The Serpent's Song

by S. Robertson

  “Thank God for Angi’s skills,” said Vette. “Now that we know Zolor’s plan, we might as well skip the fifth hour and go straight to the seventh.”

  “Wait a minute,” came Angi’s immediate reply, “We have no guarantee that’s what he’s done. He may have scrambled the timing just to confuse us. One gate might open at the third hour, another at the fifth and still another at the seventh. How can we be sure?”

  “Good God, she’s got a point,” was Vette’s response to the possibilities, “Now what?”

  Waiting before replying, Wolfram stated, “If you can manage it Angi, perhaps we should follow an identical strategy for all chambers. We can’t risk misjudging Zolar’s evil intent.”

  “That’s doable,” replied Angi.

  “So be it, then it’s settled,” replied Wolfram.

  “Well before we dance into the next chamber can someone enlighten me as to whether we were in the last chamber three hours or seven, I’m confused,” came Morgan’s astute question.

  “I’m equally uncertain,” replied Wolfram, “Angi can you enlighten us?”

  “That was one of my questions which Myttrwn has yet to answer. As best as I can judge, we spent seven hours in Chamber One. Remember Myttrwn’s view that time was an illusion. So, if I’ve just manipulated the speed in which we’ve passed through time, then its seven hours. Does that make any sense?”

  “It sounds logical to me,” replied Morgan, “I’ll go with that until we get to chat with Myttrwn when we get out of this tomb.”

  Vette, doing some swift calculations, commented, “If that’s the case, we need to recalibrate our pyramid timing. If each chamber is set at seven hours, then we’re going to be in this pyramid for about forty-five hours, not twenty. If that’s the case then we’d better be stringent with our cylinder fluid.”

  “But it could be less, depending on Zolar’s plan for the other chambers,” added Angi.

  “Right, but I’d be more content with the larger estimate and rejoice if it’s less,” replied Vette.

  Suddenly realizing the ramification of Vette’s statement, Wolfram responded, “Your right, Vette. Let’s be careful with our supplies. We may have to spread them over a much longer time period than Sirona and Myttrwn planned.”

  The shock of their predicament was becoming obvious.

  “We have few options but to gear down and press on. We know we are being manipulated by Zolar for his own ends, a feeling I detest,” replied Angi. “Sirona and Myttrwn will eventually break through. In the meantime, if we’re ready, let’s see what our next test has for us.”

  * * *

  House of Life, Monitoring Room

  Everyone was riveted on the blinking movement of four dogs. At the seventh hour the chief technician announced, “They’ve entered Chamber Two.”

  “Well, that’s progress,” said Andrew looking at Sirona.

  Exuding as much confidence under the circumstances, Sirona replied, “Yes, it means if they have conquered one chamber they can do the same with the others. We’ll stick to this monitoring while the technicians work at breaking Zolar’s blockages.” Silently, she kept repeating, “Angi, somehow make contact from your side. It might work. Zolar would not have considered that possibility.”

  After his initial examination, Myttrwn reported to Sirona, “Zolar’s condition is critical but manageable. I am utilizing every available treatment but it will be slow as whatever he drank is potent. It’s unlikely I’ll be able to get anything out of him before the forty-eight hours are up. I’ve yet to fully identify all the components he’s swallowed. It’s likely something of his own creation.”

  Myttrwn had brought Corb into his confidence and ordered him to prepare for a possible forced entry into the pyramid on short notice. Corb delivered this message to Dylan and his team, preparing them for the worst. Explosive materials were assembled along with several emergency planes placed on standby. Corb and Dylan worked out different strategies for the upcoming mission. Myttrwn kept Corb updated regarding any progress in the pyramid.

  In the meantime, Andrew and Bryce relieved each other watching the monitors. They spoke little. Being old friends they did not need to verbally communicate the obvious. They were both troubled over the potential outcome and knew they had to stifle any misgivings or annoyance on their total dependence on outside sources for everything. Sirona and the technicians, sensing the anxiety of the two senior men, kept them updated on both the progress of the dogs and whatever technical breakthroughs they were achieving.

