The Bell Wishers

A LAND REMOTE: The first journey
by Emmett O. Saunders III
copyright 1998

Each evening before the shadows close in on everyday things that most of us tend to forget, two
small children remember. But what they recall is seldom ordinary and mostly about journeys that
few would ever begin. This is the story of their first travel, how it began and where it took them.

Chapter One

Spring always found Jewel Adams and Jason Henderson deep in magnetic chess competition.
Their families’ annual camping trip brought the two children together in the close traveling
arrangement. Neither set of parents could afford separate vacations. But in pooling resources, a
camping trip seemed ideal to satisfy their urge to travel. Visit new places. See unknown portions
of the vast country each called home.

Jewel stretched as the mobile home hit a small pothole on the mountainous road. Brushing
back a few unsettled wisps of golden hair, her sparkling blue eyes fixed on Jason. His dark brown
gaze was cemented intently on the challenge she had posed in moving within two plays of
checkmate.

"Aren't you tired of this?' she asked, squirming uncomfortably. "Mother said we'd be there
soon. Why don't we play 'I Spy' instead?"

"None of that," Jason replied quickly. "I gave you time to move."

"Silly, what are you talking about?"

"You're just trying to break my concentration," the eight-year-old said defiantly. He scratched
a spot in his tousled dark curly hair. It was a nervous habit, but helped him to think.

"Nonsense," Jewel insisted as the large recreation vehicle ground to a halt, presumably in the
middle of the road.

"You may be older," he grimaced, giving up the game in disgust, "but at least I'm smarter."

"Is that why you lost the game?" she stared back with the barest trace of amusement curling
the corners of her mouth. Jewel could only claim a year's more education than her younger friend.
But their constant battles for superiority extended far beyond grade school competition.

There was no time to form an answer as Jason's dad called to them.

"Everybody out, we've had a flat!"

"Great!" Jewel glanced out at the thick forest surrounding them. "And it's getting dark too."

* * *

Fire crackled merrily at one end of the makeshift campsite. The flat tire hadn't taken very long
to fix, but tackling untraveled back roads at day's end didn't meet with either set of parents'

approval. As a result, Jewel and Jason were left to explore as supper was prepared. Thick
underbrush kept the children from roaming too deep into the woods. However, a small, makeshift
pathway had been forged by the time scents of roasting hamburgers filled the cooling night air.

"We'd better get back," Jewel tugged at her scouting partner's jacket. He was kneeling beside
her, examining a small mound of rocks. "If they have to start looking for us, we will be in
trouble."

"Wait," Jason whispered as he uncovered a tiny wooden box from under the small stone
monument. "Look at this."

A little golden crown had been etched into the face of the dirt-covered box. It gleamed darkly
at them as he brushed away the remaining clumps of earth. Rusted hinges and a locked clasp at
the side of the miniature chest held the top in place.

"Don't open it," Jewel warned. "It might be some sort of dead animal inside."

"Out here?" he asked, fingering the lock expectantly. "I doubt it."

As he gently pried the top off, a wisp of wind from high overhead blew down, momentarily
startling them.

"Stop," she warned again. "We'd better get back."

"Afraid?" this time it was his turn to grin at her indecision.

"No," the young girl fired back. "I just think it would be better to take it back to camp with
us. Open it where our parents can see."

"Well, too late," he grinned, folding back the top to expose a blue metal bell inside. It had
been intricately engraved by some master craftsman with all sorts of intriguing figures and
symbols around the perimeter. A piece of parchment neatly folded had been placed with the
musical instrument. But as Jason unfolded the note, its lower half crumbled, scattering as dust in
the soft wind.

"What's it say?" Jewel shone her flashlight at the inscription.

"Listen," Jason's voice shrank to a whisper.

Ring the bell,

Call the cloak,

Travel far to a land remote

"Where's the rest of it?" she asked.

"Wind took it," he waved at the creaking dark branches overhead.

"We'd better get back," Jewel grabbed the bell from his hands and began running back up the

path.

"Wait! Aren't you curious?" Jason caught up to her and snatched the bell away.

Both children stared at one another. Neither wanted to be the first to give in. The thrill of

adventure swept over them, yet the safety of parents and campsite beckoned equally. Silently,
Jewel nodded in agreement.

"It probably doesn't mean anything anyway," her golden hair dimmed as she snapped off the

flashlight. "Just a poem..."

Jason held her hand tightly. "Don't worry, I'll be here to protect you."

He raised the bell and rang it once. The softest, clearest note either had ever heard sounded in

the stillness.

"Now what?" Jewel whispered in his ear.

"I don't know," he replied, shrugging his shoulders. "Call the cloak, I guess."

"How?"

"Cloak..." he said, his voice no louder than her own.

They stood shivering in the gloom. Nothing moved.

"See?" she announced in a normal tone. "It's just a joke."

"CLOAK, COME..." Jason spoke loudly. Sternly. His commanding attitude surprised her.

Then, in the rustling undergrowth a round, dark green object could be seen spread across the
ground. It looked like a thin blanket no bigger than the width of a baby's crib. The edges were
spun in golden thread and the outline of a bell, surrounded by a circle, had been sewn into the
center.

"Not much space to do a lot of traveling," he commented, stepping onto the surface. Eerily,
the edges began spreading outward, expanding to twice the cloak's original size.

"I really don't think this is such a good idea," Jewel tried pulling away as he tugged her to sit

beside him. "We can't both fit on it."

"Oh, but look we can..." he pointed to the rapidly growing boundaries of the cloth.

"It's just pretend," she squinted at him in the shadows. Trying to keep the fear in her heart
inside. Away from his prying eyes.

"Nonsense..." Jason's face shone with delight as he assumed a captain's stance. Prepared for
some great journey into the unknown depths of their imaginations. He thought a moment,
recalling the parchment he'd placed in his pocket, then called out in the same loud voice that had
called the cloak.

"TO THE LAND REMOTE!!"

Instantly, the cloak grew again, surrounding both children within its folds. Jewel screamed
once, as the fabric rose into the air and began spinning around them. It glowed bright green, as
billions of emerald sparkles flowed around them.

She clung tightly to Jason's chest as they began moving forward. Wrapped within the
marvelous traveling cloak, though, neither could see in which direction it was headed. The
sensation wasn't frightening. Almost like sitting still in an elevator, but shooting forward at
tremendous acceleration. And not knowing how to stop, both were equally alarmed at how they
would end the journey. Would they gradually slow or simply bounce off each other in a sudden
descent?

The question was soon answered as the ground once more felt solid beneath their seats. There
had been no warning. Yet, the landing had occurred without any mishap. Unpredictable, but
gentle. Like sitting down on an oversized cushion of feathers.

Then the cloak began unraveling its curtain of protection. Lying flat once again and exposing
the two children to the strangest horizon either had ever witnessed. Rolling waves of purple-green
ocean washed against an endless shore of palm trees. In the distance, wisps of pink clouds dotted
an otherwise clear pale orange sky. The colors mixed together in a confusing rainbow array. But
the diverse combination stirred the urge to explore in Jason's mind.

He rose to step off the cloak, but Jewel's hand held his own tightly.

"No, we should get back," her voice of reason cautioned. "Our parents will be looking for us."

"Just look at it, Jewel," he disagreed. "Have you ever seen anything like this?"

Dragging her from the confines of the travel cloak, they stepped onto the dark glittering grey

surface of their newfound world. A soft twittering sound drew Jason's attention to the left.
"That's a bird," he pointed to a particularly dense clump of trees about five yards away. "Want

to bet?"

"Not exactly," she argued.

As they stepped away from the cloak it faded into dust at their feet. Jewel's sudden gasp froze

Jason in mid-step.

"What's wrong?"

"The cloak is gone!" the young girl cried. "Now, we can't get back."

"I've still got the bell," Jason assured her. "I can always call it again."

"Please, let's just go then," Jewel pleaded. "I don't think we should be here. This was a

mistake."

"All right," he hugged her. "We'll go back. If that's what you want."

He tugged the bell from his pocket and rang it once.

"CLOAK, COME ..."

Immediately, the traveling cloth reappeared in its original form. They stepped onto it, and

seated themselves quickly.

"Hurry," she said, "I hear something moving through the bushes."

"No problem," Jason grinned. He puffed up his chest and assumed his captain's pose again.

"CLOAK, HOME ..."

"Jason, it's getting closer," Jewel's eyes began to widen as something began running through
the jungle. "It sounds big."

He cut his eyes to left and right. Whatever was approaching would overtake them in a matter

of seconds. There was no time to waste.

"CLOAK, HOME ... "

His voice sounded again. Loud and strong. But nothing happened. They were now at the
mercy of chance and their own foolhardiness. The cloak remained earthbound. Their urge for
adventure gave way to fear of the approaching stalker.

Chapter Two

Pulling Jewel with him, Jason started running for cover in the opposite direction of the
encroaching danger. His heart beat faster as he knew their chance for escape was slim with no
weapons to defend themselves.

"We have to reach the trees," he spoke quietly, not wanting to divulge any hint of their plans
to the swiftly blowing wind. There was no way of telling what sort of place they had landed in.
For all he knew, the unknown stalker might even now be watching them from some higher
vantage point. Eager to assess their weakness in running from battle rather than maintaining a
position and facing the opposition.

It reminded him of the earlier game of chess he had lost to Jewel's superior strategy. Only here
he couldn't give in to any less than perfect spur-of-the-moment moves to guarantee their survival.
There was no time to think, only react. And a very real possibility they might not be the superior
opponent in the immediate challenge facing them.

"The cloak dissolved again," Jewel noted as they entered the edge of the jungle.

"Good," he whispered back, calmly assured by the bell resting in his pocket. "At least we can
call it back, even if we can't use it to get home."

"Speaking of which," she paused to catch her breath. "How are we going to get back?"

"Shh," Jason warned, pressing a finger to his lips. "First things first."

Whirling around, his eyes shot open as a lion, the size of a Clydesdale horse, plunged into
view. They had both been amazed at the size of the horses used in a state fair promotion one
summer. Standing almost six feet high, the animals had towered over them like some ancient
dinosaur. Now, confronted with the king of beasts bred to such unnatural proportions, Jewel
remained glued to the spot. Her last step forever frozen in the slightly muddy grey earth.

No sound issued from her throat as Jason swiftly snapped loose a large tree branch beside
them. It would serve only to delay the inevitable outcome of the confrontation, he thought. But it
might buy her enough time to escape.

"When it attacks," he spoke sternly through clenched lips. "Run and don't look back."

"I'm ...." she stuttered out. "not leaving without ... you."

The lion suddenly bared its teeth, growling to clear a throat covered in dust. Its demeanor no
longer seemed threatening. Only curious as to why the visitors of its domain had run from his
approach.

"Excuse me," the lion snarled, cautiously inspecting them. "Why were you trying to avoid
me?"

"A talking lion?" Jewel asked, snapping out of her frightened trance. "Whoever heard of such
a thing?"

"Can't be any stranger than the rest of this place," Jason admitted, lowering his weapon. "We
thought you were trying to eat us."

The lion's eyes lit up at this remark. He seemed stuck between laughing or seriously

considering the proposal.

"I don't think that would be the wisest choice for either of us," the forest king replied. He
patted a rather firm stomach, shaking his mane. "No, not wise at all. I could do to lose a few
pounds but here it isn't that easy."

"A dieting lion?" Jewel clapped her hands to her mouth to stifle a giggle. Their former fear
forgotten, she tried stepping forward to greet the regal monarch. But both feet were stuck in
place.

"I don't really think you'll be doing much walking past the predicament you're already in," the
lion responded knowingly. "It's squishy stuff that most inhabitants here call a marsh."

"Like quicksand?" Jason tried tugging first one then his other foot free. He was completely
mired in the almost black, granular mud.

"Everyone usually avoids the stuff," the lion continued his self-righteous tirade, "except of
course lower-minded creatures and visitors like yourselves."

Jason searched desperately around for something to pull them closer to the edge. All overhead
vines were positioned just out of reach. His chances of getting them free were sinking as quickly
as he felt Jewel and himself sliding into the depths of the deadly mire.

"We can't get out of here by ourselves," he admitted.

"Probably not," the lion nodded in agreement.

"Well, help us!" Jewel begged the disdainful beast.

"What's in it for me?"

"What do you mean?" Jason became angered by the animal's unconcern. "You could save our
lives."

"And in return?" he asked the children. "What do I get for my mercy on such poor helpless
creatures?"

"Why do you have to get something in return?" Jewel cried. Despite the obvious danger, she
wished the animal was near enough to spank. It seemed a spoiled infant, intent on using the
situation to best advantage.

"No one gives anything for nothing," the lion sniffed back. "That wouldn't be prudent for
survival."

He paused, savoring the moment. "What are you willing to give me in return for my saving
your lives?"

Jason thought long and hard for a moment. The bell rested against his leg, nestled securely in
a pocket just now descending below the surface of the marsh. They had brought nothing else to
bargain with. And he doubted if undying loyalty would mean much to the self-indulgent ruler of
the forest.

"What about a magic bell?" the young boy called out to the lion.

"A magic what?" the animal's eyes narrowed to slits. "Say again?"

"Jason, no," Jewel tried to keep her companion from tugging deep in his pocket. "It's our only
chance out of this place."

"A magic bell," Jason repeated calmly as he found himself chest deep in the sand. Inches away
from total submersion, he knew there would be no further need of the valuable instrument if they
both perished.

"I might be interested," the animal monarch admitted. "Let me see it, first."

"No," Jason shouted back. "You get us out of here. Then I'll hand it over to you."

"How do I know you really have it?" the lion asked, pacing back and forth at the edge of the
sand.

"How do you think we got here in the first place?" Jewel snapped back. "Geez, for a ruler you
sure do have some king-sized doubts."

"Well, I'm not the one up to her knees in quicksand either," the lion grinned. "Just show me
the bell, and I promise to help."

Jason slid his hand into the muck surrounding his legs. Feeling for a pocket, he drew forth the
bell, now covered in the same gritty sand that held them captive. He held it aloft over his head,
firmly holding the clapper in place. There was no point in calling forth the cloak if they were in no
position to use it.

"That's it?" the lion smirked. "A little bell... and you expect me to believe it's magical?"

"It is," the boy returned, "anyone who holds it possesses great power."

Jewel's hands clung tight around him as Jason struggled with the remainder of his strength to
keep them both aloft. If the animal king didn't make a decision in the next few seconds, they were
goners.

"All right," the lion bounded through the brush returning momentarily with a thick, strong
vine. "Grab hold of this and I'll pull you both to safety."

"Thanks," the girl's feeble voice replied.

Tugging with all his might, the strong jawed ruler yanked them through to the shallowest end
of the mire. Regaining their feet on solid ground, Jason and Jewel bowed respectfully to their
rescuer.

"Enough of that," the lion waved away the adulation. "Hand me the bell. It's rightfully mine
now."

Dutifully, Jason placed the small bell in the leader's paw. He rolled it first one way, then the
other, examining the strange symbols on its surface.

"How does it work?" the hairy-maned ruler seemed eager to try it out.

Before Jason could explain the first inkling of its tremendous power, however, a swift
shushing sound overhead drew the attention of both visitors and the native. A dark cloud of
fluttering wings descended through the trees, heading straight for them.

"It's the work of Devonika," the lion warned. "You'd better take cover while I drive them
back."

"Who's Devonika?" Jewel asked before being roughly pushed aside by the lion. She fell into
the underbrush, shaken but unharmed.

"An evil enchantress and there's no time to explain," the mighty king snarled. "Lie still and
don't run. They attack anything that moves."

"What are they?" her voice whispered in Jason's ear. His only response was to join her and
pray silently they survived the ambush.

The lion's mighty chest heaved a magnificent challenging roar as the raiders descended into the
clearing. Jewel's first vision of the attacking creatures was one of total disbelief. She was glad no
explanation of their appearance had been given. Furiously beating wings brought her darkest fear
to alight in the swirling grey mist around them. Eight legs of each attacker landed on the ruler,
completely obscuring him for a moment.

"They're giant flying spiders," Jason gasped. "Big as eagles..."

"He'll never be able to fight them alone," she whispered back. "We've got to help him."

"No, he told us to stay put," the boy replied quickly. "that's his battle."

Shaking off the winged insects, the lion swatted at the remainder with the bell clasped tightly
in his free paw. Seeing the chance they'd been waiting for, the flying spiders began a furious tug of
war with the bell. Swiftly dislodging it, they took off into the sky with the newly claimed prize.
The lion's anger abated as he was drawn to his knees by sheer weight from the winged insects. A
thousand feet crawled through his mane and over his torso, seeking a vulnerable spot to instantly
drive home deadly venom.

"Jason," Jewel screamed. "They took the bell!'

Against the ruler's demand and better judgment, Jason grabbed a stout tree branch and ran to
help the fallen monarch. Instantly sensing motion, the insects turned their attention on their new
opponent. He walked on only two legs and would be easier prey to dispose of than the current
assailant.

Chattering incoherently to each other, the spiders moved as one toward the small boy. Jason
swung valiantly and brought down several of the larger spiders before his legs became covered in
their swiftly spun webs.

Suddenly a bright flash of light blazed in front of his eyes. A sputtering torch of fire swept the
flying arachnids back into the air as Jewel swung viciously back and forth between the downed
warriors. In her hands, she held a flaming tree branch, thick enough to do damage on its own. But
lit, proving a much more formidable weapon.

The lion's look of amazement was immense. He shook the rest of the clinging spiders toward
the wooden flare only to watch Jewel's precise backswing boot them in all directions at once.
Unable to cope with the intense heat, which none had ever felt before, the spiders continued their

swift aerial retreat until all were gone from the clearing.

"We won," Jewel yelled to the departing attackers. "And don't come back."

"Oh, they won't," the lion paced cautiously in front of her. "Not against a superior weapon

like that."

"You've never seen fire?" Jason asked, brushing off the last of the cobwebs from his pants.

"No, but I can feel its power from here," the animal ruler replied. "Are you an enchantress?"

Jewel snuffed out the rest of the dimming torch in the black sand at their feet. She was
surprised by the question.

"What do you mean?" the young girl asked, helping Jason to his feet. "Like a witch?"

"If that's how you look at it, yes..."

"Heavens no," she managed a small laugh. "My parents always make us carry a few essentials
whenever we go camping. One of them just happened to be a lighter."

Her blue eyes began to tear, but she wiped the moisture away quickly. There was no sense in
getting emotional at this point. Both sets of parents were probably scouring the woods searching
for their lost children. Frantic with worry.

"How'd you know it would work here?" Jason asked her. "You could have caused a
tremendous explosion if the atmosphere hadn't been similar to our own."

"I didn't know," Jewel replied. "But I didn't want you both eaten alive by those spiders either."

The lion stopped pacing and sat facing them. His dark eyes shone with anticipation.

"You mentioned your atmosphere, so you're not from around here. And parents ... what are
they?"

"Look, lion..." Jason began, before the ruler interrupted him.

"The name is Lord Alessandro Balthezar de Iglesias Panthadere..."

"Well, how about we just call you Ali for short?" Jason said.

"You may call me Lord..."the lion shook his mane regally, "you may call me King...but never
call me Ali."

"I think Ali's a delightful name," Jewel disagreed. "And so much easier to remember. My
name's Jewel."

"Pleased to meet you, I'm sure," Ali replied, abruptly accepting the little girl's choice for his
name. He didn't exactly feel like arguing with such a pretty child's request after she'd been kind
enough to drive away the spiders. "Very well, then, Ali it shall be."

"Mine's Jason," the young boy offered to shake hands.

The lion offered his paw willingly to both his new friends and rescuers.

"As to your question," Jewel continued, "we're not from around here. No, not at all..."

"What she means is, we're not quite sure where we are," Jason agreed.

"That's easily remedied," Ali grinned. "You're in the Land of Remote. A wonderful place to

explore and filled with adventure."

"If it's like what we've already been through, I think I've had about enough," Jewel noted.

"Oh, that's nothing," Ali continued. "Once Devonika sees that her plan to destroy me didn't

work, she'll send something far greater to do the job."

Jewel shivered, wondering what could possibly top the already menacing nightmare they had
just experienced. Jason patted her shoulder reassuringly.

"It's okay," he said calmly. "We've got to get back to Mom and Dad. They won't leave

without us."

"How do you know?" she seemed to despair.

"Mom and Dad?" Ali rolled the words around, savoring the comforting syllables.

"Our parents," Jason explained quickly, "would never leave us alone in a place like this."

"Evidently, the choice wasn't theirs to make," the lion mentioned.

"You're right about that!" Jewel agreed, glaring at Jason.

"Well, in any event," Ali continued, "I must admit my curiosity has been aroused. These

people you speak of ... are they important in your lives?"

"The most important in anybody's life," Jason returned. "Without them, it'd be hard to get
through a single day."

"But not impossible," the monarch motioned for them to follow him into the jungle. "Because

in the Land of Remote we've gotten through a great many without them."

"There are no parents here?" Jewel asked, brushing back her hair for the journey.

"None whatsoever," Ali assured.

"We're in big trouble," she replied. Her eyes met Jason's for only a moment. They were both in

agreement on that point.
"With a big adventure ahead, "Ali smiled.

