A New Tale Of Toby Coreman III

Comin' to the Rescue

Fifth version by AndersonT

the-hatrixx.blogspot.com

Chapter 34

Assembling

In a lush orange meadow, stood Toby, looking up at a large cottage at the base of a steep hill. It was his cafe home. It was the place where he spent countless hours, making delicacies of untold numbers, with his friends, together.

People had come from regions near and far, to hear the stories and to see the new legends that rose from within the Empire. After the rise of the second ruler Dack, his house was abandoned at one point. But here it was, sturdy and high, through the years and the recent raid.

Toby wondered to himself, gazing at the well kept but vacant gardens. “I thought I would never see this place this soon, and yet here I am. Could this really be? ...” He stepped closer to the front porch, when he noticed a woman sitting on one of the old benches nearby. It was whom he had met so often, and yet knew so little of.

“Where is everyone else?” Toby asked the woman.

“They are not far.” The woman answered. Her long hair glistened gold in the sunlight as they flowed in the wind. “You have been separated, but all is not yet lost.”

The young man walked up beside her to gaze at what she was looking at: A great sky filled with many thin clouds, mimicking the afternoon ocean.

“Whisper, what will happen to all my friends?” Toby asked again. “Strange as it feels, I am not afraid of what will happen to me. Yet I think about others often. Will they have the strength to see and know what I have, and to rise and advance without my presence?”

“Toby, it is not by you or your friends' own strength, that you will rise. It is only by His power that makes you what you are, and will be.” Whisper answered. “Do not fear or think that they will stumble. The Spirits are revealing themselves to all who will seek. Now is the time that all must make a choice, to hearken, and to return to the light.”

The sunset is almost sinking behind the red mountains. The sky began to rumble, and clouds began to grow dark and thick. Strong winds began to howl about as it tossed and hurled leaves and grass high in the air.

“But time is short. Those who will not receive will wander further into their own shadows. Those that will not prepare will be blown away as empty chaff.”

The dark clouds gathered, followed by heavy rain. Thunder and lightning suddenly roared about and trembled the earth. Another strong gust of wind whipped and pushed Toby onto the ground.

“Whisper, tell me.” Toby shouted to Whisper, who was getting further away. “Will they rise and live on even without me?” He could see Whisper, still standing firm, as if the storm did not move her. “Must I be wrought down to ash, so all can be free?”

◆

“Come on. Wake up!”

A voice was heard in the darkness. Toby looked about, wondering if he was still dreaming.

“Help me find my way to the Leylines.” The voice continued. “I don't have time, just standing around here, you know!”

“Who are you? You don't seem like a guard.” The dazed man got up, scratching his head.

“I'm Fuzz, but that won't matter to you, now that I'm leaving this place.” The lone  bokko picked something from the ground, then created a torch and lit it within seconds. “You're new here, aren't you?”

“I believe so. I don't even know where I am at the moment.” Toby began to stand slowly.

“It's the Pit; The deepest dungeon in Jorred.” Fuzz quickly replied. “I've managed to sneak down here, with a little help, while all the other headquarter guys went upstairs for something. Here, I can use the Leylines to teleport out of here.”

“The Leylines! I've seen a fragment of it before, but I never knew they grew as far as here.” Toby remarked. “They should be making a bell-like humming sound. Listen carefully.”

“Sound? I don't hear any.” Fuzz stopped to strain his ears, but he still couldn't make out a slight sound. “Now that you mentioned it, they sound decently noisy when up close. I wonder if this is the wrong cave.”

“We should keep looking.” Toby urged, and he walked straight on into the darkness.

The two wandered further into the tunnel. Eventually they found sprinkles of blue glowing ores, on the floor and patterned in the walls. However, unlike at the mining sites, the stones only emitted weak tints that barely lit the cave.

“Yep, something's definitely wrong.” Fuzz bickered up. “I remember these tunnels were much brighter.”

After more walking, they reached a small clearing. Fuzz wandered about, crafting more torches off of the seemingly scanty area. Finally the place had enough light, except from one corner where a small stream began.

“This is the place alright.” Fuzz observed the center of the cavern. “Here's the cranking machine to power the Leylines.” He then looked up to where the thick cyan beam of Leyline root used to be. Now it was barely more than a mere spider thread, and waving about like one at that.

Toby, too, observed the Leyline carefully. “You know, Fuzz? I think this 'Headquarters' that you speak of, has used up all of the energy here. I don't know if that's even possible, to expunge out so great a force. But whatever the case, we can expect something big will happen fairly soon.”

“It was two days ago.” A voice came from the unlit corner of the cave. “The beam began to weaken rapidly. Believe me, no mortal has the power to transfer that much energy, in such a short time.”

