Her eyes narrowed. “Who did you hear in the vault?”
“I don’t know, just voices…”
“Who’s?”
“I don’t know who the voices belonged to, or where they were even coming from.”
“What did Carson say about these voices? Did anyone else hear them, or was it just you hearing them…”
Dimitrios laughed. “No, I don’t hear voices Anjoleah. We all heard them. It was some archaic language they were using. I deciphered it though.”
She leaned forward putting her elbows on her desk, and laced her fingers together. She rested her chin on her laced fingers. She looked him over as if processing what he was saying. Then she said, “What did these voices, say to you?”
“They didn’t speak to me… I’m not on trial here. I am trying to inform you of a situation. I heard the voices at the end of a conversation. They were discussing Anthony’s schedule. They named him directly.”
Anjoleah asked him, “What is your schedule right now?”
“I am on my way to meet with Charles for his session with Nathaniel. After that my plans can become flexible.”
She considered that. Then she asked, “Can I get a closer look at the vault?”
Dimitrios shrugged. “I don’t know why not. I will have to ask Carson. I will come back after the meeting with Charles, with Carson’s answer.” She frowned.
He said, “I’m not going to go that route. We will ask permission.” She just stared at him.
“I have to leave now. I will get back in touch with you as soon as I am finished.”
He walked out and headed to meet Charles. As soon as Dimitrios walked out the door she made arrangements for Anthony to have more security at all times.
CHAPTER 95
Dolores headed to pick up Sterling from summer school. She didn’t see the need to send him to school over the summer because he was a straight “A” student. Attending summer school was all he would talk about for weeks before summer vacation. She actually hated to send him, but every year he wanted to go. Thankfully summer school only lasted four hours a day for four weeks. Having Sterling attend the sessions allowed her a chance to run errands, then run pick him up.
Dolores was excited to see Sterling at the end of this day knowing he would love to visit the lake house. She went in and signed him out of school. She told the principal Sterling would be gone for several days to go to the lake. When she informed Sterling of the change in plans she could tell he couldn’t wait to play with his friends at Anchorage Pointe again. When they arrived home he ran through the front door and into his room to pack his bags.
She was in a good mood too. She savored the moment because as soon as Joseph walked through the door she would have to play a different part. She hummed her favorite tune as she packed her bags. She thought about Sterling and how much he had grown over the year. He used to be this cute tiny thing. She had always been afraid the bigger students would bully him. This year he had a growth spurt. For weeks he had eaten everything in sight. He had growing pains for a while. Then, she noticed he was tired all the time and slept after school for long periods of time. He’d get up to do his homework, eat and then go back to bed. The next thing she knew he had grown into the next size of clothes. Tears came to her eyes as she thought about what an amazing young man he was becoming. She knew in her heart he was going to change the world for the better and she couldn’t wait to see it.
CHAPTER 96
Carson came over to take a closer look at the spinning top Dimitrios had given Charles. “That is no ordinary toy.”
Charles said, “I wonder when it should be used and how to use it.”
Carson replied, “Well the only way to find out is spin it. He said all we have to lose is twenty minutes. Maybe we should place it in the vault with Dimitrios’ other gifts for now.
“Are you ready for your meeting with Nathaniel?”
Carson turned to the two birds. “Airabelle and Airasten would you like to join us?”
Charles made sure he had everything and was ready. “Let’s get this over with.”
Dimitrios was running late. He met them on their way to the meeting. They stepped aside to chat. Dimitrios said, “I had a meeting with Anthony about the vault conversations. He advised me to go to Anjoleah and explain the situation. She asked for permission to examine the vault. She may be by herself or she may bring someone to examine it.”
Carson said, “I do not agree to the vault being confiscated and taken apart. I will not have my Sojourner Rights to property, or any other right, being violated. I will however agree to it being examined. If we need to go further at that time we can discuss the details.”
Dimitrios said, “Agreed. Would after this meeting be acceptable?” Carson agreed.
Dimitrios turned his attention to Charles. “Are you ready?”
“I’m as ready now as I ever will be.”
Dimitrios walked with them into Nathaniel’s office. The secretary said Nathaniel was ready for them. As soon as they walked in the room Charles looked around. It was decorated in beige, brown and blue. The chairs were completely upholstered in fabric that was striped in golden tones. The rectangular table in the center of the room was sleek and shiny. It somehow fit the decor. Nathaniel had beautifully carved shelves that lined the walls. The shelves housed interesting conversation pieces. When they entered the room his secretary asked Charles and Dimitrios to sit down at the table. Carson sat in a chair by the window. Shortly after they sat down Anthony and Nathaniel walked in together. Anthony sat in the chair next to Charles. He smiled at everyone with his easy smile and made a light hearted joke to commence the meeting. Nathaniel began by thanking everyone for being there.
Anthony pointed to Charles’ portfolio. “May we take a look?”
Charles handed his work to Anthony who shared it with Nathaniel. The two of them scrutinized it, making positive comments. Anthony looked up. “Exceptional work.”
