer. Margaret asked Milo why he never befriended that boy. Milo explains he was not so nice the year before. Upon walking in Margaret and Milo both saw Minu. Frankly, Milo was not all that excited to see her. However, Milo was quite pleased to see Ella, whom he thought looked very pretty that day. Milo also noticed many unfamiliar faces, including a Pashtun girl who resembled Nousha. Milo met his Science teacher for the upcoming year, and found that touring the school for a fourth time gave him more closure. Frankly, Milo was a lot calmer that last week of vacation than he had been the whole time at the O'Malleys. At the Orientation, Milo also saw Doris and Steve. Doris had complained about Steve wanting to leave, and no interest in finding his classes. The next day, Milo and Lydia went with Denise, Shamus and Charlie to a Sports park. Then on Friday night, Ray took Milo and Lydia to see the first Pirates of the Carribbean. Over the weekend, Lydia and Margaret went on a mother-daughter camping weekend, which Ella and her mom also attended. Lydia and Ella got some pictures together, which Margaret let Milo have. That Sunday night after Margaret and Lydia got back, Milo was looking at some old pictures he took before starting first grade at Hazelnut Forest. One of the pictures was of Marilyns Daughter Courtney, who was in the picture going into her Freshman year of Higschool.
Chapter 22: The Jafari Fallout

The arrival in Atlantica

The time came for the Cobolds to go on their mission into Atlantica. The Cobolds got a message to meet at the mountain summit known as Atlantica heights. The Cobolds all met at this place, and got a majestic view of the city. After a short wait, the Cobols were escorted by an ambassador from Atlantica. The Cobolds were moved into their guest house, and setup their incense burner as the Phoenix had instructed them. The Rubin Chalice was placed in a wall crèche at the end of a hallway. Then the Temple Crest was hung above the crèche. The book was kept by Aerondin. Aerondin had been the only one to look at the book.

A few blocks from the house, the embassy was setup in case the Cobolds had any problems. This embassy was made up of Londinians who had much experience with urban environments, and handling team disputes. These particular Londinians had arrived weeks early, and worked in Politics for many years.

After the Cobolds got all settled, the embassy took them on a brief tour of the embassy district of Atlantica. This was the palace that would grant the Cobolds membership to their lands if they succeeded on this mission. This district had greatly surprised the cobolds, as they saw several exotic pieces of architecture, grand gardens, high end markets and well off residents dressed in fine linen with beautiful patterns. The lifestyles of these district residents had been quite flashy, and greatly fascinated many of the Cobolds. Elrich had become the most enamored, and started developing big plans to do great things for the city, in hopes of getting to the Atlantean temple.

The first week of School

Once Monday arrived, Milo was dreading starting Highschool. Amira would be starting her final year of Middle School at Pecan Meadows. Milo was not feeling so easy about going to the same school as Minu. Now Milo liked how things were, where they met occasionally at Church or while going for a walk. Plus, starting school was the last way he wanted to cross paths with Minu.

That last day, Margaret took Milo and Lydia school shopping for supplies and folders. Besides Milo starting Highschool, Lydia would be starting Middle School at William Jettson's. As to who had it worse, this was greatly debatable. That night, Milo became utterly anxious about any change, such as when Margaret switched the hampers in the bedroom. Otherwise, Milo knew he was going into a world of utter uncertainty.

On Tuesday Morning, after a pleasant night of sleep, Milo was woken up, and knew what this meant. Margaret prepared a special lunch for Milo and Lydia for their first days of new schools. Milo headed to the Bus stop and saw two other students, one freshman and a senior. On the bus, Milo met the driver, and drove up to the stop closest to the Jafari's. Milo notice Minu along with a boy, two blonde girls, and some other unfamiliar faces. As Milo expected, he was not excited to see Minu whatsoever. After some more stops, the bus drove past the parking lots, Senior Highschool and then into the Bus lots.

When Milo entered school, he saw several unfamiliar faces, and then caught up with Steve. As for the first day of school, this was a bit rough, and could not help but envy Lydia for starting Middle School. This was not keeping in mind how Lydia was just as unfamiliar with Middle School as Milo was with Highschool. For the first day of school, things did not go too bad. Milo had not felt overly comfortable with his new classes, and felt out of place. So far, Milo did like his drafting class. As for the classes in general, it was all reading over syllabuses and filling out contact forms.

At lunch, Milo found to his luck that Steve would be eating at the same time as him. So Milo did not have to worry about sitting alone or finding people to sit with. Milo also found out that Minu was eating Lunch at the same time he was. Still, Milo was not overly concerned about this, and just wanted to get through this first day. On the way home, Milo saw Minu talking with a brown haired boy who he noticed had the same bus stop as her. Milo could not bring himself to even talk to Minu that first day.

After this first day ended, Milo became more accustomed to school, and liked the novelty. Within the second day, Milo had some more interesting classes, including typing, Social Studies, Health and Science. The Science teacher was one guy who looked like a master weenie, but seemed cool at first. Milo's typing teacher Mr. Hufstader had been a fun guy who could make some class so dull absolutely cool. Milo's drafting teacher was good friends Ray's cousin Mario.

By the third day, Milo started having the same excitement and euphoria he experienced after seeing Minu after a long time, like had happened the previous year. In English class, Milo was assigned to work on a project with a new student known as Dustin. Dustin had been easily humored. One of the questions was "What kind of food would you like to be". Dustin laughed that the question was messed up. They had the official answer that Cannibalism is against their beliefs. Somehow, they started talking about videogames, and Milo told Dustin about a time that he beat Lydia at Mario Karts, and she cried and Margaret yelled at him. Dustin laughed, calling this messed up. At lunch, Milo and Steve sat in the same quadrant as Minu. Milo showed Steve who Minu was, and he was not impressed in the slightest. Steve was one to only be interested in girls who looked like supermodels, or purposely made themselves look hot, as one would expect with the combination of Catholic and Iranian.

That night, Milo did become a little nostalgic when he went shopping for school supplies with Margaret and Lydia. Milo remembered how he used to look at the office supplies the previous spring, such as drafting and design tools. Then Friday finally came, and Milo had another good day. Still, Milo could not get himself to talk to Minu. But Milo could not stop thinking about Minu all weekend.

Lymurd's Probation

In the early days of the mission to the Atlanteans, Elrich had become quite ambitious, and wanted to get to the Temple as soon as possible. Elrich was not well versed in the Atlantica customs, nor did he read the book the Phoenix gave them. Lymurd began taking charge, and convinced the Cobolds to stay only in the official Londinian community, and to not interfere with the Atlanteans. Lymurd still had no interest in being in Atlantica, and considered being in this town to be an intrusion on the Atlanteans culture. Elrich on the other hand was all too eager to jump into the Atlantean society, and experience this exotic culture.

Unfortunately Lymurd had the most influence on the Cobolds, and scared them into believing that the Atlanteans were a dishonest people willing to rip them off, and kidnap their woman and make them part of the noblemans harem. Lymurd knew the Cobolds had been quite scared being in this new and unfamiliar culture, and had no problem exploiting this. All Lymurd knew were mere rumors based on not understanding what certain customs meant in the Atlantean culture. What Lymurd and the other Cobold had not understood, had they read the book was that they bargain for a price, hoping that both sides come to an agreement. When it comes to the harem, this is a rare occurrence, where women of financial troubles, are offered the opportunity to be a part of a rich mans family, similar to a daughter but as an equal.

Elrich went behind Lymurd's back and informed the embassy of what was going on. The Embassy had kept an eye on Lymurd, to see if this was true. Alrich only rat Lymurd out in order to take the role of leader, and get started on his ambitions. More than anything, Alrich just wanted to get into the temple town, and hopefully get the bridge back up.

The embassy one day caught Lymurd spreading propaganda about Atlantica, and trying to develop a following to abandon the mission. The embassy held a trial for Lymurd. Lymurd testified that he is protecting the Cobolds from getting hurt in such a dangerous and barbaric city. Many of the judges had been Atlanteans, and did not take well to having their city called barbaric. Now the Atlanteans knew that like any other city, Atlantica had many crime problems. Then Lymurd dug himself into a deeper hole by bringing up harems and swindlers. In accord with the judges, the Embassy put Lymurd on probation, and suspended him from any role of leadership.

Early Highschool

So far, Highschool was not going too bad. Milo still had a little difficulty navigating the school, and knowing how things worked with Ciderpond High. Frankly, Milo felt that transitioning into highschool had been easier than transitioning to Middle School. Milo was comfortable with the independence he got from William Jettson to be able to keep up with the responsibilities. Plus, Milo knew how to work with a locker, and a free cafeteria. Milo found out that Mr. Hufstader was good friends with Uncle Ottavio.

When it came to school, Milo was making friends pretty quickly, and recognized many students from Pleasant tune from nearly nine years back. One girl who was in Milo's Kindergarten class was in his science class. Otherwise, Milo had Social Studies class with an old friend Justin Mcgill. In Milo's bowling league with Shawn, he was re-aquainted with an old friend from Kindergarten, who was also in his zoo group for the field trip.

One weekend, Milo had Steve over for a bonfire, and he took him up to the Jafari's neighborhood. As it was, Milo had no luck seeing them anyways. Milo was still in Youth Group, though now under new leadership. This new woman Connie had proven to be nothing like Richard. Margaret understood how Milo felt, as Richard had been a good friend to him, and a fun youth minister. Frankly, after Connie came in, the Youth Ministry was never the same.

Within a few weeks, the novelty of Highschool wore off, and the spark with Minu was dying. Milo had liked the side he saw of Minu as this girl from Church, the girl he occasionally saw on walks, whose older sisters knew his cousins, and part of the Indo-Iranian community. Otherwise, Milo had a difficult time handling the side of Minu from Ciderpond that he knew nothing about.

One week, Milo had some frustrations with school, as he knew that being in a new place could be quite challenging. Sometimes teachers could be harsh with freshmen who did not know the ropes of highschool. Accoring to Milo, the teachers had no business getting into such outrage when the students did nothing wrong other than adjusting to a new system. Otherwise, at home, Margaret could be a bit over-involved with his studies, and could easily conform her parenting approach to the teacher's agendas. Milo did not like this, and thought that parents should just stick to one unchanging style.

When it came to the Bus, Milo joined Minu's bus group by invitation of two blonde seniors Lindsay and Malinda. There was also a sophomore in the group Charles. Actually, these three were neighbors of Minu, and had recognized Milo walking Jinny two summers ago. Milo quickly became friends and to this day is still in contact with Lindsay and Charles. One day when Minu was not around, the three figured out that Milo liked Minu, as they noticed he was very nervous around her, but vowed to keep his secret. Milo told the three the story about how he knew Minu from St. Timothy's, and about her neighbors and Rokshana. They promised not to tell any thing Milo mentioned.

At Lunch, Steve chose to sit with Shane, which is where Milo ended up getting stuck at also. Frankly, Shane had turned into a bigger jerk over the summer. Milo was still quite bitter with Shane over being an on and off friend since they began friends to begin. Milo was also quite resentful of Steve's tendencies to go from High to low within days. Now Shane would pour his drink on Steve's food. This had been a frequent occurrence for the first month of school. One day, Mrs. Jansen was on cafeteria supervision day and caught Shane sneaking up behind Steve to pour his drink on his food. Mrs. Jansen called him out and brought him over to another cafeteria supervisor who told him "You do not pour your drinks on other students!"

Shane was forced to sit at his own table away from Steve and Milo. That same day, Steve and Milo caught Shane and Henry playing footsie. From that day on, Milo decided where he and Steve ate lunch. Steve is more of a follower, and had no ambition to make decisions if he could help it. Milo picked the same quadrant that Minu was eating lunch at. Milo tried to keep this spark alive he experienced the fist day he showed Steve who she was.

Milo at heart could not admit that he did not like Minu that way, and was afraid of having this confirmed, should they actually talk. Milo is not one good at hiding a crush. Ella knew well that Milo liked her, but was not bothered, as she was a more outgoing girl. The Jafaris are a more private family, which explains why they never went to functions as Maziyar explained over a year ago, and Ben saying that Parvaneh never spoke at St. Timothy's. Frankly, Milo became like a creeper who just happened to always be around, such the bus and Lunch. Milo even had a class that passed Minu's locker.

Around this same time, Margaret had a meeting with a financial advisor with a foreign name no one in the family could remember. One day after the meeting, Margaret told Milo that the financial advisor was part of the Sassani firm. Milo did not understand what this meant. Margaret explained that Accountant Sassani was a good friend of Maziyars, and that the girls who were over two summers ago were his daughters.

Margaret found that Kassim was a very friendly man, and friendly enough that she told him about Milo liking Middle Eastern Girls. Margaret then figured out that Kassim was good friends with the Khara's, and Kassim knew well they were the house with the Swimming pool and Skyfort. Kassim then explained that he also knew the Jafari's and Rokshana's family. Kassim then told Margaret that Amira would be attending Ciderpond High the next year. Now Milo knew Kassim was an accountant, as Maziyar told him this a year ago.

Elrich's offense

Being that the Cobolds only saw the Palace district of Atlantica, they knew nothing about how the rest of the city lived. On one occasion, Elrich led the Cobolds into a market district, in order to meet some more residents. Elrich thought he knew everything there was to know about the marketing district, as he knew about bargaining. But Elrich was wrong on so many other counts.

Elrich found that getting through to the high people of Atlantica was not working. Elrich had no clue who knew who, and how to form allegiances with the royalty. Elrich sought some help in the Market District. Elrich and his followers found a jewelry and cosmetics vendor, and started talking with her. Elrich had talked with the vendor, and made some small talk about where he was from. Naturally, Atlanteans do not have any interet in small talk, and get right to the point. So the vendor started getting annoyed with Elrich, and asked him what he really wanted. Elrich asked the vendor who she knew in the Atlantean royalty. This vendor looked utterly scandalized. The vendor told how she hated the royalty, and they live extravagant lifestyles while everyone else can barely survive. The vendor complained about the high level of taxes they pay, and how the royalty think's they are better than everyone else. Elrich dug himself into a bigger hole by explaining that he needed them to help him get into the Temple city. The vendor didvnot take too well to this, and called him an entitled snob coming into their land asking favors. Over time, word got out through the market district that foreigners are fraternizing with the royalty.

A few weeks later, Elrich was called in, as the Market District was in an uproar. The Embassador explained that the every day residents of the city hates the royalty. The embassador speaks in Sparto-Gallcanian Hitarian that the royalty has long oppressed them, and most of the city lives in abject poverty. Many are even homeless. The embassador explains that he will have to strip Elrich of his leadership, as there will be uproars if he remains on leadership.

Mrs. Jafari makes a phone call

Over this time Milo noticed Minu acting strange. Minu started disconnecting from her old bus group, while Lindsey, Charles and Malinda loved hearing Milo's somewhat braggish stories. Minu listened, and sat in the back of the bus with her friends, but kept to herself. On another occasion when Milo was an Altar server at the vigil mass, he saw the Jafaris in church, and notice them get up and leave in the middle of Mass. Milo thought this a bit strange, and thought she just wasn't feeling well.

One week in school, there was an international set of exhibits in the Senior High building. Mrs. Jafari, Minu and Rokshana all volunteered, along with a girl Anahita for the Indo-Iranian society of Ciderpond. That week, Minu did not take the bus, which Milo suspected had to do with being in the exhibit. Ray gets this idea that Minu is not exactly comfortable over Milo having a crush on her, which Milo thinks is just silly.

One fateful Monday evening, Mrs. Jafari called Margaret late to complain. The Call took place at about 9pm. Milo found it quite odd that someone would be calling at that time. Milo feared this was something serious. Ray had answered the phone and recognized the woman sounding foreign. Then Ray had seen Margaret looking concerned. Ray explained to Milo that he thinks Margaret is on the phone with Rokshana's mom. Ray just got the wrong name. Milo got a bit nervous about such a premise, and hoped that this was just some urgent international call Margaret had to take for work.

During the Phone Call on the other end, there was the Maludico Draco above surrounded by fire and laughing. During this phone call, the walls bled, and the 666 mark of the beast covered the floor, and these serpentine monsters known as Kodapranas sent out their tidings of retribution.

A few minutes later, Ray confirmed that the call was from Mrs. Jafari. Milo hesitated his way down the bedroom. As it was, Minu was not comfortable with Milo having a crush on her and joining her social group on the bus, or sitting in her quadrant at lunch. Frankly, Mrs. Jafari was just rambling the same stuff over and over again. Milo was sort of relieved, and did not quite comprehend that she was threatening him.

In order to keep Milo out of trouble, his parents put him under several restrictions such as being extra careful with church and school. In Church, Milo was not allowed to look around at Communion, and could not hang around after Sunday School. In School, Milo had to be careful about what halls he used as to not pass Minu's locker, and had to sit in a new quadrant of the cafeteria. Milo was also not allowed to talk in the Jafari's neighborhood.

Ray then tells Milo that in a few years or so, he and Minu will be able to laugh this off. Margaret interjects that she doesn't think Minu would be a good friend for Milo, as she is too shy. Milo was not particularly a fan of such grim assumptions. That night, Milo had a hard time sleeping, and would not take the bus in the morning.

Victoria, Merriwhether, Billius and Randolf

Maelendil held another meeting with Alexander, Cashmir, Husisha and invited Meriwhether along with two new Annogrammatrons. The Annogrammatrons were Victoria the achiever of the Third Annogrammatron Order, Merriwhether, Randolf and Billius. They all knew why they were there.

Randolf went on a rant about overly sensitive kids, and how they always run to authorities every time they get offended. Randolf also went on about how these stupid schools tell students what is offensive, and believe this garbage. Then Randolf started ranting about the feminists who think everything a man does is offensive, and want to make having a crush a crime. Randolf complained about how that whole setup is just an excuse for bitter women to spread their man hating propaganda to impressionable students.

Maelendil calmed Randolf down, and explained that he knows the Charge is no sex offender. Randolf the calmly tells Maelendil that Minu should have talked to Milo himself early on if this bothered her. Maelendil tells Randolf how confronting an offense with no malevolent basis can be quite hard, especially when the offender thinks higly of the victim. Maelendil then explained that Minu was not even bothered that Milo liked her, but that she felt that he was trampling on her personal space. Randolf being of the eighth order understands the need to have personal space, and how being constantly watched, spied on or kept tabs on can feel very objectifying, and downright oppressive. Randolf being one to understand and values individuality often had challenges of understanding how other peoples psychic behavior should have any effect on others. In fact, Randolf like many in the eighth order have difficulty tolerating their dislike of people intruding on their business.

Husisha became quite distraught, and blamed himself over what had happened. He started lamenting about the whole incident being his fault, and started to regret ever bringing the Jafari's into the picture. Cashmir told Husisha over a year ago that he knew this would happen, and he saw the nightmare with the Occult Offspring. Husisha had in fact known, but had never expected the two to end in such a nasty way. Husisha admitted he feared what this could mean for future prospects

Maelendil confirmed what happened on the phone that night, and the mother had given ridiculous ultimatums. Maelendil then explains the worst part. Maelendil tells how the Maludico Draco had been overseeing this phonecall, and has written a sentence. This sentence is that Milo is going to be forbidden any communication not only with the Jafari's, but any females in his age range in their community. Billius sarcastically asks "Why stop there and not ban the whole community?" Maelendil explains that this is infeasable, as the Biancatello's are still friends with the Khara's, but have no yong girls, plus, Draco knows that Milo would hate being barred from the girls most of all.

Then the Sarcedix Gregory of the Odinean Temple shows up. Gregory explains what he knows about Draco. According to Gregory, Draco originally specialized in justice, but took it too far to the point of glorifying in brutal punishments. Draco got this idea that the more punitive one shows to offenses, the more they hate the offense committed. The nastier and brutish punishments Draco came up with, the greater sense of righteousness he developed. Draco eventually got so full of pride and self righteousness that he could not see that he had become a monster glorifying in malice and cruelty.

Victoria then blurted how to break the sentence. Now Victoria is not one to take defeat too well, and was not gonna let this stupid sentence get the upper hand. Billius then stood up with an idea. Billius explained that it will have to be Milo who can break the penalty of Draco. Billius explains that Milo needs some form of denial to hold him over until they have a solution. According to Billius, Milo needs to go on the path of dissent from the official story. Cashmir explains that Milo and Minu were not exactly compatible. Billius explained that he knew that, but explained that just because Milo did something stupid does not mean the two families should become enemies. Billius explains how this is the story that is going to be fed, and Milo needs to defy it at all costs. Merriwhether offers to help Milo through this time with some temporary distractions, but plans on being very careful. Maelendil give Victoria the task to make sure Milo goes into despair. Maelendil lets Billius know about a picture of another Charge, and puts him and Cashmir on a task to make arrangements so a certain picture can be seen again.

Milo and Henry clash

The day after the phone call, Milo was in a daze. Milo had not understood what happened with the Jafari's, or what this meant. Milo knew that he was not to eat in the same quadrant as Minu, go by her locker, hang around after Sunday School, look around church or go in the Jafari's neighborhood. Milo was not sure if Minu wanted nothing to do with Milo or just uncomfortable with some stuff Milo was doing. Either way, Milo knew something had gone awry.

That morning, Margaret drove Milo to school, as he did not want to face Minu. Otherwise, Milo felt stupid about having not seen that he came off as being a surveillance camera. At lunch, Milo let Steve know that they could not sit in their normal quadrant anymore. Steve started asking questions, and Milo told him what happened. Steve joked that he had called with a foreign accent, because he did not want to sit by Minu anymore. Riding the bus home was not exactly comfortable, as Minu was also on that afternoon.

That evening, Ray insisted that this all means Milo cannot even talk to Minu. Milo could not understand how this even made sense, and Ray kept making some excuses for why this was so. Ray suggested that Minu had enough friends that were guys. Milo understood how he may have come off as creepy, but did not see how this was not some misunderstanding that he could apologize for and move on.

One day later, Milo felt guilty, as he was giving Minu the cold shoulder. After school, Milo accidentally shouted "Crap" when Lindsey mentioned Minu not being on the bus. Melinda, Lindsey and Charles wanted to know what happened, and Milo asked them to promise not to tell. Milo told them that Mrs. Jafari called, and her complaints. That night, Milo told Margaret he felt guilty about giving Minu the cold shoulder. Margarets stance was that it served Minu right, and her behavior was hurtful. Margaret said at least Minu is probably humiliated that her mom called. Milo got some consolation in that.

On Thursday after School, Milo went to answer the phone, and Ray grabbed it. Milo was angry, about this, as he was paranoid that Mrs. Jafari would call again over something stupid. Ray asked Milo why he feared Mrs. Jafari would call. This was just a case of Milo being on his feet after the previous call. Ray tried to go deeper, and went on about how he and Minu can't be friends again. Milo found this annoying analysis irritating, and did not want to talk about it. The next day, Milo found Ray being over-protective when he went to IM Shawn about bowling that night. Ray told Milo not to even bother, suspecting that he already left. Milo found this overboard, as the worst that would happen was that Shawn would be offline. On Sunday, after Sunday School, Margaret went into his classroom to pick him up. Milo felt annoyed, as he did not appreciate being supervised on the way out, like he couldn't walkt to the car himself.

On Halloween Night, Milo snuck out in his costume to visit Melinda, Charles and Lindsey. According to Milo, he was in a costume, it was dark outside and the Jafari's had no business telling him not to go in their neighborhood as long as he did not go to their house. Milo did see Charles, who recognized him in his Voldemort costume. Then Milo went over to Mr. Hufstader's, who lived a few streets over.

On Saturday at Salvatore's birthday, Milo told him what happened with the Jafari's. Salvatore thought this was quite humorous, as he had not understood what this had meant. That Sunday, The Biancatellos had a trip planned to visit the Dayton Aviation museum. After Sunday School, Milo got uncomfortable when he was heading to the car, and he saw Mrs. Jafari staring him down. Then they left for Dayton. Frankly, Milo felt a bit off on the way to Dayton. Ray started suggesting girls for Milo to consider. None of these choices appealed to Milo, and he frankly was still not in the mood for dating advice.

Around this time, Steve had befriended Henry, who was a bully that always hated Milo. As to what Henry hated so much was not known. In fact, he had just been suspended from school for two weeks for bringing a knife to school. Shawn was the one to blow the whisle on Henry after he made a threat. The Principals made an investigation and found a knife in Henry's locker. The police came, and Henry cried like a baby. The school vouched to expel him, but his mother vouched in saying Henry has psychotic tendencies that he cannot help.

At lunch, Henry joined Steve and Milo's table and tried to force Milo to leave. Milo was in a foul mood, as Minu had her lunch time moved, which he felt at fault for. What happened was the teacher had her schedule changed, which had nothing to do with Milo. So Milo was in no mood to take crap from Henry. During lunch, Henry would try and bully Milo into leaving, such as throwing his cookie at him, and stealing his food. Steve was of no help. At this point, Steve was becoming more like Shane, and just wanted some social novelty. Milo responded by mocking Henry's accent and poor trailer English. Milo knew he was acting out of character, as he was not one to mock a foreign accent. But Milo has a low tolerance for bullies and has gone right for the jugular. Milo has had a tendency to resort to ad hominem, such as mocking Henry's accent.

The rakshasajinn offspring of the Hypocordo's Wipou and Butkampft was making trouble in the cafeteria. This offspring is known as the horseman in the form of the Grim Reaper on a black horse like in the book of Revelation. This Horseman had seen Milo's fear of having to get a whole new set of friends with entering highschool, and letting he and Steve part ways, and offered to scapegoat Henry. The Horseman made a severe offer to Milo, telling him that he will preserve this friendship with the Pale Boy if he destroys the redneck. The Horseman had no intention on keeping his promise, and had another plan in mind. During this confrontation, a Kodaprana came out of their lunch table.

During Math class, Milo was in a foul mood over what happened with Henry. The teacher asked Milo if he was okay, as he looked pretty unwell. Milo told her that he was being harassed by another boy. The Teacher let Milo go up to the students services to talk to someone. Mrs. Jansen said that she would keep an eye out once Henry got back from his suspension. Frankly, Mrs. Jansen was not a fan of Henry, and knew that he was a trouble maker.

The next day at bowling, Milo and Shawn got into some gossip about Henry. Shawn told Milo that he was the one to turn Henry in, and how he cried, and with a massive redneck accent. In fact, Milo got multiple strikes in the game just by imagining Henry as the Pins.

The Cobolds Burden and reformation

After Alrich was no longer in charge, the Cobolds had no leadership, as neither Jamus, Yoshiyahu nor Iohannes wanted the task. They saw how two of their leaders went corrupt with power. After Alrich's demotion, the Cobolds were sent to the impoverished area for their mission. This had been a city that has suffered severe poverty, and many Atlanteans were homeless suffering from possession by the Shadows. This brought back horrible memories to the Cobolds of the days they were possessed by the Shadows known as Timora's and Furor's. The Cobolds saw a mirror reflection of how they were when possessed by the shadows. The Atlanteans possessed by the Timora's were constantly freaking out and screaming if anyone walked by, or rolled up in a ball on the ground. The Atlanteans possessed by the Furors had been quite a violent, and had been known to gorge at other residents. On many occasions, the Cobolds dodged any situations where they would come into contact with the Atlanteans possessed by the shadows.

One afternoon, a messenger bird delivered a letter to the Cobolds informing them that the Great Phoenix would like to meet with them at the Poseidon Plaza located in Kentrikos Park. The Cobolds began to fight, debating over whether this was a trick or real. Many hoped this was just a trick, as they did not want to even come in contact with the possessed Atlanteans. After much debate, the Cobolds agreed that this was best to go.

The Cobolds took a joyful journey to Poseidon Plaza, and kept their hopes to seeing the Great Phoenix, and finally getting some help. At the beginning of the journey, the Cobolds were singing carols of gladness through the streets, but became quite apprehensive when nearing the park. The Cobolds hoped in the worst way that they would not come into contact with the possessed Atlanteans, or the shadows whatsoever.

The journey thorugh the park proved to be quite frightening, as they had come across numerous possessed Atlanteans. On a few occasions, the Cobolds were nearly attacked by Atlanteans possessed by furors. When it came to the Atlanteans possessed by Timora's, this had been a blatantly unwatchable site to see, and sounds too horrible to even want to hear. Then they reached their refuge in the Poseidon Plaza quite quickly, without any interest in leaving.

Poseidon Plaza was a large park that emanated a sense of peace that no shadow dares come near. For the next week, they waited in glorious anticipation. Over these days, the Cobolds remembered when the Phoenix first appeared to them at the Festival of the Guest. The Cobolds also remembered four Cobolds in particular being given special gifts.

One night, all the birds disappeared from the air and messengers sent from the dance came to announce the coming of the Great Phoenix. At this the Cobolds were greatly amazed as a great light flew through the sky. Then in the gazebo of the Plaza, there was a great light appearing of a phoenix just born from the Ashes. At once, the Cobolds bowed to the great Phoenix. At once, the Cobolds knew who this Phoenix was, but none in Atlantica had known. The Great Phoenix gave the Cobolds this scroll not to be opened revealing their task for the upcoming days. Then the Phoenix promised the Cobolds that should the task be completed, the path to the Temple District would open. The Great Phoenix called fourth Irugen, Yusefus, Aerondin and Zadok. These Cobold's were given the task to take on the leadership roles.

End of Days

That Friday Night, Milo and Shawn went late night bowling. That night, Milo had some strange dreams about going back to the mall food court from that field trip to the Working Farm. The weekend before Thanksgiving, there was a special mass planned for the Highschool CCD students. Ray was not thrilled about having to go to this mass, as this mass would be attended by the Jafari's. That afternoon, Milo went to Steves, and did not have a particularly fun time. Neal had no shirt on, and is a particularly obsese man. Otherwise, Steve was acting like a pain, as he also had Saul over, who was quite creepy.

Over Thanksgiving, Ben asked about how things were going with the Jafari's. Milo explained to Ben what happened, and how Mrs. Jafari called. Ben thought the family was acting unreasonable, but explained that Minu's sister Parvaneh was also shy back when she went to school with him. On the day after Thanksgiving, Milo re-watched Harry Potter, and had began to think about the Thanksgiving from two years ago when uncle Georgio had his Fiftieth Birthday party. That afternoon, Margaret took Milo, Lydia and Alicia to see "Freaky Friday" starring Lindsay Lohan. Freaky Friday reminded Milo of the Thanksgiving from two years ago. After Freaky Friday, Margaret took Milo, Lydia and Alicia back to Grandpa Tony's and Aunt Marie's. While they were talking, the topic of the Jafari's came up. Milo was not so keen on talking about what happened. Milo called it a minor incident.

That Saturday, Milo and his cousins went to the Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park for the day. Before leaving, Milo downloaded the hymn "All Glory Laud and Honor", which reminded him of the time when he first found out who Minu was the week before Palm Sunday. This song had greatly moved Milo in a way he had not been moved in several weeks. Milo remembered how he heard the song two Palm Sunday's ago, when he expected to see the Jafari's in Church, and how that summer after had been his high point with the family. As for the park, Milo had fun with his cousins, despite the park reminding him of the indoor pool at Ciderpond high.

So the thanksgiving holiday came and gone, and it was time to prepare for Christmas. Milo was in a slightly better mood with the Christmas season coming, despite still being a bit sore over what happened with the Jafari's, and Henry intruding on his and Steve's friendship. Milo got no better when he and Henry crossed paths. Henry still tried turning Steve against Milo in a bullying way, and Steve still played neutral. Milo still could not stop teasing Henry, such as asking if he was going to marry his sister, knows what dentists are, or correcting his pronunciations. After a school activity, Milo had to take the activity bus home, which Henry also rode due to having detention. On the way home, Henry tried to kick Milo as he walked by. Henry was in a foul mood, telling a friend the stupid bus driver would not drop him of closer. Milo interjected asking him in the most poor English country accent possible "Yall have a healthy walk to yer double wide". The upper classmen sitting close by started laughing hysterically. The upper classmen then started yeehawing at Henry, and asking him about his fat trailer mom. Henry did not take well to this, and his mom called Milo's house. Milo luckily answered the phone to her screaming and ranting that Henry was having a bad night because of him, and he hung up on her. Then Henry's mom called again, and Milo told her "When someone hangs up the phone on you, they don't want to talk to you". Henry's mom said that she will call when his mother gets home. Milo called the phone services, and had Henry's number blocked.

Things started looking much brighter one Friday afternoon when the Biancatello's were invited to Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's for a Holiday get together. This party included family, their neighbors and some work friends. There were also plenty of strange dishes typically reserved for a high end dinner.

That night, Milo had some strange dreams about his second tour of Ciderpond High that looked quite different, Aunt Jane having a hidden inlaw suite and Minu having a screen name Nun-Mary-michael. That same day, the Biancatello's got their Christmas tree. Over this holiday season, Milo discovered these Christmas hymns "Unto us is born a Son" and "The Huron Carol". The Huron Carol is a solemn and haunting Christmas Hymn written by French Missionary Fr. Jean Brebeuf, who was a missionary to the Huron People of present day Canada. The hymn "Unto Us is Born a Son" is a medieval hymn reflecting the Eternal Baby Jesus.

That evening, the Biancatello's went to a party at the Delaney's. Marilyn and Ralph were at the party, along with some irritable lady Lydia thought was pregnant. Dave and Violet did not attend, as Violet had sustained some severe injuries in a car accident. Milo told Marilyn about school, and she told him that Mr. Hufstader loved Courtney, as she brought him soup every day. In the basement, Shamus had his yearbook from the previous school year out, which was when many of his classmates from Pecan Meadows were in eighth grade. Milo recognized many people, and finally learned many of their names. Then Milo saw the same picture of Amira he had seen in Jimmy's yearbook over the summer. This time, Milo actually remembered Amira's name, and showed this picture to Lydia. Milo explained that this was the Financial Advisor's daughter. Seeing this picture put Milo in a good mood for the season.

The family went to a later mass, as this was a mass for Grandma Rosa. That Sunday in Church, the opening song was "Awake Awake and greet the new Morn". This hymn had not been sung in four years at St. Timothy's when Milo was in Fifth Grade. Now Milo was wondering if they would ever bring this hymn back to St. Timothy's.

The Monday after the Delaneys party, Milo caught a nasty case of the stomach flu. Milo could tell things were not going so well when he felt a little queasy, and was not sure why. As for Monday, Milo was just stuck at home watching Daytime television. Milo was fine on Tuesday, and was able to go back to school. Then one night Milo has a nightmare where he is kept in a hospital room that is actually an apartment complex that he fears leaving, lest he should walk through the hospital halls. Then the nightmare changes to Milo walking with a gay guy in order to talk about Ella. Milo then wakes up in the early hours having to throw up. So Milo still stayed at home, and felt a little better, but haunted by that strange dream.

On Friday, Minu sat in a row of bus seat next to Milo on her way up to the front of the Bus. Milo was a little confused, and Margaret explained that Minu was no longer uncomfortable with Milo. This seemed to be a situation where the trauma had been too fresh for Minu before, and Milo was more of a reminder of anxiety than resentment. That night while doing Christmas shopping with Ray and Salvatore, Milo saw a girl he recognized from Shamus' yearbook and student at Ciderpond High at the mall. Milo knew that this girl was a cheerleader. This had been the first time Milo had been to the mall before school started. Milo had wished he would run into Amira, as she was still fresh in his mind. So far, the shopping experience went well. They did have some issues with an unhelpful clerk. For dinner, Ray treated Milo and Salvatore to Ruby Tuesday's. At the restaurant, they had a cool waiter with a ponytail and a beard. Milo asked the waiter for the drink menu.

In Church that for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Milo saw a teacher with her Family. Grandpa Tony was also at this mass. There was a vision of the Holy Family of the Bear clan in quite a solemn fashion. All the deer of the forests, bears, raccoons, eagle, wolves, small birds, snakes and turtles prostrate before the child, and come to warn the family of a jealous chief who fears the power of the bear clan. The holy family fled to this cabin where Milo and Ray had their father son camping trip over four years ago with three other father and son groups. Then There had been a horrible vision of a deformed phoenix had burst into flames and exploded.

Christmas Break began on Tuesday after School got out. Before the end of school, Milo saw the cheerleader from the Mall hugging her friend at the dismissal of school. That Christmas holiday had been bothersome for Milo, as he kept thinking about what had happened that Advent. Milo kept thinking about the Yearbook picture he saw of Amira and that girl at the mall. This was the first time Milo actually remembered Amira's name. The day after Christmas, Milo and Salvatore made a fake card from Steve at Grandpa Tony's. Alicia started crying when she got it, and told Salvatore to grow up. When it came to the O'Malleys, they left on Saturday night, as Alicia was asked to babysit. Milo found this a bit odd, as this was Grandpa Tony's first Christmas without Grandma Rosa, and near the anniversary.

A few days after Christmas, Grandma Dora broke her hip, and nearly died. However, Grandma Dora was able to recover, though she was never the same afterwards. As for the rest of the Holiday, the Rumcorns came in For New Years. Getting ready to return to school was not so easy. Before returning to School for the Christmas, Milo had constant flashbacks to Fifth Grade. This had been the first year since Fifth grade that the students would be returning to school on a Monday. As the Epiphany took place before going back to school, the end of the Christmas season consisted of putting decorations away before School began again.
Chapter 23: The great rising

The Grim Council

Gregory summoned Maelendil to the Odinean temple concerning some news he overheard with Draco. According to Gregory, Draco was speaking with a hooded figure who sounded familiar. Draco explained that he was also punishing the charge for tipping off the school authorities over a touble maker pouring drinks on other students. Draco explained that this boy whom was condemned to eating by himself was a consciencious boy who called out peoples faults, and knew that they needed to be subjected to the proper consequences for their imperfections. Draco then went on about how this consciencous boy was a martyr to a system that cares more about preserving friendships than punishing evil.

After Gregory gave his testimony, Maelendil told him "It sounds like Draco did not like having his pupil dishonored", in referencing how similar the drink pourer seemed to be. Gregory then affirmed that this drink pourer is one who wants to live in a happy and bright world, and when his play is disrupted, and has to see anything that intrudes on his pleasure, he has a hard time handling this. So naturally Draco really does help this drink pourer in such times. Gregory explained that Draco was telling the Drink pourer what really happened that day he got in trouble.

Then Gregory brought up his second concern regarding the Horseman Offspring. Gregory explains how the Horseman offspring is one who preys on mortals fears of change, and makes offers to keep things the same. Maelendil knew what happened with his charge, and how highschool brought fourth many changes. Gregory then explains that his parents are the hypocordo's Wipou and Buttkamft. Wipou's ideas of safety center around keeping a world of a strictly good and strictly evil side. Buttkamft on the other hand thinks that the only way to preserve oneselft is to become a harsh tyrant. Maelendil starts to notice this going on with his charge, and falling prey to myopic ideologies about this golden age, and a resistant hatred of any possibility that history is repeating itself like it had three years ago. Maelendil also saw how the charge was becoming a bully himself, and understood that he feared losing a friendship at the hands of another bully. Maelendil is still concerned about the Kodaprana that leaped from the Lunch Table. Gregory then summons his assistant Deiden. Deiden shows up, and is summoned by Gregory to keep an eye on Henry, and find the Kodaprana that leaped from the table.

The Return from Christmas

The new semester was not exactly off to a great start. Upon returning to school, the Christmas spirit was definitely dead. If there was anything noticeable, life felt off, as if a period of dryness was beginning. As anyone would expect from a long break, no one was in a great mood. Frankly it seemed like a new school year had began, where everything just returned to exactly as it was on the first weeks of the fall. If anything, this felt like a massive regression.

A few days after coming back to school from Christmas break, Grandma Rosa's brother Uncle Luigi passed away. Uncle Luigi had heart problems for years, and over-exerted himself after a flat tire. Aunt Michelle called about this on Thursday night.

In other news, Uncle Ottavio's mother Dora was beginning recovery from her broken hip. Luckily this had not been so severe as feared. Unfortunately Grandma Dora would have to go into a nursing home for a while in order to undergo rehabilitation. Gianni on the other hand had his birthday party the first weekend back. Grandma Dora was able to come to the party, as Uncle Ottavio checked her out of the rehab center she was at. Zia Maria also came to the party, and gave her condolences over the passing of Uncle Luigi. Ray took Milo to the funeral home the next evening.

Milo and Steve were not getting along too well at the time. On one of the first weekends, Steve came over on the weekend, but acted like a jerk to Milo at school. Steve was becoming more like Shane and hanging around with jerks like Henry and these two wannabe's Burt and Kurt. Burt Hollen was an obnoxious crank to start pointless conflicts and Kurt Algeria was a condescending snob who thought he was smarter than he really was. Burt was called butthole by his nemesis and Kurt was laughed at about his last name, considering how pale he was.

Shane and Milo were no longer on speaking terms. Before the two were at least cordial, but now Shane was also returning the cold shoulder to Milo. It was almost like Shane knew something he was not supposed to know. Now Milo ended up getting all the stories about the two Burt and Kurt from others who found them annoying. Milo then figured out that Bert was the pogs fan from Kindergarten, whose mom was a substitute teacher.

The Cobolds Task and Lymurds Departure

On the last day of feasting, Yusefus looked at the first task scheduled. Their first task was the one the Cobolds feared the most, in attending to the Atlanteans who had been possessed by the shadows. This would not be a pleasant task, as the Timora's were constantly creating an air of fear. The Cobolds remembered being harassed by the Timora's and Furor's like had happened after the flood in Londinium, and had no interest in ever letting history repeat itself. For the most part, the Cobolds did not even think about those days, and the furthest their memories went was to the arrival at the Gardens two seasons ago.

Elrich and Lymurd were not getting along whatsoever. Elrich was still bitter about being demoted for political reasons, and Lymurd figured out that it was Elrich who ratted him out. Lymurd ranted that they had been in this mess of having to attend to these creeps because of Elrich, and started saying how he should have listened to him about the Atlanteans not wanting to be bothered. Elrich tells Lymurd that he had been an imbecile since they met, nearly getting them killed in the mountains, and fraternizing with the Doustonians. Then Elrich hit a nerve with Lymurd, and told him that had he showed more loyalty to the Naifaspring sisters, Shannen would not be dead. Lymurd then stormed off, left Atlantica and went back to Londinium. Lymurd had been disqualified from the mission, which had been better for him anyways, as he never really wanted to come to this place in the first place.

When it came to attending to the possessed Atlanteans, this had not been any easy task. The possessed Atlanteans had been a scary bunch. One Atlantean possessed by a Timora started telling them their mission is all pointless. An atlantean possessed by a Furor started telling Elrich that he was a stupid fool to ever think himself worthy of leadership. Elrich got a bit angry and punched the possessed Atlantean. Luckily Irugen came by to remind Elrich that they are to help the Possessed Atlanteans. Other times, the cobolds fount Atlanteans screaming tidings of doom, and others cried that its all meaningless. Another time, the Cobold Petestor got the accusation by an Atlantean possessed by a Furor that their stupid flood brought this upon Atlantica.

Otherwise, the Cobolds spent a lot of time studying the book the Phoenix gave them. Frankly, this felt no different than the great freeze, when the Cobolds were in Londinium with no access to the Temple, and spent a lot of time studying the language. Now the Cobolds were studying the customs and culture of this land.

Now the Cobolds started feeling pity for the possessed Atlanteans, despite the hostility they often showed. But sometimes it was hard to feel this way. Frankly, the Cobolds just wished that they could walk away from them, as it was hard to see a mistivant condemned to a life and existence without any freedom. Sometimes the Cobolds wondered who these possessed Atlanteans would be without being under evil spirits. The Cobolds remembered all too well how being possessed by these creatures was quite a horrid experience, and remembered how they felt stuck as slaved, and at the mercy of someone else.

The Dreary Winter

During this time, Milo got bored of going to the Early Masses at St. Timothy's, and developed a like for the choir, folk band and the Church rock band. Milo rarely saw them, but had sort of liked what he did see. Plus, Milo did not like getting up so early on Sunday's when he had to get up early the whole week otherwise. During this time, Milo started downloading more hymns from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, but not just restricted to Christmas. Milo also downloaded one Christian rock song known as "Awesome God". Yet something lacked with these non-Christmas hymns. As to exactly what Milo thought was lacking, he was not sure. Milo assumed that much hymnody lacked the mystery and transcendence that seemed so present in the Christmas hymns.

With the second semester, Milo began pool class and introduction to drawing. Otherwise, Milo felt like life had become quite stale after the novelty wore off of starting Highschool. When it came to science class, Milo often times got frustrated, as the teacher expected the students to understand Geology like experts, with as little teaching as possible. This teacher just expected the students to be reading the textbook all night, and expected them to figure it all out on their own. Not to mention, the incentives he gave were pretty stupid, such as the highest grade on the test getting to look down at the other students. Not to mention, with being in highschool, Milo found that Ray and Margaret could be moreso on his back over grades, and petty matters like going to bed at an exact time. Milo felt annoyed by this change in parenting style due to circumstance changes. Now Milo was no fan of principles being manipulated due to different circumstances, and saw any change in principles as essentially selling out.

By this time, Milo was still in the Youth Group, even though Richard Esposito was no longer the youth minister, and the new Youth Minister was not quite competent. Unfortunately, this new minister planned all the fun activities for the junior youth group, while the highschool youth group did all the service projects. Milo was a bit irritated that this was not better split up, and thought that that it was not fair to expect one side to do all the work, while the other side got to play.

By this time, Milo found a new group of friends to eat lunch with. This group included some students from Science class, an old friend Travis Finster, and some other boys he knew recently, middle school and even as far as Elementary School. They all shared in Milo's dislike for Henry. Milo told the story about how he told Henry to have a nice walk when the bus dropped him off too far from his home. Otherwise, Milo started paying more attention to the Cheerleaders, now that he was less busy with Minu. Milo had his eyes on the cheerleader whom he had seen at the mall before Christmas. When it came to Minu, he had very little interest in her, and for the most part was pretty turned off by the life she had at Ciderpond high.

When it came to the bus, Melinda had long ditched the bus and only Lindsey and Charles were part of Milo's social group on the bus. As we knew, Lindsey and Charles knew what happened with Minu, which was further confirmed as she was no longer sitting with them in the mornings, and not even riding the bus in the afternoon. Milo ended up telling Charles and Lindsey about his new findings on Amira. Charles claimed that he heard the name before. Milo told Charles and Lindsey everything he knew about Amira, and how he originally knew her.

That night, Milo became quite disappointed when he got news that one of the only Youth Group activities planned for that evening for the Highschoolers had been cancelled. Frankly, Milo was not too happy about this, as the reason it was cancelled was because many could not go because of a game he could not even get tickets for. There was a rumor that the district sold tickets to the middle schools before Ciderpond.

One night before a long weekend, Milo had a strange dream with Marilyn unlocking church doors only to find a dead woman who thinks she is still on life support praying. Then the dream changes to a discarded Spongebob costume from Eustace's Halloween of 1999 flying by Milo's house. Ray is not surprised, and tells Milo its not funny when he starts laughing.

Before Lent began, Grandpa Tony was having a little trouble, and seemed confused. One Monday, Uncle Georgio took Grandpa Tony to the hospital, as he had not been short of breath. Upon further inspection, they found that he was on too many medicines that he was put on when Grandma Rosa was getting worse. Grandpa Tony was on an anti-depressant that had so many side effects. Being that he was part of the Veterans system, he was not given the best treatment, and over-diagnosed to begin with. Luckily Grandpa Tony was taken off all these drugs.

The Second Break In

Back in the Akashic Hall of Prophecies, Maelendil, Husisha, Cashmir, Alexander and the Sardexit Gregory had been summoned back due to another break in. Gregory being an expert in battle pointed out how the events of the recent Christmas strongly paralleled the Christmas before the new Millennium. Cashmir had the idea that this was the doings of the Occult offspring. Maelendil looked over the orbs, and understood why they had been shown at this time, but says nothing. It becomes ever clearer that Maelendil's burden is becoming closer to realization.

Then Maelendil hears this creepy voice, explaining that the prophecies are accurate. Then Maelendil sees that the voice was coming from Mortaneous. Mortaneous explains that the vision of the hospital room from Christmas and the praying zombie are related to those who had fallen after the visions. Mortaneous then explains that he does not know when it will happen, but during the upcoming battle.

The Restoration

By the time Lent came, things started to cool down a bit. The first weekend, Ray and Margaret were out of town for a weekend in Toledo. This was a Valentines day present from Ray. Steve went back to the Car show that year, but he had only agreed to let Milo go if he didn't talk to him while at school. With this attitude, Milo declined on going, and returned the cold shoulder back to Steve. Lydia had been in a play for the first year. For one of the plays, Ray took Sylvester to watch on of the performances. Meanwhile, Samantha had her birthday party that same Saturday night. With that Lent, the Biancatello's were going to more Vigil masses, much to Milo's pleasure.

Meanwhile, Shawn and some friends in his typing class had figured out how to use a text to speech program, and found a voice resembling Disney's Goofy. Henry was also in this class, and started accusing the others of making fun of him.

The weekend before Palm Sunday, life took a turn for the better for Milo. Todd and his mom had an extra ticket to see an ice show for the ciderpond high skate team. Bill was in China with his father for vacation. Frankly, Milo was more interested in seeing skaters in skimpy outfits. This had been quite a show that Milo really enjoyed. Milo recognized many skaters from Ciderpond, and had been quite excited to see them.

Michelle and uncle Ottavio were big fans of Ciderpond ice team and also in attendance. Aunt Michelle brought Sylvester, who started hanging on Milo after the show got out. The next day, Milo had a family party at Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's for some of the cousin's birthday parties. Aunt Judy was the secretary at Ciderpond high school in the senior building, and would help Milo out quite a bit once he arrived. Milo got pretty exhausted, as he had been playing with Sylvester, who had a lot of energy.

That night, Milo had the high school penance service as a Lenten practice. Monsignor Warner and Fr. Nick led the service. Minu was at the service and showed no signs of aversion. Now Milo still had some unresolved feelings for Minu. Milo had confession with Fr. Nick, and had a lot to get off his chest, particularly his clashes with Steve and Shane.

The week before spring break, new plans were set in order. Margaret rented Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on CD from the library. Margaret put the CD's on in the car, and Milo remembered the beginning chapter where a witch underwent execution as she enjoyed the tickling counter charm. That evening, Milo found out that his cousin Corey would be having his bachelor party at the Napoletano bocche club. Milo started remembering the days before Christmas when he saw the Cheerleader at the Mall, and anticipated a great Spring Break.

As it was, Milo and Steve were still not getting along too well. One day, Henry tried to humiliate Milo, to which he retorted in pointing out Henry's weight much to Steve's humor. A few days later, Henry tried to humiliate Milo again, calling him the wrong name. Milo told Henry that normal people have one name, and not everyone has names like Billy Bob. Henry told Milo he was doing this on purpose. Milo then retorted through correcting Henry's pronunciations, due to his heavy country accent. Henry then threatened Milo, and Milo explained that he could get suspended a second time, in reference to his previous suspension for bringing a knife to school. After this, Henry walked off, saying he wish he could stab Milo.

On Friday, Milo and Ray headed down to the Napoletano club. That night, the boys played bocche on their courts. All the Uncles, older cousins and Grandpa Tony attended, along with Corey's uncles and cousins from Aunt Judy's side of the family. For dinner, the head chef brought down a tub of Spaghetti and Sausage.

On Saturday night, the family went to Church, which was Palm Sunday eve. Before mass, Milo saw the Jafari's walking in Church. At that mass, Minu and Nousha were the altar servers. The opening hymn was "All Glory Laud and Honor". Milo became disappointed at communion when they changed the hymn. The song they were supposed to sing was "O Sacred Head Surrounded", but changed it to "You are Mine". Not that Milo had any problem with the hymn, but thought "O Sacred Head Surrounded" was more Holy Week appropriate. The Hymnal Number board simply put up one number and changed the hymn without changing the board. Ray had suspected that Milo was more out of sorts due to Minu and Nousha being the altar servers. This had slightly bothered Milo, as he remembered two years ago, when he first became strongly drawn to Minu after seeing her in Church before Palm Sunday, and that spring break.

The next day, Lydia had a birthday brunch. The whole family attended, including Jesse, Danielle, and the new baby Ashlyn. By this time, Ashlyn was about 8 months old. During the party, Milo still thought a bit about seeing Minu as an Altar Server with Nousha, and remembered how just a year ago, he had served Mass with the girls. Milo considered over Spring Break making amends with Minu, but never actually had the guts to take a walk in their neighborhood.

At night, Milo watched the Ten Commandments, as around Easter, religious shows are quite common on Television. Milo had not seen the movie since he was in Sixth Grade, and on Palm Sunday. That Spring Break became similar to the break two years previous, as Milo seeing Minu as an altar server brought back all the memories of when he first had a crush on her. So Milo still had conflicted feelings when it came to Minu. On Monday and Wednesday, Steve came over to Milo's, as he now thought well of him for ripping on Henry.

On Wednesday night, Milo had a weird set of dreams about a bank resembling Gringotts located in Downtown Essex and a 50's style amusement park. That day, Lydia started watching an old 90s show known as Step By Step. This was an episode where Karen started College, and Carol joins the class and humiliates her in telling an embarssing potty training story. That afternoon, Milo was down at the Filentino's. Milo and Salvatore played the original nintendo version of Super Mario 3. Now Milo had been primarily accustomed to the All Stars version, which Salvatore considered not as cool.

As for Easter, this was a bit of a bust. On Holy Saturday, Milo listened to the rest of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. The Biancatello's went to Church early on Easter Morning, which was not that impressive to Milo. With listening to so much choir music, and the experiences with the music at later masses, Milo was not so impressed.

Weaning plans

Maelendil, Cashmir, Alexander, Husisha, Victoria, and Meriwhether had a secret meeting regarding Milo and Minu. After some debate, Maelendil and Victoria agreed that Milo needed the hope that he still needed the hope that he and Minu could work out to hold him over until the next school year. Meriwhether admitted that his plans with the cheerleaders were not working out. According to Merriwhether, this infatuation with the Cheerleaders had not been so fulfilling to Milo. Husisha suggested two new girls, one being another Pashtun girl who resembles Nousha, and then a musician that Minu knew. According to Merriwhether, Milo had noticed her, but had not given her significant amounts of thought. The other girl Husisha suggested was an old friend of Minu's. Maelendil agreed that this would tide over for the Spring and Summer until the fall.

Alexander's theory was that the best way to introduce the Pashtun girl through giving a reminder of original roots. Victoria protested that such a proposition is no different than regressing to a point of defeat after so much progress had been made. Victoria talks about how much progress was made from the beginning of the school year, and its climaxes being reached at Christmas and Palm Sunday. Maelendil explains that defeats are the source of victory, and how mortals have a tendency to look down on days of defeat when victory is realized. According to Maelendil, the days that need to be remembered are the days of defeat. Maelendil then insists that both the beginnings of Sixth and Ninth grade are remembered for the charge, which he referred to both as a bittersweet moment of great loss and a mystical beginning.

End of the School Year

Within a week or so after Easter, Milo's life became very busy. Milo returned to visit Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt, as Margaret was on a business trip again, but this time in Phoenix, Arizona. After listening to Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban over Easter, Milo wanted to return back to another trip to New Seneca in the worst way, as he remembered reading the book on the way up the previous year. As for the trip, the Biancatello's left in the evening for New Seneca, and dropped Jinny off first. That day, Aunt Marie took the kids to an arcade restaurant for lunch. One game reminded Milo of fifth grade. For dinner, the O'Malleys took the Biancatello's to Chili's, which was doomed to close in a few weeks. At dinner, Ray told Aunt Marie that Milo was still grounded for selling Steve a picture of Alicia. When Alicia heard this, her jaw dropped. Ray admitted this was just a joke. On Sunday after Church, the Biancatello's left early, because Milo had a science test to study for, and Aunt Michelle had a surprise Birthda Party that afternoon. After getting back from New Seneca, Milo was pretty bummed out, and wished he could have stayed a little longer. Plus, Milo was not too thrilled about having to be studying for a Science test. Frankly, Milo was not a fan of the science teacher anymore. This teacher was very difficult, and did very little to help his students. All this teacher did was offer stupid incentives, like the student with the highest score getting to scowl at the class. The teachers justification was that he was preparing his students for reality.

One weekend later, Ray got a free trip to Arizona with Margaret. Milo and Lydia stayed the weekend at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's. On Friday after school, Milo walked over to Uncle Leo's instead of his own house. Aunt Jane then took Milo and Lydia to the house to pick up some clothes for the weekend. Now Jinny was still at the house, as Grandma Pearl had not gotten back from work to go over and take her back to her house. On Saturday evening, there was a mass for Grandma Rosa. After mass, there was a party at the Biancatello's, which Aunt Marie came in town for, and Grandma Dora attended.

The Weekend that Margaret got back, Ray, Margaret and Milo went to Dairy Queen for Dinner. At Dairy Queen, Henry showed up. Milo got a bit frightened, as he feared that Henry would blab about telling him to have a nice walk, and making redneck jokes at his expense. The next morning, the Biancatello's went to Church at noon, as Lydia had been at a sleepover the night before, which was also mothers day.

A few weeks later, was Corey's wedding in Dayton Ohio. The Friday night before leaving for Dayton, Milo had a dream about his first days of sixth and ninth grade simultaneously, and this girl Anahita was in both of them. Then the dream changed to Lydia crying at Grandma Gladys gravestone, and a small replica of Seewouden. Milo felt slightly strange on the way up, and found himself thinking about the early days of Highschool and sixth grade, which he tried not to think about. Yet these flashbacks had really haunted Milo all day, and he could not stop thinking about Anahita.

As for the wedding, Milo and Matt were the altar servers again. The processional was "Jesu Joy of Mans Desiring", and the Brides entrance was "Trumpet Voluntary". In the program, Desiring was spelled wrong as dressing. During the Wedding Reception, Milo kept constantly thinking about this girl Anahita, whom he remembered seeing the first time at Freshmen orientation. That night, Milo had a dream about soak town, which made him anticipate an exciting summer. Plus, Milo was also looking forward to the upcoming trip to Cedar Point, which was to take place in June that year. Now Milo had been thinking about the trip to Cedar Point the previous year, which was Richard Espozito's last activity with the Youth Group.

On Ascension Thursday, Milo got his yearbook, and found the picture of Anahita, along with the Cheerleaders. Before science class, the teacher gave his annual announcement about not passing around yearbooks to sign during class. This was the same dufus teacher who expected the students to understand the material with little teaching as possible. That evening, the Biancatello's went to mass for the Holy Day. Milo started thinking about his first days as a freshman, and felt in a way he had not felt since the beginning of the school year.

Return to Londinium

The time had come for the Cobolds to return from Londinium after their term in Atlantica. Frankly, the Cobolds were looking forward to returning home after a long and rough term. Towards the end of their term, the Cobolds had made some inroads with the Atlanteans. The Cobolds got a letter from a messenger bird congratulating them on their efforts over the past months, and that the kings of Atlantica had been leaning to give the select Cobolds membership to their town. This meant that the Cobolds could come and go from Atlantica as needed, if this offer went through. Beforehand, if the Cobolds had left the city, they would not be able to return back.

When the Cobolds had packed up and left the city, there was a great crowd watching in silence as they processed out of the city walls and to the mountain pathways. In the procession, the Cobolds spotted the vendor who had been offended when Alrich first led. The vendor had been speaking with others from the market district, who all gave the Cobolds a distasteful look. The Cobolds felt very uneasy about what had happened, and worried that the vendor had been starting a campaign to turn the Atlanteans against them while they were gone. Then the Cobolds reached the gates and walked to the Mountain Pathways. Then the Cobolds journeyed through the mountains and returned to Londinium.

Book V: The Third Era-The First Year

Chapter 24: The Summer of Anticipation

Memorial Day weekend came and Milo downloaded these songs "Lord of the Dance" and "I Vow to Thee my Country". Over Memorial Day weekend, the Biancatello's went to Church on Saturday night, and sat with Uncle Mike and Grandpa Tony. Parvaneh, Minu and Nousha came into church that night, and sat in the same row as the Biancatellos, and Parvaneh was next to Grandpa Tony. This started to reinforce these thoughts about Anahita. Not to mention, it did not exactly help that Milo still had those flashbacks about two summers ago in his head, thanks to that Mass on Palm Sunday. On Sunday, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane hosted Sylvesters sixth birthday. That afternoon, Milo, Matt and Salvatore took their annual walk over to the playground. That night when Matt and Eustace were over, Milo got a bit defensive with Lydia over saying some stuff about Minu. That night, Milo had an odd dream about church a few nights ago, and looking at Hot Air balloons high in the sky. That night, the Biancatello's went out for wings, at a restaurant they last visited two summers ago on the last day of school.

The finale to the school year was a trip to Indianapolis for Kyle's graduation ceremony. The Biancatello's left that afternoon as soon as Lydia was out of School, and drove down with Grandma Pearl. Over that weekend, they saw Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, which had just been released in theatres. Milo had been waiting a good while for the movie to come out. In fact, he found the movie to be a very transcendent experience. Margaret and Lydia did not like this movie as much as the first two, and saw the theme being darker. Plus, Lydia was not a fan of Michael Gambon as Dumbledore. For Milo, the new Dumbledore reminded him of Monsignor Warner. The next morning, the Biancatello's went to Church in Indianapolis, which was Trinity Sunday. The offertory hymn was this new hymn by Rory Cooney known as "All things new". That afternoon, the Biancatello's returned back to Ciderpond. On the way home, they ate at a restaurant they had not been at for the last three summers.

Yuriyama's vision of Ravage

The Seers Yuriyama and Durnil summoned Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, and a Charism in the spirit of diplomat Cecil Spring-Rice. Yuriyama had recently seen a vision of a Hypocordo taking his throne in the major financial hubs and sending his Offspring henchmen to weaken other metropolis and ravaging the micropolises. One Micropolis becomes invaded by goblin-like offsprings who transform this region into a place of shame and scorn. The Micropolis turns into a massive work camp of the most horrible conditions under brutal taskmasters. The slaves are forbidden from complaining unless they want to lose their only way to survive. Then there is a great emigration from the micropolises into these major financial hubs under the power of the Hypocordo. One family is fleeing the micropolis after the city is taken over by the goblins, and all residents are summoned to give allegiance to the hypocordo known as Pecunia. The Emigrants turn into mere shells of themselves, and mere robots to a foul machine.

The Cecil Charism rises and announces that he will raise an army to fight in the battle against the Hypocordos through the ways of gentleness and paths of peace. He declares that his victory comes not from earthly armies, nor paths of carnage. The Charism goes on to explain that he knows of those soldiers on earth who love the micropolis and will bring them on the path of loyalty to their home, and willing to sacrifice glamour, power, wealth and status.

Then Durnil rises to announce his vision a glorious day of victory where a band of soldiers are cheered for their victory over the Hypocordo's, as the flags of victory wave. The soldiers hailed the mighty hand of the Alument Brother Volition who led the efforts and guided the whole of this battle, and restored the land of freedom. Then the Soldiers tell the great story of the alarming war and pestilence at the hands of the Offsprings, and the mighty arm of Brother Volition that had been one step ahead.

At this declaration, the Jinns all called on the majesty of the Dance to lead the Micropolis from the darkness of night to the glorious day of refreshment. Then the Jinns hailed the Dance in trust of a glorious victory of the Micropolis. According to Maelendil, He considered his charges in the Micropolis as being the best suited to resist the forces of the bankers and pressures from the commercialist system. According to Maelendil, his charges have a natural knack of being able to display maturity beyond their years, but still exhibit a strong sense of play. Cashmir explained how this often makes his charges a bit competitive and hostile towards those who display levels of maturity that require a sacrifice of playfulness. Maelendil explained that this hostility and competititve spirit needs to be transformed into a spirit of service to those under the burdens of unreasonable expectations of maturity. Durnil then advised Maelendil to make sure the Magnus offices of the Praedexit order keep alliances. Durnil then requested that Maelendil keep an eye on the Senexits in training.

The Early Summer

The summer after Milo finished his freshmen year and before Amira was about to start highschool had been quite eventful. In Social Studies, after taking finals, the teacher put the movie Sandlot on. Some of the boys started getting bad ideas after Smalls pretended to drown so he could kiss Wendy. When it came to Science class, the teacher gave a final, just to be a jerk, and bragged about how their last hours are spent doing work, like in the real world. As was common, many teachers did finals before the last day, as they wanted to not have to worry about teaching. That first night after School ended, the "8 Simple Rules for dating My Teenage Daughter" episode was "YMCA", when Grandpa Jim punches another member for talking about how hot Bridget, her granddaughter is, right to his face. The man had not known this.

That first weekend, Ray was on a Golf Trip, and Milo, Margaret, Lydia and Grandma Pearl went to Lunch at Stacy's retro-diner on Saturday. That Friday, Milo downloaded the hymn "God of our Fathers", which is a hymn that slightly resembles a Sousa march, and written as a providential hymn commemorating the Centennial of America. After Lunch, they went to a garden center to pick up some flowers for the summer. That night, Margaret, Milo and Lydia also decided to go to Church, in order to sleep in. On Sunday evening, Steve called Milo, inviting him to Elfander Amusment Park. Milo was planning on going to Seewoulden for Lydia's school picnic, but found Elfander a better offer.

On that first Monday off, Milo went to clay camp with Lydia, Eustace and Samantha. As it was, Milo would be gone for two days, and could not start on a project. That night, Doris and Merle called a minimum of five times. They called for varios matters, like how much money to bring, what kind of lunchmeat to buy sandwiches, what kind of supplies to bring, and what time to be over at Merle's. After a few calls, Margaret refers to Steve's family as strange.

On Tuesday Morning, Milo was dropped over at Merle's, and within a half hour, Milo was on the road with Steve, Merle and Doris. This trip was setup this way because Steve had to begin Summer School the next week. During the ride down, Doris told Milo to let her know if Steve acts like a jerk the previous year, and she would ground him. After a two hour drive, they arrived in the neighborhood where Elfander Amusement Park was located. Frankly, the neighborhood was pretty ghetto. Merle called this the ghetto amusement park before arrival. However, this amusement park was a lot of fun. Elfander was like a larger version of Seewoulden. Milo felt like he had dreamed about this park over Holy Week. Steve did not go on too many rides, and Milo ended up riding with Doris and Merle for the most part. On one occasion, there was a nasty down pour, and the rides shut down temporarily. After this down pour, the rides opened up, and Steve tried forcing Milo to go on the bumper cars for the fifth time. Milo told Steve that they should try out some new rides too. Steve said they would go on the bumper cars as many times as he said. So after this, Milo went on rides with Doris and Merle. The first ride they had gone on for the rest of the day was a magic carpet ride. Milo bought a stupid Tiki Cup near a Hawaii themed ride. Milo also came home with a plastic cup trinket after buying a slushee. On the way home, Doris told Milo all about how Steve had gotten fat after being on an A-D-D medicine. Luckily Steve was fast asleep.

Then on Wednesday, Milo went on another trip to Cedar Point with the St. Timothy youth group. Milo had been looking forward to this trip since being reminded of Anahita, and thinking about his previous trip with Richard. With the new youth minister, the trip was scheduled earlier. Nousha also went on this trip, as she was part of the junior youth group, to which Milo never knew. Milo overheard Nousha talking about Disney coloring books.

As it was, Milo did not think about who he would hang with that day, as he forgot that Richard had not planned a group. On the way up, the movie shown was Daredevil. That day had been quite fun for Milo, as asked if he could hang with some graduates he sort of knew. Milo was in a group with some new people he barely knew, but got to know. One of the boy's father is good friends with Uncle Mikes, and another's brother is good friends with Rob. Another was a distant cousin, relationship wise. On a couple occasions, such as waiting on roller coaster lines, Milo saw Nousha. Milo's group ate lunch at a 50's themed burger joint. Otherwise, they hit such rides like the Millennium Force, Blue Streak and the Cedar Creek Mine Ride. On the Wicked Twister, Milo saw Nousha. They also hit some of the water rides like Thunder Canyon and Snake River Falls, and surprisingly more laid back spinning rides. Some of the rides reminded Milo of a trip he took to Cedar Point with the Rumcorns.

Milo got into a minor funk for a few days, as the days after being at amusement parks had been quite fun. Getting back had not been so fun, as he had some frustrations with Lydia and Eustace. Milo had not been prepared for clay class, as he had been out of town, and only had two days anyways. Lydia told Milo he should have had brought the supplies to this class. Frankly, Milo did not appreciate being talked to that way, or Lydia acting like a teacher over some silly class. Not to mention, Milo would not have any time to start a sculpture, considering that he only had two more days left of class.

Eustace on the other hand was being a self-righteous snob constantly making smart remarks, particularly about Milo playing with Sylvester. On the day that Milo came back, he and Lydia had gone over to Aunt Janes for the rest of the day. While playing a videogame, Milo admitted he hated it. Eustace made a rude retort telling him not to play if he hated it so much, and told him not to break the game. Then one afternoon later, Sylvester started playing with Milo's eyes, and Milo did it back to him in a playful fashion. Sylvester being only six said that only he was allowed to. Eustace told Milo to stop picking on his brother, to which Milo retorted, that they were playing. Eustace tells Milo that two wrongs don't make a right. Milo was not one to take being lectured by some little brat, and was going to let Eustace have it. That weekend, Emma had her Graduation Party. As for the party, this slightly reminded Milo of Ben's graduation party a few years back, when he saw the First Communion video.

A few days later when they were playing with water balloons, Eustace kept being bossy, and telling them to be careful about where the water balloons go. So Milo let Eustace have it and slammed the water balloon right at his back, which put him in a foul mood the rest of the day. The next day, Eustace started saying that his mom was not too happy about Milo balloning him. Frankly, Milo did not care, as he was getting sick of Eustace's bad attitude.

The Return to Londinium

For the Cobolds, being back in Londinium and by extension Pedmontus had been a strange experience. For the Cobolds, they had remembered how much they had wanted to see Atlantica so long ago, and wondered if this trek was even worth it. To the Londinians, the Cobolds seemed to be quite different than the Cobolds they had known when they left for their term in Atlantica. Frankly they seemed a bit shell shocked. Zadok told the stories about how the vendor woman did not take too well to Elrich, Lymurds departure, the Great Phoenix visit, the task of attending to the possessed Atlanteans, and how they could be a nasty bunch. One Londinian told him "Now you understand what we went through", in reference to the Shadows possession several seasons ago.

After returning from Atlantica, the Cobolds never bothered to walk through the mountains, as they had been fearful of coming into contact with the Atlanteans. The Cobolds had feared that the vendor had already turned a large number of Atlanteans against them. Naturally the Cobolds had no interest in even finding out, and had no interest in ever returning to Atlantica. As it was, the Cobolds got no further instructions, and planned on sticking with Londinium in their headquarters.

That year, the Cobolds living in Pedmontus held a festival commemorating the appearance of the Great Phoenix. They had hoped that the Phoenix would return to them that year, but such a prospect was not realized. The Foerster Cobolds who travelled into Atlantica thought extensively about their meeting with the Great Phoenix one dark night, and how he brought tidings of restoration.

Katherine and the Evening

It seemed like this summer would not going so well that year. Milo and Lydia were still at Aunt Jane's, and Eustace was just as priggish as ever. Sylvester had been in a foul mood, as he was on an attention medicine. The Fourth of July was pretty simple that year. That week before, Milo got strep throat thanks to Eustace. There had been a mini pandemic, and he was prescribed immediately over the phone. On Saturday, Jesse and Danielle held a family party at Aunt Dianne's to commemorate Ashlyn's first birthday. At this same time, Danielle was pregnant with their second born, who would be staying a few months at Aunt Dianne's. For the fourth of July, the Rumcorns were in town, as they had to drop Kyle off for moving to the Essex region. Kyle would be starting College at Sussewago university in the Fall. During these days, Milo was attending a bible study at St. Timothy's on the Book of Revelation.

One Friday, the Biancatellos were invited to a family get together at Elaines house, as Uncle Al and Aunt Joan were in town for Ralphs son Jamie's wedding. Both Aunt Mary and Uncle John were at the party along with her kids, Grandma Pearle and Kyle. Milo had some flashbacks with the Williamsons, as he learned the song "A mighty Fortress", which he remembered from Grandma Gladys funeral. This had been the first time the Biancatello's had been at Elaines since Grandma Gladys funeral in the first place. Jason had been throwing his kids in the pool, which was the same pool Ben swam in several summers ago.

That Saturday, Milo got invited over to Aunt Michelle's as his parents had to go to Jamie's wedding. That Night, Milo, Aunt Michelle and Gianni walked over to Rosa's house, as Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore were painting Grandma Dora's backyard. While getting ready to leave, Aunt Michelle started talking to her neighbors across the street. Milo first noticed their neighbor across the street named Kathryn, but went by Katie. Milo had seen Katie before, but never noticed her until now. This girl is a talented musician on the fiddle, and also very pretty according to Milo. Milo had recognized the family from St Timothy's, and Katie went to school with Minu. Her father Tom was the head of the churches folk band as lead singer and guitarist. The band also had a harmonica player, bassist and the organist acting as the pianist.

After Aunt Michelle's talk, she, Milo and Gianni walked over to Grandma Dora's. When Uncle Ottavio and Salvatore were done with the deck work, the Filentino's, Grandma Dora and Milo went back to Aunt Michelle's for dinner. For dessert, Uncle Ottavio served Spumoni Ice Cream. Later that night, Milo went back home to find that Uncle Al, Aunt Joan and Grandma Pearl were visiting. Uncle Al got quite a kick out of Milo's plans on putting together a puzzle of a Tiger of a mosaic made of smaller pictures of different felines.

The next day, Milo and Ray went to the lake, as Lydia and Margaret went to the later noon mass. Lydia had a sleepover that ended at 11:30, even though mass was at 11. Ray considered just telling Lydia that they were going to pick her up before 11, instead of making Margaret wait so long. Frankly, Milo did not really want to go to mass at 11, as he was fearful of seeing the Jafari's in church. During that summer, Milo never walked in their neighborhood, as he had some unexplainable fear of the Jafari's. Possibly, the big thing that bothered Milo was that Minu would be at the Senior high, and really on a different page than him.

Return to the Garden

After the Feast of Commemoration of the Phoenix, the Cobolds decided to stay in the Garden indefinitely. Frankly, they enjoyed the serenity of Pedmontus, and had no interest in ever leaving. During their stay in Pedmontus, the Cobolds enjoyed exploring the cliffs of Spartustica, walking through the woods, attending banquets and travelling through the caves. This nature scenery had been nice for the Cobolds who had been stuck in a rough part of a big city for almost a year. For the Cobolds, the prospect of leaving Pedmontus was out of the question. During their stay in Pedmontus, the Cobolds started making new friends with the residents. Even the prospect of returning to Londinium had been less than ideal. For the time being, the Cobolds rented a house in which they got a view of Atlantis, but did not typically like to look. During their stay, the Cobolds learned much of the traditional music of the Pedmontus region.

During these days, many of the Forester Cobolds new friends asked them about the sojourns to Atlantica. The Cobolds typically responded with referring to their tasks as being nothing more than dull bureaucratic tasks. A matriarch of an ancient Cobold family had told the Forester clan that she had not seen them so much since their time with the Governor. Elrich explained that they just liked the land, and never realized how beautiful this place was.

The other Cobolds were becoming suspicious about the Forester clan, and noticed that they were not the same. Plus, the resident cobolds wondered why the Forester Clan never spoke about what happened in Atlantica, seemed disinterested in their mission and never left the Spartustica region. Eventually the Matriarch called her clan to hold an intervention. When the Foresters were confronted, they tried to back away. The Mariarch explained that she knew something was going on.

Elrich came clean, and told about what really happened with the offended Atlantean, all because he insisted on going into the mission, and got power hungry after Lymurd was demoted. One Cobold asked what happened to Lymurd. Elrich explained that Lymurd abandoned the mission after he hit a nerve, and how he accused Lymurd of being responsible for Shannen dying. The Forester Clan had looked utterly shocked, as they had not known this, as Elrich was not proud of this. Aerondin then mentions that Lymurd had no interest in this mission, and how he was at fault for looking over the bridge and gave them the idea to get into the temple district so quickly. Elrich explained that Aerondin was not the only one to become nostalgic, and how the site of the temple was always a site of hope, and how the last time they were barred acces was when there was that awful earthquake, and were stuck in Pinebrehr. Elrich admitted that he knew history would repeat itself, but wanted to have it repeat in a way like when they first saw the temple when the Doustonians cleaned the overgrowth.

The New Day

One Monday morning, Milo, Lydia, Eustace and Samantha were supposed to have golf lessons that got cancelled due to rain. On the way home, Aunt Jane's car broke down, and they were temporarily stranded. A few hours later, when Milo got home, he had gotten a call from Steve asking if he wanted to go to the Seewoulden with him, Doris and Merle the next day. Frankly, Milo was thrilled about this, as he could not stand being at Eustace's, and sick of having to walk on eggshells around Sylvester. That afternoon, Milo found a now defunct website known as hymnprint.net, which comes from GIA music. GIA Music is one of the major supplier of Catholic Hymnals and contemporary liturgical music in the United States. That night, Margaret and Milo had dinner at Taco Bell. At dinner, Milo asked Margaret out of the blue why she told Kazeem that he liked Middle Eastern Girls. Margaret explained that Kazeem was especially friendly, and knew that he was comfortable talking about his culture.

The next day, Milo and the kids had golf lessons. At this first lesson, they met Sabrina, a blonde girl who goes to school with Shamus. Lydia told Sabrina that she and Milo were good friends with Shamus' family. Afterwards, Milo was dropped off at his house, and waited for Steve to arrive, as he was being picked up from Summer School. Soon enough, Doris and her mom arrived to pick Milo up. In the car, Steve had his creepy friend Saul from summer school, who was being a pervert in the car through constantly waving to Milo. Steve on the other hand was laughing in a very immature way. Doris' mom Selma was also in the car and gave both Steve and Saul a reprimanding. Selma is a grouchy chain smoker who would not exactly win Grandmother of the year award.

As Steve had been acting stupid, and was going to just be doing homework, Doris took Milo back to her and Merle's house. While Milo was visiting with Doris, she told Milo all about her marriage with Neal, even though Milo did not ask. Doris is not one who gets out much, and has a habit of sharing overly personal information with acquaintances, which Margaret can attest to. But Doris told Milo about Neal doing a lousy job picking out the wedding songs when they got married by telling the priest to pick them. Mind you, back in those days, they did not have CD's to listen to the music beforehand. Doris then told Milo that she should have known not to marry Steve. Then Doris told Milo about her dad being an alcoholic, and keeping her oldest son Adam away from him, and Adam resenting her for this. Then Doris explained to Milo that Steve was a spoiled brat, and has been hanging around with Neal too long.

Eventually Merle returned home from work. Around this time, Steve called, and demanded that Doris get her ass to the house. Doris hung up on Steve, and gave Milo the phone to prank him. Milo answered the phone in a heavy stereotypical asian accent, and started yelling at Steve. Then Merle answered the phone, and told him if he did not stop acting stupid, he would take care of him like he did his Asian date. So the story goes that Merle was on a date with a Chinese lady who kept bashing him, and he threw her out of the car. Finally, they were on the way to Seewoulden, where Milo has to crack a joke in asking Steve how he met Saul. Doris and Merle got quite a laugh about that joke. By today's standards, such a comment maybe construed as quite Homophobic. Still, Steve did not go on too many rides, and went on the bumper cars over and over again. The whole day, Merle referred to Steve as Chicken-boy. At Seewoulden, Milo tried out the new steel coaster just installed. During the day, Doris kept telling Steve that Milo was the only friend of his that she liked. After spending the day at the park, Steve demanded to stop at Mcdonalds, to which Doris told him the only thing he needs is a salad. On the way home, Merle and Doris asked Milo what he thought of Steves friends Dude, Saul, Henry, Bert and Curt. Milo was brutally honest, and Doris and Merle got quite a laugh. Steve did not take this too well.

On Thursday, Aunt Jane took Milo, Lydia, Eustace, Samantha, Sylvester and Salvatore bowling. Sylvester had a pretty rough day, and cried when he did not like his toy in his burger king kids meal. Then Sylvester cried when Salvatore made his name Little Silly. So Salvatore had to change it. Milo and Salvatore found a ball to used with the name "Dave" engraved. After getting back, Eustace was being a real jerk. He had constantly interrupted Milo, and when he called him out, Eustace said that no one cares what he had to say. That same day, Eustace and Lydia got into a minor disagreement, and she asked him why he was acting this way. Milo came over, gave a consoling tap on Lydias shoulder telling her that's just how Eustace is. Eustace flipped out. That night, Ray took Milo and Salvatore to Byblos Lebanese Restaurant for dinner. This was the restaurant that Ray and Milo went to years back after the Khara's party. Upon arriving, Milo stated "Business is booming" sarcastically, as no one was in the parking lot. That night, Milo found some old pamplets from his vacation to Toronto to see the Lion King before starting Sixth Grade. This gave Milo an intense set of flashbacks to that summer, and the previous summer in Tampa. That night, Milo then had weird dreams about the last day of school, and being disturbed about Minu not being on the bus, walking through a forest full of trees that resembled women, and house on Marilyns street.

On Sunday, Uncle Matt threw a surprise party of Aunt Marie in New Seneca. The Biancatello's travelled up to New Seneca after Church and arrived for the party. This party reminded Milo of his previous trip to New Seneca the previous summer.

The Weaning Completion Plans

The time was coming for the Weaning off of Minu to be nearly completed. For the past few months, Victoria had succeeded in distracting Milo away from Minu, and realized how successful she had been. Victoria had kept Minu off the bus on the last day, and knew well that Milo would not want to know why she was not on the bus.

Maelendil congratulated Victoria on her work, but explained that the next step needs to happen soon. Victoria asks Maelendil why his charge is so afraid of Minu. Maelendil explains that Milo liked Minu over the memories, and that he also fears that with Minu going into the senior highschool, she will become imbalanced, and take on more senexit traits. Victoria is a little stumped, and Maelendil explains that it is the responsibility of his charges to assist in keeping the balance between the Puerubdi and Senexit energies on earth, and being unable to do so indicates a desecration and massive failure. Victoria asks Maelendil why it would be a failure if Milo is unable to change another. Maelendil explains how all things are inter-connected, and if one falls, so does the whole fall. Maelendil explains how such a balance is utterly necessary, lest one Magnus office is exulted over another. Maelendil knew that the memories of the Summer he frequently walked up to Minu's had to be desecrated for the time being. In order for this completion to occur, Maelendil summoned Husisha, Cashmir and Alexander.

Maelendil got the three summoned all caught up on their latest advancements on the weaning process. Husisha explained that the two other girls may have to stay in the picture, but he explained that they should not be too much trouble. Alexander had been a little disappointed, as he knew the competition was now over. However, Alexander was given the task of opening up the world to vast opportunities, and Maelendil explained that this new change to come would be much more interesting. On grounds of pure curiousity, Cashmir asked Husisha if he ever got any news on why the Jafari's needed to come into the picture, to which Husisha had no answer.

The Boating Trip and Vacation

Another week later, the Runcorns from Indianapolis came up with their motor boat and invited Milo, Lydia and Grandma Pearl to join them. That day, Milo started a tutoring program at Ciderpond High. Milo was not particularly in love with the program, as they were funny about anyone missing a day, despite being the summer. The reasoning was the tudor did not get paid if a student did not show up. On the first day that they arrived, the Runcorns took the Biancatello's to see I-Robot. Milo had not been a fan of the movie, and it made his memories of the Toledo Imagination Station not as appealing as he remembered. Now Milo had never been a fan science fiction. That night, Milo saw a documentary about sitcom history. There was a scene Milo remembered from Roseanne where DJ whined about Darlene calling him a prevert, and Roseanne explains he's a pervert.

After the tutoring session the next day, Grandma Pearl picked Milo up and took him over to the dock to boat. Grandma had the song "You cant hurry love" on the radio, which Milo remembered from Cedar Point the previous summer. This had been enjoyable, as Milo got away from Eustace. Plus, this had been a fun trip otherwise, as the Rumcorns were a fun family, and Uncle Wayne was quite the jokester. They did activities like tubing, water skiing, and picnicking at the beach. One strange thing Aunt Bertha did was she made sandwich on rolls for the adults, and made schewbels sandwiches for the kids.

On Thursday, Emma took Milo and Lydia to Applebees for Lunch. As much as Milo enjoyed his trip with the Rumcorns, he was happy to get some real food. Emma asked Milo and Lydia how the trip with Aunt Bertha was. Now Aunt Bertha is not Emma's aunt to begin with.

That weekend, Salvatore joined the Biancatellos at a Condo on the beach Margaret got to use through work. This was the same condo from the previous year. In the afternoon, Ray, Milo and Lydia went for a bike ride on the paths. Lydia saw her nemesis Pyotor, much to her displeasure. The evening had been quite fun and relaxing. They went across the street and had dinner at Stacy's retro diner.

The next day, the family went to a later mass, as it took a while to get to St. Timothy's from the beach. This mass had the folk band, which performed great music. Katie and her mom were in Church much to Milo's pleasure and expectations. The folk band sang this American Folk Song known as "Just a Closer walk with thee". A teacher from William Jettson said Hi to Milo at communion, but did not know who Lydia was.

That Afternoon, Milo went with Merle, Steve and his friend Dude to a sports park that had go carts and bumper cars. After riding on the cars, Doris showed up with lunch. Doris made these terrible sandwiches on Hotdog buns with an unreasonable amount of mayonnaise. Milo wanted to get an ice cream cone after, and had to choke down the sandwiches, as to not make it look like he was not hungry enough. After unable to eat the last few bites, Milo tossed the sandwich on the ground when Doris wasn't looking. Ray got quite a laugh when Milo told him about the Hot Dog bun sandwiches.

The next week the Biancatello's went on day trips. The day before leaving, Milo saw Rokshana's mom at the grocery store. The next morning, the Biancatellos drove to Kelly's Island. They were only gone for three days. At Kelly's Island, Milo had this French Christmas Hymn that he downloaded known as "He is Born, the Holy Child", or in French known as "Il est Ne" as a joyful declaration of the birth of the long awaited Messiah.

There was at once a great vision in the sky of celebration of a new school year sung with in great jubilation. The Students told the stories about how this day had been foretold for three years, and has finally come to pass. The Teachers declared this New Year the great and pure gift from the heavens. The Students then sang in unison heralding a time of heavenly peace.

The next day, the Biancatello's went to Cedar Point. This trip had not been the same as the trip to the park Milo took with his youth group. On Friday, the Biancatello's took a trip to Toledo to see the Zoo and Aquarium. Margaret met with her friend Tessa and her little girls. As for the zoo, it had not been as exciting as he remembered. When going into Toledo for dinner, Milo was a bit disappointed that the town was nothing like he remembered with the Imagination Station.

The Return of the Phoenix

After the Forester Cobolds told the Pedmontus Cobolds the truth about what happened, the Forester Cobold's were given the cold shoulder. The Cobolds mostly stayed in their condo, with little interest in interacting with the Pedmontus Cobolds. The Cobolds had been in the garden one afternoon when the Elfess who had given birth in the guest house years ago showed up riding a donkey. This Elfess had thanked the Cobolds, and they at once bowed down before her. Then a Cow appeared setting up a nest on a perch made of hay. Then a set of sheep came by with a vestment made of their wool. Then three doves started singing songs announcing that "He is near".

Then at once, the Great Phoenix arrived, and landed on the nest the Cow Made. The Great Phoenix hailed the Elfess and raised his wing. The Cobolds, Elfess, and Animals all bowed before the Great Phoenix. The Phoenix instructed the Cow, donkey and sheep to eat the plant growth of a particular location. When overgrowth was eaten away, the long forgotten arch was revealed that once housed the bridge. To replace the bridge, there was a new overlook in which one could see the temple closely. The Cobolds gathered to the overlook and got a majestic view of the temple they had nearly forgotten about. The Phoenix announced that the Cobolds this day forward have permission to enter the Atlantean Temple city. The Phoenix then thanked the Cobolds for their efforts of attending to the Possessed Atlanteans. Then the Great Phoenix implored the Pedmontus Cobolds to let go of any bitterness they had against the Forester Cobolds.

The Journey to the Demuzidean Complex

One evening, while Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir had been doing some work in their office, Maelendil had went into a trance where a great celtic knott glowed brightly, and he saw an airship. Then the knott commanded the three to board the ship. At this word, Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir had headed outside, and the Airship had been waiting for them.

At once, the three entered in and found many Annogrammatrons who had helped them, former Magnus, along with the seers Husisha, Durnil, Azeyas and Yuriyama. This ship travelled along a great and stormy body of water full of mighty waves, but with no harm done to the ship. As soon as the ship drew nearer, the waters calmed. This happened three times total. Then the Ship docked at this green and familiar region. The further they walked, they spotted the Temple Complex that houses the Demuzidean Temple, the Enanian Temple and the Rose Garden planted so long ago with a statue of Cybele the Great Mother.

The Isaiah Charism had come to greet them in great gladness, and brought them over to the Garden. The Jinns had all discovered that the shoots from the rose seeds had begun to spring fourth. The Rose that was originally offered was planted in the center and had become quite majestic. As was promised, the offering was coming to fruition. The Isaiah Charism then took out a scroll from his robe, and the Jinns at once knew that two of the Seals had been loosened, and only three remained. Then the Jinns heard an angelic song far off but quite clearly. Then the Jinns sang a song of greatful jubilation with the Angelic Ministers.

The Great Foresight

One Wednesday morning, Danielle gave birth to her second-born Malina. Now Jesse had been out of town for business, and Danielle was staying with Aunt Dianne. That night, Milo had a dream about beginning school, and seeing all the freshmen, while an old man with a mustache started saying a pre-dinner grace. Milo saw something in the school that he only noticed on the last day of school the last time he was there. Upon waking, Milo was not thrilled to be having a dream about school, when August had just arrived.

On Friday, Milo and Ray went to a football charity game they had last attended three years ago. During the game, Milo started getting flashbacks to the fall the Khara's moved, and felt slightly bummed out. Then Milo had a flashback of the days when he started seventh grade, and in particular that sleepover with the O'Malley's the night after Fall Fest. Milo then became extremely optimistic about the upcoming year, and dreamed of such great possibilities. Milo had seen many students he recognized, including Sabrina from Golf. After the game, Milo downloaded a song on Kazaa known as "Unto us a Boy is Born", which was just an alternative translation of the hymn "Unto us is Born a Son" from the previous Christmas. Milo also downloaded the hymns "Gesu Bambino" and "Eternal Father strong to save".

That weekend, two of the Biancatello families, Filentino's and some of the O'Malleys went on a family trip returning to Drakes Forest State Park that he had visited the previous summer and three summers ago before beginning seventh grade. This furthered Milo's flashbacks to Seventh Grade. The Filentino's and Biancatello's drove up together. When they arrived, they went for a hike and ran into Uncle Leo, Aunt Jane, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester. On this trip, they did most of the same activities they had done the first year they went. This year, Uncle Matt and Alicia bailed on going. This included a hike, tubing, and going out to dinner at this redneck restaurant known as "End of the Road".

On the way back, they went to this hotdog specialty stand known as Franks. The next day, the Biancatello's went to Geauga Lake, as Margaret let Lydia take some friends for a day trip. Milo remembered going to this park the summer before when it was Six Flags. Frankly, the park did not match up to the glorious park it was the previous year. Milo recognized very little of the park as it currently was.

On Friday night, Uncle Ottavio took Milo and Salvatore to a baseball game. During that weekend, Milo started downloading more Christmas music, anticipating the holiday season. In fact, Milo downloaded many Christmas hymns in foreign languages. That night, Milo stayed up late in hopes that he would oversleep and the family would end up going to a later mass that Katie maybe at. Milo had no such luck. That morning, Ray woke Milo up nice and early, much to his disappointment. That Wednesday, Milo had his sixteenth birthday. On Thursday, Milo found out that Lydia had basketball the last week of Vacation, which was when they were scheduled to stay with the O'Malleys for the week. Lydia was not too happy about this, as she was the one to plan it, and the one unable to go. That Saturday in Church, Milo saw Katie performing in the church rock band known as the Holy Rock, as the fiddler much to his pleasure.

The Cobolds Journey

The time had come for the Cobolds to take their journey back to Atlantis. Despite the anticipation of travelling to the Temple grounds, the Cobolds were still apprehensive about leaving the Pedmontus Garden and coming into contact with the vendor community from Atlantica. The Cobolds were also apprehensive about coming into contact with the Shadows. But the Cobolds remembered how Daxividus came to them before to cast out the shadows last time, and called out for his assistance.

The Cobolds naturally had to walk through Atlantica, and had been a bit apprehensive. By this time, rumor had long spread that Daxividus would be coming to Atlantica to cast out the shadows that had been tormenting particular street Atlanteans. The Cobolds were still in Atlantica when the rumors began. One evening after a great feast and sendoff, the Cobolds left the garden and journeyed through Londinium. The Journey had not been pleasant, as the Cobolds longed for the Garden, and still apprehensive about going through Atlantica.

Pre-Anticipation

That last week of summer vacation, Milo was visiting his cousin Matt in New Seneca. This trip had been a frustration for Milo, as Matt was being quite lazy, and doing anything became quite problematic.

Before leaving, Milo did not really want to go to New Seneca, as Steve was over earlier in the day, and they went for a walk down to Salvatore's. Milo saw Katie outside sun tanning in a lounge chair. At the park, Milo saw Anahita, whom he recognized from school, as she was in the band. So essentially Milo was thinking about them, and wanted to stay back and see them. Plus, Milo realized the next time he would be back in Ciderpond, he would be near having to face going back to School.

To be fair, Matt had been a pretty big wet blanket that week. Milo suggested that they go riding bikes, but Matt worried that they could get hurt. One night after going out for dinner, Aunt Marie took the kids to rent movies. Matt picked out Ninja Turtles, even though Aunt Marie suggested something Milo would also like. Matt wouldn't budge, and complained that none of his other friends will watch the show with him. Milo had to sit through a G-Rated movie.

Another day later, Aunt Michelle, Aunt Jane, Eustace, Salvatore, Gianni, Samantha and Sylvester stopped in for a visit. Salvatore recounts Milo just staring at the wall, as he was so bored. While the guests were visiting, Sylvester was acting up, as six years olds often do. Milo made the biggest mistake in shooshing Sylvester. Sylvester had made it clear that Milo was never to shoosh him again.

The next night, it was Milo's turn to pick the movie, and he chose "Scary Movie III". In the middle, Matt turned off his movie as it supposedly got too late, as in 10pm in the summer. This was out of fear for missing lunch. Their plan was to get Chinese food at a place called Tai-Pei. Milo had been pouting in Matt's room when Samantha and Lilly came to console him. This was the turning point for Samantha when she became like the rest of the Biancatello girls and less like Eustace. Both Samantha and Lilly felt bad for Milo, as Matt was acting like an over-cautious jerk unwilling to have any fun.

That Friday, the O'Malleys returned to Ciderpond for a family party. That day, the cousins went to Seewoulden. So far, the day was going good, and Milo was happy to be back in Ciderpond. Towards the afternoon, there had been a rain storm. Both Milo and Salvatore wanted to go to the Soak Town, but Matt was being a pain, and complaining about a rain storm that was coming. Salvatore asked Milo if he wanted to wait for Matt, but told him he needed to get away from Matt, as he had been such a wet blanket all week. Salvatore told Milo that he had the same problem a few weeks ago when Matt complained the whole time they were on a walk. Eventually, Matt grew out of this ridiculous stage.
Chapter 25: Amira starts High School

Soon enough it came to pass that the summer had ended and it was time to begin the new school year. That last weekend of Vacation, the Biancatello's threw an end of year picnic, which all the family attended, and also included Ben, the newly weds Corey and Kate, along with the Rumcorns. Uncle Leo bought Milo a belated set of CD's for a birthday present. One of them was a Handel CD, "Peace like a River" from the Mormon Tabernacle, and Sacred Music throughout the Centuries.

Milo had feared starting a new school year, as Minu would be in the senior school and not be around as much. As it was, Milo had some still unresolved feelings for Minu, and Katie being in the picture complicated matters. But Milo had the realization that he would soon see Amira after almost two years. The night before starting School, Milo knew his feelings for Amira would all be coming back as soon as he saw her. However, Milo could not even imagine how this could be, as he forgot how he felt about her. Not to mention, Katie was dominating his mind at the time.

The Cobolds Arrival

One morning after travelling through the mountains, the Cobolds arrived in Atlantica. Much to their relief, the Cobolds did not experience any hostility from the Atlanteans. This journey through Atlantica had not been as bad, but the Cobolds still were nostalgic for the Garden. Soon enough, the Cobolds reached the District of the Temple, known as Lionalem. The District of Lionalem at the entrance had a statue of two great Lions.

At this time, the Cobolds had not been granted access to the temple, as they had a set of labors before being granted access, according to the requests of the Great Phoenix. The Cobolds were still free to travel through the district, which proved to be a peaceful town, and had a nice rental guesthouse that was very comfortable. The Cobolds had a nice upward view of Pedmontus and the garden walls, and often felt quite nostalgic.

The Cobolds next task was to summon Daxividus by blowing a trumpet at the Seers shrine. A few days after arriving, an elder of Lionalem brought the Cobolds to the Shrine, and found a giant Trumpet where the mouthpiece could only be reached by walking on the roof. The elder instructed the Cobold Jamus to blow the horn, which resounded throughout the whole region. After a period of waiting, the Cobolds became fearful that Daxividus would not be coming, and that those possessed Atlanteans were stuck this way.

One morning later bright and early, Daxividus rode through the sky on a chariot spreading a gold dust over Atlantica, and the Cobolds could see countless numbers of shadows being launched out of Atlantica and went flying off. Few in Atlantica knew about this great liberation, and no one knew that the Cobolds were the one to blow the horn. This reminded the Cobolds of the days that they had been released from the shadows so long ago.

The Beginning of the School Year

The night before Milo returned back to school, he had a rough night of sleep. That night, Milo had some dreams about "Scary Movie III" that he saw over the summer at the O'Malley's. Frankly, Milo was not so nervous in the same way he was the previous year. Milo was just having a difficult time with coming to grips with going through the cross between summer vacation and a new school year. Milo had such a great summer, and did not exactly have great memories of the previous school year.

As it was, Milo went back to the bus stop in the morning, and this girl Lucille also joined the bus stop. That morning, Minu was back on the bus with Milo much to his relief, but Lindsey had graduated and Charles for some reason was not riding the bus. Milo was somewhat happy to see Minu, but was not interested in hearing her conversations with her new friend on the bus. This would eventually lead Milo to start bringing his Mp3 player to school, and listen to Music. Upon arrival to school, the bus parked in the lot, and Milo met up with his friend Shawn.

Milo first spotted Amira on the second story walking to her homeroom. Amira had been just as pretty as he remembered her so many years back. As for first days of school, things were not as bad as Milo had catastrophized. For most students, the first day is the second worst days of school, only after coming back after Christmas Break.

After Biology, Milo spotted Amira and her friend Vashti heading down to Lunch. Vashti was the girl Milo saw three years ago at fall fest and recognized from the Khara's party. Vashti went to Middle School with Amira. At lunch, Milo met up with his friend Shawn Podmore, whom he bowls with. Milo had known Shawn since Elementary School, and was at one point part of Shane and his social group. Shawn eventually got sick of Shane like Milo did. The Podmore's did not like Steve or his friend Saul, as two years ago, they would constantly prank call their house, and the Podmores had to have their phone number changed.

On the way home from School, Milo had that feeling that he was back to the mundane world. That evening, Milo was not thrilled to be back in school, as that summer had been a lot of fun, and having been in school that previous year had been a bit hellish.

The next day, Milo had Spanish class with fellow charge Bailey Samanski. Bailey was quite a pretty girl in her own right. At Lunch on Thursday, Milo sat with his cousin Gianni, as he chose Ciderpond, which was quite a different decision from Salvatore. Other classes Milo had that day were Math, Social Studies and Drafting.

On Friday, Milo found that he was on the same bus ride as his friend Jimmy from the summer camp two summers ago. The schedules changed, which switched his bus route. Jimmy apologized for being a jerk at the school picnic years ago, which Milo had forgotten all about. After school, Milo had opened up a new CD he had gotten for his birthday. This CD was "Peace like a River" by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Earlier that week before School started, Milo opened a different CD, which he had been quite anxious while listening, as he had known Summer Vacation was nearly over. Plus, at this time, Milo had been happy to see Amira, and some new girls again.

On the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend, Milo got into a slight funk when he had seen a summer themed show. That afternoon, Lydia had a basketball game, and got crushed pretty bad. This put Lydia in an outright bad mood. That evening, Ray took Milo and Salvatore to see a football game at Whelon College. After the game, Ray treated them to Dairy Queen.

On that Sunday, St. Timothy's changed the mass times, much to Milo's relief. The parishioners knew about this since the spring. What they did was combine the two early morning masses into one. Originally, the Biancatello's wanted to continue with the Early Mass, but Milo would not have it, as that mass would have no music. Beforehand, Milo was getting up early for school, and then on Sunday also. With the change in the mass time, Milo got an extra hour of sleep on Sundays also. Plus, Milo liked the music at the later mass, as it had the choir or the folk band.

That school year, Milo and Steve had gone on separate ways, as they were eating lunch at different times and frankly Milo had grew out of Steve as he had with Shane. Ray always told Milo that he would outgrow Steve the same way he did with Shane. Frankly, Milo got sick of Steve being a lousy friend of convenience, and hanging around people like Henry, Kurt and Bert. On one occasion, Milo saw Steve to wish him a happy birthday.

The Second Wednesday Night of the year, Milo had a dream about going to Cedar Point, like he had that summer. Milo came to the park to find that he was barred access, and only allowed to visit vendor's. During the rest of the dream, Ray kept mentioning the Sassani's. Mind you, Milo never mentioned to his parents Amira was in school with him.

That morning had been Milo's best morning so far that week. Milo was adjusting to being back in school. Ray gave Milo a ride to school that morning, as it was quite rainy, and saw Bailey and her friend being dropped off also. As for the day, the weather was pretty bleak. But Milo was in the best mood he had been in since after Labor Day weekend. Otherwise, Milo had been irritable, as his computer broke down, and would not be fixed for another month. This computer broke down the weekend before school started. The last song Milo had listened to on the computer was the hymn "Of the Fathers love Begotten". Milo constantly practiced playing that hymn on his keyboard, which was in a hymnal he had been given from St. Timothy's. Milo often had the hymn stuck in his head at Lunch Time when Amira was around. One time, Amira, Vashti and a few other girls took the table that Milo, Shawn and their new friend Jeff sat. Frankly, Milo was not upset by this, and let the girls have the table. Now Jeff was from St. Timothy's and knew Salvatore.

That Saturday night, Milo and Lydia went with their parents to a barbeque Ray's boss held at his country house. Milo started having flashbacks to the Christmas Party at the Delaneys the previous year, when he saw a picture of Amira in Shamus' yearbook. As we know, the mass times had changed, and the Biancatello's were now attending a later mass. The previous year at the party, the same thing happened, as the later mass that weekend was a mass for Grandma Rosa. That next day, Grandpa Tony came to church with the Biancatello's. Grandpa Tony stil had been having a difficult time with Grandma Rosa, and was now starting to get past the depression.

Milo still had been a bit obsessive with Minu being on the bus. Milo wanted Minu to be on the bus, at least in the mornings, but did not care about the afternoons, as she had track at that time. Milo just liked having things somewhat like they were the previous year when Charles and Lindsey rode the bus with him. Otherwise, this was just a situation where Milo had unresolved feelings for Minu, but was too scared to having them resolved. But the only way Milo could keep her around was this obsessive way at a distance close enough where he could see her, but far enough he never had to hear from her.

On Friday Night, Milo was at a Ciderpond Football Game which was against St. James. That year, Salvatore started attending St. James. So Milo was with Ray, Lydia, Uncle Leo, Eustace, Salvatore and Gianni. At the game, Milo saw his old bus friends Charles and Lindsey. Milo introduced his cousins to Charles and Lindsey. Lindsey had started at Sussewago, and Milo asked if she knew his cousin Kyle. She had not met him, considering the size of the school.

One Sunday night, Milo had seen the Titanic and saw the sinking scene where the violinists played "Nearer my God to thee" and the musicians and captain acted eerily calm. Then there was the scene of the old people sleeping and the dead blue bodies, one with a mother and child. That night, Milo had disturbing dreams about being on the Rumcorns boat and falling off into a pool of frozen water like in the Titanic. Then the dream changed to a continuation of a dream he had two years ago after the Kharas moved, involving Uncle Georgio and Maziyar fighting terrorists in the neighborhood. This continuation involved Milo going into Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's house, and finding an indoor swimming pool deep in their basement.

The next morning, Milo was extremely out of it. Milo kept thinking about the boat trip with the Rumcorns, Minu, the dead babies on the Titanic, and Amira. Milo ended up missing the bus and Margaret ended up having to give Milo a ride to school. During that day, Milo was still a bit out of it. He started having flashbacks to the Titanic exhibit at the Toledo Science center, when he went with Steve, Doris and Merle. At lunch, Shawn was talking about a girl who was a snitch in English class. After school, Milo could not find his bus, freaked out and got a ride home with Aunt Judy, who was the secretary at the senior building. Before Aunt Judy took Milo home, she introduced him to the ladies working in the office.

One Friday later, Minu did not ride the bus in the morning, and Milo freaked out. During the day, Milo was a bit anxious. To Milo's relief, Minu rode the bus on the way home from school. That night, the Biancatello's got their computer back, for better or for worse. Without the computer, Milo tended to spend more time studying, as he did not have this distraction of the computer. That evening, Milo had gone out to dinner with Aunt Michelle and Salvatore, as Ray, Margaret and Lydia had a sports banquet. Before leaving, Milo saw Katie and her mom going out to get her hair done for the homecoming. Katie went to a local Catholic school. Aunt Michelle took Milo and Salvatore to this Italian restaurant. After dinner, they visited with Grandpa Tony.

On Saturday, Milo started playing a Harry Potter computer game he bought in New Seneca while visiting before school started. So far, Milo liked the game, which gave him some flashbacks to the summer before his freshman year, due to a similar melody. That same weekend, the Jafaris had attended mass at the same time as the Biancatellos. Minu had started with the confirmation program at St. Timothy's, which was the reason the family went to mass at the same time as the Biancatello's. Frankly, the Jafari's had not been bothered to see the Biancatello's anymore.

One weekend later, the students had a four day weekend. On Friday Night, Milo and Ray went to a football game for Ciderpond high. Milo noticed the cheerleader Ashley, whom he had seen at the Mall the previous Christmas. Frankly, this put Milo in a pretty good mood. On Saturday, Milo, Ray and Margaret went to Applebees for dinner. This was before Milo became a protester of poor quality chain restaurants. On Sunday, Milo was the altar server for the first time at the later mass, and after seeing the Jafari's in church at communion got a bit nervous. When they recessed out after mass, Milo forgot to bow, and Fr. Nick had to remind him. That Monday, the Biancatello's went on a day trip to some hiking areas an hour before Sandusky. Milo wanted to go on a trip similar to Sandusky, as it reminded him of the fall three years ago. On the trip, Ray mentioned doing another Christmas shopping day with Milo and Salvatore. Milo was still thinking about the previous year when he saw Ashley.

Another weekend later, the Rumcorns came in for Margaret's birthday. Now they only spent Sunday with the Biancatello's, as they were only around for two days. Milo felt still a little antsy over these days, and did not really understand why.

The Great Brother

For the most part, the Cobolds traversed in Lionalem, exploring the city. The Cobolds still frequented Atlantica on occasion, and worked with those who had been possessed by the Shadows. By this time, Atlantis had become much more peaceful without the Shadows. Those who were possessed by the shadows showed much gratitude to the Cobolds, and apologized several times for what they put the Cobolds through. After a while, the Cobolds started finding the apologies a bit old.

The Cobolds had noticed something strange with Atlantica and Lionalem. The Cobolds had noticed that one Atlantean he had met on the day they first returned to Atlantica had seemed to have lost his youthfulness, and looked like he aged 20 years. Otherwise the land seemed very rushed.

Then the Cobolds noticed a statue of a strange figure known in Atlantica as the great brother, was wearing an emerald green glove holding a traditional stopwatch. Elrich remembered something like this before, but could not put his finger on where he had seen this. The Cobolds knew that due to the circumstances the Atlanteans lived under, they could be susceptible to putting themselves under a charismatic figure. At once, the Cobolds informed the elders of Lionalem about what they had seen. The Elders investigated, and had no answers. The Elders put the Cobolds on a quest to return to Londinium for help.

Some time later, the Cobolds had returned to Atlantica with help, including a historian and legend expert, and found that the city had gotten into a much worse state than when they had left for help. One Londinian historian observed the statue and the hand the Statue was wearing. A legend expert quite knowledgeable about old folk tales mentioned an old legend he knew of in regards to a watchmaker who mysteriously disappeared, and all the investigators found was an ugly green hand. According to the town rumors, the watchmaker was quite obsessive, and had a near neurotic fascination with metaphysical topics and esoteric sciences. What Elrich remembered well was that the Naifaspring sisters fought this watchmaker, and sent the hand far off over the mountains.

After the Cobolds and Londinians relayed their information, the Lionalem Elder called for an investigation on this statue. The Cobolds, Lionalem Elder, Londinium Historian and Legend Expert did some investigation into Altantica to figure out what this statue was of, and why the Atlanteans were rapidly aging. Some strange occurrences they noticed was that the Atlanteans were always rushed, and could never savor the present. Naturally getting to talk with an Atlantean was nearly impossible, and never had time. They had always been busy and seemed scared.

One day, the great brother arrived, and gave a ridiculous speech. The great brother explained in these tumultuous times, all people should listen to him. The Great brother started talking about getting straight to preparing for the future, not to hesitate to get married and have babies, and above all, keep order at all costs. The Great brother then explained that in these times, sacrifices would be of utmost importance, and how certain freedoms will have to be surrendered for the sake of security.

During one of the Great Brother's town speeches, the team called him on his bluff. The Great Brother explained that he had not known why the Atlanteans were aging and said that such theories are only gonna postpone order. Then the Elder asked the Great Brother where he found the hand from, and explained that he found it in an antique shop. The Legend expert explained that he believed this hand was causing the Atlanteans to age. The Great Brother then fought the expert on this, to which he responded by asking him to place the hand on this piece of wood that rot quickly. The Great Brother refused, and scoffed at such an idea. Then the Elder asked the Great Brother if he had been using the hand to mess with the aging process, so that people would become more desperate, and heed his advice. The Elder then asked the Great Brother if he was an Atlantean, let alone a Mistivant, in reference to his abnormally large size. The Great Brother then touched the hand to a piece of wood, which decayed immediately. The Great Brother gave an unconvincing gasp, and said that he had not known this was what the hand had done. The Great Brother had a look of anger and apology, moreso of being caught, crushed the hand, and fled with it high into the sky outside the realm of Kebsuda

After the hand disappeared, a great ring of light spread throughout the city, at once, the curse was broken. All of the residents of Atlantica had been freed from this curse, and the aging had been completely reversed. The residents were quite confused, as they had forgotten everything that happened when the curse first hit. The Cobolds had been suspicious about this Great Brother's repentance. The Londinian Elders, along with the Cobolds suspected that this Great Brother was just sorry he got caught, and cowardly broke the curse to save his own skin.

The November Season

During much of November, Milo had been in a schizoid state. Milo had been angry with the Church, as he had just been taught from a Sunday School teacher that sexual thoughts mortal sin that if not confessed would merit eternal damnation. As it was, Milo now had full knowledge according to the criterion, but was not happy with having full knowledge, as just seeing a girl would give him naughty thoughts. To Milo, this was a rigged system that condemned one for something they cannot help, and then puts one at the mercy of the clergy, and started seeing that the organized Church was no different than all other world authorities. Now Milo had known for a while that organized religion was imperfect. Yet Milo could not help but find religious teachings having the same potential to be judgmental and exclusive as any other human institution. All Milo saw was that religion had the potential to be like a curse that had the binding power to impose standards, and curse people to hell if they did not live up to their standards. Milo hated the very notion that any institution should have any power over anothers soul, and resented this claim the religious teachers made.

Otherwise, Milo had believed that he was feeling was due to guilt he had over a grudge he was harboring with Matt. Since the school year, both Salvatore and Lydia knew that Milo was not happy with Matt, due to being a lousy host weeks ago. Milo would make snide remarks about Matt when he was mentioned, and made jokes about Ninja Turtles. One evening, after trying to not make snide remarks about Matt, Milo gave into the temptation when Salvatore and Gianni were over. Lydia told about how Samantha felt bad for Milo over how Matt was acting. Milo then talked about how bad Matt had behaved, like he had some great moral victory.

That weekend later, the Biancatello's stopped at a furniture store, as the downstairs was being remodeled. Then they stopped at a grocery store, where they rented Shrek 2. When Milo was in the Parking Lot, he started remembering how just a few months ago, he was in better spirits, and not in such a state. Seeing all the Christmas sales beginning reminded Milo of when he was about to start this year, and all the possibilities he imagined. At this, Milo knew that he was making himself sick, and needed to calm down. Frankly, Milo had many thoughts about girls, such as Ashley, Minu, Katherine, the charge Bailey and of course Amira.

As for watching Shrek 2, this reminded Milo of being in 7th grade, and how he had seen the movie the first time days before seeing Amira at the Funeral Home. When it came to Church, Milo in a better place with going later in the morning, and liked having the choir. Milo was also watching the Simpsons, but was not a big fan of the episodes. Milo just assumed the episodes were stupid. Yet Milo said the same thing about the episodes between the end of Christmas and the beginning of Holy Week. Milo was only judging the episodes based on his current state.

The Sophunum's counselling work

For the past few months, there has been much havoc on earth due to sibling disputes in the Satyasha order. As we remember, the Satyasha's are an order of Jinn that has a Matriarch with three sons hatched from either a copper, silver or gold egg. The story starts off with two matriarchs Naima and Sophia. Naima's firstborn is Barush from a Gold Egg, and Sophia's firstborn is Apollinus from a Silver Egg. Three years ago, both Naima and Sophia had their second-borns. Naimas secondborn was Hidari from a silver egg, while Sophia's secondborn was Bacchus from a gold egg.

Hidari and Apollinus born of silver eggs had started to becoming very domineering towards their siblings Bacchus and Barush of gold eggs. Around the same time, Naima calls out to Jebediah for help, while Sophia calls out to Marronattar. Jebediah meets with Naima over the dischord with her children, and he finds out that Hidari has been bullying Barush, and Barush has been just trying to keep away from him. Jebediah then speaks with the two separately. Hidari explains that he is only so tough on Barush because he has not matured with the times since he knew him, nor does he have any loyalty to his own kind. Hidari then goes on how he has sacrificed so much, and knows his place in the social order. Then Jebediah meets with Barush, who admits that he is overwhelmed by Hidari. Barush then explains that he just wants to be himself and not want to be told who he can associate with, but does not know how to stand strong without becoming isolated. At this, Maelendil orders Hidari to stop being a bully and teaches Barush to stand his ground. According to Jebediah, the problem stems from both having two legitimate concerns. Jebediah explains that Barush is concerned about his own individuality, while Hidari is concerned with being part of a community. Jebediah explains how both the need for uniqueness and belonging are important, but neither are sure how to have both without having to sacrifice one for the other.

Meanwhile, Marronattar meets with Sophia, who explains that Appolinius is very domineering towards Bacchus forcing his lifestyle in a threatening matter, while Bacchus gives Appolinius the silent treatment, commits to favors he asks then backs out last minute with silly excuses, moves his devotional possessions around and makes constant sarcastic remarks. Marronattar first meets with Appolinius, who explains that Bacchus shows no respect to the temple or the priests, and just does things his own way without regard for the authority of the holy men. According to Appolinius, the holy men and the temples are where the wise men reside, and have the answers. Bacchus then explains that Appolinius patronizes his experiences and intuitions as dangerous, and forces him to domesticate himself to the whims of so called omniscient authorities. Bacchus explains how Appolinius style takes the pleasure and enjoyment out of living. When Maronattar meets with both together, Appolinius accuses Bacchus of seeking out mindless pleasures, and does not care if it aligns with the laws of nature. Appolinius explains how stories, myths and experiences are all just fantasies if they are not backed up by law. Bacchus explains that all this obsession in learning the laws and having all these answers is just a distraction from the whole experience of living. Bacchus then tells Appolinius that he only knows things through books, while he knows things through the ecstatic experience. Maronattar gives a chuckle, knowing full well what they are arguing about.

At this point, both Jebediah and Marrottar know that the only way to resolve the Brothers conflict is to do some teamwork. Maelendil comes to their assistance, as he knows how to counsel Satyasha offspring like he did with Skeeter and Vulterian. Maelendil knows that one of his Charges is in need of long lost information, and suggests to Jebediah that Hidari and Barush take responsibilities for this task. Maelendil then invites Marrottar to join him on working on this task, knowing full well that he can be of assistance, and suggests that Appolinius and Bacchus help.

Thanksgiving Break

Milo started getting better the week before Thanksgiving Break. What had kickstarted the recovery was some memories of the summer. What happened was the Biancatello's went to lunch one Sunday at the same Mexican restaurant that they ate at before the Mass Katie was the violinist. Milo also looked over a song known as "In the Bleak Midwinter", which he remembered from the summer, and started playing on his keyboard.

The weekend before thanksgiving had been an experience for Milo. On Thursday Night, Milo made plans with Steve to go to this event at the school with swimming, food and games. That Friday, Milo's social studies class had a field trip down to the nautical society of Ciderpond. This had been a pretty quick field trip for a single class. That evening, Milo was dropped off at Steve's, and waited for Neal to give them a ride to the school. As swimming was available, Milo really hoped Amira would be attending the event. To his disappointment, Amira did not show. As for swimming, this gave Milo some unpleasant flashbacks to Pool class of the previous year. After the night was over, Ray and Margaret gave Milo, Steve and their new friend and fellow charge Dan Samson a ride home. Steve had broken the news that his Grandfather died last month.

On Saturday, Milo and Ray went out to lunch, as Lydia, Margaret, Grandma Pearle, Aunt Mary and the Williamsons went on a bus trip to see the Rockettes. During the day, Milo and Ray got lunch after Milo was done bowling with Shawn. That night, Aunt Jane, Uncle Leo, Margaret and Ray went to a comedy show, and Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester stayed with Milo and Lydia. Sylvester had been a bit of a handful, but Milo did not mind playing with him. For the most part, they watched tv, and made ice cream sundae's.

On Sunday Morning, Milo and Lydia were the altar servers, for Christ the King Sunday. The Jafari's were also in attendance. The opening hymn was "To Jesus Christ our Sovereign King" and the ending hymn was "Bring Fourth the Kingdom", which had been new to St. Timothy's at the time. Then on Sunday evening, Milo had a penance service with Sunday School. Milo confessed his grudge he had with Matt. Milo also explained to Monsignor Warner that he had been pretty harsh on Henry, and attacked him at the jugular.

Before Thanksgiving, Milo had noticed that Minu did not ride the bus all week. Milo got a bit anxious over this, and wondered why this was so. What happened was Sanaz was home for Thanksgiving Break, and gave Minu a ride to school. Over thanksgiving break, Thanksgiving was hosted by Ray and Margaret for the third year now. Milo and Matt resolved the grudge that had transpired over the summer. Technically, Matt never knew Milo even had a grudge like Salvatore and Lydia had. Frankly, Milo did not see much of Matt, and was nowhere to be found for most of the day. This was the first year Grandma Dora came to Thanksgiving dinner. That night, Milo and Ray watched Groundhog day.

With the O'Malley's being in town for thanksgiving, Milo wanted to do something with Matt over the holiday, but much to his disappointment, they had gone back to New Seneca early. Ray told Milo at a Whelon Basketball game to make general small talk. What had happened was that Lilly scheduled a sleepover on Saturday night, and the family was gone early on Saturday morning. This had been a re-occurrence, where they planned to stay longer, but always went back early, such as Alicia being asked to babysit. This is where Milo and Ray had some disagreement. Ray said that the O'Malley's have lives, to which Milo felt was utterly insulting. For Milo, this was essentially saying that the O'Malleys had grown out of him, and needed to move on. Milo and Salvatore started playing this game predicting what dumb excuse the O'Malleys had for heading back to New Seneca early.

That Friday, Milo and Margaret went to a Catholic supplies store to look for sheet music. What Milo bought was a music book for Catholic Funerals, and a CD known as "Catholic Classics, Volume 8: Catholic Christmas Classics" directed by Richard Proulx. The hymns in the funeral book were not only funeral hymns, and included many Easter Hymns, Psalms and mass settings.

However, the good news was that the Rumcorns were in town. The Biancatello's invited the Rumcorns for dinner on Sunday night. That night, Uncle Wayne returned Milo his burned music he got off the computer after it broke down several months ago. That night, Milo was a big fan of his new Christmas CD, particularly the Huron Carol.

Peace in Atlantica

Now that the Shadows had been expelled from Atlantica and the Big Brother fled, Atlantica had become more peaceful. The Cobolds had more time to relax at Lionalem after a stressful time. This gave the Cobolds more time to explore the region and look upon the Gardens high above. At this time, the Cobolds began preparations for a festivity commemorating the day the Great Phoenix appeared to them in Atlantica, and gave them this task that had now been completed. This year, the Cobolds planned on making a journey to Poseidon Palace in Kentrikos Park, hoping that the Great Phoenix would return. This year would be more meaningful, as they had much to give thanks for, as they had reached Lionalem after waiting so long.

One evening, the Cobolds took the journey from Lionalem to the now safe Kentrikos Park. The formerly possessed Atlanteans prostrated before the Cobolds. The Cobolds decided to invite the Atlanteans to join them on their journey to Kentrikos, and explained they were going to see the one responsible for their deliverance.

The Cobolds had arrived at Poseidons Plaza and waited in expectation. For a time, no one came. The Anniversary of the Great Phoenix came, and there was no sign of return. Then at once, a band of messengers in the sky, flying on wings of flame appeared to the Cobolds. They told them that the Great Phoenix is not here, and to return at once to Lionalem. Then the Messengers told them that they will find the Elfess in a home of the Northern Lionalem. The messengers led the Cobolds on the way to the Northern house and sang a song of Glory unto the Dance and peace to Kebsuda. The Messengers started singing "Glory to the Dance and Peace unto Kebsuda".

At once, the Cobolds found the Elfess at the neighborhood well. They recognized the Elfess as the woman whom they had hosted years back at their Londinium Guest House, and saw riding the donkey months ago when the Great Phoenix arrived in the gardens. At once, the Cobolds bowed in reverence before the Elfess. The messenger appeared before the Elfess hailing her as Queen of the Elves, and declaring "Blessed Be". The Elfess spoke highly of the Great Phoenix, declaring him as the one to cast a flood on the powers of the Maludico and Hypocordo's and exulting high the Mistivants. Then the moon shone brightly cliffs of Pedmontus, which grew quite bright.

Amira's Birthday

By the time the Holiday came about, Milo had become very calmed after an anxious month. When Minu had been on the bus, Milo put on his new Christmas CD. Milo out of nowhere realized that he was making himself sick in getting so preoccupied with Minu. On the first day back, Milo got a bit anxious, as Minu was not on the bus. That night after art club, Milo took route home where he would have to pass the Filentino's and by default Katie's. The next day, Minu was back on the Bus.

One of Milo's favorite songs on the album was "Angels we have heard on high", which is a medieval French hymn retelling the birth of Christ according to Luke. With the new computer, Milo downloaded the hymn "Of the Fathers Love Begotten" off of a new music sharing website known as Bearshare. This is an ancient chant Milo had played on his piano when he was unable to listen to his own music, and is hymn of dedication to the Eternal Logos.

Over this holiday, Milo extruded his music back from the CD Uncle Wayne extracted from the Hard Drive. Around this time, Ray decided to buy a new computer, as the old one would just keep shutting off after five minutes. Actually listening to the songs he lost from the previous Christmas, he did not feel so blissful to hear these tunes. Milo started becoming less myopic about his memories from the previous holiday, and thought even less of last winter. The day before the computer arrived, Milo made Falafel for dinner. Milo had wanted to make this dinner for three years since finding this recipe and developing a taste for Middle Eastern food.

As it came to pass, the week of Amira's fifteenth birthday was near. This had been the first snow of the season, and the anniversary of the Christmas Party at the Delaney's. On Monday, when the first snow fell, it had been quite nasty outside. The snow storm came down quite suddenly. That evening, Milo had a bowling lesson, which took a bit of time to get to due to the weather.

As this was, Wednesday was Amira's first birthday at Ciderpond High. Her birthday was announced on the video announcements by the Assistant Principal. Milo had first received the news whilst in homeroom listening to the announcements that cold December morning.

At the announcement of Amira's birth, a vision of the Holy Family appeared, like the Creche of St. Francis of Assisi. This image was of Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus and three sheep. Crawling by was a vision of Amira as a toddler just celebrating her first birthday dressed in pink. Above the Creche Amira was crawling to, there was a great retelling of the mighty hand of the Alpha and Omega calling the stars, moon and sun, heavens and earth into being. Then the scene turned to the annunciation when Gabriel foretold to Mary the coming of the redeemer who revealed his sacred face one night in Bethlehem. Then the prophets sang a song, and the whole of creation sang a song of triump at the day of Salvation, and the sin of Adam reversed.

Milo did not see Amira a whole lot that day, as this was not one of her lunch days at the same time as him. Milo was also quite pleased to hear that he and Amira were only sixteen months apart agewise. At the end of the school day, Milo did see Amira carrying balloons on the way to the Bus. That night for dinner, Margaret had a work engagement. Ray, Lydia and Milo picked up dinner to eat over at Grandpa Tony's. On television, the Simpsons episode Large Marge was on Television. Lydia and Milo watched the episode in the spare bedroom.

By this time, the Simpsons had become more social commentary. This was the Simpsons Episode where Marge accidentally gets breast implants due to a fear that Homer did not find her attractive, and an irresponsible doctor gave her the wrong surgery. Meanwhile, Bart and Millhouse pull a stunt they saw Krusty the Clown perform on Batman, which lead to Millhouse puking on a flag. The Town Busybodies succeeded in destroying Krusty's career. At the culmination of the episode, Marge ends up saving Homer, Millhouse, Bart and Krusty's Career thanks to her implants.

That weekend had been quite busy. On Friday Night, Milo went over to Rosa's for fried dough. This is a common Italian custom around the holiday season. Uncle Ottavio picked Milo up, and he was talking loud in Italian with some of his relatives on the way over. As for dinner, they served an Italian meat tray including Proscuitto, Mortadella and Sopresatta, along with a cheese tray. This year, Grandma Dora still did the frying, despite not being able to get around as well as she used to.

On Saturday Night, the Biancatello's hosted a party for friends, which included the Delaneys, Marilyn and Ralph, along with Dave and his wife Violet. Violet had been the woman who got nervous when the Khara's guests arrived three years previous. For the most part, Milo, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie played videogames downstairs. Milo completely forgot to call Shamus to see if he would bring his yearbook. During the party, Jinny got a little feisty with Violet. Jinny never liked Violet after her sons dog scared her.

On Sunday, Milo, Ray and Salvatore went Christmas shopping. This was the custom that originated a year ago. This trip was not as much fun as the year before. Milo had not seen anyone from school out shopping. Then they had to go to Kohls to pick something up Margaret wanted for Christmas. Both Milo and Salvatore found the store boring to begin with, and a little bummed out. Otherwise, Milo had developed a taste for two new Carols, "Gabriels Message" and "How Great our Joy". This song "Gabriels Message" recounts the Annunciation.

The last week before Christmas Break, Milo saw the Full House episode "The Last Dance", which is when Jesse's grandfather from Greece passed away. This week had gone pretty smoothly, and Milo was looking forward to a nearly two week Christmas break.

As for the Holiday Break, this is what transpired. Milo was at the Senior Highschool for his Metalworking class, and missed the Junior Highschool Holiday concert. Milo ended up seeing the Holiday concert at the Senior Highschool. During the last period, there was an improv presentation that included songs, and a few mini plays. Ella sang "Grownup Christmas List" by Amy Grant. Milo did get to see Amira one last time before the Christmas holiday began.

On the bus ride home, Milo listened to his Christmas CD. Milo saw Amira one more time before Christmas Break, and Minu was on the Bus. This ride had been long, as they had to take a different route. They passed a Catholic Church that had a manger scene. For Christmas Eve, the Biancatello's and Filentino's went to St. Columbas for mass. Then for dinner they went to Grandma Dora's. For Christmas, Milo and Lydia got a Gamecube for Christmas. Milo got Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on DVD. As for Christmas day, they were back at Grandpa Tony's. At night, the Biancatello's and Jinny went over to Grandma Pearls, as the Rumcorns were in town. Over that Holiday, Milo had spent time practicing music from his new Funeral music book. Not all the music had been specifically for funerals, as there were hymns of consolation, Easter Hymns and Mass Settings. In this book, Milo found the Community Mass by Richard Proulx, which was the mass setting almost six years ago at St. Timothy's. Otherwise, Milo saw quite a few movies. Milo, Matt and Salvatore saw the Fat Albert movie, and they spend the night at Milo's. On another occasion, Grandpa Paul came over to Grandma Pearl's with dinner, and had the Biancatello's and Rumcorns over for dinner. The second movie they saw was the movie Shark Tales, not known for being very popular. On New Years, the Biancatello's saw the movie "A Series of Unfortunate Events", which starred fellow charge Emily Browning.
Chapter 26: The First Lost Revelation

The New Year came, much to a great bummer, as the holiday season ended and it was time to return to school. Milo became more attracted to Amira since finding out her birthday. Immediately after Christmas, Milo developed this fantasy of suggesting a Carol Concert on Easter morning at St. Timothy's before mass began. Milo started researching festive Easter hymns and tweaked many unfamiliar Christmas Carols to a more Easter theme. Milo hoped that Katie and her dad would assist him, as he knew they had connections to the St. Timothy music ministry. Unfortunately Milo had no clue how to even propose this.

The week after returning from break had been a rough week, as another student had died in a car accident the night before. This happened on Monday Afternoon. During metal class, Aunt Judy sounded grim over the announcements asking that an E-Mail is read. The teacher announced a student got severely injured in a Car accident, and was in bad condition. Milo did not know this boy, but knew that his Grandparents had gone to St. Timothy's. That afternoon, in English, the Principal announced that this student had passed, and gave a series of instructions and counseling services. The day that this boy died, Milo had Art Club, as the teacher had previous engagements on Tuesday and Thursday when Art Club normally occurred. Milo had been in Art Club since his Freshmen year.

The next day in School, there was quite a lot of talk about the student who passed away. The Principal announced that the teachers had a meeting to remember the boy who died. In Spanish Class, Bailey mentioned having took this pretty hard, as she was a cheerleader who cheered him in Basketball.

The Final Preparations

Maelendil called one final meeting in releasing the long withheld revelation. The others in attendance were Cashmir, Alexander, Husisha and Ihrveirner the Cosmologist of the Fifth Annogrammatron order. Cashmir started to understand why Husisha brought the Jafari's in the picture and why the Khara's had to move. Maelendil explained how Barush, Apollinus, Hidari and Bacchus from the Satyasha order were being counselled by Marronattar and himself, and had done a great team effort in kickstarting the revelation. Ihrvierner had explained that the bilocatee had been ready to fulfill her role, and taken on a voyage into the deep past. Ihrvierner then explained that the only way that this can happen is if there is a deep peace spread throughout the land. At this, Ihrvierner summoned Johannes the Contemplative. When Johannes arrived, he mentioned it had been a while. Ihrvierner asked Johannes if he could spread a deep peace on the land. Ihrvierner had been concerned, considering the circumstances of that week. Johannes explained he had all the plans made up. Ihrvierner explained that both Maelendil's charges need to go into the peace for the plan to take effect. Johannes explained that he has all the charges Justin, Bailey, Dan, Lindsey, Milo, Amira and Michael covered specifically.

Maelendil summoned Cashmir to call for some schedule adjustments, while Alexander had been summoned to kickstart the Easter Spirit. Husisha then tells the Jinns at the meeting the vision he had that he was not to disclose until the time came. This vision was given to Husisha before bringing the Jafari's into the picture. Husisha tells the first vision of a horse rancher whose black stallion who has ran away and his neighbor calls this a great misfortune, which the farmer only replies "We'll see". Then the horse returned home in the morning with three other horses. The neighbor called this a great fortune. The rancher still replied "We'll see". Then the rancher's son rode the horse, and fell off breaking his leg. The neighbor called this a great tragedy, and the rancher still responded "We'll see". The next day, the magistrate came to draft the farmer's son to war, but declined due to his injury.

The Second Vision of Husisha starts off with a planter planting a tree that grows into a sapling. One day, the planter forgets where he planted the sapling, and he runs into a forest elder who tells him that it would be a better investment to nurse this new sapling just planted. Over the years, the planter cares for the tree, but is not successful. The tree is unhealthy and weak. One day, a great wind blows this tree away, roots and all. This planter tracks down the elder, and confronts him about having scammed him. The Elder then brings the planter over to the only remaining tree, and explains that this was the tree originally planted. At this, the planter gives thanks to the elder and his great wisdom.

The Third Vision of Husisha involves a sailor trying to get home, but does not know the way. A seductress explains that only the cartographer knows the way home, but has died and now resides in Hades. This sailor knows that going into the underworld is a horrifying and potentially dangerous endeavor, but goes on this task anyways. The shipmates protest and willing to dock at some closer place and start over again. The Sailor sails to the cave that leads to the river down to the gloomy underworld. The shipmates stay back at another rocky island. On the Sailors travels, he comes across the dead cartographer who gives him instructions back home. The sailor continues his sailing and is heckled by the dead who try to destroy his ship and keep him from leaving. The Sailor goes to the supply cabinet, lights a fire and finds a way out of the caves of the netherworld, and teaches the residents the art of firemaking. Meanwhile, those who stayed back on the rocky island had become quite distraught and unhappy in this new residency, and could not find anyone on land or sea who could lead the way home. Then at once, the Sailor sailed back to the shipmates who stayed back, and they bowed in homage of the one worthy to lead ship back home. At this declaration, the Jinns all understood Husisha's plans initiated so many years ago.

The Loosening of the Seals

Two days later, Milo had art club on a Wednesday. After Art Club, Milo found that Amira was also at school waiting at the boardwalk. Milo was about to go and talk to Amira, but could not, as Margaret had arrived to pick him up. Then Milo spotted Zaida driving into the parking lot. In the sky, there was a a vision of a cloud in which Jesus was sitting upon a throne with two sealed scrolls in the middle with the noble Lion his left and the sacrificial Lamb on his right. On the cloud, there was also an incense burner with sweet aroma's coming forward. There were many Cherubim singing "Power, Strenght and Riches", while the Seraphim on the right singing "Wisdom, Honor, Glory, Blessing and Strenght". Then a set of Seven golden Eyes were sent to the Ciderpond grounds guarded at several different stations. Then a glowing dove flew to Amira, while the snow declared a great "Amen".

At home that night, Grandpa Tony came over for dinner, and asked Milo if he knew the student who passed away. Milo explained that he did not. After dinner, Milo came across the hymn "this is the feast of victory" while also listening to Revelation 5. Milo had not heard the hymn in Church since he was in fifth grade over the Eastertide, and had not even thougth about the hymn since Seventh Grade. The last time this hymn was popular at St. Timothy's was back when Milo was in Fourth Grade, and was the ending hymn the Easter of his first spring break in 1999.

On Thursday, Milo had been in a bad mood, as Minu had not been on the bus, and he had been out of music to listen to, as the Holiday season was over. Otherwise, the blues were still in the school over the boy who died. That afternoon, the snow all melted.

For Milo did find some CD he got for Christmas full of Classical music, and Minu was back on the bus. While sitting on the bus, during one of the songs Milo was listening to, he saw Amira boarding her bus. That Friday night, uncle Georgio and Rob invited Milo to a basketball game. Before the game, Ray and Milo got dinner at Arby's. For Milo, this was a strange occurrence, as Uncle Georgio never invited him to a basketball game before. Milo suspected that Uncle Georgio had done this, thinking that Milo had a rough week at school with the student's death. That evening, Milo was truly at peace, as this basketball game is what he needed to keep his mind off of everything. But as it was, Milo fell asleep quickly and peacefully.

The sight of the Temple

The Elfess had instructed the Cobolds to make haste to the West valley, assuring them they would understand when they arrived. The Cobolds had taken a long and lonesome journey, wishing they could stay with the Elfess. One morning, the Elfess disappeared, and the Cobolds were thoroughly distraught. The journey had become quite wearisome, and the Cobolds had no clue what path to go on. One night, the Cobolds found a stone monument saying "West Valley". Upon arrival, the Cobolds set up camp, and fell asleep. They had heard some singing in the distance of some song telling of the vigil of the upcoming day of festivities.

The next morning, the Cobolds awoke at sunrise and saw a glorious sight. The Cobolds got a view of the temple from afar nearly identical to a view they had so long ago from the mountains on the day of their victory over the Offspring Trolls. The view the Cobolds had of the temple complex recently was the side from the Gardens. This view the Cobolds had of the temple had long been forgotten, and they had just understood that the two views from the mountains and the gardens were the same temple. That afternoon, the Cobolds had come across a circular plaza used for festivals made of stones to form a gothic Triskele. This was quite a large plaza. By mid-afternoon, a group of elves gathered and began three circular dances on the three Triskeles. In the middle, there was a fife player in the middle of each dance, and a fiddle player in the areas outside the circles. That evening, the Cobolds joined in the festivities in honor of the Phoenix. The Phoenix appeared to the Elves before the Cobold arrived and instructed them to celebrate the feast.

After the feast, one elf gifted the Cobolds with a box that the Great Phoenix had left for them. In the box, the Cobolds found some plans they had drawn up after the earthquake that the Great Phoenix had judged most worthy for expansion to the Headquarters. These festivites had been quite joyful, and developed a new appreciation for their nearly forgotten victory over the Troll offsprings.

Dancing Day

That night after the Basketball game, Milo had a dream about looking through a yearbook full of depressed freshmen who missed Middle school. The dream then turned into the memory of Dudlechip long forgotten over Holy Week, and the brown haired girl, along with her brother who tried to crush his hopes of seeing Patrick. In the dream, this boy said the same thing about Patrick not coming back. Milo then kept insisting that he would, and Patrick showed up as Milo trusted.

Milo then had some understanding that the brown haired girl was Amira. Milo had started to remember the girl as having Amira's skin tone and hair color. Then Milo started to think about how strange it was that only six years ago, he saw this counsellor Patrick as a mentor, when he was probably not that much older then he was when working this job. Then Milo started to realize that he really did like Amira, and began having flashbacks to this long neglected holy week.

Milo was utterly stunned that his roots with Amira went back even further than they had with the Jafari's. Milo always assumed the first time he had seen Amira was at the Funeral Home over three years ago. Milo also was in wonder about how he at 10 years old looked up to mentors like Patrick. That day, Lydia had a basketball game at a Church past Ciderpond. The referee was real nasty to a girl with earrings. After the game, the Biancatello's went to Lunch at Sichuan garden Chinese restaurant.

Milo for the first time used bearshare to download new church music. The first song Milo had downloaded was "Tomorrow shall be my Dancing Day", which is a Medieval English carol retelling of Jesus life in the form of a dance. Then there was a vision of Jesus dancing with a set of Angels dressed in English Folk costumes playing the lute, fiddle, and pipes. Then little Milo, and Amira, and this brother joined in this circular dance, while the angels crypically sung over again "This have I done for my true love".

In the afternoon, Milo worked on an eagle wood carving kit he got for Christmas, and was still pondering what he found out. Milo knew with the Jafari's that his first memories were from seeing a video after Fifth grade with Parvaneh's first communion.

That night, the songs that Milo downloaded were "Il est Ne", which is the French original of "He is Born", and Two Marty Haugen hymns "Gather Us in", and "Canticle of the Sun". Milo then worked on sheet music for the song "This is the Feast of Victory". Then Milo had these flashbacks stemming back as far as the end of First Grade when he was freed from Mcgruder, his first communion in Second Grade, Holy Week at Dudlechip, his summer of aversion towards the Sports Hall, Liliana at the camp, the original flashback on the Seventh Grade field trip, the Khara's moving and the fallout with the Jafari's. At once, these events started to make sense to Milo. Milo could barely believe that he had such deep roots with Amira, even deeper than the Jafari's. Milo had assumed that they only went as far back as Seventh Grade, at the Khara's.

The Temple Complex Gathering

There was a great gathering of the Jinn at the Temple Complex housing the Demuzidean temple, Enanian Temple, and the Rose Garden. There were many Jinns present, including the Sophunum's Maelendil, Jebediah and Marrotar and the Magnus Alexander, Cashmir, the retirees Alphie, Theodore, Max and Oliver. The Seers in attendance were Azeyas, Husisha, Yuriyama, Durnil and Daxividus. The Sarcedix in attendance were Gregory, Purpalbus and Polyphanes. The Satyasha's in attendance were Ahamkara, Skeeter, Vulterian, Naima, Barush, Apollinus, Sophia, Hidari and Bacchus. The Annogrammatrons in attendance were Vesta, Andreas, Billius, Ihrvierner, Kabira, Merriwhether, Victoria and Randolf. The Charisms of St. Matthew, the Didache, the Mandala and Isaiah also showed up.

For the first order of the Ceremony, Maelendil called up Barush, Appolinus, Hidari and Bachus and commemorated them for working together and gave them a plaque with a depiction of a CD and a music book etched in. Then Maelendil called up Vulterian and Skeeter to commemorate them on overcoming their differences and gave them a plaque with an ice berg etched in.

Then the Seers gave several moving speeches. Daxidus announced that the time of restoration had been completed. Daxividus spoke of the the dark works Grey Alien's Offspring having been fulfilled, and the Charism of St. Matthew took a pile of chaff that he referred to as discidium and tossed it in a fire, while placing an offer of wheat on the Enanian Temple Altar. Husisha announced that the fulfillment of his strange and often taxing strife is at hand. Even Yuriyama had some good to speak of, and announced the ending of Draco's penalty has begun. Many of the Jinns gave quite a laugh at how angry Draco would be. Most moving was Azeyas declaration that the new Dawn had begun, and the darkness has vanished. Then Azeyas declared that all desires and fears have been met on this day. Then Azeyas announced that the days of inclusion for the outcasts have now begun. Durnil then gave his speech calling for all the longing Senexits and unfathomable Puerubdi's to always keep united and play their role to be a light for the world in the day of fall and restoration to the mighty. Then Durnil called for Polyphanes and Purpalbus to fulfill their roles well, and let their example show.

Maugris declares that the spell long broken has now bore its fruits. That which was once desecrated had been made holy at the hands of the Solum Agnes and the Ouranos Theodolph. Maugris then declares that the works of Polyphanes and Purpalbus revealed a bountiful transformation from oppressor's hands to the hands of Brother Volition.

The Aluments made a surprise visit. During the Ceremony, the first Aluments to arrive were Mother Earth and Father Time. At once, all the Jinns bowed before the two. Mother Earth offered a map made of parchment to the altar, and said "Is the place", while Father Time offered many film reels and said "Is the Day". Then Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom showed up, and the Jinns bowed for a second time. Brother Volition offered a wheat cake and sister Wisdom offered a skin full of wine. Brother Volition then rewarded Husisha a plaque for continuing this mission, despite great uncertainty. Cashmir was also credited for being a good sport.

The Rest of the Weekend

That Saturday night, Milo dreamt about when one hundred and one Dalmatians was re-released when he was two, and a puzzle he used to have in his bedroom of the Movie Poster. Milo did not understand what this dream meant at the time. Yet Milo could not help but remember something about this strange dream having something to do with what had been revealed the day before.

That Sunday morning, Milo was the altar server. Before Mass, Fr. Nick mentioned to a Sacristarian that he would be meeting with this boy's family. At Mass, they mentioned the deceased boy from the car accident in the petitions. This boy had gone to St. Timothy's for elementary school, and his grandparents were at mass that morning, and looked quite distraught. That afternoon, Milo watched his first communion video. After seeing the video, Milo and Ray went bowling.

That Monday, which was Martin Luther King Day, Milo had an orthodontist appointment. In the morning, Milo worked on some Easter Music he was considering proposing to Katie's dad Tom and Jorge. By the mid afternoon, Margaret arrived home to take Milo to the Orthodontist. At the office, Margaret saw an old friend of the family Anne. Milo had started thinking about what it would have been like if Kazeem had been there, as Amira used to have braces. Plus Milo remembered well how Margaret had met Kazeem the year before as an accountant. During the Appointment, Milo had the song "Canticle of the Sun" stuck in his head.

Then there was a great vision of St. Francis of Assisi, a great revolutionary and staunch traditionalist. There was a great scene of all of Creation, man and beast singing their praises to their creator. Man had been frolicking throughout nature in forest and field singing their praises. They praised the Sun for giving light to this new day, and thanked the stars who led them through the now ended night. Then they praised the mighty winds that blew sheets of music, a CD and a hymn book where it was needed. Then they praised the mighty rain from the previous summers that yeilded a fruitful harvest bringing fourth this new life. Then they praised the fire that had given them warmth through the long dark night of the past, and preserved a spirit of joy through the trials. Then they praised mother earth for bringing fourth the noble flowers and trees, while producing much bounty. Then they praised sister death for teaching truth and value, at the move and falling out. At this, creation sang their song for the glory of God.

The Headquarters Addition

After the festival, the Cobolds travelled back to their headquarters. On the way to the headquarters, the Cobolds had looked at the Mountains, and longed to find and make pilgrimage to the mountain that they had gotten their view of the Temple from. The Cobolds continued their travels, still singing the songs of the festival, and revelling at this great glory.

When the Cobolds had returned to Londinium, they began to analyze the Headquarters. They had looked over their plans and did some work in Londinium to acquire the products needed to begin this project. The first project required was to build a cultural center representing Spartustica. During this time, the Cobolds spent a significant amount of time in the Cliffs of Spartustica in order to gather needed items and to gain a better understanding of different customs. Despite the Foerster Cobolds having originated from Spartustica, they had a very limited understanding of the culture, as they were taken away so long ago, and the only regions they knew were the Garden and Pedmontus.

During this time, the Cobolds got a greater appreciation for their customs and culture. Spending this much time in Londinium had reminded the Cobolds of the time when they were adjusting to the fall of their bridge between the Gardens of Pedmontus and Lionalem. This also reminded the Cobolds of the days when they first received the news that they were invited to Atlantica. What had especially reminded the Cobolds of that time was how they had spent so much time planning these ambitious additions.

The Winter

During this time, Milo started having flashbacks to being in eighth grade, and the movie "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" after seeing the Fullhouse episode "The Last Dance". Milo also became more interested in his Italian Heritage. One weekend after Milo had such revelations, he started playing the game "Luigi's Mansion", which he got from Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane for Christmas. So far, Milo had liked the game. One segment of the game reminded Milo of this plaza by the Ciderpond Mall.

On one weekend, Milo was bummed out about missing Semi-Formal, and sort of wished he had known earlier to ask Amira. By the evening, Milo was in a better mood as he got to go to Olive Garden for dinner, as it was also Ray's birthday. Mind you, Olive Garden is the most inauthentic Italian food out there. On Saturday Night, Salvatore came over to Milo's house, as Ray and Margaret had a work party. On that night, Milo and Salvatore watched some Simpsons Episodes, and watched his first communion video. Milo noticed from a Simpsons episode that Ned Flanders looked like one of the Priests in his communion video. Milo found this quite ironic. After watching some TV, Milo and Salvatore downloaded some Italian traditional music off of Bearshare.

At this time, Milo began gym class and made friends with an Italian girl also named Liliana and re-friended an old nemesis Kathleen from second grade. Otherwise, Milo was not a fan of gymn class, as the students were put on rough runs, and he would be too tired at lunch. Milo also had That weekend, Milo and Ray went to Palestrina's market, which is a local Italian store that sells their own sauce, pizza shells and desserts. The last time Milo was there was in Eighth grade, the day before a party at Uncle Georgio's. That night, Ray made some Italian style sandwiches, while watching an incredibly stupid Tyler Perry movie. Lydia's friend Emily was over that night. Emily is a third cousin to Milo and Lydia, and her sister Morgan is in art club with Milo, and knows Amira.

Return through the Mountains

During this time, the Cobolds took the trip back to Lionalem, as they needed supplies from the Atlantis region. On the way back through the mountains, the Cobolds kept an eye out for the area in the mountains that they had seen the temple from so long ago. The Cobolds could not find the mountains through the path, and did not have time to go on a leasurly trip of exploration. On the rest of the trip, the Cobolds saw a mountain that looked familiar, and suspected this was the mountain that they had seen the temple from so long ago. They had been in great awe at seeing this mountain, and dared not climb it until doing more research.

Ash Wednesday Eve

On the day before Ash Wednesday, Milo was sitting at his lunch table with his friends Shawn, Jeff and five new girls. Karen was Jeff's temporary girlfriend and brought her friends Courtney, Lexy, April and Laura to the lunch table. Except for Karen, these girls were all freshmen. Karen was in Milo's Spanish class that year, and was in his Science class the year before.

On Ash Wednesday eve, Milo's table was not too far from Amira's table. Milo noticed Amira was selling some candy. Shawn and Jeff had joked about stealing the candy, to which Milo said that he couldn't, as he had feelings for the girl with the candy. April told Milo who Amira was, and that she went to middle school with her. Of course, Milo knew well who Amira was. Milo told Lexy that he had known Amira before at the Khara's house. Milo explains how the Khara's are also Iranian, and used to see the girls playing in their backyard before the Kharas moved.

In the Cafeteria, there was a vision of the present full of Mardi Gras partying and a plate of Fat Tuesday cupcakes with a saxophone player and Shrove Tuesday bulbs. Then the vision turned into this purple future of Lent being kicked off with an Ash Wednesday service of distributing ashes declaring "Thou art dust and to dust thou shalt return", Church banners depicting the cross, hammer, nails and crown of thorns, and old palms being burned.

That night, Milo found the "Community Mass" Lamb of God from hymnprint.net and became haunted by the melody. Milo's cousin Samantha thought the song sounded like someone died. Milo knew about the Community Mass since finding it in the Funeral music book, and remembered the "Sanctus" from six years ago at St. Timothy's. Before going to bed, Milo sent his old friend Steve an anonymous Instant Messenger note telling him to "Remember, Tomorrow is a day of Fasting, Remember the fine line between Ordinary Time and Lent" while listening to a midi file of a hymn known as "Hear Us Almighty Lord". This is an old Latin Chant of penitence sung throughout Lent.

That Ash Wednesday came about and Milo and Ray went to church that night. In Church, there was a vision of this forbidden tree that no one was to eat of or all hell would break loose. Then the world dissolved into ashes. Then a mysterious figure known as the Suffering Servant came fourth to take the burden. Then the vision turned into a history of the Nation of Israel, Jesus at his passion and the sufferings of the whole of humanity.

That Friday, Margaret took Milo, Lydia, Eustace and Samantha to see "Are we there yet", which was a stupid movie. Ray took Sylvester to the Mall Arcade, as he was too little to sit through a movie like that. After the movie, they all met at Long John Silvers for dinner.

Maelendil and the Seers

Maelendil had seen the site in the Church and the Cafeteria. Alexander believed that this was just a herald to remind the Christian community that the beginning of Lent was near. Maelendil knew this was in connection to the burden that he still carries, but unable to reveal to Alexander or Cashmir. Maelendil headed off with Alexander to the Hall of Prophecies to check in with the Seers. Maelendil found Yuriyama, Pandora, Husisha, the Sacerdix Gregory and his soldier Deiden who had kept an eye on Lucille. Maelendil had seen that they all looked quite grim, and had not felt so easy about seeing Yuriyama or Deiden. Deiden gave the first piece of bad news, as he knew that Lucille was getting close with Amira. As we remember, Lucille was the girl Milo got into a conflict with back in fifth grade over ignoring her requests.

Yuriyama had seen the vision, and explained that the leader of the Maludico's known as the Accuser has something against Milo. Maelendil knew well that Milo had a falling out with the Jafari's and now found out that Lucille was getting close with Amira. Then Deiden explained other matters he saw, and how Henry, who Milo had some clashes with was dating Amira's friend Allison. Maelendil then understood why the Kodaprana's departed from the Lunch Table when the Horseman appeared making vile offers.

Alexander protested this, knowing full well that Milo never did anything to Amira, gave Minu her space, had a right to talk about horror movies, and confessed any way he wronged Henry. Yuriyama explained that neither the Maludico's nor the Accuser have any sense of pardon or mercy, and that Draco only cares about retribution.

Pandora explains that Milo never particularly cared for Lucille, and has harbored some offensive thoughts about the Jafari's that Amira may not take too well to. Then Pandora explains that the vision of the tree is more immanent, and to watch over Milo. Husisha then speaks of the Man in the name of The Dance who is greater than all the Maludico's and the Accuser combined. Husisha then confidently declares that he will be needed for a while longer.

Alicia's Birthday weekend

Two Friday's later, Milo noticed that Minu was not on the bus, and had been interested to know where she was. When Milo arrived in school, he found Nousha at the school shadowing another student. At first, Milo thought this was Anahita. Nousha was an eighth grader at St. Timothy's at the time. Like her sisters, Nousha was planning on attending Ciderpoint High. This explained a lot to Milo.

In Gym class, Liliana had been the leader for stretches, and counted in Italian. During Gym class, seeing Nousha started reminding Milo of Eighth Grade, particularly the beginning, before there was any falling out. That day in study hall, Milo and his new friend Zach started playing with this paint program. They tried to make a ghost speak with a "write out loud" program. The feature made the ghost sound like he had a smokers cough.

Milo had expected Nousha to be eating lunch at the same time, as this had been the case with both Amira and Minu over the two years. After school, Milo saw Mrs. Jafari picking up Minu, Nousha, and Rokshana. As it was, Nousha could not ride the bus, as she was only shadowing. This further got Milo thinking about his first semester of Eighth Grade, as he remembered those days, when he had been at peace with the Jafari's. Milo's first semester of Eighth Grade was when the Khara's moved, but these memories were no longer so unpleasant for him anymore.

The next day, Milo downloaded some Simpsons Halloween of horror, and in particular the Halloween of Horror I. This was the first Halloween of Horror, which premiered in the Second Season. This had been the Episode Milo saw three Halloweens ago when doing a three way call with Steve and Shane. That Treehouse of Horror I reminded Milo of a Ray Bradbury movie known as The Veldt, as the music was similar. What really was going on was Milo had become interested in the Simpsons again. Milo had seen the Veldt before Thanksgiving break in Eighth Grade, which was why he wanted to see this episode again.

That night, Milo had another family party at Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's in celebration of Alicia's birthday. As for the party, this went pretty well. Sylvester broke Uncle Georgio's light switch accidentally, and tried to blam Milo. Otherwise, the party had gone quite well. This party reminded Milo of two years ago, when Uncle Georgio hosted many get togethers after Grandma Rosa passed away. Matt was a little bummed out, as they would have to leave tomorrow, considering Alicia wanted to see her friends on her Birthday. That night, Lily and Samantha spent the night. Samantha had given Milo a hard time for listening to the hymn "Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones", as the song had Alleluia's, which are not supposed to be sung during Lent.

The next morning, the whole family, including Aunt Adrienne went to mass, as the mass was for Grandma Rosa. The responsorial psalm was Psalm 33 "Let your Mercy Be on Us", by Marty Haugen. After mass there was a pancake breakfast ran by the confirmation class. When Milo got down to the cafeteria, he noticed Minu serving food. Milo sat with Salvatore, Aunt Dianne, Grandpa Tony, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy.

When Margaret, Ray, Aunt Michelle, Uncle Ottavio, Uncle Leo, Aunt Jane, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester got seated, Katie showed up. Sylvester gave Katie a big hug, and told her about getting a container of fruit. Minu had avoided Milo's table, which was probably a good thing, as Milo thought of ordering Kebabs and Rice. Minu did take care of the table other relatives were sitting at. At the other table, Aunt Michelle introduced the family to Katie. Milo did not feel overly excited about these encounters, and kind of disturbed over this.

That night, Milo saw the Parent Trap, which gave him flashbacks to fourth grade, and reminded him of Liliana from the Summer Camp, and that evening at Aunt Michelles before Dudlechip. Milo started understanding why he had those flashbacks of that Holy Week during his first year of this Summer Camp.

One weekend later, Milo went with Steve and Merle back to the Car Show in Toledo. Milo got the call late on Friday evening. Steve apologized about letting him know so late. Milo agreed to this, as he had nothing planned. Milo was taken over to Neal's. Neal got mad at Steve over a toy he got that swears at people. Soon enough, Merle arrived, and they were off to Toledo. Despite being a car show, that year was better, as Steve did not run off. During the show, the guys went over to an arcade where the Ferris Wheel stands. This year, they all got to ride, and the arcade reminded Milo of taking a trip up to New Seneca. For dinner, they stopped at Steak and Shake. This was the first time Milo had been to the restaurant, which had not arrived to Ciderpond yet. Milo made a call back home telling Ray their car broke down near a hotel, and that he needed to come and get them. Ray did not buy this, and asked how the trip was going. Merle got quite a laugh at this. That Sunday, Milo had a penance service, and admitted to the priest that he still struggles with grudges towards the O'Malleys for making him feel squeezed in.

As for the rest of the Lent season, life ran pretty smooth. After a fairly bland week of school, Milo had gone to one of Lydia's basketball games, and felt that the season had gotten pretty bland. Otherwise, Milo was also getting bored of the Simpsons Treehouse of Horror episodes and wanted to see the regular episodes. Frankly, Milo found the Treehouse of Horror episodes lacking substance.

The Cobolds Pilgrimage

While back in Lionalem, the Cobolds looked over maps of their region that included Spartustica, Atlantica, Gallicanium and the Mountains. The Cobolds knew where on the map that the view of the temple was from, but had some difficulty getting an exact location of the mountain and a way to get to this mountain. Luckily, a local cartographer who knew how to read the maps with precision confirmed that they had the correct mountain, and showed them the best pathway to get there.

The Cobolds plan was to travel to the mountain while returning to Londinium for a dedication ceremony for the completed Spartustica Cultural center. Before departing, the Cobolds returned to the location where they had first seen the view of the temple. While visiting, a keeper from the temple walked by and raised his hand in a gesture of blessing to the Cobolds.

One afternoon, the Cobolds began their journey up to the Mountains with much anticipation. It only took the Cobolds one day to find the mountain, and immediately recognized it from their battles from so many years back. The hike up the mountain only took two days. Once the Cobolds reached the summit, they saw the temple in its glory like they had seen it the first time during the battle and back in Lionalem. They had taken a good look at the temple, and saw into the complex, and had so longed to enter into the walls and walk through their gardens.

After spending too much time, the Cobolds had to make a somber journey back to Londinium. The Cobolds were thoroughly depressed about leaving the mountain, but were excited about being able to spend the Feast of the Flood in Pedmontus. After reaching the Headquarters, the Cobolds saw that the Spartustica Cultural Center was completed and saw this beautiful facility with a small park. After the dedication, the Cobolds received news that Spartustica had been on shut down, due to a mild mudslide.

As for the Feast of the Flood, the preparations were being made. This year, the Feast was held back in the shelter where the Cobolds stayed during the Flood. This year, the presider of the feast declared with great authority that this is the last feast to celebrate only the flood. The presider declared that in the upcoming days, the day of deliverance shall be fully realized when the wings of scarlet shall return in glory.

Before Spring Break

The week before spring break, Milo's Biology class went to the oldies concert. Milo found out that Amira was in the chorus, but did not know this before, as he had missed the Christmas Concert at the Junior Highschool. The chorus sang the song Teenager in Love. Amira was dressed in Tye dye and sunglasses, and thought she looked very pretty. For the rest of biology, Milo had trouble concentrating, as he was so entranced by Amira. At lunch that day, Milo decided it was time, made the move and bought a candy bar from Amira. Milo went over to Amira's table, and asked to buy a Hershey's smores bar. Milo never told Amira who he was. Frankly, Amira had no clue that this boy who bought candy from her liked her so much, or that he was the former neighbor of the Khara's.

Two days later on St Patrick's Day, Milo was walking home from school, and Uncle Ottavio who was driving home from work, stopped to give him a lift. When they got to the house, Milo was invited for dinner by Aunt Michelle. At dinner, Grandpa Tony, Grandma Dora, Aunt Michelle, Uncle Ottavio, Salvatore and Gianni were all there. For dinner, they had beef stew, to celebrate the occasion. Milo told Salvatore about the candy he bought and the plans to save the wrapper. Salvatore knew about Amira for a while. Aunt Michelle got a kick out of this. The Grandparents thought this was a bit strange. After dinner, Milo and Salvatore were looking at old yearbooks of St. Timothy's, to which he came across old pictures of Katie, Minu and Nousha. These pictures did not have a whole lot of effect on Milo.

Spring break began as soon as school let out on Friday afternoon. For the first time, Milo downloaded a full Simpsons episode. The episodes he downloaded were "Who Shot Mr. Burns" parts one and two and "Two Bad Neighbors". Milo saw "Two Bad neighbors" three years ago, and first saw the episode in Cleveland the summer after First Grade. That night, Milo got out a Simpsons drawing book that he had not looked at since he got it six years ago. Milo had taken up Simpsons doodling that Friday, and drew some pictures of teachers in the Simpsons style from his freshmen yearbook. That night, Milo listened to a newly downloaded "Lamb of God" from the mass of Creation by Marty Haugen.

There was a new vision where the tree of knowledge, Passion symbols and Ashes were brushed over by lambs blood, where the tree of knowledge turned into the tree of life, and the symbols of the passion became brightly gold while the ashes dissapated. There was another symbol of people begging "Lamb of God, have mercy on us" to "Lamb of God, you take away the Sins of the World, Grant us peace" in great confidence.

The next day, Lydia had another basketball game and the Biancatello's returned to Sichuan garden for lunch. At the restaurant, Milo saw a former classmate of Salvatore's and his father, the basketball coach. At Lunch, Milo and Lydia had been informed that Roger and Denise had invited them over for dinner that night. Roger had a week off from visiting family, as his father was terminally ill, and did not have long. Milo remembered how Six years ago, Roger and Denise took Milo and Lydia back to their house to play with Shamus and Charlie. This was two days before Dudlechip.

At about late afternoon, the Biancatello's arrived at the Delaney's. Roger seemed to be sticking in, despite his father's health. Denise made many appetizers, including cocktail meatballs and chicken and pineapple skewers. Margaret brought over a raspberry and pudding dessert. After dinner, Shamus showed Milo his old middle school yearbooks with pictures of Amira in her seventh and eight grade year. Milo remembered this first book Jimmy brought over to the summer camp two summers ago. There had been a haunting passage where the principal mentioned how it seemed like Amira's class had first walked through the doors of Pecan Meadows three years ago. That was the year Milo first noticed Amira at the Fall Festival. While looking at the books that evening, Milo had this song "On Eagles Wings" stuck in his head. This hymn is a funeral hymn based on Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40 written by Michael Joncas. This hymn was also sung at both Grandma Gladys and Grandma Rosa's funerals.

There was a vision in Shamus room of a stone hand holding a mighty fortress where dwells this place of refuge for sinners. There had come these red demonic police, shooting arrows at the Fortress. There had been many dwelling outside of the walls of the fortress being hunted down by these demonic police over past mistakes. Then the Fortress sends fourth angels to guard the hunted in all their ways to the fortress and bears them to their refuge. Then a mighty eagle flies over the mighty fortress bringing the sun fourth to shine, and raising high those who take refuge, which the demonic police cannot bear. Then there was a sign of an engraving of Pope John Paul II raising his hand in blessing with an emblem saying "Remember".

After the Biancatello's came home from the Delaneys, Milo went over to the computer and listened to the song "You Are Mine" written by David Haas and based on Isaiah 43. Milo was still highly haunted by the phrase "It seemed like just yesterday that you first walked through the doors of Pecan Meadows" from Shamus' yearbook. Milo had also remembered his own graduation from Eighth Grade, and how quickly it seemed like he was going through Highschool. Milo could not help thinking that just a year earlier, he had walked through the doors of the Junior Highschool, and now only had a few months left at this school.

Then a new vision appears with a figure resembling Isaiah showing up saying "Fear not, the Lord is with you", holding a scroll with no seals and revealed the history long forgotten and a school picture of a girl. There was a scene of a planned meeting by a cosmologist bringing a deliverer to a lonely little Boy, and a meeting in a gymnasium during the commemoration of the Cosmic Battle at Calvary. Then there is a scene of a creepy hooded man walking with a girl and a boy to the house of mourning, and a great victory won. Then there is a scene where an alien tricks two people into glamour, a red demon passes punishment and their plans are soon brought to an end by a lion and a lamb high in the celestial realm.

There a scene of Jesus calling his flock who hear his voice, and ready for battle. Then the next scene involves Jesus performing exorcisms casting out these tyrants of accusation, fear mongering, superficiality and reductionism. Then Jesus is healing the blind, casting out the limitations and announcing himself as the light of the world. The scene then changes to Jesus setting the adultress free from stoning, while the morality police stand on proud stands of judgment. Then Jesus and heals the lame, freed from the bondage imposed by the nannying busybodies. The final scene changes to Jesus comforting his disciples at the Last supper offering his peace not of the world, and promises the Holy Spirit and to not be afraid before the great battle of mercy over vengeance.

The next day on Palm Sunday, Milo and Lydia were the altar servers. As with the Palm Sunday Custom, at one mass, there is a processional that is begun outside the Church. At that point, the Gospel account of Jesus entry into Jerusalem is read, and Monsignor Warner does a blessing. At St. Timothy's, the procession started in the Church gathering space, and entered the Church by way of the side entrance. Before entering the church, the choir sang "All Glory Laud and Honor", while the organ had just started to play once the procession began.

In Church, there was a majestic vision of Jesus entering into Jerusalem riding on a Donkey, ready to do final battle against the minions of darkness. The Company of Angels were praising the Lord on high, while the Hebrews are all shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord". Then the Lord was exulted, and took on the role of a servant and took on the cross, while those on earth, heaven and the netherworld bowed before him in adoration.

As for the mass, this ran pretty smooth. Monsignor Warner had not given the most clear instructions, which created some confusion. The Offertory hymn was "O Sacred Head Surrounded". The Communion hymn was "Were you there" and the ending was "What Wondrous Love is This?".

Maelendils Triumph

Azeyas summoned Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, Husisha and Daxividus to share the news. Azeyas read the visions, and had some glorious news to proclaim. Then the Isaiah Charism appeared with news of the scroll. The Jinns last heard from the Charism that there were only two seals left on. All the seals had fallen off, and it was time for the scroll to be revealed.

The Charism showed a history of Milo and Amira and some inner-workings that the dance had commanded of the Aluments sister wisdom and brother volition to fulfill. At this, the Jinns present gave thanks unto The Dance for great blessings unknown stil to the day. Then Azeyas proclaimed that there is a great son to come and burn the records of the Maludico's accusations to mere ash. At this, Maelendil had a gleam of triumph in his eyes. Then they all declared trust that the Dance to always watch over in the future days and great bounty, and freedom from the powers of the Rakshasajinns. Then they gave honor to the Aluments Mother Earth, Father Time, Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom.

Then Daxividus declared this rousing speech: The Dance has always been near, always one step ahead of the Rakshasajinns, and knew of their plans before they had planned their works of darkness. When the Alien Offspring brought fourth the fall, this had turned into the path to the Eternal revelation. The Maludico's can never outwit the Dance, for his malevolence is nothing to such great lovingkindness, and works greater than all the stars. Before the traitor who seeks to bring ruin after hearing word from the Archon, the Dance made a way. He sent brother volition to make a bridge built between the charges two worlds, and sent a Leprechaun to the relatives for the great preparation. Before the curse of the prisons of indoctrination could have their way, the dance turned the curse on its head as servants to the children.