Fuzz jumped up and stood in front of Toby. “Who's there? Show yourself!”

There was a sound of a few tumbling pebbles. A thin shaggy man with really worn out clothes, slowly stepped into the dimly lit center. “It is not absorption that happened. Not yet.”

Toby took a few steps closer to meet the boony mystic man, then quickly backed down a step. “Dack! I thought you were bound back in Doloien.”

“The what?” Fuzz questioned. “You know this mystic boony man?”

“Who are you?” The man gruffly asked.

“It's unlike you to forget me.” Toby stepped closer again. “It's me, Toby. It's only been one year since we've met. What happened?”

“What happened?” The man grunted. “You don't expect a blind man to recognise a person, do you? Not to mention after all the long confinements in this pit, you have some nerves coming to me for answers all of a sudden like nothing happened.”

“Boo hoo hoo okay buddy,” Fuzz pouted. “Now go ready to crank and port me out.” The bokko straightened up his back and arms.

“... Have you ever been listening to me?” Mystic man's eyes rounded, along with the veins in his forehead and neck popping out. “This voyage toy of yours is under New Order management! They've shut it down.” He tramped up to the impudent bokko, and got held back by clusters of chains on his feet.

“As in blocking the flow?” Toby raised his brow. “That is a possibility, but it would take some time to build a dam like contraption, for such a great power source.”

“That explains why the Empire's been constructing stuff here, for years.” Soap sighed. “You can bet they've been planning this, long before I was even born. The problem, well your problem, is what exactly will they do next.”

The turned out not so mystic Dack wearily walked back to his cot to sit. “There will rise a new Iron Maniac. This halt of flow is temporary, and will return very soon. Only this time, here will be the Core of the Leylines. They are transplanting a new World Core.”

Fuzz stepped back too, bombarded with Dack's sudden predictions. “Okay, so hold on a sec. You're saying Leyline mass manipulating or absorbing is undoable, but rebuilding is a ok. What's more, you seem confident about all this.”

“I know my stuff. ...” Dack answered. “As the emperor of Doloien, at one point anyway. I partook some of their knowledge. But that will not matter, and nothing will. Soon he will be beyond any of you. He will consume us, and all that lives and will ever live.”

Fuzz paused to think and reflect back at his old simple days. “Well yeah, maybe I am a bit insignificant. Maybe I am some incy wincy.” He stepped up to the center of the room once more. “So all the more reason you won't need all the big energy to beam me out! Look I have no time, and if you want your 7.23% chance of survival, you'd better obey me now and give me a chance!”

“Sure, let's go.” Toby instantly jogged up to the cranking machine. “Where should I start?”

“Uh, so you, er, just spin that cranking thing.” Fuzz quickly bonked the rusting machine with his palm, and raised his arms again. “That's all I know, but it worked last time we left here.”

And so the young man cranked the energy crank device, as told by the grimy bokko who posed on. The turned out to be not so old man, sat back and shook his head with a sullen face.

After a few minutes, blue sparks began to sprout out from the machine. The funny looking grains bounced higher, as they clustered onto each other and grew into ping pong balls.

The energy was definitely weaker than the previous time, but they were soon being sucked into the thin thread above.

Fuzz's body began to glow as well. “We're doing it! Keep it up! Don't stop! Okay Tom, This isn't abandonment! It's merely a temporary tactical retreat!” Before he could say more, he flew into the air, and was blasted into the tunnelway.

The two men silently watched over the bokko, who was merely one, but a great one, of the many hopes that would come.

“Dack, who was the first Emperor, exactly?” Toby asked out of the blue. “I think we have the right to know his past, to prepare for the future. We were rivals once, but we can't lose hope, not while we still live.”

“Haven't your father told you about him?” Dack asked back. “The Menace is a machine, just like the Iron Emperor of Sovaz.”

“But I saw him.” Toby objected. “He was a true human, and not a speck of metal was fused in him.”

“Not for long. You know how he works. He literally takes everything into himself.” Dack twitched. “It doesn't matter what he is or was. Whatever the first Empire was, had been absorbed by the Shadow.” The man lied down. “I would have too, if ...”

“I will not let him.” Toby silently replied. “Not without a good fight.”

◆

There was no small stir at the Martos Capital. The people who have just finished repairing the Leyline station since the explosion, encountered the Seven Kid, who was supposedly sent to Titon, was lost, and now returned right back.

Immediately the return of the bokkos had hit headline news. Flocks of engineers,  bystanders, and even citizens from far sectors alike gathered around like hungry pigeons, all eager to know what had happened to them this past week.