Chapter Three

Trudging through miles of jungle in the afternoon heat did little to brighten the trio's spirits.
The immense horizon, though, held all sorts of interesting sights.

Beautifully plumed birds soared high overhead. Filling the sky with a chorus of song in four
and sometimes five-part harmony. Carried on the soft winds, they seemed endless. An aerial
tribute to the spirit of adventure that drove the travelers onward.

"I'm hungry," Jason announced as they neared a clearing.

"What exactly do you eat?" Ali asked, nudging a branch aside. "I know what I like. But you're
a different story."

"He eats just about anything," Jewel chimed in, "anytime ... anywhere."

"Don't think so," the boy disagreed quickly. "I like a lot of stuff, just not too crazy about
veggies."

Ali's quizzical stare stopped them instantly. These strangers were quickly showing him a new
slant on his kingdom. Things that never entered his mind to think about, now took on monumental
importance.

A lack of parents shared by everyone in the Land of Remote now seemed a great loss.
Someplace called home that you felt secure and shared with friends was another mystery to him.
Being king of the forest allowed Ali to go anyplace. Yet being there without people who cared
about you now felt like a bad thing to be avoided. These two travelers had certainly given him a
lot to think about.

"I guess you like veggies?" Jason asked, almost apologetic.

"His mom makes him eat them," the blonde-haired girl explained. She balanced on one foot,
emptying a shoeful of dark grey sand.

"Then it's a good thing," the ruler returned. "To force people into doing something they don't
like?"

"Not always," the boy disagreed.

"But sometimes it is," Jewel finished for him. "Sometimes trying new things can be good."

"How?" the lion became intrigued again.

"If I didn't eat stuff like veggies that I don't like," Jason began, "I'd never appreciate other
things that I do."

He paused, swatting at a buzzing noise near his ear. In response, a tiny voice yelled. Pealing
like the tones of a small wind chime caught in a breeze.

"Hey! Watch out who you're slapping."

Jewel blinked twice. It was impossible to imagine the smallest girl she'd ever seen airborne by
a set of tiny wings. But that's exactly what Jason had almost knocked to the ground in careless
motion.

"What is this?" the boy wondered aloud. His eyes widened at the sight of two tiny clear bright
irises staring back.

"That, my boy, is a flyscout," Ali explained. His smile widened in recognition of the small
visitor's features. "Farina, by name."

"What's a flyscout?" Jewel asked, holding out the palm of her hand.

The winged creature landed nimbly between thumb and forefinger. Then looked wonderingly
at the young girl. Farina had never seen creatures like this before. The girl's hand was steady. A
solid platform to view the visitors. They must be strong and kindhearted for her friend Ali to have
taken a liking to them. In all the years she'd known the ruler, he'd never once guided any into the
depths of his kingdom. These two had to be special.

"Allow me to introduce my companions," Ali began, pointing first to the boy. "This is Jason
and the one holding you is Jewel."

"She's not holding me," Farina tossed a head full of red curls disdainfully. "Her hand was just a
convenient landing area. That's all!"

The flyscout paced back and forth across Jewel's palm. It was absurd to think anyone could
hold one of the winged forest guardians against their will. They could fly faster and farther than
any other insect aviator in the Land of Remote. Twice, their speed and valor had rescued Ali from
destruction at the hands of the evil Devonika. Earning all flyscouts protection from the mighty
ruler.

Privilege and honor bestowed on every flyscout paled in comparison, however, to having the
forest king as a friend. They were free to come and go in all parts of the kingdom. And if any
were harmed, the lion's wrath was quickly brought to bear on the perpetrator. All in all, both
monarch and flyscout benefitted from the arrangement.

"Flyscouts aren't known for their manners," Ali remarked, winking at the tiny guardian, "just
fierce trust and loyalty."

Farina shifted uneasily at the compliment. It was true. She related how the flyguides had saved
Ali's life at the hands of the evil Devonika. But the rescue had cost the lives of many flyguides.
Including her own brother. From that day forward, however, the bond with the forest ruler
remained unchanged. Forged in courage. But the alliance had not been accomplished by her
efforts alone. And being given total credit for the accomplishment never entered her mind. She
banished the recollection almost immediately to the task at hand.

"We have heard of Devonika's deceit within the kingdom," Farina spoke slowly. Calmly.
Almost devoid of emotion, though past memories tugged at her heartstrings. She knew the
frightened children needed help. And since Ali was involved, the cause had to be just.

"Flying spiders carried off our bell," Jewel started to exlain, "we can't get home without it."

"I know," the flyguide fluttered her wings, anticipating a wave of grief sweeping over her.

Flyscouts were completely capable of banishing their heaviest thoughts that way. More sure-
footed creatures would run off their anxieties. Crashing through miles of gritty dark grey sand
before collapsing exhausted. Freed from overwhelming exertion. And perched at the brink of
mentally resolving the deepest problem.

"You know about the bell?" Jason swept a tousled shock of hair from his eyes. He was hot.
Tired. And not much amused by the winged visitor.

"Yes," Farina answered quietly. "My brother carried the bell with him by request of the Grand
Vizier. It never left his side until his last battle with Devonika."

"Devonika,... Schmonika..." the young boy mimicked her. "I'm not interested in hearing any
more about her. Or the stupid tricks she pulls to keep everyone here scared."

"It's more than mere fright, I assure you," Ali broke in.

"Jason, her brother died at the hands of this witch," Jewel admonished him. "We should have
some respect for her loss."

"I'm sorry," Jason agreed, bowing to the teary-eyed face of the small visitor. "But just how do
we get the bell back?"

"That is up to you," Farina replied knowingly.

"Hey, wait a minute," the boy fired back quickly. "I thought you were going to help us?"

"That, too, depends on how bad you want my help," the flyscout flitted out of Jewel's hand,
alighting on a nearby tree branch.

"We do need your wisdom, my friend," Ali paced nervously back and forth. His brow
furrowed in thought. "There's no telling what she will do with the bell."

Jason brightened immediately despite the hunger pangs gnawing at his stomach.

"Well, she could be the most powerful witch in the Land of Remote, but she doesn't know the
poem that goes with it."

"Poem?" Farina's eyes widened with interest.

A little poem that got us here in the first place," the boy continued. He was arrogant, the
flyscout noted. Thinking the whole procedure was a game. "Without it, the bell means nothing."

Ali shook his head disdainfully. Even in his most majestic moments, he'd never presume to
outguess Devonika or what she could do with the bell. Farina had heard enough. A small tinkling
laugh escaped her lips before she flew off into the forest.

Jewel's eyes narrowed. Boys could be so stupid sometimes. And Jason was no exception to
the rule. But he also seemed totally capable of pushing the saying to new limits.

"My friend," the animal king raised a paw and placed it on the boy's shoulder. "Look at this
plant here."

A large strawberry-colored leaf waved gently in the soft breeze surrounding them. Jason
smiled, running a finger over the top of the plant.

"What is it?"

"Food for you and Jewel," Ali motioned for her to join them. "It's been here all along."

"Why didn't you say so?" Jason tugged greedily at the stalk. It gave way reluctantly from the
soil.

"Things are not always what they seem," the monarch warned. "And don't be deceived by
mere appearance. The most useful items seldom have roots at the surface."

Jewel tasted the small plant gingerly. It was nourishing and tasted like strawberries. Yet
somehow the most minute portion quickly satisfied her appetite.

"I'm full," she announced handing back the remainder.

"Cool, then that's more for me," Jason grinned.

"Careful with that," Ali warned. "It only takes a little to fill you up."

Jason ignored the warning and greedily ate the rest of the plant. But before the last bite had
been completely chewed, his stomach began rumbling. Jewel gasped as his belly started growing.
It expanded slowly at first and then popped out to three times the original size. She clapped a
hand over her mouth, stifling a giggle.

"Oh, no," the boy groaned. "I should have stopped eating when you told me."

"Yes," the monarch agreed. "You should have."

"What are we gonna do?" Jewel pleaded with the ruler. "We can't go on like this. He'll never

fit through the trees."

The mighty lion nodded toward a dirt trail up the side of a very tall mountain in the distance.
Both children's eyes widened at the challenge.

"Guess that's our only alternative now," Ali explained. "since someone

couldn't

control an appetite."

"We'll never make it up that," Jason shook his head in despair.

"We have to," Jewel corrected him quickly. "Or we'll never get the bell back."

"Or get home again," Jason admitted. "Maybe the exercise will work some of this off."

He patted his rather large stomach and squinted downward.

"I can't see my feet," the boy's eyes began to fill with tears. "I should have listened."

"Then hear me now," the lion pointed forward. "We're going up that mountain. It would have

been far easier to travel through the forest. But that's no longer an option. So we have to make
the best of it. Put one foot foward and let's get started."

"What if I fall over? I may not be able to get back up."

"We can help you," Jewel pointed out. "But you have to make the effort, Jason. We've got to
get home."

"I'll try," the now fat adventurer decided. Gingerly he placed one foot in front of the other.
"This isn't too difficult. And I feel the same as I was...thin. There's just more of me to get
moving."

Clouds blew against the sun just then. A cooling shadow fell over the three friends as an
ominous voice sounded overhead.

"Not one of you will survive the journey."

Jewel glanced skyward instantly. A four-winged raven cocked its head haughtily at her.

"You're wrong," she fired back coldly.

"We'll see," the bird cackled and flew swiftly off into the clouds, reigniting the afternoon sun
around them.

Jewel tried keeping up with Ali's loping gait over the well worn path up the side of the

mountain. But soon, she found herself completely tired out from just keeping track of Jason. As
they climbed higher into the mountainous terrain, his energy sagged.

"Ali!" she called after the animal king. "Jason can't keep going like this. We need to rest."

"Take a break," the monarch replied. "I'll check out the trail ahead. Make sure Devonika
hasn't set any more traps for us."

"Good idea," Jason puffed back. "This isn't a good time to deal with her evil plans."

"Well, when do you think it would be?" Jewel's eyes flashed back at him. She was hot. Tired.

Miles stood between them and getting the bell back. If they even stood a chance against the
wicked woman's magic. Now as the blazing sun cooked the remaining afternoon sky in an
oppressive heat wave, she was in no mood for discussion.

"I'm sorry," Jason's eyes began to water. He was good at holding back tears. Over ordinary
things. But this was out of his control. A single drop of regret fell against his cheek.

"Don't start that," Jewel warned him. Her temper waned in the face of injustice. "You didn't
know what we were getting into."

A chubby hand brushed away the revealing hole in the adventurer's emotional armor. His
brown eyes closed, fighting back an overwhelming sense of guilt.

"I should never have rung that bell," he berated himself. "We would be back with our parents
right now, if I hadn't dragged you onto that cloak."

"You didn't drag me anywhere," she corrected him quickly. "I was just as curious as you were.
Besides, we're here now. And we just have to deal with it."

Jewel's eyes lit up suddenly as the faint sound of running water reached her ears.

"Let's get a drink before Ali gets back," she pointed to a small clearing through the trees.

"I can't fit in there," Jason reminded her. "But see if you can bring me back some."

"Do my best," she assured him and quickly disappeared into the underbrush.

He waited patiently for several moments before a piercing shriek chilled him to the bone.

"Jewel!" he cried. "Hang on, I'm on my way!"

His sheer force of weight tore through any resistance from the trees. They splintered, cracking
away at his onslaught. In another moment, however, his forward momentum stopped abruptly. A
gasp of shock escaped him at the sight of his friend's predicament.

She stood transfixed in horror over a small pool of water. The face staring back at her from its
depths resembled nothing he'd ever seen before. The girl's beauty had vanished in an instant. All
that remained was overwhelming fear of being seen by anyone. And most of all by Jason.

Chapter Four

Jason stopped only inches away as Jewel turned her back to him. Her heart-rending cry of fear
now subsided to deep gasps tearing from her lungs.

"Don't look at me!" she cried, pushing into the surrounding growth. "I don't ever want
anybody seeing me again."

"Hang on," he replied, grabbing her shoulder. "You can't go tearing off into the woods. We
don't know what's out there."

The girl paused. Pondering his logic.

"Can't be any worse than this," Jewel's eyes teared as she turned to face him.

Her beaming blue eyes now sank into folds of flesh that almost covered them completely. And
the skin had dried to a pasty greyish color.

Under normal conditions, he might have handled the change admirably enough. Comforting
her in the midst of a hideous transformation. The wicked metamorphosis could have damaged any
young girl's blossoming personality beyond repair. But these were no ordinary circumstances. And
Jason's instinctive response released the faintest giggle of relief.

Jewel's expression was immediate and overwhelming.

"You're laughing at me!"

"No, I'm not ... you're just different, that's all."

"I can't go home looking like this, Jason."

"Well, neither can I," he cracked a smile at her. "They'd have to adjust the shocks on both

sides of the van."

"This isn't funny," she assured him. "I can't face anybody."

"And you think I enjoy weighing my alternatives like this?" he slapped his belly in dismay.

"Somebody's planned all of it. And I think we both know who."

"Devonika?"

"Exactly," he continued. "Now we have to find a way to beat her at her own game. And the

first step is acceptance."

"You're okay with the weight gain?" Jewel's eyes brightened slightly.

"I don't like it," Jason snapped back quickly. "But I have to accept it. For the moment."

"Maybe we can find a way to reverse it?" she thought for both of them.

"And if not," the boy said resignedly, "perhaps we get to see who we are beneath everything."

A smile crossed both their faces as they realized how far they'd come. It seemed only minutes

ago when they'd rigged elaborate defenses against each other across a chessboard. Now combined
strength of will meant fortified courage for whatever challenges lay ahead.

"Let's get going," Jewel pointed back to the path. "We need to find Ali. He's probably given
up trying to find us."

"Kinda doubt that," Jason grinned. "He needs us to defeat Devonika. There's no telling what
she's cooking up for the three of us."

"Four!" a voice called from a branch high overhead.

A flicker of recognition brightened the children's features as Farina flew into view.

"Hurry or we'll be stuck in the worst part of the island after dark."

"But everything's so beautiful here," Jewel replied, then reflected swiftly. "except, of course,
for our our appearances now."

Farina's quizzical expression changed abruptly to concern as she realized what had happened.

"More of Devonika's handiwork," the fairy exclaimed matter-of-factly.

"That and our own gluttony," Jason concurred.

"And need for refreshment," Jewel agreed.

"In any event," Farina motioned them swiftly through the undergrowth, "Ali's waiting. And
he's found some shelter to stay the night."

Ali met them at the entrance to a large dark cave. His nostrils flared, searching for any trace of
enemies. There were none. Only two sets of eyes nonchalantly watched Farina and the children
approach. And they turned swiftly away to search out other close predators high overhead.

"Good to see you," the lion exclaimed. "I retraced my steps but you were gone."

"It's a long story," Jewel brushed aside the inquiry. "And as Farina pointed out, it is getting
dark."

"Fine then," Ali pointed inside the ominous-looking opening. "This should afford enough
safety for one night's sleep."

"Have you slept here before?" Jason asked quickly. He still wasn't entirely sure of entrusting

their safety to the forest monarch.

Farina smiled. Some things never change, she thought. Maybe this time, though, they should.

"Ali is the strongest, most powerful ruler we have," the fairy admonished the boy. "If he's

checked this out, you can be sure."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence," Ali returned. "But there's really no need at this point. I
based my decision on two items. Number one is safety. You don't get to be king of the forest
without it. Protect what you love at all costs and this primary goal does exactly that."

"A comforting thought to be sure," Jewel agreed smugly. Since their arrival on the island, Ali's
first goal seemed wildly unattainable. And with each passing adventure, seemed to recede farther
from their grasp.

"Hey, Ali saved us from the marsh," the young man saw his companion's indecision in her

eyes.

"He wanted the bell's magic," the girl's blue eyes narrowed in response.

"Decide among yourselves then," Farina broke in. "I've got work to do."

The fairy flitted away swiftly. Her tiny wings beating a hasty retreat in the gathering darkness.

"Though we disagree on many things," Ali yawned and stepped into the cave's mouth. "I must
agree with Farina on this one. We have a very large day of travel ahead tomorrow. Sleep would
be a blessing at this point."

Both children nodded sheepishly and followed. Despite their differences, all three travelers
couldn't escape the inevitable. They would tackle the dangers of a new day refreshed for the
journey. And without any alternative sleeping quarters, the arrangement seemed adequate for one
night.

As they settled in, Jason sleepily remembered the lion hadn't finished his explanation of the
decision-making process.

"Hey, Ali."

"Yes?"

"What was the second item you used to base this choice on?"

"Survival, my boy. Plain, pure and simple," Ali closed one eye warily.

"Now that's a good choice," Jewel agreed.

"You're sure there's no bugs in here?" the overweight boy cast a sidelong glance at Jewel.

"Bugs?" she shivered, nestling next to him. "I think we ought to change the subject."

"I think we should all sleep," Ali yawned again.

"Wait," Jason whispered in the stillness. "I heard something move."

"Jason, stop it!" the girl's fingers clutched his arm tightly. "We need to rest. Right, Ali?"

Her eyes sought the monarch's impressive shadow beside them. He had vanished.

"He's gone," she whispered.

"No, he's in the corner," the boy pointed at the other side of the cave, "locating the noise."

Ali assumed his most regal stance as a rumbling sound drew closer. He had decided on the
cave as suitable safety for the night ahead. There had been nothing to indicate the presence of a
previous owner or its return.

Now, the lion felt a deep responsibility for bringing them into another dangerous situation. If
it lay in his power, he reasoned swiftly, the fear would be eliminated immediately. Before it
attacked.

"Come forth and identify yourself," he commanded imperiously.

The only response was a slight shuffle of rock.

"Jason, stay close," Jewel's fear magnified with each passing moment.

"I'm not going anywhere, he assured her. "Until I get the word from Ali."

Chapter Five

Ali's temper began to grow. There was no doubt something was moving toward them in the
dark. What it was, wasn't certain. But ignoring his command for identification meant the furtive
approach wasn't friendly.

"Stand and name yourself!" the ruler bellowed in his loudest roar.

A small quiet voice answered. It seemed to blend with the steady rumble of rock-hewn feet

dragged slowly across the dirt floor.

"I am called Stonehigh," the voice continued, drawing closer.

As the stranger entered the main portion of the cave, the children rose unsteadily to their feet.

The creature facing them stood nearly fifty feet tall, completely dwarfing Ali in its shadow.

"What manner of creature are you?" Ali craned his neck upward. A slight shower of pebbles
hit his head as the creature ground to a halt.

"I am a mountain's strength," Stonehigh explained. "Forged in the depths of mighty forces
battling beneath the surface. I have lived here all my life. And will continue my existence long
after your kind has vanished from memory."

Jewel cautiously peeked over Jason's shoulder. Her voice caught in mid-air as she strained to
see the two dark luminous eyes staring downward at them. Stonehigh had no discernible arms and
seemed to shuffle on what could only be described as large boulders for feet. A gaping hole

served as mouth and tongue. Issuing sound only when the merest breeze blew through the cavern.

"I'm Jewel," she smiled, catching her breath. "This is Jason and Ali, my friends."

"Are you dangerous?" Jason asked quickly. The creature seemed to laugh gently.

"Only to my enemies," Stonehigh continued. "And there are many of those on this island."

He paused, nodding at Ali.

"Wouldn't you agree, my four-footed friend?"

Ali stared back intently at the giant. He considered the question's simple generalization to be
faulty. True, there were many dangers on the island. But lumping natural calamity with flesh and
blood intrigue seemed illogical. On the other hand, disagreeing with a nearly fifty-foot tall
behemoth definitely outweighed logic at this point.

"Most decidedly so," Ali concurred.

"By the way, what brings you to my cave in the first place?" Stonehigh's eyes narrowed.

"Were you seeking fortune in the depths of the earth?"

"We were just looking for a night's shelter," Jewel explained.

Her first impression of the rock creature had been based on ignorance an fear. Now as their

presence had been accepted, she warmed up to their possible new friend.

"We've walked a long way and we're very tired," she continued. "If we could just rest a few
hours, we'd be out of here at daybreak."

Stonehigh pondered her request carefully before answering. He had made few friends over the

years. Meeting someone new and accepting a bond of blind trust was very strange. Yet solitude
bred mistrust of stranger or friend alike. He quickly decided in favor of Jewel's request.
"You may stay under those conditions," the rock creature managed a slight warmth in his
tone.
"Thanks," Jason burbled over happily. Spending a night outside the cave definitely wasn't on
his agenda. For obvious reasons.

Ali thanked Stonehigh as well before designating a far corner of the cave as refuge. It
appeared safer. Away from the main entrance and a measure of protection from a strong wind that
whistled through the cavern.

Later that night, Jewel's eyes fluttered open when a footstep sounded at the entrance. Calmly,
she woke to see bright pairs of eyes staring in at the other sleeping visitors. She nudged Jason
until he groggily responded. Quieting him, the young girl then turned her attention to rousing Ali
without notice by the glaring eyes.

