The Serpent's Song

by S. Robertson

  Vette, patted Rafie, then changed the topic saying, “I know these darling dogs won’t be coming home with us. I’ll miss Rafie. Maybe Myttrwn might allow them a visit at your castle in Scotland, Andrew. I know they’ll be here when we visit, whenever that may be.”

  “Yah, the dogs,” said Morgan looking sadly at Macky. “I’ll really feel bad leaving her here, I’ve never had a dog like this…………. actually this is my first dog. It’s amazing how much peace and security they bring. Why don’t we ask Myttrwn about a visit?”

  Andrew not wanting to take lightly their growing bond with the dogs replied, “We can ask but I’m sure they have to stay here. It would be quite a sensation if they were discovered on Earth. Robotic dogs like these would certainly stand out.”

  “I agree with Vette and Morgan,” said Wolfram. “I’m really going to miss Dusky. She’s been a great companion in recent days. I never thought I’d grow so close to an animal so quickly………. robotic or otherwise.”

  “Myttrwn truly knew what to create to protect us,” said Angi patting Skylar. Then looking at Andrew she pleaded, “Can you try to convince Myttrwn, Andrew, that we might have the dogs visit us, if the time between trips is going to be lengthy.”

  “I’ll try, but understand, there are rules for such things,” replied Andrew.

  “Now that we’re over this pyramid episode and being introduced to a Sage from another dimension, perhaps Angi might fill us in on her training status with Myttrwn. Angi, I was wondering what happens to your training when you return to earth? If you don’t have Myttrwn is there any danger your skills might atrophy?” asked Wolfram.

  “That’s a good point Wolfram, I’ll have to ask him,” replied Angi, “It might be another incentive for his visit. I realize now there’s years of work ahead no matter how positive Myttrwn seems to be about my progress. As Adawee stated, this advanced technology has layers and layers of subtle scientific programming which I’ll need to learn and manage. I suppose this begs the inevitable question, has anyone any idea what we are expected to do with all this information and my medallion, when we get back home. Have Sirona or Myttrwn said anything to you Andrew?”

  “They’ve been very secretive,” replied Andrew, “The few hints I’ve received are Myttrwn’s insistence that we need to be physically younger because of the amount of work which, to me, speaks of decades. In addition, as mentioned before, my castle in Scotland is to become a new gateway, as there will be a lot of coming and going between our two planets. However, the main objective remains a mystery. You can be sure Myttrwn does not waste time or energy for no purpose, so whatever it is I expect we shall be kept busy for a long time.”

  “Knowing Myttrwn, he’ll hold that card until the last minute, then will ask each one of us if we will personally volunteer for the role,” said Wolfram with a grin. “I truly appreciate their constant insistence that each individual makes his or her own decision and not go through life like sheep. The one thing I’ve noticed is that life here while appearing tranquil is downright serious. Those young people in this House of Learning are fully committed to their studies and know precisely what service they will render to their community after graduating, or whatever they call it. Somehow, in our world, we’ve lost that sense of responsibility and service commitment to society unless it’s tied to money.”

  “You’re right Wolfram, we’ve been privileged at seeing a different way of life, and given an understanding that Earth is heading in a similar direction if we don’t self-destruct first. All that is positive,” replied Andrew.

  “Maybe that’s it,” exclaimed Angi. “If the Earth is moving onward in its Dwapara Yuga, then perhaps we’re going to have some role in assisting it along that path.”

  “That’s a bit daunting,” piped up Vette, “How are we going to achieve such a lofty goal being such a small group on a planet fraught with so much social and political upheaval?”

  “That doesn’t prevent us from trying,” came Bryce’s calm intercession, “Our past history has shown that it’s often a single individual or a small group that does achieve the best results. I could list a number but you’re all well acquainted with them. We may be small in number but with the help from Tir na nOg we could achieve quite a bit. Andrew and I have many contacts which, I know, will be willing to assist us. If we move carefully with a well thought out plan it may take time but it’s better than doing nothing. No one is asking for miracles, just a beginning……….. like planting seeds in a garden.”

