The Fallen Prince That Never Was

by A. G. Higgins

  Chapter 1

  A New World – London 1909

  Thirty–six days previously

  Professor Keith Griffin sat at the end of a large table. To his right was Marine Biologist Dr. Thomas Albert; to his left, Astronomer Daniel Boyd and Physicist Professor Richard Calkins. These were the members of the Board of Trusties, Professor Griffin himself a Geophysicist and Lord Councillor of Trust. However, when the Board was in session, each did refer to one another as Sir. There they sat, all in silence with nothing more than the ticking of an old grandfather’s clock to keep them company. Impatiently they awaited the arrival of a one Professor Clayton, the man responsible for summing them here today.

  Apparently, after receiving a long–distance telegram it appeared that the Professor wished to set voyage upon a great venture. One, he claimed, that would lead to a discovery of most profound importance for mankind. And they, the Board of Trusties, were most eager to find out exactly why?

  ‘So, what do you make of this telegram, Sir Griffin?’ asked Sir Albert, not wishing to remain silent any longer, ‘Oh, by the way do you mind if I...?’ he continued while motioning to the drinks cabinet, ‘I’m afraid that in my old age of impatience, I seemed to have grown quite the longing for a stiff brandy or two.’

  ‘But of course...’ replied Sir Griffin before attempting to answer his question, ‘It’s hard to say, gentlemen?’

  ‘Sorry old chap?’ asked Sir Albert, his drink pouring quite nicely before him.

  ‘The telegram, Sir Albert.’

  ‘Oh yes, my apology,’ he replied politely before taking a sip from his glass, ‘please, do continue...’

  ‘You received the same telegram as I; there is little more to continue with? Professor Clayton was quite brief...a line or two, nothing more.’

  ‘True, but I dare say that it did give reason to have gathered us here today to consider quite a most unusual proposal... however short it may have been?’

  ‘Sir Albert is right, gentlemen,’ interrupted Sir Boyd, ‘the Professor’s telegram did manage to stir our curiosity quite effectively, did it not?’

  ‘Now you all know Professor Clayton as well as I do,’ responded Sir Griffin annoyingly, ‘the man knows only too well how to play with words. He has a reputation for quite the theatrical taste. No, there is simply nothing more to this than him wishing to secure funding for some foolish venture. One, may I remind you, of which the findings shall never see the light of day. I can assure you, gentlemen, that we should cast suspicion upon any invitation fashioned of that which his hand may scribe. If not, it is reasonable to assume that our credibility shall suffer for it.’ He eyed his pocket watch with displease before tucking it away, ‘why the last time we funded a trip to Cairo in search of the so called Tomb of Amnesty. It was supposedly the last resting place of the Nine Kings of the Nile; Pharaohs, ancient Gods who ruled throughout Egypt at the same time if you can believe it? There I spent weeks looking for a great pyramid full to its tip with vast wealth under his guidance. The only thing we discovered was a small hole in the sand and two broken jars...worthless to our cost! And let us not speak of that trip to Israel; across the Dead Sea in search of the legendary lost mines of King Solomon; we all know how that one turned out.’

  ‘As I recall,’ began Sir Calkins, noting a point of interest, ‘that venture was based upon a diamond coin which he had found. Naturally, it gained our invested interest with quite the ease.’

  ‘Yes, and every merchant the west side of Istanbul were selling two for the price of one,’ replied Sir Griffin with embarrassment, ‘what I am trying to say is that we are of academic minds, where as he... he chooses to follow a more anomalous path. Putting it simply, he is the kind of man whom ventures out into the wilderness with nothing more than a trill for myths and legends. The list is endless; all but foolish pursuits and how he has managed to talk me into them, I’ll never know? – But oh no, gentlemen, not this time for I grow too tired of his boyish ways. And unless he has absolute proof – of which he himself claims to have – this gathering will be brief... very brief indeed.’

  ‘I am inclined to agree,’ said Sir Calkins, ‘we shall insist on absolute proof.’

  ‘As will we all I’m sure,’ said Sir Albert, wishing not to be noted as gullible in the company of his colleagues.

  ‘But of course,’ replied Sir Griffin respectfully, ‘please do forgive my sudden cause for concern. It was not my intention to cause you need to feel disrespected, or indeed, anyone else for that matter.’

  ‘Think nothing of it,’ he replied warmly, ‘still though, I for one wouldn’t mind hearing what the old devil has to say. He always had the thrilling gift for a good story, eh?’

  ‘I suppose you’re right,’ said Sir Griffin more calmly, ‘after all, why else are we here? It wouldn’t hurt to hear the Professor out – for old time’s sake if nothing more. Besides, gentlemen, it’s not like he is a hard man to say no to, now is it?’