As Loose and Toose plowed their way through and out of the station, they suddenly felt the crowds make space and backing down. To their surprise, two of the city senates had come to greet them.

“Hi, we're in a hurry.” Toose quickly ran up to the two men. “We'd like to see Peter now and talk about our next move. I wish we had the leisures to sit back, but we really need to move on to North Bay.”

“Of course.” The gray haired senate, although dumbstruck by their sudden emergence, quickly instructed his escorts that these four bokkos will be led to the city hall.

“Your timing couldn't have been better.” The other senate smiled. “Peter was just visiting the central district today. He should still be in the Hall.”

“There's a few more news about the Empire we need to talk about.” Loose added. “It's really important that you will listen, as it's about the Cliden IV.”

“The Cliden!” The elder gasped. “So Jason was right about all this. We shall talk in detail once we return and summon more of us.”

◆

At the City Hall, the bokkos met Peter. As expected, he was overjoyed to see the two Mapletrees, alive and with no damage. After a short introduction for the Eicham brothers, Toose went ahead with his recital about the Empire's upcoming assault. Also they have told about Jason's progression to the east, and about the Bigs who are now giving them purloined info that may hopefully help the New World forces.

“Sophia also wants to apologize about the mess.” Toose continued. “Basically, things got out of hand, and now there's the Barons spying on this place. You should consider there's a breach somewhere in the Dark Forest.”

“We know, and we have to apologize to you crew and Jason, for not taking matters urgently.” Senator Gray agreed, followed by noddings from the other staff members. “We have increased defenses in the city and for the Forest. And as you have predicted, we have apprehended two Baron members, who acknowledge that they have raided the west keep.”

“I should've expected something about her along that line.” Peter said knowingly. “I bet I would've done the same, if my family was under custody. Toose and Loose, when you meet Sophia again, tell her that I understand.”

“We would like to, but we need to go to North Bay and meet Duckey.” Loose mumbled, as he took a third biscuit. “And we're not sure if we can meet her again, but ok.”

Just then, there was a new commotion down the hall. The two senate excused themselves and headed out. A few seconds later, they returned, with Fuzz.

“Oh hi, Soap sends you greetings.” Toose got down from the chair and shook the expectedly upset Fuzz's hand. “He went to Cliden to free your possibly space orbiting boss.”

“Nani?!” Fuzz let out a weird sound. “That grease ball! I'll show him I am the number 2! Come on!” He freed himself from the two men and began to head back out. “I'll lead you all to Jorred and be the hero you need and deserve!!”

“Gladly!” Toose laughed. The bros pair, Peter, and one fourth of the Bigs got up together to exit.

Chapter 35

Stream of Jade

“So they have left.” Jason sighed. “They have been led by the Whispers, to the unknown.” He sat down on the old sofa wearily.

Jason and the four bokkos were having breakfast at the dining room, when Sophia finally spilled the beans. The younger bokkos who knew nothing of the duo teams' departure, let out a big gasp.

“What are they thinking?!” Molly wailed, and spilled some cereal in the process. “Now it's Tom venture all over again! Jason, we have to stop all of them now, before they make a haywire out of everything.”

“It's too late.” Goose shook his head. “We can’t chase them. The Cliden team used the last pod.”

“Oh well, at least the Martos team will meet Duckey.” Molly sighed. “That's half the problem solved, but Moose, he should have known better.” She fumed and almost spilled her food again.

“What do we do now?” Will sadly asked.

“Well, whatever happens, we can't turn back. We will have to flow with them, to uphold our torches, and receive their flame.” Sophia solemnly answered.

“Part of me thinks I shouldn't have told everyone about the space station.” Goose took a big sip from his bowl of milk. “But my other bigger part tells me, this was the one and only choice. After all, this whole journey is a risk to begin with.”

Sophia and Goose got up to Molly and embraced her, followed by Will and Croun.

“They're a mighty bunch.” Jason crouched beside the girl too. “The Origin will guide them, as they did me. In truth, to know you all have grown enough to walk past me and flourish, is the best gift you ever gave me.”

“Now, it is your turn, great ones. The time is now, that you will be the advocates of the worlds, and return all that was once His. At noon, we will head to Regam, the city of the World Core. We should get prepared now.” Jason patted the children, and slowly got up to clean the table.

“Who's Origin?” Will tilted his head.

“By some, He is called by the name, the Origin of Jade.” Sophia answered softly. “He has many names, such as the First Stream, or the Bequeather, but perhaps you may know of Him as the Master of the Whispers. Not many passed on His tale, and to be honest, that includes myself.”