Spring Break

That week, Milo became haunted by the yearbook pictures of Amira. Milo knew well that he would not see Amira for another week, due to being on break. On Monday, Milo reverted to playing a Wario Gameboy game that he had not played since two years ago over spring break. This was the same game Milo bought before Palm Sunday in Eighth Grade. That morning, Emma came over to do some college work, as she would be leaving for Mexico with Aunt Diane and the O'Malleys on Wednesday morning. That same day, Milo came across this hymn "Thank We All Our God" written by Lutheran Pastor Martin Rinkhart. Rinkhart had written the hymn in this day of distress after the slaughter of the Thirty Year war, and plagues that caused so much death. The hymn is based on the Apocryphal book of Sirach. When this anniversary of Dudlechip came, it seemed like nothing happened whatsoever. It was just another day, and the only thing Milo started thinking about now was the anniversary when they met in the Khara's years back before the Fourth of July.

On Tuesday, Milo came across a hymn known as "You are Near" written by Dan Schutte and based on Psalm 139. That night, Milo had Living Stations practice with Youth group. This year, Milo was given the role of Simon the Cyrenian. After practice, Ray and Milo went to see National Treasure in theatres. Milo did not remember too much about the movie, as he dosed off. The ending of the movie reminded Milo of the movie "Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone". On the way home, Milo and Ray drove by Aunt Dianne's house. Ray mentioned how tomorrow, she and the O'Malley's would be at the resort in Mexico. Milo was happy he was not going on the trip, as he was constantly thinking about Amira, and believed that anyone he saw in the country would remind him of her. Milo had never felt this strongly about a girl after looking at a yearbook. Milo remembered how seeing the pictures of Katie and Minu in Salvatore's yearbook seemed like mere fantasies compared to the pictures of Amira. Milo never was sure he felt this strongly about a girl.

Milo felt overwhelmed with this whole thing on Wednesday, as he could not stop thinking about Amira. That morning, Milo had a weird dream about Church, where some jolly eucharistic minister gave him a second helping of communion and a big hug. The dream changed to Marilyn's street.

That afternoon, Milo and Lydia had gone out to lunch with Aunt Michelle and Gianni. Salvatore had school that day, which is why he did not join them. When Aunt Michelle brought the three back to her house, she found an answering machine from her neighbors, explaining that they would be in Washington DC over Easter weekend. Milo realized that Katie would be out of town over Easter weekend, and would not see her in church over this holiday, or get to setup this carol service. Then Katie dropped off some items to watch while they were out of town. Milo got into another slight funk over this. Milo was slightly disappointed that night, and found the only way he could humor himself was after Lydia got mad about someone eating the last fudge pop in the freezer. Margaret suggested some alternative frozen treats, including a weight watchers treat. Margaret got mad and told Milo that it was not funny.

On Thursday, Milo was out of his disappointment. Milo then considered that Amira and Minu both have another thing in common, that they both preoccupied him on his spring breaks. Milo started to remember how his spring break in fourth grade went downhill after his day at Dudlechip. This all made sense to Milo now, thinking that he had been haunted by Amira. As for Minu, Milo had been preoccupied with her after seeing her on St. Patricks day three years ago, and a year ago, having all these unresolved feelings bubble up again when her and Nousha were Altar Servers on Palm Saturday. Amira was now preoccupying his thoughts this spring break. For dinner, Milo, Ray and Salvatore went to a Greek Restaurant, as Lydia was having a birthday get together with her friends. This restaurant had been nothing special, and Ray found that he could make a better Gyro himself. That night, Milo and Salvatore watched the Third Treehouse of Horror from the Simpsons. This was the episode where Homer buys Bart an evil Krusy doll from a Chinese shop, Mr. Burns builds a Homer robot and Mr. Burns gets crushed.

That night, Milo had a dream about seeing Amira at a Grocery store, sitting at her lunch table and looking through Shamus' yearbook and a picture of the disappeared priest Fr. Chet. On Good Friday, the family went to Church. That evening, Milo had living Stations of the Cross. As for Holy Saturday, this was pretty eventless. On Easter Sunday, the Biancatello's, Grandpa Tony and Grandma Pearl went to the morning Mass. This was the first Easter Milo had the choir in a long time. At Church, Milo saw Dan, the old teacher he had not seen since he was in fourth grade and that summer at the Sports Hall. Both Milo and Ray shook hands with him. For gifts, Milo got the First Season of the Simpsons on DVD and a CD "The Best of Marty Haugen". Reverend Lovejoy reminded Milo of the teacher he saw in Church. As for the holiday, Dinner was held at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's.

The Cobolds new Task

The Cobolds had been back in Lionalem, but were not having any luck getting any nearer to enter into the temple. Not too long after returning back to Lionalem, the Cobolds had received news that they would have a new task in Atlantica. This third task was to retrieve a dangerous book, and return it to the Great Phoenix. The Cobolds had not been thrilled about this prospect in the slightest. They had not had such good memories of Atlantica, and felt the town was chaotic and uncivilized. Not to mention, they knew that they would not have as much time to spend in Lionalem.

The Cobolds were going through the box that the Great Phoenix had given them, reminiscing about that glorious day when they first saw the temple and the Mountain Pilgrimage. What the Cobolds did find was a second set of plans for a community center resembling the temple from the Mountain View. This prospect had given them some hope for what seemed to be a bleak future. Soon, the Cobolds were scheduled to head back to Londinium, as their term with Lionalem was near completion.

The Easter Season

After Easter, things started to slow down. On Wednesday, Milo ordered the CD "Richard Proulx: Music for the Liturgy", which had the Community Mass. That Wednesday night, word had got out that Pope John Paul II needed a Feeding Tube. The Pope had been going downhill since February after a long battle with Parkinsons. That same Wednesday, Ray left out an obituary that Bill's father had passed away. Lydia asked Ray if this was Shamus and Charley's Grandpa, which Ray confirmed was so.

On Thursday night, Milo had art club, and took the Activity Bus home. While walking home, Milo came across Aunt Michelle, who explained that the O'Malleys were over at Grandpa Tony's. Aunt Michelle then took him over to Grandpa Tony's for Pizza and Wings. The O'Malley's had returned from a vacation in Mexico the night before, and this was an opportunity to have Easter later with them. Aunt Jane, Aunt Dianne, Lydia, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester all came over for dinner.

On that Friday, word got out that the Pope was in serious condition, and would most likely die. Milo first heard the announcement over the Bus radio. This seemed strange to Milo, since he had never known another pope in his life. That night, the Biancatellos went to the Funeral Home, as Shamus' Grandpa had passed away the day after Easter. Milo had bowling that Saturday, and anticipated the CD coming. That day, Pope John Paul II passed away while Ray was watching a Football Game and Milo was listening to Music. That evening, Milo downloaded the Sixteenth Treehouse of Horror, which had the Perfect Strangers theme.

The CD arrived on Tuesday, much to Milo's anticipation. Milo listened to the Community Mass and heard its Gloria for the first time, along with the Agnus Dei. That night the Simpsons episode "scuse me while I miss the sky" aired.

By this time, Milo sensed that things were going downhill, and that his time with Amira maybe running low. Plus, all the glory of the new revelations seemed to be slowly dying away. Salvatore told Milo about needing to sell tickets for a baseball fundraiser. Milo had planned on helping Salvatore sell tickets for his baseball team, and they planned on selling them in Amira's neighborhood.

A few weeks later, Milo returned to the ice show, as Aunt Michelle had tickets again. Frankly, Milo enjoyed the show, and he saw Todd, Cheryl and Bill. Milo tried buying a snack from the food stand, and the guys working there were clueless. Milo didn't even bother, when they could not even give him the correct prices. This show had run a charity fundraiser, in which benefactors got a paper skate with their name. The skate donated was hung on a poster. At the end of the show, the poster got thrown away, and Milo took off the skate with Amira's name on it. There was a minor vision of triumph of the Easter Story where several woke in the early morning lighting lambs with songs of Salvation ringin "Alleluia with Cymbals and of highest sounding".

Around this time, Milo had become quite fond of an Easter Carol from his CD known as "Rise up in Early Morning", written by St. John of Damascus and a refrain based on Psalm 150, and set to an old German Carol. As for the rest of the school year, it was slow at best. Margaret went on another business trip to Florida, and Milo, Lydia and Ray returned to visit Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt for the weekend. The weekend was pretty bland, as Aunt Marie caught a cold. During the afternoon, Uncle Matt took Milo and Matt to a guitar store. Matt tried getting Milo to buy a Mandolin, in honor of their Italian heritage. Now Milo had no clue how to play stringed instruments to begin with, or he would have bought it. That night, Uncle Matt took Ray, Milo, Lydia, Matt and Lily to see this movie Uncle Nino. This movie was about a man from Italy visiting long lost family in America, and bringing some old world charm to their current dysfunction. Alicia declined, and said she feared having a cold and running into someone she knew. Another weekend later, Amira went with her chorus class on a field trip to Chicago. Now Milo heard over the announcements that this was Rokshana's birthday, and he also heard she was throwing a party. Milo then realized that Amira would not be attending this party. The Trip to Chicago is what Amira had been raising money for. After Margaret came back, Milo downloaded this Spanish Rennaissance carol known as "Riu Riu Chiu".

There was a dark vision of a wolf chasing after a pregnant Lamb. The Lamb was given refuge on the other side of the bank, blocking the Wolf. This rabid wolf had a box with some unknown object. Then there was a lamb with a crown and scepter who the angelic choir sang and an oppressed people had been waiting for.

Milo found out from Salvatore that Uncle Ottavio had already sold the tickets at work. Milo was pretty annoyed about this, as to happen of all years. Margaret sensed Milo was displeased about something. Milo then reluctantly explained that he was going to help Salvatore sell tickets. Margaret who knew why he wanted to sell tickets told him to get over Minu. Margaret only knew from what they overheard that they had gone to sell tickets to meet girls. But this had been Margarets conclusion. Margaret said that she knew Milo's feelings would get hurt again with the Jafari's. Milo didn't even bother to explain the real reason about Amira, as he was in a bad mood over this.

Eventually this school year had come to a close, and it would be time for Milo to transition to the senior school. On the day before the school year let out, Milo started to fear not seeing Amira next year, as she would still be at the junior highschool. Milo had started having flashbacks of having left her for long periods of time with Dudlechip and both Fall Festivals. Milo feared he would have to do the same this year also.

At this moment, the Hubritaiji Kronos appeared and dug his claws into the wall causing them to bleed. Then at the hands of Kronos, the clocks started spinning forward, while some other forces had planned on turning the clocks backwards. The Kronos is said to be the king of the clocks, whom only father time is the only creature able to scare him. Then another Rakshasajinn known as an Epitynitas appeared. These Rakshasajinns had come from the Third Order of Annogrammatrons, and were ones who loved status and accomplishment so much that they lost any inner substance and all that remains of them is hot air. These Epitynitas are only able to take form through inflating objects such as balloons, sports balls or pool floats.

This Epitynitas is known as Esmetaar, who'se only sense of identity is in chronological stereotypes. This time Esmetaar posessed a white balloon with black eyes and mouth, resembling a ghost costume. Esmetaar is said to prey on people from 12 to 40. In fact, Esmetaar is the one thought to promote the idea that breast size and body hair are determinants of masculinity or femininity.

The next day the school year ended. Milo never got to eat lunch at the same time as Amira, due to not being a day they eat lunch at this time. During the last day, they had a social studies final. For the most part, they just watched movies. In Spanish, the teacher put National Treasure on.
Chapter 27: The Summer of Reflection

The Emergency Meeting

Maelendil had seen Kronos and Esmetaar making trouble. Alexander and Cashmir met with Maelendil to figure out what to do with the Kronos. Once they arrived, the three headed over to the Odinean Temple. Gregory had been expecting the three again, and found Deiden, Ihrvierner and Billius already there. Gregory explained that he knew why Maelendil had arrived. Gregory told the Jinns what he knew about the Kronos. According to Gregory, the Kronos was once a Jinn of the fifth order of Annogrammatrons. The Kronos specialized in the nature of action, but lacked an understanding of being itself. Now the Kronos had not taken too well to this, and considered that doing preceeds being, and as a result, took on a position that destruction, irreversibility and flux were the nature of existence. After he assumed the position, he turned into a green hand capable of bringing immediate destruction on the one to wear the hand. When the Kronos is active, the earth is removed from the wholeness and truth that Father Time gives. Gregory then explains some suspicions that the Kronos had recently been active in the realm of Kebsuda, and weilded by a figure known as the Great Brother, who caused this curse to age a region quite rapidly. Gregory then explains that he believes the Great Brother to be Brutus.

Gregory then explains the story of Esmetaar. Esmetaar the progressive was one who could embrace new challenges, and did a great job at succeeding in bringing in innovation when the old ways were not working. However, Esmetaar started becoming obsessed with novelty, and only cared about what was popular of the day, and what the expectations were in regards to ones chronological age. Over time, Esmetaar lost any identity of her own, and became nothing but hot air like the superficiality of all Epynitas.

Alexander suggested consulting Father Time. Cashmir was not so keen on this idea, and objected that Father Time could not be bothered with such silly matter. Maelendil Explained that Alexander maybe right, but that he would have to consult other Jinns about this proposition. Ihrvierner agreed, as he knew that he could handle bilocations, but was not capable of handling anything brought on by the Kronos. As for Esmetaar, Maelendil had not been as concerned, knowing full well that she does not have much power except under the Kronos. What Maelendil had been concerned about was who was wearing the hand of the Kronos. Billius' advice was to keep some spirit of dissent on earth, knowing full well the kind of stifling security measures earth would be under in such a time.

The Cobolds Return

The Cobolds had a burdensome journey back to Londinium and leaving Lionalem. On the way back, they got a glimpse of the Mountain they climbed when looking at the Temple in its glory before the Feast of the Flood. Otherwise, the Cobolds were pretty glum of this prospect of leaving Lionalem, and being stuck in Atlantica for another term. Zadok explained that he would make sure that on their off time, they would get to see the lands of Lionalem, and get this task of finding this book nice and quickly. Poor Zadok did not know what he was in for.

The Cobolds went on a dreary journey quite somberly back to Londinium. As soon as the Cobolds entered Londinium, there was a man handing out a book called "The new rules of Londinium". This Londinian had been part of this order known as the Skinnerite order. The Skinnerite Order is an independent law enforcement agency that uses forms of corporal punishment to keep the Londinians in submission to some figure Arnil's wishes.

When they arrived back in Londinium, the Cobolds found out that Londinium had been put under a horrible curse from this evil sorcerer known as Arnil. Arnil's agenda was to take power over Londinium, and eventually conquer Spartustica and Atlantis. Arnil's agenda was to turn this region into a massive labor camp intent on making the Mistivants into servants to the Sorcerers. The Sorcerers were a thuggish type who had access to sorcery, and believed it gave them the entitlement to subject those who did not possess the power.

This Skinnerite order considers their duty to be for the Londinians own good. Most of the Skinnerites are composed of Londinians who had aligned themselves with strong people to save their own skin, and had litle sense of loyalty to anyone if someone stronger came about. According to the Skinnerite Philosophy, resistance was futal, and the only wise move was to cooperate with Arnil and his band of sorcerers. They justified their use of violent discipline with the idea that they were preparing them for a world where Arnil and his sorcerers ruled, and thought it more efficient to train the residents to keep their noses clean and not offend the Sorcerers, and saw any rebellion as making the rebels guilty of any blood shed by the sorcerers.

Milo's Summer Classes

The first part of summer had been a fairly eventless for Milo. The students were done with School on Thursday afternoon. Now Milo knew that starting on Monday, he would have to start S.A.T. preparation classes and Algebra. Milo was not happy about this in the least, considering that he had only been out of school for a day, and now has to sit through some S.A.T. preparation classes for three weeks. Frankly, Milo was kind of depressed to be out of school for the summer. Milo was also still quite fearful that he would not get to see much of Amira in the upcoming year. That first weekend off, the Biancatello's had the Filentino's over for dinner. That evening, Ray, Milo, Uncle Ottavio, Salvatore and their neighbor Nate Superschmidt went to an indoor football game. On Sunday, Milo saw Ashley out to dinner with her family.

On Monday, Milo started the SAT preparation classes, and an algebra class, much to his displeasure. This was the same facility the previous summer that Milo had an art class with Lydia, Eustace and Samantha. Luckily the class was only three weeks. At this class, Milo had a temporary crush Kylie, another girl stuck with these classes. When it came to the S.A.T's, Milo feared that this was just a way to break people's will into becoming compliant duds to a thankless system. Milo noticed something stupid about an SAT preparation class, knowing full well that the test was a big joke if this required having to take a class with no educational value whatsoever. Milo was also becoming a bit resentful towards the whole principles that people used to justify this, seeing the whole thing as saying "Might makes right".

On Thursday, Milo went on another Cedar Point trip with the youth group. Due to all the seniors gone from the previous year, Milo was stuck having to hang with Lydia and her friends Barb and Rachel. During the whole day, Lydia was not too happy, as she wanted the day with the girls. Milo was not much too happy either, as he would have preferred to have hung with the people from the previous year. Milo and Lydia got into a minor spat after she told him this was a privilege. She only did this when Milo wanted to pick something to do.

The Saturday after Milo started these SAT and Algebra classes, he bought the second and third seasons of the Simpsons. So far, Milo preferred the first season over the Second Season. Frankly the second season seemed a bit morbid to Milo. Milo was still thinking about Amira, and how just a few months ago, he learned of this long forgotten past. That weekend, Milo watched "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban", which he remembered seeing the previous summer, and over Christmas break.

That Sunday, there was a Father's day get together at Grandpa Tony's. Ray was on his annual Golf Trip with some neighbors, and was unable to attend. The O'Malleys came in, but Alicia decided to stay in Ciderpond, since she supposedly had to study. When Salvatore told Milo this, he thought he was just kidding. Salvatore considered this the stupidest of excuses to not come in for a party. Milo on the other hand was a bit annoyed about this, as he did not like seeing a family get-together blown off for something like studying. Now Milo is not one to have a high level of tolerance for externally imposed obligations or compromising ideals for pragmatic purposes. During the party, Aunt Marie got a call from Alicia about needing to find a digital camera, and how her friends needed to take some pictures. Both Milo and Salvatore suspected that Alicia was not really studying, but this was just an excuse to have the house with just her and her new social group.

When Milo was not in class, he spent time working on music, and he found three haunting pieces known as "Josef Leiber", "Jesus Lead the Way" and "Remember O thou Man". "Josef Leiber" is a German Motet with the same melody as the hymn "Christ was born on Christmas Day" from two summers ago. Milo remembered how just two summers ago, he had a camp doing fun activities, and now was taking pointless classes. "Jesus Lead the Way" was a Moravian hymn written by Nicholas Von Zinzerdorf, who was known for a devotion to the crucified Christ. Milo remembered how he bought this CD to remember the Spring Break at Dudlechip. Frankly the Sports hall felt more appealing than these SAT classes.

"Remember O Thou Man" is an English Folk Choral for the Christmas Season, recounting the fall of man and redemption. Milo found "Jesus lead the way" on his CD "Proulx: Music for the Liturgy". Other than this, Milo was not having a lot of luck at finding new hymns, and constantly downloading pieces similar to the ones from the past three years. Studying had not put Milo in the greatest mood over these weeks, and hated having to look over dull and meaningless material. Ray explained to Milo this was all about his future. Milo saw no future prospects that could be gained on sacrificing his summer just to have a future of sitting in an office committed to pointless endeavors.

The Hooded Figure and Stockholm

One day, while the Jinns were waiting for news from Father Time, Alexander came across a highly disturbing site. Alexander saw a hooded figure speaking with the Archon known as Stockholm. This Figure asked Stockholm who he was. Stockholm told the hooded figure met his kind a long time ago, when the brat could begin to talk. Stockholm explained that his colleague Galtron knew the brat would be his downfall, and reminded him of the brat foretold from the house of Daryava. Stockholm tells this hooded figure he had found out who from the house of Daryava the seer had mentioned fourteen ages back. According to Stockholms accounts, this Daryava brat had butted into their territory, and the first brat has taken quite a fancy to her. Stockholm started to lament that he had never been appreciated by those under his care, and always called him a tyrant. Stockholm talks about how he does all kinds of acts of kindness for those under his care, and many appreciate how unworthy they are of his kindness, and how he is only placing restrictions on them for their own good.

The hooded figure then mentions the ungrateful Jinns fighting against Esmetaar and the Kronos. The hooded figure then rants about how the Kronos is not really out there, but just need someone to blame for their pitiful complaints that the earth is a dangerous place where change is the only reality. Then they persecute Esmetaar who knows her place, and understands that the mortals age, and have no choice but to conform to chronological stereotypes. Then they blame the Kronos, because they just want to live in a world where the kind of order he is for is unnecessary, all cause they don't like making sacrifices, and want to do what they want, when they want, and complain about how boring restrictions are. This figure then talks about how he had an important position, but was forced to work with some idiot from the seventh order, and then given a discharge, cause they couldn't handle his offers.

After Alexander heard this, he reported this to Maelendil. Maelendil quite clearly tells Alexander not to mess with the Archons, as they are quite powerful. Alexander explains that the voice under the hooded figure had a familiar voice, and spoke of events that he heard about in passing. Maelendil then took Alexander and Cashmir to the Demuzidean Complex. Polyphanes and Purpalbus had been waiting with them along with Maronattar, Ahamkara, Skeeter, Vulterian, Jebediah, Naima, Hidari, Barush, Sophia, Appolinius and Bacchus. They all held a new rite at the Enanian and Demuzidean Temple in a battle against the Archon Stockholm.

They all agreed that this was a particularly tough situation, as the Archon Galtron was a tyrant who had utter indifference towards those under his dominion. Galtron was one who had no problem sacrificing another for his agenda to be accomplished. Stockholm on the other hand was one to be quite concerned about the doings of those under his dominion, and sees himself as a great protector, only looking after the mortals safety and souls. According to Purpalbus, Stockholm has this power to impose obligations on mortals, and can put on a façade of selfless giving and high moral improvement. Alexander said it would be better to be under Galtron than Stockholm.

Hidari states his position that Stockholm has legitimacy, if he is trying to protect the mortals souls from dangerous influence. Barush protests this, and claims that assuming that the mortals need protection from the outside world is an insult to the Dance, and to claim that the mortals need protection from themselves is an insult to both the mortal and the Dance. Hidari explains that this is not a matter what we want, but of how things are, and how the created world is physically and spiritually dangerous. Barush protests that there is no reason to care, if everything is made corrupted, and mortals are nothing but pre-programmed robots. Jebediah interrupts, and explains that they are arguing over matters that are under the domain of Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom.

The Third Feast of the Guest

Life in Londinium had become quite dreary and cheerless under Arnils reign. The Cobolds had felt utterly helpless against the powers of Arnil and the Skinnerites. During this time, the Cobolds kept their spirits up in constructing a community center based on their knowledge of Lionalem.

The time had come for the Feast of the unexpected Guest up in the Pedmontus Garden. This year, the festival had been quite dreary. The Cobolds had looked upon the view of Lionalem and the Atlantis Temple and remembered the great bridge that connected Lionalem to the Garden, and the two visits from the Great Phoenix. Otherwise, the Londinians who did attend had little good to say about the Skinnerites, most often referring to them as traitorous cowards. Then One Londinian requested that the Cobolds assist them in fighting against Arnil and his Minions of Sorcerers, to which they agreed to. Frankly, the Cobolds had no clue how to even fight a sorcerer, and did not see any possibility of Victory, but felt it would be better to die fighting these sorcerers than give into their lies, and start to believe their propaganda.

Milo's Suspicions

The Biancatello's hosted the Fourth of July that summer, like they normally had after getting the swimming pool. By this time, Milo was all done with his SAT preparation and Algebra classes much to his relief. Milo was lucky, as he had to leave early due to a dentist appointment. On Saturday night, the Biancatello's went to Church, as they had the party to prepare for the next day. In Church, Milo saw Aunt Michelle's neighbors, but no Katie and an Asian girl siting with them. What Milo had not known was Katie was on an exchange program from Easter until the later summer. That's why they went to Washington DC over Easter.

The party had been quite enjoyable, as the whole family attended. This party included all the Biancatello's, even the O'Malley's. Even Alicia showed up for the party. Aunt Adrienne also attended, along with Grandma Dora and Grandma Pearl. For food, Ray made Barbeque ribs, and Margaret made Blueberry, Strawberry and Coconut Cream pies. That night, Matt spent the night. Matt tried to get out of staying over due to a stomach ache, but Milo found some Tums and saved the evening. That night, they watched some third Season Episodes of the Simpsons. Milo liked this particular season better than the Second Season.

That Tuesday, Milo started thinking about his summer six years ago. Milo started wondering if the reason he was so miserable at the Sports Hall was because he missed Amira. Milo had remembered how he just one day forgot about Amira near the end of the school year, and had been in a bit of a funk. Milo then thought that the reason that he wanted to go back to the Alpha-Fi main campus was in order to see Amira. That afternoon, Milo came across a Dan Schutte CD known as "Here I Am Lord", which had the hymn "With Drums and Dancing". Milo remembered this hymn being popular at St. Timothy's that summer six years ago.

On Wednesday night, Milo had a dream about both Amira and Anahita, which took place at the Alpha-Fi pool. A counselor asked who wanted to go swimming, and Amira, Anahita and Milo all chose to. Then Ray came and picked Milo up. The Friday after the Fourth of July, Milo and Shawn went to Seewoulden for a couple hours. This had not been an overly eventful day, as they only had time for a few rides. The next day, the Biancatello's went to the Greek Fest at the Orthodox Church next to Northcreek Middle School, where Milo had Fall Fest in Sixth Grade.

During this time, Milo started to re-read "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix", as he never finished the book. Milo had been in the middle of reading the book when Mrs. Jafari called, and he never got the interest in finishing. Plus, Milo had feared getting to the part of the book where Sirius is killed. Also Milo had watched Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban for a second time that summer. Milo had come across this movie score known as "Window of the Past".

Milo had quite a bit of nostalgia for the previous three summers, and how much more enjoyable they had been. Milo remembered the last summer with the Khara's and how he had got to meet Amira in their backyard before they moved, and being at peace with the Jafari's. Milo also had flashbacks to the summer before going into ninth grade, and seeing Amira's yearbook picture at the Summer camp, and how that summer, he had not been tied down to silly obligations, nor had anyone else. Plus, Milo had some very mystical memories of that summer. Milo saw that summer as an anticipation into going into some great unknown. Yet Milo feared going into a new unknown in the upcoming school year. Then Milo remembered the previous summer, which had been so much fun with boating with the Rumcorns, and knowing that he would see Amira once School started again. Milo knew that with Kevins classes, such a prospect of a boating trip was out of question. Milo feared that in the upcoming school year, he would not be able to see Amira, and that his living would be over, and have to sacrifice living in order to survive. Milo wondered what the point of this all was, and could see no purpose in going along with such systems.

Over that week, Aunt Marie called Ray about inviting Lydia to spend the week. Aunt Marie explained that Lydia would not see much of Alicia, as she spends most of her time lifeguarding, and going out with friends. Milo had no interest in returning to New Seneca, as he remembered how bored he was last year with Matt being a boring host. Milo could not help but give Lydia advice, out of some spite for his last trip up.

Milo started becoming suspicious of Alicia, and got this idea that she was trying to avoid Ciderpond out of fear of Steve. Milo remembered how two summers ago at Drakes forest, he spoke to Alicia on Steve's behalf, and got freaked out that he noticed her. Then Milo remembered how the O'Malleys left Ciderpond right after the wedding, as Matt was scheduled to serve mass. Then Milo remembered how Alicia kept pestering him about Steve when he was visiting two summers ago. Milo then remembered how Alicia flipped out over him and Salvatore making a card from Steve, and leaving Ciderpond early, because Alicia had to babysit. Then Milo remembered how Alicia freaked out when she thought he sold Steve a picture of her. Either way, Milo did not see this as normal, and would never call sudden breaking of ties as acceptable, no matter how popular it was.

Milo told Salvatore his theory the next day about why Alicia was ignoring the family. Whether Salvatore really believed Milo was not really known. Now Milo and Salvatore had all kinds of stories about why the O'Malley's always left early for stupid reasons. One of their theories was that if the O'Malleys remained in the Essex region too long, there would be a massive siege from New Seneca to invade Ciderpond, with complaints of not having someone to babysit, attend superficial parties, lifeguard, play starcraft with or do homework for. Salvatore also mentioned that he had seen Matt online every time he checked AIM. Milo and Salvatore considered warning Matt about Online Predators, as they had this idea that Matt was going through a wimpy stage. Then Milo and Salvatore came up with theories that Matt and his friends went skateboarding at the Grand Canyon, and Matt did something stupid, making him take an extreme of never having any fun anymore.

The weekend after finishing the "Order of the Phoenix", "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" was released. Milo became disappointed again, after finding out that Professor Dumbledore would be killed off. That Sunday after Church, the Biancatellos drove Lydia up to Ciderpond for the week to visit the O'Malley's. Milo came for the ride, as they ate lunch at a little diner. Milo then told Lydia the truth about veal. Lydia was not too happy with Milo over this, as she felt she could no longer eat the meat in good conscience. Milo only learned this from the Simpsons.

When the Biancatello's got back to Ciderpond, Milo started instant messaging Steve, and told him all the family drama with Alicia and Matt. Milo asked Steve about how good his family from out of town is about staying in Ciderpond. Steve mentioned they stay for a while, when they are in. Milo was also noticing that he sees the Rumcorns more than the O'Malley's, but had not seen them so far this summer, as Kevin was in ACT preparations also, and Kyle was working at Cedar Point.

On Wednesday, Ray took Milo, Salvatore and Eustace to a Baseball Game. Milo saw a woman at the game who resembled Apu's wife Manjula from the Simpsons. Then Sylvester came over to swim. Milo had this game where every time Sylvester did something annoying, he told Sylvester that what he was doing was an offense. At night, Ray showed the boys his wedding video. That same day, Aunt Dianne and Grandpa Tony were up visiting the O'Malley's. Grandpa Tony mentioned the next day not even seeing Alicia.

The Friday before Lydia was picked up, Milo had a weird nightmare about flying, which greatly bothered him. This airport resembled the power plant in the episode "The Blunder Years", where Homer finds a corpse. Then the dream changes to Milo going to a school pool, which had been contaminated and closed.

As it was, the Biancatello's would be leaving for Mexico, and Milo was anxious about flying. Milo had not liked flying since he came back from Orlando when he was five and leaving Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. Plus, Milo remembered his last two flights two years ago to Tampa, and how overwhelming they were. Plus the prospect of going to a foreign country was a bit overwhelming also.

On Saturday, the Biancatellos met the O'Malleys halfway between Ciderpond and New Seneca for lunch to pick Lydia up. Lydia cried the whole way home, as she said the O'Malleys were so much fun. When they got to Ciderpond, a bank named after a street in New Seneca got Lydia all upset again. The Sunday after Lydia returned home, the Biancatello's went to the later mass, which the Jafari's also attended. Milo was asked last minute to serve mass, as another server did not show up. In Church, Milo saw the Jafari's, except for Minu.

After mass, Milo found out that Alicia did not want to join the family to go to Drakes Forest, claiming that she hated camping. But Milo found on her away message on AIM that she was out camping with some friends. Salvatore happened to just show up at that time, and Milo showed him this message as proof that Alicia did not dislike Camping, but only disliked camping with the family. That night, Milo talked with Steve on AIM, and started telling him all the same stories from the week before. Lydia got a bit annoyed with Milo for telling Steve about the O'Malley's. Lydia insisted that Milo tell her if Matt is bothering him. According to Lydia, Matt went through the changes Milo went through, back in the Middle School days. On Monday, the Biancatellos and Aunt Dianne went up to the funeral home, as Marilyn's father passed away. Milo had not seen Marilyns parents since he was still being babysat by her.

Father Times Victory

One afternoon, Maelendil, Naima and Randolf met at the Jinn Lounge in a private room. Randolf asked if what the charge had suspected of his cousin was true. Naima gave her stance, which had been that people often get into demanding social groups, and forget what's important to them. Then Naima explained that finding the balance is an art, and people when they start off, burden themselves with too many commitments with no leasure time. Maelendil explained that they were both essentially right. Randolf starts going off about how this friend never did anything to this cousin to even merit such pointless phobia. Maelendil explains that this is not some conspiracy on earth, but at the hands of someone very untrustworthy. Maelendil had an idea of who, but wondered how they were doing this. Randolph gets a bit fired up and interjects that Conspiracy is a code word to silence anyone from holding offensive or socially unacceptable views. Maelendil explains that he is not using conspiracy in a pejorative way, but to emphasize that the conspiracy is not the work of the cousin. Naima tells Randolph about how he does an essential service, and uncovers the dark side, and is not afraid to confront popular injustices, and uncover what is really going on. Randolph has a bit of a difficult time taking flattering, as he being of the eighth order prides himself on being needless.

During the meeting, Maelendil got a letter explaining that Father Time took up his offer, and knew well that he was the only one who could expel the Kronos and fix the mess he created.

There was a scheduled meeting time at the Demuzidean Temple complex. Polyphanes and Purpalbus had been at the temple, along with Maronattar, Ouranos, Solum, Ahamkara, Skeeter, Vulterian, Naima, Hidari, Barush, Sophia, Appolinius and Bacchus. When Father Time arrived, the Jinns prostrated before him as they always do. Then Father Time instructed Maelendil to summon Husisha, Alexander, and Cashmir.

A few days later, Father Time arrived back at the temple holding a deflated balloon that once housed Esmetaar. Father time explained that Kronos is gone, and his curse has been undone. Then Father Time departed. The Jinns were in great amazement, and wondered how the curse was undone. Any Jinn know's that the ways of the Aluments is deeply mysterious. Alexander then wanted to break the news to earth about the Kronos defeat. Maelendil declared that the news needs to wait until the school year comes.

Mexico and Cedar Point

The Friday night before leaving for Mexico, Milo had a rough night of sleep. Milo had been thinking about leaving so early, being so far out of the country and flying. Milo probably got four hours of sleep, and had woken up multiple times. By the time morning came, Milo was at least happy to be up, and knew that it was just a matter of time in getting the flight over with. At 5 in the morning, the Biancatello's left the house while it was still dark. Milo was much calmer after this departing. They arrived in the Pittsburgh airport at dawn, which felt more like Lunch time, due to Milo's sleeping in all summer.

They arrived in Cancun in the early afternoon, and were taken off to their resort, the Mayan Riviera. They rode with a family who also arrived at the same time as the Biancatello's. Then they arrived at the resort. At first, Milo felt a little out of place in this new country, and not knowing the language that well.

For most of the vacation, the Biancatello's were either at the pool or the beach. On the first day, Milo spent much time reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone. With being in Mexico, this reminded Milo of the O'Malley's, Aunt Dianne and Emma taking a trip out to this place over Easter Break. Milo started to like being immersed in a different culture, and the beaches reminded him of the Filentino's aquarium.

The Biancatello's took two excursions. The first excursion they took was to Tulum, which is an ancient Mayan site. Milo had wanted to see the ruins, as it reminded him of the level on "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego" with the Aztec King Montezuma. As we know by now, Milo played that game six summers, after he saw Amira at Dudlechip. The bus tour picked up some people from the Hotel the O'Malleys stayed at. Milo enjoyed the ruins, as he had wanted to see them for years. Lydia had not enjoyed herself so much, as Tulum was very hot, and was ready to kill Milo.

Their second excursion was to a place called Xel-Ha, which was a natural water park. The Biancatello's also ate very well on this trip, as they had reservations for Italian, Japanese and a Steak House. Otherwise, they ate at the buffet. After about a week, the Biancatello's got bored of the same food from the buffet. Milo saw a chessboard similar to the one Ray and Margaret bought on their honeymoon years back.

Now getting back to Mexico was not so bad. Milo felt a little weird, as he was no longer fearful of flying, and more into long trips. A week after returning from vacation, Margarets friend Tessa from work was visiting with her son and two daughters. Margaret invited Tessa and her family to join the Biancatellos on a trip to Seewoulden. Milo invited Salvatore, as he would have had nothing to do. As it was, Tessa's kids were significantly younger than Milo. That weekend after the Biancatello's got back, the Filentino's were in New Seneca. Salvatore understood exactly what Milo was talking about when the previous summer when he was so bored. According to Salvatore, Matt played Star Craft the whole time they were visiting. Salvatore tried getting Matt to do something, but Matt kept saying that he does this all day, which Salvatore tells him that's boring.

Before heading off to Seewouden, Milo downloaded and watched the Simpsons episode "Lost out Lisa", which he saw six years ago at this time. Then Milo listened to the song "Christ was born on Christmas Day". Naturally, this had been an enjoyable day. This got Milo thinking about his school picnic at Seewoulden years ago when Salvatore came along. At the beginning of the day, Salvatore and Milo first went to Soak Town. So far, this had been quite an enjoyable experience. After Soak Town, they ate lunch at a picnic area and hit the rides. Frankly, this had been the most fun Milo had at Seewoulden in August not since he was about to go into Fifth Grade.

The next day, Milo saw Katie playing the fiddle in church with her dad's band. Katie had been on a Foreign exchange program, and just returned the week before. In Church, Milo came across his old Sunday School teacher Mrs. Thompsons, who gave him a hug. That evening, Milo and Ray went down to the Italian festival for a little bit. At the Festival, Milo saw Liliana from the Summer Camp and Rob. Rob was working the festival that year.

A day later, the family met the rumcorns at Cedar Point as Kyle had worked there that summer. Kyle had got them free tickets, and invited the whole family up for the weekend. Margaret told Uncle Wayne about an incident in Mexico where the tour guide asked Ray if spoke Italian, and responded that he did. As it was, Ray thought the guide was asking if he was Italian. So the poor tour guide repeated the instructions in Italian. Uncle Wayne got quite a kick out of this. That afternoon, Milo won a Homer Doll.

The Battle against the Sorcerers

The time had come for the Cobolds and Londinians to start their battle against Arnil's reign of terror. The seer Durnil appeared to the Cobolds and instructed them to use no violence. The Londinians had protested against Durnil, and accused him of offering them to the Sorcerers. Durnil told them that aid will always be given to them during battle, and promised them success. The Cobolds stood by Durnil, knowing that he never mislead them before. The Londinians went along apprehensively. Durnil designed this plan of non-violent insubordination to the Sorcerers and the Skinnerites.

When it came to battle, those who resisted the Skinnerites were whacked with a rod until they submitted. Neither the Londinians in battle nor the Cobolds gave into the Skinnerites, as their sticks could not hurt them. After constant tries, the Skinnerites still failed to cause pain to anyone who was insubordinant. After much frustration, the Skinnerites surrendered their roles and fled Londinium when they could not control the Cobolds or the Londinian soldiers.

Arnil was infuriated by this defiance of the Londinian Soldiers and Cobolds, and distraught over the Skinnerites departure. At this, he searched out the Cobolds and insubordinate Londinians and locked them in a cell that he made with his sorcery powers.

While in prison, the Cobolds and Londinians were threatened by Arnihil and his sorcerers that he would greatly punish them. Arnihil constantly reminded the captives who he was, and that there are consequences for disobeying the mighty. One Cobold boldly told Arnihil that they don't bow to tyrants. Arnil did not take well to this one bit. Another Sorcerer told the Cobolds that they make the rules, and they are in no place to defy their superiors.

The Cobolds and insubordinate Londinians still resisted. Then the Sorcerers warned the Cobolds and insubordinate Londinians that if they keep defying them, they will cast three Cobold's in the pit of fire to make an example. They all still defied and the Sorcerer created a pit with his powers and Arnihil started the fire. Arnil was going to make an example, and show all of Londinium what happens when they disobey their superiors.

Then the morning came, where three terrified Cobolds were carried off to the pit of fire, while the Londinians and remaining Cobolds watched in horror and grief. These three Cobolds Petestor, Iohannes and Aerondin shook in fear, and became quite bitter with Durnil. They felt it was all over, and knew they would die a terrible death.

The Three Cobold's were cast into the pit with much fear, and expecting unbearable pain. Upon arriving in the fire, the Three Cobold's were not affected by one bit. Then they saw in the sky a Celtic three pointed knott. The Cobolds called out loud enough to announce to the Cobolds in the cages and the Londinians that they were okay. After this word, the Sorcerers heard and were in great fear. Arnil went to check on the Cobolds, in hopes that they would all be burned up. As Arnil feared, they were alive and quite well. Arnil along with the Sorcerers then went into a frenzy and ran to the dungeons to throw all the Cobolds and insubordinate Londinians in the fire. The Sorcerers, along with Arnihil did not make it, as their rage caused them to blow up in flames like a grenade, and all that remained were ashes.

Durnil arrived to rescue the Three Cobolds, and release the other captives. Aerondin asked Durnil if he knew this would happened. Durnil explained that these sorcerers cannot control their sorcery when they get angry, and end up blowing themselves up. Iohannes asked why they were unharmed by the fire, which Durnil had no answer to. They understood what Durnil meant when he promised them victory.

After the great victory over the Sorcerers, there was a great celebration all over Londinium and Spartustica. There were days of feasting and fireworks lit the Skies. The throne room of Londinium, where Arnihil once sat in Judgement had been disposed of, and replaced with a consecrated throne with paintings of the Angelic Ministers. The celebrations were short lived, as the Cobolds had been summoned for training. The Cobolds as they knew well and were reminded had their next mission back in Atlantica. The Cobolds became quite apprehensive, as they feared coming into contact with the Family they offended. Not to mention, they also feared that they would not get much time in Lionalem.

End of Summer

On Milo's birthday, he and his family got dinner at an Italian restaurant they had not visited with the Delaney's almost six Christmases ago. That night, Milo got the fourth season of the Simpson's from his parents. As for these episodes, he liked the earlier episodes of that season more. Milo came across this infamous episode known as "Selma's Choice", where Homer sings "Ding Dong the Witch is Dead" before a Funeral, and then cries over the coffin because he is hungry. On Saturday, Milo got the fifth Season of the Simpsons from Grandma Pearl and the sixth from Aunt Jane and Uncle Leo. The last weekend before School started, the two Biancatello families and the Filentinos went back to Drakes Forest State Park. The O'Malley's were supposed to go, but Matt declined due to some sports camp he signed up for. It was probably better that Matt did not go, as he was still in that overly cautious phase, and would have not wanted to go camping. Ray was a bit disappointed in them for cancelling out last minute, and knew Samantha would be disappointed. Milo felt quite pleased to hear Ray finally disagree with this. Foodwise, the trip had been a bit of a disappointment.

The weekend before starting school, Milo saw the Jafaris in church. This year, Minu would be in her senior year, and Milo would be in his Junior Year. That night, the Biancatello's took Salvatore to the Franks hotdog stand, as they missed out on the way back from Drakes Forest. Milo was quite apprehensive about going back to school, as he did not to be away from Amira at the Senior high school, and was under the impression that the Senior building was a more hostile environment. Two days before School started, Milo had a confirmation meeting at St. Timothy's.
Chapter 28: The Fall of Contemplation

The Return to Atlantica

The day had come for the Cobolds to travel back to Atlantica, and feeling quite disheartened. One morning at dawn, the Cobolds began their trek through the mountains and passed the mountain in which they stopped for pilgrimage so long ago. The Cobolds arrived at the gates of Atlantica early one break of dawn while it was still dark. The Cobolds still feared that the curse broke last year may still have some effects, and were all day on the guard for this to occur. Much to the Cobolds pleasure, there had been no remains of the curse.

The Cobolds headed to their new apartment in Atlantica in order to get instructions for their new assignment. This new assignment was to search for a book in the city which according to the task description was responsible for Atlantica being in such disarray. As the Cobolds remembered well, Elrich offended a vendor during their first mission in Atlantica. This vendor had been offended about how highly Elrich thought of the royalty. Little did Elrich know that the pomp and show of the royalty came at the expense of the rest of the residents. According to the Great Phoenix instructions, this book was forged in a town known as Thatchery, not too far from Atlantica. This book had been written by an occultist who with the help of a glove made of orange tentacles, was able to give the possessor of the book the ability to make their world function in accord to their wishes. The book was last rumored to be in the secret library of the royalty.

This meant that the Cobolds would not have the leasure time like they had in Lionalem, but would still be needed in this town from time to time. The Cobolds were a little bit disappointed about not getting to spend as much time in Lionalem as they used to, but had been relieved to know that they would still have to go to this town.

The New School Year

So it came to pass that it was time for the new school year to begin. Milo was beginning his Junior year, and Amira was beginning her sophomore year. Over the last days, Milo had been outside sitting around, thinking about what was to come this next year. Milo had worried that these classes he took in the summer were just a foretaste of a meaningless school year.

Milo had been anxious about being in a different building from Amira, and feared not being able to see her. Not to mention, Milo was not overly comfortable with being at the same building as Minu. Plus, going to a new building had been difficult for Milo, as he had been so used to the Junior High building. Milo still had many unresolved feelings for Minu, and liked having her at a visible distance, such as the bus. Milo was not sure he wanted to see any more sides of Minu, including what he had seen two years ago when the spark died.

The night before School started, Milo had a dream that he was going up to a religious hotel room, and needing to bless himself before entry. Milo had gone to this Hotel Room to see Ashlyn and Malina. School started on dark and rainy morning. Milo had not been as anxious in the morning, and felt strangely content about a new school year beginning. On the bus ride to school, Milo spotted that Minu had been waiting along with her sister Nousha at their bus stop. Nousha was beginning her freshmen year and Minu her senior year. Milo knew this was coming.

On the first day, Milo got to see his friends again and being in the new building was not as bad as he feared. Milo found out that he had English, Social Studies, Math and Chemistry. Something happened that first day that Milo could not explain, but he had no more fear. Milo had not even needed his MP3 player, as he had no anxiety anymore about anything that Minu and Nousha spoke about. With Nousha being a freshman, this started to remind Milo of his Eighth Grade year.

Yuriyama's Vision of the Tree

Yuriyama had summoned Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir after having seen this disturbing vision. Yuriyama explained that he had seen the Tree from the Purple Lent Vision exactly as it was originally. Then he explains that there was a serpent telling this man that if he eats of this fruits, he will see great possibilities giving him great power. This man had eaten of the tree and began to see possibilities that he had never been able to see. Then the man started to feel exposed and overwhelmed in a house of mirrors. Then a mighty voice proclaimed that a woman will trample on the serpent and destroy his curse.

Maelendil started to see that his burden was coming to realization earlier than he had expected. Alexander suspected that Maelendil knew something, but felt it was better not to ask. Then Daxividus showed up apologizing for his disruption. He explained that he saw the vision, and knew that a rescuer is coming soon. Yuriyama explained that this time was lucky, but did not believe they would be so lucky next time. Maelendil then tasked Cashmir on keeping watch over the charges.

Amira Returns

On the second day of school, Milo had to travel down to the junior highschool for his Spanish class. On the way to class, Amira had just entered the senior building for two classes in a row. This was the first time Milo had seen Amira since the school year ended last term. Milo felt a little bummed out, as he believed that the class he had at the Junior Highschool was when Amira was at the Senior Highschool. Besides Spanish, Milo had Gym and Drafting. So far, being at the Senior building had not been as bad as Milo feared. At Lunch for the second day, Milo found that he ate at the same time as Minu. Now Milo did not make any dumb mistakes this year. That night, Milo was invited over to the Filentino's for dinner.

Milo had not seen Amira on that Friday before Labor Day,which sort of bummed him out. Milo enjoyed having both Minu and Nousha on the bus together, which reminded him of the times before the fallout. That week, Milo found this hymn "This is the Truth Sent from Above" on a CD set he got for his birthday from Kings College Choir. This is an Old English Carol retelling the story of the Fall and redemption of Man.

That weekend, Milo was quite happy to be back in school, and optimistic about seeing Amira soon. On Saturday, Milo and Lydia spent the whole day at Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes. That day, they played videogames, and Milo went on a bike ride with Uncle Leo and Sylvester. Any time Milo played a game, Sylvester would want to play the same game. That Sunday, Danielle was in town with Ashlyn and Malina. Around this time, Ashlyn was afraid of boys, and would not go near Milo. Not that Milo was offended about what a 2 year old did.

On Labor Day, Milo went to the Seewouden with Steve, Doris and Merle. This last day that the park was open had been fun for Milo and the crew. They picked him up at about noon, and headed off. As this was the last day the park was open, they had open karaoke. One singer had a desperately terrible voice. As there were police on duty, Steve went and gave one a hug whom he knew from Kinsale Elementary. Still Steve did not go on any rides. Merle asked Milo what he did when he was at Six Flags. Milo told Merle had Steve saw batman shows. Despite having to go back to school after a long weekend, Milo did not mind. In fact, he had been looking quite forward to going back the next day. This trip to Seewouden reminded Milo of Elfander and six summers ago when he had gone to Seewouden for Ray's company Picnic.

Milo had seen Amira a few times that first actual week of school. As Milo had figured out, Amira had another class at the Senior Highschool after her first class. Milo had not known where, as he had to go to Gym on the first story. On that Wednesday, Margaret had to work late, so Ray had to bring dinner over to Grandpa Tony's that night. This reminded Milo of Amira's birthday as it occurred the previous year.

Atlantica Surprises

The Cobolds time in Atlantica had come to be a more pleasant experience, as they still had time in Lionalem and were growing to like the Atlanteans. Much to the Cobolds relief, the vendor did not have the influence over the Atlanteans as they feared. In fact, the Cobolds found the Atlanteans to be a charming and warm people. In fact, the Atlanteans hailed the Cobolds as heroes coming to undo the curse brought to this town. The Cobolds had learned quite a bit about the city, including their own underground transportation system similar to a subway, but used self moving trains. This could take residents from one part of the city to the other quite quickly.

The Cobolds decided a plan of action to find the book. Frankly, the Cobolds had not known what the book was even called. An Atlantean who had been for their cause, and used to be a book keeper for the secret library told them exactly where to go, and gave them the key that he still had from his days as the book keeper.

At the library, some Cobolds had come across this book known as "The Efficient Atlantean". Some of the Cobolds became entranced by this book and lost interest in finding the cursed book. This book's premise was that this was a book telling of how the ideal Atlantean City works, and the reason for all setups in the society. All this was taking time away from working on trying to find this book.

One Cobold Selwyn was quite enamored by the book. This book told about how the Atlantean society is setup specifically to keep a perfect stability. According to what the book says, the strict hierarchy of the city is setup so to keep perfect order. There are the undesirable positions in society that no one likes to do, but someone has to do them. There are roles in society, and not everyone can have ideal roles. Some people have to be poor, so the rich and middle class can appreciate their wealth all the fuller. Some people have to be poor, so the ambitious are not restrained from their ambitions. Sometimes for the Greater good, sacrifices must be made.

Selwyn had got quite a following amongst other Cobolds enamored by the ideas outlined in the book. Other Cobolds on the mission were getting frustrated with the way this book was read by Selwyn and his followers. The rest of the Cobolds just wanted to find the cursed book, but seemed to have trouble getting the Selwyn following on the move.

As it was, the Cobolds knew well how much the Atlantean society had turned into a dull hellhole, and how this town had the potential to be a great city. They knew how the Royalty was just using their privilege to create a system for them, without any concern for anyone else. The Selwyn Following was of little help. According to the Selwyn following, the book about the structured city was right. They started to believe that an ordered city must function on people living in such a fashion.

Simpsons Revelations

When it came to school, Milo easily became accustomed to this new building, and did not get lost like he had with the other building. Not to mention, Milo still got to travel to his old building once every other day, and see students from both schools. For English, Milo had Mrs. O'Reilly, who was a sarcastic, but fun and energetic teacher who loved teaching highschoolers. Milo had a social studies teacher who put on the façade of being a righteous humanitarian and a pious Christian. Yet as we know with many who express moral outrage, it is typically nothing but an ego boost. This teacher had reprimanded a student who was smiling during class, which happened to be when the teacher was talking about something tragic. This teacher calls out the smiling student, who was only smiling because he was not paying attention. In fact this teacher told students to leave his class if they did not believe in benefits for veterans. Milo had Chemistry at the end of the day, with a teacher Ms. Shannon, who was very intelligent in Chemistry, and had a "hands on" approach to learning through experiments. This teachers daughter was a kindergartener at Pleasant Tune. This class included fellow charges Dan Samson and Justin Mcgill, along with one personable wiseguy known as Dereck.

On the second Thursday of the School year, Milo had been thinking about Amira's birthday that he learned the previous year. Now Milo knew well that her birthday was around the time the Simpsons first premiered. In fact, Milo considered the Christmas with a new baby and the premiere of the Simpsons a great Christmas, in partial reference to the episode "Lisa's first word", when homer calls Lisa's birthday the best day, due to also getting a free hamburger. That afternoon, Milo looked up the calendar website and found out exactly when Amira was born. Milo remembered the week of December that Amira's birthday was announced, and the day of the week. Upon looking at the calendar, Milo figured out how close her birthday was to the first Simpsons premier of the episode "Simpsons Roastin on an Open Fire". Milo came under the impression that he had a new calling. As to exactly what this calling was, he was clueless. Milo went into a bit of a trance after finding this information.

In the Cafeteria, there was a vision of the annunciation, in which Gabriel had announced to Mary that she had found favor with the Lord, and would conceive a child. Mary had been stumped by this news, for she had not had any relations with a man. Gabriel explained that the Holy Spirit would cover the Virgin Mother would bear the Son of God. Then a Rosary appeared in a futuristic way showing the Holy Mother Seven Signs of Jesus Birth at Bethlehem, the curing of the Lame, giving sight to the Blind, reading the Tanakh, dying on the cross and wearing the crown of heaven.

During this time, Milo started to develop an interest in Numerology and difficult sciences such as Einsteinian theories of Relativity, Quantum Mechanics and the whole nature of spacetime in general. Milo knew something had happened over the summer, but could not even understand. Not to mention, Milo was a little bored without Amira around as much, and his mind became a bit idle. Otherwise, Milo had constant flashbacks about fifth and eigth grade. Milo remembered that afternoon at Merle's in Eighth grade before getting the news the Khara's were moving, how he and Steve watched this movie "Time Machine". When Milo first saw the movie, he found it quite disturbing.

One Sunday, Milo watched a fairly disturbing episode of the Simpsons known as "Fear of Flying". This is the episode where the Simpsons get a free plane trip, and Marge reveals her fear of Flying. This show has a punchline where Marge's father works on the airline, and a pilot. As viewers know, Marge's dad is dead, and the episode is setup to get the viewer thinking that her fear of flying is rooted in something like a plane crash. What really happened was Marge finds out her dad was a flight attendant. This episode gave Milo a flashback to coming back from Orlando, and leaving Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. Milo noticed how similar the episode was to what he experienced, and how his dislike for flying was more to do with a traumatic memory than about flying itself. That night, Milo had a nightmare of waiting outside of a clinic exam room, while a security stands guard.

Mortaneous returns

The watchman finds out that Maelendil's charge had gotten into the hall of Akashic prophecies in his sleep, and saw something he was not supposed to see. Maelendil is summoned after this, and does some investigations. Maelendil had known that his charge has gotten a bit of a taste for the esoteric studies. Maelendil knew well that the charge had seen content from the Hall of Akashic prophecies three times before, but had been the work of the Occult Offspring. Maelendil remembered well the first time this happened, and what was revealed had come to pass.

While Maelendil was figuring out what to do, Mortaneous shows up. Mortaneous tells Maelendil that he knows of his burden. Maelendil remembered how two years ago, thre were two similar visions shown, one of not wanting to leave a hospital room, and another of a zombie hooked to a machine in Church. There is another orb of a tonsillectomy. Maelendil asks what Mortaneous knows of their accuracy. Maelendil remembered how the first two visions occurred before someone got sick. Mortaneous confirmed Maelendil's fears, but could not explain when and how this would happen. Mortaneous explains that the latest two orbs do not tell us who, but only when this is to take place. Mortaneous then explains that this will take place during the great battle, and is pretty booked for the next age. Maelendil then confirms that many will die in the upcoming battle, and Mortaneous nods. Mortaneous then promises to guide the charge and those this may concern when the times come.

The Early Fall

Later that fall, Uncle Ottavio called Milo about joining them for a trip down to Pittsburgh to visit an Italian store. The trip included Uncle Ottavio, Aunt Michelle, Salvatore, Gianni, Milo and Eustace. On the way down to Pittsburgh, Milo played a gameboy game "Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins". Milo remembered playing the game six falls ago, when in his early days of Fifth Grade. At the store, Milo became pretty overwhelmed by all the types of Meditteranean imports, types of cheeses, meats and olive oils. For lunch, the Filentinos took them to a pizza and sub shop.

One Friday Night later, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl got dinner at Bob Evans. That night, Milo got a call from a St. Timothy's parishoner Martin, who lived close to the Jafari's, and asked him to serve in a Novena held at St. James Cathedral. In fact, this mans wife Sue was the lady who donated the Brown Scapular's. Milo decided to take this offer, and was scheduled to meet at Noon down at the Cathedral.

The last time Milo had been at the Cathedral was when his cousin Jesse got married six years ago. Milo only knew this, because he remembered that long weekend was the same weekend Grandma Gladys passed away before the wedding. Margaret dropped Milo off at St. Timothy's, and knew exactly who Martin was right away. Martin took Milo back to the St. Timothy's sacristy to meet the Cathedral Rector Monsignor Nubert. Milo met two brother altar servers before the procession began. Milo sort of expected that Minu and Nousha maybe the altar servers, considering that Martin knew the Jafari's, and were part of some church group.

As for the procession, this was interesting. Milo and the two brothers led the procession through downtown Essex. Milo and one brother carried these heavy golden candles, while the other brother carried the cross. One lady doing the prayers was a Medjudgorge enthusiast, while singing the hymn "Sing of Mary" after each prayer. During the procession, Milo kept praying that he would not drop the candles, which were quite heavy, and hard on his arms. Finally the procession got back to the Church. By the time they returned, the organ was playing and the congregation was singing some hymn with the same tune to "Immaculate Mary".

That evening, Milo had a penance service with his confirmation class. At the service, Milo's arms still hurt, and he could barely move them. Milo admitted that he still had grudges with Matt and now Alicia. That night, Milo had a dream about being in the St. James Sacristy. Being back in the Cathedral reminded Milo of when he attended Jesse and Danielle's wedding. That day, Milo watched the Scooby Doo movie, which he remembered watching years ago in the fall, when he had a day off in Eighth Grade.

Petestore's movement

By this time, Petestor became quite agitated with the book "The Efficient Atlantean", as the Selwyn following was quite insistent on going along with the instructions in the book. Unfortunately, the Selwyn following was growing quite large. Petestor explained over and over again that the Atlanteans have entrusted them with a mission to the Atlanteans, and trusted them to find this book. Many under the Selwyn following insisted that the book was absolutely right.

Petestore developed a counter movement to go against the book "The Efficient Atlantean". This movement had some luck, and on many occasions, returned to the secret library. After their first search, Petestore and his following had no luck. Meanwhile, the Selwyn movement, though smaller, was becoming quite relentless, and could become quite violent with the Petestore movement. After another search in the secret library, the Cobolds still had absolutely no luck. Petestore was getting a bit paranoid, and started suspecting that the Selwyn following had been hiding something, and knew where the dangerous book was from. Now Petestore being an innovative type was not one to tolerate defeat, and could be quite relentless to find a solution to problems. Petestore is very skilled in engineering and such topics as alchemy and the magic arts. For Petestore, all problems could be solved through gaining more knowledge, and had the tendency to see mystery as very dangerous.

The College Fair

Milo's science classroom faced the Junior Highschool, and the area where the students walked from one school to the next. This school had a policy to end class five minutes before the official dismissal from class, so the students could travel back to their respective schools. One day during the last few minutes of science class, Milo just so happened to be looking out the window and saw some kids heading back to the Junior Highschool. Then Milo noticed Amira heading back to her school after finishing a class at the senior highschool. After that, Milo always looked out that window, but had not explained to others why he had done this yet.

During this time, Milo befriended Pat in his English Class. Milo sort of knew Pat from his previous two years at Ciderpond High. Pat had found Milo looking at yearbooks from before he was even at Ciderpond. Milo was looking at a picture of an Iranian girl playing a Setar. This is not to be confused with the Indian Sitar. Milo then told Pat all about the Jafari's and hinted about Amira. For some reason, Milo told Pat all about his conflict with the Jafari's two years previous, despite just meeting him.

One weekend, the Rumcorns came in town for Margarets Birthday. On that Friday, Kevin and Bruce came over and watched some movie that took place in an old folks home and watched the Simpsons Episode "Raging Abe Simpsons and his Grumbling Grandson in the 'curse of the flying hellfish". On Saturday, the rest of the Rumcorns along with Grandma Pearl came over for dinner.

On Sunday, Milo ordered the CD's from the Catholic Liturgical Publishing Company OCP. Milo wanted the CD "Here I am Lord" by Dan Schutte, as it had the song "With Drums and Dancing". Milo remembered the CD from the summer. This song had not been sung at St. Timothy's since six summers ago. While Milo was on a role, he bought this liturgical set known as "Disciples in Prayer", which covers Church Music over the course of the three year cycle of the Church year. Then he ordered this album "City of God" by John Michael Talbot, as it had some songs he particularly wanted.

That Wednesday, Milo and Ray went to a college fair held at the Junior Highschool. Before going to the fair, Ray and Milo took Grandpa Tony home from dinner at the Biancatello's. At the beginning, Ray came across some old friends he worked with. Milo first saw Vashti. Then Milo saw Amira at the open house with Kazeem and her younger sister Parisa. This is the first time Milo had seen Kazeem, as ne never got a good look at him or Zaida at the Khara's. Milo caught Amira looking at brochures for Indiana University. During that college fair, Milo had the Easter Alleluia stuck in his head. This particular version was by contemporary composers Rory Cooney, Gary Daigle and Theresa Donohoo, and used Psalm 118 and the Resurrection account from the Gospel of John.

Then there was a great vision of an Easter Night, where the mighty Lord with his right arm extended into the depths of the netherworld, raising high his servants. The Lords left hand extended over the Clocks mercifully placing the lights in the heavens and laying the foundations of the seas. Then there is a boat being ripped by a green hand through the Styx River, near the edge of the land of the living into the netherworld. Then the right hand of gold rescues this boat and its riders back to the land of the living. Then there was an empty tomb, where the shrouds were ripped apart, and the body was gone. Then the whole earth started chanting Alleluia.

The Great Vigil

Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, Husisha, Daxividus and Azeyas had been summoned back to the Odinian Temple. On the grounds of the Odinian Temple, there is an apple tree that is heavily guarded by large clock dome. What the sarcedix Gregory knew well was that an apple was missing, as Yuriyama predicted. Maelendil had feared this, but knew it was coming. Maelendil had not mentioned his meeeting with Mortaneous, and the upcoming battles. Then Johannes the contemplative showed up. Cashmir asked Maelendil if the vision with the Rosary had anything to do with the Rosary seen at the beginning. Gregory chimes in, and explains that the Occult offspring believes that such artifacts have magical powers. Maelendil explains that the offspring does not know the deeper magic that goes beyond the apperance of repetitive prayers. Cashmir asks Gregory if the Occult offspring stole the apple. Gregory explained that this was most likely, but did not have any evidence to prove otherwise. Maelendil explains to Cashmir, if he is wondering, that the charge has not eaten of the apple. Maelendil gives some grim prospects that the Charge has been given lures to the apple. According to Maelendil, the charge knows he has a destiny, and saw what great miracle took place at the hands of Father Time. Yet the Charge knows well that this curse could strike again, and may one day be worse than before.

The New Songs and Confirmation retreat

The next day, Milo had dinner at the Filentino's. Milo told Salvatore about seeing Amira and Kazeem at the College Fair. That night, Milo's CDs had arrived much to his pleasure. Milo heard "With Drums and Dancing" for the first time in a long time, which he remembered from six summers ago, when he was haunted by the memory of Amira. The new music was more enjoyable for Milo than he would have guessed. These were the new songs favored: Await the Lord with Hope, Wake from your Sleep, and God Beyond all Names.

There was a vision of the Shepherd seen six summers ago at St. Timothy's leading his sheep on a three year journey. The vision continued with flashbacks of the Sheeps arrival to find pastures within many other folds. Then another three year journey began after a bandit strick the flock and had them separated again. This time, the Shepherd took the sheep on another three year journey this time to a temple where no bandits can reach. At this, the sheep sang a song of jubilation.

On Saturday, Salvatore spent the day with the Biancatello's, as Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ottavio had a previous obligation with a sporting event with Gianni. After Milo was finished with bowling, Ray took both he and Salvatore to Sichuan Garden. The next day, Milo started working on compiling some Christmas sheet music, in particular the hymn "Wake from your sleep" from his new album. These new songs put Milo in quite a trance, and felt like his pursuit of new music was kickstarted again.

On Friday night, Milo had a strange dream about going to the mall, and going through some secret passages. On Saturday, Milo went out to dinner with Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's family. What happened was Ray knew Milo had a retreat for Confirmaton, and took Grandpa Tony to Church that night. Eustace made up a pejorative tic-tac-toe game known as Minu and Amira, as he assumed that Amira was just a replacement. Milo had not appreciated this assumption one bit.

This year, Milo and Salvatore had been in the same St. Timothy's confirmation program. Aunt Michelle was running a group, to which Milo chose to join, but Salvatore declined. At some point, the news got out that the candidates would be going on a retreat. At the end of October, Milo and Salvatore had a confirmation retreat. This retreat began on Sunday Afternoon, and lasted till the evening. The Retreat took place at a Church hall located in a county before Sussewago. For Milo, this was very moving, and gave him a sense of destiny. Salvatore had thought the retreat was stupid. Milo had this sense that he had some destiny with Amira that had been written from Eternity. Well this had not been so much from the content, but some personal revelation. The leader started off giving a speech about how him being such a great person of faith has given him much rewards. This leader told about how he and his priest friend at the mall, and how everyone gathers around to talk to them. Then the leader talks about his trip to Universal Studio's visiting his Grandparents, and how he was picked to star in the park shows. Then he mentions getting moved to first class when flying home. During the retreat, the leader put on a film about Mother Theresa. Milo asked some questions in regard to Church teachings, which the leader was unable to answer.

During the retreat, there was a vision of a theologian walking on the shore, and catches a little boy filling a basin of water. The Boy asks this man why he is filling the basin with water. The Little Boy exlains he is trying to bring the whole sea into his basin. The Theologian laughs, telling him it's impossible. The Little Boy asks the theologian why he thinks its possible to comprehend God. The Theologian gives his first argument that God is comprehendable, because he knows that he is the greatest thing that can be imagined. The Litle Boy asks the Theologian what makes him think that there is not something beyond what he can imagine. The Theologian then tells the Child that all things are symbol of God, and is the sum total of all the names of the symbols. The Little Boy asks the man how he knows there is not something beyond what can be named. The Theologian then explains that God is the sum total of the story of creation in times of sorrow and joy, and all the whole of history. The Little Boy asks why there is nothing beyond the words of the whole story of creation. The man explains God as duration and being itself which allows movement, change and newness. The Little Boy asks this man why he thinks there is nothing beyond duration. The theologian then admits God is pure mystery, whom creation is an illusion before. The Little Boy asks why he thinks a God utterly mysterious cannot be known, or too good to care about his creation. The Theologian then says that God is infinitely large, and man is infinitely small, and could never contain him. The Child then asks how he can believe that an infinitely large god can fit in a finite space as a womans womb, or a tiny wafer of bread. The theologian is then stumped, and has absolutely no answer to give.

Petestor's Madness and Azeyas visit

By this time, there was a schism between the followers of Petestore and Selwyn. Those under Selwyn had found their own place, and become quite compromised and all about efficiency. All the while, Petestor was losing followers, as he had gone quite mad. It was said that he had become very obsessed with finding the book, and had accused the other cobolds of keeping it hidden.

Petestore and his followers decided to take a walk over to Lionalem to see if they can find some help. While in Lionalem, Yoshiyahu notices an entrance gate, and where a door should be at the opening, there is a great wood board connected to the gate by door hinges. Yoshiyahu points this out to a cobold Mardina. Mardina mentions that it is stupid to have hinges to keep a board of wood up. Overall, Petestore does not find too much help in Lionalem, as not even the elders know about the book. Yusefus finds the seers shrine, and goes up the staircase and blows the horn. So far, they had no luck, and no seer appears. The Cobolds under Petestor depart Lionalem in low spirits.

A few days later, to the Cobolds luck, the seer Azeyas appeared to them, to inform them that the anniversary of the Great Phoenix visit in Poseidons Plaza during their first term in Atlantica was at hand. Azeyas also reminded the Cobolds that this was also the actual seventh age anniversary of the Unexpected Guest. The Cobolds had remembered when the messengers brought them to the Elfess who was the unexpected guest seven years ago.

Azeyas implored the Cobolds remaining to keep vigil for the coming of the Great Phoenix. Azeyas showed great mercy to Petestor, and implored him to prepare for the Great Phoenix coming. By this time, Petestor understood that he had gone quite obsessive, and became quite afraid. Then Azeyas proclaimed that the Great Phoenix was near, and he shall be released from all shame. Then Azeyas declared "Blessed be, for you now believe". After that, Azeyas left. Azeyas instructed the Cobolds to build a temporary model of the guest house as it had been when the Elfess first arrived, and to place an altar inside and a massa bowl outside.

For the rest of the time, the Cobolds began preparing for the return of the Great Phoenix. At this point, the remaining Cobolds under Petestor felt fully awakend, and recognized a great light to dispel the darkness. They often told stories of the visit of the Elfess to their guest house so long ago, and the messenger who directed the Cobolds back to Lionalem just a year previous. Then the Cobolds built the symbolic guest house in Poseidon Plaza. The Cobolds intended this house to stay permanently, while anticipating an age of glory and freedom from fear and grief.

The November Season and the International Booth

As for November, this had been a fairly slow month. Milo made friends with two girls Francine and another fellow charge Angela Costa from Gym class. In this gym class, Milo met another fellow charge Michael O'Brien, whom he met years ago at Salvatore's neighbor's the Superschmits when he was four. Milo had not recognized Michael, and only remembered him after mentioning Gianni being his cousin. Michael told Milo that he lived near them growing up.

On the first Friday of November, there was a pep assembly that took place during science class. Knowing that Amira was at the senior school at the time, Milo purposely sat behind her. That weekend, Lydia had a basketball game, and Milo spent the day at the Filentino's. Salvatore had his birthday party at Grandpa Tony's. The O'Malleys came in town for this party. That weekend, Milo found this Christmas hymn known as "Wood of the Cradle", which reminded him of the music from the Land before Time. One night later, Milo had a dream about a "Land Before Time" Christmas Special that did not really exist. Milo remembered "The Land before Time" and seeing the first time before starting at West Mesa.

Around this time, Milo let some of the Boys in Science class know that he had been looking at Amira and pointed her out. They had been interested in who Milo was looking for, so he budged. One of the Boys offered to shout out to Amira that Milo wanted to go out with her. Milo declined, as to not humiliate her.

During the month, Milo was constantly harrassed at night by weird dreams. Milo's dreams were extremely vivid in ways full of pointless content, but telling nothing. Milo started wondering if this had anything to do with his obsession with Einsteinian physics, Quantum Mechanics and Numerology. Frankly, Milo did not understand these subjects at all, but found these subjects utterly fascinating. Even physicists don't fully understand these sciences, and can only represent their theories through complex math problems.

Over Thanksgiving, Milo told Aunt Michelle that he knew Michael. Around this time, Milo remembered meeting Michael years ago at Nate's, thanks to all these flashbacks from early Childhood. The night after Thanksgiving, Milo had a dream about the Funeral where he met Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol, playing with Michael, Nate and Salvatore shortly after, and going on a trip to Disney World with the Filentino's and Grandma Dora.

Over thanksgiving weekend, Milo was in a bad mood, as the O'Malleys left the day after Thanksgiving due to a wedding. Both Milo and Salvatore agreed that they would have used being out of town for Thanksgiving an excuse for skipping the wedding. Technically, the wedding was for one of the O'Malley's neighbors. Over Thanksgiving weekend, Milo was not in a very good mood, and felt like something always came up when the O'Malleys were visiting, and felt like something was purposely setup. Then the holiday weekend was a disappointment, as the Rumcorns also did not come in, as they wanted to stay back in Indianapolis for Black Friday shopping. Milo never mentioned to anyone else in the family, as he did not want to hear the speech about the O'Malleys having their own lives. Frankly, Milo felt like he was being taken for granted by the O'Malley's, and understand why Grandma Pearl and Margaret did not have high opinions of Grandpa Clarence. As we remember, Grandpa Clarence left Grandma Pearl and adopted Maple Carol's family.

Gregory's findings

Gregory summons Maelendil, Cashmir and Alexander back to the Odiniean temple with some news. Skeeter and Vulterian also joined them. Gregory explains how he had found the Epitynas Upadana making trouble. Gregory explained that Upadana was once an annogrammatron from the Third order, who understood originality. Upadana wanted to restore originality, but did this in a past oriented way at some beginning point. His ideas were that the original past had been this golden age, and everything afterward was just a major decline away from originality, and the originality needed to be immediately restored. Gregory explained that he had seen Upadana hanging around the bus with the Charge, and recently over the American Harvest festival with the cousins. According to Gregory, Upadana has taken the form of a magenta balloon with large eyes and a teal bowtie.

Maelendil then understood why his charge had gotten a taste for the esoteric studies, and was thinking so much about three years previous. Maelendil knew well that his charge was at his highest point with the family from Church, and had no emnity with them. According to the information on Upadana's interventions, Maelendil now understood that the Charge wanted to get to a point where he could be friends with the girls, and make it so nothing ever happened. Maelendil also knew how the charge still reduced his cousin's strange behavior to a phobia of his friend.

Vulterian interjects that it is natural for cousins to not get together as they grow up. Skeeter asks Vulterian who that story really serves. Skeeter says that official stories end up serving the interests of the status quo. Maelendil reminds the two of their progress in working together, and that conspiracy vs. official version of events misses a lot of points. What the seers do agree is that the only way to defeat Upadana is to allow the charge to speak with the girls again, and let him decide for himself. Maelendil also explains that this also shows the charge is able to see this girl as something beyond his memories.

The International Booth

School started up after Thanksgiving break one Tuesday morning. Milo had not been so disappointed about this. Still, Milo was not in a great mood with the O'Malleys having to leave early because of a wedding. Milo started finding it quite irritating that something always seemed to just come up whenever they had plans to visit Ciderpond.

During December, The school held an international day, in which students from different cultures could represent their culture. They held one in Milo's freshmen year, but this was before Amira was in Highschool. This year, Amira was scheduled for the booth, but it was not the time Milo's class went. The time that Milo had visited the Iran booth, Nousha, Rokshana and this new girl Yasmin were the representatives at the time. Yasmin was a freshmen who attended Middle School at Pecan Meadows. Milo spoke with Nousha for a little bit. Milo mentioned having neighbors from Iran, and explained that she may have mentioned this to Minu before. Then Rokshana came by. Milo told Nousha and Rokshana all about his Italian heritage, his great grandparents in a way to show off as having an international heritage also.

That Sunday, Milo had a special mass with his confirmation class, which took place at 10:30am. Ray, Margaret and Lydia went to the 9am mass. Before Church, Aunt Michelle and Salvatore picked Milo up. While coming into the parking lot, Milo saw Katie with her family leaving the 9am mass. Since the beginning of the year, Milo had not seen Katie's family at this mass in all the times he attended, and found it odd that they attended the one time he went to a later mass.

That night, Milo had an odd dream similar to the previous clinical dream about being hospitalized for a tonsillectomy. Milo then dreamed that he had seen Katie walking through the school park. Then Milo dreamed he had just woken up to ask Margaret about his tonsillectomy, and if it was real.

The Feast of the Guest in Atlantica

The time for the Feast of the Guest was near, and the Cobolds had added finishing touches to the life size house. The Cobolds started mystery plays in Poseidon Plaza retelling the Visit of the Elfess for the Atlanteans. The Play retold how the Elfess visited them looking for a place to have her child, but the Cobolds law refused turning her down. Then the baby of the Elfess was born, and there was a great and terrifying light, and the Cobolds bowed in reverence.

One Evening, three elders appeared, one from Spartustica, one from Atlantis and one from Gallicanium. The elders offered three different gifts. The Gallicanium Elder offered a crown that once was housed in the reconsecrated throne room of Londinium. The Spartustica Elder offered fragrant flowers from the Garden of Pedmontus. The Atlantis elder offered a Marble Urn from the Quarries of Persepolis. The Cobolds were a bit perturbed about this Urn, and what it meant.

Then the Elfess arrived one starry evening. In keeping with the Tradition, the Cobolds welcomed the Elfess in the house, while awaiting the Great Phoenix arrival. The Elfess spoke of the great works of the Great Phoenix. She spoke of the tears of the Phoenix with great healing powers unmatched by any physicians, and achieved peace and freedom unparalleled to any ambassadors efforts.

Soon enough, the Great Phoenix arrived as promised. The Great Phoenix offered his tears of healing to Petestor, and he was immediatley healed. The Great Phoenix then told the Cobolds they did good work in finding the book. Petestor explained that they had looked, but there was a schism with the Selwyn followers, and were obsessed with this book known as "The Efficient Atlantean". The Phoenix explained that this was the book he needed. Then this made sense to Petestor, as he realized that the followers of Selwyn were entranced by the book, which kept the status quo of an unjust society.

Then the Great Phoenix sang a song calling for the followers of Selwyn to come out of hiding, and welcome his healing powers. The Selwyn followers were gravely afraid, and the Great Phoenix asked for their book. One Atlantean Elrich had squealed in reluctance, and called the book the source of the beautiful royalty. After some struggle, Elrich gave up the book, and handed it over to the Great Phoenix.

During this visit, the Great Phoenix seemed troubled, and spent significant amounts of time in solitude. The Cobolds became quite concerned about this. The Elfess explained that the Great Phoenix has mysterious ways, but knows what he is doing. During this holiday, the Cobolds often suffered nightmares about horrible curses ravaging Atlantica, and deadly plagues. The Elfess and the Great Phoenix stayed for a few weeks.

Amira's Birthday and the Last Week

The night before Amira's Birthday, Milo played the hymn "In Dulci Jubilo" and watched some Simpsons episodes in her honor. "In Dulci Jubilo" is the original German and Latin of the hymn "Good Christian Men Rejoice", which Milo favored before entering his freshman year. The Simpsons Episode Milo watched was "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire".

There was a great vision of a multitude of Angels gathered the crib, showing homage to a newborn baby. They sang the song Nova Canticum, while holding a small toddler over the crib to be with the baby. Then there was a divine baby holding a globus, while being held by the Theotokos. Then the Baby raised his hand in blessing drawing the angels, children and cradle closer and closer. Then the Baby shines brightly like the sun, and all stain is burned away. Then there is a proud man suffering of insanity over coming to terms with his arrogance, and stuck in a living death. Then the Baby with the Globus raises his hand, and a flood of water comes by and washes away all this stain. This man is greatly humbled, and brought to the festivities where angels are singing glad songs surrounding two babies.

For the rest of the Holiday, this had gone by pretty slow. On Amira's birthday, Milo asked Lydia if she had a bracelet last minute before running off to the bus. Of course, Lydia was not going to be giving away her bracelets. After school, Milo told Lydia that it was Amira's Birthday, and she figured out why Milo wanted a bracelet.

As was the custom in Ciderpond Highschool, they allowed students to bring in CD's with Christmas music. Milo had a CD he made, and gave it to Aunt Judy to play over the switch between classes. As it was unmarked, the Principals were skeptical about playing this, but Aunt Judy reminded them that Milo had never gotten into trouble, and knew he would not do anything like this. After Milo got back from Spanish class, they played "O Come all ye Faithful", which was an arrangement with the Organ, Choir and Brass. Amira had been in the building at the time this score was played.

In School, there was a noble vision of a Manger whom people from all places and times were gathering around in adoration chanting "Venite adoremus" Then there was a multitude of Angels singing "Gloria in Excelsis deo". Then this otherworldy light appears in the Virgins womb. Every word from all over the world ever written is shred into a multitude of pieces. The Shredded pieces then congregate over to the light of the Holy Virgin. Then the Holy Virgin gives birth to the Word made Flesh. On the last day of School before the Holiday, Milo was sitting on the floor with his new friends Mike, Brian, Francine and Angela. That night after school, Milo, Ray and Margaret got dinner at an English pub. At the Pub, Milo saw his Middle School Chorus teacher.

Over that Holiday, it was pretty eventless. The snow had melted on Christmas Eve, much to Milo's disappointment. This Holiday, the O'Malleys and the Rumcorns came in town. In fact, Milo, Salvatore, Gianni, Matt, Alicia and Lydia went to the Mall the day after Christmas. While walking through the mall, Milo, Sylvester and Matt came across Steve, Merle and Doris. Salvatore was surprised about what Merle looked like, and had pictured him looking quite different.

The Wednesday after Christmas, Milo practiced cartooning, and made some doodles of Amira. This made Milo want to get to know Amira more. Milo even considered taking up his classmates offer to shout out the window. On Friday, Milo told Margaret that he had spring break the week after Easter. Milo started having some flashbacks that night when he started thinking about the anniversary of the revelations. She suggested that they come down to Florida for that week, as she had her annual business meeting that week. On Saturday, Aunt Michelle invited Milo to have lunch at the Woodfire grill with Her, Uncle Ottavio, Salvatore, Gianni and Grandma Dora. As for The day before Christmas break ended, the Biancatello's saw Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

The Mount of Lava

The time had come for the Elfess and the Great Phoenix to depart. The Great Phoenix summoned Twelve Cobolds to join him on a journey to the Mount of Lava, which is the only place that this cursed book could be disposed at. The Cobolds called were Petestor, Elrich, Ioannes, Yoshiyahu, Queniviere, Selwyn, Irugen, Zadok, Yusefus, Aerondin, Remus and Mardina. The Great Phoenix instructed the Cobolds to make sure they brought the Urn the Elder of Atlantis offered. The Cobolds had felt uneasy about this request.

One morning, the Cobolds and the elfess boarded a ship, and the Great Phoenix flew over the seventh Sea of Kebsuda. While flying, the Great Phoenix noticed a Mermaid passed out on a rock. The Great Phoenix made the ship stop, and he flew the mermaid to the ship. The mermaid gradually awakens. The Phoenix asks the Mermaid who she is, and she explains that she is Ariella. The Phoenix asks if she is part of the Naifaspring clan. Ariella begins to cry, and tries to flipper back into the sea, but is too weak. Ariella admits that she was such a fool. She tells about how it was all her fault that her sister Shannen was killed, all because she refused to see that Clayton was really the Maludico Pusperium. The Great Phoenix tells Ariella that whats done is done, and she needs no longer to run away from herself or her sisters. The Great Phoenix then claws at Ariella's fin, and covers her in a cloth. Ariella underwent severe pain, when shedding her fins, until her original torso and legs were back. Ariella stayed wrapped in the cloth the Phoenix provided.

After some more travel, they arrived at this ugly region known as Ammit. This region stunk of burning sulfur, and full of choking smoke. Ammit was on an Island several miles northwest of Atlantica, and hardly visible from the city. The Phoenix then told the Elfess to return to Atlantica in three hours, and told her to pick up two waiting Atlanteans.

Before climbing the mountain, the Great Phoenix instructed the Cobolds to place the urn under a grotesque babboon head statue on a cliff wall. The Great Phoenix explained that this trip up to the Lake of Lava was too dangerous for the Cobolds, and he had to do this on his own. The Great Phoenix instructed a Cobold Yoshiyahu to find a way into Lionalem when he gets back. Then the Great Phoenix flew majestically into the sky highly exulted. Then they saw the cursed book being let go of and falling into a pit. Then the Cobolds heard a great splash and sizzle as the book burned away, and a great blood curtling scream from within the mountain. Then a hand made of lava came out of the pit and seized the phoenix and he burst into flames. When the Phoenix died, the great board at the gate of the temple split right down the middle.

At this site, the Cobolds greatly mourned and were quite distraught. Then there was a great explosion coming from the pit releasing a white smoke. Then the babboon statue came to life and chokingly spit out some white ashes that landed in the urn. The Cobolds understood why the Great Phoenix had the Urn placed where it was. What the Cobolds did not know was that the Phoenix is reborn from the ashes. For three days, the Cobolds sat on the rocks of Amit, and not wanting to leave. Irugen explained that staying at this place will not bring the Great Phoenix back. Ariella took this the hardest, knowing that the Phoenix last act was to save her from aimless swimming and running away. Selwyn felt most responsible, and wished he never even found the book to begin with. Petestor explained that this is what the Great Phoenix wanted.

Then the Elfess returned with two Atlanteans who prostrated before the 12 Cobolds. The First Atlantean explained that the Great Phoenix saved Atlantica from this cursed book "The Efficient Atlantean". This Atlantean explained how this book has oppressed untold residents, which included the vendor. The Second Atlantean was a city council member and Monument chief. This Atlantean explained that he would like to construct a memorial and flower garden in the Great Phoenix honor, and put his remains to a proper place of rest.

The Cobolds left by the ship. As a gift of gratitude to the Cobolds, the Atlanteans gave them the ship. After returning to Atlantica, the Atlantean masons carved a statue of the Phoenix of white marble, with a small tabernacle to house the urn. The urn was then crowned with the crown given as a gift from Londinium. The flowers given by the Spartusticans were planted around the Great Phoenix memorial. On that afternoon, the Cobolds and Atlanteans held a memorial service. Those who had been entranced by the book had been very distraught, and felt horribly guilty about what had happened.

Book VI: the Third Era-The Second years

Chapter 29: The Secret Admirer

With the New Year, Milo was beginning to anticipate the anniversary of Dancing Day to beat the Post-Christmas blues. Dancing Day was the day Milo first recognized Amira as the girl at Dudlechip, and named after the song he downloaded that day. So far, the New Year was not going so bad. Milo was still having some similar dreams to the tonsillectomy dream before Christmas. As to why, Milo had no understanding whatsoever.

The Weekend after Christmas break, Milo was an altar Server, and he saw Katie and her mom in Church, as Tom and the Folk Band were playing. In the afternoon, Milo had a confirmation interview with one of the Church ministers, which included both Fr. Nick and the confirmation leader Marky Louise. Many had not been a big fan of Barbie-Lou, and considered her an old fuss. For example, she was more concerned about whether kids wore hats than were getting something out of their confirmation class. Luckily Milo got to talk with Fr. Nick, as he heard that Marky-Louise was a real gossip. Milo asked Fr. Nick about if he should keep in contact with Grandpa Clarence. Milo had felt more resentful with Grandpa Clarence, as he saw a resemblance with the O'Malleys.

The Friday night before Dancing Day, Milo had a dream that Uncle Georgio bought the cheerleader Ashley a stuffed bear, and she got very excited. Milo tried to preserve the tradition in going back to Sichuan garden with his family that Saturday after Lydia's basketball game. The anniversary of Dancing Day had been a major letdown, as Milo had a nasty cold. Milo did listen to the song "Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day" in commemoration of the day, to no effect.

On that Monday, Milo had off from school, due to Martin Luther King Jr. day. Milo downloaded the Simpsons Episode the Parent Rap, which he greatly enjoyed. This is the episode where Bart is under a sever judge Constance Harm based on Judge Judy. This judge is very strict, and tethers Homer and Bart. Then Homer and Marge are sentenced to a pillory. Ned Flanders has ethical struggles when Homer and Marge break out of the pillories with his tools. Milo enjoyed the scene where Homer threw a Cinder Block at Judge Harm's houseboat, causing it to sink in retaliation for her barbaric punishments. Even Ned Flanders has some ethical dilemmas over helping

That night Milo has a dream where he sees Uncle Georgio moving desks at Ciderpond High. That first day back from Martin Luther King day was pretty eventless. Then that night, Ray got a call from Ben that Corey and Kate were going to have a baby.

Yuriyama and Durnil's reading of Pandora's Scroll

The Seer Pandora had a scroll made retelling the story of Amira transitioning from the Crib to the Bed, and all the other historical details of Rosahanaks birth and Milo starting Pre-School. Pandora had found that the scroll was brightly beaming in the hall of prophecies, and the seals fell off. Pandora met with Yuriyama and Durnil to talk over what this meant. Yuriyama read the scroll and saw well that history would be repeating itself, but with overtones of greed and division. Durnil read the scrolls as a strategy towards the path of reconciliation.

At these findings, the two summoned Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir to a meeting. Maelendil knew what Yuriyama and Durnil had intended, and summoned Daxividus, Billius, and Susan the Diplomat from the Third Annogrammatron Order. Daxividus suggested that the restoration of the ruin Pandora recorded when the initiation into Ciderpond School district took place. Billius cheered on Daxividus, as he remembered these times as the beginning of rebellion against tyrants. Yuriyama and Durnil knew something of greed and reconciliation had to be represented.

Maelendil had the perfect solution to suit all their suggestions, and knew that the second process of revealing Milo and Amira's heritage needed to come about. Maelendil knew that his burden would be soon realized, and knew his only hope maybe that this heritage be acknowledged, especially in days of division.

Pocahontas Music and Divisions

The Friday before the new Semester began, Milo downloaded the song "Virginia Company" from Pocahontas. This particular song is in the style of an English Sea Chanty. Milo had developed a taste for English Folk music over the summer after finding out that many of hymn melodies from his music collection were English Folk tunes. Part of this was due to Milo's love for English culture that stemmed from Harry Potter. That weekend, Milo downloaeded two other Pocahontas songs "The Virginia Company: Reprise" and "Steady as the Beating Drum". These were the first songs of the movie, and Milo remembered them sung at a Disney light show in Mexico. Milo also downloaded the pseudo-Chinese melody "Dragon and Phoenix", which he recognized from the game "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego", that he played almost seven summers ago.

Towards the end of January, the new Semester began, therefore ending Gym for Milo, and beginning Health Class. Milo was a little bummed about ending Gym, as he would not be in classes with the new friends he made. With this new semester, Amira would be ending her Home ec. Class in the Senior building. As luck would have it, Milo would get to travel to the Senior Building at the same time as Amira, as her home ec. Class was finished. Then Milo finds out Amira's Physics class is close to his health class. The Teacher Amira has is Mr. Makowski. Milo was still a little bummed out about no longer being in Gym class with his new friends.

A week later, Milo had seen the first part of Pocahontas while Lydia had a Basketball Game. These scenes included the Sailors boarding ship, talking about ambitions and the Powhatans celebrations at the return of the warriors. That day was Ray's Birthday, and Margaret cooked a nice dinner for the family. That evening, the Biancatello's saw "Walk the Line", which is a movie about Johnny Cash. After the movie, Milo watched "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" with commentary. As it was, Milo was still thinking a bit about eighth grade.

The next day, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl went out for an eaerly dinner at an Italian restaurant. Grandma Pearl spoke of news that the Rumcorns maybe moving to Georgia, because Uncle Wayne got a job opportunity. Lydia was not too happy, as she knew that they had seen the Rumcorns more than the O'Malleys. In reference to the O'Malleys, Grandma Pearl told Lydia that people get busy with their lives, to which Lydia replied that the O'Malleys should try to make time. Lydia explained how she declined plans with friends the night before, to spend the evening with her parents for Ray's birthday.

Milo on the other hand mentioned nothing about this. Milo hated this whole prospect, as they had just started seeing the Rumcorns more. Milo also hated the idea that the Rumcorns would be living closer to Grandpa Clarence and Uncle Doug. Milo had not been overly fond of either of them, as they had not visited in years. Plus, Milo still understood how Margaret and Grandma Pearl felt, as he experienced the O'Malleys lack of efforts to be similar. Milo had began feeling betrayed by the Rumcorns. Milo was still a little gripe with Uncle Doug's family after they were supposed to come up for Thanksgiving a few years ago, but his ex wife Hortenzia needed bailing out of jail.

The Ship Voyage and General Ratburn

By this time, the Cobolds were still grieving over the Great Phoenix. Overall, life in Atlantica was much better without that horrible book. The residents had more choices available, and were working to rebuild their society to a way beneficial to the common good. The only people who were displeased were the Royalty of course. With their authority gone, the Royalty no longer had their slaves. Without all their free labor, and the taxes being lowered to a significant degree, the high visier had to sell his third summer house in Thatchery. Many mighty monopolies crumbled, and once powerful merchants in with the royalty lost many of their servants.

After Ariella returned to life on land, she was brought back to Londinium by an Atlantean. In Londinium, the Naifaspring sisters were reunited after a long separation. Hallicia was thrilled to see Ariella, but Daisy had not taken too well at first. Hallicia and Junous had long been married, and were expecting their first child. Both

One day this familiar figure made an offer to the Cobolds about taking a voyage to the Temple of Atlantis. Despite the temple technically being in the district of Lionalem, it was as they discovered on an island where the temple stood on a high cliff, while there was a great wide river separating the temple from the mainland Lionalem and the Temple. At this time, the only way to even access the temple was to dock at a pier on the far end from the Temple.

This figure, who went by General Ratburn offered the Cobolds glory and great wealth. General Ratburn knew that the Great Phoenix gave a mission to reach the Atlantis temple. General Ratburn called this voyage "The Glory of the Phoenix, and great wealth of the Atlantica Company". The Cobolds had been lured into this adventure. Ratburn stationed one adventurous Cobold Iohannes to lead the expedition. The other Cobolds who went on this voyage were Petestor, Irugen, Remus and Aerondin, along with about one third of the Cobolds.

One morning, the Cobolds and General Ratburn set sail, while bidding their families farewell. During this voyage, General Ratburn started telling the Cobolds about the savages that lived on the Island to watch out for. The Cobolds started getting a real warlike spirit ready to kill the savages. Iohannes had been an adventurous but overconfident Cobold, as he had been a leader who strategically defeated many trolls in the battle at the Mountain. Little did Iohannes know what he would find when he would reach the lands.

The natives of this Island known as Parthania are anything but savage. The natives known as Paspahegh are a peaceful people who only fought in self defense. Otherwise, they have a strong connection to the earth, whom they refer to as the great mother. The Paspahegh live in balance with nature, and very strong in their ancient roots. The Paspahegh ceremonies center on a sacred fire lead by the Elders. During these days, the Paspahegh stopped all their normal activities to welcome home the victorious warriors against a tribe of savage offsprings known as Jenu who had been terrorizing their land. That night, the Paspahegh held a feast in honor of the victory.

Old Disputes

With the new semester having begun, classes had changed around. This meant that Milo's new friend Pat had joined his lunch time. At Lunch, Milo made a stupid mistake, and pointed Minu out to Pat. Unfortunately, Pat spoke to her much against Milo's wishes. All Pat had done was tell Minu that Milo said hi, even though Milo never intended any such thing. Minu had been sitting with a brown haired Girl, a girl with dirty blonde hair and some light blonde girl Kaelin. Milo felt mortified, as he did not need Minu knowing that he had been leaking information to a friend, and still thinking about her. Minu luckily just said hi back to Pat, and that was it.

After Pat spoke to Minu, a Kodaprana in the form of a solid cobra had apparated on Minu's lunch table. This Kodaprana had been developing since the Jafari's called the Biancatello's. Legend posits that this particular Kodaprana had been bred by the Alien offspring and Draco. This Kodaprana had been fed off of both the Biancatello's and Jafari's resentments.

After Mrs. Jafari called, Milo had carried some bitterness over Minu not just speaking to him if he was making her uncomfortable, and her mother asking these requests on the family. Plus after this, Ray and Margaret were not overly accepting of Milo looking at Eastern Girls, and were still quite funny about Amira. By this time, Ray and Margaret already knew about Amira.

Alongside, there was Upadana in the form of a magenta balloon, longing eyes, an aquamarine bowtie and a sinister white toothed grin. The balloon is looking at Minu with these puppydog eyes, but smirking at Milo. As predicted, Upadana had been tormenting Milo since the beginning of the school year when Nousha started riding the bus her freshmen year. This Upadana knew that Milo was no longer haunted by the Khara's moving, and was now reminding him of the days when there were no conflicts between him and Minu. Then Upanada kept tempting Milo to resurrect the glory of those times, and distracting him from Amira.

After Pat had spoken to Minu, Milo discreetly left the cafeteria early and back to his locker and next class. In Milo's next class, he came across Pat, and let him know that he was not to do that again. Pat told Milo that Minu just said hi back, and he was sort of relieved about this. Still Milo was not too thrilled about this. This Pat whom Milo knew was originally friends with Steve in their freshman year. Milo knew who Pat was, but had not been friends with him until this year. Frankly Pat and Steve have similar personalities, only Pat is much more ambitious.

Upadana's second chance

Maelendil summoned Cashmir and Alexander to a meeting regarding what he saw with Upadana. Husisha shows up, and offers to take responsibility for Upadana. Husisha thought no longer had any sense of guilt believed that since he had been the one to bring the Jafari's in the picture, he is by default responsible to drive out Upadana. Maelendil brought his two cents in, which he knew would bring trouble. Maelendil explained that Upadana looks like he is trying to change his ways, and become a Jinn again. Cashmir got quite a laugh, stating that no Rakshasajinn has ever changed. Maelendil admits that this is quite rare, but that there have been Rakshasajinns who renounced their ways of evil, and became whole again.

Maelendil explains that Upadana looked to be trying to help. Cashmir protests that Upadana went and blabbed stuff that Milo should never have mentioned to his new friend. Maelendil explained that repentant Rakshasajinns do not become restored over night. Maelendil gives his stance. According to Maelendil, Upadana initiated contact with Milo and the Jafari's, though not in the best way. Maelendil then theorizes that Upadana had tried to begin a restoration plan, as he has not appeared to push Amira out of the picture, even if he is still practicing the promotion of myopic fantasies.

The Pep Assembly and Super Bowl

The Friday before super bowl Sunday, there was a Pep Assembly last period, at school in preparation for the Basketball Game between St. James and Ciderpond High. Milo remembered that Amira was at the senior high during the time of the pep assembly, and therefore would have to attend the assembly. For the second time, Milo planned to sit behind Amira. When Milo got into the gym, he looked around and found Rokshana saving a seat. Then Amira showed up next to Rokshana. So far, this had been a fun assembly. During the assembly, the Cheerleaders did their show and cheer for Ciderpond High. Milo overheard Rokshana talking about Minu and Nousha to Amira. This had someething to do with some function of sorts. Milo always assumed that the Jafari's did not go to any functions, but this had possibly changed. Milo sort of knew that Amira knew the Jafari's, but had no idea of whether they were good friends or not. Kazeem had mentioned to Margaret that they knew the Jafari's.

That Saturday, Milo and Ray went to the Basketball Game between Ciderpond High and St. James at the Whelon Sports Center. Before the game, Ray wanted to make sure that Milo was not going to the game in order to get into trouble. Ray had been referring to Minu. As it was, Minu was no sports fan, and did not go to this stuff to begin with. Milo admitted that he may have been too ambitious with Minu in his freshman year, as he did not want to stay at the bottom as a freshman. Ray explained that Milo was a freshman at the time. If there was one thing Milo hated, it was age related labels, and being expected to conform to arbitrary ideas of what it means to be a certain age. Plus, Milo found age related labels completely hypocritical, as society always talks against imposing stereotypes on people based on gender, ethnicity, race or religion, but still seemed to think it was okay on matters of age.

That Sunday, Milo had an about me school project, and used Simpson's themes. Frankly, Milo spent a bit too much time working on the project, and a bit perfectionistic about it. For Milo, he could become very dedicated to projects that catered to his interests, but half-assed it with less than interesting projects. The Superbowl that year was between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks. There had been some controversy about a referee making a mistake that caused the Steelers to win, and many believe the Seahawks were the true winners.

The return of Victoria and Meriwhether

At this time, Maelendil decided that it was time to give Alexander more responsibilities. As it had been, Cashmir had taken most of the responsibilities for the last year and a half. As to how ready Alexander was to handle his responsibilities, only time will tell. During this time, Husisha had been reading over the scrolls in regards to when Amira was born and the Khara's moved in. According to Husisha's interpretation, both the scrolls need to be revealed to the earthlings, and the Kurdish people need to come into the picture. Maelendil explained that this has already occurred. Maelendil commented that their plan from the fall had gone better than they planned it would. Cashmir asked if this would be like the Jafari's all over again, and Husisha explained that would not be so. What Maelendil determined was that Milo and Amira need to come into contact and remember their past.

Alexander met with Annogrammatrons Merriwhether and Victoria. Victoria had been in a sore mood with Cashmir ever since he gave Uncle Ottavio the idea to sell Salvatore's baseball tickets. Cashmir's reasoning was that this would have been ineffective, and could have created unnecessary complications. Victoria was the one to push for this, in hopes of getting Milo and Amira to talk. If there is anything everyone knows about Victoria is that she does not take defeat too gracefully. Victoria was still young, and it was taking her time to gain experience on how to turn defeat into victory. Victoria became all too willing to work with Alexander in order to get back at Cashmir over destroying her victory. Of course, Alexander and Cashmir were allies, and would never sabotage each other on purpose.

When it came to Merriwhether, he works better with Alexander than Cashmir, as he has a more adventurous personality. Cashmir is more reserved and rational as the Senexit typically is, while Alexander is more innovative and spontaneous as the Puerubdi usually is. So Alexander, Merriwhether and Victoria setup a plan to get Milo to communicate with Amira. Victoria went for subtlety and Merriwhether for something exciting. Alexander went along with their plan, as typical of Puerubdi's like to break conventions and take risks every so often. As to exactly what the three planned, this had not been known yet.

The Secret Valentine

One Friday afternoon at lunch, the student council was selling valentines. The way the program functioned was that a student could buy a bag of Hershey Kisses for another student, and have them sent to their homeroom. This got Milo thinking about sending a girl a valentine. As to which girl, Milo let a few pass through his head and thought Amira of course. Milo found out that this program only applied to the senior high school. At first, Milo had been disappointed, but developed an intelligent plan. Milo remembered that Amira had two classes at the Senior Highschool, and that he could send the valentine to one of these teachers. The next step for Milo was to figure out which teacher she had on Valentines Day, and figured out she had Physics that day with Mr. Makowski. Milo went back up to purchase the valentine, and told the girl, who was Kaelin from Minu's lunch table, selling them. Milo chickened out from using his real name, and used a tough sounding alibi mafia name M. Silenzo as his signature, and the note "Happy St. Valentines Day". After this accomplishment, Milo felt quite proud of himself, and his intelligence. Upon getting on the bus, Milo noticed Minu and Nousha, and remembered that Minu was on the student council along with Kaelin. Milo slightly feared that Minu would refuse to make Amira's valentine, or would decide withhold it. Milo would not be pleased in the slightest bit if this happened, as he would never approve of anyone using their beliefs in an imposing way on another. Now Milo was not one to have a problem with people refusing to act against their beliefs, even if it was inconvenient to him. But Milo knew he paid for a service, and was not going to take well to someone dishonoring the deal.

That Friday Night, Milo had a dream about a New Years Eve event at Sussewago that he attended ten years ago. That weekend, the Biancatellos had been invited for a get together at Roger and Denise's house for dinner. Back in Shamus' room, Milo was looking at his yearbook pictures again. When Milo came across a picture of Amira, he told Lydia and Shamus about his Valentine. Lydia called Milo a moron for sending the valentine. This is not the second time that Lydia gave Milo a hard time, such as showing his health class the paper skate he took after the Ice Show, and spoke about the skate that afternoon with Jimmy, while Minu and Nousha were on the bus. Milo could not help making another joke, and told Lydia that this was not too Khara-ble. Milo found out who Yasmine was from the Iran presentation before Christmas. Milo knew that Amira knew Yasmine, as he saw both girls walking up to the senior highschool together. Yasmine was a Kurdish girl in Shamus year, who Milo thought slightly resembled Sabrina, the girl from the golf lessons. Yasmine was new to Ciderpond, and had only in the town for four years. Shamus had not been a big fan of Yasmine, and found her annoying.

The next day at Confirmation classes, Milo told Salvatore about Amira, and he found His valentine pretty cool. That afternoon, while Milo was listening to some new songs, he got a call from an old friend Richard Espozito about being assigned to his bible study group. St. Timothy's started a bible study group that would talk about Catholicism and faith sharing. Richard had been the St. Timothy's youth minister three years ago. Milo had been listening to two new songs he downloaded known as "Jubilate, Alleluia" based on Psalms 100 and 66 and "Gott ist nur Liebe" in english is "God is forgiveness". Both songs come from the Taize Community, which is a religious ecumenical order in France known for producing chantlike songs in different language. Now "Gott is nur Liebe" reminded Milo of the Psalm 100 hymn "All People that on earth do dwell", which at St. Timothys was used its melody for the lent hymn "The Glory of these forty Days". In fact, this was the opening hymn four years ago when Milo first saw the Jafari's in Church.

There was a vision of the Shepherd in continuation with the vision of the shepherd leading his sheep. The Shepherd had announced that the seven year journey is near completion. At this, the shepherd and sheep bowed down before the great Adonai in great joy. The Shepherd and sheep remembered how the Lord was the one who lead the shepherd and sheep through mighty works and deed. The only condition for continuing this journey was the sheep willing to forgive the wolves, as the Lord had forgiven the sheep when they stumbled.

Andreas Assistance

One evening, Andreas the Romantic from the Fourth order of Annogrammatrons called for Vesta. Andreas asked Vesta if she remembered the day when they saw Milo and Amira at the neighbors house as small children in a certain vision. Vesta knew exactly what Andreas was talking about, and knew the point he was about to make. Vesta explained to Andreas that this still doesn't discount that she will one day save him. Andreas then admits that he needs Vesta's help to give Milo some advice when the Valentine is delivered. Vesta advises Andreas to remind Milo of some small snippet from that summer that the neighbors moved in next door, possibly something from that Singalong. Vesta then tells Andreas that Milo likes Italian Music.

Valentines Day

The day before Valentine's Day, Milo told his friends Pat and fellow charges Justin and Dan about the valentine, which they got quite a laugh out of. Milo originally knew Dan through Steve, and the same Dan that Ray and Margaret gave a ride home to the previous thanksgiving. Before math began, Milo played some golf game on the computer, and thinking of this game as some great anticipation. Milo divulged into more information with Pat about this valentine, and how it was only be a day away.

On Valentine's Day, Milo had Spanish in the morning. After class, Milo caught up near Amira and walked near her on the way to the Senior high building. As they walked on the way up, Milo knew that Amira was just minutes away from finding out that she had a secret admirer. Then Milo headed off to his Health Class.

When Amira got in class, she waited around for the teacher to arrive. When Mr. Makowski arrived, he called Amira, and explained that he had something for her. Amira was wondering why the teacher would have something for her on this day in particular. Amira got the valentine with slight enjoyment and slightly stumped. One friend from class gave the obnoxious "oooh". On the Markerboard, the Simpsons Mafia Character Johnathan Schmallippe appeared, keeping a sinister eye out. Then there was a flashback to Tony and Joe from Lady and the Tramp playing "Bella Notte", like many summers ago when the Khara's first moved in next door. Milo still did not officially remember this. Amira was quite in a good mood, but had no clue who this Silenzo character was, or how he knew she had class with Mr. Makowski.

Milo had "Bella Notte" on his MP3 player, along with the French romantic song "Under the Bridges of Paris", and the Italian Folk Song "Cela Luna Mezzo Mare", or better known as Lazy Mary to American Lou Monte fans. The Greco-Latin peoples have been known to be a romantic bunch, hence how the term romance came to mean what it does. Milo also had the English Country dances "Epping Forest" and "Jameco". On the bus ride home, Milo was sitting with Jimmy, and two new freshmen Lisa and Dustin. Jimmy asked Milo if he really sent a girl a valentine. Luckily Minu and Nousha were not on the bus that afternoon, and he did not think that he had to worry about being overheard.

After school, when Lydia got home, she started calling Milo Mr. Silenzo. Lydia blabbed about the valentine to her friend Emily. As we remember, Emily's sister Morgan knows Amira. Milo could not stop milking this, and pretended to call the Sassani's and tell Amira the truth. Lydia believed and got so scared, until Milo admitted he was just joking. Frankly, Milo just liked being the secret admirer maybe a little too much.

Cashmir and Alexander's Dispute

After Cashmir found out about Milo's valentine, he got pretty worked up. One day, Cashmir went looking for Alexander, and found him in the Magnus lounge. Cashmir called Alexander an idiot, and told him that this was a stupid idea. Alexander explained that he got the idea from Victoria and Merriwhether. Then Cashmir explained the whole ticket sales incident, and that Victoria was just acting out of spite. Alexander told Cashmir that he is not being very helpful.

Soon enough, Maelendil arrived and calmed Alexander and Cashmir down. Cashmir tells Maelendil about what happened, and he explains that he already knows. Cashmir asks him how he can be so calm, and tells him how Alexander was being so stupid. Maelendil explained that it was done now, and that he believes Milo fulfilled some important role. Maelendil reminds Cashmir of all the times matters seemed hopeless, such as when the Khara's moved, and the role that the Grey Alien still had to play.

After some debate, Cashmir begrudgingly took Maelendil's advice in letting Alexander take on such responsibilities. Maelendil did warn Alexander to be careful with the mission, and to keep an eye on its completion. Maelendil explained that he believed this could be the key to ending the divisions. For Cashmir being a senexit, trying new and innovative ways and going against ordinary social conventions is a recipe for disaster. Naturally, it took Cashmir a while to get on board and trust Alexander's decision.

When Cashmir and Victoria met, he was not too happy to see her. Cashmir told Victoria that this alibi was really irresponsible, and told her all about how this was especially stupid considering the circumstances with the jafari's. Victoria then explained that she had not taken this into consideration. Eventually, Alexander got Victoria and Cashmir to make Amends. Victoria understood that Cashmir knew that the trip to Amira's would only be a waste of time in bus fair or gas money, and Cashmir agreed that he would be more willing to accept imput from the Annogrammatrons.

The White Castle Poster

Over the rest of the week, Milo was getting a bit antsy, as he could not tell if Amira got the Valentine, or if she liked it or not. On the Friday after Valentines Day, Milo taped a piece of paper saying Silenzo del Abruzzo to a stairway wall he suspected Amira to walk on to get to class that day. Not that this would do anything to begin with in the first place.

On Friday night, Milo had a dream that he was taking Sylvester to see a movie in a theatre that used to be in the mall. Sylvester then turns into Nousha, and takes her to see Aladdin, exactly as it was when he first saw it so many years ago. One Saturday evening, there was a party at Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy's, as Corey and Kate were in town. This was a Congratulations party and also Alicia's birthday. Now Alicia bailed on the party, much to the other cousins annoyance, and how she did not even try to come in. This started to confirm Milo's suspicions, as to skip her own birthday party.

Ray was talking to Lauren and Rory, asking them what was new. Lauren got a bit awkward, like he just asked them something offensive. Lauren and Rory then privately told Ray and Margaret that they were also having a baby. They had not wanted to say anything, as to not spoil Corey and Kate's night for getting congratulated. Lydia later blabbed to Eustace about Milo's Silenzo alibi and threatened to tell Ray.

One Thursday later, Milo wrote some information about who he was in Italian on a movie poster of "Harold and Kumar go to White Castle". Milo does not know Italian, but had everything he wanted to say done through an online translation. A teacher had given Milo this poster, as he no longer wanted it, and was going to throw it away. Milo mentioned Dudlechip from Seven years ago, without realizing Amira would not know what that meant. After the end bell rang, Milo rushed out and put the written poster on Amira's bus seat before she got there. Amira got the poster, but tossed it, as she thought that someone just left some junk and the bus driver forgot to toss it.

Milo later realized that this may have been offensive to Amira, as this could be construed as an offensive representation of Eastern Cultures, and stereotyping, along with getting the wrong culture. Frankly that poster was the only thing Milo had to write on, and did not think it out. That night at Aunt Michelle's, Salvatore got quite a laugh about this poster, as he thought it may have made him look like a racist. Lydia was about to kill Milo for this poster. Lydia threatened to tell Ray and Margaret if Milo did not stop doing this. After this, Milo just quit sharing this stuff with Lydia. Milo had just told Lydia this stuff just to get her all worked up. But by this point, he had no interest in letting Lydia threaten him, or use such blackmail.

Soon enough, Lent came about, and Milo and Ray went back to Church on Ash Wednesday. So far, this beginning of Lent had not been like the previous year, nor had all the pomp and majesty. That Sunday, Samantha had her family birthday party. Salvatore started talking about how the Harold and Kumar poster was his favorite. Milo had figured out that his friend Jack rode the same bus as Amira. Milo sheepishly explained the situation to Jack, and wanted to know if there was anything in the garbage on his bus. Jack ended up retrieving the poster, and gave it back to Milo. Jack knew exactly who Milo was referring to, when he mentioned the girl his bus was Middle Eastern.

The Great Sight

During this time, the Cobolds who stayed back worked in both Atlantica and Lionalem. Yoshiyahu had been searching through Lionalem, seeing if he could spot an entrance on the walls of the Atlantean temple. After some searching, Yoshiyahu eventually found the entrance, and saw a new crack in the door that he never noticed before. There were a set of stairs to the doorway, but the stairs started in the sea. Yoshiyahu had spent many attempts to find a way to the temple with no success. Yoshiyahu tried to swim to the stairs, only to find on the way, there was a major rip tid. Luckily Yoshiyahu was not sucked in, and found it before it got too strong.

Yoshiyahu was not a particularly handy Cobold, and constantly tried to build structures to get to the stairs while also crossing the great gulf of water. None of Yoshiyahu's inventions worked, and he was constantly pestered by other Cobolds. This never broke Yoshiyahu's spirit, as he just kept experimenting with new plans. Gwen told Yoshiyahu to just drop his pride and ask for help.

The Cobolds who remained back in Atlantica had seen a wondrous site. There was a great explosion at the Mount of Lava causing part of the mountain to crack. At this time, the lava started to cool down and crack into innumerable pieces. Then the babboon statues started vomiting sand reaching several miles into the sea. Then the Cobolds saw part of the mountain implode and begin to break down. Yoshiyahu had been at the local Lionalem shrines asking for help when this happened. Gwen suggested that his requests are now being answered.

The MP3 Player and Laetare Sunday

On St Patrick's Day, Milo had made Amira a card for the Holiday. However Milo was unable to put the card on Amira's bus seat, as she reached the bus before him. Milo was not too disappointed, and figured he would just try again. That afternoon, Milo had been listening to exotic music on his MP3 player. This MP3 player had a loudspeaker, and could be slightly heard by others on the bus. Milo was listening to some Middle Eastern music on the back of the bus with his friend Jimmy, and a freshmen Lisa. Minu and Nousha were also on the bus, along with Lucille. Lucille was the girl from the Sports Hall who got Milo in trouble when he was still in Elementary school. Lucille had been riding the bus with Milo since she was a freshmen. One girl on the bus shouted that someone was listening to Middle Eastern Music, and wanted to know who it was. Milo hoped that Minu and Nousha were not going to be accused of doing so.

Above the bus, the offspring known as Mahishasura was playing the Arabic oud, while his slave was playing the tablas. This Mahishasura was the offspring of two Hypocordo's Wipou and Pecunia. The Mahishasura had a very inflated sense of confidence and a "Too big to fail" demeanor. This Mahishasura offspring was up to some task he thought he was too strong to fail at. Then the Kodaprana in the form of the Cobra had been slithering with the Mahishasura telling Minu, Nousha and Lucille that Milo was racist, and doing this to mock different cultures. The Mahishasura offspring had been the one to trick Milo into using a Harold and Kumar poster.

That year, the Bishop had given the Diocese a substitute dispensation, as St. Patricks day was on a Lenten Friday. For Milo, this would be a long weekend. Lydia got mad when she found out Milo was listening to Middle Eastern music on the bus. Lydia thought that this was stupid, considering the circumstances with the Jafari's. Milo on the other hand considered them over any petty feuds that happened over two years ago. Plus, Milo did not like being told what kind of music he can listen to, or care about the idea that this was considered cultural appropriation.

On Sunday, Milo had his Confirmation community service day. Milo, along with Salvatore and some other Boys had the task of volunteering at the Homeless shelter. In the morning, they had the annual pancake breakfast, which some of the confirmation girls were working. Milo then understood why Minu worked this the previous year. Milo saw Martin, who asked him to be an altar server in the Novena.

After the volunteer work, the Confirmation class was all back to the Church meeting room for lunch. All the parents running the program insisted that they order pizza. But Marky Louise decided on ordering these awful sandwiches, and refused to change her mind. These sandwiches had a quarter cup of mayonnaise per sandwich. Milo could not even eat the sandwich, and just snacked on cookies. Aunt Michelle was pretty irritated with Marky Louise for not listening to the parents, when no other kids could even eat the sandwiches.

One Tuesday later, Lydia went to an oldies concert that Emily's sister Morgan was in. Milo knew well that Amira would be in the concert. Lydia arrived home, and finished the movie Beaches with Margaret. Milo sat through the rest of Beaches, just to ask Lydia if she saw Amira. Beaches is no movie that Milo would ever watch for enjoyment. Milo remembered Lindsey from Alpha-Fi mentioning this movie seven years ago. Frankly, anything from that time had utterly fascinated Milo.

The next week, Milo made Amira a card for Laetare Sunday. This is the second to last Sunday of Lent to celebrate its near end. In Science class, Milo had the card already made, and an assistant teacher in Science class asked Milo about it. Milo explained that Amira was sort of a friend. In class, the science teacher figured out that Milo had been looking out the window to see a girl. The teacher was okay with this and told Milo that she had a colleage with the same name as Amira. Milo's friends Justin and Dan, and his new friend Dereck already knew what was going on already. Dereck had a tendency to be a bit vocal, and accidentally blabbed in front of the last person who should know about such things. Now Pat had always advised Milo to be careful around Dereck, as he could be a bit of a wiseguy, and not the best at knowing when not to talk, even if his heart was in the right place. There was one busybody Temperance, who eavesdropped and figured out why Milo looked at the window at the end of class. Temperance was one of these people who feels the need to stick her nose in others business, and get involved in matters of which they had not been invited to. Temperance had made threats to tell Amira that Milo had been looking at her from the window.

This time, Milo succeeded in putting the card on the bus seat. Milo saw that Amira had gotten the card that she looked to enjoy it. The next day, Milo, Ray, Salvatore and Lydia went out to lunch at an Irish pub named Connor Finnegans. Milo was there three years ago with Ray before Ash Wednesday. This pub reminded Milo of the Leaky Cauldron from the Harry Potter movies. This was a late St. Patrick's day lunch, as they did nothing for the holiday the previous week.
Chapter 30: The Spring of New Birth

The Cobolds arrival

Soon enough, the Cobolds on the ship arrived at Parthania. The crew had been anticipating this moment, and possibly getting to find another path to the Atlantean Temple. General Ratburn started setting up camp and ordered the Cobolds to start cutting down trees. The Generals justification was that they needed a clearing to mark their path on the way to the temple. Little did the General know that Parthania was a very large island, and reaching the temple would be a very difficult task? Iohannes wandered off to explore this new land. By this time, General Ratburn was being quite a slave driver. Ratburn had quite a dangerous influence over the Cobolds, and spoke of projects to develop this land into something more useful than trees. The Cobolds noticed that General Ratburn was always drinking some strange tonic, which he explained was some medicine. Frankly, the Cobolds were getting quite frustrated with these pointless labors, and wondered if General Ratburn had any intention on helping them get to the Atlantean temple.

Meanwhile, one Paspahegh Rivkah had been in the woods looking for her mentor Willow. Willow is an older Ent, who are creatures like elves and cobolds, but have the appearance of trees. The Ents are said to be a very wise creature commissioned to watch over the forests, such as from General Ratburn. Rivkah had come to Willow for some advice. Rivkah had been having dreams of a strange building with the façade of a Greek temple and a step pyramid. Part of Rivkah's dilemma was that her father, the chief betrothed her to a Paspahegh warrior on a steady path.

When Rivkah explained her dilemma to Willow, she said that the Warrior is no fit for her, and is destined to greater things than sticking to some pre-assigned roles. Rivkah asks Willow what she should do. Willow told Rivkah to listen to her heart while she conducted the trees to chant a song in the Paspahegh language. After this song, Rivkah was endowed with the gifts of tongues.

While Iohannes had been exploring the woods, he heard some cryptic noises, and feared the Paspahegh were about to attack. Iohannes got his sword ready to attack and found Rivkah. Ioannes had been utterly stunned, as she was very beautiful and did not attack as Ratburn had always warned. Rivkah had been following Iohannes, as she recognized him from a dream she had long ago. Ioannes asked Rivkah who she was, and she was able to speak and understand the Sparto-Gallicanium language. Iohannes found Rivkah to be very beautiful, and nothing like he expected the savages to look like. Iohannes explained that they were there to find a walled structure with a great stone temple. Rivkah showed Iohannes of a walled settlement from the high place, and showed him a village with walls made of dead trees and round roofed cabins. Iohannes then showed Rivkah a picture of what he meant, which she had never seen or heard of. Iohannes then got a laugh at knowing they parked on the wrong shore.

Iohannes nearly blew his chances with Rivkah after offering to rescue her from the savages, and bring her back to Hitaria. Rivkah explained that this place was her home. Iohannes tried to explain that she is an exception, and turned out fine. Rivkah then explains that these savages are her people, and she doesnt need any help from these intruders. Iohannes tried to apologize, But Rivkah told him to just come along, and let her show him the secrets of their land.

Rivkah gave him a tour of their culture and balance with nature. Rivkah showed Iohannes the grass dwellers known as the Alux, and these mammalian serpents dwelling in their rivers. Rivkah then tells Iohannes about how the trees give up their branches when they are too much to carry, and allow her people to use the branches to build their houses. Rivkah also tells how the trees can never reveal their secrets if people come into their land and chop them down. Rivkah then explains a tribe known as the Jenu, who only sought to destroy their land and people. Rivkah tells Iohannes about the battle to defend their land against these monstrous Mistivants. Frankly, Iohannes never heard of Mistivants turning into monsters, but was not unfamiliar with their existence. Rivkah then introduces Iohannes to the Ents and Willow in particular. Willow immediately trusts Iohannes, and tells Rivkah he might be her perfect match. By this time, Iohannes begins to realize that General Ratburn was mistakened about these people. Then, Iohannes always felt there was something strange about General Ratburn.

The Birthday Party and Busy Week

It came to pass that the Lenten season was nearing its end. Milo had been working on helping a teacher put names on these work books. Milo was instructed to write the first initial on the book, and the last name. On one student, Milo had to write the name of one Pervis Utz, and forgot to put a period after the P, and was apparently too close to the Utz. This Pervis was a white supremacist, and very sensitive about his name and beliefs. Pervis got disgusted with Milo over this mistake, and vowed vengeance. Pervis then used this as an excuse to hate Italians or multicultural couples. That afternoon after school, Milo was a bit anxioux as he was having difficulty getting some clients for his landscaping business. Milo already had Grandpa Tony, Aunt Adrienne, Uncle Pietro and Grandma Dora as clients. So far, Milo's clients were all older, but thought they would help him start up. The Thursday after Laetare Sunday, Milo was a bit anxious, as he and Ray had a deal that should he have at least 6 clients by this upcoming Friday, he would not have to start looking for a part time job in the service industry. Now Milo had no interest in working the service industry, as he did not have the outgoing personality that would allow him to do the easier and more enjoyable jobs. Milo knew well that he would only be able to get a crappy "behind the scenes" job, with the authoritarian leader, bossy co-workers, and end up working the hardest for the same pay. That afternoon, Milo ended up trying to ignore Ray, out of fear of him bringing up the deal. After school, Milo watched Pocahontas for the first time in years. After watching Pocahontas, Milo was invited over to the Filentino's for dinner. Ray confronted Milo at night about this, and he explained that he did not have enough clients, but did not want to have to be dishwashing all summer. Ray decided to accept that he only had four clients, even if they were all people he knew.

The next day in school was the last day for Mrs. O'Reilly, who would be out for about six weeks due to knee surgery. This new ugly woman who looked like Temperance had been in the classroom on that Friday. Mrs. O'Reilly explained that this ugly woman would be the substitute for the next few weeks. When class ended, Mrs. O'Reilly asked Milo not to ask this ugly woman too many questions. The unit they happened to be on was the birds and the bees.

At this time, Milo found that the WLP company had began to sell music on Imusic, which was a program he had an account to purchase music he wanted. Milo's plan with the program was to download 50 songs a month, and would download 25 church songs and 25 pieces of ethnic music. WLP is officially known as World Publishing Library, which is where the current hymnals at St. Timothy's came from. The other two major Catholic Liturgical Music companies are OCP and GIA. Milo found the songs "Jerusalem of Dreams" and "Behold! I make all things new". "Jerusalem of Dreams" was written by Rory and Claire Cooney and based on Psalm 122 in the style of a march, while "Behold I make all things new" is based on Revelation 21 and the book "On Loving God" by St. Bernard of Clairvaux.

On Saturday, Matt was in town for Eustace's birthday party. Alicia was a no-show for the second party, due to plans with some chums. By this time, Matt was getting out of his overly cautious phase. Possibly, Matt knew that Milo and Salvatore were giving him a hard time about this. That afternoon, Milo, Matt and Salvatore went for a walk in the Jafaris neighborhood. In their neighborhood, there was a game of setting up plastic flamingos in peoples front yards. Salvatore joked about setting up the flamingos in the Jafaris yard and put masking tape turbans on them. Of course, they had not been serious, as Milo did not think this would not impress Amira, should she find out. That night, Samantha had her birthday party.

Before the Party, Milo went to Church with Aunt Marie, Salvatore, Lilly and Grandpa Tony. In Church, Milo saw another woman from his Bible study group at Richard Espozito's. The opening hymn was "These Forty day of Lent". The priest that evening was Father Nick.

In Church, there was a majestic vision that started seven years ago on the First Sunday of Advent at the Saturday vigil. The Pilgrim who had begun his journey seven years ago had come nearer to the temple, and saw it quite clearly. Over the course of the years, the Pilgrim met up with many other Pilgrims also taking this seven year trek. They had been journeying through years of great toils and grief. That bright day, the pilgrims reached the temple city, after a long and tumultous journey. The Pilgrims walked through the gates into the City and it was quite glorious and serene, to which the Pilgrims vowed loyalty to. There stood the temple high on the hill in all its glory.

The Birthday Party was for Eustace, and took place at Aunt Jane's and Uncle Leo's. Milo found a VHS of the Little Mermaid with slight interest. All Milo really remembered was that the movie said was that it was based on a Hans Christian Andersen story. Naturally the original story is much more brutal than the Disney version.

On Monday, Milo could already tell, this ugly woman, who went by diggins did not really like him. As to why, Milo had no clue. Now Diggins was oddly close with this busybody twin Temperance, and a white supremacist Pervis. Strangely enough, Pervis and Temperance were very good friends. Diggins sometimes made snarky comments, like he was some type of stereotyper, and a pervert.

The last week of Lent had been quite a busy week for Milo. That Monday after School, Milo had an eye exam that afternoon. Milo remembered well that he had an eye exam on his first weekend off from Summer Vacation seven years ago, then another eye exam on the second weekend of Summer five years ago.

On Wednesday, Milo watched Aladdin for the first time in three years. Milo remembered well in Eighth grade, his chorus sang an Aladdin theme, and Steve cried the first time he heard "A whole new world". Milo had some flashbacks to his memories of the summer of 1999 and 2001. As it was, Milo still had orientalist tendencies, and still had some very romantic ideas of what those cultures were really like.

That evening, Milo would be performing as Simon the Cyrenian for the second year in the youth group live stations of the cross. At this presentation, the cross fell over knocking over the candles. Both Ray and Grandpa Tony were in the audience as Lydia had basketball practice and Margaret had to work late.

Then there was a vision of the front Stained Glass window being replaced by an image of the Genie in the middle, Aladdin and Jasmine on the outside, then the Sultan and Raja oan the outer edges of the windows. Then there was a great clearing of Synagogues, Churches and Mosques, while many young people started to congregate to movie theatres, Disney theme parks and shopping centers. Then there was a flashback to the controversy of the song "Arabian Nights" and the overall portrayal of Islamic culture. The complaint was the lyric "Where they cut off your ear if they don't like your face, it's barbaric but hey it's home" perpetuated negative stereotypes. Alongside, there were complaints of the guards perpetuating stereotypes of ruthless and barbaric punishments, along with shady business practices. This had taken place at a time when most people's impressions of Islam and the Middle East came from a form of Fundamentalist Islam restricted primarily to Saudi Arabia. This is the form of Islam that is known for beheadings and brutal forms of corporal punishment. There were many complaints from the Muslim and Arab community, and explained that this kind of barbarism did not represent their culture or religion.

On Thursday after School, Milo tried making rice crispy treats with a licorice frosting and jelly bean cookies. The licorice frosting had anise, and was to make the Rice Crispy treats taste Italian. When it came to the cookies, Milo oversalted them, considering he confused a tablespoon for a teaspoon, as he did not really know how to cook at the time. To fix this mess, Milo soaked the cookies in sugar syrup. In reality, the cookies were a lost cause. Milo intended on giving half of his baking goods to Amira. After completing the cookies, Milo made a CD with Lent and Holy Week hymns and ethnic music from all over the world. That night had been Lydia's birthday, and the Biancatello's got Mexican for dinner.

The Culprit identified

Over this time, Yuriyama figured out what the Mahishasura offspring was plotting. Yuriyama summoned Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, Victoria, Merriwhether and Billius. Yuriyama explained that the Mahishasura offspring was the Alien Offsprings brother, who was originally the one to plot the Khara's moving. Yuriyama explained that both the Mahishasura and Alien were working for their parent Pecunia. They all gasped in horror at this announcement. None of the Jinns present knew much about the Hypocordo's like Pecunia. Yuriyama had known where. What Yuriyama knew well was that the Mahishasura already strick. The other Jinns did not understand what this meant. Yuriyama explained that he had a vision of a 17th century CEO, and him perpetuating this myth that the Natives were savages, and starting a war between the English and New World natives all out of his lust for success.

Durnil appeared to relay a vision he had of the Mahishasura. He explained the vision of Mahishasura making business deals with some higher angelic powers. The Mahishasura asked for economic immortality. The Angelic beings denied his requests, and explained that everything that has a beginning also has an ending. The Mahishasura asked that his business interests should only be defeated by a human girl. The Angelic Minister allowed this request. The Mahishasura believed that a human girl could never defeat him. The Mahishasura began to breed a monstrous dragon that would search for gold. This type of dragon was known as an Immeltian dragon that would grow based on the more gold it gained. This Mahishasura gave this dragon just a little gold, and he became powerful enough to start terrorizing the peasants out of their shacks for money. These poor people had shacks made of easily combustible straw, and would lose their little amount of Gold by choice or against their will. The Dragon collected more gold and became strong enough to be able to breathe fire strong enough to burn wood shacks. The Dragon then terrorized the vassals and obtained more gold for Mahishasura. Then the Dragon developed a fire ability that got hot enough to be able to destroy houses of aluminum. The Dragon then terrorized merchants and obtained gold for Mahishasura. The Dragon gained more strength to melt stone. The Dragon then terrorized the barrons and obtained more gold for Mahishasura. Mahishasura had all the gold and ruled with great tyranny. There was one girl destined at birth to great herorism. She one day got an ice staff from her grandmother. This ice staff had a way of communicating, and told this girl to use the staff as an arrow and use her bow. One day, the bow guided her to the Dragon, and she shot the dragon with the ice staff, and he turned to ice. After this, the Mahishasura lost his power and was overthrown by all he had oppressed, and took his gold.

Durnil commended Alexander for making the charge think the Kurdish girl look like his former golf team mate. Maelendil never knew that such a thing happened and asked Alexander about this. Alexander explained that he had this intuition and went along with it. Cashmir wanted in the worst way to start lecturing Alexander, but knew that if Durnil approved, he must have known something. Maelendil just instructed Alexander to keep doing what he was, and summoned Cashmir to assist him. Neither understood what the Mahishasura was supposed to do. Then Gregory showed up, explaining that the Mahishasura tempts people to their shadow side.

Palm Sunday Greetings

At school the next day, Milo made Amira a Palm Sunday card and brought the CD's he burned the night before. Before his final class, Milo rushed to his locker and got his goods before class began. Milo had brought all his personal items, including a bookbag, coat and the goods to his last class, which was in the Library that day. Milo's science class was in the Library due to some chemistry project they had been assigned to.

When school let out, Milo quickly left the building, got to Amira's bus, and put the goods on her bus seat. This aroused the Bus driver's suspicions. Unfortunately another boy sat in Amira's seat and found these goods. These boys got quite a chuckle about this junk. Amira arrived on the bus, but never claimed these gifts, as she would have been embarrassed to take this junk. On the way home, Minu and Nousha were also riding the bus, and he in the worst way wanted to tell the girls that he was Silenzo. Not that this would have been a great idea, considering their past, and to presume that the girls even knew that Amira had a secret Admirer by the nicname Silenzo.

Milo had been in a fairly bad mood, as Amira had not gotten the goods, and he wasted all that time. Not to mention Milo felt pretty stupid about someone else getting a bunch of his junk. Milo then blabbed to Lydia about this, and how humiliated he was over this. Lydia then called Milo and idiot. When Ray got home, he took Milo, Lydia, Emily, Rachel and Barb to Eat-N-Park for dinner. As it was, they did not have too many options, due to the Friday Lent observances.

That night, Milo got worse news that the Rumcorns would be in town this weekend. Their reasoning was that they would soon be moving to Atlanta and be making less visits. Milo was pretty angry about this news. Plus, Milo was not too happy that the Rumcorns would be making less visits. Milo got this idea that there was some curse of the Southern states, any time Margaret's family moved down there. When Milo was in Third Grade, Uncle Doug and his daughters moved to Orlando, as his girlfriend, now wife wanted to move there. Not to mention, Milo had not seen Uncle Doug in years. Eventually, Uncle Doug's Ex-Wife Hortenzia Hoopshire moved into his neighborhood in Orlando. Plus Milo also remembered when Grandpa Clarence left Grandma Pearl, adopted Maple Carol's family, moved to Florida and had very limited contact with his biological family. Milo also was remembering how little they saw the Rumcorns when they were in Missouri, like once every two years.

Milo told Lydia about this, and she admitted she was disappointed. Milo then blurt out that the Rumcorns would rather live closer to that whore aunt Hortenzia. The girls had been humorously stunned that Milo had used this language. Then Milo continued his rant that the Rumcorns would rather be near that Fatass Carol, and the Bipolar Bitch Pam.

Milo had vented his anger about this on his relatives in Florida. Frankly, Milo needed someone to blame for the Rumcorns moving other than the Rumcorns. For a while, Milo was having some flashbacks about two summers ago, as Yasmine reminded him of Sabrina from Golf. Milo started thinking about two summers ago when they were on the boat, and how such a thing would never happen again.

Azeyas return

One day, the Cobolds who stayed back saw a majestic site of a carriage flying through the sky lead by winged Unicorns. Azeyas had returned to the Cobolds to announce great tidings. The Cobolds were slightly sore with Azeyas, and believe he had betrayed them. The Cobolds remembered how Azeyas heralded the Great Phoenix return only to have demise in some pit of Lava. Azeyas asked the Cobolds if they knew about Phoenix ashes. The Cobold's remembered well the memorial back in Altantica where the Great Phoenix pearl white ashes in the urn were kept.

Azeyas pointed the Cobolds over to the spout of flowing sand from the Mount of Lava. The Cobolds rarely looked at the Mount of Lava, and strongly hated to the point that they wished that they could destroy it. Yoshiyahu's effort to get into the Temple Grounds had been a massive failure, and felt disheartened that he could not fulfill the Great Phoenix last request. The Cobolds took a look at the Mount of Lava and noticed that the sand was still shooting out, and forming dry land. The Cobolds had been quite amazed at the wonder. Azeyas then pointed to the staircase that Yoshiyahu constantly tried to get to with no luck. The water was becoming less deep.

The Blue Vision

On Saturday, Milo was not in a very good mood over the Rumcorns. That morning, Milo and Ray had haircuts. Milo never mentioned any of this to Ray, as he really did not want a lecture about not telling people what they can and cannot do, as he already knew that. After the Hair appointments, Milo and Ray got bagels at Panera's. At Panera's Milo and Ray saw Danielle with Malina with another friend with a baby. Malina was over a year old. Danielle and Jesse lived in Lanford Illinois at the time, and came into Ciderpond to drop Ashlyn and Malina off to spend the week with Aunt Dianne, as they were going on a vacation to the Grand Canyon. During the Afternoon, Milo sulked around and watched Pocahontas II: Journey to the New World and Aladdin and the Return of Jafar. Milo was anything but impressed with the second Pocahontas, as it ruined the whole premise of the first movie. Milo had felt like it would have been better that the O'Malley's would be moving far away, and not have to have Alicia around as just some holiday obligation.

During the morning of Palm Sunday, Milo wished and prayed that the Diocese of Indianapolis would send out an inspirational to the whole city on selfishness and greed, and hoped the Rumcorns would get it. Lydia overheard Milo mumbling and told him to stop his praying, and told him he was the one being selfish. Milo told Lydia that they were the ones who just decided that some stupid job is more important than their family. Milo had no interest in Lydia getting a self righteous tone with him. Milo then let Lydia know they were the ones being just as selfish, considering that Kyle was going to be at Sussewago for a while, Kevin would be in his senior year at a new school, Bruce would have to leave his friends, Uncle Wayne's mother would be left alone, and Grandma Pearl would be in trouble if she ever got sick and only had Margaret to help. On Palm Sunday at church, Milo was asked to be an altar server, as they were short one. This is when they do the standard procession.

During the afternoon, Milo found out that Grandma Pearl had invited the Biancatello's over for dinner to see the Rumcorns. Milo had not really wanted to go over, as he felt it would be awkward to see them. That afternoon before dinner, Milo played Super Mario for the Super Nintendo, which he remembered first playing when the Rumcorns first moved to Indianapolis from Missouri almost seven years ago. Milo had remembered how they wanted to be closer to Grandma Pearl, and could not wait to be transferred to Indianapolis. This is when Uncle Wayne was in the service, and long retired.

The evening had gone by pretty quickly. At Grandma Pearl's, Milo played a "Haunted Mansion" game, which reminded him of two summers ago, when he had seen the movie. Luckily the Biancatello's were home fairly early. That night, the Simpsons episode "Kiss Kiss Bang Bangalore" first premiered, which was the episode where Mr. Burns outsources jobs to India, and Homer temporarily resides over a legal loophole. Then Homer blabs to the Indian workers about all the secret benefits Mr. Burns neglects to share. Milo starts to remember the episode "Maximum Homerdrive", which he recently downloaded. This episode was the episode where Homer and Bart go on a roadtrip as truckers to Atlanta to make a delivery. This episode always gave Milo a feel of just starting a break from School. However, Milo does not remember this episode when it first premiered seven years ago the day before going to Dudlechip. Milo started to see some parallels and wondered if this was some type of sign.

After watching the Simpsons, Milo watched Aladdin and the King of Thieves. Milo had not seen this movie since he was eight, despite owning it. This was the third sequel to the Aladdin Trilogy, and significantly better than "The Return of Jafar". This was the movie where Aladdin and Jasmine are about to get married, but are interrupted by the forty thieves. Aladdin and Jasmine find out the thieves were after an Oracle. Aladdin finds out his father is alive and goes on a journey to find he is the King of Thieves. The Forty Thieves wanted the Oracle to find the Hand of Midas. During the movie, Milo had these thoughts of the Hand of Midas, Aladdins Father Kassim, the Hand of Midas and the Oracle surrounding Atlanta. After the movie, Milo felt like he should be more forgiving to Grandpa Clarence and Uncle Doug. Then there appeared this vision of a Girl resembling Yasmine clothed in long hair and next to princess Jasmine in her wedding dress. There was then a transient sight full of tuquoist swirls. Then Milo started to really believe that the timings of the episodes had some type of meaning. Milo started to develop some greater sense of purpose. That night, Milo started to wonder why a company far off in Georgia would be interested in someone in Indiana. Milo hoped to get a dream into understanding exactly what was going on, and what these recruiters really wanted. Now Milo had been very familiar with extraordinary dreams, as he remembered well from Dancing day over a year ago.

Husisha's Vision

Husisha summoned Maelendil to relate a vision he had seen. This is the account of the Vision as told by Husisha. Husisha had seen what had come to be known as the Blue Vision. According to Husisha's account, the vision started off with two scenes known as the foretelling and the fulfillment. The vision of the foretelling starts off with a family man in a competition that resulted in a Truckers death. The family man feels responsible for the Truckers death, and impulsively makes this final delivery on time in his honor. This family man accidentally dishonors the truckers and accidentally blabs about some trucker secrets and they go after him. Meanwhile, and ordinary house wife is jealous that her husband and son are on a road trip and takes her daughter on an adventure to buy a doorbell. The doorbell turns out to be defective and never goes off until a Zorro rescuer comes along and whips the sound off.

The next vision known as the fulfillment starts off with a greedy company closing their plant and relocating all the jobs to this town known as Modasa. One worker is kept on the job and sent to Modasa, which is a culture that greatly honors the Goat. This employee gets into a fight with a goat after it steals his backpack. The townspeople are deeply horrified, and this man has to make ammends to the goat. This man starts his job and is exulted to a high place of honor after revealing job benefits and teaching them how to create better working conditions. Meanwhile, this mans sister in laws goes to a convention to meet their favorite celebrity. They befriend this celebrity, and he starts to become very annoying.

Then the two visions culminate and joined in two pictures of a school gym and a financial city. Around this financial city are a ruthlessly greedy boss, a family neglecting careerman, a golden hand and an occult staff. Then a princess appeared in a wedding dress made of hair and ready to do battle.

Soon enough, Alexander shows up with some findings he had just seen at night, along with Billius. According to Alexander, the charge had just developed a new theory to his relatives moving, and thinks there maybe something more going on, possibly something sinister. Maelendil explains how Conspiracy theories can be appealing, because they give a clear cut narrative to exactly why something bad has happened, and reduce it down to a single cause they can feel justified in fighting against. Maelendil uses the first example, with the idea that the cousin is scared of the Charges friend. Alexander interjects that this is true. Maelendil explains that it is, but that there is more to the story, creating moral complexity that makes a perfectly just solution nearly impossible to find. Maelendil explains that if the cousin is only afraid of the friend, it would be clear that she is utterly distressed, and only has to get counselling, bringing things back to normal. Maelendil explains the same is going on with the assumptions with the job. Billius interjects that companies purposely recruit residents from other cities. Billius explains that companies purposely do this in order to get people to sever any ties they have to their current residencies, and therefore the only ties they have in the new city is the company. Maelendil agrees that this does happen, but explains that there are other factors still at work, which he predicts will be explained at any minute.

Victoria then shows up with some findings in regards to the charges Aunt. According to the records, Bertha had always been jealous of Margaret. When Bertha got married to Wayne, they had a simple recipe in Pauls old bar he owned. Margaret was more popular in school. Margaret had a big Wedding, and Bertha was supposed to be the maid of honor. Before the wedding, Bertha cancelled her trip, as Kyle had an ear infection that Wayne easily could have handled. Even when Bertha was given a copy of the video, she refused to watch it. Margaret and Ray had not struggled financially, while Bertha and Wayne had. Alexander asked Victoria what the point was. Victoria asks Alexander if he does not see, but Bertha is jealous, and wants this opportunity to show Margaret up, and move to a large city in the high dixie society.

Rivkah's Journey

The Cobold Iohannes and the Paspahegh Rivkah were falling in love. By this time, Iohannes had been welcomed amongst the Paspahegh for supplying them with fortification from the Jenu, should they return. Iohannes became very accustomed to this lifestyle and greatly respected the Paspahegh culture. Iohannes greatly appreciated the way they could uitilize their environment so well, and not need to build great cities. Unfortunately Iohannes completely forgot about the rest of the Cobolds who were with General Ratburn.

Rivkah had a dream one night of a quest she had been given to find the Pyramid of the Great Phoenix and the Kukulcan. The Kukulcan is a serpentine creature who constantly grows, and when it gets too big, begins to eat its tail. This is what marked the time to allow the society to die, and soon rebuild. The legend of this city was that the natives known as the Nephites had built a glorious city, but became lustful for more power, riches and glory and were never content. The time had come for their society to decline, and begged for deliverance. Then an offspring known as the horseman advised the Nephites to sacrificing other natives from Parthania tribes, and that he would form their corpses in scales to resemble a snake's tail. The sacrifices had gone on too long, and city of the Nephites became very tyrannical, but seemed very high and refined, even with mandatory school.

Other tribes got fed up with the Nephites capturing and sacrificing their members, and figured out how they had lasted so long. The other tribes got together and summoned the Alux to locate Kukulcan's tail and present it to him. After the Alux revealed to Kukulcan what was going on, and presented his tail back to him, he went into the waters and began the long process of eating his tail. The Nephites civilization went through a painful fall where their peoples were scattered all over Parthania, and the Pyramid was abandoned and overgrown.

Rivkah knew she had to find and rededicate this pyramid, which may also be the only hope the Cobolds have of seeing the Atlantis Temple. The Elders informed Rivkah that this is a long journey, and once she starts, there is no turning back. Rivkah knew that this was not something she could turn down. Iohannes decided that he would go with Rivkah, and she explained that he would have to leave this home. Iohannes explained that he left his home on the Londinian facility in order to find a new home in Atlantica and Pedmontus. Iohannes was born after the Forester Cobolds were relocated to this horrible facility in the old Londinium. There was a little arguing, and Rivkah agreed to let Iohannes join him.

During this quest, Iohannes met up with other Cobolds who abandoned Ratburns Mission. The Cobolds told Iohannes all about the incompetence of Ratburn, and decided to accompany Iohannes and Rivkah on this mission. Iohannes introduced these other Cobolds to Rivkah, and explained all about how the two met, their culture and supplying the Paspahegh with defense. According to these Cobolds, General Ratburn was only having them cut tree's down, and build up settlements. Rivkah had been horrified about what she heard, and explained how to harvest fallen branches. Rivkah explained how the Jennu seemed very similar to General Ratburn after the Cobolds gave some descriptions.

Spring Break

That particular Holy Week, Milo was in school, as their Spring Break was the week after Easter that year. On Monday and Wednesday, Milo had his SAT's much to his displeasure. The test was just as stupid as Milo expected, and the time he was not taking the SAT, he was studying for them, and doing endless practice tests. Milo hated the constant studying, and knew well that the test was nothing but a scam. By this time, Milo was sick of hearing how this test is for his future. Milo frankly had no interest on letting some stupid test write his future, or get accustomed to living a pointless life.

On Wednesday, Grandpa Tony, Aunt Dianne and her Granddaughters Ashlyn and Malina came over for dinner. Ashlyn was still a bit afraid of Milo, as she did not like Boys in general as a toddler. Malina was fine with Milo, but still preferred Lydia. Ray started telling Aunt Dianne and Grandpa Tony about the trip to Tampa they would be taking after Easter. The Biancatello's would leave Easter night after the party at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's. On Friday, the Biancatello's went to Church for the Good Friday Service. That evening, Milo had his Living Stations for a second time. On Easter Sunday, the Biancatellos would be leaving for Tampa, along with Salvatore and Emily. As for Saturday night, the Biancatello's got dinner at Wendy's. Ray mentioned that they would be up in the air this time tomorrow.

On Easter Morning, the Biancatello's went to the 9am Mass, and were greeted by Monsignor Warner, who had greeted them with "Boune Pascua", meaning "Happy Easter" in Italian. This gave Milo an idea. At Church, The Biancatello's saw Danielle and Jesse who just got back from Arizona, and Ashlyn and Malina. For Easter Dinner, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane hosted dinner, and the Biancatello's still attended. Frankly, the food had not been too good that year, as Ray made the meatballs, and explained they were supposed to cook in the sauce. Aunt Jane just threw them in the sauce before serving, as she forgot this vital piece of information. Before leaving, Grandma Pearl mentioned the Rumcorns, and Uncle Wayne going down to Atlanta in a few weeks for the interview.

By late afternoon, Ray and Margaret first picked up Salvatore, then Emily. At 6pm, they flew out of Ciderpond and into Philadelphia. The Biancatello's arrived in the Philadelphia airport and Milo saw a substitute he had seen in school before. Milo had a fairly easy time this flight, and was not so bothered with being in a plane, or catastrophized like last time. Now being in the airport was still pretty boring.

As they were going to Florida, Milo started developing some theories that Hortenzia was somehow behind this job offer Uncle Wayne got. Milo started thinking that she had some connections to this Atlanta Company, and was plotting to use the Rumcorns, and get their money. Then Milo planned on confronting Hortenzia if they crossed paths. At 1am, the Biancatellos arrived in Tampa, and right on time. They got their rental car, drove through Tampa and into the suburb where their resort was.

Ray took Milo, Lydia, Salvatore and Emily to see Margaret. Margaret was working that week, which was why the Biancatello's were down there in the first place. Before heading to the pool, Milo told Margaret to work hard, in a comedic fashion. During the day at the pool, Milo had the song "Lord of the Dance" stuck in his head, as they sang that song at the Easter Sunday mass. This hymn had been similar to "Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day", only much shorter. The hymn was written by Sidney Carter, and based the name of the hymn on the Dancing Shiva statue known as the Nataraja. Carter believed that Jesus transcends religious walls, and not bound to a single time.

Then there was a vision of Jesus making disciples with the ordinary Peter, James and John, while the religious elites ignored him. Then Jesus performed a healing on the Sabbath, and the Jewish Fundamentalists known as the Pharisees called out for his crucifixion. There was a large crowd of holy people, from Pharoah and his Armies, the Pharisees, Saducees, Zionists, Street Preachers, the Religious Right, Taliban, Hindutva, the Saud Family, Bloody Mary of England, Savanorola, witch burners, Puritans, tollhousers, sedevacantists, Traditionalists and Monarchists calling for the execution of Jesus. Then Jesus was condemned and harassed by the Devil and his ruthless accusations, but did not die as planned and put an end to the Pharisee movement. The Religious elites and Political dominators were baffled when Jesus conquered their sentence.

The Biancatello's had been to Tampa at this same resort almost three summers ago, before Milo started Highschool. At Lunch, Milo told Margaret and her co-workers that they had been swimming and laying out all afternoon. That night, Ray, Milo, Salvatore, Lydia and Emily had dinner at Sonney's barbeque. Margaret did not eat with them, as she was working and dinners were provided at the resort.

The next day, the Biancatello's went to Bush Gardens. Milo had not been to Busch Gardens since the summer before starting Highschool. Milo found it weird to be at this place before he would even know what highschool would even be like. During the day, the kids went on several rides, including a safari, a few roller coasters and some water rides. Milo and Salvatore talked about the awful sandwiches Marky Louise made while waiting in line. At the end, Milo searched all the stores to find this tiger shirt with a Buddhist stupa.

On the Third Day, they went to the Waffle House for breakfast. Salvatore had wanted to go to the restaurant since the first day. At the restaurant, Salvatore did not even order Waffles. Milo ordered Waffles, and the lady kept asking if he wanted more extras, like caramel and whipped cream. Then they were off to Adventure Island. Now adventure Island was still fun, but Milo still liked Busch Gardens better. That night, Ray took the kids out to Thai for dinner. Milo got a red Thai Curry, which came with Crab soup. The restaurant reminded Milo of the Hogwarts Gryffondor Common room. That evening, when Milo nearly dosed off, he was awakened by and old friend Gino. Milo had not seen Gino since the last time he was in Tampa. The fourth day was back at the pool, and the last day. For dinner, the Biancatello's went to a mediocre Italian chain. The waiter asked Milo a question, and he responded Si. The waiter said he was not Spanish. On Friday, all except Margaret left the resort early in order to go back to Ciderpond. No one was happy about going back. On the way home, Milo started thinking about two summers ago, and anticipated a better summer than the previous one.

On Friday afternoon, Milo finished "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire", which he got as an Easter present. On the weekend after returning home, Lydia had a basketball game in Toledo. Therefore Milo spent the weekend with the Filentino's. In the morning, the Filentino's took Milo on a Cancer walk down at the beach. Milo saw a few people he knew, along with Aunt Jane, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester. Milo told them all about his trip to Tampa. That afternoon, Milo and Salvatore took a walk by the Jafari's house. That afternoon, they had not been out.

On Sunday afternoon, Ray and Lydia returned home, and they all went over to Grandma Pearl's to pick up Jinny. Jinny was pretty excited to see them, and jumped on Milo's lap. That evening, Milo ordered some new imusic hymns from the Notre Dame Folk Choir, and a few from GIA. Imusic released two albums from Notre Dame Folk Group, "Prophets of Joy" and "Crossroads in Praise". Some of Milo's favorites were "Behold! I Make all Things New", "Sing Hosanna", "Sing to God with a Tamborine" and "Christ be near at Either Hand".

The Return of the Great Phoenix

Rivkah, Iohannes and their new expedition team were still on a quest to find the lost pyramid. Frankly, the expedition did not seem to be going too well, and the Pyramid was nowhere in sight. Rivkah started to fear that she had been tricked, and wept bitterly. One day, the team came across an elder from the Ixcatek tribe who gave them an emerald statue of Kukulcan. This elder instructed the team to place the statue on the high altar Pyramid. Then the Elder told the story of the curse that had caused much warring and confrontation with other tribes of Parthania. The elder explains how the Pyramid was the one place that all the tribes of Parthania were united to give thanks to the Dance, whom the Parthinians called the Great Spirit. The Elder then gave the expeditioners specific directions to the Pyramid, and warned them to follow exactly.

The team eventually arrived at the pyramid after trekking through heavy jungles, steep cliffs and quicksand. This pyramid was an angled step pyramid with a set of stairs leading to the temple on the top. The top of the pyramid housed the temple with the altar in the center. There was a stand that was supposed to house a statue. The Cobold who bore the bird statue placed it on the stand as the Elder instructed. At once, a great bright light emitted from the bird statue, and there was a great quake. Then the bird statue came to life and flew off singing a song declaring that the Horseman offspring known as Huitzilopochtli to the Parthanians has been scattered.

The Cobold Expedition and Rivkah stayed at the pyramid for several days, scoping out the land, and searching for the temple. To Iohannes slight disappointment, he could not see the Temple from where he was. Then there was a great gathering where the Parthanians travelled from the tribes to the temple in thanksgiving for casting out the Huitzilopochtili from their land and restoring peace to Parthania. The Parthanians in gratitude for Rivkah, Iohannes and the other Cobolds offered to allow them travel through their territory, and gave them directions back to the Paspahegh lands.

Back in Atlantica, there was a great sight. The spout of Sand had stopped and a great land of beach was revealed. Then the mount of Lava started to crack and there was a great tumbling of the rocks into the waters, and revealed a fertile island. The Cobolds headed over to the memorial for the Great Phoenix and were greeted by a messenger holding the Urn containing the white ashes. This urn was empty and the messenger exclaimed the Phoenix is not here. At once, the Cobolds understood what this meant, and heard a bird song. The Cobolds sang a song of Jubilation at this great victory and played on their tamborines and cymbals in praise to the Dance. Then the Cobolds travelled to the coast and saw a majestic bird flying at the speed of light first behind them, then in front, to the left and then the right. Then this bird flew over to Parthania.

The Charisms of St. Patrick and Judith

As most know well, St. Patrick was the one who brought Christianity to Ireland and the Countries patron saint. Judith is the heroin of an Apocryphal book that is only in Catholic and Orthodox bibles, but absent from Protestant and Jewish scriptures. Judith was the woman who beheaded the tyrannical loyalist Holofernes. Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir were summoned by the Charisms of St. Patrick and the Prophetess Judith. Both Charisms knew that a great battle was near, and sought to offer assistance. The Judith Charism told the story of the woman who used brains and tricked the bully Holofernes. As the story goes, the King Nebuchadnezzar sent his loyal general Holofernes to terrorize Israel. The woman Judith hatches a plan to save Israel. Judith seduces Holofernes into her tent, after he has gotten drunk, and she beheads him. Then Israel sings a song of Jubilation for Victory over the Assyrian army.

St. Patrick lived amongst the Celtic people of Ireland, who were outside the bounds of the Roman Empire. As the story goes, St. Patrick returned to Ireland to bring Christianity to the island. This is said to be the hearth of Western Christianity not influenced by Roman politics, and more nature centered. This was during a time when Western Christianity was practiced in a very imperialistic way emphasizing kingship, Roman Law and juridical resolutions. There was a prayer attributed to St. Patrick known as the Breastplate that uses many celtic cultural metaphors in a Christian context for Spiritual battle. Much of the history had been revised by the monarchs.

The Judith and St. Patrick Charisms joined the other Jinns for Spiritual Battle. By this time, the warriors established were Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, Husisha, Victoria, Merriwhether, Billius, Randolf and the Charisms of St. Patrick and Judith.

Easter Greetings

The Thursday after Spring Break, Margaret returned back from Tampa. Milo also made a CD with an Aladdin themed prom invitation and some Marian and Easter hymns. The Prom invitation had a picture of Aladdin and Jasmine on the carpet, and said "You are cordially invited to attend the Prom with me, all expenses paid."

That Friday Milo made Amira another card for Easter. The Card said Buone Pascua, which Milo learned on Easter Sunday at Mass. During School, Milo's friend Jack said that he would keep an eye on the card, and let him know on Monday if Amira got it. After school, Milo rushed to Amira's bus and got some other bus rider to drop the cards on Amira's seat, as to not arouse the drivers suspicions for a second time. Milo had seen Amira get on the bus, but did not have time to tell if she got the goods or not, as he had to get to his bus.

Back at home, Amira put the CD in and first came across the hymn "Immaculate Mary". This is a song Milo had downloaded over a year ago, right after Pope John Paul II passed away. This hymn is believed to be a Folk Hymn from the Pyreneese Mountains. Then there was a vision of the Holy Springs of Lourdes first announced by Mary to St. Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes France. The healing waters of the Holy Springs sent fourth a great flood to a world tainted by poisonous forces.

That weekend, Milo downloaded a song known as "All Things New" by Rory Cooney. Milo first heard the Hymn two years ago when The Biancatello's went to Church on Sunday in Indianapolis for Kyle's graduation and saw Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in theatres for the first time. This was right before that Summer Milo had been thinking about frequently since Yasmin came into the picture.

On Monday, Milo's friend Jack who rides Amira's bus confirmed she had gotten the goods, as she was seen carrying them out. Milo had known Jack since the very beginning of Elementary School. In elementary school, Jack was the awkward kid who got picked on, particularly by Dudley, but Milo was nice to.

One Thursday later, Milo had an awards assembly, as he had perfect attendance. This was the first time he had perfect attendance since Seventh Grade. But Milo rarely missed school, and it had to be for something really important. In Eighth grade, Milo missed a day for Grandma Rosa's funeral. In ninth grade, Milo missed two days from the flu. In tenth grade, Milo missed the Monday after easter, as that was the first day back after Spring Break.

That afternoon, after school, Salvatore and Gianni stopped over while on a walk. Milo told Salvatore all about giving Amira an Easter card and an invitation to the prom with Aladdin pictures. Salvatore got a laugh out of the Aladdin theme. While visiting, Salvatore mentioned the Aladdin theme in the card. Lydia then freaked at Milo for never mentioning an Aladdin theme card to her. By this time, Lydia knew about the Easter card. According to Lydia, Amira would think Milo was either racist or a five year old. At the assembly, when the Biancatello's were going in, they also saw Minu walking in with Mr. and Mrs. Jafari. The students congregated in the hall closest to the auditorium, and the teacher led the procession. Rokshana was also in the procession. Milo found that Mr. and Mrs. Jafari were sitting with Rokshana's parents.

Over that weekend, it was time for Milo and Salvatore's confirmation preparation. Milo chose Uncle Mike as his sponsor, and Salvatore picked Rob. Milo chose Moses as his confirmation name. Milo had always saw Moses as a hero willing to stand up to tyrants, and not bow down to unjust authority. On Saturday night, the Biancatello's attended this 7pm mass at a Church just past Phyllisville, as Lydia had a game in the morning.

The evening before Confirmation, the Biancatellos, Filentino's, Uncle Mike, Aunt Jackie, Grandpa Tony, Grandma Dora, Grandma Pearl and Rob had dinner at Olive Garden. Grandpa Tony was talking with another older parishoner from St. Timothy's, who also knew Aunt Mary and Uncle John. This was before practice that would take place that evening. Foodwise, the dinner was nothing special, considering it was Olive Garden.

On the evening of Confirmation, Milo introduced Uncle Mike to Jimmy. The Candidates all were gathered outside the sanctuary, waiting for the okay to congregate. This reminded Milo of his first communion nine years ago. The opening hymn was "We are Called", and the celebrants were Monsignor Warner, Monsignor Sorbiewski, Father Nick and the Deacons. Lydia was an altar server with two boys. During the Confirmation rite, the Bishop said Milo and Salvatore's confirmation names the loudest. Now Salvatore's confirmation name was Rocco.

General Ratburn unmasked and the Celebrations

The Cobolds still under General Ratburn were under heavy labor, and had exploited the land pretty severely. They would not join the Cobolds who escaped, and were brainwashed into believing that Ratburn was their just leader. Meanwhile, back on the ship, After the great quake, the vials containing General Ratburns medicine all broke, and the supply was lost. One afternoon, out of nowhere, General Ratburn got ready to ship out of Parthania without the Cobolds and escape. The Cobolds figured out that Ratburn was acting strange and snuck on his ship. The Cobolds hid themselves well, in case Ratburn entered the ship.

Soon enough, Ratburn boarded ship and set sail from Parthania. When Ratburn was driving the ship, the Cobolds searched through Ratburns belongings, and found his broken flasks. One Cobold Irkel identified the flask as containing a tonic that could transform ones physical appearance for 12 hours. Then Ratburn found the Cobolds and demanded to know what they were doing. The Cobolds confronted Ratburn, and he told them they are in no place to ask such questions. Then Ratburn got ready to retort but got a bit dizzy and collapsed into a chair. For a short time, Irkel and the other cobolds thought that the Governor was really on medicine, and collapsed from not having any. At once, the Cobolds saw General Ratburn transform into a Hypocordo they had seen before, but a long time ago, but still passed out. One Cobold immediately recognized that this was the Governor who ruled Londinium before the flood, and oppressed them at Beaubelles. When the Governor came to, the Cobolds confronted him, and he threw them overboard.

The Cobolds thrown overboard had not been too far from Parthania, and able to swim to a shore fairly close to the Pyramid. Upon arriving at the shores, they came across Iohannes, the escaped Cobolds and Rivkah. Iohannes updated these Cobolds about Rivkah, the Pyramid and the gathering of the tribes. These Cobolds then told Iohannes about General Ratburn being the Governor, and being thrown overboard. At this, the Cobolds began to build canoes under Rivkah's guidance, and return to the mainland to warn the rest of the Cobolds.

When the Voyager Cobolds with Rivkah arrived at the shores of Atlantis, they found the new beach and this garden where the Mount of Lava once stood. The Cobolds on the voyage had been utterly confused, and did not know the news about the Great Phoenix. The Cobolds had started to hear singing, which they could sense from Lionalem. The Cobolds then travelled to Lionalem to find that the Cobolds who stayed back in Atlantis along with the Atlanteans celebrating. The Cobolds found a celebration on the Festival Mosaic in the shape of a Gothic Triskele with much dancing. They also saw plays retelling of the Cobolds saga of first being taken from Pedmontus and this mysterious destiny of great events that led them to this very moment. Then another storyteller was reciting the great works of the Great Phoenix, whom these newly arrived Cobolds believed dead.

Iohannes asked what was going on, and one Atlantean was shocked that they had not heard, and explained that the Great Phoenix is reborn. This Atlantean updated Iohannes and his Cobolds along with Rivkah on the news that had taken place while they were on voyage. At this news, Iohannes and his Cobolds were so overjoyed with the news that they forgot all about the Governor, and joined in the celebrations. During the festivities, there was the recitation of the lyrics "Sing a New Song, Rejoice, The Dawn is Waking".

When the Festivities died down, Iohannes told one Atlantean Elder about what had transpired in Parthania, and introduced him to Rivkah. That night, Iohannes asked for Rivkah's hand in Marriage. As the rest of the story goes, Iohannes and Rivkah returned back to Parthania to get her father, the Paspahegh Chief's blessing. Soon enough, the Paspahegh elder performed the wedding, and there was a great celebration.

The Failed Prom Plans

The Friday before Prom, Milo was in a foul mood, as Margaret got mad at him for forgetting to get a progress report signed. Milo did not agree with the policy, and was acting in consciencious objection. Plus, Milo did not appreciate being treated wrong over some stupid policy to begin with. That afternoon, Milo prepared to ask Amira last minute while tickets were still on sale. However his plans were crushed by a horrible substitute Ms. Diggins. The original teacher was out for a few weeks due to surgery. This substitute hated Milo since the beginning.

The story with Ms. Ethel Diggins is that she had a child out of wedlock, and her Grandmother let her stay at her condo in Florida until a job opportunity came. Diggins enjoyed this prolonged vacation, and had no interest in ever getting a job. To Diggins disappointment, she was offered an opportunity to substitute back in Ciderpond, which meant her Grandma kicked her out of the condo. Diggins became resentful of the teacher who had to go out for surgery. Diggins figured out that this teacher loved Milo, and therefore hated him since.

As we remember, Before Mrs. O'Reilly left, she asked Milo to not ask Diggins too many questions and wait till she got back. So Diggins decided that Milo was a pervert and gave her a sense of justification to hate him. Somehow, Diggins figured out about Amira, and tried to make Milo knock off any communication he had with her. Milo had been a bit suspicious about how this even happened.

In the classroom with Diggins, there was a Monstrous offspring known as the Grinch. This grinch was the offspring of the hypocordos Sleezum and Buttkampft. This grinch had possessed Diggins at the time, much to her permission and guided her to intrude on Milo's plans with Amira. After class, the Grinch departed Diggins and on her orders, went to Amira. As Diggins ordered the Grinch, he told Amira that Silenzo blew her off.

On the day they were selling prom tickets, Milo planned on using the last five minutes of official class to ask Amira if she wanted to go to Prom. Now Milo could not seriously believe this would work. As it was, Diggins broke the rules and made the class work during the last five minutes of class. Milo had been angry at Diggins, as he could not ask Amira to the prom, all because Diggins abused her power. When Milo had another class with her, Diggins then started giving Milo a hard time about his computer being too noisy. Milo was furious with Diggins, and went down to student services for the remainder of class. Milo talked with a woman at the student servies office who was good friends with Aunt Judy.

At lunch, Milo said all kinds of horrible things about Diggins to his friends, and referred to her by every horrible name possible. Milo referred to diggins as a Bitch, Slut and Gold-diggins. Frankly, Milo just needed to blame Diggins, when he did not really plan prom out too well, and was planning on getting Amira's answer last minute.

Ms. Diggins had not been so happy when she found out what Milo had said about her, but he did not care, as the regular teacher would soon be back. Plus, Aunt Judy had complained about Diggins. Aunt Judy could not stand Diggins, and considered her lazy. What had happened was Diggins never took proper attendance for students, and Aunt Judy was responsible for making sure all these attendance papers all came through.

Yuriyama's Grim Tidings

The battle team of Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, Husisha, Victoria, Merriwhether, Billius and the Judith and St. Patrick Charisms had seen the Grinch offspring having posessed the substitute. Cashmir recognized this Grinch offspring, whom he referred to as the party pooper and one to ruin others plans. The Grinch has been known to take two forms, being the form recently seen, and leaving early traces before the intrusion, and another form with a condescending grin and use of patronizingly lecturous babytalk for last minute surprise intrusions. The Grinch in this form is called the Queen. Cashmir then mentioned that Sleezum is a hypocordo so concerned for safety that he is willing to make moral compromises to save his skin.

Alexander became most concerned with Milo giving Amira music full of Marian hymns. Alexander knew well of the Marian Cults that had sprung up over the course of the last 2000 years. Alexander knew they could become very manipulative with sentimentalism and fear. Maelendil assured Alexander that he will watch over in the event that such a thing does occur. Cashmir became concerned with how Milo was taking the Rumcorns move.