  The room fell silent once more as the Board of Trusties seemed now to eye each other worriedly upon Sir Griffin’s last word.

  ‘With such daring summit of unknown proposal,’ tried Sir Calkins, ‘where does one stand with our invested interests with regard to Professor Clayton’s, shall I say... line of credit?’

  ‘Yes, do tell Sir Griffin,’ said Sir Boyd, ‘what can we afford in way of expense should interest coincide?’

  ‘In sort, not much,’ began Sir Griffin wearily, ‘as far as invested interests are concerned the old dog has had its day. Though admittedly he has had he’s use – however far and in–between – but certain circles take a different view about how one should conduct one’s self upon the dawn of this new age. And it seems that I am inclined to agree.’

  ‘Do you care to elaborate, Sir Griffin?’ asked Sir Albert with interest.

  ‘I’m afraid that since the days of my father – God rest his soul – times have changed, as too do people,’ began Sir Griffin, ‘We are no longer young and foolish with dreams of how the world should work. Each of us has risen above our youthful ways, acting accordingly in our position of leadership and trust. Whereas Professor Clayton, he finds himself dated, lost in his youthful mind contrary to the belief of his age.’

  ‘Yes, if it were not for his boyish stubbornness he too would surely be seated on the Board,’ said Sir Boyd, ‘such a mind some would crave priceless should he use it more suitably?’

  ‘But for whom,’ asked Sir Albert, ‘that is the question is it not?’

  ‘Does it really matter anymore?’ asked Sir Griffin, ‘we’ve seemed to have reached a stage in life were we should no longer want, but rather have achieved. Sometimes I wonder if it was not for my father’s influence would I, by merits alone, have reach my position among you? But then I am reminded of Professor Clayton’s many chances, foolish ventures and misguided truths, and I think so.’

  ‘As I recall, your father and he were quite the companions,’ said Sir Calkins, ‘this very institution founded on such friendship. Founded in a time far from greed and profit; a time when instinct for bold venture was held most in wealth.’

  ‘For such stories by the dinner side were of men’s character and worth,’ interrupted Sir Griffin, ‘but as I have already said; times change. With exception to the Antarctic expeditions, the world no longer has a place for swashbuckling adventures so to speak. Gone are the days when one entered a vast jungle as poor as a man could be, only to return with hands laced in gold. It is now a time of real scientific breakthrough, works of substance for the evolution of mankind. Works carried out in dull windowless rooms. Respected research with noticeable works published for all to acclaim. That gentlemen, is the wealth of our future. The accomplishments of this institution lie no longer beyond its walls but rather within, should we wish to remain reputable. I’m afraid, gentlemen, the likes of Professor Clayton’s days are now well and truly over. And if you want to continue valuing your comfort, you must concede to our investor’s way of thought.’

 
‘How sad it is,’ began Sir Albert, ‘Professor Clayton lives if only to charter a ship and set sail for an unknown horizon; as too did your father?’

  ‘Yes, both as foolish as each other I dare concede,’ said Sir Griffin, ‘but as much as I wish to entertain the Professor out of due respect to my father and their friendship, I cannot deny the progress of the world... nor for that matter, that of this institution.’

  ‘So it has come to this,’ thought Sir Calkins, ‘have we all reach our dreams of youth, only in doing so... unknowingly surpassed our time?’

  ‘I’m afraid so, my hand is forced in the matter old chap,’ conceded Sir Griffin, ‘perhaps it is only a matter of time before we are all dated?’

  ‘Has the old chap been informed?’ asked Sir Boyd.

  ‘Yes, some time ago I informed the Professor of our current arrangement,’ replied Sir Griffin uneasily, ‘Well you known how he can be; as expected taking an instant disliking to the matter of material wealth over quest for knowledge and so forth.’

  ‘Then why the gathering may I ask?’

  ‘In truth, should we the Board deem it worthy, for old time’s sake I have managed to secure funding for one last venture,’ admitted Sir Griffin, ‘Professor Clayton is fully aware of the conscience should he fail to impress us. It’s his last chance to make something of himself, or the doors to this institution will be forever closed to him. It was the best that I could do – He must succeed for his time has run out.’

  ‘Speaking of which, where is he?’ asked Sir Calkins, ‘He was suppose to be here just over an hour ago? If I didn’t know any better, I’d have to say that the man was keeping us waiting on purpose?’

  At that moment a knock came upon the door. The Board of Trusties glanced up to a voice politely introducing the arrival of Professor Clayton. As seen far too many times before, the Professor strolled into the library’s study as though he were unaware of the importance of times keeping.

