Gaia's Majesty_Mission Called

by Roger B. Burt

  “I’ve been expecting you. You’re just in time for breakfast.”

  After a brief hug, she led him inside to sit at the kitchen table. He looked around. Everything was just as he remembered—except for one thing. His mother was uncharacteristically attentive, and there was none of the usual chatter and flightiness.

  He sighed. “I should have known you would be expecting me. How much do you know?”

  “A great deal. And nothing at all. For some reason I believe you now understand about intuitions. I’ve been receiving them, including yours, for days. And I can’t wait to meet your young lady.”

  “Mother, you seem very different. What’s going on?’”

  His mother stood up. “Can I get you something to eat? Do you prefer coffee or tea?”

  “Damn it! Things have gotten serious.”

  She turned back around with her eyes flashing. He had never seen anything like this look on her face. “I have feelings, too, and there’s an important story here which I’ll tell you. I’m sorry you’re angry. I should have expected it.”

  “It’s been a long trip, Mother. Just some coffee and, when you’re ready, some straight answers.” He sank back in the kitchen chair.

  She rose slowly and prepared his coffee, a cup of tea for herself.

  They sipped in silence. Eventually his mother looked up from her cup and said, “Let’s go out and sit on the lawn where we can watch our beloved sea.”

  The view was just as he remembered. The serene harbor in the distance, a gentle breeze and soft sounds of an ocean at rest. It spoke of the past and nothing of his present. He found himself immersed in memories from his childhood.

  “How much do you know?” she asked.

  “About our family? Nothing. Everything I thought I knew was probably a lie.” His voice had a hard edge.

  His mother took a deep breath. “Then tell me what you know.”

  Beck was silent for a moment. “You said you’ve been having intuitions. I guess I have, too. The reason I’m here is because I felt something was fishy,” he said with a lopsided grin.

  “First tell me about your life as it is now and then the rest.”

  He began and his mother looked off into the distance. From her slight nods and movements, he knew she was listening, but from a place far, far away. The sun climbed steadily as he talked of his love for Avery and went on to tell her about Laguna, his company, even the assassination attempt. He even told her everything he’d heard from Avery and Philippa.

  At last he fell silent and looked to his mother, who was quite still and had said nothing. When she rose, she walked a few steps toward the sea, and exhaled sharply as she turned back to Beck. “I hardly know where to begin.”

  Beck nodded. “With everything I’ve learned, I began to get a glimpse of who and what my family probably was. There was much that was just too familiar. You need to tell me the rest of it.”

  She walked back toward him and moved her chair closer. He had never seen her so focused. The new-age flighty mother he’d grown up with was gone.

  “You’ve saved me a lot of explaining, Beck. It makes it easier for me to detail what you need to know.”

  “You and Father made a decision to hide who you are, which means you’ve hidden who I am from me, and now I need to know why.”

  “From the beginning, then. Your father and I come from the Tethys called Vineta which is off the coast of Denmark near Copenhagen. The local population knows the name, which refers to a mythological lost island. Except, of course, it’s not lost and was never an island. Now comes the hard part. From what you said, I think you understand that Tethyans are often given missions which may not be spelled out clearly. We were sent to establish lives on Denmark and given a Danish name.”

  Beck started to speak, but she put her hand on his wrist to restrain him.

  “On the surface, our life seemed ordinary but secure as we assumed the role of a Primal family of modest means. In fact, like Primal families, we had access to considerable resources which helped when we were sent to establish lives in the United States.”

  “Why did you come?”

  “This is the painful part. We were sent—without explanation. Your father was to become a businessman with ties to Europe, and I was to be a housewife happy with her artistic endeavors. Which in a sense I was.”

  “It sounds more like you were dismissed.”

  “Sometimes it felt like that. I have to assume that since you know about intuitions, you probably also know about how things are ordained, prophesied with little or no explanation.”

  “Yes, I do. It’s maddening.”

  “Then perhaps you can understand how we often felt. We had a mission but we didn’t know what that mission was. At the same time, I have to confess that what I’ve learned in my life is that all too often for Tethyans there is a purpose which no one knows except perhaps Gaia.”

  “Do you have any understanding now about what the mission was?” Beck asked.

  “I’m beginning to.” She was quiet for a moment, staring into space. “I think you were the mission. You had to be here in the United States.”

  Beck looked stricken. “You mean, I’m responsible for what happened to you?”

  “I wouldn’t put it that way. Simply put, there was a reason why you had to be born here and educated here.”

  Then it struck Beck full force. “Oh God, Mother—you mean it was ordained for some reason. It’s got to be about my meeting Avery.”

  His mother looked sad, and there was a pleading look in her eyes. “I know you probably feel it was unfair that you grew up not knowing who we are.”

  “It started to come crashing down on me when Avery told me about who she was and about the Tethyans. Suddenly my flighty mother made perfect sense. You were covering up who you were. And my father, in his detachment, was also covering who he was?”

  “It was as if our lives were pending. We were playing roles, and the purpose of the roles was not at all clear. You suffered as a result.” She paused and her sadness struck him.