“Then I should tell them to you all.” Jason replied with a wink. “Actually I should have told you of Him sooner, but I figured you will come to know these things eventually, even without me telling you.”

“Please tell us.” Molly quickly stopped her work and sat down, along with the others.

“As Sophia mentioned, He is the Master of the Whisperers, the first Ancient Spirits.” Jason sat down too. “He created us humanity and all that lives, and He along with the Whispers, gifted us with life, knowledge, powers, and this world and all that is in it. But most importantly, he gave humanity the freedom to choose.”

“For now, there are people who do not wish to heed the Whispers. Others have walked astray from the Light and its teachings. And some even worse, defy their calls and seek to destroy them and those who listen.”

“Perhaps you may wonder why the Spirits do not interfere more, or put an end to these wrongdoers. In truth, I do not know completely either.” Jaosn shook his head, followed by the bokkos lowering their heads in musement.

“But later, we will, don't we?” Will suddenly asked.

“We sure will.” Jason nodded back. “And the day will come that they will reveal not just to us, but to all. In the end, everyone will see that the ways of man are not perfect. They that defy Him will be defied by all. Only His way will come to pass.”

◆

Jason and the bokkos were at the Leyline station, escorted by the chief Drew and his companions. Before them, was a black oval submarine, floating above a long canal. Almost half of it was covered with clear amber windows, and everything in the cockpit was visible.

“We will go through this underwater tunnel, then travel alongside the south central channel all the way to the northeast tip of the continent.” Jason explained to Will as he carefully pointed to a new map. “If we occasionally stop for breaks and rest, we will reach the city in two days.”

“And hopefully we won't get interrupted again.” Goose nodded. “Should we really stop moving, though? Someone might come and catch us again.”

“Don't worry. The seas in these southern regions are inhabited by dolphins.” Jason continued. “They are very friendly, and closely in tune with the Whispers too. They will tell us immediately if there's anything new going on.”

“Speaking of which, there they are now.” The old man got up to wave at the two large faces peering out of the water. “Their names are Kay and Misha. They will be our lead guides for this trip.”

The three bokkos crouched down right at the edge of the canal to greet and pet the two large creatures. They in turn, returned with happy shrill noises.

“Sophia, I am very grateful that you are to join us on my last trip east.” Jason lowered his voice. “After that, well, I need to ask you a favor.”

Sophia turned her head in puzzlement, but silently nodded.

“Will it be possible, if you would watch over the three children? I know you are concerned for your younger friends, and perhaps thinking of going back to the empire base. Although, if you would accompany me to Jorred, that would also be an honor and a comfort for my last days. ...” His words began to slow and falter.

“I'll think about it.” Sophia finally whispered back.

Jason nodded gratefully, as his speech picked up its pace again. “There will still be Albarek and the hosts of Titon. They are, and will be of great aid. However, they do not know the Whispers as deeply as my fiery kids do.”

The old man smiled looking at the three bokkos. “I feel it would be better, if those who know of the Whispers were to reside there, to guide the people closer to the ways of Light.”

“And so I chose the Seven Kid, the seemingly small ones, to gather all that are great. Then all will see that it is not me, or any of us that are mighty. Only the Ancients and their ways have the power to change the Worlds.”

“Did they leave?” A woman rushed in and was inquiring about the workers nearby. “Did Jason already leave?”

“We're still here!” Jason turned to Vesna and waved his hand. “Thank you for coming by. How is your arm?”

“Come on Jason, you keep asking the same question these past 20 years.” Vesna Laughed “I'm fine now, and have been since forever. Now you should worry about yourself.”

“I wish I had that kind of luxury, and by Whispers' will, it may be given to me very shortly.” As the old man reached out and held the woman's hand, his hand began to glow Jade. Soft ripples of light emitted from Jason to Vesna, as the two stood silently.

“But the time will come when I will not be able to care for you.” Once Jason let go of his hand, the pulsing glow slowly faded out. “Now you will have to guide those that are in darkness.”

“Of course, master.” Vesna nodded. “I'll always be looking out for those in need, just like in the ye olde days.”

“Like the old days.” Jaosn nodded too. “Alright, we should be heading off.” He took a step back, and walked away to the edge of the dock.

“Let's go!” Will jumped up, and flew straight inside the submarine, followed by Goose, Molly, and Croun.

Sophia headed too, but paused in her tracks. “Jason, are you really a common old man as you call yourself?” She turned her head back. “Or have people on Sovaz happened to call you 'Andy'?”

The old man only smiled, but did not answer. He simply laid his hand on the bokko's shoulder, and walked on. “The time is now, my children, that you will be the new Chosens.”