All three alert, they waited for the sleep interrupters' next move. It wasn't long in coming.
Methodically, first one stone then another dropped into place at the entrance. Slowly, then
more swiftly than the travelers could form a whispered plan, Jewel, Jason and Ali saw their only
exit sealing them in. When the last bit of starlight winked out, Ali rose warily and paced to the

vanished opening.
"We have been trapped," the monarch's voice sounded hoarse in the stillness.
"They know you are here," Stonehigh's voice echoed softly from above.
"You watched them do this?" Jason broke in quickly. "And never warned us?"
Jewel flashed a warning glance at her traveling companion. There was no sense in

antagonizing Stonehigh. He might be their only hope of escape from certain doom.
"What could I do?" the fifty-foot creature didn't acknowledge Jason's tone of fear. "I can't

leave the cave. And you certainly couldn't handle a tribe of Tugg-Ugglies."
"A tribe of what?"
It was Jewel's turn to hold the panic from her voice. Their new nemesis had a name. And she

didn't like the sound of it. Not at all.
"They're called Tugg-Ugglies," Stonehigh repeated. "A great many years ago, they existed as

normal as you or I."
"Right," Jason grimaced. "What did they look like then?"
"As I said," Stonehigh glared at the overweight boy. "The tribe wasn't particularly appealing

to me. But they were a normal enough looking bunch of creatures."
Ali paused in his pacing near the blocked entrance. The lion's patience held his temper in

check. It would continue as long as he needed clarity of thought to escape their prison.
"What changed them?" Ali asked pensively. Maybe a way to freedom lay in the explanation.
Stonehigh moved a single rock finger to point at the children.
"Probably the same process that changed these two into what we see here," the behemoth's

quiet tone reassured the visitors. "I'm quite sure neither appeared this way when they first arrived
on the island."

"How could you know that?" Ali fired back. "I thought you couldn't journey outside the
cave."

Scarcely a moment passed in response before a glistening small light flew from one of the side
caves to the main cavern. Jason smiled. Immediately recognizing Farina's return. Jewel remained
unconvinced the woodland flyscout's reappearance boded well for any of them.

The bright-winged sprite spun quickly around. Sending excess moisture swirling in all
directions. Farina alit on Ali's shoulder before forming her response to the question.

"I told Stonehigh about the visitors," she admitted. "I thought being a recluse, he might shed
some light on our surprise guests."

"I'll surprise you," Jewel vowed quietly, "the next time you throw water all over us. It's damp
enough in here as it is. We don't need to be catching pneumonia on top of everything else."

"Is there value in catching it?" Ali's attention was instantly drawn to the new supposed
venture.

Jason shook his head at the monarch as Farina switched Ali's shoulder for his own.

"Will everyone please let Farina finish?" the young boy asked pleadingly. "She might know a
way out of here. Especially since she didn't come through the Tugg-Ugglies."

"Well spoken, lad," Farina agreed. "And to finish your queries ... the tribe was smitten with
the same feature change as Jewel. It affected all of them. Down to the last small child. Now all of
them hide in fear and shame. Only coming out at night to gather small berries and vegetation for
food."

Jewel's interest had swiftly aroused at the mention of her personal predicament. She had
meekly accepted the magical edict of distortion. But a growing fear gnawed at the back of her
mind. Perhaps the flyscout could offer some ray of hope that the change wouldn't be permanent.

"Farina, please," the blonde-haired girl's eyes burned with her craving for knowledge. "Tell me
the Tugg-Ugglies know of a cure."

"That I couldn't say," Farina tried to calm the frightened girl. "But perhaps if we visited their
leader, he might know the answer."

"And just how do you propose we do that?" Ali broke in. "The whole tribe's outside. The
entrance is blocked. Was Jason right? Do you know another way out?"

"Follow and see, mighty comrade," the flyscout flew steadily to a spot in front of a side cave.
"It will be dangerous. But to achieve freedom, risks are required."

Jason rose immediately and waited for the others to follow suit. Ali and Jewel both bid
farewell to Stonehigh before joining him.

"Best of luck in your quest," their fifty-foot high friend said as they left.

"Hurry," Farina motioned them deep into the dark passageway. "I'm not even sure the Tugg-
Ugglies haven't already found a way to block my exit."

Turning a final corner in the bleak stone wall, a sparkling lake emerged into view with a shore

of gem-encrusted sand. A single tear of gratitude trickled against Jewel's cheek. But she wiped it
away hurriedly to hear the flyscout's next set of instructions. A half-formed plan of action
dependent on their making it through the next obstacle to the journey.

"A lake in the middle of a mountain?" Jason noted aloud to himself. "This place gets stranger
all the time."

"Only to visitors," Farina replied smartly. "Living somewhere doesn't always mean you've seen
everything it has to offer."

"Very true," Ali chimed in. "But tell me, Farina, how are we to cross such a vast expanse of
water. It's not in my nature to swim."

The small orb of light paused to ponder only a moment. Then smiling, the flyscout flew in ever
widening circles around the three travelers. Jewel marvelled at the burst of light surrounding
them. It shimmered as a curtain of woven firelight. Yet venturing to touch it, the young girl's hand
passed through the aerial protection.

"Don't disturb the surface," the flyscout warned her. "It must last just long enough to get us
through the underground passage. That's how I found you."

"I don't see any openings to pass through," Jason said, glancing in all directions.

"Nor I," Ali agreed.

"Trust me, monarch," Farina replied. "There's too much to lose if something happened to any
of you. And much to gain in our combined strength for survival."

She finished weaving a small line of light. Then attached it to the large sparkling orb that
engulfed Ali and the children.

"What are you doing?" Ali demanded. "By my royal crown, you can't be thinking of dragging
us into the lake."

Jason and Jewel exchanged nervous glances. Neither was sure of Farina's abilities in getting
them to safety. But both were content to let Ali handle the situation. The bond of friendship
between flyscout and animal kingdoms had already established survival perimeters. Trust in each
other. Their present predicament was serving to renew a stronger commitment of faith for both
sides.

"Hold your breath, everyone!" Farina grinned. Her small laugh tinkled like bells across the
water's surface in the distance.

Ali's determined reluctance instantly dissolved as the makeshift bubble of light rose steadily
into the air. Then, with one swift plunge they were underwater. Plumbing the depths of the
enormous cavern's lake.

Jason peered into the darkness and silently prayed for a swift flight back to solid ground. He
pondered the consequences of a shocking demise should their traveling light bubble burst.
Sending each occupant to a watery grave. No one would find them. Not even their parents who
had probably despaired of locating them at all by now.

Reading his concern, Ali patted the small overweight boy's shoulder.

"Don't worry, Jason," the lion said, shaking his mane proudly. "If Farina is capable of
transporting us like this, she knows how to get us out of here."

"I just hope it's in one piece," Jewel broke in, never taking her eyes from the murkiness
surrounding them. "What if ..."

"No!" Ali cut her off abruptly. "We don't deal in possibilities here. The Land of Remote is
firmly based on reality."

"Yeah, right," Jason managed to whisper back. "If this is real, maybe I ought to have my head
examined."

"And if not," Jewel grinned. "You wouldn't have one. At least not at this depth underwater."

Farina paid no mind to the conversation behind her fluttering wings. Crossing through miles of
water or air made no difference to her. It was all the same. Yet, getting the three comrades to dry
land was another story. She was easily able to out-race any hidden danger that might strike from
the underwater passageway. Keeping the others from harm's way could prove quite a challenge.

The light bubble fully sustained air and temperature. But its composition was definitely
unstable. If she'd had more time for construction, there would have been no problem. But the
speed of their escape and need to reach safety outside the cavern left little time for dependable
transport. Hopefully, she thought, a bit of flyscout luck would get them through the passage
ahead. Without mishap.

That thought vanished as a thin slippery eel-like creature darted toward them. Instantly, four
tentacles cleaved the light bubble. Tearing. Rending the three passengers into two separate air
pockets. Dimly, Jewel watched as her separated companions moved onward toward the opening.
Guided by the flyscout's deft, elusive manuevers. Jason and Ali watched helplessly as the
separation distance grew between them and the young girl.

Roaring loudly, Ali drew Farina's attention. To no avail. She could not and would not stop her
progress until the remaining two passengers were safely through the portal. Seconds passed
agonizingly slowly as the light bubble neared its destination.

Once through and headed for the surface, Farina turned her attention back to the dark watery
depths behind them. There was no sign of the separated bubble or Jewel. Waving Ali and Jason a
swift farewell, she flew unerringly from sight. To Jewel's last known position.

Chapter Six

Jewel screamed as the elongated eel-like creature swam toward her. At such water depths, the
sound mattered little for location purposes. But it did manage to release the growing fear
engulfing her.

The slithering monster latched four tentacles tightly around the small light bubble. Dragging
her deeper into the inky depths surrounding all sides.

With no help of rescue from the giant monstrosity, tears flowed freely down her cheeks.
Despair threatened to render her powerless in the face of imminent doom.

"Why did I ever let Jason drag me into this?" she cried. "Mom and Dad will never know
where we've been. Or what happened to us! And I don't want to be eaten by a great ugly fish."

"I'm not going to eat you," a voice calmly replied in her ear.

Panicked, she looked around to locate the mysterious source of her thought. There was no
answer except a quiet swishing sound as the light bubble plunged deeper into the darkness.

"Great! Now I'm imagining voices before I get eaten," Jewel cried, brushing away her tears.

"I told you, I'm not going to eat you," the thought echoed again in her head. "But I might be
tempted to bounce you off the nearest coral reef, if you don't stop carrying on so."

Stunned, the girl waited for the other end of the conversation to begin again. After a few more
moments of silent traveling time, she decided to begin again.

"Can anyone hear me?" Jewel called out.

The bubble shimmered slightly at the reverberations from her voice. Then two coal-black eyes
pressed against the bubble's surface. Staring in at her. Almost as if her kidnapper were trying to
communicate.

"You aren't talking to me, are you?" Jewel asked slowly.

She didn't understand how the dialogue between them could have started. But she was certain
if the link existed, it must continue.

"Not exactly talking," the eel creature continued. "But you do hear and understand me, don't
you?"

"Of course," the young girl admitted. "How is this possible? We must be two miles under the
surface."

"Three, to be exact," the swift swimming eel corrected her. "But that's not important. I want

you to know, I'm here to help."

"Help?" Jewel asked quickly.

Their descent had brought them ot the entrance of an enormous underwater cavern. Its sides

glistened in wet purplish algae that clung to every outcropping.

"How can you expect me to believe you when you've brought me to this?" she asked, glancing
through the light bubble apprehensively. "If you really want to help me, get me to the surface
before the bubble dissolves."

"No problem," the eel agreed. Her request was instantly granted, as the lit air pocket rose
gradually to ground level.

A myriad of gnarled and twisted trees outlined the edges of a brightly colored forest. As the
bubble touched shore, Jewel stepped onto the dark sandy beach in fear.

"Where have you taken me?" the girl spoke quietly. Trembling at the prospect of facing
dangers beyond without Ali and Jason's assistance.

"It's the barrier between my world and that of the Tugg-Ugglies," the eel explained.

"And just why have you brought me here?" Jewel's tone grew stronger. She had regained dry
land and the light bubble was gone. Bursting into a million sparkles of light before being blown to
the four winds. Her kidnapper's motives seemed critical to understanding the present situation. A
predicament that offered no easy solution.

"Let me introduce myself, first," the eel broke in. "I am Murranzo, noble son of the high
Vizier, and heir to the throne of Twoda."

"Very nice," the young girl smiled back. "I'm Jewel."

"I know," Murranzo continued. "I heard that you and your friends were headed this way."

"From who?" Jewel asked, her curiosity beginning to climb. Despite the dire landscape and
circumstances surrounding her. She still felt the same sense of adventure growing inside that
urged her onto the traveling cloak with Jason. Nothing could dampen the prospect of finding him
again.

"The Tugg-Ugglies know every strange occurrence on the island," the eel replied. He slithered
back from the shore as the tide threatened to bring him closer. "Besides, I was expecting someone
anyway. The bell is a strong incentive."

"You've got the bell?" Jewel's eyes widened in astonishment. "We need it to return to our
world."

"I know," Murranzo said resignedly. He shrugged and stared back at her imploringly. "But I
don't have the bell. I sent it to your world for help. You evidently answered the call."

"Jason found it," Jewel explained. "He opened the box, called the cloak and wished us here."

"I'm well aware of how it works," the eel creature continued. "I designed the bell myself.
Unfortunately, Ferenko wrote the instructions."

"Wait," the girl stopped him abruptly. "Who is Ferenko?"

Murranzo paused. Eyeing her carefully. In one so young it was rare to find the curiosity of a
heroine. And once he explained the bell's mystery, her life would be in constant danger from
Devonika. Yet, Jewel might be his only hope for change.

"I don't want to endanger your life, young lady," he tried reasoning with her. "In fact, I
probably shouldn't have mentioned anything about the bell."

"But you did," Jewel reassured him. "And obviously, there was a reason for sending the bell to
my world."

"A very good reason," Murranzo agreed. "All right, then. Listen well, for there may not be
another chance to tell what you need to know."

Jewel seated herself on the sand. Oblivious to the rough texture of the grains. Or the
appearance of the strange creature facing her at the water's edge. All that mattered to her now
was finding a solution to getting home safely. Regardless that the same infomation might place
even greater obstacles in her path.

"Ferenko was brother to Farina," Murranzo began. "He and I fought against Devonika's evil
domination for many battles. In our final one, the sorceress summoned forth her greatest ally.
What you see left of me is the result."

"A sea creature," Jewel noted slowly.

As if in response to her lack of vision, Murranzo slapped the water repeatedly with a tentacle.
Perhaps he'd overestimated what the young girl could handle.

"No, my dear," the eel king replied simply. "My people are far different from this superficial
form. The Tugg-Ugglies are my people. I am their rightful ruler."

"Why don't you resemble them more closely then?" she asked.

"That was the power of Devonika's ally," Murranzo continued. "It changed me into this form
and banished me to the nether world of a watery grave. The Tugg-Ugglies were of beautiful form
and voice until that moment. Then they became what you saw last night. A hideous race
condemned to wander. Separated from the light of understanding and commerce."

Jewel paused. Taking a deep breath, she gazed sorrowfully at the exiled monarch. How could
such a loving, caring race of creatures be reduced to shunning daylight and fending for
themselves? Leaderless. The power of Devonika's ally must have been great. Perhaps all powerful.
But when Murranzo spoke again, he seemed to have read her thoughts. His heart was pure in its
intensity and capacity for compassion. Of that, she was certain.

"You are the one to help us," he said. His tone bore deep regret. But a sprinkling of hope for
the future. "Your appearance has been altered, much like our own. In that, we share a common
bond."

Jewel winced at the reflection of herself in his eyes. She didn't need to be reminded of the
wicked twist of fate that had stripped her beauty bare. Yet, what Murranzo said made sense.

"I have offended you," he apologized. "And I didn't mean to call attention to the difference.
However, together we may be able to restore what has been changed. The Karmen is not
omnipotent and its alterations not always permanent."

"The Karmen ... is Devonika's ally, then?" Jewel responded to the name with disgust. "What
type of creature is this monstrosity?"

"It is nothing and everything," Murranzo replied. "Darkest fear ... weakest strength."

"I don't need riddles," the young girl grew irritated and fascinated at the description. "If it is to
be defeated, we need facts, not fantasy."

"But that is the anomaly," the eel king replied. "It alters shape and form at will. To become
your greatest enemy. Your biggest fear. That is how it attacks. And kills."

"Then I need to learn how to defeat it," Jewel chose her words carefully. "Because if I don't,
rejoining Jason and Ali may not matter. We may encounter the same fate."

"I will relate all I know," Murranzo agreed. "On condition that you meet with my people and
tell them everything I have said."

"Why haven't you told them yourself before now?" Jewel asked. "As their ruler, they should
have listened to you."

"Shoulda, woulda, coulda," Murranzo smiled back. "They should have listened. They would
have listened, if I weren't in this form. And they could have defeated the Karmen, if the damage
hadn't been so extensive."

He looked forlornly at the horizon of the forest. All he'd lost had been so many years ago.
Still, the danger he'd faced in sending the bell for help had paid off in bringing Jewel to this point.
Now, he would entrust a final observation to protect the young girl on her journey ahead.

"Jewel, my friend, I am hunted for sustenance at the hands of my own people. They do not see
me for who I am. Because of their own denial of what they have become. If there is any hope for
redressing this unspeakable agony, it lies with you. And what you may be able to accomplish
against Devonika and the Karmen. You, better than anyone else, can appreciate what lies beneath
the outer shell of appearance."

With a final gesture of farewell, Murranzo drew forth a necklace from the water and held it
aloft. The aquatic piece was formed from entwined seaweed around a small silver shell. It
glistened and shone in the dying light of day.

"Carry this with you at all times," the eel ruler explained. "Blow into it only when you need to
hear truth surrounding you."

"Thank you," Jewel's eyes blurred with tears as the gift washed to her on shore. "I won't
forget. And I won't fail you, Murranzo. I promise!"

With that, the former ruler vanished back into the lake's depths. Jewel looked around fearfully.
For the first time since she'd reached The Land of Remote, the young girl was truly alone. The
onset of darkness did little to alleviate that fear.

Chapter Seven

Farina flew swiftly back into the looming underwater cavern. Searching for some sign of
Jewel. Nothing in the inky darkness disclosed a hint of the best trail to follow. Whatever had split
apart the light bubble understood its properties and the weakest link to attack.

After thirty minutes more, she knew there was no hope of finding the missing girl. Her only
recourse was to return and help console the others.

Ali and Jason were anxiously awaiting her return on shore. The lion monarch sat regally stone
faced, prepared for the worst. But not denying the slim chance of the flyscout's success. Jason
paced nervously up and down the beach. Crunching each sand step. Hoping against hope for
Jewel's safe return.

Sadly, the trio met in the dying light of day. Their tears and shouts of pain for Jewel slammed
against each incoming wave's roar. Intense tracks of guilt marred Jason's normally exuberant
features. What, if anything, could be explained to their parents upon his return now rested on his
shoulders. His sense of adventure which had drawn both children into the strange world should
have been contained. Diluted. Probably destroyed at the onset, he reasoned. Then, Jewel would
have been spared her ignominious end at the unseen clutches of a dreaded lake monster.

"Hear me!" he screamed at waves on the water's edge. "We will meet again, monster!
Someday, somehow ... I will avenge myself against you."

"Does this lessen the pain of loss?" Ali comforted his friend. "If so, I'll roar till my voice is
gone."

Turning, Jason grabbed the lion's neck tightly. Fondly. Hoping to distill the sense of loss
between them into a shared strength for continuing their quest. Ali sensed the power of the boy's
love for their lost comrade. Resolutely determining to regain the bell and ensure Jason's return to
his parents.

"There is nothing more to be done this day except make camp," Farina finally managed to find
her voice. "We must rest. Get an early start in the morning."

Agreeing, Ali and Jason began the arduous task of locating a safe haven to rest. Apart from
prying eyes of the Tugg-Ugglies. Completely forgetting Stonehigh's description of the tribe as
being almost normal in appearance at one point in time. And perhaps holding a clue to restoring
Jason's weight to more average proportions.

Still, the worries of travel and peril had begun to take their own toll. He had already lost
twenty pounds on his own. Without the benefit of any magic that had cast them on from
overindulgence.

Several hours after the last dying embers of their fire faded, Jason woke. He hadn't been
dreaming. Nor fully asleep. Deep in the throes of imagining Jewel's return. Conscious thoughts of
the young girl's frightened face haunted him. Rising silently to his feet, he crept from the camp.
Even Farina's dim glow in the hollow of a tree trunk failed to illuminate his passage. He needed
time to think. Alone.

A damp wind blew gently against his face as the young boy walked on. It was almost morning.
In a few minutes the strange dual suns would stream a rainbow across the horizon. They would

continue their journey. Without Jewel.

Her name cast itself from his lips. Greeting the stillness with a single unanswered cry for relief.
The pain was unbearable. Losing her in the midst of regaining a way home was simply impossible
to cope with. He wondered how long she had been able to elude the dark water beast in the
depths of the lake. Had she been driven to madness as he was now by her loss?

A sudden slight movement at the corner of his eye drew Jason's attention to the edge of the
forest. Trees began bending as though a steady wind were moving between them. Top leaves
could be seen raking in all directions. Yet the grass and underlying foliage lay bare of any
disturbance.

A thin grey mist appeared, circling halfway from earth to sky. It gradually thickened until a
single strand beckoned the boy closer. Jason glanced back at the campsite where Farina and Ali
lay resting. The fog was definitely a phenomenon worth explaining. Investigating. Discerning what
might lie hidden within. Still, he reasoned, a certain amount of danger should be faced on your
own. Purely in the interest of discovery.

Every young boy with any inkling of imagination relishes a spirit of adventure. Freedom to
create whole new worlds filled with fascinating creatures. Most of the time, they remain fictional.
This time, though, Jason thought, the lure of the mist was all too real.

He knew nothing of its nature. Its smoky clutches might mean certain destruction. Still it
waved him deeper into the forest. Along a small overgrown trail. A few minutes more and a large
clearing, shrouded in mist, came into view. A circle of stone arches surrounded an enormous tree.
Its branches interlocked thirty feet overhead, then rose swiftly out of sight. Beyond the leafy
ceiling covering most of the forest floor.