Nathaniel said while still looking it over, “Better than yours even…”
Anthony laughed at that comment. He asked Charles a couple of questions about his sources and how he decided to evaluate the information in the research. Charles answered him, but continued to watch Nathaniel’s expression as he delved into the information in front of him.
When he finished he looked at Charles over his glasses and said, “Son, this is magnificent. Why you could take over my job someday.”
Charles shook his head no and waved the comment away skeptically. “I have enough on my plate learning Anthony’s job as Prime Minister.” He continued. “I would however, like to share with you the presentation I made.” They gave him the go ahead. He began his spiel discussing current situations around the world. He explained the financial situations he had researched as he used the multi-touch screens to elaborate his theory.
When he was finished Anthony smiled and said, “Job well done.” Charles thanked him and they shook hands.
Nathaniel pointed out a few major events that the public was not aware of regarding the countries’ financial situations and behind the scenes activities.
He asked Charles, “Now does this information change your outlook on what you have presented?”
Charles thought about his answer. “It does and it doesn’t. First, your situation calls for the countries you spoke of to consider the long term effect on the world markets. What they do in the short term regarding this situation will make the market fluctuate now but cause stability later. However, I believe that getting back to the basic principles of economics is usually the best way forward. Even if you have to suffer just a little bit in the short term to eventually gain in the future. The Sojourner people need to have substantial assets to back their wealth for the long term.”
Nathaniel and Anthony talked quietly at the table. Nathaniel said, “I like your view point and I think you are going to be very shrewd when it comes to the global market. World leaders will seek out your opinion once you have had enough training
to take over for Anthony. It is very important that you are able to study and keep up with what is going on in the world. Anthony here was one of the best Prime Ministers right out of the gate. He had an excellent teacher and he was a talented student. He could turn any market around and the leaders that listened to his advice reaped the rewards. We would like to update you on confidential meetings and see how you do with our discussions about global financial situations.”
Nathaniel pointed to a few places in the portfolio and asked Charles to explain his thoughts. The two of them had their heads together in deep conversation.
When they were finished Anthony said, “Charles, I’d like you to have a more in-depth view of what is going on in world terms. I think you are ready for it.”
Charles looked briefly at Dimitrios to get a feel for what was said. Dimitrios agreed with them, “He’s ready.”
Nathaniel stood up. “Very well then. Dimitrios will be giving you briefings. I look forward to our next meeting.”
Everyone shook hands and they moved to walk out of the room. Charles went to pick up his portfolio. Nathaniel picked it up first and asked, “May I take this with me?”
“Yes, you may. I’d like to have it back though.” Nathaniel agreed and then as if in a hurry left the room.
Dimitrios having seen the exchange laughed. “I should have warned you to specify when you will get it back. Anthony is still waiting on his.” Charles wasn’t amused. He was however glad to have the meeting over.
Dimitrios patted him on the back. Then he turned to Carson and asked permission to have Anjoleah join them at his office with her team to examine their vault. Carson agreed. Dimitrios said, “The information we heard through the vault was very valuable and we are wondering how the vault is transmitting the voices. We’d like to know where the voices are coming from.”
Charles was talking to Anthony and said, “I didn’t get a chance to go over everything.”
Anthony said, “Don’t worry Nathaniel will continue to read your portfolio. He lives for that kind of discovery. It will keep him busy.”
Charles looked in Carson’s direction and said, “I guess Anjoleah and her team will be joining us to look at the vault.”
Anthony said, “I’d like to take a look at it myself.”
“I don’t think anyone would mind if you did.”
Carson heard part of the conversation and said, “You are welcome to join us. I did express to Dimitrios my concerns and he reassured me.”
Anthony said, “I understand. I think we can accommodate you and still get the answers we need.”
Dimitrios asked Carson if he would tell them the history and secrets of the vault.
Carson hesitated before saying, “I don’t mind answering the questions you have. Charles will have to be there when we discuss it. I was going to save this conversation for later, but I guess now is as good a time as any considering he will be the one to inherit it and its contents.”
Anthony said, “I understand. He’s also going to be learning about all of the secrets of holding the office of Prime Minister as well. He’s a mature young man. I’m sure he can handle it. That’s why we chose him. It wasn’t by accident. He is going to hold one of the most important, influential and secretive offices in the world.”
Carson asked, “When do you think Anjoleah will be ready to meet with us?”
Dimitrios looked at Anthony. Anthony said, “Knowing Anjoleah, she’ll be ready to go as soon as you get back to your office.”
Dimitrios asked, “Anthony and I have an errand to run. Shall we all meet at your office?”
Carson replied, “That’s fine. Charles and I will get moving in that direction.”
As they walked out, Anthony in passing mentioned that he was proud of Charles’ progress. Charles thanked him as they parted company.
Carson and Charles walked toward the Passageway stall. Charles noticed Max across the way and pointed him out. Carson tried to locate him through the sea of people but he had already moved on. Max blended in with the crowd like a chameleon.
Carson said, “We need to keep moving. Let’s not go looking for trouble.”