  “As I estimate it,” said Andrew, speaking to Bryce, “seven hours in six chambers plus a short time in the seventh, will take about forty-five or more hours, ……………. almost two of our days.” Glancing at his watch he continued, “They have completed about nine hours……….. It’s going to be a long ordeal. I wish I could do more than sit here watching that damn monitor. But then again, it’s better than nothing. They’re moving, Angi does have her medallion, and there’s the dogs. Thank God for such mercies. I best make some arrangements for us to rest.” He walked over to Sirona.

  Makeshift sleeping arrangement were quickly set up near the monitoring room. Sirona also made arrangements for food and refreshments to be delivered. Everyone waited, hoping for miracles and preparing for a disaster.

  * * *

  Pyramid, Chamber 2

  From the driving rain of Chamber One, they entered a desolate scene of a rocky land outreach high above a winding river. An overgrown gray stone road followed the river, with a steep jagged cliff dropping perpendicular to the river on the right and an endless scene of scrub grass and low trees on the left. A steady breeze welcomed their arrival.

  “This is different,” said Vette as she walked ahead. “Even with the occasional sun glint the place is depressing. This seems to be the only road which leads first to that abandoned lookout building hanging precariously over the river. Then the road twists and turns up to the left towards what looks like a guard post in front of a deserted castle at the top of the hill. Morgan, this looks like it’s been abandoned for some time. What do you think?”

  “Yeh, it reminds me of my time in the United Kingdom or was it Europe? Anyway, this being a hologram it hardly matters,” replied Morgan. “Those buildings are definitely deserted, unless for a lonesome ghost. Our objective has to be that castle, it’s the highest point.” Then as an afterthought he added, “I’d love to explore these old structures.”

  Smiling, Wolfram replied, “When we get out of this mess, Morgan, I’ll ask Myttrwn to drop you back in here for a second run. As for me, once is enough, thank you. As for ghosts, if we meet any I’ll direct them to you.”

  Angi chuckled, “You know, my grandmother was an expert on ghosts, but she’s not available. I’ve had one ghost in my life, that wee boy in Scotland. That’s enough for a spell. By the way, could we go back to the question of time? In Chamber One we must have walked for hours, but, as I recall, the exterior of this pyramid is not that large. Anyone with an explanation?”

  Morgan was quick to respond, “Remember Myttrwn’s sessions on our world view being an illusion. He insisted that the world around us, the world of time and space with its sensory interpretation is one aspect of truth. Our language and culture reinforces our current illusion of time and space. I expect these pyramid chambers are an illustration of that principle. They may work in combination with some sophisticated computer program, and we, somehow, do something to create these scenes. I bet their advanced students have the ability to pull this holographic or sensory veil to one side, likely with their thoughts, and walk directly to the next gate. Too bad we can’t do likewise.”

  “You may be right, Morgan,” replied Angi. “If that’s so, then they would also avoid the physical tests which we’ll have to face. If I make it through this initiation I’m definitely going to push for more lessons from Myttrwn, no matter how many trips it takes. I would like to know how to bypass my five senses. Likely the world looks very different than the one I th
ink exists.”

  “You’re lucky you’re not an ancient Egyptian,” came Morgan’s quick reply.

  “Why?” asked Angi.

  “They recorded three hundred and sixty senses. We identify only five. Some scholars argue that the three hundred and sixty senses could be altered states of consciousness but even that we can’t duplicate in our modern world. You know, much of what I scoffed at over the years is now coming home to bite me. The more we deal with Myttrwn the more I realize that we in our so-called modern society are neophytes compared to our ancient ancestors. That concept would be a mighty hard pill for some to swallow.”

  “Morgan, your wealth of historic detail amazes me. But let’s set aside that discussion for another time. Right now we must confront this reality.” As Angi walked gingerly over some loose pebbles, she added, “Let’s pray we’re not facing snow or this road will become dangerous.”