  “Well spoken, old friend,” replied Andrew, “Before arriving in this fair kingdom we hardly knew each other. I admit, back on Earth we travelled together but that doesn’t mean we were fully acquainted with one another. Here we’ve knitted as a group, perhaps even coming together as a family. Adawee insisted we were all chosen, and I believe her. We came together bearing different gifts, with Angi having the most because of her medallion. Let’s keep an open mind and see what Sirona and Myttrwn have to say. Remember what Adawee said, this venture is important for both planets. So as we are sitting here pondering the next steps, I bet there’s an equal discussion going on at the palace.”

  “Does anyone know what will happen to Zolar?” asked Wolfram, “Just interested in how this plays out on another planet.”

  Andrew immediately responded, “I’ve heard nothing specific except that Myttrwn hinted that at worst he might receive the ultimate punishment of death but expected, because of your forgiveness, he would be expelled to an outer inhospitable planet to spend the rest of his days, which for him could be considerable. His trial will not occur until well after we’re gone. Bryce and I didn’t have much time to delve into their laws, but what little we discovered is that such exile is a devastating sentence for anyone let alone someone who held such power and responsibility as Zolar. I’ve got little sympathy for the man as he planned your deaths in that pyramid. He’ll have lots of time to ponder his actions.”

  “You know, Adawee said our pyramid initiation was ordained,” came Angi’s off-handed statement, remembering her prior discussion.

  “Ordained, by who?” asked Vette? “Zolar……… or is that too obvious?”

  “Actually, it was needed to prove we were rightly chosen for whatever role lies ahead,” came Angi’s philosophical reply. “Apparently, Zolar was a willing pawn to execute the trials.”

  The comment registered with Bryce who responded, “Now that’s a fascinating theory and one that fits the stories of chosen heroes in our past. Remember those myths you once read? The heroes and heroines needed to be not only chosen but also tested …………that’s one of the basic rules in mythology. Yes, now that I think of it this would fit that scenario perfectly. You had to be tested as you four will be leading this upcoming mission. The rest of us are your support team. Now all we have to find out is the purpose of the mission itself.”

  “By George, you’re right on target, Bryce,” replied an excited Andrew, “The pyramid testing was essential for these four. Their suffering is part of the process. Why didn’t I see it? We’ve somehow stepped back in time to an era when such things were well understood even on Earth. In our modern world no one volunteers to be put through agony just to prove they are the rightful heir to a mysterious mission.” And standing up he turned to the four who were sitting together saying, “May I take this opportunity to present to all of you our two heroines and two heroes for the journey ahead. Destiny has chosen them and we are fortunate to be their travelling companions. Admittedly, past myths had single heroes so having four must mean the task will be indeed challenging.”

  Surprised, and showing signs of embarrassment the four looked at each other not knowing what to say. Angi spoke first.

  “That’s very kind of you Andrew but I believe the title of heroine doesn’t quite flash to mind for me. I admit I’ve had some mysterious happenings over the past few months, but still do not equate any of this to such a lofty conclusion.”

  “Believe me I don’t feel much like a hero,” c
ame Wolfram’s reaction, “Aren’t heroes supposed to have some exceptional skills or something? My talents are quite meager.”

  “Heroine is not a word I’d use for me either,” replied Vette, “Survivor might be a better handle. In fact, the whole idea sends shivers up my spine. Such a title comes with major responsibilities.”

  “Yah, I’ll go along with Vette’s word of survivor,” came Morgan’s response. “As you were speaking Andrew some ancient heroes popped into my mind and in no way do I fit any such tales.”

  “Well, whether you believe it or not, to Bryce and I this whole adventure speaks of such,” came Andrew’s reply as he looked more intensely at them. “It matters little what the titles are, Bryce and I see the pattern, and it’s there. Only time will tell how this unfolds. But mark my word you four, and the rest of us, have been chosen for something.”