Jason strode cautiously into the clearing. There was no telling who had constructed the stone
pillars and arranged them circularly. But logic dictated a higher intelligence than what he'd
encountered so far in The Land of Remote. Had fate led him to meet his doom deep in the forest?
Separated from the lion monarch and flyscout? Or was he being guided into a stronger bond with
some as yet unseen protector? The answer wasn't long in coming.

Two flying messengers, wings beating furiously swooped into sight. They alit in front of the
stone circle of arches and stared menacingly at him. Both were tall. About six feet. With wing
spans of about ten. Their faces bore inquisitive expressions. Despite the rather grim visage of an
eagle's face, the bodies were very human. Reminding Jason of old comic book characters that
served to help people. Rather than frighten them in the middle of a cold dark woods on a smoky
morning.

They carried long slender branches held loosely at their sides in delicately featured fingers. But
stepping toward Jason, each raised a branch in defiance of his visit. His obvious presence was an
intrusion on their sanctuary.

"Whatever is in the mist told me to come," the young boy tried to explain quietly. "I didn't
mean to disturb this place."

One of the messengers shook its upraised branch in the air overhead. A blue flame burst forth.
Illuminating Jason's blanched features. There was no telling what harm they meant to impart. Until
a voice spoke from the fog behind them. The grey mist had formed itself into a large, cylindrical
ball. Lit from within, the gaseous orb seemed to circle around. Spinning on an imaginary axis

known only to this land. It seemed to revolve in all directions at once. Portions moving faster than
others.

Still, the overweight boy determined to hold his ground against whatever edict might issue
from the mist. Suddenly, a beautiful grey feminine face formed along one side of the rotating fog
ball. Both messengers turned slightly and knelt at the manifestation. Jason debated the ritual
quickly in his mind. Then decided to follow suit.

"Rise, Champion," the mist voice beckoned him. "You are given permission to approach the
inner circle."

Jason mentally tried calculating the tone. Majestic but compassionate. Powerful yet calming.
Peace reigned in the voice. Its actions were still to be determined.

"I'm no hero," he replied, moving closer. "I don't even know how I got here."

"The bell brought you," a faint smile touched the edges of the grey lips. "And the bell will take
you home."

"How did you know about it?" Jason’s eyes narrowed in response.

What was this strange fog that knew his name? He hadn't a clue. Yet its knowledge might
hold a key to regaining the even more mysterious bell.

"Trust isn't built in a day," the misty face spoke again. "I cannot say all I know. That would be
too presumptuous. I don't weave myself in the fabric of time as you do. I merely observe its
passage. And effects."

"A convenient way to look at things," Jason countered. "For someone who doesn't want to
get involved."

The thought sent surprise echoing across the creature's pale ashy features. Obviously, the
young boy was wise beyond his years. An apt student of human nature. Understanding what it
might mean to help others in a common goal.

"What do you mean?" she posed the question innocently enough.

There must be no mistake in her judgment of the traveler. Enormous responsibility waited on
his next answer.

Jason stared at the face intently peering back at him. He sensed no ambivalence from the
creature. If she were going to destroy him, the chance had already come and gone several times.
There had to be a deeper intent in the invitation to journey into her inner circle. She wanted
something from him.

"Let's stop the games," he decided aloud. Striding forcefully as possible on his overweight
legs, Jason moved within the outline of the stone monuments. "I don't have time for them. My
two companions and I are on a quest to regain the bell. I've got to get home. For many reasons."

The face smiled broadly. His actions had confirmed her decision to help.

"No more games, then," she agreed. "You are the one sent to free us from Devonika's evil. I
am prepared to assist you in the challenge."

Jason's brown eyes widened. The face, suddenly lit from within, began to glow. Grey pallor
seeped away. A pink rosy complexion filled with genuine human warmth.

Taken aback by the mystical change, the boy hesitated. Poised as if ready to flee at any
moment. There was no shame in retreat against overwhelming odds. His chess matches with Jewel
had proven that. Studied repositioning sometimes gave new perspectives in battle strategy. Yet
this was one confrontation he had no intention of backing away from. He remained rooted to the
spot.

"What is your name, Champion?" the lady of the mist inquired. "Your name must be noble to
undertake such a challenge."

"Jason," he replied simply.

"Behold then, Champion Jason. Your weapon for justice!" her voice exploded in the stillness.

Her face turned upward and in on itself as the orb of fog spun furiously. Lightning crackled
from within. Then shot outward around the stones as thunder rocked the ground beneath his feet.

A myriad of voices began softly as a chorus inside the mist. Jason strained to hear what was
being said. To no avail. In another instant, the sound elevated to a roar. The fog dissipated swiftly
into a thick circle of cloud. Forming a complete dome over the stones. A single stroke of lightning
sparked from the cloud. Showering a rainbow of colors between earth and sky.

Then, a deep rumbling began at Jason's feet. He blinked in total disbelief. A long golden
handle rose partially from the dark ground. It shone brighter than the sun at first. White hot. Yet
cooled immediately as Jason watched.

"Take the hammer!" the lady of the mist commanded. "There has never been one like it. Nor
will there be another. Forged in the depths of the earth for one champion. One leader. Behold,
Teathergund! The hammer of justice. It is yours, Jason. Wield it well!"

Jason grasped the leather strap encircling the handle. Pulling it loose from the surrounding
earth took all of his strength. But as he pulled the hammer's head from the ground, his arm began
to change. The body fat which had plagued him from his first meal on the island melted away. In
its place was strong sinewy tendons. Locking tight muscles into place over the rest of his body.

"Hey!" he shouted. "What's happening?"

"The master of Teathergund holds great power," the lady explained. "That requires great
strength. As long as the hammer remains in your control, you shall be nearly invincible. It
commands the elements of earth, wind and fire."

"What of the fourth, water?" Jason's question burst from his lips.

The dome of fog condensed back to its original orb. A thin ray of dawn crept over the clearing
as the two messengers leapt into the air on savage wings. Beating a pathway through the
undergrowth farther into the forest. The lady's voice sounded distant in her reply. Beginning to
fade.

"Nothing in earth, time or space is perfect," she admonished. "Except the One who created
them. In that alone, lies your answer."

"But how do I call forth the elements," Jason pleaded.

The ball of fog began thinning. Spreading itself over the width of the clearing. This time,
however, its density vanished.

"A true champion learns control," the lady's voice whispered, "before adversity."

With that, the island's dual suns rose in the heavens above his head. Leaving him to sort
through the confusing events of the past several hours. Lifting Teathergund easily with his
newfound strength, the muscular lad now felt a greater calm in his heart. There was a lot to learn
before using the hammer of justice. And only he could unlock its secrets.

Chapter Eight

A thin rain dropped from petal to leaf, splattering against Jewel's closed eyelids. Her blonde
hair matted in ringlets lay framed in dawn's early rays. Cautiously, the young girl opened her
sparkling blue eyes to glance hurriedly in all directions. Nothing moved except lush branches as
she rose from her nightly cover.

Preciously, she fingered the silver shell suspended by seaweed around her neck. Many events
had driven doubt into her mind about the reality of circumstances. The shell's solidity verified that
misconception.

Hungrily she eyed a number of sweet smelling berries surrounding the makeshift fortress.
Reaching to pick a particularly juicy specimen, a small hand broke from the fronds to slap her
fingers.

"Hey!" she cried out. "Who did that?"

A stifled grunt was the only response. Waiting a moment more, hunger got the best of her
attention. Again, Jewel reached for the tantalizing foodstuff. Another resounding slap brought
tears to her eyes. Determined, she held them in check.

"Who are you?" she asked, brushing aside a blonde tangle of curls.

Jewel kept her eyes locked where fruit flavored breakfast glistened in the rainy breeze.
Something furry moved slightly under the grassy cover. Two dark eyes stared up at the young
girl's towering presence. She, in turn, stood amazed at the small brown hedgehog matching her
gaze.

"Higgles," the visitor replied. "What are you?"

"I'm a girl, of course," Jewel smiled at the inquisitive animal. "You've never seen one?"

"Oh no," Higgles chattered back. "Not here. Never. Would have remembered. Couldn't forget
something like you."

It was Jewel's look of puzzlement that drew a titter of laughter from the hedgehog.
Immediately, she assumed a more authoritative tone.

"What's so funny?"

"You," he said, creeping forward to admire her shoes. "Nice traveling material. Must come
from other side."

The innocent comment quickly conjured an image of her parents' concerned faces. Hopelessly
searching the forest for their lost children.

"You know about the other side?" she asked in a friendly tone.

"Been there many times," he assured her.

Jewel's heart began to pound quickly. Higgles had to know the bell's power. The traveling
cloak's mystery.

"Can you show me the way?" Jewel pleaded.

"Maybe for a price," the hedgehog's eyes narrowed to slits. Eyeing the silver shell around her
neck. "How about shell for a map?"

"A map?" she fired back. "What does a map have to do with getting off the island?"

It was now the furred animal's face that bore shock. Her question seemed to raise some dark

hidden fear. Something better left alone than answered.

"Nothing 'off this island.'"

Jewel stared at the small creature. Finally realizing he'd meant the island's other side. Not the

highway campsite where two families and a camper waited for her return.

"No deal, she replied wearily. "I don't suppose you've been around the entire island, have
you?"

The hedgehog blinked. He had been on the verge of striking a lucrative bargain just a moment
earlier. Now the strange visitor had changed tactics. Perhaps she needed more convincing he'd
actually trekked the entire perimeter.

"Do have map," Higgles grinned. "With all major landmarks. Reach any point on island with

it. Any point at all."

"Thanks," Jewel smiled back. She plucked a berry and started to pop it into her mouth.

In the same instant, the hedgehog sprang into action. Leaping deftly between her mouth and

fingers, he grabbed the berry. Landing on a large flat rock to one side, he shook the small piece of
fruit at her.

"What thinking?" he scolded her loudly. "Everyone know these dangerous."

"My breakfast?" Jewel admonished him. "I wasn't going to eat the whole thing. Only part. I
had one yesterday. Completely filled me up."

"Not this one," he assured her.

Demonstrating, Higgles held the berry above his head. Then, dashed it against the rock while
sidestepping the splattering juice. Jewel watched as the fruity liquid jelled across the stony
surface. A thin wisp of smoke rose from the mixture. The rock cracked. Sizzled.

"I don't understand," she cried. "The other one never did that."

"Depends on side of island," he pointed out.

"How could that be?" the girl asked, completely bewildered. "Stuff becomes something else

from one side of the island to the other?"

In reply, the hedgehog stared back. Smiling contentedly. She had learned one of the biggest
secrets in The Land of Remote. Most inhabitants never thought of the knowledge as having much
consequence one way or the other. They nearly always confined their normal daily activity to
where they lived. What was good for one, was good for all. To a traveler, however, the idea of
such change might yield far different results as she ventured onward.

"Everything on island has two sides," he explained slowly. "Berry plant gives food to one side.

Poison to other. Must learn difference before continuing journey."

"It looks the same as the other one," she pointed out.

"Surface reflects like mirror," Higgles waved a paw toward her. "You look like ordinary

traveler. But carry wisdom of another around neck."

Instinctively, she grasped the shell in her fingers. It must hold great fascination for him, she
thought.

"What do you know of this?" Jewel raised the shell to her lips.

"Nothing," he assured her. Then glanced anxiously around. As if seeking an escape route if
she decided to blow into it.

Gently, Jewel forced breath into the main curved side of the shell. The soft rush of air
produced no audible sound to her ears. Disappointed, she blew again, tightening her lips into a
thin directed stream. Without any noticeable effect. She simply couldn't hear any change in the
blank wind issuing forth.

A sigh of relief escaped Higgles. He certainly had nothing to hide from the young girl. But
there was no logic in revealing all he knew before he'd had a chance to use the shell's power for
himself. He'd already planned a long and glorious monarchy over the island's animal kingdom. His
first step, though, now lay in the grasp of the young female stranger. Getting it from her wouldn't
be easy.

"Show you how to use?" he asked, flashing his brightest smile.

Reaching for the shell, he stopped in mid-stride as Jewel shrank from the advance. In her
hands, she knew it would only be used as Murranzo intended. In Higgles' possession, there were
no guarantees of anything.

"You can tell me," the girl warned. "I'm not supposed to let anyone else use it."

"Prediction or opinion?" he grinned.

She could have been just as evasive as he'd acted for the past several moments. But the plan of

action didn't seem to yield any real results in her head. Why play games when both could benefit
from the truth? If she could only use the shell, the games would be over.

"As a matter of fact," Jewel replied, caressing the shell's edge. "A water beast named
Murranzo gave it to me."

At the name, Higgles froze. His playful smile vanished. Eyebrows knit together instantly in the
most peculiar fashion. He was totally intent on the girl's revelations. Wondering what her
encounter with Murranzo meant.

"You met him?" the hedgehog chattered tersely. "Actually still alive?"

"Yes," she noted calmly. "He claimed to be the Tugg-Ugglies' leader."

"No claim," Higgles swiftly corrected. "Definitely is leader. Oh, most definitely."

The furred animal clapped both hands together in glee. Glancing off to the other side of the
island, he spoke softly.

"Still a chance to stop Devonika if Murranzo lives," Higgles half-whispered. Then hurriedly
slapped a finger to his lips. "Say no more. Forest has many ears. Must learn concealment from
prying eyes as well. Follow and learn. Give what you need to stop Devonika."

With that, the small hedgehog seemed to vanish abruptly. Jewel stared in all directions. Trying
to fathom the animal's path through the undergrowth. He certainly knew the art of stealth, she
reasoned. Not a single leaf moved for several moments. Then, his by now familiar head popped up

at the clearing's edge. A single paw digit motioned for her to join him. Swiftly, she took the cue.

The next few hours were totally consumed with training. His dark fur blended in completely at
times with tree trunks that hadn't seen the light of day for years. Their dark moldy bark, cracked
in places, stood resolutely as a base for intertwining leaf covers overhead. Nothing escaped the
hedgehog's notice as he ferociously followed her exact duplication of his moves.

A final confrontation with the evil sorceress and her minions could depend on a single
instinctive response honed through training. It was imperative the young girl learn a steady flow
of basic defense manuevers that might save her life.

Jewel reveled in the training. Soaking in every detail. If she couldn't find Jason and Ali, at least
she wouldn't be a hapless victim at the hands of fate. As the day progressed, she found more

strength building inside. By late afternoon, a strong sense of security shone in her eyes.

"Learned well," Higgles noted, appearing suddenly at her back.

Whirling, she leapt into the air in a double somersault. A tree branch rustled louder than her

landing behind him. Placing both hands on the creature's small shoulders, Jewel turned him around
for a sincere hug.

"How can I ever thank you?" she asked, releasing the somewhat embarrased hedgehog.

The embrace, though unexpected, felt good to him. A solid gesture of appreciation on her
part.

"Thanks come when hearts are safe," Higgles nodded knowingly. "Devonika's realm spreads
far and wide. No one dared challenge her before. Now you can."

"I still don't know how the shell works," Jewel pointed out. "Do you?"

"No," he admitted finally. "Murranzo should have told you."

"He didn't have a lot of time to explain," she agreed. "But you saw the shell as more than just
a trinket. How did you know its power?"

The hedgehog wrinkled his face in thought. Scrunched his ears tightly. Then stood erect a
moment. Posing. Listening.

"Read it," Higgles snapped crisply. "Yes, that's it. Bantuk's papers."

"Who is Bantuk?" Jewel asked. Afraid he was leading her on once more.

"Silly!" the hedgehog exclaimed. "Bantuk not somebody. It's a place. Not far. Writings about
everything on island."

Jewel's interest began peaking at mention of written records. One of them might be the
missing bit of poetry for the bell. A return trip home. Or a beauty potion.

"Take me there," she pleaded. "I've got to see it."

"Ok," Higgles pointed to the left. "This way."

They started toward the densest thicket in the sparkling afternoon sun. Rainbow colored rays
danced through the leaves. Reflecting all around them. Into the hungry eyes of a camouflaged
Tugg-Ugglie scout. At a signal, five others joined in hidden pursuit of their prey.

There was no need to search further for the tribe's evening meal. Starting early had proven

entirely fortuitous. Hedgehog cooked quickly and fed many. Though twice their size, the furred
animal was no match for the Tugg-Ugglies' cunning attacks. Strength in numbers. That was one of
the few lessons they remembered from Murranzo's training sessions.

After the final battle with Devonika when the fearless leader had been spirited away, many
held little regard for former war strategies. A new spirit of cooperation and unity of purpose held
the group together. Survival at all costs.

The scout made a fanning motion to his companions. Instantly complying, the accompanying
Tugg-Ugglies spread out to form a circle around the hedgehog and his strange companion. The
lodge of Bantuk would mark a fitting end to the travelers. And the beginning of a delicious
evening meal.

Chapter Nine

Farina's eyes widened in admiration as Jason strode into view. The early morning sun glinted
against Teathergund's shining silver head by his side. The boy's facial muscles tightened in
anticipation of her questions. Content that he held at least one defensive answer against Devonika.
Ali bounded from the edge of the lake to greet him.

"I thought perhaps you'd gone back for another rescue attempt," the lion monarch smiled. "I'm
pleased that you're safe."

"What's happened to you?" the flyscout tried controlling her surprise. "And where did you get
that hammer?"

Jason grinned. Unhooking the gold-handled weapon from his belt, he lifted it for their
inspection. Ali, suitably impressed with the workmanship, shook his mane forcibly. Unaware of
the strange implement's origin.

"If you've taken that from the Tugg-Ugglies, we've got to break camp now," the animal king
noted decidedly. "They know these area forests better than anyone. I'd rather we not deal with
them until our bearings are more certain."

"Wait," the thickly-muscled boy replied. "You don't understand. I didn't take it from anyone.
Teathergund was given to me."

Farina's face etched immediately in concern. A long-forgotten legend began whirling in her
mind. A fantastic tale. Passed down from generations of flyscouts to their descendants with a
stern warning. An omen of things to come. Preparations for a new beginning. A champion of life
to battle the forces of death. A victory that would be hard fought. With many casualties.

The face of her brother swam to mind. Their final day together. His bright golden hair flying
behind as they flew toward the dark sorceress' realm of destruction. A small pond had drawn his
attention briefly from their course. Signalling for her to join him, Ferenko alit on the highest tree
overlooking the water. A thousand glistening sparkles of light played across the liquid surface. His
voice whispered in memory.

"Remember the legend, Farina," he'd said. "When the cause is right, a mighty warrior will
emerge from watery depths. Wielding a mighty weapon. Named Teathergund. Vanquishing all
opposition to the realm of happiness built here so many years ago."

A shiver ran through her wings as the vision faded. How could Jason be the warrior of
legend? He was just a boy. A strong-willed, opinionated one, but still no match for Devonika.

"Who gave it to you?" Farina asked quietly. He mustn't detect recognition of his destiny in her
voice. Whatever his answer, she had to remain calm. Focused. Panic held no future, she reminded
herself.

"A lady of the mist," the young hero replied. "She called me Champion. I didn't understand it."

"Now you do?" Ali asked.

"I believe so," Jason conceded. "When we arrived here... Jewel and I ... I thought it was by
accident. But there's a reason we're here. This world of such fantastic beauty also holds something
else. An indescribable fear. That it won't last."

"Ridiculous," the lion responded, pouncing against a tree. "This is solid. Everything here is
animal, mineral or vegetable. How more real can it get?"

Farina remained silent. Eyeing the fire building inside Jason's dark eyes. Outwardly, he'd had
physical change forced upon him. Inside, the young man now lit the spark of mental
enlightenment.

"It's true, Ali," he explained. "And I've got Teathergund to prove it."

"That's the hammer's name?" Farina whispered in stifled hope.

"The lady of the mist named it," Jason answered. "In my hand, it makes me nearly invincible.

Commanding earth, wind and fire."

Ali let a gasp of disbelief escape heavily. There was no denying the boy's changed appearance.
He obviously held the power of twenty men in his grasp. Yet, the explanation of how he got the
hammer was hard to swallow.

"Exactly how does it work?" the monarch asked with controlled condescension. "Do you

throw it? Does it magically open up and let all the elements loose at once?"

"Ali, don't," Farina warned. "There's no need to press him."

"To tell the truth, I don't know," Jason admitted.

"Fine then," Ali replied, backing away. "If you prefer to blunder along, so be it."

"Do you know how it works?" Jason asked, following the lion's lead.

The monarch paused. Torn by indecision. They'd been through a lot together. Still, the boy

owed him for his rescue from the marsh.

The bell would have been just compensation. But a hammer to control three elements would
prove an even greater reward. And like it or not, Ali found it hard to resist his unquenchable thirst
for power. An inner nature now pitted against growing compassion for the young boy. Quests
needed reasons to continue. Friendships forged by chance did not. Teathergund belonged in the
hands of a ruler. Not a would be warrior.

"I will show you exactly how it works," Ali promised. "Just place it on the ground and step

away."

The lion's demeanor remained placid. His craftiness securely locked behind a smile.

"All right," Jason said, accepting the terms of acquisition. "But be careful, Ali. Teathergund

was meant for me. I'm not sure if anyone else can handle it."

Setting the hammer down, the brown-eyed boy stepped back. Immediately, Farina's wings
began twitching. A cool wind blowing against her face caused the flyscout to turn toward Jason.
What she saw drew a horrendous gasp from her tiny lungs.