  Vette walked back to join the group saying, “I just spotted an eagle soaring over the castle, but it likely means little. By the way, have you noticed the wind seems to be picking up, or is it my imagination?”

  “I noticed the same thing,” replied Wolfram. “Let’s push on so we can get off this precipice before the wind really kicks up. It’s not snow this round Angi, its wind.”

  As they walked along the dogs, sticking to the high ground to the left of the path, ran on together sniffing the air.

  “Speaking of learning things,” said Wolfram, “We know little of these robotic companions. Look at them? They seem to be sniffing something or are they just sensing the wind. Myttrwn is a genius. These dogs look and act like normal dogs but I expect they are loaded with technology which Myttrwn hoped to test on this mission. That’s fine with me. They are excellent buddies and give us a sense of security.”

  “I’m sure they’ve been programmed to each one of us. Look at how quickly Skylar came to my rescue. I swear they can read our thoughts,” replied Angi.

  “Now that’s spooky,” was Morgan’s immediate reply, “It’s bad enough that I think everyone in this kingdom can read my mind but now we have four dogs as well.”

  The wind strengthened as they progressed up the hill. The dogs eventually joined the four on the roadway out of the wind gusts. At the end of the first hour they had bypassed what remained of the lookout building and were well on their way towards the guard post.

  Vette, taking a quick glance at the river below said, “This was certainly a secure location, but frightfully isolated. What would possess anyone to choose such a place?”

  “Actually, if this was real, there might be other castles in the distance which they communicate with by fires or other means. As for the reasons, there are multiple possibilities,” replied Morgan, “I can think of political and religious reasons for a start.”

  “Well it didn’t work,” replied Vette, “This place was destroyed a long time ago whatever the reason.”

  Fifteen minutes to the second hour they reached the guard post, another dilapidated structure with half a wall still intact. At this stage a dark gray cloud appeared forcing an increase in the wind which rushed around the stony outcrop lifting any loose dirt. Determined to reach the castle before the storm hit, they hurried past the crumbling structure. The path to the castle lay about three hundred feet behind the guard post.

  “Let’s stick closer together,” advised Wolfram, “That gale is getting worse and we’re exposed on this hill. But take a good look, that castle doesn’t seem to have much to offer in protection. It looks pretty dilapidated from here with little remaining except that outer wall. It’s sitting so high that the wind can attack from any direction. If we have five hours in this place with escalating winds we could be in trouble.”

  Pushing into the gale-force winds the small party slowly navigated the distance from the guard post to the castle, entering what appeared to be the remnant of the castle entrance. Once inside they were surprised by the enormous size of the structure, the remaining ramparts blocking out the diminishing light.

  “This castle must have had several floors in its day,” said Morgan, “Look over there, you can still see wooden beams and there’s a broken stairway to the top of the structure. A rough guess, this structure could have housed hundreds of people. I wonder if any survived whatever happened. Anyway, that’s not our concern. The biggest question is where a gate may be hidden in this mess.”

  “I’m amazed that so much of the wall seems intact considering the location of this edifice and the steady battering of the winds,” said Angi. “How’s our time?”

  “We’ve been walking for about two hours,” replied Wolfram. “So, if the gate opens in the third hour we better get cracking. As I see it, there’s only two possibilities, the more intact wall to our left or the dilapidated one to the right. If we separate we can cover more ground. Angi and I could explore the one on the left while you, Vette, go with Morgan to the right. Be careful, that wind is brutal and this old structure doesn’t seem too stable even with its huge walls.”

  “Fine, let’s agree we’ll come together in half an hour at this very spot,” said Vette, “With this wind it would be impossible to call out. While I might agree Wolfram that the gate is likely in the left wall, our dear Zolar may have just as easily planted it in the right to trick us. Come on Morgan, we’ve got work to do.”

  The half hour was almost up when Angi heard a dog barking. As she and Wolfram exited their area of the castle they saw Vette running towards them yelling, “Come quick Angi. Morgan’s injured.”