Then Yuriyama showed up to relay a vision he had. Yuriyama had seen a Fundamentalist witch hunter chase after a woman accused of witchcraft. This witch hunter had been given permission by the Bishop Gabrielle Condulmer, and believed the accused woman of poisoning the wells causing a plague to the clergy. This witch hunter tried to take her goods and killed her in the process. Then the witchhunter finds a baby and tries to stab him, believing him to be possessed. Then a village priest stops the witch hunter and refers to the woman as innocent. Then the scene moves to the present with a radical iconoclast seeking to find the bankers, and vows to find them if he has to burn down all of Charlotte. Then there is this song "Jerry Falwell Longed to purge the world of vice and sin, and he saw corruption everywhere except within". Then the final vision is of Diggins with a grey short chinlike bowl cut, and an ugly scowl.

None of the Jinn were too thrilled to hear this news. After Yuriyama told the story, he commended the Charisms of Judith and St. Patrick for joining the battle, and told them their efforts would be well rewarded. Yuriyama remembered well when the St. Patrich Charism appeared so long ago at the first mass with the Jafari's. Then Yuriyama awkwardly told Maelendil that he may need to summon Axelrod the balanced from the First Annogrammatron Order. Maelendil does not typically interact with the First annogrammatron order unless necessary. This was considered a necessary emergency that Axelrod maybe the only one to fix.

When Axelrod was summoned, Maelendil explained the situation with the Substitute working with the grinch for malicious reasons. Axelrod declared that the Substitute abused her authority, fraternized with dark forces and acted with unjust prejudice, and would therefore be under the charges debt. Axelrod then told the Jinns that there was already someone in debt to the Charge by the name of Davis Woznich, for malicious slander from four years ago by means of uncontrolled temper tantrums. Maelendil knew not to ask about debts, and how they could be severely misused.

Maelendil summoned the St. Patrick Charism to reveal the movie to the charge, just in case. Then Maelendil summoned Alexander and Cashmir to develop a plan for the Charge and the Kurdish Girl to speak. Then Maelendil explained to Victoria, Merriwhether and Billius that they had a secret mission for them that could not be revealed, and that he did not even know. The trio believed and hoped that this would be some upcoming adventure with impending results. Maelendils last request was that the Jinns make sure they know that the Dance is Love, not fear. Then Maelendil requested that they let others know this too, especially those in most need.

Milo speaks to Yasmin

One weekend, Milo had watched the Aristocats, and saw the trailer for the Hunchback of Notre Dame. With the Aristocats, Milo considered this to be the silliest of the Disney Movies so far. Milo had seen the Hunchback of Notre Dame when he was Seven the summer after First Grade. Milo remembered during the movie, laughing so hard when Frollo fell off the Bell Tower into the molten metal and Margaret becoming concerned about this. The other point of interest, Diggins had been the first teacher since Mcgruder that he utterly hated.

One day in class, Milo became haunted by what he remembered of the Hunchback of Notre Dame trailer Music. He remembered the commercial when Frollo told Quasimodo he does not know what its like out there, and Esmerelda telling him to leave this place. After school, Milo downloaded the song "The Bells of Notre Dame". Shortly after, Milo had bought the Hunchback of Notre Dame on VHS. This movie in particular had been known to be one of the darker, and not so child friendly of the Disney Movies. Around this time, Milo also had rented Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, and loaded the CD's to the computer and MP3 player.

Milo had spotted Yasmin a few times, as she had a class near his Spanish classroom. Before Memorial Day weekend, Milo made it his goal to introduce himself to Yasmin, buy could not explain why. Yasmin is also pretty in her own right, but Milo was focused on Amira. On the Friday before Memorial Day weekend, Milo got a pass to go to his locker, and went straight to the Junior Highschool to waste no time. Milo had been at the Junior Highschool a bit too early, and stopped in to visit some old teachers.

As soon as Milo saw Yasmin, he introduced himself. Milo told Yasmin that he had seen her in the Iran exhibit in December with Nousha and Rokshana. Milo asked Yasmin if she knew Amira, and he explained that she knew her from his neighbors. Milo never explained that his neighbors were the Khara's.

There was a vision of Uncle Wayne on the left hand side of the door, and Judge Claude Frollo on the back wall surrounded by Fire in much wrath. Then there was the recitation of "Kyrie Eleison". This is the Greek for "Lord Have Mercy". Then there was a choir reciting "Lord have Mercy on Yasmine", "Lord have mercy on the Rumcorns" and "Lord have Mercy on the Biancatellos and the Sassani's".

After Spanish, Milo headed back to Health Class, and Listened to the Half Blood Prince, as there was a substitute due to Diggins getting sacked. By this time, many students had complained about her favoritism, and utter hostility, and Aunt Judy had quite some influence at the school. Having talked to Yasmin made Milo a bit overconfident that he considered saying Hi to Minu in front of his friend Pat, and introducing himself to Amira. That afternoon, Milo placed a Memorial Day card with a cd on Amira's bus seat. The CD included some patriotic songs, national anthems and the hymn "We have been told". This hymn had been sung on Easter Sunday after Dudlechip and four Halloweens ago when the Jafari's were in Church.

On Saturday, Maziyar drove past the Biancatello's when Ray was out front doing some yard work. Maziyar stopped to talk with Ray for a little bit. Margaret let Milo know that Maziyar was visiting. Now Maziyar did not know about the Silenzo Alibi or that Milo had any interest in Amira. Maziyar asked Milo if he sees much of Rokshana. Milo did mention the Iran exhibit he saw her at back in December. That late afternoon, the Biancatellos went to Lydia's basketball game out of town. Milo came along to the game, but listened to the Half Blood Prince on his MP3 player. During the game, Milo had this song known as "God is a God of Love", which changed from major to minor and back to major key again. This is a hymn written by James Chepponis based on Psalm 91 and 23. The Melodic Gloria and "Life Giving Bread, Saving Cup" are two Chepponis hymns that have been sung at St. Timothy's. During the game, there were two false alarms of a fire danger.

Then there was a horrible vision at the beginning of sheep wandering in darkness and scattered from the fold. Then these horrible red demonic figures shooting arrows condemnation. Then the vision turns quite beautiful, where Shepherd appears and casts away the red figure, and gathers the sheep back to the fold. The sheep give great thanks and blessing to the shepherd who showed unconditional mercy and lovingkindness to bring them back into the fold.

After the game, the Biancatello's go to a strip mall for Dinner. Milo last remembered being in this area two summers ago, when dropping Lydia off at a basketball camp.

The next Sunday, Milo went to church with the Filentino's, as Lydia had a basketball game. Then Milo went to Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes for a Memorial Day party. On Memorial Day Monday, Grandma pearl came over to the Biancatellos for dinner. Grandma Pearl and Margaret spoke about what things would be like once the Rumcorns moved. They both agreed that the Rumcorns would not be making frequent visits like they had.
Chapter 31: Summer Antics

As it came to pass, the school year came near an end. That Friday was the last day for Seniors. In Science, Milo told Justin that he remembered him from Pleasant Tune with Ms. Zanto. Derek mentioned that he was in Ms. Zanto's class in the morning. Milo then figured out who he was, and how they did not get along too well. That Friday night, Lydia, Morgan, Barb and Rachel had their Eighth Grade dance, which Milo remembered attending three years back.

On the last Tuesday before school got out, Milo went over to Rita's Italian Ice to pick up some gift certificates. Milo intended to place the gift certificates. Before leaving, Milo ran into his old friends Charles and Lindsey, who rode the bus with him two years ago. Charles was graduating that evening. As it was, the seniors were done a week earlier than the rest of the Ciderpond High students. This officially meant that Minu was also done with Highschool. This slightly bothered Milo, as he still had some unresolved feelings for Minu.

The Return to Londinium

By this time, the Cobolds of the Forester Clan had completed their mission in Atlantis, and it was time for them to return to Londinium in glory. The Cobolds had been so busy in Atlantis and Parthania that they had not been back to Londinium or Pedmontus since they left. Over this time, the Cobolds had become quite homesick, and longed to return to the Gardens of Pedmontus again. By this time, it had been established that the Cobolds now had a way to get to the Atlantis Temple. When Iohannes and Rivkah returned the gold bird to the Pyramid, the Cobolds became most welcome amongst the Tribes of Parthania. By this time, Iohannes and Rivkah returned from Parthania after having been wed by the Paspahegh elder. The next news was that Rivkah was expecting her first child.

The Final Weaning

Maelendil called a meeting with Cashmir, Alexander and Husisha. The time had come for Milo to be fully weaned off of Minu. Cashmir thought this would be hard for Milo, but Alexander thought this would be a cinch. Maelendil had been very concerned, but knew that Milo was in better hands with Amira. Husisha knew well that the Revelations of Milo and Amira's past were near completion that began that February. Husisha suggested that a scene from Amira's birth movie be imitated, knowing full well that would catch Milo's attention.

Alexander asks Maelendil about the destiny of the Jafari's. Maelendil asks Alexander why he cares about the Jafari's. Alexander admits that he can see that even if there is never to be anything romantic, that he hates to see the Jafari's and Biancatello's be in a conflict over something so silly. Then there is a voice saying "That is true". The Charism of Cecil Spring Rice appears, much to the Jinns pleasure. Maelendil asks the Charism what he owes the pleasure. The Spring Charism explains that he sees great divisions coming upon the Indo-Iranian Community of Essex. The Charism asks Maelendil about the story of the Jafari's, but assures him there is no presumption to blame the Charge. Maelendil explains how the Charge lived next door to a Pashtun family since he was three years old, which introduced him to another Charge of their community. Then Maelendil explains how there was an Elamite family who attends the same Church as the Charge, and knew his cousins. Maelendil explains the period of unification four summers ago, when the two charges had easy access, and one charge got along with the Elamites. Maelendil tells how three falls ago, the neighbors bought a house, after a trick by an offspring known as the Grey Alien. Maelendil then tells the story of how the Charge offended one of the Elamites, due to a crush, and was put under a severe punishment by a Maludico known as Draco. The Charism insists that Alexander is right, and that differences need to be put aside.

The Last day of School

Before the last day of school, Milo had a bit of a late night making preparations for his last day. Ray got mad at Milo for staying up late, much to his annoyance, and felt it was no big deal before the last day of school. Plus, Milo was not one to be like being told what to do, or anyone concerning themselves over bed time to begin with. That morning, Margaret mentioned that the brochure for summer classes like the one he attended last year had never come in the mail. Usually the brochure comes if the services were used before. Frankly Milo was happy that the book did not come, and was relieved to not have to sit through these dull classes. Margaret did not particularly like Milo's attitude towards the classes.

In school that day, Milo made Amira a card wishing her a good summer with a picture of a beach and a palm tree. Milo also put a pack of starbursts and a Twix bar from the vending machine on the Card and a list for a safe summer. One of the notable tips was telling Amira not to eat a sandwich made by the St. Marky Louise Difucci. This had been in reference to the awful sandwiches. As for the last day, this had been an easy day, as he had all his finals done a few days before.

That afternoon, school got out a little early, so the students could all saying their goodbyes for the summer. Milo quickly put one last card on Amira's bus seat, as the Bus Driver was not around, and the students were all congregated elsewhere. Afterwards, Milo looked for Amira, and he spotted her hugging some friends and looked a little teary eyed. At that point, Milo became so entranced by Amira, and was completely freed from any feelings of Minu. Even though Minu was graduated from Ciderpond, Milo felt no dissapointment whatsoever.

Over the School bus parking lot, there was a great vision of St. Columba sitting on a rock on the Ocean, while writing down a prayer. Then a Celtic Choir chanted "Be O Lord, a guiding star above me, a smooth path below me, a kindly shepherd behind me, and a bright flame before me; today, tonight and forever. Amen." The next song they chanted was " Let me bless almighty God, whose power extends over sea and land, whose angels watch over all. Let me study sacred books to calm my soul: I pray for peace, kneeling at heaven's gates. Let me do my daily work, gathering seaweed, catching fish, giving food to the poor. Let me say my daily prayers, sometimes chanting, sometimes quiet, always thanking God. Delightful it is to live on a peaceful isle, in a quiet cell, serving the King of kings."

St. Columba was a man who was once a soldier, but one day by his conscience could no longer participate in such carnage after a successful, but bloody battle. For this, St. Columba repented and dedicated his service to God. St. Columba was attributed to the miracle of calming the seas during a stormy trip by ship. Later in life, the Saint dedicated his life to diplomacy. Being this great missionary worker, St. Columba was named Dove of the Church.

Amira walked past the students who rode Milo's bus and said hi to Nousha. Milo kept a further eye on Amira to make sure she got the card. The last thing Milo saw was Amira looking at the card Milo made with a big smile. On the way home, Milo told Jimmy, Lisa and Dustin success, as Amira liked the card. Lisa asked if Milo put his name on the card. Milo explained that he put his Grandmothers last name. Lisa started giving Milo a hard time, as Amira would not know what that meant. Milo thought Amira maybe able to figure out who he was with the reference to the St. Timothy Religious Education director. Milo assumed that Amira and the Jafari's talked more than they actually did. On the way home, Rokshana had rode the bus with Nousha. Milo blasted Egyptian music in celebration. One girl on the bus asked for the foreign music to be turned off.

Salvatore came over to Milo's to swim after school, and got quite a laugh about the list for a safe summer. That night for dinner, Milo, Ray and Salvatore went to Byblos Lebanese Restaurant. Ray had taken Milo and Salvatore to this restaurant two summers ago, and once just Milo after Maziyar's birthday party. This was the same restaurant Milo said "Business is booming" about. One of the cooks working in the kitchen came from a half Elamite family from St. Timothy's. In fact, one of the brothers was ordained a priest the previous year. Minu and Nousha were the altar servers at this priest's ordination, which Milo figured out after overhearing Rokshana speaking the previous year. That night, Milo had listened to the song "Sail the Soul", which is a celtic hymn written by Irish Priest Liam Lawton. This hymn was sung at the Elamite Priests ordination mass that was broadcasted on Television. Then Milo listened to this song known as "Two were Bound for Emmaus" that came from Milo's CD "Disciples in Prayer", and retelling the story of the two appearances of the Risen Christ at Emmaus and the Sea of Galilee.

The Grim Londinians and New Feast

When the Cobolds returned to Londinium, they found the town drear dead and solemn. There was not a single look of happiness anywhere. One Cobold asked a Londinian how everything was going in Londinium. This Londinian asked the Cobold why he had been so cheerful after what had happened to the Great Phoenix. The Londinian told the story he knew about the Great Phoenix who got killed destroying this horrible book, and destroyed their hope of ever uniting Atlantis. The news had reached Londinium three Atlanteans who had brought the latest news from Atlantis. This is all the Londinians knew.

One mysterious Cobold asked the Londinian if he knew anything about Phoenixes, and what happens to them when they die. Like the Cobolds beforehand, they did not understand the Phoenix resurrects from the Ashes, and had not heard the news. The Cobold explained that the Phoenix not only had to die to destroy the book, but in order to destroy the horrible mount of lava, and turn it into a beautiful garden with glorious beaches. This Londinian thought this news was too good to be true. The Londinian invited this Cobold back to his house for dinner one dark night. Then the Cobold disappeared and the Londinian saw a majestic bird flying from the roof singing a song. At once the Londinian knew that the strange Cobold was the Great Phoenix reborn.

In Spartustica the Cobolds who had been entranced by the book "The Efficient Atlantean" had been residing there, after a great burden of guilt. These Cobolds no longer felt worthy of the mission in Atlantica and had been living on Lake Tiberius fishing for a living. Then a hawk flew over the lake looking for fish. Then the hawk cawed, and the formerly entranced Cobolds had a very successful catch. At once, the Cobolds knew that the Hawk was the Great Phoenix, and immediately tranformed into a majestic red bird. The Cobolds apologized for having ever believed that book. The Great Phoenix asked these Cobolds if they remembered his song at the feast of the guest nearly three years ago. The Great Phoenix explained that he had to die, regardless of whether or not they read the book. The Great Phoenix gave the Cobolds the words of peace, and commissioned them to share the news with the residents of Spartustica. At once, the Great Phoenix flew off at the speed of light.

By this time, word spread throughout Gallicanium and Spartustia of the Great Phoenix. With the rebirth of the Great Phoenix, a new feast of the Rebirth was established alongside the feast of the Flood. As we remember, the Feast of the Flood is the memorial of forty days when Londinium underwent a flood to cleanse the city of the Rakshasajinns. Just a year ago, at the previous feast, the presider declared that the feast would change.

When the days of the feasting began, the celebration returned to the underground shelter like the first. The Cobolds, Londinians, and many Atlanteans and Parthanians joined in the feast. The Atlanteans who joined brought the Urn that once housed the Great Phoenix Ashes. The Festival attendees all recognized the Righteous Ram in the Shrine, and knew he was many of the incarnations of the Great Phoenix in another world. They remembered the story of how this Ram gave his life to save the other Ram's from being slaughtered by the Crocodiles, and was brought back to life by Amun. The festival attendees also remembered how the Great Phoenix was destroyed in the fire, so Atlantica could be freed.

There was a couple fleeing from Shemitaria, which is a land in the distant desert on an oasis beyond the bounds of the Greater Hitaria region, which includes the lands of Gallicanium, Spartustica and Atlantis. Tahuania is the region that includes Parthania. This land Shemaria is said to have had great significance on all the regions of the land of Hitaria, but in different ways. Shemaria had been rumored to have been taken over by Maludico's, several different cults and labor camps.

The Couple fled region known as Agrabah, as they had fallen in love. The couple had been both been slaves from two different clans that had a major feud. The girl Suriya came from the Malakia clan, while the boy Avrahim comes from the Dalitir clan. As the law dictated, slaves interacting with other clans were to be put to death. An Abanazar, who is a magician coming to people in need gave Avrahim a magic carpet and rescued Suriya from her oppressive position. Then Avrahim and Suriya flew off and went on a tour of the world, flying through Gallicanium, Spartustica and Atlantis.

The two finally landed in Londinium and stopped at the Headquarters. As the Custom dictates, the Cobolds never turn down those in need at the guest house. Avrahim and Suriya were not only given shelter, but invited to join in the festivities. Avrahim explained the situation, and told stories about how his glorious city of Agrabah had been corrupted by slave owners. At this, Avrahim and Suriya were given residency in Londinium.

The Beginning of Summer

On Milo's first day off, he watched Shrek 2. As we remember, Shrek 2 came out when Amira was a freshman in highschool. Milo started to think about how this upcoming fall, Amira would be back in the same building as he was, like two years ago. Milo came across this hymn "Glory in the Cross" by Dan Schutte, which is a triumphant hymn for Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Milo had a great sense of triumph towards the end of the hymn, with the statement "Let us join in the songs of Heaven and Earth". That night, Milo went out to an Italian restaurant with his family. At dinner, Margaret asked Milo how his landscaping business had been coming along. Ray suggested Milo consider a traditional part time job the next summer if this does not work out.

On Saturday night, Milo's parents went to a wedding, and he spend the evening watching Aladdin. During the song "A Whole New World", Milo started looking at pictures of Amira in the Yearbook. This song put Milo in a trance, and felt so strongly that he needed to see Amira. The movie Aladdin reminded Milo quite a bit of Amira. Ever since Milo saw Amira give that girl a hug, he had been thinking about her for the last few days, and wanted to see her again in the worst way.

On Sunday, Margaret had a party for her CCD class, which included Lydia. That year, Margaret taught Eighth Grade CCD, and had Lydia's class. Milo did not have too much to do with the party, and was just around watching the party. At the party, Milo mentioned seeing Gianni at school on the last day. Ray asked Milo what he was doing at the school. Milo said he had left some coupons at school. Ray asked if the coupons were meant for Amira, and Milo admitted this was true. Now Ray still did not know about the whole Silenzo alibi, nor did Milo have any intent on mentioning this. Milo's only explanation was that he was just planning on introducing himself to Amira, tell her he knew her from the Khara's and give her these coupons.

The first week of Summer Vacation had been fairly slow. On Monday, Milo was a bit bummed out when he found out that Lydia had her school picnic on Tuesday. Milo sort of missed the picnics, and knew that this would be Lydia's last. On that first Wednesday night of summer break, Milo watched Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

The next day, Milo, Lydia, and Eustace went on a trip to Cedar point with the youth group. In the morning, Ray dropped the three off at Our Lady of Essex Church, in order to board the bus. Milo had some Church Music on his MP3 player which he had downloaded over spring. On the way to Our Lady of Essex, Lydia mentioned that she had seen Steve at Seewoulden at her School Picnic. On this trip, Milo was determined to have this summer be better than the previous summer, similar to the summer two years ago. Milo was in quite a good mood about not having to take any SAT classes, and knew that he would be back in the same building with Amira in the fall. Plus, Milo had some plans to see Amira over the summer, and wanted to see her very soon. Exactly how, Milo had no clue. Upon arrival, Milo started to have flashbacks to two summers ago, when he went to Cedar Point with the Youth Group. That trip was when Milo made new friends and saw Nousha. Milo could not help but remember Yasmin, Sabrina and the Rumcorns. During the trip, Milo, Lydia and Eustace hung around. In the morning, they went on many roller coasters, which Milo had been highly cheerful on. At lunch, Milo strongly insisted on eating at the 50s restaurant that he ate at two years ago.

Milo's friendliness was driving Lydia crazy, as he was overly friendly with the people working at Cedar point, in asking them if they were having a nice summer. Lydia knows Milo is not that naturally outgoing. After Lunch, the three went to the Frontier area, and hit the log fume and the wild river rapids. Towards the later part of the day, they got ice cream at the parlor.

The Demuzidean Renewal

Azeyas had summoned Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir to the Demuzidean temple to relate a vision of fulfillment. According to Azeyas vision, an angelic minister blows a trumpet, and the underworld is emptied. Then there is a great song between the heavenly and earthly realms singing praise to the dance.

The Sarcedix Polyphanes interjected that the renewal of the Reel ceremony was to occur in over three years, which Azeyas recognized as the day of renewal. After Maelendil heard this news, a great gleam of triumph lit his eyes. At this word, Polyphanes began the great rite of preparation. The first thing Polyphanes did was rub fragrant oil over the pyramid and lit a fire on the pyramid. Then a majestic sight appeared with great light revealing a bright celtic cross connecting the realms of earth and heaven.

Another celtic cross lit the sky over the Demuzidean temple, and countless Jinn arrived to see this sight. At the Enanian Temple, the Sapphire Globe Mother earth dedicated had become very bright, and countless songs were heard from the globe.

The Jinns headed over to the Globe, and found this site of a youth who is angry at the world after having just gotten into a cult. This youth had been angry about feeling so manipulated, and how everything he thought he knew was all a lie. This youth is walking though the park, sitting on the bench, quite disgruntled. Then a strange man sits next to him, asking who he is. This youth is not in the mood to talk, and turns the other way. This strange man asks the youth what has upset him. This youth finds it strange that this strange man knows, but needs to get his anger off his chest. This youth tells how he grew up in a Church and family that emphasized a loving God. This youth tells how this is what he had been taught, but learned what Christianity is all about from these devout bible scholars and theologians. This youth tells how the bible god is nothing more than a punitive tyrant out to punish people, and the followers are nothing but idiots who will follow whatever misogynistic, punitive, racist, genocidal teachings are taught. This man asks the youth if he ever actually read the bible, or did any real study on Church history. This youth said he read the bible the way his Church told him to. Then the man asks the youth where this church came from, and the youth admits the 1920's. The man gives a great laugh, and asks the youth if he really thinks some Church from the 1920's is the only one to know the bible after two millenniums. Then the man starts showing this youth passages of the bible he never even heard of or thought about. Then the youth remembers how all these passages had been quoted in many of the great hymns he had been taught in Sunday school and sung at Church. Then the strange man introduced himself as L. Ray, and disappeared.

Then Daxividus, Yuriyama, the Charisms of St. Patrick, Judith and the Didache showed up. Daxividus looked over the globe, and showed the high places, which are under the jurisdiction of the Dance, no matter how important they think they are. Daxividus then proclaims the lowly are under the dances sustenance, and no less cared for. Then daxividus proclaimed that the seas belong to the Dance, and safe harbor is never far away. Yuriyama solemly declares great woe on those who deny such glorious tidings.

All the sudden, the Pyramid in the Demuzidean Temple and the Globe in the Enanian Temple start to glow intolerably bright, and the Aluments Father Time and Mother Earth show up, and all Jinn present prostrate before the Aluments. Mother Earth implores those of the Enanian temple to keep up their work of inclusion, and Father Time implores those of the Demuzidean Temple to keep up their works of setting aside.

Drakes Forest

One Wednesday evening, Ray took Milo, Eustace, Sylvester and Grandpa Tony out to Dairy Queen after dinner. That night, Milo had some strange dreams about the Sports Hall being the same place as the Junior Highschool, and looking for Amira. Then Uncle Ottavio was transferred out of Ciderpond. That afternoon, Milo woke up at 1pm, much to his annoyance. Luckily this had not been one of Milo's landscaping days.

A few days later, the family threw an Eightieth birthday party for Grandpa Tony. All the family was present, including Uncle Pietro, Aunt Adrienne, Uncle Victor, Grandma Dora and the immediate family. At the party, Ray told Emma about trying to give Amira the Rita's gift cards. Emma told Milo she heard about this, as she knew well about how he was with the Jafari's four summers ago. Aunt Judy did not come to the party, as she had Kate's baby shower. The O'Malley's and surprisingly, Alicia showed up.

The next day, the two Biancatello families and the Filentino's returned to Drakes Forest National Park. On the way to Drakes Forest, Margaret broke the news that Uncle Wayne got the Job in Atlanta. Lydia was not too happy, as she knew that the boat trips would come to an end. As to whether Uncle Wayne really wanted the job, this had been doubtful, as Aunt Bertha just wanted to move to a new city. With this trip, the O'Malleys bailed again. Lydia was mad about this, and referred to the O'Malley's as stupid.

Upon arrival at the cabin, the weather was rainy. For the first afternoon, the kids watched Harry Potter, as they had nothing else to do. Luckily, Milo brought his portable DVD player, or they may have been in a bit of trouble. However, this rainy day was kind of fun, just because of the variation.

For Milo, this trip turned out to be very similar to the trip he took two years ago with the Family. Milo remembered two summers ago when he started having flashbacks before Amira started Highschool. This trip included canoeing, hikes and some pre-planned specialty cookouts. On the way back, the families ate at Jenny's Chinese restaurant. On the way back, they were planning on going to this restaurant that sold standard lunch items, such as hotdogs, hamburgers, grilled cheese and tuna salads. Salvatore had not wanted to go to a place like this, and suggested the Chinese restaurant.

The Search for the Governor and the Festival

After the Feast of the Flood, the Cobolds broke the news to Londinium about the escape of the Governor. They shared the story of how the Governor took some tonic to change his appearance and took on the identity as General Ratburn. They told the story of how he manipulated some Cobolds into going on this voyage, and just wanted to exploit the land. Then they told about how when General Ratburn was exposed as the Governor, he thrust them off ship. One of the Pedmontus Cobolds reminded the Forester Cobolds that Adrino had the land of Hitaria protected from the Governor.

At this word, the Londinian defense team planned a search for the Governor, despite having no clue about the territory outside the bounds of Hitaria. They had suspected that the Governor fled when the flood was immanent, and tried taking over land he considered easy to take. As to what the Governor was doing all this time between had yet to be known. The Cobolds told the Londinium defense everything they knew about the Land of Parthania.

This had greatly disturbed the Cobolds, and knew that this Governor was up to no good. They had remembered the days when the Governor was in power, and how he defiled Londinium, and tried to do the same to Beaubelles. The Cobolds began to realize that the Governor under the form of General Ratburn had tried to do the same to Parthania. The Londinians knew well that the Governor on the loose could be very dangerous.

The time had come for the Gallicanium and Spartustica regions to celebrate the Feast of the Visitor. The Cobolds were not in much of a feasting mood with the Governor out there. This feast had been held in the Gardens of Pedmontus as Azeyas had instructed three feasts ago. This year, the Cobolds felt quite optimistic upon looking upon Lionalem and their view of the Temple. In the upcoming term, the Cobolds knew they would be spending more time in Lionalem, and may actually get into the Temple of Atlantica.

During the Feast, the Cobolds were looking over the cliffs where once the great bridge from Gallicanium to Atlantis. Some of the more mischevious Cobolds had hatched a plan to build a zipline from the archway where the bridge stood to the fortification towers part of the Temple Complex wall. The only problem they had no way of getting back up.

The seer Daxividus made a guest appearance at the festival and acknowledged how much progress had been made since the last time he visited when there was a feud between the Cobolds and the Londinians. Daxividus lead a song of adoration for the Great Phoenix. Daxividus declared all the lands from Hitaria, Parthania and Shemitaria are sustained by his goodness and greater than the Rakshasajinns. Then the land, sea, deepest valleys and mountains sang high praise to the Phoenix. After the festival ended, Daxividus pulled Avrahim over to the side to tell him that his father was alive, and gave him an orb that would take him to where he was located.

Silenzo Trail

As it was, Milo had slept in a little too late during the summer. To solve this problem, Milo put a James Chepponis CD in known as "Songs of Jubilation" to wake him up by nine. This way, Milo had more time to plot his next move to see Amira over the Summer. The songs that had gotten Milo's attention were "Come Let us Sing" and "Come let us Gather". Come let us Sing is a joyful choral based on Psalm 95. "Come let us Gather" is a hymn that was written in dedication of St. Albert the Great, a Parish in Baldwin, which is a suburb of Pittsburgh.

As an alternative, Milo started to develop a new plan to see Amira over the summer, when the Rita's gift card had not worked. His plan was to create a trail through his backyard woods to The Jafaris neighborhood. The way Milo's backyard is setup is that there are woods that lead to an apartment complex near the Jafari's house. The next part of the plan was to throw an advertisement in the Jafari's backyard for the trails.

When July began, Milo created a map that invited Amira, Minu, Nousha, Rokshana and Yasmin in an indirect way. The way it was written was done in a way that Milo had used when writing the cards, and presumed Amira would understand them. The advertisement had a map of the trail, known as Silenzo Trails in the woods. Milo also drew a doodle of Davis Woznich next to the clue about Rokshana. This was the same doodle of Davis Milo drew that Shane laughed hysterically over. The map was put in a plastic covering and had a frozen water balloon attached. Milo made a wooden sign written in Italian, Persian and English saying Silenzo Trails.

On the day Milo planned on going up, he got a call from Salvatore asking if he wanted to swim. Milo as a little bummed out, as he wanted to give the Jafari's the brochure. Plus, Milo knew that he would not be able to for several days, as the Fourth of July weekend was coming up. Milo knew well that both Margaret and Ray would be off until Thursday.

On Saturday, the Biancatello's went to Church at night, as Lydia would be leaving that night with Rachel on a trip to the Florida Pan Handle. At Church, Milo was asked to serve, as there was a no-show. Before Mass, Milo asked Fr. Nick if the Church bells were broken, considering that they had not been rung in years. Milo had only noticed this after watching the Hunchback of Notre Dame. But Fr. Nick confirmed that the bells really were broken. That night at 10pm, Rachels family arrived and Lydia was off to Florida.

The next day, the O'Malleys planned a pre-Fourth of July party, and invited the whole family along with friends in New Seneca. Aunt Dianne, Ashlyn and Malina rode up with the Biancatello's. Milo picked the movies Pocahontas and Aladdin to watch on the way up and back. This party reminded Milo of a party he went to at the O'Malley's two summers ago for Aunt Marie's birthday. For dessert, Aunt Marie made an ice cream sandwich cake. At the O'Malley's pool, Milo and Matt made a whirlpool. On the way back, Margaret told Aunt Dianne about the Rumcorns moving, and she explained that it was strange that they moved when Kevin was a senior in highschool. During the movie Malina got scared during an Aladdin scene with Jafar. Aunt Dianne, Margaret and Ray started talking about disturbing Disney movies, such as Pinocchio when he turns into a Donkey, and Fantasia where there were these vortexes.

A few days before the Fourth, Milo, Ray and Margaret got lunch at Sechuan Garden. At the restaurant, Milo saw Amira's bus driver. Milo had not been too comfortable about this, as he feared the bus driver would see him, and call him out in front of Ray and Margaret. Milo was not really so keen on telling Ray and Margaret about his efforts to court Amira. The night before the Fourth of July, Milo had a dream about this creepy indoor Disney World. In the Dream, Milo saw his former spanish teacher and the Khara's. This place resembled some of the movies Aunt Dianne, Ray and Margaret talked about. Then the Rumcorns are mentioned. As for the Fourth of July Holiday, Grandma Pearl came over. Grandma Pearl and Margaret talked about the Rumcorns being in Atlanta that weekend to drop the boat off. Milo found out that the Rumcorns would be in town pretty soon. Milo was not overly thrilled about this, and felt that this would be awkward. Overall, Milo still resented that the Rumcorns would be closer to his Florida family. Plus, Milo was not really interested in the Rumcorns Pity visit.

One day later, Milo dressed in traditional Bedouin clothes made of beach towles and a turban and walked through the woods, as to avoid being identified. Milo put the sign in the trail where it ended closest to the sidewalk. Then Milo walked behind the Jafari's house, and lightly threw the ad behind the fence of their backyard. The apartment complex is directly behind the Jafari's, and there are sidewalks behind the fence that borders the houses and the complex, and public property.

After Milo threw the Balloon into the Jafari's backyard, there was a majestic vision in the sky of a great Church held by a mighty hand from the time of Abel and from the lowest depths of the earth to the highest mountains, throughout the land and sea. A Cosmic liturgy began where the great stories of the path were shared, and bread fell from the sky for all to eat. At this the whole earth church sang in praise and thanksgiving.

As it was, Nousha, Amira and Mrs. Jafari were in Iran that summer, and only Mr. Jafari was home. Mr. Jafari did not find the map until a few days later. As it was, Mr. Jafari thought this map was just some garbage that got blown into their yard and did not even bother to look at it, therefore throwing it away. Milo was greatly mistakened, as he actually believed that Minu and Nousha would understand the advertisement, let alone go for a walk into the woods leading into private property. Milo had assumed that Amira had told other people in her community about this mysterious valentine guy. Milo hypothesized that should the girls go on the trail, Amira and Rokshana would recognize the backyard, considering they used to visit the Khara's when they lived next door.

The Rescue and North views

Avrahim was in a state of confusion over what to do with this news that his father was still alive. Avrahaim had always wanted to know about his family, but was not so sure he wanted to meet a father who let him be sold into slavery. Yet Avrahim was not sure this really was the case. Suriya convinced Avrahim to take this journey. Avrahim had been hesitant, but Suriya explained that his father could not be too bad if his son was quite the hero who rescued her from slavery.

One morning, Avrahim along with several Cobolds went on the magic carpet and followed where the Orb led. This orb took the crew to a secret cave out in the desert between Shemitaria and Hitaria. Avrahim and the Cobolds found this cave housed this strange organization of merchants who would use any means to make money. The organization was named Burtonibad.

What Avrahim and the Cobolds found was that a man Tirah was the head of this business. The second in command was Philistine, who was ambitious, greedy and a ruthless authority. Philistine hated Tirah, and saw him as too soft. Tirah was a fair taskmaster, but had lost his way at some point. Philistine was a brutal taskmaster, who if it were up to him, would not pay his workers, and would beat them into submission.

Avrahim snuck into the cave to try and find his father, but had little luck. Eventually Avrahim was caught by Philistine, who brought him before Tirah. Tirah questioned this intrusion, and what he owes the pleasure. Avrahim explained to Tirah that he was looking for his father. Philistine bawked at such silliness, but Tirah restrained him. Tirah asked who his father was. Avrahim explained that he had no clue, and only showed him a family crest. Philistine told Avrahim they have no time for such silly stories about fathers. Tirah explained that Avrahim was right, much to Philistine's shock. Tirah looked at the family crest, and explained that Avrahim was his son. Tirah confided with Avrahim the real story. Avrahim was taken away from Tirah, while his wife was brutally murdered. Tirah explained that he started to work with Burtonibad in order to gain enough money to buy Avrahim back, but lost his way and got too absorbed in his pursuit of wealth.

The Cobolds had been sent back to Spartustica to tell Suriya the news, and that Avrahim will be staying for a while. On the way back, the Cobolds decided to take an excursion in order to find out the Atlantean Temple's entrance from Parthania. To the Cobolds Surprise, they saw the northern segment of the Atlantean Temple, and immediately recognized it from a dream they had constantly had as far back as they remembered. This was a dream they had of a small fish swimming by watching the temple being built. The Cobolds also remembered this view they had when they first left the compound, and met the seer Adrino, who told them to go to Beaubelles in the first place. This had been such a stunning experience for the Cobolds, they became more determined to get into the Temple walls. After the Cobolds returned to Pedmontus, they shared the story of what they saw, and the rest of the Cobolds had been utterly overjoyed by this glorious news.

Little Mermaid Revelations

On Sunday, Ray, Margaret and Milo went to a Graduation party. Ray's friend Vinny, who is Liliana's brother's son graduated from Highschool. The Biancatello's saw Liliana at the party, along with some of Ray's old Highschool friends, including Ken and his wife Anne, whom Milo saw at the Orthodontist after the first Dancing Day. Margaret told Vinny's wife all about Steve, and a conversation she had with Doris and her marriage to Neal. Frankly, Milo wished he never learned what he heard. That night, Lydia came home at 8pm after a fun week.

During Lydia's first week back from Florida, she had been a bit cranky and bored. On Tuesday afternoon, there was a power outage, and the electricity did not come on until 8:30pm. Milo got this inclination to do research on the Little Mermaid. Earlier in the summer, Milo found a website on cutest Disney Couples, which included Ariel and Eric. Milo only looked up the Little Mermaid to scoff, as he thought it was too feminine for him. Milo found out that night how close the theatrical release of the Little Mermaid was to Amira's birth. That night, Milo downloaded the song "Fathoms Below", which he had not heard since he was Seven. Milo had not seen the whole movie since First Grade.

There was a beautiful vision of an ocean scene of a clownfish, a Sea Horse, a Humpback whale, an angelfish, a starfish and a blue surgeonfish. Then there was a darker skinned baby who was just born with jet black hair being held by her mother in a hospital bed. There was then a picture of Atlantica from the little Mermaid, Poseidons temple, a treasure chest and a trident. Then there appeared a depiction of Ariel and Flounder, and Erics Ship with dolphins swimming and Seagulls flying. The song "Fathoms Below" gave Milo great flashbacks to something he could barely remember. In fact, Milo forgot all about the song "Fathoms Below", as he had not heard the song since he last watched the full movie. Then Milo went to bed that night totally amazed. This flashback took Milo to some strange nautical world that he had no concrete recollection, and was deeply mysterious.

One day later, Milo started working on a Noah's ark puzzle and downloaded music from the Little Mermaid. This was influenced by the Tiger Puzzle Uncle Al got quite a kick out of two summers ago. Working on this Noah's Ark puzzle reminded Milo of the Little Mermaid, and he could not get this image of vast oceans out of his head. That afternoon, Milo downloaded some other scores from the Little Mermaid, including the Jig, the Reprise of "Part of your World", "Wedding Plans", and "Happy Ending". The Jig was from the scene in which Ariel first saw Eric and developed a crush on him right away. Milo then started to understand why he had been so haunted by the "Happy Ending" scene from the Little Mermaid. As we remember, Samantha had the Little Mermaid on seven summers ago when Milo and Lydia were over at their house. Milo was haunted by this scene throughout his whole camping trip, and could not explain why. Milo remembered how the movie had reminded him of Amira, whom he had seen at Dudlechip a few months earlier.

That night, Milo watched the Little Mermaid sequel return to the sea. Milo had only seen previews of the film after Fifth grade when he watched "An Extremely Goofy Movie". When it came to the movie, Milo liked it more than the critics had. A day later, Milo developed a taste for aquatic themed art. During the afternoon, Milo also downloaded some Little Mermaid II songs, "Down to the Sea", "Tip and Dash" and "For a Moment". That afternoon, Milo was invited over for dinner at the Filentino's. At dinner, Aunt Michelle mentioned Katie going off to college in the Fall. Milo remembered how two years ago, he developed a crush on Katie. As it was now, Milo was not so infatuated by Katie.

On Saturday Morning, there had been this nightmarish vision of a headmistress witch at a sterile school making a deal with a prospective student. The only thing holding this prospective student was a girl. This headmistress had promised the prospective student that they would make accomodations. This propsective student agreed to this. What also was only mentioned in fine print was that once the contract was signed, the prospective student belonged to the school if he and the girl did not remain together. The witch hatched a plan to break up this couple by transforming herself into a man and luring her with a love potion. Immediately, this girl broke up with the Propsective student, and was greatly confused over how something like this could happen. Then this student looked at this contract's fine print and realized his destiny. This student went into a great depression over losing the girl and being property of a sterile school. The only way to destroy this deal is to stake the Headmistress, and therefore destroy her binding authority.

That weekend, the Rumcorns came to town to visit. Milo was not too thrilled to have them visiting, as he felt it was only a pity visit. The Rumcorns hosted a picnic at Grandma Pearls to talk about this new opportunity. The Biancatello's had to hear about how great Atlanta was. Milo remembered how three years ago, the Rumcorns told the story about how their car got stolen. Then Milo remembered after Boating two summers ago, when they were recuperating from the activities at Grandma Pearl's.

At the party, Milo more vividly remembered the Summer when he last saw the Little Mermaid at Aunt Jane's. Milo then remembered that time, which was the summer before the Rumcorns moved to Indianapolis. Milo could not help the words repeating in his head "I don't know when I don't know how, but I know something's starting right now". This was from the reprise of "Part of your world". During the rest of the Party, Milo had the Little Mermaid Jig stuck in his head.

When the Biancatello's arrived home, they found Salvatore swimming in their pool. Salvatore was happy to be done with the picnic, but was somehow optimistic. Milo told Salvatore that he was at his Grandma's house to see the Rumcorns. That night, Lydia had a sleepover with her friend and Milo showed the girls a picture of Amira. Lydia agreed that Amira was very pretty.

The next day, Milo watched the little mermaid for the first time in seven years. What Milo recalled was the scene where Eric took Ariel on the tour of the Kingdom, similar to Aladdin giving Jasmine a tour of the world on a Magic carpet ride and Pocahontas II: Journey to the New World. Milo noticed that the show was more honest when she accidentally killed Flotsam and Jetsome, how they showed the bones in pieces. When Ursula was killed, the remains of tentacles were shown sinking to the sea, and the polyps hostage in Ursula's prison were released in freedom. That afternoon, Aunt Jane, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester came over to swim. That night, Milo watched the Second Little Mermaid again. So far, this week was going quite well for Milo. Later that week, Milo took up painting Cartoon pictures of mermaids on the computer.

On Friday morning, Ray drove Lydia off for a weekend basketball camp. Milo had not known about this, and only found out when Ray called him in the morning. Milo had been listening to some Little Mermaid music when he got the call. That night, the Filentino's had Milo over for dinner. After dinner, Milo and Salvatore went to this arcade that Salvatore's neighbor Nate worked at. Nate was the same neighbor who Milo played with when he was four. Milo won some cheap Disney themed toys. That Saturday, the song "hot hot hot" was on the radio, which Milo recognized from a Little Mermaid themed album. That evening, Milo went out to dinner with his family for Mexican.

On Sunday morning, Milo was the altar server with Eustace and Samantha. As it was, Ray and Margaret went to an early mass, as they had to pick up Lydia. During the morning, the kids all watched One Hundred and One Dalmatians II: Patche's London Adventure. That afternoon, Uncle Leo took Milo, Eustace and Sylvester putt putting. Uncle Leo took the boys a course close to Sussewago University that Milo had not been to since the summer before Eighth Grade. Milo remembered Ray taking him to this course during the Summer after Fourth Grade. With having flashbacks to Fifth and Eighth Grade, Milo was strongly anticipating an awesome senior year. At putt putting, Milo told Uncle Leo that he was planning on asking Amira to homecoming in the fall. That night, Lydia came home, and the family planned for a small vacation. They agreed to go to Cleveland and visit the aquarium and visit Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt on the way back. Milo liked the decision, as this reminded him of the trip he took seven years ago when he last saw the Little Mermaid.

The Presentation of the Newborn

Iohannes and Rivkah had been living in Pedmontus for the summer after they wed on Parthinian Land. The time had come for Rivkah to give birth to her firstborn daughter. As Paspahegh custom dictated, a ceremony was held in which the community gets to meet the child. The Cobolds had been thoroughly interested in the Parthanian societies, and were utterly fascinated by Rivkah's world. With the exception of Iohannes, the Cobolds knew nothing about the Paspahegh ways.

The day came where the presentation ceremony was to begin. The ceremony was held in Lionalem, so the Pedmontus and Forester Cobolds could join in the celebrations. The Atlanteans allowed the Cobolds to use Atlantica ship the Governor used to pick up the Paspahegh's from Parthania. This had been a very historic event, as this was the first time in the history of their world where there was a child born of both Paspahegh and Cobold blood.

In the morning, the Paspahegh tribe arrived, and they all ran over to Rivkah, thrilled to see her after so long. Iohannes had been holding the baby whom they named Harmony, and the Paspahegh bowed as before a mighty monarch. Then the Chief, who is the father of Rivkah came over to Harmony and gave his blessing. The Chief announced that this baby born of Paspahegh and Cobold union has united their people, and will one day be a great hero to the peoples of Parthania, Hitaria and Shemitaria. The Chief also prophecized that this new baby would be the friends of the outcasts, and build them up to greatness. The Chief also proclaimed that Harmony is the chosen one who can cast out the pale demon after their land.

The Aquarium Postcard

Ray invited Salvatore with the Biancatellos on vacation to Cleveland on the Thursday before leaving. That Sunday before leaving, Ray had his company picnic at Seewoulden. This was the first time Milo had been there that summer. This had been the first company picnic the Biancatello's attended in three years.

The night before leaving, Milo had a dream about Minu and Nousha being outside. On Monday morning, the Biancatellos picked Salvatore and drove off. When they first arrived, they went to the Cleveland zoo. That afternoon, after checking in, Milo, Lydia and Salvatore went off to the Swimming pool. At the pool, they saw a girl who looked like Gianni. At dinner, the Biancatello's ate at a German Restaurant, which had a very Oktoberfest feel. The workers even dressed in the Lenderhosen and Dirndl.

The next day they went to the aquarium, where Milo bought a postcard to send to Amira on a dare Salvatore setup. All these nautical themes had Milo thinking about the Little Mermaid, and by default Amira. They had seen many shows at the park, such as some dive demonstrations.

On the way home, they had planned to stop at the O'Malleys for a day. The Biancatello's headed to New Seneca after getting dinner at an overpriced Italian restaurant with small portions. Milo got Chicken Cacchiatore, and was only given two small drumsticks and no salad. As expected, the restaurant was empty, and only was visited by unsuspecting tourists.

The Biancatellos arrived at the O'Malleys in the evening. In the morning, Matt provided Milo with stamps. Milo purposely put the wrong address, as he did not want Amira to get this card. Part of the problem was the card said "How's it hanging", which was influenced by Melody's line "What's Kicking" from Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea. Milo wrote on the postcard about how they had been in Cleveland, ate at a German Restaurant, and all the movies he had seen over the summer. For the afternoon, Milo, Salvatore and Matt swam in the O'Malley's pool. By 4pm, The Biancatello's headed back to Ciderpond, and stopped at the same diner from the previous year. By the evening, they picked Jinny up from Grandma Pearl's.

A day after returning home, Milo went to Elfander park with Eustace, Lydia and Samantha for the altar server's picnic. Milo had remembered going to this Amusement Park two years ago with Steve, Doris and Merle. During that day, the kids went on several rides, including Garfields Nightmare. This time, Milo bought a sincere postcard to send to Amira. In the Postcard, Milo told Amira all about his summer, and that he missed her. The day after returning, the Biancatello's saw the DaVinci code in theatres.

In the morning, Milo got up early to put the post card in the Mailbox. Unfortunately that morning, Ray considered checking the mail before it was due arrival and found Milo's postcard. Milo felt annoyed, as he thought Ray should have known the mail had not arrived yet. When Milo found out, he ran to the Mailbox and got the postcard. Ray asked Milo about the card, and said that he thought about it, and did not consider sending the postcard a good idea.

Two days later, Milo got into an argument with Ray, as he caught Milo scanning pictures for Mermaid art and demanded to know what he was scanning. Ray out of the blue threatened to delete Milo's content if he did not explain what he was scanning. This had been quite strange, as Ray is normally an easy going guy, and would not make such random demands. Milo suspected that this was something to do with the postcard. Ray then brought up the postcard, which caused Lydia accidentally let blab about the first postcard. Ray got mad at Milo and told him he hoped Milo gets in trouble for this. Ray then told Margaret, which caused a big family feud. Milo explained that he never used the real address, and only wrote the card to get Salvatore to shut up. Milo then explained that he never put a real address on the postcard in the first place.

At a concert series on Tuesday Night, Milo, Ray and Margaret found Uncle Mike and Aunt Jackie, and Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy also in attendance. Ray nearly blabbed to the relatives about sending Amira a fake card. Milo saw Amira's bus driver with wife and some friends. Milo did not want to go near the bus driver again, out of fear that he would blab to his family that he had been putting cards on Amira's bus seat. Luckily, the bus driver was sitting far away. Lydia and Emily were also at this concert, and Milo came across them. Milo also saw Nousha at the concert.

That weekend, the Biancatellos went to the Italian festival with the Filentino's. Salvatore was not a fan of the Festival, and considered it inauthentic. At the festival, a niece of the Charge Kaylee was working. That night after the festival, Aunt Michelle called, and Milo was invited to go to the Statlerville Lourdes shrine that year. The Filentinos and Grandma Dora had been going on this trip for years. In the early years, Juan and his brother Raphael used to go. However, they had since passed on. Milo had wanted to go to this shrine since they first visited years ago. This was the shrine the Filentino's visited seven summers ago when Milo was stuck at the Sports Hall Summer Camp program on his birthday weekend. This time, Milo's wishes finally came true.

On Sunday afternoon, Ray dropped Lydia and Eustace off at the O'Malleys for the week. This was the second year that Lydia went up for the week. Milo still did not want to go up to New Seneca, as this time he was bitter with Alicia, but not Matt. Plus Milo would not be able to anyways, since he had plans that week. On Monday, Milo went for a walk up to The Jafaris to check his progress, and found both Minu and Nousha playing basketball outside. Their ball fell into the street, and Milo got it for them.

The next day, Milo went with the Filentino's and Grandma Dora to the shrine that he had wanted to see for seven years. They stopped at Burger King for lunch and then arrived at the shrine. This shrine strongly gave Milo flashbacks to Fifth Grade, despite never having gone to this place the first time. As it was the assumption, they attended mass at the shrine chapel. Milo bought some sacred music tapes at the gift shop. Then the Filentino's stopped at the same diner from coming back from New Seneca.

On Thursday, Milo went on another road trip with the Filentino's, this to see Aunt Marie, Lydia, Eustace, Lilly and Matt. On the trip, Milo and the cousins went for a walk to a convenience store to get slushees. For the rest of the day, the kids swam in the O'Malley's pool.

The next day was Milo's birthday, and Ray took him out for Mexican. In the afternoon, he went to Seewoulden with his cousins, and were treated by Uncle Matt. Being in Soak town in the morning reminded Milo of his fifth grade summer, and the days before starting that year. That night, Milo got the Eight Season of the Simpsons. For the first time, Milo got angry at Salvatore, as he told him that he needs to be careful, now that he is eighteen. Milo felt this was lousy birthday greeting and a betrayal. This wasn't out of the norm for Salvatore, as he had the tendency to resort to hyper-moralism in times of strangeness. Salvatore was referencing Milo's mermaid art. As Milo knew well, there was nothing illegal about drawing Mermaids, let alone remotely criminal. The next day was Milo's Birthday party. At the party, Milo was still a little sore with Salvatore, or like his change of attitude. Another day later, Samantha mentioned a friend seeing a guy dressed in towels walking through her neighborhood. Samantha told about being scared spending the night at her friends house. Milo then told Samantha that it was just him.

The last week of summer was a pleasant time, as he knew he would see Amira again, and that she would be at the senior high school. Milo was not in the same anxious spirit he had been in over the last three first days of school. That week Milo helped Aunt Judy get ready for the new school year. On Wednesday, Milo got a little irritated, as he had to work on an ACT book preparation, and when he was finally done, he found Lydia working on the computer. This had been a common occurrence, and Milo hated sharing the computer. When Lydia finally got off the computer, Salvatore showed up to swim. Milo got a suspicion that Salvatore only came over at this time to keep an eye on him. On Wednesday Night, Milo had a dream about Mary Poppins, like in the Be Our Guest Singalong. That Thursday, Milo went out to lunch with Margaret and Ray, as they had the day off. In fact, they were going to a concert in Pittsburgh. That evening, Milo went to a youth group open house on Thursday at a sports park. Milo remembered visiting this park right before starting Eighth Grade, and going to this park two summers ago with Steve and Merle.

Husisha's Visions

Maelendil summoned Alexander and Cashmir for a meeting to examine how things had gone over the Summer. Maelendil credited Alexander for creative Silenzo plans, but explained that this would soon need to end. Cashmir got quite a smirk after getting this news. Cashmir never particularly cared for the Silenzo Alibi, and always thought it was unnecessarily risky. Alexander understood that this was all harmless, as Amira was not bothered by having a secret admirer and the Jafari's never understood the map. Maelendil reminded Alexander that it still was not overly wise on Milo's part, considering the circumstances with the Jafari's.

Husisha showed up to relay a vision he had of a teenage girl under an overprotective mother out of fear of a particular witch. The girl got reprimanded for disobedience, and she ran away after her mother refused to explain her rules. The teenager befriended this witch and she loved the freedom of having ran away from home. This witch manipulated this teen into stealing something that she said was originally taken from her. The teen then befriends two outcasts living on the streets. They talked about great plans to achieve lengths of heroism.
Chapter 32: Milo Revealed

On the last Sunday, The Biancatellos went on a small trip to Frank's hotdog stand and a close by nature center. Milo had been in great spirits, despite a new school year. After visiting Frank's the Biancatello's stopped at a state park, and visited a nature center with Taxidermy animals.

As partially anticipated, it was time for a new school year to begin. Milo had been in good spirits about going back to school. Milo's last two days of vacation were not spent sulking like the previous two years. Of course, Milo had matters not related to what was to come. Yet this year, things would be quite different.

Return to Lionalem

The time had come for the Cobolds to return to Lionalem. This term would be different, as the Cobolds would be in the final stages of getting into the Temple grounds. One afternoon, the Cobolds started their trek back to Atlantis. The Cobolds really wished that they could have the bridge back that joined the Pedmontus Gardens with Lionalem.

Much of the goals had been accomplished, from clearing the mountains from the Offspring trolls, rebuilding pathways through the mountains, learning the Atlantean customs, saving Atlantica from a dangerous book, establishing dry beach land, destroying the mount of Lava that turned into a garden and re-establishing peace in Parthania. Lionalem and Atlantica had looked the same since they last left the land a few months back.

The First day of School

That night, Milo had a bit of an off night of sleep, and still had some mild anxiety. Lydia was a freshmen and rode the bus with Milo on the first day of school. Lydia had been quite nervous about starting Highschool, and Milo's nonchalant attitude was quite annoying. Milo had some slight cold feet, as there was still much to be uncertain about, not to mention, first days of school still stink. Milo admitted to Margaret that he was a little nervous about Amira possibly getting the Postcard and figuring out where it came from. Margaret told Milo that Girls like secret admirers, but told him not to do that again.

That morning, both Milo and Lydia rode the bus. There were some slight changes with the routes, and some unfamiliar students were picked up. Upon arriving in the school walkway, Milo immediately spotted two black haired girls walking into the school, which he immediately recognized as Amira and a girl on her bus Helen. As for classes that first day, this was a mixed bag. Science had not been so impressive for Milo, as this teacher was quite a Homework Nazi. This woman, Mrs. Smith had also been Amira's homeroom teacher. Luckily, Milo only had this class for one semester.

Milo had enjoyed his Psychology class, as his teacher was quite the intelligent man who actually was interested in Students opinions and made that part of the test. Plus fellow charges Bailey and Mike had also been in his class. Otherwise, Milo had the standard of Government and Math. As it was, Milo had some interest in Politics, but the class was a bit too neutral for his tastes.

At lunch, Milo found out that he had lunch at the same time as Amira. Milo had noticed that he always seemed to be eating at the same time as either Minu or Amira. Milo sat with Salvatore's neighbor Nate at lunch. Nate was a good friend of Milo's, and he along with Salvatore had done quite a bit over the previous summer. Nate even supposedly offered to knock a binder out of Amira's hands, just so Milo could come and help her at the right time. Of course, Milo wisely rejected the offer.

On the bus ride home, Milo told Lydia about Amira eating lunch at the same time as him. Lydia shooshed him, as Nousha was on the bus. Not to mention, Lucille was also riding the bus that afternoon. That night at dinner, Ray asked if he talked to Amira. Milo explained that he had not done so yet, and Ray thought it best to tell Amira that he knew her from the Khara's.

The Emergency Meeting

Maelendil got news that his charge and the younger Elamite would be crossing paths on a frequent basis. Maelendil summoned Cashmir and Alexander to work together with this new situation. Maelendil gave Alexander the task to make sure the Charge had a sense of confidence while Cashmir was given the task to make sure the Charge did nothing stupid. Maelendil also gave Alexander the task to find a particular video online.

Tolerance Class

For Milo's second day of School, classes had been about the same, a hit and miss. Milo had Economics with an extremely boring teacher. Plus, Milo was not overly fond of taking economics to begin with. Then Milo had the English and CADD. With Lunch, Milo did not eat at the same time as Amira. Frankly, Milo was not too disappointed, as he considered it good enough to see her every other day at Lunch.

That same day, Milo had his last class of the day at the junior Highschool. Upon traveling to the junior highschool, Milo spotted Yasmin also heading back. Milo never greeted Yasmine, despite having met just a few months back.

Milo had Tolerance as his final class, and saw Nousha walking around. Milo accidentally entered the wrong room, and discovered that Nousha was in his class. This class was basically political correctness propaganda, but the teacher was one of those teacher who taught just random topics that had nothing to do with tolerance. Milo could not help but have an obnoxious smirk the whole class. Plus, Uncle Mikes obnoxious neighbor Pyotor, who had a crush on Lydia was also in the class.

After School, Milo immediately told Lydia about Pyotor being in his tolerance class, but waited to tell her Nousha was in his class, as they were on the bus. As for the weekend, things had gone pretty smooth. Milo told Salvatore and Ray about Nousha being in his Tolerance class. That weekend, the Milo and Margaret got into a minor spat, as Milo admitted that he would not go out with a particular girl who was unattractive and preferred Amira. Margaret took that to mean that Milo was being shallow, and expressed disappointment in him. Milo had gotten thoroughly annoyed.

The next day, Margaret hosted a shower for Rory and Lauren, as they were expecting their first child soon. Many friends showed up, including Danielle, Ashlyn and Malina. All the aunts, and girl cousins also showed up. At the party, Marilyn was also in attendance along with other neighbors and friends of Aunt Dianne's. As it was, no boys were allowed, so Milo and Ray went out for lunch. Milo complained about how he was annoyed about Margaret's disappointment. Ray had admitted that Milo had a high set of standards for girls, and tended to go after the best looking ones. Ray had brought up Milo doing this even when he was in Kindergarten. As it was, in Kindergarten Milo picked the cutest out of the girls in the class, and this was before he even liked girls.

Lionalem Exploration and return of Avrahim and Tirah

The Cobolds had grown to enjoy their new freedom in Lionalem. This new beach land had given the Cobolds more new places to explore. On one occasion, the Cobolds started travelling through Lionalem and came across the Eastern view of the Temple. This reminded them of some long forgotten time remembered only in a dream. This was the time when the bridge was being planned by Annogrammatrons. At this point, the Cobolds got some understanding of what their upcoming mission was.

Around this time, a hawk had arrived to Suriya with a letter from Avrahim that he and his father would be returning back to Hitaria soon. Suriya had been anticipating this day for a long time, as she had not seen Avrahim since he had left. Suriya told the Londinians all about how brave Avrahim was, and how lousy Agrabah had been. According to Suriya, the nobles of Agrabah collected slaves through these reanimated dead birds known as Raptors. Suriya told her story about how she had been captured as a baby, and had vague memories of her parents, and being taken away by one of these horrible birds.

Early Childhood Flashbacks

On Labor Day, Milo saw a YouTube video that reminded him of the trip he took to New Seneca when he was three years old. This is when Youtube just began, and he was looking for videos of the Little Mermaid cartoon series. Milo found some supposed clickbait and checked it out to see what it was all about. The people in the video's last names were Sanfrantella. Milo remembered the restaurant he visited so many years ago with the O'Malleys. Milo only remembered the name of the restaurant because he asked his parents about the restaurant years back. Milo decided to look up the restaurant, and found a picture of the area near a mirror he remembered sitting at.

At school, Milo attempted to speak to Amira at lunch, but got too nervous. As it was, there was a schedule change with one of Amira's classes, and she would be eating lunch every day at the same time as Milo. This gave Milo some new opportunities that he had been denied. On the original days at Lunch, when Milo ate with Nate, Amira had lunch with her friends Vashti, Miriam and Liz. On the second days, Milo ate with some friends he had known throughout Highschool and as far back as Middle School. In fact, his gym class friend Liliana at lunch at his table. Unfortunately, Amira ate lunch with Lucille. During this time, Milo did not know that Lucille could be very threatening.

On Friday, Milo saw beauty and the beast for the first time since he was six. Milo had seen the Broadway version when he was Seven, and was familiar with the Enchanted Christmas. However, Milo's only memories of Beauty and the Beast were of this monstrosity of a sequel. Milo was moved by the transformation scene. That particular music had a level of power Milo remembered in a piece of Music he heard in Eighth Grade, now called anonymous song. Otherwise, something haunted Milo about this piece of music, as he remembered that this piece called "anonymous song" was around the same time that the Khara's were moving. Now Milo was not in any way still traumatized by the Khara's moving, now that he had such easy access to Amira.

On Sunday Morning, Milo was scheduled to be an altar server again, and had the Transformation Scene music stuck in his head, until the organ started playing. On Sunday afternoon, Milo and Ray were invited for Lunch at Uncle Leo's. Milo was still in a good mood about his status as a Senior, and had been very optimistic about this year turning out quite well. Milo had remembered how his final years at school were often very prosperous.

Milo was having a difficult time with advanced Spanish, and stayed after school one day. However the teacher never showed up, so Milo decided to walk around the schools neighborhood and tried to find Amira's house. He had no luck as he went in the wrong direction, and got to the wrong neighborhood. This same day, Lydia also had to stay after for Basketball practice. Ray picked both the kids up after school. After School, Milo went over to the Filentino's for dinner. That night, Milo and Salvatore played some video games they had not played since fifth grade.

Vesta's return

As we recall, Vesta was one of the Annogrammatrons to watch over when the Khara's first moved in, and the official memory. Vesta was also the influence for Belle's character for the movie "Beauty and the Beast". Vesta returned to congratulate Maelendil on completing the task she suggested. Maelendil's task began months ago when he first brought Disney back into the picture through influencing Milo to download the song "The Virginia Company" to begin with. Vesta showed Maelendil the scenes from the Summer when Milo first learned about the Little Mermaid and the present flashbacks to Beauty and the Beast. Maelendil gave a great sigh of relief to this news.

Maelendil understood why Milo was so moved by the Transformation scene in Beauty and the Beast. However, Maelendil also knew well that Milo had a sense of great fear with the scene. Vesta reminded Maelendil that this scene is the fulfillment of Amira's destiny. By this time, Maelendil decided that the two need to meet, so the Transformation can be fulfilled. However, Maelendil decided keep the prophecy from Milo and the Jinns until the time was appropriate.

After this meeting, Maelendil met with Alexander on ending the Silenzo alibi. Alexander had one more attempt planned for Silenzo. Maelendil agreed that this would be the last one. Alexander had asked Maelendil why this needed to end. Maelendil explained that this alibi had served its purpose. Alexander told Maelendil that Amira did not mind having a secret admirer. Maelendil knew this well, and then explains that Amira is not going to have any luck meeting Milo if she does not know who he is. Alexander grudgingly agreed to this, but knew that Maelendil knew best for his charges.

Homecoming plans

Shortly within a few weeks, the time was near for Kate to give birth. Milo knew that within this week that the baby, scheduled to be named Olivia would soon be born. On that Wednesday, a teacher asked Milo if he heard the news that there was a birth in his family. Now the teachers all knew that Aunt Judy was Milo's aunt, and she sent out a memo about her new granddaughter. The next day in school, Aunt Judy had Milo come down to the office to see the first picture of Olivia.

The homecoming theme of that year was under the sea, which gave Milo the idea to use Little Mermaid themes to ask Amira to the prom. Milo saw this as a sign that he should go to the Homecoming with Amira. Now Milo was still quite moved by what he found out about Amira's birth being so close to the Little Mermaid first hitting theatres. Milo drew a picture of Ariel, Flounder and Sebastian and wrote "you and me under the sea". In math class, another student started giving Milo a hard time about having a drawing of Ariel. Milo explained that the picture was not for him, and for a girl.

During that week, Ray and Margaret were in Gettysburg for their 20th anniversary. Over the week, Grandma Pearl stayed at the house. Grandma Pearl mentioned how the Rumcorns were in Atlanta. Milo asked Grandma Pearl about the Rumcorns wanting to go to Indianapolis. Grandma Pearl confirmed that this was true, and how Uncle Wayne applied for the station in Indianapolis to be closer to the family. At night, Milo made a CD with the formal invitation and some midi files he made with three versions of "Part of your world". The first was a Middle Eastern style, the second an Italian style and the third on the Organ and Brass. Milo had to wake up in the middle of the night to make this, as to not arouse any suspicions.

The next day, Milo put the invitation and cd in Amiras locker through the air vents. Milo had still used the Alibi Silenzo. By this time, Milo became well aware that the Silenzo alibi was not working, despite giving her some contact information. Milo started to get the point that Amira was not going to contact someone whom she did not even know the identity of. That weekend after Ray and Margaret returned home, Uncle Georgio hosted a get together, as Corey and Kate were in town, and brought Olivia to Ciderpond for the first time. After the get-together, Milo and Salvatore took a walk through the street, and passed the Khara's house. Milo then told Salvatore about his homecoming plans.

On the day before homecoming, Milo had felt enticed to ask Amira to Homecoming, but could not bring himself to do so. Milo did not truly think Amira would accept on such late term notice with some guy she just met. Milo justified this disappointment on superstitious grounds. On the first weekend of October of Milo's final year at a school, something bad happened. In Fifth grade, that was the weekend Grandma Gladys died, and in Eighth grade, that was when he found out the Khara's were moving.

Another weekend later, Milo was at a Barnes and nobles, in which he came across a dvd for the show talespin. Milo remembered that show from when he was a toddler, and that episode with the glass elevator that reminded him of his first visit to the O'Malleys when he was three.

On that Monday, Milo was off from school, and visited Mal-tech institute. Milo had an interest in Architectural drafting and design, and this was the only school close by that had this program. Mal-Tech was located in an older suburb adjacent to Ciderpond, known as Noussonburg. This suburb was fairly run down, and has had a history of poverty. When Milo arrived at the school, the tour woman showed him the main offices, which seemed pretty nice. Otherwise, Milo was not overly impressed with the school, as it was not a particularly nice facility, out of date and did not have summers off. Plus, the school curriculum involved all boards in the first semester, and no CADD. As it was, Milo had not been too concerned, as he still had another year. Margaret and Ray tried to talk Milo into starting school in the upcoming June, which he rejected. With the way the schedule was set up, there were three semesters a year, starting in June, October and February. So this essentially would mean that Milo would have to start at Mal-Tech two weeks after graduating Highschool. Milo knew this would be quite a difficult experience, and they had a trip planned to Disney World that summer.

After visiting Mal-Tech, Milo and Salvatore went on a hike in the woods. Milo told Salvatore all about Mal-Tech, and how he had the option of starting school in June. Salvatore agreed that such a prospect would stink. Milo was still uneasy about this, and feared that Margaret and Ray would try and force him to start in the upcoming June. That evening, Milo went on another walk, and stopped over at Aunt Jane's. Aunt Jane invited Milo over for dinner, as she had Grandpa Tony over also.

Communication Plans

Maelendil summoned Cashmir, Alexander, Husisha and Vesta to a meeting regarding Milo and Amira. Much to Cashmir's relief, the Silenzo alibi had come to an end. Cashmir recognized that Milo clearly understood that Amira could not respond to a Homecoming invitation when she did not know who sent it. As it was, Amira had no clue who Milo was, and she did not understand the clues like he expeceted.

Husisha and Vesta knew well that a friend of Amira's was also closer to Milo in a very spatial way. Maelendil assigned Husisha and Vesta to team up with Cashmir to develop a plan to meet. Then Maelendil summoned Victoria and Merriwhether to team up with Alexander with the task of keeping things from becoming domesticated and stale. Maelendil also reminded them that they were all in this together.

Avrahim and Tirah's return

One evening, while the Cobolds are contemplating their plans for getting in the Temple, they are given word to return to Londinium immediately, to welcome a special guest. The Cobolds depart Lionalem, into Atlantica and throught the Mountains and into Londinium. Elrich and Yoshiyahu talked about how it was so much easier to travel when the bridge was still up.

When the Cobolds arrived in Londinium, they found that Avrahim had returned, and was accompanied by another man. Avrahim introduced the Cobolds and Londinians to his father Tirah. Tirah explained that he had gotten his affairs in order, and has decided to retire from working at Burtonabad, and has a new mission to concentrate on. Tirah then tells the story about how he originated from a Shemitarian tribe known as the Habirubadi's. Tirah tells the story about how the original Shemitarians lived on a large oasis known as Shemitaria, with seven states known as Habirubad, Guptastan, Izbirius, Malatya, Sidonius, Fatima, Basrami and Capital state Justistum. According to Tirah, the states were gradually taken over by a series of invaders, who changed the name with some mocking parody, and exiled the Shemitarians from their land. Tirah explains that Agrabah is nothing but a puppet city, and the invaders are really the ones who now run Shemitaria.

When Tirah meets Suriya, he explains that he knows that her parents had long been looking for her, and originates from the Guptastani tribe. Tirah knew the story, as Avrahim had mentioned Suriya's background to him on many occasions. Tirah had known Suriya's parents, and how they had a little baby they had ripped away by the horrible raptors.

When the Cobolds went on their return to Lionalem, a Londinian known as Justeven expressed curiosities about the town, and asked if they would give her a tour of Atlantis. Propetus allowed for this, and brought her back to the town. When the Cobolds and Justeven arrived, she had a look of blatant horror on her face. Irugen asked Justeven if she was okay. Justeven asked what happened to the Mountains, and where the beach came from. Aerondin then proclaimed that the great phoenix had destroyed the mountain, and the remains of lava became transformed into a beautiful beach. Justeven looked horrified, and she started referring to the Great Phoenix as a wicked reprobate, and claimed that the Mount of Lava was there for a good reason. Then Justeven started panicking, muttering that her master is going to be furious when he finds out what has happened. Justeven left Atlantis, then left Gallicanium and the region of Hitaria out in the desert screaming about the enemies. The Cobolds were a bit uneasy about Justeven's departure, but only saw her as an unstable nutjob.

Temperance the Holy Roller

By this time, Margaret and Ray agreed that Milo was right about not starting Mal-Tech until next fall, as they understood that he would be in school for two summers if he started at this time. Plus, Margaret and Ray understood that it maybe pretty traumatic to be starting a whole new school right after graduating from Highschool. Milo was still not wholly sure that he would be going to Mal-Tech, as he was still considering attending Whelon or Sussewago University.

Temperance, this busybody was in gym class with Amira and also in Milo's English class. This was the same busybody who did not like Milo looking out the window the previous year. During that summer, she became a born again Christian, and like many situations like this, she became this holier than thou fanatic. Milo had not recognized the signs, as he knew nothing of Fundamentalism at this time, and still had a bias towards religion. Temperance held back nothing in her expression of disapproval of Milo's interest in Amira. Temperance knew well that Amira was a different religion than Milo, and did not agree with inter-religious relationships. Not to mention, Temperance disagreed with both their religions.

The first time Milo noticed this was when he had been joking with Pat, and Temperance told Milo that he was not funny. On the first day of English class, Temperance shared with the class that she was very religious. Milo did not know about Fundamentalism at the time, and always assumed religious corruption was bureaucratic or psychological rather than foundational. On another occasion, Temperance told Milo that she would tell Amira that he was a creep, and to advise her to stay away from him if he did not stop wearing a shirt with the Mexican flag, or

Axelrod's Announcement

Axelrod summoned Maelendil over a sight he had seen. Axelrod had last appeared when Diggins was possessed by the Grinch offspring a few months ago. Axelrod explained to Maelendil that he had seen one like a squid who seems harmless, but has strong tentacles and a nasty bite. This squid he explained was a Fundamentalist among the charges.

Maelendil knew exactly who Axelrod was speaking of, and did not think that just because the Fundamentalist in question was quite humorless and single minded would make her dangerous. Axelrod had seen that this Fundamentalist has something malicious and horrible planned, and explained that she was on the same debt list as Diggins and Davis. Maelendil agreed that he would keep and eye on Temperance. Maelendil asked Axelrod what debts exactly were. Axelrod explained that sooner or later, the offender will have to compensate for their actions, in some form or another. Axelrod explained that this only covers offenses grounded on pure malevolence without any redeeming intentions.

The Visit to the Temple Grounds

The Cobolds were quite stumped about how to get into the Atlantean Temple. They had walked the steps from the beach to the entrance on the Temple Grounds, but had no clue how to enter. They knew there was a way to accomplish this task, but could not figure out how to achieve it. An Atlantean hobo living on the beach who had been watching the Cobolds suggested knocking on the door. The Cobolds remembered hearing something similar in the Great Phoenix song and heeded the hobo's advice.

One morning, the Cobolds walked the stairs up to the entrance and the Cobold Satyeshu knocked on the door. Then there was a great clanking sound and the ancient doors opened. At once, the Cobolds saw a severe looking Atlantean. This Atlantean asked the Cobolds what their business was. They explained having been sent to this place, and who they were. The Atlantean got a strange look on his face, and in shock spoke "THE COBOLDS!" The Cobolds had feared telling too much. The Atlantean asked if they were the Cobolds who fought the trolls, learned Atlantean, bore the Great Phoenix ashes and restored the Pyramid of Parthania.

The Atlantean then thanked the Cobolds for their services and explained that he was Jerimous the Acolyte to the Temple. Jerimous told the Cobolds that the Temple was the headquarters of Kebsuda. Jerimous explained that Kebsuda was the name of their world, which includes but not limited to Shemitaria, Hamitaria, Atlantis, Gallicanium, Pedmontus and Parthania. Jerimous showed the Cobolds this tree that grows fruits known as Healing Balms. Jerimous then tells the story of the Mount of Lava. According to Jerimous, there was an invasion of a Maludico who was as evil as a Maludico could possibly go. This Maludico was Infundermalis. Jerimous explains that he started to gain followers in Hitaria, with two separate followings in the Atlantica Region, and another in the Gallicanium-Spartustica region. Infundermalis had been a Maludico who could not stand vice, and hated how the land of Kebsuda put so much trust in the Dance who not only tolerated, but used their worst vices for good. Infundermalis could not stand this, and sought to weed out all the ambiguities that allowed such imperfections. In his attempt to weed out vice, he sought to establish an order who submitted to his dumbed down and shallow interpretation of the deep laws of righteousness as interpreted by other Maludico's. While Infundermalis was intruding his company on Kebsuda, he had his followers turn the sea rocks into a mountain, and the sand into lava. Infundermalis built this mount of lava as a place to punish his opponents. When Infundermalis was banished from Kebsuda, he promised to return with his master, who would take all those mistivants who opposed him and cast them into this mount of lava. Jerimous explained that Infundermalis is not going to be happy when he finds his creation gone.

Jerimous then showed the the Cobolds this house of Oracles, and its work towards peace in days to come. Jerimous explained that they had many threats from the Rakshasajinns who seek to cause divisions and create conflict. Jerimous explained that the Kalogeros are an order of the Temple workers who practice and spread unity and peace. The Cobolds noticed this strange ritual where the Kalogeros draw circles in this sand several times.

Jerimous then takes the Cobolds to the Elders to discuss their status at the temple. The Elders agreed that one very important task needs completion. The Cobolds new given was to work on rebuilding the bridge that the Offsprings destroyed so many years ago. The Cobolds instantly agreed, and greatly rejoiced at the prospect of the Pedmontus Gardens being reconnected to Lionalem.

Amira meets Milo

Around this same time, Lauren gave birth to her firstborn Abigail. Now Abigail and Olivia were only born a few weeks apart. Milo first got the news one Saturday afternoon, after Aunt Dianne called Ray. In School that week, Aunt Judy called Milo back down to the office to see the picture Aunt Dianne sent of Abigail.

One Friday at lunch, Milo spotted Amira saying hi to a girl Amanda on his bus. Amanda was a temporary student with Ciderpond High, as she had relocated to Ciderpond to get emotional therapy. Amanda talked to Milo for a second, and he immediately asked her about Amira, or as he said, the Middle Eastern Girl. Milo explained that he liked Amira. Amanda explained that Amira was in her gym class, and said that she would talk to her. Milo explained to Amanda that he knew Amira from the Khara's four summers ago. In gym, Amanda spoke to Amira. Now Amira did not know who Milo was, or remember meeting any of her family friends neighbors. Amira did not also have any idea that Milo was the mysterious Silenzo.

On the bus ride home, Amanda told Milo she had spoken to Amira. Milo was relieved to find out that Amira did not put this together with the Silenzo alibi. Lucille overheard this and asked if this was about Amira Sassani. Lucille explained that she was good friends with Amira. Milo told Lydia the news, and told him not to screw up this time.

On Sunday, the Biancatello's went over to Rory and Laurens, who at the time were living in a suburb past Phyllisville. Milo had not been to this suburb since Grandma Gladys' funeral seven years ago. Lauren let Milo hold Abigail, and he was a bit apprehensive, as he never held a baby before. Abigail ended up spitting up on him. Now Milo did not have any hard feelings over this. After visiting with Rory and Lauren, the Biancatello's stopped over at Grandma Pearl's. It felt a bit strange for Milo to be at Grandma Pearls, since he had not been there since before the Rumcorns moved.

One day at lunch due to a scheduling change for that day, Pat was at lunch with Milo. Milo told Pat that Amira was at lunch. This time, Pat was going over to Amira's table, like he did with Minu the previous year. Pat said that he would go over to say hi to Amira, and insisted that Milo join him. Milo this time escorted Pat, so he wouldn't do anything stupid. Pat told Amira that Milo said hi, but she was still stumped about who he was. Milo told Amira who he was, and that he lived next door to the Kharas. Milo told Amira about that day they met four summers ago, which Amira vaguely remembered. Milo and Amira did not talk real long that day.

That night, it was Margaret's birthday, and the Biancatello's went out for Italian. Milo had not told the family about speaking with Amira, and waited a while. However Milo told Lydia about Amira.

Milo had been very relieved, and believed that he had been given a second chance after doing it wrong two separate times. Milo was still part of a church group with St. Timothy's led by Richard Espozito that met once a week for faith sharing and bible study. Milo had been going to the meetings since he sent Amira a Valentine the previous school year. At a meeting the day after, Richard asked what experiences they had that week. Milo admitted that he had one, but was a bit embarassed to talk about it. Milo then told the group about this second chance he got with Amira. Milo told them the story of Silenzo, the Harold and Kumar poster, the Aladdin invitation and the Jafari's. The group got quite a laugh, and agreed with his decision to retire his alibi.

Arybatas and Ludovum Return

The bridge as we remember was designed the the Annogrammatrons Arybatas and Ludovum long ago. Jerimous sent the two a letter explaining their desire to rebuild the bridge, and they accepted this proposal. Arybatas and Ludovum had been waiting to rebuild the masterpiece destroyed by the reptilian offspring.

Arybatas and Ludovum arrived one morning ready to design a bridge more beautiful and so strong that no Rakshasajinn dare attempt to destroy it. Arybatas told the story about how this bridge came to be so long ago, and how the Jinns originally revived them, and restored the gardens of Pedmontus. Both Arybatas and Ludovum started drawing up plans and set the stage for rebuilding. The Atlanteans were assigned to put the columns in place, while the Cobolds were assigned to put the walk way in place. The Paspahegh's donated strong materials native to Parthania.

The Phone Calls and Halloween

That weekend, Lydia told Milo he saw Amira doing volunteer work at the zoo. Milo badly wanted to exploit this, and call as a Zoo worker to record her schedule, but decided not to spoil this chance. That week, Milo called Nousha in regards to a Tolerance assignment, as he forgot to write it down. Mrs. Jafari answered the phone and Milo explained he was from Spanish Class. Nousha gave Milo the wrong information. Whether this was done on purpose or on accident is a great mystery. Milo told Salvatore about this, and he referred to Nousha as a jerk. Frankly, Milo did not care that much, as he could have called just about anyone else besides Nousha. As for being in class with Nousha, Milo was for the most part on his best behavior. On one occasion, the topic in class had been about prejudices against Muslims. Milo had given the opinion that it is not fair to judge people from this region, and how such stereotypes can be very damaging. Milo also explained that he had neighbors from the Middle East, and how they were nice people. On a couple of topics, such as pets, Milo brought up Jinny a couple of times, knowing that Nousha would remember the times he brought her for walks by their house.

On Friday afternoon, Milo called Amira while watching the second Little Mermaid and eating a plate of nachos. Luckily Amira got the phone, and knew exactly who was calling. Amira was sitting on her bed with a stuffed Leopard toy. Amira suspiciously questioned Milo, and explained that Amanda from Gym said that he had known her before. Milo suspected at first that Amira had figured out that he was Silenzo. As it was, Amira had not remembered meeting Milo at the Khara's and Milo explained that it was because it happened so long ago. Milo also explained that he knew Yasmine, Minu, Nousha and Rokshana. This was probably not the best idea, as the Jafaris would probably not have the best things to say about Milo, and he had only met Yasmine once.

That night, Milo went out to dinner with Ray, Uncle Leo, Eustace and Sylvester, as Margaret, Lydia, Aunt Jane and Samantha were shopping for shoes. They were buying shoes for a wedding, as Ben would be getting married in a few weeks. The next day was Salvatore's birthday party. Milo told Salvatore about his phonecall with Amira. During that evening, Milo and Salvatore played some old nintendo games, which they had last played before Milo started his day camp for the first time. For some reason, this summer had sort of reminded Milo of the summer after fourth grade. For the most part, Milo avoided thinking about that summer, along with sixth grade alltogether, and considered them some of his worst days.

On Halloween night, Milo and Salvatore went trick or treating. Milo went as a snake charmer and Salvatore as a street shark. This street shark costume was the head part of a costume Milo had when he was seven years old. Milo and Salvatore's first stop was to this family who took down Milo's sign, and saw him dressed in bedouin clothing. The family did not recognize Milo as the hiker. Milo and Salvatore then went to the Jafaris. Mr. Jafari answered the door, and dropped milk duds on the floor, as he was staring at Milo's costume.

Then an Epitynitas Prigastus disguised under a cloth appeared, who had been with Milo since he first ditched the Silenzo alibi. Then the Aladdin scene appears where Jafar exposes Aladdin in the Reprise to "Prince Ali" and lets Jasmine know that Prince Ali really was the street rat Aladdin. Milo had feared that the Jafari's would tell Amira about the incident with Minu three years ago, and that Amira would put the pieces together and figure that Milo was the uncouth Silenzo.

The next morning, Lydia caught Milo snickering. Lydia asked what was so funny, and he explained something happened last night. Lydia guessed Milo and Salvatore went to the Jafari's. What Milo was actually snickering about was this guy who was giving Salvatore a hard time about trick or treating with a box. That evening, the Biancatello's went to mass for All Saints day. As the plan went, Richard's group would meet in Church, and they would sit together. After Church, the plan was to get dessert at Perkins. Milo told Richard and another in his group about almost making the stupid mistake of calling Amira with a British accent. They got a laugh, and still applauded Milo for making the right decision. Milo did admit that he called Amira, and used his real American accent.

Cashmir's requests

Cashmir had seen what happened with the phone calls and Halloween, and thought that Milo needed to cool it. Cashmir met with Maelendil over this. Cashmir suspected that something bad would happen with Prigastus, and this could ruin any plans with Milo and Amira. Maelendil knew well that Milo had been more couth with Amira, and barely resembled Silenzo. Cashmir pushed for a plan to get Milo to tell Amira the truth before the Jafari's. Maelendil greivously explained that things would have to be left alone. Cashmir started to argue about Prigastus only ruining what relationship Milo and Amira have now, especially in such early stages. Maelendil told Cashmir that he understood all of this. Cashmir started to suspect that there was something Maelendil knew that he was not sharing.

Cashmir started to press Maelendil harder for information. Maelendil finally relented and explained that Amira had found Milo as this overly couth type quite boring. Maelendil explained that the truth will come out when it's the right time. Cashmir complains that he knows Amira quite well, and that the trip to the Jafari's was a stupid move. Cashmir explains that he thinks that the Mahishastura offspring is probably behind this, and giving Milo this sense of over-confidence. Maelendil knew that this was true, but did not consider this wise to interfere. Maelendil knew he had a burden, which could not be yet revealed, and Cashmir was becoming more suspicious.

The Wedding and the Incident

That weekend, Milo went to Bens wedding. The rite took place at St. Timothy's, but they did not have a full mass, since Ben's wife Caroline is not Catholic. This is done so other people do not feel excluded from the service. This had been the first wedding Milo went to in a long time where he had no role to play. Now Sylvester was the ring bearer. The reception took place near the Putt Putt course in Sussewago. At the reception, Matt was in a bad mood, because he had the hotts for some girls waiting tables at the reception hall. Matt was all mad that the girls did not get a break, and started complaining to Milo and Salvatore. At the reception, Ray asked Milo if he went to the Jafari's on Halloween night. Milo admitted he had, but only did it not to be rude. Margaret wondered what they thought with Milo dressed as a Snake Charmer. That night, Milo and Matt spent the night at Salvatore's.

That week, Milo had a long weekend, and watched Aladdin on Monday Night. Milo had not seen the movie since the summer. One day later, Milo and Salvatore began a simple workout plan for Tuesday's, Thursdays and Saturday's. That evening, Lydia's new friend Natalie and Emily came over for dinner. Milo mentioned some classes, and Natalie mentioned Nousha being in her communications class. Natalie told them how Nousha mentioned being in Iran over the summer.

One night at a highschool football game between Ciderpond and St. James high, Milo had been nervous, as it was that possible he may not get a seat on the bus to Columbus for a field trip with his psychology class. Every year, the Psychology class goes to Columbus to visit the Center of Science and Industry. For the rest of the afternoon, the class just walks around the city.

At the game, Two of Lydia's friends from middle school, Barb and Rachel had ditched her and Emily to drink with their water polo team. It had been well known that the water polo team functioned like a malicious gang. It was also well rumored that the team had secret drinking parties. That night, a senior in Milo's class got busted for underage drinking. Lydia had been upset about this, and things between Barb and Rachel never were the same since. Now Emily's mother warned Margaret about such a thing happening, especially with the Water Polo team. Milo remembered how this happened with Steve in his freshman year, and how difficult this was. Now Lydia had been friends with Rachel and Barb since they were in fifth grade.

Axelrod's return

Axelrod summoned Maelendil, Alexander and Cashmir to relay some news. He had explained that the Charges Sister and cousin were betrayed and in debt. Axelrod explained that this was an optional debt that did not need to be fulfilled. Maelendil knew what had happened, and had seen this before. Maelendil remembered the same thing happening with Milo and Steve in their freshmen year. Axelrod explained optional debts, and how this typically applies to situations where no maliciousness was intended. Axelrod explained that the Jafari's are also technically in an optional debt, as they meant not ill will, but still mishandled the situation. Axelrod explained that such debts will come in handy, such as in times when the servants to the forces of Malevolence will be tethered to a deeper obligation to their victims.

Durnil showed up with Victoria, Merriwhether, Billius and the Charisms of St. Patrick and Judith. This tells of a time, when worldly ambitions become a temptation, and popular opinion will seem more feasible. Durnil gave a stirring speech about a vision he relayed of great division. Durnil told the Jinns present that they need to make sure the earthlings choose the path of loyalty than the easy path of betrayal. Axelrod commented on what he saw that night at the game, and how it can be easy to be swayed by novelty and glamour and forget what is truly important. Maelendil knew how such things often happen in times of upheavel, and vowed that he would watch over his charges, and protect them from such toxic influences. Maelendil explained that this happened before, and will happen again. But Maelendil further explains that at some point, the young see the errors of giving into novel superficiality, and begin to understand what is important.

Thanksgiving

The Friday before thanksgiving, Milo went on the trip to Columbus early in the morning. The trip was not much to write home about, and was an excuse to get out of the classroom. The bus left at 5am, and they arrived in Columbus at 10. As for the science museum, this had not been as good as Milo anticipated. Milo had remembered how much fun the Toledo Imagination station had been, but only because he went with Steve, Doris and Merle. Plus, this science center was a bit stingy, and most individual exhibits required payment. After getting out of the science center, the students were taken to downtown Columbus. Milo had not seen Columbus since the summer after first grade. Milo and his group did many of the same things he remembered from his first trip to Columbus. Milo started to have some flashbacks to that trip, and remembered how "Aladdin and the King of Thieves" came out shortly after.

Thanksgiving had been a full house, with two new babies, Abigail and Olivia. Abigail is Rory and Laurens daughter while Olivia is Corey and Kate's daughter. Grandma Pearl spent Thanksgiving out of town visiting with Uncle Al and Aunt Joan. Lauren apologized about Abigail spitting up on him, and Milo told her he had no hard feelings. On thanksgiving evening Milo, Salvatore, Lydia, Matt and Eustace went for a walk in the Jafaris neighborhood. The Jafaris were not home, and went over to Rokshanas family's house for dinner. Milo shouted he could not believe that they were not home in front of some of the Jafari's neighbors. Lydia got mad at Milo for speaking so loudly.

That night, the cousins all held a prayer service for some unknown reason. The opening was an old German Christmas hymn known as "Freut Euch Wir Lieben Christen". During the prayer service, here had been a Vision of a grim castle with the Devil sitting high on the throne and sending his servants out demanding worship and ruling through fear and tyranny. There was a also a majestic vision of the newborn Christchild in the manger with angels singing loud on high. Countless people throughout the earth had been drawn to the light of the manger, and ignored the powers of hell. At this, the minions flying through the air dropped like flies and the devils castle dissolved like sand and fell from his throne flat on his face.

The next day, Milo attempted to call Amira on the phone, but got their voice mail. Parisa left the voice message. As to where Amira was, Milo was utterly clueless. That afternoon, the O'Malley's were supposed to stay a little longer, as Aunt Marie needed to talk with Aunt Michelle and Aunt Dianne about a trip they were planning to Florida in the Spring. Unfortunately Alicia decided that she had plans, and the O'Malley's left early yet again. Milo became determined to use his psychology class to prove that there was something not right with Alicia.

On Saturday, Milo, Salvatore and Lydia did some yard work for Grandpa Tony and went to Taco Bell for lunch. Milo found out that Jesse and Dianne would be moving to Nebraska for a few years. Otherwise, Milo was annoyed with Alicia, as the O'Malleys were supposed to stay longer, as Aunt Marie, Aunt Michelle and Aunt Dianne wanted to meet on Saturday in order to discuss a vacation they would be taking to Florida in the Spring. As it was, Alicia planned a so called previous engagement, and the O'Malleys had to leave early again. That evening, Milo found the song "Go the Distance" from Hercules.

Pandora's vision

The long absent seer Pandora had a vision of a youth who could not fit into his society, and treated as a freak. Then this youth's story is revealed of once living in a different world, but being kidnapped by a monstrous demon and tossed into a world that he did not belong in. In this world, the youth lives with strengths that cannot be accomodated and are nothing more than weaknesses. This youth has amnesia of his original home, and goes on a quest to find out where he was from. The only clue he has are dreams of some unknown place and a medallion with a Mayan clock. Then the Youth takes a journey to the Pyramids of Chichen Iza. Pandora keeps the vision secret and puts the scroll in the Hall of Prophecies until ready to be opened.

Help from the Atlantean Outcasts

By this time, the Cobolds are back in Lionalem, and ready to get the columns placed. The Atlanteans who were once possessed by the shadows opted for this job. These Atlanteans had become outcasts in Atlantica even after their deliverance. Many in Atlantica feared these Atlanteans, as they remembered the dark feel in the air. Plus, the Atlanteans really did not understand what happened, and naturally feared what they did not understand. The news had gone out that the Temple of Atlantis would be reopened once the bridge was completed. Many who were seeking wealth, fame and rewards applied to put the columns in, but Arybatas turned down their applications, and gave the Atlantean Outcasts the job. Arybatas knew well that these outcasts needed the jobs more, and would more deeply appreciate the Atlantean temple more. Plus, both Arybatas and Ludovum knew well that this temple was not setup in order to reinstate their ill gotten privilege. Naturally the Atlantica elites who lost their privilege had still pretty disgruntled with the Cobolds. At this time, the Cobolds and Atlantean Outcasts broke ground and began the project.

Milo's Purchase

Milo had setup his alarm clock in his room to wake him up to watch the Little Mermaid series. The alarm clock CD had been Disney Rascal songs as the Wakeup. Milo had long got bored of the Little Mermaid series, but still never changed the alarm. That morning, the song that came on was Esmerelda's song "God help the Outcast", which Milo slept through and had dreams about being in the movie.

That first Wednesday afternoon after Thanksgiving at lunch, Milo saw that Amira was selling candy again. Milo remembered having bought candy from Amira two years ago near the end of Lent. Milo bought two items, one for himself and the other for Lydia. Before letting Amira escape, Milo asked her about her Thanksgiving. Amira told Milo that she went to the Dayton region to visit her Grandmother. Amira told Milo it was near Columbus, Ohio. Milo informed Amira that she had some cousins in Dayton, and asked if it was true that Minu was in Columbus for College. Amira never heard of this. This had been Milo and Amira's longest conversations so far, and he was quite proud of this accomplishment.

That Saturday afternoon, Milo had ACT's, along with Prudence' friend Sidney. During this test, there had been a cryptic vision of this day of desolation recounting the desolation of Israel, Milo's demise and hardness in latter holidays, social sickness of unawareness and oblivion and helplessness, and the culmination of history. For all that can be proclaimed is "Come Emmanuel" as the one who can finally heal a world doomed to darkness, fear, desolation and death.

This had been a very joyful Advent, as Milo had been anticipating Amira's birthday, and further cementing the bond that had just been created. On the Heavenly realm, the choirs of Angels had sung the prophecies men of Old had writ foretelling the coming of the Messiah to the world bringing glad tidings of salvation. The Churches on earth had sung "Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus" over the course of three years for three Advents in a row over the course of four Sunday's. This is the great Joyful side of Advent, in anticipating the coming of the Messiah as had been done in years past.

Yuriyama and Azeyas Visions

Back at the Demuzidean and Enanian Temple Complex, a celebration was being held, as the Jinn understood that the time of glory was now at hand. The jinns all gathered were Maelendil, along with the Magnus from the past including Oliver, Max, Theodore, Alphie, and the present ones Alexander and Cashmir. The Seers Azeyas, Yuriyama, Daxivius, Durnil and Pandora were all in attendance along with the Annogrammatrons Vesta, Andreas, Mairead, Herb, Johannes, Bartemius, Maugris, Ihrveirner, Vesta, Andreas, Billius, Kabira, Merriwhether, Victoria, Randolf and Axelrod.

Before the celebrations, Azeyas relayed glorious prophecies of glorious day in the future when the powers of darkness are subdued. Azeyas spoke about the rose garden that was once barren, and has become quite glorious and beautiful. Then Azeyas spoke about the cursed penalty being brought to nothing, and the cleansing from evil. The last word of Azeys spoke of a shepherd returning to bring fourth the lost sheep back to the fold. The celebrations began at Azeyas opening words, but Maelendil was quite uneasy.

Yuriyama and Maelendil spoke in private about what was spoken of. Yuriyama knew well that this was not speaking of the present, but of some indeterminate future. Maelendil looked unsurprisingly grieved about what Yuriyama spoke of. Maelendil had seen some darkness four times beforehand of such scatterings. Maelendil knew well how four years earlier, the stages were set, where the charge experienced a strange occurrence with the neighbors moving, but knew there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Yuriyama explained that this would begin very soon, and Maelendil started to understand his burden becoming realized. Maelendil asked Yuriyama what he knew, and all he could relay was a fear that the Rakshasajinns would begin their reign earth. Maelendil still knew the great triumph that he heard in Azeyas prophecies. Now Maelendil always knew that the ways of the Dance were unknown, like in the days when the neighbors moved, but always came through.

Amira's Birthday

One Monday afternoon, Milo went shopping at the mall to buy the Little Mermaid DVD and presents for his family. During the Summer, Milo lost his Little Mermaid VHS, and he needed the movie with Amira's birthday coming up. When purchasing The Little Mermaid, the girl checking him out mentioned not having seen the movie in a long time. Milo was trying to be discreet about this. While at the Mall, Milo decided to do some Christmas shopping. Milo bought Ray a Golf calendar, Margaret a Yankee Candle air freshener, Grandma Pearl a tacky decoration and his godparents Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane a custom made Christmas decoration of Snowman families. Milo put his and Grandpa Tony's name on the decoration. Milo also bought a nativity set sold by Lebanese Christians made from wood from Israel. Ray told Milo to be careful when making purchases with people from third world countries. Ray explained that they often use the pushy bartering system. That evening Milo watched the special features for the Little Mermaid. This included the background story of the movie, deleted scenes, and the Hans Christian Andersen version. All this started getting Milo excited for the big day soon coming up.

On the eve of Amira's birthday, Milo put the Little Mermaid on and fell asleep on the Air mattress within minutes in the game room. At two in the morning, Milo woke up as the happy ending scene began. Milo woke up to see Ariel just having been transformed into a Human, and the wedding where the Mermaids and humans attend on the boat. Milo remembered being so haunted by the scene some seven summers ago. Milo remembered how in the second Little Mermaid, this separation between the sea and land was undone. Then there was a vision of a veil being torn in half, without any loss of identity.

The next morning, Milo was anticipating seeing Amira on her birthday. On the bus ride, as soon as the bus parked at the school, Milo selected the Little Mermaid "Happy Ending" theme on his MP3 player. Milo had this all perfectly choreographed. While listening to this music, Milo had seen Amira walking up the stairs to her locker, and was greeted by Liz, who gave her a card. In homeroom, The video announcements announced Amira's birthday.

There was a vision in the Hallway of the infant Amira was wrapped in red blankets asleep, while surrounded by seventeen stars. Below her was a bouquet of Pointsettas and a gold coinlike cutout an A. Milo was next to Amira as a toddler, and holding a stuffed flounder doll. There was also an image of the early Church poet Aurelius Prudentius Clemens. Then there was a flashback to Amira's birthday when she first started Highschool two years ago.

At lunch time, Milo wished Amira a happy birthday. In math class, the date was written on the chalkboard, like it always was. Milo wrote under the date "-17 years ago" and "whaa whaa ain't I cute" to commemorate Amira's birthday. Temperance started complaining about the writing, but the teacher did not care, and was fine with what was written. The teacher asked Milo who was cute, and then just started the lesson. Towards the end of class, Milo's friend Dimitru mentioned that he heard Amira's name over the announcements. Temperance mentioned she heard the news with an irritated tone. Temperances more level headed friend Sidney also mentioned having heard of the birthday announcements.

That night, the parent trap was on television, and Milo listened to the song "Of the Fathers Love Begotten". This was the same version Milo first downloaded two years ago, when Amira was a freshman. Milo then remembered how he watched the parent trap quite frequently after Dudlechip almost eight years ago. Lydia told Milo that he likes girly movies. Milo explained that he had not so girly reasons for liking the movies. On Saturday night, while Salvatore was over, Milo was watching some deleted scenes of the Little Mermaid. Ray walked in and started teasing Milo about this. Milo then explained the real reason why he was watching the movie.

On Monday, Aunt Judy played a Middle Eastern version of "We Three Kings" Milo allowed the office to borrow. As we remember, the office played Christmas music over the loudspeaker. Milo saw Amira walking down the hall when this version was playing. Now Amira did not know Milo had been the one behind this.

On Tuesday, Milo found out the Rumcorns would be coming in for Christmas, but would be leaving the day after Christmas. This had greatly annoyed Milo, as this would put them on a tight schedule, and he would have to miss fried dough with the Filentino's. Plus, this was a lot of resentment that the Rumcorns had moved far away, just when they were getting closer with the Biancatello's. The plan was that the Rumcorns invited the Biancatello's over to Grandma Pearl's for dinner on Friday night, and Grandpa Paul would be providing prime rib. Frankly, seeing Grandpa Paul was the only reason Milo had any interest in going over, considering that he saw Grandma Pearl every week, and would be seeing her over Christmas, and had little interest in being on the Rumcorns schedule. That evening, Milo was due to work in the youth group Live Nativity. Milo had done this the previous year, which took place in the Church garage. The performance even had live animals to give an authentic experience.

The Columns in Place

The Outcasts and Cobolds had the columns put right in place and the first part of this project was completed. The Columns were setup where the tallest was closest to Pedmontus and the shortest closest to Lionalem. The next step was to place the archways, handrails and stairs in. The project had been completed within days of the commemoration of the coming of the Great Phoenix. This year, the feast was held in the Lionalem neighborhood where the Elfess resided. The Great Phoenix flew over the columns well placed and sang a song of pleasure in their efforts. The supplies for the rest of the bridge would not be ready for a couple months, and the project was put on hiatus until ready. The Cobolds had been in quite a celebrative mood, and happy to see their columns back in place.

Then the Great Phoenix started singing this strange, yet hauntingly beautiful song in an unknown language. Many present tried to understand what this song was all about, but heard words such as end of desolation, sight in the desert, return from desolation and longing for the new day. Then Adrino showed up in a glorious fashion. Adrino asked the Cobolds if they remembered him. Selwyn mentioned that he came to show them the way to the Pedmontus gardens when they feared treading into their home. Adrino then told the Cobolds that they did good work, and have completed the first half of their mission. The Cobolds asked Adrino what this meant. Adrino explained that he heard the Great Phoenix song, and that's all that had been revealed to him.

Amira's Concert

On Wednesday night, Milo wanted to go to Amira's chorus concert, but Ray would not let Milo go by himself, but did not want to go. Milo got a bit agitated, as he did not consider himself asking for a lot. Ray did not really want to sit through a holiday concert, especially one with a bunch of other people's kids. After some arguing, Milo got Ray to go to the concert with him. Ray told Milo that he would not be happy if Milo got disappointed if he could not talk to Amira. Frankly, Milo was not planning on this, and only considered this a plus should it occur.

At the concert, Kazeem was sitting alone with spaces saved for his family. During the second song, Milo saw Kazeem having raised his hand like a wave. Milo then saw Zaida, Roshanak, Parisa and Amira's new younger brother Samir all showed up, and needed to be guided to their seat. The song playing at the time was a John Rutter version of "For the Beauty of the Earth". The Chorus sang "The First Noel" in acapella, as that had always been a specialty. Milo also saw Emily's family, as Morgan was in the Ciderpond Chorus.

After the concert, Milo got in line for cookies and punch, and therefore didn't get the chance to talk to Amira. Milo was okay with this, as he got to see Amira perform, and she knew he was there. On the way home, Ray admitted he did not believe that Milo would have a chance with Amira, as they are from two different cultures. Milo never bought into this one bit.

The next day, which was the last day before Christmas break, Milo congratulated Amira on a good performance the previous night. That afternoon on the way home from school, Milo talked with Amanda about Amira. Amanda explained that Amira talked about Milo frequently, and had a cute laugh. Milo told Amanda about Silenzo, and asked her if Amira ever mentioned this before. Amanda never heard of this, but thought this was pretty cool.

On the first day of break, the Biancatello's went to Grandma Pearl's, as the Rumcorns were in town. Milo was not thrilled about this, as the Rumcorns were only going to be in town until Tuesday morning. Plus Milo ended up missing fried dough at Grandma Dora's. Grandpa Paul had brought the food as expected, and he made potato soup and Prime Rib. Margaret told Uncle Wayne about how Milo sat through a Christmas concert just to see Amira. Frankly, seeing the Rumcorns was not quite as bad as Milo anticipated. Aunt Bertha was a bit annoying in talking about Atlanta, and talking like a hot shot. What the Biancatello's knew was that they did not even live in Atlanta, but some former hick town far on the outskirts of Atlanta, and less developed than Ciderpond or Essex.

For Christmas, Milo got the Ninth Season of the Simpsons, and favored the last six episodes of that season. Milo became a bit obsessed with Amira over Christmas break slightly to his parents annoyance. This had been a pretty busy Christmas holiday. So far, the Biancatello's were invited back to Grandma Dora's for Christmas Eve. Christmas Day was back at Grandpa Tony's. A few nights later, there was a Christmas Party at the Delaney's. Milo looked through a yearbook that Shamus showed him. Charlie freaked out about this, and did not want anyone seeing his ever so private yearbook. As Lydia and Milo knew well, Charlie was quite a weirdo, while Shamus was the normal one. But Milo did see a picture of Roshanak. Milo talked about Amira with Shamus, to which Lydia blabbed to Ray about. On Thursday night, Jorge held a concert at St. Timothy's.

Chapter 33: The final stage

Salvatore's Blabbery

A few days after Christmas, Salvatore and Gianni got into a wrestling match, in which Gianni got a nasty injury. Now Salvatore and Gianni always had a sibbling rivalry, and both liked to antagonize each other. After Gianni got this injury, Salvatore had not been the same, and became extremely uptight, and tried acting like "brother of the year" towards Gianni in a groveling way. Salvatore had all the sudden became over-protective of Gianni, much to others annoyance.

Before Christmas, Milo became active on Myspace, and befriended Rokshana. Amira did not have a myspace. A few days ago, Milo asked Rokshana if Amira had a Myspace in the comment sections. One night on a pre New Year's family get together at Uncle Mikes, Margaret was talking with the aunts and Emma. Margaret mentioned that Kazeem would want to see Milo's report card, and did not believe he would let Amira go out with him. Margaret then suggested taking Rokshana to the prom. Now Margaret never had the best taste in girls Milo should take to the prom. Salvatore found out Milo asked Rokshana about Amira on Myspace. Salvatore started giving Milo crap about this comment. Eustace considered this comment racist. Milo found the assumption stupid, since he knew well that Amira and Rokshana were friends, and that it had nothing to do with some assumption about being of the same ethnicity.

Margaret left the party early with Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane. This left Milo, Lydia and Ray stuck getting a ride home with Uncle Ottavio. On the way home, Salvatore was still giving Milo a hard time about commenting on Rokshana on Myspace within earshot of Ray and Uncle Ottavio. Salvatore started telling Milo that he does not like yelling at him. Then Lydia chimed in, much to Milo's annoyance.

There was a Maludico behind the car known as Cittimerk. Cittimerk decided to make himself judge over who is responsible enough to make their own decisions. Cittimerk had talked Salvatore into confronting Milo in the car while there were other people up front. Cittimerk had told Salvatore that Milo was not responsible, and gave him the task to act as a passive aggressive babysitter.

Ray overheard part of the conversation, and only overheard Amira, Myspace and a comment. Ray asked what this was all about. Milo kept trying to tell Salvatore to just drop this, and he continued to refuse.

When they arrived at home, Milo explained that nothing happened. Ray insisted something did happen, and Milo told Ray that he should not be listening in on others conversations, and then told Lydia that he and Salvatore need to know when to keep their mouths shut. Milo and Ray got into a shouting match over his interrogations. Ray told Milo to change his philosophy, and that he was sick of hearing about Amira and his Middle Eastern fetish. Ray mentioned that he heard about Amira at the Delaney's party, and was just sick of hearing about her.

Milo went into Margaret's bedroom and told her that Ray was a racist. Milo explained that Ray hates Amira for no reason other than being Middle Eastern, and needs to be committed. Margaret did not take well to Milo saying Ray should be committed to a mad house. Margaret explained that she believed that this would not work out with Amira. Margaret told Milo that she thinks that the Eastern cultures are competitive when they come to the United States, and the inlaws will expect him to work long hourse, and that he should stick to American girls. Margaret explained that she thinks that Milo will just end up getting hurt. Milo felt agitated by such blatant stereotyping, and the way eastern girls were called non-American.

New Year's Eve was pretty eventless, as the Rumcorns were back in Atlanta. That night, Grandma Pearl, and Emily came over for dinners and watched some movies. This had been the first quiet New Years Eve the Biancatello's had since Milo was in Eighth Grade. For movies, the Biancatello's rented Wedding Crashers, and got quite embarassed about the first scene, especially when having guests over.

On New Year's Day, Salvatore called Milo to work out. That day, Milo was not in a good mood with Salvatore about what happened a few nights ago. Salvatore asked Milo about some hate he mentioned, as he mentioned on his Myspace hating Colonel Rentz. Milo told him that she was some phony colonel who made his live hell in third grade. Milo then said the only thing she is good for is cleaning toilets. Salvatore started lecturing Milo about how Colonel Rentz was doing this for his own good, and should show her more respect. Milo was not in any mood to hear crap from Salvatore, or get some lecture about showing respect to such jerks. Milo began to suspect Salvatore spoke in the car on purpose, and wanted Ray to find out. During their workout session, Milo gave Salvatore the cold shoulder.

The Rakshasajinns arrival

Maelendil summoned Alexander, Cashmir, Randolf and Billius to discuss what happened. Billius said that he would like to beat Cittimerk up, and referred to Salvatore as a cowardice sellout. Cashmir explained that Salvatore thought he was doing what was best, but should have known better than to indirectly snitch. Cashmir explained the situation about Gianni, and how Cittimerk had played on his guilt. Soon enough, Gregory arrived with Deiden, and explained that Cittimerk had been an annogrammatron of the first order who greatly appreciated responsibility, but took things too far. According to Gregory, Cittimerk took responsibility so seriously that he had trained up a league of mortals to become busybodies sacrificing their own interests. Gregory explained that Salvatore felt guilty about what happened with Gianni, and Cittimerk is badgering him about having been irresponsible, and how this caused him to get injured. Randolph interjected that this was no excuse to become a complete toady, or to be mothering a cousin. Alexander called Salvatore's behavior uncool, and was highly disappointed in him. Maelendil explained that Salvatore is not wholly to blame, even if he shouldn't have done what he did. The Jinns asked what to do with Cittimerk. Maelendil was not sure what to do, and looked very uneasy. Maelendil started to see that his burden was becoming realized.

Then an Alux by the name of Brian residing in Ciderpond arrived to bring bad news. This is Alux account: One morning, there arrived two offspring Rakshasajinns. The first offspring was the offspring of Sheepus and Sleesum known as the Parasite leading the Causemos. The second to follow was the brother, known as Talosian offspring of Sleesum and Siren. Then there was a sinister skull and crossbone cast in the sky and a Kodaprana slithering around a landmark on the water of Essex.

Maelendil explained that The Parasite is a spy who gives information to other Rakshasajinns, and had been concerned about what Sleesum was up to. Gregory recounts how the Causemos first appeared, and created a curse to suck away free choice, fating this to happen. The rest of the Jinns present looked confused, and Gregory admitted that this was confusing to him also. What Maelendil knew was the Talosian is out to create phony illusions to get mortals to join his cause, and the Parasite was acting as spy. Then Gregory explained that the skull and crossbone is the symbol the Rakshasajinns display when they have taken up residence on earth.

Salvatore the Obnoxious

By this time, the students were back in school after Christmas break. Milo had just come back from his last Christmas break in the Ciderpond system. On the Monday before Martin Luther King day, on the bus, Milo remembered a story he heard in Psychology about a Girl who dreamt of subways crashing into the Twin Towers the day before the 9/11 attacks occurred. This gave Milo an awful feeling in the bus on the way to school. He feared something happened to Jinny. Of course this was not the case. What Milo did know is that something was after one of his favorite girls. Milo felt greatly disturbed, and could not explain why. During that day, Milo had the "Garbage Man" song, which is a parody of "The Candy Man" for the Simpsons episode "Trash of the Titans".

One Sunday evening later, on the eve of Dancing Day, Gianni had his birthday party at the Filentino's. The O'Malley's were at the party except Alicia, as she was on her Senior trip. Otherwise, no one different came. In the Sun Room, Milo, Lydia, Eustace, Salvatore, Matt and Samantha were sitting around just talking. That night, Salvatore acted in rare form. He started saying that he had to drop the Sassani's off at the pool. Milo did not appreciate having Amira, or her family referred to in such a way and got quite pissed. The more annoyed Milo got, the more Salvatore continued with this. Milo was quite confused about why he was becoming the recipient of antagonisms done only to Gianni. Milo had not known about Gianni's injuries, as he had now recovered, and no one ever knew what happened.

Another offspring was summoned by Sleesum and Siren known as the Sea Monster. The Sea Monster had convinced Salvatore to take over for Amira once the Talosian gets rid of her. Then Salvatore grabbed Milo on his lap in a way he was not comfortable with. As it is, Salvatore is no affectionate person, but he started getting creepily affectionate with Milo much to his annoyance. Salvatore held Milo on his lap for a good minute, while Milo tried to get out. Milo was utterly shocked by this, and felt utterly uncomfortable with this.

Soon enough, Salvatore stated he had been thinking, and accused Milo of racism, and having gone too far. Salvatore's justification was in calling Atlanta a hick town. Milo was still angry about the Rumcorns moving and staying in town for such a short visit over Christmas, and moving to begin with. Since the Rumcorns moved, Milo constantly made jokes about Uncle Wayne's boss, and referred to him as a hillbilly. Milo then had a flashback to this scene in Gaston when he tells Le Fou that he had been thinking, and acting like a stupid and arrogant Jock trying to kill the Beast. Milo got a bit concerned over what this meant.

Then the numbers 666 appeared all over the room, and the two Rakshasajinns declared Salvatore's behavior perfectly justified. Lilly, Samantha and Eustace were sitting on the couch when all this happened. The Talosian convinced the Family that Salvatore's behavior was completely normal. Salvatore knew well that Milo was mad at him, as Milo did not appreciate being called racist for taunting silly stereotypes, while Salvatore was using the Sassani's as a euphemism for a bodily function. Eustace held to the stance that Milo had no justification, when he was only making the jokes over the Rumcorns moving. Now Milo knew well that Eustace was quite a priss who did not see anyone going against the norm having a right to complain.

As for the anniversary of Dancing Day, this had been nothing special. That morning, Milo watched some more special features on the Little Mermaid. Now Milo had planned on making some festive lemon and apricot donuts and Iranian appetizers to celebrate the occasion, but had been unable to, thanks to Lydia having a dinner that night with friends, and Ray and Margaret not wanting the house to smell like grease, or want the house to smell like pungent spices. As for breakfast, Aunt Michelle treated the cousins and Grandpa Tony to go out to breakfast, like old times. In the afternoon, Eustace asked Salvatore if he really thought Milo was racist. Salvatore explained that he was serious, due to his jokes about Uncle Wayne's boss in Atlanta being a hick. Milo still did not take well to such stupid accusations, considering that Salvatore continued to make comments about the Sassani's. That evening, Ray told Milo to just ignore Salvatore, and he would stop making the comments.

With the winter of 2007, Salvatore had increased his and Milo's workout program that ended up lasting two hours a session, and three days a week. This was a fairly gradual increase that began before Christmas. What had begun to happen was that Salvatore would every day want to try some new exercise, to the point where forty five minutes turned into two hours. This ate up Milo's afternoon, and took time away that he could have done something with Amira. But Salvatore kept Milo busy all winter with these long workouts. During one of Salvatore and Milo's workout sessions, the Kronos appeared in the basement holding a stopwatch saying 2 hours.

The Jinns Assistance

With Maelendil's burden becoming evermore immanent, he knew that the Charge needed some assistance. Maelendil had seen Salvatore working with the Kronos to hijack Milo's time, and the way he had become influenced by the Sea Monster and Cittimerk. At this, Maelendil summoned Alexander, Cashmir and Husisha to a meeting at the Odinean Temple. Gregory explained what he knew in concern to the Kronos. Gregory suspected that the Sea Monster was given the Kronos by his parent Sleesum. Gregory then confirms more of Maelendil's fears, particularly on the role of Siren. Gregory explains that Siren has always been one to keep safety by denying problems existed to begin with. Gregory gave his interpretation that Siren was trying to distract the mortals while Sleesum was out making trouble.

Maelendil started to fear what this meant, if the Kronos was in Salvatore's hands. What Maelendil did understand well was that this Kronos was eating up possible opportunities, knowing full well Milo was short on time with Ciderpond High.

After Gregory gave his piece, Husisha revealed a scroll, which was the vision established over the summer of the sterile school. As we remember, this is how it went: Ther was a headmistress witch at a sterile school making a deal with a prospective student. The only thing holding this prospective student was a girl. This headmistress had promised the prospective student that they would make accomodations. This propsective student agreed to this. What also was only mentioned in fine print was that once the contract was signed, the prospective student belonged to the school if he and the girl did not remain together. The witch hatched a plan to break up this couple by transforming herself into a man and luring her with a love potion. Immediately, this girl broke up with the Propsective student, and was greatly confused over how something like this could happen. Then this student looked at this contract's fine print and realized his destiny. This student went into a great depression over losing the girl and being property of a sterile school.

At once, Maelendil summoned Victoria and Merriwhether for a new task. Victoria and Cashmir were paired together to remind Milo of his rooted past, and Merriwhether and Alexander were paired to give Milo a glimpse of a heroic mission. Maelendil asked that this be revealed only after dusk. Maelendil's last instruction was to have certain events rearranged.

The Two Dreams

Once the new semester began, a new lady joined Amira's table who was Olga Soggs. Olga had replaced Vashti, as both got a class change that switched their schedules. Also, Amira was now only eating lunch one of the same days as Milo, as her schedule got switched around. With this new Semester, Milo had some classes he enjoyed, and was done with Government, Economics and Science with Mrs. Smith. Milo was quite relieved to find that he would be still eating luch with Amira every other day. During this semester, Milo had Piano, Study Hall and Gym. Olga was a very tough looking lady and fairly masculine looking. That day at lunch, there was an overbearing vision in the cafeteria of a sea witch, and a malicious squid about to wrap its tentacles and ready to bite.

Otherwise, this new semester had started off well for Milo. Milo enjoyed Piano more than Science, as the teacher was nitpicky, and definitely liked Study Hall more than Economics. Milo had not liked what was taught in economics, as the teacher taught greed-centric propaganda. On several occasions, when Milo had necessary senior appointments, he always scheduled them during Economics. The teacher had become irritated with Milo skipping his class so often, even though this was technically not a skip. This was the time for Milo to be rid of this class for good. Milo's last semester was a breeze, as he had already played the piano. In fact, this teacher was Amira's chorus teacher. The first weekend involved Ray taking Milo, Lydia and Salvatore out for Chili Dogs and Burgers. Milo and Ray last went to this restaurant four years ago after Christmas.

For two nights in a row, Milo had pleasant dreams about Amira. On the first night, Milo dreamed about being at the Sports Hall, and Amira with her chorus class are singing the Community Mass Sanctus. The Sports hall is where Milo spent the summer after seeing Amira at Dudlechip, and the Community Mass was at St. Timothy's that Lent. Now Milo still remembered the Sports Hall in a slightly myopic way.

On the Second Night, Milo dreams about Republic plaza, located on the border between Ciderpond and Noussonburg. Milo has a room above the restaurant Margies diner, and realizes that it's the next school year when Amira will be back with Nousha and Yasmine in school. After a period of several years, Milo finds a camper parked in the parking lot, with an old sign saying "Property of the Sassani's". The current owner of the camper drops the key, and Milo get hold of it. Milo figures out that the camper has some of Amira's old pictures she left before it was sold. Milo plots to break in the camper and retrieve the pictures.

Before Valentine's Day, Milo bought another Valentine for Amira, and used his real name. This year, the system was more organized, so no nicknames could be used. The girl taking orders knew Amira, and told Milo that was sweet of him. The two weekends before Valentine's Day had been very blissful. Grandpa Tony was over for dinner on Sunday that week, as Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy who normally host him were in Dayton for Olivia's Baptism.

Over that weekend, Milo finished a school project on his childhood, and this project was for tolerance class. This is what we mean by random topics in Tolerance class. The project included items that Nousha may recognize, including the Aladdin VHS cover, a picture of Milo holding Jinny as a puppy, Rob and Ben on his first Halloween, Lydia's birthday party where Gianni was running around and his first communion at St. Timothy with his Grandparents.

On Monday, Milo showed Aunt Judy the project. Aunt Judy loved the project, particularly the pictures with Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony at Milo's first communion. Milo started having some flashbacks to ten years ago, when he made his first communion. On Tuesday, Milo gave the presentation in Tolerance Class. Milo and Salvatore switched working out to Tuesday instead of Wednesday for that week. Over this time, Salvatore agreed to work with Milo in his landscaping business over the summer. However, Salvatore backed out when he found a job at a sports park working the score board. Milo was a bit annoyed by this, as they had originally had plans to go against the whole system that expects teenagers to work demeaning jobs at bad hours.

On Valentine's Day, school had been a late start due to snow storms. That morning, Milo was pretty excited about this prospect. Milo remembered his dreams about Amira, and how blissful they had been. Plus, Milo was having an unnaturally good week considering his project hit off quite well, and Salvatore had slightly gotten his act together, despite quitting. On the morning of Valentines Day, Emily and Morgan's mother drove Milo and Lydia to school that day. Lydia told Morgan about Amira's Valentine. This had been considering that Morgan knew who Amira was.

Vandalism at the Headquarters

Back in Pedmontus, the Cobolds were on a hiatus waiting for the arrival of Materials for building the arched walkways of the bridge. Now the Columns stood high in their glory, but had no use besides just standing there. However, the Cobolds got news that the materials were almost ready, and would require some hefty payment. The residents of Londinium, Pedmontus and Atlantica had made great financial contributions to the project.

Before the purchase could be made, there was an attack on the Cobolds Headquarters in Beaubelles, Londinium. The Londinium defense league suspected this to be the work of the Offspring, as rumors had spread of sightings of these creatures. This had caused quite some mayhem in the City. The official verdict was that the Covernor hypocordo was somehow behind this. After the Cobolds announced that the Governor was back, he mysteriously disappeared. As to what this meant, the Londinians feared that the Governor maybe trying to recruit a band of hypocordo's to invade Londinium again.

Zadok asked the Cobolds if they thought this had anything to do with what Adrino mentioned in his speech after the columns were put in place. The Cobolds tried to chuckle off this idea, but in truth could not get this thought out of their head. Still, this had been a major disappointment for the Cobolds, when they were planning at this time to get the bridge fully repaired. Iohannes lamented that Jerimous is not going to be too happy about this.

Due to this attack, the Londinium council held a meeting with an Atlantica embassador and head elder of Pedmontus, in regards of whether the funds should be spent to repair the headquarters, or used to place the arches on the bridges. After some discussion, the unanimous agreement was that the funds should be used to repair the Beaubelle's headquarters. During this time, Iohannes had been busy with the defense team that he did not get to spend much time with Rivkah and Harmony, and this caused some familial problems.

Valentine's Day Attack

The first disaster happened when Milo arrived at School, Milo found a threatening letter in his locker telling him that he was sorry to say, but the girl he love had a boyfriend, and to leave her alone or the boyfriend would be angry. This message was written on a notecard in diamond letters, signed by Pierre. Milo had an idea who had done it, as he saw a school troublemaker from his English class hanging around his locker. In truth, this letter was written by the offspring known as the Horseman, who tempted Milo three years ago with Henry.

This Valentine's day, Mrs. Smith had been in a foul mood, and attracted a Kodaprana as planned. Mrs. Smith had felt especially angry to find that Milo had bought Amira a Valentine. Mrs. Smith had not been too fond of Milo, as he never took her class seriously. As soon as Mrs. Smith gave Amira the valentine, the Kodaprana built on envy attacked her and Amira rememebered nothing the rest of the day.

At Piano class, Milo felt weirdly disturbed by this note he found, even if he knew Amira had nothing to do with this, or knew of anyone having a reason to write such an insensitive letter. Milo also knew that Amira did not even know where Milo's locker was, and that she definitely did not have a boyfriend.

That day at lunch, Milo found out from Nate that Mrs. Smith husband left her a few weeks ago. Nate and another boy were talking, and mentioned that this teacher started crying and explained why. They had not liked Mrs. Smith too much, and planned on asking Mrs. Smith if she had plans with her husband. Even Milo knew this would be quite a nasty thing to do. Amira had been smiling all lunch, and looked at Milo a few times. In Math class, Milo mentioned that he suspected a particular student of putting this note in his locker. Then two other teachers showed up in class, one of the teachers classrooms close to Milo's locker. The two teachers got quite a laugh at this card, and told Milo not to worry about this. The teacher near his locker offered to keep an eye out for anyone loitering by his locker.

When Milo got off the bus, Lucille called Milo over, and considered just ignoring her. As Milo feared, Lucille returned Amira's valentine to him, and refused to explain why. Milo had been stumped over this, as she saw Amira in such a blissful mood at lunch. Milo told Ray what had happened. Ray believed that this letter from Pierre was real, but Milo argued this did not make any sense, considering that he knew Amira had no boyfriend, and that she did not know where his locker was. Milo feared and felt angry that he would have his parents constantly monitoring him like the conflict years before. When Margaret got home, her interpretation was that Amira did not experience any chemistry with Milo. Margaret then explains that this is what happens when trying to go out with girls from different cultures, and that he should just stick with American girls. Now Milo knew something was clearly off, as Amanda talked about Amira liking him, and how they got close that December day when buying candy. Plus, Milo knew that Amira was what made so much of his life make sense.

When Ray got home from work, he told Milo it served him right, and that he needs to straighten out his life. Milo then started demanding that Ray better not pull the same crap like with the Jafari's, in reference to the constant monitoring. Not that such a thing would happen, as no offense was recorded. Margaret believed that Lucille's silence meant that Amira did not like Milo.

Neither Grandpa Tony nor Salvatore luckily came over that day, as the schedules had all been changed. Milo considered this a miracle, as he really was in no mood to work out or have guests over for dinner. Plus, Milo was not up to talking about what happened. Lydia thought Amira was acting stupid over cheap candy. Milo was in a bad mood that night, and became more agitated as he kept being reminded of relationships on TV. All Milo's memories of his whole life felt desecrated, as Amira was in all of the best times of his life.

The Emergency Meeting

Maelendil summons a meeting in the Odinean temple over the day's attacks. Now the Jinns Husisha, Yuriyama, Gregory, Deiden, Alexander, Cashmir, Randolph, Billius, Victoria, Merriwhether, the Charisms of Judith and St. Patrick and surprisingly Brutus. Maelendil first thanked Victoria and Merriwhether for a job well done in giving Milo the special powers when these days. Maelendil explained that the dreams would be highly helpful in giving Milo courage to face the lies he is to encounter.

Alexander then gives an account of what really happened that day in school. Alexander first explains that the troublemaker had put the notecard in the locker, but was not doing this of his own volition. Alexander explains that the Horseman told this troublemaker what to write, and to write in this mockish lettering, and to sign with a phony name like Pierre. Alexander then explained how after Amira was attacked by the Kodaprana, Lucille snuck by Amira, and stole her valentine. That's why Lucille would not explain to Milo.

Then Deiden gives his account. Deiden reminds the Jinn that he had been watching over Lucille since she got offended by Milo not obeying her wishes. Deiden explains that she has always had some subtle resentment towards the Biancatello's since Ray gave her a warning. Gregory chimed in how the Causemos that once dug into the van seven years ago created a curse that had now been fulfilled at the puppets hands. Alexander then asked if this meant that some conflict when they were in elementary school caused this to happen. Gregory confirmed this was so, but explained that the cords connecting these mortals to the providence of Brother Violition were severed, and these were the mechanically predictable consequences. Husisha chimes in about the responsibility he shared in this problem. He explained how he had brought the Jafari's in the picture, and that the Khara's moved shortly after Milo and Amira first met. Husisha explains that Milo would have gotten some protection had the Khara's stayed. Milo and Amira could have gotten closer if they did not have to meet in the hostile world of school. Plus, the Khara's would have been able to know Milo while in highschool, and Amira would not have to rely on the accounts of the Jafari's. Then Husisha gives account with the Jafari's, and how the Maludico Draco appeared, and placed a ban on Milo from interacting with the Pashtun community of Ciderpond. Husisha then explained that this tension may have leaked over to Amira, due to some of Milo's reckless activities over the past year. Deiden then gives his last piece concerning the boy Henry. Deiden recounts how Henry and Milo went at it pretty severely, and how Milo had been shown some insincere bigotry towards Henry in response to his bullying. Deiden explains how something of what happened three years ago may have leaked from Henry to Amira via her friend Allison. Cashmir then gives his last piece concerning the appearance of the Horseman. Cashmir who knew that the Horseman appears to attack anyone who threatened the status quo, suspected that someone feared what would happen if Milo and Amira became an item. Alexander then suggested that this was either Salvatore, Milo's parents, Amira's parents or the Jafari's. Alexander knew that on both sides, there would be a shake in their traditions, and how Salvatore considered Milo his responsibility.

Brutus then interjected, asking them if all these setbacks did not indicate that Milo and Amira should stay as far away as possible. Brutus explained that the Jafari's, the parents, Henry, Salvatore and Lucille do not want them to be together, and this should be a solid vote that this is not meant to be. Brutus then explained that the circumstances also indicate that this is not meant to be. Billius then bellows at Brutus that Milo and Amira have a deep history going back very far to very important moments. Billius then tells Brutus that no popular opinion grounded on fear, obsession or malevolence have any authority, nor situations brought on by rakshasajinns. Brutus looked quite irritable, and offended at being spoken to this way. Luckily Maelendil calms him down and gives Alexander the task to make sure he disbelieves the official story.

Milo's suspicions

That next morning, Milo knew something odd was going on, and that the official story was not quite right. As it was, Milo knew something did not add up. Milo wondered why Margaret jumped to the conclusion so quickly, and why Ray actually believed that Pierre was real. Milo remembered how after Christmas, he had that awful feeling, and suspected that this was in some way connected, as he feared something had happened to one of his favorite girls. Milo also noticed how something felt weird that day, before anything even happened. At first Milo thought that the Jafari's were responsible for this. Plus, Milo remembered his dreams, and the girl selling valentines never mentioned Amira having a boyfriend.

In Tolerance Class, Milo had been in a foul mood. One girl, Stephanie started talking to Milo, and he nearly told her what happened on Valentines Day. Now Stephanie was a friend of Yasmine's. While speaking with Stephanie, Milo almost started telling her about what happened to Amira, and came very close to accusing Nousha of having told Amira nasty lies. Milo had also noticed that Amira had not looked too well, like something had been troubling her.

That afternoon, Salvatore came over to work out. Lydia asked Milo if he was going to tell Salvatore about Amira, and declined to do so. Milo did not need Salvatore involved with this. That night, Milo went to dinner at the Filentino's. After coming home, Milo found this show Supernatural on Television. Milo started to wonder if this was the work of Demons. Despite his Catholic upbringing, Milo was rarely taught about the topics of spiritual warfare. Plus, Milo had very limited understanding of religious teachings to begin with.

That weekend, Milo became more convinced that something was quite off, and suspected this was the work of some paranormal entity. Milo had little familiarity with malevolent Spirits, but knew the Church had a rite of exorcism. Milo considered informing Monsignor Warren to do an investigation. Milo also wondered if the Elamite Priest Fr. Mihir could help. Milo remembered that Rokshana was friends with Fr. Mihir, and that Minu and Nousha were servers. One Sunday night, Jinny stayed by Milo, as she could sense what other people had seemed oblivious. Milo prayed the "Veni Creator Spiritus" to be released from any possible demonic possession, just in case.

The Maludico Fylodium appeared surrounded by fire. He had tried to tell Milo not to interfere with the official verdict and to leave Amira alone. Fylodium started to accuse Milo of being a sexual offender by referencing what happened with the Jafari's. Fylodium made it clear that this was the absolute truth, and let Milo know that he would prosecute him as a sexual offender if he did not accept his version of the story.

The Jinns plan of Action

Maelendil summoned Alexander, Cashmir, Victoria, Merriwether, Billius and Husisha to discuss the next step. The Jinns summoned realized that Maelendils burden had come to pass as he feared. Alexander started badmouthing Fylodium. Billius has a particular hatred for the Maludico's, and saw them as thugs.

Cashmir told his results of Fylodium, and discovered that he had imposed his version of events on Ray and Margaret. Maelendil was not surprised, as they seemed to assume the worst quite quickly with little reason. Cashmir explained that he believed that it was best that Milo not tell Salvatore the news. Maelendil agreed that this was for the best, and then went on to commission Cashmir to make sure this was kept secret until the proper time, and make sure Salvatore does not find this out. Maelendil knew well that others were not ready to believe this, nor knew the roots.

Maelendil also knew well that Milo suspected this to be the work of Demonic entities, and had considered getting an exorcist involved. Gregory explained his stance, and how mortals can become just as vicious as the Rakshasajinns if they go on the path of popular spiritual warfare. Gregory explained how such warriors become as proud as the Maludico's so much that they can be tricked by another Maludico who caters to their deepest hatreds. At this, Maelendil gave Alexander the task to keep Milo away from any forms of Fundamentalism, and warned him of one very close by.

Alexander asked Maelendil who Fylodium was. All Maelendil did was explain that Fylodium had been the motivating force behind puritanism, jansenism, gnosticism, victorianism and radical feminism. Then Maelendil asked Alexander if he remembers the scene "Hellfire" from the Hunchback of Notre Dame. This is the scene where Frollo has a rough night after finding himself attracted to Ezmerelda and so worried about feeling this way, but seeks to kill her.

Gregory interjects that Fylodium was originally from the first order of Annogrammatrons, and acted as an advocate to those who chose the path of celibacy, and taught the wonders of this lifestyle. However, Fylodium came to believe that marriage, attraction and relationships had no basis in love, and were a mere carnal necessity in order to keep the human race going. Fylodium considered the most ideal marriage as a pre-arranged dowry, and that all this talk of true love was nothing but carnal lust. However, Fylodium had been willing to accept carnal lust in order to keep the human race going, but thought the idea of marriage and dating grounded on love was utterly absurd.

Pervis the Racist

A few weeks after the Valentines day curses, the time for Lent to begin was at hand. That Fat Tuesday, Ray and Margaret took Milo and Salvatore out to a Pre-lent dinner. After dinner, Salvatore started bragging about having this job at a sports park. Ray then started asking Milo if he would be interested in these kinds of places. Now Milo had been happy with his independent work as a landscaper, and did not care to give up his job to work in some crappy retail job treated like crap by some incompetent manager. Margaret explained that Milo should at least consider one of these jobs. Milo explained that this was honest work, and most other countries don't expect teenagers to work these crap jobs. Margaret explained that they have different cultures. Milo did not care to hear this about different cultures, and was not going to conform to a culture that expected highschoolers to be working thankless jobs, just cause the culture said so.

On Ash Wednesday, the Biancatello's and Grandpa Tony went to Church at the evening mass. The Filentino's were also in church that evening also. The ending song was this cryptic lent hymn known as "Lord who throughout these Forty Days". Milo started to fear that the confrontation with the Jafari's was the reason for these strange occurrences going on. At this point, Milo wanted to make ammends with the Jafari's. Milo considered that the Jafari's would be on his side, if Amira had been in danger from malevolent forces. Now Milo understood he made some mistakes with the Jafari's, and knew he should have known he had made Minu feel uncomfortable. Milo then started to wonder if the whole Silenzo alibi is what got him in trouble, and that Amira put the pieces together.

As we remember, Temperance had this friend Pervis, who was an angry bully who had gotten into many fights, and cited for wearing chains to school. Milo and Pervis had not gotten along ever since he accidentally spelled his last name wrong. Since that mistake, Pervis had been calling Milo a Dago and a guido, while referring to Amira as a Sand Nigger, Towel-head and a terrorist. Pervis even referred to any relationship as bestiality. Since that day on, Pervis had constantly called Milo a Day-go and Guido.

Before winter break, Pervis started to spew ethnic slurs at Milo and would shout f bombs at lunch. Milo had not been so innocent, as he called Pervis pervert when he would call him a Dago. Temperance started to take offense to Milo retaliating against Pervis' racism, and still took his side over that stupid Putz mistake. Around this time, Milo confided in Pat some talk of paranormal activity in school. Temperance decided to eavesdrop, and called Milo a weirdo. This was considering that Temperance did not consider paranormal studies valid, and all superstitions, despite being a 6 day literalist. When it came to Temperance, she considered the only normal belief system was her born again fundamentalism.

As for Winter Break, this was pretty dull. Milo was not thrilled about having a Winter Break, which was only done to save money on heating. Preferrably, Milo would rather have been off when the weather was nice. Over Spring Break, Milo had his first meeting with the bible study group started by Richard Espozito. Richards friend Brian took over, as he had been unable to due to their newborn son. Over the break, Milo sent Pervis a message on MySpace referring to him as Hitler with a link. That weekend, Ray took Milo and Salvatore to see a Rocky movie. That weekend, Aunt Marie, Matt and Lily were in town. The next day, Aunt Marie, Aunt Michelle and Aunt Dianne went on a trip to Florida. Milo felt a bit envious, as he remembered how the previous year, going to Tampa over spring break, and having to go back to school.

When the students returned to school, Pervis twisted this to claim that Milo was calling him Hitler because he is German. Temperance started making more trouble for Milo, and even complained about cyber bullying over him sending her a MySpace request. The assistant principle called Milo in and explained that he did not believe Milo did anything, but had to investigate. Milo knew the Assistant principle since he was in second grade. This Assistant Principal Mr. Alta was his gym teacher in elementary school, and his assistant principal in Middle School. Milo explained that he had sent Temperance a myspace request, and that she had been harping about it all class. Mr. Alta had been pretty annoyed with Temperance over this complaint, and told Milo that he would be best to avoid Temperance on Myspace, and that it was her loss if she was going to act like this.

A Weekend after returning back to school from Mid-Winter break, Milo became enrolled in Mal-tech institute, as it was the only school in town that had the program he was looking for. As it was, Milo was not bothered about attending this school, as he believed that this would be a useful education, and it would go by fast. Plus, Ray and Margaret promised Milo for his gift that he could go back to Tampa once he graduated. Milo had believed this would be like college, and that he would be freed from pointless classes and concerned teachers.

Axelrod's Fifth Debt record

Axelrod held one final meeting with Maelendil in regards to a new debtor. This time, he had found that the racist was on the list of debtors. Maelendil understood exactly why, as he had seen the racist behavior and malicious forms of bullying. Maelendil noticed that three of the debtors, including the racist, the fundamentalist and the substitute were strangely close. Maelendil had feared who they were under, and suspected their master was a very dangerous figure.

Maelendil then confided with his jinns in battle over what Axelrod told him. Randolph was thrilled about the news. Randolph referred to the racist as an over-sensitive psycho who needs to grow up, and getting so bent out of shape about insignificant mistakes. Randolph also went on a rant about how the Fundamentalist is acting quite childish over a myspace request. Randolph also complained about how the racist had a lot of nerve complaining about racism done against him, when he was being the biggest racist. Maelendil explained that Racists tend to see racism on the outside, but never within.

The Annogrammatron Bartemius arrived, asking the two how things were going. Maelendil gave Bartemius the update on the attacks from the Rakshasajinns. Randolph asked Bartemius if he had anything to do with that assistant principal who had enough integrity to not assume the Fundamentalist snowflake's version of events were infallible. Bartemius had not known, but he recalled the revolution seven years ago, when he fixed the stupidity of the old system for judging harassment. Bartemius came with some grim tidings that the teacher Mrs. Romero who busted the troublemaker Dudley was not doing too well. She had gotten sick a few months ago, and was getting worse. Bartemius offered to assist in doing what he could, now that a band of troublemakers were going to try and manipulate the system.

The Oldies Concert

A few weeks later, Milo, Ray and Salvatore attended the oldies concert that Amira was performing in. Margaret was not overly thrilled about Milo going to the concert, as she thought he was over Amira. Milo started to wonder why Margaret should expect him to be over her so quickly, or should not be able to be friends.

Salvatore wanted to see who Amira was in real life. Before the concert, Milo and Salvatore went for a walk over to a convenience store to get slushees. They walked over to the Jafaris neighborhood and found Nousha and Minu outside. Minu had been off for spring break that week. The day of the concert, Salvatore tried to decline, as he claimed to have to write a paper on Native American stereotypes. As it was, the paper was not due for another week, and Salvatore could care less about proficiency on a paper, and used his new work excuse, despite not working that night. Salvatore reluctantly agreed to go.

This is how the concert went. The two notable songs were "Fire and Rain" and "Turn Turn Turn". This song "Turn Turn Turn" was written by the Unitarian pantheist Pete Seeger. The song is based on Ecclesiastes 3, declaring a time for everything under heaven. The song "Fire and Rain" was written by James Taylor. This song recounts Taylors struggles with his friend Susan dying in a plane crash, addiction to drugs, and another friend Susan dying from an overdose. During the Concert, there was a vision of Jesus holding a lamb. Amira had been standing next to her friends Heather and Allison. Amira was dressed in Tye dye and a 60s themed bandana. After the concert, Milo came across his piano teacher who thanked him for coming.

That Friday, Milo got annoyed with Ray, as he mentioned Amira being a friend, and Milo said "For Now", and Ray became disappointed in him for saying that. Milo just said he was kidding to avoid conflict. Frankly, Milo got annoyed with Ray's disappointment, and did not understand why he needed to be so insistent that they could never be more than friends. This started to confirm Milo's suspicions that some malevolent entity had some unwanted influence over his parents.

That weekend, Milo had to take a test at Mal-Tech on a Saturday morning. This was to determine if he could test out of the math class. Milo met his future math teacher Mrs. Deville that day, who sounded like she had a perpetual cold. Mrs. Deville looked like a stereotypical math teacher with a constant look of boredom and agitation constantly.

After the test, Milo and Ray stopped over at Palestrina's market to pick up some food for the party on Sunday. On Sunday, Corey and Kate were in town with Olivia. By this time, Olivia was six months old. Rory and Lauren also brought Abigail, who was five months old at the time.

Repair completions

By this time, the repairs had been made to the Cobolds Headquarters. After the headquarters was repaired, a small festival was held to celebrate this festive occasion. There had been some tensions amongst the Cobolds in regards to repairing the headquarters or using the materials to complete the bridge. As expected, the Cobolds were all quite disappointed about having to spend their funds for repairs, when they could have finished the bridge from Pedmontus to Lionalem.

When the headquarters were completed, the Cobolds saw how beautiful the newly restored structure was, and at once put aside their disagreements. Also Rivkah and Iohannes resolved their marital conflicts. Then the seer Daxividus showed up to hit off the festival. Daxividus explained that in days as such, there is a time for repairs, and a time to allow things to fall apart. Daxivus then gave a powerful speech of things to come: A time of triumph, and a time of defeat. A time of capture and a time of escape. A time of submission and a time for return. A time to break and a time to rebuild. A time to die and a time to plant. A time to labor and a time to find. A time to be trapped and a time to wander.

What Yoshiyahu had been so tormented about was that after all the Cobolds had gone through, with the Governor, Maludico's, Trolls, Doustonians, the Earthquake, encounter with the possesed Atlanteans, sorcerers and the dark book, that he would see the bridge soon again, and see the temple gates. Yet Yoshiyahu wondered if the headquarters truly was repaired, or if there was much they still did not know of.

Holy Week and Salvatore's personality changes

On Palm Sunday, Milo was an altar server for the third year in a row. This had been the first Easter in a long time that Milo had no spring break, as they replaced it with that ridiculous Mid-Winter Break. The new Justification was that there was a teachers strike, and wanted to have the strike go on at that time, instead of letting the school year go into the summer. There had been some rumors that the school year may extend into the summer if the protest went on too long. That night, Milo went to the Lent penance service, and had Father Nick. Milo had wanted to ask Fr. Nick what to do with a Moral dilemma when he disagreed with his parents, particularly with relationships. Fr. Nick explained that this was Milo's choice, but should still listen to his Parents. That night, Milo saw a special on Walt Disney World. Milo then started getting excited about his upcoming vacation over the Summer to Disney World. The last time Milo had been at Disney World was before entering the Ciderpond District, and would be seeing the park after graduating.

Lydia had a birthday dinner scheduled for Saturday Night. On Holy Thursday, Milo found out that Salvatore would not be able to join them for dinner, as he had to work on the night of Easter eve. Milo was pretty irritated over this, and thought Salvatore would have been better off if he just stuck with his landscaping business, instead of working some stupid sports park. Milo never cared for this sports park, and remembered how the park had some pretty lousy service. This was the same park Milo went to with Steve and Merle over the years.

There was a Rakshasajinn who was the offspring of Buttkamft and Pecunia, known on earth as the Orc dancing on the Filentino's house. Above Aunt Michelle's house, there was a vision of Jesus cleaning his disciples feet, blessing the bread and wine, and his sacrifice on Calvary. This Orc offspring was both fearful and cocky at the sight of the Passover.

On Good Friday night, Milo was in the living stations as Simon the Cyrenian for the third year. Before the stations, Milo had Good Friday dinner at the Filentino's, as Uncle Ottavio was making greens with Cornbread. This was a specialty from the Abruzzo region. As with the stations, this was no different than the previous year. Grandma Pearl, Salvatore and Grandpa Tony attended the stations. That night, while Milo was watching television, he started wondering how Amira would have even known to give Lucille the valentine in the first place. As to whatever happened to the valentine had been unknown, as Milo chucked it in the snow, and mysteriously just disappeared.

On the Saturday before Easter, Salvatore and Milo lifted weights. That afternoon, Milo found out that his youth group would not be doing a Cedar point trip, which made him very angry. Milo had gone on this trip for the last five years, and did not miss one since the horrible summer after Sixth Grade. Milo complained to Ray about this, and Ray gave the explanation that it was time to grow up, and worrying about silly trips.

Then to make matters worse, Lydia expressed that it was not fair of Milo having to work on Easter Night. Salvatore started talking about how he is doing what he has to do, much to Milo's annoyance. Salvatore then started talking about how he is making this sacrifice, and giving his service to a boss. Salvatore then started telling Ray about how he is making this sacrifice, and how highschoolers should be doing real jobs like he was doing. This was a blatant attack on Milo's landscaping business, which he did not consider to be real work. Milo did not appreciate having his work patronized, just cause it was not at some formal business, and under some boss.

This had been ironically a very snowy Easter, and felt more like Christmas. In fact, on the way to Church, Milo had this Christmas hymn known as "This is the Night" by Lucien Deiss stuck in his head. Both Christmas and Easter hymnody have a long tradition of using themes of salvation, conquering the powers of death and new life. In Church, there was a vision of the newborn Christ having descended from Heaven into the lowly Crib. Then a choir of angels sang a song of thanksgiving to the fearful shepherds, who went to see the child. Then there is a vision of the baby entering into the bowels of the hellish prison and rose high the captives trapped under the powers of the devil. Then there was a glorious day of salvation in great holy fear before the same crib which the angels sang before.

As for the holiday, this had been a very pleasant day despite the snow. During that Christmas it had not snowed, with much irony. That night, Milo watched Talladega Knights, which he had just gotten as an Easter Present. On Easter Monday, Milo got more annoyed with Salvatore, as he had forced him to go on some outings, when he had not been feeling well from eating too much Easter candy. During the outings, Milo started making some snide remarks with comparing the Talladega Knights to the Rumcorns new social group.

During the week after Easter, Milo started to take a more disciplined interest in Harry Potter. A few weeks ago, Milo watched "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" and knew the "Order of the Phoenix" would be released in the upcoming summer. That Tuesday after Easter, Milo started doing research on the Harry Potter world. Milo remembered how he got into the books near the end of eighth and tenth grade. That night, one of the mothers hosted the Stations Pizza party as a thank you for the presentation. This house reminded Milo of the Weasley's house, as it had a country theme to it.

A few weeks later, Sydney, Temperance's other friend started hanging out with Salvatore. Sydney told Milo she had met his cousin Salvatore, and said he was quite good looking. Now Milo was wondering what Sydney saw in Salvatore but did not see in him. Not that Milo was really interested in Sydney to begin with. Milo was not interested in hearing about Salvatore having a dating life, while he and Amira were getting nowhere.

What had made things worse was that Sydney had been giving Salvatore information that Milo was withholding from him, due to recent trust issues. Sydney told Salvatore that Milo had been doodling Mermaids, had an interest in physical anthropology and had a weird obsession with Amira.

One evening over at Aunt Michelle's, Salvatore was agitating Milo in constantly lecturing him all evening. First, Salvatore started telling him about Sydney, and all the stuff she told him. Then Salvatore went on a whole rant about how Mermaid art is inappropriate, and called it Pornography. Then Salvatore went on about how Physical anthropology is racist, and will offend people. All night, Milo tried to reach out to Salvatore's not so uptight nature, but had been unsuccessful. This was the same Salvatore who just a year ago did not judge him over the Silenzo alibi. Milo further became entranced by Harry Potter, and saw it as a roadmap to handling these strange events. In fact, Milo compared the dark entities to the Harry Potter villain Voldemort. Milo had then labeled Salvatore as an uptight conservative.

The next day in School, Milo was angry with Salvatore. As it was, Sydney missed school that day, and Milo was pretty disgusted with her. Milo explained to Pat that Sydney was giving Salvatore information, and was now using this information against him. Temperance told Milo to drop it after complaining to Pat about Sidney.

Both Nousha and Yasmine were on the bus ride home. Milo told Lydia about what Salvatore had done, and how he was such a jerk, and then started to badmouth Sydney for hanging with Salvatore to begin with. Lydia got annoyed with Salvatore airing out their dirty laundry on the bus. According to Milo, Salvatore had no right going out with some blabbing tramp, and lecturing him on stuff he found out through snoopery.

Salvatore's Verdict

The Jinns knew well that Salvatore had been under many influences of the Rakshasajinns. After an investigation by Brian the Alux, he found out that Salvatore had been fraternizing with the Orc since he started the job at a sports center. According to Brian's account, this Orc had been loitering around this sports center that has been known for harboring sinister spirits. The Orc had started putting Salvatore on this path of greed, and manipulated him into relishing in toil. Maelendil knew that the Orc had been taking orders from his parents Butkamft and Pecunia. Maelendil became very uneasy about this, and wondered what business Buttkamft and Pecunia had. What Maelendil knew, this was not good.

By this time, Jebediah returned with his current Virachos Bud and Amona Nadeen, and summoned a meeting with Maelendil, Alexander, Cashmir, Merriwhether and Billius. Jebediah recounted how they met privately nearly seven years ago, when his charge broke his arm in a baseball accident. Maelendil knew well that his charge and Jebediah's charge are cousins. In fact, Jebediah has charges like Shane, Steve and Pat. Maelendil asks how things are going with Hidari and Barush. Jebediah explains that they are getting along much better. Jebediah then explains that they are expecting a Copper Egg to be delivered pretty soon. Jebediah explains that it will probably take a few years to hatch, but warns Maelendil about how new sibblings in the Satyasha order tend to shake the order. Maelendil knew this all too well with Ahamkara's offspring Skeeter and Propetus. Maelendil tells Jebediah that Ahamkara had been given a Silver Egg, which could hatch within a few months.

Maelendil brings them back on topic. Jebediah explained the story about how his charge came of age no longer a minor, and no longer knew how to handle being accountable to the brutal state. Jebediah then explains that he felt greatly guilty after injuring his brother, and transferred the antagonism reserved for this brother to his cousin. Then Jebediah explains how this charge gave into the nasty demands by that monster Cittimerk. All that happened was his charge ended up giving into service to the Orc, and developed a greater sense of helplessness. Nadeen interjects that the Maelendil's charge is just mad, because Jebediah's charge got a girl and he didn't. Bud tells Nadeen that Jebediah's charge is just doing things with the little tramp in order to spy on Maelendil's Charge. Nadeen tells Bud that he is the new guy, and shouldn't be getting so mouthy. Jebediah calms the two down, and he explains that his charge had given into his Sarkikos. Jebediah explained that the Sarkikos is a kind of shadow side mortals get pulled into in times of stress. Jebediah explains that the Sarkikos is the influence J.K. Rowling used to form her nemesis Voldemort. Merriwhether admitted that he saw a lot of Salvatore in him, and explained how confronting limitations can be hard, and fall into self righteous barking dogs getting into too many pointless commitments, obsession with duty and this need to impose rules on friends, and shun them when they don't adhere to their standards. Billius then mentioned that he sees much of himself in Maelendil's charge, and explains this charge being at risk of becoming intellectually arrogant when his own limitations on his strength is revealed. Jebediah then gives his last piece on the agenda of the Orc offspring. Jebediah explains that the Orc appeals to the mortals needs to feel important, even if such a pursuit ends in pointless toil. Jebediah explained how his charge has looked down on Maelendils charges work, and considers it unimportant, due to being not part of some corporate organization.

Jebediah then tells Maelendil in confidence that he is thinking about having Nadeen retire. Jebediah explains how the Amona's get like this when they are ready to retire. Maelendil then understood why both Pat and the cousin had been acting not themselves. But Jebediah explains how when the Amona is in charge, there is this spirit of domineering relationships in the air.

Temperance Vengeance

One Thursday in English class, the teacher was out, as his wife was in labor. That day, Pat and Temperance got into a big clash. The teacher had known that Temperance was always pushing her opinions on other students, and constantly being critical, as many students including Milo and Pat made complaints. So the teacher spoke with Temperance, and told her to be considerate of others.

This is what transpired that day. Since the teacher was out, and there was a substitute, Temperance flipped out at Milo. Temperance found Milo looking up multiple religious websites, as there were no assignments for the day. Temperance started telling Milo that he cannot go making his own rules in life. As a Born again Fundamentalist, Temperance was not one to accept others religious choices. Pat told Temperance to shut up, and told her that her opinions are garbage. The argument went on for a brief time with Pat telling Temperance that he and Milo both hated her. As it was, Milo was just doing his own thing.

After class, Temperance went to another assistant principal Mrs. Howachan to complain, knowing that she was a disciplinarian. Howachan was Milo's principal in middle school, and always thought well of him. Otherwise, Howachan was a disciplinarian not the most competent at recognizing a bogus complaint like Temperance brought. Often times, Howachan had put too much trust in the complainers story, and was not too good at considering the other side.

This is what transpired that Friday. During Piano class, Milo had been called down to the office. The band teacher told Milo about this. Milo was not too thrilled about this, knowing that Temperance made this stupid complaint. In the office, Milo found Pervis leaving Howachan's office. Howachan called Milo back, and said she was disappointed in him over what she heard, after never having any problems with him for years. Howachan started accusing Milo of racism, due to Pervis testimony. The principal asked Milo about what he saw with Pat, and explained that he had stuck up for him when Temperance started to harass him. Then Howachan explained about what Temperance told her in regards to Amira, such as the previous year looking out the window in science class. Milo wanted to tell Howachan to keep Amira out of this. Then Howachan started lecturing Milo about sexual harassment, and if Amira wants him to leave, to do so. Milo was already pretty irritated about this, as Amira had nothing to do with this, and this was the complaints of Temperance. Milo also did not find Temperance having any business complaining about his interactions with Amira, or that Howachan had any valid reason to speak to begin with on this matter.

At some point in the day, Milo spoke with his advisor about what happened, as she was well aware of what Temperance was up to. This woman had spoken with Sidney, and she also knew well that Temperance could be difficult to get along with. This woman and Milo's study hall teacher had spoken with Howachan. On accusations of racism, the study hall teacher explained that they talked about her Mexican culture a bit, but that there was no racism. On the matter of Amira, the advisor let blab that he was planning on asking her to Prom.

That night after school, Howachan called Ray, and told him that Milo offended the study hall teacher, was planning on asking Amira to prom, and that Pat was a bad kid who got suspended for two weeks, and banned from Prom. Then Howachan told Ray that Milo had kept maps of the city and had planned on making a tunnel from his basement to Amira's basement. Then Howachan explained to Ray that she was doing this out of concern.

Milo became very angry with Howachan when Ray explained what she had told him. Plus, Milo and Pat were already part of a prom group. Milo found this a blatant violation, and that Howachan had no business treating him like an offender all because his friend triggered the school busybody. Plus, Milo did not appreciate Howachan running her mouth about Amira, no matter what golden intents she had.

That weekend, Milo, Ray and Lydia went on another trip to visit the O'Malleys. This year, Salvatore came along. Milo had an enjoyable time, despite avoiding Salvatore. When they arrived in New Seneca, Alicia, Lilly, Matt, Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt were all home. Milo had felt any grudges with Alicia disappear at this time.

That Saturday, Milo, Salvatore and Matt went to work out at the YMCA. That night, the Biancatello's and O'Malleys went to Church, and dinner at Uncle Matt's country club. Milo only got annoyed with Salvatore once, when he tried to claim that Ray just cared when Milo made a passive aggressive statement about bossy parents. Ray started being a bit overprotective again, due to Howachan calling. If there is one statement that Milo found agitating it was people saying "Because they care". All Milo knew was that this is a justification used to be controlling.

On Sunday, Aunt Marie took the kids to her cousin Antoinette's, as great Aunt Adrianna was recovering at her house from a triple bypass. Antoinette is Aunt Adrianna's daughter. After their visit, Aunt Marie dropped the kids off at the Mall. This was the same mall Milo visited when he first visited the O'Malleys when he was three. This had been the most fun trip Milo had to New Seneca since eighth grade. That night after getting back, Ray talked to Milo about what happened with Temperance. Milo still stuck to the stance that he is not going to give this busybody an inch, and how Howachan had no business sticking her nose in these matters to begin with.

After the trip, Salvatore started using lousy pictures of Milo as his Profile picture on Myspace. This had started a habit for Salvatore of using pictures of Milo as his profile picture, and putting immature captions on them. Milo got extremely annoyed about Salvatore doing this, which he saw as hypocritical, considering Salvatore was constantly lecturing him about being careful about Myspace, but has no problem doing it himself. As Milo saw it, Salvatore only cared about what he could get away with. Milo knew that someone else may not take well to something innappropriate on Myspace, and could take legal action. Yet Salvatore knew that Milo would not take legal action, and cause any family feuds.

On one such occasion, Milo was invited to an awards assembly for perfect attendance. Amira was also invited, but on more academic matters. Milo had hoped that this assembly would give him some time with Amira in order to talk about what happened over Valentine's Day, and hopefully go to the prom with her. As it was, Milo had not been comfortable talking to Amira in front of her friends, especially Lucille. Plus, going with Amira was Milo's only hope of going to Prom. That week, Milo watched the Lion King for the first time in years. The scene from the Lion King, with the song, "Can you feel the Love" haunted Milo, and he went into a slight funk. As things occurred, Amira's chorus class went on a trip to Chicago took place around this time. Now this had been the work of this Hubritaiji known as the fate. This Hubritaiji rearranged events to occur so that Amira would be out of town when the awards assembly occurred. Milo decided not to go to this awards assembly, let alone care.

Milo's prom plans had been crushed, and he never was able to ask Amira, and his plans with Pat and some other friends got destroyed thanks to Temperance. Milo became moody about not going to prom. As it was, that weekend, Lydia had a basketball tournament in Ashtabula, and Milo was not originally planning to go due to prom. Milo started complaining to Lydia about his prom plans getting all screwed up, and how he had nothing to do for the weekend. Lydia suggested doing something with Salvatore, to which Milo groaned about. Lydia had told Milo that he had been groaning at the mere mention of Salvatore for weeks now, and was getting tired of this. Milo explained that he was sick of Salvatore being so reserved, and lecturing him all the time. Milo then complained about how ever since Salvatore got the job with the sports place, he has been acting in a condescending fashion, and how just a year ago, Salvatore was cool. Lydia tried to defend Salvatore, saying that he is just looking out for Milo. Milo was getting sick of Lydia defending Salvatore's pushy lameness, and using Sydney to get into his personal business. This lead to an argument about how Milo trusted Salvatore, and he broke the trust. Lydia then said that people change, much to Milo's annoyance. Milo was remembering how Lydia did not want to be around Barb and Rachel when they changed. That weekend, Milo decided to go to Ashtabula with his family. As it was, the weekend was not a total bust. Milo and Ray got Iranian food at a restaurant known as Shiraz Garden.

The Debtors and Fates

By this time, the Jinns understood exactly why the substitute, fundamentalist and racist were in debt to Milo. Maelendil held a solemn meeting with Cashmir, Alexander, Merriwhether, Billius, Randolph, Victoria and Husisha over the Fate Hubritaiji. What they knew of the Fate is that it is a set of orange tentacles, depending on who has custody, can make events happen in accord to the possessor's interests. Maelendil explained that the only one whom the fate fears is Sister Wisdom, who can set things to work out in an absolutely common good.

Cashmir had brought news that the Talosian and Parasite offspring were working close with the Fate along with the debtors. The Jinns began to understand that the debtors were ones to have no qualms about using brute force, and had displayed their malevolence in interfering with the Prom. Victoria understood that the debtors were icing on the cake for the Talosian and Parasite offspring, and fulfilling their agenda. Randolph was still pretty angry over this whole situation, and a bit disappointed that Bartemius could not have done more. Randolph complained about the assistant principal being a typical politician who only stuck her nose in this matter to make it look like she was doing something. Maelendil explained that people can put trusts in such systems, and when it becomes abused, they are oblivious. Randolph then complained how the Fundamentalist and the Principal are sticking their nose where it does not belong, and had no business sharing private information, and how the charges business belongs to him, and who he wants to share it with is his choice, and not up to the principals or fundamentalists or her stupid friend giving information to a traitor.

Then there was a condescending voice saying in a mockish way "If he doesn't want other people finding out, then he shouldn't behaving this way". Randolf then noticed that the Talosian had been eavesdropping. Randolf demands to know what business he has, and what he knows. The Talosian tells him "Its for me to know and you to figure out". Them the Talosian asks Randolph why tough guys like him should care who is in their business. Then Randolph picks up the Talosian and throws him at the wall. After being thrown at the wall, he blows a raspberry and runs off. Maelendil explains to Randolph that he cannot go around throwing Rakshasajinns, and will give them more reason to attack. Randolph explained how the Talosian was mocking the Eighth order. Maelendil knew that was true, but explained how the Jinns need to take the high road and not resort to violence.

Memorial Day Weekend

Milo had signed up for a Cancer walk, which took place during class time. Unfortunately, the way the walk was setup was that they were divided into the juniors and seniors. Amira had signed up, but neither her nor Milo were permitted to walk at the same time. Milo was a bit irritated about this arrangement, as he just wanted some time to be able to talk with her over what happened. Milo knew clearly something did not want the two to meet.

Before Memorial Day weekend, Aunt Michelle invited Milo over for dinner. With the invite, Milo was willing to put aside his grudge with Salvatore. That night, Milo and Salvatore took Jinny and Grandma Pearl's dog Robbie for a walk through the woods. The woods lead to Uncle Mike's house. Milo and Salvatore had referred to the path as the Persia express, as it went from the Jafari's to the Khara's neighborhood. The Biancatello's were babysitting Robbie, because Grandma Pearl was in Atlanta for Kevin's graduation. Milo and Salvatore walked into Uncle Mike's neighborhood, and found him talking with one of the neighbors. This neighbor referred to Jinny as a cutie. This had been Salvatores last day of highschool, which he explained to Uncle Mike. Afer visiting for a little bit, Milo took Salvatore back to his house.

In class one day, the topic came up with Temperance and a teacher about an easy going teacher who let her bring snacks to class when she was in Summer School after her freshmen year. Pat, who was still sore with Temperance over her insolent intrusion mentioned that anyone who cannot differentiate between 6 days and 1.5 billion years should be in summer school. Temperance looked greatly insulted by such a comment, but feared snitching again, after she had developed a reputation as the spineless coward who chums up to authorities. Plus, Mr. Alta vouched for Milo to Howachan, in explaining how Temperance had been taking things out of context to get people in trouble.

That weekend, Lydia had another set of Basketball Tournaments. On that Sunday, Milo had a picnic at Uncle Leo's and Aunt Janes for Sylvester's Birthday. After the Party, Milo, Salvatore, Eustace and Samantha walked in the Jafari's neighborhood. Lydia, nor Ray or Margaret attended the party, as they were out of town. That night, Uncle Leo held a bonfire at his house. That night, Milo had a dream about the upcoming Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix movie coming out in a few months. In this dream, Uncle Vernon starts whimpering like a child when Dudley comes home all confused.

On Memorial Day, the Biancatellos had the Filentinos and Grandma Dora over for dinner to discuss Graduation party plans. Because both Milo and Salvatore were graduating the same year, they decided to throw a combined party. Milo was showing the family some art he created on the computer. Milo purposely stopped the slide show before getting to the Mermaid art. The Mermaid art had pictures of dark skinned figures with Middle Eastern features, and Milo did not want to show them to the family. What happened was Salvatore told the family that there were still more pictures to go. Milo told Salvatore that he reached the end, and that was that. Then Lydia said there were still ten more pictures to go. Milo got uncomfortable and just refused to show the rest of the pictures. Ray told Milo to grow up, and told the Filentino's that he was acting immature. At this, Milo brought Lydia into the bedroom and started flipping out at her for blabbing. Salvatore came in and said that Milo should not have those pictures if he doesn't want people to find them. For this comment, Milo nearly punched Salvatore. During these days, Salvatore got the idea that privacy is not a right, and everyone has a right to know others business if they wanted to. Now Milo would not have such a philosophy. According to Milo, his business was his business, and Salvatore was obliged to respect his business, whether he liked it or not.

Milo then walked out of the house to go for a walk, and got followed by Lydia and Salvatore. Salvatore said that he did not like being a jerk, but does not want Milo to get in trouble. Milo got sick of Salvatore accusing him of having illegal things on his computer and told him "Just cause you think its porn doesn't mean it is". Now Milo knew by this logic that the Animators who designed Ariel would be in Jail. Then Milo went on a rant about how Ray had acted like a real jerk, and humiliated him.

That night, there is one final vision, from the Queen of Heaven dressed in green and had red hair. The Virgin Muhrie gave a benediction and motherly support in this time of uncertainty. Then the scene changes to the angel visiting Muhrie as a teenager and gave her this news, and accepted this offer to carry the son of God in her womb, and gave life to the world. The Next scene is the luminous story of Muhrie's Son as not a predictable and mysterious man who needs to be trusted, such as at the temple and the wedding feast and gave the sign of the new wine. Then the scene shows the pain the mother experienced when it seemed like all hope was lost, when her dear son Aslan was brought in by the wicked witch in order to spare the traitor. Aslan is taken to the Table and humiliated him, shaved his mane, and stabbed him. Then Mary tells of the rising of Aslan from the table, and his great roar that shook the lands and the glorious crown she received as queen of heaven, and the hope she became to those on earth, and the promise of glory at hand. Murie first reminds Milo of the original signs at the Crib, Dudlechip and Dancing Day. Then Murie promises to send the first sign after long years of searching. This sign is to take place in a basketball arena shortly before the first battle begins, when Murie will be slandered by the Pharisees. Then the mother Muhrie promised to send an undeniable and sustaining sign in a grocery store before the end of the second great battle, when the old wineskins burs, in order to make room for the new wine. The Mother then tells of a dark sign of sorrow and disappointment after the Third Battle ends, and the signs all seem to point to despair and commercialism. Then the Mother tells of a final sign after the fourth and longest battle of the great crown of Glory. Then the scene turns into a ceili dance with the Holy Family, St. Patrick and St. Columba.
Chapter 34: The final Summer

The Vandalized Yearbook

Towards the end of the school year, the students all got their yearbooks. Milo got his yearbook signed by several friends and teachers. One day in English, Milo heard Pervis asking some other student what page Amira's picture was on. When Milo went through his yearbook, he found a crossed out heart over Amira's picture. At that moment, a Maludico took over the book, and made residency. Milo told the teacher what had happened. The teacher asked who had vandalized the book. Pervis started getting very defensive, to which the teacher started to suspect that Pervis was the vandal. Milo began to see a connection between the breakup notecard from Pierre the Horseman, the valentine Lucille returned and the newly vandalized yearbook. Milo got these ideas from Harry Potter horcrux theories.