  “We may get the first glimmer of this in the next few days,” came Dylan’s parting comment. “We’ve got a week before we depart. I shall carefully keep your comments in mind Andrew. As for me and my team, we will be delighted if we’re all destined to spend the rest of our lives together whatever the mission.”

  The evening closed with each one retreating to his or her own suite their minds filled with unanswered questions and a mixture of thoughts about the future.

  * * *

  The House of Life

  Wolfram sat with Dusky, waiting in the main concourse of the House of Life knowing Angi’s training session with Myttrwn was about to end. Edgy, he was uncertain as to the outcome of his plan. Thinking to himself he pondered his strategy, “I’ve got a clear line on the elevator, I can’t miss her. This is my best chance to talk to Angi before more time passes. I didn’t expect to be so nervous. I’m just going to tell her how I feel……….. Don’t expect miracles, old boy, the age issue may not be the only problem.” He had little time for further reflection when he spotted Angi and Skylar exiting the elevator. The speed of his response startled Dusky.

  Angi, seeing Wolfram approaching, smiled saying, “I suppose you just happened to be in the building at this particular time of day?”

  Not wanting to make light of the situation Wolfram replied honestly, “No, I’ve been sitting here waiting for you. I’ve been trying to get a chance to talk to you alone.”

  Sensing the determination in Wolfram’s manner Angi replied, “Would you like to sit here in this busy thoroughfare or find a quiet spot somewhere outside?”

  Wolfram loved Angi’s directness and replied, “A quiet spot somewhere on the patio would be preferred.”

  “Then let’s go,” said Angi turning towards the exit. The dogs walked together in front of them, being admired by a group of students.

  Finding a stone bench in a grassy alcove a distance from the main pathways of students and others, they sat down. The dogs sensing their mood, lay down.

  Seizing the opportunity and not wanting to waste time with aimless conversation Wolfram began, “Angi I’ve hesitated saying much to you over the past months as we were rather focused on survival both on Earth and then here in Tir na nOg. I expect it was the journey through the pyramid that brought my feelings to a head. I was filled with guilt and heartache when you were almost killed in Chamber Seven. For a brief moment I thought I’d lost you. When you recovered I made my decision. Now, I’m not expecting you to respond but I wanted to let you know how I felt before our lives are again engulfed in another unexpected venture.” Getting no reaction he pressed on, “Angi, I truly care about you and, if you agree, I would like to spend more time with you, just the two of us.” In closing he thought to himself, “There, it’s said.”

  Angi could see he was struggling with his feelings and carefully replied, “Actually, Wolfram, I was wondering how I might tell you the same thing.”

  Stunned by her reply Wolfram blurted out, “You were thinking the same thing? That’s incredible.” All his misgivings started to melt away.

  Angi continued, “Wolfram, these past few months have been the most extraordinary of my entire life. During this time I have come to rely on your steady, practical leadership and your compassion. I suspect your hesitation in making your feelings known earlier may have been clouded by some feeling about the difference in our age. But actually age means nothing to me and with Myttrwn’s recent offer it will have no meaning at all. But in fairness, I also agree there has been little time for a personal life in the past months but we could make time when we get home. I’d like that.”

  Wolfram, exuberant, turned to Angi and replied, “So would I. Let’s try for some time together even in the last few days in this enchanting kingdom. I could meet you here after your lessons. How about that?”

  “Good, I’d like that, we could sit here and get to know each other better,” said Angi, pleased the door had finally been opened.

  “How long do you think we can keep this from the rest of the team?” asked Wolfram.”

  “Not long,” replied Angi with a smile, “Our new family seems to know everything. Anyway I don’t care. I’ve grown fond of you and I believe we deserve a chance at happiness. But I must tell you that you are going to be with a rather conservative nurse, one not prone to risk taking or emotional outbursts.”