  “We were in hiding in a sense. Tethyan women can be ethereal, which doesn’t work very well in American society. Seeming flighty was the best I could do to hide my true nature. And your father’s detachment and formality is actually very characteristic of Progenitor males.”

  Beck’s eyes narrowed. “How much am I like him?”

  His mother issued a soft laugh. “You have some of the same characteristics but, being raised in this society; it’s softened a little in you. You always were like your father. Studied, calm, but less formal.”

  He nodded as he felt the confirmation. “You had to be here so I would eventually meet Avery.” He laughed. “It’s perfect.”

  “I also suspect that you’re not always studied and calm with her,” his mother said.

  The smile blossoming on his face indicated his agreement.

  “From how you have described her it seems you have been enthralled by a women with a remarkably passionate nature.”

  Beck laughed. “I think I won’t go into Avery’s passion in detail with my mother but, yes, I would say so.”

  His mother’s relief was clear. “So what do you do now? What will happen?”

  “I was thinking this was all about Avery. But I suspect it’s also about me. The question now is what my mission is, because it has to be about more than just meeting Avery.” He stopped and smiled. “Avery often expresses anger and frustration about what she feels has been forced on her. That’s exactly how I feel right now.”

  Through the rest of the day they explored history and beliefs—a discussion that had been so long in coming. At last he had peace with his mother—a peace he had not quite known he needed to make. But it brought completion.

  Late in the afternoon his father walked in. At the sight of him, Beck realized that he had been so focused on his mother that he’d forgotten he had questions for his father. “There are things I need t
o know,” Beck said.

  His father nodded and maintained a steady gaze on his son.

  “I’ve come to an understanding with Mother, and now need to have one with you.”

  His father smiled, and the tension was broken. Leaning forward his father said, “I’m sure in talking with your mother the matter of intuitions came up. I’ve been receiving them, as well. And I think I know what you want to ask.”

  Beck was noting his father’s formality and it made him reflect on himself. Avery could be so forward and expressive in contrast to his own reserve. He was seeing so much of himself in his father.

  Beck nodded. “I doubt you know all I want to ask. But I think I’m going to get to know you for the first time.”

  Again his father smiled. “After today I think we’ll all be relieved.”

  His father went into other matters of family history and talked with Beck about male Progenitor reserve. “I can’t possibly express all of it, but you’ll come to see it in time. In the Tethys males have a different and complex role, and our adaptation to terrestrial life is difficult. But I’ll save that for another time. For now I need to stay with our personal family history.”

  Beck stopped him. “Let me lay all the intuitions aside. I have one key question. Did you arrange for me to be hired by the Covel Group?”

  His father nodded sharply. “Yes. Your mother and I did not come here and live simple lives just so you could meet Avery. I was carefully placed in Overlord businesses to monitor them on behalf of our stewardship endeavors. I maintained a close relationship with key Andromeda agents. We watched Covel carefully, and your placement there seemed ideal. It was also a promising job, but we couldn’t foresee how it would play out.”

  His father stopped and studied Beck, who seemed deep in thought. He was nodding slowly as recognitions fell into place. He looked up sharply at his father.

  “And so I had a mission. One which I was not informed about. One which was to shape my life whether I liked it or not, and one which put me in mortal danger. Is that about right?” His anger was palpable.

  His mother suddenly broke down in tears. She stood and threw her arms wide apart and turned back toward the men.

  “And so here we are trying to sift the meaning of the Tethyan missions and the import for us. As I listen to us feeling our way toward some comprehension, you have to understand that I feel just as used as you do. Of course you’re angry. So am I. But you know something—it’s happened. Some of it has to do with being Tethyans and the fact that there has always been a greater purpose in our lives.” She fell silent as the tears welled again.

  Beck sat mute.

  His father rose. Beck noted his calm and it took him deeper into understanding the man and himself.

  “Son, your mother has defined it for us. Much of this has to do with the larger purpose for which Tethyans exist. We can feel victimized or accept who we are and work with what’s before us.”

  “I’m trying to do that, Father, but being a part of an ordained process with a goddess as the director is more than a little difficult.” He managed to laugh. “So, I can see myself as a foil or a player in a greater purpose. I don’t know if I should be furious or awed.”

  They talked deep into the night, while Beck was buffeted by outrage, wonder, gratitude, and hope. The gratitude was all about Avery.

  Chapter 42

  Seeking Life’s Mission

  Turks and Caicos

  When Avery came onto the veranda the next morning, Celeste and Philippa were poring over genealogy books. “Are you feeling more rested, Avery?” asked Celeste.

  “Yes, thank you.” She smiled. “What’s for breakfast? Not to push, but I’m starved.”

  Philippa rose at once and put her arm around her. “Just tell me what would please you.”

  There was a glint in Avery’s eyes. “A warm croissant would be lovely. Garnished with fresh strawberries and a selection of cheeses.”

  Celeste just stared at her. Philippa laughed. “I see you’re feeling much better. I believe Beck would say you’re back to your bratty self. Not my choice of words, of course.”