On Milo's last official weekend as a student, he went out to dinner with his family. That afternoon, Milo started to read the Harry Potter series, and began on the Sorcerers Stone. In the evening, he went over to Uncle Leo's and Aunt Janes for a campfire. Samantha accidentally let blab that they had taken a walk in the Jafari's neighborhood. This would lead to problems, as Uncle Leo ends up telling Ray at golf one night.

On Wednesday, Ray brings up Milo walking through the Jafari's neighborhood while Grandpa Tony was at dinner with the Biancatello's. Ray found out from Uncle Leo at golf one night before. Margaret asks Milo not to go into the Jafari's neighborhood. Milo tells Margaret that this happened years ago. Margaret retorts that this does not matter. Ray still thinks Milo is trying to get the Jafari's attention. Milo explains that this has nothing to do with the Jafari's, and is not going to stay out of their neighborhood over some stupid incident that happened years ago. Now Ray and Margaret never knew what happened with the Silenzo alibi the previous summer. Still, Milo suspected this had something to do with what happened to Amira over Valentines Day. Milo clearly knew that this was a whole different scenario, and there was no way this could even be interpreted as similar to what happened with the Jafari's. Milo suspected that this was all just some stupid sterotype Ray had that all the Iranians in Ciderpond were that close, and knew what was going on in each others business.

On the last day of official classes, Milo and his friend Christine were looking at pictures from the yearbook. Milo had known Christine since the Summer after Sixth grade, when he was in this summer camp ran by Liliana. Christine knew Amira from Chorus class, and her younger sister knows Parisa. When looking at the Yearbook, Christine referred to Olga as Ursula.

Billius fight

One evening, Billius saw enough of the intrusions the charge had been suffering, and went on a quest to find Cittimerk and make him stop his reign of tyranny. After some searching in the alleyways of Ciderpond, Billius found Cittimerk loitering around a nursing home. Billius grabbed Cittimerk and threw him against a wall. Billius told Cittimerk that he knew what he was up to. Cittimerk tried to play innocent, and Billius told him that he was raising up an army of nannies to smother the charge. Cittimerk then tells Billius that it is none of his business who he chooses to nanny. Billius then tells Cittimerk that it is not up to an insolent raspberry like him to go sticking his nose in others business. Now a raspberry is a slur for a Maludico, which they find greatly offensive. Cittimerk retorted that it was not his fault the charge was such a fool, and needed to be restrained for his own good. At this, Billius punched Cittimerk in the face, and continued to beat him up.

A few days later, Maelendil calls Billius in for a talk. Maelendil knew that Billius beat up Cittimerk. Maelendil confronts Billius about this, and he explains that Cittimerk deserved what he got. Billius then explains that he is sick of the charge being under this stupid sentence, and the people who are encouraging this atrocity. Billius explained that the sentence is getting powerful the more people go along with this, and its not fair that the charge has to be treated as a fool by those close. Billius explains that he knew that the Charge would be going through hardship, but this indignity is just intolerable. Maelendil explains that Cittimerk is only doing this because the charge already knows more than they would like. Maelendil then explains how people are in denial of a threat, and it is a comfortable illusion to believe in some official story, and easier to treat the one not accepting the official story as an imbecile. Maelendil also explains how the one who planned this whole thing to begin with planned out an official story, in order to keep everyone unsuspicious. Maelendil explained that this was the role the Maludico's Draco and Fylodium are also taking. Billius then asked if Fylodium was the one spreading the propaganda calling the mermaid art porn. Maelendil confirmed this was true.

Return to Londinium

The Cobolds term in Lionalem came to an end, and they had been slightly disappointed that their project had not been completed. When the time came to head back, the Cobolds looked at the glorious columns and remembered when they had so much anticipation of rebuilding the bridge. The Atlanteans held a departure ceremony to thank the Cobolds for all their efforts and services they had done for Atlantis.

Then the Elfess showed up to give her benediction to the Cobolds before leaving. She told the story of how she had been visited by a phoenix elder for a mission to assist in restoring Kebsuda, destroy the Mount of Lava and release the captives of Supradolfter. She then tells of the Cobolds Kindness in housing her when she was to give birth. Then she tells the story of taking her son through the forests of Parthania, and losing him in the Atlantean Temple to study with the Phoenix elders. Then her son flew out of the Temple as the Great Phoenix. Then the Elfess reminds the Cobolds of the days when the Phoenix visited them in the Gardens to validate their missions to Atlantis. Then the Elfess reminded the Cobolds of the days when the Phoenix sacrificed himself at the Mount of Lava, and all hope seemed lost. Then the elfess reminds the Cobolds of the rebirth of the Great Phoenix, destruction of the Mount of Lava and re-establishments of the Beach Lands, making access to the Atlantean Temple possible again.

When the Cobolds departed, they had this uneasy feeling that they would not be returning back for a long time. Now the Cobolds knew this would be their last mission to Atlantis, but felt utterly defeated with not completing the bridge rebuilding. As to when the Cobolds would be back, they did not know. The next plans the Cobolds had was to return to Pedmontus, and work in both Lionalem and Londinium continuing their alliance efforts. Yet they did not know how they would access the temple, since the bridge had not been completed.

When the Cobolds returned to Londinium, they were greeted with cheers and clapping. The Cobolds did not exactly feel in a celebratory mood, and were haunted by the story the Elfess told. The Cobolds started to understand though that the Great Phoenix was whom she gave birth to, that day in the guest house so long ago. At this time, the Cobolds returned to the Garden of Pedmontus and saw the pillars, and looked at the view of Lionalem and became quite nostalgia for their optimism before going back to Lionalem.

Milo's Graduation

During Final Weeks, seniors had limited time in school. After taking some Finals, Milo watched some ninth season Simpsons episodes back at home. The Episodes were "Simpson Tide", "The Trouble with Trillions", "Girly Edition" and "Trash of the Titans". That weekend before Graduation, Milo had some tickets for a baseball game that he was never able to use.

On that Monday, the Graduates were scheduled to attend rehearsal at the school. This rehearsal was for the Baccaleaureaute. That afternoon, the Graduates also got their caps and gowns. That night, Milo had his baccalaureate. Despite this being a Public school, the guest speakers came from religious backgrounds. When Milo came back from school, he found that Salvatore was swimming at his house. Now Salvatore just graduated St. James a few weeks ago. Milo arrived at Ciderpond Highschool, and went into the auditorium with the 2007 graduates. The opening songs were "Joyful Joyful we adore thee" and "America the Beautiful". The Graduates walked through the gym, with the parents and other guests in the bleachers. During one speaker, Milo noticed Amira was singing in the chorus for the baccalaureate. Milo could not feel a bit disheartened, knowing that this would be one of the last times they would be in school together. Other songs the choir sang were "I hope you dance" and "You raise me up". After the baccalaureate, Milo got his picture with his friend Dimitru. Seeing Amira had slightly hit Milo that he was graduating.

The next day, Milo had a second rehearsal at the Civic Center. Milo was not too thrilled about this, and really wanted a day off just to process this whole graduation. At the rehearsal, the students were given their assigned seats, and practiced walking through the procession. This graduation day was also the last day for all the highschool. Milo was home for a little bit, and then went to school to take one more final for Tolerance. Technically Milo did not need to take the final, he just wanted to see Amira before Graduation. After the test, Milo headed over to the bus lot. Amira had been with her friends Allison, Heather and Lucille. Milo rode the bus home and saw Amira one last time.

When Milo got home, He wanted some solitude, as graduation had been a new stage in his life. Plus, Milo got so little solitude with the graduation practice. Preferrably, Milo just wanted to read Harry Potter. By this time, he was on the Prisoner of Azkaban. While reading, Salvatore showed up to swim, which was a bit of an annoyance to Milo. As it was, Milo did not want to be entertaining guests before making a huge step in his life. Now Salvatore could be quite annoying in constantly using the Biancatello's pool. There are those days that you just don't want guests, let alone having the same person around all the time.

That night, Milo had his graduation. Ray, Margaret, Milo, Lydia and Grandma Pearl left the house, and drove down to the Essex civic center. Milo went off with the class, while his family went to their seats. The graduation started out with Pomp and Circumstance, as is the common theme. When walking in, Milo saw Lydia sitting with some of her classmates who had sibblings graduating. One of the speakers spoke about the graduates starting Kindergarten twelve years ago. During the ceremony, the superintendent announced what the students would be doing with their futures. This felt like one of these times where it seems like the school is giving the students the world. During the Ceremony, Milo saw Doris and Neal sitting together with Steve's girlfriend, but no Merle.

After the ceremony, Milo came across fellow charge Angela to congratulate her. Before leaving, Milo and his family got their picture taken, and they went out for dessert at Perkins. After the Ceremony, Milo watched a Disney World Vacation planning video. At this time, Milo needed some solitude, and to keep his mind off of the changes. As for the video, this gave Milo something to look forward to, and was anticipating going to Disney World. Frankly, Milo felt this same way when graduating Eighth Grade. Milo remembered how such a change feels like a complete loss of identity.

Pandora and Yuriyama's Visions

Cashmir had felt disheartened by not being able to get the Charges together. As it was, Cashmir was near retirement, and wished he could have gone out with accomplishing something great. Husisha tried to take responsibility, and began to regret ever bringing the Jafari's into the picture to begin with. Maelendil explained that Husisha did the right thing, and it's still too early to judge how things will play out.

Then Yuriyama arrived to relay two visions: This is the vision of a time in the near future when this figure "Susan" will be torn. There will come a time for the next few years, when there will be much fire and rain, long days and lonely nights. But this "Susan" was always believed to be unbreakable. There will be long periods of depression, for something seems broken that cannot be fixed. Then it seems like the future looks bleak, when all those dreams for the future encouraged at the commencement one day get smashed, and the despair of a menial and pointless vocation just getting by.

Then Pandora showed up with a scroll. The scroll Pandora brought was the scroll the Earthlings saw when Amira was moved from the crib to the bed. Maelendil knew well that this was when Milo had started school, and first entered the transitory world. Husisha read the scroll, and this is what he saw: There was a child who lived in a magical world full of legendary dragons. One day, this child was ripped from this magical world to this place of artificial junk and utter mundanity. The only thing that is real in this world is the market. This magical world greatly grieved at the loss of this child.

Maelendil remembered something like this happening before when the Charge had just started Pre-School. Now that Maelendil's burden had been partly revealed, he feared what would happen. According to Pandora, the primordial trust may decay into pure skepticism. Maelendil asked Pandora if this will come from the Tech School. Pandora explained this would only be a small part. According to Pandora, the darkest may come from something very deeply rooted.

Reminiscence

On Milo's first day after Graduation, Grandpa Tony came over for dinner. As for being out of school, this felt weird to know that he would not be returning to Ciderpond High. That night, Salvatore invited Milo to join them on a family trip to feed fishes the next day. Milo had been to this place right before starting his senior year.

That morning, the Filentino's arrived, and they were off. Milo could not help feeling a little bummed out this his Senior year had just ended. After feeding fishes, they headed to Franks hotdog stand for lunch. This is the same place the Biancatello's stopped at while Milo was anticipating seeing Amira in the upcoming school year. Milo could not help but feel a little nostalgic, and remembered how excited he was to be days away from having Amira in the same school building as him. Milo understood that within the next fall, he and Amira would be in very different places. Yet Milo could not stop thinking about Amira, and kept thinking about having seen her in the Baccaleaureaute singing, and then seeing her on the last day with Heather and Allison hours before graduating.

While on the ride home, Uncle Ottavio had "Fire and Rain" playing on the radio. This had been a song in Amira's oldies concert from March. Milo asked Aunt Michelle about this song, as he wanted to know who sang it, and what it was called. Milo only recognized the segment "Would you look down upon me Jesus".

When Milo got home, he downloaded the songs "Turn Turn Turn", "Fire and Rain", "Where have all the Flowers Gone" and "Puff the Magic Dragon". The folk songs had been a fairly somber theme, considering that this had been a great change for Milo. At this point, it was definitely a good thing that Milo had not started at Mal-Tech in June.

When Ray got home from golfing, he told Milo that he heard the hospital food delivery was hiring. Milo really had no interest in working in a hospital, as he never liked these facilities, and had no interest in working in such a depressing place. This prospect Milo feared to be nothing but a time of endless loss at the hands of unsuccessful battles against powers of malevolence. This is the apparent grim future of nothing but carnage with no point or end. Then Milo feared the loss of this inner child of abandoned to the point of fear. This inner child soon becomes suppressed when the dangers of the world will become overemphasized and create a stupid need for preservation and safety at the expense of joy and wonder.

On Saturday, Milo had Lydia's Dance Recital, which Grandma Pearl and Margaret attended. Ray had been on a golf trip that weekend, and was unable to attend the recital. On the way to the recital, Milo brought "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" to read. At the recital, Milo tried reading his book in the dark. During the recital, Milo had a flashback to the basketball game at the beginning of four summers ago. Emily was also in the recital. After the recital, Morgan and Emily both congratulated Milo on his graduation. Then Margaret, Lydia, Milo and Grandma Pearl went out for dessert at Bob Evans.

The next day, the aunts hosted a father's day picnic at Grandpa Tony's. Before the party, Milo, Lydia and Margaret went to Church. When Milo arrived at the party, he found that Alicia was not there, and started to really not want to get a job with the Hospital. Frankly, Milo was happy with his landscaping business. Eventually, Alicia showed up and had no studying excuses. Now Alicia was still a week from graduation. Milo and Matt were talking about Amira, and Alicia tried to talk him into dating western girls. Milo did not heed the advice. During the Party, Milo, Matt and Salvatore walked over to Republic Plaza. Milo remembered dreaming about this plaza before the Valentines day attacks, and wanted to try and find if any of the stores had any special amulets to repel demons and expose their lies.

One weekend later, Milo and Salvatore repainted the Skyfort. This had been the same skyfort that Amira, Roshanak and Parisa played on years ago when the Khara's lived next door. No one had used that skyfort too often, as Milo and Lydia had outgrown it years ago. By this time, Milo had gotten to reading Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. That evening, Salvatore made a surprise visit to pick up his phone. Salvatore looked over Milo's shoulder and found him on a politically incorrect website about anthropology. Salvatore blabbed that the site was stupid, and Ray had gotten mad at Milo for going on that website. Milo was getting sick of being accused of racism for being interested in why people from different countries have distinct features. Milo did not believe in any racial theories, but did not know the background behind such theories.

Plans to evict of Pusperium

An Alux known as Lee arrived to Maelendil to give him some findings on the cursed yearbook page. Lee had found that a Maludico by the name of Pusperium had taken over the yearbook page with the crossed out heart. Lee brought these findings to Maelendil, after he was commissioned to keep an eye on the Biancatello's household. Lee brought his suspicions about this being a real curse, and not an act of vandalism. Maelendil explains how a racist known as Pervis had been the one to vandalize the yearbook, but blatantly denied doing so, despite no accusations brought against him. Maelendil started to realize that Pervis was a mere puppet for Pusperium.

Maelendil had been slightly familiar with Pusperium in ages past having exulted slave owners, Kings, Nobles and swindlers. Pusperium was said to be responsible for giving justification to Calvinistic double predestination. In modern days, Pusperium had been known to act as the conscience for unethical business practices, monopolies, and owners of intellectual property. At this, Maelendil summoned Gregory for some assistance. Soon enough, Gregory arrived, and began what he suspected of Pusperium. Gregory explained that Pusperium believed in strict hierarchy, and saw Jinns as superior to humans. According to Pusperium, people should know their place, and the superiors should rule, while the inferiors should submit. Gregory then explains how Pusperium had gained a following with Pervis the racist, Temperance the Fundamentalist and Diggins the substitute. These three debtors have beliefs of being superior, due to their own efforts or abilities.

Maelendil then did some investigations on the yearbook with Gregory, Cashmir and Alexander. After some investigations, Gregory made the grim assessment that Pusperium has binding authority over the Biancatello's household, as he is the sole owner of the book, as this was the fruit of his efforts. Cashmir protests that Ray and Margaret Biancatello are the rightful owners of the house, as their name is on the deed. Gregory explains that they are the rightful owners, but Pusperium is still an owner, and has the rights to run the house as he sees fit. Maelendil then chimes in that no one really owns anything, and it is only a legal necessity on the earth realm.

Eventually, Maugris the Magician from the Eighth Annogrammatron order shows up with a solution. Maugris explains that the source of this monsters ownership rests on that cursed page with his mark. Maugris then grimly explains the only way Pusperium's authority can be destroyed is for the page to be burned. Maelendil gives Alexander the task to make sure the charge disposes of this cursed page. Alexander was a bit confused, and asked Maugris about the authority of Pusperium. Maugris explained that Maludico's being of the first order naturally have binding moral authority. Alexander protests that they lost their moral authority when they claimed to be the arbiters of good and evil. Maugris explained that their authority has been abused, but it is the task of the Eighth order of Annogrammatrons to crush the source of authority that the Maludico's have. Maugris explained how the unfallen Jinn's authority comes from the Dance, and does not rest in dead objects. Maugris explains how destruction of a Maludico's authority needs to be done in a way as to not use the same violent ways of the Rakshasajinns.

The Graduation Party

One Monday, Ray took Milo and Lydia to see the movie "Wild Hogs". A golf friend of Ray's suggested the movie, and explained that it had been quite hilarious. Being at the theatre at this time, Milo remembered four summers ago, when Ray took him and Lydia to see the movie Holes. Now Milo ended up enjoying this movie, especially the "Extreme makeover home edition" parody. When Milo got home, he found the movie Holes on, with much irony.

In early July, the Filentino's and Biancatello's planned a combined graduation party for Milo and Salvatore. The day before the party, the Biancatello's went to the Vigil mass, as they would not be able to the next day. When the Biancatello's got home, they found some tables and chairs arrived. Milo was a little annoyed, as they came at a time when Salvatore was at work. Milo was pretty agitated about having to do this all on his own, and thought that if Salvatore had just stuck with working with him landscaping, they would not run into stupid problems.

At the party, all the family attended, and many friends. The Filentino's with Grandma Dora, Grandma Pearl and surprisingly Grandpa Paul were the first ones to show up. Grandpa Paul did not stay long, and came to give Milo a gift. Then the family started to show up, including Grandpa Tony, Uncle Leo, Aunt Jane, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester, Aunt Dianne, Julian, Rory, Lauren, Abigail, Uncle Mike, Aunt Jackie, Emma, Ben and Caroline, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy and Ben, Aunt Marie, Uncle Matt, Alicia, Matt and Lily and Aunt Adrienne.

Marilyn and Ralf came to the party, along with Roger, Denise, Shamus and Charlie, Dave and Violet. Milo told Marilyn how he remembered watching the Little Mermaid over at her house over and over again. Marilyn told Milo that she and Courtney were just talking about that. At this time, Marilyn and Grandma Pearl crossed paths after having not met for several years.

The Khara's also showed up at the party, but Maziyar, Kamaria nor Navid mentioned Amira. As to whether they knew about Milo and Amira remains a great mystery. Amira had not gone over to the Khara's too often, once she started High School. Milo told the Khara's about his new taste in cooking Middle Eastern food, but how he was not so good at it.

During the party, Milo started to see an old man with a walker, and some unfamiliar lady who looked sort of like Marky Louise. Milo was not sure who these people were until seeing Aunt Mary and Tim. Milo then put the pieces together that the old man was Uncle John, and the woman was Tim's wife Maryanne. Grandma Pearl let Milo know that Aunt Mary and Uncle John arrived, so he could say hi. Milo had not seen them in three summers.

During the party, Salvatore, Matt and Nate left the party in order to visit a videogame store. While they were out, Nate gave Matt a hard time about him playing a game known as starcraft. Milo also got to talk with Nate's brother Jeremy. Jeremy told him about different Middle Eastern restaurants he ate at, and told him the difference between Levant, Iranian, Indian and Arabian Peninsula foods.

That night, Salvatore had been acting annoying after the party. For a while, Salvatore had been constantly getting close to Milo and doing things such as rubbing his head on Milo's arm. Not to mention, trying to cuddle with him. This night, Salvatore took things too far and was constantly making kissing sounds, and even attempted to kiss Milo.

The Sea Monsters power

Alexander had seen what had happened with Salvatore that night, as he was still assisting in a plan to destroy the yearbook page. What Alexander recognized was that the Sea Monster offspring was giving Salvatore more bad ideas. At this sight, Alexander summoned Maelendil to the Biancatello's for assistance. Maelendil asked Alexander if he remembered the previous winter what the Sea Monster said. Alexander thought back to that night and remembered how the Sea Monster knew that the Talosian had a plan of getting Amira out of the picture. Alexander got a bit grossed out, when he remembered how the Sea monster was trying to get Salvatore to take Amira's place. Maelendil explained that it was not a matter of Salvatore trying to become Milo's lover. Maelendil explained what really was going on was Milo was being used as a replacement for Gianni.

Maelendil explains the story about how Salvatore really feels guilty about is that Gianni was preparing for a major sports competition, and how suffering this injury disqualified him for the tournament. Maelendil then explains that Salvatore under Cittimerk feels the need to atone for his offense by becoming "brother of the year" to Gianni. Now Maelendil declined in mentioning the matter of Nadeen, as Alexander did not need to be burdened by the business of Jebediah's Sophunum order. Yet, Salvatore still has his sibling rivalries that he is now transferred over to Milo. Alexander gets pretty confused about this, but Maelendil uses the example of Salvatore seeing Sydney, and sending the Horseman. Maelendil explains that Salvatore never had a problem with Amira, but did not want Milo to get a girlfriend before him, and had sunk so low to go out with Sydney so he could be first. Alexander interjects that Sydney and Salvatore never were an item. Maelendil then explains this was just a façade, which also helped him use Sydney as a spy to feed Salvatore's possessiveness of Milo. Alexander then asks Maelendil what the deal is with the touching. Maelendil explains that this is a taunt to make it clear that Salvatore intends to become the replacement for Amira. Alexander gets grossed out, and refers to this as incest. Maelendil chuckles, and explains it not being romantic, but more of a platonic partnership. Maelendil compares this to the manipulative mother who keeps her children so dependent on her, and guilts them into ever getting into a relationship with another. Alexander then asks why Salvatore wants to take on motherly roles. Maelendil explains that Salvatore is trying to play the role of the big brother who thinks they have authority.

The Holiday Weekend

During that summer, Milo went over to Aunt Jane's a couple times. One afternoon, Eustace showed Milo a Carmen Sandiego game for the Gamecube. This game reminded Milo of eight summers ago, when he saw the Little Mermaid. Milo remembered playing the game "Where in time is Carmen Sandiego".

Otherwise, Milo was getting annoyed with Salvatore, as he constantly wanted to work out in the morning and then stay the whole day. Milo wanted to have some time to do things with school friends, such as pool parties. Plus, Milo just did not want to be around Salvatore, when he was being so lecturing and touching him all the time. Milo always found that Salvatore never wanted to do anything else besides swim, which gave him the idea he was being used.

On the Fourth of July, the Biancatellos and Grandma Pearl were invited to Jennifer's for a fourth of July party. Jennifer had invited them at Milo's graduation. Milo first found out when Aunt Mary told him that she would be seeing him on Wednesday. At the party, Milo met some of his cousins, including Ralph, and his wife Peggy. Milo also met his cousins Charlotte, and Julie. Charlotte was the girl who played Milo's new piano at Grandma Pearl's birthday party. At the party, Milo mentioned Salvatore probably wanting to come over the next day. Milo told Margaret that he was worried that Salvatore would be over all day the next day, as he did not want to entertain. Margaret told Milo she understands that entertaining can be quite annoying, and she does not like entertaining so often.

The next day, Milo chose to ignore the phone, as he feared that Salvatore would want to come over early to work out, and stay the whole day. Plus, Milo was sick of the long workouts. Luckily Salvatore was not working out since May, due to a lifting injury. By this time, Salvatore started getting better, and was talking about starting up again soon. Now Salvatore continued to call, and Lydia answered the phone. Lydia complained that Salvatore just wanted to swim at the pool. Milo was thoroughly annoyed with Lydia constantly defending Salvatore. That day, Milo had some figure mermaid drawings out, and Salvatore showed up while he was working. Milo immediately put them away, and Salvatore started demanding that he tells him what he is doing. Milo says some college prep papers, and puts them in his bedroom. Salvatore decides to go through Milos bedroom and finds the figure drawings. Salvatore starts telling Lydia that Milo is drawing pornography.

That Saturday, Alicia had her graduation party in New Seneca. The family traveled up to New Seneca for a day trip. Danielle, Ashlyn and Malina attended the party, as they arrived in town for a few weeks. At the party, Milo and Gianni played some volleyball, in order to cheer him up. Gianni was still a little bummed out after being disqualified from the tournament. While Milo and Gianni were playing, Salvatore intruded, and told Milo not to get Gianni's hopes up. Milo was pretty pissed with Salvatore's obnoxious zeal, and Gianni threw the ball at Salvatore, telling him that he can take care of himself.

Milo started to fear that the yearbook page Pervis vandalized was cursed, and the reason behind some frustrations that started over the summer, particularly with Salvatore's overbearing and self righteous behavior. That night, when the Biancatello's got back from the party, Milo burned the yearbook page Pervis vandalized. What Milo did was cut the page out with an exacto knife, and cut out the clean page in Lydia's yearbook with Amira's picture and placed it in his yearbook. Milo started a small fire in the fireplace and burned the desecrated picture.

Pusperiums residency had been utterly destroyed, and all that remained of his property in the yearbook were mere remains of some house framing. Pusperiums residency had been utterly destroyed, and he was greatly furious. Pusperium saw Milo as having shown him no respect, and utterly disobeying his authority and right to take up residency. At this, Pusperium vowed vengeance some day for this.

The next day, Milo, Lydia and Ray went back to Drakes Forest State park with Uncle Leo's family. Margaret had too much work that week to go. The trip had not been as much fun, as Salvatore bailed out on the trip, as he refused to take time off. That evening, Samantha accidentally blabbed about Milo going through walks in the woods. Ray told Milo that he is too old to be walking through woods, and could get in trouble. Now Milo found this annoying, as Ray still thought this was about the Jafari's. Otherwise, Milo found this whole thing annoying, as he felt he had every right to walk through wooded area's, and considered any political system that threatens to punish someone for walking through woods to be utterly fascist.

Sylvester had been a killjoy, as all he did was play Gameboy, and as a result were stuck in the cabin much of the time. Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane had to leave early on Tuesday morning, so Ray took Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester back. Ray took the kids to a restaurant in the country they visited with Grandpa Tony and Grandma Rosa when Milo was only four. Milo did not remember the restaurant.

The Last Feast of the Guest

Back in Londinium, the time came for the Feast of the Guest to be celebrated again. The Feast was again to be celebrated back in the Gardens of Pedmontus. Aerondin started getting quite nostalgic about the first feast of the Guest in the Gardens, when the Great Phoenix appeared before their mission to Atlantica. Zadok started recounting how the Great Phoenix gave them these items to use on their quest, and how they were so anxious about their mission to Atlantis in the first place. As to what the future held, the Cobolds had no clue.

Before the Feast was to begin, Azeyas arrived to give orders of the feast. This year, Azeyas revealed that the child whom the Elfess gave birth to so many years was the Great Phoenix. The Cobolds known this after the Elfess recently explained all this. The theme this year as declared by Azeyas was the light that came to the darkened world of Hitaria, and made a way through the Mountains darkened by the Troll Offspring. The Cobolds had seen the columns from Gardens of Pedmontus, and started remembering the times when they were in Atlantis. Seeing the Columns made the Cobolds more strongly long for the Bridge, and became quite desperate to fix this structure.

At the festival, Azeyas donated a candle with this symbol of the Ouroboros and the Phoenix, and the Cobolds all bowed in reverence. By this time, the candle originally dedicated when the Garden was first built had just been completely melted. Then the sun set, and the stars shown brightly in the sky. At sunset, the Londinians arrived at the festival eve raising fire lit torches. The Cobolds retold the story about one night back in Atlantica when they returned to Poseidon Plaza waiting for the Great Phoenix only to be greeted by the messengers singing a song of glory to the dance. They also remembered how the Great Phoenix appeared and sent Daxividus to exorcize the shadows from Atlantica. Then the Cobolds solemnly remembered when the Great Phoenix entered into the dark mount of Lava and experienced the torment of that horrible book "The Sufficient Atlantean", but rose up from the darkness and reborn from surprising light. Then the celebrants all danced like they had at Lionalem when the Atlantean Temple was revealed. Azeyas then proclaimed that the day would one day come, when in the days of roth darkness, the Great Phoenix would return to those waiting, but exposed to a great golden light completely surprising.

The Cobolds felt a bit uneasy that year, considering how similar this festival was to the festival four festivals ago. The Cobolds remembered how they had been sent on a mission to a foreign land, and off into the great unknown. Yet the Cobolds had not heard of any such mission like they had before. Then Azeyas points out the lights in the sky, and talks of the lights leading in days of darkness. Then Azeyas declares that in days of darkness, those will long for the light, but find a great surprise at the new light they find. According to Azeyas, many false lights appear, in the form of the expected light, but will find the true lights when least expected. Azeys tells stories of the Light of the Dragon to crush the false lights, and the Light of the vagabond to expose the false lights. Then Azeyas talks of two bright lights, one looking like darkness and the other unbearably bright.

Release of the Final Harry Potter book

Milo had started to develop a taste for 50's music. This included such songs as "There Goes my Baby", "Dance with Me", and "This Magic Moment". That summer, Milo also found this Christmas anthem known as "Light in the Darkness". These songs had Milo thinking about Amira, and he remembered when he started Fifth grade and came across this kind of music fairly often. For Milo, Amira always felt like a magical moment when she was around, but he feared that he had been responsible and possibly broke her heart.

On Saturday, Milo had gotten a new Harry Potter videogame and bought an Aladdin DVD with special features. During that week, Milo had finished the Half Blood Prince, and this got Milo wanting to return to his roots after the ending when Harry considered going back to Godricks Hollow. The night after finishing the book, Milo watched the Little Mermaid, as he saw that as where he and Amira had begun so many years ago.

The next day, Milo and his family went and saw "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" a few days after the movie had hit theatres. Lydia had seen the movie a few days earlier with her friend Natalie. This movie reminded Milo of the summer after Eighth Grade, when the Order of the Phoenix book first came out. Milo remembered how he was so bummed out when Sirius died, and seeing it on screen was no more pleasant. However, Milo got quite hysterical during the scene when Fred and George drop out and knock over Umbridge's decree's. If there is any Harry Potter character Milo hated, it was definitely Dolores Umbridge. But then again, Milo was hoping that Snape would turn out to be a death-eater in the upcoming book.

That Tuesday, Milo cooked some Middle Eastern dishes, which did not turn out so great. At this time, Milo did not have much experience cooking. On Wednesday, Milo went over to Aunt Dianne's with Lydia and Samantha, as Danielle, Ashlyn and Malina were still visiting. Aunt Dianne was not around, as she was at a meeting with Whelon. Danielle and the girls were going to be heading home that evening. Milo told Danielle all about trying to make Middle Eastern food, which did not turn out so good.

On Friday, Milo saw Vashti at the bank, and this got Milo thinking about Amira again. The Christmas hymn "Light in the Darkness" strongly reminded Milo of Amira, considering he for the last three Christmases also observed her birthday. That weekend, the final Harry potter book the Deathly Hallows was released. Milo was pretty anxious about what was going to happen, as he knew many protagonists were going to die in the book.

Milo began reading the book as soon as he got it, on release day. Milo had only gotten to the chapters where Hedwig and Mad Eye Moody die in the flight from the Dursleys house to the Burrow. Milo was happy not to know anymore that would happen that night, but was more bummed out about the bird than the auror. At night, Milo had an IM appointment with a paranormal enthusiast, and only had fifteen minutes with this person. Milo started to explain to this enthusiast a small amount. Unfortunately, Lydia came in and started snooping on his conversation. Lydia started asking Milo all these questions, and he was trying to get her away. Milo had wanted to speak with the enthusiast over what he experienced on Valentines Day. The enthusiast ended the conversation early, as Milo ended up ignoring this enthusiast in order to get Lydia away. Milo was angry with Lydia, as it left him unable to speak with the enthusiast.

On Sunday, Milo was still angry with Lydia for sticking her nose in his private conversations. This lead Milo and Lydia into getting in a fight, as she would not apologize to him, and claimed it was her business. This lead to more bickering, and Ray got mad at Milo and Lydia for arguing. Milo was pretty angry with Ray for getting mad at them, and did not like him interfering with his and Lydia's confrontations, and forcing them to just end it. Frankly, Milo thought that this was something he and Lydia needed to work out, and did not need Ray's interference, or being forced to end the conflict. Eustace sided with Lydia, and assumed this had something to do with the Jafari's or Amira. Still, Milo did not like anyone interfering with his business, or consider any justification, no matter what differences in beliefs.

That afternoon, Milo was reminded of his childhood while reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Milo read the chapter Kreacher's tale, and the part of the Chapter with a letter from Lilly Potter reminded him of the Fourth of July party at Elaines that Rob attended. For some reason, the first chapter of the Sorcerers stone always reminded Milo of a childhood that he barely remembered. That evening, Milo saw blades of glory with his family.

On Tuesday, Milo, Salvatore, Eustace and Lydia went to Seewouden and Soak Town. This trip to Seewouden got Milo thinking about the Little Mermaid, which he remembered from being two years old when Marilyn took him to her kid's school picnics. This also reminded Milo of Harry Potter and 50's music. Milo got slightly annoyed with Salvatore, as he had tried to cuddle with Milo the whole time on the sea dragon, and on the log fume tried to kiss him on the fall where there was a camera. For the rest of the time, Milo chose to sit in different seats away from Salvatore. Then Salvatore tried to make everyone leave early, as he wanted to go back to Milo's house to swim. Milo did not budge for this, as he knew they could swim any time. That night, the boys went out for Chinese.

On that Thursday, Milo became bothered with all the deaths that took place in the Deathly Hallows. On Thursday afternoon, Milo became disturbed by the battle scenes in the Deathly Halllows and feared he was in a losing battle. Milo feared that the only way he could win the battle was to undergo physical death, and could possibly be stuck in a long life of loneliness. What happened was Milo got to the chapter where Harry found out that he would have to sacrifice himself. Yet Milo had not finished the book. After this section, Milo took a hike in the woods to comprehend what had been going on with his life. Milo had feared that he was helpless against what was going on with Amira, and feared that they would never be together in life. During this hike, it started to rain and Milo got soaked.

When Milo got back, he found out that Ray called for him, and that he had been walking in the woods. Ray still did not want Milo going into the woods, as he felt it was inappropriate for someone his age to be doing so. What happened was that Mal-Tech had called for Milo for some contact information.

The final Revelation

Maelendil knew that Milo had not known the final piece to the puzzle of the Spring and Summer of 1992. Maelendil knew that Milo had been haunted by these memories for a long time, but had not put together that the summer Beauty and the Beast reached popularity was the same summer that the Khara's moved in next door. Maelendil knew well where Milo was headed that weekend, and summoned the Annogrammatrons Vesta, Andreas and Herb to reveal this last revelation. Cashmir had insisted for a long time that Milo needed to remember his roots in order to withstand the onslaughts of these monstrous Rakshasajinns. Maelendil agreed, as he knew Cashmir was near retirement and knew that Milo was looking at some bleak days in the times to come. According to Cashmir, Milo needed to know that his roots with Amira went back even further, and needed to learn of their first actual meeting. Maelendil recalled how much these times resembled the days before the Charge had started school for the first time, barely knowing what was to come.

Andreas asked why this is being revealed now. Vesta explained how this had been revealed in part almost a year previous. Vesta reminded Andreas of the Charge coming across a youtube video, and being reintroduced to Beauty and the Beast.

Walt Disney World

The night before leaving, Milo had a dream about Amira, and the Williamsons calling for an Emergency meeting. This meeting was for the Biancatello's to meet a new baby. On that Saturday, the Biancatellos left for Disney World. The Biancatello's first dropped Jinny off at Grandma Pearls. Then they went to New Seneca to catch their flight. Aunt Marie dropped the Biancatellos off at the airport. At the airport, Margaret mentioned that they had one night to spend with Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. The Biancatello's had not seen them in six years. The Biancatello's flew from New Seneca into Orlando. Arriving in the Orlando airport remined Milo of the day he left Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol when he was five. Then the Biancatello's caught a bus to take them to their hotel Pop Century.

On their first night, the Biancatellos ate at the Polynesian restaurant, and rode on some rides at the Magic Kingdom. They went on the Winnie the Pooh Ride, a Peter Pan ride and some Tomorrowland attraction. Milo started thinking about having just dropping Jinny off, and being dropped off by Aunt Marie just earlier that day. Milo also had a slight flashback to the nightmare one summer ago at Disney World. Milo spotted Ariel in the Magic Kingdom parade. Now the Ariel Actress showed a lot of cleavage.

The next day, the Biancatello's went to Epcot. At first, Milo felt a bit out of place. After some more attractions, Milo started developing some new appreciation for this park. As for the Hotel, Milo was not too impressed, but he did like the Little Mermaid poster in their room. Lydia started asking Milo why that movie was so important to him. The Biancatellos went for dinner at Restaurant Marrakesh. The family was not overly impressed with the restaurant.

On Monday, the family went to Blizzard Beach, the Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney. At Blizzard Beach, Milo's estranged Maternal Grandfather Clarence called many times to get together. For Dinner, they ate at Boma: Flavors of Africa. No one had been too impressed with the food at the restaurant. In Downtown Disney, Milo bought an Ariel ornament, while Lydia bought a Tinkerbell ornament. Milo started thinking about the Holiday Season, and fantasized about going to Disney World before Christmas and returning to Ciderpond in Glory. That evening, the Biancatello's went to a comedy show. This was a show that did improvisational comedy, which had been quite enjoyable. Milo gave the suggestion of Cumin for a spice, and the actors played some Middle Eastern stereotypes. Ray got annoyed with Milo's suggestions.

On Tuesday, the family went to the Magic Kingdom. The Biancatello's went on rides such as Space Mountain, Mickeys Philharmagic Concert, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, The Hall of Presidents, Pirates of the Caribbean and Splash Mountain. That year, the Haunted Mansion was closed for renovations. For Dinner, they ate at Tony's restaurant at Mainstreet. The restaurant had been quite annoying, as the customers were constantly interrupted to say "That's Amore". That night, the family went to Epcot: World Showcase. Milo found out that they would have to have dinner with Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. Milo really did not want to see them, as he knew what it was like for family to become distance, and he felt resentful towards his Florida family for the Rumcorns being closer to them instead of the Biancatello's. Ray told Milo he was being selfish, which Milo felt he had no obligations to see them on his vacation when they made no efforts.

On Wednesday, the family went to the Animal Kingdom. They went on some safari's with both Asia and Africa. The park reminded Milo of Busch Gardens from Two Spring Breaks ago, and the Cleveland Aquarium from the previous summer. Another area of the park was a replica fair resembling old fashioned amusement parks. For dinner, the Biancatello's ate at the Rose and Crown Pub. The waiter the Biancatello's had reminded Milo of Oliver Wood from Harry Potter.

On Thursday, the Family went to Typhoon lagoon in the morning and Disney Quest in the afternoon. Disney Quest reminded Milo of Chuck-E-Cheese, and started thinking about the previous summer when he first found out about the Little Mermaid, and his Birthday when Marilyn took him, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie to Chuck-E-Cheese. That afternoon, Milo was not looking forward to spending the evening with his Florida family, and would have rather just stayed at Disney World. That evening, Grandpa Clarence picked the Biancatello's up for dinner. Grandpa Clarence first took them to a Disney Thrift Store that reminded him of the Woodfire Grille. When the Biancatello's arrived, Milo found out that Grandpa Clarence, Maple Carol and Uncle Doug were not these cold people he feared they would be. Uncle Doug, Dana and her new baby Calvin all showed up. Maple Carol made Surf and Terf. This had been a nice evening, even if away from Disney World.

On Friday, the family went to MGM. The Biancatello's went to the attraction of Voyage of the Little Mermaid. Milo had been haunted by this play, and the music in particular. Otherwise, they visited attractions like the tower of terror, rockin roller coaster, the muppets 3-D and an Indiana Jones stunt show. That afternoon, Milo wanted a picture with Ariel in the worst way. This was for his myspace. That afternoon, Milo became a bit anxious, knowing that he would have to go back. Milo was not so optimistic about the future, and feared a dull life. This had utterly overwhelmed him. For dinner, the Biancatello's went to the Hoop dee doo review. Milo started to fantasize about building a career where he could incorporate his love for all things Disney, which gave him some consolation.

The week after returning back, Milo, Eustace and Samantha went on another Altar server's trip. This would be Milo's last trip, as he had retired from Altar Serving. The trip took place at Elfander park for the second year in a row. At the park, Milo took a picture of Eustace yawning, which was not a picture he particularly liked. The Merry-go-round played some Disney songs, which reminded him of his vacation. On the way home, Milo mentioned to Monsignor Warner that he was at Disney World the previous week. Monsignor Warner mentioned that this was one of his favorite places. On that weekend, Milo and Ray went to the Italian Festival. At the festival, Milo could not help but feel like the year before.

Book VII: The Demons Reign-The Fall

Chapter 35: The Tech School

The Second Acts of Vandalism

Around this time, a band of invaders returned to Londinium, with a more severe attack on the headquarters. The Damage to the headquarters was pretty severe, not seen since the days of the earthquake. The Cobolds had pretty sore memories of those days, and remembered how they had to find shelter in this town known as Pinebrehr. By this time, the Defense league of Londinium long suspected that the attacks were the work of some offspring rakshasajinns. As to which ones, this was not known. Some had even suspected the Doustonians were behind this, despite being long banished to the desert. Many suspected that the one behind this was the Governor, who was still missing. Many feared that there still had been trolls in Hitaria, still out there, biding their time before taking over Londinium in vengeance. After this current attack, the Defense league now suspected this to be the works of the Offsprings parents, the Hypocordo's.

What was well documented was that there were many slum towns in Londinium where many exiled enemies resided, possibly some hypocordo's, Maludico's, Skinnerites, Doustonians, Trolls, surviving sorcerers, and Reptilians. When it came to the Headquarters, it was declared unusable. The Cobolds had been greatly distraught over this, after they just had it repaired, and spent their funds to complete the bridge for these repairs. The Londinians suggested that the Cobolds return to Atlantis to ask for help. However, the Atlanteans had become hostile with the Atlanteans, as the promise for rebuilding the bridge was not completed, and were banned until they had come up with the funds to complete their promises.

The Londinium defense league took a trip into the slums of Gallicanium to see what they could find. After some fruitless searches, the defense league found this town known as Gairmsoiled. In the town, the defense league came across a pub, and found a strangely dressed man with a dark skinned slave chained up. This slave owner was speaking with some Maludico's. This man explained that Londinium had been giving refuge to some of their escaped slaves who destroyed his fortune. This slave owner complains about how he lost his high up job after his boss shut down their company after being reunited with his son. This slave owner ranted about how he had great ambitions to throw out this softie, and become the unquestioned king of the company. Then this slave owner gives one Maludico with a horrible toupee a rare object resembling orange tentacles from a town known as Thatchery in Atlantis. When the slave owner left his slave behind to make a secret deal, he came over to the defense league, giving them a message in a Hamitarian language.

Yuriyama's Vision and Cashmir's Retirement

In the Akashic Hall of Prophecies, the Watchman found an orb intended for Yuriyama. Yuriyama was summoned over what the watchman saw. This is the Account that Yuriyama observed: There is a warning call issued all over a city, schools included that there are terrorist attacks by Al Quaeda. The cities call a state of Emergency and are ordered to hide in some secret hideouts. The Students in hiding have an impossible time finding safety, as there are dark spirits in the school tipping off the Terrorists.

Yuriyama knew well that Maelendil, Cashmir and Alexander were in battle against these Offsprings and some Maludico's were making trouble in Ciderpond. At this, Yuriyama summoned the three to an emergency meeting. After Yuriyama relayed what he saw, Maelendil realized that Ciderpond and the Essex region is under the hands of the Rakshasajinns. Maelendil explained how the Offsprings had for the past months been making trouble in Ciderpond. Now the Offsprings prepared their attacks in the final semester, knowing full well that Ciderpond High was a haven for Maelendil's charges. The Hypocordo's knew that many of the major charges had graduated, and others would be graduating in the next year, which would break the protection Ciderpond had from the reign of the Maludico's. The Offsprings were sent to make trouble, and setup some followers to break all ties the charges had in school.

Then Cashmir made the announcement that his term was almost up, and it was time for his retirement. The four were all distraught about the news, but knew the Magnus laws. After Cashmir made the announcement, he brought a temporary successor known as Dugmateous the Certain from the Sixth Annogrammatron order. Cashmir knew that in times of upheavel worse than seen in a long time, that Dugmateous could be helpful. Plus, Cashmir was making some preparations to keep Brutus at bay as long as possible. Now Cashmir had known Brutus for a long time, and did not think he was anywhere near competent enough to take on the roles as a Senexit. Maelendil was not thrilled about working with Dugmateous, as he knew that annogrammatrons from the sixth orders and his charges have not always been a good fit.

The End of Summer

In mid-August, the week after the Italian Festival, the summer started going downhill. Milo was two months away from starting at Mal-Tech institute and would not be returning to Ciderpond High. On Tuesday, The Filentinos invited Milo back to visit the Shrine. Milo wanted an opportunity to speak with a priest running the shrine about exorcism and demonic activity. As it was, Milo had become more suspicious of strange paranormal activity. That afternoon, on the way to the Shrine, Milo remembered having gone there before starting his Senior year, and seeing Amira in school frequently, along with his plans on taking her to the Homecoming. When the Filentino's arrived at the Shrine, Milo did not feel quite the same, and was a bit uneasy. Milo remembered how four years ago, on a Wednesday to the week, Milo started getting the same uneasy feelings, like when starting Highschool. At this shrine, Milo had started to talk with a priest, but Aunt Michelle called him over, as they were heading home.

On Thursday, Eustace had become more snobbish. While Eustace was over in the afternoon, he had taunted Milo about the Jafari's and Amira, and threatening to rat him out. Milo started getting pretty angry at Eustace, and his threats, and started spinning a CD player cord in front of him. Eustace then threatened to tell the police if he lays a hand on him. That evening, on the way to the Filentino's for dinner, Milo started to think about how different things were when the Summer began, and this breath of fresh air. It had just seemed like the summer was becoming quite stale, and there was nothing to look forward to. Milo remembered having gone to feed the fishes early in the summer, and Lydia's pageant.

As for Salvatore, he started getting more annoying. Salvatore had told Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ottavio to talk Milo out of his interests in physical anthropology, and told them that the subject was racist. Milo was getting sick of Salvatore constantly giving him his views on anthropology, and was not going to accept his views. On Saturday, Milo had his 19th birthday, and got the Simpsons Season 10 as a present. Milo remembered this was the season when he saw Amira at Dudlechip. During the day, the Biancatello's and Eustace went to Pittsburgh to visit the same place Milo went with the Filentino's two falls ago. By this time, Milo did not have such ideal memories of that particular year, and remembered not seeing Amira too much.

The next week, Ray was off from Work. That week things got worse, as Ray made Milo work long hours on this college preparation program. This computer program was burdensome, repetitive and boring. It was impossible to get through the program unless the final test was passed 100 percent. Ray bought this program, thinking that it would be helpful. However the program was a scam that taught nothing but mere memorization. Ray had Milo working on this program all day, and this drove Milo nuts. Milo hated doing this pointless activity all day and night, which put him in a foul mood. One night, Milo and Ray got into a fight, as Ray wanted Milo to work on the program for a couple more hours, but he had been sick of working on this all day. Frankly, Milo felt like Ray was being utterly controlling.

The next week, school began for Lydia, and many of Milo's friends from high school were beginning college. For Milo, his program at Mal-Tech would not start until mid-October. With Ray being back at work, Milo was back to his normal schedule, and happy to be away from the program. This year, Lydia would be starting her sophomore year, while Amira was starting her Senior year.

Over Labor Day weekend, things had gotten much worse. On Friday afternoon, Milo noticed that this had been the first year in a long time that he was not happy with a new school year. That night, Milo had weird dreams about living in a dump in Noussonburg. On Sunday at a party at Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes, Milo was in a bad mood with Sylvester for being a brat and Salvatore for bugging Milo to pose for a picture. Milo did not want to pose and Sylvester threatened to not stop bothering him until he posed for the picture. Milo still refused. That night, Milo had a dream that he was starting a new school year at Ciderpond, and was not seeing Amira. Milo then got into a fight with some students on his bus.

Daxividus Visions and Oscar

Back at the Oracle at the Hall of Prophecies, Daxividus arrived to his basin of water to see the vision concerning him. In the vision, there was a series of vacation sequences. This would come to be a frequent occurrence. Some of the first sequences that Daxividus had seen were Magic Kingdom rides, old fashioned amusement parks and a beach town in Maine. These early visions had an air of excitement, but Daxividus recognized something very phony and impermanent about the sequences. Daxividus had been utterly stumped over what this meant. Then a majestic figure said "The Archon has returned". Daxividus turned and found this figure who was not a Jinn, but no Alument either. This figure introduced himself as Oscar from the Recusic order. Daxividus was confused, and Oscar explained that the Recusic Order is the Guardians of the Annogrammatrons. Daxividus knew something of the Guardians, and only knew their connection through the Archons.

Oscar explained that many mortals had been forced membership into the realm of the Sarkikos community. Daxividus had not been so sure what this meant, and Oscar explained about the community on earth only members can see, but cannot see the human communities. Daxividus knew very little about the Sarkikos, and only knew that they were a kind of shadow to the mortals. Oscar explained that the cords connecting the realm of the Sarkikos and the mortals were still intact, but could one day break. Daxividus asked what this had to do with the vision in the basin. Oscar explained that humans do not belong in the community of the sarkikos, and will not be happy there. Daxividus asked what this had to do with these vacations. Oscar had been stumped, and started to theorize that many of Maelendil's charges had become held captive in the community of the senexit sarkikos. Oscar then went off to inform Maelendil of what happened.

The Last month off

The month had frankly been boring, as everyone else was in school. Milo would later attribute this to being a negative 6.25% through Mal-Tech. Milo passed his college preparation program eventually, as he found some cheats around this program. Otherwise, Milo still hated doing this program, as it made him think rationally, and found this left brain knowledge to be utterly boring. Now Milo just wanted to resume art activities, and right brain endeavors. Milo remembered his trip to Walt Disney World in a very fond way. Plus, Milo had many positive memories of his Senior Year, and Amira in particular.

One weekend, Milo and Eustace went on a trip with the Filentino's to Toledo in order to visit an open market selling multiple food specialties. Salvatore got disappointed when the Filentino's decided to stop for lunch at a cookie cutter sandwich shop instead of a Cambodian restaurant next door. A few weeks before starting School, Milo enrolled in Zoo volunteer work in hopes of seeing Amira soon. Now Milo did not even know if Amira would be volunteering that year, as he did not see her name written down on any of the records. Yet he found his friends Shamus and Stephanie on the list, along with Nousha and Vashti. At one session, Milo saw that Anahita's sister, who was a highschool freshman was also in training.

Azeyas vision

Azeyas had summoned Maelendil, Alexander and Dugmateous over a vision regarding one glorious Holiday in the not too distant future. Azeyas declared that the tidings of deliverance in the name of the Dance, and the lights of the heavens would be proclaimed beginning with the Thrice Winter feast of the Sun. Maelendil had a great look of dignified triumph on his face at this news, while Alexander asked what this all meant. Azeyas explained that the great judge of light will return to begin the days of restoration, and set things straight again. Azeyas explained this will be a glorious time full of joy and dancing. Maelendil knew he had heard of some tidings like this before, but could not remember from where.

Soon enough, Maelendil knew well that Milo would be starting at a new school, and saw a very bleak experience. Alexander suggested that maybe this was just the whole adjustment process of being in a new school, and remembered the same thing happening when Milo began Highschool. Maelendil knew that this was no ordinary case of cold feet and summoned Dugmateous to watch over Milo at school and report any funny business. Maelendil then gave Alexander the task to give Milo information regarding the first Rakshasajinn, and the truth about Lucille. Maelendil explained that he did not want Milo fighting the battle until he could see the magnitude of the threats he was up against.

Milo's last week off

That weekend, the signs of the beginning of October were becoming quite apparent. This had been the first time that Milo would be starting school so close to Halloween, when this was the time the September back to school blues would come to an end. That weekend, Milo saw the movie "American Pie", and the character Nadia reminded him of two girls who he knew from Marilyns when he was real young.

On the Monday of Milo's last week off, he went to a state park for rock climbing with Eustace, Lydia and Ray, as this had been Columbus Day. Milo and Eustace accidentally knocked the cooler over after making a silly game out of moving it in a twirling fashion. Milo had not been to this state park since before starting Seventh Grade.

One day later, Milo, Salvatore and Lydia went out to lunch, as Salvatore had no classes that day and Lydia was off. Milo started complaining about the college preparation program on the computer, and how Ray had been giving him so many lectures on college preparation. Salvatore explained how he got the same lectures from Uncle Ottavio before starting his studies at St. Thomas private college.

On that Wednesday before Orientation, Milo started to fantasize about returning to Disney World. Milo planned on going back to the park, which was a new present to himself for graduation from Mal-Tech. Milo's plan was to take his cousins, Amira and her friends on this vacation. That night, Milo had some strange dreams about the movie "Parent Trap", which he remembered after seeing Amira at Dudlechip. On Thursday, Milo had orientation with Mal-Tech institute. At orientation, the headmaster introduced the four instructors, including Mrs. Deville, a chain smoker and two male instructors who looked the same. Milo saw who would be in his class, and did not know a single person. The students were given their drafting kits. This had been an ugly and rainy day. That orientation did not make Milo look any more forward to starting at Mal-Tech. That evening, Milo was invited for dinner at the Filentino's. Uncle Ottavio mentioned Milo getting ready to start a career. Milo started thinking how on a Winter Thursday in 16 months, he would be having dinner with the Filentino's, but as a celebration for graduating from Mal-Tech.

On Friday, Milo was a bit depressed, knowing that this would be his last Friday off before starting school. Much to Milo's luck, he got called in for volunteer work at the Zoo. Milo was slightly annoyed, as he was depressed about starting school, and just wanted to sulk. Otherwise, Milo was planning on doing some research on paranormal activity, as he found some leads. On the way over, Milo felt happy that he was going into drafting, as he did not want to be on any on-call jobs that would surprise him with after hour's requests. Plus, Milo was frustrated about being on call for volunteer work, and something that was not life threatening. Now On-call is one thing that Milo found irritating, and did not consider anyone having the right to expect workers to be available on their off time, and drop what they were doing over some pseudo-emergency.

When Milo entered the zoo main building, he saw Nousha being dropped off by Parvaneh. While volunteering, Milo had the task of going around substituting for people who needed breaks. Milo felt still a bit down, but did not have to deal with too many kids, as it was quite rainy. At one exhibit, Milo overheard some girls talking about working at a kids clothes store, and having to listen to annoying songs over again. On break, Milo went over to a bridge, which reminded him of the Holy Week when he was ten. Milo started thinking about that spring break, and how he had seen Amira at Dudlechip. What Milo was actually remembering was his summer at the camp Liliana ran, and the trip he took to the zoo. At the end of Volunteer work, Milo looked through the schedule, and found that Amira and Roshanak were working on the next Friday, and there had been an opening. Milo took on this opening for the next Friday evening. Milo was so excited about this prospect, that he had forgotten all about starting School on Monday. All Milo knew that this would be his reward for getting through that first week through Mal-Tech.

That Saturday, Milo did his landscaping services at Grandpa Tony's. Grandpa Tony asked Milo how his volunteer work was going. On Saturday, Milo downloaded the song "Last Kiss", which reminded him of Lucille and his conflict years back. Milo then suspected that Lucille had something to do with Valentine's Day, and this confirmed his suspicions of paranormal activity. As to what some conflict over ignoring a stupid request of a future friend of Amira's had anything to do with Lucille had made little sense to Milo. Milo wondered if these Malevolent creatures were acting on Lucille's orders, and that she had not forgiven him over what happened so long ago.

Milo downloaded the song "Teenager in love", which he remembered from Amira's Oldies concert when she was a Freshmen. This is another oldies song written in the 50's doowop style. Milo also downloaded some Sacred Harp Hymns, which were American Folk hymns written in the 19th century Evangelical Revivals. That Sunday, the anxiety came back, and Milo had once again become anxious about starting school. Milo really wanted to believe that this school would teach him the skills to begin a meaningful career.

The Raptors and Move to Gairmsoiled

One dark evening, the land of Gallicanium came under attack from these horrible birds Suriya spoke of known as Raptors. The Raptors had kidnapped about half of the Cobolds and flew them far away from Hitaria, which included Iohannes, Aerondin, Queniviere, Selwyn and Yusefus, and into uncharted desert territory.

The Cobolds who did remain including Elrich, Irugen, Remus, Petestor, Jamus, Yoshiyahu, Zadok and Mardina were horrified at this awful sight. Rivkah had been greatly distraught at what happened to Iohannes, and began begging the Cobolds remaining for some help. Petestor started a grand plan to find maps of Kebsuda, and develop a search plan to find where the Cobolds had been taken. Yoshiyahu had plans to research powerful weapons to destroy the monsters holding her sister captive.

The remaining Cobolds made their case to the Londinium Municipalities. The defense league revealed their findings to the Cobolds. One reporter from the Defense League explained how he had seen a hooded man in Gairmsoiled who was suspected to be responsible for the attacks on the headquarters. This reporter explained how this hooded figure hated Londinium. Then this reporter tells how he had been in contact with the slave. One cryptographer had translated the slave's note as thus: My master sent the vandals. My master is sending the bird monsters. My name is Taibi, I can help.

The Londinium magistrates and elders decided that the Cobolds would go on a quest to Gairmsoiled to find Taibi. The Magistrates tasked Remus, Jamus and Yusefus to work in Gairmsoiled to raise funds for the Headquarters repair. Irugen was tasked to find Taibi. The Londinium magistrates explained that there are many job opportunities in the town to raise enough money.

The Cobolds were not thrilled about the mission, and were a bit apprehensive. Elrich thought that this was similar to what happened when they entered Atlantica so many ages ago. The Cobolds took up residency in a slummy inn owned by a very stern couple known as Trommer and Emersina. Now Trommer and Emersina hated Londinium, and let the Cobolds know. Now this inn's terms of service held that they were obligated to stay for four months. According to Petestore's calculations, they would most likely need to renew the contract for four terms. There had been some strange symbols the Cobolds had not understood, but signed anyways. Now the Cobolds were not too happy about being in this town. The Cobolds found the town to be a dour and defeatist lot. The Cobolds feared the Gairmsoiled residents, and could not understand why they chose to live in a society like this permanently. Now the Cobolds knew that they were not going to be in this slumtown permanently, and preferred to just get out of this place as soon as possible.

Mal-Tech Institute

On the evening before starting Mal-Tech, Milo started getting cold feet, and had slightly wished he had started in June. This wish would only be short lived. That night, Milo had a dream about finding some of Amira's lost items at school, and attempted to return them to her. That morning, Milo got ready, and was a bit anxious. Milo was pretty optimistic about Mal-Tech, and saw that this would be nothing more than classes, like he was a college student. Milo had been expecting that like college, the teachers would just leave the students alone, and he could just go to classes and leave.

Milo's first day of school was a disaster. When he arrived, this building felt cold and utterly strange. Milo headed to his classroom, with walls resembling a 19th century mental institution. He knew no one there, and the teachers came off as less than welcoming. The first teacher they met blatantly said he did not pity students who work a job while in school, because he had one. What happened was this teacher worked a job when he attended Mal-Tech. This teacher in fact only slept on the weekends when attending school, and his life centered on Mal-Tech. The first day was just a long day of sitting around doing nothing. When it came to the students, Milo did not find himself able to develop any chemistry. This school had many students on Government programs, highschool graduates who did not do well and goofed off, and two middle aged men. These two men, Mark and Phil were the only people Milo ever befriended at the school. Otherwise, Milo did not see this school as people who wanted to be there, but a bunch of kurmudgeons who had to be there. Milo was assigned to talk to one student for an exercise, and he found out that this student was only at this school, because he had a kid on the way, and needed to be able to support him. Milo was a bit turned off, as he wanted to go to this school to develop skills in design, not out of necessity.

At lunch, the teachers ordered a pizza, and the students were still stuck in the same classroom. During the rest of the day, teachers came in and introduced themselves giving their biography. Most of the teachers graduated from Mal-Tech, and never did too well, and otherwise seemed bitter. Mrs. Deville then gave the students a tour of Mal-Tech, and Milo found himself even less impressed with this school. Frankly, it felt like a foreign structure. If the top story was bad, this was nothing compared to the basement, which resembled that horrible West Mesa from pre-school.

While touring the ground floor halls, the Hypocordo's Sheepus, Sleesum, Siren and Butkampft had taken up residency at this school. These are the Hypocordo's whose offspring have been making trouble in Ciderpond. Sheepus, Siren and Sleesum were the ones who sent their offspring the Talosian and the Parasite to Ciderpond as spy's months ago in order to take up residency. Sleesum and Siren sent their offspring the Sea Monster to Salvatore to try and get Amira out of the picture. Buttkampft and Sleesum sent their offspring the Grinch to Diggins in order to destroy Milo's prom plans.

On this tour, on the ground floor, Milo saw that many students were smokers, hanging outside in the cold on smoke break. In fact, smoking was a way for students and teachers to get to know each other. Then another teacher known as Mr. Ruberta let the students know that whatever hobbies they had, to just give them up for the next 16 months. Then a career advisor came in, lecturing them on making sure they kept an eye on their job list, and apply before the program ended. Milo started worrying about what this meant for his trip to Disney World. Plus, Milo had a nasty feeling about the destiny he would have with working for a Mal-Tech approved company. When Milo was done for the day, he felt like he had travelled through a wormhole into a cold and brutal world that demanded one to sacrifice living to survive. That dream about Amira in the morning and heading down to Mal-Tech almost felt like a whole lifetime ago.

That evening, Milo was utterly panicky, and felt like he just started the next dreary forty years of his life, and only had retirement to look forward to. Milo then made the decision that he would consider education after Mal-Tech. Plus, Milo wanted to be self employed rather than work for any system like Mal-Tech. Ray was a bit confused about why Milo would want to be self employed, or considering going on to more education. Plus, Ray was also wondering why Milo seemed so traumatized by this school after just the first day.

Maelendils Gratitude and call to Battle

Maelendil summoned Alexander and Dugmateous to the Odinean temple to thank them in their efforts. Alexander explained that the charge was not surprised about what he found out about the other charges friend. Then Dugmateous had been given the task to reveal the truth about the charges cousin. Alexander had been charged to provide some hopes and dreams for the hard times. Alexander knew things at the school had started to cool down, and were tolerable. But Maelendil reminded Alexander that this was only the beginning.

Dugmateous then explained that he had seen the Hypocordo's Sheepus, Sleezum, Buttkampft and Siren within the tech school. Maelendil explained to Dugmateous that he knew that he had known Sleezum and Siren were up to no good, but did not know what. Maelendil then started to suspect that Sleesum had been acting as a recruiter for this tech school, and Siren had done a good job at providing distractions, and keeping the real agenda of the school hushed up. Maelendil had some suspicions about what Buttkamft and Sheepus were up to, but did not know who they were really working for. Then Gregory showed up to explain his theories of what Sheepus and Buttkamft were up to. Gregory explained that Sheepus had typically ministered to the powerless, while Buttkamft ministered to the powerful. Alexander pointed out that this was a very convenient setup.

Soon enough, Durnil arrived with urgent news about this presence of an overseeing eye appearing all over the place, and inescapable. Durnil explained that this eye had been creating this confining feel to the mortals. Maelendil heard from Oscar and Daxividus something of Archons holding his charges captive. Durnil asked if this had anything to do with the School, and Maelendil explained that this is likely much worse. Maelendil then gave Durnil the quest to find the Guardian Oscar to help him find out who is behind the eye. Maelendil then called for the charism of Baptist Minister and abolitionist John Leland, along with the charisms of Judith and St. Patrick to hit off the battle. Maelendil assigned the Leland charism to make sure his charge resisted any diabolical pressures placed by the school, and any other systems. The John Leland charism knew that this would be quite difficult at times, and with the community the charge had been bound to, such defiance would result in much guilt and shame. Maelendil assigned Dugmateous to provide some armor for the charge, lest he be shamed into falling for the schools lies.

The Zoo

With that Tuesday, Margaret told Milo before school that he does not need to care what the school thinks once he graduates, and it is none of their business if he chooses higher education or self employment. That Wednesday was Margaret's birthday, and Grandpa Tony came over for dinner. Milo then started looking through his new music, which he forgot all about with starting school. Milo then remembered how he would get to see Amira in a few days after a few rough days.

On Thursday, Milo had been slightly depressed to be in this school, as it did not feel right to him, and he also missed being in the Ciderpond school district. Milo felt out of place in school, and did not feel he could get close to these teachers who seemed so corporate hardened, and students who were by necessity. Plus, Milo was a bit disappointed that this was more structured than college, and had a highly interactive faculty body. Plus, Milo was not used to being in school strictly for studies, and having no social life. Milo had not experienced this with school since third grade.

Finally the day came for Milo to do volunteer work at the Zoo after a long first week. At school, Milo was quite excited to get away from Mal-Tech for two days. For a snack, Milo had some Iranian dish he made the day before, which reminded him of a chutney he had at an Indian restaurant years ago. Milo started getting a bit superstitious and brought a Rosary and a bottle of Holy Water in his pocket to the Zoo. Milo's scheduled tasks had been to go around and sub for volunteers when they needed breaks. When Milo entered the zoo main building, he got a brief glimpse of two black haired girls getting out of a car. After Milo was waiting for a little, Amira showed up with her sister Roshanak, and then Nousha and Vashti appeared.

Then there was a vision of an angel known as Glory playing a trumpet and the Fiery Baptist Preacher John Leland calling for war against the slavedrivers and pointing to the great commander in heaven promising victory over the powers of evil. Then a choir of earthling started chanting "Deliver them". Then the preacher told them to wait for the Morning trumpet to sound on the days of deliverance, and that will be a sign that a battle has ended, and victory is won.

As for the rest of the evening, Milo did the same subbing had done the previous Friday. One volunteer asked Milo if he was Middle Eastern. Milo explained that he was Italian. Unfortunately, Milo never got any time with Amira. On one occasion, Milo offered to help Amira cleanup a mess a child made, but she did not need the help. Before the shift ended, Milo noticed that Amira was scheduled to work the rides on Saturday, and considered taking Sylvester to the Zoo for his communion present.

When it came to school for the next week, things were not as bad. Milo worked two more times. That first evening was pretty boring, and Milo wondered what he had gotten himself into. Luckily this would be over pretty soon. On the final occasion, Milo was working dressed up as a ghost. During that evening, Milo saw Doris and Merle with another friend. Doris gave Milo a big hug after not seeing him in so long. Merle brought up Milo asking Steve how he and Saul met back at Seewoulden years back.

As it was, Sylvester did make his communion one Saturday later. After Sylvester's communion party, it began to rain and Milo could not take him to the Zoo. That evening, Milo was in a bad mood about what happened, and resented this weather change. During the evening, Salvatore took Milo and Matt to Taco Bell for dinner. During the ride to Taco Bell, Salvatore kept playing rap, and told Milo he had ethnic music. The whole night, Salvatore was acting like a big jerk, and Milo was getting suspicious that he had been fraternizing with a malicious entity. The next day, Milo was stuck doing homework at a football game at Uncle Mikes.

Life at Gairmsoiled

Life for the Cobold's in Gairmsoiled not so bad at first, despite not being in Londinium, Pedmontus or Lionalem. Gairmsoiled was located not far from a river, which had a great view of Londinium. Much of the time, the Cobold's looked over the river to Londinium, and longed for the days of being back in their own land. The Cobolds started to make plans about creating a greater Headquarters, and after they were repaired and cleaning the mountain paths again. They remembered the days when they fought hard against the Troll offsprings and brought fourth a way from Londinium to Atlantica.

Jamus and Remus had found work in the city, and were raising funds quite rapidly. This made the Cobolds more optimistic when looking over the great river into Londinium, and after four leases, would be returning back, and rebuilding the bridge. Unfortunately, Irugen was not having too much luck finding Taibi. Petestor constantly devised plans to find out where Taibi could possibly be, but had no luck whatsoever. Elrich on the other hand had become a bit cynical about finding Taibi, and had become quite fearful of offending the Gairmsoiled residents, and always advised avoiding asking for help if possible.

The Gairmsoiled in has a policy, which dictates, the residents at the inn are required to vacate the property for one to three weeks every few months. The Cobolds had snuck off back to Londinium, and to assess the Headquarters damage. The Cobolds saw that the damage had gotten significantly worse, and could not wait to raise up enough money to fix this place and get out of Gairmsoiled. The Cobolds also came across Rivkah. She had been quite distraught, as Harmony had been kidnapped by hooded figures, and taken through the mountain paths into Atlantis. Harmony luckily did have a clock to tell where her family was, and their state. Iohannes hand revealed to be travelling through the desert, and in danger. Harmony's hand was stated to be in Thatchery and stuck on the streets. The Cobolds offered to help, but Rivkah explained that Harmony could not be hurt, as she was placed under an enchantment to protect her, and how Thatchery was a very indifferent city that would just ignore street toddlers, according to the Londinium magistrates. Plus Harmony has Parthanian blood, and they are a Mistivant with natural born surviving instincts. Yet being away from Harmony greatly made Rivkah distraught, and felt lonely without either her or Iohannes.

Milo's first Fall

School was getting slightly more tolerable for Milo, as he found he was learning something. The teacher he had for drafting, Mr. Schwannman was a decent guy who was a fair grader, even if he was a bit rough around the edges and not so understanding about people having jobs while in school. Math had been difficult for him, and Mrs. Deville was helpful at first. Mrs. Deville never truly came off as a friendly woman, and for all intensive purposes had barely any personality. Milo still recognized the perpetual cold this teacher had. When it came to school, Milo was also getting to know Mark and Phil better.

On one occasion, Milo ended up over by Dudlechip. Milo and Ray were working on a project, and needed to stop at a hardware store to pick up some supplies. Milo had many flashbacks to fourth grade during this time, and had some very myopic memories of these days. Milo did miss having the social life he had with Ciderpond, but had hope of learning something, and then being able to move on with his life.

On one long weekend, Milo watched the Rugrats "Santa Experience", which he remembered watching nine Holiday's ago on a frequent basis one Friday night. On Saturday morning, Milo and Salvatore went out for donuts. During the weekend, Salvatore was being himself again. On Sunday, there was a Beauty and the Beast Broadway performance at Ciderpond, which Milo went to with Margaret, Lydia, Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester. Milo tried getting Sylvester to get his picture with the Belle actress. Sylvester was onto Milo, and After the play, Grandpa Tony, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane came over to dinner for Pizza. On Monday, Milo found pictures of Amira on her friend Heather's myspace. Then for dinner, Milo made a Middle Eastern Lamb dish.

After seeing the pictures of Amira, Heather and Allison, Milo started becoming nostalgic for his days back at Ciderpond, and his graduation. Milo had the song "Fire and Rain" constantly stuck in his head, and how he saw Amira singing in the Baccaleaureaute and seeing her before the graduation ceremony. Before Thanksgiving, there was a bomb threat at Mal-Tech, and class got out a little early. Milo was not too bummed out over this, as he got an afternoon to do some more research on Paranormal investigations. Milo started to believe that he was onto something, and just needed some more time. Now the The threat was only a false alarm. As for Thanksgiving break, Milo found that he could be a bit moody. Without the social life he had at Ciderpond High, he often times felt frustrated, and felt like he had been back in sixth grade again.

Ahamkara's thirdborn

Ahamkara's thirdborn Propetus hatched from a Silver Egg. As we remember, Ahamkara is a Satyasha matriarch whom Maelendil helped in counselling her offspring Vulterian and Skeeter. This time around, Skeeter and Propetus were fighting. Propetus is a very dutiful type who strongly values adherence to external standards, while Skeeter is one to be more intuitive and passion oriented. Skeeter and Propetus were always fighting over who Vulterian should be working for.

Unfortunately, Maelendil did not have a whole lot of time to work with Ahamkara or her offspring, as he had been quite busy with the battle, and working with Oscar. As it was, things never got better between the two, and they were relentlessly fighting. Propetus and Skeeter were always trying to manipulate Vulterian to take one side over the other. Skeeter could get quite fired up if Vulterian took Propetus' side, and they would start fighting again. The biggest thing Skeeter hated about Propetus was that he placed so much emphasis on duty, and had been very pessimistic about pleasure and gratification.

The time Maelendil did have with Skeeter, Vulterian and Propetus revealed a little bit. Skeeters main complaint was about Propetus having nothing to offer. Skeeter recalled how he and Vulterian work fine together, as they know how to use the systems to work for their advantage. Skeeter complains that Propetus has a problem with him using the systems to their advantage, and is trying to manipulate Vulterian into becoming a slave to the systems. Maelendil then asks Skeeter if he remembered the days when he did not get along with Vulterian. Skeeter explains that he was not giving Vulterian a fair chance, and assumed that he was close minded. Maelendil explained that Vulterian was close minded and how Skeeter was irrational. Skeeter then explains how Propetus ideal is to have them revolve around the sytems, where he wants the systems to revolve around them. Maelendil explains how it is natural to be adverse to new ideas, and how it is difficult to see new possibilities with something that seems so oppositional. Skeeter begrudgingly obliges to counseling.

Maelendil then speaks with Propetus. Propetus complaint is that Skeeter is so self centered, and his only respect for the systems is what he can get out of them. Propetus complains about how Skeeter thinks the systems revolve around him, and exist solely for him. Propetus then goes on a rant about how the systems are meant to be served, but forced to serve, but never given anything. Maelendil explains to Propetus that he is mistaking the system for those who make up the system. Propetus still holds that systems are what makes selflessness possible. Maelendil asks propetus if he believes that it is possible to be concerned with both the self and others. Propetus then says that such a thing is utterly impossible, and is just an excuse to be selfless. Propetus then says that one cannot serve both the self and the other. Maelendil tells Propetus that he has a lot to learn.

Maelendil then meets with Vulterian. According to Vulterian, Skeeter is honest, and recognizes that they both work for self interest. Vulterian then explains that he finds Propetus to have this attitude like he is most favored by the Dance. Vulterian explains to Maelendil that he thinks Propetus "Do gooder" loyalistic attitude is all about boosting his ego. Vulterian then complains that this "Selfless" attitude is nothing more than self hatred and placing social duties on some pedestal above living beings.

The Cobolds reprimand

After returning from their labors one afternoon, the Cobolds were called down to Emersina's office. She found out that the Cobolds went to Londinium, but they had not known that there would be consequences for such behavior. Emersina showed them the rune print on the contract, and explained that Londinium was off limits. Then Emersina warned the Cobolds that if they ever did this again, their wage would be raised. This would put the Cobold's off schedule and have to stay at this inn longer.

Elrich became quite disheartened about this, while Remus started cursing out Emersina. Remus referred to Emersina as a pile of Maludico dung, and has no business telling them that they could not go back to their home town. Zadok on the other hand was a bit suspicious, and could not understand why Emersina would care about whether her tenants went to Londinium. Zadok started developing theories that Emersina and Trommer were the ones behind the attacks on the headquarters, and the one to send the Raptors. Irugen reminded Zadok and the Cobolds that their job was to find Taibi, and it would not be wise to entertain accusations.

Mal-Tech gets worse

By this time, the Holiday Season was beginning. One afternoon, Milo, Ray, Uncle Leo, Eustace and Sylvester went to a basketball game at Whelon College. Milo saw a former cheerleader from Ciderpond High known as Ashley in the Whelon cheer squad. That evening at dinner past Phyllisville, the Biancatellos went out to dinner with the Filentino's and Uncle Leo's family. At dinner, Charlotte waited on their table. As we remember, Charlotte is a Williamson. That weekend in Church, St. Timothy's used the Mass of Light for the first time. The cantor at mass was Martins daughter Cara. Martin was the man who asked Milo to serve in the novena two years ago.

On Tuesday, Milo found out Uncle Georgio had been diagnosed with a treatable cancer. Rob came over for dinner, as he wanted to talk with Ray about this whole thing. Grandpa Tony was not too worried, and trusted that the treatment systems had been very advanced.

Math class was getting more difficult for Milo. Now Milo never took Algebra in Highschool, and did not even know the language to be proficient. Milo had been proficient in basic functions, including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Plus, Milo could understand Geometry fine. When Milo started having a hard time with Algebra, Ray assumed he was having a lazy attitude about math and just wanted to get the work over with. This judgmental attitude thoroughly annoyed Milo, as this was not true. Plus, Milo did not like Ray changing his approach or sudden judgmentalism. On Sunday, while practicing algebra, Ray constantly was checking on Milo, and got mad when he could not seem to progress in any way. On Monday Night, Milo needed a break from Algebra, and watched Mary Poppins on TV to refresh his mind. When Ray found out, he turned the TV while watching. After Ray left, Milo put the show back on, and Ray got real mad at him, and accused him of acting like a child. Milo got pretty pissed off, and was sick of Ray being such a jerk about how difficult math was for him. Margaret admitted to Milo that Ray was being very impatient, and that he should not expect him to just get the subject so quickly when having never taken the subject.

Then one Friday, Milo had a difficult time with a Math Test, and Deville had gotten impatient with him. This teacher kicked him out of the classroom and had him come back after school to complete the test. Then Deville started acting like a jerk after school when he was trying to finish the test, and was in the background huffing with annoyance. Now this teacher was not good with teaching students who learn better with visual stimulus. Plus, the class never covered the basics, and just threw abstract equations at the students. Then Deville sent him off when he could not finish the test within her time frame. After School, Milo went over to Palestrina's market to clear his head.

That Weekend, the Biancatello's went out to get their Christmas tree, and stopped at the same restaurant Uncle Ottavio insisted on after returning from Drakes Forest. This was also Amira's birthday, and Milo watched the Little Mermaid. That evening, Grandma Pearl, Aunt Mary and some of the Williamsons including Elaine and her husband Rich, and Ralph with his wife Peg came over for Dinner. Uncle John was not able to come over, as he had a bad case of pneumonia.

That Monday in School, Deville blatantly accused Milo of not being loyal to this school and told him to stop doing things his way. Milo started to dislike school, and did not appreciate Deville making such blatant accusations, without understanding that Math is very difficult for him, or her stupid huffing sounds when students have difficulty. Milo had not experienced this kind of schooling before, and always got by with common decency. Never had Milo been treated so rudely by a teacher over academic matters, or accused of his difficulties being his fault. Milo's only interest in school was to learn the subject, and never felt that this teacher had any business stepping over such boundaries outside of Math. Not to mention, Milo did not feel like this teacher was close enough to him to be stepping over the boundaries to begin with.

The Jinns Meeting

After what happened in school, Maelendil summoned a meeting with Herb, Maugris, Mairead, Billius, Dugmateous and Alexander. Billius started ranting, referring to Deville as a self righteous asshole with no business making such judgments. Herb admitted that this was quite a difficult matter, and was not sure this could be resolved so easily. Herb started telling how History is repeating itself like it had seven years ago. Herb recounted how Milo wanted to go to Disney World seven years ago, and his wish finally came true this past summer. Billius then asks what this has to do with that F bomb Deville. Maelendil implored Billius to watch his language.

Herb made his point that so many years ago, things worked themselves out, without the need for intervention. Herb explained that this time around, such a prospect may not be so feasible. Maelendil asked Mairead for her imput. Mairead explained that she cannot find a way to possibly work with this school. Mairead explained how the school has too structured of an agenda to even be used for a beneficial purpose. Maugris then gave her imput. Maugris explained that this school had a spell from the Maludico's, and there was no known way to use the spell. Billius protested that Maugris is a Magician, and should know this. Maugris explained that the school had been setup in a way that has the specific agenda to mold students to become submissive workers. After Billius calmed down, he asks what to do with Deville, and her nasty demeanor. Maelendil explains that Deville had prided herself in being such a good teacher, that if a student has a hard time with her class, she resorts to blaming the student. Billius retorts that this is garbage. Maelendil agrees with Billius, but explains that he only has to suffer under this teacher a little while longer.

After some discussion, the Jinns agree that Milo will have to finish his education at the tech school, but will have to get more learning at a university. Billius shouted with great excitement over this. Billius cheered on about how this college will put those creeps at the school in their place, once they no longer can keep their grubby tentacles on the students. Herb then expressed concern that the charge could get hold of the kronos if he starts to anticipate a glorious future in college. Herb explains that futuristic ideas have always required a sacrifice of the living present for some never arriving future. Maelendil explained that this was true, and confessed he was seeing this taking effect so far. Maelendil explained how for the first time in his life, Milo was anticipating the end of his education before school even began. Maelendil addresses Herb, and his reference to Disney World. Dugmateous argues that it can be hard to live in the present, when the future seems so unknown. Maelendil considers Dugmateous points, as in times past, any time Milo and Amira were separated, there was always a forseeable light at the end of the tunnel. Dugmateous explains that Milo will demand a light at the end of the tunnel, and will want definitive proof that there will be one. Maelendil agrees that it is true, but this light is not so predictable.

The Holiday Season

By this time, the holiday break was near. Milo was happy to get away from Mal-Tech, as he felt the school was becoming so judgy. Milo found out some bad news that his friend Phil would not be returning to Mal-Tech, as he was not able to handle Deville's math. Frankly, it had been quite common for students to quit, thanks to Deville's self righteous style of teaching. Before Christmas, Milo went to the Ciderpond holiday concert, but did not find Amira. Milo asked his friend Christina via a private message if Amira was at the concert. Christina confirmed that Amira was in the concert.

On the first night after school let out, Milo, Ray and Margaret went to dinner at a pub they ate at two years ago before Christmas. Milo started having some flashbacks to that Holiday, which was before he used his Silenzo alibi with Amira. On Sunday, Milo and Ray went to a Chicago bears game that was playing in New Seneca. This had been quite a snowy game, and not so comfortable. On the way home, Ray and Milo went through New Seneca, which seemed like a more interesting place, and envied this suburb for not being so close to Noussonberg. Milo then started to think about when he was last time at Aunt Marie's, and her talking about Alicia starting college at a Catholic school in Pittsburgh in the fall. Milo started reminiscing about when the O'Malley's first moved to New Seneca, and how he visited them the first time when he was three years old.

This had been a peaceful Holiday for Milo, as he got away from School for a little over a week. On Christmas Night, Milo watched Shrek the Third, and started talking more about his planned trip to Disney World. Lydia had been skeptical about this great plan, and Margaret wondered if this would even be possible. All Milo knew was that he had to have something to hope in, whilst stuck in a place like Mal-Tech.

Salvatore had been kind of bossy one evening. Salvatore had gotten uptight about properly closing the door on his car, and quite rigid about keeping schedules. Then in the evening, Salvatore tried taking charge. The next day, Matt left to go skiing with some friends from New Seneca. Milo talked to Matt, and he was invited to go along. Ray churlishly interjected to Milo that it was rude to invite himself into activities with Matts friends. Milo told Ray "Screw you" after giving him such a snippy lecture, especially when he only got to see Matt so little. That night, at a church concert hosted by Jorge, Aunt Michelle asked Milo if Salvatore could be pushy, but decided to say no as to not offend her.

The Rakshasajinns preservation

Dugmateous is searching the hall of Akashic prophecies, and finds a vision of a family is driving home from Church on Christmas Eve. They are listening to "Feliz Navidad", and decide to stop at a Stress clinic. They walk in to find an elderly woman in a wheelchair whose face has rot away. Dugmateous finds that this is addressed to the Charge, and shows this to the mortals on earth.

Maelendil quickly found out what happened when this nightmare became quite prominent throughout the lands the night before New Years Eve. Maelendil asked the watchman what he knew, and he admits that he had not been around to see this, but knew this not to be the work of Rakshasajinns. The watchman has enchantments that can detect Rakshasajinns coming into the hall, as he knew when the Occult offspring raided the hall in ages past.

Dugmateous never mentioned this, and considered that this had to be done. According to Dugmateous, the world needed to know what was going to happen, so they could know how to fight this monster. Dugmateous did confide in Yuriyama over what he knew of the vision. Yuriyama looked over what he saw, and he explained that mortals had no ability to stop this horrible ending from coming, which he explained to occur in exactly two years. Dugmateous became horrified about this prospect, and begged Yuriyama for some help. Yuriyama explained that the only thing that really changed was that the knowledge getting out was going to bring the end about in a different way. Yuriyama explained that this is going to be kickstarted very soon.

The Third Anniversary

Before returning to Mal-Tech, Milo had plenty of nasty nightmares. On New Year's eve, Milo went to Mcdonalds with the Filentino's. After lunch, they went to the grocery store to pick up some food for New Years Eve. At the store, Milo saw Kazeem shopping for Salsa's. Then Milo came across his 11th grade Spanish Teacher. Milo told the teacher about how he was at Mal-Tech, and his plans for New Years Eve. That evening, Milo came across the trashy Steve Wilkos show for the first time, and was repulsed at the way he exploited abuse victims for the sake of entertainment. This was one show that only exists to cater to people who suffered abuse, and enjoy watching abusers getting yelled at, without ever helping the victims. That same evening after dinner, Milo had to do some Algebra practices, which he had not felt too enjoyable, knowing that he would be back at Mal-Tech in two days. After practicing and finally understanding the material, Milo started to anticipate returning to Disney World once he got out of Mal-Tech, and bring Amira. Milo was in quite a depressed state, and only dreaded a dark and sterile future. To anticipate the future, Milo watched a Simpsons Episode known as "Kiss Kiss Bang Bangalore". This was the episode from two Palm Sunday's ago, before the Rumcorns moved. On New Years, Grandma Pearl left for Orlando for a cruise with the Rumcorns and Uncle Doug. Milo had been a bit envious over this.

Returning to School was no fun for Milo, as even his drafting class was getting rough. Milo started to dislike Deville even, who also became his introduction to computers teacher. The original teacher was only substituting, and had been retired instructor who worked with Grandpa Tony years back. Not to mention, Milo was a bit envious of the college students who had longer breaks. On one evening, Milo went out to dinner with some friends from Highschool at a restaurant bar. The next day, Deville told Milo in front of the whole class that she had been disappointed in him for going out partying on a school night, and that he needs to get his priorities straight. Milo was pretty pissed, as she had gotten some faulty information, considering that he had not even been out that night, or even her business to begin with. Milo told Deville that he was not even out the night before, and that she should not make accusations before getting the correct facts. What happened was a secretary thought that she saw Milo out drinking, and gave Deville the wrong information. Now Milo knew that even if he was out partying, that it was not that stupid teachers business to stick her nose in.

That weekend, Milo, Ray, Uncle Leo and Eustace went to a Whelon Basketball Game. Eustace mentioned that Milo still had a myspace picture of a redneck, and having never deleted a comment that Salvatore left referring to him as Uncle Wayne's boss Chad Mclessel. Milo told Eustace that this was a joke written when the Rumcorns ruined fried dough night, all because of a stupid job. Eustace told Milo that he was selfish. Milo did not take to this too well, and Eustace explained that a secular society revolves around money, and sacrifices need to be made. Milo had no interest in some freshman brat telling him that he needs to conform to a morally incompetent system centering on profit.

On Tuesday, the third Anniversary of Dancing Day arrived, and he wrote a letter of recommendation for some specific hymns for the upcoming lent and Easter. On the anniversary of Dancing Day, St. Timothy's held a mass event that would go through all the parts and give an explanation of what it all meant. After the mass, Milo put a letter of hymn recommendations on the Church organ. The recommendations had been for the Community mass over Lent and "This is the Feast of Victory" over Easter. Milo had been thinking even more extensively about fourth grade. During this time, Milo started having flashbacks to seeing Amira at Dudlechip so many years ago, and the three year anniversary of Dancing Day. After Church, Milo listened to the songs that he downloaded on the first Dancing Day. Milo had quite an experience after listening to "This is the Feast of Victory" while looking at pictures of Amira on Heathers myspace. Then there was an abhorrent vision of Revelation 5 consisting of a cartoonish Lion, folded hands, and a lamb with seven horns and seven eyes. Milo had remembered well reading this bible passage three years ago while listening to the hymn, before he found out about him and Amira at Dudlechip so long ago.

The next day, Milo, Ray, Lydia and Grandpa Tony went to Chick-Fil-A for dinner. While at the restaurant, Milo saw his second through third grade Principal. Milo had not seen the principal when he was visiting Hazelnut forest while in Fourth Grade. After dinner, Milo came across a documentary called "To hell and back" by supposed Near Death Experience Maurice Rawlings. Milo had been desperate for some confirmation of a reality beyond the mere confines of the natural world, and feared that all his intuitions of demonic activity meant some psychiatric disorder, and could not handle reality. This was way more than Milo bargained for. Milo could not believe that anyone could actually adhere to such awful beliefs, and was nothing he grew up learning in Church. This documentary presented the same propaganda "Accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior or go to hell". Milo had heard before in Church that it was definitely possible for people of other denominations or religions to go to Heaven.

Then a Maludico known as Udopis and an Epitynitas known as Conkus appeared to Milo making some offers. Conkus had taken the form of a red balloon. Conkus offered Milo a quick solution to all his problems. Conkus explained to Milo that he could take his trials away. Milo knew that life as he knew it was coming to an end, and his connection to the Ciderpond school district was quickly slipping away. Conkus promised Milo that the second he leaves the doors of Mal-Tech, all his problems would be immediately fixed. Then Conkus offered Milo some new devotion to a the slain lamb, who could quickly cleanse him from the stains and shame of being a Mal-Tech student, and raise him above the trials reserved for those of the trash class.

Udopis offered Milo compassion and affirmation. Udopis started telling Milo how people had treated him so awful for the last few months, and how they were such horrible people full of selfish motives. Udopis then showed Milo a Lamb known as mercy upon all the poor victims of unjust powers, and a Lion to show vengeance on the ugly oppressors. Milo immediately accepted the offer, much to his future detriment.

On Thursday afternoon, after getting out of Mal-Tech, Milo took a walk down to Hazelnut forest. Milo had become a bit School sick, and missed the Ciderpond district. Milo also wanted to go back, and further reminisce about his fourth grade year at Hazelnut Forest. When Milo got into school, he came across Mrs. Signato. Now Sylvester had Mrs. Signato for Science class. Milo then came across Mrs. Watson. Mrs. Watson recognized Milo immediately, and was thrilled to see him. Mrs. Watson took Milo around to see some other teachers who may have remembered him, including a second grade teacher and his fourth grade teacher. Mrs. Watson explained to Milo that it was true that Mrs. Romero passed away the year before.

On Friday Night, Milo caught bits and pieces of a documentary on Fatima. On Saturday afternoon, Milo had Gianni over to watch the Simpsons Movie. That night, Milo watched the movie Antz for the first time in years. Milo remembered how he loved the movie when he was ten, and before going to Dudlechip. Watching the movie made Milo feel like he was back in fourth grade, and remembered how it felt seeing the movie for the first time in so long. Otherwise, the movie reminded Milo of his current circumstances with Mal-Tech and authorities in general.

Maelendil and Dugmateous' Dispute

Maelendil figured out what Dugmateous had done with the orb at the hall of akashic prophecies, and had strongly disapproved. Dugmateous explained that the charge needed some security, and Maelendil explained that this kind of security is a dangerous path, but already spoke with Yuriyama over this. Maelendil explained that showing the charge this vision had tempted him to looking for some solution to make it so this horrible vision would not have to come to pass. Then Maelendil summoned Alexander, Vesta and Victoria for their expertise on the matter in question.

Vesta had seen what happened with Udopis, and knew well that he can easily put a façade of gentleness and compassion that other Maludico's cannot succeed at doing, and promises for revenge on those who acted in such a harsh fashion. Vesta suggested that Udopis was only giving the Charge what he needed, knowing full well that he had been subjected to utter ruthlessness. Victoria remembered Conkus from his early days as a third order annogrammatron. She remembered how Conkus was always trying to get rid of his burden, while passing them onto others. Conkus was not one to like sacrifice whatsoever, and always sought to cast them onto those who he did not like. Maelendil then acknowledged that what happened is over, and considered Dugmateous help in order to move on.

Finding of Taibi

Back in Gairmsoiled, Irugen found Taibi, who was in a group with three Gallicanians Jaiden, Fabinius and Hannah, and a Cobolds Natalia from a Parthanian town known as Catalinium. According to their story, they were attending a boarding school in Gallicanium. Jaiden explained that Taibi was from a land known as Hamitaria, and had been taken into their school residency known as Luxorian heights. The caretaker of the house is Severus, who had been obsessed with all things from Hamitaria. Natalia suspected that Severus only rescued Taibi from his master in order to interrogate him for information on Hamitaria. Hannah knew that Severus was pretty high up on the Gallicanium courts, and feared that he was looking for some source of power in Hamitaria. There had been a wide belief in Gairmsoiled that Hamitaria contained some secret wisdom not known to Gallicanium.

Natalia explained that her Grandmother had given her a locket from Hamitaria to find some lost relics of the vanishing goblet. Natalia's grandmother had the locket, and put her on the task to find the relics, and keep them safe from the evil ones in the city. Now Natalia's grandmother had a sixth sense to be able to detect danger, and knew that someone horrible was after the pieces. Natalia's Grandmother also told her she was chosen to open the path between Hitaria and Hamitaria. After Natalia had been sent to this Gairmsoiled school, she had a run in with Jaiden. Jaiden's friend Tisha, originally from a nomadic Shemitarian tribe had mysteriously disappeared, and Natalia just appeared at this school out of nowhere. One night, Jaiden did a hazing ritual and locked Natalia in the attic, hoping to interrogate her about the disappearance of Tisha. While in the attic, Natalia came across a relic of the vanishing goblet. Natalia confides with Fabinius, but does not want to tell anyone else in Luxorian heights. At one point, Hannah, who becomes Natalia's room mate becomes suspicious with her, and keeps tabs on her. When Hannah confronts Natalia over this, she explains her quest. Fabinius was not too happy about this, but understood that Natalia did not have much choice. Meanwhile, Jaiden had come across some papers Severus dropped, which had pictures of the locket that Natalia was wearing. According to these papers, Tisha had a destiny to fulfill, and this could only be fulfilled if these relics were found. Jaiden interrogated Natalia over this, and she explained that had been a task given to her by her Grandmother. Jaiden gradually grew to trust that Natalia could help her find the relics, and hopefully find out what Severus was up to.

Taibi, who could only speak broken Hitarian spoke of the Raptors having carried off their friends, and his former master was behind this. All Taibi could really recount was that this was a greedy merchant making deals with Gairmsoiled. Taibi then said that he wanted to return to Hamitaria, which was close to where the kidnapped Cobolds were going to be taken. The Cobolds then offered to help the students find the lost relics, and helped translate the rune clues written on the relics.

End of the Semester

A few weekends later on Super Bowl weekend, Milo had just had a rough week of School. Due to the Bomb threat, the students were required to make up the hours and stay for two extra hours. By this time, Milo had all his drafting work done, and still needed some help on his Algebra homework. Milo had been stuck on some work on Quadratics, and really did not understand them one bit. For dinner, Milo and Ray went to Connor Finnegan's for dinner before a Whelon Basketball game. The next day, there was a late start at Mal-Tech, due to a snow storm. Milo knew that he would have to have another day to make up, and ranted about not wanting to do another long day at that dump. Ray got mad at Milo for calling Mal-Tech a dump. At School, Mr. Schwannman was becoming grouchier, as Milo's class was full of obnoxious goof offs. One day, Mr. Schwannman threatened to give the class a test after some immature students aggravated some substitute.

On Friday after school, Margaret admitted that this school was hard for Milo, considering that the clientele at this school could be a rough bunch. Now Milo never had much interaction with disadvantaged cultures, as he went to middle class schools in the Ciderpond school district. In these schools, manners had a higher priority, where at places like Mal-Tech, manners were not given the high priority. That Night Milo watched the Prince of Egypt for the first time in six years. On Saturday Night, Milo went to the Filentinos for dinner. After dinner, Milo and Salvatore watched some old Spongebob episodes. Milo had not watched too much tv for the last few years, yet seemed to revert to this habit, due to depression about being at Mal-Tech, and trying to escape his boring existence.

On Sunday Night, Uncle Mike held a Superbowl party, as the Bears were in the Superbowl. The whole family attended, including Aunt Marie and Alicia. Now Alicia was visiting a friend who was currently attending Whelon College. During that night, Milo became insistent that he had to continue his education. Milo felt like he was not getting a good education with Mal-Tech, and wanted to get out of the lifestyle the school was promoting.

That last week for Milo, school had been extremely stressful. Milo had a Math final to study for, and feared having to repeat Algebra, and therefore not graduating on time. On Ash Wednesday, Milo, Ray, Lydia and Rob all went to Church, as Uncle Georgio was in Pittsburgh fro treatments. That Thursday, Milo's first semester with Mal-Tech ended. The last day consisted of the fourth semester giving a presentation where the class designed a tech school. Milo thought that was a pretty bland project, but did not care, as he had not planned on making any fond memories of this school.

That week after, Milo was off. On Milo's first day off, he came across the show Talespin. Milo remembered the television show, and the elevator episode that reminded him of the Mall in New Seneca. That evening, Milo watched the Drake and Josh movie. This was the movie where Drake and Josh get stuck in a Heist in San Diego after sending Megan on the wrong flight. As for that week off, nothing special happened. Milo was just happy to be away from Mal-Tech. Milo was also relieved to find out that he passed all his classes, and had none to repeat. On Saturday night, the Biancatello's went out to dinner at a restaurant not too far from Dudlechip with Uncle Leo and his family.

On Wednesday, Milo had another meeting at Richard Esposito's after being off since before the Holiday season began. Milo told the group about the Maurice Rawling's video. Richards Wife Amy referred to these videos as creepy, and not worth watching. Richard explained that what he had seen was a Fundamentalist video, and explained that this was not a good approach to religion. Richard explained that Fundamentalists were bible literalists, and how many of these literalistic hellfire teachings and assumptions of a heaven with only Evangelical Christians was based on poor understandings of the original context of the Bible.

On Thursday morning, Milo went to donuts with Salvatore. That night, Milo had a dream about going to a party at the Khara's, and looking for Amira. On Friday, Milo started to realize that his vacation was near ending. Ray and Margaret went to a comedy club with Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane. That night, Milo had a dream about starting his second semester, which had been identical to his first day at Mal-Tech, and stuck on some new dorm tower at the facility. The weekend before returning to school was not so pleasant for Milo, as he dreaded returning to school. Milo started thinking about returning to Disney World again, and watched many Youtube video's of Disney World resorts. This was a new habit for Milo, as anticipating a trip to Disney World was the only way to get through these dreary days at Mal-Tech. Seeing all these videos of cool resorts got Milo very excited, and could not wait to have this really awesome vacation far far away from Mal-Tech forever.

The Kidnapped Cobolds

By this time, the Raptors had arrived to this strange city with the kidnapped Cobolds. The Raptors had been flying through the desert looking for the right place to land. The Kidnapped Cobold's were taken to a land known as Agrabah. The Cobolds had been dropped off in the town and unable to get by. Agrabah had been even worse than Avrahim had described. Agrabah had turned into a ruthless and greedy town where the poor and homeless were disregarded and treated terribly.

As the Cobolds had no property in Agrabah, or money before being taken away, they had been reduced to theft just to eat. The residents of Agrabah still remained unapologetic and constantly attempted violence against the Cobolds for their necessary thievery. The Cobolds started to be haunted by flashbacks to the days when they were stuck at the compound, and remembered how they had the same pointless life in Agrabah. The ruthlessness of the town also strongly reminded them of the days when the shadows possessed them, and the similar oppression they experienced under the angry maludico's.

In order to combat this horrible existence, they retold the stories about the Flood that cleansed Londinium, and long hoped for a flood to do the same to Agrabah. Otherwise, the Cobolds remembered the days when they fought against the mountain offspring trolls, and saw the temple. This just made the Cobolds long to return to the Lionalem festival grounds.

The New Semester

Within the first week, Milo started Architectural Drafting. The teacher Mr. Ruberta had been incompetent in the subject, and had only worked in Architectural drafting for a year. All Mr. Ruberta knew was what the books said, and had very specific standards. On the first day, some students asked about working on the computer for projects. Mr. Ruberta explained that this was a board school. Frankly, the only reason this school stuck to the boards was to weed out students who were there because their parents made them attend.

That afternoon, Milo and Ray saw The Mist, based on a Stephen King book of the same name. With School, Milo found that Mr. Ruberta was a nitpicky grader, and took points off for imperfections, such as a new lettering exercise. On the Friday after the semester started, Salvatore and Gianni went for a hike in the woods behind the Jafari's house. That evening, Salvatore hacked into a paranormal myspace profile Milo had, concerning matters of demon attacks. Salvatore changed the profile picture from the logo to a picture of Milo. Milo was pretty annoyed about this, as he was trying to keep a low profile, and did not want any friends of this page to know that he was the one behind it. Plus, Milo had just befriended Nousha and Rokshana. That night, Milo had a depressing dream about seeing the end of Pocahontas, and celebrating the Passover holiday with his cousin Kyle. On that Saturday, Grandma Pearl called, and heard Ray talking with a serious tone. Then Ray explained that Uncle John passed away from natural causes.

On Tuesday, Milo got a C on an autocad test, and Ray got all angry with him over this. Now Milo has never been good at tests, and found Ray's anger to be utterly patronizing and disgusting. Milo had always hated the grading system to begin with, and hated when anyone got on his case about arbitrary standards like grades. That evening, the Biancatello's went to the Funeral Home for Uncle John. Milo could not help but remember Grandma Gladys' funeral over eight years ago. Now Milo was not sure if he should go to the Funeral on Wednesday. Ray and Margaret insisted that he not worry about this, as the service would start while he was still in school. Plus, Milo had no transportation, as his car was in the shop. Salvatore ended up picking Milo up from Mal-Tech. Then Salvatore took him back to Aunt Michelles house, as he wanted him to show him a video on making rice, and wanted him to practice playing chess with Gianni. By this time, Gianni took up chess competitions after losing his opportunity due to the injury the previous year. Milo just wanted to go home, and work on his paranormal page, and did not like being forced to Salvatore making a decision for him. Milo still knew this was some guilt trip over Gianni that Salvatore was forcing him into. That evening, Milo, Salvatore and Lydia went out for dinner. On the way over, both Salvatore and Lydia were giving Milo a hard time about why he would want to get more education when he could get a job. Milo did not want to hear either of their advice, as he wanted nothing to do with Mal-Tech once he got out of this school. Plus, Milo did not want a job that this school placed students in. What Milo did know was that this school recruited people for jobs in Newport News Virginia. Milo did not want to move away from Ciderpond, and especially somewhere over eight hours away, and being around Mal-Tech colleauges for the rest of his life.

Back at school, Milo was getting more frustrated with his education, and more strongly considered college once he graduated with this school. Ruberta had proved to be a real jerk about grading. He was very nitpicky about insignificant matters, as he had some specific ideas about what he wanted, and expected students to just be able to figure out what he wanted. Milo found this annoying, as he had wanted to learn a skill, and how to do actual design, not training to please some nitpicky teacher. When it came to Math Class, Milo had a better time with Geometry. The teacher in this class, Mr. Stinson was the same teacher who substituted in the previous semester. Mr. Stinson explained that Mr. Schwannman took his words out of context, and did not want to get the students in trouble. Now Mr. Stinson was quicker at teaching, but was not a nuisance like Deville was. Plus, Milo was much better at Geometry. Unfortunately, Milo was stuck with Ruberta for his autocadd class. Frankly, Autocadd had been one of the few useful classes Milo had at Mal-Tech so far.

Milo wanted to graduate from Mal-Tech in the worst way possible, and kept counting down the days. Milo could not wait for the semester to end, as he knew that he would be halfway through this stupid curse. All Milo could do this time was type the same calculation of the days already finished at Mal-Tech divided by the days of Mal-Tech total. Milo had an intuition that if he did not take some charge, he could be stuck in a place like Mal-Tech for the rest of his life. For Milo, this School had been like the stereotypical menial job with that authoritarian and capricious manager, where the workers work hard, yet still barely able to get by. Milo feared that the quality of this education would only qualify students to do this kind of work. Milo could not understand why so many students actually liked this school, and were not so standoffish as he was. Frankly, Milo just wanted to learn a skill and leave, without any attachments to anyone or anything at this school.

Daxividus Vision

During this Spring, Daxividus was summoned back to the Akashic hall of prophecies to relay a Vision of a Chuck E. Cheese that had just shut down, and Pecunia overlooking this. After Daxividus had seen the vision, he did some investigation and found out that Sheepus, Sleesum, Buttkampft and Siren had been working for Pecunia. Daxividus discovered that Pecunia was the one to lead Mal-Tech, and was also overseeing institutes of mass food production and chain retails. Further investigations led Daxividus to discover that Sleesum had the influence over the highest offices, with Buttkampft having influence over the managerial authorities and instructors, and Sheepus over the students and workers. Meanwhile, Siren had been putting on shows of distractions and covering up the work of Pecunia with glitz and glamour.

Daxividus confided what he saw with Maelendil and had further bad news. Maelendil explained that he knew well that Siren was putting on the façade. According to Maelendil, Siren was creating a spirit of lust in the air, and working to make retail and mass food production look appealing, while hiding the ugly reality behind closed doors. Maelendil also explained that Siren had gotten to the Charge, and that she was also working with an unknown hypocordo. As to who, Maelendil knew not.

To make matters worse, the seer Durnil showed up with Oscar to relay some more bad news. Oscar explained that the eye who was following them was the Archon Hillectivus. Last Maelendil knew of Hillectivus was that she was in this realm known as Kebsuda. According to Oscar's accounts, Hillectivus had two offsprings known as Pirius and Puterma. According to Durnil, Pirius had Siren and Sleesum working for him. Oscar explained how Hillectivus is a very possessive archon who keeps an annoyingly close eye on the mortals, and takes an abnormal interest in their behavior, but does not give a care about them as people. Durnil explains how Pirius has great influence over social groups, while Puterma has the most influence over parental type relationships, such as Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, mentors or authorities. Durnil then explains how Pirius sees friendships as grounded on terms and conditions where one side is obliged to conform to the other sides wishes, or both sides are obliged to make some compromises. Durnil explains that with Pirius influence, many have given up on friendship, and those feeling most unempowered. Many have opted for lusty infatuations with fictional characters, thanks to Siren. Durnil explains that this Australian television show with three teenage Mermaids have gotten quite popular amongst many agitated boys who fear getting into a real relationship, and have grown quite fond of the pretty girls in the show. Durnil then explains that others who cannot find a friend who supports them no matter what have geared to a show with a blended family, and a internet television show, both on Nickelodeon. Oscar explains that this phenomenon has occurred, because these shows resemble the friends and family many mortals under Pirius and Puterma wish they had.

Religious Experimentation

Around this time, Milo wanted to go to a choral concert at Ciderpond High. This was in order to see Amira. Unfortunately Milo could not find the time of the concert, and ended up becoming frustrated over this. Margaret asked Milo why he would want to go to a highschool concert. Milo explained that he liked Highschool, and was not happy with Mal-Tech. Margaret explained to Milo that he was not in Highschool. Now Milo was never one to like people telling him the obvious when he talks about his ideals.

During Milo's time of difficulty, he had taken more interest in religion. By this time, Holy Week was fast approaching. Much to Milo's disappointment, they had not incorporated the Community Mass. Milo suspected this to be the work of a cantor known as Norberta. Now Norberta once complained about a kid with a disability giving her a hug after church, and she got uncomfortable and asked that family not to attend the mass she cantored at. Milo blamed Norberta, as he enjoyed looking down on her. This was considering that Milo had a friend Todd with Autism, and did not like seeing people with disabilities feared, and he also knew what it felt like to be under petty requests from people like Minu. Before Easter, Milo got a visit from a Jehovahs witness. At first, Milo thought this visitor was from the Morgue. Then Milo put the pieces together, as it was near Easter. Milo answered, as he had wanted someone else to talk to besides a Mal-Techer. Milo found this Witness was Jacob, who invited him to their last supper. Milo accepted Jacobs book "What the bible really teaches" from the Watchtower society.

By this time, Uncle Georgio had come home from Pittsburgh, as his treatments were completed, and he was ready to go home. By this time, Milo started developing a plan for what he would study in college, and found out that Sussewago would accept his credits from Mal-Tech. Milo's plans were to major in Art History, and take some classes in the humanities, as to gain a more right brain knowledge of architectural design. Milo's ambitions were to become a land developer, and had all these plans to fix Phyllisville and Noussonberg. On Good Friday, after Church, Milo played a game he invented back in fourth grade known as Steve. This game was basically UNO, but with both players getting a half of the deck.

On Easter Saturday, Milo and Ray went over to the Phyllisville market, which sold many ethnic products. At this time, Milo was not a huge fan of Phyllisville, as he considered it the Noussonberg of the East side of the Greater Essex region. As for Easter, Milo had his ups and downs. Milo got angry when he was not doing so well at Mario Karts when playing with Matt and Salvatore. At this time, it did not take too much to get Milo set off. After coming home from Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's, Milo went downstairs to do some work on his paranormal myspace page. Margaret makes Milo leave the downstairs game room, as Lydia's boyfriend Daquan has come over to visit. Milo was already mad about not having a girlfriend, while Lydia had a boyfriend, and then her getting the privilege to kick Milo out of the gameroom when he is using it. Milo was also disgruntled over this, as he was still irritated that he was not seeing Amira, and did not like any of the few girls at Mal-Tech. On Easter Night, Milo became quite angry, as Salvatore showed up at his house late at night with Matt, and wanted to use his TV to play his videogames. Milo was just finishing a television show, and told them after the show. Salvatore told Milo that he did not want to watch the show. Milo held the clicker, and became possessive of it. Salvatore ran past Milo and ripped the remote control from his hand. Milo started flipping out about this being a blatant disrespect of his property, and had no right to barge in his house and act like this. For the rest of the night, Milo avoided Salvatore. That night, Milo put a drawer in front of his bedroom door, so Salvatore could not come in, and start taking pictures of him in the morning. That night, Milo had dreams about the movie "The Mist". The next day, Salvatore blasted rap in the car on the way to lunch, to which Milo objected. Salvatore took great offense to Milo's complaints.

When it came to the Easter Season, Milo was a bit annoyed that his request for "This is the Feast of Victory" seemed denied at Church. In fact, Milo was a bit annoyed with the first weeks of Easter, as Jorge had to play the keyboard and lead the Choir. Due to this, Jorge ended up using the piano the whole mass, much to Milo's annoyance. That afternoon, Milo found out a restaurant known as Ishfatan was opening in Ciderpond. Milo wondered if Amira would be employed at this restaurant.

A few weeks later, Jacob returned, and brought his friend and fellow witness Vito over. Salvatore and Gianni also stopped over, and Milo found out that Vito had been an old friend of Uncle Ottavio's. Milo was quite intrigued by the Jehovah's witnesses, and found their belief in soul sleep quite strange. Now Milo was always taught that the dead still exist, and are not reanimated at a later time.

One day later, Margaret went for another business trip to Tampa. That evening, Milo was still having a long day at Mal-Tech. That afternoon, Ray popped into Milo's classroom, and he got a bit embarrassed. Milo was actually embarrassed that Ray had to see the kind of school he attended. On Thursday, Vito and Jacob returned. Milo asked them for advise about finding the right girl, and the best career. Being that the Witnesses are a futuristic religion, they have a more pessimistic view about the present, and have all their hope in the future. When it came to finding a wife, they gave the standard bible thumper advise, such as making sure the girl is a believer, aka a Jehovah's Witness. That weekend, Lydia, Ray and Milo visited Aunt Marie for the last of the annual trips.

One Friday later, Milo, Ray, Salvatore and Eustace ate dinner at a new Iranian restaurant known as Ishfatan. That Saturday, Milo went on a road trip with St. Timothys to see a Medjudgorge talk in Toledo. One of the members of Richard Esposito's bible study organized the trip, which would go through a Lourdes exhibit and a barn church where many believe a Marian Apparition occurred. Now Milo felt a bit freaked out about how people so strongly believed in this devotion. Finally the pilgrims arrived at the Church in Toledo. When it came to the talk, Milo was not overly impressed. Milo had become a bit more literalist these days, and had sought out more exact answers, compared to the year previous. When it came to the devotion, Milo felt like this was a bit much, and had a hard time believing this was the absolute truth. That night after getting back, Milo had a dream that Jacob and Vito left their house when he found out that Milo was Catholic. Before leaving, and giving up on studies, Vito and Jacob talked about what they would be getting for dinner.

That morning, There was a great vision above the Biancatello's of a time when the Accuser is wrecking havoc on the world, and causing uproar through the nations. Then a mighty king in the form of a slain lamb appears and the Accusers throne dissolved into dust, and falls to earth. At the Lambs word, the day of Salvation had begun and the day of the rightful king was at hand. The earth had been restored, and the wolf and sheep no longer fought, and the Calf and Lion laid on the Holy Mountain.

Milo had become pretty receptive to Jacob and Vito's visits, as he had been in a state of anxiety and restlessness over his current circumstances. For Milo at this time, he could not tolerate ambiguity in any form. In the past, nothing had ever been so bad that he had become so fearful and depressed. The teachings of the Witnesses gave Milo some certainty that there was more to life than mere survival, that spiritual warfare is real, and that there would be a restoration par Isaiah 11 of a paradise earth, where everything he feared that Mal-Tech represented would be utterly destroyed. Milo had also liked their teachings on the resurrection where people were given a fair chance to learn, as opposed to the literalists idea that those who are not identified as Christians before death are doomed to roast in the afterlife. In fact, Milo felt more convinced with what the bible said than these Medjudgorge testimonies.

Milo was becoming more moody with Mal-Tech, as he had gotten into more difficult material, and Ruberta was becoming more and more unhelpful. What happened was that Ruberta had not really liked that Milo was considering furthering his education after Mal-Tech, and gave smart answers if he asked for help on projects.

At this time, an incompetent math teacher known as Mr. Toomer came out of retirement, and Milo's class got stuck with him. Milo was now more irritated, as he would no longer have Mr. Stinson. What happened was Toomer was out of Mal-Tech after slipping on a pen, and breaking his coxix. Now this teacher was a real jerk, who had temper tantrums at students if they had some difficulty. In fact, rumors spread that he would pitch fights with students after class.

One Sunday, the Biancatellos dropped Lydia off at a tournament for school Amira was also in. On Tuesday, Milo was too keen to pick Lydia up. However, Ray would not let him do so, and only let Milo come along. Milo rushed out of the car to find Lydia and hoped to see Amira. Ray shouted for Milo to get back. Milo ignored this, and looked for Lydia. Ray then asked Milo if this was any different than looking at forbidden fruit. Milo said it was better than the eye sores he got at Mal-Tech. Lydia mentioned that Amira sounded a lot like Alicia.

Daxividus Vision

Around this time, Daxividus was summoned back to the Hall of Prophecies and saw an orb with this vision of a person trying to avoid clinical area's of the hospital, and in particular the Emergency department. Then a guardian known as Terese showed up, asking Daxividus if he knew about the Sarkikos community. Daxividus knew well about this, but had not really understood what this all meant. Terese explained that tbe Sarkikos community is still connected to the Alument Mother Earth through these gold cords, and under her sustenanace. However, if the Sarkikos community gets disconnected, they will be under the sustenance of the Hubritaijis. Daxividus still was not sure what this all meant. Terese explained that this indicates the power the Kronos is gaining. Daxividus is still confused. Terese then explains that if the Kronos is in power, those tied to the Senexit Sarkikos community will also lose access to the sustenance of the Alument Father time. Daxividus then starts to understand that the Hospital becomes the ultimate source of sustenance, with the over-involved state, demanding workplaces, schools, authoritarian families and fundamentalist religions becoming only second in power. Daxividus asks if this is the work of Hillectivus, as Oscar's and Durnils findings had been made public. Terese explained that Hillectivus was not in charge of this community, but that she had some idea.

Chapter 36: The resignation

Departure from Gairmsoiled and the Cobolds Punishment

By this time, the Cobolds in Londinium had completed their quest to help find the relics. As it was, Tisha was being used by Severus, some teachers at this school and some other Gairmsoiled residents who were part of a secret society. As to what they were up to was not known, but were not exactly major supporters of Gairmsoiled. This society made the mistake in assuming that Tisha was the one to be able to put the relics together, as they thought that a Shemitarian would also have the powers to do this. This task could only be done on a certain date at a certain time. The night when the ceremony was able to be performed, Tisha snuck into the Luxorian Heights estate and took the relics, as she knew that the society had figured out Natalia was in possession of the relics.

Somehow, the linguistics professor was tipped off, and she found Tisha, and brought her to the society's secret headquarters. Natalia and her secret club followed Tisha, and spied on the society's rituals. The linguistic teacher told Tisha that they need to do this quickly, as the traitor was in their midst. Tisha tried putting the goblet together, but proved to be unable to. The society departed in disappointment, knowing they would have to wait another 25 years. Natalia then remembered her Grandmother saying that the Hitarian places the base, the Shemitarian places the stem, and the Hamitarian places the bowl. The ceremony took place, and Natalia placed the base on the table, then Tisha placed the stem on the base, while Taibi placed the bowl on the stem. A great light emitted, and the three relics turned into a single goblet.

As the plan went, Tisha was going to stay in Gairmsoiled to figure out what Severus and their society wanted in Hamitaria. Now Taibi, Natalia, Jaiden, Fabinius and Hannah were planning on using the cup to vanish themselves to Hamitaria. Before leaving, the club assured the Cobolds in Gairmsoiled that they will try and find the Cobolds in the Desert, and let them know they are looking for them. Once the five placed their hand on the goblet, Taibi recited an incantation in Hamitarian, and they vanished in a whirlwind.

After the club left, and Tisha worked as spy, the Cobolds lost the only people they enjoyed being around while in Gairmsoiled. The only people the Cobolds saw were a bunch of dour Kurmudgeons at their inn, and those horrible owners Trommer and Emersina. The Cobolds had to go on leave for a few days, as the Gairmsoiled Inn was being fumigated for some infiltration of some dangerous lightning bugs. What had happened was that while the club had travelled from Gairmsoiled to Hamitaria, a few lightning bugs were in the goblet still in tact in Hamitaria, opening the portal while they travelled. These bugs for some odd reason went right to the Inn the Cobolds were staying at, and gave Trommer and Emersina quite some grief. The couple sent the Cobolds out of the inn for the next four days, with great agitation.

The Cobolds take advantage of this opportunity to sneak into Londinium, and devise a way so they will not get caught like last time. The visit had been very discreet, and they dressed up in an unrecognizable form. The Londinians never even noticed the Cobolds. The Cobolds made sure they were not to visit anyone, not even Rivkah, in case there were spies in their midst. While travelling through Londinium, the Cobolds got harassed by a band of nasty flies with an obnoxious buzz. What was quite peculiar was how the flies never left the Cobolds alone, but did not seem to bother other Londinians. The Cobolds suspected that this was just because they had some Gairmsoiled stench on them.

The Cobolds found that their headquarters had been in greater disrepair. The headquarters was too dangerous even to go in, and a mere touch could be quite lethal. At this sight, the Cobolds started to understand that these repairs would not be as easy as they anticipated. Elrich mentioned that he was happy that they were nearly halfway through, and could get enough funds for repairs, and be out of Gairmsoiled for good. Being in Londinium gave the Cobolds this great nostalgia for all those times they spent in the Pedmontus gardens, Atlantica, Atlantis and Beaubelles. With the headquarters in this state, the Cobolds could not even use the steps to get up to the Pedmontus Gardens. Their second disappointment the Cobolds found was that the mountain paths had been closed down, due to severe earthquakes. During this time, the Cobolds could only get a small view of the Pedmontus Gardens, and could not get any view of Atlantis. After being in Londinium, Remus had a strange feeling that they may not be halfway through, and this return to Londinium may not be so immanent.

Upon arrival back to Gairmsoiled, the Cobolds got a nasty letter from Trommer, explaining that their rent went up. In the letter, the couple explained that Londinium is an arrogant and shallow city, and had no business being in such a place. This meant that the Cobolds could potentially be stuck at the inn indefinitely, when they wanted to be out by a certain date. By this time, the Cobolds began to consider abandoning this horrid mission. Zadok became more suspicious of the Inn couple, and wondered why they cared what their tenants did. After the Cobolds got this news, they left the inn, and began a quest to find a new plan to have the headquarters fixed.

Amira's Yearbook picture

Before Memorial Day weekend, Lydia got her yearbook. That Friday in school, all Milo could think about was getting home and looking at the Yearbook. When Milo got home that afternoon, he found a few pictures of Amira as a senior in highschool. The first picture Milo saw was of Amira in her senior picture, then some other random pictures throughout the yearbook. Milo ended up thinking about Amira moreso that weekend. According to Milo, his old life at Ciderpond was this beautiful world with Amira, while his life at Mal-Tech was this dirty world full of ugliness. Milo could not help but feel envious for the seniors still at Ciderpond High, and bitter over being stuck in Mal-Tech and not around Amira. Milo started wondering what the point of being at Mal-Tech, and why he was even at this school. Milo had remembered just a year ago, how school seemed to be so much more pleasant, and now Mal-Tech.

Then the Maludico Antistete appeared calling Milo shallow. Antistete then told Milo that the last 19 years of his life were nothing but a comfortable delusion. Antistete then tells Milo his days of gratification are over, and needs to get over childish pursuits and embrace his place as a compliant Mal-Tech graduate doing things the Mal-Tech way, and to take his rightful place for the good of the society. Then Antistete tells Milo that all these dreams and aspirations are over, and he has to grow up and understand it is not his will to be done, but Mal-Tech's will be done, in Ciderpond as it is in Noussonberg.

Later by evening, Milo and Ray picked Sylvester up and took him to the toy store for his birthday present. At the store, Milo saw one of the Zoo workers who ran the Zoo volunteer program from the past Halloween. Over Memorial Day weekend, Milo spent some time studying for his finals for the Second Semester and trying to work on a very difficult project. Plus, Milo was really struggling with the material he was on. What happened was, Milo finished a course based on floor plan designs, but was now into house construction. Frankly, this was a rushed course, despite the fact that knowing how a house goes together is more important than floorplan theories. Milo had a hard time staying concentrated, as he kept thinking about the picture of Amira, and feared that this ugly world of Mal-Tech was the real deal, while Amira was nothing but a fantasy.

On Sunday, there was another Memorial Day picnic at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's. During the afternoon, Milo, Salvatore and Matt went for a walk through the Jafari's neighborhood. That evening, Milo tried to study for his house construction final, but found this utterly impossible. The textbook had been very vague, and Milo was still not understanding the material, thanks to how crammed the class was. Milo feared that he was simply not cut out for drafting, and surely did not want a career as a drafter. This is considering the fact that board drawings were becoming obsolete, and CADD technology was going at a rate that the designer could also do the drafting.

Antistetes Verdict

Billius met with Maelendil about abolishing Antistete. Billius started to rant about Antistete is just a bitter hag who can only make ugly garbage. Maelendil shared Billius concerns, but asked him to calm down. They agreed that they needed to go back to the Odinean temple to meet with Gregory. Maelendil then summoned Alexander, Victoria and Dugmateous to the Odinean temple also. They met with Gregory, who explained the history of Antistete as follows: Antistete was originally from the first order of Annogrammatrons who sought to lead mortals beyond the path of mere gratification. However, Antistete was never supposed to abolish gratification, and only transcend it to higher levels beyond mere egoic concerns. Antistete considered gratification and desirability to be childish and selfish. For Antistete, living a virtuous life means sacrificing ones individual desires for some collective ideology.

Dugmateous then asks what this has to do with Milo. Maelendil explains that Antistete knows Milo is miserable at Mal-Tech, and has imposed a stance saying that he is not supposed to be happy with school, and how submitting to Mal-Tech is giving himself over to the collective interests. Alexander then complains that a collective exists to serve the individuals. Maelendil acknowledges that Alexander is correct, but this will not stop Antistete. Victoria then asks Maelendil why Milo is so miserable, and if Antistete has any points. Maelendil explains that Antistete's only conclusion is that Milo is unhappy with the school, because he thinks Mal-Tech is an ugly piece of architecture, the location of Noussonberg is ugly and that the girls are ugly. Antistete also knows well that Milo considers Ciderpond to be a beautiful region, and Ciderpond school to be a beautiful school full of pretty girls. Dugmateous interjects that this is all true. Maelendil agrees, but explains that there are many reasons why Milo finds his current circumstances ugly.

Maelendil starts off explaining his stance: Noussonberg is an older suburb that has become a depressed area over the years, and never kept up too well. Over the years, the culture of Noussonberg decayed from vibrant ethnic communities with dreams to succeed to impoverished slums placing higher priority on just getting by rather than revitalizing the area. For Milo, all this unkept and rundown suburb is, is a manifestation of sacrificing ones hopes and aspirations in order to struggle for the sake of getting by. All these students he sees at Mal-Tech are for Milo just unpleasant reminders of his fears of such an undignified life. For Milo, he does not hate these students, teachers or the school, but wants to get as far away as possible, and go back to an environment that caters closer to his interests. When it comes to the girls, its not that Milo is so repulsed, but is a constant reminder that he and Amira are not at the same school anymore. Not only does Milo wish to have Amira around, but only has unpleasant memories of school when she was not around. In the beginning, when Milo started Pre-School, first with St. Timothy's, then with West Mesa, Amira was absent. Amira was remembered at St. Timothy's, but this only lasted so long. At West Mesa, Milo never had any sense of belonging, and only remembers the school as the place where he learned the world could be dangerous, and experienced repressive forms of keeping security. Fast forward to Third Grade, Milo made his first communion and saw Amira at a Khara's Graduation party the previous spring. This time, Milo's only connection to Amira is his friend Rahim, who is soon moving, and feels forced to someone like him who he has no chemistry with. This year had been Milo's worst in Elementary School, and remembers this as the year he suffered under that phony colonel. So Ihrvierner planned a bilocation so Milo could find some wholeness after such a bitter year of Third Grade. Fast Forward three more years. As planned, Milo forgot all about Amira, and by sixth grade, all traces were gone. All Milo's memories of sixth grade were memories tainted by hedonistic crushes changing every week, constantly shifting interests, a whole new system to adapt to, and heavy loads of homework consuming his whole evenings. Fast Forward three years later, which was the last time before now that Milo and Amira were not in the same school. This was when Milo was in ninth grade, and he found that he did not like Minu the way he thought he did, and had a falling out with the Jafari's. What this all represents is how much this school is like an overwhelming experiences of all the worst years, with a foreign school system so structed with a fear based justification, a school body with judgmental teachers and disconnection with the students, heavy loads of pointless work accomplishing nothing, and an experience of being uprooted by some strange enemies. Maelendil then explains how the school is everything Milo feared Adulthood would be like.

After this testimony, the Jinns were utterly shocked. Billius still protested that Noussonberg needed revitalization, and more importantly the Essex region needed to be protected from becoming like Noussonberg. Maelendil agreed that Billius would take up the rebeautification roles. Victoria suggested that Billius work with Simone the Artistic of the Fourth Annogrammatron order.

Soon enough, Azeyas arrived to speak with Victoria. Azeyas had relayed this vision privately to her. Azeyas had spoke of a day of resurrection within a few years, and a great change to take place. Azeyas then spoke of an eagle caring for these chicks who had been abandoned, and likewise trained to bring fourth transformation utterly changing these birds to go fourth and bring the tidings of the eagles goodness throughout the world. Victoria started to understand that what Azeyas was proclaiming had a promise of something more beautiful than the empty promises of Conkus.

Three Week Summer

At the end of the Semester, Milo was really struggling over the last days to get a project done on cost estimation. This was another class that was rushed, and Milo had not understood the material, but was expected to work on a complex project with unreasonable expectations. Not to mention, the project was just assigned. The way Ruberta planned his projects was only possible to succeed if students were to spend hours at home memorizing all evening, and then working on a project all day just to please this stupid teacher. What Milo did not know was the teacher had a surprise, and would not even take this project into account.

That week, Milo kept having constant dreams about Mal-Tech classes with Ruberta. On Thursday, Milo worked hard the whole evening in hopes of getting the estimating project done. Milo went to sleep at 12pm, and woke up at 3am to finish the project. That morning, Milo was still utterly jittery, as he in no way wanted to fail this class, and have to repeat it. Plus, Milo still did not understand the material to even be able to do a satisfactory job. Plus, Milo feared a D in the class would not allow him to attend Sussewago. Ray gave Milo a ride to school, as he was too sleep deprived and anxious to drive. All the way over, Milo was having doomful thoughts about how he maybe stuck at this school indefinitely, and never able to leave. Milo was also thinking about September, and seeing Anahita's sister before starting at this awful school.

Milo ended up failing the class that he would have to repeat the next spring. This meant Milo would have to be in school longer. Milo had been thoroughly depressed, as this completely ruined his plans. Milo spoke with the head of the school about needing to repeat this class. This head, Mr. Lawrence explained that probably what happened with Milo was he got into new information, and it was a bit much for him. Mr. Lawrence was pretty confident that Milo would understand it better second time around, and offered him the option of starting later in the summer, or going on the original schedule.

Milo had these grand plans for continuing his life exactly where he left off from before starting at Mal-Tech, and plans of living this glamorous life. At this point, Milo wondered if he was even in the right school, and considering dropping out and going to college instead. During the last hours of the semester, Milo had the "Voyage of the Little Mermaid" music stuck in his head. This had been before the students gave their presentation for the end of the year. After school, Milo broke the news to his family. Margaret was concerned that Milo would not be able to handle college. Ray on the other hand started telling Milo that Mal-Tech was his only option, and had to stick with this. Milo was not a fan of Ray's views on work, as he could be coldly pragmatic, and considered a job as something to do in order to live. Ray then started talking about how it's important to stick with companies, in order to keep benefits and vacation time. Milo saw this as nothing but a stupid bribe to reward people for staying with sucky jobs.

Beginning on Saturday, Milo would be off for a short three week summer break before returning to school. The first Saturday off, Milo considered installing the game "Where in Time is Carmen Sandiego", as he recently heard the "Dragon and Phoenix" melody on Youtube. Milo had gotten these pleasant flashbacks about that time, and how that summer after fourth grade was so great. That night, Milo got a facebook, and got back in touch with some old friends from Highschool. On Sunday, Milo went to Ishfatan with Salvatore, Gianni, Eustace, Rob and Mike. On the way over, Salvatore threatened to punch Milo, as he started humming a new melody different from the rap he had on in the car. That night, Milo checked out Amira's facebook, and found out that she would be going to Toledo State University in the fall. This had hit Milo that Amira would also soon be out of Ciderpond, and in a different town.

That first Monday off, Milo was still a bit bothered about the information he was hit with. Milo became worried that Amira going off to an upper league school, while he was at Mal-Tech would make them in two different social classes. Later that afternoon, Grandma Pearl showed up with Milo's cousin Dana, who came into town with her one year old Calvin. Milo started having flashbacks to his summer as a three year old, when Uncle Doug came in town with her, Nikkita and Kalisha. That night, Milo got attached to Calvin pretty quickly. By this time, Milo had no more resentment towards his Florida family. Most of Milo's current resentments were now towards Mal-Tech. That Tuesday, Jacob came over, and he and Milo did a study from the book about wives being submissive to their husbands. Milo had been quite shocked about this teaching, and asked if this meant the husband has absolute control over his wife. Jacob confirmed this was true, but explained that an unhappy wife is going to make the husband quite miserable. That Friday, Milo saw Kenan and Kel for the first time since he was 10. By this time, the Biancatello's had a new television package that had some extra channels, which included some old Nickelodeon shows. That Sunday, Milo got Chinese with Salvatore and Gianni, and they stopped over at Grandma Dora's to drop off some plants. At night, The Biancatello's, Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin got Italian in celebration of Dana's birthday. That whole day, Milo was contemplating his trip the next day to Ciderpond High. Milo was planning on attending Amira's Baccaleaureaute.

The morning of Baccaleaureaute, Milo did all the research for where to go for the Baccaleaureaute, and figuring out his leaving time. That afternoon, Milo watched the Little Mermaid in commemoration of soon seeing Amira. At dinner, Milo was acting a bit strange, and ate pretty quickly. What really was going on was Milo was still in the middle of "The Little Mermaid", and wanted to finish before leaving. That night, Ray and Margaret were out taking Lydia to her dance lessons past Phyllisville. When Ray and Margaret left, Milo left the house, and headed over to Ciderpond High. When Milo arrived, he got the wrong building, and walked through the senior building, reminiscing about his time at this school. Milo then found out the Baccaleaureaute was at the junior highschool. When Milo got to the doors, he found Christina and Steves ex girlfriend passing out programs. Christina barely got excited to see Milo, and just acknowledged him as a previous year graduate. Milo spotted the graduates waiting in the cafeteria, but had not seen Amira yet. When Milo entered the auditorium, he came across Todds parents Bill and Cheryl. While talking with Bill and Cheryl, Milo saw Zaida and Kassim walking in.

Milo then took his seat close to the front area in order to get a nice view of Amira. Once the ceremony began, Milo saw Amira for the first time in months. The opening songs were "Joyful Joyful" and "America the Beautiful", the same as Milo's. The first speaker was a pastor with a goatee and a shaved head. Then this priest Monsignor Warburton gave a speech, as was the custom. Monsignor Warburton referenced the book of Genesis, and talked about the theory of Evolution. After Monsignor's dull speech, another girl gave a reflection on the book of Ecclesiastes. Milo remembered the song "Turn Turn Turn" from the year before. One girl, Eva had given a somber speech called Goodbye.

After the speeches, the choir performed two chorals known as "Look at the World" by John Rutter and "The Awakening" by Joseph Martin. "Look at the world" is a creation anthem praising the Lord for his beautiful work. "The Awakening" is an athem that starts off very somber and turns into a joyful awakening. After the ceremony, Milo sat with Emily and Morgan's family. Milo had met Emily's Grandma, who is Grandma Rosa's cousin, which had been mentioned far back. While sitting with Emily and Morgan's family, there was a vision of an old Man sustaining the earth, and all the wonders of nature in all their glory. Then the old man gathered the seasons back to his eternal fold, after its harvest was yielded.

Milo had seen Amira, and she looked a bit teary eyed over graduating. Amira had been with Zaida and Kazeem. Roshanak, Parisa Samir had not been in attendance. Milo had wondered if Amira even noticed his presence, as he had quite a thick beard at the time. Milo also noticed Vashti had been crying. Seeing Amira for the first time in so long had made Milo feel the most alive than he had since Disney World. When Milo got home, Ray and Margaret found out Milo had gone to the Baccaleaureaute, as Emily called for Lydia. Emily had mentioned to Lydia that she was with Milo at the ceremony. Ray and Margaret were a little offended that Milo left without letting them know. Milo did not want to explain himself, as he feared any disapproval would put him in a bad mood, and ruin his night. Milo explained that he would not have to deal with this if he were off at college. Milo started to understand that part of the resentment he was feeling was that he felt that he was less free at Mal-Tech than at Ciderpond High. Plus, Milo thought about how all these students were free when at college, and had their summers off.

On the Thursday morning after baccalaureate, Ray left for his golf trip, and would not be returning home until Sunday evening, before leaving for vacation. That afternoon, Jacob and Vito from the Kingdom Hall came over. They spoke on obeying authorities, including parents and teachers. That night, Milo went to the Filentino's for dinner. Aunt Dianne visited for a little bit, and told Milo she saw his facebook. Aunt Dianne asked Milo if she could add him as a friend.

That night, Milo had a nightmare about returning to Mal-Tech, much to his displeasure. In the dream, Mal-Tech was a hideous factory. The class was given tasks to do dry and mundane assembly work, and under some demanding managers calling for break neck speed. Then Mr. Stinson was seen walking around. That morning after the nightmare, Milo started asking where his life was going, and came to the conclusion that he would not let these short months destroy what nineteen years of life created. Milo then thought about how every bad time in his life was when Amira was absent, and was not going to let the bad times of his life define the next decades.

Before the day was to begin, Milo called Mal-Tech to confirm that he would be returning at the designated time. On Friday, Milo went to Seewouden with Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin. On the way over, Milo got a bit disturbed after seeing a factory, reminding him of the dream and school. Milo told Grandma Pearl about continuing his education at Sussewago. Grandma Pearl was thrilled with Milo considering continuing education. Before arriving at the park, Milo noticed a boat rental known as Schwannmans, reminding him of school more. For the first part of the day, Milo and Dana went on the water slides at Soak Town. At Soak Town, Milo saw Lexy, who used to sit at his lunch table back in tenth grade, and sort of knew Amira. That day, Milo got more attached to Calvin, as he took him on the rides, and babysat him while Grandma and Dana shopped at the gift shops. Otherwise, Milo and Dana went on the new roller coaster. On the log fume, Milo saw a former colleague from his tolerance class working the ride. This park started reminding Milo of his School picnic after Fourth Grade, when he went with Salvatore.

The Cursed Overgrowth

Back in the mountains, while the Londinian residents were working on cleaning up where the pathways had been destroyed, one Londinian spotted a strange plant that he recognized from somewhere. This was a black and sickly looking plant with giant burrs and smelling of rotting flesh. After this Londinian found this, he rushed back to the city to find some help. A Londinian Botanist inspected this plant from a distance, and declared that this was a highly toxic plant not native to Kebsuda, but from the home of the Alien offspring's country. This botanist realized that this plant was utterly unstoppable, and feared that there was nothing in Kebsuda able to kill off these invasive plants. The Prognosis was that this plant would grow quite rapidly, and the Mountain Region became off limits indefinitely.

The Londinians decided to spare the Cobolds this news, knowing full well they had much else on their plate to deal with. During this time, the Londinians were quite distraught over this infestation, and feared all their efforts to alliances with Atlantis would be all for nothing. Now the Londinians knew that with the bridge gone first, and the cursed overgrowth would be intolerable for the Cobolds to bear, especially when they had some rough labors still in Gairmsoiled.

The Vacation

That final week off, the Biancatello's had a vacation planned with Salvatore to Washington D.C. and Gettysburg. Lydia had plans for a Youth Group Field trip to New Jersey and New York City, and would not be joining them. On Saturday, Margaret dropped Jinny off at the Groomer, and Grandma Pearl picked her up as Robbie was also getting groomed. Grandma Pearl took Jinny back to her house. That afternoon Milo and Lydia got into a minor spat after she wanted to go to the early mass on Sunday. Lydia was worried about going to the later mass, as she feared that it may be cutting it close to when the bus would be leaving. Milo felt bad about getting into a fight with Lydia before she would be gone for a week. That night, Lydia had her second Dance Recital, which Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin also attended. Milo was over at Grandma Pearls before the play and got to see Jinny a little bit. As for the play, Julie's daughters were performers.

On Sunday, Margaret, Milo and Lydia went to the 9AM mass as he wanted. Milo still felt a little bad about the fight with Lydia. After Church, Margaret dropped Lydia off at the bus, and she was off for her trip. That afternoon, there was a party at Uncle Georgio's for Father's Day. Milo got a little annoyed with Salvatore for giving him a hard time about waiting until Ray and Margaret left before leaving for the Baccaleaureaute. After the party, Margaret and Milo stopped at Grandma Pearl's to drop off some of Jinny's supplies. Milo felt guilty about having abandoned Jinny a second time, and knew he would not see her for a few more days. Milo knew the next time he would be seeing Jinny, Grandma Pearl, Lydia, Dana or Calvin would be days before starting back at Mal-Tech.

That evening, Milo saw an episode of Kenan and Kel, where Roger gets a job as a park ranger in Montana, and Kel misses Kenan before moving. Milo then started fearing having to take a job with Northrop Grumman, and moving all the way to Virginia, and fantasized about flying back to Ciderpond late at night, should he be stuck there. At night, Ray returned home from his golf trip. Milo was not thrilled about leaving, as he was not so keen on spending the week with Salvatore. Ray told Milo that it was too late, and Salvatore was coming. Milo admitted he had become quite overwhelmed with what transpired at the baccalaureate, and not too thrilled about going back to Mal-Tech soon. Milo started looking over his Mal-Tech brochure, which only made him more anxious. Milo could not help but feel like everything was going way off. Since the Baccaleaureaute, Milo had been thinking about Amira all week. Milo wondered when the next time he would see Amira, and knew with her going off to college, he had no events of hers to go to anymore, or that there would be the possibility they would cross paths in Ciderpond.

That morning, the Biancatello's departed Ciderpond, stopped at the Filentino's to pick Salvatore up, and were off. On the way up, Margaret mentioned some Middle Eastern workers taking their kids education very seriously, and prohibited dating if this got in the way of academics. On the way to Washington D.C, they stopped at Mcdonalds for breakfast. Being on the trip had Milo in an excited mood for travelling, that he began to forget all about Mal-Tech. In the early afternoon, the Biancatello's arrived in Rockmore Maryland. They found the Hotel, and checked in. After the check in, the Biancatello's took the subway into Washington D.C. This Subway reminded Milo of an airport.

When they got into D.C, they walked over to the Smithsonian museum of Natural History. When Milo got into the Museum, he got slightly homesick after seeing a stuffed wolf that reminded him of Jinny. Milo got a little nervous that he would not be able to handle a trip to Disney World next summer. Now this walk through the museum was quite overwhelming, considering how large the Smithsonian was. This museum gave Milo flashbacks to the end of his Fourth Grade Summer, when he went out to breakfast with Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony. That evening, when they headed back to the Rockmore, the Biancatello's got dinner at a Checker's burger restaurant.

On Tuesday, the Biancatello's headed back to D.C. and visited the Holocaust Museum. Milo heard about the museum in sixth grade, and was advised not to eat before visiting. Frankly, this advice was very useful. At the museum, they saw a video on the origins of Anti-semitism, and its origins with Church leaders in the Middle Ages, and how Martin Luther continued the tradition when the Jews refused to convert to Lutheranism. The Museum was pretty creepy, as they put many artifacts on display from Auschwits, remains of destroyed Synagogues, clothes the victims wore, and pictures of the victims.

That evening, the Biancatello's got dinner at a mediocre Fillippino restaurant. They had suggested dishes they were trying to get rid of. After Dinner, the Biancatello's returned back to hotel, in order to board the van for the D.C. bus tour. Parts of Rockville reminded Milo of Lake Forest Illinois, where he went to see the Chicago Bears practice years ago. The first stop made was to the National Cathedral. The tour guide, who was from India, explained that the Church is considered valid for all Christian traditions. Then the tour resumed to the Roosevelt Memorial. Then they were taken to the outside of the White house. That night, Salvatore bought a post card with a ridiculous picture of George Bush squinting and his mouth opened as in a daze. The final stop was to the Lincoln Memorial. Now this memorial was quite a sight. This reminded Milo of a Muppet Babies episode he watched before starting at Hazelnut Forest.

On Wednesday, the Biancatello's left Washington D.C. and headed off to Gettysburg. Upon arrival in Gettysburg, the Biancatello's ate at an underground pub. As for the tour, Gettysburg was not fun at all. Ray was talked into the option of having a personal tour guide drive the car, and give a tour of the battle fields. The tour guide was quite boring, as he gave constant stats and an overload of detail. This guide never paused, and no one could ask questions. After the tour, when the guide left, everyone admitted that this was boring. Milo and Salvatore were both burned out, and had to go back to the hotel. Margaret and Ray returned to the museum. Milo had enough history for one trip, which only reminded him of Mal-Tech. While walking through a strip mall, Milo and Salvatore talked about the boring tour. Salvatore told Milo that the town has been stuck in the Civil war too long. That night, Milo and Salvatore went down to the pool. Salvatore started asking Milo what he would think of Mal-Tech if they got him the best job. Milo knew this would never happen.

The next day, the Biancatello's headed to Ohio Pyle national park for Whitewater rafting. Milo had not been to this place since the summer before starting Fourth Grade. By this time, Milo still had some bitter feelings about that summer, as he still remembered this as the summer after Third Grade. Milo got a bit anxious on the rafting trip, as everyone on the other team reminded him of students and teachers at Mal-Tech. Milo started to remember he had not been at school during the summer since he was at West Mesa, and had unpleasant flashbacks to those days. The Hotel the Biancatello's stayed at was very dumpy, and they were given a very gross room at first. This room had housed a Necrojinn that had been long restrained when Grandma Pearl's father passed away when Milo was Six. Milo had only met his great grandfather one time as a baby. That night, the Biancatello's ordered a pizza, and Milo spent most of the afternoon watching some television.

On Friday, Milo just wanted to get back to Ciderpond, as he felt very uneasy at the hotel. Now Milo was not a fan of old stuff, as this all reminded him of Mal-Tech. On the way home, Milo had not felt so optimistic about the future. Milo felt like he had recently entered a portal into another universe, and remembered how full of life and excitement the world seemed to have on the way to Washinton D.C.

The Biancatellos stopped at Franks Hotdog stand, which Milo remembered from the previous summer after Graduation. Despite being at the hotdog stand, Milo had this disturbance that he could not recover from, and was in a funk all the way home. Milo had these disturbing flashbacks to something he could not remember, and everything just felt dead and stale. Ray then drove through the Sussewago campus, as Milo had wanted to know what it looked like. That afternoon, when they arrived home, Milo and Ray had to cut the grass, as they had no chance due to the golf trip.

The Emergency Meeting

Maelendil knew that the Necrojinn had been released and called for an emergency meeting with Alexander, Husisha and Dugmateous. Maelendil also knew well that the shadows known as Timora's and Diploro's had ravished the land. Diploro's are gray shadows that are the remains of repentant Hubritaiji's. Maelendil saw that the Timora's and Diploro's had found Milo and began to torment him.

Maelendil had done some research on this Necrojinn, and identified him as Derglin, and told the whole story as such: One ancestor of Grandma Gladys was accused of Witchcraft in Ireland during the 15th Century. A violent minister had been under a Sophunum who was very vain and refused to let go. This Minister had believed this woman sent plagues to the town crops and poisoned their water supply, and out of vengeance cast his Sophunum on this woman, and cursed him to travel through all woman of her bloodline. By this time, a family known as the Houlihans departed from Ireland after they were nearly starving to death with the Great Potato Famine. The Houlihans of the second American married a German man that gave birth to Grandma Gladys. Gladys mother died when she was five years old, and her father sent Gladys and her two sisters off to different relatives. None of the relatives wanted the three girls, and sent them around constantly. Gladys meets an alcoholic and marries him. Then this alcoholic gets an apprenticeship past Phyllisville, near Ciderpond. Gladys and her husband Thordon have four children, two boys and two girls. The girls are Aunt Mary and Grandma Pearl's mother. Grandma Pearls mother marries a man and they have two boys and a girl. Grandma Pearls mother suffered from neurological problems over the years, and died from an aneurysm a few days after Christmas. After this, Grandma Pearls dad sends the two boys to live with two different sisters of Grandma Gladys, while Grandma Pearl is sent to live with Grandma Gladys. Then the rest of the story is that Grandma Pearl married Grandpa Clarence, who abandoned his family and adopted Maple Carol's children.

After telling this story, Maelendil summoned Husisha, Alexander and Dugmateous to this task of making sure Milo remembered the songs from the baccalaureate. Then Maelendil took Alexander and Husisha to the side after Dugmateous had left for further instructions.

Azeyas then arrives to Maelendil to relay a vision of a time where all the music of the world has died, where the residents in this land remember a time when there was such aliveness, and ruled over by these shadows known as Diploro's. During the reign of the diploros, all bliss was seen as a mere illusion, and drear had been the only reality. Then there is a great trumpet calling for a great awakening. A set of shooting stars start falling from the sky, and a girl grieving over a soldier having fought is raised up and transformed into a handsome prince. Then this prince and girl kiss. The world is immediately transformed, and the glories of music are reinstated throughout. The Diploro's are cast out, and the world becomes full of brightness and beautiful colors not seen since before the curse.

Return to School

Milo dreaded going back to school, as his short vacation had been the most fun he had in several months. Milo had thought about the Baccaleaureaute, Amira going to college, and being stuck in a lousy school all summer. Milo hated the thought that he may never see his friends again, didn't know what was going to happen with Amira, and was stuck in school all summer. Now Milo thought he was returning to School that Monday, and began his funk on Saturday. On Sunday, the opening hymn used the same melody to Ode to Joy, like at the baccaleaureaute. Milo got a bit uneasy with the responsorial Psalm "The Cry of the Poor", due to being in a minor key. At mass, the new parochial vicar had mass, as Fr. Nick was leaving St. Timothy's in August, and continuing his education in Canon Law. That afternoon, Salvatore came over to swim. That night, Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin came over for dinner. By the evening, Milo started dreading going back to Mal-Tech even more. Milo felt like his life as he knew it was over, and anything good was done with. Even having his family around had not been so consoling, as they had a hard time understanding how Milo was feeling. Frankly, Milo was perturbed by anything that he saw the resembled Mal-Tech.

On Sunday night, Milo had a poor night of sleep. Milo put some Simpsons episodes on, but ended up waking up as they ended. Milo decided to put the Simpsons movie on, but kept being waken up by this creepy "Spider Pig" melody, due to the DVD main screen. Dreamwise, Milo had a dream he was at Disney World with Alicia, where she got a hotel story that did not rain, but Milo's hotel story was always rainy. While walking around, Milo saw a naked girl walking through the resort property. When Milo got up, he found Star Trek on television.

On the way to School, Ray dropped Milo off, as he was in no state to drive. Ray noticed a Mal-Tech worker crossing the street, and Milo mentioned that he knew her. Milo had not been overly thrilled to see this woman, as he had no interest in seeing anyone from Mal-Tech. When Milo got into school, he found out that he accidentally went back to school a day early, and had a whole day to dread going back to school. Ray picked him up, and he had called this a gift. Frankly, Milo would have rather gotten this first day over with. That day had been hard on Milo, as he feared that his life was over, and could not possibly find a way out of this mess with Mal-Tech. Milo feared having to become the sellout having to surrender to a meaningless "adult" world. Ray offered no consolation, and expected Milo to take advantage of this day off. All afternoon, Milo was watching episodes of Spongebob, and became disturbed by the minor key sea chanties on the episodes. After a while, Milo got sick of the show.

During the day, Milo had been quite sleepy, and had many strange dreams. One such dream Milo had was where he had an alarm clock with a picture of Aunt Dianne. Milo suspected this had to do with adding her on Facebook. On one occasion after Milo woke up, he found an episode of Icarly known as iheart art. In this episode, Spencer gives up his dreams of art, and turns into a self righteous and dour dental assistant. The artist who crushed Spencer's spirits reminds him of a middle aged student at Mal-Tech. Milo had been even more horrified.

As it was, Milo talked this over with Margaret, and how he was worried that Mal-Tech was going to run the rest of his life, and not sure what to do. That night, Milo had a dream about cutting Emily's grandparents grass, and some toys he got from a birthday party before starting Pre-School at St. Timothy's. Going back had not been so bad for Milo. On the first day, Milo felt a bit nostalgic over having a flashback of the night his short vacation began. However, Milo was optimistic about an engineering class, as he got this idea that he would learn to design cool structures like he had seen in Washington D.C. When the day was over, Milo was relieved. In the afternoon, Milo got a visit from Vito and Jacob. When Milo mentioned going to more college, they advised him not to become a career student. Milo was wondering why so many people believed he wanted to become a career student. Otherwise, Milo did not like being back in school, as it felt like life became boring again. On Wednesday, Ray took Milo and Grandpa Tony out to Ice cream after cutting the grass.

On Thursday, Milo was invited over to Aunt Michelles for dinner, as Salvatore was in New Seneca visiting the O'Malley's. Milo could not help feeling a bit jealous, as he was stuck in school. That night, Milo told Aunt Michelle about continuing his education at Sussewago. Aunt Michelle tried talking Milo into finding work before considering college. Ray explained to Milo the same thing, and Uncle Ottavio mentioned that many workers at his job only had associates degrees.

That Sunday, Ray's barber who was ordained a deacon had a special mass that the family attended. This mass took place at Holy Family parish located in Phyllisville. During communion, Milo thought he started hearing the anthem "Look at the world", which he remembered from Amira's Baccaleaureaute. During mass, it got quite rainy, and the Church started reminding Milo of some Church he remembered from being five year old, and believed God as some distant old man in the beard in some far off heaven. This mass was two hours long, mostly from the announcements and gratitudes. That afternoon, Milo, Salvatore and Lydia got lunch at Ishfatan.

That Wednesday, Milo and Ray got into an argument, due to a disagreement over continuing education. Milo was still talking about his plans to continue his education at Sussewago. Ray explained that he was paying for the education, and it was up to him whether he gets a job. Milo explained that he was planning to get a job working at Ishfatan in order to pay for his tuition. Ray then informed Milo that he just wanted the job at Ishfatan in order to see the Iranians, and they would think he was acting stupid. Margaret got mad at Ray, and accused him of trying to crush Milo's dreams. Ray explained to Margaret that he thinks Milo should take a job if an opportunity comes along. Margaret always had the idea that Milo was struggling with the material at Mal-Tech, and would have a difficult time in a career in engineering and math.

That Thursday, Ray was still insisting that Milo try and find a job first, and explained that it would be the right thing to do. At that point, Milo considered getting a job in anything other than anything like Mal-Tech. After School, Jacob stopped over for a visit. Milo asked Jacob if he knew anywhere hiring. Milo was planning on getting a job in the Fall, as to have something else in his life besides Mal-Tech. While Milo and Jacob were reading from the book "What the bible really teaches", there was a section on obeying all authority. Milo asked Jacob about unjust authorities. Jacobs answer was that unless they are asking one to disobey bible principles, they have to obey, even if the parents are slave drivers, teachers are bossy or government is unjust. Milo knew this was based on a gross misunderstanding on Romans 13, and decided to do som research on what this really meant. Milo could not believe a good God would want people to bow down to unjust authority, with the only exception being based on some higher law. Jacob's justification was that life on earth is so short compared to living forever on paradise earth, that cooperating with injustice is nothing. Milo always felt this was a bit off, and that earthly life was not some throwaway test for the sake of some endless future. As to what eternity meant, Milo was taught that this was something time transcendent.

That night, Milo went to dinner at the Filentino's. Rob was also invited for dinner that night, which had been frequent after Uncle Georgio was getting treatments. At dinner, Salvatore mentioned to Aunt Michelle that she had not liked Lydia's boyfriend Daquan. Aunt Michelle said she had no problem with him, and Salvatore said she did not like Daquan because he was black. Aunt Michelle tells Salvatore that this is not true in the slightest. Milo then overheard Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ottavio talking. Uncle Ottavio refers to Salvatore as acting like a jerk. Then Milo caught Aunt Michelle telling Salvatore off for what he said about Daquan. That night, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy stopped over with Olivia, who was a year old at the time.

The Cobolds Solutions

Back in Gairmsoiled, the Cobolds went on a mission to find a guild to do repairs to their Headquarters. While on the search, Mardina constantly saw some figure no one else could see. The Cobolds thought he was going a bit crazy due to trauma of their plans being ruined. After being on constant vigilance, this figure finally stopped Mardina, and explained that he part of a guild known as Voris incorporated, and they were very cheap. This guild promised to repair their headquarters, and that they would be able to get away from Trommer and Emersina early. Their only request was that none of their clients questioned their maintenance methods. The Cobolds were slightly suspicious of Voris offer, but went along with him, as they were desperate to get away from the inn, return to Londinium. Frankly, the Cobolds just wanted things back to the way they were, and hated being in Gairmsoiled. This figure then explained that his real name was Malpied Voris, and that he knew of supplies the Gairmsoiled authorities, including Trommer and Emersina are keeping secret. Malpied had all the Cobolds sign their name on the parchment, which told exactly that the building would be repaired, as long as there was no questioning.

In Agrabah, the Cobolds who were kidnapped had escaped the town, and sought to find some help home in another town. The Cobolds had been burdened by hunger, and had lived in constant fear of being killed for just trying to survive. Every town they visited refused to help these Cobolds home. These towns were only willing to accept new residents, and only helped those who planned on staying. The Cobolds found never found any of these towns remotely appealing, and found some creepy shrine to this figure known as Supradolfter who seemed more ruthless than those in Agrabah. One town known as Mcglonistan seemed to be a particularly rude and foul mouthed bunch, and was ran by some nasty bully clans known as the Morrelites, Skellyites, Lymanites and Rubenites. Another town known as Haggebad was too cozy with Agrabah, and considered them part of Supradolfter's plans. Another town known as Moreyton had been hostile to the Cobolds, and considered their poverty to be a result of being hated by Supradolfer, and violently threw the Cobolds out. What the Cobolds really did not like was that they all demanded the Cobolds renounce their old lives in Hitaria. The Cobolds met their luck when they found a town that offered to cater to their needs. The town known as Patimesh had offered to provide a place like Londinium, Atlantica and Pedmontus, and would send troops to find the other Cobolds and bring them to this land, along with reuniting Iohannes with Rivkah and harmony. The only thing the elders of Patimesh asked was that they go through some education, and then decide if they are willing to commit their loyalties to this land. The people of Patimesh strongly resembled the Cobolds, and some looked like Londinians.

Fourth of July and Evangelical Fundamentalism

The night before the Fourth of July, Milo had a dream about the day at Soaktown when he saw Lexy, and his vacation to Washington. Milo had one day off for the Fourth of July, to which some relatives were invited. This was one of the few days off for the Summer Term at Mal-Tech. Milo wondered why anyone would want to work at this school, when they had to be on such a tight schedule all year around. Milo knew that most teachers had summers off, even if they could not be flexible for the rest of the year. On the Fourth of July, Grandma Pearl, Dana, Calvin, Grandpa Tony, Aunt Michelle, Uncle Ottavio, Grandma Dora, Salvatore and Gianni came over. Later Aunt Dianne came over, as she called wanting to know where Grandpa Tony was. Margaret invited her over after the call.

On Saturday night, Milo had a dream about going up to New Seneca, and Uncle Matt taking the Family to the Mall they visited when Milo was three. The Mall also housed the Church they attended mass at and Sanfrantello's Italian restaurant. Outside the Mall, there had been a graphic car accident.

On Sunday, Milo went to Nate's graduation party with the Filentino's. Milo got to see some old friends from Highschool, and considered this to be at least one bright day for the summer. After the Graduation party, the Biancatellos, Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin went out to Dinner, as this was Dana and Calvin's last day in Ciderpond. At the steak house, Milo saw Yasmine at the restaurant for her friend's Stephanie's birthday. Stephanie was a girl who had been in Milo's Tolerance class. Milo asked Lydia what Yasmine would eat, considering the restaurant did not serve lamb. That night Milo had some weird and bleak dreams. That Monday evening, Dana and Calvin went back to Orlando.

One night later, Milo had a dream of accidentally knocking off Gianni's thumb with a Harry Potter book. Gianni was rushed to a hospital out of town on the way back somewhere. That day, Milo was back at Mal-Tech from the Holiday break. Now school was not so stressful anymore, as Milo no longer had Ruberta, and had Mr. Schwannman. Otherwise, Milo had Mrs. Deville for this class "Statics and Strenght's of Materials". So far, Milo was not having too much trouble with the class, but it was not as interesting as he thought it would be.

One weekend later, Milo had come across some Evangelical Fundamentalist literature condemning all non-Christians to hell. In fact, one author of a website known as "Jesus-is-Savior" condemned the vast majority to hell based on a misinterpretation of Matthew 7:14. Milo became very perturbed by these ideas that he had never heard in Church before. Then Milo also came across disturbing Hell lore of Demons torturing people and literal fires. Milo had remembered how he had been taught growing that the Church canonized several saints, but never declared any person in hell.

That afternoon, Milo went to a graduation party with Margaret and Grandma Pearl for their cousin Katelyn. Katelyn as we remember is Jennifer's daughter, who is a year younger than Milo. Milo went to the party, since Katelyn came to his party the year before. Milo saw his cousin Leanne and her husband Jim he met at the Funeral home, saw Aunt Mary and Tim's wife Maryanne. Now Ray and Lydia were up in New Seneca visiting the O'malleys. After the party, Milo went to a Lutheran service with Grandma Pearl.

At this point, Milo started becoming more interested in Vatican II Catholicism, as he knew they had a more inclusive view of Salvation. At this point, Milo started to develop a strong aversion to Evangelical Christianity, and associated them with Fundamentalism. Now Milo read some blogs on the bible, and found that many bible thumpers on a junk website known as Yahoo Answers, that had an obnoxious idiots who could get pretty nasty if anyone questioned their beliefs on judgment, and actually believed that man deserved to be tortured just for being born of Adam. There was one spammer known as Chris who put generic answers posting some altar call after giving a thoughtless answer.

When Jacob returned on Tuesday, Milo asked him about why the Jehovah's witnesses don't believe in literal hellfire. Jacob addressed all their prooftexts, and explained that he needs to read the bible without any doctrinal biases. Now the Witnesses believe that the Scriptures have never been interpreted in their proper context since the first century, and had platonic teachings and pagan stories imposed on them.

The Vision of Infundermalis

Maelendil saw the Maludico Infundermalist dressed in a blue preachers suite and tie giving a fire and brimstone sermon. Infundermalis condemned the vast majority of humanity into torturing fires most foul. This Preacher announced that all those who were Evangelical Christians would be assured salvation no matter what horror they had done, while those who were not identified as part of his religion would be doomed to hell, no matter what great they had done.

Maelendil summoned Dugmateous, Alexander, Victoria and Billius to a meeting at the Odinean temple over dealing with Infundermalis. Gregory explained that Infundermalis originally specialized in absolute good, and worked to keep mortals from falling into thinking goodness was subjective to the culture, social circumstances, authorities or personal tastes. Yet Infundermalis could not see how an absolute good could exist with so many different tastes. In order to solve this dilemma, Infundermalis came up with this view that goodness is relative to the strongest power, as he could make his vision meaningful by punishing defiants and have strong influence. Infundermalis then claimed that goodness is only beneficial to certain people, and some are just destined to be condemned to the bad side.

Dugmateous then became quite distraught, and saw himself at fault for what had happened. Dugmateous referenced how he let the Charge see the vision of the coming decay, and having tempted him into pursuing security in organized religion. Victoria explains that Conkus is more at fault, as he tempted the charge to find a way to cast his burdens off on another. Dugmateous mentions that the Charge had rejected the offer of Infundermalis. Gregory explains that the Charge has some strong moral sensibilities not to take offers. Maelendil then explains how this is good that the Pashtun charge is in the picture, as this has taught the charge to think of someone besides himself, and he would not entertain a self serving belief system that glorified himself, while condemning this girl. Then Dugmateous asked if the charge would be okay after this, as he had been traumatized to find that people are such ardent apostles of Infundermalis. Gregory explained that the charge has realized that the Tech school is not the sole axis of evil. Dugmateous then explains that neither are the followers of Infundermalis.

Over this time, Maelendil, Alexander and Dugmateous agreed that they needed a new senexit. Dugmateous being an annogrammatron knew he was not capable of the Senexit responsibility, and offered to step down. Maelendil insisted that Dugmateous still stay on as an assistant. Unfortunately, the only one running for the Senexit was the inexperienced Brutus. Neither Maelendil nor Alexander were too thrilled, but found that they had little option. As to why no one else was running, all three were quite suspicious.

Maelendil was willing to give Brutus a chance, and would give him the position if he could defeat Infundermalis. One day, Brutus arrived at the Odinean temple having caught Infundermalis. Brutus whispered something in Infundermalis ear, did his deed and cast him out. After this act of banishment, Brutus became declared the official Senexit. Brutus' moto was "There will be order at all costs".

Confession with Fr. Mihir and the Assumption

One Sunday, the Biancatellos, Grandma Pearl, and Lydia's boyfriend Dequan went on a day trip up to Cleveland. Milo had wanted to go back, as he had quite myopic memories of the aquarium from when he went two summers ago, before starting his Senior year of Highschool. As for being in Cleveland, the Biancatello's did not get to go to the aquarium, as it was closed for the day. However, they did walk by the lake, and visited an arcade. On the way home, Ray drove them through New Seneca. Over this time, Milo had some still myopic ideas about New Seneca, and remembered going to see the O'Malleys for the first time, and eating at Sanfrantello's Italian restaurant. Driving through the town did not prove to be anything special, and his memories from his first trip just seemed to lose their magic. Milo thought this may have had something to do with the nightmare he had of the graphic car accident outside the mall.

One Friday afternoon after school, Milo got irritated with Salvatore, as he was using his pool while he was at school. Milo found it quite annoying that Salvatore was always using his pool while Milo had been stuck at school, and even when he wasn't at school, Milo felt like he had to entertain as soon as he got out of school. That afternoon Salvatore had went through Milo's computer and looking at his personal information. Salvatore interrogated Milo about what he found, and told him that it was some of Lydia's friend's material. Milo's material was stuff for a paranormal facebook page he was working on. Salvatore asked Milo to swear to God that the material was not his. Milo did so, as a desperate move. That night, Ray took Milo, Lydia and Emily to the Italian festival. Milo was thoroughly annoyed with Salvatore about using his pool, and going through his stuff. After the festival, Milo was working downstairs on his paranormal page, in order to not draw attention. Lydia came downstairs asking Milo to leave, as she and Emily were going to watch a movie. Milo refused, as he was working, and Ray came downstairs to make him leave. By this time, Milo was getting sick of being kicked out of the downstairs game room, and Lydia getting precedence just because she had more of a social life. Plus, Milo felt it wasn't his fault his social life at Mal-tech sucked, and did not feel like he should be kicked out of the gameroom.

That night, Milo had some dream about Vito, and some overgrowth from a Disney video. That Saturday, Milo became insistent to find the "Be our Guest" tape he had from when he was small. That afternoon, Milo took a walk to St. Timothy's for confession. Milo had intended to go to Confession all Summer, in hopes that confessing past offenses would free him from what he believed was demonic activity. Plus, Milo knew that an Elamite Priest, Fr. Mihir, who knew the Jafari's, Rokshana and possibly Amira, had arrived at St. Timothy's. To Milo's luck, Fr. Mihir was the priest in the confessional. Milo told this priest all the wrongs he had done that he feared brought fourth these strange events. Milo told this priest about Lucille when he was 11, the Aladdin card to Amira, and swearing to God to get Salvatore off his back. Milo then asked why the Catholic Church believes people from other religions could go to heaven, so to counter other exclusive claims from Evangelicals.

That Night Milo had a meltdown when Lydia needed to use his laptop for extra-curricular activities. Milo needed to use his laptop to work on his new Facebook page on paranormal investigations. Milo had thoroughly been frustrated, as he had been trying to work on this project for a long time, and kept having disruptions all summer, including the Jehovah's Witnesses, Mal-Tech, Salvatore using his pool and Lydia borrowing his laptop. Milo cursed out Mal-Tech as a ghetto dump, the Jehovah's witnesses as a cult, and Salvatore as a mooching jerk. Plus, Milo was still pretty angry about Lydia taking the downstairs from him the previous night, and now her just taking his stuff for summer reading projects. Milo muttered that Lydia was an over-achieving bitch who had no right to use his stuff. Milo was downstairs angry, pissed at Salvatore for always using his swimming pool, and showing up at inconvenient times. Milo was also mad about being in school during the summer, and how he had little personal time with all this stuff going on over the summer. Milo then blamed the Jehovahs witnesses for showing up twice a week, like their stuff was so important that he should just make time four hours a week to learn about their religion. That night, Lydia admitted finally that she could not stand Salvatore being over all the time. Lydia talke to Milo about how sometimes she just wants to do her own thing, such as laying on the raft or tanning, without having someone over all the time.