  “Sure Angi,” laughed Wolfram, “While that description may have once applied to a clone of Angi, it has little bearing on what I’ve witnessed over the last six months. I expect the full impact of your drastic evolution has not yet registered. Our universe has changed dramatically. You are now the sole proprietor of a magical medallion, an item of ancient complex technology which enables you to do unbelievable things. While you were hesitant at first, you’re skills have blossomed under the tutorage of Myttrwn. Besides that, you have been in conversation with spirits both on Earth and here in this kingdom. You’re an amazing conundrum, a constant mystery, not only to myself but to the rest of our team if not this entire kingdom. To say you are unique would be an understatement of the highest order. But it’s those features that endears me to you, where else would I find a treasure like you. But the world you left behind is no more, and the one we may be entering could be both exhilarating and fraught with problems. But whatever unfolds I want to share that with you. I’m sure none of us expect to return to our former lives, and I say that with a degree of sadness.”

  “Ah, I guess you’re right, Wolfram,” replied Angi with a sigh, “Somewhere in my deepest thoughts I wanted that old conservative life, it was comfortable and I knew the routines. You know, I really liked being a nurse and helping people. I expect that’s gone no matter how hard I’d like it to be otherwise. I admit, I am still coming to terms regarding this medallion and all its so-called magic. I have difficulty envisioning myself as a magician or even a master of some ancient or futuristic technology. That’s why I need you Wolfram, you can help me keep reality in check.”

  “Angi, I witnessed your caring during that pyramid ordeal and I don’t think it’s ending, it may just be getting restructured for a different assignment,” relied Wolfram, trying to console both of them. “I’m glad you need me, that’s a good start for believe me I need you. Life would be immensely empty without you. By the way some time ago I was thinking of our first meeting. That image of you popping into your grandmother’s Bed and Breakfast living room from a morning run is forever etched on my brain, a tall girl with a beautiful blond braid and flushed cheeks. By the time we met again in Boston I was crippled and not expecting much in life. But you changed all that in Scotland when you healed my leg. That day I wanted to hug you but controlled the impulse. You have no idea how much that changed my life for I was able to once again think the unthinkable. I had a future, one I now would like to share with you.”

  “You first endeared yourself to me when I watched you struggle in the gym in Andrew’s castle,” said Angi, “You were so determined in strengthening every healthy muscle in your leg, a steeliness I admired. I am pleased that my initial medallion skills resulted in your disability being corrected. By the way, I ho
pe Myttrwn when he recalibrates your age leaves that charming white streak in your hair, I rather like it.”

  “Then that will be one of my conditions before the process begins,” replied Wolfram running his hand through his hair. “Myttrwn has always been most accommodating. Now this white streak will have a positive meaning when I see it each morning,” as he relaxed with a broad grin.

  “Also, Wolfram, I never thanked you properly for saving my life in Chamber Seven. Vette told me what you endured in getting my body away from the laser fire. That act proved to me you cared. I’m just glad you’ve finally verbalized it.” Then shifting to a more serious tone she went on, “Wolfram you and I come from parents who went through a broken marriage even though our grandparents rescued us and gave us stability. Because of this I’d like to take our new relationship slowly if that’s OK with you. As a child my parent’s divorce left me with a great deal of sadness which was further complicated when I lost my mother a few years later. I’ve resolved much of this or I think I have. I’ve had boyfriends before but not a serious one. I regard you as a serious one.”

  “I like serious,” replied Wolfram, grinning. “Angi, I’m so relieved I spoke up and am delighted with your reaction so you can take all the time you want. When we have a break back on Earth I’d like you to get to know my family. My grandparents will be most insistent that we take over their antique business……….. it will be hard for them to understand our new roles, ones which we have yet to discover. But basically they’re good people, and will be glad there is a future for their grandson.”

  “I wish you had a chance to know my grandmother more,” replied Angi, “She was a very special lady, but that’s not possible,” a feeling of sadness washed over her.

  “I’ll get to know her through you, Angi, for I’m sure she’s made an indelible imprint on your whole being. Remember Myttrwn’s session on positive thoughts, I’m sure it also applies to positive people,” replied Wolfram, realizing Angi’s loss was still raw being only months since her grandmother’s death. Then a thought popped into his mind and he asked, “Angi is your father still alive?”