  To the particular view of some, he blatantly defied it.

  ‘It’s about time, Professor!’ began Sir Griffin, the Board smoothly putting an end to their conversation, ‘do you have any idea how long we have been waiting for you?’

  ‘My apologies,’ said Professor Clayton, ‘but unfortunately, a matter of grave importance occurred most untimely that required my full attention.’ He raised a basket of fruit, ‘breakfast…?’

  ‘I see that you have being tormenting the merchants again,’ noted Sir Griffin with a weak smile, ‘you of course will understand if we do not join you in your morning’s feast?’

  ‘And of course you will understand that I may begin without need of your company,’ replied Professor Clayton, ‘Now then gentlemen, would anyone care for a spot of tea?’

  ‘Oh do get on with it, Professor,’ said Sir Albert, ‘we are all simply too excited to wait any longer. What is it that you have gathered us here together for exactly?’

  ‘Quite right,’ he said before turning to the servant who kindly announced his arrival, adding, ‘just the one today, I’m afraid.’

  ‘But of course, Professor,’ replied the servant.

  ‘Thank you.’

  On the leave of the servant, Professor Clayton moved closer to the table. He took from his possession a small wooden box before laying it down. Tapping its lid most gently, he did say, ‘where, if only where... to begin?’

  ‘I presume, Professor Clayton,’ suggested Sir Griffin with interest, ‘with the contents of that box?’

  ‘Perhaps,’ he replied with eyes delight in their playfulness, ‘but first, gentlemen, you might be so kind as to indulge an old man for his boyish love of charm and mystery?’ The room fell silent. It seemed that there was no objection. ‘And so he leans closer as though about to reveal a great secret – It is said that within the Atlantic Ocean there lies a great legend; a hellish sea where cruel storms can spawn forth in the hand of any moment. Some even say that within such a place, sea monsters become myth no more for the great lure of the Kraken awaits? Indeed, Christopher Columbus himself, upon a voyage to the Americas once wrote; “Of great fires does the sky bear so forth a loathing for poor souls at sea. And a light does grow upon Her horizon like that of the scorn of a Goddess with vengeance for all mortal men. Never should I want for crossing of Her path again. This I warn onto thee of venturesome soul.” And even stranger still, in Plato’s two dialogues the “Timaeus” and the “Critias” the Greek philosopher writes of an ancient city enriched with great mystical powers – A city, gentlemen, sunken forevermore beneath a sea such as this? Some may even believe it to be the resting places of the lost city of Atlantis?

  Though all that I have spoken of is regarded as myth, theories or great works of fiction even to one such as I, surprisingly... there are some truths?’ He began to rotate a large globe of the earth set within a stand to his right of the room, all eyes eager to follow his fingers line of path as it made its journey of axis, ‘upon the Earth’s globe there lies a hidden set of lines. Here, between the island of Bermuda, Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico; Hell’s Gate… or more commonly known today as the Bermuda Triangle!

  Gentlemen, here upon the Atlantic Ocean – heading due Northwest of the cost of America – we can agree that from as far back as the days of Columbus, the American Civil War and even of our own time, ships have long since entered these waters only never to be seen again? Mysteriously disappearing in a manner that defies explanation of human error, piracy, equipment failure or natural disaster of our understanding? Could these disappearances prompt toward the paranormal? A suspension of the laws of physics it’s self, perhaps? Who can tell, but all we really know is that those who venture there are lost to the known world. That is, gentlemen, as we know it...’

  ‘Quite the colourful picture I must agree, Professor,’ began Sir Griffin, ‘but we are all aware of the myths surrounding the Bermuda’s. As too are we aware of how the lack of science, thus far, has failed in its understanding of seemingly unexplained occurrences. But I seem to have failed to see just what it is you’re trying to say, Professor?’

  ‘Yes, do you propose that we fund an expedition to unravel its mysteries or something to that effect, Professor?’ asked Sir Boyd curiously.

  ‘Or perhaps you wish to find lost Spanish gallons with weight worth of gold within its course?’ tried Sir Albert.

  ‘Maybe the Professor proposes to find the lost city of Atlantis?’ mocked Sir Calkins, finding it hard to control his laughter.

  But Professor Clayton remained unmoved. Instead he would simply allow his hand to ease open the lid of the small box that he had earlier placed upon the table. Its worn edges began to shine a striking blue, illuminating the room now in a most magnificent cast. And there, inside the box for all to see, lay an incredible bright blue crystal?