A large, thick grey mist formed above the treetops. Dropping rapidly over Ali as he reached

for Teathergund.

"Jason, save him!" Farina cried.

A stiff crackling sound filled the air. The ruler's single right front paw froze. Suspended in

mid-air as the lion's body assumed a statuesque pose. Teathergund rose. Flying straight into

Jason's hands.
"Never release the hammer's power to another!" a deep voice sounded thunderously from the

fog. "You alone, Champion, are destined to save The Land of Remote."

Jason's eyes watched in terror as the mist rose. Leaving the lion encased in stone.

"Wait!" the boy yelled. "I won't do it again. Please, let my friend go!"

Farina, hiding under Jason's shirt collar, peeked out warily at the departing cloud. She realized

this magic was far greater than any flyscout could summon. If anyone could save Ali now, it had
to be Jason.

"His intent for the hammer wasn't just," the mist voice intoned. "So, until the last day dawns
on the evil sorceress, Devonika, the lion remains where he stands."

With that, the cloud rose and dispersed. Daylight regaining its own hold on the clearing.

"That's just great!" Jason exclaimed morosely, examining the stone monument. "Ali was the
only one who knew the path to reach Devonika."

"Not exactly," Farina disagreed. "There is one who travels all paths in memory."

Puzzled, the boy champion scratched his head. He wasn't entirely comfortable handing the
mission's success over to a complete stranger.

Still, the tugging in his heart for the loss of Ali's companionship needed healing. The lion's
guidance had proven invaluable thus far. But the ruler's momentary judgment lapse didn't deserve
fatal consequences. There was no one else to trust except Farina. Reluctantly, Jason agreed to the
proposal. Caution aside, she did have a head for ingenuity on her small shoulders.

"Who is it?" Jason asked, lifting his arm for a perch.

The flyscout flew swiftly to the offered landing. She, too, was uncomfortable disclosing
information without Ali's approval. All things of the forest had been the lion's to command. Power
in knowledge. A vital tenet for survival. Joining those who knew. Excluding everyone else. With

Ali gone, Farina realized Jason needed her as much as she needed him to battle Devonika.

"Pipercall knows the safest route," Farina replied. "Come, there's no time to lose."

Flying straight up, she motioned for Jason to follow. Firmly he shook his head. Wondering

what possessed her to think he could fly.

"Use the hammer," Farina encouraged him. "If Teathergund commands air, earth and fire,
flying should be easy. And it's much faster than walking the distance to Pipercall."

Reluctantly, Jason drew the gold-handled hammer from his side. Lifting it to arm's length, he
glanced at the burnished silver head. There were no marking to indicate precisely how to activate

its immense power.

"Teathergund...fly!" he commanded forcefully. To no avail.

Jason slowly released his grip. Leaving the hammer suspended in air at eye level. Carefully, he

moved around it. Scanning. Probing.

"Hurry!" Farina warned. "We don't need to meet any Tugg-Ugglies that might be scouting the
area."

"I know," Jason agreed. "Give me a minute. There must be a way to learn control."

Suddenly, his mind clicked back to the last chess match with Jewel. He'd been studying every
move. Every gesture she made. With no better result than what he now faced. Then he realized
how she'd broken his concentration to try defeating him. He had almost visualized his strategy.
Become one with every battle piece on the board. A flash of enlightenment brightened his face as
he reached for Teathergund again.

"Let's go!" he shouted to the flyscout.

"You figured it out that quickly?" Farina seemed amazed by his prowess.

Gently, Jason swung Teathergund in an upward arcing motion. It flew noiselessly. Drawing
him swiftly behind it to the uppermost branch of a giant tree. Hundreds of years old. Grinning, he
surveyed the landscape below. It was the first opportunity he'd had since the traveling cloak had
brought him to the island.

The Land of Remote's immense beauty brought a tear to his eye. Lush tropical rainforests
spread out along the easternmost shore. A roar of crashing waves sounded faintly in the distance.
Definitely a familiar site since his arrival.

A clear view of the island's far side proved impossible. Large mountains rose majestically
halfway on the horizon. Bending northward, their peaks stretched into high cloud banks. Snow-
streaked crags overlooked treacherous drops into the valleys below.

He felt a gnawing sense of dread begin to creep over him. Somehow the sudden push to
warrior had changed his way of seeing things. The challenge of going into battle against an
unknown foe would have been exciting. As a boy. Now, the vast landscape meant nothing but
challenges at every turn. When had the fun disappeared?

The unspoken answer appeared briefly. A laughing, taunting girl with blue eyes peeking out
from golden curls stared back at him. Over a checkerboard filled with a thousand possible moves.
None could bring her back. He wondered if the cloak of guilt would ever lift from the loss.

Farina noticed the far away look in Jason's eyes. His thoughts were definitely not on the
journey facing them. Somehow she had to keep him focused on the dangers surrounding each step
they took. As if in dark answer to her wish, a stiff wind sent the flyscout reeling. Head over heels.
Tree branches parted. Ripping Jason from his reverie.

Helplessly, the boy warrior fell against tree limbs in a crazy, spiralling descent. He grabbed
frantically at snapping twigs. Clawing desperately at the tree's massive trunk. Anything to slow
the fall speed.

A crashing tree top narrowly missed his head. Then as a last resort, he swung Teathergund
outward. Propelling himself straight into the crook of another giant tree. Regaining his balance.

"Are you all right?" he yelled to Farina.

"Safe for the moment," she screamed back through the din.

Fifty yards away a thunderous footstep sounded against the forest floor. Whatever was
moving toward them was huge. Taller than the tree both travelers had been using to view the
landscape only moments before. Sure and steady, the footsteps pounded closer.

Farina cowered in fright. Hiding under a large leaf. Jason flew with Teathergund to her side.
They would decide this battle plan together.

Chapter Ten

Higgles peered over Jewel's shoulder in the gathering dusk. He'd been to Bantuk's lodge many
times. Studying the strange scribblings in leather bound books lining endless shelves. It seemed
pointless to try deciphering any of it. Still, the girl seemed determined to find something from the
collection.

"Do you know how much info is here?" she asked the befuddled hedgehog. "You've got
records back to the start of the island. Doesn't say anything about how it got here. But everything
else I've seen so far is listed in the index."

"The way it was," Higgles pointed out. "Before Devonika changed everything."

"How could she change it all?" Jewel insisted on an answer.

"Don't know," he fired back quickly. "Don't want to know. If I did, she might come after me.
I'd be a threat to her plan."

"You know I've heard just about all I want to regarding her," the girl's blue eyes flashed back
angrily. "All she's evidently done is cause trouble for everyone. And nobody wants to stop her."

Higgles frowned. There was a certain amount of truth to the assumption. Yet, Jewel still didn't
grasp the extent of Devonika's power. The sorceress' ability to cause trouble had already wreaked
havoc in his own life. Maybe it was time for the traveling defender to understand her enemy's
exact nature.

"You don't get it, do you?" the hedgehog asked. Wrinkling his brow in concern. "What we're
up against. Why every living thing on the island fears her."

"She's a witch," Jewel replied. "Nothing more than a sham. It's time somebody backed her into
a corner. Showed her what life's all about."

"We may not have the opportunity," Higgles warned. "If she finds us first."

"Oh right," Jewel began. Then stopped.

A scant shadow behind him at the open window drew her attention. Had they been followed?
Tracked like animals to their forest lair?

Higgles noted her change of expression. Bristling as the wind drew the scent of danger to his
nose. Something had stalked them to the lodge. It was waiting outside. The hedgehog's keen
sense of smell focused on at least three similar but distinct odors. Whatever it was, it wasn't alone.

"What do we do?" Jewel whispered in the stillness.

"Remember your training," Higgles replied softly. Vanishing under a pile of books.

"Great advice!" the girl sternly retorted under her breath.

Reaching for the shell at her neck, Jewel's hand brushed against the smallest book in the
mound surrounding her. Briefly her eyes widened. Recognizing a familiar bell symbol surrounded
by a circle. Embossed on the cover.

Tucking the book inside a pocket of her jeans, she scrambled quickly in the direction Higgles
had gone. But within two steps, the lodge door burst open. Four violent sets of dark eyes glared
at the hapless victim. Sealing her fate. With no escape from certain doom at their hands.

A primal scream burst from her lungs as eight arms locked to form a circle. Gnashing teeth
dripped with saliva as they closed in. Jewel responded swiftly. Leaping high over their heads, she
spun through the thatched roof of the hut.

"Quick!" a guttural voice growled in the rapidly descending darkness. "We lost the grunt.
She's our last chance. Or we go back hungry."

As she landed, the deep voice boomed in Jewel's ears. Echoing Murranzo's tragic flight from
his own kind. Hunted for food just as she now found herself. Nothing but superior force would
stop their relentless attack.

Fumbling in her jeans once again, she drew forth the most effective tool against flying spiders.
One flick from the waterproof lighter and a blazing torch burned blindingly in the night sky.

At sight of the beacon, the Tugg-Ugglie leader stopped dead in his tracks. His companions
followed suit. Their dinner had just changed its course of selection.

"What are you?" the leader intoned. "And what manner of weapon is this?"

Jewel stood dumbfounded. Surprised by coherent speech from such a primitive race.

The Tugg-Ugglie captain moved closer. Trying to determine the flame's properties. Was it
capable of harming them? One forceful swipe of the torch answered that question.

"Stay back!" Jewel warned. "This can cause great damage. And I'm not afraid to
demonstrate."

"Understood," the leader nodded back. "Why would you use such a thing against us? We
mean you no harm."

Jewel's eyes narrowed. Did they actually expect her to believe them? Only seconds before
their hears had been set on her as a main dinner course. They needed a lesson in honesty.
Instinctively, she drew Murranzo's gift to her lips. Pursing tightly, as though blowing into a soda
bottle, Jewel sent her breath whirring gently inside the shell.

A strange unearthly sound filled her ears. Like the crashing of waves on a shore with a myriad
of notes plummeting through each burst of air. Her would be attackers could only manage small
whimpering sounds. They tried covering their ears. But the growing roar continued deep in their
minds.

"All right, make it stop!" the Tugg-Ugglie leader begged. Sinking to his knees, he drew both
arms over his face. The pain inside their heads sought release in the sound of truth.

"Tell me exactly what you planned," Jewel explained. "And the pain will stop. But it must be
the truth. No lies ... or it continues."

She smiled. Confident at last of her newfound ability to control the shell. Or at least its use.

"Deal," the leader screamed back. Resigned to any device capable of stopping the throbbing
ache. Every inch of thought processes seemed covered. Numbed by the unforgiving sound
continuing its mental rampage. "We were going to eat you for dinner. Then take the remainder
back to our tribe."

"Grunt got away," one of the companions explained. "Or it would have been a bigger meal."

Jewel blew into the shell again. A second single tone sounded. Reverberating in waves toward

the suffering attackers. Calming the previous notes' effect in their heads.

"Thank you," Jewel said assuredly. "That seemed a good choice."

Although unaffected by the shell's sound, the girl's blue eyes registered the pain in the Tugg-

Ugglies' faces. The shell was a most formidable tool for good. Or a drastic weapon in the wrong
hands. She would make sure the first choice remained its only use.

"So what are your plans now?" she continued. "Am I still on tonight’s menu?"

The Tugg-Ugglie leader winced. Furious with himself. How had the girl acquired two
weapons? Either of which could have destroyed them. Or made her the tribe’s new leader. She
had to be dealt with before news of her victory reached other tribe members. And the forest
definitely had eyes and ears that missed nothing. Even as the standoff continued, word of the girl’s
power raced swiftly back to their camp.

"Of course not," he responded. "We don’t treat our own kind that way."

"But I’m not your kind," Jewel insisted. "Why would you think that?"

"Easy," he pointed to her face. "If you weren’t one of us, you’d be considered …"

"Don’t say it," the girl’s eyes began to tear up. "I know my beauty’s gone."

The leader’s expression changed. Somehow he had touched a nerve deep inside the youthful
prey. Perhaps he could use the emotional response to his advantage. Break down the courageous
facade. Destroying her resistance internally.

"Oh not at all," he returned. "In our tribe, you’d be considered of exceptional beauty. Any
Tugg-Ugglie would be proud to fight for your affections."

"A comforting thought," she replied. Shaking off an almost overwhelming sense of dread
creeping over her. Something wasn’t right. His deadpan glare of innocence masked something far
more sinister. Jewel couldn’t put her finger on exactly what the creature was up to. But it wasn’t
any good. Of that she was certain.

"Why don’t we head back to our camp?" he suggested. "We can introduce you to our other
members. Get you situated. Before we head out for our own nightly rounds."

"Thank you for your hospitality," the young girl agreed. There was no sense in angering them
at the moment. And without Higgles for guidance, any further progress through the forest would
have to wait for daybreak. "Please, lead on."

The Tugg-Ugglie leader managed what passed as a cautious smile. He liked her fiery
resistance to their initial attack. Limited by unknown weapons at her disposal, his gut instinct had
been to dispatch her. Then figure how to use them. But by keeping her alive, she might be
persuaded to teach them the secrets of superior force. After that, there would be no need to
welcome her into the tribe’s inner circle of containment. For survival, she would merely become a
hapless victim of circumstance at their disposal. And a delicious evening meal.

"Come," he motioned toward the far side of the clearing. "I will show you the way to our
camp. And my name is Tristan."

"Thanks again," she responded with a guarded smile of her own. "I’m Jewel."

A nervous twitch in her eye drew the girl’s attention for only a moment. Fleetingly, she saw

Higgles leap silently above their heads. Scurrying swiftly through tree branches that registered no
sound of his watchful surveillance. Or pursuit.

Drawing her concentration back to the Tugg-Ugglie leader, she followed his advance through
the overgrown landscape. Tristan’s two companions brought up the rear guard. Scanning for the
slightest irregularity in normal forest activity. Ready to defend themselves against unknown
danger at a moment’s notice. Which wasn’t long in coming. Rounding a bend ahead, an oozing,
glistening liquid dripped from every tree branch. Strained from the trek of some large creature,
they lay bent in all directions. The liquid acting as a paste to hold them together. And indicating a
clear path forward.

"What do you think caused this?" Jewel began, but was quickly silenced.

Tristan pointed a finger to his lips. Then made a sweeping motion all around. There was no
mistake. Whatever had caused the destruction they were witnessing might still be in the vicinity.
Maybe even watching their progress from some hidden vantage point.

Jewel clutched the shell around her neck tightly. It seemed the power of truth would hold no
sway whatsoever in their defense.

Glancing upward to monitor Higgles, the young girl noted no trace of her former instructor.
He was nowhere to be found. She weighed her options carefully.

If she ran, the temporary truce with the Tugg-Ugglies would be broken. She’d be left to fight
on her own. And whatever the cause of their concern over the unseen adversary, it was certainly
genuine. Enough so to keep them closely huddled for protection.

If she stayed, their enemy became hers by association. She’d be known by the friends she kept.
Somehow the alliance seemed right. Murranzo’s story of being their leader rang true in her mind.
All of the rationalizations that used to be made over a chessboard against Jason never prepared
her for this. Blind trust. Faith in a tribe she hardly knew.

Determinedly, she set her mind for the confrontation with their new enemy. Whatever the
outcome, they would accomplish the victory or be defeated together. Perhaps then the Tugg-
Ugglies would believe in something they’d never seen before. A friendship based on trust. Faith in
combined strength between two very different species. To survive.

Her heart lightened at the realization. She had more in common than differences with the tribe
when it came to staying alive. Then her blood froze as a deep-throated roar sounded all around
them. The unknown was preparing to strike.

A whispered prayer for victory was all she could muster as two thick tentacles snaked into
view. Wrapping around tree trunks about ten feet apart, the appendages were swiftly joined in
several directions. Additional tentacles quickly appeared. Completely encircling the huddled
group. The creature’s chilling roar once more filled the air. Rattling Jewel’s teeth in her jaw. This
would be a fight to the death for all of them.

Chapter Eleven

Farina’s wings beat furiously as she circled Jason. He clung tightly to Teathergund. Unsure of
what the flyscout’s magic might do to the weapon. His brown tousled hair blew freely in the
approaching gusts from their unseen enemy.

Swiftly Farina’s sparkling transformation shrank the boy hero to her size. Teathergund,
unaffected by the change, lay full sized in the crook of the branch.

"No!" Jason tried shouting over the din surrounding them. "I can’t leave Teathergund
unprotected."

As he pointed toward the half-hidden weapon, now hundreds of times larger than himself, a
horrifying change swept over him. The boy’s hand plumped out once again. Strong sinewy
muscles turned instantly to their previous fat, underworked shape.

The flyscout took no notice of his physical changes as she flew desperately encircling
Teathergund with her power. Instantly, the gold and silver hammer blurred once, then twice again
in front of Jason’s eyes. When he looked again, nothing remained of the former weapon. In its
place was a rather large tree branch covered in thick leaves.

Settling back in the hollow of the tree, Jason smiled slightly. Satisfied his gift from the Lady of
the Mist would be safe. For the time being.

"It’s the best I could do," Farina explained, rejoining him. "given the time we had to work
with."

"It’s perfect," Jason assured her. "Now, let’s hope whatever’s coming this way doesn’t find
us."

The flyscout’s eyes widened in amazement as she suddenly noted his apparent physical
transformation. Sadly, she shook her head at the bodily damage. Certain the boy’s ego must have
taken a beating in the reversion process.

"Right," she replied. "We need to be deeper in the tree before it gets here."

The identity of their enemy became a burning issue in his mind as Farina flew him farther into
their hideout’s recesses. Would they be safe from such a monstrous attacker? Would they have
been better off to fight the creature full-sized rather than hiding like cowards?

As if reading his mind, Farina assured him of the validity in their retreat.

"Even the bravest on the island fear the unknown," she whispered in his ear. "Now, be silent
or we may not have another chance."

"For what?" Jason asked forlornly. "To be crushed inside a giant tree?"

"No, silly, to study the adversary," Farina replied. "Strengths. And more important,
weaknesses to use for our advantage."

Jason stood chagrined. Was this place a never-ending battle between good and evil? Or the
more calm, placid escape he and Jewel imagined on their arrival? From all he’d encountered so
far, the choice definitely pointed to the former assessment.

"Okay," he agreed. "Let’s get a better vantage."

The boy started climbing toward a bigger knothole in the tree trunk. But misjudging his
altered lack of strength, he slipped nimbly off a worn perch point. Used numerously by some small
animal stocking provisions for winter hibernation. Slick as glass, it afforded no sure grip to keep
from plummeting off its scant protection.

Farina screamed as he fell into the inky darkness below. His small yell of shock and fear
vanished quickly. Disappearing after him into the deep root system.

Managing to collect her wits, the flyscout began her pursuit. Instantly stopped by a
thunderous rocking. The entire tree swaying dizzily at a 120 degree angle. Snapping back to an
almost upright position. Flung back against the stiff bark, Farina’s small lungs exhaled sharply.
Leaving no intake to keep from passing out. Or block the painful crash rocketing forward as the
tree righted itself. Her head struck solidly against the opposite side of the tree’s interior. Sending
her last conscious thought of Jason spinning into oblivion.

Meanwhile, the boy hero, reduced to miniature proportions, struggled valiantly in the midst of
the catastrophe. Alone in the tree’s root shadows, he finally managed to scramble through a slight
opening toward the outside.

Straining to see the source of the disturbance, he clung tightly to one of the larger roots. The
tiny hero’s movements did not go unnoticed. At once, the hovering menace swept all underbrush
aside with a twisting powerful wind. Threatening to blow Jason completely away with the rest of
the swirling debris.

"Hey!" he shouted hoarsely.

His diminutive cry broke the attacker’s concentration momentarily. A thunderous voice
echoed harshly against his small eardrums. Promising deafness at any higher decibels.

"What speaks in the path of my pleasure?"

Jason clutched both ears tightly. The rumbling of a jet ten feet from his head would have been
easier to tolerate than this. What was he dealing with? Why did the creature’s form remain hidden
in the branches overhead? Just then a blinding flash of light descended. Shoving branches aside as
an immense ball of light hit the forest floor.

The resulting thud rocked matter in all directions. Jason flew head over heels into a nearby
rosebush. Its ominous thorns proved a deadly threat. Narrowly missed. Rainbow-hued rose petals
blanched white in the light’s glare. Shielding his eyes, Jason saw a gigantic spinning orb almost
eighty feet tall. Its matrix crisscrossed in clouds of white. The center radiating an intense cobalt
blue. It was at once the most fascinating and hideously terrifying instrument of destruction the boy
had ever seen.

Raising itself above the forest path, the ball of light smacked down harder in its second
contact with the ground. Reverberating shock waves sent Jason flying once more into a nearby
flower stalk. A swift handhold brought the stem to earth. The small overweight boy could now
face his adversary on firmer footing.

"My name is Jason!" he yelled upward. Certain the light ball would take no notice of his name
or existence.

Its incessant spinning paused a moment. Seeming to examine the young hero as an ant in the
presence of an elephant. Insignificant. Yet somehow necessary to dissect visually for a far greater

purpose. One that Jason had no intention of allowing the creature to complete.