“I’m not worried about him.”
Charles heard from behind him someone call out, “Who aren’t you worried about punk?”
Charles stopped. Carson encouraged him to keep moving but Charles was trying to decide if he should listen to him, or turn and confront this bully. Either way it wasn’t going to be a pretty scene. Charles decided he wasn’t about to be bullied. He wasn’t afraid. So he did what he dreaded most, he slowly turned around and came face to face with Max. They stood staring eye to eye. “Max, don’t you have anything better to do with your time than to stalk me?”
Max said casually, “I’m not stalking you. I’m keeping an eye on you. I think you’re stupid and have foolishly been misled. I’ve decided to take pity on you.”
Charles laughed. “Oh really?”
Max pretended to look around. “Where’s the nightmarish demon that you’ve been keeping company with? You know the one I’m talking about, the one from beyond the gates of the eternal border?” Charles scowled. “You know who I’m talking about, the siren that transforms herself at will into one of those deadly venomous creatures that cloaks herself in the darkness of the Netherworld?” Charles remained silent.
“Don’t pretend you haven’t heard of a siren of the Netherworld.” Max smiled a mischievous smile. “You have haven’t you?” He momentarily raised his eyebrows. “Someone must have warned you about them?” He briefly paused. “I’m certain a cultured young man such as yourself has had a chance to read all about the terrible dangers that lurk outside the eternal borders in the untamed wilderness of this dimension.” Charles rolled his eyes.
Max’s demeanor became very dark and serious. He shook his head. “No. I can see it in your eyes that they haven’t told you have they? They haven’t told you about what that insidious monster’s poisonous venom can do to a man? I’m going to do you a favor. Let me tell you from experience, because I happen to know first-hand what happens. The siren lures its victim into submissiveness by gaining its trust. Once the victim succumbs to the siren’s wiles, it is at its most vulnerable state. The siren then strikes and bites its unsuspecting victim with its razor sharp teeth. The victim can feel the searing heat pulse through its ripped flesh as the siren salivates its poison into the victim’s veins inflicting a slow and painful death. The venom it secretes eats the victim alive from the inside out until there is nothing left of its burning flesh. It will drive the victim mad as its soul cries out in agony and begs for someone, anyone to help ease the pain, only to discover there isn’t a cure for the agony that tortures. No one can help the victim, as it writhes in pain screaming. All victims must learn the only one who can relieve the agony is itself. If you’re wise you’ll heed my advice: be careful when you’re near her and never ever turn your back on her. Eventually you’ll be like the rest of us, and she’ll win your trust. The inevitable will happen. She’ll turn on you too, just like she did me. It’s the nature of the infernal demon.”
Charles glared. “I’ve heard just about enough of your lies and insults.”
They had moved very close to each other and a crowd had begun to form a tight circle around them. Carson managed to get inside the circle with them. Everyone else stood back. Airabelle and Airasten took flight. The two men stood eye to eye staring at each other. The crowd grew until it caught the attention of the Passageway Authorities. Airabelle let Charles know in his mind that the Passageway Authorities were heading in their direction and this party wasn’t going to last too much longer. Charles said, “It looks to me like we will be having company very soon. Maybe we should do this some other time?”
Max looked around the circle of people. Max’s accomplices were beginning to taunt Charles. Max said to the crowd, “I don’t see anyone. Do you?” They laughed.
Charles shook his head. “Stay if you like, but I’m moving on.” As he and Ca
rson turned to walk away, the circle became tighter.
Max said, “I didn’t say you could leave. I’m not done talking to you yet. You need to wait and be given permission to leave, boy.”
Charles drew in a deep breath and let it out. He had his back to Max. He looked at Carson who motioned for him to follow.
“I’m not talking to you, old man. You can leave. Now!”
Carson said, “It’s better to deal with him another time. I have a feeling it is going to get ugly around here in a matter of minutes.” Carson tried to move Charles forward. The crowd from the back began to be parted by the Passageway Authorities. In the confusion he guided Charles through the crowd. By the time the Authorities made it through, Max had disappeared too. The Authorities warned the crowd that they should move on to their destinations.
A Passageway Authority asked, “What was going on here?”
A bystander shouted, “Nothing now. You missed all the excitement!”
The Passageway Authority tried to ask questions of the crowd but no one would cooperate. They became frustrated and gave up. They forcefully moved everyone along.
Carson said, “I know a place to eat that is hidden. The only way people know about it is by word of mouth. It’s fast and we could be in and out in no time. That way maybe Max will move on.”
Charles agreed. “That will be fine. I agree. I don’t think it would be wise to lead Max to our Passageway stall.”
Carson led the way. Once they arrived Charles understood what he was talking about. It was down an alley and in the basement of a building that looked condemned. It wasn’t exactly an average Hub restaurant, but it was cozy and clean inside. There were several booths scattered throughout the restaurant. They sat down and the waiter came to take their order. They discussed the meeting with Nathaniel. They avoided discussing the incident with Max.
The Xidoran Prophecy Page 68