“Jason!” Vesna shouted to the old man who was lifting Sophia through the door. “If you'll ever have the chance to meet father again, please tell him ... that I still love him”

“Of course. I will try my utmost.” Jason waved his hand before climbing inside the submarine, and shut the lid.

◆

The submarine began to submerge. From inside Goose and Molly could see mostly darkness through the large windows. As the vehicle began to slowly descend, then propel forward, they peered harder but only saw a few bubbles and a small area of underwater floor lit by three headlights.

“When are we going out of this place?” Will looked on too, worryingly, now that they are traveling in the dark again, and with less people. But by this time, he was more used to these uncanny trips.

“Oh, it's not that long.” Molly hugged Will. “It will be only about an hour until we will go near the surface where it's brighter.”

“And we have the dolphins.” Goose reassured the little boy too. “See, there's one of them.” He pointed left, and sure enough, there was the safeguard, faithfully keeping their hosts on track and making sure the sub won't hit against the tunnel walls.

Just as Molly said, the team eventually rose high and out of the narrow tunnel. Now they could see the two dolphins and the terrain around them without any lights on. Aquatic plants of vibrant hues were growing, primarily green and purple.

Within minutes of traveling through open waters, the submarine suddenly encountered more dolphins. Everyone marveled upon the new pod of friends, who began to follow and crowd up closely. It came to the point where the transport was almost completely covered by these ocean residents.

Eventually, the travelers have quieted down. Goose went back to his bedroom and sat down on the lower bunk bed. He had been reflecting on his past a bit, but soon began to think what they should do to take another step closer to the goal.

“What should we do next, Whisper?” Goose asked silently. “Please tell us what to say and do, and help us to be prepared for the coming days.”

Chapter 36

Succession

The Regam team didn't talk much after their first day of voyage. Jason had been trying his best to uphold his cheery face and spirit, and the bokkos did not have the courage to interact with him, fearing they would bother him all the more.

However, by the third day the old man had been very quiet. The others had been keeping to themselves by reading books and fidgeting with their power orbs, but now Goose couldn't stand the glooming silence any longer.

“What’s wrong with you recently?” Goose finally shot up. “You looked very worried since the departure.”

With sad eyes, Jason just looked at Goose, for a long while. “Forgive me, children. I didn't mean to worry you too. I guess I wasn’t prepared for all this.” He shook his head looking more sorrowful. “I wasn’t expecting this to happen as I thought it would.”

“C’mon, Jason! This isn’t like you!” Goose gave a pat on Jason’s shoulder. “You’re the one who led us all the way here!”

“And led us to the Whispers.” Molly nodded. “We are forever grateful for what you bestowed on us all.”

At last Jason managed to smile back, momentarily. “Thank you, everyone. I am also forever honored to have been your guide. This was the greatest journey we ever had.”

“And it's going to be over soon!” Goose hugged Jason. “We'll be reunited with our family once again.”

“All because of you!” Molly pleaded. She walked up to the short man and hugged him tightly too. “This is supposed to be your best day yet, Jason. Please don't despair now.”

Jason slowly lifted his hands and embraced the two bokkos. “Goose, remember what your brother Moose told you. Only the Whispers can guide you eternally. I may be the one who reached out to take you, but now it is you who will lead us all next.”

“I have given this commision to you, The Seven Kid. You must lead the people to the Spirits of Old, to guide them back to where they once belonged.” Jason got out of the chair and kneeled before the bokkos. “Will you promise me to assist my friend Albarec in this last dark time? Will you vow that you will help the people of the New World and Old?”

“Of course, Jason! You're our friend, and we'll do anything to help you.” Goose instantly replied.

“Oh, we promise!” Molly's voice began to quiver. “We will tell the world everything you teached us.”

“And we will be with you to the very end!” Will added.

The old man reached to embrace the bokkos again, and they returned with stronger grips. By now it was hard for Sophia not to sit beside and join them. The small  group bonded with each other for a long long time.

◆

“Sire, we have spotted a single underwater transport nearing our main docks!” A high ranking captain reported the urgent news to a man with an indigo robe. “It seems to have emerged from the south canal.”

“I will inform the king at once.” The robed man quickly stood up from his chair. “We can't be sure if they are one of us yet. I will permit further inspection on these newcomers. See to it that the coast guards are on high alert!”

“Yes, Admiral.” The reporter rushed outside the room with the admiral, and repeated the order to other men nearby.

Meanwhile, the robed man scuttled through the passing sailors, and climbed a long winding stairs that led to a white palace on the hillside. With a great huff, the weary man reached the golden front gate, but before he could touch it, a large man kicked open the gate from the other side.