"What is the bell’s power?" the orb’s voice intoned. Noting Jason’s hearing discomfort, the
ball lowered volume accordingly.

The nape of Jason’s neck prickled. For all of its beauty and strangeness, something evil lay
inside the shining ball. He hadn’t mentioned the bell. How was the creature aware that he was
even connected with it? Unless the beautiful cloud-covered orb masked Devonika’s greatest
creation. He kept a deep shudder at bay in the pit of his stomach. This had to be the Karmen.

A hand suddenly formed from cloud and light. Pointing downward at him. A miniature
overweight boy deprived of the one physical weapon that might have held forth a chance for
survival.

"Disclose the bell’s power," a cold icy voice warned.

It was ironic, Jason thought to himself. A vast omnipotent being needed him. His knowledge
of a device he no longer possessed. Logically, the creature should be asking Devonika. Unless the
witch didn’t have the bell. The thought filled him with a glimmer of hope. There was a chance,
however slim, that he might be able to regain the bell and return home.

With that slim hope of survival, the boy stood his ground. There was nowhere to run. No
place to hide. His only defense would be a strong offense. Perhaps the Karmen’s immense size
and strength could be used against itself. He needed to find the creature’s Achilles’ heel. The one
crack in its armor to shift the balance of power back in his favor.

Drawing himself up to his diminutive best, Jason shouted back at the giant towering over him.
He suddenly felt a strong kinship with the Biblical David in the future king’s own stand for his
people.

"Here I am!" the boy called out loudly. "I know the bell’s power. And how to use it."

The hand of light and cloud drew back inside the spinning orb. A mouth appeared. Then two
enormous eyes. Burning with hatred.

Jason raised his eyes defiantly at the creature. The Karmen’s cloud-formed irises burned
starkly against the swift descent of evening. Fires of hatred flamed intently at the boy hero. If he
didn’t disclose the bell’s power, the ensuing battle of strength would end decisively against him.
Steeling himself for the fight, he knelt and braced himself for the onslaught. The slight act of
obeisance, however, met with the Karmen’s favor. Its eyes changed hue, calming interior rage.
Deigning to extend a misty finger, the creature softened considerably. A calculated risk, Jason
thought. Either a semblance of compassion and peace or studied stealth.

"I am waiting," the Karmen continued. "Tell me the bell’s secret and you shall live."

"I’m considering the alternative," Jason grinned. "Never like hasty decisions."

The creature’s shape fluctuated. Just slightly. Only a moment. Yet Jason noted the immediate
change as a strong wind blew through the trees overhead. The defining outer boundary of
Karmen’s cloud outline dissipated very minutely. Then reassembled. In its normal passage through
the forest, wisps of the being’s border had been affected by solid objects passing through. Small
pockmarks at various spots across the surface attested to that. The boy smiled inwardly. This
simple observation could be the enemy’s greatest weakness.

"Being so close to the ground and all, I can’t decide," Jason finally answered. "Maybe if I
could see what’s beyond the forest. Yeah, that would definitely be enough for me to choose."

"Then raise yourself up!" the Karmen snapped. Irritated by the delay. Ground dwellers were
such stupid creatures. Always imagining some greater horizon would provide more opportunities.
A fresh start. Something tangible to measure growth in their miserable existence. Why couldn’t
they imitate higher life forms? Those capable of changing shape at will. Never bound by earthly
restraints. Free to roam. See vast changes of air, land and sea with no boundaries separating the
experience from actual forces of nature.

"I’m sorry," Jason replied meekly. "I can’t. It’s too far to imagine being that high off the
ground."

"Then tell me what I want to know," the creature responded. "My patience is at an end."

Fingers ran through his tousled hair as the young boy laid out his final ploy. Fearful, yet
somehow enervated by the game of cat and mouse being waged in their thoughts against each
other.

"If you could lift me up to that high branch, I could probably decide very quickly," Jason
explained. "It’s not that hard for you to accomplish, I’m sure."

The sound of wind being expelled from the cloud at a swooping rate almost knocked the boy
back into the dangers of the rosebush. A hearty laugh echoed deep. Then burst forth. Echoing
soundly against nearby tree bark. Rattling the very fiber of their roots.

"It is but a small thing," the Karmen agreed. Reaching to lift Jason upward. Into the nearby
crook he had left just minutes earlier. Straining to regain his footing, the boy soundly grasped a
stout leaf-laden branch. Knowing in his heart that the battle about to begin would be fought by a
full-sized champion. Not an overweight boy whose keen intellect had brought Teathergund back
to his side.

Chapter Twelve

Tristan moved swiftly to the left with his band of Tugg-Ugglies. Out of harm’s reach for the
moment. The slimy, translucent creature wrapped itself around two closer trees and pulled
inward. Hard. Instantly, a sucking sound, like the sound of a huge vacuum cleaner drew most
loose leaves and dirt whirling toward Jewel. She turned her head away. Keeping most of the grit
from her eyes. But a moderately sized branch caught in the beast’s air influx bounced against the
back of her head. Almost graying out her vision.

Nothing could have prepared them for this monstrosity. Alone with her thoughts, Jewel
quickly sized up the situation. Her opponent. Options. Anything to refocus attention away from
the crawling, encroaching half-jellyfish, half-octopus. Slithering ever closer. As if sensing her
indecision, the creature struck. Snapping a tentacle around the surprised victim.

Jewel screamed. A thousand tiny sharp needle-like stingers pricked her mid-section.
Immediately burning a welt across her stomach. Suction cupped tentacles wrapped around her
legs. Then her arms. Effectively immobilizing the young girl. All fight vanished in the grip of
entrapment. A tear fell from her eye as she realized there was no escape this time. The single
droplet bounced off the edge of the shell. Still nestled around her neck.

But as the slight moisture-laden tear fell toward the earth, it encountered an almost invisible
shoulder. An inherent roar, building deep inside the monster, silenced as the moisture outlined the
unseen warrior.

Every Tugg-Ugglie’s mouth dropped open. Astonishment froze on their faces. The figure of
an old Tugg-Ugglie tribeswoman swiftly materialized. As if from thin air.

"Sageus!" Tristan cried. "She’s saving the girl."

"Not with me," one of his companions pointed out. "She has no power over such a creature."

Sageus turned. Her dark morose features covered in concern for Jewel. She would save the
girl. At all costs.

As the realization hit him, Tristan rallied. Throwing himself back into the fray. The wise
woman had never been seen by any of the younger tribe members. Fewer still were actual
sightings by older Tugg-Ugglies. Himself included.

He didn’t know the reason Sageus had decided to reveal herself. But she was never wrong.
Whatever point of view or side she’d taken in the confrontation would be right. She had served as
counsel to Murranzo, their former leader, up to the point of his disappearance. Then, she’d
vanished herself. Now, throwing caution to the wind, she was championing the girl’s release.
Wisdom seldom grew rationally. As the tribe’s very existence proved. The more irrational a
solution often appeared, the wiser course of action it followed.

Jewel closed her eyes. Aware that her next breath could be the last. At the same moment,
Sageus raised her arms wide. Exactly matching the creature’s descending tentacles to engulf her
as well.

The wise woman raised a glittering handful of dust. Throwing it directly at the beast’s single
eye. Loud and strong her voice ran out against the sucking noise from the beast’s mouth.

Ere the turn of timely hand
Where sea meets shore on bed of sand
Return you now to prior plan
Of form before you stepped on land

A twinkling, shimmer of light engulfed Jewel and the monster. Tristan and his companions
turned away as the scene became unbearably bright for their eyes. As everyone’s vision cleared,
the young girl stood safely in Sageus’ grasp. Nothing remained of the creature except a slow
moving slug on the forest floor.

Cautiously, Jewel opened her eyes to meet the wise woman’s gaze. The forces of good had
once more triumped over disorder in the fantastic realm. She hugged Sageus tightly for a moment.
Surprising the wise woman with the strength of her embrace. Yet a mere thank you wouldn’t have
sufficed, Jewel thought. Not after such an ordeal. And deliverance.

"There now, dear," Sageus spoke reassuringly. "That will do nicely. Mustn’t overdo anything
in the face of adversity. You might need reserves later."

"I might at that," the young girl agreed. Smiling slightly. "Where did you come from? How did
you know exactly how to handle that thing?"

"That creature," Tristan broke in, "happens to be one of Devonika’s dark servants. And we’re
well rid of it. That’s all you need to know."

"For now," the wise woman agreed. "But next time she will need the power herself."

Tristan’s face grew grim. This decision he could not abide. It was unheard of to teach
outsiders their ways. Let alone centuries of background to perhaps control the tribe.

"You are uncertain, young one," Sageus brushed a finger over the Tugg-Ugglie’s face. "You
ought to trust more."

"Trust lost on strangers gives no reward," Tristan snapped back.

The wise woman said nothing. Merely smiled. It was their way. Not hers. She remembered
when all Tugg-Ugglies had greeted each day as a new beginning. A feeling all of them had lost
after Devonika’s mad scheme to rule the island took hold. Now their daily struggle just to survive
kept everyone from seeing the desperate situation. Without hope for eventual peace with
neighboring tribes and animals, their doom was sealed. And that was the one thing Sageus vowed
never to abandon. Hope must spring eternal in life.

"Come, princess," she grasped Jewel’s shoulder. Leading her off into the forest. "Open your
mind to a new opportunity."

"Wait!" Tristan called after them. "You mustn’t do this. It isn’t right."

"In whose opinion?" Sageus grinned back at him.

She drew a small grey elastic headband from her right pocket. Swiftly stretching it over her
forehead and hair, the wise woman drew forth a single white feather from her other pocket. This
she nimbly placed at the back of the headband. Between hair and the elastic.

At once a startling transformation took place. A thousand sparkles of shimmering light, every
color of the rainbow, engulfed her. When the light dimmed, Jewel saw the largest white goose

she’d ever laid eyes upon standing in Sageus’ place.

"Climb aboard, quickly!" the goose honked. "We must fly to escape the earthbound prejudice
of my own people."

"How sad," Jewel replied. Quickly climbing on the goose’s back.

"But fortunate for freedom to soar above the obvious," the white-winged bird called back.
"Hold tight or we won’t make it past them."

The Tugg-Ugglies’ response was electric. They ran fiercely forward at Tristan’s command. To
no avail. The limber goose took three sure-footed steps. Then beat a strong northern arc into the
brilliant orange sky overhead.

Jewel clung tightly to her new-found rescuer. Whatever lay ahead of her now could be faced
more confidently. The friendship born in need, would prove itself in deed.

Sageus flew west. Following the path of a gulf stream breeze. Used to the transformation, she
knew the safest air routes for crossing the island. Away from the northern half most travelers
could navigate securely around the varied climates. And from the aerial vantage point, Jewel
viewed the diversity in awe.

Far to the north, a heavy mist clung to every object below. Obscuring even the tallest tree. Yet
glancing closer, a single spire rose ominously from an icy mountaintop. A cold shiver ran down
her spine at the sight.

"Don’t look that way," the goose warned. "She may take notice of a single flight-laden
traveler."

"Devonika?" Jewel whispered under her breath. Surprisingly, Sageus heard the comment.

"Exactly," she agreed. "We aren’t ready to confront her yet. When the time comes, then we
head north. But there are friends to the west. Survivors of her wickedness. There we will rest and
prepare you for battle."

Jewel’s eyes widened in shock. She had no intention of battling the evil sorceress on her own.

"Hey, I never said anything about fighting her," the girl replied. "It’s a beautiful island. I’m
tired of seeing everybody living in fear. But I can’t stop all the evil on my own."

"You’ll never be on your own here," Sageus reminded her gently. "There are too many friends
you’ve yet to meet. They will be your army. And you will lead them to victory!"

"What if I can’t?" Jewel asked. Sincerely hoping for an alternative to the proposed
confrontation.

The goose’s eyes twinkled and turned back to the horizon. Her traveling companion lacked
courage. Something that couldn’t be taught by books, study or philosophical reverie. Yet the two
items definitely laid a strong foundation in finding the virtue within.

Teaching would take time. Too many hours and subjects to be covered alone. But the western
tribe of Landmovers had more than enough members to teach the young girl. Nourishing the seed
of knowledge to full bloom against their common enemy.

Sageus held her tongue. Giving Jewel time to reflect on the consequences of failure. That
would destroy any chance to return home. A definite balancing point to succeed. The positive

outweighing the negative. It was the way of things. Designed from the beginning.

"Fly on," Jewel finally agreed. "I can’t abandon my only chance to see my parents again."

"A wise choice," Sageus agreed. Beating her wings steadily onward.

From that point, Jewel grasped the airborne opportunity to study the island’s layout. Ignoring
the northern stretch. Several distinct regions were visible. The first ran almost the length of the
eastern shore. Lush, tropical rain forests blending into a wide, far-reaching plain. Strange small
shadows scurried into secure hiding places and tall strong grass. Golden sheaves bent quietly in
the shallow wind below.

Jewel marvelled at the beauty of its symmetry. But having been involved in some of the land’s
majesty and mystery, she no longer considered it quite so foreign. A peace fell over her as she
listened to the gentle whirring of Sageus’ wings. In a few moments, she closed her eyes for a
short rest. Promptly falling into a deep sleep. Just as the goose swooped toward a waiting camp in
the brightening dawn of a new day.

Chapter Thirteen

Jason's hand barely touched the edge of the hidden oversized Teathergund. Instantly, he
regained his former size. Fat vanished from every muscle. Leaving him completely restored to
champion status. Which, at the moment, didn't seem a feasible solution to him.

The Karmen's roar of disbelief shook everything in sight. Never had the creature encountered
such trickery from the smallest of opponents.

"You shall perish at my hands for this!" its voice thundered down from high overhead.

Ignoring the pounding command, Jason leaped into the air. Swinging the hammer of justice.
Slicing completely through the Karmen's mid-section. Opening a gaping hole. Treetops behind it
swayed from the force of the blow.

Instinctively, the boy continued slinging Teathergund in a circling motion. Mimicking a
helicopter blade. In response, the magical weapon kept him airborne. Long enough to see the
Karmen's next battle plan spring into action.

Dissolving into two complete separate shapes. Then three. Four. Eight. In just a moment an
entire crowd of creatures formed. All resembling the original. Save one exacting feature. None
were as tall and menacing as the original. Glancing swiftly around, Jason noted the size reduction
with controlled invigorance.

If the Karmen was as powerful and evil in subsequent formations, there would be cause for
alarm. But reasoning a split in power and form, the Karmen left itself completely open. Vulnerable
to destruction. Strength in numbers didn't mean multiplication of force. It was no longer
invincible. The evil could be dealt a crushing blow. But it had to include every one of the
duplicates at the same time. There was too much at stake to fight parts of the Karmen
individually. Teathergund's force must cover the monster's entire mass. No matter how many
splits continued.

"It won't work!" he yelled at the circling creatures. "You're no match for Teathergund."

Swinging mightily, two of the duplicates were dispatched. Struck mid-section. They fell
solidly to the ground. Then rose again. Divided into two more creatures apiece.

Jason's eyes drew to slits at the realization. The odds were not in his favor if each incarnation
bred itself indefinitely. His sole hope for victory began receding swiftly to the farthest reaches of
his mind.

Then a deep silence fell over the enclosed circle. Each creature pausing to cock an ear toward
the sky. Listening. Instantly hearing a soft melody. Building in intensity. A crackling burst of light
formed into a great curtain. Not unlike pictures the boy remembered from last school semester's
science class. A distinct form of parallel and shape. The light curtain, despite a lack of color,
appeared exactly like the Aurora Borealis. Arches of light reflecting in the Earth's polar
atmosphere. Electrons accelerating along magnetic field lines. Here in the Land of Remote's
strange combination of air and light, the curtain almost blinded him.

Similarly, the duplicate Karmens moved back from the atmospheric interference. Daunted by
the unknown. Yet, eager to face another battle. Evident from each grimacing expression.

Ten bright fingers drew back the light curtain as a dark-haired, bearded figure appeared.

Dressed in an interwoven cloak of leaves and branches. The small elf looked thin. Emaciated.
Standing about five feet high, Jason reckoned. Tall for any being in the Land of Remote. Two
twinkling green eyes focused on the boy. The situation. Numerous splitting Karmens. Then the
slender-limbed man drew a wooden pipe to his lips.

Jason recognized the primitive style of the flute. Holes covered its rather long base. Open
spots for trained fingers. Save one hole at the very center. It was closed by a hand made key.
Blocking one of the central tones. Further study of the instrument's design would have to wait.

Great gusts of wind began swirling around them. The divided Karmens began sucking
enormous amounts of air into their lungs. Preparing for an attack. Deep dark eyes kept tabs on
both Jason and the new visitor. Without knowing the small man's purpose for intervention, both
adversaries needed to be kept separated. Even in its divided state, the Karmen realized potential
unified threats.

"Back away!" the visitor called to Jason. "And hold your ears."

"Okay," the boy acknowledged his instructions. Following them meant forcing a path with
Teathergund through eight divisions of Karmen. Swiftly, the hammer wielded results.

By now, the vaporous light curtain had vanished. Leaving everything once more in semidarkness.
A soft clear tone sounded. Borne on the night air like some thought of the wind.
Moving over every eardrum in range. Turning attention to its unspoken message. Forcing
memories to surface. Long forgotten emotions stirring in the quiet trunk of time.

Then a second note met the final reverberations of the first. Twisting open another memory.
Building another link between past and present. Musical charm hiding a powerful tool in its tones.
Jason kept both hands clamped tightly over his ears. Realizing the visitor was employing an
ancient technique to secure their safety.

Every duplicate Karmen's expression began changing. Subtly at first as they battled a fierce
inner struggle to remain focused. But each succeeding note from the visitor's flute sent their
attention spinning faster into the blank nothingness of creation. Back to search for a single
memory of joy that the song called forth. There was nothing. Not a bright day filled with idleness.
No hours spent exploring an undiscovered part of the island. And no friendly face curious or
concerned about any aspect of the Karmen's existence. Total isolation surfaced. Adrift and alone
in a world filled with life-changing experiences and hope for the future.

Sensing the beast's weakness growing inside, the visitor slowed his melody to zero in on the
creature's pain and anguish. That was the only key to survive an otherwise furious onslaught.
They would have no other chance to escape.

The Karmen's cry of despair sounded above the flute's sad song. Roughly trying to reach the
instrument, the beast's feeble attempt was blocked instantly by Jason. Stepping between the
musician and the Karmen, he released one ear's protection momentarily to swing Teathergund
directly at the creature's head. It struck solidly this time. Unable to dissipate into its previous
gaseous form due to so many duplications.

A horrible scream filled the air. All of the replicated Karmens began reverting back into their
own gaseous state. Two re-entered the original Karmen before Jason realized what had occurred.
The Karmen was reassembling itself for full power and assault against them.

The visitor paused his song for only a moment to yell above the Karmen's roar of pain.

"Use Teathergund!" he cried. "Isolate the Karmen before all of them are back together."

"How?" Jason called back.

"Stamp Teathergund on the ground," the visitor explained quickly. "Head up to summon the
power of fire, down to summon the power of earth."

Jason nodded back. Immediately stamping the hammer's handle to the ground.

Before his next breath, a harsh stench filled the air. A wall of flame appeared. Completely
surrounding the Karmen. Effectively blocking any of the duplicates from joining the monster to
reassemble.

Trees shook to their roots as the Karmen circled inside the column of fire. The visitor
continued his own onslaught against the duplicates. Speeding the melody into minor harmonics
that sent the hordes of replication spinning off into underbrush. Further infuriating the Karmen
into a frenzy of rage. Helpless to gather even one more strengthening duplicate back inside.

Jason switched the hammer's grip in his hand. Pointing the head earthward. Slamming it down
full force with every ounce of strength. Instantly, a deafening rumble drowned out all sound. The
ground shook mightily underfoot. Then a cracking, rending groundswell opened. Separating the
wall of flame in two. Knocked to one side, the visitor smiled with delight. Confident the boy had
followed his instructions to the letter.

Jason clung tightly to a huge grey boulder as the land tilted upward. There was no mistake.
The Karmen, clung desperately to the side of an immense chasm opening beneath its feet.
Weakened, the creature's fate was sealed. With one final roar of defiance it slid into the depths of
the earth as the canyon-like edges slammed back together. The wall of flame burned itself out
quickly. Leaving only faint wisps of smoke in the wake of the Karmen's final stand.

"We did it!" Jason yelled exultantly. "Destroyed for good…"

"It would appear so," the visitor agreed. Rising shakily to his feet. "But there are many things
about this island that you need to learn."

"Like what?" the boy's jubilation calmed somewhat with the assessment of their victory.

"For one…" a familiar voice sounded lightly behind the two new friends. "How about tending
to injured old buddies?"

At the sound of her voice, Jason whirled to find Farina trying to straighten her hair. Wings
beating furiously to keep the flyscout aloft. Offering his hand, she accepted gratefully and landed.
"I thought you were a goner," the boy smiled. A faint tear forming at the corner of his eye.

"It's been a long time," the visitor broke in. Eyeing the winged messenger. "Farina, you're still
as beautiful as ever."

"How gallant of you to notice, Pipercall," Farina thanked him. "Of course, you must forgive
me for not joining your battle."