Milo found out that the Filentino's would be returning to the Statlerville Shrine on the Assumption, which would be on Friday. Milo at first felt bummed out, as he had school that day, which gave him more reason to hate Mal-Tech. Milo considered getting his work done on Thursday, and taking a half day. On Wednesday, Milo got Ray's opinion on visiting the Statlerville Shrine with the Filentino's and taking a half day with Mal-Tech. Ray agreed to this, as Milo had all his work done for the week. Milo was happy that Ray was okay with Milo's decision, but still considered that he should stay for Statics and Strengths of materials.

That Friday, Milo went to school in the morning, and attended his Statics and Strengths class. After class, Milo snuck through the back door, and departed from school. Milo quite enjoyed this, as he got quite a rush out of playing hookie. Between coming back home and waiting for the Filentinos to arrive, Milo watched the "Be our Guest" singalong. This Singalong made Milo feel part of a larger world he felt deprived of for almost a year. This got Milo reminiscing about his vacation to Disney World the previous year, and that summer three years ago. Milo felt like the magic of the memories was restored.

After the video ended, the Filentino's came to pick Milo up. They stopped at the same Burger king for lunch, as they had the previous two years. Milo started reading Catholic books in the Gift shop before Mass. Milo had wanted to understand why the Catholic Church used to believe that non Catholics went to hell, and why now they no longer believe this. Now Milo was not even sure what he believed about hell, but could not believe in a literal place of punitive torment. Possibly, hell was just a choice someone made to be separate from God, or to cease to exist. Yet, Milo was so confused about the whole concept of papal infallibility, but still considered this superior to bible literalism.

After walking the grounds, the Filentino's congregated into the Chapel. At Mass, the opening hymn was "Immaculate Mary". The first reading came from the book of Revelation, chapter 12. The second reading came from 1 Corinthians 15, where it mentions that death is the last enemy to be destroyed. Milo remembered this quote from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on Lily and James grave.

In Church There was a vision of Queen Devaki in labor with the savior of the captives. Devaki had sat on the moon and supported by the sun. Devaki had a crown of twelve stars, and her hand is being held by a noble king walking her through this painful and terrifying labor. There was a red seven headed cobra with a hydra's body, is king of the red demons, and is known as the accuser. This monster was loitering around the woman, ready to devour the baby as soon as he was born. Then Devaki brought fourth her child Krishna was playing a flute. The accuser shrieked in agony at the sound of this music, and had collapsed from the sky into the netherworld. After the accuser fell, all those who gave allegiance became sore afraid at the end of their reign of terror. The whole earth from all nations, churches and temples all bowed before the great king. The whole skies shined with bright stars.

During this mass, Milo became more interested in Catholicism, and had a kind of appreciation of the Church, as they had been opened to the possibility that people of different faiths could be included in heaven also. For Milo, he started to suspect the whole problem was with Bible Literalism, and believed that it was a static book read on its own, and the reason so many Evangelicals came to these conclusions. Milo then started to believe the whole need for an organized church was in order to allow progress to be made in order to get away from outdated forms of exclusivism. In fact, Milo saw the only valid forms of Christianity were those which had a tradition, such as the Orthodox, Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans and Mainline Protestants, or those that were not literalists, such as the restorationists.

Suspicions of the Archons

By this time, the guardian Terese and Daxividus figured out what was going on with the Senexit Sarkikos community. As to where it came from, neither knew, but they did know the culprit was the Archon Stockholm was the master of the community. Therese knew that Stockholm was once part of the Ocantibal order. Therese had not been overly familiar with Stockholm, as she is part of the Solitudic order. Daxividus remembered Maelendil sending out a message once of Stockholm fraternizing with a hooded figure three years ago. Daxividus tells Terese what Maelendil mentioned, in regards to him being harder to handle, due to his façade of responsibility and selflessness. Terese confirmed that this was all true. Terese further explains that Stockholm gains loyalty by placing burdensome restrictions with claims of protecting them from danger, or showing acts of kindness when he could show retribution. Daxividus asks if Stockholm is the true ruler of the Senexit community of Sarkiko's. Terese grimly affirms that this is not the case, and that there are others. Terese is a bit suspicious about how this has happened, knowing full well that the only time the Senexit Sarkikos community is activated is when there is a Senexit, either in training or on the throne in rebellion against the Sophunum-Dikpala.

Terese informs Maelendil of what has happened. Maelendil knew well that one of his charges had been acting a bit strange, and has been displaying odd behaviors that Stockholm strongly loves. Maelendil explains that the Charge has gotten into a form of religiosity that he had long outgrown, in exchange for protection against malevolent, uncaring or otherwise self-serving ideologies.
Chapter 37: The Temptations

Emersina's Threat

Back in Gairmsoiled, the Cobolds were on leave for their mandatory evacuation from the Inn. Over this time, the Cobolds had retreated to a quaint village where they could still get a nice view of Beaubelles. The Cobolds looked over, and saw that Voris incorporated had been working on the reparations, and that it looked like they were hard at work. Seeing Londinium made the Cobolds long to return back home, and were optimistic, as they had only one more lease with the inn, and the contract would be completed.

When they left the village after their annual evacuation, they sang songs of joy, awaiting the rebuilding of their headquarters, and re-establish their rightful place in Londinian society. Remus was the only one not singing. Remus had been a bit uneasy, as something seemed quite off. Remus had often wondered if it would be better to just let the Headquarters fall. Remus, who knew quite a bit about building knew that many times structures cannot be repaired, and the only way to even start repairs is to knock down the existing structure, and start fresh. Remus made this suggestion, but the other Cobolds rebelled, claiming that this would be awful. Frankly, the Cobolds knew that reparations would take a while, and would know for sure that returning to Pedmontus would be more distant than they could anticipate.

When the Cobolds returned back to Gairmsoiled at the inn, they found a nasty letter from Emersina, demanding attendance of all Inn residents for a mandatory seminar. This seminar was scheduled for the next evening. At this Seminar, Emersina was quite agitated, which all inn residents could easily tell. Yoshiyahu asked Mardina what bug got up her. The Cobolds all silently snickered, remembering how the inn was attacked by lighting bugs. Now these bugs ended up leaving after three days, and supposedly returned to Hamitaria. Emersina explained the new policies. According to Emersina, no one was ever to leave Gairmsoiled for any reason, whatsoever, and gave her stance that a traitor was out there, making shady deals. Emersina then explained that no one was to leave the inn except for work or mandatory leaves. Emersina then threatened that should anyone disobey, the rage will be raised so high, that they will be under indentured servitude indefinitely. At this, the contract signed a year ago was changed.

The Cobolds remembered Severus and the teachers speaking of a traitor, and wondered if they knew something about their involvement with the club, and only mad because Tisha could not put the vanishing goblet together. But the Cobolds knew that this whole traitor thing was just an excuse to justify Emersina's power. The Cobolds knew that Emersina and Trommer were onto them, and that they could no longer afford to go to Londinium until the lease is up, and the contract is ended.

The Family Reunion and the End of the Semester

By this time, all the other students started school, much to Milo's relief. Milo had been happy that he was not the only one stuck in school, and was happy his one and only summer in school was finally over. The day school started, Milo and Ray were over at Grandpa Tony's for dinner, as Margaret had some previous engagements, and could not cook. That night, Aunt Dianne called to tell Grandpa Tony that Lauren was going into labor the next day. With Lydia starting school, Milo found out that she had Mrs. Smith. Lydia confirmed that it was true that Mrs. Smith's husband left her two years back.

Before Labor Day weekend, Milo was looking forward to a long weekend, as he had not had one since the Fourth of July. Over Labor Day Weekend, Milo had a family reunion. This reunion was from the Angelonia and Barronni families. The Angelonia family is Grandma Rosa's side of the family, with her brothers and sisters. The Barroni Family is where Morgan and Emily's Grandma was born into. The Biancatello's arrived at the party, and found that Emily had arrived with her parents and grandparents. Milo met some second cousins, including Winnie. Both Aunt Barbera and Uncle Victor attended the party, as they were the last living Angelonia sibblings.

Salvatore had started being very annoying at the party in constantly putting ice down Milo's shirt and throwing balls at him when he wasn't looking. After the first few times, Milo could tolerate this, but by the tenth time, Milo had just about gotten sick of being iced. After the party, Milo got annoyed with Margaret and Ray, as they stopped at Circuit city to buy a new television set, and the service was very slow. If there is anything that annoys Milo is going on errands with other people. Milo is not exactly the pinnacle of patience. Yet Salvatore, Matt and Eustace went to Seewoulden for the last weekend.

Salvatore showed up with Eustace and Matt at night, as they needed a place to stay. Milo was not too thrilled about this, as he was still a bit agitated about being iced at the party over and over again, and being stuck at Circuit City. The next morning, Milo was a bit cynical, as any time anyone asked him about Mal-Tech, he said the school stunk. Ray was a bit bothered by Milo's negativity. Salvatore wore a shirt with a map of the Middle East to Church with the Biancatello's and the Jafari's were in attendance at the mass. Luckily they sat in a place far from the Jafari's.

A few days after the Party, Milo befriended some cousins he met on Facebook. This has been one of the few happy moments Milo had since ending his short summer vacation. This time of the year had given Milo unpleasant flashbacks about the days before he started Mal-Tech, which were much worse memories in knowing what that month off heralded. Otherwise, school was getting worse again, as Statics and Strengths of materials was getting worse. When the class got an average grade, Deville went on a rant about how none of these students deserve an Associates Degree. Milo was agitated about this presumption. Plus, much of the problem was the teachers method of teaching. The book used had been low quality, and many amazon reviews confirmed that the information was vague, and never told how to reach the proper conclusions.

One weekend later, Milo found this song "The King of Glory", which had been popular at St. Timothys the Advent six years ago when he was in Eighth Grade. This is a hymn based on an Israeli Folk Song, and retells the story of Jesus ministry, death and resurrection. That weekend, Milo had a great flashback to being in Eighth grade, and remembered how this was the year before starting highschool. By this time, it became official that Milo would be starting at Sussewago University in the upcoming fall, and continuing his education. Milo anticipated starting Sussewago University would be like when he started Highschool.

On Saturday, Milo went out to Ishfatan with Salvatore, Eustace and surprisingly Sylvester. Sylvester did not particularly like the food, and only ate bread and rice. Eustace gave Sylvester a piece of bread dipped in the Khoresht sauce, and Sylvester took one taste and looked like he was going to throw up. After lunch, Salvatore took them to a store on the border between Noussonberg and Ciderpond. Milo had not been a big fan of the store, as there had been many Noussonbergers shopping, and he considered them low class and obnoxious.

Back at school, Deville was getting agitated with the tough time Milo was having with this class. This teacher was a resentful woman who made the tests difficult, by coming up with the most difficult problems only an experienced engineer could understand. On a few occasions, this teacher said she would have had a better retirement working as a middle school teacher. Before one test, Deville told Milo in front of the whole class not to take too long on this test again. Milo hoped beyond hope that he would not fail this class, as he wanted to get away from Deville for good, and knew if he had to repeat this class, he would have to go the next summer, and would have to wait another semester before starting at Sussewago.

Around this time, Grandma Dora had gotten sick. Now Grandma Dora had been in decline since the previous year. Milo started to wonder again if he should even be at Mal-Tech. Milo had believed that his problem with school was that it was too engineering based, and felt that he was scammed into this school. By this time, Milo was not happy being in a school in Noussonberg, and could not stand anything he considered ghetto.

That weekend later, Jesse and Danielle were in town with Ashlyn and Malina for a Rory and Lauren's son Logans baptism. Jesse was made the godfather. That Sunday night they arrived, Ray and Milo stopped over at Aunt Dianne's for a visit. By this time, Ashlyn was no longer afraid of guys. Malina had just got some new haircut she insisted on having. By this time, Ashlyn was five and Malina was four. Around this same time Kate gave birth to her and Corey's second child Jonathan.

On Thursday before dinner, Aunt Michelle explained that Grandma Dora was not doing too well, and did not think she would make it through the weekend. On Friday, Milo was getting some tutoring from another student who was utterly irritable. Milo was still having a hard time with the Statics and Strengths materials, and further just wanted to get out of school. That Saturday later, Milo found out in the morning that Grandma Dora passed away the night before.

At the Funeral Home, Milo was asked to be a pallbearer, and agreed to do so. Milo was concerned about taking time off from School, and how the teachers would react to this. Ray thought that there would be something wrong with the school if they said no. Then Ray realized that Milo believed that there was something wrong with the teachers. Milo was a bit anxious about missing school, but only stayed for Statics and Strenghts of materials. In the middle of class, Milo told Deville that he had to leave due to a doctors appointment. This was despite the fact that he was in very formal clothes. So the funeral took place at St. Columba's parish, and the wake was held at a club close to Grandpa Tony's house.

That Friday was the end of the semester for Milo, which had been highly stressful, thanks to the class "Statics and Strengths of materials". Milo finished his test on the subject, and the October vacation had begun. Milo saw one woman hugging some babysitter with a pointed face.

The Great Phoenix Message

While the Cobolds were stranded in Gairmsoiled, and still fearful of the couple, a dove flew by and delivered a telegram. This telegram told of the return of the Great Phoenix immanent return before the anniversary of the visit of the guest. This letter also explained that the Cobolds had a new secret mission planned, but too great and terrible to be revealed. The Cobolds suspected that this meant the Great Phoenix would return this season and planned for a great welcome. The Cobolds remembered when the Great Phoenix first was born to this mysterious elfess so long ago, called for the mission to Atlantis, cured the possessed Atlanteans, saved the lands from a dangerous book and conquered the Mount of Lava.

The Cobolds started to anticipate that this return meant that they would soon get to return to Londinium in glory, and within a years time get to start a new mission in a different region of Atlantis in a similar fashion as when they were first given the mission to the Atlantis region. The Cobolds believed that this mission was to repair the bridge that joined Pedmontus and Lionalem. The Cobolds remembered well the terror of the beginnings of their mission in Atlantica, and how they made some costly mistakes. But the Cobolds also remembered the glory that awaited them at Lionalem.

Cashmir's Observations

Cashmir had been watching over Milo even after his retirement. Cashmir had seen that the School was clearly a scam like many schools only in it for the money, and only interested in creating submissive workers. Cashmir knew well that the Hypocordo's Buttkamft, Siren, Sleesum and Sheepus had long taken over the school, along with other commercial organizations as such. Cashmir knew that the Hypocordos Buttkamft, Siren and Sheepus also worked for religious organizations under a more sinister Hypocordo. Unfortunately Cashmir could not do much to help Milo out, as he was no longer a Senexit, and was training to elderhood.

Cashmir did confide in Maelendil what he had seen. Maelendil knew well that Siren was gaining more influence, and unexpectedly the Maludico had gotten to Milo. Cashmir explained that what had been going on was that with Derglins tidings of staleness, Antistete's tidings of ugliness and Hillectivus always watching tidings of confinement, Siren was taking this opportunity to promote great facades of glamour. According to Cashmir, Siren started teaching that anything small and old was ugly, and calling for a gathering of elites to plan a coup to demolish all of present Noussonberg and replace it with glorious attractions full of space and novelty.

Then Alexander showed up concerning Pusperium. According to Alexander, Pusperium started telling Milo that he was entitled to get out of this school, and deserved more glory and wealth than this school could promise him. Pusperium then promised Milo that he could return to Sussewago in Glory like he did with entering Ciderpond away from the prying eyes of the educational busybodies. Then Pusperium also told Milo that he was too high class to be associated with these lazy low class trashbags at Mal-Tech, and had a seat in the high society of Amira's people. Cashmir found this a bit odd, considering over a year ago, Pusperium had taken over the yearbook, and did not take too well with being evicted.

The Week off

Milo had a week off from school after his third Semester ended. Luckily Milo never got that dreaded call that he would have to repeat "Statics and Strenghths of Materials". All Milo knew was that he was done with Deville for good. This week off had not been very interesting. Milo remembered how not too long ago, being out of school was so great and liberating. Now it just felt like it didn't matter, as if not all his earth based problems were caused by Mal-Tech. Milo downloaded the songs "Blowin in the Wind", "Here we come a Wassailing", "A Virgin Unspotted" and "American Pie". The Wassailing tradition is an old English tradition celebrated on the twefth day of Christmas, and children go door to door trading food for wishes of good will. The song "Blowin in the wind is a 60's protest song by musician Bob Dylan. The song is believed to be about the Vietnam War, and the carnage that took place. Others believe that the song was about womens rights. As for "American Pie", this is a ballad written by Don Mclean, and thought to be about the death of Musicians Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Blooper killed in a 1959 plane crash. The Lyrics had still been up for debates. This song reminded Milo of his and Amira's life and the paranormal attacks. By this time, Milo remembered his fight with Henry, and believed that this was part of what sparked the attacks also. Milo wondered if Henry told Amira something about Milo, and how he used to make fun of his country accent, and fat shamed him. Now Milo had some idea that Amira knew Henry, as he had dated Allison, and Salvatore saw him at Taco bell with another girl and Amira.

During that week, Milo had some subtle flashbacks to three falls ago when he was a junior in highschool. This song "A Virgin Unspotted" reminded Milo of the song "A Virgin most Pure" which is very similar in the song plot retelling the birth of Jesus. Milo remembered that fall when he had been quite obsessed with the esoteric sciences, and sought to try and figure out his secret message. Milo's main interests were in this being the time before he started using that silly alibi, and considered these the days of preparation. Now Milo still did not have overly fond memories of the beginning of his Junior year

That Wednesday, the bible study at Richard Espozito's restarted. Milo told them what he found out about Fundamentalism, and was interested in knowing why Catholics believe so differently than them. Plus, Milo also mentioned some content he saw on the internet where Catholics criticized Vatican II, and considered modern Church music heretical. Richard told Milo not to trust everything he reads on the internet, and that some people with music get stuck in certain era's. On Friday, the family went on an outing, as Lydia had off that day also. Lydia had been in a foul mood that morning about going on this trip. Milo had last been to this park when he was a sophomore in Highschool. Milo started having some flashbacks to those days, and remembered how that was when he first saw Amira. However, Milo had though himself evolved from such memories, and was more interested in where they left off in his senior year. That Saturday, Lydia babysat her two year old cousin Abigail, and the Biancatellos got to meet Logan for the first time. On Sunday, there was a get together at Uncle Georgio's to introduce Jonathan. That night, Milo was a bit nervous about starting school, but had handled this one the best. Milo knew his final full time semester was near, and that he would soon be only part time by the time February arrived.

The Vision of the Sights

Around this same time, Simone and Billius entered into the Noussonberg realm, as Maelendil had given him the task. Simone and Billius went over the points on what had made Noussonberg so ugly. Their first point of consideration Simone made was that Noussonberg did not have much space. Billius explained what he knew from Maelendil and Oscar that this had been the work of Hillectivus. Billius told Simone about how the confinement is coming from Hillectivus always watchful eye, and that Oscar and Durnil were taking care of this. Billius then explained that there are many towns that don't have much green space, but shouldn't make it any less spacious. Simone then brought up the point on Noussonberg being old and run down. Billius explained that this staleness was the work of Derglin, but Maelendil is working with other Sophunums on this one.

All the sudden over Noussonberg, there was a vision in the sky of a child taking a walk with his Grandfather through the town. This child saw a village ravaged by a flood, and asked his Grandfather what happened. The Grandfather explained what had happened, and this child asked if this could happen to his house. The Grandfather replied that it could. Then the child saw a house on fire and asked his Grandfather if this could happen to his house. The Grandfather explained that this could happen. Then the child saw a leper on the street dying, and this child asked what was wrong with the man. The Grandfather explained this, and the child asked if this could happen to him, and the Grandfather explained that this could.

Then the Vision changed to a high class noble walking through town with a tour guide. This noble saw a poor man subjected to working under a brutal task master just to feed his family. The noble asked what happened to that man, and the tour guide explained that he lost his fortunes after his estate burned down. The noble saw on the road a skinhead and he asked the tourguide about this man. The tourguide explained that the Skinhead hated Jews, because he grew up in a town ran by Fundamentalist Zionists where pork was banned, gentiles were treated as second class citizens and he had to constantly hear sermons about how Yaweh would smite the town if they did not keep the Mosaic law to the very letter. The third sight was a communist. The noble asked the tourguide about this communist, and he explained that this man had worked for a horrible company that treated him terribly, and now seeks to have absolute power over the market. The fourth sight was a conspiracy theorist. The noble asked the tourguide, who explained that the Conspiracy theorist had so much difficulty with authorities and social structures that he became paranoid and quite misanthropic and needing to believe the worst in structures.

After this vision concluded, Simone and Billius were still quite stunned. Then Simone let out a screech after some jinn with a quill put his hands over her eyes, saying "Guess who". Simone then screamed "Mercius!" Billius asked if they knew each other. Mercius told Billius that she was a colleague of Simone's. Mercius then introduced himself as "Mercius the Mythic of the Fourth Annogrammatron Order". Simone then asked Mercius what he was doing in this place. Mercius explained that he heard a vision, and cannot resist a good archetype. Simone asked Mercius if she was interested in helping them. Mercius response was "At your service". Simone asked why Noussonberg is so ugly according to a particular charge of Maelendil's. Mercius was quite stumped for a little bit, and did a brief investigation.

A little while later, Mercius arrived. According to Mercius, the land of Noussonberg has become a haven for mortals who have no story, and just repeating meaningless endeavors barely surviving. Mercius explained that many mortals going through Noussonberg have forgotten the grand story that has guided the town. All mortals see is an underprivileged region whose only story of the land is a place where people generation after generation struggle to survive, accomplishing nothing. Mercius explained how this was once a thriving region, and where most of the Italians settled, including the charges Grandmothers family. Mercius then took the two over to the Church where the charges Grandparents were married, known as St. Rocco's, which also holds the annual Italian festival. Billius then ask Mercius if she knew where Grandpa came from. All Mercius knew was that he never found any information on Grandpa's family, but knew they lived on the border between Noussonberg and Ciderpond, in fact quite close to Republic Plaza.

Simone then explains that Ciderpond has a pretty similar story, without as much poverty. Mercius is a bit confused about why Noussonberg is seen in such a horrible light. Billius explains the whole story about the Charge, and having started at a tech school after spending so much time in the Ciderpond District. Simone gives her stance that the Charge may hate Nousssonberg because he sees it as what took his life in Ciderpond away from him, and threw him into some foreign world where he has little personal roots in. Mercius explains having seen this before with the mother who dislikes her daughter in law, only because she sees her as having taken her son away, but can find many flaws to exaggerate on. Simone starts to see that the Charge seems to notice more of the flaws. Billius explained how similar things happened every time the Charge started a new School. Billius then makes it clear that this does not excuse the atrocious program the school is promoting. Mercius asks Billius why the program is bothering the Charge so greatly, when the scamming nature is quite clear. Billius explains that the Charge first off does not know that the problem of the school is rooted in lacking a real education as opposed to being some brainless boot camp. Billius then recognizes that many of the problems are that the Charge has found himself in an environment that he cannot make the best of, and no matter what he has done, has it worked out. Billius explains that the Charge seems to have just given up, but cannot rebel in the same fashion like when he was in First Grade.

The return of the Occult Offspring

Milo started his final full time Semester at Mal-Tech on Monday, which had no been so bad. The good news was that Milo no longer had Deville, but got stuck with Mr. Ruberta for their fourth semester project. That semester, Mr. Ruberta had not been so bad. Milo also had a class not really in the Architectural field. This class had different units, the first one starting in pipe drawings, sheet metal and the last class of the year was structural steel and welding drafting. Otherwise, the project Milo's class had been assigned to was a Lumber Mill. Milo did not have such high hopes of working on an exciting project, and frankly did not care.

On one Thursday evening, Milo got into a foul mood when his paranormal fan page lost a few subscribers, and he knew well that the Facebook policy would not allow them to join his page again. Milo then understood that he would have to restart the page, and felt like his work was all for nothing. Milo thought that this was for posting a message wishing his fans a happy Nawruz. This had been considering that many of his fans were of Middle Eastern and Asian backgrounds. Now the page worked anonymously, so no one knew that Milo was behind the page. After this happened, Milo went into the basement and started punching his punching bag. Ray figured out something was going on, and asked Milo what happened. Milo fudged the truth, and explained that someone unfriended him on Facebook. Ray suggested that Milo try finding new friends. Milo complained that his only options were all trash. Now Milo had not meant this, as the people in his senior group project, including Mark were all in school for the same reason as he was. The Goof-offs were luckily assigned to a different group.

That Semester, Milo learned 3-D cadd. Learning to work in 3-D cadd had been the most interesting thing for Milo. Over Halloween weekend, Milo saw "The Little Mermaid III: Ariels Beginning", which he found to be mediocre at best. Around this same time, Milo applied for a job at an indoor water park that Salvatore was now working at. Milo wanted this opportunity, as he thought this would be a better place to work than anything Mal-Tech had to offer. Salvatore had been working at this water park for a few months, as he was working at a dollar store over the summer, and hated the job. Milo was quite excited about the prospect of working at a place full of people more like him, and in a more pleasant and appealing environment.

One day at school, the Occult Offspring appeared to Milo making another offer to him. As we recall, the Occult offspring appeared six years previous to Milo after the Khara's moved. This time, the Occult offspring knew Milo was in a much more vulnerable position, and more willing to accept his offer. The Occult offspring started off pointing out the parallels between the past Labor Day weekend with the family reunion and Grandma Pearls Birthday Party nine years ago with the Williamsons. Then the Offspring sold Milo a magic number known as 635 days, which was the number of days between when Milo first found out that the Simpsons first premiered close to Amira's birth, and Milo graduating Highschool. The Occult offspring instructed Milo to apply the number to the Valentines day when the Rakshasajinns attacked to the present day. Milo figured out that 635 days from the Valentines Day of 2007 to the present would be November 19th. The Occult Offspring reminded Milo that this was the same day six years ago when Maziyar called to invite the Biancatello's over for dinner shortly after moving. The offspring told Milo that this would be the day when the demons would be expelled, and to put the word out on Facebook. This gave Milo this idea that this whole battle against these entities of evil would soon be over, and he would be able to return back to his life as normal. Milo also thought that he would be seeing Amira very soon, possibly over Thanksgiving.

The Emergency Meeting

Maelendil had seen that Milo took the Occult Offsprings offer and summoned Dugmateous, Alexander, Husisha, Victoria and Billius to an Emergency meeting. Billius called for a day of justice where the wealthy pay their fair share to the poor. Maelendil explained that this day would come in due time. Dugmateous explained that he has been observing an overall disdain for the poor being rooted in fear of experiencing poverty oneself. Dugmateous went on to explain that its much more comforting to believe that poverty is asked for, rather than see that it is not something that can be always be helped. Victoria, who is very familiar with American society explained how a culture that places success at such an unnecessarily high priority, those who are not successful are treated as outcasts, and can easily become resentful towards those who are well off, and want to return the judgment imposed by the middle class and the rich.

Maelendil brought the Jinns back to the matter of the Occult Offsprings return. Husisha explained that Milo knew well that Amira was in college in a different city, and needs some hope that they will meet again. Alexanders imput was that this was a very boring time for Milo, and this Offspring was making an offering that appeared appealing. Dugmateous stance was that the Charge was in a time of uncertainty, and feels uprooted from everything he knows, and fears that life at this school is just a foretaste of a meaningless life. Dugmateous declared that their only options were to banish the Occult offspring or let him remain or to let the Offspring become exposed himself. Maelendil remembered when the Charism of St. Matthew appeared six years ago and warned them against trying to uproot another offspring before the time. Soon enough, Brutus showed up, a bit annoyed that he had not been in on this meeting. Brutus explained that the occult offspring should stay, as it will teach the charge a well needed lesson on the value of order at all costs. Maelendil told Brutus that there are more important things than order, but will learn this with experience. Brutus gave a great snort at this. After some aguing, the Jinns grimly agreed that it would be best to let this Occult Offspring remain until the time of exposure comes. Brutus got a great grin, which made Alexander very uncomfortable. Maelendil gives his last words that the Occult Offspring knew well that the day of the end he predicted was correct, but happened to leave out some very crucial information in regards to the exact timing.

Maelendil along with Husisha know well that the only way that the day of rebirh can occur is to welcome the powers of hades. Husisha retells his vision of the sailor who travelled to the netherworld to get a map made, and conquered its powers. Then the seer Azeyas shows up to declare hope in rebirth. According to Azeyas declaration, there will be a day of rebirth through the flaming dove in the name of the Dance taking its rest upon the charge to proclaim the day of deliverance, vision to the blind, and release to the prisoner.

Maelendil then confided with Husisha about his conversation with Cashmir. Husisha knew well that Pusperium was just making false promises, and explained that he maybe grooming the charge to be a good disciple of Infundermalis. Maelendil knew that he saw Infundermalis banished, but Husisha expressed skepticism that this was no so, but was still out there. Maelendil looked uneasy, but reassured Husisha that if Infundermalis comes back, he is well prepared.

A Frosty Thanksgiving

During November, Milo completed his new Facebook fan page on Paranormal Investigations, but did not let others know about it. Yasmine, Nousha and Rokshana all subscribed to the page, as they did not know that Milo was the creator. Milo considered putting up a post about what happened on Valentines Day two years ago, but opted for something less specific. Milo put up a generic story about neighbors moving, and a demon overseeing all of this.

One Saturday night, Milo went to confession before the 19th, in hopes of being purified for the big day. Milo had Monsignor Warner, and after confession, he put a hymn request for "This is the Feast of Victory" inside the hymnal, as a request for Christ the King Sunday. Milo remembered this hymn sung 9 years ago in Church after he got back from camping with Ray, Shane and Dudley. One week later, Milo and Ray went to Church at 11am, as Lydia and Margaret had a special mass at that time for the Confirmation students. When Milo and Ray got into church, he spotted Mr. and Mrs. Jafari and Nousha in Church. The ending hymn was "This is the Feast of Victory", as Milo requested. Unfortunately the Cantor butchered the hymn pretty badly, as he did not know the verses too well, and they had not used the hymn while he cantored. Milo felt a bit bad about this, as he did request the hymn.

On Thanksgiving, this had been a bit of a frosty holiday. On the good side, Margaret invited a friend from India who was working in the United States over the Thanksgiving Holiday. When it came to Thanksgiving, this would be Logans first holiday. Before dinner, Salvatore wanted to show Milo some art page on facebook. When Salvatore logged on, he got a friend request from Lydia's old friend Rachel. Salvatore accepted the request, and spent a good 10 minutes looking through her profile. Milo got a bit impatient with Salvatore and asked him to see the page, and Salvatore told him to just wait. Milo was pretty annoyed with Salvatore giving him the attitude, when he is keeping him waiting, when he could look at Rachel's profile any time. Then Salvatore gave Milo a hard time about being interested in this kind of art to begin with, as he thought it was stupid.

Before dinner, Margaret's friend Sanjay arrived. Milo was a little confused when he got the door, as he did not recognize Sanjay. Sanjay brought a can of Gulam Jalub as a hospitality gift for the Biancatello's. Margaret introduced Sanjay to Rays family. Sanjay spoke with Uncle Matt for quite a while. After dinner, Salvatore found Milo's supernatural page on his laptop as he forgot to log off. Salvatore put up posts that the creator of the page was in the middle of a diahrreah attack. When Milo found this he got pretty pissed at Salvatore. Milo told Salvatore that if anyone subscribes from the page, he was dead, and he deleted the post. Salvatore told him that he did not care if they unsubscribed, and that the page was stupid. Milo then flipped Salvatore off. Milo had suspected Salvatore had no respect for the page, as he had done stupid things before, like on his myspace page last winter.

During the rest of the day, Salvatore continued acting like a condescending jerk. On one occasion, Salvatore was bragging to Matt that he had seen pictures of Mal-Tech, and was not so dumpy as Milo said. Then Salvatore told Matt that Milo only hated Mal-Tech because there were no girls. Then Milo retorted that he did not like the smoking culture at the school. Then Salvatore started acting like a "know it all" claiming that Ciderpond had a large smoking culture too. By that evening, Dana, her boyfriend Rex and Calvin arrived, but came a bit late. Milo did not get to see much of Dana or Calvin, and was a bit disappointed, as he liked the baby.

On Friday Night, Milo had the Wassail song stuck in his head, which reminded him of a Holiday season he vaguely remembered from when he was only three. On Saturday, Milo went out to lunch with Ben, Rob and Salvatore. By this time, Salvatore had gotten his act together. Ray, Margaret and Lydia went out to lunch with Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin, as they were heading back to their station back in West Virginia. Dana had moved there, as Rex had been stationed in West Virginia. On Sunday Night, Milo had a flashback to the previous New Years, when he had a nasty dream.

The Cobolds Anticipation

Back in Agrabah, the Cobolds who were currently residing there were anticipating the day of initiation in Patimesh. These Cobolds remembered the day back in Atlantica when they gathered in Poseidon's plaza to await the coming of the Great Phoenix, and were greeted by these messengers who brought them to the temporary residence of the Elfess. The Cobolds had been quite optimistic about the prospects of getting out of Agrabah and being glorified in Patimesh. Life in Agrabah had still been pretty rough for the Cobolds. The Cobolds anticipated being welcomed into this land full of life and charity away from this dead and greedy existence in Agrabah. The Cobolds started imagining this great and glorious future of rising to great heights superior to those of the uncharitable and greedy Agrabah residents, and cast the elites of the town from their thrones. The Cobolds could hardly believe this future was so near.

What these Cobolds knew was that Patimesh was considered the center of Kebsuda, and the place where all righteous mistivants were destined to live forever in high thrones. According to what they did know, they gave allegiance a great master beyond Kebsuda, and a favored servant treated as a sun, who had come to Kebsuda before, and would come again to destroy the houses of injustice, which the Cobolds thought was Agrabah and the other unwelcoming towns in this area. The Cobolds believed that the Great Phoenix would return to Kebsuda, and make his home in Patimesh, and bring back the rest of the cobolds to this place, along with Rivkah. Iohannes anticipated this day that he would see his beloved wife and daughter after being so far away for so long.

Yasmine's departure

The Christmas season was off to a good start. Milo found Drake and Josh Christmas special on television one Friday night. This was the special where Drake and Josh are wrongly put on probation, and have to make the best Christmas for some foster kids. On Saturday, Milo, Gianni and Salvatore went to an Oriental store on the border between Ciderpond and Noussonberg. Being that Mal-Tech was in Noussonberg, Milo hated being in this suburb, and still assumed that it was an ugly place. Places that Milo once loved in Noussonberg, like the Little Italy had no appeal to him anymore, nor did this Asian store.

Milo was quite optimistic about nearly being done with Mal-Tech, and having the time to accomplish everything he wanted to do for the last sixteenth months. Milo considered this Holiday to be destined to be more glorious than the previous, when he was not even halfway through Mal-Tech. Now Milo was still having these flashbacks to his Christmas in Eighth Grade, and quite excited about his future. The temporary job instructor told Milo about how he could easily get him into Sussewago University in the next year. Milo was pretty excited about this, and Ray finally relented.

One day, Salvatore liked Milo's paranormal page, and started adding post with embarrassing pictures of Milo. Salvatore had done this before, and wondered why he was so obsessed with these pictures. Milo got pretty angry about this, and he deleted the pictures and blocked Salvatore from the page. Milo sent Salvatore a text telling him to stop spamming his page. Salvatore still affirmed that he thought the page was stupid.

At this time, Yasmine's father took a job in Lansing Michigan and would be moving within the next month. This Grey Alien had informed this company recruiter in Lansing of Yasmine's father, and this company gave him the offer. On the roof of Yasmine's house, the Grey Alien offspring sat as he had when the Khara's moved six years ago.

On Saturday, Milo went Christmas shopping with Salvatore and Eustace. At the mall, Milo saw Yasmine walking, and was waiting for Salvatore to return from somewhere. Milo got annoyed as Salvatore had him waiting for an extended period of time. They finally returned, and Salvatore said he saw a hot Middle Eastern girl. Milo explained that he knew exactly who she was. They did some shopping at the store she had been working at, which just so happen to be a girls clothing store. But Milo still bought something, as he needed to buy something for Lydia.

That Sunday, Milo found out the news that Yasmine would be soon moving, and did not take this too well. According to the Comments, she said she would be enjoying her last days in Ciderpond. Milo had been thoroughly angered about a Lansing native leaving comments on Yasmine's facebook about how cool this was. Milo became jealous that Lansing was gaining more diversity, while he feared the Essex region along with Ciderpond would turn into a Ghetto dump like Noussonberg. Plus, Milo did not enjoy seeing someone else benefitting at another's expense. What Milo did not know was that Yasmine was not originally from Ciderpond, and had only been there for five years. In fact, Yasmine's father moved around for work quite a bit. Milo started having flashbacks to when the Khara's and the Rumcorns moved. After Milo found out the news, he started searching up blogs of people complaining about moving. To Milo's disgust, he found that the comments people left were rude and utterly disrespectful. There were people telling the complainers to grow up, defended constant moving in the name of Capitalism, and one person even left a comment saying this person would be dead by 25. At that point, Milo started to develop a temporary hatred for Capitalism. Not to mention, Milo was also beginning to see how nasty people on the internet were.

On the night before Amira's Birthday, Milo had some disturbing dreams of doing a puzzle of a live operation. Then the dream turned into a non religious church that looked similar to Milo's old orthodontist's office. In this dream, Milo felt quite trapped in some strange world, and did not know how he would get out of this place. Milo had been thoroughly fearful, as he knew something strange was going on. In School the next day, Milo felt quite shell shocked, and felt like he was losing the battle. Milo hated the possibility that powers of evil could be so strong, and have the victory. Milo was not going to let that happen, and

There were a series of flashbacks of Milo and Amira's life. The first scene shows Milo and Amira's early childhood in the Khara's backyard and Dudlechip, inviting them into a dance, and then transforms to the Valentines day of 2007 when Milo got the bad news of the Teacchers husband leaving her, the notecard from Pierre, and Lucilles return of the valentine. Then there is a repeating scene known as the first cause of Salvatore beginning long workouts, blabbing in front of Ray after Christmas about Myspace, Pervis vandalizing the yearbook, Amira getting the valentine and Lucille returning the Valentine. The next flashback is of a crisis of faith when Amira was on the Walkway and the Cosmic Christ appeared opening the book of love, starting a new song, along with the day Milo found out he loved Amira while dancing in the gym, the rock concert that brought them together, the lonely days of taking the paper shoe and the end of the school year. The third flashback starts off with Milo and Amira having been separated ten years via Mal-Tech and returns to flashbacks of the days when Milo and Amira met in their senior year, the Christmas Choral concert, the purchase, the fall thanks to Pervis and Temperance, the verdict inditing Salvatore being ignored, and Salvatore being politically authoritarian. The third scene is in the form of a baseball game when Milo communicates with Amira via Silenzo, the Palm Sunday disaster, and Diggins taking away his opportunity to get his dance with Amira. The fourth flashback is of Amira and Milo in middle School when the Khara's still lived next door, and there was no tension between the Jafari's, the Khara's moving away, Milo's anger at Henry and Draco laughing with delight the night Mrs. Jafari called. The final flashback depicts Milo speaking with Yasmine before class, a newsless confession with Fr. Mihir, Amira's baccalereaute and the depopulation of Catholic Churches.

Disposal of the Alien Offspring

At this point, Maelendil understood why the Occult Offspring had appeared again, as he knew what was coming. At this, Maelendil spoke to Dugmateous in private. Dugmateous had been distraught over the move, and had gone into full on panic. Dugmateous informed Maelendil that the Alien was going to give victory to the Hypocordo's and that they cannot let evil conquer goodness. Maelendil explained that Evil had no power of its own accord, to which Dugmateous protested that the unholy dollar had become almighty. Maelendil then reminded Dugmateous that death is not the end, and there is nothing so broken that it cannot be fixed. Dugmateous reluctantly accepted Maelendils advice, but explained one problem. Dugmateous had seen that the Charge was falling into this type of fear based thinking, and becoming quite prone to cults. Maelendil explained that the Cult would die in due time, and reveal a great glory as seers have spoken since the Rakshasajinns reign began. Then Dugmateous asked Maelendil if Infundermalis was really gone, and Maelendil became still more haunted by the question.

Billius then showed up ready to beat up the Alien offspring. Billius knew well that the Alien was ignored six years ago, and remembered how he had met his demise on dancing day of his own foolishness. Yet Billius saw no light at the end of this tunnel, and knew well that the Alien was working for Pecunia. The Jinns all knew that Pecunia was the mastermind behind Milo's experience at Mal-Tech. Billius called Pecunia a greedy scumbag who is making a world that revolves around profit, and had gotten to that Eustace kid. Maelendil explained that just because she is far away does not mean it is all over. Billius then explained that he was still mad that the poor girl was forced to sacrifice the rest of her senior year for the sake of profit.

Then Alexander met with Maelendil lamenting that this battle has gone on too long, and has had too much carnage. Alexander started to notice that the Charge was getting pulled into the Rakshasajinns false promises, and seemed to desperate to get away from Mal-Tech and to be back with Amira. Alexander started to lament about how the other residents of Essex were getting pulled into the scams of the Rakshasajinns, and were constantly being screwed over, but never learning. Alexander asked Maelendil how much more has to go on before too much is too much. Then Brutus came on the scene conveniently quick and sarcastically said this was all blowing in the wind. Maelendil told Brutus to be silent, which he did not take too well. Maelendi explained that things will have to get much worse before any hope of release.

Maelendil then brings up the concern with Milo's reaction. According to Alexander, the Charge had been more bothered about someone benefitting off of others misfortune. Alexander explains how the Charge is angry that a place like Lansing will gain more diversity, when it already has more than Ciderpond. Then they heard the voice of someone saying that "Someone is being a poor loser". Then they all saw Brutus show up. Alexander retorts that this is not a football game they were talking about, and explains that he would know this if he showed up on time. Brutus then gets some snark with Alexander, and tells him that he knows what happens. Maelendil takes the stance that it is true that people have a hard time when someone benefits off of anothers misfortune. Brutus explains that its because mortals are just poor losers. Dugmateous give the counter argument that the benefit is so detestable because it opens up the possible legitimacy of having to be okay with misfortune, and to be happy making a sacrifice for anothers interest. Maelendil explains that Dugmateous is onto something, but there is some mystery when it comes to competition that gets people worked up.

Maelendil explains that he had spoken with the Charism of Cecil Spring Rice, and what he said about the breaking of the Indo-Aryan community of Ciderpond. Dugmateous asked if this means that the girl moving is the beginning. Maelendil being unsure said that he hoped not, but it was too early to tell.

Maelendil then gets a visit from the Annogrammatrons Merriwhether about some suspicions about the Cousin being up to no good. Maelendil had known how the cousins acted over Thanksgiving. Merriwhether who had seen a lot of himself in the Cousin explained some of his behavior. According to Merriwhether, the cousin is trying to live with both a sarkikos as a finger pointing moralist and a fun lover. Merriwhether explains how the cousin has justified it that any time he acts like an annoying jerk towards others, it is because he is right, and the victim deserves it. Then Brutus shows up, asking if it is just to treat a pig like a Jinn. Alexander asked Brutus what his point was. Brutus asks if it ever occurred to them that the righteous are justified in patronizing their moral inferiors. Billius tells Brutus that he is not interested in his useless justifications. Brutus then tells Billius that he can take his disorderly hot headedness out. Billius then tells Brutus that he just started, and is in no position to be bossing annogrammatrons around.

Christmas and the Winter

That Saturday later, Milo, Ray and Lydia went to get their Christmas Tree at a Tree Farm near Sussewago. At night time, Yasmine had a sleepover, which Minu, Nousha, Amira, Rokshana and two other Pashtun girls attended. That same night, Milo was invited to Zia Maria's for Fried Dough. This was the first year for the Filentino's without Grandma Dora. This year, only Milo was allowed to attend, as Zia Maria's house was not big enough to accommodate a large number of guests. As for the evening, this was a nice night. Zia Maria's house reminded Milo of Grandma Pearl's house. After the party, Uncle Ottavio drove Milo and the Filentino's through some ritzy Ciderpond neighborhoods, in order to see their lights. This got Milo remembering being back in preschool at St. Timothy's, and he started wondering what happened to these kids whose names he remembered, but never knew where they went off after that year. That night, Lydia had her own party with some of her friends, including Emily.

As it was, Christmas was on a Thursday that year, so break did not start until Christmas Eve. Milo was a bit disappointed about this, but knew he would get more time off after New Years. With Yasmin leaving, Milo did not have quite the Christmas spirit he had hoped for. In fact, Christmas Eve changed from going to Grandma Dora's to dinner at Aunt Michelles and Uncle Ottavio's. This had been a bit difficult, considering that going over to Grandma Dora's always felt like a special occasion, and could fit so many people in the downstairs. As for Christmas Day, this was hosted at Grandpa Tony's.

That Holiday, the Rumcorns came home, and actually stayed a while. Unfortunately, The days after Christmas were pretty boring. The Snow had melted on Saturday, which Ray said was a good thing, as it would give the O'Malley's an easy time to go home. Milo was done making his stance on this matter, and did not even bother to respond. On that weekd, Milo and Salvatore got chili dogs at a small restaurant near Seewoulden. Milo and Salvatore talked about planning their weddings a few days apart, and shortly after Christmas, so the O'Malleys would have to stay. Otherwise, Milo started thinking about fifth and eighth grade, and his Senior year in Highschool, and saw this day as a happy time. During that time, Milo started playing Super Mario 64, which he remembered playing frequently when he was in fifth grade.

On New Years Eve, the Rumcorns and Grandpa Tony came over for dinner, as the holiday was on a Wednesday. The last time Grandpa Tony had joined them for New Years Eve dinner was when Milo was a Freshman and Grandma Dora was beginning recovery. On New Years Day, the Biancatello's saw a movie, as was their New Years tradition. Luckily this year, Milo did not have to go right back to school the day after New Years, but did have to start on a Monday. Milo did not mind this, as he was nearly done with school. The day before going back to school, Milo got a nasty stomach flu, and was in bed most of the day.

That January, Milo returned to Mal-Tech for his last full time month. Despite not exactly feeling well that first day back, Milo was not in such bad spirits like the year before. Around this time, Yasmine's friends threw her a going away party, which Nousha attended. Otherwise, not much had gone on during this time. Milo and his team had done some finishing touches on the lumber mill project, and were near ready to present.

Before the Fourth Anniversary of Dancing Day, Milo had two dreams two nights in a row about his distant cousins. His first dream was about Grandma Pearl's birthday party nine years ago, and both Katelyn and Charlotte were in the dream. His second dream involved his second cousin Winnie staying at his house for a few weeks. She had stayed in an old nursery that in the dream was never changed since the last child lived there. As for Martin Luther King Day weekend, this had been a long weekend for Milo. Milo was still anticipating the end of his time at Mal-Tech. Later that month, Yasmine moved to Lansing one cold Saturday morning. The Alien Offspring stayed on the roof with a great grin as the moving truck arrived, packed up all their belongings and drove off to Michigan. In the sky, the offspring shot out a vision of a figure who looked like Salvatore, and surrounded by a vulture scavenging, a tarantula reveling in misery and a Rat blabbing.

Chapter 38: Fundamentalist Catholicism

Taize Flashbacks

Around this time, Milo downloaded a Taize song known as "The Kingdom of God", which reminded him of music he downloaded three years previous when he first started to communicate with Amira via Silenzo and the first time that he had known about Yasmine through Shamus yearbook. This yearbook picture at Shamus' was Yasmine's second year in Ciderpond. For Milo, he really wanted to have things back to the way they were, and hated it that Yasmine had moved, as she was the last connection he had to Amira. After this, Milo started to download more Taize Chants including "In God alone" and "God can only Give Faithful Love". The chant "God can only give Faithful Love" reminded Milo of the song "When you believe" from the Prince of Egypt.

Otherwise, Milo was excited to be nearly done with Mal-Tech, and getting some time off to work on hobbies long put off. Milo also had many plans to all kinds of extravagant activities, like visiting relatives, going on trips, such as New Seneca, Atlanta, Toledo and Pittsburgh. Milo had this myopic hope about the second of leaving Mal-Tech, a radical change would take place where everything would go back to exactly as it was before the fall of 2007. However, there were times Milo wondered if he just enjoyed hating Mal-Tech too much, and got pleasure out of being against something. By this time, Milo was not even sure what he was for, as he was beginning to forget what his life was like back in the Ciderpond School system. By this time, Milo only had attachments to his memories of Amira, like he had done with Minu years back.

Reading of the Memorial Day scroll

Yuriyama read the scroll recording what happened almost three Memorial day weekend's ago when Milo introduced himself toYasmine. Yuriyama noticed the sight of Judge Claude Frollo surrounded by fire with a band of chanters singing "Kyrie Eleison" and the phantom of Uncle Wayne on the door. Yuriyama recognized some signs, but needed Maelendils help for further deciphering.

Maelendil arrived soon enough, in order to help Yuriyama. Yuriyama first asked Maelendil who the boy and girl were. Maelendil explained that the boy was his charge, and the girl went to school with him, but had recently moved, thanks to the Alien Offspring. Yuriyama then asked Maelendil who the phantom of the man was. Yuriyama explained that this was the charges uncle, who got a job in the bible belt, and was preparing to move at the time. Yuriyama then asked Maelendil why there was a picture of Judge Claude Frollo. All Maelendil knew was that his charge had watched the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Maelendil explained how he, Alexander and Cashmir planned this meeting with Milo and Yasmine after Yuriyama relayed the vision of the Witch Hunter going after the innocent, and the radical iconoclast going after the bankers. Maelendil then explains that Durnil relayed a vision of a woman beheading the Mahishasura's dragon, and this girl Yasmin was marked as the one to slay it. Maelendil now understood that Yasmine was marked, as she was one to suffer under this dragon, as she had been constantly uprooted, and the final straw had been being moved in the middle of her senior year, after spending most of her highschool career at Ciderpond, and Middle School with the same friends over the past five years. Maelendil also saw some similarities between the Rumcorns moving, when Kevin had to go to a new school his senior year, despite having been with the same district for the last seven years. Maelendil then understood that Yasmine would want to be the one to take down Pecunia, who was responsible for all this uprooting, and Milo would want to help her any he can.

Yuriyama looked very grim after Maelendil mentioned this. Yuriyama had relayed a vision he had long ago. Yuriyama explained how he has a water basin that showed for a long time two lands divided by a great gulf. Yuriyama explains how the time when the Enanian Temple was being constructed, the great gulf began to drain, and when the temple was completed, the gulf was completely drained, and there was no division between the two lands. Yuriyama then explains that last year, he saw in the basin that the gulf refilled quite suddenly. Maelendil interprets this to mean that the construction of the Enanian temple was the tear between the veil dividing the sacred and profane. Yuriyama asked why the water was refilled. Maelendil was quite stumped, and had to think this over.

Maelendil remembered with Milo, that when he was first exposed to religious education, he saw this as being rescued from what he experienced with school as a burdensome obligation. What Milo experienced with religion was a series of celebrations liberating him from the burdensome obligations of the secular. When the division between the two worlds was torn, the conflict between celebration and obligation was dissolved, and Milo found he could experience celebrations in the secular world of obligation, but also started to see the dark side of religion. Maelendil explained how the filling of the gulf represents the redividing the world into sacred celebrations and secular obligations. Maelendil explained how he saw nothing sacred about Mal-Tech, and began falling for a form of religiosity he had long outgrown.

Yuriyama then explained that he senses a danger of Fundamentalism. Yuriyama asked Maelendil if he remembered what happened when Milo was in third grade. Maelendil recalled how Milo was under many burdens with school, and a phony colonel in particular, and had suffered a form of religious fanaticism that was giving him chronic nightmares. Yet Milo got rescued when Maelendil and Ihrvierner intervened with a bilocation plan. Yuriyama explained that Milo had come so close to getting into Fundamentalism, as he had seen this happen before, and predicted this would happen again, very soon. Maelendil explained that Milo had already been exposed to Fundamentalism, but noticed that he did not recognize fundamentalism as possible in his tradition, and considered it only existing in Evangelical Christianity and radical Islam. Yuriyama suggested that Maelendil not interfere this time, and let the Fundamentalism happen, then he will be ready to help Yasmine behead Pecunia's dragon.

The Cobolds Initiation process

The Cobold back in Shemitaria had been preparing for their initiation into Patimesh. Before the Cobolds could become initiated into Patimesh, they had to go through a training program and learn the stories, customs, the temple rites and cosmology. What they had learned was that they believed a figure known as the master brought order out of the primordial chaos of Kebsuda, and joined all the mistivants living in the desert to this Oasis known as Shemitaria. The only request was that no one step out of the boundaries of the oasis. This land then built a great wall around the oasis, lest anyone fall out. One band of particularly mischevious Mistivants snuck out, which greatly enraged the master. After this, the band of mischievous cobolds were sent to the desert, and all their descendents would be cursed ever after, and under the guilt and shame of their forefathers. A few generations later, the Mistivants rewarded for their obedience lived Shemitaria, and were able to greatly expand their empire throughout other lands. The cursed Mistivants resided in Hamitaria, and became dark skinned. According to the Shemitarian law, the darker peoples were to be slaves to the light people. At one point, the dark people jealous of being inferior raided Shemitaria, drove the righteous out of their land, and the shemitarians became cursed themselves for stepping out of boundaries. After this, all Mistivantkind was cursed, though the darker ones were under a more severe curse. The light mistivants made home in foreign lands, as the dark peoples took over the desert and this land over the mountains. Unfortunately the dark people bred with the white people on the other side of the mountain, becoming light brown.

When the time was right, the master called a servant Frogastain to leave his home, and travel to this land. Frogastain gained many followers in his homeland, and they immediately made haste to Shemitaria. The rightful owners of the land drove out the brown invaders currently residing in the land, and destroyed their cities. Frogastain then appointed his loyal follower Patimu to authority over this former infidel colony newly named Patimesh. Over time the Patimites leaerned from Frogastain that the master had a favored slave whom he considered something like a son. This Slave had wished his master would relent his curse against the Mistivants, but he rejected the offer, claiming that his majesty and honor were offended. After some deals, the slave offered to come to Kebsuda, and the master reminded the slave that his favor is only conditional. Then the slave offers to take on the punishments of the curse reserved for the Mistivants, and would suffer a really nasty death on the Mistivants behalf. The master relented, and the favored servant soon would undergo a painful death. Over this time, they developed rites and practices, such as venerating relics, incantations with beads, and particular rites.

After this time, after this was established, another set of light, but still brown invaders came into their land under the leader of Warthaggi. Warthaggi knew many of the same teachings, and how the mistivants were lowly scum, whose only hope was for a servant to be punished. Yet the break in the deal was that Warthaggi taught the master had more than one slave. Plus, Warthaggi opposed relics of all kinds, and believed woman should wear a black cloth resembling a ghost costume over their bodies, with the only openings in the eyes. Warthaggi and his band known as Salafarians were given the worst land in Shemitaria, in order to avoid another attack. Shortly after, there had been another schism, this time amongst a predecessor known as Spyritony. Spyritony believed that Maludico's should be given positions of judgment at the end, and that the only kinds of appropriate artifacts acceptable had to be flat, as they resembled too many artifacts from their home. Otherwise, Spyritony had his own set of rites, and Patimu kicked him out of Patimesh, and let him have another evacuated state renamed Spyritonius. Over the ages, Patimesh ruled most of Shemitaria, except Salafitum and Spyritonius. As the ages past on, another known as Colvin, who believed himself to be a reincarnation of Frogastain started gaining followers, and seized their own piece of land they name Desteneva.

The Cobolds never heard about the Great Phoenix or the Dance, and became a bit perturbed about this. They did frequently hear stories of this figure whom the Patimites greatly adored, who oddly resembled Supradofter in other temple towns within Shemitaria. Shemitaria is the land that Agrabah and Patimesh are located. The Cobolds had become more perturbed about this, but had by this time been too easily swayed.

What the Cobolds did notice was the amount of similarities that Patimesh had with Pedmontus, and felt some consolation that they could be easily connected to their home again. Iohannes expected that the Patimesh elders would openly embrace his marriage to Rivkah, and make Patimesh exactly like Pedmontus. Another thing that struck the Cobolds odd was the fetishization the Patimites had for ritual exactness, bones of dead loyalists, and a creepy form of reverence their leaders. Patimesh also seemed to have a term of contract nearly impossible and utterly complex to understand. There were other schisms from Moreyton with the Foul Mouthed town Mcglonistan, regimented town Westbirius and Agrabah Loyalists Haggebad. A new land was added under a refugee complaining about a great destruction to their prison.

The Last days of Mal-Tech

Milo had become more willing to be a more loyal Catholic with Yasmine moving, and being desperate for a solution for this grave problem. Milo got this idea that a hyper-religious form of devotion could protect him from these paranormal entities, a Mal-Tech made future and Evangelical Fundamentalist exclusivism. The Real reason was Milo needed something other to believe in. One night, Milo accidentally came across a religious program called "What every Catholic needs to know about Hell". Milo became very disturbed by this program, and the sadistic ideas of justice and God they had promoted. Milo never heard such stuff in Church before, and contradicted much of what he had been taught. That night, Milo was quite shocked, but could not stop watching this video. Milo knew that it would cost much to be a good Catholic, but was not sure he could be part of such a system, or believe such horrible things.

By the weekend, Milo quickly forgot about the video, and pretended that this was just Sedevacantist or SSXP propaganda. The Sedevacantists are a Fundamentalist sect who separated from the Catholic Church after the Second Vatican Council, and claimed that the current Vatican is not truly Catholic, and the popes since the council are all false popes. By that next week, Ray had his birthday. One evening later, Milo started having flashbacks to when he was Eight years old and made his first communion. What happened was that Milo and Rob had dinner at Aunt Michelles, and he along with Rob and Salvatore played the videogame Super Mario 3. Rob had reminded Milo of Wilma when playing Super Mario 3, and thinking the Battle Ship melody sounded like the Easter Responsorial Psalm.

The Saturday night before Milo's last official week at Mal-Tech, he had this nightmare with a similar feel to the nightmare he had when he found out that Yasmine was moving. The Dream started off going to the airport after a vacation in Disney World. This airport was full of people with the plague, and Milo wished he was back at Disney World. The dream continued with Milo starting school and Lydia telling him that the school gave her nightmares. The dream ended with Milo working on some tough math problems from Statics and Strenghts of Materials. Milo had been utterly disturbed about this dream, and questioned why Mal-Tech would be a nightmare when he is almost done. That evening, Ray and Margaret threw a Superbowl party for the family.

During this last week, Milo had found that being a good Catholic could be just as burdensome as the form of Evangelic Christianity he was exposed to had been. According to what Milo knew, the Good Catholic thinks and behaves however the Vatican and ecclesiastical authorities order, similar to how a Good evangelical fundamentalist follows the bible literally down to the very letter.

That week, Milo started to anticipate what it would be like going back to his old life before entering the doors of Mal-Tech. On Tuesday a younger Jehovah's Witness Wesley visited with Vito. Now Wesley had just graduated from Ciderpond, and knew Nate. According to Wesley, Nate was a major stoner. One day on the way to school, Milo noticed a house not too far from Mal-Tech, which he never noticed before, and once was quite nice, and could easily be repaired.

Milo finished Mal-Tech with a class project designing a wood shop. On Milo's last official day at Mal-Tech, his group gave a presentation on their project of the wood shop. During the other teams presentation, Milo was reminded of Super Mario, as their work looked like something out of a videogame. Milo did not feel so excited about getting out of Mal-Tech as he expected, or anticipated just a year ago. Milo found that he did not have the animosity towards anyone in his group. Strangely, Milo felt like he preferred Mal-Tech to Catholicism.

That night, Milo watched the movie "Mr. Deeds", which he remembered seeing in his second semester of Eighth Grade. On Saturday, Milo started playing the game Luigi's Mansion, as he had beaten Super Mario 64. Milo remembered playing Luigi's mansion four years ago, when he first learned the truth about his and Amira's history at Dudlechip. That night, Milo had some odd dreams about looking through some of the Rumcorns pictures, including photo's Grandma Pearl's 60th birthday party, Bruce's baptism with Uncle Waynes aunt holding him, and some embarrassing baby pictures. That afternoon, Salvatore joined the Biancatello's for lunch at Red Lobster. That evening, Milo added some Mal-Tech colleagues on Facebook.

That night, Milo had a dream starting off being in the Luigi's mansion universe, and being visited by his new Facebook friends. Then the dream changed into a nightmare similar to the dream the previous Sunday. This dream took place at a Hogwarts and Beauty and the Beast castle turning into an asylum. In the dream, Ray had been kept locked up in the asylum, and undergoing barbaric treatments. This asylum had many Disney princesses. Outside the castle, some mermaids swam up to shore.

The Return to Londinium

By this time, the Cobolds in Gairmsoiled were ready return home to Londinium, as they had paid their dues to the inn and knew that Voris Co. had been working on their headquarters. Leaving Gairmsoiled felt strange, as they had been waiting for this day so long, and never thought it would come so fast. One afternoon, the Cobolds packed their stuff up, and left Emersina and Trommer for good. They got one last view of the town, crossed the river and made their way through the towns leading up to Londinium.

Upon their return to Londinium, the Cobolds arrived at Beaubelles and felt a sense of darkness in the air. The Cobolds saw their headquarters being worked on, and found some of their methods a bit suspicious, and a set of hideous artifacts. As the Cobolds knew, their contract prohibited them from questioning the Voris co. methods, and did not want to lose their services. Otherwise, Londinium was not in great shape. By this time, there had been many problems with crime. The Londinium defense league had been greatly weakened, and no one knew what happened. Within their first days back, the Cobolds ran into an old nemesis Lymurd.

A few days later, a dark crow found the Cobolds in Londinium, and gave them a letter from Gairmsoiled. The Letter was from the inn, informing them that their wage had been raised, and were subject to return back to Gairmsoiled for indentured servitude within a month. The reason stated was that they had broke curfew one night, for activities not related to work, and fraternized with a traitor.

The Cobolds travelled all over Londinium looking for a lawyer to fight against the Gairmsoiled inn couples claims. One Londinium lawyer read over the letter, and claimed that the Contract was binding. Elrich asked the Lawyer, known as Altus why this contract was binding. Altus told the Cobolds that he is not obligated to answer stupid questions, as he was the expert in Law, and told them to grow up and stop complaining. The Cobolds were utterly angered about the horrible service they got from Altus, and Petestor wanted to beat him up for acting like such a jerk. After constant tries, with different lawyers, they kept getting the same answer. One Londinian Lawyer explained that in small print, that the contract said that the owners of the inn could raise the Cobolds wages in whatever way they saw fit, and that should they not be able to keep the wage, they were obligated to indentured servitude to the inn as long as the residents said. Yoshiyahu then cursed out Trommer and Emersina. This Lawyer asked to repeat the names. This Lawyer explained that Trommer and Emersina were high up with the Governor, in the days of Londinium before the Flood. The Lawyer then gives the Cobolds a name for this spy known as Strider. The Lawyer explained that he could be found at the Millington and Rutter Pub. However, he had been out of Londinium for a month on some sketchy business.

After this, the Cobolds snuck into their old shelter where they took refuge when the great flood cleansed Londinium so long ago. During this time, the Cobolds called out for a great flood to wipe out Gairmsoiled and the tyrants who ran the town. They held long vigils, and told stories about the glorious flood that wiped out the Maludico's and Hypocordo's who had taken over. The Cobolds wondered over and over again what had happened to the town, and why the Defense leage was so weak. After looking through some papers, the Cobolds found many had just mysteriously disappeared in a district not too far from Beaubelles.

Mal-Tech Conspiracies

On Milo's first day off from Mal-Tech, he woke up early that morning after a particularly perturbing nightmare about a castle resembling the Beasts Castle from Beauty and the beast and Hogwarts turning into an asylum. Jinny had gotten a cyst removed and her teeth cleaned. Jinny had been taken in that morning, and would not be released until Tuesday. Milo put some Television on, and found this show known as H20 just add water. All Milo really cared about were the pretty girls in the show. Otherwise, Milo found the show pretty stupid. In the afternoon, Milo got a call from the vet confirming that the surgery had been successful, but that some teeth had been removed. That evening, Uncle Leo stopped over, as he wanted to show Ray some plans for getting his kitchen redone. Milo wondered why Ray didn't volunteer him to work on Uncle Leo's kitchen, considering that he had education with Mal-Tech.

One day later, Jinny was released from the vet, and had a large scar on her back. Jinny had been distressed by the ordeal. Milo thought that the doctor had done a bit too much cutting, as normally they can do a simple incision. That evening, Milo saw a special on Ethiopian Food on television. On Tuesday night, Milo had a dream about that trip he took to New Seneca when he was three years old. The dream started off with Milo talking with Aunt Michelle and Aunt Marie on the top story of a skyscraper. Milo asked Aunt Michelle about how long it takes to become a Priest. Then Milo talked to Aunt Marie about the trip he took to New Seneca that first time, and mentioned the Church, mall, Sanfrantello's Italian restaurants, the One Hundred and One Dalmatians cup, and the kids getting a bath. There were some other memories added to the dream that never really happened, such as Alphabet cereal.

That Wednesday, Milo got a message on the answering machine explaining that he would like to talk about plans for the upcoming semester regarding what classes he will be taking over. Milo got a nasty feeling at the word classes. Milo hoped that this was a mistake in terms, as he knew that he only had one class to repeat. After some waiting, Milo bit the bullet and called Mal-Tech back. Mr. Lawrence answered the phone and thanked Milo for returning the call. Mr. Lawrence explained that he had some bad news, which Milo knew he had to repeat a class. Milo had to repeat the class on Structural steel. Milo was furious with this teacher who failed him, as he did not want to have to go back to Mal-Tech earlier, or be spending his whole May in school. Plus the class Milo had to repeat was a class he did not like, nor had anything to do with Architectural Drafting. Luckily, the only good thing was that he could take both classes in the next semester, and would be done once the summer arrived.

Milo had a dream on Wednesday night about the teacher who failed him. She was heading to some ruins to visit a sick relative, and had been quite distraught. Then Milo went on a tour of a videogame-like aquarium.Milo started wondering if this failing maybe a blessing in disguise, and thought he could find proof that the school was failing him on purpose to get as much money out of him as they could. Milo then started thinking of how if he had a case, he could sue the school into changing both grades to something he deserved, and he would not have to return to Mal-Tech at all. During the day, Milo went to Ishfatan with Salvatore. That night, Milo saw the movie "Max Keebles big move".

On Thursday night, Milo dreamed about going back to Holy Family Church in Phyllisville, in order to hear the deacon preach. Milo had not been a big fan of Phyllisville either, ever since that long mass, and he felt it was too much like Noussonberg. In the dream, The church added a whole hall of seating behind the altar, and the music minsters Jorge and Miriam from St. Timothy's got a second job at the Church.

That weekend, Milo and Ray had haircuts at this same deacons barber shop. Over the weekend, Milo had flashbacks to his first communion and Razoul's graduation party. Milo had very beautiful memories of this time, and remembered how his first communion had been like this grand initiation. Milo then started playing Mario Allstars, which is a Super Nintendo game including the three original Nintendo Mario games. Of course, Milo played Mario 3.

The next week, Milo and Ray had a meeting scheduled the headmaster and Mr. Lawrence to talk about forms for the classes he would have to take later in the semester. Milo was a bit apprehensive about this meeting, and knew that he would not have much luck with this system. Mr. Lawrence admitted that the class on Structural Steel was quite hard, and reqired a lot of math. According to the teacher, Milo had multiple assignments missing, which he knew that he turned in. Mr. Lawrence explained that he did not want to criticize the teachers teaching or grading method. Then Mr. Lawrence told Milo that he would like to adopt him if he could. As to what this meant, Milo did not understand. On the way home, Milo was a bit bummed out about this. That night, Milo was pretty irritable, and really did not look forward to taking this stupid class over again. Milo started fearing by the time he got out of Mal-Tech, the Catholic Church would already be performing gay weddings. That night, Milo had a dream that he was still in Mal-Tech, and drawing welding symbols on pictures of St. Timothy's roof. Then the dream shifted to Christmas eve the following year at Church, and he saw Rory, Lauren, Abigail and Logan.

A few days later, Milo and Salvatore got lunch at a Chinese buffet. Milo told Salvatore all about what Mr. Lawrence said about wanting to adopt him. Salvatore admitted this was a bit strange. That same day, Milo started to believe that the two similar nightmares about coming back from Disney World, Lydia's Mal-Tech nightmares, and the Castle Asylum were warnings of what Mal-Tech was really up to. Now Milo had been a bit uneasy since the last days at Mal-Tech. Milo then developed this conspiracy that the Teacher accidentally lit his projects on fire from her cigarettes, and would not take responsibility. Milo then suspected that Mal-Tech was planning to fail him again and again, and keep him there indefinitely to get his money. Milo justified this, due to a dream he had of a future Christmas where he was still stuck at Mal-Tech, and was working on projects putting welding symbols on drawings of St. Timothy's. On Friday, Milo saw the second Atlantis movie, known as "Atlantis: Milo's Return". This gave Milo some flashbacks to some younger days, particularly the summer after eighth grade. As to why, Milo did not know. That evening, the Biancatello's went to a spaghetti dinner at a Presbyterian Church whose youth group Lydia and Emily were part of.

That Friday night, Milo had another nightmare similar to the first two about being stuck in a mental hospital that looked like a rehab center after returning from Disney World. According to this nightmare, The Biancatello's and Salvatore were flying home from Disney World, and the scene quickly changed to Milo being stuck in this rehab center with a homey, yet highly clinical feel.

That afternoon, Milo and Ray went to a basketball game. During the whole day, Milo felt a bit uneasy about the dream the previous night, and thought that it must have something to do with Mal-Tech. After the game, Milo accidentally came across an article on Purgatory. Over this same time, Milo frequented Catholic Answers. On one occasion, Milo found that many people on the website believed in a place known as Infant Limbo, where non-baptized babies went, but were not guilty of any real sin to be burned alive, just to be deprived of heaven. Yet, Milo knew the Church dogma clearly taught that one must be baptized in the Trinitarian formula in order to get into heaven. Yet this got Milo wondering how non-Christians can be saved. Milo then started finding that many had a very ungenerous interpretation of Vatican II's documents on salvation to non-Christians. Then Milo found a Medjudgorge message where Mary told the visionaries that most souls go to purgatory, while only few go to hell or straight to heaven.

The next night, Milo had another dream of a similar nature about embalming bodies for burial. That afternoon, Milo watched the Black Cauldron, which gave him vague memories of Grandma Gladys' basement. Milo had went into denial that any of this gloom and doom stuff was a valid part of his religious tradition, and just a rehash of medieval superstitions. Other times, Milo thought that Catholic Answers was full of Evangelicals with rosaries.

By this time, Milo was no longer having these strange dreams. Well, Monday night Milo dreamed that the Beauty and the beast castle was the Haunted Mansion from Disney World. On Ash Wednesday, Milo had a very uneasy feeling in church, and feared that he could not keep the teachings. According to the fundamentalist Catholic tradition, those who knew the truth and the rules were automatically guilty of mortal sin if they had doubts or did wrong. Otherwise, Milo watched EWTN occasionally, and came across figures like John Corapi, now resigned from the priesthood. Milo found some of the stuff on EWTN creepy, and many speakers to be a bit self righteous and cold.

Wipou's Exposure

By this time, Maelendil's suspicions of another Hypocordo leader were becoming clearer. Maelendil knew that Milo's angst was not coming from Mal-Tech, but had his suspicions. Maelendil knew well that Milo was getting into Fundamentalism just as Yuriyama predicted. Soon enough, Alexander arrived with news that he had seen a Maludico on the roof of Mal-Tech, and smoking a cigarette. Now Alexander did not know who this Maludico was, and called for Gregory's assistance.

At the Odinean temple, Alexander and Maelendil showed up, and found that Gregory and Dugmateous already knew something. Gregory explained that he had found the culprit, known as Wipou. Gregory explained that Wipou was behind Milo thinking that Mal-Tech was the source of his anxiety. Dugmateous explained that Wipou was a colleague of his, and before she became a hypocordo, had been one to like to know exactly what is safe and what is dangerous. Dugmateous explained that he knew something strange was going on, and how he saw Wipou written all over this. Dugmateous explained how Milo started seeing Evangelical Christianity as the source of Fundamentalism, and considered the problem strictly rooted in scriptural literalism. After this, they went over to Mal-Tech, and with no surprise, found Wipou smoking on the roof of the building. The Jinns kept spy on Wipou, and found her with Siren, Sheepus and Buttkampft. Wipou told Sheepus that he did a good job having the brats projects all ripped up. Wipou then told the Hypocordo's that the boss is going to be very pleased, now that the school is being blamed.

Back at the temple, Alexader asked if any of the Jinns knew what Wipou meant by the boss. None had any idea what this meant, but there was an overall fear of who this was. Then Brutus showed up, and was quite annoyed with the jinns for not being invited. Brutus asked for the heads up, and Maelendil explained how they had seen Wipou, and she was speaking with Siren, Sheepus and Buttkamft, and mentioned a boss. Brutus got a brief scowl, and then said that Wipou would get it big from him. Alexander asked if the charge will still have to return to Mal-Tech. Brutus said that the charge needs a few more semesters at Mal-Tech if if were up to him. Maelendil explained that it was not his choice. Maelendil explained that Milo will have to return to Mal-Tech, but this will be his last semester. Maelendil put Brutus on the assignment to make sure Milo graduated. At this, Brutus got a great scowl. Maelendil then assigned Dugmateous to make sure no Maludico's do anything to Milo's assignents at the school. This made Brutus even more annoyed.

Maelendil then explained that Milo will have to return to Mal-Tech, so he can see for himself that they are not the culprits for his uneasiness. Dugmateous explains that he knows his toxic religiosity is the source of his uneasiness. Maelendil mentions that he know, and Dugmateous asks if he can at least tell Milo the truth. Maelendil explains that he does not think Milo will listen, as he is still so desperate for some quick fix that he will not hear any journey. Maelendil explains how Conkus offered him a religion that promises instant success, Wipou offering to scapegoat his enemies, and Stockholm acting like he is helping, and has got Milo to believe this. Maelendil explains that soon enough, Milo will see the truth.

The Return to Gairmsoiled

The Cobolds realized they had no choice but to return back to Gairmsoiled for indentured Servitude. Before leaving, Zadok and Yoshiyahu met with Strider at the Millington and Rutter pub. Strider explained that he knew all about Emersina and Trommer. Strider explained how Emersina was the senior undersecretary to the Governor, who is stil missing. Zadok remembered well how the Governor disappeared after their voyage to Parthania. Strider then explains that Trommer was the headmaster at the Compound. Zadok was not born yet, but heard the stories about how awful that place was. Strider explains that after the escape orchestrated by Lance, Trommer became the laughing stock of the compound, and all the others held captive had trashed the facility. Trommer was unable to handle this, and fled to Gairmsoiled, which had become a refuge for hypocordo loyalists. Strider then got a real grin, and started telling Zadok and Yoshiyahu about Emersina. Emersina left Londinium after the Governor was exposed, and had moved to Gairmsoiled, keeping in contact with the Hypocordo's. Despite the Gairmsoiled residents being a dour people, they hate the Hypocordo's, considering that they are the ones responsible for turning the town into a slum. There is even a gang in Gairmsoiled known as the Hypocrushers who would be thrilled to find out someone who knows about the hypocordo's locations, and will do anything to extract information from Emersina.

One afternoon later, the Cobolds started their return back to Gairmsoiled. The Cobolds were a bit disheartened about this, as they did not want to be back in this slum town one bit. When they arrived at the inn, Emersina and Trommer welcomed them back, in a devilish fashion. Zadok had a grin, which made Emersina and Trommer a bit uneasy. Emersina told Zadok to knock off whatever he had planned, and to start working. Zadok told Emersina that he knows that she is in contact with the Hypocordo's and knows where they are hiding. Zadok then explains that he knows about the Hypocrushers, and how they will be quite happy to meet with Emersina. Emersina looks quite flushed, and Zadok explains that an easy agreement can be made. Zadok writes some conditions that the servitude only lasts for two more months, and only four chores a day. Trommer starts telling Zadok not to go disrespecting his wife. Zadok asks Trommer if he misses running the compound. Emersina scathingly changes the contract, which is set to expire in two months.

Frankly, being back in Gairmsoiled distracted the Cobolds from their obsession on watching Voris Co. work on their headquarters. Otherwise, watching Voris Co. work on their headquarters was driving them crazy, and suspected something was not right, but could not stand to believe their headquarters would fall. Otherwise, the Cobolds knew if Voris Co. could not be trusted, they would have to accept that either the headquarters would soon fall, or they would have to spend more time raising funds for repairs. Over this return to Gairmsoiled, Jamus started getting quite comfortable with Gairmsoiled, and had no interest in ever returning to Londinium, or see Voris Co. working.

The Easter Season

Things started to get better, as Milo was no longer having nightmares anymore. Milo started to believe that he could get a case, and expose the Mal-Tech for trying to launder money from him. Unfortunately, Milo could never find a case, and understood the inevitable. Eventually the time came closer for Milo to return to school. Milo's first day was scheduled to start on a Friday afternoon in late March. Ray wanted Milo to check in with Mr. Lawrence about when he would start up. Milo never bothered to do so, as he did not want to think about Mal-Tech, and hoped for some miracle. When it came to the Friday before starting, Milo did not know he was supposed to attend. Mr. Lawrence called his house, apologizing for forgetting to mention that he was supposed to start that day. When Ray found the message, he asked Milo why he did not go to school. Milo said that he did not know. Ray Told Milo that he was supposed to check up on that. Ray then suspected that Milo wanted to drop out. Milo admitted that he was not thrilled about returning. Ray started going on about having to do things you don't want to do, and said that he may end up not liking Sussewago also. Milo considered all of this, but was still going back. Milo's only commitment was to not let the School try and fail him again. With Milo, he just hoped to get a case in order to make a stance. Milo tried telling Lydia about what was really going on with Mal-Tech, and the teacher burning his project with a cigarette, and not taking responsibility for her actions. Lydia thought this was a silly conspiracy.

On Saturday, The Biancatello's and Daquan went to the Golden Corral for dinner. On Sunday, Milo and Salvatore got lunch at Ishfatan. After lunch, Salvatore drove through Amira's neighborhood. As to how Salvatore knew, Milo was not so sure. That afternoon, Milo was a bit anxious about this, and not overly thrilled about returning to school. Milo feared that the so called progress he made over the last few weeks would be ruined with returning to Mal-Tech.

Milo ended up returning to Mal-Tech on Monday. This had not been so bad, as he only had one class. Otherwise, this teacher Mrs. M was about the same as when he had her the previous semester. Mr. Lawrence welcomed Milo back after he arrived at the school. One weekend later, the Biancatello's went to a store out in the country so Lydia and Emily could go prom dress shopping. Milo had not seen this town since he was in second grade, before his first communion.

That spring, Milo was Lydia's confirmation sponsor. On that Friday, Milo watched "Saved by the Bell" after classes, as was his typical habit after school. The Confirmation ceremony took place the Saturday before Holy Week. The service took place in a similar fashion as Milo's confirmation. The Candidates met in the Church hall, and waited for the mass to begin. The songs had all been the same as Milo's communion. At the mass, Ray, Margaret and Grandma Pearl attended. Now this confirmation would be Monsignor Warners last to preside, as he would be retiring. At the mass, there was an announcement that Monsignor Warburton would be the new pastor. Now Milo remembered the name from the Baccaleaureaute, and noticed that he was a bit old. After the service, Lydia got her picture with Monsignor Warner, her family and the Bishop. Afterwards, they had a luncheon with the Biancatello's, Grandma Pearl, Uncle Georgio and Rob. Uncle Georgio is Lydia's Godfather.

On Palm Sunday, Milo saw the Jafari's in Church. Minu was absent, as she was in college. Now Ray and Margaret had gone to Church early, as Margaret had to work. Before mass, Ray dropped Milo and Lydia off at Church. When Ray saw the Jafari's walking in, he told Milo to behave. Not that he would do anything anyways. At Mass, Monsignor Warner confirmed that Monsignor Warner would be the new pastor at St. Timothy's. That night, Milo watched Slumdog Millionaire.

On the Monday of Holy Week, Milo had a short day at Mal-Tech, due to some electrical outages, and the facilities unable to be used. Due to the short day, Milo drove out to Dudlechip after school in commemoration of the anniversary of seeing Amira at this school. From the perspective of Holy Week, this was the tenth anniversary, but not in the strictest sense, as Holy Week changes every year. That night, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl went out to dinner for Lydia's birthday. Rob showed up, as he needed help setting up his Facebook. After this, Rob would call Milo occasionally to check on his facebook.

On Wednesday Ray, Milo and Grandpa Tony went to the Living Stations. After the living stations, Milo went to confession with Fr. Mihir and confessed a grudge he had with the Jafari's, and his dislike towards Sedevacantists and the Westboro Baptist Church. Fr. Mihir explained that even if he does not agree with those two groups, they are Christians, and technically brothers. When it came to the Jafari's, Fr. Mihir explained that he should forgive them, even if they wronged him, and that he was the only one to be making himself bothered over this.

For the first time in eight years, Milo went to Church on Holy Thursday. Milo used to go with Grandma Rosa and Grandpa Tony. The opening hymn was "What Wondrous love is This". Otherwise, there was not too much difference at the mass then when he had gone with his grandparents. This would also be the kickstart for a long weekend for Easter. On Good Friday evening, the Biancatello's hosted Calvin's second birthday, and Grandma Pearl, Dana, her boyfriend Rex and Calvin attended. Margaret made fried shrimp, due to the Good Friday fast. On Easter Saturday, Ray took Milo, Rex and Calvin to a Baseball game. Now Milo had wanted to do something fun, as he had been cooped up all winter, and had not found Mal-Tech overly fun. As for the Easter holiday, this took place at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's. That night, Salvatore asked Milo if he wanted to get Taco Bell with him and Matt. Milo admitted that he was too tired, and did not want to support business on Easter. Salvatore started bullying Milo into joining them. Milo ended up relenting reluctantly. During the whole evening, Salvatore had been annoyingly bossy. On Easter Monday, Lydia and Daquan broke up. Ray and Margaret were not too disappointed, as this boy had no personality.

On the week after Easter, Milo found Peter Pan on Youtube. The movie reminded Milo of when Marilyn took him, Lydia, Shamus and Charlie to Chuck E. Cheese for his sixth birthday years back. This kickstarted some frequent flashbacks Milo would have of that summer before starting at the Ciderpond School district. Milo was a bit haunted by the scene where John tries taking Nana the St. Bernard, but is leashed and cannot go. Milo started seeing some religious parallel, and wondered if the writers intended that Animals could not go to Heaven. As for the movie, the "You can Fly" scene reminded Milo of Disney World from two summers ago, known as "Peter Pan's flight". On Thursday, Matt had been in town with Aunt Marie, as he was taking a college tour of Whelon, which Aunt Dianne setup.

On that Saturday, the Biancatello's went to Church, as Milo had a trip to Pittsburgh the next day. For Mass, they had Fr. Mihir, who gave a Divine Mercy sermon, in commemoration of the feast day. That night, Milo found the sheet music to Beauty and the Beast transformation scene. Milo had been looking for the music for several years. Milo felt that his memories of his childhood had been rescued from staleness, like the previous summer before heading off to Statlerville.

On Sunday, Milo went on another trip to a Medjugory event that took place in Pittsburgh. On the way up, the woman who ran the program explained that there were all these benefits of having gone to Confession during Holy Week, and special graces that specifically occurred on Divine Mercy Sunday. According to this speech, the woman explained how one could get communion that day if they had gone to Confession over holy week. This was the same woman who at the novena sang "Sing of Mary" during the walk almost four years ago. Milo attributed this seeing the Singalong "Be Our Guest" over the summer and finding the Beauty and the Beast Transformation sheet music to having confession with Fr. Mihir. Milo had this idea that having Fr. Mihir for confession helped restore the ties with Amira and her community, due to Fr. Mihir being part of the community.

Milo had not been impressed with the presentation, as he found it overly sappy. Frankly, this felt like one of those over-emotional Pentecostal services. Then there was another speech about some man who spoke about his father in World War II, and how he prayed the Rosary. One man mocked him for praying with magic beads, and was the one who ended up getting drafted to fight in Germany, while the father got off for service. Milo was too quick to believe this, and started considering the Rosary. Now Milo ended up finding the visionary speakers to be quite boring, as they needed a translator. Plus it was the same stuff Milo heard the year before. Now something about the whole Medjugory devotion seemed a bit superstitious to him. The biggest reason Milo even got interested in the Devotion was because the messages advocated religious inclusvism. The only thing Milo got out of this presentation was the motivation to fill out his job application for Chuck E. Cheese and turn it in. After that long presentation, the tour bus stopped at Woodfire grill for dinner. Frankly, the dinner was awful. The meat was fatty and the vegetables were overcooked. On the way home, Milo started wondering why religion felt so alien to him, and started thinking he felt more at home with Disney than the Medjudgorey devotion. Milo had started to see this as being too reductionistic.

That Monday, Milo went to the music store after school to find a Disney Music Book. Milo ended up finding a broadway book, but it did not have the Transformation sheet music. Milo still liked the music, and bought the book anyways. On Tuesday morning, Margaret left for Tampa for her annual business meeting. That night, Milo admitted to Ray that he did not like the presentation. Milo was worried about why he found this so boring, when he should be more moved by this stuff. Milo worried that this had to do with meeting with Vito, but did not want to quit meeting with him.

On Saturday, Milo went with the Filentino's to the Cancer walk near the beach. At the walk, Milo came across Todds mom Cheryl. Milo told Cheryl all about nearly being done with Mal-Tech, going to the Medjudgorey event, and Ishfatan. Now Cheryl is a big fan of Middle Eastern and Indian food, and had also been a fan of the restaurant. While on the walk, they saw a St. Bernard like from Peter Pan. The next day, Milo and Ray went to a baseball game.

That Monday, Milo had to return to being a full time student for another month. Milo was not too thrilled about being back all day. That morning, Milo vowed that once he finished his final class at Mal-Tech, he would listen to the hymn "Come let us sing", which he listened to frequently three summers ago. During this time, Milo filled out his application for Chuck E. Cheese. Milo turned in the application one day after School, and a pretty girl took the application for him. Another week later, Milo and Lydia went to the Airport to pick Margaret. Now Milo did not know what he was doing, as he never went through the airport, and Lydia got quite annoyed. Lydia called Ray, and a co-worker answered. Luckily she was able to help direct Milo where to go.

Around this time, there was a fundraiser at Mal-Tech, and the contestants who sold the most cookie dough and pies could put their name in to win a trip to Disney World. Milo ended up praying a Rosary to win the trip. Dana, Rex and Calvin came into town on Memorial Day weekend. Now the Biancatello's got to see Rex's real side, and how he got quite worked up over a car deal that he thought was too expensive.

On Monday, Milo got a call from Chuck E. Cheese in order to schedule an interview in two days. On Tuesday, Milo met with a career advisor on tips for this interview. On Wednesday, Milo went up to Chuck E. Cheese, and excited for this opportunity. Milo's interview went well with Chuck E. Cheese, and he was quite excited for this opportunity. Plus, Milo found the girl who interviewed him quite pretty. Milo's last day was on the first Friday of June. That afternoon, Milo was officially done with Mal-Tech. After school, Milo got ice cream, and when he got home, listened to the hymn "Come Let us Sing". For dinner, Milo and Margaret went to Applebees.

Return to Beaubelles

The time for the Cobolds indentured servitude came to its end, and they made their way back to Londinium. Over these months, Jamus had gotten quite in with the Gairmsoiled elites, and decided to stay back. The Cobolds were not thrilled about this, but knew he had to find out on his own. Frankly, Jamus was just afraid of what he would find back in Londinium, and could not handle the possibility that the headquarters would fall, and that the land would fall in the hands of tyrants.

The Cobolds had been uneasy to find that Voris co. was still doing some strange construction not in accord to their wishes. Within a few days, the Cobolds gave Rivkah a visit. She was still having a hard time over the disappearance of Iohannes and Harmony. Rivkah had no news about what happened to her daughter, but her clock still said that she was in Thatchery. Londinium had gotten into more unrest, and crime became more rampant. According to Rivkah, after the attack on the headquarters before they left, and the invasion of the Raptors, security in Londinium started getting tighter and tighter. Rivkah could barely talk when mentioning the Raptors. Irugen told Rivkah about how he had found some travelers known as Natalia, Jaiden, Fabinius, Hannah, and Taibi. Irugen explained how they went on a quest to find the vanishing goblet pieces, and helping Taibi return to Hamitaria with their club. Irugen then explained how their club would keep an eye out for the other Cobolds and try to find Iohannes.

When it came to Harmony, she had been living on the streets of a town known as Thatchery for the past few years. This was a very indifferent town in Atlantis that had no regard for the needy. By this time, Harmony was a somewhat reliant toddler, who had been surviving off the scraps the residents left behind. As we remember, Thatchery was the town where the book "The Efficient Atlantean" was forged. Now this was one town that considered ones circumstances as fated, and did not consider it wise to interfere.

Back in Patimesh, the Cobolds working towards their initiation were not fairing too much better. These Cobolds were learning more about the ways and values of Patimesh, and heard nothing of the Great Phoenix or the Dance. Yet the more they were hearing of their source of adoration, they became more disturbed, as he sounded nothing like the Dance, whom they heard about in Gallicanium. Plus, the more the Cobolds learned about their laws and penalties, the more disturbed they had become. The Cobolds had hoped that this was just a test to see if they were willing to trust the Patimesh Elders no matter how barbaric their rules seemed on the surface.

The Early Summer

On Milo's first Saturday, he and Salvatore took Sylvester out to lunch at Ishfatan. Salvatore told Sylvester they were going to take him to Burger King, and Milo being the driver did not know the arrangement. Actually, Salvatore planned on telling Sylvester Burger King just to get him to join them. Salvatore tried getting Eustace to join them, but he had just made himself a turkey sandwich. Ray was not too thrilled about taking Sylvester to a different restaurant than they told him. Milo said he was just trying to surprise Sylvester. This was not considering the fact that Sylvester only ate flat bread and rice. That night, Milo watched Harry Potter, and had some creepy dreams while falling asleep. Milo started feeling a bit unsure if he was going to be able to handle the battle he was in.

The next day, the Rumcorns came over, as Kyle was getting married the next Sunday. Margaret and Grandma Pearle hosted a shower at the Biancatello's house. All the Guests had been Kyle's fiancé Sara, her mother and sister, Kyles Grandma and the Williamsons. This was considering that the Rumcorns did not know too many people in Ciderpond, and did not have a very big guest list from Atlanta. Uncle Wayne, Kyle, Kevin, Bruce, Milo and Ray went out to lunch at Quaker Stake and Lube. After lunch they went over to the mall. Milo and Kevin spent some time at the pet store.

The beginning of the summer was going pretty slow for Milo. This Summer was Amira's first summer after college at the University of Toledo. By this time, Milo knew that he had not won the contest for Disney World, but had another plan of a trip to Tampa. Ray had invited the O'Malleys on the trip. That Wednesday, Milo got into a clash with Salvatore. Milo had a computer file where he collected pictures of girls he got off the internet. This was so he could use to practice drawing. Salvatore found this picture while snooping on his Laptop. Salvatore told Milo that he needed to talk to him in a severe tone. Salvatore then showed Milo the picture he found, and asked him why he had it. Milo told Salvatore that was his business, and if he wanted to know, it was for practicing drawing. Salvatore told Milo that he should delete it. Milo told Salvatore that it was none of his business. Salvatore went on about how he could get into legal trouble. Milo told Salvatore that just because he thinks something is illegal does not make it so. Salvatore still pressed the subject until he went home. Milo let Salvatore have it, as he was stupid enough to be logged on his facebook. Milo joined Salvatore to a gay pride, jehovah's witness recovery, former Fundamentalist Baptist and society of engineers of Pakistan groups. Then Milo put on some barney and snow white pictures on his profile. Then Milo friend requested his old friend shane, along with Mrs. Jafari to Salvatore's page. Milo then found out over the evening that the O'Malley's would not be able to join them on Vacation, due to college payments. Milo then started becoming bitter about how much college costs that one cannot even go on vacation. Milo knew well that if the O'Malley's were not going, then Salvatore would end up coming along. Milo had not been exactly thrilled with Salvatore over snooping on his computer.

That Friday, Milo went down to Youngstown for the rehearsal, as he was asked to be a lector. Frankly, the rehearsal was pretty boring. The facility where the wedding was held had not been a particularly nice place. For the dinner, they ate at an Italian restaurant. That Saturday, the Biancatello's went to Daquans graduation party. After the party, the Biancatello's went to Grandma Pearl's for dinner. Kyle had this other girl over, whom he had been oddly close with. Kyle and Sarah had their wedding that Sunday. Lydia's last day of school was on that Tuesday. On Thursday, Ray went back on his annual golf trip. That Friday, Lydia had a dance recital. Milo and Sylvester took a walk to the Jafari's, as Nousha was having her graduation party. They took Jinny along, in hopes of getting some of the attendees attention, like he had done years back. Milo hoped to see Amira at the party, but he had no such luck. As to whether Amira was even at the party had been unknown, as Milo never knew exactly how close they were. That Sunday, Milo saw the Jafari's at Church.

On Monday night, Milo was still waiting on the call from Chuck E. Cheese, and even prayed a rosary the night before. Milo still remembered the testimony of all the great outcomes of praying this prayer. After the prayer, Milo accidentally got into some gloom and doom material on the internet from some supposed visionary Veronica Leuken. This apparition is rejected by the Vatican. This gave Milo some anxiety for the first time in a while. This had been some of the same gloom and doom garbage saying that most people were going to hell, and a list of people to hate, from democrats to homosexuals. That night, Milo has a dream where Jinny is laying down on a couch and all the sudden turns into a fierce demon. On Tuesday, Milo had been all out of sorts after reading this Leuken literature, and started seeing this as the demons getting worse. Milo knew that something was quite off, but did not know why, as he had graduated from Mal-Tech, and passed his last two classes.

On Wednesday Milo found out that he did not get the job at Chuck E. Cheese. Milo was distraught over this, and felt utterly betrayed. Milo was bitter about finding that this place that seemed so upbeat could so betray him as they did. That evening, Milo was in such a bad mood over this, which Lydia did not understand. Milo got irritated about any suggestions for jobs at places he deemed boring, as he felt like he was stuck at a boring school for the last two years. Margaret started bringing up people who have it worse. That is one thing Milo always hated, as this was going to make it any better.

The next day, Milo got cranky with Salvatore. Milo told Salvatore that he did not get the job at Chuck E. Cheese. Salvatore suggested that he go into Drafting. Milo explained that he does not want to go into drafting and cannot work full time with starting at Sussewago in the Fall. Salvatore told Milo "That's life". Milo got annoyed with Salvatore for acting like this, and pulling off what Milo referred to as "Corporate lectures". This was a pejorative term Milo came up with to describe lectures about adapting to the whole commercial system. Plus, Milo did not appreciate having his ambitions to go to college passive-aggressively taunted. Milo abruptly left the house and went for a walk.

Dugmateous tale and Daxidus vision

During this time, Pandora summoned Maelendil, Alexander, Dugmateous and Brutus to a meeting over what was going on. According to Pandora, the Diploros and Timora's had become quite active in the Ciderpond and Essex region, making the place quite depressed. Brutus had been completely unphased by this discovery. Pandora explains that the overall sense of tension had been coming from the Diploro's, and she asked for Maelendil for his help in catching any harassing his charges. Maelendil explains that the Diploro's had been on and off ever since Derglin had been unleashed the previous summer. Maelendil explained that he had no clue how to even handle Derglin.

Dugmateous explains that he bears most of the responbility for the Timora's. Dugmateous tells about how after two new years ago, he revealed some information he should not have, and set fourth an enthusiasm for dangerous pursuits. Dugmateous explains how the Charge got this certainty of a bleak future, and sought to try and change it. The charge had feared so badly for this end, that he became quite desperate for any form of hope. When Dugmateous is not so sure, Maelendil chimes in with some background information. Maelendil explains what happened over Valentines Day a few years back, and how two charges had been speaking, and his boy charge sent his girl charge a Valentines. Both a friend of this girl, and the Horseman offspring conspired to make sure this boy thought this girl wanted to do with him, and that the girl think the boy was playing with her emotions. This boy charge had not known this was all a setup, and got the official interpretation from the Maludico Fylodium that this girl wanted nothing to do with him, and to leave her alone. This girl felt hurt when he gave her a valentine and then started giving her space. Over time, the charge knew something was not right, and that there was something quite off about the official story.

Dugmateous then continues the rest of the story. Dugmateous explains how the charge at the tech school had some difficulties with the official plans his circumstances provided for him. According to the official story, the girl did not like him, and his life should now be focused on the plans this school had for him. The charge knew something was wrong with the official story, and got this idea that the girl was possessed, and that so were many around him who held to the narrative. The charge got this idea that he was invincible to such threats, as he saw himself as informed to what was really going on. Alexander then chimed in about how the charge had expected this tech school to be more like college, where he could be left to his own devices, and this was what happened for the first few months. However this school started becoming more like a cross between pre-school and boot camp. Maelendil started to suspect the Maludico Cittimerk had gotten to the math teacher, which he suspected made the experience for his charge at the school so horrible. Dugmateous continues about how the charge felt so confined, and only saw such a bleak future in the market world, that he sought out some help from religion to free him from the market, and a plan of exorcism. The charge had wanted some religious guidance from some master giving absolute certainty, and strict lines between the good and bad side. What the charge did not know was that this kind of religion had their own agenda's, and the charge figured that out early on, such as Evangelical Fundamentalists and Jehovah's witnesses. This led him to take a more fundamentalist approach to his own religion.

Pandora explains how mortals do not know how to handle Timora's. Any time they try to fight one timora, they tend to end up calling for several more. Pandora gives Dugmateous the task of catching as many Timora's as possible, and putting them in this box, where they cannot escape. Pandora explained how over time, when there are less Timora's, the spirit of fear will greatly diminish, but the ones still around will become highly aggressive. Pandora explained that there will not be peace until the last Timora is caught.

Around this same time, Daxividus is summoned back to the Hall of prophecies, and sees an orb with a concrete shopping mall with high walls resembling the Ciderpond mall. This vision had been reoccurring, sometimes showing mall features long gone. This time, Terese returns, and explains that those mortals brought into the Senexit Sarkikos community are getting sucked into their own Sarkikos, still under Hillectivus watchful eye. Then Maugris shows up, as he sees this having something to do with his Sarkikos. According to Maugris, many like her have sarkikos that become quite curious. This curiosity only takes quantity into account, and any forms of quantitative greatness always inherently mean the diminishment of anything considered less. Maugris uses the mall as an example, with a significantly large building, so terrifyingly big, that it puts others walking through this mall into utter insignificance.

Graduation and Harry Potter

One night, Milo had a dream about going on a trip, and seeing the Jafari's at the mall before leaving. Then Milo had a dream about Fr. Corapi being mentioned on the Medjudgorey bus tour being equal to the 12 apostles. That weekend, there was a party at Uncle Georgio's and Aunt Judy's, as Jesse and Danielle were in town along with Corey and Kate. By this time, Olivia and Abigail were two, and close to turning three. Both Logan and Jonathan were about 10 months old. Milo still felt a bit shell shocked over what happened that past week with Chuck E Cheese and that devotion. That night, Milo, Salvatore and Matt watched some old Rocket Power episodes at Aunt Michelles and spent the night.

On Tuesday, Ray went on a business trip to New Orleans. That night, Milo and Salvatore went to a Baseball game. They came across a drug addict who tried to sell them tickets, and called his Mcdonalds cup that got blown away a little f bomb. That night, Milo watched "Tiny Toons: How I spent my Summer Vacation". Milo had not seen the movie in ten summers, which had been the summer after Dudlechip. On Friday, Milo had his Mal-Tech Graduation ceremony, where he got his degree in Architectural Drafting. Ray, Margaret and Grandma Pearl all attended the graduation. Lydia was unable to make it, as she got her wisdom teeth removed. Now Milo had not really wanted to go, but his parents insisted on this. One of the Essex Judges gave a speech, who Grandma Pearl thought was an idiot. Milo did get to meet with Mr. Lawrence. Milo knew he would be seeing him soon, as he had to stop back at Mal-Tech in order to get his transcript in order to get into Sussewago University.

By the end of June, Milo started listening to "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince". Now Milo had not listened to this book in two summers, before starting at Mal-Tech. That weekend, the Biancatello's hosted a Fourth of July party. Daquan showed up, and barely talked with anyone. By this time, Lydia and Daquan were temporarily together again. The next day, Milos computer screen broke, and it resembled a demonic figure. This started to confirm Milo's suspicions. Having listened to the Half Blood prince distracted Milo from the Catholic literature, and found something more substantial and believeable than anything from Conservative Catholicism. Then Milo started listening to "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows". This book started giving Milo flashbacks to his trip to Tampa the second time, before starting Ninth Grade. Otherwise, Milo developed a deeper appreciation of the Deathly Hallows, and still believed that this book was even more substantial than popular piety. As to why, Milo could not explain, as he always had some idea that the book had Christian themes.

During that Saturday, Milo had Matt's graduation party in New Seneca. Being back in New Seneca started giving Milo flashbacks to his trip when he was three years old. On the way home, Milo and Margaret went home with Uncle Leo, Aunt Jane, Eustace, and Sylvester. Aunt Jane mentioned some course she attended on Catholic teachings, and she mentioned Scott Hahn. Now Milo remembered him in that stupid special he saw several months ago.

That Sunday morning, Milo went to Church on his own, as his parents and Lydia went to mass early. At Church, Milo also saw Aunt Dianne, Grandpa Tony, Aunt Michelle, Salvatore and Gianni. After Church, Milo headed up to the theatre to buy tickets for the Half Blood Prince release day. For Dinner, the Biancatello's had dinner at Stacy's retro diner. Milo remembered how five summers ago, he had gone to this restaurant when staying at the condo.

That Monday, Salvatore had acted like a jerk at Milo's pool, with constantly making disrespectful remarks. Then Salvatore got pissy with Milo over still being disappointed for not getting the job at Chuck E. Cheese, and being picky about the job he wanted. That Wednesday, Milo saw the premier of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. Milo got a bad seat, as he was running a little late due to Jinny feeling a little under the weather. Milo got a little worried, as Jinny was getting older.

That weekend, Milo became anxious, as he knew that he would be flying to Tampa in a week. Milo found out that the flight would leave Ciderpond at 6am, and would have to get up pretty early. On Saturday, Milo went to confession, and had Monsignor Warburton. Milo admitted that he still hated the sedevacantists and the Veronica Leuken propaganda. That night, Milo had a creepy dream that one of Ray's co-workers gave birth to a Demon.

The week before leaving, Milo came across more disturbing stories of supposed exorcisms. On Tuesday night, Milo had a dream about coming home from a vacation only to find himself in a place haunted by demons. Milo then starts to go on a city rampage of smashing any non-Christian religious artifact, in particular greek statues. There is then a final showdown in an indoor water park pool with the Devil. During that day, Milo had been extremely horrified about this dream, and feared what this meant. Now Milo knew he was leaving for vacation soon, and was not sure this would be enjoyable. As it was, Milo had not felt at home in the Essex region for a long time, and wondered if Tampa would be more like a home. Yet this could mean that he may have to find a new home.

That Thursday, Milo took a drive by Amira's house to clear his head. The neighborhood for some reason reminded Milo of something from Harry Potter. That night, Lydia had her friend Chelsea over, along with Emily. Now Chelsea would be joining the Biancatello's on their trip to Tampa.

Milo then started becoming more insistent on a quick exorcism if he was going on vacation soon, and needed to get these awful Demons out of his hair. On Friday Night, Milo posted some information on his Paranormal activity page. After publishing this, Milo became quite fearful that he would be losing followers. Milo then became anxious about the flight, and started missing Jinny after he saw a website on the Virginia Busch Gardens with wolves. Ginny had been dropped off at Grandma pearls a few hours ago.

That night before leaving, Milo had a dream about playing some game with his cousin Jason and his brothers in the downstairs. At 4am, the phone rang, which they scheduled for their wakeup call in order to leave. The Biancatellos left the house early in the morning, while it was still dark. Then they picked Salvatore up. On the way to the airport, Salvatore talked about how that part of Ciderpond was cool. Milo felt it was a bit creepy to be out, and the only ones on the road so early in the morning. At the airport, Lydia's friend Chelsea had already arrived, along with her dad.

The Mountain Getaway and Repair Completions

At this time, the Cobolds spend time on the outskirts of Londinium for some solitude. The Cobolds were still not fairing too well, and became quite obsessive in constantly watching Voris Co. doing their work on their headquarters. The more the Cobolds saw, the more uneasy they became at their work. At this point, Elrich decided that it was time to head to the Mountains south of Londinium.

This time in the mountains had been very peaceful, and reminded them of the days in Atlantis. Over these days, the Cobolds explored the town they were in, which had many quaint shops and pubs. Frankly, the Cobolds never wanted to leave this place. Zadok had lamented his misgivings on the methods of Voris Co. Zadok had been quite bothered about how they did not allow questioning, and their disturbing methods of construction. Remus explained the possibility that the Headquarters are not meant to stay up this way. There had been a great protest over this. Remus then explained that it is easier to rebuild than to repair. Petestor protested that this would be a bad idea, as this would give the vandals the idea that they won, and did not want to be under their power. Petestor talked about the days when the Hypocordo's reigned in the city, and how the Cobolds were forced to live in that awful compound. Remus explained that they were better prepared for any threats, even if there is no headquarters. During their debates, a pigeon came with a message informing the Cobolds that the repairs had been completed.

The Cobolds were apprehensive about returning to Londinium, and feared what would be the final product of these repairs. That morning, the Cobolds bid a somber farewell to the mountains, and departed back. The journey back had been quite dreadful, and they could not help but fear what they would find in their city. To the Cobolds surprise, the Headquarters was restored exactly as they remembered it before the severe vandalism. The Cobolds then started to all see Voris Co. as trustworthy. They no longer were disturbed that Voris Co. did not allow questioning.

When the Cobolds arrived in Londinium, they found their headquarters rebuilt in all their glory. For long days, the Londinians and Cobolds held many Celebrations. On one occasion, the Cobolds and Londinians were able to travel back to the untainted Spartustica, as the Headquarters roof had now been safe to walk on, and able to reach the bridge to the Stairs to Pedmontus. A belated Feast of the Guest was held, and the Cobolds got a view of Lionalem they had not seen in many years.

Tampa and the rest of the Summer

By this time, the Biancatello's arrived in the Tampa Airport after a flight from Philadephia. Now waiting for luggage had not been such a pleasurable experience, and Milo was still a bit apprehensive about the trip. After they all got their luggage, and a rental car, the Biancatello's left the Airport and headed into the city. The Trip became pleasurable as soon as they were on the highway. On the Biancatellos drive through Tampa, Milo saw a hotel under the raised highway that reminded him of the time period when Marilyn took the kids to Chuck E. Cheese. Then Milo noticed some old neighborhoods that did not even bother him, despite being the Florida Equivalent of Noussonberg. In fact, those neighborhoods looked quite interesting. Their first stop was lunch at a Mexican restaurant not too far off from their resort. This had been a colorful restaurant, which reminded Milo of Chuck E. Cheese. One of the waiters at the restaurant reminded Milo of Vito.

After lunch, they checked into the hotel. This was the same resort the Biancatello's stayed at two times before. A hotel worker drove the Biancatello's through the resort on a golf cart, and gave them a tour. After they got settled in the hotel room, they spent the rest of the afternoon at the resort pool. For dinner, they went out for Barbeque at a place known as Hungry Harry's, as the front desk manager recommended. This restaurant was located out of the way into some semi-rural area. This restaurant had a lot of southern charm, and had an "All you can eat" deal. Salvatore took advantage of this. This restaurant gave Milo some flashbacks to his trip three spring breaks ago.

The family went to Church the next morning. They got to Church a bit late, and had to sit in an area for overflow. This priest was very dynamic, and preached in the southern charismatic style. The offertory song was "One Love Released" and the ending song "Canticle of the Sun". Milo still interepreted the hymn as being sectarian, as he was still slightly brainwashed with some fundamentalist ideas. As we remember, the song "Canticle of the Sun" was a song Milo downloaded on Dancing Day.

After Church, Ray drove them all out to the Aquarium. On the way to downtown Tampa, Milo felt himself part of a very large world. After driving around for a bit, they ended up at a Steak and Shake for lunch. Eventually the Biancatello's arrived at the Aquarium, which they had not seen since before Milo started Highschool. At the Aquarium, there was a cruise ship also leaving, and Milo, Salvatore, Lydia and Chelsea posed like they were on the ship. Ray sent the picture to Eustace, and he thought they were doing both a cruise and a trip to Tampa.

For dinner, the Biancatello's ate at Chili's. The plan was for the six to each order the three course menu to share between tow people. This would mean that Milo and Salvatore would share, Ray andMargaret would share and Lydia and Chelsea would share. This included an appetizer, main course and Dessert. Now Salvatore did not want to do this, as he wanted to get wings. Milo ended up getting a Fajita Pita, which he had not eaten since going to Chili's with the O'Malleys that week he was staying with them before starting Highschool. Chelea and Lydia offered to share their dessert with Milo, as he wanted the three course dinner.

On Monday, the Biancatello's traveled to Orlando to meet with Uncle Doug and his new wife Pam at Universal Studios. They left early, and stopped at Burger King for breakfast. On the way to Orlando, everyone except for Ray and Margaret fell asleep. When they arrived in Orlando, they parked in the large parking ramp, and headed into the park. The Biancatellos went to City walk, as that was where they were scheduled to meet up with Uncle Doug and Aunt Pam. Soon enough, Uncle Doug and Aunt Pam arrived. They headed off to Adventure Island. On one occasion, Salvatore wandered off, and Milo had to find him. After Milo found him, they headed over to a water ride, and Uncle Doug directed Milo and Salvatore over to him with his two front figures. Unfortunately the time the biancatello's went was before construction on the Harry Potter park began. After lunch, the Biancatello's and Uncle Doug headed over to Universal Studios park. On a couple occasions, Salvatore wandered off, and Milo directed him back in the same way Uncle Doug had. What happened was, Salvatore wanted to take some pictures, as he is not a fan of rides. After Milo directed Salvatore back, he threatened to punch him if he did that gesture again. Now Milo only blew a few F-Bombs when Salvatore got them separated from Lydia and Chelsea. Afterwards, they went on some attractions like the Twister show, a Simpsons virtual ride, a Mummy roller coaster and a Shrek 3-D adventure.

On Tuesday, Milo was woken up mid morning by Margaret yelling at Salvatore. What happened was Salvatore had eaten the dessert that Lydia and Chelsea left for Milo. Margaret told Salvatore that he chose not to get the three course meal. That day, the Biancatello's stayed at the pool and got Thai for dinner. This was the same Thai restaurant they had eaten at the two times before. Salvatore ordered a red curry, extra spicy. That night, at the pool, Milo found a frog, and tried to take him back to the swamps. Unfortunately the frog jumped out of his hands, and was severely injured. Milo put the frog in the bushes.

On Wednesday, the Biancatello's got ready to go to Bush Gardens. Before leaving, they got a text that Salvatore had been in the bathroom, thanks to the curry from the curry from last night. Margaret was not too happy about this, as Salvatore should have known not to get something so hot the day before an outing. When they got to the park, they first went on a safari-like car ride. On one ride, Salvatore was sitting on the metal line dividers while waiting to get on a ride, and Ray told him to get off. Soon enough, Salvatore had to go back to the bathroom, and wandered around for the rest of the day. During a show, Milo got a little homesick after seeing many animals, including a dog. However, Milo had been apprehensive about ever returning home. Milo had become anxious whatever he had wrote on the page, none of the followers would believe him, and unsubscribe.

That night, Milo had some strange dream that a local coach in Ciderpond had made a documentary on himself. On Thursday, the Biancatello's went to Adventure Island. Milo was a little bit out of sorts, and wondered if anyone had unsubscribed to his page. Milo feared that this would mean all his understandings of what really happened over the years would be disproved, and that the last year he wasted on a stupid quest. That night, Milo became fearful that as soon as he got home, he would be exposed and institutionalized for having this paranormal page. Milo remembered the dream about getting back from Disney World, and being in a Mental Institution. Milo just knew that if Nousha saw this, Mrs. Jafari would call the mental health professionals to have him taken off, and evaluated for being unable to handle rejection. While at a Strip Mall, Milo and Salvatore headed over to a Barnes and Noble. Milo looked at some Catholic book on exorcisms for further proof that he was right.

On Friday, Milo dreaded his return back home, and facing what was to come. For Breakfast, they went back to the Waffle House. Salvatore ordered so much food. Milo did not have a large appetite. The song "Runaround Sue" was on the radio. This would haunt Milo anytime he heard the song for a while. That night, the Biancatello's headed over to the Bonefish Grill for dinner. As it was, they had an hour wait time. Milo and Salvatore headed over to a Sonic, as Salvatore had never eaten at one before. Milo got a slushee, while Salvatore got a burger and a peach milk shake. When their wait time was up, they went into the restaurant, and Salvatore brought his Milk shake cup. Ray made Salvatore throw it away. When they got dinner, Salvatore only ordered a cob salad, as he was too full. Milo explained why Salvatore was really full.

On Saturday at the Airport, Milo got some internet access, and found that his page lost no followers to his relief. Otherwise, Milo was in a bit of a funk about going back. Milo was not so keen on going back to the Essex region, as he had felt more home in Tampa this short week than in his real home for the past two years. When Salvatore wandered off, Lydia was looking for him, and Chelsea asked her if this was such a bad thing. Their first stop was at the Charlotte Airport. Milo thought this was one of the nicer airports. Now the Philadelphia airport, Milo wanted to get out of in the worst way. By the time the Biancatello's landed in Ciderpond, Milo was relieved to be back home and found nothing changed. In fact, Milo felt the region to be more alive now than when he left a week ago. Plus, Milo was relieved to get away from Salvatore. Overall, neither Margaret nor Ray considered bringing Salvatore on another vacation.

The remainder of Milo's summer went well. On the Monday after returning from Florida, Milo met with Monsignor Warburton over his concern with Demons and malevolent spirits. Monsignor told Milo he could come in if he had any theological concerns. Monsignor explained that the difference between the Catholics and Protestants was that they had a very pessimistic believe about Human nature. Monsignor explained Martin Luther's statement of mankind being Dung covered with snow. Milo thought this gave him permission to discard all the "Gloom and Doom" stuff. Unfortunately, Milo had gotten so entrenched with the Fundamentalist Catholic way of seeing things that he believed that they were absolutely right, and all reality had to be looked at through their lens.

During the next few days back from Vacation, Milo had to get some records from Mal-Tech and Ciderpond High in order to get fully registered with Susewago University. Frankly, Milo did not even mind being in Mal-Tech. When it came to Ciderpond high, Milo was happy to see the place after so many years. That weekend, Milo and Ray went to the Italian Festival, but got there too early, and opted for some mediocre restaurant across the street. Now Milo did not find Noussonberg that beautiful, but did not find the town to be the dump he considered it before leaving for Tampa. Later that week, Grandma Pearl left for Altanta to visit the Rumcorns. Milo considered going, but he and Ray were going back to Lake Forest, Illinois to see the Chicago bears practice. Milo remembered going to Lake Forest before starting Fifth Grade, and having wanted to go back to this place since the summer after Tenth grade, and his flashbacks to Dudlechip. Otherwise, the Biancatello's were watching Grandma Pearl's dog Robbie.

Early in the morning, Milo and Ray left for Lake Forest Illinois to see the Chicago bears practice. On the way up, Milo and Ray stopped at Roy Rogers. That afternoon, Milo and Ray arrived in Lake Forest, and watched the practice. At Dinner, they ate at an old fifties diner. This diner was coincidentally the same diner they ate at ten years ago. On Saturday, Milo and Ray went to downtown Lake Forest. They went to a museum of Midwestern art history. For Lunch, they stopped at a New York style deli. While at lunch, Lydia called, as Emma was in town, and was swimming at the pool. Margaret also called, and Ray found out Grandma Pearl was bored in Atlanta. What happened was Aunt Bertha and Uncle Wayne had not taken time off, and Grandma Pearl was just sitting around all day. Milo was real glad he was in Lake Forest watching the bears practice than stuck in the Rumcorns house. By this time, Kyle and Sarah got divorced. What happened was Sarah and Kyle agreed to bring a third girl in the relationship. This other girl at Grandma Pearl's the night before the wedding was the third wheel, as Ray suspected. Back in Lake Forest, Ray and Milo went to watch a second practice session. While at the hotel, Milo saw a documentary on some psychic who could predict events with extreme accuracy. At Evening, Milo and Ray got dinner at a Meditteranean restaurant. This restaurant gave Milo some flashbacks to the Sanfrantella's restaurant in New Seneca.

One Tuesday after coming back from Lake Forest, Ray and Milo went out to Sussewago to get registered. The man doing the registry knew both Kamaria and Denise Delaney. When they got home, they found that Matt arrived in Ciderpond in order to start his education at Whealon College. Technically school had not started, but Matt had to come to Ciderpond early, due to soccer practice. On Friday, Uncle Leo, Aunt Jane, Eustace, Samantha, Sylvester and Grandma Pearl came over for Milo's birthday dinner. This year was Milo's 21st. For Milo's Birthday, he got the 12th season of the Simpsons. So far, Milo was much more impressed with the season than he thought he would be.

The next day, Milo and Eustace went to an Asian festival at Whealon sports facility. Salvatore planned on going, but bailed last minute. Milo was a bit annoyed about this. By the late afternoon, Milo picked Eustace off, and they headed over to Whelon. This had been one of the first times Milo had driven through the Essex region, and he needed to look for a parking spot. Unfortunately, all Milo could get was a metered parking are. Milo and Eustace stopped at Mcdonalds to try and exchange cash. Eustace asked a black woman if she would mind doing an exchange. This lady said nothing and made the exchange. Milo put money in the meter, and they walked over to the Whelon campus. When Milo and Eustace entered the campus, there was plenty of music and cooking going on. The countries represented were Turkey, Kuwait, Iran, India, China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia. Milo noticed a set of black haired girls, and recognized Amira right away. High up in the stands, Mr. and Mrs. Jafari had been sitting away from everyone else. By this time Minu and Nousha were both back in school. Well, Nousha was a freshman. Seeing Amira had been quite an experience for him, and all the sudden Milo's life made full sense. Milo got some Butter Chicken at the Indian table. The food had not been too impressive, as it had been sitting out under a lamp. Milo was a bit excited about seeing Amira, and stayed quite a while. Eustace got a little bored with the event, and insisted on going home. Milo only left when the Sassani's left. Milo had seen Amira hug some friends. Milo also knew well that Amira was going back to Toledo that week. Strangely, this did not even bother Milo in the slightest, and got this sense that he would one day see Amira again.

A few days later before Susewago Orientation, Milo, Uncle Leo, Eustace, Sylvester and his friend Jesse went to the Seewouden. By this time, Amira had gone back to Toledo. Otherwise, Seewoulden had been quite fun. This was the first time Milo had been to the park all summer. Uncle Leo was not too thrilled that Sylvester asked Jesse to go, as he was not a particularly big fan of rides, but Sylvester insisted. That year, a new ride known as the Disko had been added. This was a thrill ride that spun resembling a skate park. They went on the new roller coaster 10 years in the making. This coaster had been added the previous summer. After the park, they went over to Pizza Hut for dinner. Milo had not been to this Pizza Hut since going with Shawn after Seewoulden four summers previous.

On Friday, Milo and Margaret travelled out to Susewago for orientation. Milo looked through the class brochure, and Milo had become quite excited about all the possibilities available, and majors to choose from. This had been considering the small amount of choices Mal-Tech had. Milo was absolutely excited about the possibilities. Milo first had to take a math evaluation test, and did not do so well. What happened was the tester did not tell them they could use a calculator. Then Milo had to write an essay to test if he needed remedial writing. Luckily Milo passed this one. Unfortunately the anticipation quickly faded. The longer Milo was at orientation, the more apprehensive he became about furthering his education. As it was, Milo did not know anyone there, and did not have any sense of belonging. One of the facilities Milo took a test at reminded him of some creepy psychiatrists office he remembered from when he was four. Plus Milo had some myopic anticipations about Sussewago being full of pretty girls, and utterly different than Mal-Tech. That night, Milo started wondering what he had gotten himself into. Now Milo had not considered the fact that being at a foreign facility full of people he did not know would be a bit rough at first. In fact, this had not been too much different from when Milo started Ciderpond High. Milo just happened to have revised his memories of Ciderpond to make them more comfortable than they really were. As Milo had signed up so late, he did not have too many options, and could only take two classes.

On Sunday, Ray, Margaret and Milo went out to Sussewago to visit the facility. Milo got a bit uncomfortable when he saw so many goth and emo students out and about. Milo was not sure if he would ever find belonging at this facility. Seeing the hall where his art class was at did not ease Milo much more. This hall had reminded Milo of St. Timothy's, where his old preschool class was.

On Tuesday, Milo had his first class, and decided that he did not want to continue school after the semester. Something about the halls felt too "Schoolish" to Milo. Milo's first class was Western Art history. This first class had been pretty short, as the teacher just read the syllabus. For about a good hour, Milo walked around the campus, waiting to go to World Geography. Milo started thinking of his upcoming Christmas break, when he would be done with school for good. Milo thought that once these demons are exorcized, he would take Amira up to the Statlerville Shrine. Milo knew there was a Christmas festival of Lights at that time.

Milo had expected this experience to be like starting Ciderpond High six years back. Milo had remembered how it was a challenge to start highschool, and getting used to a new system. However, this beginning Sussewago reminded him more of starting Mal-Tech. Milo knew well how difficult it was with Mal-Tech, and starting a foreign school with no familiarity. Milo also suspected that this would be easier, considering that he had no ties to other schools he had connections with severed. When it came to Wednesday, Milo felt back in the similar position as he was when starting Mal-Tech. As to what to do with his life, Milo felt utterly clueless. Grandma Pearl told Milo at dinner that night that he cannot judge a school after only spending one day there.

On Thursday, Milo found a girl in his Geography class that reminded him of Yasmine, despite being a tall blonde girl. This girl really just had some similar facial expressions as Yasmin. That weekend, Ben was in town, and he invited them out to Chinese with Milo, Salvatore, Rob and Eustace. Ben bought Milo his first beer, as he just turned 21. When it came to returning back to school the next week, Milo was more excited. Milo had gone off and on about whether he would or would not continue his education. In some regards, Milo felt like he was back in highschool, and being at a school he wanted to stay at. Other times, Milo felt frustrated, as he wanted to meet people, but had not been at the campus long enough. As Milo was not familiar with the way from Ciderpond to Sussewago, he took a bus, which did not give him much flexibility.

Alexander's retirement

The time had come for Alexander to retire. Being a Puerubdi, Alexander became part of the mission that he forgot that his term was near ending. One day, Alexander got the letter explaining that his time as the Puerubdi was near completion, and he was ready to move onto further studies. Unfortunately, this left earth without a Puerubdi, and would open the doors to Brutus for better or worse. Yet Alexander was looking forward to getting away from Brutus. Alexander's new ambition was to join ranks with Oscar and Durnil.

Chapter 39: The end of Fundamentalism

The Full Initiation

By this time, the Cobolds had been initiated into Patimesh. The Cobolds back in Agrabah had long anticipated this day of entry, and hoped beyond all hope to see some shrine to the Dance or the Great Phoenix. During these days, the Cobolds were not allowed into Patimesh, or learn the real name of their master, or the favored slave. Iohannes was anticipating seeing Rivkah and Harony again. By this time, the Cobolds had been severely brainwashed into thinking that Patimesh was the center of the world and doorway between Kebsuda and the heavenly realms. The Cobolds had been warned time and time that there would be unspeakable consequences for any rejection of Patimesh, whether leaving or denying its sovereignty.

Upon the day of initiation and entry, the Cobolds had been surprised to see that there was not a single shrine to the Great Phoenix or the Dance. In fact, much of the customs and values in Patimesh seemed to resemble Agrabah and the other temple towns. Eventually, the Cobolds were taken to the temple, and were introduced to the master known as Supradolfter. Aerondin asked the priest about the favored slave. The priest told Aerondin that the slave has not come yet. Queniviere corrects the priest, explaining that the Great Phoenix already came. The priest looked utterly horrified at the mention of this name. The priest Dimond explained how one named Justeven had told news of a phoenix, and how he destroyed the Mount of Lava. Yusefus asked what was so bad about that. Dimond looked like he had just been slapped, and explained that this mount was built by Frogastain before leaving that town. This mount had been designed to place those who were unworthy of Patimesh. Dimond then reassured the cobolds that this mount would one day be restored to the Glory of Supradolfter and his servant.

Iohannes had been disappointed to find that Rivkah and Harmony had not been present. According to the Elders, Rivkah and Harmony were not not ready to live in Patimesh, and that there was a good chance that they were not worthy for this holy city. Iohannes had been horrified about never seeing Rivkah, and the possibility that her and Harmony would be cast into a mount full of molten lava to live. Iohannes never felt he could love Supradolfter. Frankly, Supradolfter seemed a lot like that overruler they falsely served in Beaubelles after the great flood.

Back in Londinium, the festivities had come to their conclusion, and it was time for the remaining Cobolds to re-enter their headquarters. Upon entering the headquarters, the Cobolds had found the interior quite different than they remembered, and had many disturbing artifacts. Upon entering the facility, there was a hideous statue of a stern looking man with a toothebrush mustache holding a hammer known as Mjolnir. All the artifacts from the Londinian museum were removed, and the library had been cleared out. As to where all the books and artifacts had gone, this had not been revealed. The basement shelter that once housed the refugees from the great flood had been boarded up. The guest house had been cleared of any furniture, along with the museum, and was replaced with a great plaque saying "No Free Lunch". One room the Cobolds found was a great torture chamber with a number of torture devices. There was a book explaining how to use the devices for particular offenses.

The Unleashing of the Timora's

During that time, the Greater Essex region including Ciderpond had been under a great period of peace, once the Timoras and diploros had been contained. Even Noussonberg had been rebeautified, as Billius and Simone planned. Now the box keeping the shadows bound had been in the custody of Maelendil. Even on the Jinn realm, there had been much celebration, except for Brutus. Brutus had been sulking, and none of the Jinns understood why.

One afternoon, Yuriyama arrived to instruct Maelendil about the box. Yuriyama told of a vision he had of two frogs, the first frog had been thrown into boiling water and leaped out and survived, while the second frog was put into room temperature water, and the water began to gradually rise and the frog became so accustomed to the heat that it eventually killed him. Maelendil understood what this meant, and understood that this meant the Timora's would have to be released soon. Yuriyama talked about how his charge is still under the spell of Fundamentalism, but has been in a state of ignorant bliss about what this means, after speaking with the pastor. Yuriyama explained that the best way to do this would be to release a few timora's early, and then let the Timora's all be released.

One fateful Saturday afternoon near the end of September, Pandora, Maelendil, Brutus and Dugmateous gathered at the opening of the box. Much to the Jinns pain, Pandora opened the box, and the Timora's immediately flew out. On the latter days of September, the Timora's had fully spread throughout Ciderpond and brought a great spirit of fear throughout the lands. Maelendil had been disheartened by this traumatic but necessary act. Pandora explained that the journey into the shadowlands was inevitable, and explained that it was better sooner than later. Pandora then mentioned how having experienced life without the timoras, the more eager they will be to defeat them. Pandora explains that the only way the Timora's can be defeated is to ignore them, no matter how much torment they bring. Pandora compared the Timora's to an itch that when scratched attracts more timora's.

Voris Co. Warning

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds began working on disposing of the torture chamber, the hideous statue, unboarding the shelter and remodeling the Headquarters back to the way it was beforehand. Once they started to remove this junk, a great horn sounded that shook the whole facility. The Cobolds had been a bit perturbed about this, but considered this of no importance. A little while later, there was a great knock at the door. Elrich answered and Voris Co. appeared, to give the Cobolds a severe reprimanding. Voris Co. explained that the items had been put in place to keep the house from falling apart. The Cobolds asked Voris Co. where their books, office supplies, museum artifacts and furniture were. Voris Co. reminded the Cobolds that they were not to question them ever under any circumstances. The Cobolds had been frustrated about this prospect. Then the Voris Co. asked why they were not following the book they placed in the chamber. Voris Co. explained that the only way that the headquarters could stay up was if they enforced the laws. Then Voris Co. left the headquarters.

The Cobolds felt that by doing so, they were being more punitive than that horrible Emersina and Trommer at the inn at Gairmsoiled. However, the Cobolds had been much conflicted, as they did not want to see their headquarters fall. Remus gave his two cents, and kept to the story that it maybe better to let the place fall. The Cobolds protested, claiming to be giving the enemies reason to gloat. Elrich explained that he knew of arrogance and the power of corruption after his fall from grace in Atlantis. Elrich never talked much about what had happened in Atlantica, and how he nearly compromised the mission. Elrich explained that Voris Co. seems very power hungry, and does not believe them to be any more friends than the vandals who attacked the headquarters. The Cobolds still protested, and insisted Voris Co. was their friend.

The Cobolds vowed only to try the least barbaric penalty on a disobedient Londinian. As it was, they felt disgusted with themselves for even considering doing such a thing. One thing the Cobolds learned in Gairmsoiled was that they knew how it felt to be subjected to tyrants, and could not become tyrants themselves. Plus, the Cobolds knew that their headquarters were a waste of space if they were only to be used for Punishment.

The beginning of the End

Over this time, Milo had been a month into his first term at Sussewago. By this time, Milo got comfortable with Sussewago, and enjoyed his Geography class. The teacher was a humorously sarcastic lady who had the class in constant interaction. As for Western art, the material had been interesting, but the teacher was a bit monotone. Otherwise, this teacher was still very knowledgeable.

In late September Milo had quite a peaceful Saturday. Now Milo had not done too much with his Paranormal Page, but had the idea that the news had gotten out to Rokshana, Nousha and Yasmin, and that they were receptive. Milo thought this is why the moment the Biancatello's entered Tampa that he had such euphoria. So Milo tried to continue his work, and did some more research on Catholic Demonology. Milo had found a preview of an E-Book from a Catholic writer that was given both Nihil Obstat and Imprimatur. This book talked all about the ways a demon can possess someone. This included practices outside official Catholic teachings, fraternizing with the practices of other Protestant or non-Christian sects, sins of the flesh, and disobedience to authority. There were severe threats of horrible torments of hell to practitioners. As the Fundamentalist Catholic belief went, those who were part of the Catholic Church knew well that these practices are forbidden, and could not claim ignorance to avoid Hell. Milo went into a major fright after reading this horrible stuff. Yet Milo was not sure if he should hold these authors responsible, and wondered if this was any different than shooting the messenger.

Things only got worse when Milo found that loopholes around their doctrines were all closed. All those religious fear that Milo had forgotten and thought he could safely deny had now come back to him. Milo had anxiously tried to find loopholes, but was finding that there were less and less that could be closed. That first week, Milo was in rare form, and feeling constantly uneasy. After that day, Milo had been utterly uneasy. On Sunday night, Milo had a weird dream about trying to get a job at the civic center, and desperately wanted to work there. On Tuesday, Milo had his classes, but felt that school had a more consoling feel than being back at home. On Wednesday, Milo started to read over the Catechism, which just made things worse. This book ended up covering every question of existence, which made Milo want to prove once and for all that a good Catholic can think and reason for himself, and understand goodness grounded on natural law. All these teachings did not make sense in an existential way, but only if existence is like a giant courtroom or academic exercise. That night, Milo had a dream that he was at the mall, and playing with full grown dogs that were not being adopted. Milo tried watching some mystery television, but this did not have the effect to mystify him anymore. At this time, Milo was not able to decipher between mystery and nonsense, much to his frustrations.

One Sunday later, Milo was out of sorts. Milo started having flashbacks to when he first read "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows", and trying to reconcile Christian themes with a book that did not seem to give such dogmatic messages. Plus, Milo felt conflicted, as Lydia missed church due to being on college visits. Milo was supposed to consider what Lydia did a mortal sin, but could not bring himself to believe such a stupid thing. For a second, Milo hated the Catholics that believed Lydia guilty of Mortal sin, but was not sure he should hate them if they are just the messengers.

Milo started getting back into the Medjugorey stuff again, knowing they were not so harsh and punitive as other forms of piety. This was despite the fact that many in the Church considered the apparitions Satanic. One of the biggest justifications had been that the Medjudgorey messages had been that most souls eventually will be saved, while many considered the teaching heretical, due to a misunderstanding of Matthew 7.

On Tuesday Night, Milo came across a Medjugorey podcast, as he was becoming quite disturbed by the content. This Medjugorey podcast was similar to one of these Darbyist fear mongering of some horrible judgment day. This gave the standard Fundamentalist model claiming the exact roadmap of history. Now there had been some suspicions that those so called secrets of Medjudgorey had some doomsday propaganda. Then before bed, Milo knew he needed some sleep to get away from all these thoughts. Before sleeping, Milo read more propaganda, where a priest from EWTN accused a lapsed Catholic of living in mortal sin over disagreeing with them, and not being able to claim ignorance. That night, Milo had some dreams about a supposed third seasons Simpsons episode that predicted George Bush goofing up, coming home from Florida, starting Sussewago and some deceased parishioner from St. Timothy's.

That day, Milo was utterly out of sorts. He could barely study for his classes, and felt in an utter crisis. Milo just felt so uncertain and utterly confused. For Milo, he felt like he really was in some apocalyptic movie, with an overall sense of doom something dark was coming, and needed to associate with the pure side. Yet the right side, according to Milo was extremely cold, dour and utterly judgmental and dualistic.

Milo then remembered a link some therapist posted on a gloom and doom site years ago, for treating Anxiety Disorder. Milo researched the link, and found this website for a scientific approach known as the Linden Method. Everything Milo read made absolute sense. The diagnosis criteria mentioned sense of impending doom, inability to reason, obsessive thoughts, disturbing feelings and many physical symptoms also. Milo then got a sense of understanding of what really happened. Milo remembered how he had been worse off his last year at Mal-Tech than his first year. In retrospect, that first year seemed like a walk in the park. Milo then got a different set of ideas of how it all happened. That first year at Mal-Tech had really stressed Milo out, and he wanted to get out of school so badly, and stressed himself out to pass his classes. When he did not pass the class before summer break, this set off the anxiety trigger. Milo remembered how he got anxious when he was about to return to Mal-Tech, and how much he dreaded this. Then Milo remembered hearing about Fundamentalism, which he claimed made him worse towards the end of the Summer. Milo then remembered having seen the documentary "What every Catholic needs to Know about Hell", and how shortly afterwards, he started having frequent nightmares of that similar nature, such as the departures from Disney World, the Asylum and Mal-Tech. Milo then saw that all his problems had been neurological in nature, and that Mal-Tech nor were religion really to blame.

Milo thought he was cured, as he did fine on Thursday. In fact, Milo missed the bus to Sussewago, and drove out there with no problems. That afternoon, Milo then read over some material on Anti-semitism in the Church, but thought this was something long done away with and taken care of. The next day, Ray and Margaret left for Gettysburg for Julians wedding. That morning, Milo saw a TV show, and went into a panic attack when he saw a cartoon duck with his hair parted resembling Scott Hahn. This gave Milo flashbacks to that awful film he saw months ago. That afternoon, Milo went shopping for some books to heal anxiety, but had no such luck. Milo then considered getting that Linden Method. That evening, Aunt Jane invited Milo, Lydia and Salvatore over for Pizza, as she did not go to the wedding. While Milo was over, Aunt Jane got a call, where Lydia was crying, and asking Milo to come home and pick her up. Milo immediately asked if Jinny was okay, but was still pretty shaky. What really happened was Lydia and Emily were having some problems. Emily was a bit cynical, and always worried that people did not like her, which made it hard for Lydia to have other friends. So Aunt Jane picked Lydia up, as Milo was in no temporary condition to drive.

The Cobolds Concerns

Back in Patimesh, Iohannes had not been faring too well. He was not sure that he could go along with this place, or ever have sincere loyalty to Supradolfter. The only loyalty Iohannes had was solely out of fear. Otherwise, the other Cobolds seemed to be so entranced by this land, that they had almost begun to believe that Supradolfer was some merciful hero. Over this time, the Cobolds in Patimesh had become so brainwashed to believe that the Dance was an impotent illusion out to tell the Mistivants what they wanted to hear, and the Great Phoenix as an evil monster out to obstruct justice.

Whenever Iohannes expressed his misgivings, the other Cobolds told him that he was being blinded by Love. Aerondin told Iohannes that his love for Rivkah and Harmony don't really matter if Supradolfter does not choose them. In more ways than Iohannes could describe, he hated Supradolfter, and saw him as nothing more than a bully making rules just because he was the biggest bully in Kebsuda. Yet Iohannes had been afraid to admit this out of fear of experiencing Supradolfters wrath. Another Cobold Yusefus always found the official history of Patimesh to be quite non-sensical, but was told that any challenging of their history is calling Supradolfter a fool, and that he is in no place to talk that way about the one who gave them this land, and chose them, when he could have let them rot in their place of origin.

When it came to life in Patimesh, it was pretty boring. Every day, they had to give honor to Supradolfter at ten specific times of the day, facing the temple from whatever direction they were in. Otherwise, dating had been prohibited, and all marriages were arranged by the Patimesh elders, who considered themselves the final messengers of Supradolfter. This town considered marriage to be a matter of keeping Mistivantkind going, and did not consider love to be a matter of importance. Otherwise, if a resident walked passed a relic of one of their leaders, such as Frogastain, Patimu, or other revered priests, they had to immediately prostrate, and whip their backs telling how unworthy they were to walk past the relic. This town also mandated Mistivant sacrifice if anyone had stepped out of line. Their method was to burn the offender in a firepit, in hopes that they would repent of their disallegiance to Supradolfter. Their theory was that sacrificing a deviant would preserve the moral fabric of Patimesh.

The Bad Turn

Over most of this time, Milo listened to Disney Broadway music on youtube when not in class, primarily from the Lion King, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. Other times, Milo spent much time practicing the Piano, in order to keep his mind occupied, according to some advice for anxiety treatments. Milo found that he was not getting any better, and had not found Conservative Catholic teachings any less disturbing than when he first started treatments. Milo started some counselling through Sussewago's health and wellness center, and the Psychologist diagnosed him with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

On one weekend in late October, Milo was very out of sorts. Ray knew there was something up, and thought that maybe he should stop meeting with Vito, or get away from Religion if he has to. Milo still insisted that this was something neurological that originated with Mal-Tech. Frankly, Milo just feared that if he backed away from this kind of religiosity, that he would be helpless, and possibly have to accept the official secular story. Otherwise, it was hard for Milo to accept that an institution that he experienced so much belonging in could have such a hideously dark side.

On a few occasions, Milo succomed to the temptation and found plenty of disturbing literature, such as the Divine Mercy devotions that promoted sadistic ideas of justice grounded on punishment, and these "Gloom and Doom" predictions of some near future apocalypse. We know how successful such doomsday predictions have been since the dawn of humanity. The more Milo researched "By the Book" Catholicism, he began to realize that this religion had the same draconian, intolerant and "us vs. them" fear mongering found in the Evangelical forms of Fundamentalism.

After the last straw, Milo went into a constant state of anxiety after reading some Divine Mercy literature. That Thursday, Milo had to go into Sussewago early for his meeting with his counselor. Milo was at the bus stop pretty early, which reminded him of his early flight to Tampa. Milo started thinking this maybe part of the reason for feeling anxious. That day at school, Milo had no appetite, and only ate some vegetables for lunch. Then Milo had his meeting with the counselor, and she gave him a book on anxiety management exercises. After getting home, Milo told Ray and Margaret about the book he got, and explained where his anxiety originated from. Milo mentioned he first started becoming stressed when Deville questioned his loyalty to Mal-Tech. Margaret was pretty angry about what Deville said, and called her statement extremely ignorant.

Over these weeks, Milo was managing his anxiety not too bad. As long as Milo was not thinking about religion, he was fine. However this could be hard, with Vito popping in for visits so often, and going to Church on Sunday's. Not to mention, Milo still had dreams about religion, and could not stop those questions from popping in his head. Even pieces of Literature such as Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia had now disturbed Milo, considering the archetypes of the stories now seemed to have much gloom and doom foundations.

The Hypocordo's Switch and Vesta's Scroll

During these days, Wipou had become quite powerful. Wipou had still been scapegoating the Tech School, and denying that Rome was in any way responsible for what the Timora's still being on earth. Wipou had Sheepus, Buttkamft and Siren at her command, though Siren was doing a pretty poor job. Wipou's offsprings the Occultist, Horseman and Mahishasura were still doing her bidding. However, the Mahishasura was mostly loyal to his other parent Pecunia. According to Maelendil's observations, those on earth who were under Wipou had secretly wished to be back under Pecunia, as they knew he was a weak master under no one, while Wipou was under a severe teacher, and a very powerful and harsh boss. As to who this was, no one knew.

Dugmateous felt more aggrieved about the power Wipou and her band of Rakshasajinns had. Over this time, Billius called for a meeting with Dugmateous and Maelendil. Billius asked if he remembered years back, about when the cousin's Sarkikos got powerful. Maelendil knew what he was talking about, and how the cousins sarkikos was activated after injuring his brother, and he became an uptight barking dog. Billius explains that the Sarkikos of the charge became activated after failing his class at the tech school. Billius explains that the charge had been one who knew how to get past arbitrary limitations, and when he failed, he started retreating to his head, and looked for new methods to find a way to defeat limitations through gaining knowledge. Dugmateous then understood how this quest for knowledge was this desire for certainty, and thought that the more knowledge he had, the more certain he could become. However, all the charge has is ideology, which provides more questions with no certainty. Billius explained that this had been the reason the Occult Offspring had been so appealing, and had been working for the team with Siren and Wipou. Dugmateous explains how the Horseman has the upper hand now. Maelendil explains about the Charges freshman year, when the Horseman made harsh demands on him, and did it when he was a senior at Valentines day. Maelendil explains how the Horseman is working for both his parents Wipou and Buttkamft, knowing that the Charge will submit to a brutal system just to avoid change.

A few days later, the Annogrammatron Vesta appeared to announce that the Scroll Husisha gave her years back when the Khara's first moved in had now been loosened. According to the Scroll, a noble prince who had spent years of snobbery against the poor would be transformed into a monster full of despair. The rest of the scroll speaks of a woman who is the only one who can rescue this beast from this monstrous state. Maelendil had a great uneasiness over hearing this news, and knew what it meant. According to Maelendil's understanding, the scroll had been fulfilled that day.

That night, Pandora called a meeting with Maelendil, Brutus, Vesta, Dugmateous, Gustavette and Husisha. During these days, Brutus had been oddly gleeful, while the rest of the Jinns working for Ciderpond had been quite solemn and reserved. Pandora explained that the end of the Timora's power was near, and that preparations for a new day were near. When Brutus heard the news, he looked gravely disappointed, while all the other Jinns had been quite joyful at this news.

The charism of the Didache showed up after several ages with Appolinius and Bacchus, and declared it was time to go back to the basics. Dugmateous explained that the earthlings had tried this already, and how this is what brought fourth this mess to begin with. Bacchus explained that this was only because the only setup had been flesh and blood structure he offered. Appolinius explained that the skeletal structure needs to be setup alongside. The Charism of the Didache explained that history would be repeating itself, and exciting things were to start up again. Maelendil recounted what happened when the Charism first appeared.

The Phoenix Grief

At this time, the Great Phoenix returned to Kebsuda as he promised back in the latter days of the Cobolds time in Gairmsoiled. The Great Phoenix flew over the lands and arrived over Shemitaria to spot the Cobolds living in Patimesh having rejected the him in favor for this thug Supradolfter, and his cowardice slave. The Great Phoenix sang songs through the sky, but the Cobold's could no longer hear, let alone believe like they once had. Even Iohannes could barely hear it, and thought it was nothing more than a fantasy too good to be true.

For four attempts, the Great Phoenix sang of his secrets that the Patimesh elders had been too deaf to hear, and had no luck. Back in Patimesh, the Cobolds heard the song as if nothing more than a rats squeak, but longed to know where it came from. However, the Cobolds were too fearful to listen, and the Great Phoenix heard their call. But the Great Phoenix returns to Londinium to tell the news. First, the Great Phoenix stops in Gairmsoiled for Tisha. The Great Phoenix knew well that Tisha knew something about Voris Co. and flew her to Londinium

Back in Londinium, the Great Phoenix arrives and declares that the captured Cobolds had been found. The Great Phoenix places Tisha on the top of the Cobolds Headquarters. Then the Great Phoenix sang a song that summoned Nick the Eagle from the Cheapan tribe. The Great Phoenix asked Nick to find the one known as Malpied Voris. The Great Phoenix asked Tisha to tell her story. Tisha explained that Severus and the teachers had been protecting Gallicanium from the Gairmsoiled authorities. Severus only acted so mean in order to not arouse any suspicions amonst the Gairmsoiled powers. Severus knew that there was a traitor working for them, known as Malpied. The Cobolds gasped, as they remembered that Malpied was Voris first name. Tisha goes on to explain that Malpied had been part of their secret society to bring down this movement in Gairmsoiled to seize power over Gallicanium and become the new capital city, and reinstate the reign of the Hypocordo's. Severus grew suspicious over what Malpied was up to, and spied on him at a pub. Malpied disappeared in another room, and was never to be found. However, Severus did find some Maludico making a deal with a hooded figure who was keeping Taibi as a slave. Severus had this hooded figure followed, and when he had fallen asleep, Severus broke Taibi out of his chains, and took him over to his school. This hooded figure did not fare too well after this, as Taibi was freed, and blew the whistle on his boss. Elrich asked if she knew why Severus wanted to go to Hamitaria so bad. Tisha sheepishly explained that Severus thought there were some magical items that could detect and destroy dangerous weapons. Another Cobold asked if she knew anything about the lost cobolds. The Great Phoenix explained that they had been taken to a land that once belonged to Tisha's people, known as the Shemitarians. These pseudo-Shemitarians had a revised history where they claimed the right to the land, and developed these ideas that all the Mistivants of color living in this area were a cursed people.

Soon enough, Nick returned with Malpied Voris. When Nick had him tied up, the Cobolds all started asking him questions. Voris just scowled and them like he was in no mood to be patronized. The Great Phoenix started singing this song that made mysterious objects come out of Voris pocket, including this set of tentacles, some potions resembling the tonic the Governor used to change his appearance, and some tools. One Londinian on the defense league who had spied on the same pub Severus was at mentioned seeing the Maludico holding these same pairs of tentacles. Then the Phoenix sang a song, and Malpied was transformed into a Maludico. The Londinian on the defense league immediately recognized the Maludico as the one who made the deal with the hooded figure, and recognized his still bad toupee. After this, the Phoenix left, and took Malpied out of Kebsuda.

One majestic day, a golden dragon flew over Patimesh, and the Cobolds were quite afraid. Then there was more noise sounding as wings of flame. Then there was a great whoosh, and the walls of Patimesh started tumbling down. When the walls were down, the Cobolds saw a great golden tail that with one swipe knocked over the walls of Patimesh. Then the Dragon breathed a mighty wind that blew the Cobolds out of the boundaries of Patimesh, and found they were not smitten. At this, the Cobolds felt a great relief of joy and liberation. The Dragon ordered the Cobolds to back away. Then the Dragon flew through all the temple towns of Shemitaria, and knocked down their walls, including the towns of Salafitum, Westberious, Mcglonistan, Spyritony, Haggebad, Moreyton and Jistenious. What the Cobolds noticed was that all the towns had temples to Supradolfter rising above the towns, looking similar, but equally ugly.

Once the Cobolds knew that Voris was a liar, they stripped the Headquarters of the junk that Voris Co. brought in the house. That evening, the Cobolds started a bonfire where they tossed all the torture devices, and smashed the hideous statue. There was a great crack, but the Cobolds had not cared, as the Great Phoenix had returned with glorious tidings. After this, the cobolds saw the tentacles left behind, and understood that Voris had been controlling the town, and lowering the morale. Before getting much of a chance to observe the tentacles, they began to develop puss filled sacks, and the Cobolds all backed away quickly. Then the tentacles exploded, and there was a great quake in the land.

The Mystical Experience

Over this time, Milo decided that he needed to talk with Monsignor Warburton again, as he remembered him advising him about the Catholic Church being more optimistic. Two Saturdays before Thanksgiving, Milo was quite out of sorts. Milo had remembered just two years ago being desperate to leave Mal-Tech, due to the fear and authoritarian approach they promoted. Milo knew that this form of religiosity was unescapable, unlike Mal-Tech. This so called 'god' was always watching, and looking for any moment to punish. That afternoon, Milo went to confession, and had Fr. Warburton. Milo addressed his first concern about how church teachings seem to cover everything, and gives too simplistic of answers, and he brings up the concept of Reincarnation. Fr. Warburton says that it could happen. Milo then brings up his second concern, about how it seemed like many Catholics subscribed to Gloom and Doom thinking. Milo asked Fr. Warburton if this was all just an invention of Evangelical Christianity, based on fear based thinking. Fr. Warburton told Milo that this Gloom and Doom stuff was still an integral part of the Catholic tradition. What Milo did not understand that the Catholic Church, and other Christian denominations had known of something beyond the gloom and doom, even if often times ignored. At the time, this did not make Milo feel too much better. It now became abundantly clear that this gloom and doom stuff was in the Catholic Church, and he was out of loopholes.

On Monday, Milo met with Vito, who stopped over for a visit. Milo told Vito all about what Fr. Warborton told him about reincarnation. Vito told Milo that the priest never should have told him that. That night, Milo started to strangely start feeling better. Unfortunately, that night Milo had a dream about his Senior trip to Columbus, and there being ghost attacks responsible for the possessions. On Wednesday, Milo read through more Catholic Answers articles on matters of other religions. The answers were all pretty intolerant, and Milo started wondering how anyone could keep sane in such a religion. Yet Milo still thought this was the absolute truth, and wanted to trut the Magisterium at all costs. Yet the appeal was dying, as Milo was wondering if it was worth losing his sanity in order to be right about some Demon attacks. Yet Milo also did not want to get into secular thinking either. On Wednesday Night, Milo stopped at Aunt Michelles to pick up his glasses he left over at their house a few nights ago. This had been when Milo was a bit off, and had dinner at their house. Salvatore mentioned getting Lunch on Friday.

That Wednesday Night, Milo had another strange dream about a teacher he had in Highschool taking him to different devotional rooms, such as a Fatima room, a Lourdes room, one from "Our Lady of Akita" and a Medjudgorey room. Milo had to pick one of the rooms. The Thursday before Thanksgiving which had been the 19th of November, Milo had been feeling oddly peaceful. As it was, Milo had another meeting with his counselor, and he was back at school early. In the morning, Milo watched Home Improvement in the student lounge. Milo had been thinking about Thanksgiving, and how he just wanted to get well for the Holiday. During his meeting with the counselor, she asked him a series of questions, which got Milo remembering going to Lake Forest with Ray over the Summer. Milo felt that this had been one his last good memories before this anxiety period.

During Art History class, Milo had a mystical experience of some truth beyond the punitive and judgmental idol of Fundamentalism. Milo had not been paying too much attention, as he was still ruminating about anxiety and religion. Milo had remembered that the Catholic Fundamentalists had claimed that they were the only ones to have the testimony of miracles or prophecies that came to pass, which further validated their claims to exclusive infallibility. Then Milo remembered the program he saw in the Lake Forest hotel of the psychic who did the same exact thing. Milo then asked himself if all this he had learned over the past few months was even true. Milo became utterly freed from fundamentalism after asking the question if this was even real. Milo experienced something quite ineffable, as if being exposed to a truth beyond mere ideologies or descriptions, and definitely not this external authority who punishes people. This experience made the fundamentalist god seem like nothing more than an insignificant fire ant whose only ability to punish was a mere bite.

After this experience, Milo had his Geography Class, and felt in a burdenless mood. This need for ideological certainty was just gone. After class, Milo got Ice Cream at the Campus café, and boarded the bus back to Ciderpond. When Milo got back into town, he went to the Ciderpond mall pet store. When Milo got home, he started doing research on spirituality, and found out that Catholic Church history was not so consistent as they claimed. The narrative Milo had been hearing was the Church was completely unified until Martin Luther came on and brought fourth the Protestant reformation. According to the records of history, there were ancient Churches outside the confines of the western jurisdiction in places as far as India and China.

The Oracle and trial

One night, Yuriyama and Azeyas were both summoned to the akashic hall of prophecies. This was the vision both Yuriyama and Azeyas saw: A mans house gets an infestation of Demon Slugs at his house, and has a hard time getting rid of them. These were an ugly slug with leechlike suckers. The sight of these creatures had horrified this home owner and he caught them going in the kitchen sink drain. This man is quite distraught, and cannot just get them to move out, but he doesn't want to kill them. After some contemplation the man decided to dispose of these demon slugs for good. At once, the man throws the slugs in the drain, turns on the garbage disposal, and the demon slugs give off a horrible wail as they are pulverized to mush. Yuriyama had seen this vision as a horrible cost that could only be seen in a nightmare. Azeyas saw this as a great victory over the powers of ugliness. Both Yuriyama and Azeyas agreed to let Maelendil judge the results.

When Yuriyama and Azeyas arrived to Maelendil, they found him setting up for a trial. Maelendil invited Azeyas and Yuriyama to join him in the trial. Maelendil explains how he had the Occult and Horseman offspring in custody, along with Buttkamft, and Sheepus. Maelendil tells the good news that the Charge had relented, and let them take Wipou into custody. Four elves arrived after having captured the Maludico's Wipou, Buttkamft and Sheepus.

Maelendil then setup trial, and called for the Annogrammatrons Maugris, Billius, Merriwhether, Victoria, Dugmateous, Axelrod, Simone and Vesta. Four new Annogrammatrons are invited, being Baldred the Liberal from the first order, Gustavette the Compassionate from the first order, Platoneous the Symbolist from the Fifth order and Mercius the mythic from the Fourth order. Then Brutus, Alexander, Cashmir and Husisha showed up. Brutus looked a bit agitated about having to attend this trial.

Then the trial began. Buttkampft was tried for promoting brutality and Sheepus was tried for promoting blind obedience. Then Wipou was interrogated for conspiracy and placing attention elsewhere for the sake of coverup. Then Yuriyama and Azeyas shared the vision they had seen, and Maelendil sensed that there was one missing. Maelendil then confronted Wipou over her conspiracy, and she refused to talk. After Maelendil tried to be nice, he asked for Maugris help. Maugris cast a truth spell on Wipou. Maelendil then asked Wipou what happened to Conkus. Wipou grunted that he deflated after the charge did not get the job at the obnoxious play place full of slobbering brats. Then Maelendil asked Wipou what happened to Udopis. Wipou grunted that he was too soft, and her master scared him off. Then Maelendil asked Wipou what happened to Siren. Wipou grunted about Siren being of no use and was sent off in the summer. Maelendil asked Wipou what happened to Pecunia. Wipou grunted that they had an offspring together known as the Mahishasura, but hates him. Maelendil asks Wipou why she hates Pecunia. Wipou grunts that Pecunia won't submit to him, and he has his own agenda. Then Maelendil asks Wipou about what Buttkamft is doing for her. Wipou grunts that her master told her to use his help. Wipou then Maelendil that Sheepus is doing the same, before he asks again. Then Maelendil asks where her master is Wipou explains that he resides with both Deacon Hoyt Mcguinnes and Fr. Dick Lauriegh of St. Mary's parish in Essex. Billius told Wipou that this was not the time to be making stupid jokes. Maelendil explained that this really was the priests name. Maelendil summoned the elf to search the rectory and deacons residence.

Soon enough, the elf arrived with a Maludico dressed in a bishops hat, black robes and a snakes staff. Maelendil looked at the Maludico, and gradually recognized this Maludico as Infundermalis, and then waved his hands speaking an incantation. At once, Infundermalis was revealed to be the same form he took when giving that horrible sermon over a year ago. Maelendil asked Infundermalis what he was planning. Infundermalis claimed that he is a servant to the highest master, whom had been slanderously called the Accuser. Then Infundermalis declared the cosmic law is the cosmic law, and he does his sacred duty to enforce it. Maelendil asked what he was using Buttkamft for. Infundermalis explained that the earthlings need discipline, and those who go against the law need to know that they are lowlife filth, and deserve to be punished. Maelendil then asks Infundermalis what he used Sheepus for. Infundermalis got an attitude, and told Maelendil he knows why, and not to patronize him. Maelendil explains that he knows well that Infundermalis of course wanted blind obedience. Then Infundermalis made the claim that Brutus never banished him, and been working as spy. Brutus protested that Infundermalis was out of line. Brutus then gave an apology that he was at fault, and never should have performed the banishment when he had no experience to do such a thing. After this, Infundermalis was taken off, and declared that he was glad to suffer persecution for the sake of his master. Then Wipou, Buttkamft and Sheepus were taken off to the Rakshasajinn prison along with Infundermalis.

Thanksgiving and Christmas

That Friday after this mystical experience, Milo had some more nightmares. During the morning, Milo was still having disturbing thoughts, but the words SHUT UP came to his head, and the thoughts lost so much power. During the afternoon, Milo and Salvatore ate at a new Middle Eastern restaurant for lunch. This food was quite different than the food from Ishfatan. The food at this new restaurant was more similar to the food at Byblos. Milo felt a certain level of comfort being at a restaurant he suspected owned by Muslims, just because they were not Christians of any sort. Salvatore told Milo that his manager was a bitch for trying to make him work on Thanksgiving at the Water Park. Milo then explained his new opinions that Corporations, Organized religion and Governments are the source of evil.

That weekend, the Biancatello's went to Pittsburgh for a college open house for Lydia. Frankly, travelling to a new place had not been so thrilling as Milo experienced over the summer. That night, Milo saw the Christmas movie Mr. St. Nick. Milo had not seen the movie since he was in eighth grade. The next day, Milo did not even feel anxious at Church. Ironically, the sermon was all about not worrying. Ben and Caroline's first daughter Mia was born.

That Monday Morning, Milo woke up from a dream where a Mal-Tech instructor gave him a book on damnation, and Milo threw it in the garbage. That Monday, Milo and Salvatore got Chinese. On Tuesday Milo had to drive out to Sussewago, as the bus never came. After Milo's final class before Thanksgiving, the Biancatellos went out to dinner with Grandma Pearl, Dana and Calvin. Rex was overseas in Korea for a military mission, which was why Dana and Calvin came in town. Milo had been in a good mood, and highly peaceful, as he felt he could be around his family, and no longer had to associate with these dour fundamentalists like those fundies on EWTN or Catholic Answers. Plus, Milo was no longer fearful that there was some heaven where only a bunch of stuck up Pharisees could get into, while the rest had to burn forever.

As for Thanksgiving, the Biancatello's hosted the Holiday. This had been quite a pleasant Holiday, which the whole family attended. Matt brought a classmate from China who went by Chan. Matt had only met Chan just met at McDonalds a few days ago. Chan brought a box of tea as a gift to the Biancatello's for hosting him. As for the holiday, this had been quite pleasant. Dana came with Calvin, and he had four other small children to play with. That year Corey and Kate were in town, and brought Olivia and Jonanthan. Rory, Lauren, Abigail and Logan also joined the party. By this time, Olivia and Abigail just turned three, and Logan and Jonathan just turned a year old. While the boys were playing Super Mario, Milo offered Abigail a turn at the game, but she was too little to know how to play.

As for the rest of the holiday weekend, things were going pretty well. On Friday, Samantha and Lily came over for the post-Thanksgivings leftovers dinner. That day, Milo came across some Medjugorey literature, and still became a big anxious. As to Milo's position on Mejugorey, he was no longer sure, but was no unbeliever. For Milo, having exact answers to such questions did not seem so important anymore. That night, Milo saw some documentary that reminded him of some indefinite memory from his early childhood. As to exactly what, Milo could not recall.

During that night, Milo had some disturbing dreams about the Medjugorey doomsday prophecies. Milo was still a bit uneasy, but somehow knew what these doomsday warnings said were not as binding as it had seemed just a little over a week ago. That night, Grandma Pearl, Calvin and Dana came over. Milo and Calvin watched Aladdin, as it was on Television. That Sunday, Advent began. Otherwise, on Monday Lydia shadowed a Pharmacist at the Hospital, and did not find this career path one bit interesting. Milo and Salvatore got lunch at some new burger restaurant that ended up not lasting too long. Milo started developing an interest in psychology, and got this idea that for most of human history, people in positions of power had only been so powerful, because there had been so much untreated anxiety disorders, which gave too much power to the states, temples and churches, and businesses. Milo got this idea if the world was rid of anxiety, such fear mongering power structures would become a laughing stock to bygone era's where ignorance reigned.

On one Tuesday in class, the teacher taught about torture methods used in Southeast Asia during the communist revolution. Milo asked why they thought this was okay. The teacher started explaining how one needs to put themselves into the shoes of other cultures, and how they think. Milo knew this was the cultural relativism he heard about with the college campuses that assumed there was no such thing as right and wrong, except when applied to Western civilization. Milo was definitely no moral relativist, and especially now. Under no circumstance did Milo believe that torture was in any way justified, even if done by a surpreme being.

That night, Milo felt a bit out of sorts after what happened. Milo saw how morality was used to justify cruelty in the name of some ideology, but knew that this did not mean morality was something to discard. By this time, Milo had become out of touch with the difference between the difference between morals and rules. As Milo originally understood it, rules were just hand me down codes never really examined, and were not necessarily beneficial. Morality on the other hand, Milo saw as the principle that no one needs to be taught, that one naturally wants to live by the golden rule in some form or another.

That night, Milo accidentally got into a piece of literature from Catholic culture, which started condemning anyone to hell if they got into Medjugorey devotions. All this started giving Milo flashbacks to his days with Fundamentalism, and nearly got pulled back into their thinking. Milo sensed some massive malevolence in the tone of the article. That day, Milo had to go back out to Sussewago, as he had to meet with his advisor in order to pick classes for the next semester. Milo told Ray about what happened with questioning the use of torture, and how he felt the teacher was accusing him of intolerance. Ray explained that maybe the teacher was just trying to explain what they were thinking, and that she was not so concerned about whether it was ethical or not.

On Thursday, Milo had his last counselling session before Holiday Break. Now Milo had to go into Sussewago early. Frankly, Milo enjoyed being at the campus for the day. In fact, Milo felt quite n the holiday spirit, moreso than he had in the past two seasons. Plus, Milo had gotten his appetite back, and got lunch at the students center. For the last few weeks, all Milo was eating was very simple food, as he had no appetite. Then on Friday, Milo and Ray did some Christmas shopping, as Margaret, Lydia, Chelsea and her mom were out for the day visiting a potential art school in Pennsylvania.

When it came to Art History, they had gotten past the Rennaissance, and now were into the 18th century art. Milo felt more comfortable, as this art was primarily from the Age of Enlightenment. At the time of class, Milo had not been so comfortable with the Medieval and Rennaissance art, due to having a lot of religious influence. Some Medieval art had been pretty disturbing, such as the images of demons torturing the damned, and many anti-semitic paintings. What Milo did find peculiar was during their study of early Christian art before the Middle Ages, there was no fear based art, and had been much brighter. Plus, there had even been a mosaic of Jesus carrying a goat on his back. Milo wondered what happened with the Middle Ages. Yet back to the Enlightenment, some of these paintings reminded Milo of going to that Musem in Lake Forest over the summer.

By the third week of December, it was time for the semester to end, and Milo had his finals in Art History and Geography. Milo felt a bit strange about being done for the semester, and was definitely not used to his Christmas breaks starting so early. Milo would not be returning to Sussewago until the middle of January. The night after Milo finished his first semester at Sussewago, he had a dream of being forced to go into outer space for a Marian Apparition. Milo had been fearful of going into outer space and even more fearful of having an apparition with some doomsday announcement he would have to accept.

That day, while Milo and Margaret were doing some last minute Christmas Shopping, Margaret got a call from Ray that Grandpa Tony had fallen. Luckily this was not severe enough to require hospitalization. However, they knew it was time for him to have to use a walker to get around. Now Grandpa Tony had been having some mobility problems for the past two years, which started shortly after Milo started Mal-Tech. On Sunday, the Filentino's invited Milo back over to Zia Maria's for fried dough.

During that Holiday Season, the Rumcorns returned for Christmas. With this Holiday Season, Milo had not felt in a religious mood, and gravitated to secular Christmas songs, such as "Here comes Santa Clause" and "Here we come a Caroling". On the Tuesday before Christmas Eve, Milo went to Old Navy to by Calvin a present. Actually Milo had an ulterior motive to see a girl who worked at the store. That night, the Rumcorns came over to play cards.

Christmas seemed a bit strange for Milo, as this was a holiday he had always valued. Now, the holiday seemed a bit empty, and was happy to celebrate Saturnalia instead. But something just felt weird, like the Christmas holiday was a big joke, considering what he thought he knew about Christianity. The Biancatello's and Filentino's returned to St. Columba's for mass. At Church, Milo felt a bit strange, and even his memories of past holidays all the sudden felt utterly empty. For Milo, Christmas was nothing more than a celebration of escaping from the wrath of an angry god. This form of Christianity was only from a Fundamentalist perspective. The day after Christmas, Uncle Wayne, Kevin, Bruce and Milo went to see Avatar. For the rest of the day, Milo was at Grandma Pearl's playing a new Mario game with Kevin and Bruce.

On Sunday night, Milo, Salvatore, Gianni, Ben, Rob and Eustace got Chinese at a local buffet. At dinner, Eustace ate some undercooked fish, and threw up on the restaurant floor. Salvatore asked some lady who puked, and she told him that he did not want to know. Then Eustace mysteriously disappeared. Dana and Calvin came into Ciderpond, and the Biancatello's, Grandma Pearl and the Rumcorns celebrated with them on Monday. Dana bought all the boys a body wash set as a gift. Now Kyle, Kevin and Bruce did not have the best hygene habits, and Dana only got Milo one also, as to not make the others feel targeted.

As for the rest of the week, things had gone pretty well. Grandpa Tony came over for dinner on Wednesday, and the second time using the walker. Over time, the Biancatello's stopped bringing Grandpa Tony to the house, and ate over at his house. As for New Years eve, Dana, Calvin and Grandma Pearl came over. That night, they watched the movie "Up". Dana considered the beginning of the movie a bit adult for a kids movie. As many know well, many Pixar movies have higly abstract "One word Titles". On New Years day, things started to go downhill pretty quickly. Milo was beginning to realize that Margaret and Ray would be going back to work, and Lydia would be back in school. On that Saturday, Milo saw a documentary on the Seven Deadly Sins, which brought back traumatic memories of the past months. Milo was beginning to understand that this was the end of something. On Sunday, Margaret took down all the Christmas decorations. Milo felt a bit traumatized, as if it would never be Christmas again after this holiday

Then there was a vision of a phoenix known as Tithonius. This was the same phoenix from six holiday seasons ago. Tithonus had been preserved so long, that he was reduced to a featherless and burned up shell of his former self, nearly rotted away. Then Tithonius renounced his will to live like this, and burst up into a violent explosion. Tithonius ashes were spread across many lands, and it would take about 10 years to retrieve them.