“Ah, Asphan! They have arrived, haven't they?” The man instantly asked the Admiral. He had a thick long bronze beard and wore a sturdy silver crown.

“We can't be sure, my lord!” Asphan protested. “It could be the Empire's trap.”

“Them? From the south? Nonsense!” The king almost knocked down Asphan with a heavy whap on the back. “It must be Jason! Prepare the city! See to it that my friend is drowning with our top tier hospitality.”

The king walked down the stairs followed by the deflated Asphan barely keeping up. The two eventually got a carriage and reached the bustling docks again. By now the nearing Submarine could be seen emerging out of the ocean, and sure enough, from the entrance were the two bokkos peeking their heads and waving their arms.

“See what I told you!” Once the king found them through a large telescope, he waved back enthusiastically. He then turned back to Asphan. “Now make haste! We'll be having caramel syrup cake tonight! Go my boy, Go!”

True to the king's words, as soon as the submarine reached the docks, Jason revealed himself and jumped outside. The rest of the birds looked on with amazement, seeing all the people nearby and far saluting Jason. The admiral and the large king, Albarec, had run up to the extremely welcomed old man. After some warm greetings from the king, the three men beckoned the standing bokkos to go into the small palace.

It was late afternoon when Jason and his team had reached Regam. The sun was casting a vivid orange light onto the white city, although it wasn't setting into the ocean just yet. It was a magnificent view for the bokkos who haven't seen the outside world for some time.

It's dinner time yay (monotone). The crew were seated in a most luxurious dining hall. Scores of variable foods and drinks were placed on a long polished table, and unfortunately for Molly, that included root beer. But none were much engaged in eating, for Jason had bought up the subject about the Iron Heart.

“My dear Albarec, I have bought the artifact as you have requested.” Jason talked not long after he took a few bites. “Now it is to hope that we will finally open it.”

“Yes, but what will we do once it is open?” Albarec inquired. “If it was indeed the Crimson Ring that will be revealed, who will be its guardians? I may be able to keep it behind walls and vaults, but I'm sure what you seek most are not mere physical defences.”

“Well said. And so I would like to appoint these three children, and more currently outlands, to be the new keepers of the Rings.” Jason reached his arm to the bokkos. “I have instructed them all I could, and now I want to entrust you, my king, the Seven Kid. They are gifted in hearing the call of the Spirits, and now they will guide you to the Light in my stead.”

“Gifted? These little ones?” Albarec held his mouth in amazement. He looked at the equally surprised kids then back at the old man. “My friend, if this is what you will, then so be it. They will also be my mentors.” The king smiled.

“Now, let's move onto the other news.” Albarec turned and waved his hand to Asphan, who was trying to finish off a plate of thin fish fries.

After some flurrying and runnings from the admiral and the other servants nearby, they have projected a world map from a watermelon shaped golden computer. On the holographic map, web-like traces were shown, starting from the World Core, then outwards to the ends of the lands, and even as far to the Old World.

“As you can see here, one of the Leyline roots is cut off near Xezot.” Asphan explained pointing at an island far southwest from Dison. “From what the Dison forces said, the Empire is blocking out the Leyline flow. Since the Martos researchers have been working on the Layline transport, they may well be aware that we can port anything right under their rear.”

“True, but the Doloiens knew about these things for years. Why do they tap off the flow now, of all time?” Albarec pondered. “If they are on the offensive there is no need to barricade.”

“I should also point out that the Cliden IV can seriously harm the world core, and that may happen any time now.” Asphan added. “Even a minor disruption to the Leyflow can cause a great shutdown on our energy system, and not just us!” His face turned vexed.

“I think it has something to do with Jason.” Sophia suddenly responded. “The New Order never worried for people assaulting right in front of their fortress. It was only after we zip-lined to Hasa, rather successfully, that they seemed to abruptly close it down.” She tilted her head at the old man as she sipped her tea.

“That is very likely.” Jason sighed knowingly. “I'm sure no spies are tracking us all the way here, but the Emperor may feel what I am doing to an extent. As long as I keep his Heart, he will know.”

“Then we must also act in haste.” Albarec clenched his fist. “If you wouldn't mind, Jason, we should set for the World Core as soon as possible.”

“Of course, my friend.” Jason replied. “Three hours after midnight, and I will be ready.”

“Then it is decided. You should tell your friends all you will ever need to say tonight.” Albarec stood up. “For this revealing may be very dangerous. It has been over 20 years since the Crimson Ring has been seen by anyone but that Iron Menace.”

“So now is the time to release the Giandul.” Asphan noted to himself. “I never dreamt I would see my King and the Oracle on it.”