"Nonsense," the piper winked back. "We managed on our own, didn't we, Champion?"

Jason shook his head in disbelief. Partly to clear the dust that had settled from the Karmen's
departure. But mostly in surprise that the two already knew each other.

"Pipercall, this is Jason," Farina handled the introduction.

"I know," Pipercall returned. "He got in a spot with the Karmen. That's when I was notified."

"By who?" Jason chimed in quickly. He was curious how the news spread so quickly from one
side of the island to the other.

"I'm not the only flyscout," Farina reminded him matter-of-factly. "And I think it’s high time
Jason knew a major Land of Remote secret."

Pipercall took a step backward. Surveying the champion sent from another time and place. His
physical fighting prowess did appear extraordinary. He had proven himself in battle against the
Karmen. One of the worst dangers Devonika had devised so far. Yet inside the warrior lived a
child. Barely able to discern an opponent’s strength. Or weakness. Yet the fight strategy from
within indicated superior reasoning faculties. There must be mutual agreement between himself
and Farina on that point. Before disclosing island secrets. Every inhabitant could be at risk if the
boy couldn’t handle it.

"Stop the suspense and just tell me," Jason pleaded with them. "I’ve had enough excitement
for one day."

"This is only the beginning," Pipercall noted quietly. "Even as we consider options, news of
your victory travels far."

The boy glared at Farina. Intent that she hear what he’d just heard.

"More flyscout handiwork?" Jason asked. Glum. But hopeful that Farina prove him wrong.

"We have nothing to do with that," she assured him. "Devonika would never hear of such
defeat from our lips."

"Who then?" the boy pressed for an answer. "Are there even stranger enemies we haven’t
encountered yet?"

Pipercall drew a finger to his lips. Even as Farina muffled a faint giggle at Jason’s ignorance.
"This island is way too big for you to have met every type of creature," the cloaked elf responded.
"Let’s find a safe haven to discuss the path that lies ahead."

"Definitely," Farina agreed. She flew directly upward. Then paused just short of the treetops.
"Hurry before the nightwings arrive."

Jason’s eyes widened at mention of still another island inhabitant. How many different species
of flora and fauna were there to discover? Evidently more than they wanted to expose him to at
one time.

"Head out," Pipercall replied. He pointed through the trees to a large lake. Just visible in the
evening mist settling in. "We can camp on the bank about a mile from here."

"Hurry!" the flyscout advised. "I see movement from the far side."

The three companions vanished quickly from the scene. Never looking back as they stole
stealthily through the underbrush. Intent on keeping their trail well hidden from prying eyes. None
of the travelers noticed a small dark puddle of liquid oozing from a crack in the ground behind
them. It began to move. Glide. Follow the direction of footsteps forward into the woods. Stalking
a champion that had condemned it to an untimely demise in the depths of the earth.

Chapter Fourteen

The sleeping girl didn’t see Sageus’ transformation to her original form. Or the gentle
Landmovers who carried their new visitor into a safe cottage haven. Sageus thanked the tribe’s
members for their hospitality. Then settled in herself. Protecting the young adventurer from
bolder, more curious Landmovers.

Smiling back at the wide-eyed faces, she whispered a calm plea for peace and quiet. And a
promise that Jewel would meet with them later. Complying, they moved off to resume other more
pressing tribe duties.

The wise woman watched them go. Attending to their business. They were taller than her.
Even at their young ages. Tugg-Ugglies would come no higher than the rib cages of full-grown
Landmovers. Yet, in their childhood, both tribes were remarkably similar in height. The other
subtler differences in complexion and stature didn’t normally surface until the teen years.

Depending on exposure to the elements of light, earth and wind, Landmovers branched out
considerably in their diverse natures. Some were taller than others due to parental heritage. All
bore the same chiselled features of well-worn travel. High peaked foreheads framed in golden
hair. Tight, honed muscles from months, sometimes years, of struggle to reach maturity. Theirs
was a fighter tribe. Yet peaceful enough if unprovoked.

In the dim mists of early island years, she had travelled with them. On several occasions,
called to defend and protect the tribe by Murranzo’s order. Strong friendships still existed with
tribal elders. But the younger members kept their distance. Unable to accept the older tribal bond
forged in need.

Perhaps in the final conflict with Devonika, the need for combined strength would return.
Outweighing their reservations. If not, any internal misgiving could prove a fatal weak spot.
Tipping the battle’s balance in favor of the wicked sorceress.

A sudden cry of fear from outside the cottage woke Jewel. Her waking look of shock and
surprise at the surroundings froze on Sageus’ face. The wise woman placed a finger to her lips.
Silently, they both rose and approached an opening in the wall. Jewel would have described it as a
window had the aperture been glassed in. As it was, they were hard pressed to remain hidden
from the bright morning sunshine sweeping the room.

Screams of fright filled their ears as neighboring doors clanged shut. A shuffling mass of
Landmovers seemed intent on keeping a solid front. Positioning themselves between loved ones
and the menace confronting them.

Sageus sighted. Forming a mental image of the danger in her mind. Motioning for Jewel to
remain behind. Drawing the grey elastic headband from a pocket deep in her robe, she placed it in
the young girl’s hands.

"There is no need to take this with me," the woman’s whisper sounded reassuringly. "If
Devonika is here, this alone will prove no help. It’s merely a means to an end."

"I don’t understand," Jewel shook her head negatively. "What does this do?"

"Place it upon your head with a sample of what you need to become," Sageus explained. "The
element must touch the band’s edge. You then become the chosen element."

"What?" the girl’s voice cracked in the room’s stillness. "Nothing can change someone like
that. It’s not logical."

Sageus bent to kiss Jewel’s forehead. Then a quick hug before releasing her.

"You’ve already seen me do it twice," the wise woman encouraged her. "Don’t always rely on
what you see … to believe."

"I’ll remember," Jewel replied. Clutching the headband tightly.

"But one warning!" Sageus cautioned. "Assuming the form of another element means
embracing its limits as well."

"What do you mean?" the girl asked quickly. Yells from outside threatened closer with each
passing moment.

"I used a leaf from the forest to appear invisible in its depths," the wise woman continued.
"But I couldn’t hear your cry for help. Merely sense it with the leaf’s basic nervous system."

"And the goose?" Jewel nodded as she began to understand. "You used a feather to transform
yourself."

"Exactly," Sageus finished. "You can change form to any bird, animal or element."

"But their abilities with their limits become mine as well?"

"Yes, the wise woman smiled. "With one plea …"

Power of form, stranger to me,
Lend thy shape, in time of need.

"Got it!" Jewel assured her.

"Good," Sageus opened the cottage door to step outside.

"Let me go with you," the girl clung to her rescuer’s robe.

"Your time will come," the woman replied. "This may be nothing more than another of
Devonika’s schemes to locate you. Remain hidden. No matter what happens. Listen to your heart.
It’s the compass for your destiny."

Closing the door behind her, Sageus strode into the midst of the nearing crowd. Keenly aware
of the eyes focused from every angle. The elder Landmovers allowed themselves no visual sign of
relief. Yet knowing the wise woman’s power brought a moment of inner reflection and bonding
before facing their common enemy.

Thick dark clouds of ice and fog encompassed a gaunt figure. Staring balefully at the
assembled mob. Fiery red eyes blazed at each face. Searching. Trying to find the weakest link.

Glaring at a middle-aged Landmover named Eric, Devonika softened her demeanor. The
stately, slightly grey-haired tribesman had obviously been a fine specimen in his youth. The
ravages of time and survival had done little to wear on the man’s strength of will. He would be a
perfect choice.

The dark clouds suddenly parted. Thin, angered features melted away into a glistening,
youthful form. Shining inwardly with the worst of intentions, Devonika’s callused heart warmed
ever so slightly. The deception must be complete to accomplish her goal. This creature of ice and

cloud appeared now as a perfect mirror of deceit.

"Papa, it’s me!" she called to the bewildered Landmover. "Don’t you remember your own
daughter?"

Flustered, Eric rubbed his eyes in disbelief. How could his long-lost daughter be standing in
front of him? Her golden hair falling in soft curves down to shoulders of milky white skin. A
wracking sob of remorse escaped him.

"Danielle," he tried keeping her name from crossing his lips. Failing.

His fellow Landmovers began drawing apart. Reforming into a half-circle. Surrounding the
pale vision of beauty. The errant daughter had turned up missing one day. A single letter of regret
left behind as consolation for a broken-hearted father.

Danielle had wanted her father’s blessing to explore the island on her own. He refused. Trying
to explain the danger for someone so young to be away from friends and family. Ignoring his
advice and throwing caution to the wind, she vanished. Leaving no trace for anyone to follow.
Days of searching stretched into years. They were finally forced to abandon any hope of locating
her. Now here she was once more. The one image a devoted parent couldn’t ignore.

Sageus, infuriated, stepped between them. The level of evil rose significantly. Eric’s joy
vanished. A cool hand of reason drawing him back from the burning desire for reconcilement.

"You have no place here," Danielle spat at the wise woman. "These are not your tribesmen."

"No," Sageus agreed. "And you’re not this father’s daughter either."

With that, she raised her arms. Grasping an almost invisible curtain of fog surrounding the
image. Tearing. Ripping. Rending the illusion helpless in the light of reality.

"Behold the dark queen of the North!" Sageus admonished the real evil.

The gentle daughter’s voice gave way to the shrillest, grating sound any Landmover had ever
heard. Vicious. Slicing the air with pure venom.

"You’re out of your league, old woman," Devonika warned her. "You have no part with these
people. Or my purpose for being here."

"Oh, I know why you’re here," Sageus snapped back. "And it won’t work. The Landmovers
are way beyond your feeble attempts at deception."

"This one wasn’t," the evil queen grimaced. Pointing at Eric. Trying to imitate a smile. "This
Landmover misses his daughter. I could return her to him."

"Of that I’m certain," the Tugg-Ugglie woman agreed. "But to what end? He’s learned to
cope. Get on with his life. Why open old wounds? Just to torture a parent with memories? I never
thought such evil existed on this island. Before I heard about you."

"My reputation precedes me then," Devonika hissed. "I’m flattered."

"Hold that thought," Sageus snapped back. Eyes sparkling.

Swiftly raising her arms, she created a giant stone column from thin air. Turned it sideways.
Motioning forward with her hands, the beam obeyed. Completely smashing into the dirt. Rolling
completely over the sorceress. As it dissolved back into air, Devonika’s flattened figure rose from
the ground.

"Did you think such trickery could destroy me?" the evil queen’s eyes blazed with fury. "You
don’t stand a chance against me."

The strange thin lips opened flatly. A snake’s tongue slithering out of the two dimensional
image. Tasting the air in all directions at once. Then a snapping, cracking sound popped the
sorceress back. Into full three-dimensional reality.

Sageus sagged inwardly. It took a great deal of strength and power to banish Devonika into
the second dimension. But freeing herself that quickly and easily had taken equal force. If not
more. And the sardonic grin that now formed at the corners of her mouth meant only one thing.

An all out battle at this point with the dark queen could place all Landmovers in jeopardy.
Could there be another way out of the conflict? Sageus pondered quickly as Devonika drew forth
a twig covered staff. Ultimate evil beginning to glow from one end.

Chapter Fifteen

Tapping Teathergund lightly in gathered brush sparked a warm fire, lasting several hours.
Gentle waves playing against the soft sand by water's edge formed a gentle backdrop for another
song by Pipercall. His melodious flute, designated Windwood, seemed to echo across the lake for
miles. Faint calls from night nested birds answered at intermittent intervals.

Farina nestled at the piper's feet wore a somber but hopeful expression. They had agreed to
break camp at dawn. Travelling onward along the lake's edge. Encircling it to reach the far side.

Unwilling to fly across on her own, the flyscout deemed safety of utmost importance at this
point. Their combined strength would be needed to defeat Devonika. With whatever allies they
could add to their quest.

The fire dimmed slightly as a soft breeze blew from the lake. Jason stretched wearily. After a
quick survey at water's edge, he decided with the others on a circular route. Also realizing the
time they would lose from a more direct path over the lake. Yet Farina wasn't fully recovered
from her ordeal in the battle with Karmen. He was hesitant to press their luck. Considering Jewel's
loss in their last underwater journey. They couldn't afford any breaks in rank. Nor the luxury of
non-directional and unfocused activity. Every day that passed meant one less twenty four hour
opportunity to get within striking distance of Devonika.

The lake was a comfortable haven. A break from the norm of having to watch every forest
movement. Listen for danger in each approaching sound. Here in the comfort of crackling firelight
lay brief security from the evils surrounding them. Small consolation in the grand scheme of
things. But a momentary comfort nevertheless. He intended to enjoy every moment. As long as it
lasted.

"Why don't you two rest?" Pipercall instructed them. "I'll take the first watch."

"Sounds like a plan," Jason agreed. "Don't let the fire go out. Just keep adding leaves and
small branches to it."

"He doesn't need that," Farina replied sleepily, "as long as he has Windwood. If you noticed
none of the original twigs have burned up. The flute's song reinforced their structure. And burning
capability."

"Interesting," the boy agreed. "Well, you can keep on playing as far as I'm concerned. The
music will help me sleep."

Pipercall nodded back. Continuing the soft melody. Filling the sky with notes that seemed to
sparkle quietly against the star studded heaven.

Farina blinked sleepily. Then flew to a safe resting spot in a nearby tree. Flyscouts never felt
comforted by open spaces. Even in the midst of friends. Their ways remained foreign in sleeping
hours. It wasn't unusual to awaken and find a small group of flyscouts engaged in nightly
reconnaissance. Always aware the same advantage in being small airborne scouts was a great
hindrance as well. At the mercy of larger island inhabitants. Relying on magical inbred abilities to
protect and defend those they loved. Cherished.

Still the friendship between them allowed enough security for all to sleep peacefully until
daybreak. In the morning, Jason rose first. Hoping not to disturb the others, he tred lightly over

the ashy remains of their fire. Pipercall had rolled to one side. His cloak protecting him from the
cool air. Hidden somewhere in its folds lay Windwood. The boy secretly yearned to draw out the
magical instrument. Steal away. Then try playing it. Discover how much practice was really
involved in getting nature to obey its call. But the opportunity would have to wait.

Lapping waves against the sand drew his attention solely to the lake. The spot Pipercall had
chosen for their camp couldn't have been better. The sun danced, twinkling at the far edge of the
water. Seeming to play peek-a-boo with anyone watching. Jason felt privileged to witness nature's
beauty in announcing the day's beginning. It also brought to mind another morning not so long
ago when he and Jewel had stolen away from their parents. Or was it an evening? Everything
seemed blurry in his vision for a moment. He wiped lake mist from his eyelashes to get a better
focus on the horizon.

Again he tried remembering his friend's face. Before the fountain had marred her features.
There was no clear picture in his mind. Something was happening to him. Nothing was clear any
more. He stumbled and fell headlong into the sand at water's edge.

Staring at the lake's surface, he gradually saw both sets of parents in a reflection. Frantically
searching;. Very near the bell's original location in the underbrush.

"Mom! Dad!" he called. In whatever strange way, they were visible inside the lake's depths.
Perhaps they could hear him as well.

Vainly Jason tried waving. His hand brushed the water's edge. Stirring the image just enough
to vanish. Guilt and fear overwhelmed him. Bending further to the surface, he sank his lips into
the water. A cold burst of refreshment swept through him.

Pulling back momentarily, his eyes widened in astonishment. Fish lips, where his own had
been only seconds before, reflected back at him. That shock sent chills down his spine. Opening
his mouth to cry for help proved futile. Loud sucking noises replaced any chance to arouse Farina
or Pipercall.

Suddenly four elongated tentacles erupted from the depths. Wrapping him swiftly. Tightly.
Drawing the helpless champion quickly into the water. Jason barely grasped one last breath of air
before vanishing beneath the gentle lapping waves. Victim to a giant eel's attack.

Upon total submersion, he felt his entire body changing. Melting into a more compact form.
Sleek. Swift. With plenty of air flooding newly formed gills. He could no longer view anything
straight on without turning his head from side to side. He was a fish.

Glancing back at the water's surface he saw his own reflection. And the world below him. No
hint of the people he'd seen earlier. Who were they? It didn't matter any more. He was no longer
in the world of air and sunshine. Shades of darkness were his new domain. He would have to
adjust.

Trying to wriggle free from the tight tentacles proved useless. They held him fast. Drawing
him deeper. The gloomy depths frightened him. Then everything brightened. Water plants brushed
lightly against his sides. Welcoming the boy fish into the subterranean world. He felt a calm
refresh his inner strength. Things would be fine. Work themselves out.

He'd heard of some reptiles burying their intended meal for later retrieval. Deep in mud. Or
hidden securely in some hollow log along the waterbed. The situation in his little fish mind yielded

only one solution. He was still alive for a purpose.

Nearly reaching the bottom, all four tentacles relaxed. Freeing him to explore on his own.
Frantically, he tried signalling his abductor for guidance with two small fins. That result sent him
swimming in circles. Shocked. Dismayed. Starting over, Jason managed a controlled bump against
the eel's soft underbelly.

"Hey," a cry echoed against the boy's ears and several coral outcroppings. "One more like that
and I'll send you back to the Karmen."

"What?" he asked, with two fish eyes widening considerably.

"The Karmen almost reached you," the eel creature explained.

"I never saw it," Jason replied in a thought aimed back to his captor.

"Exactly what it had planned all along," the dark amphibian answered. "The Karmen cannot be
defeated by any known method. It strikes in a warrior's mind and heart. Compromising those two
defenses gives it access to wrench victory from any would-be opponent."

Jason tread water gently. Keeping his thoughts focused on the eel. What it said may have been
true before his battle with the Karmen. But he had called upon the most violent forces of nature to
defeat and kill the monster. Now he was being told the creature survived. Even thrived on battle
strategy. Coming back. Again and again. To eventually wear down all resistance he could muster
from the deadly encounters. Could the eel be trusted? If so, one of the most fundamental facts of
life didn't exist on the island. Death held no power over anyone. Life here was eternal. But it was
no picnic. A constant struggle between good and evil. Life forms changed. Yet the essence of
creatures remained the same.

"Very good," the eel commended loudly at his side. "Your train of thought assessing things is
very logical. Well considered. Perhaps it will yield better results than my own did many years
ago."

The boy's fish lips broke into a smile. He'd broken the stalemate between forces on the island
by his mere presence. His arrival with Jewel had started a new chain of events. Something the
dark alliance hadn't counted on.

It might mean a new order of things. If he was successful against Devonika.

"How did you lose your battle?" Jason questioned the eel in thought.

"I haven't yet," the reply came quietly. "Unless you fail."

The boy fish hovered directly in front of his abductor. This was no ordinary eel. There was
something hidden behind the capture and transformation. There would be no escape from the
probing question Jason now sent back.

"What am I to learn here?" the boy asked quietly. Sincerely.

The eel extended a tentacle downward. Toward a small, hidden cave at the edge of the lake
bed shelf. No answer sprang to his mind. Yet an overwhelming urgency crept over the young fish.
Somewhere in the depths of the cave lay his answer.

Releasing his former prey from restraint, the eel swam quickly away. Leaving a bewildered
fish in its wake. Jason pondered thoughtfully. The eel had given no real reason to explore the
underwater cave. And answers or not, the surface beckoned him back to dry land.

But there was no way of telling if contact with the air would trigger his transformation back to
land dweller. Or if the Karmen was awaiting his return.

His only course of action pointed to the cave. Unexplored. Dangerous. And without
Teathergund at his side, a most reckless decision. Silently, he swam for the dark opening. Steeling
himself for any confrontation that currently hid in the murky water. Waiting for him.

At first, the prospect of a new underwater existence seemed pleasant enough. Swimming
really didn't require a lot of exertion in his present state. Yet, nearing the cave opening, Jason
realized freedom had its accompanying price in vulnerability. He wasn't the strongest fish in the
lake. The two friends he'd managed to depend on were out of reach. Secure enough on their own
side of the lake's surface. Land dwellers. Why were they superior to what he'd become?

In fact, they were not. Surface walkers depended on air, sunshine and others who grew most
of their food. Here in the soft slippery recesses of liquid life he could feel a certain innate security.
No one who breathed air could touch him.

Various bright-colored vegetation tilted side-to-side as water currents moved them. Almost
beckoning the lone fish to a private enjoyment in their glory. Jason felt a tremendous thrill shoot
through every scale of his body. It was a wonderful experience to live beneath the water. Free to
swim in any direction he pleased.

The cave loomed suddenly ahead. A light began glowing inside. The boy fish tugged himself
first one way then its opposite to get a better view. It was like looking through a giant
kaleidoscope. Colors constantly changing. Shifting. Finally focusing on a single image.

His mother was crying. Desperately searching for any sign of his reappearance. Trying to blink
and turn away, he felt a massive shape pushing from behind. Forcing him toward the cave
entrance. Almost willingly Jason gave in to the strong urge to rejoin his parents. Closer and closer
he moved into the underwater opening. But at the last possible moment, he managed to turn and
see the real force compelling him forward.

The Karmen's glittering teeth broke into a huge distorted grin. Then a horrid laugh burst from
the creature's lips as it prepared a final shove forward.