Fall of the Headquarters and Wandering in the Desert

During this time, the Great Phoenix was in the Atlantis town of Thatchery. He had been singing a song in order to lure a traveler on holiday known as Marina. The Great Phoenix sang over the toddler Harmony who had been still living on the streets, and in need of a home. As the phoenix sang his song, Marina was lured into this awful city of Thatchery. Marina looked around for the source of this song, and found a toddler fending for herself. Marina, being a motherly woman with no children of her own took this child. At the same time, Marina asked other residents why there was a baby wandering the streets. They all gave excuses, such as not being their problem. Marina marched to the city council and asked the council why this baby had been left on the streets, and no one ever cared to take her in. One councilman explained that the baby never earned her way, and could not expect to get something for nothing. Marina shouted at this man that the child was a baby. Another councilman explained that it teaches people self sufficiency. Marina shouted that they are stupid to think a baby can be self sufficient. Then they all told Marina to leave the city if she hates it so much. Marina told them that a city like this should not even exist, and should be knocked down. After this trip, Marina took Harmony home to her estate on the beachfront.

The Cobolds Headquarters back in Beaubelles was not doing too well. Remus knew well that the headquarters was on its last leg, and doomed to fall any day. Many cobolds had been utterly distraught, and feared what would happen to their city. Not to mention, the Londinians had not known that the only reason the headquarters was repaired was because of Voris Co. One day, the headquarters was no longer sustainable, and fatefully collapsed. This This had been a horrible sight for the Cobolds, as their once majestic headquarters rising tall above Beaubelles was nothing but rubble. The Cobolds were greatly grieved by this, and saw their time in Gairmsoiled as a massive waste, and were in a state of utter shame of having worked with the Maludico's. Not to mention, the cobolds thought they lost, and that soon enough, the town of Londinium would be taken back by the Hypocordo's. After not knowing what to do, the Cobolds left Londinium, then departed from Gallicanium into a desert oasis east of the region.

Back in Shemitaria, the Great Phoenix led the captured Cobolds back to the desert, and on a cliff. An invading army of warriors rampaged into the Temple towns of Shemitaria shouting that their masters have oppressed them too long. Then the armies shouted "Down with Surpadolfter". The first set of armies lit fire to the town known as Mcglonistan. The clans known as the Morrelites, Skellyites, Rubenites and Lymanites were all driven out of the town. All the amplifying horns had been destroyed, with chants of "Down with noise pollution". Then another army invaded Westbirius, and tazered their leader known as Sanderson. The invaders called Sanderson a terrorist, and then ran out the other leaders the resuscitated zombie Phelpus, hag Snirley and Deward. Westbirius was burned down, with only the temple left. Then Patimesh, Spyritony, Haggebad, Salafitum and Moreyton were lit in a great blaze of fire, and many residents of the towns were leaving, calling the invaders persecutors.

All that was now left of Shemitaria was Agrabah and the temples to Supradolfter. Another army came with cannons and catapults. These armies catapulted several explosive artifacts at the temples, and the buildings soon came tumbling down, with only the statues of Supradolfter with his toothbrush mustache and combed hair exposed. These armies smashed the statues of Supradolfter to rubble and covered the remains in Dragon Manure from the dragon tribe known as Smaugastia. Then the Phoenix flew off, and instructed the Cobolds to follow the tracks of the Armies. The Cobolds began their great voyage in hopes of returning home to Hitaria. Iohannes had been slightly disappointed about this promise failing so miserably, and not seeing Rivkah and Harmony sooner.

When it came to the nations of Patimesh, Haggebad, Spyritony, Mcglonistan, Salafitum, Moreyton and Westbirius, they cursed out the Cobolds and Igleftios. As it was, these nations were scattered to different tribes throughout the desert, and utterly furious about having lost their nations.

The Final Counsel

Back in the realm of the Jinns, Maelendil held a meeting with Alexander, Brutus, Cashmir, Alphie, Max, Oscar, Theodore, Husisha, Pandora, Vesta, Dugmateous, Victoria, Maugris, Billius, Simone, Merriwhether, Victoria, Mercius, Platoneous, and Gustavette. They were all gathered at the Odinean Temple, in a great round circle with a procession by Gregory, Deiden, Polyphanes and Purpalbus. Maelendil told the somber news that the Charge made the sacrifice, and a long and great era has come to an end. Maelendil then called Dugmateous up, and gave him the orb he showed the earth two ages ago. The orb showed the vision of the woman whose face had rotted away, and sat in a wheelchair of a stress clinic. This vision changed, where the woman was now dead, and all that remained were dry bones. Maelendil tells this had been the cost in battle against the Rakshasajinns, and their master the Archons.

Maelendil then made a tribute to the charge, who had bravely renounced his allegiance to Infundermalis, and his servants Wipou, Buttkamft and Sheepus, along with the offsprings known as the horseman, occultist and Mahishasura. Maelendil mentioned how this charge had seen the errors of his ways, and played his part in this great battle. Maelendil then gives tribute to the other charges, in whatever small works they did. Then Gregory makes a toast to the Charges, and calls for the completion of the battle.

TO BE CONTINUED

Book VIII: The Rakshasajinns Reign-The War

Chapter 40: Sussewago University

The Demuzidean Fulfillment

By this time the official report on the battle had been made public. It had been acknowledged that the Rakshasajinns were now at large. The Archons Hillectivus was still in power, and her offsprings Pirius and Puterma still had great influence. The Archon Stockholm still had many charges of Maelendil held captive in the senexit Sarkikos communities, and the charges had begun to forget about life outside the community. As for the battle, the great defeat was attributed to the mortals who wanted a quick and clean battle, and placed their trust in warriors who anticipated inevitable doom. This impatient spirit of urgency had been suspected to have unleashed more Rakshasajinns. According to one report, the Maludico Infundermalis had been summoned two years back after a charge of Maelendils had been quite desperate to be free from the burdens placed by his school, and difficulty being away from a girl, that he started fraternizing with Infundermalis' disciples. The final words of the report explained that a spirit originating from the Eighth order of Annogrammatrons had become quite influential, and were looking for a strong and mighty warrior who would crush their oppressors in a violent way.

By this time, the Aluments knew that they needed a new plan of battle, and called for a meeting. The Aluments Father Time, Mother Earth, Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom summoned many Sophunum's and Goenis, including Maelendil and Brutus, along with the jinns Dugmateous, Gustavette, Husisha, Azeyas, Daxividus, Pandora and Yuriyama to a glorious meeting at the Demuzidean Temple. The first thing to take place was Father time showed up with a new set of reels and offered them to the same altar in a similar fashion as was done the first time thirteen years ago. Then Father Time poured a gaseous liquid over the reels that made them shine in a very clean way.

Then Mother Earth called the congregants over to the Enanian temple and announced that the spirit of many earthlings would be called to carry out glorious tidings to the earth, and fight this battle against the Rakshasajinns. At once, Mother Earth summoned the fighting Charisms of St. Patrick and Judith who appeared at once, and bowed before the Alument. Mother Earth knew well that they needed warriors who had an uncompromising refusal to ever use Infundermalis' tactics, and had patience to endure battle, and even saw beyond the inevitable doom. According to Mother Earth, many young idealists had heard stories about passionate warriors who actively fought againt injustice in the spirit of the Eighth Order, and greatly admired them. Mother earth then tells the unfortunate news about how the spirit of the ninth order became a source of ridicule, and they had been seen as doormats giving into injustice. Mother Earth then breaks the news that the mortals in battle now have reversed their position and hate all forms of activism, and find conflict to be offensive. Mother Earth explains that when the mortals in fighting saw what they were expected to do, they were not sure they could do what Infundermalis was asking of them. Mother Earth explains that Infundermalis appealed to the mortals most passionate for justice, and promised them a path to defeat the injustice they had suffered under. Infundermalis twisted the meaning of justice in a self serving and punitive way.

Mother Earth summoned the St. Patrick charism to call on the Charisms of The Church Fathers St. Clement of Alexandria, Origen of Alexandria, St. Gregory of Nyssa, Macrina the Younger, and St. Gregory Nazienzen. Then Mother Earth summoned Judith to call the Charisms of the Inclusive Bible believers Gary Amirault, L. Ray Smith, Preston Eby, Gerry Buchemin and Eric Stetson. Then Father Time reappeared with Sister Wisdom to declare that the appointed time for the good news is at hand. Sister Wisdom announced that the prophecies, since the Rakshasajinns arrival have now come to pass.

The Charisms of the Church Fathers had appeared along with the Charism of the Didache. The Didache Charism revealed that he had been working for Mother Earth and the Satyasha Offspring Appolinius to build a skeletal foundation. The Didache Charism then explained how Bacchus is watching over the flesh, and are waiting on a Copper egg to place the flesh back on, when the time comes. Mother Earth explained that once the skeletal structure is completed, the misguided flesh can be put back on the skeleton in its full glory. The Charisms of the Church Fathers gave their explanations on what happened. The Clement Charism explained his story of the Six Theological schools, which Maelendil knew from long ages ago. Maelendil heard the story back before one of his charges started Highschool. The Origen Charism then tells of the loss of passion that has reached the earth, out of fear of becoming the monsters they had been fighting against. Then the Charism tells the story about how corruption occurs when there is a small number full of motivation and passion, but full of confrontation. On the other hand, there are those who love peace so much, that they avoid confrontation at all cost, and prefer to make the best out of situations that cannot be endured. The Charism explained that this is what allowed corruption to happen in Europe during the Middle Ages and the Middle East in the present day. The Charism explained how in the Middle Ages, the ordinary people had not been educated, and typically were farmers and peasants, but happy to live a peaceful and simple life in their own town. When it came to the Religious Elites and Kings, many were so motivated by religious ideologies, that they were too willing to use violence and suppression without any dissenting voice to call them out. Only a few in history had risen to the occasion, such as St. Francis of Assissi, Julian of Norwich, Meister Eckhart and Theresa of Avila. Then the Charism explains in the Middle East, how most of Islam has been ritualized as Christianity had been in the Middle Ages. Unfortunately, this has allowed motivated terrorist and theocratic extremists practicing ideological forms of Islam to become quite powerful.

Then the Charisms of the Bible Believers appeared, and arrived with quite a bit to say. The L. Ray Smith charism arrived proclaiming a message to expose the Pharisees in these synagogues of Satan. The Gary Amirault Charism arrived ready to proclaim the liberating news to those under the yolk of terror. The Eric Stetson Charism arrived ready to proclaim deep truths lost for so long. After much talking and updates, Mother Earth appeared, and the Charisms bowed in prostration. Mother Earth first explained that she has this program to make sure that the mortals discover the trustworthy devotees. Mother Earth explains that in the West, it is hard to find anyone trustworthy who is passionate about Religion. Mother Earth explains that in the West, many had become full of both secular and religious ideologies, which has created neutral ground keeping violence at bay. Mother Earth glumly explains that not too many trust the devoutly religious, and see them as walking ideologies. Mother Earth tells these select Charisms that the mortals under this sarkikos realm need to hear their message of inclusion first.

Mother Earth summoned Gary Amirault to immediately a mission on earth to guide the skeptics abused by the systems. Mother Earth explained that there is one who is near becoming an atheist, and needs to see his website. The Charism of Gerry Buchemin along with the Charism of St. Gregory of Nyssa, and Clement of Alexandria were summoned to setup new pillars of battle, and rehabilitate the fallen mortals. The Charism of L. Ray Smith was summoned to only act once the Charisms of Gerry and Gary had completed their missions. In fact, the Charism of L. Ray Smith had been summoned to speak to a specific youth. The Charisms of Eric Stetson and Preston Eby were scheduled to take their mission at the dawn of the Spring Festivities.

Over these days, the numbers of followers grew. Many only joined out of spite for their religious history. Others joined in need for certainty that they would not excluded. By this time, many were sick of living in fear of being excluded that they figured that absolute inclusion for even their enemies was worth hoping for.

The Desert Oasis

Not too far outside of the bounds of Gallicanium, the Cobolds found an oasis, with an abundance of fruit trees, sandy beaches, fertile land, plenty of palm trees providing shade and soft ground to rest on. This Oasis was a refuge for Mistivants who had escaped from their nations for various reasons. The Cobolds overheard a multitude of wondrous stories, and became exposed to a multitude of cultures they had never experienced when they were stuck in Gairmsoiled. During these days, the Cobolds had nearly forgotten about the Great Phoenix, and preferred not to think about those days when the shelter fell. Frankly, such memories had been too utterly traumatic to even think about. As to whether the Cobolds would ever leave this paradise, they did not know.

One of the friends the Cobolds made had been a set of nymphs who originated from the outskirts of Hamitaria. According to the nymph Caliadne, they lived underground, and their whole lives, always maintaining their tunnels. Caliadne lived with his mother and uncle Jabari. They lived undergrounds in order to protect themselves from these snatchers from Agrabah. These snatchers would try and catch the nymphs, and bring them back to Agrabah and make them into slaves. Whenever the snatchers galloped over their tunnels, they constantly became in need of rebuilding. Calidne told of how his Mother and uncle Jabari saw him off before leaving his home. While Calidne was travelling, he came to a town known as Gairmsoiled, where he met a homeless mistivant known as Prescott, who could never find work after he had a nasty case of the plague, and was always seen as a contaminant ever after. The two became friends after they met up in Gairmsoiled, and went on a quest to find this Oasis they had heard of.

The Second Semester

After Christmas, Milo went into a major funk, and angry about life. With the end of the Christmas Season, it felt like Christmas would not be back for a long time. Milo felt like his whole interest in Amira was what got him in this mess in the first place, but was not sure he wanted to give up. Milo felt betrayed by Catholicism in particular and religion in general. Milo had felt like his life was a lie, which was what he feared Mal-Tech would define. Milo had not even been sure if there was a god in the first place. After this, Milo had not thought about Amria too much, and had feared thinking about his past. For Milo, religion seemed to be all a matter of avoiding punishment without any meaningful promises.

Milo then began a quest to explain all this gloom and doom stuff through psychological and scientific methods. At this time, Milo believed that reason was the real path of knowledge, and felt that authority was just a fear based superstition. Otherwise, Milo could not wait to get back to school, and talk with his counselor again. Naturally, all an undecorated and ended holiday just reminded Milo of the days when he had this major anxiety. Milo would not be back to school for another three weeks. Over the weeks of break, Milo went to the mall a couple times. On Dancing Day, Milo barely observed the anniversary. Yet Milo did have a dream about celebrating the festival at a Little Caesars, with a big spaghetti bucket.

Eventually classes started back up for Milo. Milo started back to School one Tuesday after Martin Luther King day, considering classes did not begin for him till that day. During Milo's second semester, he still felt anxious about what happened over the last few months, and any talk of religion made him unsettled. Milo began to get interested in Spirituality without Religion. Milo enjoyed the liberal education and the status of being a college student. Milo took a class on Psychology, writing, German Culture and American History. Being in the liberal environment tempted Milo to hate all things conservative. For Milo, conservatism represented the two things he had bad experiences with in the last two years, being Mal-Tech and Fundamentalist Catholicism. All Milo saw was that Conservatism represented pro-authoritarian intolerance, and a moral system that was more concerned about rules and customs, whether or not they were humane. Milo interpreted American conservatism as giving rights to powerful corporations and religious institutions, while having no problem taking rights away from the powerless. According to Milo, the Conservatives only had interests in business rights in order to give Corporations more power over the citizens Monday through Friday, while Churches had control over the citizens on Sundays, and the state would take up the rest of the control on matters of national security, Militarization and drug laws.

Milo had watched many Youtube video's on psychology, spirituality without religion, politics and sociology. Milo found on these video's that many of the comments were utterly rude, specifically from the Christians. Milo was outraged about this, and agitated that such a superstitious religion should have any influence these days, and thought people should have outgrown the angry fundamentalist god as the people had of these Egyptian and Greek gods. Milo saw it that supersititous idiots had no business expressing opinions, and influencing people to believe in such barbaric nonsense.

On the plus side, being at Sussewago gave Milo some closure over his original fear of Mal-Tech. While at Mal-Tech, Milo feared that he was incapable of taking on responsibilities he never had as a teenager, or unable to find any peace at anywhere besides the Ciderpond school systems. With being in both Fundamentalist Catholicism and Mal-Tech, Milo realized that he hated blatantly authoritarian structures where one is constantly being watched and judged. Milo started seeing systems like this as being utterly narcissistic, and only interested in their own needs for control, or utterly self righteous. Unfortunately this got Milo on the path of resentment towards anyone who ever behaved in a controlling fashion, and overly suspicious of other peoples motives. This is often the case when someone suffers abuse of any sort, and in Milo's case Spiritual Abuse. Unfortunately this gave Milo the idea that any devout Christian was really a closet fascist.

Durnil's Vision and the new Satyasha

During this time, Durnil appeared to Maelendil to relay a vision he had seen of a youth whose parents went missing, and became subject to a foster home with a strict and judgmental father, and a very rigid family hierarchy. One morning, this youth escapes and heads off to the big city to make a name for himself and party. At one point, this youth becomes prey to a cult leader who makes promises of freedom from his foster father. This cult leader becomes quite a father figure, but eventually becomes more and more like this youth's step father. Eventually this youth escapes the cult and lives on the street partying freed from father figures. Eventually this youth runs out of his money and ends up at a homeless shelter coddled by a shelter mother. This youth never wants to leave this shelter, and fears leaving this place, should he come across any more strict fathers. According to Malenedil, this youth needs to leave the shelter and find his missing family. Malendil and Durnil know this is not an easy task full of uncertainty.

During this same time, Naima's thirdborn known as Samsara finally hatched from a Copper Egg. Samsara had been a fairly quiet Satyasha, and spent most of his time studying about Jinns, and trying to learn about their nature and origin. Frankly, Samsara barely acknowledged Barush or Hidari. Unfortunately, this new Jinn kick started some rivalry between Hidari and Barush. Hidari theorized that Samsara's findings would conclude an origin and essence of jinns being rooted in their social environment. Barush theorized that Samsara's findings would conclude that the essence of Jinnhood rests upon ones individuality. Hidari accused Barush of just wanting to define the meaning and destiny of his life. Barush did not take too well to this, and accused Hidari of being a sheep who would find meaning off of jumping of a bridge if the crows said so. Hidari exclaimed that the crowd would keep such a thing from happening. Barush then accuses Hidari of assuming a mindless crowd knows better than an individual. Barush then brings up such autrocities as the Holocaust, human sacrifices, crusades, Salem Witch Trials and communist regimes. Hidari then tells Barush that he is nothing like such extreme examples, and storms off.

The Spring Time

Milo enjoyed being around so many girls at Sussewago, and even befriended some on facebook. That Semester, Milo had classes on Writing, Psychology, German Culture and American History. The only class Milo did not care for was American History. This class took place at the Ciderpond Campus with a goofball teacher who talked really fast, and went on tangents about unimportant matters, such as fruitloops. Milo's cousin Rob had this teacher, and also found him a massive dufus. As for Psychology, Milo had wanted to take the class in order to learn about why people place trust in institutions like Religion, Government or Corporations.

At the end of the year, Milo got some tutoring with a Tajikistani girl he developed a short crush on. During this time, Milo became quite lustful, as he had been deprived of Girls that appealed to him with being at Mal-Tech, and freed from the fear mongering puritanism with the Fundamentalists. Around this time, Milo became a bit rebellious. As it was, Milo had normally taken a bus out to school, which he did not particularly like doing. One day, the bus did not come, and Milo was stuck at campus till eight at night. A few days later, Ray and Margaret agreed that Milo should drive out one Thursday before Holy Week, as he needed to get back to Ciderpond early. Milo began to enjoy this freedom too much and resented being at the mercy of the bus that he never took it again.

On Holy Thursday, Milo saw Malina and Ashlyn at Aunt Dianne's on the way home while they were playing outside. Abigail was also staying at Aunt Dianne's that day. Milo stopped and visited for a little bit. By this time, Jesse got a job and transferred back to Ciderpond, but they still had not bought a house. During this time, Jesse and Danielle were staying with Aunt Dianne until they were ready to move into the new house. That same week, Milo attended a Kingdom Hall memorial instead of the Catholic one, as he saw the Jehovah's witnesses as being one of the few optimistic branches of Christedom to actually give a message of hope as opposed to mere avoidance of punishment. Milo was still in contact with Vito, but Jacob had moved to Arizona.

After Easter, Milo got into a fowl mood when working on a project. In English class, Milo had to talk with another student about a topic he was working on for a controversial topic. Milo's topic he chose was how to find a balance on Political Correctness and intolerance. The Teacher approved Milo's topic, explaining that political correctness sometimes makes it hard to talk about certain topics. Milo had to talk with one student about his and another students topic. Milo found out this student, who seemed pretty normal was a pretty devout Catholic who believed non-Christians went to hell. Milo had not known this until he started speaking with him. Milo told him about the whole point of Political Correctness and intolerance. Milo first brings up the matter of Street Preachers with bullhorns. This student gives his stance that the preachers are just doing what they think is right. Milo gives his stance that such behavior is intolerant, and that it is not fair for someone with different beliefs or lifestyles should have to be targeted by extremists. This sudent gets a holier than thou tone about how people who do or thing wrong need to be corrected, and then gave that analogy of warning someone if their house is on fire. After enough of giving his stance, this dude reveals that he is catholic, and believes whatever the church says, and it is not up to him or Milo to go judging their standards based on his own personal feelings. Milo ended it with this guy. IN class, when the students had to give their stances, there were speakers about topics of military torture, which only a redneck wannabe solder and of course this fundamentalist agreed with Military torture. Milo then brings up matters of intolerance, and the assumption that people of different religions go to hell. The Teacher said such a belief really is intolerant. Milo still tried to do research on the topic of political correctness, and only came across right wingers complaining about tolerance and religious people playing the victim. Milo complained to Ray that he was sick of hearing trash from Rosary Rattlers, conservative hicks and bible thumpers.

Sandersons Threats

Back in the Desert, the captured Cobolds began their journey back to Hitaria. Being that the Cobolds had no map, they had to follow the tracks left behind from the invaders who destroyed the Temples of Suradolfter, as the dragon instructed. As for the armies, the Cobolds believed they had been from Hitaria, and came to their rescue. Now the Cobolds remembered well how a former slaves Avrahim and Suriya, and suspected that Londinium had been horribly victimized by the pseudo-shemitaria. The Cobolds had become suspicious that they were being followed by one of the scattered nations in Shemitaria. At their camp, Yusefus was keeping an eye out, and spotted one of the spies. Yusefus discreetly followed this spy, and figured out that he was a Westbirian.

Yusefus snuck into their camp, and hid under a rock to eavesdrop. Their leader known as Sanderson spoke of planning attacks on this land known as Igleftios. Then a hag, whom Yusefus immediately recognized as Snirley, and this resuscitated zombie known as Phelpus had been right on Sanderson's side. Sanderson then called for a figure in the audience known as Deward, who was wearing a tin Helmet. Deward started speaking about all these plots Igleftios had to destroy all disciples of Supradolfter, in hopes of silencing their message. Then Deward spoke about Agrabah working with Igleftios, and that they only used their people, without any loyalty to Supradolfter. Sanderson explained that once they can get into the Igleftios state, then they can influence the leaders to make him king, and therefore re-establish Westbirius. Sanderson explained that his first order of business would be to make sure the Cobolds and Igleftios armies were executed. Sanderson explained that the only legitimate way a killing can be done is if they become a sovereign nation. Then Snirley rose, and told Sanderson that they had no authority to kill anyone whatsoever. Sanderson then stick Snirley with his staff, leaving a great gash across her face, telling her that women are to be silent during the gatherings, and then reminded the men to keep their wives in submission, and reminded parents to keep children obedient with the staffs provided at their matrimony. If there is one thing well known about Westbirius, the women and children were not to be heard, and any complaint of abuse against a man merited public confession and shaming. Then Phelpus rose and apologized for Snirleys disruption. Phelpus explained that in the end, Supradolfter will have the Mount of Lava restored, and he will be the one to punish those who showed such dishonor to him and his people.

The Summer Classes

When the school year ended, Milo took his first Summer Class on Social Psychology. This class had really stressed Milo out, as this class was only two weeks, which covered a whole course of material crammed into a short time. This really ended up stressing Milo out, and he had not been in the best mood. What Milo had learned was about such phenomenons like the Milgram experiments, and how people can easily commit evil if they are pressured into doing so. Overall, Milo was still quite disturbed over how people can be so willing to conform to injustice. Yet Milo knew that people did so out of fear. This had made Milo a bit cynical, and started believing that most of humanity sincerely believed that Might is right.

After that psychology class ended, Milo had to take a math summer class at the Ciderpond Campus, much to his displeasure. Milo had been disgruntled, as this was a class he really did not want to take. The only reason he had to take this stupid class was because at orientation, he had a surprise test on the spot. This class was utterly stupid, as the teacher was highly incompetent and the textbook vague. Milo had also hated it that most of the students were much older than him. Plus, Milo also found that most of the class had students who were young mothers. What turned Milo off were students in his classes who were only a little older than him, and had to sacrifice their youthfulness in order to get by. This was one of the things Milo also hated about Mal-Tech. Being in the liberal school gave Milo an over-optimism that humanity could create a utopian system where such a sacrifice would be utterly unnecessary. Milo had hoped there would be some girls his age in the class.

Within the first week of Summer Classes, Milo had Lydia's graduation. Before finding out about the day of the Graduation ceremony, Milo was invited by Elaine to a benefit at Pizza Hut, and was looking forward to seeing his Williamson cousins. Milo was utterly angry at the universe when he found out Graduation was the same day, and wanted to blame Howachan. Milo never really thought too highly of Howachan after her accusing him of racism on flawed grounds. Otherwise, Milo got into a minor spat with his parents, as he planned on going to Pizza Hut quickly in order to get home in time for Graduation. Neither Margaret nor Ray would accept his decision, and Milo saw them as being close minded. This was not considering that Milo did not consider that this Pizza Hut was pretty far out of the way, and would be cutting it too close. Milo was still angry at the world, as he felt like he was not getting much of a social life, and that the universe could not give him a break and have scheduled the two events on two different days, when he was not busy.

As for Lydia's graduation, this started giving Milo flasbacks to the days when he had graduated, and was still mentally healthy. Otherwise, being back at a Ciderpond graduation made Milo wish his summer class would end, and that he could get away from such a meaningless class. At the graduation, Milo noticed how the speakers constantly promise the world to the graduates, and he realizes that the people in his math class seem to be a defeated bunch. That weekend, the Biancatello's had Chelsea's graduation party. On Sunday, Lydia left for another trip to New York, which would be her last with the youth group.

Over that week, Milo got sick, and luckily got to miss out on some school. That Thursday, Ray left for another golfing trip. Over Fathers day weekend, Uncle Georgio and Aunt Judy hosted a picnic at Rob's new house. All the second generation showed up, including Ashlyn, Malina, Abigail, Logan, Olivia, Jonathan and Mia. Around this same time, Kate was six months away from giving birth to her thirdborn.

Durnil's Victory

As we know, for the past few years, Durnil and Oscar had been fighting against the Archon Hillectivus and her two offsprings Pirius and Puterma. According to Durnil and Oscar's findings, Pirius along with Puterma had a strong hold on the earthlings of the younger generation. What Durnil found out was that Pirius had long ago attached these brownish green chords to the people that magnetically attached to anyone who shared a label. These chords bound the people to groups and subjected to conform to common expectations of the label. Many had been utterly reluctant to conform to particular labels, and got hostile to their group. Other people easily got bound to groups that could offer them a sense of belonging.

When it came to Puterma, she had a strong hold through the use of gray chords to attach to any familial figure or anyone who resembled authority, hierarchy or elderhood. Many earthlings became susceptible to unhealthy attachments to parents, or subjection to anyone who speaks with authority, judgment or moral outrage. Other people attempted to break the chords through avoiding family, over-sensitivity about disapproval, and attempts to silence all authorities and judgmental speech through force.

With the calling of the new Charisms, the chords of Pirius located in religious institutions had been greatly weakened. Durnil also started to notice that the Mermaid Show, the podcast show and the blended family show had been losing popularity. According to Oscar, the shows have become mere obsessions to those who are still under the cords of Pirius. Oscar explained that Pirius was losing his power because many are getting sick of relationships that are not allowing otherness. Oscar reminded Durnil about the Mermaid show taunting this possessive tendency towards lust, and a need to either merge into their world or possess the actresses. Durnil called this sick, and Oscar reminded him that Pirius is the offspring of an obsessive Archon.

Over these days, Durnil was counselling many mortals into embracing their own individuality, and renouncing the need to fit in. In one session, Durnil had met a college student who had this obsessive and superficial school spirit. Durnil sensed this student was not really happy with school, and asked why this was so. This student explains that he had some bad classes, but everything else was great. Durnil started asking this student if he made any friends. This student explains that he has many facebook friends. Then Durnil asks this student what kinds of things he does with his facebook friends. This student becomes very puzzled, and asks if trying to arrange a bowling evening counts. Durnil then asks how this compared to his days in highschool. This student then starts to think this over, and see that all his relationships were superficial, and had become a mere sellout just to find belonging. This student admitted that he had become so merged with school that he neglected his own needs, and only cared about being a student.

One frightful day, the battle against the works of Pirius' strings began. One night, Durnil gathered those under the chords to the realm of purification. This realm had been a great furnace full of great blue fires that would burn all junk that went through. Durnil lead all those under this curse through the fires. Many squealed in great pain as their chords binding them to Purius had been burned away. When the student known as Hector woke up, he nearly threw up from this experience.

By this time, all the ties that tethered mortals to others had been broken, but noticed that the mortals under this curse had become quite anti-social and utterly bitter with people. According to Oscar, the solution is not isolation, and he told Durnil in a year he would need to start a recovery program to help those who had suffered under Pirious, and teach them to relate to others as others. Oscar also explained that this program would also help to release the mortals from the grip that Puterma had. Oscar then explained that if Puterma is defeated, Hillectivus will become dormant.

Rivkah visits the Oasis

Back in Hitaria, things were not going so well. Without the Cobolds, life in Londinium was decaying back to the days it had when Hillectivus was in power. By this time, the Gairmsoiled authorities had gotten much influence in Londinium, and made promises to exult Gairmsoiled back to its state of glory. By this time, the Doustonians and Skinnerites were back in power, making life in Londinium quite hellish for the residents. The Gairmsoiled authorities recruited the Skinnerites and Doustonians, knowing full well that these two groups hated Londinium, and wanted to see the city fall.

The rule in Gairmsoiled proved to not be going too well, and a group of Londinians held a meeting, which also included Rivkah. Food had become quite scarce, and life became quite toilsome. What happened was all the food supply harvested in Londinium was rationed for the Gairmsoiled elites to gorge themselves on heavy feasts. Otherwise, food was rationed in such a way where most barely had enough to eat. Rivkah constantly spoke against the Doustonians and Skinnerites, who just scoffed, telling her they had plenty to eat. The Doustonians explained that they had been exiled too long, and it was time for them to return to power. Rivkah decided that she would travel outside of Londinium to try and find some help. As to where, she did not know, and only asked that the spirits of her people would guide her to help.

One day, while the Cobolds at the oasis were lounging around eating fruit and swimming, they got a surprise visit from Rivkah. Rivkah is at first thrilled to see the Cobolds, as she was only out to find food, but did not expect to find the rightful leaders of Beaubelles. Rivkah tells the Cobolds about what had been going on since they left. Rivkah tries to convince the Cobolds to come back to Londinium and restore their rightful place as leaders of the city. The Cobolds declined, and told the story about how their Headquarters collapsed. Secretly, the Cobolds were trying to run away from their humiliation of having worked with Voris Co, and their distrust in the Dance. Elrich and Rivkah got into a shouting match, as he felt Rivkah had gotten to intrusive. Elrich told how it doesn't matter, and that the headquarters are gone, and maybe better under the rule of Gairmsoiled than a Maludico. Rivkah told Elrich that they were still the rightful leaders who needed to return, and she still wanted to know why they wanted to stay. Elrich tells Rivkah that she would never understand, and refuses to tell her anything. After that, Rivkah stormed off and headed back to Londinium.

Elrich had been quite distraught over this, and shouted to the sky that he was betrayed. Elrich had felt betrayed by the Great Phoenix, and remembered how he told the Cobolds to strip away the shelter, and lamented about how they had only suffered curses with that pointless expedition to Gairmsoiled, and not a single piece of warning against Voris Co.

One night, a shaman from a Hamitic tribe showed up behind Elrich, and startled him. The Shaman whacked Elrich on the head. Elrich got irritated about this, and the Shaman explained that this is how his past feels, and needs to face it. Elrich complains that the Phoenix betrayed them, and their headquarters has collapsed. The Shaman asked Elrich why he thinks the Phoenix betrayed him. Elrich explained how the headquarters collapsed, and were put on this stupid mission to Gairmsoiled that accomplished nothing. The Shaman asked Elrich why he thinks their mission accomplished nothing. He reminded Elrich about how they helped bring Taibi back to his home. Elrich then laments about how pointless their involvement with Voris Co. had been, and the Phoenix never guided them away from this task. Then the Phoenix flew over Elrich with the head of a lion and body of a golden dragon, and the Cobolds all in fear showed up. The Phoenix asks the cobolds why they forgot him. One Cobold Irugen tells the Phoenix that he would never forget him. The Phoenix tells Irugen that they had lost their way and forgotten him. Then the Phoenix tells the Cobolds to remember who they are, and to return back to Londinium and rebuild. Then the Phoenix told the Cobolds are the true sons of Hitaria and that their shame had been lifted. The Great Phoenix then told the Cobolds it was time to return back to their homeland and take back their place in the kingdom of Beaubelles.

At once, the Cobolds departed the Oasis and made haste to Londinium. Meanwhile, the Shaman told Caliadne that his mother and Uncle want to see him, and had Prescott join them. Then the Shaman took the hands of Caliadne and Prescott, and they disappeared. The Cobolds soon arrived in Londinium, and found the city in the same state as when they returned back from Gairmsoiled. The Cobolds arrived at the ruins of their once mighty headquarters, and to their delight, found that all the goods originally in the facility were preserved in the shelter where the Cobolds and Londinians took refuge during the Flood. The reformer Londinians gave quite a cheer to the return. With seeing the goods and ruins of their headquarters reminded the Cobolds of their destiny in Londinium, and all those memories nearly discarded.

Yuriyama's Church Vision

One evening, Yuriyama is summoned back to the Oracle and finds the following vision in the Basin: The first sequence starts off with a mass going on, with the song "I saw three Ships", with a weird priest dancing, and then giving a "Nativity" sermon based on some non-existent Christmas Scriptures interpreted that only a few would be saved. Then the vision shifts to a classroom where someone falls into a factory machine, and has his skin cut off, and screaming at the students for not knowing. Yuriyama had become very concerned about this vision, and called for a meeting with the Charisms of the early Church Fathers and Bible Believers. The Macrina Charism explained that this priests sermon was a horrible parody of the Popes Sermon from the previous Christmas Eve Midnight Mass. The Charism of Origen explains that what has happened was the battle has gone quite bad. The Charism explains that many who have joined their religious community have resorted to turning against the religious institutions, and now favor leftist Government and the academic community.

The Charism of St. Clement explains that this academic alternative is showing its dark side. According to the Charism, many mortals believe that education makes people more compassionate. All this has ever done is make people more aware, but the motive for compassion is there before any learning. The Charism also explains that religion does not make people evil, but people can use religion to commit great acts of evil in good conscience. Yuriyama asked why there was this vision with the priest, when the Charisms already exposed the lie spoken.

The Charism of St. Gregory chimes in. This charism explains that many who have joined their community are still operating on the platitudes they learned from Infundermalis. The Charism knew that Infundermalis saw the accuser as the greatest being, and was one to believe that righteousness could only be absolute if there was one authority making the declarations, and only meaningful if there are punishments for disobedience. According to Infundermalis, the Accuser is the highest being he can comprehend, and sees him as the source of all goodness. The Charism explains how the Accuser is a self serving tyrant who determines what is permissible based on his own preferences.

The Charism of St. Gregory explains that they may need the help of Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom. The Charism explains that he does not understand the whole inner-workings of righteousness, but is the essence of the inner-communal nature of the Dance. The Charism then explains that their help will probably not give any new information, but clear away the debris that infundermalis gave. The Charism explained that the academic assumptions about righteousness will probably also be wiped away.

School Misgivings

The more time Milo was off of school, the more he realized that he never enjoyed school. Milo realized that his life at Sussewago was all hedonism and status with no meaning or belonging. All Milo noticed was that he was comfortable with Sussewago, but never truly happy there. Plus that After the Fourth of July, Milo and Salvatore went to the Greek Festival. That same afternoon, Milo found Roshanak's facebook, and came across a video she uploaded of Amira's graduation. This video was full of picture of Amira from infancy to her graduation. In all the pictures, Amira never had short hair like he remembered from Dudlechip. Milo then remembered where his whole purpose lay. As to how Milo would carry out his mission without religion had been a great mystery. Now Milo was no Atheist, but found that something about organized religion did not make any sense, and seemed more centered on the superstitions of some charismatic leaders.

Milo started having unpleasant feelings about school, as he had remembered the previous year with Fundamentalist Catholicism. For Milo, his only thoughts of school were memories of being stuck in some Fundamentalist cult. Not to mention, his Geology class would take place in the same building that he had Geography during the first semester. Milo also had some art classes in the same building as he had Western Art his first semester the year before. Over the summer, when Milo had been hanging with Lydia, Chelsea and some other friends, he started to realize that all his relationships with anyone at Sussewago had been completely superficial. After one particularly rough night after a nasty hangover, Milo started feeling utterly uneasy about his education with Sussewago.

Milo still had not fully recovered, and feared the Fundamentalists were right. Plus, Milo still had a nasty taste in his mouth after his classes at the Ciderpond Campus. Milo constantly read over different history books he had on Christianity, and how their gloom and doom beliefs were an invention of greedy control freaks. Milo originally decided to take classes every day, but realized that he would not be able to handle being there five days a week, and dropped many unnecessary classes. Milo also opted only to get an associates degree, as he knew a bachelors degree would possibly take another few years, and did not know if he could afford four more years of classes. As it was, many of the classes Milo considered taking had been utterly unnecessary.

On Thursday, Lydia came home from babysitting Ashlyn and Malina quite irritated. Lydia explained that Danielle told her that she did not mind if Milo came over, but did not want him going into the girls bedroom, as it would teach them bad habits. Lydia thought this was stupid, considering that they were little girls barely interested in bringing boys home, and Milo was their cousin, not some perv. Salvatore then showed up to swim. Milo told Salvatore about this. Salvatore sided with Danielle, and Milo got a bit pissed about this. Salvatore gave the stance that they need to protect their kids from pedophiles. Milo got pretty pissed about this, and let Salvatore know that he is not a pedophile, and needs to stop swallowing this right wing propaganda. Salvatore accused Milo of using right wing as a term for anyone who disagreed with him, and asked him why he hated the right. Milo told Salvatore that the right wing is always telling people what to do and imposing television censorship, and gave us religion and corporations. Salvatore then tries to pull the tolerance paradox on him, in assuming that criticizing the right equates to telling them what to do. Salvatore then got a holier than thou tone about how we need censorship, as kids don't need to see filth on television. Salvatore then asked Milo why he has this hatred of religion, and Milo tells him he is sick of their stupid punitive gods. Salvatore asks about crooked people, and where is justice to meet to bad people. Milo states the only thing religious types want punished are homosexuals, or anyone who is not like them.

Brutus Meeting

Brutus called Maelendil in for a meeting, and quite fuming. Brutus was quite irate with the way Maelendils charges attitude towards institutions. Maelendil admitted that his charge had become a bit extreme in his opposition, but should grow out of it, once he heals from the Trauma. Brutus then scoffs at this, claiming that the charge had always been one to use religion as an excuse to get holidays and a free concert once a week, but spits all over it when they make demands, and emphasize consequences for disobedience.

Then Brutus goes on a rant about how the Charge is showing disrespect for any institutions that makes demands on him. According to Brutus, the Charge just hated the Tech School and the organized religion because they would not bend their will to serve his interests, and asked him to conform. Then Brutus goes on about how the Charge has started showing the same disrespect towards Corporations and a wholesome conservative government, and is showing the same attitude towards his school, now that it was not he wanted.

Maelendil reminds Brutus of the fool whose finger points to the moon, but mistakes his finger for the moon. Brutus explains that he is not here to argue about true religion, but only emphasize that the Charge is disrespecting everything that provides order, and emphasizes that organized religion keeps order, and reminds the mortals that it is not about them. Maelendil then explains that it is not about the churches, states or corporations either. Brutus starts getting frustrated about Maelendil's responses, and goes on a huffing spree. Maelendil explains to Brutus that the world is not divided into the servants and masters, and any institution that wishes to be served also needs to serve first. Brutus then complains about how the individuals hate serving their institutional masters, and act like ungrateful and selfish brats when they are asked to serve. Maelendil explains how those systems still cannot demand service from the individuals, and how many individuals never ask service from them. Brutus then abruptly leaves muttering "more justifications".

The Cruise

That Friday morning before leaving for a cruise, Milo woke up from a fairly disturbing dream about Lydia leaving for college along with his new friends. Milo was invited that afternoon to Ishfatan with Salvatore. Now Mind you, Salvatore was behaving again, somewhat. At the restaurant, Milo saw Rokshana along with some other interns. At the restaurant, Salvatore brought up both Fr. Mihir and Amira, while Rokshana was only earshot away. Milo tried to shoosh Salvatore over using their names in front of Rokshana.

One Saturday morning, Milo had a difficult time when Lydia's friend Chelsea moved away before the family left for a Cruise. The morning before leaving, Lydia, Chelsea and some other girls pulled an all nighter, as both her and Emily would be leaving for vacation. When the Biancatello's left, Lydia and Chelsea gave a tearful goodbye. On the way down, Lydia was crying, saying that she had never been this sad in her whole life. On the way down, Lydia slept most of the time.

This cruise had not been overly enjoyable for Milo, as he kept thinking about Chelsea and how she had just went on vacation to Tampa a year before with them. Plus, Milo's fun over the summer was drinking with Lydia's friends. The Biancatello's arrived to Baltimore first. On the way up, Milo could not still help thinking about Chelsea, and it hit him also that Lydia would also be leaving soon. That morning, the Biancatello's went to Church at the Baltimore Basilica. Milo had not found the Basilica that impressive, despite this city being the USA Catholic capital. The communion hymn was "Behold the Lamb". In fact, Milo remembered the Basilica in New Seneca to be nicer. That afternoon, the Biancatello's boarded the Cruise Ship. The trip felt a bit weird for Milo, as he had not gone overnight since his anxiety attack from a few months ago. Lydia on the other hand had been in a foul mood on the first day. Ray told Lydia that she can choose to make the cruise fun or miserable. As for being on a ship, Milo found this to be a bit confining. Otherwise, there were some excursions to Cape Canaveral and the Bahama's. Being at Cape Canaveral had not been the thrilling experience with Florida from the previous year. Milo and Ray went on a lagoon trip on the fan boats to see Alligators. As for the Bahama's, this had been nothing special, as doing anything worthwhile costed too much money. On one of the last days, the Biancatello's went snorkeling.

After the Biancatello's got back, Grandma Pearl went on a trip to Atlanta to see the Rumcorns. As for the rest of the summer, Milo was in a slightly better mood, and not so fanatic about being anti-religious. A few weeks later, Lydia moved to the University of Pittsburgh to start her education. One morning, the Biancatello's left Ciderpond early, as orientation and unpacking began at 8, and the orientation ceremony began at 12 in the afternoon. They were woken up early, and on the road by five. The Biancatello's stopped at a redneck store to get gas. Milo was a little worried about how Lydia would be able to handle this city, and that she would get indoctrinated with the propaganda secondary education promotes. By this time, Milo was still not so keen on going back to Sussewago in a few weeks. Frankly Milo was not a big fan of the city, and thought it was a bit chaotic. If anyone knows about Pittsburgh, it is not an easy city to drive in. After Lydia was all packed up, Ray, Margaret and Milo said their goodbyes to Lydia in a stairwell. Then they headed back to Ciderpond. Milo thought it was pretty awful for Lydia to be living in a tiny dorm room with a complete stranger.

The weekend before Milo had to go back to his studies, Dana, Calvin and Rex were in town. On Saturday, Grandma Pearl, Dana, Calvin, Rex and Milo went to Seewoulden. This had been the first time Milo had been to the park all year. This was the last time they would be in town, or that the Biancatello's would ever see Rex. That Monday, Milo was pretty out of sorts, as he had his first day of classes the next day. On Dana, Rex and Calvin's last night in Ciderpond, they invited Milo and Ray to a Baseball game. Dana got quite embarrassed when Rex got drunk and started acting like a jerk.

The cleanup of the Headquarter

Shortly after the Cobolds returned back to Londinium, the Doustonian Leader known as Kurtis announced to Londinium that the Cobolds nearly had some nasty tortures planned, and were the ones to have Voris Co. repair their headquarters. All the Londinians had been horrified at this news, and felt betrayed by the Cobolds. Then one Londinian known as Leif reminded the Londinians that the Cobolds had chose not to use any of the torture devices, and stripped the headquarters. After this, Londinium gave the Cobolds support.

Then a great battle began between the Londinian and Cobolds against the Doustonians and Skinnerites. This had been quite a nasty battle, and many Cobolds, Doustonians and Londinians died in fighting. During the battle, Kurtis held the Cobolds Remus, Yoshiyahu, Irugen and Elrich tied up to a torture device at their fallen headquarters. Kurtis starts ranting at the Cobolds. Kurtis starts off admitting that he sent the offsprings to attack the headquarters, and vandalize the place to begin with. Then Kurtis laments about how their kind did not get the hint and had the facilities repaired. Kurtis then admits that he told the raptor owners where to find the headquarters, and how to attack, and where to find the other Cobolds to have them taken away. Kurtis then whines about how the Cobolds still could not take the hint. Kurtis then starts up a torture device, and is about ready to kill the Cobolds in a painful and gruesome way. Before Kurtis can do his vile work, the Great Phoenix flies by in the form of a red bird, singing some incantation. At once the Cobolds developed a sudden strength and overtook Kurtis. Kurtis cowardly promised he would do anything the Cobolds asked, and begged them not to kill him. Kurtis even went so far as to blame the Skinnerites who made him do all this. Remus tells Kurtis to take him and the Skinnerites and Doustonians away from Londinium and never return. While they are leaving, one skinnerite admits that he heard what Kurtis said about them, and all the other Skinnerites who got into cannibalism violently ate Curtis like ravaging hyena's. Kurtis was taken out with great screams, and the Doustonians were vanquished from Londinium.

Since the Cobolds returned to Londinium, they had been busy working on cleaning the debris from the site where the Headquarters once stood. The Cobolds sorted the materials by category preserving the strong materials, while disposing of materials that could not withstand the vandalism and anything Voris co. installed. By this time, the Cobolds had nearly completed their task, and the Headquarters site was nearly organized.

During this time, Londinium had become quite split up over political matters. The two major schisms amongst the Londinians were between the Hanitarians and the Ugyurites. According to the Hanitarians, Gairmsoiled and the Doustonians had every right to rule Londinium. According to the Hannitarians, the Gairmsoiled authorities were more equipped to rule. The Hanitarians saw the Ugyurites as promoting a soft form of rule where law and authority became too subjective to the whims of the constituents. When it came to the Cobolds, the Hannitarians were not fans of them. The Hannitarians had grown to think the Cobolds were nothing but trouble.

The Ugyurites believed that Londinium should support the Cobolds. Now the Ugyurites for some strange reason believed that the Cobolds knew some political theory that would create a utopian society in Londinium. Otherwise, the Ugyurites hated the Hannitarians, and considered them a malicious and self serving people who only cared about their privilege.
Chapter 41: The Second Resignation

Lance the Puerubdi and Azeyas Vision

At this time, the process of finding a new Puerubdi had taken place, as the Jinns knew that life on earth had become stale. Brutus had protested this, claiming that this is not the right time to bring in a Puerubdi, and needed to wait till things calmed down. Maelendil explained that the office of the Senexit cannot be sustained, and the very stability it keeps will crumble if taken too seriously. Brutus then turns his back pouting about this.

After some meetings with the candidates over the course of days, Maelendil and the Sophunum elders voted Lance in, as he was one of the few good options they had. Lance had been a Puerubdi with much spunk and sass. Lance had been the Puerubdi in training to rescue the Cobolds in Kebsuda from the Compound. Brutus did not exactly do too well with Lance at first. Brutus hated Lance, and still chided him about freeing the Cobolds from the Compound. Brutus claimed that they needed order, and had only gotten themselves in trouble since they left.

Lance and Brutus had debated a while, and they both agreed to compromise. Now Lance was one to value freedom, and knew that over-responsibility had a sacrificial nature that only created burdens for the one making sacrifices, and became an unnecessary annoyance of intrusion and debts to those under the sacrificers. Brutus on the other hand sought for an order that would keep stability at all costs. Brutus rejected all of Lance's ideas, until he suggested an order where the mortals would be free of all responsibility, and be taken care of by the authorities, as opposed to the bossy authorities making demands and punishing weakness.

After the inauguration, Maelendil runs into a hooded figure who needs to talk to him immediately. Maelendil figures out that this figure is Mortaneous, who has come with some grim tidings. Mortaneous asks Maelendil if he remembers the visions of the orb, including the tonsillectomy, the praying zombie, and the hospital room. Maelendil had to think for a second, and knew exactly what he was talking about. Mortaneous explained that the vision of the hospital room has already come to pass, two years ago. Maelendil immediately understood that this was about the cousins Grandmother, who passed away while the Charge was still at the Tech School. Maelendil asks if something is coming. Mortaneous grimly nods, and explains that the fulfillment of the vision of the tonsillectomy is coming to pass very soon. Maelendil immediately understands who this is about. Mortaneous explains that he will walk with the Charge, and this may awaken in him what has so long been dormant. Mortaneous explains that everything will happen in a similar chronological fashion, but the fallen warrior is not going to die in vain.

On the night before a new school year began, after Lance was inaugurated into the office, Azeyas had the following vision: Some people living in ancient Rome are under an oppressive ruler. These people in Rome did not feel at home in this country, despite knowing no different. One night, this family escapes on a mysterious boat heading to the America's, and end up in the present day Ciderpond where everything looks similar to today, only in a Native American style. In fact, all the same houses are all present, exactly like they are in the modern day, but have a décor from the late 80's. They these people end up in some mysterious basement of their new house. This basement feels like a home, similar to a home they had not entered in since a small child. Azeyas notices that this house looks strangely familiar, and notices this resembling the charges residency as the house was when he was small.

The Return Semester

With the new school year, Milo was less into school. Milo took a class on Geology, Non-Western Art History and Modern Architecture. With that first week, Milo was adjusting faster. Now that Milo had faced his demons, he was more comfortable having a life outside of Sussewago. With being freed from this identity in social groups, Milo found life to have this new freshness. Unfortunately Milo got a bit standoffish with school, and preferred to just go to class and leave. Frankly, Milo really did not care to be at the school, and was still haunted by meaningless memories from the previous year, the summer class and the way he was almost manipulated the year before. Plus, Milo also remembered the same thing happening with Fundamentalist Catholicism.

About two weeks after School began, Uncle Georgio got a Cancer diagnosis with a morbid prognosis. Milo first knew something strange was going on when Aunt Dianne called for Ray during the day. Now Ray had been on another golf trip for the whole week, and Aunt Dianne never called in the afternoon. With the diagnosis, Milo started to believe in a personal God that could be prayed to. That weekend, Lydia and Emma came home in order to visit uncle Georgio and cheer Rob up. At this time, Milo started to listen to the Harry Potter series, which he had not read together since his post-senior summer.

Milo re-developed some appreciation for the Catholic Church after Rob had taken him to the Carmelite to ask the nuns for prayers. As it was, Milo had wanted some higher power to believe in, even if it was not organized religion. Rob told the Nuns that Milo had been bothered by televangelists, and Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell in particular. This nun agreed with Milo's disagreements with the televangelists. By this time, a slightly better prognosis for Uncle Georgio was given, and he was on treatments again.

Milo had though extensively about five falls ago when he had gotten into the esoteric sciences. One weekend, the Biancatello's went to visit Lydia, and they stopped at the same Italian store Milo visited with the Filentino's years ago. Milo had wanted to return to this store, as he had some particularly myopic memories of that time. Now Milo remembered well how that was during his junior year, when he started using the Silenzo Alibi. Milo also remembered how that school year started on such a miraculous turn after a summer of moping over fears of meaningless changes.

A few weekends later, Chelsea came to Ciderpond for a visit, and Milo threw a college party for Lydia's college friends. Only there was no alcohol. Milo had been out with Salvatore when Chelsea arrived at the Biancatello's. As for the party, Lydia had many friends from college, including some Ciderpond students and their room mates.

The New Charisms

Back in the realm of the Jinns, the Aluments Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom responded to the St. Gregory Charism's request. This letter confirmed everything that the St. Gregory Charism suspected, in doing a major house cleaning. The letter explained this new plan to introduce a series of charisms to teach about a multitude of ethical theories, in hopes of clearing house. The letter explains that all ethical theories never get to the core of righteousness, but only clues to the goodness of the Dance. The letter also explains that ethical theories never see the whole picture, and can condemn anything that does not fit into the ideology.

On the day of meeting, Yuriyama, the Charisms of the Church Fathers, St. Patrick, the Didache, Bible Believers and Sophunums and Magnus including Maelendil, Jebediah, Lance and Brutus also attended. The Annogrammatrons Gustavette, Dugmateous, Billius, Victoria, Appolinius and Bacchus also showed up. They met in the Enanian Temple. When Brother Volition and Sister wisdom arrived, the Jinns all bowed in prostration. Sister wisdom gave Appolinius a rib cage resembling a dinosaur. Sister Wisdom promised Appolinius that he would get the skull next, should the mission be fulfilled. Brother Volition summoned the Charism of Social Psychologist Jonathan Haidt, and Sister Wisdom summoned the Charism of recently deceased Comedian George Carlin. Sister Wisdom and Brother Volition explained that they had many more charisms to send, when time would come. They also explained that Father Time and Mother Earth had more Charisms to send.

Soon enough, the Charisms of George Carlin and Jonathan Haidt showed up. The Charism of L. Ray Smith immediately thanked the Charism of George Carlin for his efforts. The Carlin Charism was a bit confused, as he knew that in life, he had made fun of Christians, and cursed out their beliefs. The Smith Charism explains that the Carlin Charism got people to see how stupid their idol of the accuser was. Then Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom explained that the George Carlin Charism was needed to expose the foolishness behind the assumptions of Infundermalis. Then the Charism of Jonathan Haidt was summoned to make sure those in the community tethered to academics learn this skeleton of the foundations of righteousness. Sister Wisdom explained that the mortals need to know that there is a way to understand righteousness other than authority.

Lydia's first Fall

Otherwise, life was running pretty smoothly. Milo was doing pretty good in his class on Non-Western Art, but struggled a bit with his class on the history of Modern Architecture. Frankly Milo was not a big fan of modern architecture, and saw it to be plain and ugly, especially Corbusier. Lydia came home for thanksgiving, and Margaret and Grandma Pearl went on a trip to pick her up. That evening, Ray, Milo, Salvatore and Rob got wings at a hole in the wall that was supposedly good. Milo had a sleepless night, due to having a science test the next morning. Milo had been agitated with the professor, as he gave Milo a zero on a worksheet, due to his assumptions that he cheated. This teacher had no proof, and his conclusions were utterly unfounded or true. Since being at Mal-Tech, Milo was well aware that professors did not always grade fairly, and often use their classes to boost their ego. However, this did not make Milo any more happy. Frankly the class utterly annoyed Milo, as he knew this was a class that he had to take, and the teacher made it more like an advanced science class. Plus, this took studying time away from his major. One thing Milo always found irritating was when he was expected to take classes more serious based on how demanding the teacher was, rather than the class being something he had an interest in, and would use for the future.

At this time, Milo had become less interested in School, as his memories at Sussewago had been marked by phoniness. The previous year at Sussewago University Milo compared to living in a paper cutout world. Milo had found that he could not stand his geology class, as this was not part of his major, and the teacher made the class like it was meant for geology majors. Milo's major had been in art history, so to learn more about architecture from an aestetic and historical perspective that he had been denied at Mal-Tech. Milo still had not understood that his education at Mal-Tech was not problematic due to engineering, but their lack of teaching anything important.

The Monday before thanksgiving, Margaret and Grandma Pearl went down to Pittsburgh to pick Lydia up. Meanwhile, Milo, Ray, Salvatore and Rob got wings at a hole in the wall bar. The facility reminded Milo of the Shrieking Shack from the Prisoner of Azkaban. That night, Milo did not sleep well at all, as he had been anxious over a test for Geology. Milo was getting pretty irritated with Geology, because his teacher gave him a zero on a paper, due to his groundless assumption he cheated. Milo was not a fan of some stuck up teacher claiming the authority to fail one for an assignment based on ignorant presumptions.

That day, Milo had the test, but got a ride to school, as he was not alert enough to be driving. During that day, Milo found a book in the Library on Witchcraft which reminded him of Grandma Gladys' house from when he was younger. The next day, Milo was invited to go to a hibachi restaurant with Uncle Leo and Eustace for Lunch. Milo had felt much better that day, as he had a much better night of sleep. As for Thanksgiving, Corey and Olivia made a surprise visit. Kate and Jonathan stayed back, as she was on bed rest with the baby on the way. Despite Uncle Georgio not having a good prognosis, he was still doing pretty good, and came over for the holiday. Olivia warmed up to Milo after he showed her a sculture he made in Eighth Grade and some book with Animals.

Yuriyama and Daxividus vision

Around this time, Maelendil saw the signs, and that Mortaneous task was ever nearer. As to just what this would entail, Maelendil did not know yet. Mortaneous had met with Maelendil, asking if he understood what was happening. Mortaneous brings up a vision from the oracle similar to the tonsillectomy, where there was a girl the charge had noticed. Maelendil explains that there were further visions, which the Uncle is talking to the Charge in School. Mortaneous explains that this battle is not necessarily a defeat, but some type of mysterious victory.

During the Holiday, Yuriyama was summoned back to the Oracle. Yuriyama saw a college student is in a campus lounge on a particularly brutal and dangerous and frosty winter night just trying to find a way to get home, due to some unknown danger. This Boy accidentally comes across a mysterious door that is supposed to take one to the other side, only to see a world that resembles the Super Mario game "Mario Madness", and the Platonic realm of forms. Daxividus saw an insubstantial videogame world where mortals lived in. Scenes could change to all different kinds of settings, such as winter forests, cliff houses, plumbing systems, backyard woods or long lost houses.

Yuriyama immediately summoned Daxividus, Terese and the Charism of George Carlin. The Charism of George Carlin is the first to arrive. He takes one look at the vision and makes a commentary about videogames. The Carlin Charism starts going on about how the 2-D games at least had the appearance of a game. The Charism then explains that things were better off before, when people could play that game and still knew it was a game. Then the Carlin Charism goes on about how these 3-D games are these virtual realities, giving the illusion of reality, and that these kids minds get messed with. Then the Charism brings up games like virtual pets, and says "Either get a pet, or don't get a pet, there is no point in getting a fake pet that you cannot pet, but still have to still take care of. Mindswell get a game based on chores, like farming". Yuriyama annoyed mentions a game like that already exists, known as Farmville. Yuriyama asks the Carlin Charism if he has any real imput, besides videogame commentary. The Charism seriously explains that many people cannot tell reality apart from Virtual Reality, and then explains that there are too many stupid things like people buying videogame demonstrations.

When Daxividus and Terese arrive, they start to understand that those in the Sarkikos community were becoming used to their environment, and did not seem to want to leave. According to Terese, Stockholm was still in power, but operating now as a protector instead of a tyrant choosing to show mercy. Daxividus explained that the Maludico Udopis was in charge. Yuriyama knew well that Udopis makes all kinds of offers to those who feel oppressed, and likes to play the role of a caretaker starting revolutions to destroy anyone deemed to be the oppressor. Daxividus explains that most of the refugees of Udopis had been under fear based religions or greedy for profit organizations.

Yuriyama tells Daxividus that this vision shows of the world they are living in, and can only imagine anything else as some static realm. Daxividus asks Terese why anyone would stay on this realm. Daxividus explains that this realm is so empty and quite phony. Terese explains that for the time being, the mortals stuck in this community have turned in on themselves, out of fear of being sucked into the institutions sustained by the Sarkikos ideas. According to Terese, those in the community are so afraid of ever being sucked into the institutions, that they have been in this self protective mode that they fear any form of transcendence could be a form of manipulation. Daxividus asks Terese if those in the community are afraid of being controlled, and don't want to trust anyone but themselves. Terese confirms that this is true, and believe that their intellect is infallible has given them this sense of never being at anyone's mercy. Then the Carlin Charism gives his imput about Udopis being like a politician making big promises, but ends up biting off more than he can chew and screwing everything up. Terese explains that Udopis has given promises of certainty that the religious and business authorities are wrong.

The Charism of George Carlin told Terese, Yuriyama and Daxividus that those in the Sarkikos community need to see this vision. Terese explained that she was already going to be showing the community that night, but was not sure this would be too effective. Yuriyama explained that this will be a pretty disturbing sight. Daxividus asks if this will make the community more apprehensive about leaving. Daxividus explains that those in the community will see a world beyond the Sarkikos community as some realm of static forms. Terese explains that within time, those held prisoner will neither want to live in this realm, nor a platonic realm of no surprises, and will have to surrender.

The uneasy Christmas

Early in December, Kate gave birth to her and Corey's third born Rowan. As for the Holiday, Milo was not exactly in the greatest of spirits. Milo had been waiting for the holiday since the summer, but now that it was here, it just did not feel so magical. Now Milo was looking quite forward to the Holiday, but when the time came, he could not feel in the spirit. Milo thought the problem was with the lack of good Christmas music, and too much obnoxious songs like "Santa Baby".

Amira's birthday took place over Finals week. This year, Milo actually remembered, as he had been thinking about Amira again. On the night before Amira's birthday, Milo had a dream that she converted to Assembly of God Pentecostalism. During this time, Milo was still associating Evangelical Christianity, including the Assemblies of God with radical Fundamentalism. Milo still went to church, but did not really believe as the Catholics did anymore, or in religion at all.

That holiday, Uncle Georgio got progressively worse and passed away the day before New Years Eve. Milo knew this happened, as Ray was over at Uncle Georgio's all day. Then they got a call, and Margaret expressed condolences. A little while later, Milo heard Lydia crying, and he had wished that she only had a breakup, as he knew what really happened was much worse. That night, Milo went with Lydia, Chelse and Emily to a Hibachi restaurant. Milo knew that they only asked him to be nice, considering the circumstances. On New Years, the Biancatello's saw "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1". The Funeral showing took place on Sunday, and the mass took place on Monday. Monsignor Warburton did the mass, and there was a wake afterwards. Milo was a little befuddled, considering that his prayers did not seem to work. After the funeral, Lydia was taken back to Pittsburgh, as her break ended.

Over the course of the next few weeks, Milo had many nightmares about the night Uncle Georgio passed away, and feared this meant something very bad. Milo did some research on dreams, and found out that it was normal to have dreams reliving fresh traumatic events. On Gianni's birthday, Milo went out to dinner with the Filentino's and Zia Maria. Otherwise, Milo was getting ready for his next Semester with Sussewago. During this time, Milo was playing a new videogame he got, known as "Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4".

The Second Calling

The Aluments summoned an emergency meeting in order to introduce some new Charisms. The Aluments knew well that there was a spirit of statism in the air, particularly of a leftist sort. As to where this was coming from the Aluments believed this to be the doings of a Framlejinn in the making. Then the Aluments summoned the charisms of the founding fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, and Benjamin Franklin. These Charisms were placed under Terese and Daxividus responsibility in hopes of awakening those stuck in the Sarkikos community. Terese was a bit out of sorts, considering that the showing of the vision to the sarkikos community had not worked too well. According to Terese, this door in the vision only reminded one of the prisoners of the Love Door in the Fifth Harry Potter Book more horrible and wonderful than death. All this did was make this prisoner more afraid of anything that he could not understand.

Brother Volition summoned the Charism of sociologist Bob Altemeyer, while Sister Wisdom summoned the Charisms Bill Maher and Mark Pinsky. They had been given the task to assist in the efforts of the George Carlin and Jonathan Haidt Charisms. Sister wisdom gave these Charisms the task to teach the mortals how to reason, in hopes that they can get back in touch with themselves, and eventually transcend themselves. Sister Wisdom explains that too many mortals have been bound to this illusion that only institutions have any knowledge of truth, and that the ordinary person needs to be completely instructed by them.

Then the Aluments all summoned the Charism of Hospice Chaplain and Theologian Dr. Boyd Purcell. Mother Earth instructed the Charism of Dr. Purcell to make sure his works on spiritual abuse get out. Mother Earth explained that Infundermalis under the Accuser spread this idea that good is relative to those in power. Now the Charism of Boyd Purcell knew well that such a morality was based on the idea that Might makes right. As to exactly what made right, no Jinn, Alument or Mortal could possibly understand this.

The Charisms of the founding fathers went into the Sarkikos community, and had been utterly disgusted at the way the constitution had been so twisted to justify all kinds of intrusions. The Charism of Thomas Jefferson started suspecting that there were hypocordo's working for Udopis, but had no clue who. The only suspect that the Charism of Thomas Jefferson had was the Hypocordo Wipou. By this time, Wipou had escaped from the Jinn Prison after a riot. The Charism calls for assistance from Maelendil, who had seen the works of Wipou, and he recognized much of the scapegoating going on. Maelendil suspected that Wipou would take on a different form this time, but he was utterly clueless as to where she would be. Maelendil told the Charism about how Udopis had worked with the Epynitas known as Conkus. The Jefferson Charism explained how he was not surprised, in the way victimhood ideologies have become so powerful, without ever coming under scrutiny.

The Political Semester

Milo's third semester at Susewago was pretty eventless. Milo's classes were Art and Society, Introduction to Cinema, and research writing. Art and Society along with Cinema were Monday Evening classes for Milo, and his Writing class was online. Milo only took the classes so that he would not have to be at Sussewago for two days a week. Milo was still in that mindset that he could not handle any imperfections, and was still quite turned off from school due to not experiencing too much belonging.

Milo worked on a research paper on the Sociology of Disney. Milo's focus on Disney had been wholly rational, that he nearly reduced the movies to being nothing more than political moralisms. Milo's ideas were that all the movies represented some form of Authority, and all villains representing someone on his hate list. Milo saw Ursula as a saleswoman, Gaston as a jock, Jafar as a Politician, Scarr as a communist, Governor Ratcliffe as a Corporate CEO, Frollo as a Fundamentalist, Hades as a Demon and Shan-Yu as a terrorist. As it was, Milo completely neglected the transcendent themes. Milo had become a bit obsessed with Politics, and got the idea that the ideal political state was more important than it really was. Milo also had grown to see morality in wholly political terms.

As for the classes, Milo was not a huge fan. Milo only took the Monday class so he would only have to spend one day on Campus. When it came to Cinema class, Milo only took the class because the professor was an Elamite woman. Frankly Milo did not find the teacher to be very good, due to having a heavy accent, and fairly silly lesson plans. The only thing Milo learned is that many movies have political agenda's. As for Art and Society, Milo worked on a project of finding Post-Modern Architecture in Ciderpond.

Azeyas Vision

One glorious evening, Azeyas had been summoned to the Oracle temple, and saw the following vision: A Boy is working out at a gym with a friend of his. This boy sees a Girl whom he had a crush on from years ago, whom had been away for a while. This friend points out this girl out loud, leading to a little bit of embarrassment. This then leads to a flashback of being in front of a school, and some black guy telling him to be careful of evil afoot. Then this dream turns into seeing this boy and girl seeming to run into each other at a Basketball arena, and then a southern country bar.

After seeing the vision, he relays what he had seen with Maelendil and Lance. Azeyas offered to share his findings with Brutus, but he was simply too busy to be concerned. Azeyas had been a bit suspicious about why Brutus had been too busy to be concerned with other duties other than his role as a Senexit. Soon enough, the Charism of Boyd Purcell arrives, and shares that he has made many inroads, and has successfully reached out to his charge. Maelendil asks the Charism of Dr. Purcell about if the Charge is back in the battle. The Charism explains that Mortaneous had guided the Charge right to him, after his uncle passed away. The Charism recognized much of what happened to him with Fundamentalism, and how similar this experience had been with others, and how this form of abuse seemed so inescapable.

The Cruxix Maronattar showed up, saying it was good that he had come across Purcell Charism. Maronattar told news that he feared that the movement from the Evangelical Inclusivists was devolving into merely a political movement. Maronattar explained that the movement had been creating cult devotions to Solum office, and using this to place leftist ideologies on a pedestal. The Purcell Charism explained that he would look into it, and make sure the Ouranos got the same respect. Maronattar explained how for a while, there was only an Ouranos in office, and just a year ago the Solum known as Baba Yaga got voted in. Maronattar explained how the Ouranos influence had been too overemphasized, which he explained as the reason that Fundamentalist and right wing ideologies got over-emphasized. The Charism explained that he would make sure the Evangelical Inclusivists introduced the Ouranos back slowly.

The Spring and Summer

A few weeks before Easter, Milo skipped his Cinema class in order to go to a Passover Seder a Conservative synagogue invited St. Timothy's. Milo had thought quite highly of Judaism, as he saw them as a tolerant, and therefore non-dogmatic and open minded people. The tolerance of the Jews had stumped Milo, as he was under the impression that the Old Testament was a horribly intolerant book full of vindictive punishments on petty matters, and constant violence as compared to the New Testament. As for the Seder, this had been an interesting experience. The Seder was done at a conservative Synagogue cafeteria, and presided by a rabbi with a heavy Brooklyn accent. During this same time, Milo did a small tour to find Postmodern Architecture in Ciderpond. Milo's choices were St. Timothy's Church, a nature center by the water, Ciderpond High and the Library. As for Easter, this had been an interesting time. The night before Easter, Milo had a weird dream about Grandma Gladys' house, and some old toys from the 1920's. This had been the first Easter without Uncle Georgio. Otherwise, all the kids showed up at Uncle Leo's for the party.

By the end of the Semester, Lydia returned home. Milo was less a fan of school now, as he did not feel connected. One thing Milo hated was Final Weeks, as he felt like his parents had been authoritarian in forcing him to study constantly. Milo had realized that college was not all it was cracked up to be. The only thing Milo could say good about Sussewago was that it was not intrusive like Mal-Tech. If there is one thing that makes Milo uncomfortable are reciprocal relationships.

The day after Lydia had returned home, Milo had quite an irritating day. As this was finals week, Ray had Milo concentrating on studying. Then in the morning, Milo went to a Kingdom Hall meeting with Vito. Frankly, the meeting was long and boring. Milo found that the Jehovah's witnesses are very different when they get together, as opposed to their regular visits. After the meeting, Salvatore asked Milo to get donuts with him and Matt. Now Milo was a bit stressed about getting his finals work done. Salvatore would not leave the shop, despite Milo needing to get home. Then Milo got extremely irritable when Salvatore decided to get gas on the way home. Milo found this extremely annoying, and did not appreciate being kept waiting, just because Salvatore could not wait till after he was back home to get gas.

When Milo got home, he checked his facebook. Lydia asked Milo what he was doing on facebook, when he should be studying. Milo asked Lydia why the F she cares. Frankly, Lydia had not taken well to being talked to like this. By this time, Milo was ready to be finished with his current classes, and to start Summer Vacation.

Shortly before the Summer, and after school ended, Margaret was in Toledo for a business trip, which normally took place in Tampa. By this same time, the Biancatello's found out that they were invited to Uncle Wayne's graduation party in Atlanta. Milo was not overly thrilled about this, as he feared that the South would be full of obnoxious bible thumpers. As for Mothers Day weekend, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl went up to Toledo to visit Margaret. They went to Margaret's hotel and had dinner at the Hotel restaurant.

Early in the summer, Grandma Rosa's brother Uncle Victor passed away, after years of failing health. Over the summer, Milo was a bit cynical at times. Milo was not a fan of organized religion, and wondered why people believed in this overly dogmatic system, and could not get with the program and understand that there is no sky dictator punishing humanity. Milo knew from that experience from the previous year that reality was much bigger than the silly fundamentalist model. Alongside, Milo was not sure he liked what was happening to Lydia at the university. Now mind you, Milo was a bit biased about college education after his experience with Mal-Tech and first year at Sussewago. But Milo noticed something different about Lydia, which he could not put his finger on.

Over the early summer, Eustace had his graduation party. Otherwise, Ben came in town that same month, and invited Milo, Salvatore, Eustace and Ben out to lunch. That same weekend, Margaret's friend Tessa came into Ciderpond with her daughter. By this time, the plans were made to spend a few days in Myrtle Beach, and then head over to Atlanta. A few weeks later, Milo, Salvatore and Lydia spent the afternoon at Soak town.

One Sunday, Ray had Corey, Rob, Olivia, Jonathan and Rowan over to swim. Olivia cried about the water being too cold, and said it was not like her Grandmothers. Jonathan liked Milo giving him fast boat rides on a blow up toy. When it came to Rowan, he was too little to swim, and Ray held him. After swimming, Milo showed Olivia some Mickey Mouse shorts on Youtube. That night, Lydia was a bit annoyed about missing out on seeing them, as she was boating with a friend. When Milo told Lydia about their visit, she told him she did not want to talk about it.

The week before the Biancatello's were to head down to Atlanta, Milo, Lydia and Salvatore went to Soaktown for the afternoon. Lydia did not really want to go, but Ray forced her to. As for the park, Milo had some flashbacks to his sixth grade school picnic. When Milo got back from the water park, he was a bit anxious, as he knew that he would be going down to the Deep South. Milo feared that the south would be full of bible thumping bigots.

Durnils Establishment

Oscar and Durnil had a long discussion and agreed that within the upcoming days, it would be time to reintroduce some new television shows back to the earthlings. Oscar had seen over the year, how the anti-social tendencies were getting worse, and were still quite traumatized by relationships to even consider. According to Durnil, many mortals had become cynical about relationships in general, and saw them as a burden where one was forced to be something else just to please them. Oscar explains to Durnil that mortals often expect that earthly relationships to have the same perfection reserved for the Dance alone. Oscar explains that earthly relationships, whether friendships, romances, family or connections can become so transcendent that it can become mistakened for the Dance. When these relationships are imperfect in any way, this can seem like the Dance has turned against the individual. Durnil asks Oscar if Pirious knew all of this, and purposely set this up. Oscar explains that the imperfections Pirious exploited created these relationships that could be quite conditional. Often times, something in a friendship like a disagreement or cancellation occurs, and this created a system where absolute perfection was demanded. All this did was create these demanding relationships based on conditional keeping of accounts, leading to refusal to accept the other as other, betrayal, domination and utility.

Durnil had some ideas to get those under Hillectivus to see the way Puterma still had some dangerous influence. Durnil had seen that many under Puterma still had some emotional attachments to parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or anyone else who resembled such a role, that they had also been mistakened for the Dance. Oscar explained that Growing up, children often see such figures as possessing the perfection reserved only to the Dance, and become quite distraught when such figures show their imperfections. Oscar explains that teenagers begin to realize that such figures are imperfect, but still long for the perfect parental figure that only the dance can be. Accordingly, Puterma still preys on this primordial wish, and keeps the mortals tethered in an unhealthy fashion to any such figure, despite the imperfections. The resentment about such imperfections manifests in hostility towards any stranger, such as a new teacher, boss, or anyone taking on parental roles in a grossly imperfect way. Oscar gives the examples of hostility shown on College Campuses at any speaker expressing any exclusive points of view, and these people hear the lecturing elder pushing their own imperfections.

Durnil's ideas were to reintroduce some wholesome family shows. Around this time, the retired Puerubdi Alexander also joined their assistance, and suggested shows with pretty girls. Alexander explains that this will lure people in, and Durnil then sees that this will assist the mortals to be able to see the girls as something more than mere objects to lust over and possess. Oscar explained his plans to make sure some fantasy style shows are re-established. According to Oscar, this sense of transcendence will give the mortals a sense of something beyond the annoying watch of the Archon.

The Mclonistani attacks

Back in the Desert, the Cobolds were heckled by the Mcglonistanis. As the Cobolds knew, the Mcglonistan nation was divided into sub-nations known as the Morrelites, Skellyites, Rubenites and Lymanites. The Morrelites are known for subjugating the women, and treating them as mere slaves, along with using dirty language to describe the womans body. The Rubenites are known to be a thuggish bunch with an extreme loyalty to the Patimesh land, and not only will kill anyone who disrespects Supradolfter, but will kill anyone who badmouths Agrabah. As to the exact origin, no one really knew. There was much speculation that the original followers originated from Moreytown, and bullied other Mistivants into following them. What was known was that they are a foul mouthed, and bullying set of mistivants. They were known to throw rocks at desert travelers, who look to be attacked, as to claim martyrhood for the sake of Supradolfter. If anything is true, they have a passion for the commands of Supradolfter, and will curse out anyone who speaks ill of their master. Not to mention, they are a people who will call for severe penalties on those who disobey the whims of Supradolfter. This Mcglonistani's have claimed that by throwing rocks at some passerby, and if they are killed, they are acting mercifully. According to their claims, the punishment of death relieves them of the penalty at the return of Supradolfter at his punishment at the Mount of Lava.

On one such occasion, when the Cobolds were walking through the desert, two from the Skellyite clan known as Kurgen and Gron and his gremlin buddy from the Morrelite clan started throwing rocks at them. Iohannes went up to Kurgen and Gron, telling them to stop throwing rocks at them. Gron got pretty angry at Iohannes, due to not physically attacking him. Gron told Iohannes that he was a filthy reprobate. Iohannes then called Gron a lowlife scumbag with no right to be disrespecting him, when his master is a disgusting tyrant. Gron got quite wrathful, and told Iohannes that he will regret the day he spoke this way of his master, when he is cast into the Mount of Lava, and gave a proud laugh. Iohannes nearly punched Gron, but was grabbed by Aerondin and Selwyn held him back. Iohannes had become quite defensive, and had really wanted to destroy all allegiance to Supradolfter, and did not want to hear him glorified. Selwyn explained that an attack is exactly what the Mcglonistani's want.
Chapter 42: The End of College

The Visit to Myrtle Beach and Atlanta

Milo was anticipating this return to the tropics, as he would be going on a three day vacation to Myrtle Beach, and then would be going to Atlanta to visit the Rumcorns. Milo had quite some myopic views about tropical regions, as he remembered how entering into Tampa two years previous had been this thoroughly thrilling experience. On the other hand, Milo was a bit apprehensive about going down south, as he feared the region would be filled with hardcore Fundamentalists. Milo also had some underlying fears of this vacation being like the previous year on the cruise. Milo came to the conclusion that the cruise was too confining, and knew he did not like any trips bound to tight schedules. Plus, Milo remembered the year before, when Chelsea was moving and how it was not so easy.

This vacation had been pretty pleasant for the Family. The Biancatello's left at 2am Saturday morning, and stopped at Bojangles for Lunch. This had been the first trip Lydia's boyfriend Ryan went on with the Biancatello's. Upon arriving in Myrtle beach, Milo did not have any euphoric experiences like he had in Tampa. In Myrtle Beach, the Biancatello's ate at this burger restaurant as recommended by this timeshare woman known as Bunny. Bunny also suggested a Brazilian Steakhouse, a Kalabash, a strip mall that had a tiger refuge. On that first night, Milo was a little homesick. By the next day, Milo found himself in the vacation mood, like he had experienced in Tampa two summers ago. For the day, Milo, Lydia and Ryan were at the beach. Ray and Margaret unfortunately got stuck at a Timeshare seminar thanks to Bunny. That evening, the Biancatellos went to the Brazilian Kalabash for dinner. That night, Lydia found this television show known as "Good Luck Charlie", which is a show about a teenage girl making video diaries for her baby sister.

When it came to that Monday, Ray and Margaret got out of the timeshare. The day went pretty much the same, as they went back to the beach. That night for dinner, the Biancatello's went to the Kalabash. This particular Kalabash reminded Milo of the ship on the Little Mermaid. This restaurant had an abundance of fried seafood, due to being so close to the Ocean. After dinner, the Biancatello's went to an outdoor Mall, which had a Disney Store. After some shopping, the Biancatello's went to a southern style show.

One their last day, the Biancatello's went putt putting. Milo was a little out of sorts in the morning, knowing that they would be going to Atlanta the next day. That night, the Biancatello's went to a strip mall with an old fashioned candy shop and a wildlife preservation. This Strip Mall reminded Milo of a candy store he remembered seeing in Disney World. The Wildlife establishment allowed people to hold and get a picture with a baby tiger. Milo, Lydia and Ryan got to hold the Tiger, while Ray and Margaret stood behind for the picture. Now a baby tiger is still quite large. In Atlanta, the Biancatellos, Rumcorns and Grandma Pearl went to Six flags. This Six Flags had not overly impressed Milo. Yet Milo was happy to stay at the park all day, and had no desire to return back to the Rumcorns. The next day, they went on uncle Wayne's boat. Milo remembered how five years ago, he wanted a boat trip in the worst way, as he remembered the summer after his freshman year. On Saturday, Uncle Wayne had his graduation party, which was the major reason the Biancatello's went down to Atlanta in the first place.

As for the rest of the summer, Milo was in a much better mood, and less cynical. After having gone through the South, he was pleasantly surprised to find no fundamentalist bible thumpers imposing their religion on him. There had been many Churches in the south, similar in status to the North. Around this time, Milo went on a quest to watch all the Simpsons Episodes from all the Seasons that he had on DVD. At the end of the summer, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane took Eustace to Toledo University for the first time to begin his education. Around this same time, Lydia also went back to The University of Pittsburgh.

The Mcdougan Clan

In Londinian, a family known as the Mcdougans started a secret movement known as the Garonites. This family had been living in Londinium for multiple generations. The family was made up of the Patriarch Leif, Matriarch Amagh, and children Rupert, Bridgid, Gabril, Charlene and Tobias. The Garonite movement had been an independent movement who only supported the Londinian rule, and the Cobolds Embassadorship. This family did not trust either the Hannitarians or the Ugyurites. Now Amagh had been impersonated by the Shapeshifter offspring the Naifaspring battled so many years ago. In fact, the Naifaspring sisters had been part of the Garonites. Now the Garonites all supported the Cobolds, and considered them to be the rightful leaders of Beaubelles, and believed that they should continue with the traditions before they left for Gairmsoiled.

On one occasion, the patriarch sent the Cobolds a letter asking for a meeting. In the letter, he mentioned that he was Leif, who argued their case when Londinium nearly turned against them at their return. The letter requested a meeting with the Cobolds, but had to be done so in secret. The scheduled meeting place was at a secret residency that would only be opened to those invited.

The Cobolds who arrived at this secret location were Irugen, Zadok and Yoshiyahu. These Cobolds met with Leif and Amagh. Amagh showed them around, and introduced them to these refugees from a Hamitarian tribe with a man known as Jabari and his wife Makda and daughter Izara. His sister is Nethys, who is Caliadne's mother. Now Izara and Bridgid are very good friends. Alongside, the Cobolds met with the Naifaspring Sisters, Zephyr, Azaelia, Wilber, the Queen and Timothy. As we remember, Zephyr, Azaelia, Wilber, Timothy and the Queen had worked in the original resistance movement after the Governor fled and the corrupt General Shrub was killed in the Flood. By this time, Hallicia and Junous had two boys. Ariella had married a Cobold known as Cupid, and Daisy married Sergius from the Londinian defense team. Daisy met Sergius through a mission she had to train up another generation in Londinian to ward off threats from invading rakshasajinns. Rupert and Tisha had become an item while the Cobolds were in the Oasis.

These quickly took a liking to the Mcdougans, and other in the movements. Now the Cobolds found that Amagh could be a bit annoyingly eccentric, and had a love for being in the spotlight. Leif had been an expert on contaminants, and knew well that the lightning bugs that invaded the Gairmsoiled inn knew exactly what they were doing. According to Leif, the lightning bugs purposely invaded the Gairmsoiled in, so the Cobolds could return to Londinium. However, Leif explained that those flies who were following them on their return had been spies for Trommer and Emersina. Otherwise, Jabari and Makda had seemed quite boring, and the Cobolds wondered how they could be related to Caliadne. The Cobolds told Nethys all about finding Caliadne at the Oasis, and their new friend Prescott. Nethys, Jabari and Makda confirmed that life in their tribe was pretty dreary.

Azeyas second vision

Azeyas had been summoned to the Oracle to relay the following vision: A person starts off in a hurry and quite anxious to get to a courthouse, and then later is seen playing with a small child. Then there is another sequence with a supposed first episode of the Simpsons with them living on a crappy beach house with all kinds of notices in their mailbox.

After seeing this vision, Azeyas quickly summons Lance, Brutus, Maelendil, Dugmateous and Gustavette to relay what he had seen. Azeyas had been very excited, but Lance and Maelendil were the only ones to return the enthusiasm. Brutus seemed a bit annoyed with the vision. Lance on the other hand saw this vision as anticipation for exciting things to soon be happening. Then the Charisms of Bill Maher and George Carlin showed up to give some commentary. The Carlin Charism explained that Simpsons is brutally honest, and no character on the show tries to cover up their real intention with moralistic BS. The Maher Charism tells Maelendil that his charge has gotten quite a taste for the show. According to the Charism, the charge had become haunted by the first season of this show, and sees it as its most authentic.

Otherwise, Oscar and Durnil decided that the Television show "Once Upon a Time" needed to be the first of the shows to be reintroduced for testing. This was a new ABC television show to premier that fall, written by the same creators of Lost, blending elements of Harry Potter style High Fantasy with characters and Plots from Disney and some other fairy tales. However many adjustments are made to the stories. Brutus objected to this, but Lance had been thrilled about this. Maelendil explained that this show would be a good opportunity for Brutus and Lance to share their work with the world. Maelendil had a different plan, and knew well that "Once Upon a time" had a greater plot than the products of Lance and Brutus teamwork. Plus, Maelendil had this idea that Brutus had not been much of a team player. Yet Maelendil did not know why Brutus did not seem to be getting any better at his Senexit role.

The Intellectual Semester

Milo began his final year at Susewago that fall. His classes were introduction to music, Baroque Art History, Political Ethics, Intro to the Old Testament, Intro to the New Testament and the Philosophy of Magic. During this time, Amira was also in her final year of College at the University of Toledo. For years, Milo and Salvatore wanted to go on a road trip, but never actually went through with this. This year, Milo was determined to go through a trip to see Eustace in Toledo. Lydia was annoyed about Milo planning to see Eustace in Toledo instead of her in Pittsburgh. Lydia knew well that Eustace was being standoffish, and Milo had no real interest in seeing him, but wanted to see Amira.

During this early semester, Milo had many flashbacks to his vacation to Myrtle Beach, which for some reason reminded him of some vague memories of his early childhood. A few days later, Ray and Margaret left for their 25th anniversary for a trip to Virginia. One of the days Ray and Margaret were gone, Milo and Salvatore found a new Barbeque restaurant not too far from Essex. On Saturday Night, Milo had to go to the Philharmonic for his music class. When Milo got home, Margaret and Ray had been back for about an hour.

Husisha's suggestion

Maelendil had seen his charge becoming very rigid and very "us vs. them" in thinking. Husisha came to Maelendil's assistance and explained how his charge had began to shed this rigidity after going into the heart of the Bible Belt and watching the Simpsons. Husisha told Maelendil that he always knew that television show would one day come in handy in such a time. Maelendil knew well the personality complexities in the Simpsons that could not characterize the show on liberal or conservative grounds. According to Husisha, The show has always been parody of all presumptions in general, whether religious or secular, liberal or conservative or moralistic or self interested.

What Maelendil noticed also with his charge was that he did not like being in school, and saw it as an utterly pointless experience for him after his first year being quite superficial. Alongside, the Charge had a strong aversion to anything country as boring. Husisha brought a plan to fruition, which like the first time involved bringing another girl into the picture. This new girl is from a rural area, and her mother is Baptist. Husisha explained that this new girl has no connection with his other charge, and Maelendil knew well his charge had matured significantly from the first time. At this, Maelendil agreed to allow this temporary intrusion. Plus, Maelendil knew firmly that Husisha was highly trustworthy, considering the first time.

Music Class and Jessica

During this semester, Milo sort of liked being in school. In Milo's music class, he met a girl Jessica. This girl Milo met because he unintentionally sat next to her and another student who turned out to be a super far-right redneck. This girl Jessica reminded Milo of Miley Cyrus. Milo befriended Jessica on Facebook, and ended up getting constant updates. Jessica was from a county outside of Essex, and just west of Sussewago. Like many people growing up in the country, can be a bit too trusting. Jessica was one to put her whole day on facebook status and share too much of her locations.

As for the semester, Milo had enjoyed his other classes, and gave him a bit of an intellectual high. Milo wanted to understand the whole theory behind different types of politics, and the whole psychology and philosophy behind why the left and right disagreed so much. This class on the Old Testament had been motivated by Milo's interest in Judaism and their more tolerant attitude. Milo found out the Old Testament was not quite as vicious as it was made out to be. When it came to studies in the New Testament, Milo found out that early Christian history was not so black and white as bible literalists claimed it to be. In fact, Milo found out that the New Testament writers had different ideas, many not in perfect alignment with modern day organized Christianity, nor was it all this fire and brimstone garbage he had been taught from the Fundies. This gave Milo the idea that the problems came from Organized Christianity, and saw it as a religion that emphasized draconian orthodoxy. Around this time, Milo was also prejudiced towards Islam, and saw it as nothing more than a spinoff of Jewish Pharisaism, popular Western Roman theology, Arabian taboos and a precursor to Protestant iconoclasm. In fact, Milo suspected that "Gloom and Doom" theology was responsible for modern forms of terrorism.

Otherwise, Milo was anticipating Thanksgiving this year, which would be another full house. Milo had been looking forward to taking pictures and uploading them so Jessica could see them. Plus, Milo was looking forward to his trip to Toledo, and possibly see Amira. During this time, Milo accidentally watched a 9/11 conspiracy documentary, and nearly believed it. Milo was more interested in knowing why there were conspiracy theories on this tragedy. For a few days, Milo had been too freaked out, and tried to avoid Metropolises, such as downtown Essex.

Yuriyama and Daxividus Vision

Yuriyama summoned both Daxividus and Terese to the Oracle temple over another vision. What Yuriyama saw was an urgent care center that all the sudden starts to function like a Hospital Emergency Department. A Brown Haired Girl comes in complaining of a Stomach Ache similar to Appendicitis. According to Daxividus, this was the same vision he had seen of hospitals, with the only difference in actually being in the impatient area. Daxividus was surprised this dream had gotten as far as it did.

Some Alux who had been on guard in the Senexit Sarkikos community arrived to share their findings concerning the vision. The Alux's summoned Daxividus, Yuriyama, Maelendil and Lance to a private meeting concerning the latest vision. Brutus was conveniently on leave over urgent business, and was unable to attend. As to what Brutus was really up to had been unknown. According to the Alux's, there was a great spirit of fear on earth, and the people who were supposed to be eliminiating the fears were the perpetrators responsible. One Alux talked about a Doctor who had gotten framed for drug abuse, after he was prescribing some dietary and ayurvedic treatments for Kidney disease, so the patients would not have to go on dialysis. They also spoke of multiple sightings of the Maludico Cittimerk and the Hypocordo's Sheepus and Wipou dwelling in facilities similar to the vision.

After the meeting, the Alux pulled Lance to the side concerning his work with Brutus. The Alux told Lance that Brutus was not giving him a fair say, and was in fact manipulating him into doing his bidding. This Alux heard stories from ancient Alux history about times when the Senexit takes charge and dominates the Puerubdi, and how there are manifestations of terror done in the name of peace. Plus, the Alux explains that the cords keeping the Senexit Sarkikos community tethered to Mother Earth were slowly starting to vanish. The Alux know quite well that these cords should not be disconnected. This Alux explains that these chords are the only connection those stuck in this community has to their home community. If these chords are broken, those stuck in the Sarkikos community are going to forget life back in their home, and will either become defeated or bitter with their lot.

Toledo State University

Before thanksgiving, Milo and Salvatore finally went on a road trip to visit Eustace at the University of Toledo. Milo knew that Amira attended this school, and had pushed Salvatore into this trip. By this time, Salvatore had been much better for the most part. The night before leaving, Milo could not believe that he may get to see Amira after three years. That night, Milo called out for Uncle Victor and Uncle Luigi from beyond the grave to guide Amira to cross path with him, Salvatore and Eustace. Over this time, Milo had a more humanistic religion, and had some religious beliefs similar to Panentheism, Humanism and some forms Deism. Overall, Milo did not believe in any god from organized religion.

Before arriving at Toledo State University, Milo and Salvatore stopped at an Italian store, where they bought some Taralli's. Salvatore told Milo that Grandma Dora liked the snack. Frankly this store was fairly similar to the store in Pittsburgh. After the Italian Store, they stopped at an authentic Chinese restaurant. Milo was a bit overwhelmed by so many different products sold at their store, and got the impression that cooking authentic Asian dishes would require a whole new understanding on cooking. All that really happened was that the store sold brands from different Asian countries not readily available in the United States. Then Milo and Salvatore stopped at the same market they visited four years ago, before starting at Mal-Tech.

For the most part, Milo found Toledo to be quite a similar town to the Essex region. Then Milo and Salvatore drove through Toledo, and arrived at Toledo University. Milo and Salvatore saw Eustace while walking back to his dorm after class. Eustace tried to avoid them, but could not, as he saw them driving. As for the campus, Milo saw it as just another campus like Sussewago or Whelon. Milo never saw Amira, as the campus was a bit too big. Otherwise, Milo thought that his uncles did not help, as they probably knew he was not ready to see Amira yet. Milo and Salvatore went to Eustace's dorm recreation room. Unfortunately Eustace refused to show Milo and Salvatore his room. Milo started to suspect that Eustace was gay, due to being so standoffish. Milo remembered that Eustace had been interested in LGBT matters for the past few years, and was a more feminine boy growing up.

That night after coming back, Milo found that Lydia had gotten home early. Lydia told Milo that Amira was from Highschool, and asked him about Jessica. That night, Lydia, Ryan and his friend Ted saw the Lion king on the big screen in 3-D. Milo was a bit bummed about not seeing Amira, but justified this in thinking that Uncle Luigi and Uncle Victor knew he was not ready to see Amira yet.

Over thanksgiving, there was a full house at the Biancatellos with the new additions with Jesse, Rory, Corey and Ben's kids. Now Milo was really looking forward to this holiday, and getting to see all his little cousins. Plus, Milo was planning on taking many pictures to post on facebook, in hopes Jessica would see the pictures. When it came to the holiday, Milo spent most of the time playing with Jonathan and Logan. When it came to Abigail and Olivia, Lydia, Alicia, Samantha and Lily were preferred over the boys. Over the weekend, Milo, Lydia and Emily watched the Christmas Carol 3D version, which had been quite an experience. That weekend, the Catholic Church started using the revised mass.

As for the Christmas season, it was pretty standard. After getting back to school from Thanksgiving break, Milo saw the Rugrats Hannuakah special on Netflix. Milo had not seen the episode since he was in Eighth Grade. When it came to Church, two weeks the Biancatello's had this new obnoxious priest who had been highly opinionated. Both sermons for two weeks of Advent were highly negative, and judgmental. The second sermon, the priest complained about how Christians were attacked by the American media. So far, Milo was sick of this claim, and thought they would not be getting criticized if they would stop trying to intimidate people into their religion.

Before the Holidays began, Milo had his last final, and therefore his last class with Jessica. Milo had his last final on Amira's birthday. As for the season, Milo was in more of a Holiday spirit than the previous years. After Christmas, the Rumcorns came in town. Ryan also attended one of the get-togethers the Biancatello's hosted, just to see how goofy the boys were. That year, Kevin brought his airhead girlfriend up for the trip. For New Years, Aunt Judy threw a small get together.

Durnil and Daxividus meeting

Shortly after, the seer Daxividus had a vision back at hall of Akashic Prophecies with people finding hidden gems in the most unlikely places. On this first occasion, there was an excellent ice cream shop in some hick town ran by some black woman resembling the grouchy neighbor in some kids show. At this same time, Durnil had some more reoccurring visions of Puterma's curse of the grey chords. According to Durnil, those grey cords were still in power, and seemed deeply rooted. Daxividus on the other hand was troubled about who this woman at the Ice Cream shop was, but knew she was there for a reason.

Soon enough, they went together to bring their concerns to Oscar. Oscar summoned the Alux on earth about their report. According to the Alux, there was no critique on earth of the family unit, but all the critique was directed at the institutions. Now Oscar knew all about this, as he discussed with Durnil. The reports of the Alux also told of the parental figures being placed on a pedestal of utter benevolence, while organizations such as schools, governments, workplaces and organized religions were seen as bastions for strict authoritarians that needed immediate reformation. Otherwise, the Alux spoke of a staleness taking root in the family unit that would get worse. Oscar then explained that the woman from his vision was Mrs. Dabney from the 2011 television show "Good Luck Charlie". This gave Durnil the idea to reintroduce this television show in continuation with the teaching. Alexander suggested that the characters Teddy and Skyler would get the boys interested. Now Alexander was optimistic that the viewers could go beyond lustful tendencies.

Clash With Moreyton and reunions

In the desert, the captured Cobolds had overheard another dispersed Suradolphus devotees from Moreyton. According to the Moreyans, they were the chosen ones by Supradolfus before their birth, and the only ones destined to glory. Their story told of their first elder known as Frogaston who had been kidnapped by the Patimites. The Moreyans considered the Patimites to be enemies who were mad about not being chosen, and took credit for Frogastain being on their side. After Frogastain died, the Patimites took custody of the remains and kept them in a shrine for veneration. According to the Moreyan legends, Frogaston reincarnated ages later in the form of Colvin, and called those chosen by Supradolfter. Supradolfter had been an equal opportunity chooser picking at least one mistivant from every tribe and tongue of parthania. According to the legend, Colvin departed to Supradolfter in glory and left a green hand. The hand really came from a Londinian, but the Moreyans typically like to take credit for things they never accomplished.

The Moreyans first mission was to head to Igleftios, whom the Cobolds found out were the invaders. Now the Cobolds had been eavesdropping on the Moreyans, after they found some of their spies calling for attacks on those who destroyed Moreyton. These cobolds had seen these invaders as heroes, who destroyed these places of oppression. According to what the Cobolds heard about Igleftios, they were a lawless town, according to the words of one lawyer from the town known as Rusas. Now Rusas had called for plans on taking over Igleftios, and reinstating the laws of Supradolfter as delivered by Frogastain and Colvin. Another Moreyan known as Morgas referred to Igleftios as a hovel for those destined by the wisdom of Supradolfter to reside in the Mount of Lava. According to Morgas, Igleftios types are angry about their destiny, and angry that they are picked for disgrace and punishment, while the Moreyans are chosen for glory and honor.

While eavesdropping, the Cobolds were knocked out and kidnapped by some strangers. When Yusefus came to, he could hear a native from Gallicanium shouting "What were you thinking?" When the rest of the Cobolds came to, this Gallicanium had told them that it was extremely stupid of them to be eavesdropping on Moreyton. Then another Gallicanian with a Cobold came in the room, and explained that Jaiden can be a bit abrasive, but is on their side. Otherwise, the Cobolds were still quite confused about what was going on. Iohannes asked where they were and why they had been kidnapped. This Gallicanian boy introduced himself as Fabinius, and the Cobold introduced herself as Natalia. Fabinius apologized about knocking them out and kidnapping them, but needed to quickly get them away from Moreyton, as one of the residents of the tribe had spotted them, and were going to use a green hand they possessed to age them quite quickly. Then another she Gallicanian came in with a Hamitarian. This Gallicanian introduced herself as Hannah, and that the Hamitarian was her boyfriend Taibi. Hannah told these Cobolds that she could not wait to meet them, and heard so much about them. Hannah had told the Cobolds that she met their friend Irugen back in this slum known as Gairmsoiled. Then Jaiden came in laughing about how Severus would be quite disappointed with Hamitaria. Now the Cobolds were quite confused about this and Natalia brought them up to speed. The Cobolds had been taken to a land known as Hamitaria, and that they got to this place after their friends in Gallicanium helped them assemble this vanishing goblet. Jaiden then explains that they used the goblet to transport them back to Hamitaria. Jaiden explained how her club had been told by a shaman that the cobold's were near, and transported themselves to their location by the Moreyton tribe. Jaiden asks the Cobolds about this man known as Morgas possessing the hand. Iohannes explained that he was a tall mistivant with wavy brownish hair and glaring blue eyes. Jaiden shouts "no", and Iohannes asks what the problem is. Amber explains that this Morgas was the collector, and had some dangerous powers. Amber explains that this collector had been trying to get into Hamitaria, and believes that there is a mystical mask buried deep under the tunnels of a burial monument of one great leader of this land known as Frabish-Bast. Fabinius laughs this off as a silly legend, and no such tunnels have ever been found. Natalia insists that the tunnels could be real, and that her grandmother mentioned them several times.

Platoneous and Mercius

After Lance and the Alux had their talk about the Senexit and Puerubdi imbalance, he started to notice Brutus domineering behavior, and decided to conduct some tests. Brutus and Lance agreed to summon Platoneous the symbolist of the Fifth Annogrammatron Order, but for two very different reasons. In fact, Lance appealed to Brutus' priority for order at all costs, while Lance believed that Platoneous knew something. What Brutus did not know was that Lance summoned Mercius the mythic of the Fourth Annogrammatron Order. As we remember, Mercius had been one knowledgeable in how things fit together, and is not one to divide history into the sacred and profane. Maelendil had his misgivings about summoning an annogrammatron from the Fifth Order, and knew well that his charges did not so easily mix well with their priorities. Yet Maelendil had greatly appreciated the work Mercius had done in assisting Simone and Billius in their rebeautification efforts. Otherwise with the fifth order, there had been cases in the past where Maelendil's charges interacted with the Fifth Order annogrammatrons, and became quite proud and resentful.

The Jinns had been summoned to a meeting by Father Time, Mother Earth, Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom. This meeting included Maelendil, Brutus, Lance, Platoneous, Mercius, Dugmateous, Gustavette, the current Charisms, and many of the Sophunums and their Magnus. The first Charism they chose was George Lakoff, whom was called to continue the work that the Charism of Jonathan Haidt first started. Then the Charism of Dennis, Sheila and Matthew Linn were summoned to continue the work of Dr. Boyd Purcell.

The Charism of Boyd Purcell explained to Maelendil that he had some good news about his charge. The Purcell Charism explains that he has made more strides to heal the Charge after what happened two winters ago. The Charism then explains that the Linns are a part of the Charges tradition, and understand what he is going through. Brother Volition asked the Jonathan Haidt Charism how things were going with his efforts. The Charism admitted that his highly structured outlook worked at the beginning, but the mortals were still a bit stuck. The Haidt Charism explains that all that has happened was the liberal side has come to represent virtue, and considering them as the people who cared about equality and benevolence, while the conservative side was seen as being authoritarian, xenophobic and taboo centric. Platoneous agreed to help the Charism out, once the Lakoff Charism arrives, considering that he knows the archetypes.

Once the Charisms arrive, Maelendil announces that Oscar and Durnil have established the show "Good Luck Charlie". Everyone was fine with this except for Brutus. Brutus complains that the girls have boy's names, and was going to give people ideas that characteristics of gender are not important, and that boys can be as effeminate as they want, while girls can act like real butches. Brutus then complains that the show has too many black characters for a Colorado based show, and is just a politically correct attempt at forcing different kinds to blend. Lance started rolling his eyes, as he knew Brutus was referring to the black characters like Ivy, Emmet and Mrs. Dabney. Lance then tells Brutus that Teddy's real name is Theodora, and Charlie's real name is Charlotte. Then Lance told Brutus not to be racist. Brutus snapped at Lance that he is not racist for not going along with the diversity propaganda.

The Mythological Semester

The week after the New Years, Uncle Leo threw a combined Birthday Party for Gianni and Ben. Milo had his first flashback after seeing Sylvester playing Luigi's Mansion. Milo had played that game frequently in tenth grade after finding out about his history with Amira at Dudlechip. Over that week, Milo saw a commercial for this Nickelodeon Show known as House of Anubis.

By this time, Milo was understanding that Catholics and religious people were not necessarily bad people, and understood that people were born into religion. Milo was playing a videogame for his Wii, known as "Harry Potter Legos: Years 5-7". The level on the "Ministry of magic" made Milo feel like he was in a large world beyond anything in his comprehension. Now Milo was also having some more strange experiences of living in a larger world, much different than the world he felt tied to while at Mal-Tech. Otherwise, Milo's books had come in for his new classes, and he found himself fascinated with his book on mythology and Political psychology. Frankly, the book on mythology gave Milo this experience of some world quite large, but unexplainable.

That year on the eve of Dancing Day, Milo had some flashbacks to First, Second and Fourth Grade. In Church, the opening hymn was "All are Welcome", which became quite popular due to the new hymnals. The responsorial Psalm was Psalm 40, which is sung on the first Sunday of Ordinary Time every winter. During Church, Milo had remembered the role religion played in his life at a young age, and remembered how this was such an enchanting experience compared to what he was getting with School. Milo's first flashback was a comparison to the springs of First and Second Grade. Milo remembered how religion was such a light and playful experience in first grade, such as his battle and victory over Mcgruder, Margarets first business trip, the weekend at the O'Malleys and watching Pocahontas. Then Milo remembered in second grade, religion turned into a majestic solemnity in second grade, with developing a fascination with sacred music, the Easter Mass, Lydia's birthday party, his first communion and seeing Amira at Razouls party. Then Milo remembered being in Fourth Grade, and the first Sunday of Ordinary Time, when a Sub-organist played the organ, along with preparing for Dudlechip, and seeing Amira at Dudlechip on Palm Monday. After Church, Milo came across the revised Community Mass and the Mass of Joy and Peace on Youtube. At St. Timothy's, they started using the Mass of Joy and Peace, which reminded Milo of a Richard Proulx hymn. As for the Community Mass, this reminded Milo of the days of the first Dancing Day. Milo remembered how seven years ago, he had first learned about his real past with Amira, Shrove Tuesday near Amira's table, buying candy and that Holy Week. That Monday, Milo saw another commercial for House of Anubis.

For Milo's last semester of school, he had Women in art and world mythology. Milo only took "Women in Art" because he needed one more Art History class, and it was the only class around the same time as his World Mythology Class. Frankly, Milo hated this class on Women in Art. Milo's Professor, Dr. Mooman was a stuck up feminist who never liked him, just for being a boy. Plus, the class had little to do with Art History, and more to do with radical feminist propaganda. This teacher reminded Milo of Leonards mom from the Big Bang Theory. Milo loved the class on World Mythology. This class had given Milo an even set of transcendent experiences beyond his over-intellectual tendencies. During this time, ritual and liturgy became more fascinating for Milo. Milo had started developing the sense that there was something more to religion than mere ideology. Yet Milo started developing this curiosity of having to know what these rites and stories all meant, hoping for some mind blowing answer.

During this winter, the Chicago Bears were in the Superbowl, which had not happened in four years. This was before Milo was to finish his first Semester at Mal-Tech. This superbowl, Milo felt like so much he longed for at Mal-Tech seemed to be coming true. Milo had remembered four years ago, he was planning on continuing his education at Sussewago. Now Milo was at Sussewago, and his education was nearly completed. Not to mention, Milo had a real reason to actually like the school.

The First Fantasy

During these days, Good Luck Charlie had become highly popular. In fact, the show reached a level of popularity that had greatly shocked even Durnil and Oscar. One particular prisoner of Hillectivus had become quite committed to the show, but got disappointed with the episode known as "PJ in the City". This is the episode where the eldest brother PJ's girlfriend Skyler moves to New York City. This particular fan had been disappointed about the scene where Bob tells PJ that if he loves Skyler, he should let her spread her wings. According to this fan, the show had been so perfect, and had been the family he wished he had. At this point, this fan became disappointed about a character moving away over her parents getting a job opportunity. According to this fan, relationships are more important than jobs, and he thought the show was now promoting money, and using the propaganda of letting loved ones go to in order to draw attention away from this bossy economic system running peoples lives. Durnil counselled this fan along with the Charism of Disney Expert Mark Pinsky. The Pinsky Charism first asked this fan why he thought the Duncan family was so perfect. As it was, this fan was utterly stumped. All the fan could say was that this family never tried to push any particular ideology. Durnil asked the fan where he got this idea from. This fan explains that the mother is a nutcase, the father is a clueless goof, the neighbor is so blunt, the younger boy is a trouble maker, the older boy is a ditz, and the girl is a bit eccentric. Then the charism of George Carlin showed up, and asked this fan if it occurred to him that the show was at least honest. The Carlin charism bluntly explains that no one likes those dishonest types who try hiding their BS behind these spotless images. Then the Carlin charism tells how Amy Duncan is an utter nightmare, and in real life, those children would be in asylums with a loon like her.

By this time, Durnil and Oscar heard that there was a show on earth that got a cult following by some tweens and teenagers. This news came through Alexander, who saw the show resembling some concerns from four years ago. This show, known as House of Anubis had come out a year ago, and was now on its second season. Now Alexander saw in this show many desires from four years ago, just waiting to be fulfilled. According to Alexander, those days four years ago had been marked by a sense of unbelonging and being utterly misunderstood. These days had been marked by purpose being a luxury reserved for a select few, and anything of a supernatural reality was seen as a mere delusion.

This had been a mystery supernatural television show based originally on a Dutch show of the same name. This show had been similar to Harry Potter, but made use of masonry lore and Egyptian mythology. Durnil knew that this series would appeal to Lance's suggestions. Oscar had known that this show had some crucial information on the workings of Hillectivus, and could reveal this information in a discreet way. Oscar knew that this show would really undermine Hillectivus annoyingly watchful eye, and that those who were under her curse would be getting the freedom they had wanted for the last four years. Oscar knew that fantasy had a power of pointing to some otherworldy reality beyond the watch of an archon. Plus, Alexander knew the characters would get both the boy's and girl's attention. With the results of Good Luck Charlie, Alexander was pretty confident that this show would not regress the viewers back into lustful tendencies like the Mermaid show.

Around this same time, Azeyas was summoned back to the Oracle Temple and witnessed a flashback of someone recalling a memory of visiting their Grandparents and an older man stops over for a visit and falls asleep on their chair. This man is identified by the name of Titus. Azeyas knew that a retired Senexit known as Max had wanted to know who this man was who fell asleep in a chair. What Max had known was that this man appeared long ago, shortly after a charge by the name of Amira was born.

The Trip to the Convenience Store

As it came to pass, the time came for Lydia to come home for Spring Break. One Friday afternoon while Ray and Margaret went to pick up Lydia in Pittsburgh for spring break, Milo went on a little road trip of his own. Milo drove out past Sussewago to see Jessica. Milo knew Jessica worked at a convenience store out in that county, and decided to leave when no one would be back for a while. Milo looked up the address, checked to make sure Jessica was working and put it in his GPS, and drove out. Jessica was in fact working that day, and Milo talked to her shortly. Milo had gone that particular day because Ray had been working at home, and he did not want to explain where he was going. Milo did not want to risk Ray talking him out of going, as he did not want to be talked out of going, and knew it would put him in a foul mood. Plus, Milo felt it was exciting to secretly go off without anyone else knowing where he went to.

Milo bought a box of Sugar Smacks, carrots, jalapeno peppers and elfudge cookies. Milo spoke with Jessica for a short while, and she asked if he lived in this county. Milo explained that he had been in this area, and needed to pick up some groceries. Milo thought about telling Jessica that he was at an N.R.A. meeting, but did not want to perpetuate stereotypes about people living in rural areas.

On Sunday, Milo was invited out to dinner with Rob, Ben and Salvatore. Milo first told Salvatore. Then Milo mentioned going out to this district to buy groceries, and Rob gave him a hard time about this. Lydia found out where Milo went, when she found these Elfudge cookies in his bedroom. Emily and Lydia's boyfriend Ryan were over at the house when Lydia asked about the cookies. At first, Lydia thought that Milo was just hiding the cookies due to being an unhealthy snack, and during Lent. Milo admitted his road trip, and why he went. Ray figured out Milo went on the trip after noticing the car was parked differently on Friday morning before they left for Pittsburgh. On Thursday, the Biancatello's took Samantha and Ryan out to Connor Finnegans for dinner, and Ray told Samantha about Milo's trip out to the country.

During this time, there was a dark vision of a great Time piece ticking away with a sinister click. There had been visions of Old People losing their money and declining in health after being tricked by benevolent drug dealers. Above, there was a witch queen long undermined and scorned ready to take vengeance.

The Two new Charisms

Mother Earth and Father Time summoned the Jinn and guardians to the Demuzidean Temple for the task of calling fourth two new Charisms of author John Granger and activist Russel Means. According to both Mother Earth and Father Time, the mission set fourth by Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom in deconstructing the power centric ideas set fourth by Infundermalis was near completed. According to Brother Volition, the mortals had been exposed to this goodness beyond some standards imposed by an arbitrary power. What Mother Earth and Father Time now saw as the next move was to transcend mere ideology. These Aluments knew well that the Charisms of the Linns and George Lakoff had already started to open these portals. Plus, the establishments of Good Luck Charlie and House of Anubis had proved to help the mortals know about meaningful relationships, as opposed to the offers through the shows with the Mermaids, internet podcast and blended family, all catering to shallow lusts.

If anything was to be said, it seemed like everything was working out well, and a new day would soon begin. The first task of the Charism of John Granger was to make sure the Harry Potter series are revealed to the younger generations. John Granger is an author from the Orthodox Church, and professor on English Literature with a special interest in Harry Potter. According to Father Time, the time was at hand for the earth to experience a great transition, and to break from the chains of the Kronos. Then Mother Earth and Sister Wisdom gave the Charism of Russel Means the task to teach the earth the deep wisdom the people before the rise of civilization knew. Mother Earth also told the Charism of Russel Means to remind the earth of the Disney movie he starred in.

Father Time pulled Terese over to the side to explain something he knew. Father time explained to Terese that he knows this is just the beginning of a new transition. Father time explained to Terese that he did some investigations, and Stockholm was in possession of the Kronos, and had been creating the allure of progress without purpose. Father time told Terese about what happened two holidays ago, when the mortals in the Sarkikos community had seen the platonic realm. The only way the Kronos could possibly represent the realm of Father Time is to portray this world of static forms where nothing happens, and everything that exists is all jumbled together in this formless mess. If anything, Terese like all guardians was utterly awed by an Alument like Father Time, and dared not even try to understand what he knew. All Father Time said was that giving up attachment to the Kronos will be no easy task. Terese started to develop this theory that the Kronos is being used by whoever is running this realm, in order to destabilize the realm, and make the Puerubdi office infeasible, and the Senexit office more necessary than it should be. Yet Terese had no clue who was the owner of the realm, and guessed possibly a Framlejinn or a Senexit in training.

The New Quest

Overall, life in Hamitaria had been the happiest the Captured Cobolds had since before their capture. The Cobolds remembered how their arrival in Agrabah had become quite hellish, and were happy to be back in a place where they had some belonging. This nation had been guarded by many spells that would keep Morgas out. This club of Fabinius, Hannah, Jaiden, Natalia and Taibi told many stories about their headmaster Severus, and their adventures with the Cobolds still in Gallicanium.

One afternoon, Natalia had been walking at the burial grounds, and found the tomb of Fabish-Bast. Now Natalia had recognized this strange symbol that her Grandmother wore back in Spartustica. Natalia still had the locket from her Grandmother, which glowed around this symbol. Natalia became drawn to place the locket on the symbol, which opened a secret passage. Natalia then heard these cryptic words behind "Find the mask and keep it safe". Then she frightfully turned around and saw the Shaman who tipped them off about the Cobolds locations. Now this shaman has the power to speak in foreign tongues, which was why Natalia could understand him. This shaman tells Natalia that there is an evil one seeking out the mask. This shaman tells the story of the mask only able to be retrieved by the rightful queen of Hamitaria. The Shaman explains how the dark one believes that possession of the mask will make him powerful. The Shaman then tells the horrors unleashed should the mask be stolen. The Shaman instructs Natalia to gather her secret club to another mission to retrieve and keep the mask safe.

The Easter Holiday and Nashville

One evening after church, Ray invited Uncle Mike and Aunt Jackie over for a St. Patricks day dinner. During the evening, Uncle Mike mentioned Grandpa Tony's mobility getting worse. By this time, he was barely even able to get out of the house, except for holidays or family parties. That night, Milo came across a Taize melody known as "Venite Exultemus Domino", which gave him an instant flashback to that Spring Break while he was Amira's secret admirer. Around this time, Milo got a bit disappointed, as Margaret's workplace planned on having the annual meeting in Orlando, but change the place to Nashville. Originally, the Biancatello's were going to go to Orlando, which in the current context, Milo really wanted to return to this place. Yet Milo eventually grew to look forward to Nashville.

A few weeks before Easter, Milo and Salvatore went to an international night at Whelon College. This started giving Milo flashbacks to the time when he attended the Asian Festival with Eustace almost three years ago. On Sunday, there was a mass for Uncle Georgio at St. Timothy's. On the night of Palm Sunday, Milo spent the night at Salvatore and Matt's apartment close to Whelon College. Over Easter, Uncle Doug and Aunt Pam came in town, and spent Holy Saturday evening with the Biancatello's. This was the first time Uncle Doug had been in Ciderpond in fourteen years. Milo tried telling Uncle Doug about his trip to the Convenience store, but Ray immediately changed the conversation. Ray was not overly proud of this trip to begin with. That year, Easter was held at Grandpa Tony's, as he was having more mobility difficulties.

On the third Sunday of Easter, the hymn "This is the Feast of Victory" was the opening hymn, which had not been sung at St. Timothy's since Milo was in Elementary School. Milo remembered well that he had recommended the hymn over three years ago. In fact, that mass was presided by the elamite priest Fr. Mihir. Over the course of these days, Milo frequently spent time at Matt and Salvatore's apartment. On Aunt Michelle's birthday, Ray went to Pittburgh to bring Lydia back to Ciderpond, as her semester ended.

After School let out, Milo, Lydia, her boyfriend Ryan and Ray went to Nashville for a short vacation. Margaret had her business meetings moved there that year, and was allowed to bring family down. Before leaving for Nashville, Milo wrote a paper on Frida Cahlo, as he had to write on the topic. Mooman wanted the students to research the artist and interpret the influence of the artist according to their research and understanding.

As for the trip to Nashville, this was nothing special. The Biancatello's stayed at the Grand Ole Opry, and spent most of the time at the pool. Otherwise, they went to a few concerts including a bluegrass and elvis impersonation. Lydia ended up getting kissed by the Elvis impersonator. During the trip, Milo had many disturbing dreams, and had been apprehensive about going back to Ciderpond.

After Milo got back, he got an Email from the professor that he was not going to be able to pass the class, and said that she liked his imput and effort. Now Milo knew that this was all bogus, as she always scoffed at his ideas, and always gave him poor grades. When Margaret found out, she assumed that Milo failed out of laziness. Milo was pretty angry about this assumption, and stormed off when she found out. Milo then muttered that he was too good for this higher education, and sick of being treated as an unpaid worker.

Ray sent the professor an email asking about this. Both Ray and Lydia read Milo's paper, and knew that he wrote the kind of paper that the professor wanted. The professor being a misandrist had only failed Milo, because she did not want a boy in the class who would not swallow her propaganda. Now Margaret recanted of her assumptions when she also looked at the work and papers Milo wrote. Ray started to get the idea that the teacher only failed him because Milo took the class just to graduate, as he still needed one more class, and the teacher had not wanted her class used as such.

A Series of Visions

Azeyas is summoned back to the hall of Akashic prophecies, and sees a vision that has somewhat of a feel of the Simpsons episode "Lady Bouviers Lover", and involves a kind of mystery adventure to fight off Lord Voldemort from Harry Potter. In this vision, Grandpa Abe is quite lonely living in the nursing home he was forced into, while Marge's mother Jackie is lonely at her senior citizen apartment complex. Both Bart and Lisa go on a quest to find out who is responsible for a criminal afoot, and find that some deatheaters are behind this new regime to keep seniors lonely.

Around this same time, Daxividus and Terese are also summoned back to the same hall, and sees this disturbing vision of being entrapped. Daxividus had seen this vision frequently, but typically centers around being stuck in some facility, small town, region or a ship. Daxividus also sees his orb of vacation settings. This time, the visions start getting a bit bleak. On one such occasion, the Florida region has become stripped of all palm trees and stucco buildings, full of run down dumps. Alongside, Daxividus finds his orb with the Ciderpond Mall is still showing visions. This time, water fixtures long removed have seemingly reappeared.

By this time, the Charism of Russel Means along with the Ouranos Ranav show up with some bad news. The Charism explains that Udopis has joined forces with the Maludico Cittimerk. According to the Charism, Udopis took an offer with Cittimerk, who decided that the victims now needed to be protected for their own good. Ranav gives the theory that the problem is rooted in the influence of the current Solum known as Baba Yaga.

Azeyas tells the three about his vision, and how this is a great thing to happen. Azeyas explains that those trapped in this Sarkikos community will not want to be in the community anymore. Azeyas references his most recent vision, and explains that cittimerks offers will become less appealing, but still sees some problems that could make this transition quite difficult. The Charism of Russel Means explains that Stockholm sent Cittimerk to work with Udopis, in hopes of persuading him to join his cause. Ranav explains that he believes Udopis and Cittimerk are both working for Baba Yaga. The Charism then explains that he had spotted Wipou, and was promoting the idea that the conservative side was totally at fault, and the liberal side had been the pinnacle of virtue. The Means charism then explains that these assumptions are being challenged, and Wipou is quite scared. Now the Jinns remembered well how Wipou had been working for Infundermalis before, and the kind of manipulation she had imposed, after scapegoating the Tech School, while distracting one of Maelendil's charge from the abuses going on in the Church system. Azeyas asks Ranav if Baba Yaga could just need to retire, and explains how the Amona Nadeen from Jebediah's order had to be forced into retirement, as she was trying to dominate the Virachos office.

Then the Charism of Boyd Purcell showed up for assistance. The Purcell Charism had known all about abuse, and knew of something similar going on. When the Charism showed up, Terese explained everything she knew. The Purcell Charism explained that when it comes to all forms of abuse, the abuser will do so to either compensate for anothers limitations or for the sake of their own or another master's interests. The Purcell charism explains that many assume that selfless motives for abuse have more justification than self serving motives. Daxividus rebels that there is no excuse for any form of abuse whatsoever. The Purcell charism explains that he knows this, but mortals are not always good at knowing the line between taking care of ones own needs, compensating for limitations or giving due honor and becoming abusive. The Charism explains that much of this confusion makes it hard for victims to be honest about the abuse they suffered. The Charism uses the previous examples of economic and religious forms of control, and how at this point, those stuck in the Sarkikos community see the economic and religious authorities as these self serving entities full of narcissistic desires, thanks to Wipou. The Charism then explains that with the resurgence of Cittimerk, he is committed to a form of abuse grounded on compensation for limitations. In society, there are economic entities that provide services the individual cannot do for themselves, such as construction, repairs or food production. There are other cases such as children, the disabled or elderly who have unique limitations requiring certain services to compensate for the limitations. The Charism explains that the problem happens when the line is crossed, and the service provider imposes limitations instead of working with the pre-existing limitations. The Charism explains that this is what often has happened with religion, as they provide valuable spiritual services, due to wisdom they acquire over years no single human could carry, but become abusive when they start to impose limitations, and disregard what the individual knows.

Harmony's Curiosities

After Marina adopted Harmony, she found a locket around Harmony's neck, with the symbol of Kukulcan, which she knew well was the symbol of the Parthania Elder's prophecy concerning her destiny. Now Marina wanted to protect Harmony from having to ever confront such a destiny. All Marina wanted was to know that Harmony was completely safe. As a result, Marina threw Harmony's locket in their estate pond, out of fear that she may find it and learn of her dangerous destiny.

During the first years, Marina wanted to protect Harmony at all costs, and would not let her out of her sight. For three years, Harmony lived like a pampered princess. Harmony had never left the estate, and Marina always told her that she was completely safe in her home. Marina had a strong hatred of anything related to Thatchery, and on several occasions campaigned to have the village knocked down and their administrative authorities overthrown. For Marina, she never let Harmony out of her sight, and considered giving the child any independence to be utterly irresponsible.

When it came to Harmony, she had become very attached to Marina. Harmony had always wondered why she looked so different from her mother, and had some vague memories of two mistivants, one female with her skin tone, and another male with her hair. Otherwise, Harmony frequently had nightmares about being kidnapped by these horrible black birds, and living off the street being neglected. Whenever Harmony mentioned these dreams to Marina, she said that birds are not strong enough to do such things, and told her that such ideas of neglect will only terrify her.

On the morning Harmony turned six, she kept hearing this beautiful bird song, and sought to figure out where it came from. In the early morning of her birthday, she was woken up, and tried to get back to sleep, but the song was too beautiful. While it was still dark, and Marina could not sleep, she snuck out of her estate to try and find out where this song was coming from. That morning, Harmony heard the music coming from near the pond. Now Harmony was deathly afraid of the pond, and did not know how to swim. Then a voice spoke, telling her to place her feet in the water. Harmony quickly obeyed, as she had a fearful sense that this voice could be trusted, even moreso than Marina. This pond had proved to be completely safe and quite refreshing. Over the years, Harmony frequently snuck out, and taught herself how to swim. Unfortunately Harmony had to do this behind Marina's back, as she would never have such a thing.

The House of Anubis results

The popularity and influence of House of Anubis had shocking results that Lance, Alexander, Oscar, Maelendil nor Durnil expected. In fact, Durnil was utterly shocked by how quickly the earthlings related to the characters in such a transcendent way. Platoneous suggested that this success was because of the similarities the show has with Harry Potter, but in the muggle world. Platoneous explained the reoccurring symbols and motifs that appeal to all great stories and myths. According to Mercius, the constant mystery and novelty had the viewers on their seat.

Durnil was pleased to see the viewers able to see past the appeal to novelty and lust, though the boys still noticed Nina, Amber, Mara, Patricia and Joy. The Girls had fawned over Fabian and Eddie. Despite the success, many had begun developing conspiracy theories about the show, based on never having even watched it. Otherwise, this show gained a following to the point where Hillectivus had been made a laughing stock. Brutus was the only one angry about this decision. Brutus went on a rant about how this show is nothing but a promotion of conspiracy theories teaching defiance of authority, and promoting occultish nonsense. Otherwise, all the jinns noticed that Brutus looked very scared.

Terese and Daxividus knew this show held one of the last of the portals between the Senexit Sarkikos realm and their home could be destroyed if found out. Terese summoned the Charism of Fr. Matthew Linn to guard this portal. Then Terese called for the charisms of the Early Church Fathers and Founding Fathers to search out other existing portals still in tact.

The Summer

During that summer, Milo developed a taste for cooking. He started off making Salsas and some Mexican dishes. One June afternoon, when Margaret picked Lydia up from a weekend in Pittsburgh, Milo did some shopping, and picked up some Licorice allsorts, which he remembered Ray and Margaret buying for him when Marilyns son Sam babysat him before they left for a wedding. Then Milo found an old barbequeing book he had not looked at since Margaret had it out when he just turned four.

Around this time, Milo went camping with Lydia, Ryan and some of their highschool friends. This was in the same area Milo, Ray, Eustace and Lydia made a day trip before he started at Mal-Tech. That night, the boys got a little drunk at the fire, much to Lydia's annoyance. Lydia thought Milo was talking like a stoned Surfer. Frankly, Milo had not even known he was doing this. That Sunday after they got back, Milo was feeling pretty unwell, as he was a bit hungover and did not sleep great the night before. That afternoon, Rory came over to fix Ray's chairs, and he brought Logan over.

On Tuesday, Milo and Ray went on a day trip out in the country, and got lunch in some hick town. As for the Fourth of July, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane hosted dinner. That Thursday Milo, Ray, Uncle Leo and Sylvester returned to Drakes Forest for a day of hiking. Milo remembered being at this park the two summers before seeing Amira after a long time apart. The last time Milo had seen this park was before his vacation to Disney World five years ago. Milo logically concluded that he would see Amira again within the upcoming fall. By this time, Milo had some very rational forms of philosophy, and saw things as destined to happen in predictable patterns, in the form of cycles.

That evening, Grandpa Tony got a severe infection and Aunt Michelle took him to the Hospital. Milo got the call from Rob, who was over for dinner when this happened, and Aunt Michelle drove Grandpa Tony away from the house. That weekend, Chelsea came in town for a brief visit. That same weekend, Milo developed a plan to visit Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt for a day trip. Now Milo was really more interested in stopping to see a psychic on the way to New Seneca. Plus, Milo wanted some practice driving on the On Saturday after the Greek fest, asked Salvatore if he wanted to. Salvatore accepted the offer, and even was interested in checking out the psychic. Otherwise, Grandpa Tony was never the same, and ended up at Sisters of perpetual mercy rest home located in Phyllisville. He was discharged from the hospital on Monday, and taken to the home.

On Thursday, Salvatore was over to swim, and Milo mentioned doing something Tuesday. Salvatore was not sure, depending on what they were doing. Salvatore asked if this had to do with New Seneca. Milo explained that this was. As it was, Salvatore's family was going up the weekend before for Gianni's Chess tournament, but was unable to go up due to his new job. Salvatore said he felt too guilty about going to New Seneca a few days later without his parents, and going up at a different time than Gianni's tournament. Now Milo was getting sick of Salvatore using Gianni as a crutch to get out of stuff. Milo knew that Salvatore still felt guilty about accidentally injuring Gianni five years ago, and still was groveling before him, and could barely tolerate the guilt of not going to one out of many tournaments of his. Lydia told Milo that he can't be angry at Salvatore for feeling guilty. Milo did not appreciate being told how he should feel, and sick of being told that he should be more understanding about something that happened with Gianni five years ago. Plus, Milo was sick of the people without power having to be the understanding ones, while the people with power could act as demanding and ruthless as they wanted to.

The Cobolds rebuild and Departure from Hamitaria

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds had started developing great plans to rebuild their headquarters. By this time, the Cobolds had cleaned up the fallen shelter, and organized the materials still useable and the materials unusable were set aside for an unknown purpose. When it came to the torture devices added by Voris Co, the devices had been donated as an offering to the tower of fire heralding the beginning of the Harvest Festival. Now the Harvest Festival had not been held in many ages, since the openings between the regions of Gallicanium and Atlantis were first opened. The Cobolds anticipated that the time was near to rebuild alliances with Gallicanium, Spartustica and Atlantis.

Otherwise, the Cobolds had wanted to rebuild the Headquarters in order to show the troublemakers of Gairmsoiled that they would not let them win, and that they were not going to be intimidated by that Maludico Voris. The Cobolds had ideas to rebuild the Headquarters to a more glorious structure than the previous one. The Cobolds biggest ambition was to build a new Headquarters that no Rakshasajinn, Doustonian, Skinnerite, Gairmsoiled loyalist or thug from the land Tisha spoke of could destroy. The Cobolds started doing research on the regions of Parthania, Atlantis, Gallicanium, the Desert Oasis and Spartustica, in order to find some special materials the region had. Unfortunately, the Cobolds did not have the means to get to Spartustica, Atlantis and Parthania in order to do first hand research. Plus, the books rescued were not exactly helpful.

The Cobolds tried to call on the Ugyarite Londinians for help in cleaning the pathways in the mountains. The Londinians agreed, but would only work if the conditions were absolutely perfect. On the first occasion, the Ugyurites said that the mountain paths were still too dangerous, and needed some further preparations. Yoshiyahu had been pretty annoyed by this, as he knew well how they were up for any danger in the mountains after fighting off the trolls.

Now the Cobolds decided to give the Ugyurites another chance, and respected their need for extra security on the mission. After a long wait, the Ugyurites returned with news, explaining that they had considered the mission dangerous. Elrich asked one Ugyurite what was so dangerous. This Ugyurite Nak told Elrich that this had been classified information too dangerous for any Cobold to handle. Elrich reminded Nak that he fought Mountain trolls, and did not appreciate being treated like some ignorant fool. Nak told Elrich he understand why he is upset, but has to understand that there are dangers he could not understand. By this time, the Cobolds were getting frustrated with the Ugyurites over rejecting their offers and refusing to explain what was really going on. The Cobolds had not known that the mountains had been infected by an alien plant not of Kebsuda.

Meanwhile, the Cobolds in Hamitaria stayed at an estate owned by a motherly mistivant who was an apostate to the Salafitum tribe. This estate owner Trudene had been banished from the Salafitum tribe, after she got a taste for the freedom of Hamitarian society, and no longer wanted to adhere to her upbringing, and their strict rules. During their stay, the Cobolds in Hamitaria learned about this place known as Igleftios. According to the historians of Hamitaria, Igleftios had not been this noble city that they had been led to believe. This historian explains that the attacks had been grounded on a recent feud. Now all this Hamitarian scholar knew was that Igleftios sought to create a utopian system, but had gotten much grief from the present day Shemitaria. Igleftios sought to create a society that eliminated all suffering and pain, while the nations of Shemitaria had strongly believed in quite brutal punishments on defiance. Igleftions only attacked Shemitaria, because they did not like what those nations stood for. Quenniviere explained to this scholar that the great phoenix had been the one to knock over the walls, and saved the Cobolds from that horrible lifestyle in Patimesh. This Historian had not known about the Phoenix, but had a temple to some unknown hero, but had a devotion to the righteous Ram Amun.

One day, the shaman broke horrible news that he knew one known as Morgas had found a way to get into Hamitaria, and was after the Cobolds. Morgas knew that someone was trying to find the mask, and suspected that they were the seekers. Morgas explained that the Cobolds need to flee, and that the land would cover for them. Aerondin protested this, and Iohannes offered to fight. Iohannes told this Shaman how he had fought against trolls in this mountain region. The Shaman explained that they know Morgas weakness, and that all they had to do was trust him and flee. Aerondin told the Shaman how this land had treated the Cobolds so well, and felt at home for the first time in this land. The Shaman said that having the Cobolds in Hamitaria was an honor more than they could imagine, and wanted to help them. After some reluctance, the Cobolds agreed to depart. The Shaman told the Cobolds that they were to find the closest sign, and follow exactly where it took them. The Shaman also warned them to be careful in the desert, as the lands had become quite dangerous, due to many tribal wars between the Moreyton Tribes, Mcglonistan Tribes and the Haggebad tribes. The Shaman explained that the wars stemmed from the Haggebad's loyalty to the Salafitarians and their beliefs that Agrabah was the representative of Supradolfter in Kebsuda.

Yuriyama's vision

Around this time, Yuriyama saw a disturbing vision of a man who had just got a supply of all his building supplies ready to rebuild a mansion that had fallen years ago. The Contractor asked this man what his plans were once his house was rebuilt. This Man was not sure and planned for another story. Then the Contractor asked what his next plans were, and this man responded that he would build another story. This question continued and and this contractor asked about his next plans. This man responded that his house would reach ever higher levels.

Around this time, Daxividus had another vision back at the Oracle involving a man on a constant quest through urban regions of the Rust Belt. This man was looking for some secret information in some hidden building. On this first occasion, the man went on a scavenger hunt to find some long lost artifacts to rescue a long lost relative. Other times, there was a vision of a man wearing a jet pack to fly to Toledo. Other times, there were trips to downtown Essex, Cleveland, New Seneca metropolis and Pittsburgh. This always takes on the feel of Chicken Run, the end of the Sound of Music and Peter Pan.

After Terese got the news, she started realizing that those in the Sarkikos community wanted to leave, but were using Sarkikos tools to try and get out. Terese suspected that many in the community may have taken some information from the show House of Anubis too seriously, and actually believed in some hidden messages. Terese started to suspect that Wipou's occult Offspring was in some way behind this. Terese knew well that those stuck in the Sarkikos realm were not a trusting people, and that any kind of intellectual weakness could get them in trouble. The Charism of Dennis Linn showed up with some assistance. He explained that sources of transcendence can alter ones state of consciousness, which can be done in a way to transcend the ego, but also used to dissociate the individual from themselves, and therefore merging with the one running the rites. Then the charism uses the example of a legal trial, which strongly resembles a Church service. First with the architecture of the courtroom resembling an ancient Greek Temple, the rising at the entry of the judge, the Judges bench setup like an altar and the black robes they wear.

Around this same time, the Aluments called for another meeting. As we remember, the Aluments had been on a quest to find those trustworthy religious devotees, and had found a new one. At once, the Charism of Bishop Lazar Puhalo showed up. Some of the Bible Believing charisms were a bit skeptical about letting the bishop join their ranks. By this time, the self taught bible scholar L. Ray Smith had passed away from a long battle with Cancer. At this meeting the Charism announced this, and had become much more inclusive than before his earth counterparts death. The Charism explains that Bishop Puhalo along with John Granger should be included. Then the Charism of Boyd Purcell explains that Bishop Puhalo being from the Orthodox Church knows of many of the foundations to their teachings. Plus, Bishop Puhalo speaks extensively against Spiritual Abuse, Fundamentalism, and this Dance dishonoring pseudo-orthox superstition known as the Aerial Tollhouses. The Charism explains that the superstition gives authority to the fallen angelic beings over the individuals soul, and has to pass through some silly trial. All the sudden, there is a voice calling this an Egyptian and Gnostic heresy. By this time, they noticed the Charism of Bishop Puhalo has arrived. The Bishop Charism explains that many still by into this heresy, and have started hatching ad hominem conspiracies against him. Otherwise, the Aluments gave him the task to seek out warriors within his domain.

Milo's Grudge and Vacation

Over these days, Milo had been to visit Grandpa Tony two times. The first time, Milo found the nursing home to be a bit disturbing. By the second time, Milo was more comfortable with the facility, though he never found the place to be so appealing. Milo did get to see the nursing home chapel. Otherwise, Milo found out he was able to graduate from Sussewago, as he had enough credits in his field, and a math class that supposedly did not transfer over from Mal-Tech now was considered valid.

Milo decided that he would give Salvatore a chance and let him go on the first backing out of the trip to New Seneca, but let Salvatore know that if they were going to go, they needed to stick to a plan. The Second time around, Milo and Salvatore had concrete plans for the trip, and a day all picked out. In fact, they had restaurants all chosen, and both agreed that Milo would be the designated driver. As to whether Aunt Marie and Uncle Matt were expecting them had yet to be determined. A few days later, Milo, Lydia, Eustace and Emily went to the beach for a local festival, which he had not attended since the summer before Amira started highschool. Milo found out that Salvatore had a bit of a bug, and hoped that he would be well in time for the trip.

The day before the trip, Milo found a text on his phone. Salvatore sent Milo a text, and said he did not feel comfortable going on the trip if he was driving, and said it was not safe if he was driving. Milo at first thought this was a joke, and asked Salvatore if this was real. Salvatore was serious and Milo got pretty angry about the second cancellation, insulting excuse and over-cautious attitude that he really cursed Salvatore pretty severely. Basically Milo texted an F bomb at Salvatore, called him a coward and banned him from the pool. Milo felt a little too strong via a text message, and acted purely out of anger. Milo would not have cared if Salvatore insisted on driving, as he had driven to New Seneca before. Plus, Milo felt like Salvatore always used his pool, but never wanted to do anything else. Milo also was angry about Salvatore not asking if he could drive. But this had happened before, where Salvatore wanted to be the one in charge. As it was, Milo did not feel so good about telling someone off.

Two days later, Milo went to confession at a chapel that did Wednesday confessions, as he felt guilty about having launched an F bomb at Salvatore. By this time, Milo could be quite strong worded, and had a tendency to swear at anyone on youtube for leaving offensive or critical comments on other peoples video's, particularly if they were fundamentalist or right wing in content, and especially if they were commenting on a video they disagreed with.

Brutus Rant

Brutus called for another meeting with Maelendil and Lance over one of his charge. Brutus starts to complain to Maelendil that the Charge needs a massive attitude adjustment over how he spoke with his cousin. Lance gives a sarcastic sense of shock, and thanks Brutus for telling them the Charge overreacted. Brutus gives Lance an annoyed scowl over his sarcasm. Maelendil explained that his Charge had already shown remorse for his actions. Brutus scoffs about some confession at the mall is pointless, and refers to the behavior as hypocritical when he barely cares what they teach anyways. Maelendil reminds Brutus that there is a difference between shunning a tainted organization and be willing to know how to use them, even if they are tainted. Brutus rolled his eyes, as he saw defiance of institutions as selfish and childish.

Brutus then complains that the Charge was out of line, when the cousin made a conscientious objection. Lance corrected Brutus that he meant two conscientious objections. Brutus explained that the Cousin cares about his brother enough to not go at a different time. Lance protests that it did not change the fact that he was not able to go the first time. Brutus states that it did not matter, as it was the least he could do, and sacrifices need to be made in order to do right. Lance rolled his eyes. Lance then told Brutus that the only reason the Cousin was acting like the was because he still feels guilty over some stupid incident from five years ago. Brutus said that he should feel guilty, and is eternally under his debt. Maelendil told Brutus that the cousin atoned for his offenses, and is merely using his brother as a crutch to soothe his conscience. But Maelendil holds the stance that it may have not been good for the cousin to go on the trip, if he would not have fun from feeling too bad, but really doesn't need to feel bad.

Brutus then brought up the second matter of how the cousin was looking out for his safety, and cancelled a trip. Lance scoffed in mentioning that it would have been so hard for the cousin to ask if he could drive. Brutus explains that was not the point, and did right, as the charge was planning on fraternizing with Mediums. Brutus then rants about these new anti-dogmatic religions without punishments are going to be the very destruction of society. Lance told Brutus that the society exists for the individuals, not the other way around. Brutus then tells Lance that the cousin fulfilled the requirements of his conscience, and there is no disorder. He proved to be a good brother and to value his life and safety.

Maelendil tells Brutus that the conscience is not infallible. Maelendil explains that much of the moralism and conscientiousness is not so righteous and humane. Brutus looks greatly offended at this notion. Maelendil explains that much conscientious behavior is really about ones own interest, or what one identifies with. Lance understood why he always saw something phony about moral outrage. Lance asks if this includes those people who get into moral panics over socially approved matters. Maelendil confirms that this is true.

Return to Cleveland

A week later, the Biancatello's returned to Cleveland for a small vacation, as they had been to Tennessee in the Spring. Originally, they were going on a trip to Universal with Uncle Doug, but ended up not planning out too well. The Biancatello's left on Monday Morning. On the way up, Milo felt bad about having to leave Jinny at Grandma Pearl's. As for the first day, they walked through Cleveland. The trip gave Milo some flashbacks to the trip he took before his Senior Year in Highschool. One Italian restaurant the Biancatello's ate at reminded Milo of Sanfrantello's restaurant. That night, the Biancatello's went over to a casino, which for some reason reminded Milo of

On the way back, the Biancatello's stopped at the psychic community, as Milo had wanted to see the place. Milo remembered Zia Maria mentioning this place over Christmas eve, and he was still seeking out some spirituality. Frankly, Milo did not want any kind of religion full of bossy authorities telling him to follow their rules or burn in hell. Milo had not been overly impressed with this medium community as he hoped. Milo had suspected that spirituality would always be more personal than organized religion. Milo never suspected any non-organized spirituality to be dogmatic like organized religion seemed to be. After they got into Ciderpond, the Biancatello's picked Jinny up from Grandma Pearl's. Now Grandma Pearl would be leaving for Atlanta in a couple days with Robbie.

A few weeks later, Milo and Rob met Salvatore at the Baseball Stadium for a game, but never mentioned the conflict. As it was, Milo and Salvatore never talked about what happened. Rob asked Milo what happened with Salvatore, and Milo explained about his last minute cancellation to New Seneca. Before Milo's birthday, Uncle Leo invited him to go to Seewoulden with him and Sylvester. Milo had not joined them for a trip to Seewoulden since before starting at Seewoulden three summers ago. A few days later, Lydia was taken back to Pittsburgh for her third year of College.

Near the end of the summer, the Iranian restaurant Ishfatan had been shut down due to code violations. Milo had assumed that this was the work of Fundamentalist Muslims or Christians, as the owners were Zoroastrian. The day after the closing, Milo had this experience where he believed he would see Amira very soon. Milo had brief flashbacks to Seventh grade at the Funeral Wake and his first day of School in Tenth grade. Above the house, there was a vision of a Vedic stone Alter, with an offering of Tamales and roasted lamb. Then there were a group of Celebrants declaring the first feast of purification.
Chapter 43: The End of Leftism

Yuriyama and Daxividus vision

A few days later, Yuriyama and Daxividus were summoned to the Oracle and both saw a vision in the basin. According to Yuriyama's account, Two teenagers on a hike end up at some run down third world Hospital where Surgery is performed out in the open, and there are dying and dead people just lying around uncared for, in the hallways and in the Chapel.

Daxividus had recognized this scene before, and knew well that this was the same reoccurring Vision, but in quite a particularly disturbing way. Daxividus and Yuriyama explained what they had seen to Terese. Terese told the two seers about the meeting the Aluments had a few days ago, and how the Charisms of Ron Paul and Ayn Rand had been summoned. Daxividus was not too thrilled about the charism of Ayn Rand being summoned, as he considered her a bit sociopathic. Terese explained that she had many highly individualistic ideas, and her views became highly anti-social. However, the Charism has some tough plans that will hopefully wake those stuck in the Sarkikos realm. Terese explained that the Ron Paul Charism has some ideas that have already appealed to many, particularly on the legalization of Marijuana. According to many theories, Marijuana has some outstanding medical benefits, and can revitalize the economy. Terese then mentions that many in the community are seeing the similarities that the two party system in the US has, and how they both serve corporate interests, such as the War on Drugs, and never come through on their promises.

Alliance Changes

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds and the Ugyurite Londinians were having some quarrels. The Cobolds still were quite outraged with the Ugyurites for their refusal to help, and considered joining full allegiance with the Garonites. One afternoon, Petestor wrote a letter to the Garonites about joining their cause. Shortly afterwards, Leif responded that they would like them to join for a secret meeting at the same place in two days at dusk.

Two days later, the Cobolds came to the secret location, and were greeted by Bridgid. Now Irugen started developing quite a crush on Bridgid. Bridgid lead the Cobolds into the meeting room, where Jabari, Makda, Izara, a good friend of Ruperts and Hamitarian refugee Emet, and Gabril were gathered. Now Charlene and Tobias were too young for any interest in such matters and were already in bed. The meeting had been attended also by other Ugyurites who also believed that their freedom was all about embracing challenge, even if outside the bounds of creature comforts. Oddly enough, many Hannitarians also were in attendance, who renounced their allegiance to the group, and sought to join the Ugyurites. These Hannitarians had a schism within their own group. Many Hannitarians only followed the Doustonians and Skinnerites because they wanted freedom, and they claimed to offer this without having to go through due process, or getting permission from all the other residents of Londinium. But the Doustonians and Skinnerites went back on their word, and most Hannitarians still remained loyal. The risk seeking Ugyurites and the freedom seeking Hannitarians joined this new Garonite alliance.

During the meeting, the Cobolds brought up going into the mountains. Everyone in attendance got silent like they had something awkward to hide. Then one Shemitarian woman stood up, and explained that she needs to be straight with the Cobolds. This woman Patrice explained that the Mountains have been cursed with this poisonous overgrowth. Leif and the rest give the nod that this is true. Leif explained that this came from some toxic plant not native to Kebsuda. He then went on to explain that this overgrowth was believed to be the work of an offspring known as the Grey Alien, who also is in no way native to Kebsuda. One Ugyurite admitted that they decided to keep this a secret out of fear of being distraught, after they had quite a bit on their plates with their burdensome mission to Gairmsoiled. This Ugyurite apologized for not telling the truth, and that they should have been honest. Now the Cobolds had been distraught over the news, and feared that these alliances with Atlantis would never come to pass. Ariella who had joined their cause promised to do everything they could to find an antidote, and Hallicia offered to speak with Junous.

Around this time, the Cobolds wandering through the desert were not faring too much better. The wars in the desert outside of Hamitaria had been worse than the Shaman could have described. Over this journey, the Cobolds had some close calls, and were nearly captured by some of the dispersed disciples of Supradolfter. On one occasion, the Cobolds had hid in a cave after some Haggibadi's made camp. The leader of this tribe was a hideous and obese ogre who extended his syllables. The Cobolds eavesdropped on this ogre, as he gave a charismatic speech to his comrades about the war. This Ogre told that this war was the final condition to be met so the servant of Supradolfter could come to Kebsuda and restore the Mount of Lava to bring justice to the mass of reprobates who do not know Shemitaria or its king. Then the Ogre tells of how Salafitum's instigations of terrorism served its purpose, and it will soon be time to destroy them along with the other pseudo-disciples making a mockery of Supradolfter. The Ogre orders his troops to destroy the relics of Spyritony and Patimesh, and slaughter that idiot Sanderson, the Hag Snirley and the Zombie Phelpus. The Ogre explains that Westbirius opposes Agrabah, when they have been chosen by Supradolfter to bring economic justice and punishes the lazy disadvantaged.

While the Cobolds go on this traumatic quest, they see a sign on a pathway pointing to Hitaria. The Cobolds think that they have arrived at the bounds of Hitaria, and are anticipating a glorious return to their home. Even being away from Hamitaria had not bothered the Cobolds anymore. The more the Cobolds travelled, they started seeing a great skyline, which they believed to be the land of Londinium. Over this time, the Cobolds had forgotten what Londinium looked like. During this travel back, the Cobolds had been quite hopeful of finding the bridge completed, and gaining entry into the Temple of Atlantis. Otherwise, the Cobolds were looking forward to going back to the Gardens of Pedmontus and the Temple City of Lionalem. For Iohannes, he was looking forward to seeing Rivkah and Harmony after so long. Iohannes could not wait to see Harmony, who would be six by this time, and could not wait to see how much she had grown. Strangely, the Cobolds felt quite similar to how they felt when they would be leaving Agrabah, and began their initiation into Patimesh.

The Seers Vision and the new Charisms

The two new Charisms summoned were the Charisms of Philosopher Ayn Rand and Libertarian Ron Paul. The Charism of Ayn Rand immediately called Brutus out, and accused him of manipulating people into revolving their existence around the Churches, and is nothing but a corporate recruiter. Brutus became angry, and claimed that he only worked for an economic system of equality. The Charism of Ayn Rand retorted that his grand plan of control was turning people into Corporate Pawns, and how his crony form of capitalism had more regulations when Bush was in office. The Charism of Ayn Rand confronted Maelendil, and told him that his charge needs to see the evils of collectivism, and she devised a severe plan. The Charism also mentioned that this should set the cousin straight. The Charism of Ron Paul was given the task to proclaim the tidings of liberty throughout the earth before the wintertide. Meanwhile, The Charisms of the Linns, George Lakoff and Bishop Puhalo were assigned to spread the seeds of enlightenment as Mother Earth and Father Time requested. The Charisms got assistance from Mercius and Platoneous.

Milo's first Fall without school

Over Labor Day weekend, Milo and Ray went to a German festival, which had been quite a rip off. Milo really wanted to go, as he had not eaten German food since going to Cleveland before his Senior year. On Sunday, the Biancatello's went to Pittsburgh to see Lydia and Ryan. At this time, Milo started to play this videogame known as Epic Mickey. Milo had the game for over a year, and just got around to starting to play it. During this time, Milo was having many flashbacks to Fourth, Seventh and tenth grade, which he remembered as having seen Amira after extended periods of time, each three years apart. Otherwise, Milo got on an intellectual high after his classes on World Mythology and Political psychology. Milo started thinking about how he had come such a long ways, compared to three years ago, when he was in the middle of an anxiety attack. Milo saw these past days as days of ignorance, when he was stuck in Fundamentalism and quite scared, where he was now educated and free from petty fears.

Within a week after September began, Milo went over to Aunt Michelle's for dinner at night. Milo and Salvatore watched some tv show with a man eating and travelling through Mexico. Milo recognized the ruins at Tulum, from his vacation a little over seven years ago. One woman this traveler visited reminded him of Aunt Adrienne and Zia Maria.

Over that week, Milo did some studies on Native American cultures. Milo started getting quite obsessive after reading some material written by Native Americans, and did not find himself moved like he had been with other material. Milo thought that maybe the material was one sided, or were not a good representation of their culture. Frankly, Milo had put so much faith in the mind that he could not value anything that was not so intellectually stimulating.

On Saturday, Milo had Elaine's son Jason's wedding. Jason was the same cousin who got married over ten years ago, but had been divorced for several years. At the wedding, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl were seated with her cousin Patty, her husband Ernie and another couple they were travelling with. Milo got to see his other Williamson cousins, along with Charlotte and her fiancée. Being at the Wedding reminded Milo of his first days of Fifth Grade and the Mario Super Nintendo game he played at the time.

During this time, Milo started watching religious documentaries, as he was on a quest to find some answers. His first documentary was a series known as the Nature of Existence. Around this same time, Jinny started showing some signs of aging. This had been considering that Jinny was 16 years old, and most small breeds live about 17 years. In fact, the vet gave this same prognosis.

In early October, Milo, Margaret and Ray went on a weekend trip to Sandusky. The last time the Biancatello's went to Sandusky was when Milo was in Seventh Grade and noticed Amira for the first time. Milo was more of a Deist who believed in a very rational universe where causation occurred in a linear and consistently predictable fashion. For Milo, any form of Spirituality that defied rationality was a superstition opening the way to fear and oppression. For Milo, anything that lacked a clear and rational basis took away the legitimacy on questioning authority or anything that made no sense.

As for the small trip, this was pretty standard. On the way up, the Biancatello's ate at a Mexican restaurant. That afternoon, they went on a hike and got Italian for dinner. Over this time, Milo was reading a book on psychology according to the Simpsons.

When the Biancatello's got back, Milo found a job fair invitation in the mail. On Thursday, Ray and Margaret went to pick Lydia up from Pittsburgh for Fall Break. That night, Milo went out to dinner with Rob while Ray and Margaret were in Pittsburgh. Lydia had complained about the priest at the Pittsburgh Chapel, and how he always gave extremely negative sermons, and was very monotone. That weekend Lydia was visiting, Aunt Adrienne passed away at the age of 96. For the last two years, Aunt Adrianna was suffering from Alzheimers, and had been in a nursing home for a few months.

When it came to the job fair, Milo felt quite apprehensive about going. Milo feared that the jobs were all going to be terrible hours that would take away time to work on finding or creating a meaningful career. On one night before the fair, Milo had a dream about being back at Mal-Tech. Milo slightly missed Sussewago and Jessica, similar to how he felt when leaving Ciderpond. However, this was not as severe as it was when graduating Highschool, considering he did not have the same attachment as he had with Ciderpond High and Amira.

Azeyas vision and the new Charism

Azeyas is summoned back to the Oracle and witnesses in the basin a vision portraying a scene from the Hey Arnold Episode "The Old Building" where Arnolds Grandmother is saying "Grandpa and I had our First Dance there", which was supposedly based on an Urban Cathedral in the Essex region. Then the scene transfers to a Canadian neighborhood.

At this time, Azeyas came across Durnil, who was still seeing this reoccurring vision of the grey chords. Durnil knew how those under Hillectivus had become agitated with Puterma. With the influence of the Charisms that the Linns had, many see them as the parents that they never had. Durnil explains that the book "Healing the Purpose of your Life" suddenly became popular, and many people feel like this book has been a better mentor in finding meaningful work than their own parents, and consider that too many parents just want their kids to get jobs with high pay and benefits.

Azeyas told Durnil what he had seen, and suggested introducing the show "Hey Arnold" to earth. Durnil knew well that this show had no catering to lusty tendencies, but also understood well that the earthlings needed some image to remind them of healthy family life they longed for. Durnil knew this show was similar to "Good Luck Charlie", and summoned Oscar for his insight. Oscar suggested the episodes "This Old Building" and "Eating Contest" as the starters. Oscar explained that many on earth will be reminded of their Grandparents, and would find such humor with the "Eating Contest" scenes where Arnold pukes after seeing a bowl of Lobster bisque with the crustaceans head in the soup, and when he is waken up by the smell of a Herring Sandwich Grandpa Phil is holding.

Durnil knew well that the earthlings would be affected by the Episode "The Journal", which is the episode when Grandpa Phil reads Arnold's father Miles Journal, telling the story of their jungle travels, and the birth of their child. Durnil also suggested that the show "Good Luck Charlie" gets reintroduced again, as it had declined in popularity after the successful establishment of "House of Anubis". What Durnil had not considered was how the show was part of Maelendil's charges Childhood.

When it came to Terese and Daxividus, they knew the Charism of Russel Means had been spreading his teachings through a book known as "If you forgot the names of the Clouds, You lost your way". Unfortunately, the book was not well received, and many found the content boring and offensive. Others had been quite haunted about how this book did nothing for them, and could not understand why. The Charism of Russel Means then showed up, and explained that this was a good sign. He explains that the haunt means that he has done his job, and has kickstarted this process of breaking away from the Sarkikos ways. Daxividus asks the Charism what they did not like, and the Charism explains that the book is too simple for them to get the point, and can only see substance through complex and intellectually stimulating works.

The Cobolds Arrival

By this time, the Cobolds find a welcome sign announcing that they had arrived in the nation of Gallicanium. The Cobolds had been quite elated at this prospect, and felt relieved to have gotten away from the war and being home. Unfortunately the Cobolds arrived in this slum town that had been quite disappointing. Now the Cobolds had long dreamed of this moment, and hoped to return to their home and seeing the gates of Londinium. Otherwise, the Cobolds did not know much about Gallicanium, as they only spent time in Londinium. This town greatly disturbed the Cobolds, and noticed that this land was full of Work Camps.

That night, the Cobolds checked into a sketchy inn, and agreed to continue their mission tomorrow. Iohannes explained how this is obviously not Londinium, and that Gallicanium is a bigger nation than they had anticipated. Otherwise, the Cobolds were still quite disturbed by the amount of work camps that this town had. They had wondered if this town would turn people away from the Gallicanium region. Not to mention, the Cobolds greatly pitied those who were forced to work at these horrible camps.

The next day, the Cobolds continued their quest to find their way out of this slum. As to where the Cobolds were, they did not know. No one had been overly helpful or friendly to the Cobolds. Frankly, the people in this town seemed to be quite an angry and bitter people with no personality. As for the town, this place was pretty ugly, like they had never did any maintenance. Finding their way out of this town proved to be quite a chore until they one day noticed that the number of structures and residents started to decrease. While walking through this outskirt area, the Cobolds found a sign saying "Londinium".

The New Charism and Vision of the Diploro's

Meanwhile, Mother Earth and Father Time found a new trustworthy devotee within the Catholic Tradition. Many in the order of the trustworthy had been a bit skeptical, as many had a bad taste in their mouth about Western Christianity. Luckily, the Linn Charisms explained that this Charism was on their side, and not hostile to what they knew, like many had been. At once, the Aluments summoned the Charism of Fr. Robert Barron. The first task the Charism of Fr. Barron was to share his Documentary on the Catholic Church to the Catholic Parishes throughout the United States and Canada. In fact, Father Time gave the Charism the task to speak with the Pastor known as Monsignor Warburton on having this documentary shown at his parish. The Alument explained that this will be useful for some parishoners. Father Time then warned the Charism that he maybe greatly feared when the series comes to the end, and even hated.

Around this same time, Yuriyama had been summoned back to the oracle, and saw this horrid vision: The Universe all the sudden loses any aliveness, and one victim obsesses about meeting with a Grey haired man at an arena with a concert by Miranda Cosgrove. The only light that exists is a sourceless light somewhere in a basement family room. Otherwise, there is only darkness with artificial light.

Yuriyama suspected that this had to do with Terese and Daxividus business. Yuriyama immediately summoned them, in hopes that they could explain what happened. Terese and Daxividus show up, with much grim anticipation. Terese explains that those in the Sarkikos community are starting to see that their intelligence is reaching its limitations, as it cannot take value and meaning into account. Terese explains that the secrets of the visible world have been all discovered, and have found nothing but dead matter motivated on dead laws of mechanics. Then the Charisms of Matthew, Dennis and Sheila Linn showed up, in order to make assessments. At this time, the Charisms had been taking on more responsibilities, as the college days were now ending. According to the Dennis Charism, the pursuit of knowledge through scientific means has only taken things apart through dissection. The Charism of Sheila goes onto explain that the ecologists are one of the few scientists in biology who still try to learn about nature in a wholesome form. The Charism of Fr. Linn explains that all this pursuit has done is shown the mortals what their environment is made of, but considering that this community has no real identity.

Then the Seer Pandora shows up with Maelendil, who both look quite grim. Pandora explains that she and Maelendil know whats going on, and have agreed that it is time to send out the Diploro's. Pandora explains that she will release a few right now, and little by little introduce more, and a full release before Christmas. Terese asks why Pandora needs to send out Diploro's. Pandora explains that this will be the needed wakeup call to get those in the community to detach from the Kronos, and see the limitations of the Causemos. Terese asks Pandora why she mentioned the Causemos. Pandora explains that the Causemos is still in power, and the reason that this vision came about to begin with.

The Orientation and Funeral

Milo ended up going to the Career Fair orientation, in order to know what to ask. Around this time, Milo started to doubt the validity of reason, and in particular, scientism. These Scientistic views Milo became exposed to were that humans are pre-programmed robots with consciousness all stored in the brain. Even if this was what the scientific results were, Milo found that this had not been a dignified conclusion he could accept. This gravely bothered Milo, as reason and intellect could not explain the necessity of value or meaning. That Friday evening, there was one viewing for Aunt Adrienne. On Saturday morning, the funeral took place. Milo went to the funeral, as he had landscaped for Aunt Adrienne for the last six years. For dinner, Milo, Salvatore, Ben and Rob went out for wings.

One Friday later, Milo had the career fair, which was not as bad as he had anticipated. Otherwise, there were some jobs that appealed to Milo, but most were centered in the Service Industry. Milo figured the service industry would not be so bad, as it would at least be part time, and give him time to build a meaningful career. That Monday, Milo went to the Zoo for their Halloween event like he had so many years ago when volunteering at the same time as Amira. Being at the zoo gave Milo some flashbacks of those days, which he saw in a more myopic way, as being the days before he ever found out Fundamentalism existed.

One day later, Milo and Salvatore got breakfast at some small diner that was pretty standard. That afternoon, there was a memorial made for Uncle Georgio, as he made many donations to have a behavioral center built, and the center was donated in his honor. At the opening ceremony, Milo found out that there may be big changes with Christmas, as the holiday was always spent at Grandpa Tony's, but he was in the nursing home. As for Halloween, Milo had dinner at the Filentino's, as the next day was Salvatore's birthday.

Azeyas Vision of Restoration

Around this time, the Charism of Fr. Barron returns to the Community of the religious trustworth to give some updates about his mission. The Charism explains that things started off great, particularly with the first three on universal themes that all people can relate to. The first film the Charism explained that anyone can relate to the heroe's journey, merging of divinity and humanity, and all Christians understand Jesus. Then the Charism explains the second films universal appeal, and the nature of a moral foundation on love. The Charism then explains the film on God had this appeal, considering that this was on the nature of being itself. The Charism then explains that the episode on Mary had not been so popular, except to the traditional of Catholics. Some had made references to devotions in kissing rosaries and scapulars in order to have time taken off of ones stay in Purgatory. The Charism then mentions a particularly fanatic attendee speaking about the Crusades and Islam, and going on about how Islam is a dangerous and violent religion. One parishioner challenged this assumption on Islam, and this fanatical parishioner spoke to him about the religion for a bit too long of time. This other parishioner wanted to get away, and went along with what he said, as he thought the fanatic had bad breath.

Azeyas is summoned back to the Oracle and witnesses this three sequenced vision. The first sequence involves some teenagers playing Super Mario for Super Nintendo. They end up on an unknown level that no one had found in 13 years, which had some mystical dragons appearing like Leviathan. Then the sequence goes to a French restaurant that is very magical, similar to a kind of fantasy world in the star world of the same Super Nintendo videogame. Then the final sequence involves contemplating going to Disney World, but having to drop off a Dog for a caretaker.

Azeyas summons Terese and Daxividus over this news. When the two arrive, Azeyas asks them if they know what this means. Terese updates Azeyas on the release of the Diploros coming up pretty soon. Azeyas knew that this was coming, but did not know exactly why. Daxividus tells Azeyas about how he had seen visions like this resembling videogames quite frequently. Daxividus had told Azeyas about how his videogame visions have resembled the Senexit Sarkikos community. Azeyas suggests that this means hidden places thought to be all discovered still have some newness and surprise, which may have been there all along since the days of Leviathan. Terese asks Azeyas if this is about what is to come when the Diploro's complete their task. Unfortunately Azeyas does not have an answer, but knows that the last part referring to the sacrifice has some truth. Azeyas explains that the whole purpose of sacrifice is for the object of sacrifice to be returned in glory.

The Londinium Disappointments

Back in Londinium, there was an announcement that the Harvest Festival would not be occurring that year. According to the officials, the conditions were not met, as the Beaubelles Headquarters had not been rebuilt, nor had there been any means of travel between Gallicanium, Atlantis or Spartustica. Otherwise, the Garonites had little luck with finding an antidote for the cursed overgrowth. On one occasion, the Cobolds were taken over to the path, and were horrified to see what happened to the mountains. Otherwise, the overgrowth was extremely ugly, and had an otherworldly stench worse than even the rotting Maludico Corpses after the flood. After that, the Cobolds had no interest in ever seeing this overgrowth so long as they lived, nor wish to smell this place.

When it came to the Cobolds who left the Slum Town, they soon found a sign saying "Welcome to Londinium". At this, the Cobolds were utterly elated. Soon enough, the Cobolds elation was broken. The Londinium they entered had been totally unrecognizable. The concrete buildings had looked eerily familiar, and there had been a large structure resembling a compound they were held captive after being kidnapped from the Pedmontus gardens. The residents in the town seemed quite clouded like they were intoxicated. Frankly, their happiness seemed a bit artificial. Yusefus started to wonder what happened to the town since they left. Otherwise, Iohannes was having no luck finding Rivkah. Eventually the Cobolds arrived in Beaubelles, and found their headquarters missing, but this tunnel leading through the mountains. Then Iohannes went to the magistrates of the city, and asked if they knew where Rivkah and Harmony lived. The magistrate woman said in a sing song voice "Sweety, Rivkah and Harmony are dead". Iohannes was utterly distraught, and this magistrate offered him this tonic to make him happy again. Iohannes told this magistrate that there is no happiness when his wife and daughter are dead, and he stormed off.

The Cobolds had greatly supported Iohannes after getting this horrible news. Iohannes wondered why he ever returned to Londinium, and considered this all for nothing. They strongly considered returning back to Hamitaria, and did not care if they would get killed on the way. Yoshiyahu spoke up that they cannot get disheartened, as they still have not seen the Temple of Atlantis. One resident who overheard them explained that the Temple could be reached through the tunnel by the mountains. The Cobolds knew exactly where this was, and travelled through the tunnel where the headquarters once stood.

Yuriyama's darkest vision

For the third time, Yuriyama is summoned back to the Oracle and witnesses the following: The first sequence starts off with a Boy driving to a Church for a first Holy Communion, and gets yelled at by two ladies, whom he retaliates at them with telling them to shut up. The next sequence involves this Church, where there is a funeral for an old lady. After the Funeral, the Material world loses its stability, and doors no longer open up to the location they once did, and into places that are foreign. One funeral attendant is walking to the Church basement for a wake, only to constantly fall through the floor and end up in an underworld like that in the game "WarioWorld" for Gamecube. The given explanation is that the Illuminati had changed the laws of the normal 3-Dimensional experience. Later, this boy ends up at in a holographic version of Eat-n-Park on a hill.