“And so we shall!” The king suddenly gave a haughty laugh. “And you will come with us too!” He thrusted his thick index finger into the Admiral's back. “Now hurry out and ready it up! Go!”

All this time, the younger bokkos were only able to listen but not speak up. Only after seeing the sad Jason, made them realize they were to tackle something far greater than they thought.

“King Albarec,” Goose finally got up. “Can we go too?” He and his three young friends stood too and faced him with pleading eyes.

“There is no need.” Jason instantly snapped to the stunned back kids. “No ... Forgive me. I am very sorry, my children. I can see your motives are just, and I do believe your physical presence is just as resilient and strong as your heart. I know and saw you all sought for the Whispers and found Them. You have passed the hardest of all trials. But right now I just can't put myself to bring you all into this danger that I have created. Please understand.”

Goose's face turned crestfallen. Without any more words, he got off his chair and slowly walked away. Molly looked at Goose, and to Jason. Somehow, the old man looked even sadder than anyone she had ever seen in her life.

Chapter 37

Revealed

Barz, 37 years old, the technician at Jorred research facility, has finally finished double checking all of Elliot's electronic devices. Despite the supposed dangers claimed by rebel raid executive Amgra, Barz could hardly find anything physically hazardous or propagandic.

“If anything, this may be the most monotonic thing I've done in years.” Barz sighed, and wearily cleared out the large table. He was the last person in the room, and was ready to meet up with Sol for a solid dinner.

“Well, that took you long enough.” Sol called out from the door. “I believe you have something new to tell me, don't you think?”

Barz shook his head as he headed to the cafeteria. “Not the slightest. The only slightly special thing I found was that photo of the old looking man.”

“Are you referring to the post colonel Tollor?” The guard began walking alongside with his friend.

“Well, no.” Barz shook his head again. “It's some other older person. There's only one picture of him, but it seemed to me that the chief general was quite interested.”

“Who? Did you tell me about him yet?” Sol asked.

“From what I heard, his name is Jason. Here, I'll show you the file.” The technician pulled out his white power orb and released a holoimage of the said person.

“I've heard of the name, and it was also in the diary.” Sol opened a door to the minimalistic and liminal cafeteria. There was no one else but the two.

“Tell me about it.” Barz reached for the chair and sat down, fast paced.

“It's on this page here.” Sol placed two crusty sandwiches and Toby's diary onto the long folding table. “This guy and the Key Sage gave some kind of farewell speech to the rebels. And before you ask, this is the first and last time he ever talked a thing in this whole diary.”

“Duckey: Behold now, lift up your eyes, for the darkness is still nigh. The great shadow yet lingers in the hearts of men. Even if the Man of Iron has his physical presence be cast off from all eyes, his strings and webs still pull those who will not seek the Spirit.”

“There will be more you will need to seek out, to cast the torch that was passed onto us, to lift and guide all mankind back to their source. Behold, I say to you, there is still much harvest, white and waiting to be stored. As the keepers of the flames, ye all, must still prepare.”

“But do not fear, for I am with you. The greater the darkness, the brighter the light. And so shall it be for you, who will stand against the rising tides of those who will defy and rebel against Me.”

“Jason: Have I not said that there are many who guide and shelter you? Do not fret for them that are meek and small. I will say to you, that they will lead the lost, to open the path, and to seek out who is lost in darkness, for it is the weak that will hold on to Me the closest.”

“The Spirits have called the small, to overcome those who stand as mighty. And They have called the simple, to confound them that the world sees as wise. Rejoice therefore, for I have promised I will care for My own, the Chosens of Light. This is the truth that all will see, that through these insignificant ones, I will increase my fold, and they will see, know, and acknowledge My ways.”

Sol finished reading the short message. He silently looked over to Barz expecting a reaction. Seeing his friend eating his sandwich, also silently, the guard began eating too. “So there's two things I've found out on this page.”

Barz only nodded, urging him to continue.

“First, this Guy mentioned by the two, seemed to have quite a major part in their plan of whatever. Secondly, this whole speech sounds as if these rebels kind of knew about the raid that was to be upcomed onto them. Well, at least according to this, it was written months ago.” Sol patted the date on the top corner of the page. It read 2019/02/15.

“The Chosens, I've heard about it too.” Barz “And the Master of Light. From what I know, it's this spiritual entity that the Chosens believe, and they are 'chosen' to undo the technological advances that over saturated human societies, which in turn led people away from the entity.”

“Oh, that's what it is.” Sol sighed, then took another big bite off his meal. “I hear about the tales too lately. What do you think?”

“You first.” Barz winked to the momentary perplexed Sol.