  “Busted, Philippa. My alternative menu is whatever is available.”

  “In that case, let’s go see.” She took Avery’s hand and led her into the kitchen.

  Avery quickly fried an egg, made toast and brought them out to the pool. She ate quietly, watching the sun glinting on the calm morning sea. She pushed back from the table, looked at Philippa, and said, “I’m sorry. I’m not being a very good guest. I know I’m irritable. I’ll try to do better. I’m ready to continue if there’s more I need to hear.”

  Celeste said, “Sit by me. I have something you’ll find interesting.”

  Philippa added confirmation. “We found Beck’s background. You should know that he’s from a Primal family and may be a Progenitor.” Avery’s face lit up. She came over to the book to see for herself what they had found, then laughed. “It’s beginning to look as though my meeting Beck was ordained.”

  Philippa didn’t reply. She knew Avery couldn’t possibly understand what being ordained might mean in this instance.

  Avery turned toward Celeste. “Thank you for sharing with me about your affair. It tells me that regardless of what happens, I shouldn’t fear my love for Beck.”

  For the first time, she saw tears in Celeste’s eyes. When Celeste started to speak, Avery hugged her. “No words necessary. You gave me a gift.”

  Philippa was touched. “I think you understand there’ll be difficulties ahead. We hope you’ll trust us.”

  Avery thought for a moment. “I think I do. I’m grateful for your openness. But this unfolding gets awfully tiresome as parts of my life drain away.”

  Celeste went on to tell Avery about the Andromeda and how they had originated as women on land who were warlike but in time came to be defenders of the Primals.

  “It’s the Andromeda who are all around and stand ready to defend us against what’s coming. You got a firsthand indication the other evening.”

  “What do you think is coming?” asked Avery.

  “Let me answer that,” Philippa said. “It’s no secret there are greedy, power-hungry people in the world and people in general can make bad choices, but a lot of things are coming together now.” She turned to Avery. “We probably have similar thoughts. At the top of my list is the bigger issue of an end to the abuse and degradation of women. We fight this fight in every country. It’s just at different levels and in different forms, as is the fight for our beautiful planet.”

  Avery’s smile held a question. “And does that include true partnership with men? I think you have it with Paolo.”

  “Yes. And, Avery, I strongly suspect you have it with Beck.”

  “I believe I got lucky.” Avery chuckled. “But from what I’ve overheard there are Andromeda women who have relationships with some of the Overlords. Do you approve of what they do?”

  Philippa considered for a moment. “It’s not for me to approve or disapprove. Their job is to form those relationships, watch them, and do justice as required. They’re brave and from time to time they enjoy themselves and derive benefits. And they may kill as necessary and, yes, be killed as well.”

  Avery drew in a deep breath. “I feel like such a child. Celeste tells me of the warmth and joy she took away from a relationship that couldn’t be, and you tell me of the complex lives of the Andromeda women. It’s humbling.”

  “I’m glad you understand, Avery. Welcome to our world.”

  There was silence for several minutes as each attended her own thoughts.

  Celeste stirred. “Let me return to our history. There are many more things you need to know, Avery.”

  Philippa smiled. Celeste shows the meaning of her golden hair. She is forever the Illuminata who will clarify for us.

  Celeste opened another book which lay on the table. “Here’s the lineage of many families who are immensely wealth
y and powerful. We aren’t the only group that’s been reasonably cohesive through the millennia. Other people came out of the sea, too, but they didn’t come from Gaia’s core people who lived in the Tethys. They were the predators who came to struggle and rule.”

  “You make it sound organized.”

  “Yes and no. Gaia had a plan, but life is struggle. Some don’t survive. The early most-aggressive human predators had to compete like all other animals, and our people were among them. We were prone to the arts and building just societies. Some of the others were oriented toward taking what they could.”

  “And they’re still very much with us,” Avery said.

  Celeste continued. “Yes, and there’s a lineage. The predators aren’t as cohesive as we are, but we can trace their families and it’s clear there’s a society there. It’s not random, and it’s not disorganized.”

  “You mean hidden among some of these power-mongers are people with a long history similar to ours, but they’re predators? How do we deal with it? Is something different now?”

  Philippa responded. “With a global economy, their power is magnified and with it the suffering they create. They now know we exist, and they’re attacking our people.”

  “That’s personal. They attacked Beck and me.”

  “Yes, and it’s clear we’re in a much greater struggle than ever before. They can seize ever more power and ever more wealth with greater and greater suffering. Before we worked toward balance and we were stewards working for people in general. But now power is being shifted in terrible ways. With their wealth, they even seize control of countries. Even so-called advanced countries.”

  Celeste started to speak, but Avery cut her off. “I find that terrifying. I’ve been working to free and empower women with microloans, but you’re introducing me to a more important fight than anything I was working on.”

  “Avery, there’s more,” Philippa said. “We’re fighting back, and we’re going to stop them or at least contain them. Among ourselves we’re creating something wonderful we can bring to other people. This can be seen as a fight for power between men and women and to a degree it is based on history.”