Yuriyama summoned Terese and Daxividus over what he had just seen. Terese started to see that it was becoming more apparent that those in the Sarkikos community longed for the invisible and going about it in a very dangerous way. Terese explained that it looks like those stuck in the Sarkikos community had sought to give form and materiality to the immaterial. Terese explained how such an undertaking is very dangerous, and could corrupt the very fabric of reality as the mortals know it, creating a big mess. Yuriyama tells Terese and Daxividus that this vision needs to be made public, and those in the community need to see the dangers of what they are messing with. Yuriyama explains the great dangers when people mess with forces of reality beyond their material understanding, and how it caused quite nasty messes that took their people long ages to set back in order.

Around this time, the Charisms of the Founding Fathers, Ron Paul and Ayn Rand had made sure that the mortals knew about what was going on, and made sure these documentaries on the drug wars were watched, along with some documentaries on corporate power and the lobbyists who get their way through paying lawmakers. Now the Charism of Ron Paul made sure some documentaries on the FDA were made known, and the works of the pharmaceutical industry became exposed.

Unfortunately, these documentaries greatly scared many mortals. Many saw the blatant and tyrannical abuse of power going on right in their own country. The popularity rating for president Obama reached a low popularity nearly as bad as Bushe's popularity. One person who saw the documentary had some choice words about Obama, which his liberal sister did not take too well to. Others contemplated a violent overthrow of figures such as Sheriff Arpaio of Arizona.

Cleaning Grandpa Tony's house

During that November, Milo had been seeking out spirituality in learning about Quantum Mechanics, and the more mystical aspects. Quantum Mechanics is quite a complicated science which like Einsteinian physics goes outside the normal space-time continuum. Many have come to the conclusion that Quantum Mechanics proves that consciousness, not matter is the ground of being.

Around this time, there was a great vision of fear of the tyrants who appeared undefeatable. Corporations had absolute monopolies on the means of production, Governments exercised absolute power through blatant violence and the masses had become too timid to confront the tyrants. Many had become fearful that there really was no good and evil, but only power and those too weak to pursue it.

Before Thanksgiving, the time came to clean out Grandpa Tony and Grandma Rosa's house, and get it ready for sale. All the Aunts and Uncles showed up, with a few cousins. This had frankly been a long and depressing day. During the cleanup day, the vision of the Hindu Stone Altar with Corn Cakes and a celebration of Purification reoccurred. Otherwise, this felt like a strange experience. It seemed as if the house was stripped of all meaning, and a house that once was in the family just seemed completely emptied. In church that night, the priest gave a sermon about heaven, hell and purgatory. According to the priest, souls could not leave purgatory unless they were prayed out, since supposedly the souls praying for themselves could not act in any self interest. Frankly, Milo thought this was stupid. Now Milo knew of spiritual teachings of purification, and such hellish realms were of ones choosing, and could only be departed from once the soul learned their lessons.

The final Establishment

Durnil, Oscar and Alexander's final suggestion of the age was this television show "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". Oscar had been looking for a show that would fit the criteria, but a fantasy that would disrupt the order Brutus was promoting. Alexander suggested Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as he knew the boys would enjoy the characters Buffy, Willow, Cordelia and Harmony. Durnil knew that the show had some themes that could begin to expose the power of Puterma, in reference to the relationship Buffy and Joyce have in the show. Durnil knew about how the two had some difficulty communicating, as Buffy had a secret destiny that she could not share with anyone, creating these tensions thanks to the necessary lack of communication. Oscar then explains that many on earth have been tied down to very domesticated and comfortable forms of goodness, and have been averse from the terrible higher goodness. Durnil explains that many use the higher terrible goodness as justification to show cruelty. Oscar explains that such forms are not goodness, but mere cruelty to beat people into domestication. Oscar then explains that those sweet forms of domestication can be more manipulative, due to the seemingly sweet nature of the domination.

This show started becoming popular after the episode "Prophecy Girl" was first reintroduced before Thanksgiving. According to the results, those who had seen the show were utterly raised high. Even Terese and Daxividus had noticed the effect this had, and greatly thanked Durnil, Oscar and Alexander. On one occasion, one viewer who had become quite domesticated could barely stomach the second season of the show, and considered it way too dark and violent. Yet a week later, the viewer started getting moreso into the show, yet believed that the Third Season was not as dark.

The Temple arrival

Eventually the Cobolds got out of the cave, and arrived on the other side. To the Cobolds surprise, they found themselves right on the temple grounds. Something seemed a bit strange to the Cobolds, as they remembered getting to the temple being quite difficult. Not to mention, the town of Lionalem just seemed gone. Otherwise, the Cobolds still had some hope that the temple would have some answers. Now the walls of the temple no longer had the closed doors, but an open archway easy to enter into. When it came to the the region beyond the horizon, there was no water, but what looked like the valley of a different town. The Cobolds had found this strange, and wondered if the sea got drained since they were gone.

Overall, the Cobolds were quite fearful of disappointment, and camped on the temple grounds for several nights. Now the Cobolds had been quite fearful of going into the temple, and feared what they would find. After all, the whole return back to Hitaria seemed to be one great disappointment. Londinium was a sterile and concrete city, the people were quite loopy, the Headquarters were gone, and Rivkah and Harmony were dead. One day, the Cobolds saw another Mistivant gleefully departing the temple singing and dancing like he just won a victory. At this, the Cobolds bit the bullet and entered the temple. The Priest immediately welcomed the visitors in this same monotone voice. The Priest gave all kinds of inspirational speeches about how they have all the answers to the deepest questions. Then the priest recited many promises to answer the problem of death, pain and hardship. The priest promised to show the Cobolds the meaning of Kebsuda. After going on, the priest held some artifact which had been covered like a sacred relic. The priest starts chanting some strange song in some gibberish language, and slowly reveals what is beneath the covering. When the covering is completed, the priest tells the Cobolds that this is the sacred tonic of great bliss to wash away all feelings of pain and sorrow.

The Last episode and Yuriyama's last Vision of the Diploro's

After the first week of Advent, the final episode of the Catholicism series by Fr. Barron has been shown. The Charism of Fr. Barron returns to the community of the trustworthy devotees to tell of what happened at this showing. The Charism explains how one parishioner, the same who challenged the Islamophobe with bad breath had not liked this last episode too much, on the matter of the world to come. This episode greatly bothered him, as he considered the content to have too much finality. This charism refers to this viewer as being similar to one of the Characters in the Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis, where some residents of Hell were taken to heaven, and one theological debater had preferred the constant striving for truth, and considered reaching absolute truth was spiritually stagnant. One Charism Preston Eby defensively questions the Charism of Fr. Barron, and reminds him that this community of the trustworthy does not entertain such lies. The Charism of Fr. Barron explains that his reference is only an analogy, and is strongly optimistic that the parishioner will see the errors of placing emphasis on theological speculations, once the diploro's job is done.

Yuriyama is summoned back to the Oracle for one final vision. A Boy is messing around with some light Switches, and accidentally changes the orbit of the stars, causing the planets to misalign, and the earth to go dark temporarily. He then brags to a girl about his power to control the stars, and admit he messed with the orbit. At this same house, a depressed girl comes out of her bedroom to see off a woman leaving for a business trip.

During this time, Yuriyama knew that there were quite a few Diploro's out, and making some nasty trouble. Yuriyama summoned Pandora over this, as Terese and Daxividus were in no state to hear more troubling news. Now Yuriyama knew well that the Diploro's full release would soon take place on Thursday night.

A Disturbed Christmas

After the First Sunday of Advent, Milo started feeling off after watching some documentaries about the afterlife. As it was, Milo did not find any of the conclusions about final answers satisfying. What Milo knew about myths were that they always had some form of striving for some purpose, but never seemed to tell of what happened once the purposes were achieved.

During these days, Milo was constantly haunted by strange dreams, particularly with many cosmic themes. Now Milo had many thoughts buzzing in his head about deep scientific matters, such as quantum mechanics, the nature of matter, energy, time and space. Yet no matter what, none of these questions had satisfactory answers. Not to mention, Milo could not find any answer to what this whole question of existence even meant.

After one final straw, Milo started getting quite obsessive about these questions. That last week before Christmas, those thoughts tormented Milo, and he could not get these questions out of his head. Milo wanted answers so badly, but could not seem to find any answers, and only unsatisfactory answers. Not to mention, Milo noticed that everything in existence comes and goes, and the tides of time seem to just destroy everything in their midst. Yet Milo could not conceive of an existence beyond the destructive nature of time. The day after Christmas, Milo started developing theories that time is a cycle, where everything eventually repeats itself, and that anything that goes out of being eventually comes back into being.

Azeyas and Yuriyama's last Vision of the Year

Around this time, Yuriyama had a vision of these proud people on earth who were extremely educated, and believed themselves to be a very compassionate people. These compassionate Pharisees hated the uneducated, those with limited interests and the especially those Pharisaical tendencies they saw in other people. These compassionate Pharisees hated the hard Pharisees, and could clearly see their cruelty towards the weak, underprivileged, poor, disabled and undisciplined. However, these compassionate Pharisees never saw the cruelty in their own hatred. These compassionate Pharisees started to see that their own cruelty was infecting them in utterly surprising ways. At this sight, these Compassionate Pharisees became utterly frightened.

That same night, the viewer who had gotten through the second season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, is now on the Third season. After being well into this season, the viewer gets quite an experience of terror, as he does not believe that there is any goodness transcending the domestic forms he believes in. When Brutus finds out this news, he gets quite angry with Lance, and accuses him of purposely fraternizing with Alexander and spreading disorder. Lance had noticed that Brutus looked more scared than he had in a long time. When it came to the Cruxix office, Maronattar and Ranav noticed that Baba Yaga seemed very twitchy and quite skiddish. As to why this had been going on, they did not know.

On that Thursday Night, the Jinns all gathered at the Odinean Temple for the releasing of the Diploro's to earth. Now Pandora was a bit nervous about this, as she had never released Diploro's, and did not know what life would be like under these monsters. Now Pandora had released the timora's a little over three years ago. They had all remembered how by this time, the ending of the Timora's reign. After the Diploro's were released, the earth became quite gray, like the vision Yuriyama had of the bleak universe. Now those in the Sarkikos community had been too scared to entertain any fantasies to mess with forces like in the funeral vision.

As it occurs, Azeyas has one final vision at the Oracle, the day after the Diploro's release. This vision starts off with a student a college lecture hall, and a students uncle coming in to pick him up, and shakes his hand. Then the sequence changes to a mother and two kids getting off of a plane, and picking up some supplies at a convenience store before going to a school picnic. Then the scene changes to some cousins at an amusement park designed by Roller Coaster Tycoon.

At once, the Jinns including Azeyas, Maelendil, Lance, Brutus, Dugmateous, Gustavette, Platonius and Mercius had a meeting over this current vision. Mercius had recognized something about the School Picnic resembling a long feared and shunned memory containing something vital at the heart.

Chapter 44: The Nursing Home Job

Brutus and Lance's fallout

During this time, the Diploro's were still on earth, and causing a major despair. When it came to the Sarkikos community, things were not fairing too much better. According to the reports of Terese and Daxividus, those stuck in the Sarkikos community had been utterly depressed, as the vision of Yuriyama confirmed when the universe lost all aliveness. According to Terese, the mortals in the Senexit community had become so bored with existence that they were not sure they wanted to continue. After the vision of the chaotic shift and the funeral wake was made public, no one in the Sarkikos community wanted to discover anything more, out of fear of finding more chaos.

Around the same time, Yuriyama has a horrible vision of the people of the earth being entranced by a movie that plays over and over again, which according to many cult leaders never started and will never end, but had played an infinite amount of times before and will endlessly play in the future. Then there was an oversight of a flag with an egg shaped set of rays resembling the Brahma Kumaris logo. Yuriyama brought this news to Terese, and confirmed that those in the Sarkikos community had opted for a reductionist existence. Soon enough, Platoneous arrived, in order to offer some assistance. Platoneous explained to Terese and Daxividus that the fear of discovery came from the sarkikos wish for absolute intellectual clarity. Platoneous explained that the intellect is not capable of beholding absolute truth, and it can only grasp at shadows. Platoneous explains how the fallen Annogrammatrons of his order, such as the Kronos and Causemos see the most concrete symbols as the reality, and see anything unseeable as a delusion.

Otherwise, Brutus and Lance were having some major disagreements. After the incident with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Brutus took a more hard lined approach, and was about to let Lance know that he was boss. Now Brutus had known that the shows like "Once Upon a Time", "Good Luck Charlie", "House of Anubis", "Hey Arnold" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" underestimated the kind of order he was calling for, and made sure that the mortals become turned off from these shows. In fact, the only shows Brutus permitted were Full House and Reba. By this time, Lance was not sure if he could work with the idea's Brutus approved of when he first started so long ago. Lance remembered when he and Brutus agreed to a goal where the ordinary mortals would be freed from responsibilities, and the authorities would take away this burden. Lance was starting to understand that under Brutus order, the handing of responsibilities to the authorities was taking away the freedoms of the ordinary people.

Near the end of the Diploro's, Brutus and Lance had a major falling out. Lance decided that the world did not need a Senexit, and sought the roles to reglorify the Puerubdi. Lance decided to look over some records of Maelendil's charges, and saw that the order he and Brutus had promoted had quite some major flaws. Lance saw some memories of the young and those deemed incompetent being subjected to institutionalized and domesticated existence under these patronizing authorities. According to Lance, the protective authorities proved to be just as nasty as those self serving authorities. Lance confronted Brutus about what he had seen, and told him that their goals are not being accomplished by these methods. Brutus tells Lance that soft freedom is his goal, and Brutus explains that order is his plan. Brutus then summons Gustavette to teach Lance this lesson. Gustavette soon shows up, and Brutus asks her to teach this lesson to Lance, as it is not getting through to him. Gustavette tells Brutus that Lance is right about loss of freedom. Gustavette explains that social responsibility is needed for freedom, and order cannot be achieved by keeping people domesticated. Brutus looked quite offended and shocked that Gustavette would side with Lance. Brutus then calls Gustavette nothing but a bleeding heart liberal just tossing order out when it gets inconvenient, and too afraid to offend fragile Lance. Gustavette lets Brutus know that he needs to learn to respect the Puerubdi office, and to drop his machismo attitude.

Both Brutus and Lance brought their cases before Maelendil. Gustavette joins Lance to put in a good word. When they arrive to Maelendil, he asks what their business is. Brutus grudgingly explains that Lance is trying to usurp his office. Gustavette protests this, and explains that Lance is not getting his fair share of influence. Maelendil calms Gustavette, and asks Lance if this is true. Lance confirms that this is so. Maelendil gives his imput that Lance does need more authority, but needs experience also. Maelendil does a switch, and has the roles reversed with Lance having the upper hand, as Brutus had the upper hand the previous days. Brutus looked furious about this. Meanwhile, Maelendil tells Gustavette that she had done a great job at imparting a spirit of compassion on his charges. Maelendil then explains that she had become quite burned out, and that Baldred the Liberal would be assisting her. Gustavette was a little offended, and asked Maelendil if Baldred was a bit lacking in social conscience. Maelendil explains that Baldred specializes in personal responsibility and individuality, but only a Maludico has their conscience tied to one particular matter. Maelendil explains that this spirit of compassion has led to a loss of self reliance. Gustavette is not thrilled at hearing this, but trusts Maelendil.

The return of the Shaman

After the Cobolds met with the temple priest, they immediately left with quite a sense of disturbance. The whole idea that all the questions they had that could be solved with a tonic had seemed fearfully preposterous. After this, the Cobolds left the temple, and departed Londinium for good. The Cobolds ended up finding this town known as Pleasure Gardens, full of pubs, gambling houses, opium bars, cockfighting rings and gentlemens clubs.

Over these few months, the Cobolds would constantly circulate from one pursuit to another. Eventually drinking got boring, and would take up watching extreme sports. After the sports wore off their pleasure, the Cobolds went to the gentlemens clubs. After this got boring, they would go to the opium bars. After Opium no longer worked, they went to gambling, which eventually put them in debt. This brought the Cobolds right back to drinking. After they lost their money drinking, they resorted to watching cockfights. Overall, this became quite boring, as they had no money to bet, and the sport lost all appeal. So far, the Cobolds became quite depressed over their return, and missed Hamitaria. Otherwise, the Cobolds were homeless and living off of strong pity drinks leftover from other bar dwellers. Frankly, being sober had no appeal to the Cobolds after this grave disappointment.

One morning, Iohannes is woken up from a nasty hangover by a kick, and a hamitarian accent asking what he was doing. Iohannes woke up all dazed and moaning. At once, Iohannes noticed that the Shaman from Hamitaria had returned. A little over the moments, the rest of the cobolds started waking up, and saw the Shaman. Mardina told the Shaman that this is all meaningless, and told him to save himself from his shamanic duties. The Shaman gave quite a laughed "Whats wrong with me? you need the help". Zadok told the Shaman they arrived in Londinium. Iohannes lamented that Rivkah and Harmony are dead. Yusefus complained that Londinium has turned into a prison. Aerondin told of the temple, and the great answer was this paralyzing tonic.

The Shaman told the Cobolds that they were all very much mistakened. Iohannes got quite a sense of hope at these words. The Shaman explained that this is not Gallicanium but Igleftios. Aerondin protested that he saw the sign saying "Welcome to Gallicanium", and there was even a town called Londinium. The Shaman told Aerondin that this was all a trick and they fell for it. The Shaman explains that what happened was Igleftios was nothing but a copy of Hitaria, and was a town built by the Hypocordo's who escaped some time after the Londinium flood. Then the Shaman told Iohannes that the one called dead is still alive.

The Shaman explained that they were right to come to Igleftios, as they were safe from the war. Aerondin then told the Shaman all about what he heard from the Haggebad Ogre. The Shaman explained that the battle is long over. Yusefus asked what happened with Hamitaria, and their friends. The Shaman explained that the land is fine, and that Morgas is dead. The Shaman explained that Natalia had been instructed to give Morgas the mask, after they did the obstacle course and found it. The Mask would not attack the rightful ruler, and the one to usurp the mask to increase their power would rapidly age and turn to dust. After Morgas died, the Moreyites ceased fighting, and the war ended, as they lost the green hand they were fighting over.

The Shaman then led the Cobolds out of the pseudo-Londinium region, and into the desert. The Shaman took the Cobolds to a cave, and gave them some boating instructions. The Shaman explained that to veer left is to be free to go home, but to veer right is to travel on the path of Slavery. After the instructions, the Shaman disappeared.

Milo applies for the Job

During the winter of 2013, Milo got into a funk, as he was not sure there was any truth. Milo realized that his cyclical view of reality had many defects, since it would mean that every bad thing would repeat itself, and that this had happened an infinite number of times before, and will do so again. Plus, Milo started becoming disturbed about the implications of endless striving, and how a world of cycles had no transcendent meaning.

Milo would go in circles with picking new religious beliefs, but always found something wrong with them. By this time, Milo was finding that the Deistic God of pure reason alone was failing him. When it came to Eastern religion, Milo found some problems in the way many of their ideas seemed vague, and according to him, meant a form of nothingness. When it came to other forms of spirituality, Milo was also not so keen on this idea of a future in a non-material spirit world, or the eastern idea of reincarnation, and taking different identities. For the last three years, Milo had this major problem with organized Christianity and Islam, and saw their problem in trying to impose a single truth to the denial of all other truth. When it came to trying to find something new, Milo was depleted. Milo felt like he had seen everything, and nothing more to find, or nothing new to learn.

Two days before St. Patrick's day, Milo got to a point of despair. Milo was not sure there was any reason to care about anything, and saw life as utterly pointless. That night called out for help, and had some experience of transcendence of some form. Yet Milo still tried to figure out what these experiences meant, and started becoming anxious again. Milo knew something was happening, but could not understand what. During this same time, Milo was also beginning to have more flashbacks to his first communion, where it felt like all present moments had been contained into one. How this could be comprehended, Milo had no clue.

One Wednesday After visiting Grandpa Tony, Milo found out that Sisters of Perpetual Mercy rest home was hiring for the kitchen. Milo decided to apply for the job, even though he had not been in the best state. Milo had still been a bit nihilistic, and did not feel there was any point in resisting a job at a healthcare facility. Milo had constantly refused to take any jobs in healthcare institutions, and never liked these facilities. Ray on the other hand always tried to get Milo to at least consider them, and he considered that this may not be so bad. Milo had not been so bothered being at nursing homes like he had been with Hospitals. Even stranger was that Funeral Homes never bothered Milo the way healthcare facilities had.

The next day, Milo was called back for an interview scheduled one day later. On Friday, Milo interviewed with Gloria, the head of Food service. Gloria asked Milo to draw a cartoon, as she knew he was an art student. After the interview, Milo went to Grandpa Tony's room, where Ray was also visiting. Ray and Milo then stopped at Phyllisville Market, where he saw Zaida. Then Milo noticed another girl with her, and he recognized her as Amira. On Palm Saturday, Aunt Dianne, Ashlyn and Malina come over to the Biancatello's for dinner. That night, Milo had some experience of existence having some meaning, but he could not understand what it meant.

Arybatas Returns and the Work Camp

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds are having great difficulty putting up a temporary structure to at least get to Pedmontus. Otherwise, the Cobolds were having no luck in finding an antidote to the cursed overgrowth. After a time of struggle, they nearly lose all hope, and the Cobolds told the Garonites about an Oasis they spent time at when they were missing. Amagh asked if they were planning on running away. Elrich denied this, and said that he just needed a vacation. The Cobolds tried to convince the Garonite Londinians to join them and return to the Oasis for this little trip. Now the Cobolds planned on staying in the Oasis, and no interest in returning back to Londinium. The Garonites joined them a bit reluctantly. During their treck back, the Cobolds and Londinians run into an old friend Arybatas, who designed the bridge. They had been glad to run into Arybatas, and hoped he could help them. Arybatas asked the Cobolds if they were planning on running away again. Yoshiyahu said that they just needed time away. Elrich told the Cobolds that they don't need to be running away now, as he has come to help them. Arybatas told the Cobolds and Garonites that he had some good news. Arybatas explained that he knew exactly how to reconstruct the headquarters back to their old glory, without any torture devices from Voris Co, and his plans could resist any attack from Rakshasajinn, Doustonian or Skinnerite. Arybatas explained that Malpied Voris just died after he returned to Kebsuda, and got in with some warlike desert tribe. Arybatas explained that Voris had possessed the green hand, and it turned on him when he tried to invade a land known as Hamitaria. Arybatas explained that the Kidnapped Cobolds had arrived in Hamitaria and met with their old friends Natalia, Jaiden, Hannah, Fabinius and Taibi.

The Cobolds who were leaving Igleftios were walking through the spooky cave as the Shaman instructed. As to where this would get the Cobolds, they did not know. Then the Cobolds found a river and a set of abandoned boats on the bank. The river they saw had been pretty dangerous, and full of harsh rapids. The Cobolds wondered how they were supposed to sail this river, and wished they had listened more carefully to the Shaman. Now the Cobolds understood why the Shaman gave them boating instructions. The Cobolds got in the boat and began quite a rough voyage through the river. On a couple of occasions, one cobold nearly was thrown out, but remembered the instructions on holding on very tightly. The Cobolds boated through the rapids of the river, and arrived at this fork. Irugen remembered the Shamans words about veering left. The Cobolds tried to veer left, but were unable to, and ended up going right. This set of rapids was even worse than anything they experienced earlier, and were thrashed around pretty harshly.

After too much thrashing, the Cobolds boat breaks and they end up on the shore of a deep valley with a frightening figure staring at them. This figure asks the Cobolds who they were, and what business they had intruding on their territory. Petestore explained their situation, and how they got stuck on the wrong side of the fork in the river. The figure agrees to build them a new boat, much to the Cobolds relief. The only condition is that they work as indentured servants for the next three months. The Cobolds are not thrilled about this, but they see a light at the end of the tunnel. At the beginning, the Cobolds are given a pretty light workload of labeling boxes, and giving them to these ugly birds resembling the raptors who took them away. Seeing these birds did not exactly soothe them, and brought back some dark memories. Otherwise, things were not so bad, and the Cobolds were optimistic about getting back to Hitaria once their boat was repaired. Otherwise, the Cobolds really wished they had paid better attention to the Shaman's words.

Azeyas First Vision

By this time, the Jinns realize that there has been a great decrease on earth of the Diploros. Platoneous efforts became most effective after teaching those in the Sarkikos community some new ways of seeing things quite differently than the fluff of Kronos and Causemos. Unfortunately Platoneous was not having a whole lot of luck, and noticed those in the community were still very attached to clear cut logic and perfect clarity. Terese explained that those in the community had become so fearful of anything beyond their comprehension out of fear of being merged into the abusive powers. Terese explained what she knew from the Charism of Dr. Boyd Purcell. Platoneous explains that transcending rationality is not a denial of what one knows, but an expansion. Platoneous affirms that the community is correct about the horrors of abuse, and that they should never deny what they know.

Soon enough, Daxividus comes back to relay a vision he had just seen. According to the vision, there is a college student who has worked hard for so many months in order to graduate. The student just received the news that he had passed his classes, and can now graduate and rest. This student then runs through the walkways of this campus in joyful elation. Daxividus takes Terese and Platoneous over to where this has occurred, and they all realize that they had reached their first place of influence. Platoneous explained that it was still too early to make any assumptions, as it would still be hard for those in the community to be free of these attachments to the Kronos and Causemos.

On the night before Holy Saturday, Azeyas is summoned back to the oracle and sees this vision of a series of races in Ireland through Island Hopping, Water tubing, and grass sledding. The Charism of St. Patrick soon shows up, and admits that he had setup the vision. The Charism announces that the second battle is done, and the days of feasting have begun.

That Morning, it had been well known that the Diploro's all disappeared, and these burdens had been lifted. Azeyas immediately summoned Terese, Daxividus and Platoneous over what he had seen. According to Terese's interpretation, the power the Kronos had was being broken. Platoneous explained that the only way for the Kronos power to be fully broken was for the Causemos power to be undermined. Alongside, Lance, Gustavette and Baldred showed up. By this time, Gustavette and Baldred came up with a system where both personal interests and social responsibility needed to be balanced out. After what Lance saw in the records, self interest and moralism were two sides of the same coin.

Alongside, Daxividus has a new vision that starts off a Buddhist wheel of time that endlessly spins. Out of wheel, multiple golden branches come fourth and new wheels flower out of the branches. During that meeting, Dugmateous took less of a role, giving it to Gustavette and Baldred. Dugmateous explained that he did his work in bringing certainty in times of fear, and explained that his efforts may have worked a bit too well. Maelendil decided to keep Dugmateous on part time, as he believed that there was still much work left to do.

Maelendil declared the next age as the age of Lance, much to Brutus displeasure. Lance chose Mercius as his partner, and sought to remythologize the world. At this meeting, Yuriyama returned with tidings to acknowledge the end of the reoccurring vision of the endless movie. Then the Charism of Ayn Rand returned to testify that Wipou this time deceived the earth into believing the true enemies were those who worked for their own interests rather than the greater good, while placing busybodies on a pedestal of selflessness. Lance had known all about this. The Charism of Ayn Rand still explained that Maelendil's charge would need to soon find this out on his own.

The New Spring

That Holy Week had been a bit of a better experience for Milo. On that Tuesday, Milo went with Vito to the Kingdom Hall last Supper. During that time, Jehovah's witness theology had a particular appeal to Milo, due to lacking ambiguity. On Holy Thursday afternoon, Milo broke out of his funk, which was exactly 24 hours after having confession after a "Stations of the Cross" presentation. On Holy Thursday night, Milo had this insight that the individual chose the destiny that they wanted. This could include as much change or repetition as one so chose. Milo got this idea of parallel universes, and the ultimate purpose was to shop for the one that fit the individual. On Easter Saturday, Milo was still a bit out of sorts. On Easter Sunday, the whole family brought food to Sisters of perpetual mercy rest home, so Grandpa Tony could join them.

After Easter, Milo was still a bit perplexed about his new spirit of individualism. Milo did not feel fully content about the possibility of choices, and what he would want repeated or not. Milo was also a bit bothered why he was disinterested in Eastern Philosophy and native religions. Not to mention, Milo still was not sure why modern spirituality also seemed empty too. Everything Milo had learned over these past years ended up being full of paradox, and he could still not grasp at the concept of time and eternity. Eventually Milo came to the conclusion that these paradoxes are not meant to be resolved through intellectual processes, and understood that all religions at the doctrinal level can do is emphasize a particular point of view. Milo understood how so much of his emphasis on clarity originated with his distaste for Fundamentalism, and how the religious authorities demanded people accept teachings, whether or not they made any sense. All Milo saw was this system where blind obedience was emphasized. Milo then started to place more trust with individual intuition over either authority or intellectual rationality.

One Friday later, Milo, Margaret and Ray went to Pittsburgh for Lydia's 21st birthday. Milo had a little too much to drink at Lydia's party and the next day, was pretty hungover. This had been a party full of other college students just as hammered. For the next few weekends, Milo was feeling better, and was getting out of his funk. Towards the middle of April, Ashlyn made her first communion, and Jesse and Danielle threw her a party at their house. That night, Milo and Salvatore went to the International night at Whelon University. The year before was better, according to Milo and Salvatore. In fact, that year, there were primarily a bunch of rice dishes.

The New Charisms

A few days after Easter, Mother Earth and Father Time sends the Sophunums a letter requesting a meeting over calling in some new Charisms. At this meeting in the Enanian Temple, Father Time and Mother Earth showed up right on time, and all the Jinn in attendance prostrated before the Aluments. Father Time explained that the attachment to the Kronos has been broken, and the unquestioning trust of the Causemos has become greatly undermined. At once, all the Jinns cheered. Father Time explains that he has a plan to remind those stuck in the Sarkikos Community of his domain long forgotten. Father Time called for the Charisms of Meditation Master Eckhart Tolle, Theologian Peter Kreeft and Quantum Scientist Amit Goswami. Once the Charisms appear, Father Time explains that the three are needed for a clarification mission, and then assigns the Annogrammatron Platoneous to be the overseer of the mission. Platoneous understood the mission, and explained that the mortals have come to the end of their quest for knowledge, and have found nothing. Platoneous explains how he had seen this before. The Peter Kreeft Charism starts referencing the reality the ancients uncovered, which all things of earth are mere symbols. The Amit Goswami Charism explains that all those symbols are possibilities of manifestation of consciousness. The Eckhart Tolle Charims explains that the symbols are all that the mind can grasp, and it cannot explain the total truth. Then the Aluments assigns the Peter Kreeft Charism to work with the Aluments of the Trustworthy devotees. Father Time then sets up a new group to include the charisms of Eckhart Tolle, Russell Means and Amit Goswami. Father Time assigns the Charism of Peter Kreeft to assist the Charism of Fr. Barron, after his last video on the last things did not resonate too well. Father Time tells the Charism of Peter Kreeft that he knows about his domain from the Scholastic perspective, and know how to present this domain in a way that those in the sarkikos realm will understand. Then Father Time commissions the Charism of Amit Goswami was commissioned to present his domain from a scientific and Eastern perspective, and break the assumption that Eastern sages were all a bunch of Nihilists. The Charism of Eckhart Tolle was commissioned to give those in the Sarkikos community the tools to learn of Father Time's domain.

With the age of Lance beginning, his first move was to help re-establish "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "House of Anubis" after Brutus had the shows banned. Durnil greatly rewarded Lance for his efforts, and a short golden age was established. The Charism of Ayn Rand returned to remind Maelendil that his charge would have to return to a place also ran by Pecunia. The Charism explained that in this place, the Rakshasajinns Cittimerk, Sheepus and the Horseman had significant authority at this place. Over this time, the realm of the Sarkikos started to see that there was some reality absolutely other than the realm they had been living in.

Sister Wisdom then called Maronattar over. Father Time asks Maronattar if he knows why he was called over. Maronattar had been a bit disheveled, as his Solum Baba Yaga had been put on trial, and found guilty of fraternizing with the Maludico's Cittimerk, and Udopis, the Epinytas Conkus and the Hypocordo Wipou. Father Time explains that they had known all along, and points out how the allegiance with Oscar, Durnil and Alexander introduced shows that those devoted to the Solum office had taken interest in the shows, and allowed the themes Ouranos aspects to be re-appreciated. Sister Wisdom then told how the Charisms of George Lakoff, Boyd Purcell, Fr. Matt Linn and Russell means along with their work with Platoneous and Mercius had allowed the office of the Ouranos to get a fair trial. Sister Wisdom explains how all the charisms mentioned had earth counterparts who are charges of Maronattar.

Milo starts the Job

One day, Milo got the call that he had been hired at Sisters of perpetual mercy rest home. The first thing Milo would have to do was get a Physical, and a Tuberculosis test through the rest home. When Milo passed the tuberculosis tests, he was subjected to watch some long training videos. The videos were all about what constitutes as Elder Abuse, fire safety and some other video about nursing homes. After training, Milo had to sign some papers with the head of human resources who had a very monotone voice. Then Milo got some further orientation with the second manager Helga. She first introduced him to the cooking team, and some evening workers, and then scheduled Milo to start the next day. Helga asked Milo about his past jobs, and he explained that he was a landscaper. Helga then refers to Sisters of Perpetual Mercy as his first real job. After that, Helga always rubbed Milo the wrong way.

Milo's first day at the job had been a bit much for him. Milo had not really planned on working that Saturday, and did not know anyone. Plus, Milo found the facility to be a bit depressing. Milo's training had not exactly been great, as the girl who trained him that day spoke heavy ebonics. Milo got sent to wait tables without any instructions. After work, Milo really did not want to come into the house, and be treated like he just got home from the first day of school. As Milo feared, as soon as he got in, Margaret started asking Milo those goofy questions, like he was in elementary school. That night, Lydia got home from Pittsburgh College. Lydia started considering Milo to be a conspiracy nut after telling her what he thinks the government and big business are really up to.

The job at the nursing home was not so bad at first. For the first few weeks, Milo had gotten along with his co-workers, and did not mind the work. Typically Milo worked 3-5 days a week on average, depending on when they needed him. Milo was getting trained to do multiple jobs in the beginning, and became completely competent at two jobs. At work, Milo found that Fr. Sorbiewski resided at this home, and talked to him for a little bit. Fr. Sorbiewski left St. Timothy's back when Milo was a senior in highschool at the age of 82, and retired from active ministry.

On Ascension Thursday, Milo went to St. James for mass, as he was home alone and did not have work that day. Frankly, Milo just wanted to go to a different church, and wanted to hear the Organ and Choir. Milo had not been to St. James since he was in the Novena when he was seventeen years old. As to what drew Milo to St. James was a great mystery. That day, there was no choir, and only a cantor singing and the Organist. For dinner that night, the Biancatello's, Filentino's, Uncle Leo, Rob, Gianni and Salvatore went out for wings.

For four days straight, Milo was off from work, much to his enjoyment. By this time, Milo could accept that Jinny may only have a short time, and hoped that she maybe reincarnated. Milo had remembered how he first got Jinny the fall before he made his first communion, and how he had learned about the cycles of time. Milo wondered if this had been preparation should the day come soon. That weekend, the Biancatello's and Grandma Pearl had Charlotte's wedding. As for the reception, this had been pretty standard to the previous wedding. Milo saw his relatives, such as Aunt Mary, Ralph, Elaine, Peggy and Jennifer. Katelyn had been a bridesmaid in the wedding.

One Thursday afternoon later, Milo got started training on this job where he would get to work in the St. Lorenzo café. Milo had greatly enjoyed that particular position, and had two days of training on that job. Milo had this ideal that he would let relatives know who were visiting Grandpa Tony, so he could get some company. Otherwise, no one stopped in the café, and it was much slower paced than the kitchen. That Saturday, Samantha had her graduation party at Uncle Leo and Aunt Janes house. Corey, Kate, Olivia, Jonathan and Rowan came in for this party. Now this had been the first party that Grandpa Tony was unable to attend. However, on Sunday, the Biancatello's attended Church with Grandpa Tony on Sunday, as this was his 87th birthday.

The Tonic Dealers business

Eventually things would get quite worse for the Cobolds, which had been a week short of the three months of their indentured servitude. One day, the heads of the Work Camp make some business deals with a creepy looking man riding one of these ugly birds. This man spoke with one of the taskmasters that his asylum wanted several orders of tonic, and needed them within the next few days. That afternoon, the master the heads of the work camp explained that they needed the cobolds to work for an additional two weeks, much to their annoyance. Now the Cobolds knew why this happened. Then the Cobolds complained about this, and the work camp magistrates asked them if they really wanted their ship back. This magistrate threatens to postpone construction if they complained.

For the next few weeks, the Cobolds worked long hours for the work camp magistrates, this time siphoning the tonic from these heavy barrels into small vials. This had been a meticulous task that required exact precision, and any spills would mean an incomplete order, and therefore more time at the camp. This tonic had smelled oddly familiar, and in an unpleasantly familiar way. The Cobolds began to realize that the Tonic they bottled was the same tonic they gave to the pseudo-temple residents and that sleazy priest to keep them calm. The Cobolds hated what they were doing, but feared being kept there indefinitely without a means to leaving. When the asylum worker returned, he asked for another set of order to be completed in another two weeks. The Cobolds understood what this meant, and asked the magistrates if this would be the last time. This magistrate explained that he did not know, and that the ship wasn't prepared anyways for their departure.

Yuriyama's Vision

Around this time, Yuriyama confided with Maelendil of a horrible vision that he saw. According to Yuriyama's account, there was an evil priest under the influence of the Horseman demanding sacrifices. The first sacrifice the Horseman demanded was of all the dogs in the land. The second sacrifice the Horseman demanded was the elderly men. Maelendil promised that he would keep an eye out, should something occur.

Shortly after, Azeyas showed up to explain to Yuriyama about this vision, and explained that this had the answer to another vision he had the previous fall, where a dog was being dropped off before leaving for Disney World and finding a long lost level in Super Mario. Azeyas had admitted that he did not have too many bittersweet visions, and very little experience in interpreting such things. Azeyas explains to Yuriyama that it looks like what is occurring in the vision is highly accurate, and explains that many had reached advanced age, and not exactly in great health.

Then a cryptic voice mentioned that this is indeed true. Maelendil turns and finds Mortaneous has returned. Mortaneous explains that the vision of the praying Zombie in the Church was near to its fulfillment, despite happening ten years later. Mortaneous explained that there would be three others joining. Maelendil asked what this meant for the Dogs. Mortaneous explained that he would bring his assistance in these times too.

The Bad Turn

Things took a turn for the worst when one worker got fired, and Milo was not getting trained anymore. Milo was always placed on the worst job known as the one. One day things got worse when Milo was blamed for a resident not getting their dinner right away, all because they were short of staff. As anyone knows who works in a nursing home, the elderly are not the most patient crowd. Milo could handle the resident's impatience, as he knew that it can be frustrating to have to be dependent on others. Yet, Milo was quite irritated with his co-workers for blaming other workers if residents were unhappy. Much of being on the one consisted of constant nagging by Mildred Mellon. Mildred was supposedly head of the kitchen, so she thought. Mildred just had one unique responsibility, but otherwise was on the same level as all the other servers.

Milo felt that this was similar to Mal-Tech, as it started off tolerable, but turned into a living hell. Milo always felt his co-workers at the Nursing Home were similar to the students at Mal-Tech. In fact, most of the students lived not too far from the Nursing home, and Phyllisville was a dumpier version of Noussonberg. This time, Milo chose to see the problem as being with the way the company was ran, similar to how he changed his mind about Mal-Tech. This Nursing Home was an oddly cliquey place. This place was known to be impossible to get into unless an applicant knew someone. The only reason Milo got in was because Ray's co-workers wife worked at the home.

One Friday, Milo, Ray and Margaret went on a day trip to a small town known as Statlerville, just past new Seneca, and near the Statlerville Shrine. Lydia had not joined them, as she had an internship. One of the girls in Lydia's program was Kurdish, and knew many in the Indo-Aryan community. Both Nousha and Rokshana were working at this company. Lydia had not been a huge fan of the company, and saw them as lacking respect for their employees. On the way up to the trip, Milo still had his complaints about the Nursing home job. Milo assumed that he hated the job because it was a Corporate job. Ray assumed that Milo really hated this job because it was the first job he had where he was not working on his own. Milo was a bit annoyed by Ray's conclusion, and felt the presumption was trying to blame him. When it came to Statlerville, this town had an underground mining museum which they took a tour of. For Lunch, the Biancatello's ate at some bogus café that made a Pizza from a store bought piece of bread, ragu sauce and American cheese, all cooked in the Microwave. Milo could not even eat this. Ray and Margaret's lunches were no better. On the way home, they drove through New Seneca, which did not do too much for Milo.

Otherwise, Milo had some snarky tendencies. Milo would not hear any theories about job dissatisfaction that did not go along with his theory that was because people did not experience satisfaction because supposedly all corporate jobs accomplished nothing but making some jerk rich. Frankly, Milo did not want to hear any presumptions that assumed people are just lazy and want to get money doing nothing. Milo got this idea after he had gotten out of Fundamentalist Catholicism and Mal-Tech that the problem was all about authoritarian jobs. What bothered Ray and Margaret was that Milo assumed that Corporations were bad, and had no purpose but to micromanage peoples lives. Plus, Milo had succeeded well at Sussewago, and did not struggle like he had at Mal-Tech.

Salvatore on the other hand also got a job he hated, and started getting into Libertarian ideologies also. Plus, Salvatore had taken issue with Grandpa Tony being put in the nursing home. Salvatore had told Aunt Michelle a Nursing home was no different than prison. IN fact, Salvatore went so far to believe that the nursing home was part of a big pharma system that tried to keep people sick so they could milk as much money out of the people.

By this July, it became quite clear that Jinny started going down hill due to old age, and had to be put down. Jinny was put down one Monday before Milo went to work. Milo had been in a bad mood that week. Milo knew this was coming, but was never really prepared for this. Now Milo hoped that he could find some organic food for her, and she could at least be healthy for another few years. On Wednesday, Milo tried an experiment of astral body projection, to see if he could see Jinny. This had not worked too well. That night, Grandma Pearle's cousin Carrie had a get together where the Biancatello's were invited to. Milo had off that night, and wanted to attend, to keep his mind off of Jinny.

That Friday, Milo found out that they scheduled him to work on a week he was on vacation to work on the one. Milo was angry, as he had already send in his request to be off weeks in advanced. Plus, there was no manager to ask about this mistake. Ray and Margaret explained that he would have to let them know about his vacation. Milo was not going to miss this vacation that had already been paid for, and was looking forward to going on due to a managerial goof up. After work, Milo went for a walk, and saw Nousha parking in the Jafari's driveway.

The next day, the Biancatello's had to go down to Pittsburgh to help Lydia move some furniture into her college off campus housing for her senior year. Milo had not been in the best of moods that day, as he had not slept well the night before, fed up with the job, and still having a difficult time over Jinny. When Milo got back, he had to go straight to work. Milo told Gloria that he had put the vacation notice in. Gloria changed the schedule, and she explained that Helga was in charge of the schedules. By this time, Milo became more suspicious of Helga, and really did not like her after that.

On Sunday, Milo went back to St. James for mass, as his family had gone the day before, which was a mass for Uncle Georgio. Milo had to work that evening. Milo went to St. James, as he wanted to hear the Gelineau Psalm of that week, which was Psalm 90/95. This was the same Psalm that haunted Milo before starting fourth grade. In Church, the Grinch offspring in the form of the Queen appeared like a Yahoo Avatar with an ugly smirk. That day, the responsorial Psalm was not sung, but recited. This was not considering the fact that the Organist and Cantor were still at mass. The priest gave a sermon on attachment to perishing things, thanks in part to the psalm from the week.

A few days later, Milo was informed that he got a raise. Gloria had promised that Milo would be getting training in the other jobs when he returns. Gloria explained the situation of that worker who got fired a few weeks ago, and Milo understood. Milo was more optimistic about the job, and the possibility of getting away from the cafeteria, working in the St. Lorenzo's café and being freed from the burdens of constantly being on the one.

Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon

That week later, Milo and his family went on Vacation to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. On Saturday afternoon, the Biancatello's drove into Pittsburgh, as Ryan would be joining them. That night before leaving, the Biancatello's saw a football game for the college. At the game, Milo got a bit anxious, as he had not flown in four years since leaving for Tampa. That night, Milo did not have a great night of sleep, and they were up by 5am to head to the Airport. The Biancatello's arrived in Las Vegas in the early Afternoon, and Ray drove them into the desert for a few hours before reaching the Grand Canyon. Milo was happy to see some natural landscapes, considering that he had spent so much time in Phyllisville, full of rundown dumps.

Milo loved the Grand Canyon, as did the rest of the family. Hiking down the canyon was no problem, but hiking up was quite a chore. For dinner, they ate at a fine dining facility specializing in local selections of game meat. That Tuesday, the Biancatello's drove back to Las Vegas. Before arriving in Vegas, they stopped at a natural cavern.

When it came to Las Vegas, neither Milo nor the rest of the family was so keen. Milo thought the town was a bit tacky. Frankly, Milo was just a bit uneasy about being clear on the other side of the country, where he had no connections. Plus, being in both Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon reminded Milo of a Rugrats VHS he got before On Sunday and Monday, the Family was at the Grand Canyon. By Wednesday afternoon, Las Vegas started to grow on Milo, even if it did remind him of the summer after Third Grade. Milo thought his distaste had all been because of the town being so plastic. On Thursday, the family traveled to Zion National Park. That night, Milo was stopped by a show girl, who wanted to get a picture with him. Margaret pulled him away, and Milo muttered "What the F bomb". Margaret did not take too well to this, and told Milo that he was not liking his attitude. On Friday, the family stayed at the hotel and the casino and pool. That night, Milo had a dream of returning home from Vacation, but was terrified of going back to work, feeling that the job was about to enslave him. Milo knows this rest home is soon going to find him, and does some frantic research to defend himself from this employer. On Saturday, the family went to Hoover Dam and ate at a Meditteranean restaurant. On Sunday the Family went back home. Milo was not happy about going back home, and really did not want to return to this job.
Chapter 45: The Job gets Worse

Return Home

On Milo's first day back, he went to a Baseball game with Rob. Milo was happy to be back home, and relieved that he did not have to work his first day back. The next day, Milo was scheduled to work, and found out that he was not getting trained on this schedule. That first day back, Mildred was accusing Milo of doing nothing, when he was waiting for some appliance the manager needed to give him. Milo always found the job to be quite irritating, and suspected that the co-workers were a pain because it was a nursing home. By this time, Milo began to hate the left almost as much as he hated the right. Milo had not liked the rights emphasis on privilege and tradition, but was no longer a fan of the left when he saw that they could be so over-protective and judgmental of those who like Milo did not have the caretaker personality.

The next day, Milo went to the Seewouden with Uncle Leo and Sylvester. They ended up leaving early, as Sylvester had not been feeling too well. That evening on the way to visit Grandpa Tony, Milo and Lydia got into a spat over his views on authority. Milo started talking about how Sylvester was nervous about starting highschool, and how middle school was too structured. According to Lydia, she believed that kids needed more Structure, and Milo believed that kids know right from wrong on their own. After the disagreement, Milo told Lydia that he possessed a higher consciousness than her. Over that summer, Milo was known to be quite a pain in the butt about his views, and came off as being a conspiracy theorist. Milo had come to think the worst in authorities, especially corporations. Milo believed that the rich were all just greedy thieves out to enslave the citizens to make themselves rich. Ray and Margaret believed that this had really been why Milo hated working for a nursing home, which was far from the truth.

The next day, Lydia headed back to Pittsburgh University. Over that weekend, Milo went on another rant about the whole corporate structure of the nursing home job, and Margaret told Milo she had a degree in business and knew how things worked. Milo gave a condescending laugh that Uncle Doug used to do to her when they were younger growing up at Grandma Pearls.

On Wednesday, Milo went to confession, as he read somewhere that using the sacrament can free him from particular matters tormenting him. Milo originally got this idea back in Las Vegas when he dropped the F bomb. Milo had noticed that he often felt a bit out of sorts on trips lately, and thought that maybe he had not felt empowered to live a meaningful life. In fact, Milo saw that his problems, starting with Mal-Tech, Fundamentalist Catholicism and now the Nursing Home job was all because he felt like he had been restrained from being able to live a meaningful life. Milo hoped that confession would give him the self empowerment to conquer these arbitrary limitations.

One night after work, Milo mentioned to Margaret what had happened in Las Vegas, when she pulled him away from a show girl. Milo had found out that this was not over some prudish quirk, but over these girls charging money for a picture. Now Milo had not been overly familiar with Vegas, and this town had given him temptations to pursue some naughty pleasures the town was known for.

New Charisms and the return of Ahamkara

Over these days, Lance had become annoyed with Brutus, as he usurped the seat of power, despite having Maelendil's blessing to have his own age. How exactly this was being accomplished had not been known. One day, Lance got a visit from the Satyasha known as Sophia. Sophia told Lance that her sons Bacchus and Appolinius are in tension again. Sophia told the story of how the Copper Egg she had been given a few years ago had hatched a few months ago. Sophia told about how the copper egg hatched an offspring Chrysippus. According to the story, Bacchus had been ignoring Appolinius, and hogging Chrysippus all for himself. Bacchus and Appolinius had worked well, and in the last few years, made great strides in making contributions. Bacchus found that Chrysippus had been mysterious and detached, while the clarity of Appolinius bored him.

Sophia explained that Appolinius was working with the Charism of the Didache, in order to assist in rebuilding the skeletal structure of belief. Sophia explains how Appolinius has become quite hostile towards Bacchus' efforts to place the flesh back on the skeletal structure. According to Sophia, the flesh cannot go back on until the Skeletal pieces are completed, and there is complete harmony between the three offsprings. In fact, Appolinius had seen placing the flesh back on the skeletal structure to be the cause of utter disorder.

Meanwhile, Brother Volition called for a meeting, as he had two new Charisms to call. Brother Volition summoned the Charisms of Natural Healer Charlotte Gerson and Whistleblower Kevin Trudeau. These two charisms had been assigned to work with the Charisms of the Founding Fathers, Jonathan Haidt, Bob Altemeyer, George Lakoff, Ron Paul and Ayn Rand. Brother Volition declared this new league as the power crushers, and were given the mission to expose the high handed authorities, and the propaganda they were using to preserve their power. Brother Volition told Maelendil to make sure the Charge and his cousin meet with the Charisms of Kevin Trudeau and Charlotte Gerson, considering their current circumstances. Meanwhile, Brother Volition summoned the Charisms of Ron Paul, Thomas Jefferson and George Lakoff to work with Terese and Daxividus.

Shortly after this summoning, the Satyasha Ahamkara had met with Maelendil over this prognosis she made years back after the Alpha-fi program ended. Ahamkara saw that her prognosis had come to fruition, and told her findings to Maelendil. Maelendil had seen that the seeds of doubt were planted in the Charge like those days long ago. As it was, Maelendil knew quite well that his charge had become more nihilistic after the last unleash of the furors and returning back to a place of degradation and impersonal relationships had tempted him to seek out more self reliance, without any interest in trusting in a higher power, such as the Jinns, Aluments or even the Dance. Ahamkara explained the final prognosis could possibly be that the Charge would end up forgetting about the dance, and his goodness. Ahamkara explained that even such memories of the Dances Fidelity will seem like nothing more than consoling childs play, and only an experience with the Dance can fix this. Maelendil explains to Ahamkara that initiating an experience with the Dance is not so easy, and can only takes a form of extreme surrender, which on the Dance's time may not be so quick.

Ahamkara tells Maelendil about how she had been having the same difficulties with her three offspring Skeeter, Vulterian and Propetus. Propetus and Skeeter were still fighting over who Vulterian would work with, and Ahamkara had no clue even how to get the two to resolve their differences. As it was, Maelendil did not have much time to counsel the brothers, due to his time being consumed by this battle. Maelendil then promised to make some time to speak with her offsprings individually. Ahamkara warned Maelendil that Propetus could be quite stubborn, due to having years of being stuck in his ways. Maelendil remembered how stubborn Propetus could be, after their last interview. Maelendil reminds Ahamkara about how Skeeter and Vulterian did not get along at the beginning.

Kabira the reassurant of the Ninth Annogrammatron Order, Mercius and Lance showed up, as they knew that both Maelendil and Ahamkara were having some difficulties. Ahamkara explained what happened with her offsprings, and Maelendil told Kabira about his charge. Lance sided with Skeeter, but did not think too highly of Propetus after what Ahamkara mentioned. What Lance heard was that Propetus had been very duty centric, and quite a self righteous prig. According to Lance, Propetus was a lot like Brutus. What Kabira, Lance and Mercius all agreed was that some undomesticated experience was needed. Mercius brought this parchment that was currently one shade of gray. He explained that this is how the world is under domestication. Mercius explained that the parchment shows beautiful pictures when there are a mixture of dark and lights, with some pure white and pure black. Lance suggested that it was time for the charge to escape and truly see the glory of the Dance.

The Nursing Home job worsens

Before Labor Day weekend, one co-worker Devan was giving Milo a hard time over not being able to do the job quickly. This job was washing dishes. Devan was one of those guys who could one second act like a jerk, and then the next act like a best friend like nothing happened. Milo volunteered to work the St. Lorenzo Cafe, but Gloria would not let him, claiming that he did not have enough experience in this task. Milo knew that was utter bullcrap, as this was an easy job sitting around waiting for customers to come in, which they only had 7 at most in a single shift.

The next day, Milo was in a foul mood with the job, and had a rash from Vegas. Lydia had come back in town for a wedding, and took his car. Milo needed the car to head down to the Urgicare facility to be declared infected and unable to work in a healthcare facility. Unfortunately Milo called off from work due to lacking a car. Helga answered the phone, and tried to convince Milo to get a taxi. Milo had no intention on wasting 16 dollars on a taxi to get to some crappy minimum wage job. Helga said in a taunting voice "Not good". Milo ended up going for a long walk, as he did not want to deal with Margaret, or get a lecture about not calling off. During this time, Milo had hated corporations, and blamed them for all the meaningless work that existed, and had seen Margaret as being a corporate loyalist who only wanted her kids to show loyalty to their stupid slavedrivers.

By this time, Lydia was home, and Milo admitted calling off. Lydia asked Milo if it was the best idea to call off. Milo told Lydia that he did not give a "you know what". Milo then told Lydia that his co-workers were nothing but ghetto trash leeching off of good people like him, and deserve to be poor if they refuse to take responsibility and blaming the white man for their problems. Lydia got a holier than thou tone, and told him never to talk like that. Milo then flung water left in a cup at her. Milo was also getting quite sick of Lydia's positions, which he considered this leftist brainwashing from these stupid colleges. Milo told Lydia that this was not a matter of race in the first place, and he knows well that many black people are successful, but hates the boorish ghetto culture.

Margaret told Milo that she was disappointed in him for calling off. Milo told Margaret to shut up. Then Milo and Margaret got into a shouting match for disagreement with his choice. Milo told Margaret that she was nothing but a corporate pawn, rolling over if they told her to. This shouting match greatly bothered Lydia. After the shouting match, Milo and Lydia went outside, while Margaret stormed off downstairs. After talking with Lydia, Milo finally admitted that he hated the job, and was not good at it. Lydia told Milo that Margaret was more understanding about difficulty over jobs than he had been giving her credit for. For Milo, admitting that he was not good at something had never been easy for him, and has had a tendency to blame an external entity for certain matters beyond his control.

Later on, Milo and Margaret got into a civilized discussion over this. Margaret suggested that Milo quit the job, and begin a job search for something that he is better at. Margaret understood that the co-workers have a hunch on their shoulder, and knew that Milo was never the best with tasks that required multi-tasking, such as waiting on tables, considering that he does not have the best short term memory. That night, Ray suggested talking to Gloria about making some accomodations, as opposed to resigning.

The next time Milo worked, he brought this up with Gloria, and explained how other workers are getting frustrated with his difficulty at going faster. Gloria explained that she would make some adjustments, as she knew he was better with dishwashing than with clearing tables.

The job was getting worse and worse, as other workers constantly accused him of making mistakes, and made a bigger deal than necessary. Gloria did nothing, and still kept Milo on the one. A Week later, some workers accused Milo of not giving a resident ice Cream, when it was a different person who had forgot. Frankly, Milo just hated working in a place that he saw as horrible. For Milo, a Nursing home is one of those businesses that no one really wants around, but is a necessity. Milo hated having to work at a place that the elderly were subjected to living, and having to go by an institution's rules just for being old. Frankly, Milo hated having to be a part of a system like this, and working at a place he most dreads ever being in. So this gave Milo the belief that if he just worked anywhere else, that he would not feel so unfulfilled and phony.

Around this same time, Milo and Salvatore went on the same page, as Salvatore became an advocate of natural treatments, and no longer trusted the mainstream medical establishments. Salvatore developed a strong hatred for the company Monsanto, and saw them as the reasons for such age related ailments like Dementia. Salvatore was also not a big fan of Grandpa Tony being put in the Nursing home in the first place. In fact, Salvatore believed that the home was trying to kill Grandpa Tony, once his money ran out.

In early October, Milo had accidentally got a week off, due to Gloria just finding his vacation request from Las Vegas that Helga supposedly "lost". While on this accidental vacation, the Biancatello's went down to Pittsburgh to visit Lydia and bring dinner down. Milo got into a debate with a room mate of Lydia's, who was a nursing student. Milo felt pretty strongly in the rights of elderly, and did not agree with any restraints placed on them for their own good. That night, Lydia found out that Grandma Pearl would be in Orlando with Uncle Doug for Christmas. Now Grandma Pearl was going on a cruise with the Rumcorns for Uncle Wayne and Aunt Bertha's 30th anniversary. Milo thought about going, but did not want to be away for the Holiday's. When it came to work, Milo suspected that he would be out of the nursing home by this time. That Monday, Grandma Pearl called, as Grandpa Paul passed away the night before. Now Grandpa Paul had not been doing too well for the last 10 years, and they had been surprised that he lived this long. The viewing took place a few hours before Milo had to return back to work.

During this time, Sylvester had started his Freshmen year of Highschool at Ciderpond. Milo found out one night when Uncle Leo took the family out for wings that Parisa was in Sylvester's swim class. Milo asked Sylvester about her, and tried to get him to ask her out. Sylvester whacked Milo for that comment. Around this same time, Salvatore told Milo that he had seen Amira and Roshanak eating lunch at the Co-Op health food store. Around this time, Milo downloaded some music from Richard Proulx, as these songs reminded him of being in Tenth Grade when Amira was constantly around. The Songs Milo downloaded were "Here Within this House of Prayer", "God is Love", "I Lift Mine Eyes unto the Hills", "Taste and See", "Lights Glittering Morn Bedecks the Sky" and several Gelineau Psalms. The Gelineau Psalms reminded Milo of being in Fourth Grade, which had been a fairly frequent flashback. On one occasion, Milo had a dream about Maziyar taking him to Dudlechip. A few weeks later, Lydia came home, as there was a get together after a mass for Uncle Georgio. Milo told Lydia about Sylvester refusing to ask Parisa out. Milo then said that he was doing this purely out of the goodness of his own heart. Obviously, Lydia did not buy this.

The Londinium Embargo and Harvest Festival

Back in Londinium, the Ugyurites had the upper hand in the politics of the city. Overall, the Ugyurites proved to be quite an incompetent bunch, and instituted all kinds of regulations. After Arybatas left, the authorities put a ban on all materials outside of Londinium, and claimed that they could potentially bring dangerous parasites into their city. The Garonites knew that the Ugyurites only wrote the law to keep the headquarters from ever being rebuilt. Now Arybatas left for a mission in order to find the materials needed, which were scattered all over Kebsuda. The Garonites who were once Ugyurites were disgusted that they had sold out and believed the states current propaganda. Otherwise, the Garonites hated how much power the Ugyurites had, and considered them wanting too many regulations just to protect their power, and never let the Cobolds have their Beaubelle's settlement back.

Around this time, Azeyas returned to reinstate the Harvest Festival. This festival had not been held for several years, and only occurred for very special reasons. Azeyas knew well that there was some strife and division amongst the residents of Londinium. One night, Azeyas met with the Garonites and Cobolds back in the Shelter with multiple shrines. What the Cobolds noticed on the ceiling was that the celtic three sided knott was missing. Azeyas explained that there had been threeway divisions with the Garonites, Ugyurites and Hannitarians. The Cobolds and Garonites were utterly repulsed by the Hannitarians, and frustrated with the Ugyurites. According to Durnil, the Hannitarians were quite awed by the greatness of the Gairmsoiled leadership, but he understood like the Cobolds and Garonites that they lacked goodness. The Cobolds had no patience for any greatness that had no concern for benevolence or goodwill. When it came to the Ugyurites, Azeyas saw them as a people who were fearful of any uncertainty, risk or suffering, even if this meant utter domestication. Azeyas explained how the Ugyurites grew to hate the Cobolds, as they had always been a presence that scared them and caused discomfort with their challenge of the Status Quo.

Azeyas instructed the Cobolds to light the fire at the tower where the Orb of Hillectivus once stood. The Cobolds remembered how just a year ago, they had set aside debris from the shelter in order to offer up to the tower. This fire was meant to be an invitation to all who wished to join. As the Cobolds custom dictated, no guest was ever to be turned down. The Cobolds remembered how in days past, this festival was established in order to welcome the peoples from the Temple District of Lionalem. At that time, the Cobolds did not know that the Temple of Atlantis was on an Island, and that Lionalem was the Temple Town.

During this fall fest, a few Hannitarians and Ugyurites showed up, much to the Cobolds displeasure. As it was, the Cobolds were still quite sore that the Atlanteans and Pedmontus Cobolds were unable to join them. There had been some slight bitterness that this festival was about trying to reunite with these enemy peoples who just wanted to keep the status quo or who wanted to give power to that slumtown Gairmsoiled. That year, even Rivkah joined the celebration. Now this had been her first festival, as she was living in Parthania the last time the festival had been held.

Resignation Plans

Maelendil knew well that his charge needed to get out of the job, and held a meeting with Lance and Brutus. Brutus protested this whole move, and claimed that sacrifices need to be made to keep stability. Lance was all for this resignation, and claimed the job was lame. Brutus at this time had the upper hand, and Lance had very little power, even though this technically was the age of Lance. Maelendil knew that the Maludico Cittimerk and Hypocordo's Sheepus, Sleesum and Pecunia had been working within this particular corporation, and knew the charge needed to defy their power in a fearless and courageous way.

Brutus complains that they are just enabling the charges hatred for Corporations. Maelendil explained that the Charge does not hate corporations, only what he thinks they represent. Maelendil tells Brutus the Charge has a problem with an economic system that does not give one too many options. Maelendil explains that not everyone is meant to work in such a structured place. Maelendil knew he had hit a nerve with the word structure, and Brutus face went angrily red. Brutus then proclaimed that order is needed, and those freelancing self employed millennials are just using self employment as an excuse to be lazy and unaccountable to their masters. Maelendil tells Brutus that he may have to go back to training if he does not show more respect for the Puerubdi office. Brutus then stormed off.

Maelendil and Lance met in secret to form plans on resignation. The first task Maelendil gave to Lance was to have the charge write a resignation letter, and keep it till the time is right. Lance asked why the letter needed to be written so early. Maelendil explained that the manager was too passive, and needs to learn to put her foot down. Lance asked how this would help. Maelendil explained that everyone has a breaking point, and no one is going to tolerate unfair treatment forever. Lance then explains that the company has more turnovers than Arby's, so the manager would have to know. Maelendil explained that this is the first employee with common decency.

The Last Days

At this time, new people were hired at the Nursing Home, and were given positions better than Milo. As it was, Milo was still being put on the one, and still had to endure crap from Mildred. The last straw for Milo was on Halloween night when he had been put on the one for the second night in a row. Milo was put on the one the night before, even though he had been scheduled for the four. The Four was not as burdensome as the one, and there was more down time. Usually Milo tried to help other workers on his down time. But no one ever returned Milo the favor. Margaret considered these other workers just being lazy, if they could not help, while Milo had to do more work than them. Milo thought that these were just nursing home sheeple who just did whatever they were told, and only did not help because they had not been assigned to the task.

On Halloween, this had been the last straw for Milo. That evening, what happened was Gloria was trying to rearrange tasks, and after not wanting to offend other workers, put Milo on the one. Then Gloria said that it is a good thing she can rely on Milo to always be on the one. Milo was furious about this statement, and wanted to walk out. During his shift, Milo went to the bathroom officially on the call of nature, but was really texting with Lydia.

After work, Milo told his parents what happened. Milo was feeling pretty strong, due to being very angry. In fact, before work, Milo ripped the back of his work hat off before driving home. Luckily Milo could control his rage till he got home. When Milo got home, he told Ray and Margaret that he was done with the nursing home, and wanted to quit this stupid job. Milo told them all about what happened, and how he had been switched two nights in a row. On a couple occasions, Milo referred to the female workers who called off as a certain body parts which shant be repeated here.

A few weeks later, Mildred again accused Milo of giving one of the residents the wrong order. This resident asked for dark brown toast, and another resident asked for Tomato juice. When Milo gave the resident her tomato juice, she had been disappointed, as she thought she said tomato soup. Milo was still also waiting on the brown toast, which took a little longer. Mildred started going on a rant about how no resident wants burnt toast. Then Mildred started complaining to Milo about the other resident not getting tomato soup. Mildred gave the resident her toast, and said that was what she wanted. Mildred twisted this to mean the resident only was saying she was fine with the mistake. After Milo took some orders, these two residents sitting at the table explained what really happened. The resident who wanted toast told Milo he got her exactly what she wanted. The other resident apologized if she had told Milo she wanted tomato juice. These residents knew Mellon was twisting things to make herself seem more important than she really was.

Around this same time, there was one trailer trash cook who flipped out at Milo about accidentally bumping into her. After that, Milo never gave that woman the time of day. One Wednesday, Gloria called Milo into the office, explaining that there had been complaints from other Co-Workers that he was working to slow. Milo was a bit annoyed about this, as he had mentioned this to Gloria just a few months ago. Milo had known that the other co-workers were getting frustrated about his inability to go quickly, and she said she would make accomodations. Now she just takes their concerns, and makes threats to fire Milo.

A week later, Milo found out that Gloria complained to Ray's co-workers wife about him. According to her complaint, Milo had been moody on the job, and giving the other workers attitude. What this really meant was Milo was giving Mildred attitude. After this, Milo knew it was time to leave this company if Gloria would not give him the full story to his face. Milo only found out, as this had got to Ray via his coworker, via his wife. Plus, Milo did not really appreciate being tattled on like this. Otherwise, Milo felt like he was only staying as to not make Ray's co-worker look bad.

Departure from the Work Camp

The travelling Cobolds had still not been allowed to leave the Work Camp, as more orders came, thanks to the asylum, and the wardens still needed the Cobolds services. The Cobolds started to understand that the wardens went back on their words again, and had no intention on keeping them. Otherwise, any time the Cobolds asked about their boat, the warden curtly told them that it was not finished, and it would be done when it would be done. Elrich mentioned to the Cobolds that it was quite odd that the ship was never finished, despite being stuck at this place for so long. Elrich started developing suspicions that they were just going to keep going back on their word, and never let them leave. Elrich explained how the Warden know the Cobolds were a captive audience, and could be taken advantage as long as they were held captive. That night, the Cobolds looked forward to the sky and watched, wondering if the Great Phoenix was out there, beyond the cliffs. Now the Cobolds remembered long ago, when the Great Phoenix in the form of a mighty golden dragon knocked over the walls of the prison of Patimesh, and made them conquer their fears. During these days, the Cobolds notice some pigeons flying through the work camp trenches, and Irugen asks for help.

One day, a pigeon flies into the work camp on a perch, and the Cobolds gives the bird a letter asking for help. The Pigeon winks at the Cobolds and he flies off to the sky. The Cobolds have their doubts about whether this will actually work. During this time, the Cobolds kept some boxes hidden in order to build some rafts just in case.

A week later, while the Cobolds are fast asleep on the ground dreaming of the world beyond the hills, Elrich is poked in the face by this sharp beak. Elrich complains that that hurts. The beak persists, and Elrich is a bit annoyed about being woken from a blissful dream. Elrich notices that the pigeon has returned with a letter explaining that the Great Phoenix was on his way, and it was time to wake up. Elrich immediately wakes up all the cobolds, much to their annoyance. Elrich tells them to hurry up, as they need to get ready very soon. Before the last Cobold is fully awoken, there is a great caw in the air by some eagle, which wakes them all up. The Eagle arrives in the camp, and all the Cobolds are ready for something going on. Then the warden comes in, shouting at the cobolds, asking them what is going on. This eagle explains that the great phoenix is coming. This warden scoffs, and tells the eagle he does not want to be visited by any vultures, or his annoying band of tweeters. This eagle tells this warden never to call the phoenix a vulture again, or to refer to his people as tweeters. Then the great phoenix arrives at the compound, which frightens the wardens. The Wardens ask the Great Phoenix what he is doing here, and he explains that he is here on a rescue mission. The Warden asks the whole camp who did this. The Phoenix gives a look to the Cobolds indicating that they tell the truth. Elrich explains that they are leaving because their debt kept being increased. The warden says they were planning on letting the Cobolds free in two weeks, and the Phoenix retorts that they had this motto since they began. The Phoenix asked the Warden where the ship was they had been working on. The Warden just shrugs. The phoenix then sings this song, and a band of eagles arrives. The Phoenix then tells the Cobolds that those rafts made of those tonic boxes would not have made very good rafts. While the Eagles arrive, the warden continues cursing out the eagles, telling the tweeters to leave, or he would shoot them with his bow and arrow. At once, the phoenix looked over at the wardens bow and arrow, which immediately lit on fire and turned to ash. Then the Phoenix instructed the Eagles to grasp tightly on the Cobolds. The Phoenix then called over the pigeon and says "Good work Scott". By the early hours of dawn, the Cobolds are flown off, and away from the work Camp and Igleftios. The Cobolds look down and see the wardens looking utterly shocked and furious. The Phoenix explains that he has many more to pick up from the Work Camp. The Cobolds get a beautiful view of the outskirts of Hitaria and are taken to a desert oasis for a time of recovery.

After this, the Phoenix flew off and took the form of a golden dragon and breathed a blue fire in the sky. The fire revealed a message saying "The Offspring plants of death shall be cast into the fire". Then the skies greatly brightened after the Golden Dragon waived his tail through the sky. After other slaves of the other work camps were rescued, the Dragon sends out his eagles to rescue the wardens from the trenches, and thrust his tail against the rocks of the trenches, and there was a great stone avalanche which destroyed the work camp.

The Two Weeks notice

Milo found out that he was scheduled for the one for seven days straight beginning Thanksgiving eve. Milo realized for good that this work place did not respect him one bit, and they had taken advantage of him too long. This is what Milo had feared about the education he was given at Mal-Tech Institute. When Milo got home, he had seen a Simpsons episode mocking Bureaucracy and a clip from Joel Osteen on taking risks, and trusting in God, especially on employment. Milo knew he could not do this job much longer, and decided that he would mail his resignation letter in.

Milo had made the letter two weeks previous, and had the date of two weeks. But as it was, Milo neglected to look the letter over. Milo was off Sunday through Tuesday. During this same time, Salvatore had borrowed a book from Milo. On Saturday night, Salvatore asked Milo if he wanted to go for a hike in the morning. As it was, Salvatore wanted to be back home by 1pm to watch football. Now Milo could not do so, as he had church in the morning. Milo wanted this book back in the worst way, as it had some instructions on tapping into certain courage one did not think they had. Plus, Milo was a little annoyed that Salvatore was being inflexible over watching football. Milo on so many attempts wanted to give the nursing home the resignation letter, and even brought it to work on Saturday, but could not find the courage to put it in the Kitchen office mailbox, lest he should get caught. Milo had started wondering why this nursing home even hired him in the first place, considering that he did not do so great with the interview, and had no intention in going into nursing or a related healthcare field.

On Monday afternoon, Milo enveloped his resignation letter, and prepared to send it the next day. Since Milo made the letter two weeks early, he forgot to change the date. Milo had been very secretive about selecting an envelope and hiding the letter, lest Ray or Margaret finds it. Milo feared that Ray would try to talk him out of resigning, and thought it would be best to do this as discreetly as possible. Milo feared that he would either get mad at Ray, or would give in, should he try talking him out of resigning. Either way, Milo wanted to be out of this place as soon as possible.

Before leaving for the mailbox, Milo left a note saying he had to pick something up from Salvatore. This had been part of Milo's plan to pick up the book. Milo went for a trip to the hallmark store and bought a stamp. Milo only had an hour left before the delivery, and put the stamp on his letter. The letter had been all addressed, and he was ready to mail this. When Milo reached the mailbox, he dropped his resignation letter in the mail. As soon as the letter fell and hit the mailbox floor, Milo knew he was done.

There was a vision of the letter falling to the mailbox floor, and there is a slight glass crack. Then the crack gets bigger when the Mailman picks up the letters. Then there is a dramatic scene where the letters are taken down to post office, and the crack divides into more, smaller cracks. Then the mail is sorted to its neighborhood, and there are more cracks. The next day, the Mail is delivered, and the cracks have spread quite significantly. Then the mail arrives at the nursing home, and the crack damage is so significant that the glass can barely be sustained.

After mailing the letter, Milo drove over to Salvatore's to pick up a book he let him borrow. Unfortunately, Salvatore had not been home. Milo felt a little uneasy, and wanted to stay away from home as long as possible. Then Milo stopped at the grocery store to buy rye bread for some thanksgiving appetizer. Milo felt very nervous about telling the family about having resigned. That evening, Ray brought Lydia back home from college. Margaret and Ray bought Milo a gift for sticking with a job he hated, and a gift for Lydia for getting her first job after College. The next day, Milo was a bit out of sorts, as he did not know how he would tell his family about quitting. Milo knew he could not keep this a secret forever, and could not just be going out from 4-8 every few days, pretending he was working. Plus, Milo knew Ray's coworker would mention this. As to when Ray would find out, he had been nervous all Tuesday that he would get the call from his co-worker.

On Thanksgiving eve, Milo was really in rare form. It took him several hours to get through his ham and rye sandwich, and spent most of the day in his bedroom. That night, Margaret planned on taking the family to an early dinner, and then to drop Milo off at work. Milo had been quite apprehensive about this, as he would not have transportation home should he be let go early. Milo then let Lydia know about the resignation. Lydia expected that Ray and Margaret would be angry about this. Lydia then told Margaret. Margaret was okay with Milo quitting, as she knew that the Nursing Home would not work with him, even though they said they would. Ray was a bit mad that Milo did not talk to him about resigning. Ray admitted that he probably would have tried to talk Milo out of quitting, but he said he would have given some instruction on resigning.

Milo came into work, and another co-worker said she thought he quit. Milo explained that he still had two more weeks. As Milo headed down, he walked into the kitchen with his badge. Milo saw his two nemesis Devan, who two weeks ago blabbed on Milo for wearing a different hat, and Mildred Mellon, who got quite an ugly haircut. Gloria waved Milo into the office. Gloria explained that she got the letter the previous day, and that he was taken out of the system. Milo explained that he accidentally put the wrong date on. Gloria asked why he quit. Milo being on the spot explained that this had been too difficult, to which Gloria said they would have helped. Milo planned on explaining that he did not have the patience to work with the elderly, and always had a hard time with healthcare facilities. All of this was true, but Milo thought he could handle a place like this now, since visiting Grandpa Tony. They wished him well and Milo left.

Then the vision completed itself with the broken glass. This broken glass depicted a scene of the job with Mildred constantly nagging, a never cooled salad bar, half eaten food to clean up and a foul smelling dishroom breaking into a million pieces revealing a glorious Christmastide that started off with the premier of the Good Luck Charlie Christmas Special to premier in two days. This is the special where Teddy and PJ go to New York City and there is a Crossover with the show "Jesse".

Milo had expected to be jumping for joy, but felt terrible. Milo put on some Christmas Music, but this did not cheer him up. Milo remembered something similar happening when he was done with Mal-Tech the first time, and had not been jumping for joy. To cheer himself up, Milo went to the Co-Op in hopes of seeing Amira. Milo then called Aunt Michelle to see if she heard from Salvatore. That evening, Ray was being cold towards Milo. Ray told Milo he got what he asked for, and asked why he felt bad. Milo retorted by being a pain when Ray asked him to help get ready for the holiday. That night, Margaret explained that she understood why this was not so pleasant, and how making tough decisions is never easy, and does not always feel so good. Ray on the other hand explained that he would have to tell the relatives about quitting. Milo gave the retort that his family would just judge him. Ray got irritated with the persecution complex Milo had, and told him no one would judge him.
Chapter 46: The Pursuit of Thrill

The Oasis

The Cobolds Journeying back to Hitaria had been dropped off at an oasis by the Great Phoenix. This was not the same oasis that the Cobolds back in Londinium took refuge at so many years ago, but one significantly far away. As to why the Great Phoenix dropped the Cobolds off at this location had remained unknown.

During the Cobolds stay in this oasis, they came across many travelers. Most of the visitors had been the real Shemitarians displaced from their home, Hamitarians and peoples known as Asarians. The real Shemitarians had looked quite similar to the Atlanteans. The real Shemitarians told the Cobolds about how they were displaced long ago by that horrible league of conquerers and their leader Frogastain. This one Shemitarian told the Cobolds how these Frogastanians made up this bogus history about how the dark peoples were an inferior, and kicked them out of their land promised by that monster Supradolfter. The Cobolds heard stories from people who had been booted out of Shemitaria, and heard stories about how this was once a glorious land. According to their stories, the Shemitarians once were loyal to the Dance, but this was before the Great Phoenix came.

When it came to the Asarians, they had been displaced in recent times by these hypocordo's from this land north of the Mountains. The Cobolds understand this to mean Hitaria. One Asarian from a nation originally known as Haun tells how the Hypocordo's sought support from these monsters known as sorcerers. Now the Cobolds remembered the sorcerers who exploded in the battle before their mission to Atlantis to destroy the book. According to this Haun traveler, the sorcerers long believed that Asaria possessed some secret powers and hidden knowledge. She then told stories about how the sorcerers slaughtered many of their people, and dissected them in hopes of finding some secret powers. After some fruitless searches, they gave up, and took apart the whole nation of Asaria and hoped to find some secret powers. Still the sorcerers found nothing. The nation of Asaria always tried to teach their wisdom of compassion self control, harmony and balance, but the Sorcerers saw this power as nonsense. After this disappointment, the sorcerers bullied the nations of Haun, Ainuki, Gorayo, Sinashia, Simara and Indoshia out of their land, and erected these hideous structures and renamed the region Igleftios. One thing Igleftios did that was never part of Asarian culture was to conquer and anesthetize pain, and possibly due away with death. Now the Asarians always understood that death and suffering to have their places, and could only be transcended, but was unwise to try and defeat them. Frankly, those Igleftians originally from Hitaria found out that Asaria had the same magic as Hitaria.

According to the accounts of refugees from Igleftios, the Mistivant founders of the nation joined the sorcerers who they saw as more trustworth than the elders of Hitaria, and sought to start history all over again. These Igleftians saw that history functioned in a progressive fashion, and that their nation of Igleftios would create a great utopian society. The only thing that needed to be done was to start a bloody revolution, and destroy all those who were loyal to the elites, which was anyone who did not want them dead. Now the only way this society would be able to create utopian peace was to find a way to control the people to fall in line through benevolent means. The Cobolds understood why this tonic was used.

Thanksgiving and Christmas

Despite feeling guilty about having quit like he did, Milo was happy to have Thanksgiving off, and not having to work at the Nursing Home for seven days straight on the one. On Thanksgiving, Milo did not tell the family about having resigned. Milo feared that he would be judged or lectured for his decision. Frankly, Milo was feeling like he had been getting a lot of lectures about these kinds of jobs, and was sick of them. Milo only told Matt, as he was the only one who was awake in the gameroom. Otherwise, this holiday had been nice. Milo was in a much better mood, as he was no longer under the burden of this horrid job. Truly, Milo had been utterly burned out from the nursing home, and happy never to return to this place.

The next evening, Milo went to Connor Finnegans for drinks with Lydia, Ryan and Ted. Ryans sister Maureen dropped the three off at Connor Finnegans, and would be taking an Uber home. Milo was happy to be at a food service facility that was not this nursing home, and had not been serving the gruel reserved for the elderly. On Saturday, Milo, Ray and Salvatore went on a hike at Summerwhite woods. This is when Milo broke the news to Salvatore. Ray drove past Grandpa Paul's house, which was the first time he had seen the estate since his passing.

On the first Sunday of Advent, Milo went to St. James Cathedral for mass. Ray, Margaret and Lydia went to the early mass without music. Now Milo would not have this during the Advent tide. Before Church, Milo got breakfast with his family, and then left when they went to drop Lydia off.

Milo arrived at the Cathedral a half hour early. When Milo got into the Church, the choir was practicing this Christmas Anthem known as "Where Shepherds Lately knelt". The church had been a bit chilly that day, considering that this had been an old unheated church in December. They had sang the Gelineau Psalm 122 that Milo heard at St. Timothy's fifteen years ago. The offertory hymn was "O Come O Come Emmanuel". Otherwise, it was a well done mass. After the closing hymn, the choir sang the anthem sung before mass. When Milo got home, Ray and Margaret knew he had been at mass at St. James.

On Monday, Milo and Salvatore went on a brief trip to Pittsburgh, as he found a natural therapist in the town to handle a sports injury. Milo had started getting annoyed with the Commercialist Christmas music. For most of the day, Milo and Salvatore were at a strip mall doing some early Christmas shopping, and trying some different restaurants. That evening, Milo had dinner with the Filentino's.

That Thursday, Vito visited and Milo told him about quitting the Nursing Home and going with Salvatore to Pittsburgh. Milo had told Vito that he went to a strip club, but meant a strip mall. Now this was considering the fact that Vito is a Jehovah's witness. Vito told Milo that he better not be at this place, but got a laugh as Milo corrected himself. When it came to the job, Milo explained that he could not longer work at this nursing home in good conscience, and claimed that they had been purposely trying to take away their independence they had left.

A week later, Milo met with a career agency in order to take the next steps. His advisor suggested this agency that provides job coaching and job assessments. This advisor understood why Milo would not want to work at a nursing home, and she explained how many people have trouble working in healthcare facilities. Otherwise, Milo was in a much better mood. Milo harbored no bitterness towards the Nursing Home. After the resignation, Milo sent Gloria a thank you letter and apologized about the job not working out and not looking over the letter. Gloria was not going to hold this against Milo, as she knew the company was not the easiest company to work for, and that nursing home jobs can be quite tough.

Around this time, Aunt Jane's father passed away. Eustace, Samantha and Sylvester never knew this Grandfather too well, as he spent most of the time in Florida. That week, Milo watched all three Lord of the Rings, but still had a hard time understanding the movies, as he never read the books.

One night when Lydia was returning home for break, Milo made a Mediterranean dinner. Milo had a lamb leg from the Phyllisville Market that he had seen Amira at before starting his job. Milo made a dish from Greece, Italy, France and Spain. To be honest, Milo bit off more than he could chew.

On Amira's Birthday, Milo and Ray attended a Vesper Service at St. James. As for services, this was interesting. The service had been sung by a little girl from the childrens choir. This service had many chants, including the hymn "Creator of the Stars of Night". That night, Milo had some leftover lamb for dinner, as he had eaten quite a bit at the game at Uncle Mikes.

The next week, Milo had a nasty cold, and had not fully recovered until Thursday. For some reason, this cold made Milo relive nasty memories from the previous holiday. As to what this was all about, Milo was not so sure. This year, the Biancatello's would be hosting Christmas eve, as the Filentino's were having some work done on their house, and the kitchen and dining room would not be usable. On Wednesday, Milo wanted to go to a Christmas concert at Ciderpond high. Unfortunately he got the time wrong. Milo started complaining about how his social life seemed to be lacking so much and he was not sure what to do. Margaret suggested that Milo find an online forum. Now Milo would not have that, and considered such a thing only anti-social jerks use to communicate. Plus, it seemed so impersonal. On Thursday, Lydia and Samantha took Ashlyn, Malina and Abigail to Olive Garden for dinner, and back to the house to decorate cookies. Milo put on some Christmas music, including some Church chorals.

On that Sunday, Milo went to the newly built Ishfatan with Salvatore, Eustace and Rob for lunch. After lunch, Milo attended a Christmas concert at St. James. This was a sort of British style service of Carols and Lessons. They sang many hymns, such as "Once in Royal David's city", "O Come all ye Faithful", "O Come O Come Emmanuel" and of course "Where Shepherds Lately knelt". Milo then arrived at Uncle Mikes for the remainder of the Chicago Bears Football game. Milo then went to a penance service at St. Timothy's. Milo had felt guilty about quitting his job the way he did, and had to get this off his chest. Plus, Milo seemed to have just suddenly lost his Christmas spirit that week. Milo wondered if this had to do with the cold, memories of the previous year, or the Christmas Uncle Georgio got worse. At the service, the opening hymn was "Savior of the Nations come". For confession, Milo had Monsignor Warburton.

A few days after Christmas, the Rumcorns came in town. On the Sunday after Christmas, the Biancatello's went to Church with Grandpa Tony at the Nursing Home Milo worked at, and he got to see some resident friends. On New Year's Day, the Biancatello's saw "Saving Mr. Banks" in theatres.

The Establishment of Angel and Travis

By this time, Oscar, Alexander and Durnil call for the establishment of the television show Angel. By this time, Alexander knew that Lance needed some assistance thanks to Brutus violating his agreement. Alexander knew that they needed a show even more extreme than Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Angel is a spinoff of Buffy. Durnil knew well that it was time for the show to be established in order to kickstart the days of Adventure, and put an end to domestication at the hands of Puterma and Hillectivus.

When the news reached Brutus, he was utterly furious. Brutus was no fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but was utterly repulsed by Angel. As we recall, Brutus became quite horrified about the way his power was undermined when Buffy the Vampire Slayer became popular, and was not about to let this just happen. As to what Brutus had planned had yet to be revealed. Brutus considered the show to have bad influences full of ambiguity. Brutus greatest complaints was the line between the good and bad guys was utterly blurred, with demons being good guys. Brutus also had taken issue with the Demon Lorne, and considered him to be a flamboyant fruit trying to normalize sodomy. Lance did not take too well to Brutus' choice words, and explained that Sodomy is the wrong word for homosexuality based on a gross misunderstanding thanks to uneducated Fundamentalists.

During this time, Lance got the upper hand again, after Brutus seized the throne for the last few months. With Lance's reign, he kept getting heckled by some spies from an unknown location. One of the spies Lance found out was once part of the Puerubdi apprenticeship, but turned over to this master that he refused to speak of. By this time, Lance made it his business to rescue this spy known as Travis. Now Lance always had a soft spot for potential Puerubdi's.

Lance found where Travis resided, and constantly tried to persuade him to return back to the Puerubdi apprenticeship and help with their cause. Travis constantly resisted, and could be quite defensive with Lance. Travis had been so clueless as to why Lance even cared about him to begin with. After several attempts, Lance finally got Travis to visit the Puerubdi Academy, possibly to get him to shut up. Travis had a dark past that he never talked about. Lance had a very difficult time connecting to Travis, and he had been highly critical of the ways of the Puerubdi's. According to Travis, he came to the realization that the lighthearted ways of the Puerubdi were childish and did not prepare the world for the harsh realities.

Afer a few sessions, and Travis gaining Lance's trust, he became more willing to tell his story. At some point, Travis spoke, after such difficult efforts. Travis was once a happy apprentice, who had a mentor Gavin, who taught him all the ways of the Puerubdi. Gavin was very imaginative and playful, but could not work with a Senexit. To Gavin, the Senexit represented this cold and heartless world. On one fateful occasion, Gavin went against the advise of the Senexits, and got killed by a mob of vicious Offsprings. After this, Travis abandoned his calling and joined a club set on giving the Senexit office absolute supremacy over the Puerubdi. The Senexit office represented order to Travis after seeing the perils of Gavin's wrecklessness.

After many efforts, Lance told Travis his story about his past. He told the story about his early days, when he had a mentor from the Sixth Order of Annogrammatrons. Lance explains that this mentor was an outspoken loudmouth who spouted all kinds of offensive comments, and thought he was just joking. Later Lance found out that this mentor meant all the intolerant and condescending things he said, all out of fear of anything that threatened his notion of security. The mentor later turned into a Hypocordo known as Wipou, who started spreading a fear of anyone different. Lance told Travis about how he then pursued an apprenticeship with the Puerubdi's, and shares his story about having rescued these Mistivants being held captive at a compound in a town known as Londinium. During this time, Travis still would not give up the name of the one who had sent him on a spy mission, and Lance allowed this, as he did not want anything bad to happen to Travis.

The Cobolds Departure and mission to Gairmsoiled

The time had come for the Cobolds to leave their oasis paradise and find a way back to Hitaria. The Cobolds time in this Oasis had been so peaceful and thrilling. One evening, the shaman returned to give them some instructions for their departure. The Shaman asked the Cobolds why they did not follow his instructions. Irugen explained that he tried to veer left, but the tides were too strong. The Shaman said it was simply not meant to be, and if they had easily gone left, the work camps would still be there, and the tonic would still be distributed throughout Igleftios. Before leaving, the Shaman gave the Cobolds a box containing a map leading back to Hitaria. There was also this strange symbol on the map of a cave with a celtic knot.

During this time, the Cobolds had been quite reluctant about returning to Hitaria. As it was, the Cobolds started to develop a strong aversion towards civilization and society in general. The Cobolds had forgotten what it was like to live in Hitaria, and only remembered their misery in Agrabah, Patimesh, the phony temple, Pseudo-Londinium and the Work Camp. All the Cobolds had remembered of society was being forced to live in slavelike conditions with no freedom. The Cobolds started seeing life in the desert aimlessly wandering as a pretty decent payoff.

This map the Cobolds received was a magical map capable of showing the possessors exactly where on the map they were, and others nearby, such as threats. The map warns of wardens from the work camps who are near by, and of snatchers from scattered Frogastain tribes. According to different accounts, the wardens send out captors to travel the desert in hopes of capturing travelers and bringing them back to Igleftios, and hold them prisoner in hidden locations. During this time, the Cobolds start getting frustrated about how many wardens and snatchers were in the desert. On a few occasions, the Cobolds had some close run-ins with these captors. This really started to reinforce the cobolds hatred for civilization, and saw them as busybodies who could not just let them wander in the wilderness in peace.

Back in Gallicanium, the Cobold Jamus was still living in the town of Gairmsoiled. As we recall, Jamus was the leader who had the privilege of dwelling in the presence of the Sacred Fire years back, and brought back a message to cease battle against the offsprings responsible for the fall of the Bridge. The Chamber of the Sacred Fire from the Shelter had been glowing and calling for Jamus. Now Jamus had remained in Gairmsoiled, as he was afraid of what Londinium had become.

One evening, the Chamber called for the closest Cobold Gaxby. The voice told Gaxby that his messenger has turned away from his mission, and is in the lands of Gairmsoiled. The voice commands that Gaxby goes fourth into the land of Gairmsoiled, and find the lost cobold. The voice tells Gaxby that the lost Cobold's turned to stone, and needs to be rescued. After this experience, Gaxby returns to his home, and tells his family that he has been sent on a mission to rescue Jamus. Now Gaxby's family was not too happy about this, and thought a mission back to Gairmsoiled would be foolish, and not worth the effort to find a traitor.

Immediately Gaxby makes haste late at night through Londinium and back to the dreaded town of Gairmsoiled. On the way to the town, Gaxby crossed that horrible river he remembered when they first returned to the town. Gaxby remembered all too well how this had been quite a slummy town, full of unhappy and severe workers with no sense of joy. At one point, Gaxby passed the Gairmsoiled inn, and found out that Emersina and Trommer still ran this place. Gaxby decided to take a visit in order to see if things were any worse. To his surprise, the residents living at this place got quite excited to see a Cobold, as legend circulated about one to stand up to Emersina and Trommer. Gaxby told the resident all about Trommer and Emersina's secrets, such as working with the Hypocordo's, and Trommer running this compound that used to exist in Londinium.

While Gaxby is searching the town, he is grabbed by some hooded figure and taken into an alley. Gaxby then sees another hooded figure saying "Thank you Horace". The two figures take off their hoods, and this man introduces himself as Severus. Now Gaxby knew he heard the name in this town before, but could not remember where. Severus asks Gaxby what happened to them. Gaxby is quite stumped, and Severus tells him this is no time for jokes. Gaxby still remains confused, and Horus tells Severus that he knows nothing. Severus asks Horus if he does not know that the Cobolds fraternized with those brats Natalia, Jaiden, Fabinius, Hannah, Taibi and Tisha. Gaxby immediately puts it together, and remembers how he helped these students travel to Hamitaria. Gaxby then explains that he remembers, now that Severus mentions the names. Severus asks Gaxby what happened to them, and Gaxby explains that they went to Hamitaria. Gaxby asks Severus what's in Hamitaria. Severus explains that this is too dangerous, and should not be asking such questions. Gaxby explains to Severus that he already knows more than he thinks. Horace decides to level with Gaxby, and explains that there is something in Hamitaria that needs to be protected from the traitor. Horace explains that this device in the wrong hands can be used for great evil. Gaxby explains that the traitor is Malpied, and that he is dead. Gaxby told how Arybatas mentioned that he sought out an artifact in Hamitaria, and used it to his own detriment. Severus accepts Gaxby's story, and he explains that he and Horace are not after any secret power, but are trying to protect Hitaria from the powers within. Gaxby explains that Tisha told this story. Horace looks a little embarrassed, and tells Gaxby that its still not wise to be wandering the streets of this town in these days. Gaxby explains that he is looking for Jamus. Severus explains that Jamus had been on the Gairmsoiled council, but got the boot, and just disappeared.

A Frosty Winter

After the Holidays, Milo met with the representative of the job coaching and the Job Advisor. Ray came along, and explained to the two that Milo was never good with places like Nursing Homes and Hospitals. According to the Job agency, it was not uncommon for people to have difficulty working in these kinds of facilities. This agency promised Milo that if he did not like the job they got for him, they would help him find another one until he found one that suited him best.

Milo was gradually becoming moody that winter. By this time, all the Holiday celebrations were dying down, and Milo had no more distractions from his thoughts about the job. One Friday morning, Milo was woken up babysit Abigail. Beforehand, Margaret picked Abigail up from school, as she was not feeling well, and Aunt Dianne had been at work. That day, Milo let Abigail watch some kid's movies. Milo got all the kids movies he had from his younger days, including many Disney Movies, and some dreamworks films. Abigail chose to watch Shrek 3.

That weekend, Milo wanted to go to St. James for mass on Sunday. Milo had wanted to hear the Responsorial Psalm of that weekend, which was Psalm 40. Milo remembered this psalm from fourth grade, which he considered a predecessor for Dancing Day. Ray made Milo feel guilty, because he said that he would go to church with them if he was awake in time. Ray said that he preferred to go to church as a Family. Milo had become resentful of living in a world where there were people who wanted him to do things he did not want to do. Milo had developed a very individualistic streak where he hated being accountable to anyone, and felt his business was his own and his alone. Much of this had come from Milo's bad experience with the Nursing Home, and feeling pressured to stick with a job he hated just to please others. Plus, it was not exactly like Milo could guiltlessly quit, as a family friend recommended him to begin with. Milo felt jealous that Lydia had gone away to school, and was supposedly free from having to live under someone elses rules. Milo was starting to understand how his parents had their imperfections. Milo had sometimes felt like he was still being babysat just because Ray and Margaret worked from home. As it was, Ray was in that "Out of sight, out of mind" mode with Lydia, and with Milo, did not have that luxury. Milo knew well that he could take care of himself, as he was fine all those years Ray and Margaret were at the office. Otherwise, Milo had not always been the most pleasant to be around, and could get quite some snark if Ray gave him any unsolicited advice during working hours. Plus, Milo felt it annoying having to let Ray and Margaret know where he was going, should he go out during the day. Milo often felt like Ray felt the need to give his opinion on what he was doing, much to his annoyance.

During the last Saturday night of the month, Aunt Dianne called the house at 10:00pm, which Milo had an idea what was going on. This was confirmed once Aunt Dianne called three more times. Milo answered the phone, and Aunt Dianne told him to wake Ray up. Ray told Milo that Grandpa Tony had passed away, and he left for the nursing home.

That Sunday morning, Ray called Lydia and Margaret let Grandma Pearl know. Lydia had taken this worse than she expected she would. That afternoon, Milo and Salvatore went for a hike. On Monday, Milo went to St. Timothy's with Aunt Michelle to help pick out music for the Funeral. The Showing was on Tuesday and the funeral was held at St. Timothy's. The family made sure this is how it would occur, as many residents of the rest home had their funerals done at the Chapel. Eustace did not come back for the Funeral, while the rest of the family did. Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane were utterly mortified. In fact, Aunt Jane apologized to Uncle Mike about Eustace's absence. Eustace's excuse was that he had a test. There had been more suspicions that Eustace was gay, as Grandpa Tony was very religious, and from a generation where homosexuality was not well understood. Even Lydia was suspecting Eustace was gay, as he had many pictures on facebook hugging other guys and posing with drag queens. Others thought Eustace was just acting standoffish, like he was too good for his family.

When it came to the funeral, Milo along with all the boy cousins were Pallbearers. Monsignor Warburton had been in the church to offer his condolences to the Biancatello's. The Mass was led by Monsignor Warner, as the family wished. The opening song was "Here I am lord" like at Uncle Georgio's funeral, and the ending hymn was "On Eagles Wings" like Grandma Rosa's funeral. That night, Milo and Salvatore went over to Robs to watch "Planes Trains and Automobiles".

The day after the funeral, Milo had a meeting with the job coaching agency. This had been a test to see what kind of jobs fitted Milo best. That week, Lydia had stayed in town until Sunday. On Friday, Milo got news that Lydia and some of her college friends were going on Spring Break to Jamaica. Milo had been a bit jealous, considering that he never got a spring break, and felt like his life had gotten so boring.

Milo began job assessments a week later through working a day in different jobs. The first job for Milo was putting labels on boxes at a Department Store. The Second job was cleanup at a Children's Museum. The third Job for Milo was working at a Pizza shop. The fourth job occurred the day before Ash Wednesday, which was dishwashing at Hosses. The Last job was that Friday, and consisted in looking at Art at the Art Museums exhibit debut. Milo got irritated with Ray over being over-protective.

Second Release Plans

During this time, Daxividus frequently had seen the reoccurring visions of hospitals and avoiding the emergency departments and clinical sections. In fact, they had become annoyingly commonplace. Otherwise, Daxividus had seen a new vision in the orb at the Hall of Akashic prophecies. According to this vision, this was a world in the 1980's, before computers had been popular, the internet was only in its infancy, televisions had a lower resolutions and still pretty small with fewer options, and kitchen appliances were goldenrod. Daxividus brings this concern to Terese for some assistance. Otherwise, vacation visions have gotten bleaker, the concrete mall scenes are still reoccurring, and videogame scenes are also frequently being seen.

Terese then starts to understand what is keeping those stuck in the Sarkikos realm. Terese notices that the vision has a bleak attitude towards the 1980's, and sees this as a primitive time, due to knowledge not being immediately available. According to Terese, those stuck in the community had been still satisfied with their knowledge, and only saw anything transcending knowledge as nothing more than a dumping ground for intellectual burdens. Otherwise, Terese has seen the signs that those stuck in the community know of some reality transcending any of the Senexit principles, but have no interest in leaving. Otherwise, Terese now sees with these Videogame sequences that those stuck in the community are on a pursuit for aimless adventures, and using adventure game scenario's to feel part of something important.

Out of nowhere, the Annogrammatron Bartemius showed up. Bartermius explained that he had been making some observations, and many were after the hand of the Fate. Terese knew exactly what that meant, and was quite distraught to hear this. Daxividus chimed in, and explained that this desire to possess the Fate was rooted in this need to have oneself re-empowered. According to Daxividus, those stuck in the sarkikos community have been dominated in every possible way. Bartemius explains that he had seen something like this before. According to Bartemius, those in this community want to dominate and run this community their own way. Terese explains that in such communities, they don't feel at home one bit. First off, the communities are utterly boring, and do not cater to their desire for some transcendent joy. Secondly, those trapped are bound to their laws, and are under a shame sentence for not being a way that this community approves. Essentially the community is the final say, and any opposition is the other sides problem. Terese explains that this power to impose a shame and guilt sentence violates the private spaces of the inner life of the individual. Bartemius explains that this is not acceptable, and the community should be changed if they are behaving this way. Terese explains that the problem is not the existence of the community, but that there are mortals trapped in the community who should not be there.

Eventually Pandora arrives with some grim news. Pandora explains that the second release of the Timora's is at hand. Terese points out that the shadows were just released over a year ago. Pandora explains that this is true, but another release is necessary sooner than later in order to let those trapped in the Sarkikos community sees the true darkness of this pursuit of power, and how this Senexit Sarkikos Community will never be satisfying. Pandora also mentions that the Sarkikos community has no real sustenance of its own, no matter what they say. Pandora explains that the cords joining the Sarkikos and home communities are the only thing making the Sarkikos community appealing. These cords connecting the Sarkikos community are being mistakened for sacred spaces within the community. Pandora explains that during this release, many cords will be broken, and those sacred spaces in the Sarkikos community will be revealed to only have any sacredness from a source beyond them.

Harmony's Discovery

Harmony had become a very adventurous and a curious tween. Unfortunately Marina still had some strict rules, and would not let Harmony officially leave the house. On multiple occasions, Harmony still swam in the estate pond, and got quite good at being able to swim pretty quickly. On one such occasion, Harmony snuck out and went for a swim in the pond, and went pretty deep. While Swimming through these murky waters, Harmony saw this bright light, and swam deeper to find it. Harmony could out of nowhere hold her breath for a significantly long time, and quickly found the source of this golden light. To Harmony's surprise, she finds a locket.

When Harmony swam back to shore with the locket, she found her name inscribed on this object. Harmony sneaks the locket back to her room when Marina is not looking. Harmony is quite curious about how a locket with her name got in the pond, and thought it strangely coincidental. That night, after Marina goes to bed, Harmony tells the locket to open, which somehow recognizes her voice. When the locket opens, a holographic man appears, telling her that if she can open this locket, it means she is ready to learn of her destiny. The Holographic man explains to Harmony that he is her Grandfather, and she is destined to greatness. Harmony learns of her destiny to break the divisions between these lands known as Hitaria and Parthania. Harmony's Grandfather tells her that she will begin her journey at the dawn of her Thirteenth year. Then the locket tells her to find these Mistivants Prescott and Calidne.

On a couple occasions, Harmony brought up growing up, and some day getting married and finding a career. Marina made it very clear that Harmony was never to ever leave the estate, come hell or highwater. Marina reminds Harmony that the outside is a dangerous and cruel world, and if she really loved her mother, she would never ever put her in such a situation. Over the next few years, Harmony continued to read the books in the Library about the Geography on the lands, the history of the regions, and political negotiation. Harmony had wondered why this holographic man thought he was her grandfather, considering that Marina's parents both died long before she was born. Yet Harmony knew nothing of her father, and thought maybe her paternal Grandfather was still out there somewhere and could help her. Over these days, Harmony tried asking Marina about her father, and she would tell her not to concern herself about silly matters. Frankly, Harmony was becoming quite suspicious about why her mother refused to talk about her father, and wondered what kind of horrible person he must really be. But wondered why her Grandfather would be sending her on a mission.

The Establishment of Walking Dead

During this time, Gustavette and Baldred had their times of difficutly working together. Baldred tended to favor less intrusive solutions, and tended to place higher priority on the individuals rights. Gustavette on the other hand tended to favor more "hand on" solutions, and considered getting involved more important than leaving things alone. When it came to Maelendil's Charge, they both knew he was having a hard time with the pressure he was under to stay with a horrible job. According to Baldred, this charge has no duty to stick with a job, so long as he is not mooching off others, and is pretty motivated to find a new job. Gustavette looked at this through the point of view of contributing to society, and how the charge was doing something necessary, and that quitting as he did could have done harm to this co-workers reputation. Baldred explained that the Charge never asked to be recommended, and that the job was not so meaningful, considering that he was working at a place that kept a captive audience.

Around this time, Brutus was still very angry about having to be under Lance, and was constantly looking for a way to take back the throne. Not to mention, Brutus was quite furious about how popular Angel became, and that the show reached a level of popularity that undermined his influence like the days of "House of Anubis" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". In order to smear Lance's reputation on earth, Brutus decided to make a mockery of Durnil and Oscar's works, and mimicked him by plotting for the establishment of the television show "Walking Dead" without Maelendil's permission. Brutus knew well that this television show was the perfect representation of what happens when there is no order. Brutus believed that once the mortals saw the kind of violence and fear this show represents without order, people would be running back to his domain.

Maelendil was not too thrilled about what Brutus had done, but knew it maybe necessary for days to come. Now Maelendil knew well that there had been quite some hostility towards order, and did not understand why this had happened. By this time, Maelendil knew that Pandora maybe unleashing the Timora's again. As to why, Maelendil did not know. But Maelendil did suspect that the establishment of this show may come in handy. Frankly, Maelendil never cared for this show, and considered the program to be utterly nihilistic, and doomed to have repeating plots with no resolution.

The Lent Season

On Ash Wednesday, Milo tried going to St. James, but was unable to, due to getting the wrong mass time. During Lent, Milo went to Confession three times. The first time, Milo met with Fr. Warburton in the Church office. Fr. Warburton told Milo that he seems to struggle with pride. Milo also explained that he had been frustrated with his parent's imperfections. Milo confessed the difficulty he was having over having never gone away from college, and felt envious about Lydia being on her own, and not having to have parents involved with her everyday life. Milo knew that this was just a matter of "out of sight, out of mind", but still wished that Ray could be better about this. Otherwise, Milo was having some difficulties over matters of accountability. After his funk the previous year and his job with the nursing home, Milo hated accountability. Milo saw accountability as a necessary evil so agreements can be kept, such as plans and business deals, or to protect people from being violated.

Otherwise, Milo was not a fan of accountability, and did not find any justification someone imposing their interests on another, and considered it best for two parties with conflicting interests to just agree to disagree, and part ways. Milo had remembered with Mal-Tech, how he thought the teachers should have only taught and made assessments to tell if the students understood the material. Milo had remembered the experience of teachers like Deville and Ruberta having no business holding students accountable on matters such as loyalty to the school, or reason for pursuing an education at the school. When it came to fundamentalism, all he saw was worship of some big brother figure who did care about individuals, but sure wanted them to behave or think a certain way, and would punish them if they did not. With the fundamentalists, Milo saw them as being just as self righteous and uncaring, and hated how they tried holding people accountable, whether on the streets, protesting funerals, getting into politics or trolling blogs and youtube video's. When it came to the nursing home job, Milo hated that they tried holding him accountable beyond what he consented to, or any of their concern. As Milo saw it, he consented to do certain tasks for the dietary department, and that they had no business over whether he was there in order to pursue a career in healthcare, or was working because he needed a job.

On the Second Week of Lent, Milo, Margaret, Ray and Salvatore went to the St. Rocco Italian dinner after Church. This Church hosts the Italian festival, and is located in Noussonberg, not too far from where Grandma Rosa grew up. The priest who presided was Fr. Mazzano, who Milo recognized as the priest he had confession with after he blew an F bomb at Salvatore. As for the dinner, this had many authentic dishes handed down from many Italian families in the Ciderpond area. The next day, Milo, Aunt Michelle, Ray and Salvatore went to the Maple Festival out in Sussewago. At the festival, they saw Danielle and Malina. During this excursion, Milo had a bit of a stomach ache after eating a tomato stuffed with cold ham.

During this time, Milo went to open meetings with the Job Coach agency. One Saturday, Milo went to Aunt Michelle's for Polenta night. At church, there had been a mediocre sub-organist only capable of playing the piano. The next day, Milo went to Church again at St. James, so he could hear the Gelineau version of Psalm 95. Milo gave the reason for doing so on wanting to hear the organ.

Maelendil's Plans

Maelendil and Lance knew well what his charge needed at this time. The two met in the Enanian temple to discuss the plans for the coming Spring Festivities. Maelendil knew that his charge needed some experience connecting him beyond their realm, even beyond the Aluments. Lance suggested that the Charge experience some unique and transcendent experience beyond the ordinary. Maelendil knew that his charge needed to get back in touch with his spiritual heritage after such a long time away. Lance on the other hand knew that the charge needed to get in touch with something quite thrilling, and had been looking in other out of the way places. Maelendil knew well that the charge had been looking in the wrong places that would only lead to delusions and humiliation. Maelendil had understood how the Charge had suffered from such dullness for a long time, and had little fullness of living. Lance knew quite well that the charge felt like his life had turned into a boring experience where he had to sacrifice living in order to survive.

One Satyasha offspring known as Propetus had been loitering around the temple grounds, and overheard what Maelendil and Lance were speaking about. Propetus brought this news to his boss, who never revealed his name to him. Both Propetus and his boss developed a manipulative plan to trick Maelendil's charge. Propetus' boss hated the charge and had wanted to break his will since his name first appeared in the books of the living.

The Feast of the Flood Re-Establishment

Back in Londinium, Durnil returned to announce the Feast of the Great Flood and the Rebirth of the Great Phoenix was to take place. Now this feast had not been celebrated since the Cobolds left for Gairmsoiled many years ago. In fact, the Cobolds did not know if they were allowed to hold the feast unless the Headquarters was up. The Cobolds remembered the time when the Maludico's were giving them grief, and they got possessed by the Furors and Timora's, there was no feast of the flood, which was before the headquarters was setup. Then the feast was not held for two years, after the earthquake destroyed their headquarters. The shelter was still in tact, and completely untainted, like the days when the flood first hit. During this time, feasts commemorating the history of Londinium had been strictly banned, especially the Feast of the Flood. Both the Hannitarians and Ugyurites agreed to have the feast banned, but for two very different reasons.

One evening at dusk, Durnil called the Cobolds to wait outside the shelter, and called the Garonites to join them at the outside of the shelter. Then Durnil made glorious declarations of the Phoenix returning back to Londinium. Durnil explained that he had to leave, and would have Junous taking over. Durnil explained that he had to give blessing to start another feast to those in the desert. This year, the feast was declared to remember the fidelity of the Dance in having sent the flood ages past, and his promise to purify Hitaria again by fire.

On the evening when the feast was to begin, while the Garonites and Cobolds had been waiting, Junous shows up with some acolytes holding torches. Junous then leads the congregants into the shelter, which had been quite dark. The only light had come form Junous torch. The feast that particular night had been a much more solemn affair, as they remembered the days when the heavens flooded otherworldly waters and cleansed the city. Junous called for the feast to be held every year until divisions were broken. The Cobolds and Garonites vowed to keep the solemnity until the Hannitarians and Ugyurites return back to Loyalty to the covenant with the Cobolds Headquarters. The feast was still celebrated in secrecy. One Garonite declared in some otherworldly voice that the Great Phoenix will return arrayed in gold and breath of flame. After this, Junous had the acolytes light the rest of the torches within the shelter, and the facility became well lit.

Meanwhile in the desert, the Cobolds got instructions by the map to head over to a secret cave. Many Cobolds protested this, calling it a trap. Yusefus, who had been the map bearer reminded the Cobolds that the Shaman was the one to give them the map, and would not mislead them. Now Yusefus knew that the Cobolds were a bit apprehensive, as they were still constantly avoiding the snatchers and wardens. One morning, the map shown bright, and the cave legend grew quite hot with a message saying "Make haste immediately to the cave". There was also a text saying "Feast of the Flood".

After this journey, the Cobolds found this strange cliff full of pathways seemingly going nowhere. Then the Cobolds noticed some others had gathered at this dead end, but they did not know what to do either. Queniviere called "We're here for the feast of the flood, anyone else?" Then two stone doorways opened, and the cobolds entered in this cave. The Cobolds entered in with these other visitors, and walked through the stony and dark hallways until they saw this light, and drew ever closer. In this lit room, the Cobolds saw many gathered, including escapees from the work camp, Natalia, Jaiden, Fabinius, Hannah, Taibi, the Shaman, many dispersed Asarians, Shemitarians, Hamitarians and to their surprise Durnil. The Cobolds also came across their friends Avrahim and Suriya. Avrahim explained that this was where his father's company used to be, before he shut it down and sold it. Avrahim explained how he and Suriya had been on a quest to find his father Tirah. Avrahim explained that Tirah had been kidnapped by this former boss Philistine. Taibi immediately recognized the name, and explained that Philistine was the one who was his master. Taibi explained that Philistine was the one who plotted for the Cobolds to be captured by the Raptors to be taken to Agrabah. For a long time, the Cobolds thought that being taken to Agrabah was an accident. Avrahim explained how after he escaped slavery in Agrabah, many other Shemitarians did the same, and so many slaveholders lost their slaves. Avrahim tells the Cobolds about how Agrabah is the financial district and puppet town of the present Shemitaria. Marinda explained that Haggebad was pretty loyal to Agrabah. Avrahim explained that this was only because Agrahabah did many favors for them.

According to the instructions, anyone who showed up at the cave was to be unconditionally welcomed to sit at the fire. As it was arranged, only those with goodwill would be given the secret location to this fire. Durnil explained that this was the Feast of the Flood and rebirth of the Great Phoenix. Durnil asked the Cobolds if they remembered the feast that was celebrated back in Londinium. The Hamitarians present had a feast similar at the same time of year in observance of the Righteous Ram Amit. The Asarian and Shemitarian tribes had feasts quite similar, but varied from nation to nation.

During the Feast, Durnil declared that the Great Phoenix will return and water the lands, reviving these lands and the seeds. On this day, there will be a great extinguishing and on the great mountains, the days of feasting will be reinstated. Durnil then declared that these Cobolds on the Lamb and others in the desert would be the ones to herald the Great Phoenix. Durnil declared then that the lands of Asaria and Shemitari will be reinstated in their glory.

Now the Cobolds had been quite happy to celebrate this solemn feast with their friends from Hamitaria, along with some people they met at the oasis. Plus the Cobolds enjoyed being able to commune with other mistivants without having to worry about being caught by snatchers or wardens. Durnil showed the Cobolds around this cave, which was quite comfortable and homey. In fact, this cave had many comfortable private bedrooms similar to an inn.

The Easter Season

Before Easter, the Biancatellos went to Pittsburgh to see Lydia on her birthday. That morning before, Milo went to confession again. Milo felt like he still had a hard time standing up to people he was close with. Milo had this new concern when there are conflicting interestst with people close to him. Milo felt it was easier to tell a busybody or an enemy to screw off, but felt it was harder to say no to a friend or family member. During this time, Milo was having flashbacks to a serious concerned look, always meaning someone was going to place a security restriction. After confession, the Biancatello's drove out to Pittsburgh. They went out for dinner at a meatball restaurant.

One weekend later, Ray and Milo went to an indoor football game. At the game, Milo saw this newscaster Jasmine, and his cousin Julie's husband and their kids. On the way home from the game, Ray asked Milo about going down to Pittsburgh for Lydia's graduation. Frankly, Milo was not interested in going, as he knew it was going to be a long weekend. Not to mention, Milo just wanted a weekend to himself, just to do what he wanted without anyone asking where he was going, his motives for doing so, or hearing anyone's opinion on the matter. Milo still was having a difficult time with social relationships. When it came to family, this could be quite difficult, as Milo could not just ignore them over conflicting interests.

On the weekend of Palm Sunday, Aunt Jackie's father died. During this year, many Grandfather figures passed away. That Sunday, there was a penance service Milo once again attended. Milo still was bothered by these matters of accountability, as he was angry about opponents or self serving types who ever held him accountable, and the dilemma about those close holding him accountable. For Milo, he did not believe that accountability was really necessary in personal relationships, as they would be on the same page. After the viewing, Margaret and Ray asked Milo if he would consider going down to the graduation if he got to see Olivia, Jonathan and Rowan. Margaret had told Milo how much this would mean to Lydia if he came. Otherwise, Milo mentioned that he would be going to the Easter Vigil on Saturday night. On Holy Thursday, Milo and Salvatore went out to a farm that sold raw milk. During this time, Salvatore became a proponent of natural medicine. Salvatore had a hernia that the doctors only suggested surgery, but he eventually found a chiropractor using non-invasive methods that worked better for him. Milo became interested in what Salvatore knew, and decided to try these natural products. That night, Lydia and her friend Laura came home for the Easter holiday. Milo watched the movie Antz, which reminded him of modern American society. Milo had remembered watching the movie on Holy Thursday when he was 10, the same day he saw "A Bugs Life" in theatres.

That Saturday morning, Milo did a meditation of where he felt that he needed to forgive others over the Nursing Home job. Milo realized after this session that he was angrier with those who pressured him to stick with the job than the people at the job itself. On Saturday Night, Margaret tried to convince Milo to go out with Lydia and her friend Laura to the bars. When Lydia had asked him earlier, he declined, as he had plans to go to Church. Margaret told Milo she thinks he would have more fun Milo got a bit annoyed by this, as he wanted to go to Church instead. Lydia told him that it was pointless to go tonight, when the family would be going tomorrow. Milo had likewise got annoyed about the situation, Lydia trying to rationalize him into changing his mind, and the very universe that has people that cannot accept his decision, and try to change his mind. Milo also felt like his family was being overprotective, as he was planning on attending church at St. James in downtown Essex at dusk. Milo started thinking that no one would be saying this if he couldn't go to the bars because of work, but is forced out of doing something he wants to do.

Milo decided to go to the Easter Vigil at St. James, possibly to show his family he does not need their over protection, even though St. Timothy's was not that far away. By about 8:30, Milo left the house, and soon enough arrived in downtown Essex. The service started off outside with the lighting of the Easter Fire. Milo had been a bit anxious about going to downtown Essex late at night, but figured that it was worth the risk.

As soon as Milo arrived at Church, there were women at the Cathedral doors passing out candles. One attendee told Milo not to take his coat off, because they would be going outside pretty soon. After a few minutes of waiting, the deacon announced that the lighting of the fire would soon begin. By nine o'clock, the sun had completely set, and the congregants all departed the Church and congregated in the street.

At that time, the Easter Fire was lit, the Bishop did a blessing of the Pascal Candle, and started off with the opening prayers. The street had been blocked off, so the congregants could stand around the Easter fire. Milo had found something a bit haunting about this ceremony, like it was some secret meeting. After the fire, the congregants processed into the church. While entering the church, the deacon holding the candle chanted "The Light of Christ".

Once everyone had congregated, the rector chanted the Exultet. This is an ancient hymn telling the history of Salvation. This had been the first time Milo heard the hymn sung in Church before, which sounded similar to the chants used during the Eucharistic prayers.

There was a great vision in the Church of the angels standing around the throne in exultation in praise of their triumphant Lord. Then an invisible light spread through the Church. Then great majestic visions appeared of the triumphant one breaking the chains of Adam, raising high the red sea and defeating the world powers through a great pillar of fire. Then there was a scene of Jesus breaking free from the netherworld.

Then there was this strange and otherworldy vision of a mighty bridge being built connecting a temple town to this parched garden in the high cliffs. A group of congregants arrived, and one statue of a terrifying bull and a beautiful maiden were set up in this garden. Then a group of bee's delivered a candle and the maiden gifted the congregants this golden candle stand. At sunset, the congregants began a ceremony and the bull lit a torch that purified the garden air making it liveable. Then an elder with a white beard called for this story to be told throughout the ages.

Then the Mass began as normal with three readings in pitch dark. The first reading was from the first Chapter of Genesis, retelling the creation of the earth. Then the responsorial Psalm was Psalm 104: Lord Send out your Spirit in the Gelineau tone, retelling the Creation according to King David. Then the Second Reading came from the Book of Exodus, when Moses and the Israelites were cornered at the Red Sea, and the Lord raised the water giving the Hebrews passage and destroying the armies of Pharoah and his Charioteers. Then the Canticle of Moses was sung as done when the first Passover occurred. The final reading was from the book of Ezekiel. The responsorial psalm 51 sung was a choral motet from the 16th century.

There first was a vision of a Doctor who had gotten framed for using a traditional Ayurvedic treatment not approved by the FDA, and getting framed for drug abuse on the job. While the Church was still in darkness, there were countless figures of those who abused their authority at some point, and looking over the congregants, some with self righteous scowls and others with looks of concern. Then the hand that raised the sea washed away these hallucinations with a great "I forgive you". After the final Old Testament reading, the cantor sang "Glory to God in the Highest, and Peace on earth to People of Good Will". Then the light came on and the Organ thundered a majestic fanfare and the Gloria Chant continued.

After the Gloria, the first epistle was read, and the Alleluia was sung for the first time since before Ash Wednesday. Then the Gospel was read by the parochial vicar. The Bishop then gave a sermon on Christianity transcending ethics and duties, but a living experience. During these moments, the Church had reminded Milo of his trip to the Toledo Aquarium before his Freshman year, and the Holy Week of his tenth grade year, when he first noticed Amira.

During the baptism rite, there was a vision of the shadow of a whale swimming by the stained glass windows, similar to the Prince of Egypt scene where the Israelites crossed the Red Sea. This gave the congregants a great sense of peace, even if they were in the middle of the downtown of Essex in pitch night.

During the Litany of the Saints, there was a vision of many spirits, including Grandma Gladys, Grandma Rosa, Grandpa Tony, Uncle Georgio, Aunt Adrienne, Uncle Victor, Uncle Luigi, Uncle John, Aunt Adrienne, Jinny, Grandma Dora, Grandpa Juan, Grandpa Paul, other deceased Grandfathers, other recently deceased pets and many other deceased friends and relatives not recognized. They all assisted Milo as he was prepared for battle against the powers of Darkness.

The Communion hymn was "This is the Day the Lord has Made" by Lucien Deiss. During Communion, there was a great vision of a Passover feast in which a new day was made. There was a band of Angels shouting "This is the day the Lord Has Made, let all the earth rejoice, Alleluia!" Then there was a majestic vision of the Messiah, whose blood was shed, and the powers of death were utterly humiliated. Then there were many in the bowels of Hades waiting in despair until the Lamb enters into this place of gloom and restores the splendor of new life. The closing hymn was "Jesus Christ is Risen Today".

That night, Milo had a dream about finding a book with pictures of the Jafari's and leaving for a vacation to Florida. On Easter, Milo went back to church at St. Timothy's with his family, but it was nothing like St. James Easter Vigil. Milo felt like the Easter Sunday mass had no comparison to his experience at St. James the previous night. Milo brought some lamb in sauce to Easter Dinner at Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane's. Salvatore, Rob, Milo and Ray were the only ones who at the lamb.

After Easter, Milo and the Biancatello's went down to Pittsburgh for Lydia's college graduation. Milo was not thrilled about going down, as he wanted the weekend to himself. What happened was Ray had convinced Milo that they would be doing some fun stuff in Pittsburgh, and he would get to babysit Olivia, Jonathan and Rowan. Then they said there would be an after grad party. They even promised Milo he could pick the church on Sunday. As it was, none of these plans came to fruition.

Around this time, Milo had felt annoyed with having his parents around all the time, as they were working from home, and originally planned on staying home and having the weekend to himself. For a while, Ray would constantly try to talk Milo out of whatever he had planned on doing, which Milo found greatly annoying. Plus, Milo just did not like the whole college system to begin with. Milo felt that Lydia was being given dangerously wrong information on Economics. Part of what Milo hated about the college systems was that they often times could uproot students from their heritage, and have them start their lives all over again. This is what Milo experienced with Mal-Tech, only the way they did it was more explicit than many universities do. This is keeping in mind that Milo never had great experience with Secondary Education, as Mal-Tech was miserable for him, and he never really got close with Sussewago. Plus Milo remembered having nearly turned into a sell out in his first year at Sussewago. Milo had also felt like his parents always expected the family's life to revolve around Lydia, as she tended to have more school based activities and priorities. Milo started to get the impression that he always had to make sacrifices for Lydia, and felt like she was being rewarded for being a sheeple.

After coming home from Pittsburgh for the graduation, Milo got into a foul mood. A few days later, Milo had a meeting with his job coaching center, and Ray was out golfing. On the way home, Milo purposely drove by a Gentlemans club, and intended to stop in, but chickened out, and felt too embarrassed and drove right past. After having gone to Las Vegas, Milo got a slight taste for thrill, after working around a humdrum nursing home for seven months. Milo started to fear that the Greater Essex county including Ciderpond would turn into dead towns like Noussonberg and Phyllisville. For a while, Milo had been resentful and bitter about ever having a job at a Nursing Home, and was under the impression that his home town was just going to turn into some cesspool that took away all options that required one to have to sacrifice living in order to survive. Milo had been a bit disgruntled about how the Essex region could have so many nursing homes, but not that many casino's like Las Vegas. Milo had also been a bit annoyed about Pittsburgh, and considered this region to be stuck up city sucking people out of the small towns, so these big cities could grow great.

When Ray got back from golf, he found Milo to be in a strangely foul mood. Milo then came out and admitted that he was still angry over the graduation, and how he felt bribed to go. Milo then complained about how he felt so pressured to stay at the nursing home job by his cow-worker, and how he was sick of seeing the Essex region turning into a dump like Phyllisville and Noussonberg.

The Opening of old wounds

Maelendil knew the time was near for Pandora to release the Timora's on the earth for a second time. One evening, Yuriyama appeared to Maelendil speaking of a vision of these healed, but infected cuts that needed to be broken again in order to be legitimately healed. Then Yuriyama explains the next part of the vision, where Timora's snap the stitches wide open and many dark spirits of the belly of tartarus are unleashed. Maelendil glumly shares his fears of the Timora's having to be released on earth again.

Maelendil then calls Lance to join him and Yuriyama on the meeting. Maelendil understands that the only way for these wounds to be broken is to reveal some very crucial information. At this, Maelendil give Lance a mission to inform one charge about the whereabouts of another charge, but to be discreet. Lance understands his mission, and asks if this is all just a trick. Maelendil explains that some great healing will come fourth, but only the darkness can escape.

During the meeting, an Alux appeared with news that he spotted the Hubritaiji known as the Fates. Maelendil had not been surprised about this news, and had suspected that the Fates had been active since he knew that the Offspring in the form of the Queen first appeared at the Cathedral, and had been active a number of times since. Maelendil knew well that the Offsprings Rakshasajinns had no capabalities to control the Hubritaiji's. As it was, all the Hypocordo's and Maludico's were all being watched over. Maelendil then had a terrible insight of something he remembered years ago when there was a vision of the Archon Galtron, who is the king of tyrants. Maelendil started to become suspicious that Galtron had something to do with why Milo got into Mal-Tech, Fundamentalism and the Nursing Home, and feared he would strike soon again.

Weary Adventures

After this feast of the guest, the Cobolds travelled past the cave where the feast was held, and found this tropical region. Now the Cobolds knew that this forested area and hilly region was well secluded, and way beyond the bounds of the Frogastains and the Igleftiosans. Overall, being in this place had been quite a relief, as they had been sick of trying to hide from the snatchers and wardens. This time in the tropics proved to be quite tranquil in the beginning.

After a while, the Cobolds started feeling empty, and could not help but think such excitement was meaningless when something was missing. During their time in the tropical region, the Cobolds found many rocks to climb, oasis to swim at, and caves to explore, but found themselves dissatisfied and longing to return back to Hitaria. All of this enjoyment seemed like a mere shadow of what they had experienced with their home land, and friends still in Hitaria. Iohannes then started to really miss Rivkah, as this land reminded him of things they did together when they first met in Parthania. Soon enough, the Cobolds all agreed that they had wanted to return to Hitaria. As it was, the Cobolds knew well that it's quite toilsome to be around mistivants who condemned them, but found that loneliness was almost as bad.

At their base pond, the Cobolds looked at the map and pinpointed the quickest path to get back to Hitaria. The Cobolds realized according the maps instructions that this would be a very dangerous path. This path had some steep mountains, deep trenches and regions full of thorny plants. The Cobolds knew that this would be no easy journey that would require great sacrifice.

Return to Orlando

Around this time, Milo found out that Amira was attending Whealon College. On one occasion, Milo got lunch at a Thai restaurant and took it over to the picnic area of the campus building that he suspected Amira to have her classes at. Milo had no such luck, as he never saw Amira in that brief time he had spent to eat at the school.

Around this time, Margaret had been in Orlando for a business meeting. During this time, Malina makes her first communion. One weekend later, Milo watched the Chronicles of Narnia. Milo knew that weekend, he would soon be leaving for Orlando. Milo was a bit apprehensive, as he had the sense that getting away from Ciderpond and into a city full of entertainment may not be the answer to his frustrations. On Monday, Milo, Ray and Lydia went to the Ciderpond International airport, and flew to Toledo in order to catch the plane to Orlando. Milo had felt a little depressed about leaving, and thought he would miss Ciderpond while he was away. Milo developed a strange appreciation for the town, now that he was away. In the Airport, there was this vision of the suffering servant who came to earth and joined the Human race, only to be handed over to the state for slaughter. Then this servant is exulted highly and every knee bows and declares this servant as the Lord.

That evening, Milo, Ray and Lydia arrived in Orlando, and drove to the Hotel they would be staying at. So far, Milo did not have any euphoria like he had when arriving in Tampa. Being back in Florida had not been the Euphoric experience Milo had when he went to Tampa five years back. On their first day in Orlando, Milo, Ray and Lydia went into Downtown Disney to exchange cars. This experience felt weird, as he had this nostalgia for a Disney trip he went on after graduating Highschool, but felt like the place was a mere shadow of what he experienced after Highschool. That first day, Milo felt a bit lonely, and not sure his individualist tendencies were working out so well. Milo knew that he wanted to get away so bad, as to be in a place without these nosy companies, but a city he did not know did not seem so appealing.

By the second day, Milo got into a better mood. That day, Milo mostly read by the pool. In the late afternoon, Ray took Milo and Lydia for a drive to a strip mall, which had a Disney Store. For Dinner that night, Milo, Ray and Lydia ate at a Cuban restaurant. This so far had been Milo's favorite day in Orlando. On the Second Day, Ray, Lydia and Milo got dinner at a Mexican restaurant that made Guacamole right at the table. After dinner, the drive through the Orange County area had not been so euphoric, and did not offer the same surprises he remembered from Tampa or Disney World.

That Friday, Margaret got reservations for a fancy restaurant on the resort campus, which she had through work. That evening, Milo started getting some flashbacks to his last days in Las Vegas, and the anxiety he experienced before heading back. This was considering that Milo still had two more days of vacation. That Saturday, the Biancatello's all went out to Barbeque at a restaurant not too far from where Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol live. After dinner, they drove past the house, and knocked, but no one was home. Milo thought this was quite silly, as Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol would not be expecting them. Then they drove through the Disney World campus, which gave Milo some flashbacks to his vacation after Highschool.

On the last day, the family went to Universal Studios and met with Uncle Doug and Aunt Pam. This was the first time the Biancatello's saw the new Harry Potter section of the park. As for the park, Milo liked the new Harry Potter area. That day, Milo got to try their butter beer for the first time. Otherwise, the park developers were still working on the Diagon Alley area, which would not be done for another month. For the most part, the Biancatello's had seen all the same attractions as they had when they were at the park four years earlier. That night, after leaving the park, Milo felt a little out of sorts, as it did not seem like Florida had been quite the big deal he had remembered it being so many years ago. Now Milo was not so thrilled about going back, as he was not sure that Ciderpond would be so exciting, after he had just been in Orlando.
Chapter 47: The Homecoming

The Establishment of Eight Simple Rules

By this time, Durnil had seen that the earthlings still were bound to the grey cords of Puterma. Overall, the mortals had recognized the arrogance of the figures they easily got tied to, with snide claims to moral expertise over others, stuck up experts claiming the authority to label others, and the right to intrude on the freedom of those they deemed as incompetent. Unfortunately, these earthlings who hated these ties began to hate family life in general and protective fathers in particular. Now Oscar knew well that the mortals could not stand that the people they showed honor and reverence to had their own imperfections.

Maelendil began to recognize that the Age of Lance was going in decline. By this time, the pursuit of thrills was becoming tired and stale, and had no lasting enjoyment. Maelendil knew that there had to be some foundation to return back to, and such aimless wandering and freedom without purpose was quite a burden. Maelendil knew well that Durnil and Oscar were in some need of assistance in finding a new show to introduce to the earth. At this, Maelendil summoned a meeting with Lance, Oscar, Durnil, Alexander, Gustavette, Dugmateous and Baldred. Now Platoneous and Mercius had been on another mission assisting Terese and Daxividus. While meeting, Alexander remembered this television show "Eight Simple Rules" that first aired when the Khara's moved, its second season when there was a conflict with the Jafari's and their final season when Amira was in her Freshman year of Highschool. Alexander remembered how one charge had seen the episode YMCA after the last day of school. Baldred had been a bit skeptical at first, as he was not sure the character of Paul Hennesy would be the best introduction. Gustavette protested that this was only because Paul had been an involved parental figure. Durnil explained that Baldred has a point, considering that those still tied to Puterma are less than receptive to abrasive authorities. Alexander mentions that the girls like Bridget and Carrie on the show will get the attention of the viewers, and will give them reason to look beyond the current ways they are seeing things.

Then Oscar gives his stance. Oscar explains that he had seen many of the frustrations directed at anything resembling eldership. Oscar explains that people have a natural reverency towards authentic elders. Maelendil explains that the true elder is one who knows where limitations belong, as a competent senexit would know. Maelendil explains that there had not been a competent senexit since Cashmir, but he had since retired. Maelendil explains how a Senexit is like a wineskin filled within its proper capacity. Maelendil explains that if the amount of wine permitted is under the proper capacity, then the wineskin will be limp and formless. Yet if a wineskin goes over its capacity, it will be bursted and formless. Maelendil explains how all too often, the false elders err too much on the side of limitations, giving rise to a partially substantial wineskin. Maelendil explains how those on earth prefer elders like full wineskins, but have a strong aversion to empty wineskins and prefer bursted wineskins if they cant have a full wineskin. Maelendil then explains how much of elderhood is equated with limitations for the sake of limitations.

Oscar then explains how this relates to the works of Puterma. Oscar tells of how mortals have a natural affinity to elders, and automatically sense a quality of elderhood if someone acts with limitations, such as giving instruction, direction, displaying disapproval, exercising authority or setting a standard. Without a competent Senexit, Puterma has become like an elder tethering anyone to the closest mortal resembling an elder. Naturally this makes the mortals hate any pseudo-elder just for being there, as they know that the pseudo-elders geer towards limitations, but are possessed within by the cords of Puterma. Oscar explained how when Pirius had power, differences had not been well accepted, and the only way of connection to another was based on how similar they were. Once the cords of pirius were undone, the mortals could connect with others as other.

Baldred asks Oscar what this all has to do with the show "8 Simple Rules" and Paul Hennessy. Maelendil explains that the character is the perfect representation of the blunt and involved elder. Maelendil explains that the blunt and involved elder is the very poster child of the most hated of pseudo-elders. Oscar then explains that Puterma has no power to tether mortals to tv characters, and no one in their right mind would find themselves bound to this character, even if he does resemble an elder. Oscar goes on to further explain that their hatred for such figures like Paul Hennessy were only founded on the ties Puterma had moved them to.

The Dangerous Road and Jamus Return

Back in the tropics, the Cobolds departed and continued their journey to Hitaria. This had been a fairly rough journey, as they had come into many steep cliffs, jagged rocks, dark caves and nasty thorn forests. This was is a very dry area with very few oases, but one where no snatcher would dream of going through.

On one occasion, the Cobolds enter this valley full of giant bones from deceased dragons. This greatly troubled the Cobolds, considering that even mighty dragons had died in this place, and wondered if they could even make it out alive, or at least uninjured. Irugen started having dark thoughts about breaking a leg in such a region, and never being found, and starving to death. Getting through this valley proves to be a very wearisome and fearful task. After a while, the Cobolds figured out that this mountainous region was the same region the Haun Mistivant spoke at back at the Oasis. Eventually the Cobolds entered into this trench crypt where dragons went to die. There had been very little light in the trench, and the Cobolds must always keep watch, lest a dragon bone falls on their head.

Eventually the Cobolds find their way out of this trench and found this glorious view. They arrived on a mountainous region. From this land, the Cobolds got a brief view of the Gardens of Pedmontus. No Cobold of the Forester clan had dwelled in this place since before the attacks on the land and the fall of the Headquarters. The Cobolds became very excited about being so close to Hitaria, but have no clue what is in store for them. Unfortunately the Cobolds could not find any easy and clear path from these mountains to the region of Hitaria. This time, they knew for sure that this area was Hitaria, unlike the last time.

Meanwhile, the Cobold Gaxby was still in Gairmsoiled trying to find Jamus. Gaxby remembered that Severus told him that Jamus had just disappeared. When Gaxby asked anyone about Jamus, he was either met with ridicule or anger. One particularly well dressed Gairmsoilder told Gaxby that Jamus was an insolent traitor to their noble cause and only cares about being liked. Gaxby also found many wanted signs for the missing Jamus. This sign said that Jamus was a coward who ran away after being confronted on his careless demeanor.

One day, Gaxby was travelling through this alleyway and heard a voice call out his name. Gaxby immediately found this cobold on the streets living as a beggar. Gaxby asked this cobold who he was, and defensively told him he was Jamus. Jamus had not always been on the streets, and in fact had been the head city planner working to hold the Gairmsoiled Inn accountable for mistreatment of tenants, and had been committed to making sure no other institutions exploit the powerless. This caused the Gairmsoiled Inn the Cobolds resided so long ago to go under investigation.

When it came to Jamus, the other council team members wanted to put a resident in an asylum, as they considered his house messy, and knew he had aged a bit. Jamus voted against this decision, and lost all popularity. The council accused Jamus of not really caring about the needy, and Jamus explained that he would not go along with any intrusion on the citizens rights for their own good. After this, Jamus got voted off the city council, and ran out of money putting him on the streets. Jamus explained that Trommer brother had been on the council, and had been looking for any excuse to turn the other council members against him. Jamus then explains that Severus had been the only one to stick to his side, but had been outnumbered. Jamus explains that Trommer made up this propaganda that he was only against committing this Gairmsoiled resident because he was just lazy and uncaring, and the activity of the Gairmsoiled league just reminded him of his laziness. Jamus explained that this was not true, and could not support such a blatant intrusion on someone elses autonomy.

Jamus had become quite bitter and depressed about losing his fortune so quickly, and having gone from riches to rags. Jamus had become a beggar, and got very little help. For the most part, the Gairmsoiled residents called him a leech, while the council that fired him put bans on any charitable organizations from helping him. Jamus explained to Gaxby that he was right about the Gairmsoiled council being a self serving jerks who only look out for their contributors. Gaxby told Jamus about how this group in Londinium known as the Hannitarians fully supports Gairmsoiled. Gaxby told Jamus about how many Hannitarians joined them when they found out what the Gairmsoiled council was really up to.

Jamus tells the rest of the story of how he became even more hated. What happened was that Jamus threw a rock at this nobleman for treating him like a leech a while back. After this, the town grew to hate Jamus, as he had thrown boulders at the windows of the council headquarters that fired and oppressed him. Gaxby asked Jamus if he felt the town that betrayed him. Jamus admitted that this was so, and how he thought Gairmsoiled was working for him. Jamus ranted about how he was so stupid to ever ally with these dishonest scumbags.

Luckily Gaxby explained that he would like to take Jamus back to Londinium. Jamus admitted that he only stayed in Gairmsoiled originally, as he feared that the Dance was all a lie, and their fortune from years back was just luck, or the Jinns and Angelic Ministers changed allegiance. Gaxby told of how the Great Phoenix came to them, and told them to bring down the headquarters. Gaxby told Jamus all about how Voris Co. had desecrated the headquarters with torture devices, and after they removed the devices, the shelter fell. Gaxby tells of their time in this oasis outside of Hitaria, and being rescued by Rivkah, a Hamitarian Shaman and the Great Phoenix.

The Early Summer

By this time, Milo realized that getting out of town away from Ciderpond was not all it was cracked up to be. After Milo got back from Orlando, he went to a concert at Ciderpond High, thinking that Maybe Parisa would be in the chorus, and therefore get to see Amira. One day later, Milo met with his career advisor, so they could find out where the best opportunities would be. As it was, this advisor had not been so competent, and utterly clueless about where to look for jobs. At this time, the advisor suggested a janitorial service, since she knew the boss. Milo accepted the offer, as he was told that they would help him find a better job if he was dissatisfied. As it was, the service hired Milo, but then let him go, as they had no work for him to do.

Before School let out, Milo saw an episode of 8 Simple Rules, which had been the episode where Grandpa Jim punched another YMCA club member for talking about his Granddaughter Bridget. That afternoon, Milo asked Sylvester to get ice cream on the last day of school, but he never responded. During Highschool, Sylvester had gone through a very standoffish phase, which sort of annoyed Milo. Milo had hoped to do some activities in order to possibly spot Amira picking Parisa up from School.

Lance's Sentence

By this time, the Show 8 Simple Rules had reached a level of popularity not seen since it first aired nearly a decade previous. As Durnil suspected, the episode "Goodbye" and its following episode "No Right Way" greatly haunted the earthlings under the curse of Puterma. These were the episodes after actor John Ritter passed away and his character Paul likewise passed. What really got the Earthlings was in the episode "No Right Way", Bridget crying after getting to the door in a skimpy school dance dress, and her dad not being around to stop her.

On one occasion, after the episode when Paul passed away, a young girl had lit incense and a candle during the episode. In fact, she got quite attached to John Ritter's character, and cried the whole episode. Now this girl was an emo girl who was a libertarian with some very liberal leanings, and hated right wing statism with a passion. This girl hated Military intervention, homeland security, the patriot act, and just about any form of government harshly intrusive. This Girl had constantly fantasized about the DEA agents being tipped off for a drug investigation in an unsafe and fragile house, and some passerby throwing a rock at a stability beam, causing the house to collapse while the agents were searching out the place.

Around this same time, Maelendil calls Lance into his office concerning an honorable discharge. Maelendil had seen that Lance was not equipped to handle the office as a Puerubdi on his own and saw the damage he inflicted. Maelendil knew well that Lance had been inexperienced, and never got any experience working with a competent Senexit. Maelendil saw well that Lance had gone quite wild over the last year, and found out that he had gotten a bit too chummy with Baldred, Mercius and Travis and took Bacchus under his wing. Maelendil knew well that the Praedexit order does not work well with first annogrammatrons, and can be too easily swayed by fourth order annogrammatrons. Maelendil knew well that the Timora's would be released again, as Terese already broke the news.

Over the past year, Lance uprooted those on earth, and turned them into wanderers without home, identity or belings. Lance had also been responsible for drawing the people away from all responsibility that decayed into an anti-social and dispassionate hedonism. The final mismanagement of Lance was having led the people away from knowledge into dark ignorance and double mindedness. Now Maelendil knew well that Lance had not done any of this on purpose, as he never worked in balance with the Senexit, and when left on his own, did only what he knew.

Maelendil informed Lance of the charges brought against him. Lance had been utterly distraught about the damage caused and explained that he had not been equipped to handle such responsibilities. Lance explained that he never should have gotten a year to himself, and made everything worse. Lance then admits that he was never prepared to handle these responsibilities and should have listened to Brutus. Maelendil explained that he was right to challenge Brutus, as no Senexit is above the Puerubdi. In fact, Maelendil had no interest in punishing Lance, but sent him to attend a Puerubdi training seminar. Maelendil clearly knew that Lance had only acted out of ignorance and inexperience.

Maelendil gave Lance two months to get his affairs in order, and to report to the training center by the fall. Lance had asked Maelendil what would happen to the earth over his training. Maelendil explained that history would repeat itself like the days the Rakshasajinns first took their reign almost seven years ago. Maelendil remembered how the Hypocordo Sheepus had Buttkamft mislead the earth into selling over their dignity in order to get by, while the hypocordo Wipou promoted scapegoating. Maelendil then remembered how at the renunciation of Wipou and her master Infundermalis, the earth had been trapped in a paper cutout world. Maelendil feared this may last a while in order to get things back after this major disaster. By this time, the influence of the charisms of the Early Church Fathers and Bible Believing inclusivists was nearly being forgotten in favor of political agendas. Maelendil knew well the Timora's were needed.

The Last days

One weekend in June, Milo went to St. James for Sunday mass, as Margaret and Lydia had a baby shower for their cousin Charlotte, and Ray was on a golf trip. This was over Trinity Sunday, and the Canticle of Daniel was sung. In Church, there was a majestic vision of these tyrants who tried to burn these youths in a fire. The Fire had not harmed the youths, and the tyrants decided to jump in the fires in a haughty fashion. These tyrants were utterly destroyed by the fire and cursed the names of the youths.

During this time, Milo started becoming more obsessed with Confession, and found he had a hard time ever scheduling appointments with the priests, as the St. Timothy secretaries were churlish and unhelpful. On one occasion, Milo called St. Timothy's, but found no priests were available, and the secretary had been unhelpful, and gave him an attitude like he was bothering the priests. Milo then cursed out the whole confession system, and how they said one would go to hell if they died without confession, and called this a rigged system that placed people at the mercy of the Clergy. Milo cursed out this ideology, and called a God who would only accept a confession through a priest to be garbage. Now Milo really used the sacrament in order to get a chance to get some help from a spiritual point of view, and thougth there was some mystical power that had nothing to do with lifting some guilt penalty.

In late June, Sylvester and Salvatore came over to swim at Milo's. Sylvester gave Milo some attitude when he asked him about his favorite Netflix films. Sylvester told Milo that it was none of his business, and Milo accused him of watching Naughty videos. Sylvester gave Milo quite a nasty scowl at these accusations. Milo then told Salvatore that he thinks Sylvester was watching x rated youtube movies. Sylvester did not take too well to this, and tried to claw at Milo.

That afternoon, Milo goes to St. Columba's for Saturday Night mass. St. Columbas was where the Biancatello's and the Filentino's used to go to Church on Christmas Eve before it started getting too crowded. The last Christ they went to St. Columbas was two Christmases ago. The Priest at St. Columba's had quite a following, as he was quick and right to the point. Some Fundamentalists Catholics considered the priest to be too liberal, considering he condemned the selling of Indulgences, and sided with Pope Francis on his treatment of Homosexuals. The last time Milo had been to St. Columba's during the day was when he was in Sixth grade for the Good Friday service. This church had been known for having world class stained glass, and this was the first time Milo had seen the glass since then. Milo had been thinking about Sixth Grade often and no longer had such bad memories of that spring and summer after. Milo first remembered having flashbacks to Sixth Grade before Christmas two years ago. For Milo, Sixth grade was supposedly the worst summer according to his memories, which was right before seeing Amira at the Funeral Home the Fall Fest. The Communion Hymn was "Seed Scattered and Sown", which is sung frequently at this parish. This hymn was sung frequently at St. Timothy's back when Milo was about to start Second Grade. St. Timothys had not done the hymn in a few years, as they got new hymnals with the changes to the Liturgy.

During Church, there was this strange vision of this angelic figure resembling a Middle Eastern Jew holding a scroll. This figure began a sermon preaching the parable of the Sower and the Seeds. This preacher shows these sandy foundations of polygamous swinging, living as a homeless wanderer always on aimless adventures, and always blaming his dissatisfaction on some imperfection with his destination. Then the preacher brings fourth a flashback to Milo as a Sixth Grader first being attracted to Girls, but unable to commit to any in particular. Then the preacher shows Milo another flashback of that same year, where he became opened to a new world fully of rich cultures and histories, but looked at them in a highly formulaic way. Then the preacher shows Milo how that summer after sixth grade had been days of despair and fear until the dawn of the new school year when he noticed Amira for the first time. Then the Preacher showed Milo his days as a ninth grader after the fallout with Minu, and how he was ogling many girls, primarily cheerleaders, but never felt anything for them. Then the preacher also showed Milo flashbacks to the rich discoveries of Christmas hymns he made the Summer after Eighth Grade and the beginning of ninth grade, and the period of dryness in finding hymns that often were highly emotional megachurch music. Then the Preacher took all of Milo's memories except some from the summers after sixth and ninth grade, and the current summer. The Preacher promised Milo he would start getting the memories back in about two years.

After getting back from Church, Milo found the Parent Trap on Television. Milo remembered this movie from the spring after Dudlechip and seeing Amira, and was most entranced by the scene where Hallie and Annie find out they are twins. During the summer, Milo comes across these death hymns known as "In Every Age" and "Unless a Grain of Wheat". Milo heard both of the hymns during the previous lent in Church. "In Every Age" is a haunting hymn based on Psalm 90, and "Unless a Grain of Wheat" is based on Jesus last teachings in Jerusalem before the Passover and the Last Supper.

Sudden Release of the Timora's

Around this same time, the Jinns knew the days were near when the Timora's would be released back on the earth. In fact, Pandora had released only two in the Sarkikos community. Luckily this had not fared too bad, though there was quite a scare in the air. What they had not anticipated was how soon it would happen.

Terese had reports that those stuck in the Sarkikos Realm were not faring off too well. By this time, someone in the community had possession of the fate, and had been moving events to occur in a way to serve the possessors self interests. Otherwise, riots were becoming quite common, and hostility towards any powers was becoming quite within the ordinary. One worker had nearly got fired after smashing a coffee machine, due to being turned down for a promotion for a fourth time. This had been after he put his name in so many times, and some lazy, yet manipulative co-workers got the promotion.

On the Thursday before the Fourth of July, the Jinns all gathered in the Odinean Temple for the release Ceremony. Pandora arrived, and grimly opened the box full of Timora's. The day the Timora's were released, there was a sudden darkness, and the earth went into a great doubt. The Dance had been all but forgotten. During these days of darkness, many Maludico's intruded on the earth. The Maludico Antistete went into the Sarkikos community, and slashed as many cords connecting The Senexit Sarkikos Community with the Home Community. In the Sarkikos Community, Antistete began her reign of ugliness.

During this time, Maelendils fear of Galtrons fourth strike was becoming more apparent. An Alux had witnessed an Archon whom he did not recognize within the walls of a catering service working within a school. This Alux immediately informed Maelndil about what he had seen. Maelendil grimly guessed that this was the work of Galtron, and feared that he would play on the charges biggest weakness. Maelendil gave this Alux the task to keep an eye on the Charge, and to give him any necessary information.

The Cobolds Wanderings

Back in Londinium, the Cobolds got a pretty grim prognosis on the cursed overgrowth. Junous declared that there was absolutely nothing in Kebsuda that could fix this problem. For so long the Cobolds had just wanted to kill this poisonous plant that intruded on their land, and barred them access to Atlantis and Hitaria. Otherwise, the Cobolds noticed that Arybatas still had not returned, and this had been over a year. The Cobolds protested Junous, and ranted about what they were supposed to do. Junous explained that the only choice they have is to wait it out, and hope it dies out. Petestor complains that there has to be something, and he refuses to accept defeat from some big and stupid bully smelling like rotting dung. Junous asks Petestor what he plans on, and Petestor explains that he would rather die in battle against this monster, than give into the tyrant. Many other cobolds rebelled against Petestor, asking if he really wanted to die for that giant piece of garbage. Petestor admitted that he did not want to, but was just afraid of being defeated by evil, and that evil was stronger than good.

In the Wilderness, The Cobolds confidently enter the cave, only to have their anticipations shaken. The Cave is pitch dark, and they have no way to know where they are going, and not even the map can help. This cave is a huge maze full of dead ends and long halls going nowhere. After a period of frustration, the Cobolds find an opening that leads to a set of stairs. The stairs take them up to a high fortress tower, where the Cobolds get a beautiful view of the Atlantean Temple. This was the same view the Cobolds first saw so many years ago, when they visited Pedmontus after the Doustonians cleaned the place up reluctantly. During these days, the Cobolds could not stop staring at the temple, and wondered if they would ever be able to return. As it was, this did not seem like a good prognosis, considering that they were stuck in this stupid cave, with no clue where they were even going. The Cobolds spend many days looking for a way to climb downwards from the tower exterior, but have no such luck and realize that they will have to return to the Cave.

Over their time, the Cobolds start to develop this skill of detecting certain noises and smells to know where they were in the caves. Plus, the Cobods also developed a sense of kinesthetic, and could better feel their way around the caves, and therefore were getting a better idea of where they were going. Now Yusefus feared that this was some preparation for something quite awful. The Cobolds dismissed this as silly, and told Yusefus that they would be back in Hitaria soon enough. Now the Cobolds had not known just how bad things in Hitaria had gotten, and the only gateways between the three regions had been closed off.

After figuring out how to walk through the dark, the Cobolds came across this mystery opening that lead to a region that had a little bit of light. By this time, the Cobolds could read the map a little and deduce that they were closer to Hitaria. After a long time of searching, the Cobolds found lighter lands, and could eventually find the exit on the map out of these caves and closer to Hitaria. Then the Cobolds found the exit and were quite overwhelmed about just how bright this light was. It took a bit of time to get used to the brightness of the light, after spending to long in pitch darkness. Once their sight came back, the Cobolds travelled to an Oasis, which was the same Oasis that the Cobolds back in Londinium resided at after their humiliation.

The Flashbacks

On the Tuesday before the Fourth of July, Salvatore invited Milo and another friend on a hike. This hike lasted six hours, which ended up exhausting Milo. What happened was Salvatore pretended to have gotten them lost, but just wanted to keep going. By the last two hours of the hike, Milo was utterly annoyed. This was a day when the mosquitoe's were acting up. That night, Lydia came home from visiting Chelsea in North Carolina. Chelsea was also due to come up in a few weeks.

On the day before the Fourth of July, Milo had been still wondering about why there were so many arbitrary powers demanding accountability. Yet Milo was wondering how it was possible for ultimate goodness to exist if there were no accountability. Milo then had this thought go through his head that maybe Big Brother the Fundamentalists worshipped really was the highest of all powers. Milo thought this over, and found he had no infallible answer to disprove such a claim. Yet this annoying thought still kept going through his head. As for the fourth of July, this thought still kept buzzing through Milo's head. If this were true, existence really would be meaningless, or the meaning would just be relative to power. Yet Milo could not imagine anything beyond arbitrary power.

A week after the Fourth of July, Milo was not doing any better at ridding himself from this nagging question. All this nagging did was taunt Milo's uncertainties. Milo then started to see that no matter what answer he had, there was always an alternative possibility. Milo then started to want to find a way to get into the transcendent to disprove these uncertainties, and wanted some indisputable proof that absolute Goodness, Truth and Beauty really were one and absolutely powerful. Still this felt strange, as Milo had always taken it for granted that goodness was absolute.

On Thursday evening, Milo got a call from his job coach about an open house at Whealon College. The next day, Milo arrived at the College student's center, and waited a while for his career advisor to arrive. At the front desk, there was a Pashtun girl Milo had seen before. She had been one or two grades younger than Lydia, and her older sister was in Lydia's graduation class. When the job coach arrived, she took Milo to where they were filling out applications. Milo found out the opportunity was jobs at Whealon's Cafeteria. Milo understood right away that this meant that he could get a job at the school Amira was attending. Milo had been very excited about this prospect. Then Ray told Milo about Aunt Dianne being able to put a good word for him in at the cafeteria. As it really was, the Cafeteria services were an outside service. Milo hoped this had been a sign that the highest power was doing some good for him. That night, Milo saw Home Alone 2 on television. Milo remembered this movie from the summer after Sixth Grade, before seeing Amira at the Khara's.

The next day, Milo went to Lilly's graduation party in New Seneca. That morning, Milo was still a bit out of sorts. Milo had read some e-books on his kindle about Near Death experiences, and the being of light mentioned. This did not do too much for Milo, as mere words had not been doing the trick. Being back at the O'Malleys house reminded him of his first trip to New Seneca, and particularly because Uncle Matts niece was at this graduation party. This niece had been at a birthday party for Alicia around the same time as this first visit. As to whether this was the same time as the first visit and the birthday party, Milo did not really remember. Milo had not been to the O'Malley's since Matt's graduation party five summers ago. As for the party, this had not been so different than the other graduation parties. This had been one of the first graduation parties since Grandpa Tony passed on. Yet Aunt Adrienne's daughter Antonette attended. Milo and Sylvester got into some clashes, as Sylvester got a little snark with Milo. At the party, Milo asked Salvatore if he wanted to go to the Greek Fest the next day. Salvatore gave the excuse that he would rather wait two years for the food to be good again. Milo thought this excuse was pretty stupid.

On Sunday, Milo went to the later mass at St. Timothy's, as Ray and Margaret went to the early mass, and Lydia was back in New Seneca with Lilly. At Church, Milo saw Rob walk in late. During mass, Milo had that nasty thought of the big brother "god" again, and wanted to know how to shake it off. After Church, Milo and Rob went to the Greek Fest. On the way over to the fest, Milo got a text from Sylvester that he and Uncle Leo would be leaving for Drakes Forest the next morning if he wanted to come. Milo started talking about the fall fest that occurred at Northcreek middle in sixth grade. Northcreek is next door to the Greek Orthodox Church that hosts the festival. Then spoke about Amira at the second fall fest he went to. Milo had a serie of flashbacks to that Fall Fest when he had seen Amira in his middle school so many years ago. Rob started asking Milo why he was so interested in Middle Eastern Girls. Rob knew quite well that Milo liked Minu, as he remembered the Jafari's from St. Timothy's. Something about Amira had felt very real to Milo, like she was closer than he could see. After eating some greek dishes, Milo looked at some orthodox books they were selling, and then went into the Church for a tour. Milo had some new interest in Orthodox Christianity, considering that they were more comfortable with mystery and uncertainty, but wanted to know why they had felt so comfortable.

On Monday, Milo went to Drake National Park with Uncle Leo and Sylvester. They left early in the morning, and got breakfast at Perkins. Milo was still being tormented by these thoughts in the morning. Milo remembered visiting this park before starting Seventh and Tenth Grade, which was right before seeing Amira after a long time. On the way up, Milo had seemed to notice something quite mysterious about the nature scenery, considering that he was putting so much effort into suppressing his thoughts. In the morning, Uncle Leo, Milo and Sylvester went on a hike through the woods, which further reminded Milo of his previous trips to Drakes Forest. After hiking, they rented some canoes, and sailed down the creek. On the canoes, Milo started talking with Uncle Leo and Sylvester about their previous trips to Drakes National Park, particularly memories of the trips before seeing Amira. The first time the family went to Drakes forest was shortly before Milo started Seventh Grade and saw Amira at the Funeral Home and the Fall Fest. The Third time the family went to Drakes Forest was after Milo had a flashback to Seventh Grade and before Amira was to start Highschool. After canoeing, Uncle Leo bought some ice cream at the canoe rental station. On the way back, Milo still found this scenery more fascinating, and had hoped to stop in one of these hick towns for dinner. After getting back, Milo still had some nasty thoughts with more uncertainty. Milo was not even sure any of his memories were even real.

On Tuesday, Milo had been listening to a rosary tract to calm his doubts, in order to calm the Monkey Mind. The tracks for the Joyful Mystery the Birth of Christ had the song "Of the Fathers Love Begotten" in the background played exactly how Milo remembered hearing the song the first time. This was a song Milo remembered from the beginning of Amira's freshmen year of highschool. As we remember well, Milo learned the hymn on the last weekend of Summer Break of that year, and was a song he played frequently while his computer was being fixed. During the meditation, Milo wondered if he would ever get past these obnoxious thoughts, and be well enough to see Amira, should he get the job at Sussewago.

That Thursday, the Biancatello's took Samantha out to dinner, as she was home alone due to Uncle Leo, Aunt Jane and Sylvester going to Toronto for a few days. Samantha stayed back, as she found Sylvester annoying, and could not stomach a whole few days with him. That afternoon, Milo watched Home Alone 3 and the original Parent Trap. For dinner, they ate at an Italian restaurant past Phyllisville. That night, the food had not been so good. Milo still had these perturbing thoughts again, and when he got home, tried watching a video on Quantum Mechanics, to get a full understanding of reality. That Friday, Milo tried listening to another rosary, and got pretty far before the thoughts of the big brother god at the pearly gates overwhelmed him again. Milo became quite distraught over this, and felt utterly desperate for any help, not matter what. That next day, Milo started watching Malcolm in the Middle on Netflix, in hopes that this would do something for him. All this really did was remind Milo of his second semester of Fifth Grade, which he had not thought about in a long time, but was having frequent dreams about these days.

The End of Lance's Age

Yuriyama is summoned back to the Oracle and witnesses the following: A Teenager is hanging in his bedroom, only to accidentally come across a haunting Rap/Hiphop song about all the suffering in the world, from poverty to disease, and is haunted for a long period of time. Yuriyama confides what he has seen with Terese and Daxividus. According to Terese, the release of the Timora's was pretty traumatic. Daxividus explained that it seemed like there is no consolation within the Sarkikos realm, or at least very difficult to find. Daxividus explains how the very rational basis sustaining the Sarkikos Community is being questioned, and strongly doubted. Terese explained that this was a good thing too, as those stuck in this community are beginning to want to leave this place. Terese explains that those in the community realized how dangerous possessing the hand of the fate would be, and how this power maybe efficient, but is indifferent to righteousness, and has grave potential to assault the free choice mortals are endowed with.

Otherwise, the time of Lance's departure is at hand. None of the Jinn are overly thrilled about Lance handing power back to Brutus. Maelendil explains that his plan is to let Brutus have his age, which should determine if he is fit for the Senexit position. Maelendil suspects that being under Lance will have taught Brutus some humility.

One Gray morning, Lance departed the office of the Pradexit and departed for his school for training. Lance was seen off by Maelendil, Billius, Merriwhether, Victoria, Dugmateous, Gustavette, Baldred, Platoneous and Mercius. Now the whole community had been quite distraught, but trusted that Maelendil knew what he was doing. Plus, all the Jinns knew well that Lance had not been quite sufficient with his work, and needed significantly more training. Maelendil assigned Mercius to take over while Lance was in training.

The End of the Summer

The week before the Biancatello's went to Cape Cod, Milo was still not able to shake this thought out of his head. Nothing was working, no meditations had sufficed. It was not until Milo went for a walk, and started entertaining the questions about how all the suffering in the world does not conclude that the only god is this malicious entity. After admitting this question, Milo felt oddly at peace. This thought had just disappeared, and he started getting this idea that reality really was greater than his imagination. Yet Milo wanted now to know what this reality really was. The next day, Milo came across some video's about the results of car accidents, and some pretty graphic burns, along with the consequences of smoking. That afternoon, Milo had went to a video store to meet his job coach for some open interviews. While looking at movies, these video's only repeated in Milo's head, as the job coach came an hour later. Milo found out that the open interviews were not starting until Saturday. Then Milo went back to the coaches office, and off to fill out more applications with no success.

Within the last weeks of July, the Biancatello's went on a vacation to Cape Cod. They left early Monday morning and stayed for six days. On the way up, Milo was having a difficulty with tolerating uncertainty, and still reading some books hoping for certainty. The Biancatello's arrived at Cape Cod in the evening for a seafood dinner. On their first full day, the Biancatello's went to a beach. Now the beaches in Cape Cod are not exactly warm, and known to have sharks. For lunch, they got Lobster rolls, which was lobster salad on hot dog buns. When it came to dinner, they ate at an Italian restaurant. That Tuesday, the Biancatello's went Whale Watching. For dinner, they went to an Italian restaurant. On Wednesday, the Biancatello's went to a nature center, walked on the beach and then got dinner at a New England style seafood restaurant with a complementary bowl of clam chowder. On Thursday, the Biancatello's went on a Bus Tour. This tour started off showing remains of the early torture devices the Puritans. The tour also went to little stops, such as light houses, and some beaches. They also stopped at a wooden fortress with some walled tower. The tour's final destination was Provincetown, known for its large gay community. That night when the tour ended, Ray and Milo picked up a pizza from the Barnstable Mall. The last day was a pretty dull train ride. The residents of Cape Cod were not known to be the friendliest of people. However, the seafood is known for being very fresh.

After getting back from Cape Cod, Milo put his name for a dishwashing job at the Whealon College Cafeteria. One weekend later, Ray and Milo went to the Italian Festival at St. Rocco's. When Ray and Milo arrived, mass had ended, and the congregants did a procession of the Virgin Mary, and the procession sang "Hail Holy Queen". The procession was led by the bishop. At the festival, the new reporter Jasmine showed up, along with some girl he had seen at St. Timothy's before. Over that time, those obsessive thoughts started dying down for Milo, much to his relief. Milo started developing some obsessions with Classical and Medieval Philosophy, as he wanted to prove once and for all that "Big Brother" and brute force were not the ground of being, and wanted some trans-rational explanation. At the end of summer, Milo, Salvatore and Gianni went to the Czech festival for dinner. Shortly after, Milo got an interview with Max and Ermas. As many can tell, this job coach was not overly competent.

The End of the Timora's

Over these days, the timora's were losing their power. However, this victory is not exactly a real victory. Unfortunately, the mortals were not having quite the success as they had over the first two attacks of the shadows. In fact, this battle had been quite a struggle on the Sarkikos realm, which was not something that could be solved through intelligence. Now the Warriors in this battle had been a bit disheartened, as they could not handle this darkness on their own, and needed outside help.

After this chaos, Bacchus decided that Appolinius needs to get some time with Chrysippus. Appolinius planned on using this time to get some company and take on studies without being so attached to fleshly things.

During these days, the Aluments summoned another meeting to assist the mortals in this losing battle. The Aluments chose the Charisms of The Anglican Apologist C.S. Lewis, the Near Death Experience Expert Dr. Raymond Moody, and the Theological Philosopher St. Anselm of Canterbury. Alongside, the Charisms of Peter Kreeft, Fr. Robert Barron, Eckhart Tolle and Bishop Puhalo were given more responsibility. Brother Volition explained that the skeletal structure setup by the Charism of the Didache had been collapsed, as a Satyasha offspring had put the flesh on too prematurely. Brother Volition explained that the skeletal structure and the flesh had been too mixed together, and that these Charisms had the task to be very careful to discern what was flesh and what was Skeleton. The Charisms were also tasked to go into the Sarkikos realm, and teach those trapped as much as they could on the Dance.

By this time the Timora's had all been vanquished, and never to be released again. As for the Diploro's, they had been scheduled for one more release at an unknown time. One evening shortly after the containing of the Diploro's, Azeyas is summoned to the Akashic Hall of Prophecies to relay the following vision: A young person travelling to a mysterious college that has a campus in a Neighborhood on the West Side of the city a he lives in. Officially he is going to visit his sister who had been there a week. He knows that Alia from Degrassi attends that school, and had also posed for a picture. However, this boy goes to a campus shop to try and find the real picture for purchase. As soon as the cashier is about to show the pictures, the vision ends.

Azeyas has this idea that this has something to do with one of Maelendil's charges. Maelendil arrives at the summoning, and looks over this orb. Maelendil explains that this abrupt ending means that the time is not near for its fulfillment, and this vision is only the beginning of something much bigger. Azeyas suggests that Maelendil make the vision public. Maelendil is a bit hesitant, as he fears that this may inhibit the charge from fulfilling a role he is assigned to play. Otherwise, Maelendil sees that the vibrant and cheerfull nature of the vision will not stop him.

The last days off and New York City

Over Labor Day weekend, Milo got an interview with the Whelon College. Margaret got the phone, while he was in the pool with Salvatore and Sylvester. Milo spoke with a woman Heidi, who was one of the managers food service providers at Whelon. The interview was scheduled for Sunday Morning. That afternoon at the pool, Milo told Sylvester that he would no longer bug him about Parisa. Salvatore promised that he would, and Sylvester asked him not to. That night, the Biancatello's went to Church, and then they went to a diner like Stacy's. That Sunday, Milo had his interview down at Whelon College. Heidi asked Milo all those same meaningless questions, like why he wanted to work for the Whelon Cafeteria. Now Milo did not tell Heidi the real reason he wanted to work there.