“Okay, a few years back, I definitely wouldn't have given a thought about it.” Sol began to muse down. “But now, with all the harnessing of raw Leyline power, I'm starting to have second thoughts.”

“About the current New Order?” Barz wedged in. “Well what do you know? I thought I was the only one that was paranoid.” He made a smug smile.

“No really! You've seen that video clip of that bokko almost being warped apart from the other Bigs team!” Sol shouted as he stood up and flailed his arms.

“I've seen it.” Barz laughed. “And don't worry. Eric was safe and sound. The warping looks terrifying, but only looks like it.”

“But you haven't heard of those Bigs guys for a long while now, haven't you?” Sol narrowed his eyes. “Don't you think there's a grain sized chance that something big is being hidden from us?”

The technician and the guard halted in their heated conversation. The two slowly sat back down, looking away in deep thoughts.

“I ... was going to ask you that.” Barz's voice cracked. “Maybe we are dealing with things that are bigger than what we can see. Maybe something grave is hidden from us. You may be right; All too right.”

Sol gave a long sigh. “Perhaps the Chosens do have a point, in that particular aspect.”

◆

In a dark narrow room, twisted pipes weaved and clumped throughout, and faint tints of violet light omitted from the far end of the darkness. At the entrance, stood General Progles and Minister Hijaoj. The two, holding the documents from their last meeting, slowly walked into the darkness.

“My lord, we have come before you this day, to present you with the knowledge concerning the old man, Jason.” The robed man took a step closer to the large black cocoon-like form. It slowly responded with an eerie glow that turned deep red, then back to violet.

“By harnessing the Wheel, we have probed through some who have contacted this Jason, and now we are sure this man is the new Chosen in search.” Progles kneeled down and lifted their gift.

Clusters of thick pitch strands emerged from the great blob. It formed into a long arm that reached out and got hold of the stacks of papers, then quickly retreated back into the blackness from where it had come.

“I must warn you, however, that the Wheel is not yet whole. Yet he is on the move.” The general raised his head. “This Chosen is reaching out to the Core, perhaps, to destroy the Ring of Crimson.”

“You speak as if our lord does not know.” Hijaoj stepped in. “Doubt is not tolerable before his presence.” He scowled down to the general who lowered his head again.

“Indeed, I have felt.” The dark form answered. “He seeks for my end, and to erase what I stand for. The Chosens have been a thorn in my side for many ages, and this man I know very well.”

The minister, seeing their leader suddenly communicating, stepped back and bowed low as well.

“He now holds the Ring of Jade, bequeathed from Amrine. She has translated through dimension and held back the Ring, preventing me as the new possessor.” The Menace continued on. “But one cannot flee forever. Those who are Chosen are fated to face me. And once he is revealed, I shall reclaim my own.”

◆

Tom opened his eyes to find himself in almost pure darkness. There was one lone red spot of light high on the wall, and nothing else. It was a small empty room. In addition, his armor and belongings were not on him either.

“Well that was 'quick'.” Tom groaned to himself. “First thrown into that Wheel machine, and here I am.” He set himself on the corner of the room.

The lone bokko went silent, and the surrounding returned with silence. There was not a way he could figure out where he was, by sight or hearing, but he felt lighter. Whether it was because of this unnatural peace he felt, or because of his unarmed state, he did not know.

 “Well it was either me or her. Not much choice to be made.” Tom muttered. “Looks like I'll be greeting him in hell sooner than I thought.” He closed his eyes. He wandered his mind back to his old simpler days, about Smith, about Sophia.

Suddenly, Moose's memory came kicking in out of nowhere. His face full of life, his eyes that seemed to reach out, his words full of hope.

“What will you do? Are you with the Empire now?” The young bokko's pleas seemed to pierce the gangster's heart.

“What can I do?” Tom asked himself. “Now the question is, what am I now?”

“I just want to be a reliable brother, and hear the Whispers, you know?” Tom seemed to hear Moose reply.

“It indeed seems we had a part in common.” Tom opened his eyes. “And the other, it's up to them.” He looked up. Even through the skyless void, he swore he saw his companions piercing through the darkness, hand in hand, with the Seven Kid.

Endnotes

Incy Wincy : Incy wincy

Nani : ‘What’ … Yes. … What? What do you mean, what? Yes, it's ‘What’. No, like it literally means What. Nani is What. No, I uh, okay never mind.

Giandul : The King’s hovercraft that might have a part in the next story.

Upcomed :Upcome + comed. Wait, is comed an actual word?

Don't miss the possibly finale of the Comin to the Rescue, hopefully possibly actually reaching The End.