  ‘Spanish gallons I think not,’ said Professor Clayton, his voice deep with sincerity, ‘To merely unravel a mystery… please?’ he added with distaste, ‘And what of Atlantis, a once ancient city of the Greeks where it is said that an entire civilisation was lost to the sea; destroyed perhaps by the very power and means of its own of creation?’ He leaned closer, ‘Fire–crystals, of which is believed to have held great power and mystery far beyond any one man’s reasoning? Perhaps the Bermuda Triangle is caused by such mastery? If so, such hellish a sea would be the true resting place of Atlantis, would it not?’ A gleam shone brightly in his eyes, ‘gentlemen, care to consider only this; if such a truth has been put before you, then what is it that you now bear witness too?’

  ‘But, if that is...?’ tried Sir Griffin with astonishment, ‘I mean, if we are to believe... then surely its pigment would be more fiery would it not, Professor?’

  ‘Yes...’ he replied, a boyish smile slowly beginning to creep across his face, ‘but only if you care to believe in myth? Gentlemen, I put it to you that Atlantis was not founded of Fire–crystals, but in fact... from that of a star.’

  ‘Why whatever do you mean?’ asked Sir Boyd.

  ‘I
t is my belief that when Christopher Columbus wrote of fires falling from the sky, he was naturally referring to comets or falling stars if you like. The year was 1492, and in that time an incredible event occurred about the night’s sky. One it can be estimated, not seen for almost four–hundred years before. An event that may have even occurred around the time of the sinking of Atlantis – perhaps even its birth – Galileo’s Cry of Oranos; the Greek’s first ancient God of the sky.

  You see, Atlantis was not only a city enriched with mystical powers beyond anything known to this earth. Oh no, it was much more than that, gentlemen, it was in fact born not of this earth. It is my belief that life was given just as easily as it was taken by this particular event. Stars from the heavens, travelling beyond a billon galaxy’s before ours and born of another earth. An event so mysterious to our mere understanding, so powerful, that in its creation it forged a like between the two; A portal to another time and place – A world held in secret by the Atlantians; one which they took with them for all eternity until now!’ Professor Clayton lit up with excitement, ‘in short, it is my intention to prove its existence. To harness a vast knowledge long since lost to the Atlantians... and to rediscover the unknown ventures of a true New World.’

  He forced the lid closed with a snap.

  ‘He’s right,’ claimed Sir Boyd, ‘short of frothy odd days from now an event not seen for many a millennium – one such as described by Professor Clayton – is due to occur?’

  ‘Then let us believe for a moment that what the Professor claims, is indeed true,’ ventured Sir Calkins, ‘who knows when mankind may ever get another chance?

  ‘Certainly not in our lifetime,’ said Sir Boyd thoughtfully.

  ‘Precisely,’ agreed Professor Clayton, ‘it is but a mere window of opportunity that we must meet with if our venture is to ever succeed!’

  ‘And with such a case for timing within this world, Professor,’ asked Sir Albert, ‘just how exactly do you intend to return home?’

  ‘If myth is indeed fact, then it stands to reason that the laws of our world do not apply to the laws of another. Save maybe some comparisons such as air, water, gravity, even seasons of weather? But astronomic equations as such may well be very much far beyond our universe of discourse?’ he replied confidently, ‘However, gentlemen, I am quite sure that if I can enter then it stands to reason that so too can I leave.’

  ‘And you believe this crystal to be a key of some sort,’ asked Sir Calkins, ‘with regard to a portal and so forth?’

  ‘Or a compass...?’ replied Professor Clayton thoughtfully, ‘Nevertheless, a means to discovering a new and quite unimaginable world.’

  ‘Alright, Professor,’ said Sir Griffin, ‘you’ve made quite the case. With independent examination and the backing of the Board, what is it that you propose?’

  ‘It is my belief that we have an agreement... I seek funding for a quest of knowledge, and you seek wealth beyond that which you already have. The day after tomorrow I shall set sail from the Port of London upon the Queen Marry. My task is to venture right into the heart of the Bermuda Triangle. Using this star, I shall guide my craft to where the night’s sky falls with fire; the long awaited event of Galileo’s Cry of Oranos. There I shall wait until chance gives rise to dare tempt the Gods of faith, the opening forth of the sky together with that of the sea; the craft of a portal in creation. And I shall venture forth, travelling beyond what little stars we know of in this galaxy or the next. Venturing to where who can say... nor ever believe. Just think; just think of the importance to mankind a discovery like this could make? Everything we presume to know now needing to be rediscovered and rewritten. And we, the first to lead the way on a brave new frontier.’

  ‘And what of your findings, Professor?’ asked Sir Boyd nervously.

  ‘The usual obligations of my work shall be retained by the University and vested interest, of course.’

  Sir Griffin glanced about the room. It was time to make a decision.