As for the last days off, Milo stil attended the meetings with his Job Coaching service. Over these last days, Milo watched a Recess movie, visited the Co-Op a couple times, ate lunch at a New York style deli, and finished Malcolm in the Middle. For some reason, this month seemed to be utterly timeless, and nothing seemed either to last too long or too short. Before the anniversary of 9/11, Milo got Chinese with Salvatore and Gianni after Church.

The Tuesday before Milo's trip to New York City, he went to confession at St. James, got a milk shake from Arby's and went to his coaching meetings. When Milo arrived, he found out from his job coach that there was an opening at Whelon, and she offered to call the school. Back at home that night, Margaret told Milo that she was proud of him for being willing to do dishwashing. Margaret also explained she thougth this job maybe better than the nursing home, since he was never good with healthcare institutions. Milo believed that working in a cafeteria at a college would be more glamorous, and possibly more fun than that job at some dreary nursing home.

That Friday morning, Milo got a call from Whealon College offering him the job. After the call, Milo went down to Whelon, and picked up the papers for a drug test. The place that the company directed Milo to had been moved, and he had to call Whelon back. Milo was not too thrilled about this, and thought this was totally unprofessional on their part. Whelon directed Milo to an urgicare center closer to his house. After the drug test, Milo picked up dinner at the Co-Op. That night, Milo went to bed early, as he had to get up early for his trip to New York City.

The next day, Milo woke up early, and watched an episode of Malcolm in the middle, where Hal's dad died. Margaret then woke Milo up, despite that he was already awake. Uncle Leo picked Milo and Ray up, and already had Rob in the van. Rob told Milo that he knew Merle from work, and said he would try getting him a job at the factory. Then Uncle Leo drove into Uncle Mike's neighborhood, where there was a couple walking a small terrier. Then they drove out of Ciderpond, and halfway between Ciderpond and Pittsburgh to pick Ben up. Then they drove through Pennsylania.

Milo, Ray, Uncle Mike, Uncle Leo, Ben and Rob left for New York City to see a game with the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants. They arrived in New Jersey and had Taco Bell for lunch. Being at Taco Bell reminded Milo of having gone to this fast food facility a few times when he was in seventh grade. Milo had also remembered there was a Fire station open house, like the one he attended before the party at the Khara's and the 9/11 attacks. The closer they got to New York City, Milo saw the Skyline of Manhattan for the first time. Ben asked Milo if this was his first time in the Big Apple. Milo then told his uncles and cousins about getting the job with Whelon, and starting pretty soon. Exactly how soon, Milo did not know.

By the late afternoon, the guys arrived in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They checked into the Hotel, and waited for an hour, before the bus would come, and drive them into Time Square. During their wait, it started to rain pretty hard, and the bus was late. For some reason, this area reminded Milo of Rockmore Maryland, when he went there for a Vacation while at Mal-Tech on his short summer break. Eventually the bus arrived, and they were taken into Manhattan. They were taken into the Time Square Bus station, and Milo saw all kinds of vendors catering to tourists. Then they walked outside and Milo was quite wowed by the city, as he had never seen so many people in his life. While in Time Square, Milo had the Home lone 2 music stuck in his head, when Kevin entered the Plaza Hotel, and was given directions by Donald Trump. Milo spotted some Hispanic people who looked full blooded Mayan. Milo noticed the standard tourists stops, like the roasted nuts venue, and a Middle Eastern shwarma shop. While they were walking, a New York Firetruck drove through the square for show.

Then they took a Subway over to Ground Zero. This had been Milo's first time on a Subway system, and noticed that the New York City terminals were quite dirty. Milo saw a billboard advertising for a new season of Sesame Street. On one terminal, Rob almost got stuck on a different side, and Uncle Mike had to leave, in order to get him into the subway terminal to Ground Zero. When they got off the subway, they headed over to Ground Zero. Ben asked Milo if he remembers that day. Cryptically, Milo remembered when Violet up the street freaked out with the Khara's guests, and Maziyar's birthday party. Milo saw that as a sign that he would see Amira at his new job. This place had been a very eerie experience, as this was days after the thirteenth anniversary of the attacks. Milo noticed the memorial was quite large, with an overwhelming water fountain with all the names of those who died in the attacks. As it was raining, the Biancatello's decided to visit the Museum. This Museum reminded Milo a lot of the Holocaust museum back in Washington DC, and its utter realism. This museum had been in the basement where the towers once stood. This museum had on display many haunting sites, such as clothing of those who perished in the attacks, Emergency vehicles destroyed by the debris, pictures of those lost in the attacks, memorials to a church destroyed by the debris, and these murals full of pictures made by those who lost loved ones in the attacks. They also showed some videos of when the Twin Towers first opened, and footage from the first attack.

After the Museum, they got dinner at a restaurant in Time Square. This restaurant had been mediocre at best. Milo got a chicken tender sandwich, while Ray got a Pastrami sandwich. Their waitress had been a struggling artist. After dinner, the Biancatello's headed back to North Rutherford, and headed off to bed. That night, Milo had a dream about working on a CADD program drawing the Alpha and Omega symbols for a Pascal Candle. Milo starts to try and draw it on the candle with much curiousity and a mystical sense, for some reason he is unsure of. The next day, Milo, Ray, and the uncles and cousins went to Church, which happened to be the Feast of the Exultation of the Cross. The opening hymn was "Lift High the Cross". The priest explained how this feast was setup to refute the reformed claim of Penal Substitution, and emphasized the cross as a sign of Mercy. During mass, they did adoration of the cross, usually reserved for Good Friday. Then they went to the Football Game. After the game, they headed back home.
Chapter 48: The Cafeteria Job

The Gates of Hitaria and Mining Task

By this time, the Cobolds arrive at the bounds of Hitaria. Before getting into Hitaria, the Cobolds come across this overlook with dark trenches going down quite deep. The only thing the Cobolds see is this bright red light from quite far off. Seeing this red light gave the Cobolds quite a sense of peace and joy. As to what this radiant light is, no Cobold has any idea. Unfortunately, the Cobolds accidentally come across a mining town known as Garnish, which is right on the border of Gallicanium. When the Cobolds enter in the city, they are halted by a guard who asks what business they have in this town. Iohannes explains that they are just trying to return home. The Guard gives quite a laugh about this, and brings them into custody of the Garnish elders. One of the Garnish elders asks the Cobolds if they have anything to do with the Goblins. Now the Cobolds are quite confused about this, which the Garnish Elder easily recognizes. This elder asks where they are originally from. Aerondin explains that they are from Pedmontus, but had been living in Londinium and Atlantica on and off. This elder explains to the Cobolds what had gone on in Gallicanium since they were captured by the Raptors a long time ago. This Garnish elder explains the story of the Londinians inability to clear the mountains from the cursed overgrowth between Atlantica and Londinium. This Garnishian explains that there is a Ruby statue of a Lion that keeps the mountain safe from toxic invasions. However, this ruby lion had been stolen by these goblin offsprings living in the mines of the town.

This Elder offers to let the Cobolds pass through Garnish so long as they can retrieve the Ruby Lion in the Goblin Mines. The Elder explains that retrieving this lion will really help Garnish, which had become quite vacant after the Goblins took over. The Cobolds are a bit disappointed about this, as they just wanted to get back to Londinium. The Elder sends the Cobolds off to the mining headquarters for further instruction. The instructor explains that the Goblins are a monstrous creature that relish in slavery and toil. The Goblins are not a creature to be reckoned with, and are capable of committing quite horrid acts of torture on invaders. This instructor explains how the Goblins stole the ruby lion in order to take back the mountains for the Rakshasajinns. Before leaving, the instructor gave them a picture of the Ruby lion to retrieve. The residents of Garnish wished the Cobolds luck, and told them that the fate of Gallicanium rests on them.

The Cobolds headed down to the Mines and began their search for lion. These mines were not actually tunnels like ordinary mines, but were deep trenches. The Cobolds had expected this to be an easy task, and did not realize that this may take a long time. Frankly, the Cobolds just wanted to find the lion and leave these trenches. Now being in trenches had not been a pleasant experience for the Cobolds, as they remembered well their days in the work camp trenches. Not to mention, the trenches were quite huge to begin with. For the first day, the Cobolds were making themselves familiar with the Mines in order to get an idea where to go. This first day, the Cobolds got more comfortable with this place. Otherwise, the Cobolds became quite optimistic about finding the Ruby Lion.

One evening, when the Cobolds had fallen asleep, they were captured by the Goblins, and taken into their territory. When the Cobolds came too, they were interrogated by the Goblins. One Goblin asked the Cobolds what they were doing in their private land. Mardina explained that they got lost, and trying to get out. Another Goblin told Mardina that she is lying, and there are consequences for meddling in the business of Goblins. The Goblins then took the Cobolds captive, and they subjected them to hard labor. The Goblin offsprings had suspected that the Cobolds were up to no business the Goblins approved of. The Goblins sentenced the Cobolds to gather debris and mine for metals to create torture products. Rumor has it that Voris Company bought their torture devices from the Goblins. This gave the Cobolds no time to search for the ruby lion, much to their annoyance. For the Cobolds, this felt like being back at the work camp outside of Igleftios. The Goblins had the Cobolds under constant supervision and all the exits were boarded up, so to prevent escape.

The Beginning of the job

On the Monday after returning from New Jersey, Milo was called by Whealon annoyingly early, confirming that he has been hired. Milo's new boss Heidi explained that he would be working Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday evenings, and Thursday and Fridays on double shifts. Then Milo went down to the campus and signed some papers. The lady who went through the papers knew Aunt Michelle and Aunt Jane, as her daughter had went to St. Timothy's with his cousin. That afternoon, Milo had to go get some work safety shoes, along with some legal errands. Margaret bought Milo a water bottle full of Chocolate covered raisins for getting the job. That night, Grandma Pearl was over for dinner. She mentioned that this place would be better, without all the old people like the Nursing Home. Ray reminded Milo that he was at a college campus, and would be seeing many girls. Then Ray told Milo to make sure he did not stare at the girls. That night, Milo felt a sense of surprise that he could be seeing Amira the next day.

The morning before starting the job, Milo had an interview with a Hotel that Uncle Georgio had his fiftieth birthday party thirteen years ago. Being in the hotel further got Milo thinking that this was some sign of seeing Amira soon. As we remember, this birthday party occurred a month after the Fall Fest where Milo saw Amira for the second time. Milo's job coach showed up before the interviewer arrived. The job coach made sure Milo did not mention getting the job at Whelon. Milo then told the Job coach all about his weekend in New York City. Being at the hotel reminded Milo of his trip, considering that people of different ethnicities worked at the hotel, and he stayed at a hotel in East Rutherford.

That afternoon, Milo was a bit nervous about starting the job. Before the job, Milo left a little early, in hopes of getting confession. Milo knew that Monsignor Warner would be subbing at St. James that week. Unfortunately no priest was at church that afternoon. That evening, Milo started the job at Whelon. When Milo arrived, Heidi just sent Milo off to the dishroom with no instruction, and was trained by someone who just started a day ago. That first day Milo worked, they had a chicken wing bar. When Milo got into the dishroom, he noticed that the workers had been pretty old. This gave Milo an uneasy feeling. Milo had hoped that some college students would be working the dishroom, and hopefully he could get a new social group and possibly see Amira. Otherwise, this first day was a bit annoying, as he ahd no clue where anything went, and had to constantly ask other workers. So far, the workers seemed pretty nice. When going into the dining area, Milo could not help but be a bit envious of the students, and felt a little strange, as he was closer in age to the students than the people he was working. Not to mention, Milo felt like he was more like the students than the co-workers. Yet for some reason, Milo felt like he was categorized with the broad age group known as the working group, while the students were the college age group. Being at this job made Milo feel a bit old, and was not sure he could endure a label foreign, when the college label seemed more him at this point. Not to mention, Milo was working with a lower class people, who did not have the luxuries such as college like he or the students at Whelon had. Otherwise, Milo did not see Amira, but did not expect he would, considering that she was in graduate school. Milo strongly considered taking the offer at the hotel if they got back to him, even if he did have to work holidays.

That Wednesday morning, Milo was woken up at 8am by a phonecall from the food service about a mandatory staff meeting. Milo had to go down in the early afternoon for this meeting, and did not feel anymore comfortable with the job. At this meeting, the head of food services gave a speech about not quitting the job before summer, if they had gotten a new job before, just to get extra pay. Milo found this head to be a weird guy. That evening at work, Milo slightly enjoyed the job slightly more. Milo had the song "Josef Leiber" stuck in his head. Milo felt like he had when he started at Ciderpond High, and the bittersweet adventure into highschool and departure from Middle School. Milo had remembered the hymn from that summer before starting at Ciderpond High. That night, Milo found out that the food services had an assortment of sugary cereals and a milk machine. Milo thought this was a bit silly, considering that it would be easy to have cereal at the dorm rooms. One worker told Milo not to listen to the guy who trained him the night before, as he was only there for a day and acted like he knew everything. Now this worker who trained him the day before had gotten fired from Olive Garden as a dishwasher a few weeks ago. That night, Milo met some other co-workers, who seemed nice enough. Otherwise, Milo found out that he could get a break for 15 minutes, and access to unlimited food. Frankly, Milo did not consider this a perk, considering the food at this company was pretty awful, despite making it look all glamorous.

The Accuser's return

One night, the Jinns and guardians were all woken by the Aluments and summoned to an emergency meeting. Once the Jinns and guardians arrived, this strange figure known as Mortaneous also came in, explaining that they had some bad business. At these words, the Jinns were quite horrified, and wondered what this could mean. Now it had been quite rare for an Alument to call a meeting at this time of night, and even rarer to see Mortaneous in attendance also.

Soon Mother Earth, Father Time, Brother Volition and Sister Wisdom showed up looking quite disheved. At once, the Jinns and Guardians bowed in terror before the Aluments, and feared the news they were to bring. Mother Earth tells the news that the Accuser has returned to earth, and has taken his throne back. Father Time explains how there was a mass breakout, and many Maludico's had been released from the Jinn prison. Brother Volition tells how the Archons Hillectivus, Galtron and Stockholm have sided with the Accuser, and have become very dangerously powerful. Sister Wisdom explains that the Accuser has given Stockholm custody of the Kronos, Galtron custody of the Causemos and Hillectivus custody of the Fate. Sister wisdom called on a Guardian from the Diferic order known as Liam. Sister Wisdom commissioned Liam to keep an eye on Galtron, but to be very careful.

According to the official reports, the Accuser was releasaed from dormancy during the final release of the Timora's. Terese also confirmed some bad news about the Sarkikos realm, which was still ran by Stockholm. Terese explained that more of the cords tying the Sarkikos realm to earth had been destroyed, and a huge sense of despair had been created. Oscar then explained that things would now get worse with Hillectivus, and that she will be creating even stronger tethers, and even try to resurrect the cords of Pirius.

Jamus Testimony

By this time, Jamus had been brought back to Londinium. Now Jamus was not welcomed back with open arms, as many considered him a traitor. Gaxby explained that Jamus had gone through quite a rough time in Gairmsoiled. Now the Cobolds in Londinium had been in pretty low spirits ever since Junous broke the news. Gaxby got Jamus all caught up with the Garonites, cursed overgrowth and the fall of the shelter.

One night, while it is late, Jamus is waken by this strange compulsion to head over to the basement Shelter. Jamus is quite apprehensive and afraid of this, as he knows he abandoned the mission. Yet Jamus knows well that it is not wise to ignore a call to the basement shelter. When Jamus arrives, he hears this voice calling his name. The voice called for Jamus to enter back into the Chamber, like when the bridge fell. The voice asked Jamus where he had been. Jamus had given his testimony of what he had experienced back in Gairmsoiled. He told the story about being on the city council, and being voted out. Jamus had been utterly afraid of being burned by the fire's wrath, but was pleasantly surprised. The Fire told Jamus that he listened to the voice of fear. Jamus explained that he betrayed his comrades for success. The Voice told Jamus that he had already paid for his misdeed, and that he chose to come back. The Voice told Jamus to deliver this message to the people: Worry not about the overgrowth. Cease all efforts, for they are all futile. Keep peace and wait. Jamus asked what to do if they do not listen. The voice told Jamus that the Cobolds fear he has abandoned them. The Voice told Jamus that they have relied too much on might, and doubt the power of right.

After these words, the voice told Jamus to go fourth and announce this message to the Cobolds. After Jamus told the Cobolds what he had heard, they were utterly horrified. They could not believe that the fire would just expect them to just sit by and let this horrible overgrowth just stay. One Garonite asked Jamus what this fire was at asking such a quest. Others rebelled that the fire had turned against them, and joined forces with the enemies. Jamus tells what he had been told, but is met with protest. One Cobold asked how there can be power without might. Jamus explained how he had not been told this piece of information. Jamus admits that he does not understand the message, which is too great for any single mistivant to grasp at.

The Nightmare become Fact

That evening after work, Milo had a thought about Pigs, as he was looking up Harry Potter pictures, and found a creepy picture from the chapter on the Hogs head in the Fifth book. Milo started thinking that pigs were a creepy looking animal, and started thinking back to why this was so. Then Milo remembered reading the Pigman in Eighth Grade when he had the nightmare after the Khara's moved. Milo remembered in the book how there had been a doomsayer in the book John and Lorraine feared, who they saw as the wrath of God. Milo then started to wonder if much of these obsessive thoughts over the summer were because he really feared God. Milo remembered back how scary divinity seemed when the Khara's moved, and everything Milo had hoped the year before was shaken. Milo started to think about how this event had been so strange, and the Khara's moving when they did made no sense at the time.

Milo was thinking about the Ground Zero memorial, and how they displayed remains, which reminded him of the hymn "Now We remain". Milo also remembered how this hymn was sung the Sunday morning in Church after he found out the Khara's would be moving. These memories of the memorial started to haunt Milo even moreso. Seeing the remains of the tragedy made it seem more real. This got Milo more haunted, as he wondered what possible reason a good God would have in allowing something this horrible to happen. Milo knew why the terrorists attacked, as they were fundamentalist nutjobs. But why this should be allowed to happen, this was totally mysterious. Milo started to wonder if his concepts of good and evil had any real meaning in the scope of the vastness of reality. All that could be comprehended was this primordial cavern barely seeable, and so ancient spanning back long ages past.

The next day, Milo had his first double shift. That morning on the way to work, Milo felt very disturbed after his thoughts from the night before. Milo had been for so many years pursuing certainty, and thought that his understanding of good and evil was absolutely right, despite feeling angry when confronted with conflicting alternatives. Yet Milo was not unfamiliar with Paradox. Milo remembered how years back, he understood goodness to show care for others, but over a year ago, had another epiphany where he recognized goodness in not forcing people to be caring. Now Milo wondered if his whole difficulty with the nursing home was his own self righteousness. As it was, Milo could not see any value in his workplace, and always looked down on the kitchen as having perverse values. Milo then started to think his judgments were the problems, and why he had these thoughts over the summer to begin with.

That first full day, Milo met this one obsess bossy co-worker DeAndre. This was the co-worker to show Milo where all the cleaned items went. On a few occasions, DeAndre started showing his true colors when Milo made some rookie mistakes. DeAndre started accusing Milo of making a mistake, and started talking to him like he was disciplining a dog. Milo felt pretty irritated about this, but still vowed not to judge.

During the whole day, Milo started to meet some unfriendly co-workers who did not make him feel welcome at the job. Otherwise, Milo started getting quite sore after being on his feet, and being in the dishroom was unbearably hot. Throughout the day, Milo kept thinking that he was seeing Amira, but it was just black haired girls. In fact one of the girls Milo first mistakened for Amira was Lydia's old friend Barb, only she dyed her hair jet black. Barb did not even recognize Milo, much to his relief. During this day, Milo remembered having dreams about going back to school and being unable to find Amira. Milo feared that he should have listened to his dreams and not taken this job. After his shift was over, which went late, he went back to his car and called his job coach. Milo nearly admitted only taking this job to see a girl. Luckily Milo knew better, and the coach explained that this was not a job most people would be able to do.

That evening, Milo met his grouchy co-worker Beavis, who had been bossing him around since day one. Milo was first introduced to Beavis through the co-worker who was supposed to train him on the first day. This co-worker told Milo how Beavis was a great worker. Beavis started bitching at Milo about rookie mistakes, and treating them like a big deal. Bevis was a disgruntled worker who worked in a factory all day and had this second job dishwashing. Milo was getting frustrated with Bevis taking out his grouchiness on him, that he wanted to slam some items Beavis was supposed to clean back in his direction. What this meant was that dishes still dirty had to go back to Beavis, via a metal slide back to him. Milo cooled himself by thinking that this was just a test not to show judgment, when he had been quite judgmental of this system that expected him to take abuse just for a minimum wage job.

That night when Milo got home, he found out that Salvatore had stopped over to drop off milk. Ray told Milo that he told Salvatore about the job being lousy, and Salvatore saying that jobs are just rough. Salvatore had just gotten a job at making deliveries for a local company after he quit working for an insurance corporation. Salvatore hated sitting in front of a computer doing data entry. Salvatore had considered the job as having to concentrate on pointless information, with the job only being there to make some rich guy richer.

Maelendil's Guilt

Maelendil knew well that this job would be tough for Milo, but he still could not help but feel responsible. Maelendil then confided in Pandora what happened, and how Milo had been tricked into a horrible job. Pandora explained that it is way too early to judge. Otherwise, Maelendil knew well that being in a college campus had been very hard for Milo, and knew that he would rather be with the young and idealistic students rather than these old and pragmatic workers. Pandora explains that Milo believes that the grass is greener on the other side, but he is only seeing matters from the perspective of the students while they are dining at the campus. Pandora then explains that this is one of the keys to restoring the balance between the senexit and the Puerubdi offices. Pandora explains that the charge has noticed this, and has placed his blame elsewhere, first on Mal-Tech, second on Fundamentalism and Conservative politics, and third on Corporations and statist politics.

The First weeks

On Milo's first Saturday of this job, he and Salvatore went to Downtown Essex for the Hispanic festival. This festival had been quite a ripoff, as there were only a few vendors selling Hispanic food. Most of the vendors had been bought out by the insurance corporation Salvatore used to work at, and a local healthcare system. Salvatore considered the insurance people having no business having a venue. That evening was Ray and Margaret's anniversary, and Milo was on his own for dinner. That Sunday night, Milo had to go back to work, which had not been so bad, compared to the double shifts. On Monday, Milo and Ray took a walk down at the lake. Milo told Ray what really happened with the nursing home, and he understood that things were a lot worse with the job rather than just new annoyances. That night, Milo watched the Parent Trap on Netflix.

For the first few weeks, Milo tried to have a positive attitude, but truly hated the job. Milo had wanted to believe that this job was where he was supposed to be, and not mind it, but just could not. That Friday, the co-manager hid the timecards on the dishwashers, as some had been leaving early, and then explained why she did so. What happened was some dishwashers were leaving before the head of the dishwashers checked them out to make sure they were clean enough. This head always found something to whine about. Otherwise, Beavis was still being a jerk, and told Milo that he wanted him to pick up the pace next week. Milo in the worst way wanted to judge this behavior, but was opting to accepting ambiguity. Another Friday later, Milo felt burned out from one shift, and felt completely lost and confused. Milo felt like he had exhausted all his potential, and wondered if this was what his life was going to be. On Sunday, Milo had a rough day with two bossy co-workers, including DeAndre giving him a hard time about easily fixable mistakes that would only take a second to correct. After coming home from work, Margaret saw him walk around the car with his fist in the air. Milo was getting frustrated with being bossed around by his co-workers, and started to hate that they felt the need to act like managers. Milo wanted to understand why these other workers cared if he was passionate about dishwashing. Otherwise, Milo was not seeing Amira anywhere, and started wondering if he should be at this job.

Milo was not finding Ray and Margaret to be too much help. Margaret constantly made comparisons to her job having the same difficulties. This did not give Milo much optimism in getting a real job, and strongly considered self employment. Frankly, Margaret had not understood Milo's difficulties, and Milo had not really understood that even a job like her's is going to include some challenging people. This was after an unsuccessful meeting with his job coach. Milo found out that Whelon had no interest in ever promoting Milo, and wanted to keep him as a dishwasher as long as he stayed. Milo then became annoyed that Lydia had a better job than he had, despite her being younger than him. Plus, Milo had this idea that

Another Friday later, this had been another hard day. Milo was still having the same feelings of exhaustion and pointlessness. Milo had started to wonder what he was even doing at this place, but too afraid to even question this. Milo felt quite similar to his second semester at Sussewago, when he felt like such a fake. Now Milo was feeling like a bigger fake, as he would never support a system that treats workers so horribly. That night, the dishwashers were kept late, as the catering services brought down some plates and glasses they neglected. Milo felt furious about this, as he was quite tired, and just wanted to get home. Frankly, Milo wanted to throw over all the catering plates, and punch the caterers and the managers. Plus, Milo did not appreciate being forced to work longer than he consented to. But Milo ended up suppressing his frustration with some silly affirmations. Milo still believed being able to not pass judgment would mean he could pass the test and therefore get away from this job, and find a new job on the campus. When Milo left and got home, he felt like he was in some cold and alien world. Milo told Ray about what happened, and how unfair it was to make the Dishwashers stay late.

Durnil's Establishment and Lances Training

During this time, Durnil and Oscar had a secret meeting with Alexander over their final efforts to expose the works of Puterma, restrain Pirius from coming back and wake the earthlings up in hopes of going through the purification. Durnil was a bit shocked about how well the introduction to Eight Simple Rules was, and knew well that this was hard for the earthlings to see. Alexander brings up a show similar to Hey Arnold, known as Doug. Durnil found this show to be an odd choice, considering that Alexander typically picks the shows with pretty girls. Alexander explained that this show had some themes that would work pretty well at restraining Pirius, and remind the mortals of what real friendship is all about. Oscar explained how he and the Charism of Eckhart Tolle already shared this news with the mortals. According to the Eckhart Tolle Charism, the mortals had become quite turned in on their own individuality, but it was only as a way to fight the ties Puterma still had. According to Oscar, the influence of Pirius was already returning, and beginning to take a nasty effect. Durnil was pretty irritated over this, as he worked so hard years back to untether the mortals from Pirius. Oscar explains that the only way to permanently undo this is to show the mortals true friendship and true elderhood.

During this time, Lance was in training for a few weeks. Lance's influence had still been lingering all over the earth, and there was still enough influence to last about another year. Lance was given instruction from the Diferic guardian Liam. Liam showed him the world without either a Senexit or a Puerubdi. Liam explained how without the Senexit and Puerubdi working together, the archon Galtron takes over, and things are not very pretty. With this reign of Galtron, Lance had seen on earth that there was a great darkness where the earthlings had been utterly lost. The world displayed itself as one full of meaninglessness, and a sloth that tolerated injustice, with a meaningless catchphrase "Everything is relative to God". Otherwise, this world became relative to who had the most power.

Lance had been utterly disgusted about this, and with good reason. Lance had seen a world where righteousness was all a matter of the preferences of the strongest bullies. Lance asked Liam how anything other than power can make righteousness. Liam asks Lance if he remembers so long ago, when he rescued those poor mistivants from the compound. Lance tried to pretend that he knew nothing of such a sort. Liam explained that all the Jinns knew what he did. Liam asked Lance why he did what he did, when the powers of Londinium said no. Lance explained that he was stronger than the compound owner. Liam asked Lance if he really though he could overpower Hillectivus in her orb. Lance looked a bit sheepish, but explained that he saw how the cobolds were suffering under this unjust rulership, and he did not care what Maelendil or Hillectivus would say about this, and just wanted to see the cobolds free. Liam explained that this is the advantage of the Puerubdi. Liam explained that the Puerubdi doesn't need anyone preaching to tell them about righteousness, but know the beauty of the principles, and the ugliness of evil. Lance still asks how everything is relative to the dance, and still be relative to desirabily. Liam then explains that he still assumes the dance is out there, no different than an Alument or a Jinn.

Milo's Confession

That week, Milo was off for fall break. Milo enjoyed his time off, and was just happy to get away from that horrible job for a few days. On Milo's first Saturday off, he went over to Salvatore's apartment. Milo began to see that Salvatore was turning into a sellout to the corporate systems. Otherwise, Salvatore was not a whole lot better off as a delivery guy. When Milo mentioned anything about the job, Salvatore started spouting off the same stupid slogans like "Someone has to do these jobs", "That's why its called work", and "One has to pay their dues and work bad hours". Milo was a little offended that Salvatore had gone on this path, considering that just over the summer, they were talking about breaking out of the corporate system and starting their own business. Yet this was only the beginning. Otherwise, Milo never liked overused expressions to justify this kind of stupidity.

On Tuesday, Milo met with his Job Coach, who was very unhelpful. Milo considered taking a different job. The Coach had been opposed to the move, and insisted that he stay as a dishwasher. Milo considered something outside the food service industry, and a different position at Whelon. This coach got defensive and she asked Milo why he wanted to stay at Whelon. Milo had no interest in giving the real story. That night, Milo read a new book on the Church Fathers, as he still wanted some form of mind disciplining techniques. Unfortunately the content was nothing more than Fundamental Baptist prohibitions, such as calling dancing a sin, but with an Orthodox façade. On Friday, the Biancatello's and Gandma Pearl went out to dinner at Max and Erma's for Margarets birthday. Milo remembered how he had applied there not too long ago, but did not get this job, but really did not care. On Saturday, Milo and Salvatore saw Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ottavio's wedding video. In the video, Wilma was the cantor. There was one haunting Sufi song known as "All I ask of You" by Gregory Norbert. This song is popular with weddings and Funerals. That night, Milo found some video's of St. James Cathedral with Wilma singing for wedding demo's.

On Sunday Afternoon, Milo watched a football game at Ryan's dads house, which is fairly close to Aunt Michelles. That same day, Milo was starting to question his non-judgment attitude. Otherwise, this football game was a distraction from these disturbing thougths, and it was easy to not be judgmental when Milo was around people who he wanted to be around, doing something enjoyable and not being bossed around.

That evening, Milo had to return to working at Whelon. When Milo returned to work that evening, he had been utterly repulsed. The smells and labor put Milo in this catatonic state that his denial could last not much longer. That first shift back had been pretty miserable. As it was, the students would soon be returning, and they needed to be open just for this occasion. Milo did not even want to eat on his break, and just wanted to get home after his shift. That night, Milo could barely concentrate on this show Ray and Margaret were watching, as he just felt so shell shocked.

The next day, Milo had an early morning shift, which further repulsed him. Milo was asked if he could come in that day to wash pots. Milo agreed, as he always declined when they asked him to come in on his days off. Frankly, Milo hated washing pots more than dishwashing. Plus, Milo got no instructions on doing so. Milo had felt like a patient held against his will in a mental institution. Luckily Milo was out of the facility by 3pm. That afternoon Milo listened to some old Christmas song he learned in his tenth grade year when Amira started Highschool. Milo truly felt bummed out when hearing this song, and how he wished he could see Amira again like he had in 10th grade. Eventually this angst got Milo to admit that he hated this job, and that the smells of the facility were disgusting, the workers were bossy without justification, the management sucked, the work was pointless and that he made a mistake in taking this job. Milo felt a great burden lifted off his shoulder when he no longer suppressed his judgments.

Over that week, Milo decided that he would start applying for some new jobs, and get away from this Dishwashing job. Milo's first idea was to apply for the Co-Op, thinking he would have a better chance at seeing Amira. Milo's second choice was to apply for a job at this janitorial office he applied for back in June. Milo also considered a job at a design firm not too far away that Ray suggested.

One afternoon, Milo got a call from the job coaching agency that they would like him to rate their services. Milo asked what this meant, and they explained how they found him employment, and his services with them were done. This was in complete contradiction with what they promised at first. Milo told Margaret and Ray about this. Milo said that he did not care if he had to find a new job, as long as he was done with this dishwashing. Ray told Milo how he gets mad about any criticism, and brings up what happened with the nursing home recently and even Mal-Tech years back. Otherwise, Ray and Margaret thought Milo may have misunderstood something. Ray called the agency, and spoke with the representatives who told them they had unlimited chances. This representative only told Ray that he sees how his statements may be misunderstood. Ray remembered specifically asking about this, and how this representative outright lied.

Otherwise, these double shifts still were quite a burden for Milo, but he was more honest with himself, and willing to do something about his current circumstances. Milo felt in no holiday spirit over Halloween, despite having remembered seeing a Halloween Special of the recess movie. In fact, Milo had to work on Halloween, much to his annoyance. Over November, Milo was really becoming sick of his co-workers, and their constant bossiness, nagging and blatant disrespect. Milo saw no point in working this job, and felt like he was being forced to hand over his dignity for money. On one occasion, Beavis the whole shift told Milo to hurry up, and another coworker Jefferson said that he needed to pay attention in the most condescending tone. Milo seriously considered just quitting this job with no two week notice, and justified it saying the dishwashers deserved to be short of staff after the way they treated him.

Before Thanksgiving, Milo saw Zaida, his cousin Elaine, and fellow charge Angela at the Co-Op. Angela had been this girl in Milo's gym class back when he was in 11th grade. One Sunday, Milo, Salvatore and Gianni went to Church at Holy Family parish, which was where the deacon was ordained at years back. At church, Milo saw some teachers who worked at Ciderpond, who made some announcements over a clothing drive for the upcoming winter.

Around this same time, while working at the Cafeteria, Milo came across fellow charge Parvati Kapoor. This girl looked like 8 simple rules actress Kaley Cuoco, only this girl had a darker skin tone and black hair. Parvati was a freshman at Whelon, and frequently ate in the cafeteria. Luckily, Thanksgiving was near, and it was soon time for another break. Overall, Milo was happier to be not working at the hotel, considering that at least he had breaks with Whelon. Over thanksgiving that year, this had been a full house. This was the rotating year when Corey and Kate came in town with Olivia, Jonathan and Rowan. That night, Milo played some Donkey Kong with Jonathan. Frankly, Jonathan found the game annoyingly hard, as Milo would one day also figure out.

Maelendils report

Maelendil summons Husisha to another meeting to discuss the charges progress and future. Husisha had seen that the charge learned that places geared to entertainment can become just as hellish as necessary institutions man prefers not to have. Maelendil explained Sister Wisdom had sent him a letter of a blue collar worker in need of an assistant, and that the head of the company was part of the Assembly of God congregation. According to Husisha, this could show the charge that joy, excitement and belonging can even be found in the most seemingly domesticated of places. Husisha also explained that old prejudices can die, but also warned that this may not be a permanent solution.

The Christmas Season

After thanksgiving, Milo, Ray and Margaret met with this job coach and the representatives over closing his case with their company. Ray and Milo had been highly disappointed with this place, but had nothing prepared to say. Margaret was the one to really voice her disgust. Margaret first asked what the point of having Milo do assessment work in doing cleaning jobs and putting labels on packages. The representative got into technical mumbo jumbo. Margaret then angrily told the job coach and the representative that dishwashing is not meaningful employment, and that Milo could have gotten this job on his own. Margaret mentions the time Milo walked around the car after work, and exadderated to say this happened every day. Margaret then mentions that Milo hates this job. Margaret then tells these two that the co-workers are also unhappy working as dishwashers, and just want to get out, and always tell Milo to hurry up. This had made more sense to Milo, as opposed to the idea that they actually were concerned about his dishwashing loyalty.

Milo had not been happy about working at the Whelon College cafeteria over the Holiday, as he missed out on many of the festivities such as Fried dough at the Filentino's. Actually, Ray and Margaret kept the information, so he would not call off that night. On one occasion, Milo got angry with a manager when she accused him of forgetting some tongs, and she told Milo "When I tell you to do something, you do it". Milo was utterly furious about being talked to this way, and never gave that manager the time of day again. On the way home, Milo remembered how this manager's daughter and her friend got drunk one night, and taped themselves dancing naked. Milo felt like he wished he would have thought that before, and brought that up to critique the managers managing style. Milo then got quite a laugh about thinking of having told this manager "If you parent as well as you manage, I can see why yout daughter showed the whole city of Essex her pussy". Milo would not sink so low, often seen in dirty politics. Milo told Salvatore about what the manager said. Milo never mentioned this to his parents, as he feared they would take this stupid manager's side. Otherwise, Milo never gave this manager the time of day after her language. Milo had suspected her to be passive aggressive, as she one day was following him around, pretending to do managerial duties. This had only been under Beavis' requests, as he did not think Milo was going fast enough.

One evening, Aunt Dianne visited Milo, as she had to work a game that night. One of the workers who she knew was giving Milo a trouble got a warning from Aunt Dianne, asking this guy if he knows about Italians. After this, that dishwasher never bothered him. This was the same dishwasher who got fired from Olive Garden. Otherwise, Milo wanted to take some time off before Christmas, but was discouraged by his job coach. She first asks Milo why he can't engage in Christmas Festivities a week later. Milo found this annoying, like this stupid job was more important than the holiday celebrations. She then asked Milo if he really wants to work. Milo told her that he did, but that he wants to be self employed one day. The job coach just responded "Don't we all?" Milo knew he no longer wanted anything more to do with this job coaching agency, and considered this nothing but a scam that just wants to turn people into doormats. What had annoyed Milo about Christmas break was that this break would not began until later, due to Christmas being on a Thursday that year. If Christmas had been a day earlier, Milo would have been done the week before, and if a day later, this would have been still a full week before Christmas.

Over Christmas Break, Milo got three opportunities with the Co-Op, an Architectural Design Firm and a Janitorial Service. Milo had a Phone Interview with the Co-Op two days after Christmas. Milo did not do so good on the phone interview, as the questions were all very uncommon situational questions. On New Years, Milo and Salvatore went down to Robs house for the falling of the new years bulb in Time Square. Milo then started to see that Salvatore was becoming a sellout when they are talking about the power Corporations have. Salvatore said the only choice is to suck it up. Milo always hated that term, and how it treated true power as a means to endure injustice rather than resist such tyranny.

After New Years, and a few days before returning to Whelon, Milo had an interview with Jay at the Design Firm for an internship. Jay had been fully intent on hiring Milo, but had to get the okay with the Company owner, which would take another month. Milo was a bit nervous, and was not sure he wanted to take the job with the design firm at first. Milo then got a call the next day from the janitorial services. They offered him a position to work at Whelon, which got Milo very excited. He thought that he would be finally released from the dishwashing job, and get to walk in glory into the Whelon campus. Milo started to see the dishwashing job as getting him accustomed to working again, and some attachment to Whelon. One night at Chinese with Salvatore and Gianni, Milo mentioned something about persecution of Gays. Salvatore addresses the concerns that Homosexuality could lead to things like Pedophilia and bestiality. Milo knew that this was just propaganda from that loon Rick Santorum.

Yuriyama and Daxividus vision

Back at the Oracle, Yuriyama and Daxividus were summoned and both saw the same vision. According to Yuriyama's account, there was a cramped house adjacent to a hospital, and a Christmas party was being held in this place. This party lasted for so many days and the addendants started feeling cramped, and wanted to go home. Daxividus saw the same vision, but recognized this as one of those reoccurring Hospital visions.

After Yuriyama relays his vision to Terese, she suggests that there is a fear of death on the Sarkikos realm. According to Terese, the mortals trapped in the Sarkikos community have an interest in leaving, but more out of fear of this place. Terese explains that the mortals are still in a calculating mode, and see that it is not wise to place bets on a Sarkikos realm, due to lacking durability. Daxividus protests that this calculative way is a pretty bad reason. Terese explains that she agrees, but it is still a decent start for now. Terese explains that the distrust for the inherent limitations of the Sarkikos community will pave the way for distrust of the Sarkikos community when it shows its inherent values and principles. Terese explains that once the mortals trapped in the realm will want to leave of their own volition, such matters of investment will be of little importance.

The Last Full Time Month

Milo's final full time month with Whelon college had been pretty miserable. A few weeks after an interview with the Co-Op, he got a message that he would not be getting a second interview. Milo never heard back from the Janitorial Services or the Design Firm. Yet Milo did make friends with some of the workers outside the dishwashers. Frankly, Milo liked the workers in the bakery, food servers and the workers in the small café's. Frankly, these people were much more pleasant, even if some of the workers were not exactly wealthy. Milo is not one to care about social class, and only cared that they showed some decency. When it came to the managers, Milo found these people to be self serving jerks treating employees like numbers, without much interest in the workers welfare.

In late January on a double shift, Ray texted Milo that he had something important to talk to him about. At break, Milo found out that Jay called the Biancatello's. Jay told Ray about how impressed he was with Milo's education at Mal-Tech and Sussewago, along with displaying some rudimentary knowledge of house design. Ray then explained that Jay wanted to schedule an interview for the next week. On Friday morning before leaving for work, Milo called Jay to setup an interview. Milo got the Interview one Wednesday later at 8 am. Milo was a bit nervous about actually starting a career, and feared that he would not like it. Milo had a pretty rough patch working for a company with both the Nursing home and the Whelon Cafeteria. Plus, Milo always feared in the back of his mind that a drafting job would be like Mal-Tech all over again. Not to mention, Milo over-trusted his first experiences, and forgot that beginning anything always feels a bit weird.

Milo had the interview on Wednesday as planned. Milo first met the president of the company Joel, who introduced himself in the parking lot. After they got in, Milo met the door Salesman Alan, who went to elementary school with Uncle Mike. Then Milo was brought back, and met the second manager Gary. Joel asked a few questions, and then got right to the chase that they would like to offer him an internship for a month, and hire him in March, should things work out.

Over the next few days, Milo was given way too many hours with Whelon. Milo had two more double shifts on Thursday and Friday, but still had to work in the morning on Saturday, despite never working this day ordinarily. Over these past days, Milo had a rough stomach ache. Otherwise, Milo was not in a good mood about working so much, as he wanted a few days to mentally prepare for his internship. Otherwise, Milo was still anxious about the internship, as he never had a job that could be a potential career, and have to confront his fears. Plus, Milo knew that he would have to die to his apprehension about working for a boss.

That weekend, Milo was a bit out of sorts. As it was, Lydia was home for the weekend, as this was Ray's birthday. After work on Saturday, they went to dinner at a fancy Italian restaurant owned by some sleazy politician. Now Grandma Pearl also joined them for dinner. On Super Bowl Sunday, Milo worked at night, and was now hours away from starting at this design firm. Milo was still a bit nervous, and wondered if he would be able to do the work, or learn the material. Otherwise, Milo just had some anxiety over starting something new.
Chapter 49: The Drafting Job

The Cobolds Escape

Back in the mines, the Cobolds start to give up on their mission. Having worked for the Goblins had proved to be a trying experience, and the Cobolds were getting fed up with this. The mining for scrap metal had been quite nasty on their skin, and was quite tiring work. The Cobolds had been worked by the goblins from sunrise to sunset. This gave the Cobolds no time to do anything other than sleep and work. Plus, with all the exits being boarded up makes such a pursuit impossible. Over time, the Cobolds got so burned out, and were severely slacking on their duties. When this happened, the Goblins would beat the Cobolds with a metal rod. On one occasion, one cobold had enough, and when the goblin raised the metal rod, he rips it from the goblins hand and whacks the rod at the goblin that his head is knocked right off, in quite a gruesome fashion. After this attack, the Goblins hold a council, which all the other cobold attend. Selwyn being a sneaky cobold discreetly departs the trial, and searches the Goblins private headquarters. Selwyn finds a set of spare keys, and intuits that he should hold onto them. When Selwyn returns, he finds that the head goblin saying to the Cobold that they had provided work and shelter, and this is how the Goblins are repaid. The Goblin explains that the head of the goblin knocked off can be fixed, even though that goblin will never be the same again.

Within the next few weeks, the time for the Offsprings fair had come, where they have an openhouse to advertise whatever nasty devices they are selling. This fair takes place in some remote location away from the prying eyes of the Mistivants. Before the Goblins left, the Cobolds were locked up in cages, so they would not practice any funny business. Little did the Goblins know that Selwyn had the keys.

The day came when the Goblins left, and the escape began once the Cobolds knew for sure all the Goblins departed. Selwyn unlocked his cage and then locked everyone else out. The Cobold who had been on trial asked Selwyn how he found the keys. Selwyn explained that this was thanks to his trial that he was able to sneak out and look. After they got out of the cage, the Cobolds searched the secret corridors of the Goblins, and found many of their torture weapons they left behind. The Cobolds used these torture devices to break those sealed exits, and departed from the Goblins territory.

The Cobolds broke out and found their way out of the territory. Being that the Cobolds had learned to navigate the Darkness, they had no problem with traversing through pitch dark regions. This made the Cobolds greatly appreciate the time in those dark caves between Igleftios and Hitaria. The Cobolds were looking forward to getting out of these minds and returning to Londinium, while Iohannes anticipated seeing Rivkah and Harmony after so long.

To the Cobolds surprise, they found a cave leading to a secret tower out of the mines. This secret tower had a great view of the mines, and this gave them a chance to observe where the Goblins had settlements and where the safe places to travel. The Cobolds plan was just to get out of these mines and never return. By this time, the labor had been so utterly tormenting that they lost all interest in even finding the Ruby Lion. For the Cobolds, they thought finding the Lion in these mines was like looking for a needle in a haystack. While in this tower, the Cobolds got quite a view of the Goblins territory they were held hostage at. One day, while in the tower, the Cobolds heard a familiar scream, which they recognized from a Goblin. This Goblin shouted that their slaves were gone. The Goblin then demanded to know who was in charge of the keys, after he found that the cages were all unlocked. When the Goblin found out, this goblin in charge of the keys was beaten with a metal rod. After a friend of the key holder saw the goblin attacking, the friend started beating this attacking goblin. Then this fight ended up turning to an outright brawl, and many goblins were killed in this fight. Only four goblins remained, and blamed the cobolds departure for their loss in numbers.

Milo's new Job

That night before starting, Milo had some weird dreams. At 7am, Milo was up, and left for his first day. This first day, Milo felt a little strange, and felt a bit out of place. Now Milo was still a little uncomfortable working in the same room as Jay, considering that he had only met him twice for such a short time over his life. Milo still had to go into the Whelon cafeteria after his first day, as Heidi goofed up his schedule with his internship. Luckily she got it right this time around.

On Wednesday, Milo was still having some trouble adjusting. Even when Milo talked about his day, Milo told Ray and Margaret that he got to learn all about doors. Milo still was getting used to the company, but Ray recognized that he was at least able to joke about some of the difficulties of starting a new place.

Milo still worked at the Whelon cafeteria on his days he did not have the internship, but was not thrilled about it. Milo's plan was to finish this school year, and then resign once the summer vacation began. The plan with the Design firm was to make Milo a paid employee once the month was up. When Milo returned to the Whelon cafeteria on Thursday, he found that he had been scheduled for Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday double shifts, while working Sunday evenings.

During break, Milo called Ray about what to do, as there was no way he could be compromising his internship for a dishwashing job. Ray agreed that he should talk to Heidi about this. Milo asked Heidi about this, and she said that this was the permanent schedule. All Heidi did was just keep the same hours, and Milo explained that he could not be working this many hours at the Cafeteria with an internship. Milo explained that he could not work three double shifts a week, as he had an internship. Heidi refused to budge and said that they paid for his drug test. Heidi was not one to care much about the workers, and had a very standoffish attitude. Milo was pretty angry about this, and knew his only choices were to demand they cut his hours back, in accommodation with his internship, or he would resign. That night, Margaret and Ray agreed with Milo, as they knew that working this many hours dishwashing would keep him unrested for something so important like the design firm known as Great Lakes Home Design and Building supplies.

By Friday, Milo really was enjoying the job, as he liked his co-workers and his boss. Plus, Milo was treated with respect and enjoyed the work he was doing. They even insisted that the workers leave the office during lunch. Otherwise, Milo did not find working for Jay to be quite the burden he feared, like working for Heidi. Even the co-workers were helpful, and understood that Milo had just started. That weekend, Margaret helped Milo write a letter to Heidi explaining that this internship was too important, and would quit if she did not keep his hours as they were.

When it came to working at this Architectural firm, Milo caught on quickly how poor his education was at Mal-Tech. Much of the construction methods Jay trained Milo on actually made sense to him, in a way that never did with Mal-Tech. As we remember, Milo thought the problem with Mal-Tech was too much engineering. When it came to this design firm, Jay made sure that Milo knew how a house goes together before drawing it. This had been quite different from Mal-Tech, which Milo started to recognize was never about learning the skill, but teaching students to follow directions without thinking. Otherwise, Jay had not been a fan of Mal-Tech, as he attended the school long before Milo was born. Jay had always mentioned that many of the things he was teaching Milo, that he had never heard of at Mal-Tech. Milo started to get some closure with Mal-Tech, and understanding his concerns with his education were completely legitimate. One thing Milo noticed was that Jay was more concerned with Milo learning exactly how a house goes together before drawing one, so that he knows exactly what he was drawing. This made much more sense than the rushed way that Mal-Tech did.

Otherwise, back at Whelon, a co-manager explained to Milo that Heidi had budged. Milo was a bit disappointed, as he really wanted to quit Whelon, and spend time studying architecture. Plus, Milo wanted to spend some time improving on other artistic skills, such as cooking. Otherwise, Milo was still expecting any day to hear back from the Janitorial job, and getting in the gates of Whelon. Now Whelon had not been so bad, as Milo was only there for a short time, and was making some money. Milo saw the Pashtun Girl frequently, whom he saw when he first applied for the job over the summer.

Husisha's Reading

Over this time, Maelendil had seen how well his charge was doing with this new job. Now Maelendil was not too surprised, considering that the Charge had done well with structures like his primary school after Third Grade and his College. Brutus then pushes the stance that this does not change the fact the Charge hated the Cafeteria job, the Nursing Home Job and the Tech School, all because. Then the Alux Brian showed up and Finished the sentence saying the institutions were ran by authoritarian busybodies someone with little self respect would show any loyalty to. Brutus had been mad about being interrupted, and tells Brian that these places had the guts to tell people they were idiots, and to get their priorities straight. Brutus pushed the stance that the boss Jay was an immature idiot who could never make it in a corporation, and has thrived off in some joke shop with no rules. Brian gets mad, and explains that the drafting job is awesome, and work just as hard as anyone else. Brian tells Brutus that he just hates the job because they don't require a dress code, or go butting into matters unrelated to the job. Brutus then storms off.

Husisha summons Maelendil to relay a reading of a scroll. The Scroll that Husisha read was the scroll that recorded the vision of the Pigman, the 9/11 memorial, the Tetragrammatron and the hymn "Now We Remain". Husisha recounts the time that the Khara's moved, and this overall essence of betrayal and uncertainty. Husisha then goes on to explain the harvest that came to pass two years later. Maelendil explains that his charge got a better job, but Husisha explains that this is something greater. According to Husisha, the wounds that Yuriyama had seen reopened will truly be healed, and not merely covered over, but healed in a way that no scar will remain. Husisha then asked Maelendil to notify the charge of this news. Husisha also relays this vision he had of a structure resembling the Ministry of Magic from Harry Potter. Husisha suggests to Maelendil that this vision is made public.

The Ruby Lion

Frankly, the Cobolds had been a bit horrified about what they had seen from the tower, but had been relieved that the Goblins had been greatly reduced in number. Back in the Mine Trenches, the Cobolds had been walking in circles looking for an exit, but had no such luck. By this time, the Cobolds just wanted to get out of these horrible trenches, and wanted to get back to Londinium, mission accomplished or not. Frankly, the mines had been just frustrating. This map had been of no help, due to the other darkness.

One day while wandering, Iohannes found one trench passage, and had a great feeling about this place. Something seemed so utterly familiar to Iohannes. Iohannes looked around the whole trench area, and noticed the overlook had been quite familiar, but he could not figure out where it had come from. Iohannes travelled through this trench and saw this bright red light and began to follow it. After some walking, Iohannes came across a bright and beautiful ruby statue of a lion. Iohannes knew there was something important about this lion, but could not remember. Iohannes took the Lion and brought it to the Cobolds to see if they knew. Yusefus immediately recognized the Ruby Lion as the artifact they were asked to retrieve.

At this moment, Iohannes anticipated seeing Rivkah and Harmony soon. There was still the problem that the Cobolds were stuck in the trenches with no way to get out. For most of this mission, the Cobolds made sure they steered clear of any Goblin territory, should they come across any of the remaining goblins. Now the Cobolds knew quite well that the Goblins would be less than happy to see them, after their escape and dessimation of their population. Iohannes remembered how the bright light and overlook above he thought was so familiar had been the very overlook they saw when they were anticipating their return to Hitaria.

Valentines Day Weekend

Two Saturday's later, Milo, Salvatore, Gianni, Rob and a Filentino family friend Rick got wings at a Ciderpond Renowned restaurant and bar. This bar was actually next door to the art studio Milo and Lydia took lessons at years back, and saw Amira and Roshanak for two sessions. Rick was Milo's second grade teacher Mrs. Sprinter's husband. Milo told Rick all about the internship with the design firm. Rick mentioned that Mrs. Sprinter showed him many of the pictures Milo drew back when he was in second grade. On Saturday night, Margaret gave Milo some candy for Valentines Day.

That Sunday while working, Milo thought of listening to the Rosary he had not listened to since before starting at Whelon. Milo thought this may help calm his still overthinking mind. That night after work and before going to bed, Milo had listened to the same Rosary he had used to calm his mind over the Summer. The meditation gave Milo a sense of nostalgia for the optimism he had before starting a job at Whealon College. Milo heard the "Ave Maria" and "O Sanctissima" played before beginning the meditation, and remembered how he got that call from the job coach about this opportunity at Whelon. Milo only listened to the First Luminous Mystery, which had the hymn "Come to the Water" at the end. Milo had really wished things just worked out with this cafeteria job, and that he had accomplished what he came to accomplish.

On Tuesday night, before Ash Wednesday, Milo had his standard shift, and had been on break. Milo was looking around, and saw how the students seemed so full of potential and optimism. Milo feared that he used his all up, and that he was too old to dwell on silly dreams. Milo remembered how he used up the last of his potential that summer, when he listened to that rosary, hoping to find some completed sense of belonging like he had back in highschool. All the sudden, Milo saw a great potential, and a sense of youthfulness he feared he had long outgrown. Milo got this glorious picture in his head of this beautiful atrium resembling an office, full of beautiful plants, going into some rooms to somewhere he did not know. This picture bore some resemblance to the level in the Harry Potter Lego's years 5-7, in the Ministry of Magic level. This also reminded Milo of a grotto shrine in a church he attended over Christmas Break for the feast of Mary the Mother of God. Milo interpreted this to mean that he would soon be getting offered the job with the janitorial services, and finally get to enter into the walls of the Whelon halls, and finally get to see Amira after so many years.

On Ash Wednesday in Church, there was an announcement in the intercessions that Monsignor Sorbiewski passed away. Fr. Sorbiewski just turned 90, and had been in declining health for the past year. On Friday after working at the Great Lakes firm, the Biancatello's went over to St. Timothy's, as Fr. Sorbiewski was being laid out in this church. The Funeral was to be held the next day. Both Aunt Michelle and Gianni attended, as Gianni had been good friends with Fr. Sorbiewski. That night, Aunt Michelle invited Milo over for Polenta night. Aunt Michelle told Milo about how they sang the Salve Regina, which Milo remembered being sung on his Rosary CD. Now Milo knew that the Rosary was not supposed to be used as a form of intercession, or that somehow a prayer would be answered just because they said the Hail Mary 10 times.

Lance's Shame

Over this time, Brutus takes charge, and sets to work straightening everything perfectly out, and seals up all wiggle room. With Brutus back in power, he is ready to impose order, as he knows the mortals are quite fearful, thanks to the Accuser. As it is, Brutus still has quite some difficulties, due to the establishment of the show Doug. At this point, Brutus puts a ban on any fantasy, including "Once Upon a Time", "House of Anubis", "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Angel". Brutus does allow for wholesome family television, except for "Good Luck Charlie" and "The Simpsons".

By this time, Lance started to see how incompetent he was at being a Puerubdi, and the massive mess he made. On a few occasions, Lance blamed himself for the release of the Timora's. Liam explained that Lance was partially responsible, but this release would have happened whether or not he screwed up so badly. Liam explains that there are many factors that went into the release of the timora's, and this is much bigger than some insignificant lack of judgment. Lance then talks about how Brutus is behaving, and trying to reset order. Lance had heard Brutus pounding away working real hard, like he had a great mess to clean up. Liam explains that Brutus is a melodramatic nutjob, and is still clearly not ready to be a senexit. Liam explains that if Lance was responsible for the release of the Timora's, Brutus will be the one responsible for the release of the Diploro's.

Milo's Openhouse Party Plans

By this time, Milo was beginning to realize the Janitorial services would not be calling back, and he found out they would not need the service until the summer. Milo then decided that it would be pointless to be working at Whelon when Amira would be done with school for the year, and possibly for good. Otherwise, Milo started thinking that he was down on his luck. Not that Milo was totally unlucky, as he was still working at Great Lakes. By this time, Milo got hired as an official employee after Joel came by to see what Milo had learned. Milo got a little nervous at this assessment, but Joel had been very impressed and declared it official. Actually they were planning on hiring Milo all along and just wanted to make a final check that he had the potential to work at this place.

One night, Milo has a dream that he is staying at Aunt Dianne's as a small child. Milo is playing the game "Super Mario Land 2: The Golden Coins". Aunt Dianne comes into the room and shows him a secret level before the Space Level involving flying over the ocean and watching some Dolphins swimming from the sky. Milo saw the dream as meaning some ascent from the bounds of the Cafeteria and into the Campus. That day, Salvatore had some deliveries at Whelon, and Milo joined him. They first stopped at Aunt Dianne's for a delivery, but she had been away from her desk. Then they went over to the science hall, where Milo suspected that Amira had her classes. Frankly, the science hall had not lived up to the expectations Milo had of the picture in his head that night before Ash Wednesday. Not to mention, the hall smelled like the Sussewago science hall he remembered.

A few days later, Milo then remembered how he and Salvatore talked about opening up a food truck the previous summer. This got Milo thinking that he would do an open hosue with his supposed food truck. Milo named his supposed business Pongola's Pizza, as he had just seen 101 Dalmatians, the original cartoon on TV a few days ago. Milo then made a facebook page for this pizza shop, and pamphets advertising his openhouse in the park near Whelon College. These pamplets had some pictures of a dog who looked like Jinny, and a leaning tower of Pizza. Over that week, Milo got Ray's recipe's for meatballs, sauce and pizza bread. Actually the sauce and meatball recipes were originally Grandma Rosa's recipes. Ray had not known why Milo really wanted all these recipes, and was a bit suspicious.

Milo put some Pamphets in front of Cafeteria Menu's. One Thursday before Holy Week break, Milo left his shift on time, but left some of his co-workers hanging. Frankly Milo did not care, as the dishwashers that day took long breaks, leaving him to do most of the work. Milo quickly bounced off, went to his car and took the pamplets. Milo first walked over to the science center, and went over to various seating areas, and placed a few pamplets around. Milo then placed some pamplets in the display carts in the students center. This center is adjacent to the cafeteria. When Milo got back for his final shift of the day, another dishwasher complained to Milo that they were working till 4pm. Milo knew what this was all about, an apologized. While on shift, Milo discreetly placed some pamplets in a rack that holds the menu's for the cafeteria food. In fact, Milo put the Pongola's pamplets right over the Cafeteria Menu's.

Billius and Victoria return

Billius and Victoria requested a private meeting with Durnil, Oscar and Alexander. Billius got right to the chase, and told them how Brutus was going mad with power, and acting in quite a proud and haughty manner. Victoria explained that they needed to go under the radar to expose Brutus, and had just the plan. Victoria then summoned the Charisms of Ron Paul and C.S. Lewis, who got their full endorsements. Durnil asked Victoria exactly what this plan was. Victoria explained that she would like to introduce the earth to the show known as "Breaking Bad". According to the C.S. Lewis Charism, this show will show the very pitfalls of pride, from multiple point of views. The Charism explains how the DEA Agent and the Meth Cooker represent pride from all angles. The Charism explains how the Meth Cooker is the pride of self importance and ambition, while the DEA agent is the pride of moral arrogance and belonging. The Charism of Ron Paul explains that this re-release will show the very disorder and violence the war on Drugs has caused, which will go right under Brutus' nose. Durnil asks the Ron Paul Charism if Brutus does not know how much disorder and chaos the war has already caused. The Charism explains that Brutus chooses to overlook this, and sees order as order, and will assume another cause if disorder occurs on his watch.

Alexander then asked What appeal this show would have, and what this would do for Durnil and Oscar's mission. Billius immediately knows that Alexander doesn't think the females on the show are pretty enough to get any of the viewers attention. Victoria explains that this show represents the very worst of both friendship and Elderhood. The Charism of C.S. Lewis explains how such relationships are built on pride. The Charism tells about how proud relationships always look at the other as an extension of themselves, rather than another person.

Victoria then takes a visit to Terese and Daxividus over some information she has on two her former colleagues known as the Epitynitas. When Victoria arrives, she summons the Satyasha Matriarch Naima over some perturbing news about her offspring Hidari. When everyone arrives, Victoria breaks the news. Victoria explains that Esmetaar has gotten quite some influence in the Sarkikos realm, and pretty tight with Stockholm. Victoria then breaks the news that Hidari had been fraternizing with this town, and promoting ideas of being up to date. Naima explained that Hidari had always placed way too much important on dates and chronological time. How Hidari always thought that dates and chronological age meant more than it really did. When the end of the Mayan calendar reached its day in 2012, Hidari had become so scared that time would change, and he sought to keep the dates and flow of time exactly as he knew it, and hoped that the Sarkikos realm of the Senexit would achieve this.

The thank you letter

In the trenches, a pigeon arrived to the Cobolds, who gave them a letter with no signature. The letter congratulated the Cobolds on finding the Ruby Lion, and explained that their services will be greatly appreciated. The letter then explained that within a few months, the silver dragons will be migrating back to the Hitaria region, and arrangements have been made for the Cobolds to be flown out of the trenches after the Feast of the Flood.

The Cobolds had gotten quite impatient, and wanted to get out of these trenches right away and return to Hitaria. During this time, the Cobolds ceaselessly searched for ways to get out of these trenches, and realized their only quick way was the same way they came. However, the Cobolds did not want to go back through the Goblin territory. On a couple of occasions, the Cobolds came in contact with the shadows of dead goblins known as necrophobes. These shadows had been quite tyrannical, and put the Cobold in quite a state of terror. The Cobolds started having terrifying visions of violent ends to Kebsuda, their own deaths in quite traumatic ways, and graphic memories of some very bloody battles they encountered. Otherwise, the Cobolds started becoming tormented by traumatic memories from the battle with the trolls in the mountains, and had nasty flashbacks to the sightings of rough battles in the desert, such as with the Haggebad Ogre.

One afternoon, which would be around the feast of the Flood, the Cobolds heard this peaceful birds song, and the shadows were cast out of them. This year, the Cobolds decided to hold the festivities in the trenches, as they had no threats from Goblins. Now the feast this year had not been as memorable as the previous feast. Yet the Cobolds had enough know-how to build a fire, and burned up the torture devices they collected upon their strolls through the mines. Now the remaining Goblins had not known about the destruction of their torture devices, and the Cobolds thought it better not to tell them, lest they taunt their major defeat.

Final Preparations

On the Saturday before Palm Sunday, Milo and Salvatore went to the International Night in the Whelon sports arena. Before the event, Milo went to St. James Cathedral for mass, as this is the closest church to Whelon. That afternoon, the cantor was Wilma. As for the international night, this had not been so impressive. Milo did not see anyone familiar who ate in the dining hall during his shifts, Parvati, this Pashtun girl or Amira. Milo did see one of the co-managers delivering some drinks. As for the food, this was pretty disappointing.

Before Holy Week break, Milo found that the pamplets had been removed from the Dining Hall menu rack. Milo placed a note telling them to not remove pamplets. Otherwise, Milo's Pongola's facebook page had only gotten three likes. Milo suspected that students found them in the science hall, as the likes all came from science majors. That Holy Week, Milo went to Church on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. Milo started to anticipate the Triduum, and his memories of the weekend in New York City. On Good Friday, Milo was looking forward to adoration of the cross, as he had last seen the rite in Church before the Football game.

This Holy Saturday, Milo went the the Easter Vigil at St. Timothy's for the first time. Milo had remembered how amazing the experience was the previous year at St. James. This experience with the Easter Vigil had not been this transcendent experience like the previous year at St. James Cathedral. That year, the congregants were not invited to the outdoors lighting of the Easter Fire, as the weather did not permit. Milo had been looking forward to seeing the blessing of the Easter Candle, like the dream he had the night after visiting the 9/11 memorial and before the Football Game. Plus, the deacon chanted "The Light of Christ" incorrectly. Then Fr. Warburton approached the pulpit and sang the Exultet. This had been the first time Milo heard the Exultet at St. Timothys. At mass, the liturgy continued with the same readings at St. James Cathedral. The first reading had been a retelling of the creation of the universe according to Genesis. The Responsorial Psalm was based on Psalm 104, and set to the Owen Alstott setting. Then the Exodus from Egypt was read, and the song of Moses was sang. The final responsorial psalm was Isaiah 12, also based on the Alstott setting. At mass, there had been two keyboardists, with Miriam playing the piano and this older man playing the organ. At St. Timothy's, the organ rennovations had just been completed. Then the mass continued as normal, with the offertory "O Sons and Daughter", the Litany of the Saints and the Communion hymn "Christ be our Light". The ending hymn was "Jesus Christ is Risen Today", like at the Easter Vigil the previous year at St. James.

Two weeks after Easter, Milo took Thursday off from Whelon cafeteria, and shopped for ingredients to make Pizza's for the open house. Milo bought some mozzarella, prosciutto, rolls, sopressata and mortadella for the great open house. Milo and Salvatore planned on having the open house in two Saturday's.

One Monday before the plans to setup, Salvatore was supposed to come over Monday evening to go over the schedule for the open house. The plan was to have a cookout in the park not too far from the Whelon Campus. Unfortunately Salvatore did not show up, without explanation. Milo was pretty annoyed about this, and really wanted this to get done. Salvatore then explained that he would be out of town for a chess tournament Gianni was in, but would be back in time for the open house. Otherwise, Salvatore did no work for this open house.

One Thursday later, Milo got annoyed with Ray, as he had some notices to put up in the student center to announce the upcoming open house. Unfortunately Ray came upstairs when Milo was getting ready to leave, making it hard for him to discreetly hold onto the pamplets. Then Ray decided to drive Milo down, as he got a later start with Ray upstairs when he was trying to discreetly gather the notices. Otherwise, Milo took another Thursday evening shift off, so he could do some more shopping. Unfortunately Milo's car broke down, and he had to call Ray in order to get picked up. Margaret and Ray then wanted to know why Milo was out of work so early, and he explained that he took some time off. Margaret was not too happy with him for taking two Thursday's in a row off. Otherwise, Milo was getting frustrated about Ray and Margaret being around so often. Then Milo found out that Ray had cooked up some meatballs Milo froze for the open house. Milo really got mad about this, but did not want to explain why. Milo then slipped out that the meatballs were for an open house on Saturday. Ray started asking Milo what this was all about. Milo then explained that he was making pizza's for an open house for his potential food truck, and was going to have a cookout with Salvatore. Ray explained that Salvatore did not seem to be contributing anything, and wanted to know the real reason this was so important to Milo. Milo then explained that he took this job at Whelon college to meet people, and none of this happened like he anticipated, and hated being around college students, but not able to have much communication due to always working, while they were having fun. Milo then rants about how he has to be around riff raff in the dishroom while he should be out with the college students. Milo explained that if people like Heidi were not gonna let him make friends on work time, he would have to do something himself, and this was the real reason he setup this open house. Ray called this idea silly, and assumed that he was trying to find a backdoor to meet people through cooking for them. Milo got annoyed with Ray for suggesting that he do a family party to test his food. Milo complained that it was just another family party, and nothing new. Ray said that he would rather cook for his family than some strangers. Frankly, Milo just wanted some belonging, and got this idea that the students at Whelon were a more fun bunch, and living a life that he never got to have. Milo had only seen school being fun for the students, as they were in the dining hall, but never saw how much studying and classes they had.

That night, Milo was still very angry about this. He had felt that God had betrayed him. He recalled how just that previous summer, all the signs were present, that this job was going to let him see Amira. Milo thought about how coincidental all the memories of times when he had seen Amira after a long while just so happen to be present when he was applying for a job to see Amira again. Plus Milo remembered that experience in the Dining hall before Ash Wednesday. Milo had seen the youthfulness of the students, and feared that he was past that youthful spirit. Besides seeing Amira, he also wanted to meet the charge Parvati and this Pashtun girl. Milo knew this Pashtun girl knew Amira, and may have some good to say about his open house. All this, Milo felt was a cruel prank reminding him of what he can never have and missed out on. Milo then accused God of working for Corporate America, and knew he could get Milo to do this garbage job at the cafeteria if he thought he would see Amira.

Simone and Mercius task

In those days, the Maludico Antistete had been working with the Necrojinn Derglin in this task of bringing tidings of ugliness and staleness to the earth. The Sophunum Maronattar had given the two the task of rebeautifying the world. According to Maronattar, Antistete had greatly undervalued beauty, and saw it as a major distraction from righteousness. Plus, Antistete cared only about what was pragmatic, thought the pursuit of splendor was an unnecessary distraction. According to Antistete, Beauty allowed for this flexibility where the division into strict categories of good and evil had been severely undermined. As any Sopunum knows well, such divisions of sacred and profane are a massive desecration that makes only the profanity visible.

Maronattar asked for Simone's opinion on the matter first. According to Simone, many places were profaned because they lacked any concern for any higher aspirations other than getting by and profit and functionality. Simone's complaint was that so many world structures were too utilitarian in nature and had been given no effort or meaning. Mercius reminded Simone what happened last time they worked on a project, and how she and Billius judged Noussonberg unfairly. Simone argued that she only thought this because a charge was in trouble from being in a bad school. Mercius explained that the same thing is happening. Then Platoneous comes with some data that much of the accusations of ugliness are people judging regions different than their own, and had some aversions to cities where their friends and family moved to. Mercius suspected that this maybe the same scenario where people hate those towns only because they see these places as the reason why their friends or family had been taken away from them. Simone interjected that many of the places people move to are not so special, and the only difference is these towns have jobs. Simone rants about how no one would ever think twice about moving to a city like Charlotte, as its all highways and nothing special. Simone explains that places like Orlando has Disney World and Universal, San Diego has nice weather, New York City has landmarks, Nashville has country music, Seattle has mountains and Boston has history. Mercius asks Simone if she is so sure that if people were moving to those towns as frequently as they were to financial hubs, people would think they were so beautiful. Simone insisted they would be fine, as they would at least not be the sellouts, becoming like that abomination Brutus.

Platoneous who knew only that Brutus was a Senexit asked Simone if Brutus is only hated because they see him as the one who cast responsibilities that made the mortals lose their carefree days and be tied down to worry. Mercius protested that such care based burdens take the enchantment out of life. Platoneous tells Mercius she passed the test, and is capable of recognizing possibilities of dislike other than loss. Mercius explains that the mortals are too quick to dislike things, and can too easily look at financial centers as only being financial centers with no more substance. Mercius explained how the mortals will find other things to hate, and will hate any other place that has anything that they taught themselves to hate. Maronattar then explains that they are both right, but will not be able to start the re-beautification process until the mortals find out on their own. Both Simone and Mercius are a bit disappointed about this, but still trust Maronattars judgment. Maronattar explains that he still has to find a new Solum after Baba Yaga had gotten let go of, and had turned into a nasty Framlejinn creating a cult of devotees full of resentful women.

Arrival of the Silver Dragons

Within the last days, the Cobolds were ready to get out of the Trenches, as it was becoming quite hot in this area, and the remaining Goblins were constantly travelling outside their territory. Now the Goblins remaining knew that their torture devices had been destroyed, and for a cause to celebrate a feast they consider a dishonor to their kind.

One starry evening, the silver dragons arrived in the trenches right on time, and took the Cobolds back to the Oasis they started off at. Back at the oasis, the Cobolds found Yuriyama waiting for them. Yuriyama explained that Londinium had become a very different place since they left. Yuriyama explained that Hitaria had been taken over by Gairmsoiled, and the Londinium ministry had fallen. Yuriyama explained that there had been a great emigration of many residents from Londinium into the land of Igleftios. Yuriyama explained that Londinium had become a depressed region, and Gairmsoiled was succeeding. Yuriyama gave the Cobolds the task to rescue the residents of Igleftios, who had been sucked into their society.

Before leaving, the Cobolds return to Garnish in order to return the Ruby Lion to the Garnish Elder. When they arrive in Garnish, the Cobolds are welcomed back with great cheers. The Garnish residents hailed the Cobolds as the Goblin crushers, and how they were now free. The Cobolds then headed over to the Garnish Headquarters to meet with the Elder. When they arrived, the Elder had asked how the mission went, as they looked pretty glum. Iohannes handed over the Ruby lion to the elder, who quickly froze. The Elder then declares that the Cobolds did it. The Elder was thrilled that the Cobolds achieved this task, and promised them they were welcome in Garnish, and could cross any time they wanted. Iohannes glumly explained that they had one more mission to Igleftios. This elder grimly told Iohannes that he was sorry to hear this.

The Early Summer

By this time, Margaret went on a business trip back down to Tampa, in the same resort as the previous year. Two days later, Milo was done with working this job at the Whelon Cafeteria for good. On Milo's last day, he ran into his old friend Charles while on break. Charles rode the bus with Milo along with Lindsey. Before the last shift ended, Heidi hid the dishwashers time cards out of fear tha they would leave early. Heidi did not even say goodbye or wish them well. Milo did not care, as he knew he was free from this job. For dinner, Milo and ray got Chicken wings. This had been the happiest Milo had been after a shift from Dishwashing.

That first weekend off, Milo went to a redneck style zoo past the Essex county. In church that weekend in Church, the opening song was "This is the Feast of Victory". For Mothers Day, Lydia came in town, and they had Grandma Pearl over for dinner. This had been the first time Milo did not have to go to work on Sunday night. On Tuesday, Milo had dinner at Aunt Michelle's. That night, Aunt Michelle mentioned something about Evolution, and Salvatore called this a false theory. Salvatore explained that this teaching was not in the bible, and Milo explains that six days was not literally six days according to Bible language. Salvatore asks Milo how he knows this. Aunt Michelle then explains that there is plenty of evidence from skeletal tests, and pre-humans that walked on four limbs. Salvatore gives this stupid theory that these early humans were maybe hunched over like Grandma Dora was in her later years. Salvatore tells Aunt Michelle in a self righteous tone that he would rather trust the bible on this account. Milo started understanding why Salvatore had gotten into Homophobia a couple months ago. Milo suspected that once it was too dangerous to take these moralistic stances against powerful corporations and corrupt governments, that he would change his moralistic stances to this form of religiousity. Milo was not too thrilled about this, as he did not want any judgmental fundamentalist in his family, or have to listen to such shallow creationist nonsense. Milo knew that the whole account of Adam and Eve was not to tell of scientific truth, but a paradise lost archetype to how man lost their innocence.

A few weeks later, Milo, Gianni and Salvatore went to the Asian festival. The festival took place at a facility on the Seewoulden campus. The festival was pretty disappointing, and Milo did not see Amira. However Milo did see Rokshana and Vashti. Not that Milo really cared about that to begin with. There was a Persian show coming up, but Salvatore wanted to go to Church, which was close to the facility. Milo was pretty annoyed about missing the show, and was not thrilled about the priest. The priest gave a judgmental sermon condemning this family who grew up in a life of robbery.

Billius and Merriwhether and Jebediah return

Maelendil had still been troubled, knowing that he had to open old wounds of his charge, which proved to be more difficult to heal. Maelendil also knew that his Charge had been getting annoyed with his cousin, who was a charge of Jebediah. Maelendil summons a meeting with Jebediah, Billius and Merriwhether, like he had done so many years back. Maelendil explains what had happened. Jebediah explains that his charge in states of stress has loyalty to others based on surface similarities. Merriwhether reminds Maelendil of how he sees so much of the cousin in him, while Billius reminds Maelendil of how much he sees of the charge in him. Merriwhether and Billius explain that both charges Sarkikos had been dominating. Merriwhether tells of the cousins Sarkikos, which when confronting pain, turn into barking dogs trying to fix some problem. Merriwhether goes back to the times when the cousin accidentally injured his brother, and went on this mission to want to destroy all things offensive, and resorted to being a political correctness watchman when he could not eliminate all forms of offensiveness. Over time, the cousin experienced a tyrannical manager at the waterpark he worked at, and got a job at a grocery store in the olive bar, with an obnoxious manager full of store spirit, and a repressive job in data entry, he found that non-offensiveness was no longer so comfortable, and became zealous in his opposition to any form of authority, particularly corporations. When this resistance against corporate powers proved to be risky, and starting a business proved uncomfortable, he got to this point of resorting to a zeal for religious piety, and tries to impose it on others.

Billius explains what happened with the charge. Billius explains that the charge for the first time experienced utter powerlessness at the tech school. The Charges "can do" demeanor was no longer working out so well, and he sought to know exactly the source of this loss of power. The charge first thought the powerlessness came from the secular, and got these ideas that religion had the secrets to self empowerment. When this gave the charge a greater sense of helplessness before a tyrannical deity, he got these ideas that all the problems in the world centered on Fundamentalist religion, and by default conservative politics. Milo did extensive research, and pointed to cases of Fundamentalism being violent in the past, such as the Crusades, Salem Witch Trials, 30 years war and the attacks on the Twin Towers. The charge attributed this to the worship of a punitive deity. When it came to conservative politics, the charge did extensive research to prove that Conservatives had been catering to corporations, religions and 19th century customs, in order to get some sense of empowerment in the workplace and his spiritual and social life. The charge had also done some research to prove that a Liberal alternative was more feasible, and more morally upright. Soon enough, the charge saw the Liberal side imposing an order of unempowerment, and in many forms considered it compassionate to take away peoples rights to make decisions if they considered them not to be competent enough. So the Charge then takes on the stance that Corporations control both the Liberal and Conservative side, and that statism is the probem. The charge now has a politics of non-violence, and sees statist interventions as the problem, such as business regulations, the war on drugs, compulsory education, wars in the Middle East, National security and "for your own good" laws as the problem.

Maelendil starts to understand why the charge and his cousin were so tight just a year ago, when they both hated corporate authorities, but for different reasons. Maelendil then explains that the cousin resorting to this religiousity is a blatant betrayal according to the cousin. The Charge Maelendil explains now sees the cousin as pandering to religion, because they make the claim to be backed up by a strong idol. First Merriwhether gives his prognosis. According to Merriwhether, the cousin will possibly get to a point where even religion will be too uncomfortable for him, and he will resort to a stance on utter preservation, which could possibly entertain the idea that might is right. Billius prognosis of the charge is that he will one day find that rational forms of order are the source of tyranny, and seek to return to an irrational state. Maelendil and Jebediah give hope that both will eventually realize the error of their sarkikos. Jebediah explains that this "Might makes right" pragmatism may eliminate pain, but is going to take enjoyment out of life to the point where existence itself will be experienced as a pain. Maelendil explains that his charge will eventually see that this call for chaos is only sub-rational.

The Middle of the Summer

One morning when Milo, Ryan, Lydia and a coworker of Ryans came back from a camping trip, they passed the Greek Orthodox Church where the Greek festival was held, and Milo had flashbacks from the previous summer. Milo could not help but get nostalgic, and really hoped something would be fulfilled soon. Otherwise, Milo still had not given up on his idea for a food truck, even if Salvatore was uncommitted.

On another occasion, when Salvatore came over to drop off some milk, he asked Milo why he hated Fundamentalism so much. Milo told Salvatore it was because of their intolerance of anyone different than them. Salvatore told Milo that Fundamentalists may not want to be tolerant. Milo knew what this was all about, as he knew the tolerance paradox intolerant people brought up to act like their intolerance was better than that of the tolerant, all because their intolerance was more consistent.

After the Fourth of July, Milo and Rob went to the Greek Festival. When they arrived, they saw Danielle leaving with Ashlyn and Malina. As for the festival, this had not felt as myopic as when he first had the idea a year ago that he would soon see Amira. Frankly, it all felt like nothing but a shadow. Milo forgot that over this time, he had some constant troubling thoughts, and looked at the previous summer in a myopic way. Otherwise, Milo thought a lot about the summer before starting 10th grade, which for some reason reminded him of the previous summer.

In the middle of the Summer, Milo's schedule was changed from working whole days three days a week to working half days five days. Now Milo was really glad that he was out of the cafeteria job, and not working at this place over the summer. At the office, Milo had been moved to the front area to work, as Jay thought Milo knew enough and did not need constant supervision while on the job. As to whether this was the best move could be debatable.

Pandora's Cat Vision and Yuriyama's last orb

Meanwhile, Pandora has this strange vision of a puppy being picked up, and whimpering about leaving his first home. Then the scene changes to the family adopting a kitten and taken home for the first time. This family also owns a black cat. Over the course of time, the black cat becomes disgruntled and writes a song ranting about how the world is so stupid. The Kitten becomes fearful of the world, and writes a song about how the world is so scary. Then the kitten is kidnapped by some creeper who stocks cats and keeps them locked up in his trailer. The owner and the black cat go on a mission to rescue the kitten. The black cat helps his owner find the creepers trailer and rescues the kitten after the creeper catches him. They immediately run away, while the creeper attempts to find them, but safely arrive home.

Back at the Oracle, Yuriyama came across this fearsome vision which started off with some friends riding on the "Small World" ride that started transforming into a hospital. Then one of the riders was teleported to an Airport hospital after someone had been shot. A woman is seen taking a drive out to a neighborhood to break some bad news. One of the passengers flee's and heads off into the country and retreats near a pond.

Meanwhile, back at the Oracle, Yuriyama came across this fearsome vision which started off with some friends riding on the "Small World" ride that started transforming into a hospital. Then one of the riders was teleported to an Airport hospital after someone had been shot. A woman is seen taking a drive out to a neighborhood to break some bad news. One of the passengers flee's and heads off into the country and retreats near a pond.

Yuriyama summons Terese and Daxividus back to the Akashic hall of prophecies to show them the vision. Terese explained that she had known that over these days, the cords between the home community and the Sarkikos community were disappearing. Terese explains that those stuck in the community are now even more unable to run from the terrors that are now besetting this realm, thanks to Stockholm, the Kronos, Esmetaar and Hidari. Soon enough, Pandora shows up, and explains her vision of the Cats, and explains that this is the last straw for any allegiance to the Sarkikos realm. Pandora insists that the community sees this vision, and that it happens immediately. Pandora explains that the only way to return from this point is to confront what had been lost. Pandora explains that many in the Sarkikos realm have chosen to deny loss, and cannot seem to grieve over what they have lost. Instead, those in the Sarkikos Community have chosen the path of anger and resentment over their state of unbelonging.

Around this same time, Maelendil schedules a meeting with Brutus, Lance and Liam over this new plan. Maelendil explained how his charge has had been bogged down from the war, due to a necrojinn known as Derglin who had been casting tidings of staleness on him. Maelendil explained how his charge had some unpleasant flashbacks to his kindergarten years, which he traced back to the time when his Great Grandfather died. Lance explained that the charge never even knew this man. Maelendil explained that this was the first full blown memory the charge had with Derglin, when his essence still remained in the apartment after the mother and Grandmother brought him to search for the will. Maelendil explains this plan he has setup to make sure the charge confronts all the places where the remains of Derglin still reside at. Maelendil grimly explains that this will not be the most ideal ways to see these places.

Around this time, the Annogrammatron Axelrod returned to offer assistance. Axelrod reminded Maelendil that there were three still in debt to his charge, and a fourth had been discovered having fraternized with the parasite offspring. Axelrod explained how the parasite offspring had given this bitter rumorist Erica this task of announcing a curse against the two charges. The parasite then rewarded this bitter rumorist with custody of the fate hubritaiji.

Maelendil had remembered something about this. Maelendil knew that this Erica did not get much attention in school, and sought to get attention through making up stories to the teacher about how some student did this. This rumorist wanted to target Milo after a survey was done by several different students, and it said that these two were most compatible. This rumorist really did not like the charge, but hoped to get his attention through telling him that he and the other girl were too incompatible.

Axelrod explained that this rumorist was still unable to force the charge to fall in love with her, even if she did possess the fate. Now the fate had no power to force one to fall in love, and the charge was somewhat equipped for this monster to begin with. With this, the rumorist was quite bitter, as she was still not able to control the charge, and plotted the curse that would unleash Derglin.

The End of the Summer

During that summer, Milo also went to Soak City, which gave him flashbacks to the summer before Amira started Highschool, when he and Salvatore ditched Matt for being a lousy host. Otherwise, Emma got married later in the summer, shortly before Milo's Birthday. As for the rest of the summer, Salvatore seemed still to be in his Fundamentalist stage. After the wedding, Salvatore was over at the Biancatello's to swim. Salvatore talked about how he did not want to obey Washington's laws, but only wanted to obey the Old Testament torah Laws, which he considered Gods Binding laws. Salvatore first claimed that he would stop eating pork. Now Milo knew enough about the Old Testament and a Rudimentary understanding of primitive Christianity and knew of no spaghetti monster in the sky, but divinity as something transcending being in a non-dual way. Otherwise, Salvatore once gave Milo a hard time about not liking Fundamentalism, assuming that he just wanted to sin. Milo told Salvatore that what Fundamentalists consider wrong is just stupid, such as their opposition to rock and roll. Salvatore claimed that God would not like rock and roll.

The last meeting

During this time, Azeyas had a vision in the water basin starting off in a Muggle Hotel Room hosting a bachelorette party for a witch Bride. Meanwhile, there was a great battle going on between the Order of the Phoenix and Voldemort and his Deatheaters. Then the scene changes to this zoologist going on Safari's, submarine trips and nature treks to all different earth environments.

During these days, Durnil, Oscar and Alexander had a meeting on establishing some new Television shows for another battle against Puterma and Pirius. Over these day's Pirius was getting more influence, as many had wished to connect with others, but felt that the very connection becomes a source of domination for one side.

Durnil's first suggestion was this show "Step By Step", which he remembered resembling the show with the Blended Family. Durnil knew that Brutus would only approve of wholesome family television, and that this show was not one to promote the hookup culture. Not that Durnil disagreed with Brutus assumptions on modern television. But Durnil was not one to assume something was evil just because Brutus thought it was good. Oscar's imput was that this show would be a healthy reminder to bygone days, and a good antidote to that silly Blended family show from the 2000's.

Durnil's second suggestion was the show "Girl Meets World", which is a spinoff of a 90's show "Boy meets world". Oscars second point of imput is that the show would be another good antidote to the webcast show. According to Oscar this was an identical copy, but in a different city. Alexander had some concern that Brutus would not take too well to the show, due to the way school is treated. Oscar explained that he is not going to let Brutus push them around anymore, and knows that this show is a good example of healthy relationships.

Chapter 50: The Final War

Battle Preparations

This is the account of the last days of the great war against the fallen Jinn and the Dark Archons. By this time, Maelendils first plan to confront Derglin had come in full swing. With this confrontation came the unleashing of these monstrous creatures known as black holes. What Maelendil knew well was that Necrojinns have powers quite similar to the Kronos, and anything they touch turns to decay and eventual destruction. Now the Black Holes are shadow-like creatures who are the offspring of the Kronos and the Causemos. It was believed that they originated at this allegiance in order to solidify alliances with Galtron and Stockholm. After this news got out, Pandora appeared to Maelendil in order to relay news of the final release of the Diploro's, and also the final release of the Shadows altogether. Pandora explained that the signs before the release of the Diploro's would occur when the shadow's take on forms of Thanatophobia four times, that this will be a sign that it is time to release the Timora's

Maelendil told this news to Terese, who had not been one bit surprised. Terese had known that more of the cords tethering the Sarkikos community to the Home community were slowly eroding. What Terese did know was that these black holes were giving quite a scare on earth. At this, Terese and Maelendil hatched a plan to round up as many of these creatures as they could, and keep them restrained. Terese explained that they had been quite active in the Sarkikos community, as many have developed a taste for secret knowledge, and using the same tools where they took things apart to put things back together. Terese explained that this was working very poorly, and only creating formless clumps. Terese explained that this is the nothingness that the Black Holes revel in. Maelendil had been quite familiar, and suspected part of this was due to having an incompetent Senexit and a Puerubdi back in training. Pandora then arrived to explain the release of the Diploro's within the year. Pandora explained how this time, the Diploro's have been scheduled to destroy all the remaining cords tethering the Sarkikos community to the home community. Pandora explained that there will be some chords that will not be destroyed, and that she has a set of Jinn to protect these places from being destroyed. Now Terese knows well that the Sarkikos realm cannot sustain itself without some connection to the Home realm.

Platoneous called for a meeting with the Charisms of C.S. Lewis, Amit Goswami, Peter Kreeft, Eckhart Tolle, Bishop Puhalo and Bishop Barron. According to Platoneous latest reports, there had been a new spirit of curiosity, where the mortals are now analyzing the symbols, in hopes of understanding the whole. The Peter Kreeft Charism mentions that they already made this mistake. The Bishop Puhalo charism explained that the symbols only tell of the surface reality, and trying to grasp at the truth through this pursuit of platonic philosophy. The Kreeft Charism defend Platonism, and how the disciplined study of philosophy can reveal ways of knowing that the sciences cannot figure out. The Puhalo charism then protests that these mere intellectual exercises give the mortals ideas that such knowledge is mistakened for truth, and only the study of material sciences can reveal anything slightly true. The Goswami charism explains that this has already come to play. According to the Goswami charism, the mortals had developed a deep interest in esoteric studies, and have gotten this idea that the Orthodox Church, Platonic philosophers and Eastern sages possess a secret language that can unveil the deep secrets ordinary language can barely grasp at. Platoneous interjects that any form of knowledge can become quite dangerous if the symbols are mistakened for the truth. According to platoneous, the symbols, whether from science, scholastic philosophy or Eastern mysticism need to be understood as symbols. Platoneous explains that the sciences understand the concrete, but can only see a great division through the laws of time and Space, and such scientific speculations take down the barriers of space and time will only create a disorganized abomination. Platoneous then explained how the obsession with esoteric philosophies will only create a series of circles searching for some answers to questions of meaning, and going mad living on the wheel of time and lack of presence.

Durnil, Alexander and Oscar have a final meeting to establish the final show before the final release of the Diploro's. The first order of business had been to acknowledge how the shows "Step by Step" and "Girl Meets World" had been hits pretty quickly. The other good news was that Brutus had been utterly oblivious to what was going on. According to the reports, these two shows reminded many under Puterma's curse about authentic and personal relationships they remembered from their days in school, and the whole form of freedom without conditions it took. The Charism of C.S. Lewis called this the beautiful agape love, which loves even if there is nothing to be personally gained. The Charism of C.S. Lewis gave the suggestion of this show known as Revenge, and considered this an excellent Morality Play showing the pitfalls of revenge. Oscar had been a little leary about this, as the show did not exactly have the most ideal family structure. Durnil explained that the Protagonists teach the lesson of the Graysons being the example of a family model of conditions, and cares more about status than belonging. Now Alexander was all too eager, as he knew the character of Amanda Clark played by Emily VanCampe would get the viewers attention. Durnil took notice that the show for being based in America had many Canadian actors.

Meanwhile, Lance was still getting some training with Liam. Lance had been getting pretty ambitious to return to his roles as a Puerubdi, as he had seen how sullen earth had become, and wished to return it to a better state. Plus, Brutus was not exactly doing a good job. Lance had seen that Brutus was quite obsessed with order, and wanted the mortals to be taken away from their foundations. Now Lance had known one of his charges had still been quite obsessed with the students who were attending the college he worked with. Liam explained that the charge had these myopic ideas based on what little he saw. Liam explains that the charge sees the students having this innocence that he does not think he can have, and belongs to an age group that has just outgrown such childish ambitions. Lance explains that the charge is only remembering things from a limited point of view. Lance mentions how the charge only saw the students having fun and eating dinner and lunch in the cafeteria, but does not see that they have to work as hard as he was in the dishroom. Liam explains that the Charge has fallen for an ancient trap to associate primordial innocence in a chronological way. Liam acknowledges that Lance already specializes in this primordial innocence, and that he is what gives the proper balance. Liam explains that the myth of primordial innocence always assumes that there was this past age of paradise that got corrupted when this knowledge of evil reached them. Liam explained how such an assumption created many destructive ideologies on earth. Liam explains that this creates myth's like the noble savage and childhood innocence. Yet people get this envious wish to return to this state, but on the other hand find this so called original state to be patronizing, as such an innocence is seen as grounded in ignorance. When it comes to the Senexit office, Remus explains how the mistake is to assume that all primordial innocence is an illusion. Remus explains how the Senexit specializes in acquired wisdom and applied ethics, which often leads to the assumption that the primordial will and knowledge are non-existant and needs to be taught. Lance snorts Brutus. Liam just gives a little chuckle. Remus then explains how the office of both a Senexit and Puerubdi office keep the balance, and how getting out of balance creates such chaotic and messy confusion.

One afternoon, Daxividus meets with Terese over two reoccurring visions from the Hall of Akashic prophecies. Daxividus confessed to frequently seeing was this vision of a young adult functional as a young adult, who thinks he is still a student. Daxividus explains that this returning student always has missing assignments completely forgotten about and is always looking for a girl, and only has mere glimpses. Terese explains that ideas of school had been viewed in this myopic way, and many still assume that the correct environment is what makes an experience meaningful. Terese explains how many stuck in the sarkikos community are reminded of their home community through their memories of school. Terese explains how in this sarkikos community, their working responsibilities have proved to be irreparable. Terese explained that should those stuck in the community return to their schools in this realm, they would find utter nothingness, and only a constant burden of pointless assignments. Terese then summons Maugris to explain what she knows. Maugris soon arrives, and tells about how she had broken the spells on these systems that bound students and workers before. Maugris then tells that this Sarkikos community does not support such counter-curses.

Daxividus then confides about his second vision of the reoccurring pre-technological sequence full of 80's style technology. Daxividus explains how there is always some form of frustration, and people in the vision seem inconvenienced by having to manually check books, or go over to shops to see their schedules. On another occasion, many have felt burdened by such technologies like typewriters and record players, seeing them as bulky and inconvenient. Terese admits that this is really not a good sign. Daxividus also admits that the vacation visions are becoming more and more bleak as time goes on. In every image of vacation, there is always the same sense of dullness. The Annogrammatron Platoneous shows up to give his two cents. According to Platoneous, Vacation is only a symbol for their home community. Platoneous explains how the vacation spots are a form of otherness, and freedom from such meaningless burdens and emptiness tied to this Sarkikos Community. Platoneous explains that with the cords broken, the mortals stuck in this community have come to see that this otherness is only a façade, and that all the burdens they seek to leave behind far away from home still come back to haunt them. Platoneous also explains that while home had become a symbol for domestication, vacation had become a symbol of unbelonging. Platoneous then explains the whole vision sequence with 80's technology represents the lack of convenient access to useful information is a symbol for the Sarkikos realm, where access to life-giving wisdom is quite inaccessible on that community.

Around this time, Remus spots a hostage under Galtron, who has gotten quite frustrated with his mother about something he told her. This family lives in Savannah Georgia, and their daughter ran off to Charlotte North Carolina. Their daughter is now living with some roommates, which is costing a lot of money for her. The mother suggests that she move in with her new boyfriend. The Father protests this, as he knows well that pre-marital cohabitation is horrible for relationships, and he really likes the boy. The mother asks what she is supposed to do. The son says that his sister should come home. The mother tells the son as much as they would like it, that its not the situation. Now the Son got quite irritated about this, as he had no rebuttal.

Liam called a council with Baldred, Lance, Gustavette, Victoria, Bartemius and Mercius. Liam explained what had happened. Bartemius explained that he had seen this kind of thing before. Bartemius explained that in situations where a solution seems impossible, strength is used not to fix injustice, but to endure injustice. Bartemius ranted about how this is like the Machismo culture, where the highest standard is to take a "Suck it up" approach to injustice. Bartemius explains how the whole purpose of strength is to set things right, not to endure or perpetuate such injustice. Victoria then gives her two cents on what has happened. Victoria explained how many cities in the United States have turned into Financial towns, and growing quite successful at the expense of other cities and towns. Liam gives the news that the Hypocordo Pecunia has headquarters in these places, which includes in the north Pittsburgh, in the South Charlotte, and throughout the USA, random districts within Washington D.C, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and San Francisco. Liam explains how these financial hubs have nothing to appeal to the mortals, except for status and job opportunities. Liam then explains how Siren creates allures to get people into these towns, first offering them special opportunities if they go away for college. According to Liam, all this excessive college stuff is a big scam that just ends up costing money, putting students in debt. Liam explains how with many colleges under Siren's influence, she makes leftist forms of totalitarian look so great, and gives it this façade of compassion. Liam then explains that Siren puts on this illusion that it is more important to have money, and get them living half lives away from their friends and family in some dim apartment just to work for some big shot company. Liam then explained how Siren would be starting this trend where the parents would be moving into these financial cesspools following their kids to these places, further breaking ties.

Victoria then tells of her findings. Victoria explains how these towns have gotten so powerful thanks to her former colleague Conkus. Victoria explains how Conkus has been one to be very competitive. Conkus seeks to take the suffering, hardships and failures from his disciples, and then casts them on others. This ends up creating a system where the success they seek destroys small towns, exploits third world countries, rips friendships and families apart, and takes away the peoples rights. Victoria goes on to explain how most of those jobs these financial cesspools create offer no goods and services and get nothing important accomplished. All they do is create needs no one really wants, and makes themselves the solution. Victoria explains that those financial cesspools are places no one thinks of for vacations, as they prefer places with something significant, like Orlando, San Diego, Denver, Myrtle Beach, Savannah, and the non-financial areas of the cities earlier mentioned.

Baldred admits that this is all the economic systems fault that one should have to cohabitate just to get by. Gustavette asked Baldred if he actually cared about this poor girl. Baldred gives off the answer that he just wants her to be free to make her own choices, and not have to compromise based on her circumstances. Gustavette asks Baldred if has grown to care for this girl. Baldred tells Gustavette that he just wants the girl to be free. Gustavette asks Baldred how he knows that this girl was really being coerced, and did not choose this of her own volition. Baldred then admits that the girl does not know what she really wants. Gustavette then asks Baldred if she needs some guidance. Baldred then explains that if the girl does not know what she wants, neither will other mortals.

The Mission to Igleftios

After spending some time in Garnish, Yuriyama led the Cobolds out of Hitaria, and back to the bounds of Igleftios. The Cobolds had begun their mission in the region of Igleftios, and Yuriyama gave them some orientation. Frankly, the Cobolds were not thrilled to be back in this town, as it brought back nasty memories from their times of disappointment and working in that horrible work camp. Yuriyama took the Cobolds into the nation, and he explained that the pseudo-Londinium had been made into this utopian city fully protected from the darkness of suffering and pain. Yuriyama explained how the city had been off limits after the tonic producing camp was destroyed. The Cobolds then noticed that Londinium was now surrounded by a great wall, and a gate typically left closed. Once the tonic was no longer being produced, the Igleftios authorities needed a new way to keep the residents in ignorant bliss.

Over this time, the Cobolds learned that the region was sustained by many work camps like the ones that they were held captive at, but had produced different products. Frankly, the Cobolds hated being back in Igleftios, but were not swayed by the lies this nation promoted. As for Igleftios, this was a very phony region, and quite boring, no matter where the Cobolds travelled. The Cobolds hated what happened to the residents of Igleftios, and knew people from Hitarian regions were soon emigrating to this place. Many of the Garonites loyal to the Cobolds emigrated to Igleftios, as life had become difficult in Londinium. Unfortunately, the Garonites became quite attached to Igleftios propaganda, and gradually sold out to such lies as enforced by the Igleftios professionals running this nation. The jobs the Londinium immigrants had been doing was working in different work camps in slum towns outside of the Pseudo-Londinium, and doing jobs to keep the residents of Londinium in blissful ignorance.

The work camp wardens had not been thrilled to have the Cobolds in their region, and were still quite bitter over them calling in the great phoenix, the loss of cheap labor and the destruction of the tonic distributers. While the Cobolds had been away, the Igleftios experts had to find new ways to keep the residents happy and in line, now that the tonic was no longer being produced. On a few occasions, the Cobolds tried to communicate with the Londinians working in these work camps. Many explained that this place was their home, and they were doing a vital service. Yusefus asked this one Londinian Dilbert what was so important about this service. Dilbert explained that they were contributing to the bliss that those living in the center of Igleftios were experiencing. Yusefus told Dilbert that he is sacrificing his life just to keep people in ignorant bliss. Dilbert explained that those people in the New Londinium were happy and peaceful, and it would be quite cruel to take this away from them. Yusefus asked Dilbert about his own happiness. Dilbert explained that he had already been exposed to suffering, like all those working in the work camp, and have already been corrupted, so it does not matter if they see more suffering. Dilbert then tells Yusefus that it is clear that he is now corrupted also, and should do something useful and get to work in one of the camps. Yusefus is not sure how to handle this, as he wonders if it would be cruel to take away the ignorant innocence of those residing in the New Londinium.

Now Yusefus tells this story to the rest of the Cobolds, who see this as utterly annoying. The Cobolds groan about how they are supposed to do this task, when the emigrants to Igleftios seem to think they nor the Cobolds have any innocence left. Aerondin interjects that this is just an excuse the emigrants are using to justify selling out to Igleftios. Guenevere gets this theory that the Londinium emigrants have become brainwashed, as Londinium never had endorsed such a utopian system grounded on some so called corruption bounding one to preserve some ignorant innocence.

One Sane bedoin living on the outskirts of Igleftios had told the story of where the source of Igleftios power resides. The Sane Bedoin tells that the Londinians had been brainwashed through the powers of the Sorcerers. The Bedoin then takes the Cobolds to a great tower with this great bright orb that has many shadowlike images of different Londinians they recognized from their residency in the city. This tower is walled off, and is also the location of the Municipal house where the Sorcerers work. In fact, the tower is part of the Municipal house. The Bedoin told stories about many who have become so far gone that should the power source break, they will awake, but be in a great amnesiac state unaware of who they are, or where they came from. These residents have been so sucked into the Igleftios power that they had forgotten who they were. The Cobolds become fearful of such a prospect, but understand that this is the only way to save the people. A few days later, the Cobold Selwyn remembered how the sorcerers exploded when they got angry at that battle in Londinium before the return to Atlantica.

Azeyas Holy Week Vision

Before Holy Week, The Aluments called for a meeting, as they had some assistance in fighting against Galtron. The Jinns and Guardians all arrived at the temple to await the coming of the Aluments. Now this was the first time there had been a visit from the Aluments since the announcement of the Accuser's reign began. Soon enough, Sister Wisdom arrived, and all the Jinns and Guardians all prostrated. Sister Wisdom then summoned the Charism of Woodland Hills Pastor Gregory Boyd. Sister Wisdom explained how this Charism has committed to many efforts to this power under structure as an antidote to the power over structure of Galtron. Many had been utterly shocked by these words, and always thought power was something to be used in a domineering way.

Soon enough, the Charism of Pastor Gregory Boyd showed up, and ready to do battle in the "Jesus Fahion". The Charism told of how Evangelical Christianity had been hijacked by the power over structures, and it was time for change. The Charism of Ray Smith shouted that the Evangelicals need to decide where their loyalties lie or they should stop calling themselves Christians. The Charism of Pastor Boyd gave a laugh, and explained that he was absolutely right. The Charism explains that he has been summoned to join the Trustworthy Devotees, and to win this war against the powers of Galtron, and will make sure that he turns as many in the Evangelical Community as he can. The Charism explains that there are still many trustworthy ones, including Joel Osteen, the Owner of the Charges Company, Katherine Ruonala, Shawn Bolz, Ravi Zaccharias and Jerry Wells.

On the Monday of Holy Week, Azeyas saw a majestic vision of thos trapped in the Sarkikos community suffering under the powers of Stockholm ruling with the Kronos. In the vision, things started getting pretty terrible. Problems once deemed fixable were now shown to be quite unfixable. The earthlings were constantly trying to justify these unfixable curses, and pretended that it would not affect them. Some theorized that these ugly curses only effected the most deplorable, and made justifications. However, other people well liked were getting cursed with these unfixable messes. Many had lamented over what was happening to their friends. After this horrid prospect could no longer be denied, the earthlings called out for help, and a mighty voice gently promised to swallow these curses for good.

Then the scene turned into an Easter Vigil where many gathered outside on the Church grounds like preparing for a secret meeting. The Congregants stood outside the main church doors while the Priests, Deacons and Altar Servers came through side doors and the Easter fire was lit in the dark. Then the congregants processed into the sanctuary where the deacons sang "The Light of Christ". Then the Easter Proclamation was recited and Father Time was sitting on a pedestal on roofing of the Church.

Azeyas immediately brought this news to Terese, as she had been quite uneasy about the upcoming release of the Diploro's. Terese had known well that those trapped in the community still were hoping for a world highly similar to the Sarkikos Community. Azeyas shared what he had seen, and Terese immediately recognized that help from the home realm was coming, and would deliver those trapped in the Community away from this place, and take them back to their home community. Terese summoned Azeyas to make sure this vision is made public to the mortals. Terese then started realizing that after this last release of the Diploro's would start to wake the mortals trapped in the Community to realize that this place is not their home, and need to leave. As to how this would happen, Terese was highly unsure, and a bit frightened.

The Annogrammatrons Ihrvierner the Cosmologist from the Fourth order and Johannes the Contemplative from the Ninth Order showed up as Azeyas had summoned. Now Azeyas explained the vision to Ihrvierner. Ihrvierner explained that he knew about this already, and was tasked by Father Time to assist in a great but dangerous change. Johannes explained that he knew that the peace needed for this change to come about had become quite difficult these days, and especially for those in the Senexit Sarkikos community. Johannes explained how those stuck in the community have become resentful about theire lot of being under the laws of that community. Terese then shows up with some concerns that those trapped in the realm had taken an interest in the occult studies, and seeking dangerous methods to leave. According to Terese, these occult studies have only yielded this one dimensional void of nothingness. Therese explains that the coming of the Final release of the Diploro's should kickstart the peace movement. Yet Therese explains that the only question left is why the Dance allowed the mortals to be bound to authorities with little credibility. Johannes explains that such questions are unanswerable questions, and no satisfying answers. Ihrvierner, who knows this subject well explains that such academic exercizes will only result in the the conclusions that the dance is nothing more than an object of impersonal power.

The Rumcorns visit and Grandpa Clarence

During that Summer, Margarets out of town relative visited, including the Rumcorns, Uncle Doug and Aunt Pam and Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol. The night before the Rumcorns came to visit, Milo had this dream about the Christmas holiday, and prophecizing of a future Christmas being quite glorious. This future Christmas felt the Sorcerers Stone Christmas according to the books.

Over the course of the Rumcorns visit, the Biancatello's hosted them for lunch on Sunday. As for the rest of the time, Milo went to Lunch and the Zoo with the Rumcorns, and that Friday, they all took a day trip to the Cleveland Aquarium. Milo could not help but remember when he first started Mal-Tech, and seeing Amira while doing volunteer work for the Zoo. When it came to Grandpa Clarence and Maple Carol, they came over for dinner one Sunday afternoon. The Biancatello's had not seen Grandpa Clarence since their trip to Disney World after Milo graduated from Highschool. During this dinner, Grandpa Clarence told the Biancatello's more about his life growing up, and his parents. Margaret had not seen much of her Grandparents after Grandpa Clarence left the family. Milo started to suspect that Grandpa Clarence wanted to make amends with his family, as his brother had just passed away, and he was not getting any younger.

As for the summer, Milo got into the St. Timothy's Bocche league. Uncle Mike had been in the league that included Salvatore, but lost two other players. Both Milo and Ray joined the team. This first tournament reminded Milo of playing Bocche at the Neapolitano club at Coreys Bachelor Party. During this time, Milo thought quite extensively about that summer before Amira started Highschool, and focused on nothing else.

The Phoenix Fire and Cobolds Vision Quest

In Londinium, things were not going so well. The Garonites, remaining Londinians and Cobolds had not heeded the sacred fire's advice given by Jamus. The Londinians and Cobolds had seen how the city had been failing, and being under Gairmsoiled had been quite a massive burden. Gairmsoiled had become as tyrannical from Londinium as they were from their base town. To the Cobolds, this was not a whole lot different than being back in Gairmsoiled. Over these days, many Cobolds and Londinians did research on powers beyond Kebsuda in hopes conquering this horrible overgrowth halting any travel back to Atlantis, and were also quite concerned that Arybatas had not returned to rebuilt the headquarters. The Cobolds and Londinians read of a legend that called for the uniting of the Hook, Green Hand and Orange Tentacles would bestow on them powers superior to that of Kebsuda, and could destroy anything getting in their way, and rebuild anything they so chose.

One day, when the Cobolds least expected, the Great Phoenix returned to Londinium. Now the Great Phoenix arrived in the form of a bright golden dragon who emitted a powerful light that revealed a filthy and necrotic peoples full of cursed ambitions. Neither the Cobolds nor the Jinns enjoyed this visit from the Phoenix, and wished that he would just leave. Jamus had been the only one to not look necrotic. The Phoenix flew over the overgrowth, and breathed this bright blue fire so hot that it would immediately consume anything coming in its midst. No Mistivant would go near the fire unless they wanted to be immediately burned up. This fire emitted such a glow still revealed the necrotic stains on the Cobolds and Londinians. Now the Cobolds and Londinians tried to hide from this fire, and could not stand looking at themselves anymore. Nothing in Londinium had any consolation to offer, as every Mistivant they saw besides Jamus had looked like a necrotic mess.

Back in Igleftios, the Cobolds had been quite obsessive on a quest to destroy this orb in the tower. This orb had a piece of each resident's soul, and these cronies could simply control the soul trapped in the orb. By this time, only a few souls were locked in, and the Cobolds had not been bothered about what awaited them if the orb should break. Unfortunately the orb was under constant surveillance by a company of sorcerers similar to the ones who had taken over Londinium and had the defiant Cobolds thrown into a fiery pit, but survived. Selwyn had become quite charismatic, and spoke of these grand plans to antagonize the Sorcerers. Now Selwny reminded the Cobolds about how the Sorcerers exploded when angry, and explained how if they all exploded, their manor would also fall along with the tower holding the orb.

One afternoon, while the Cobold were plotting, the Sane Bedoin stopped in for a visit. This bedoin had seen what the Cobolds were up to, and called them out on this plan. The Bedoin knew well what happened when people mess with dangerous magic, and how their rescue plans could be quite as dangerous on those waking from the trance. Not to mention, the bedoin knew that the Cobolds were resorting to the same bullying the Sorcerers did to them. This bedoin knew well that the Cobolds were on a mission to save Igleftios, not destroy it. The Bedoin had also known well that the people trapped in Igleftios needed to be released through diplomacy rather than brute force. Frankly, the Cobolds just wanted a quick fix and return to Hitaria. The Cobolds were a bit agitated and asked the Bedoin how they were supposed to defeat the orb. This Bedoin knew of a dervish known as Hisham. The Bedoin introduced himself as Dhanram.

One afternoon, the Cobolds departed Igleftios and were taken to a small village oasis, where Hisham resided. Hisham asked Dhanram what his business was, and he explained that these Cobolds need to go on a quest. Hisham agreed to this, and shook Dhanram's hand. Hisham then led the Cobolds through the Desert to some unknown location. On the way, Hisham asked the Cobolds what they desired, and one responded that they want to return back to Hitaria. Then Hisham asked why, and another spoke of his life being perfect, and how they suffered so much in Igleftios and Shemitaria. Then Hisham gave a snicker and took them into the cave. Hisham took the Cobolds to this dark cave outside the city known as the cave of nightmares.

This cave had been quite a disturbing place, full of animal bones and abandoned watches. Hisham instructed the Cobolds to lay on their backs and look at the ceiling. Over the course of three weeks, the Cobolds were exposed to their most horrid memories. The first sight the Cobolds saw was that awful day when the henchmen of Londinium invaded their garden, and took them away from their family, and into this horrible compound. Now many only rememberd this memory through hearing stories, as many were not born yet. The second sight was the Cobolds life within the Compound, and how unfree they had been, and away from their family. Then the Cobolds saw another sight of being tricked by the Governor when new to Beaubelles. Then the Cobolds became most horrified at seeing the days when they became possessed by the shadows, and the judgments the remaining Maludico's convicted them of. The Cobolds also saw themselves as when they had been possessed by the shadows, and nearly gave allegiance to the master of evil. The Cobolds saw how nasty they had been to the Londinians, and the cowardice allegiance they gave to a monster, over disgraceful offers. Then the Cobolds saw the sight of the days they fought against the trolls in the mountains, and remembered the trauma they experienced afterwards. Then the Cobolds saw the invasion and betrayal by the Doustonians. The next site the Cobolds saw was the days when a great earthquake at the hands of monstrous creatures destroyed their headquarters and caused so much carnage. Then there was a sight of the great freeze when the Cobolds were stuck studying. This sight had not bothered the Cobolds as the others had. Then the Cobolds saw the sight when the Bridge connecting them to Lionalem collapsed. This also bothered the Cobolds little, and they wondered why this had to happen. The next sight the Cobolds saw was when they had a clash with some Atlantean residents and worked amongst the shadows. This also had little effect on the Cobolds. Then there was the horrid sight of when the Cobolds came back from Lionalem only to find Londinium taken over by these tyrannical sorcerers. The next traumatic sight was the days when the book "The Efficient Atlantean" had influence over them, and the Great Phoenix sacrificing himself to save them. This really horrified the Cobolds. The next horrific sight was when the Cobolds were taken away by the raptors, and saw Londinium one last time.

After this experience, the Cobolds had been petrified with terror over the horrors they remembered. One Cobolds called all things dead. Hisham knew he had completed his mission, despite the utter terror. For the next few months, the Cobolds were frozen, and took up residency in the oasis village. The Cobolds never left their rentals, out of fear of coming across Hisham. Dhanram was nowhere to be found, but understood well that this was one of many rites of passage to be able to fight the orb with wisdom.

The Final Release of the Shadows

As it came to pass, the black holes appeared on four consecutive occasions within weeks of each other. After the first spottings of the Black Holes, Yuriyama had a vision of a burial taking place in someones front yard where a black hole was spotted, with a creepy hymn sung in jibberish while the body was being lowered. The Second Black hole was seen hanging near a barber shop. The Third Black Hole had been seen in a Church parking lot. The Final Black hole had been spotted in a neighborhood not too far from a school.

After the final sighting, Pandora knew it was time for war, and the Diploro's were slowly released over the course of three days. In the early days, the Diploro's were barely noticed, though there was quite a sense of greyness in the air.

On the seventh day, the Aluments summoned the Jinn and Guardians to summon a Charism to assist in this last battle against the Diploro's. The Aluments Sister Wisdom and Mother Earth showed up. They summoned the Charism of Franciscan priest Fr. Richard Rohr. He had been summoned to join the team of the Trustworthy Devotees, and to join forces with the Charism of Eckhart Tolle. Mother Earth explained that a community had been quite stuck in a foreign realm, but unwilling and quite fearful about leaving.

For the first weeks, the Sarkikos community had been in quite a state of terror after the black holes manifested on the earth so frequently. No one had wanted to go outside, or even run into these monsters to begin with. Due to necessary activities, the earthlings had to leave due to jobs and other errands. When it came to those stuck in the Sarkikos realm, many tried to imagine life outside of the Sarkikos Realm, and became quite fearful after the Diploro's offered their assistance. The Diploro's started giving answers to their questions, but none gave any satisfaction.

From the realm of the Jinn, they saw that the Diploro's had multiplied very quickly and formed a dark grey cloud. Yuriyama remembered seeing something like this before at the hall of Akashic prophecies, in which the earth turned grey and lifeless, with only some sourceless light.

When it came to the war, things were only getting worse. The more answers the mortals sought, the more questions this gave them. This kept going on, to the point where the mortal warriors were fallen and deflated. By this time, the Jinn knew the mortals were utterly helpless, and not even a Jinn or Charism could help. Likewise, the Guardians came to the assistance and brought fourth their intervention. Terese was the first to act, and went down to the Sarkikos realm and walk through some captives into a meditation exercise.

The first victory over the Diploros occurred near the end of the Summertide. One afternoon, at its greatest despair, a set of rings of light showed in the sky resembling layered delby earrings. This was the first battle against the Diploro's that the warriors had lost at, and needed asssistance. After this defeat, the warriors suffered for several weeks in utter shell shock. This was no victory like the battles against the previous battle against the Diploro's, and the second war that required some intervention. According to Terese's reports, those trapped in the realm came to the grim realization that this Sarkikos Community was not their home.

The Cobolds Rest

Back in Londinium, the fire was still blazing over the mountains. During these days, the Cobolds and Londinians still looked quite necrotic. Frankly, this necrotic site had been too much for the Cobolds or Londinians to bear. Otherwise, the Cobolds had been plagued by dark thoughts about the Hook, and the days of ravage when there was that great earthquake. At this, many Cobolds understood the grave errors of their ways in trying to mess with these items. The Londinians knew well of the dangers of messing with the green hand, and the horrors the Naifaspring Sisters had been quite aware of. After some contemplation, the Cobolds and Londinians reassembled a catapult from the Londinium defense league. Their intention was to catapult those dangerous books that they had found information on the powers beyond the bounds of Londinium. According to Jamus, the Cobolds and Londinians needed to renounce allegiance to dark magic and secret powers no different than the sorcerers. When the Cobolds and Londinians gathered at the catapult, all the books full of dark magic were placed on the bucket, and the books were sent off into the fires on the mountains. After this occurred, there was a great light that emitted from the fire, and the Cobolds and Londinians were all knocked backwards. Then the Great Phoenix flew over the land, and sang a song of peace. During this time, the Cobolds and Londinians began to lose parts of their necrotic appearance.

Back in the Desert, the Cobolds were still quite distraught from their vision quest. Remembering all the bad times before this wandering made them wonder if this return was even worth it. Seeing the similarities between their life before being taken away and their life in the desert seemed to be no different. Those memories the Cobolds had seemed to be completely desecrated. To kickstart the healing process, Hisham had a plan to send the Cobolds off to recuperation at this place known as the Oasis of Requirements. Dhanram leads the Cobolds on a quick journey away from Hishams village to their relief, and were happy to be out of that town. The journey to the Oasis of Requirements had been an utterly anxious experience for the Cobolds.

Eventually the Cobolds arrived at a large estate reminding them of an estate in the mountains they remembered at an openhouse back in Hitaria after the Bridge was rediscovered and the fall fest. Being in this place had resurrected one of the few golden memories the Coblds still had of their life in Hitaria. The Cobolds had remembered these days as the time when the Earthquake plight had ended, and got a sight of the Atlantean Temple for the first time. This had reminded the Cobolds of their days in the dark caves outside of Igleftios, when they went up the Staircase and saw the majestic view of the Atlantis Temple. In fact, this had been one of the few happy memories besides escaping Patimesh and arriving in Hamitaria that these Cobolds had. The plan after this rest was to return back to Igleftios.

The Aftermath

Pandora calls for a period of rest from all learning until the mortals recover from this grave trauma. Terese gives the Charisms of Richard Rohr and Eckhart Tolle the task to help those trapped in the Sarkikos community unlearn all the lies they learned from the Diploro's, in regards to beyond this community. Over the course of the weeks, the grey cloud gave way to a dark blue starry night sky of rest. When it came to Brutus, he just disappeared, and was nowhere to be found. Maelendil one day found a letter from Brutus stating: To whom this may concern, I am going to the dwellings of the grey lands where the Shadows dwell. I am going to fight the good fight, and hopefully take down as many Diploro's as I can. I may not make it, but if I die trying, do not remember me as the fool obsessed with order, but as the Senexit who chose the path of bravery in spite of his fears, Sincerely, Brutus. Shortly afterwards, an alux investigating the carnage from the battle returned to Maelendil and found Brutus' hairpiece. At this, Maelendil held a memorial for Brutus at the Odinean temple to commemorate a brave senexit who proved his loyalties in the end.

After the memorial, Terese and Pandora both got talking about something being quite off. Terese had discovered in the Sarkikos Community that those trapped had given allegiance to the Causemos not too long after the Aluments called on the Charisms to straighten the mess that Lance accidentally made. Terese told Pandora about how Brutus had been working ceaselessly to get everything back into some order, after the attack from the Timora's. Now Terese knew the Causemos could also be used to establish order, and had some influence due to the Black Holes sightings, and she knew quite well that Stockholm, the one in charge of the Sarkikos realm had been in possession of the Kronos. Terese also knew well that the Kronos and the Kairos had an unbreakable merge, which meant that allegiance to any single archon or Hubritaiji by default is allegiance to all four.

Pandora on the other hand mentioned that the Shadows can not speak on their own, and can only do so if another is giving messages in the first place. Pandora told of how the Diploro's were telling the mortals how things really were, but had no truth to them. Pandora also explains about the Furors also having some strange abilities on earth, and giving off soothing messages keeping the mortals angry.

When it came to Appolinius, Bacchus and Chrysippus, there was some tension. Chrysippus became overwhelmed and burdened by all the studying that he and Appolinius underwent, and did not find he learned anything substantial. Chrysippus decides that he preferred being with Bacchus, and ditched Appolinius. Now Bacchus was happy to have Chrysippus back, and Chrysippus was relieved to be freed from all these burdens.

That fall, The Charisms on their mission spotted some mortals in the Sarkikos community questing about who was right, the Buddhist who sought extinction from form, the Platonist who sought to be part of the eternal realm of static forms or the Jehovah's Witness who sought to exist on earth exactly as the world was without suffering and death. The Charism of Richard Rohr asked these mortals why only one of the views has to be correct. This questioner asked how they can both be correct. The Charism of Eckhart Tolle asked the questioner if an explanation was going to make something true. One questioner asked if this was something beyond the intellect to grasp at. The Charisms explained that this questioner found the answer. Now this questioner felt this was a bit of a strange answer, but thought this wordless answer was more of an answer than anything from the Diploro's endless words full of rhetoric.

Over the Advent tide, there was one victim of shell shock who had been utterly terrified of life, and retreated to a monastery free from all attachments. Now this victim had been very intelligent, and his conclusions all pointed to destruction being the essence of being. Now this victim sought to detach from all things. On one hand, he knew that preservation only destroys the aliveness of what is preserved, and turns to stale boredom. Yet this victim also knew well that without preservation, the laws of entropy naturally destroy being.

On one occasion, a girl visits the monastery, and this victim begins to fall in love. This victim becomes utterly terrified of his attachment to this girl, and fears living without her, but also fears entering an outside dangerous world, and becoming attached to someone who is going to cease. Then the victim fears that trying to preserve her will domesticate her into a mere shell of what she is now. The Charism of Richard Rohr appears, and the victim asks him what he is to do. The Charism asks the victim why he is in this Monastery. This Victim explains that he needs to detach to get any peace, if the world is in constant flux. The Charism asks if he is really seeking out truth or just running away from his fears. Then the victim explains that he has seen the truth, and destruction is the only possibility. The Charism of Richard Rohr agrees, but asks the Victim why a passing thing cannot be renewed.

The Return to Igleftios

Being back in Igleftios had not been easy for the Cobolds, and a source of great frustration. As it was, the Cobolds knew the dangers of messing with such sorcery, and knew well the folly of holding such myopic views in regarding this perfect past. Yet the Cobolds were still quite clueless about how to even do such diplomacy. According to the Cobolds, those entranced by the tower orb would never listen to reason.

On a couple occasions, the Cobolds tried to make some negotiations with the Londinians living in Igleftios, and working to keep the residents of New Londinium ignorant, and uncorrupted. Iohannes spoke with this Londinian, and tried to empathize with him, asking if this was really what he wanted to do with his life. This Londinian claimed that just because he had been corrupted, that the New Londinians don't need to lose their innocence too. Then this Londinan told Iohannes that he should know his place, and get a real job. Over this time, the Cobolds started to find these Londinians quite hostile to them, and had this self deprecating demeanor. The Cobolds noticed that the Londinian's sense of deprecation gave them this massive self righteousness, and hated the Cobolds for refusing to accept their place.

Over time, the Cobolds started getting frustrated with the Londinians, and started resorting to plans to break the orb, but without antagonizing the sorcerers. After the Cobolds had gone into the cave of nightmares, they had remembered how horrible of an experience being under the judgment of the Compound and Maludico's had really been. Frankly, the Cobolds living in Igleftios had been under the judgment of the Londinians following orders from some stupid orb. The Cobolds started getting this vengeful spirit, and wanted to see the orb break, and considered that the Londinians deserved to go through whatever trauma they would for betraying ties to Londinium, spouting this self deprecating propaganda, putting on a façade of selfless sacrifices and patronizing the Cobolds for not doing the same. Now the Cobolds had no emotional ties to the Londinians who had been taken in by Igleftios.

The Establishment of Perfect Strangers

During these days, the Diploro's curse still had been lingering, and the spirit of despair had still been in the air. When it came to the Sarkikos realm, there were even less cords connecting them to the home realm. Those trapped in the Sarkikos realm had become more prone to the messages from the Furors, and how the world was against them. They heard messages about how this place is not their home, and how they are being kept here against their will. These furors were also telling those trapped in the community that the Sarkikos realm needs to be destroyed. Otherwise, those trapped in the realm started getting into riots.

During these days, the Satyasha offsprings Skeeter and Barush started this club known as "Satyahasas against stupid siblings". These two offsprings hated one of their siblings. Skeeter hated Propetus and Barush hated Hidari. As it was, Skeeter still liked Vulterian and Barush liked Samsara. Skeeter could not stand how Propetus had this tie to irksome duties, usually based on some arbitrary social code. Propetus could easily guilt and shame Vulterian into committing to such arbitrary pursuits, and used stupid buzz words like sacrifice, selflessness and contributions. Skeeter considered Propetus selflessness and sacrifice as a justification to attend to everyone elses business but his own.

When it came to Barush, he was fed up with Hidari always obsessed with change, and forcing him to go with the times. All it seemed like Hidari cared about was what was popular for his current age group, and he always pushed Barush to change. Plus Hidari assumed that Barush was trying to get Samsara on his side, so to promote this extreme individualism. Barush found this to be utterly annoying, and he just wanted to be himself, and did not like rules changing on him every so often, based on arbitrary chronological numbers, or to be expected to find his identity in the environment that he happened to be in.

During this time, Durnil, Oscar and Alexander were working together to find a way to teach the mortals defiance of Pirius, now that he was getting more powerful again. Pirius had been further exploiting this need for connection by creating a compulsion to conform to arbitrary standards, and setting up social groups where the leader had the authority to impose shame sentences on those in the group who did not live up to the standards he set. Then Durnil came up with reintroducing the TV show Perfect Strangers. He knew that this was something so off the wall, and made a mockery of all social expectations. Alexander again thought the characters Maryanne and Jennifer would get the viewers attention, even if the actresses were significantly older these days.

After this establishment, Azeyas had a vision of a woman who got a puzzle, but had some pieces that she could not figure out where they went or how they could even fit in the puzzle. After this, she threw these pieces in her trash bin. Otherwise, this woman was having an easy time putting the puzzle together, and came very near to having it complete. Unfortunately, this woman was still having trouble figuring out how to finish the pieces. Then the woman remembered the pieces of the puzzle she threw in the garbage and retrieved them. After the retrieval, this woman understands where the missing pieces fit in with the rest of the puzzle, and then can put the rest of the puzzle together. Then there is an appearance of the newly married couples from Perfect strangers Larry and Jennifer and Balki and Maryanne.

Azeyas informed Terese about what he had seen, and she had become thrilled about this. Terese secretly explained to Azeyas that he had found one of the few portals left between the Home Realm and the Sarkikos Realm. Azeyas explained that one of the saviors in Maelendils crowd has been looking for a portal for a while now. Azeyas asks Terese about how things are going, now that the Diploro's are gone. Terese had been pretty grim, and explained how there is some invader in the realm sending messages through the Furors, and giving them this pleasurable bitterness still keeping them tied to the community. Azeyas explains that the strange thing about anger is that it gives people a pleasure of being strong and right.

The Londinian Cobolds

Until the Captured Cobolds return with the Ruby Lion, they have no hope in ever repairing the Mountain pathways to Atlantis. Plus, the fire is still blazing strong, and gives no sign that it will soon be dying down. Over this time, the Cobolds and Garonites necrosis was fading away, the more they renounced any allegiance to any kind of dangerous magic, and placed their trust in the Great Phoenix. Otherwise, such trust became quite frustrating for the Cobolds and Garonites, as they did not know when the fire would cease, and not trying to fix this had not always been so easy. Alongside, many Ugyurites had joined the garonites, but still refused to renounce their Ugyurite status. Over this time, the Garonites and Ugyurites came to understand that they were both working in the interests of Londinium, but had different ideas about how to reach this goal.

Now Many Hannitarians began joining the Garonites, and refused to even identify as Hannitarians. Over these days, the Hannitarians became quite worse, and even under Gairmsoiled rule, were still loyal to them, despite their disregard for Londinium. Now the former Hannitarians had become quite sick of Gairmsoiled, and understood how that town did not have their interests at heart, but only wanted to get revenge on Londinium for what happened with the Doustonians, Hypocordo's and Skinnerites. Otherwise, the Gairmsoiled rule was all about serving the elites of the town, and subjecting the masses to slaving away for them. The Hannitarians hated the Ugyurites, and considered them a soft people who cared too much about the ordinary masses, and did not even consider the plight the elite suffer. The Hannitarians considered themselves victims of the Ugyurites, due to an incident when the Ugyurites plotted to criminalize any speech that spoke against Londinium, or offended the masses. Now the Hannitarians considered this their right, and crowned anyone heroes who showed hostility to anyone of the Ugyurite or Garonite orders.

The Kreeft Charism Assistance

When it came to Galtrons Domain, Tyranny was still the rule of law. Galtron along with all his cronies working for him set up a system where only the most ambitious and motivated could succeed. Many were getting quite angry about this, and hated the ambition they saw in others, but feared giving up their own ambitious motivations. On one occasion, one veteran in Politics running for city council to revive his town lost the election. Before the release of the Diploro's, the veteran had a great campaign, but became tormented by the Diploro's in a way none of the candidates suffered. Now this candidate had some weakness that the Diploro's knew how to exploit. Due to the shell shock this veteran suffered, he was unable to put as much time in his campaign. Over the course of the months, the veteran worked hard to make up for lost time, and came up with a great campaign. Unfortunately this veteran lost, and the winner was a real sleazebag taking potential land for enterpreneur development to build a Walmart.

This charism of Peter Kreeft appeared to this veteran who was still bitter and resentful over the defeat. The Charism asked the veteran if he was still angry about the defeat. This veteran did not want to admit, as he did not want to be lectured about being a better loser. The Charism first brought up starving kids in Africa. The Veteran got irritated with having his sufferings patronized, and knew that just because someone had something worse didn't make his misfortune any better. The Charism then suggested that he should have taken the campaign more seriously. The Veteran gets angry about the idea that he deserved the defeat over something out of his hands and that a sleazebag should get the position.

After this charism made more commentary, the veteran just got more angry and hostile to any suggestions. The Charism asked why he was getting hostile, and the veteran responded that the Charism was trying to justify the unjust. The Charism asked the veteran if he really wanted an answer, and the veteran responded that he only needed one. Then the Charism asked why he needed to justify the unjust. The Veteran explained that he did not know why, but that there has to be something greater than mere use of brute power and Arbitrary Limitations. The Charism asked the Veteran if he was interested in seeing this place. The Veteran had been a bit stumped about this, and did not expect such a question.

The Second Rite of Passage

By this time, the Cobolds in Igleftios were getting back in touch with what they hoped to accomplish. Unfortunately, the Cobolds still were feeling highly resentful towards those who chose to give themselves over to the Igleftios authorities. Many considered it their civil duty and a sign of maturity to sacrifice ones childish impulses for the greater good. Yet the Cobolds knew that the greater good meant that The Cobolds started to re-entertain their draconian fantasies about seeing these loyalists have their stuck up sacrfices and obedience being utterly humiliated. These Cobolds knew that this was all to keep the blissful ignorance in Londinium. Plus the Cobolds had no interest in being lectured about sacrifice or selflessness after they suffered for weeks looking at their own darkness, or the sacrifice they made in the Goblins tunnel to find the Ruby Lion.

To the Cobolds horror, they saw that many old friends from Londinium were having their names added to the tower orb. The Cobolds made haste into the Desert to find the Bedoin Dhanram. For a while, they were having no luck, and feared what horrors would be beset on their friends. After a few searches, the Cobolds found Dhanram, and told of the dilemma. One cobold explained that their friend is in trouble, and could be consumed by the Igleftios Orb. Dhanram asked about the other people trapped by the orb. Another Cobold told Dhanram that these others deserve whats coming if they are haughty enough to give loyalty to the sorcerers. Dhanram asked why his friend should be pardoned, but not the others. This Cobold explained that the friend was tricked. Dhanram asked the Cobold who gave him the authority to judge who was tricked and who did so willingly. The Cobold had no answer, and admitted that they just hated what the Londinians now stood for. Dhanram asked the Cobolds why their stances bothered them so much. Selwyn explained that this was an unfair system that has said that anyone who has been exposed to suffering is now corrupted, and deserves to be subjected to toil, so some others can wallow in innocent ignorance. Dhanram admitted that this was highly unfair, and asked Selwyn why he doesn't just break into Londinium and tell the truth. Selwyn admitted that he did not want to be the one responsible for bringing corruption in their world. Dhanram then explained that this setup is quite faulty, and how such a thing is nothing but a scapegoating system where one side is doing all the taking, and the other all the giving. Dhanram explained how being in isolation in this new Londinium is quite a depersonalizing curse. Dhanram explained how he would make a way to break the walls of Londinium down, and reach out to those dwelling in blissful ignorance. Dhanram explained that the Cobolds need to go on another rite of passage, in order to learn the path of compassion.

The first part of the rite was led by the feared Hisham. The Cobolds remembered well the traumatic experience and not thrilled to see him again. This time, Hisham took the Cobolds to a rock carved cave temple on the side of a cliff. This time, the Cobolds were instructed to sit cross legged. Then there was a sight of a sickly woman reciting a play. She told this man that all he was seeing of shadows of things that once were. Then the woman collapsed, and died immediately. The Cobolds did not think the sight in the temple was so bad, but were perturbed about how this woman spoke of shadows of the past before falling to her death.

Then Hisham took the Cobolds on a trek through the desert, which they recognized as leading to the Oasis of Requirements where they had their rest before. Eventually the Cobolds arrived at the Oasis of Requirements only to find a completely different building. The Cobolds had been utterly distraught at this, and asked Hisham what happened. Hisham explained that the structure changes to accommodate those who are in need. One cobold gasped that this place was a home, and Hisham explained that many have made home at the Oasis of Requirements before him, and many in the future shall also do so. Dhanram explained how this is how those in blissful ignorance will feel when confronted with a new experience. Dhanram also explained with the previous vision of the dying woman that those in the New Londinium may feel when learning of death for the first time. Yusefus protested that the New Londinium cannot keep people alive indefinitely. Dhanram explained that it would be better they learn sooner than later.

Durnil's final establishments and the Final Charism

Durnil found that many were still bound to the grey chords of Puterma, and that Pirius was still getting the upper hand. Nothing was changing, and his efforts were quite stuck. Oscar on the other hand was still not willing to give up, and knew that there was some way to get the mortals to break any ties they had to Puterma and Pirius. Durnil asked if lack of communication was part of the problem. Durnil had been making some observations, and noticed that many pupils felt that they could not have any independence from elders, and had felt like mere infants too afraid to hurt anyone's feelings. Durnil also noticed that the elders had felt like they still needed to be responsible for their pupils, and constantly take care of them. According to Oliver, this is all too often the case, where both sides are on the same page, but neither side wants to confront the problem. Oscar explains how such move towards independence can be so difficult, and Puterma is exploiting this quite heavily. Oscar explains how Puterma has imposed this guilt on anyone who so much strives for some independence or freedom from over-responsibility. Durnil then brings up the matter of Pirius, and his findings. Durnil had noticed that so many mortals want friendships with their equals, but seem to be under this impression that this requires some uniformity. Oscar explains that in any friendship, there are going to be sacrifices of some sort, and cannot be completely unconditional. Durnil mentions that in many situations, people can mistaken conditions as the same as severing. Oscar explains that friendship is not built on terms and conditions, but the willingness of both parties. Oscar then mentions how the severing of a friendship occurs when one party breaks ties, such as malevolence, neglect or betrayal, and not through being something different than themselves. Oscar explains how true friendships cannot exist if one side is not true to themselves.

After Alexader showed up, he, Durnil and Oscar began to discuss the new shows to re-release, in order to challenge the power of Puterma and Pirius. They eventually reached a plan where the last two shows released would be a show similar to "Hey Arnold" and "Doug" known as "As Told by Ginger". According to Durnil, this would be a good reminder of the days before Puterma and Pirius, when relationships were meaningful. The next plan of action was to reintroduce the show Charmed after "As Told by Ginger" has run its course. Oscar tells Durnil that the character Phoebe is played by Alyssa Milano, who is one of Maelendil's charges. Now Alexander thinks quite highly of the proposal, and believes that the show will get the earth's attention. Oscar then reveals his final plans to release all the shows established at the end of the age, in order to expose Hillectivus for good.

One day, the Jinns are summoned back to the Enanian temple in order to tell the news of a new Charism. At the temple, Brother Volition arrives and the Jinns all prostrate before him. Brother Volition explains that he has summoned the Charism of Toronto Professor and Jungian Psychologist Jordan Peterson. Soon enough, the Charism arrived, and Brother Volition called fourth the Charisms of Richard Rohr, the Linns, Eckhart Tolle and Jonathan Haidt. Brother Volition explained that this new task was to come up with a way to rescue those stuck in the Sarkikos Realm. After the meeting, Cashmir pulled Maelendil over to the side, who had been with Skeeter, Vulterian, Appolinius, Barush and Bacchus. Cashmir got right to the point and gave his theory that Brutus was alive, and that he had faked his death in order to play the Hero when the Diploro's arrived. Cashmir explains that he had done the research with these Satyasha's.

As it came to pass, Terese and Daxividus met with the Charisms of Jordan Peterson, the Linns, Richard Rohr and Eckhart Tolle. Terese and Daxividus gave the news of what had been going on in the Sarkikos realm. Daxividus told of how the Maludico's had been given free reign in this land, and have been making a lot of trouble. Antistete has been at work destroying the ties that tether the home community from the Sarkikos Community. According to the Charism of Richard Rohr, true righteousness transcends mere duality, and to Antistete, beauty has this power to open the soul to great possibilities beyond the moralisms of the Senexit Sarkikos. Terese then explains how Fylodium has been trying to destroy love, and tying erotic love to being something of disgrace and shame. Yet Fylodium still sees this as a necessity with no other purpose than to keep the human race going. Otherwise, Fylodium sees the only path to freedom from such shame in the form of ignorance and weakness. Yet Fylodium sees no real virtue in weakness to begin with. The Charism of Jordan Peterson referred to Fylodium as a double minded nut. Terese reminded the Charism that Fylodium is a Maludico, and are not quite reasonable. Terese then explained about the influence of the Maludico Draco the highest authority by the one to own the Senexit Sarkikos realm. According to Terese, Draco has setup a system that bounds those in the community to very strict rules and harsh sentences without any hope of pardon. Daxidus explains that there has been some competition between the Maludico's Pusperium, Cittimerk and Udopis. Now it had been well known that the three Maludico's had different priorities, where Pusperium thought priority should be given to those with privilege, Citimerk in protecting the incompetent and Udopis in giving priority to the disadvantaged. The Charism of Richard Rohr explains how everyone has been both privileged and disadvantaged at some point, and everyone has some incompetence in some way. Daxividus explained how Cittimerk is not interested in helping people, and is just trying to bind the community to this system where being a busybody is a sign of selfless responsibility. Richard Rohr explains that this is the sacrificial system that only creates resentful mortals who think they are owed, when all they did was annoy those they claimed to serve.

Terese explained that those trapped in the community have begun to riot, and are getting quite hostile and resentful, and want to leave, but have no clue how to get out and unleash themselves from what they are attached to. The Charism of Jordan Peterson explains that the mortals stuck in the realm are most likely attached to their resentment and bitterness. The Peterson Charism explains how they see those natives who live in comfort, contentment and success in that realm, and want to make their lives hellish, if they are having a hellish experience in this place. The Charism explains how in this realm, those not native see a world where the natives to this community are completely okay with the punitive, harsh, judgmental and competitive system. The Charism further explains how to this realm, the Kronos is the force of nature bringing fourth constant destruction, the rules had been changed to place suppressive orders to being of higher priority. The Charism of Eckhart Tolle explains that this is a moral complexity, where it looks like only one good can be chosen at the expense of another good. The Charism explains how in this realm, the rational mind is the only one that can thrive in this realm. The Peterson Charism explained how so much resentment comes from others who start to believe in harsh malevolence and self deprecating ideologies, and worse start to worship it. Then the Charism brings up the Milgram experiment, and how people in the face of evil find they are not as morally strong as they think they were. The Charism tells how when confronted with this moral weakness, one either goes into rationalizing their behavior though placing faith in brute powers, and looking down on the vulnerable. The Charism explains how the second avoidance is to brood in resentment through focusing on the powers, and using subtle ways to make the tyrants life a little more hellish. The Charism explains that this creates a rivalry between the two, and both see each other as being nothing like them. The Charism of Richard Rohr chimes in about the Mortals fear of being nothing more than products of their own environment or fatalistic sentence, and how this creates the delusion their identity is found in their own willpower, and treat this ability to undergo persecution and self deprecation makes them closer to the dance on their own efforts. The Richard Rohr charism explains that this willpower is nothing more than another product of fate. The Peterson Charism asks how there is any free choice, if even willpower is nothing more than fate. The Rohr charism explains that all free choice comes from the Dance. Yet he explains a paradox of the only free choice being for the Dance.

Daxividus asked the Charism to give some examples. The Charism explained how ideologies are very one sided, and do not take everything into account. The Charism explained the likes of Pusperium, who creates a system where those with advantage should be allowed to use their advantage, and therefore be rewarded solely on grounds of their efforts, whether or not it is beneficial to the common good. Then the Charism uses the example of Udopis, who creates a system where being disadvantaged in any way makes one a sacred victim, and therefore worthy of special treatment without question. The Charism then explains how figures like Antistete reject any ideals if they go beyond her version of reality, which is only based on logic. Antistete then promotes these dehumanized ideologies that only conform to empirical and ultra-rational interpretations of reality that do not take goodness and beauty into account. Antistete then creates this system where language is manipulated in a way, where overused expressions are repeated so often that they can be used to justify any injustice.

Terese explains that those stuck in the Sarkikos realm still are trying to leave through sarkikos ways. Daxividus mentions that they learned this lesson in both releases of the Diploro's that such a way does not work. Terese explained how those trapped in the realm sought to fix things through domination and self righteous indignation, but only became more merged with the Sarkikos community. The Charism of Richard Rohr chimed in, and explained that there is no one in the community to teach them how to surrender. The Charism explains how those trapped in the community see surrender as selling out to the forces of injustice, all because they cannot be resisted. Now those trapped in the community see this as utter cowardice, and giving into the proposition that Might makes right. The Charism explains further that all the examples of surrender are nothing but defeatists, who even worse turn into bullies of their own territory. In such cases, the Charism refers to people whose solution is to run their own domain with an iron fist, and will work to change things that can be changed, even if they should not be changed. The Charism explains how pseudo-elders often times end up attempting to change their pupils to adapt to unhealthy systems, just because its more practical.

Then Daxividus explained that the obvious solution is to find something good to remember in a higher world, and something ideal and truthful to surrender to. The Charisms of the Linns fill in on this particular subject. The Fr. Matt explains that much of the stuckness comes from the powerless experience of grief. The Charism explains that what has happened is this denial of loss, due to many being in spiritual eternalist traditions. The Linn Charism then referenced a book known as "A Grief Observed", where many of faith traditions will deny the existence of loss and death, as they typically believe in the Eternal that transcends such temporalist viewpoints. The Charism of Sheila explained that people often fear accepting grief, and giving meaning and concreteness to loss would take away meaning from life and wholeness. The Fr. Matt Charism explains that it is easier to see loss as an ultimate illusion, whether through concepts of Nirvana or the Platonic forms. The Charism of Dennis explains that efforts have already been made underway with the work of Pandora. The Charism explains how Pandora is making some visions made public, and helping the mortals trapped in the realm to face their grief and acknowledge what they lost.

Harmony Runs away and the Visit to Pedmontus

Back in the Atlantica estate, the time has come to plan for Harmony's thirteenth birthday. During this time, Marina came across Harmony's studies and started snooping around her room trying to figure out what she was up to. Marina found the locket, and became horrified. Marina confronted Harmony about this locket, and demanded she tell her where she found it from. Harmony told Marina she found it amongst her jewelry box. Marina knew Harmony was lying, and demanded she say open to the locket. Then Harmony asked Marina why her name was on the locket. Marina told Harmony that she is not the one on trial, and to obey or else. Harmony heard the locket say "She needs to know". Harmony complied and Marina was horrified by what the locket said. Marina started to understand why Harmony was reading these books, and gave her a severe reprimanding. Marina told Harmony that she sacrificed her whole life to take care of her, and protect her from the world.

Marina then let Harmony know on no uncertain terms was she to leave the house, and that she was grounded for the next year. Harmony had been extremely upset about Marina pushing a guilt trip on her, and acting in such an authoritarian fashion. Marina kept Harmony locked up in her room and all her food was served through the dumbwaiter. Overall, Harmony started to hate Marina, and felt utterly manipulated by her step mother. By this time, Harmony figured out that Marina was not really her mother, due to looking nothing like her. Plus Harmony noticed that her Grandfather in the locket looked much more like her than Marina did.

One night, the locket started glowing bright, that Harmony decided to open it. Harmony found a figure of her grandfather telling her the truth about where she really came from, and that she is a daughter of the Paspahegh people of Parthania, and her father is Iohannes and mother Rivkah. The locket told her that it was soon time to leave, and a way would be provided. Then the Locket told Harmony to find Prescott and Caliadne in Parthania. That night, there was a strong wind that knocked the windowsill of Harmony's bedroom off. Harmony used the curtains to climb down and departed from the estate. After harmony left the estate, she opened the locket and a ball of light came fourth leading to the sea. When Harmony left, Marina had been fast asleep, completely unaware of her departure. Harmony found an abandoned boat, and she sailed off to where the light led. Harmony's first business was to find Caliadne and Prescott.

Back in Londinium, the Eagles of the Cheapan tribe arrived, and told the Cobolds and Garonites that they were needed in the cliffs. Now no one in Londinium had been to region since before the headquarters fell after the Voris Co. Embarassment. After this announcement, a larger band of eagles arrived, and took a set of Cobolds and Garonites into the cliff regions.

When the Cobolds arrived, they found this town center with this familiar looking statue of a man without smile and a hand gesture resembling a six. Upon entering the town, a crazy looking old mistivant woman dressed in black morning clothing and black headcovering approached the Cobolds. This woman frantically shouts "I knew you would come, save us o great ones". Now the Cobolds were utterly stumped by this womans word. The Cobolds and Garonites were invited to follow this woman back. At first, they had been a bit apprehensive, but Jamus explained that she was trustworthy. They decided to follow the woman, who took them back to her house. On the way, there were many strange and disturbing sites. The first thing the Cobolds saw was this man in a Pillory being pelted with rotten vegetables. On the street, there were many homeless on the street wearing a necklace made of rat bones, with its center a goat skull.

When the Old Lady took the Cobolds and Garonites back to her house, they noticed on the front door a symbol with three birds, and inside the house, a picture of a pyramid. This lady also had some artifacts the Cobolds had remembered seeing long ago. Irugen then remembered how the Cobold Natalia had a locket that looked quite similar. Irugen told this old lady about Natalia, and this old lady explained that she was her granddaughter. The Old lady tells how Natalia had been missing, and sent her on a quest to Hamitaria. Irugen explains how they had arrived in Hamitaria after they assembled the Goblet. The Lady thanked Irugen for assisting her granddaughter in this task.

The Old Lady then told of how their land had become closed off from the rest of Kebsuda, due to the Bridge never being completed and a set of stairs now led nowhere. The Old Lady tells of how they had some invasions over the years. The Old lady tells of the first invasion of this Hypocordo known as the Governor. Elrich explains all about how the Governor had once ruled Londinium, and then took them on a mission disguised as General Ratburn. The Old Lady explained how the Governor brought some Timora's into their land, and established this order known as the Necrophobes. These Necrophobes were explained to be quite devoted to the Timora's, and started to institute this order where all sorts of restrictions were placed in order to keep stability. According to the Governors creed, the forces of nature were the only thing worthy of adoration, and knew well that these forces were quite unpredictable and bound to change and decay. The Necrophobes created a system of laws in order to keep everything perfectly preserved. The Old Lady then explained that the mistivant on the street wearing a necklace of a goat skull had been declared a Necrophile. According to the reports, this Necrophile had dropped a stone, which the necrophobes feared that this would cause an earthquake. The Old Lady explained stories about anyone with contagious illnesses being thrown off the cliff, and anything seen as contaminating or dangerous had been met with severe punishments.

The next story the Old Lady tells is the invasion of some follower of a leader known as Justeven, who had been flown by a raptor from a land known as Patimesh. This follower summoned a Maludico known as Infundermalis, who had been the founder of Patimesh. Infundermalis got a following full of Mistivants in this region who were sick of being bound to follow the arbitrary laws of nature, and found life to be utterly meaningless under the Governors rigid security measures. This Maludico brought a band of Furors, and started a movement to exult those who were sick of the Governors. These followers had been known as the Gravitas. According to the Gravitas, the only way they could be validated was to suppress and punish anyone who did not fit into their story, and force them to live according to their ways. The Old Lady tells how there had been a split, and this led to one schism, and eventually led to another schisms full of vigilantes constantly starting fights over someone with lifestyles not compatible. The Old Lady explained that the man in the pillory was guilty of offending a different schism.

The Old Lady then tells the story of the invasion of another figure known as the Great Brother. The Cobolds then knew why he seemed so familiar, as they remembered him in Atlantica aging the Atlanteans at a very quick rate. What they found particularly strange was that this statue had been bald, when the previous one had a full head of hair. The Old Lady explained how the Great Brother came to this land and brought the Diploro's with him. The Great Brother made promises to give a band of mistivants who had been sick of the followers of the Governor and Infundermalis. This Great brother promised them great power and knowledge, so they would not be under the shame of the Furors, and fear of the Timora's. The Old Lady then explains how those under the Great Brother tend to now keep to themselves, and seem a bit guilt ridden and quite depressed. The Old Lady admitted that she knew little about them, as they kept to themselves for the most part.

After the story was told, there was a peculiar knock at the door with a specific number of knocks in a particular rhythm. The Old Lady opened the door, and she looked over a coin that this visitor had, and welcomed him in. The Old Lady introduced this visitor, and the visitor became greatly overjoyed to meet the Cobolds. This visitor asked the Cobolds if they were Cobolds. Elrich answered that they were, and this this visitor asked of which clan. Elrich explained that they were part of the Forester Clan. This visitor told Elrich that he had been waiting for the Forester Clan to return to Pedmontus. The Old Lady confirmed that this land was Pedmontus. The Cobolds were a bit shocked to see what happened to their homeland. Then there was another knock at the door, and two new guests arrived, who had worked on Lake Tiberius, and met with the Great Phoenix after he had risen and returned to Pedmontus. After a few more knocks, there had been enough Cobolds to hold a meeting. The visitor from the Lake explained that this was a secret organization, and that the three birds are a secret symbol to tell each other apart. The original visitor explained how they are one of the few left in Pedmontus still loyal to the Great Phoenix. After the introductions, one Cobold who had seemed quite angry was still irritable with the followers of the Maludico's. This Cobold had been tormented by the Furors for a long time, and had become sick of others in his group pushing their lifestyles on him. The Old Lady reminded the angry visitor that the Great Phoenix is the one who can take care of this whole thing. The Lake Visitor told of how the Great Phoenix can bring security, fulfillment and significance that those trapped under these spells want.

The Jinns last battle

By this time, Terese calls for a meeting at the Odinean Temple, as the battle against the Accuser is not going too well. At once, Maelendil, Lance, this new Senexit apprentice Alvinius, Oscar, Durnil, Alexander, Liam, Daxividus, Cashmir, Appolinius, Bacchus, Barush, Skeeter and Vulterian, and the Charisms assisting Terese all show up. All of the Jinns know why they are there. Terese explains that she is incapable to deliver those trapped in the Sarkikos realm, even with the help of the Charisms. Terese explains that those stuck in the Sarkikos realm want to leave, but fear giving up their reliance on methods from this realm, and fear that they will not be delivered.

Liam then explains that those tied to Galtron have taken pleasure in hating him, and all the tyrants that follow in his leadership. According to Liam, those who have been under Galtron have forgotten about the true liberation of the Dance, and only want to hate all forms of power, and anyone who gives any allegiance to these powers. Liam goes on to explain that they had forgotten all about what they stood for, and now only know what they are against. According to Liam, this is a call to be for something that cannot be put into words.

Liam summoned Platoneous the Symbolist of the Fifth order to assist in teaching the mortals trapped under the tyranny of Galtron of the Dance, who transcends all violent and coercive forms of arbitrary power indifferent to goodness and beauty.

Oscar then gives his account, and how he, Durnil and Alexander had tried with these shows, but have had some major setbacks. Oscar explains that the shows "Charmed" and "As Told by Ginger" had been successful at their release. Alexander explained how the performance of Alyssa Milano offered a breath of fresh air, when many feel tied to overly ordered and otherwise senexit only relationships. Alexander then mentions that Alyssa has Amira's jaw. Maelendil gave quite a chuckle, as he remembered another seer predicting this when Amira was born after an episode of "Who's the Boss". Lance then mentions that Amira also looks like Melinda Shankar from one of Azeyas vision, and the actress Tia Mowry. Oscar gets back to the point, and explains that the thing that is making freedom from Pirius and Puterma nearly impossible is that sentient beings naturally have a need to connect with others. Oscar explains that with friendships, this is a difficult needs, as it requires two or more free beings to freely chose to enter into a relationship. Oscar explains that other needs like food, drink, shelter and freedom can be met through making demands, but not friendships.

Maelendil then explains that he has one final plan to expose the last of the remains of Derglin. Maelendil laments that this is not the most ideal way he wished to have done so, but that he had little choice. Maelendil then tells of a plan to call more charges to bring life, in hopes that the dry and dour reign of Derglin will re-enchant the earth, and allow the mortals to plunge into the depths of being and the secrets of earth again.

Soon enough, the seer Azeyas shows up in quite a festive mood. The rest of the Jinns in attendance do not share his enthusiasm, and seem a bit annoyed by this cheer. Azeyas asks the Jinns if they remember all the prophecies he foretold, and reminds them that they were no vain lie. Azeyas then asks the Cobolds if they remember the message he relayed one Monday of Holy Week not too long ago. None of the Jinns remembered, and Azeyas retold about how he saw the vision of one stuck in a hopeless situation, and how Father Time was seen at an Easter Vigil. Daxividus explains that the Mortals trapped in the Sarkikos community have seen the vision, but cannot find a way to justify why such promises should come to fruition. Azeyas explains how those stuck in the Sarkikos Realm are fearful that they are not placing their trust in the Dance for their joy, but are hoping for their fulfillment to come from leaving this realm. Azeyas explains that the mortals have more access to the Dance in their own community. The Charism of Fr. Linn mentions that the Dance is present in all places. Azeyas knowing what the Charism is speaking of mentions that the Dance is indeed in the Senexit Sarkikos Realm, but few in that realm have any interest in the Dance in that place, and have done their efforts to make sure no one has any awareness of the Dance, and are quite closed off from his providence. Azeyas explains that this Senexit realm is a hell realm where the stubborn Sarkikos of order remains until they are ready to renounce their attachment and return allegiance to the Dance.

Soon enough, the Aluments show up, as they had seen the Jinn's needs. All the Jinns present prostrate before Father Time, Mother Earth, Sister Wisdom and Brother Volition. Father Time explains to the Jinns and Guardians that he had seen their call, and that they are going to help them. Mother Earth promises that they will be able to heal the old wounds like they never happened. Maelendil remembered Yuriyama mentioning this vision of healing wounds that first needed to be broken first. Maelendil immediately prostrated face on the floor at the great works the Aluments had planned. Father Time first announces that he is going to take over the efforts to defeat Stockholm, and undo the works of the Kronos. Terese then is assigned to search the Sarkikos realm for Brutus, as Father Time confirms that he is very much alive. Mother Earth announces that she will be taking over the efforts to take care of Galtron's remains, and cleanse the earth of the staleness and despair that had gone on her planet. Brother Volition vows to take care of Hillectivus and the Fate, and restore true relationship without interfering with the mortals freedom. Now Oscar, Durnil and Alexander wondered how this could be, but knew that the Aluments wisdom is too great to comprehend. Brother Volition assigns Oscar, Durnil and Alexander to re-establish all the shows, and re-teach the mortals. Sister Wisdom vows to take over for Liam, and explains that there are things greater than might and arbitrary advantages. Sister Wisdom promises to defeat Galtron and the power of the Causemos. The Aluments then explain that once these Archons are defeated, the Accuser will go dormant for a good long time. Mother Earth then implores Maelendil to gather as many charges as he can, and help reinstate the office of both the Senexit and Puerubdi to their proper dignity. The last task the Aluments charged Maelendil to work with Maronattar in completing their counselling work with the Satyasha offsprings.

The Jinns next plan is to decide if Brutus is to be put on Trial, should he be found fine and working in the Sarkikos realm. There had been some theories that Brutus had been the one to fraternize with the Archon Stockholm, and used the Kronos to create such disorder so as to make his rigid order necessary.

Now counselling the Satyasha offsprings had proved to be quite a challenging experience. Maelendil and Jebediah's efforts were directed towards counselling Skeeter, Vulterian, Propetus, Barush, Hidari and Samsara. Maronattar on the other hand started counseling Sophia's offspring, in order to prepare for the uniting of the Skeletal Structure and the Flesh. By this time, the Skeletal structure was all completed. After the second release of the Shadows, the torso was completed. Afer the Third release of the Shadows, the Head was completed, and after the Fourth and final release of the Shadows, the arms and hands were completed. Unfortunately, Appolinius equations revealed that the bones were not strong enough to sustain the flesh. However Maronattar theorized that Chrysippus possesses some energy that can bind the skeletal and flesh structures to fully connect. Yet Maronattar was at a loss about how to get the three's special powers to work in a non-conflicting way.

Terese summoned a meeting with the Annogrammatrons Baldred and Gustavette of the first order to minister to those stuck in the Sarkikos realm. Terese explains that many stuck in the realm are not finding peace because they don't understand their hatred for this realm. Baldred, being one of self sufficiency and personal responsibility always had trouble understanding why they should be so bothered about this realm. Terese explains how many in the Sarkikos realm have developed murderous and violent wishes upon those who support and preach the laws and ideals of the Sarkikos realm. Gustavette explains that she can understand why, and how inter-connected everything is. Gustavette explains that any wrong done by another is a sentence on all mortal beings, and even the dance by some extent. Baldred protests that such a notion is an assault on personal responsibility, and often times, the person becomes the one under judgment because of the unjust laws of the Sarkikos. Therese explains that this is a matter Sister Wisdom and Brother Volition are more equipped to handle. Therese then sighs that she hopes the Aluments return soon. Then to their surprise, the Jinn Axelrod shows up, asking where he is needed. Baldred and Gustavette explain what had happened with the Sarkikos realm, and Axelrod explains that Justice has not been served, and those in the realm are too fearful of asking for justice, in order to not become like the vengeful and punitive tyrants who run the community. Axelrod explains how the only path to forgiveness is to first thirst for some justice and retribution.

Meanwhile, Maronattar was still searching for a new Solum, as the Ouranos Ranav had been unwillingly made into a cult devoted to Machismo ideologies that glamorized violence, bullying, misogyny and abuse. The theory was that this cult was a reaction from those thugs who felt victimized by those devotees to the misandrist Baba Yaga. Ouranos naturally refused to have anything to do with this cult, as it represented him in no way whatsoever.

The Charges Future

Little has been revealed about Milo and Amira during these days. During these days, Trump had taken the throne, and proved to be one of the most despised presidents. The Charism of George Carlin reminded the earth that Trump only got in, since he is honest about being full of BS, unlike Hillary Clinton. Otherwise, the Millennial Generation, which many charges belong to have been given many labels, some flattering, others not so. They had been known as being snowflakes, kiddults, technology advanced and modern hippies.

When it came to the world of Entertainment, the 90's show Roseanne was rebooted, as was a common occurrence, such as Fuller House, and the Feminist and Political Correctness inspired reboot of Charmed. In the Roseanne reboot, Darlene's daughter resembled Milo's friend Steve. Naturally the show was changed to the Conners after Roseanne got fired for a certain comment.

When it came to Milo and Salvatore, there had been some clashes. Salvatore had become less reliant over these days, and had often cancelled plans last minute. Otherwise, Salvatore was becoming more of a dour pessimist. Salvatore had just quit his job as a delivery man and became a caretaker, and ended up turning against everything he and Milo had supported just a few years ago. Now Salvatore is the last person to be getting into caretaking, and had taken on this demeanor that being a caretaker makes him more caring, and began priding himself in being so sacrificial, along with his work being more important.

After Easter, Milo attended a retreat with St. Timothy's. Milo was asked by an old friend from Richard Espozito's bible study group after Church one evening. Milo had a hard time saying no, and considered this, but was no so keen on spending the night. Frankly, Milo was not a huge fan, and sensed something off about having final answers to the great and inexhaustible questions. Over these days, Milo was starting to notice that with religious devotion dropping, that it seemed like many religious people were quite devoted to their particular denomination and belief system. When it came to the retreat, this took Milo out of his comfort Zone, as he could be quite as stubborn about his own views on various matters. Unfortunately Milo got assigned to speak with an old man who knew religion from the old days, where guilt, sin and perdition were overemphasized. Now this man had recited many of the old talking points about not having enough fire and brimstone sermons, and how Jesus spoke all about Hell, along with presumptions about statistics supposedly revealed at Fatima. Now Milo heard it all before, and after years of research on the matter knew that the fire and brimstone sermons in the gospels were meant for a Jewish audience who spoke in a similar fashion as the Old Testament prophets spoke of in regards to Israel fulfilling their role as a nation.

According to some Leprechauns at a pub in Ciderpond, Milo met Kaylee at a pub. Milo had gotten some dinner at the pub and saw Kaylee, whom he recognized as the Keyboardist from the St. Timothy's rock band.

Some Alux claimed to have spotted Linsey and Milo sitting close by at a Ciderpond High football game. Linsey had been looking at her phone and taking some selfies with some highschool friends. Milo had recognized the whole group, who also went to Ciderpond High.

That November, Milo takes a small trip to Orlando, as Grandma Pearl and Aunt Bertha go to a scrap booking trip in the convention center. Kyle, his girlfriend and daughter Hayley, Kevin and Bruce are all also visiting. Plus Uncle Doug got tickets through work to Universal Studio's. Milo saw Nikita and Kalisha for the first time since he was nine, and Dana for the first time in ten years. Milo did not get to see Calvin, as he was living with Rex for the time being. Luckily, Dana broke up with Rex a few years back, much to the family's relief. Milo saw the new additions to the Harry Potter theme park he had not got to see, due to still being in construction four years ago.

Shortly afterwards, there was this vision like the school vision that ended on a much more hopeful note. There was this school that had multiple high speed travel systems that could take one from somewhere as close as New York City or as far as San Diego. In this vision, Milo knows Amira is teaching at this place, and searches out this school to find her. They nearly meet after a guide shows him to her classroom, and the vision ends.

Whether Milo and Amira meet again, this is a great unknown. Many of the Seers had seen visions of people important to Milo and Amira's lives gathered in a churchlike place. On the left side of the space, all of Milo's friends and family were gathered, including Milo's cousins Salvatore, Sylvester, Gianni, and Matt along with Ryan in the first row. In the second row included Margaret and Ray, along with the Grandparents Tony, Rosa, Pearl, Paul, Dora, Juan, Clarence and Carol. On the third row, the Rumcorns including Uncle Wayne, Aunt Bertha, Kyle, Kevin and Bruce, Uncle Doug, Aunt Pam and Dana were seated. On the fourth row, the latter Biancatello families with Uncle Matt, Aunt Marie, Uncle Ottavio, Aunt Michelle, Zia Maria, Angelo, Uncle Rafael, Uncle Leo and Aunt Jane. The fourth row included the earlier families with Uncle Georgio, Aunt Judy, Rob, Corey, Kate, Olivia, Jonathan, Rowan, Aunt Dianne, Julian, Jesse, Danielle, Ashlyn, Malina, Rory, Lauren, Abigail, Logan, Uncle Mike, Aunt Jackie, Ben, Caroline, Mia and Jordan, Emma and her family. In the fourth and fifth row was seated all the Williamsons, including Aunt Mary, Uncle John, Grandma Gladys, Elaine, Ralph, Peg, Carrie, Tim, Jennifer and Leanne, Charlotte, Katelyn and Julie, along with extended relatives Uncle Al and Aunt Joan, Aunt Adrienne, Uncle Pietro and Aunt Helen and Uncles Luigi and Victor and Aunt Barbera. In the Sixth row are friends including former babysitter Marilyn and her husband Ralph, the Delaneys including Bill, Denise and Shamus, Dave and Violette, Steve, Doris, Shawn, Dan, Justin, Mike, Pat, Jack, Emily, Morgan, Chelsea, Jay, Allan, Gary and Joel. On the right hand side includes Amira's family and friends. In the first row are Rokshana, Roshanak, Parisa, Yasmin, Vashti, Heather and Allison. In the second row are seated Kazeem, Zaida, Grandparents, two aunts, Saira and Samir. In the third row are seated the Khara's with Maziyar, Kamaria, Navid, Razoul and their families. In the fourth row are Fr. Mihir's family, Vashti's family, Anahita's family, Rahim and the Pashtun girl from Whelon and her family. In the Fifth row are Rokshana's family and the Jafari's including the parents, Parvaneh, Sanaz and their families and Minu. On the platform were Amira, Milo, the Biancatello Girls Lydia, Alicia, Samantha and Lilly with Fr. Mihir and Merle presiding. In this Creche, there were several dogs, including Jinny, Robbie, a small dog who looked like a smaller Robbie, a dog resembling Santa's little Helper, another Pittbull like dog resembling Goofy and Fluffy from Harry Potter, a West Highland Terrier, two Cairn Terriers, a Golden Retriever, and two cats.

To Be Continued

As to what is to come, this is a great unknown. Will Durnil, Oscar and Alexander find a way to break the mortals ties to Purius and Puterma, and defeat Hillectivus for good? Will Terese, Daxividus and the Charisms find a way to rescue the mortals trapped in the Senexit Sarkikos Realm? Will Cashmir, Skeeter, Vulterian, Bacchus and Barush uncover the mystery of Brutus? Will Derglin and his remains be conquered? Will the Skeleton and flesh be assembled? Will Galtron be defeated? Will Maelendil find a new Senexit? Will the Accuser be defeated? Will the Wandering Cobolds in the Desert be able to minister to the innocent ignorant of Igleftios? Will the Fire in the Mountains soon die down, and make travel possible again? Will the Cobolds come in contact with Hamitaria? Will Avrahim and Suriya and Tirah rebuild Shemitaria? Will Igleftios be taken down, and Asaria be rebuilt? Will the invaders of Asaria and Shemitaria be brought to justice? Will the captives of Igleftios be awaken? Will the Ruby Lion be returned? Will the Great Phoenix return to Spartustica and set things right? Will Harmony find her Paspahegh people? Will Marina see the errors of her way? Will any more of Maelendil's Charges cross paths? Will Milo and Amira meet again? Will Ciderpond be restored? Will Salvatore get his act together?

YOU DECIDE