  When they got to Morgan they found him lying to one side of a pile of fallen stones with a bleeding head wound and Macky standing guard.

  “We separated for a moment when I heard Morgan yell out and then the dog started barking. When I got to him, Macky was pulling him away from more falling rocks. She hasn’t left his side. His pulse is OK but that’s quite a bang on his head.”

  Angi reached into her First Aid kit and pulled out the pad, stretching the corners and placing it over Morgan’s head wound, saying, “The pad will prevent any dirt entering the wound from my hands. This could take time, the wound seems deep. Vette, keep a tag on the time.” Then, concentrating on all the gemstones in her medallion Angi began repairing the wound from the inside out. She kept visualizing the healing process as each layer knitted and the bleeding eased. Finally, Morgan’s opened his eyes mumbling, “What happened?”

  “The wind must have dislodged those rocks causing one to come crashing down on your forehead,” replied Angi. Then raising two fingers she asked, “Morgan now that you’re conscious, how many fingers do you see?”

  “Two, how many should I be seeing?” asked Morgan, still groggy.

  “Two,” answered Angi. “You’ve received a bad blow. Macky saved you from a worse fate. Do you have a headache?”

  “Yes, now that you mention it,” replied Morgan, trying to grasp his predicament.

  “OK, stay there while I perform a few more minutes of healing,” said Angi. Before beginning she again asked, “How’s our time Vette?”

  “We have twenty-five minutes to the third hour.”

  After minutes of further healing Angi asked again, “Morgan do you still have your headache? Do you hurt anywhere else?”

  “The headache’s gone. Thanks Angi. No, just my head. Now all I have to do is stand,” came Morgan’s response, growing stronger.

  “Before you move, let me use Sirona’s spray to protect the wound. I’ll replace this soiled pad with your own and use your headgear for more protection. Remember Morgan this wound will still be sensitive so it needs to be covered.” She slipped the bloody pad into one of her leg pockets.

  Morgan proceeded to get up.

  Angi, watching his movements, advised, “Let Vette and I support you, Morgan, for the walk across the courtyard. Wolfram will lead the way. If the gate fails to open on the third hour I’ll give you another treatment. We need you well for the rest of this joyous trip.”

  Morgan, unstable, got to his feet w
ith Vette and Angi’s support. Once upright he said, “Thanks for the offer. I think I can navigate on my own. But stick close just in case I’m being too optimistic.”

  “Morgan, what about you’re Aqk?” suggested Wolfram. “You could make a walking stick to help you.” He assisted Morgan getting the Aqk out of his belt and made sure he was ready to move on.

  The group made their way across the courtyard to the larger outer wall. Wolfram led the way to the only surviving room in the entire castle, a side room with intact walls. When they reached the room Morgan, growing weary, sat down on a wooden log. Three dogs sat together, while Macky came and placed his head on Morgan’s lap. The winds grew louder encircling the castle and breaking through every opening.

  “We’re within five minutes of the third hour,” reported Vette.

  Once again the third hour came and went.

  “OK Angi, after you give Morgan another treatment, let’s magically bounce to the fifth hour,” said Vette. “This time I pray the gate opens on the fifth because that windstorm is intensifying and, I agree with Wolfram, this old building can’t take much more punishment.”

  After treating Morgan, as before, Angi focusing on her medallion blue gemstones stated the precise time travel objective. Upon completion, she checked her watch to confirm the time….. five minutes to the fifth hour. They waited in silence.

  “There……….I heard it,” exclaimed Vette, “We’re getting out of this chamber early.” She no sooner finished speaking when an iron lattice gate materialized on the stone wall. Once it opened they scrambled into Chamber Three.

  The technicians in the House of Life, monitoring the movement of the dogs, immediately reported their advancement.

  * * *

  Pyramid, Chamber 3

  At the entrance to Chamber Three Angi stopped and asked, “Let’s take a sip of Myttrwn’s cylinder fluid before we go on. We’ve burnt a lot of energy in the first two chambers. I’d also like to check Morgan’s wound.”