A swirling motion began dragging the hapless boy fish into the cave. Jason struggled furiously
against the surging water. Inside churned the largest dark whirlpool he'd ever seen.

Chapter Sixteen

Devonika snarled at Sageus and the Landmovers. Twice before, an uprising had threatened
the security of her plans for the island. There would be no inner harmony or peace anywhere. At
any time. For any reason.

The dark queen pointed her proudest weapon at the wise woman poised to protect the
villagers. A thin, reed-like branch with twigs erupting at various angles. No one had seen the
sorceress' conjuring wand and lived to tell the tale.

Sageus stood her ground. Unflinching. Determined, if not to defeat the wicked queen, at least
to set an example for the village. Her own demise mattered little to herself now. She had passed
her critical talents to Jewel. Still hiding in the last cottage before the forest edge. With any luck
the young girl would be far from danger by the time this battle ended.

"Who did you think would stand with you, old woman?" Devonika demanded an answer.

"No one here could defend against such evil in your grasp," Sageus admitted clearly. "But
another will come to destroy your plans."

"Pity you won't be here to see that prediction fail as well," the dark queen sneered. "Many
have tried over the years."

Sageus shrugged. Tired of hearing the wicked woman's vile threats of doom. Noting the
abrupt, disinterest, Devonika shook her wand menacingly forward.

"You've given me enough trouble yourself," the dark-haired queen glared back. "I'll have your
heart for this."

"You wouldn't know what to do with one," the wise woman cried out in a loud voice. "Let's
see what's really inside that vindictive head of yours."

A quickly muttered incantation sent Devonika into still another onslaught of rage. She
grabbed her head as if fighting off tremendous vise-like pressure. Sageus' spell had already begun
to work. Landmovers backed away as the dark queen's features distorted. Rising. Expanding.
Almost bursting at the seams. Her entire skull grew to ten times its original size. Screaming, the
wicked woman's anguished cry shattered nearby cottages in half. Then, the transformation
stopped. Leaving Devonika's head completely oversized for the tiny body supporting it.

She looked like some giant demented jack-in-the-box. With the most evil grin to match.
Spreading from ear to ear. Sageus stood her ground. Positive the woman's vanity alone would
prevent any further exchange between them.

A scant second passed before rending, cracking sounds filled the air. Devonika's image
blurred. Compressed. Then expanded back to its original form. There would be no second chance
for Sageus this time.

"How dare you think your power exceeds mine?" the wicked queen snapped. "You're nothing
more than an amateur!"

Silently Sageus studied her adversary. There was no further need to extend her power in
combatting pure evil. Alone she couldn't imagine overcoming the vast allies of the queen.
Brazenly, the wise woman stepped forward. Taunting the malevolent monarch.

"From the time this island appeared you wanted control of it," Sageus spoke commandingly.
"And you've done your level best to strike fear in the hearts of all who live here. But what
accomplishment is that? You live alone. Abhorred by every tenant that walks the same earth.
Infuriated by every act of kindness between them. Did you ever stop to consider the complete
emptiness you've created for yourself? A vacuum that sucks all charity, peace and love from
others. Then grinds it all into nothing. The same nothing that's replaced your own heart."

Devonika's expression softened only slightly as she took in the wise woman's words. What she
said was all true. Yet having it thrown back at her for consideration only made her angrier.

"Enough!" the wicked queen shouted. "You will be the form I see, feathered, wide-eyed in a
tree."

The Landmovers stood stunned as a huge black cloud enveloped both women. A mighty clap
of thunder echoed in all directions as lightning flashed upward.

Peering out at the spectacle, Jewel screamed as the force of the transformation rocked all the
cottages. A bright blue glow emanated from within the encroaching cloud, then dimmed to a deep
purple.

As the smoke dissipated, Devonika reached for one of the villagers with a long slithering
octopus arm. He yelled. Trying to fight against the suction cups that drew him off his feet. Into
the air.

"No more nice queen," Devonika hissed. "You'll tell me where the girl's hiding. Now! Or you
won't touch ground again."

Jewel brushed aside all thoughts of safety in her rising anger. She'd had enough of the dark
queen's imperious egotism. Sageus or not, the young girl wasn't about to let the villagers suffer
the consequences for her sake. She stepped out into the dim light. Raising the shell of truth to her
lips. Swiftly she began blowing. Approaching the dark queen.

"What is this?" Devonika asked, tossing the Landmover into a haystack. "The girl who would
be queen?"

Ignoring the taunts, Jewel continued blowing into the shell. Its tone increasing with each step.

"Why don't you answer?" the dark queen insisted. "Don't you know my power?"

Issuing no notice of the request, Jewel approached closer. Then the unthinkable happened.
Devonika's wand split in two. No longer capable of administering its mistress' commands. A dull
throbbing tone sounded at the base of the wicked woman's skull. Her own voice began a mocking
monologue.

"The same nothing that replaced your own heart."

Sageus' last criticism rang truthfully through the dark queen's mind. Relentlessly replaying
itself. Over and over. Every step closer by Jewel brought the volume louder in each ear.

Devonika tried shutting out the personal critique. To no avail. She tried railing at the young
girl but stopped mid-sentence. Unable to hear herself think. Beyond the words, though, surfaced
the guilt. And that she couldn't handle. It was the last straw.

"We will meet again," she promised. Then sweeping a vast dark cloak of intrigue around her,
she vanished into the falling gloom.

The Landmovers after checking on their fellow villager in the haystack raced to congratulate
Jewel. Shrugging off the adulation, she scanned the surrounding treetops. A flash of feathers
caught her attention as a large grey and white horned owl swooped into view. Landing at her feet.

"Sageus?" she whispered. Tears filling her eyes.

"Yes," the owl replied. Blinking away her own tears of gratitude. "She's not quite as powerful
as she thinks either. You can't exactly ignore the rules around here."

"What do you mean?" Jewel asked. Fear beginning to surface in her face.

Sageus shook a feathered wing at the grateful Landmovers. Their own faces bore smiles at
deliverance from the wicked queen. It was a temporary truce, but a welcome one. The wise
woman in the owl's form waited for Jewel to notice their relief at her presence.

"In whatever form we assume on the island, there is a prime consideration that must be
fulfilled," Sageus explained. "You must do everything in your power to help others. No matter the
cost."

"If everyone works together for the same goal," Jewel continued the train of thought, "then
Devonika's dream of destruction will be obliterated."

"Exactly so," the owl smiled back.

"She's gone back to her palace," the girl spoke confidently. Reasoning out the dark queen's
retreat haven.

"Yes," Sageus agreed. "And we need rest for ourselves. A fresh start in the morning."

Shaking her head in agreement, Jewel followed the great owl's flight back to the cottage. Two
Landmovers took up watch at the entrance. Promising both warriors a safe sleep.

One of the younger men seemed smitten by the girl's courage. Facing Devonika on her own.
He was called Gabe. Short for Gabriel. His great grandfather had been one of the first settlers in
the area. A strong believer in joining forces with the other Landmovers to carve a niche for
themselves on the far side of the island.

The young lad boasted barely fourteen years. Born of hard work and familial determination to
survive. Yet the same strength brought maturity before its time. A force so necessary to see each
passing year. Banishing at the same instant a few scant moments of childhood unsavored.
Imagination quelled in the wake of harsh reality.

Gabe stood nearly a foot taller than Jewel. Sandy blonde hair almost matching the girl's own
tresses. Only shorter. He was muscular. Or as much of a teen hunk as fourteen years could make
him. Still he remained unaffected. Sincere. Patient. Willing to do anything to ensure her safety.

She brushed by him smiling. He returned the compliment. Evidently her facial disfigurement
didn't matter to him. He saw past it to her inner beauty. For that she was grateful.

Joining Sageus in front of a small fireplace, the two warriors rested comfortably enough till
daybreak. At dawn other villagers invited them to a light breakfast before their departure. No one
assumed Sageus' appetite had varied. Offering small cooked eggs with sausages and toast to both
travelers. Jewel ate voraciously. Glad for the first familiar meal she'd eaten in her travels. Sageus
picked absently at her food as the girl dove in with a healthy vigor.

"Aren't you going to eat?" Jewel asked. Noticing the lack of concern by her companion.

"I'll be fine," Sageus answered her. "Remember, we must adapt to what life changes we
embrace."

"Right," the girl agreed. Finishing off a second heaping plate of cooked eggs. "I'll never

understand why my friends back home …"

She paused. A tear catching her unaware and she brushed it away.

"Your friends back home, what?" the owl asked. Then noted the sudden look of sadness cross

Jewel's face. "Come, warrior. Don't let the past overwhelm you. There's a lot to be said for the
future."

"Teach me!" the girl whispered. "Show me how to keep the past in place."

Sageus hooted loudly. Ruffling her feathers forcefully.

"My dear girl," the disguised wise woman continued. "If I knew that, I'd truly be wise."

Jewel set a small handcarved wooden goblet down. Its steaming liquid, similar to tea, splashed
gently from side to side around the rim.

Sageus nodded toward the visual phenomenon. Indicating she wanted the girl's attention
focused on it for a moment.

"Do you see how the grog swirls from one area of the cup to another?"

Jewel nodded as the owl continued.

"That is the way of life," Sageus pointed out. "Balance is achieved in understanding. Surface
and depth of the liquid contain exactly the same density. There is no heavier or lighter areas to
consider. It's all the same. Contained within yourself are exactly similar levels of consciousness.
They blend into each other. And are contained in the same vessel. Life can move you from side to
side. Up and down. Backward and forward. This sloshes consciousness around. Bringing various
levels of the liquid to its surface. None are greater or lesser than the whole. Never consider
memories more important than applying their lessons to help others."

"Thank you," Jewel replied, patting the owl's back reassuringly. "I can handle remembrances
now."

"You must," the owl returned. "For what lies in the future."

Sageus head suddenly snapped around. Hearing approaching footsteps from outside. A solid
knock at the door drew both warriors' attention.

"What now?" the girl asked.

Before Sageus could form her reply, a mighty shove forced the door from its hinges. Two
giant fingers pushed the wall inward as the thatched roof blew away in a single puff of wind.

A warning shout from Gabe sounded overhead. Jewel swiftly noted the guard's helpless state.
He was clutched tightly in the other hand of a tremendous giant Cyclops.

Chapter Seventeen

Jason beat his fins furiously against the beckoning whirlpool. The Karmen's final thrust had
shoved him securely into a no-win situation. Resistance meant fighting the monster on its own
terms. Underwater. Without Teathergund.

Succumbing to the whirlpool meant certain destruction. Lost forever in the downward
spiralling water. The Lady of the Mist's commanding voice echoed once more in his mind. Even
with the hammer's magic there was only control over earth, wind and fire. The element he most
feared now became his biggest enemy. More than the Karmen's rear assault.

With studied effort, Jason maneuvered himself around the outer rim of the endless watery
chasm. Glancing downward, the boy fish steeled his resolve the best he could. Then threw himself
outward. Into the center of the whirlpool.

A thunderous roar sounded behind him as the Karmen realized what was happening. Reaching
for him through the suction, Jason felt a tentacle brush his side. But the slight impact served only
to mire the young fish even more securely in the inner rim of the underwater threat.

Relinquishing his prey in disgust, the Karmen vanished. Swimming speedily back to the
surface. Satisfied the watery vortex would eventually claim its victim.

With the Karmen's disappearance, Jason's attention focused entirely on the huge tornado of
water surrounding him. This wasn't the calming effect he'd experienced moments before. Seeing
his parents reflected beneath the water's surface. This was sheer terror. And he was caught in its
clutches. Emotional fear swept through him as he considered the inevitable outcome. He would
not survive. There would be no reunion with his family. No happy return to normal life. None of
the things that made him happy would ever be his again.

A horrible despair settled on his heart. Fearing the worst kept his decision-making abilities
frozen. Of no apparent use in escaping the underwater prison. Tired from the mental grappling
match and exhausted from fighting the torrential currents sweeping him along, Jason relaxed.
Giving in to the water's continual spiralling motion. He began to spin, end over end, into the
depths of the whirlpool.

Closing his thoughts entirely to outside stimuli, he seemed to hear a far off sound. Faint at
first, then increasing in intensity. A mellifluous blending of tone and melody. Lifting his thoughts
to a higher plane of reality. At the same time, rescuing him from the blackest, bleakest despair
he'd ever felt before.

Then he felt a lifting motion begin. Stabilizing him in the water. Negating all the flurry of
motion emanating from the whirlpool. He began to rise. Inches at first. Then feet followed. Finally
separating from the watery tornado altogether. He was free. But it didn't stop there. The boy fish
continued his ascent to the surface at a steady pace. Depressurizing gradually. Finally able to get
his bearings.

The melody grew to fill every inch of his being. He thought of wandering through fields of
wheat. Softly bending in a summer wind. Miles of clouds overhead. White. Fluffy. Giving vent to
everyone's imagination of what they looked like against a background of clear blue sky. Sunshine
warmly freed to run in any direction. Never bound to earthly restraints. It must be wonderful to be
a cloud, Jason thought. Then he surfaced. Bobbing playfully along the edge of the water. Aware

of his two friends posted at the shoreline.

Pipercall continued playing on Windwood. The instrument's call seemed to assure Jason's
return in a matter of moments. Farina, on the other hand, kept darting back and forth. Out over
the water. Then, returning to shore's edge. Unwilling to break whatever musical spell Pipercall
was casting on the water. Still concerned over the boy's safety in returning to dry land, she
mentally ran through all of her magic. Desperate to find a counter chant. To reverse whatever evil
had cast the boy into his watery form.

"I've got it!" she cried. "Bring him in, Pipercall. I can change him back."

Just then, however, a sudden occurrence drew all breath from the musical wizard. Stilling the
sound of rescue echoing from Windwood. Jason at the surface had been spotted by a low flying
pelican. Scooped swiftly up, the boy fish barely had time to consider his fate as the bird's mouth
closed over him.

Silently gasping for breath, he watched the world outside vanish. He was now helpless bait.
Food for a pelican's dinner. Yet the bird didn't swallow. Jason's scales remained wet. Moist.
Allowing life-giving oxygen to flood his lungs for a few more moments. With any luck he figured
on losing consciousness before the end came.

He felt the pelican taking higher flight. A strange sensation of weightlessness swept over him
in the very jaws of destruction. Then a swoop or two registered before a jar-filled landing. He
wasn't to be the bird's evening meal after all. As the bill opened once more, Jason could finally see
his destination. A huge nest perched on the side of a cliff.

The bird dropped him beside two rather large eggs. Cream colored and definitely ready to
hatch. His labored breathing began shallowing out. He could no longer feel his fins. A misty glaze
started filming over his eyes. Alone, he wished with all his might for one last chance to see his
family. Glancing upward toward the sky, he saw a familiar face staring down at him. His father's
voice boomed gladly in his ears.

"Jason, what are you doing out here in the woods?"

His mother's arms grasped him gently as both parents helped the boy to his feet.

"We were so concerned!" she cried, her eyes filling with tears. "We've been searching for
days."

Stretching wearily, Jason realized his former fish appearance was gone. He had arms. Legs.
His entire body had returned.

Clutching tightly to his father's hand, he began relating all the amazing things that had
happened since finding the bell. His mother's eyes widened in shock as he told them about the first
meeting with the lion.

"There are no lions here, son," she insisted. "You must have fallen and hit your head."

"No problem," Jason's father replied. "I noticed a small clinic in the last town we passed
through. Only take about fifteen minutes to run back that way."

The boy stared back in disbelief. They didn't believe a word he'd said.

"Dad," he insisted. "Mom, you've got to listen to me. There's a box with a bell in it,
somewhere around here."

Neither parent listened. Apparently intent only for his safety. Not some fabrication like the
lion story he'd just concocted.

"Son," his father began guiding him back to the campsite. "What happened to Jewel?"

"Yes, dear," his mother chimed in. "Where is she? Her parents are frantic with worry."

Jason managed to struggle from his father's grasp for a moment. Running back to the edge of
the clearing where the box was originally hidden. It lay partially exposed in the tall field of grass.

"Here it is!" he yelled. "The bell's still in it."

Gently opening the wooden cover, he glanced inside. The blue bell lay nestled in the plush
velvet interior. With a complete folded set of instructions. Jason drew in a gasp for breath as he
realized the importance of handling the page with care this time.

"Come on, son!" his father called. "We need to get you to the clinic as quickly as possible."

"I'm not going anywhere," Jason replied defiantly. "Until I straighten things out in the Land of
Remote. Too many people are depending on me there. I have to fight Devonika. Set peace in
motion for the island."

He opened the familiar instructions. Studying the final part of the inscription with deep
interest. "What is it, son?" his father asked. Reaching for the page. Only to have it crumble in his
hands. "What did it say?"

"Dad, no!" Jason screamed. Anger flooding over him as the wind sent the paper shreds flying
in all directions.

"What did it say?" the deep voice boomed again.

The question remained unanswered. Jason's vision blurred once. Then twice more. Finally
clearing to confront the giant form of the Karmen stretching from earth to sky. Jason had indeed
resumed his boyhood form. But there was no cliff. No pelican. Only the shore at water's edge,
where he'd stooped moments before to call his parents through a watery reflection.

"YOU WICKED BEAST!" the boy champion roared, giving full vent to his emotions. Every
fiber of his body tensed against the horrible trick the monster had played. Prying. Probing every
memory to bend and twist it into use against him. "I'LL DESTROY YOU ONCE AND FOR
ALL!"

The Karmen looked down wonderingly at the small figure below. Its expression changed
radically in an instant. From mere amusement at the empty threat to a vicious rage against such an
inferior creature daring a confrontation as an equal.

Before another thought passed through the sky-high creature's mind, however, Jason reacted.
Turning his head and narrowing his thoughts to a single purpose. He must have Teathergund in
hand. The weapon stood more than fifty feet away beside the dimly lit fire. Still smoldering in the
early morning air. Concentrating on retrieving the hammer, and never giving its acquisition a
second thought, he stretched forth his hand. The weapon complied with its call to action. Flying
through the air, straight into Jason's grip.

"Evil's done…time to run!" the boy's thin-lipped smile barked back.

Whirling Teathergund overhead, he let it fly into the air. Obeying the circular motion, the

hammer continued an upward arch, rotating around the Karmen's immense figure. Achieving its
orbit, the hammer then began gyrating like a propeller, increasing its speed. A steady drone filled
the air as it sliced directly into the creature's head. Splitting the monster in two. Right down the
middle. A tremendous groan of agony split the heavens as both sides of the creature separated.
Falling with a mighty crash into the lake.

Nodding his head with satisfaction, Jason knelt once more to gaze into the lake's depths.
Making sure there was no final escape for the Karmen. The drone of the hammer's force had
diminished to a thin buzzing about the boy's ears. Annoyed, he slapped absently at the sound.
Narrowly missing Farina. The hovering flyscout shrieked in his ear.

"Hey! What's the big idea?" she asked, circling off to a safer standpoint.

Totally surprised, Jason turned and felt a rush of recognition returning to him. It was still early
morning and the campsite hadn't changed in the space of his adventure and confrontation.

"I had a battle with the Karmen again," he tried explaining.

"I bet you did," Farina agreed. Believing the look of bewilderment sweeping over the young
boy's face. "And judging from your reaction just now…I think you probably won."

"It didn't happen," Jason whispered sheepishly. "None of it…"

""Who's to say?" Pipercall replied, stepping from the trees and checking the shoreline. "We
can't be sure the creature's demise is certain."

"But I already destroyed it," Jason insisted. "I sent it into the earth and closed the ground
behind."

"Two things I should have warned you about," the musical wizard patted the boy's shoulder
reassuringly. He pointed to the sparkling waves lapping against the sand. "This is no ordinary
water. It's the Lake of Forget. Even touching the surface can have dire consequences. That's why
we must find a way around it, instead of going across."

"Understood," the boy champion acknowledged. "And the other thing?"

"Nothing ever perishes on this island," Pipercall explained. "We merely change form to higher
or lower levels. Depending on the lessons to be learned from each."

"That's incredible," Jason replied. Then a cold chill passed through him as the words sank into
his understanding. He had just lived through the experience. He wasn't clear on whether the
Karmen had somehow infiltrated his memories. Or the Lake of Forget had spawned his deepest
longing for home into subconscious reality. But in the very depths of his heart, he now knew his
mission to destroy Devonika and restore peace to the island was his reason for continuing the
quest.

The Lake of Forget had forced him to discard all irrelevant memories for a very brief period.
And in that time, he'd managed to glimpse for an instant, the one redeeming factor of the whole
experience. He'd seen the entire inscription for the bell. Before it crumbled and blew from his
grasp. He knew the words to begin the journey home. But it wouldn't be without Jewel. And
somewhere, in some form, she had to be alive.

Chapter Eighteen

Gabe yelled helplessly from thirty feet in the air. There was no escape for him. A fall from that
height would seriously injure the young guard. Yet he didn't seem to be the main focus of the
Cyclops' visit. Jewel's sudden appearance below served to calm the monstrosity. Though
considered enemies by the Cyclopean tribe, Gabe wondered how far back the animosity stretched.
Landmovers were certainly intruders to the area. Dissatisfied with any type of static existence.
Continually on the move. Always searching for brighter horizons. Greener pastures. A better way
of life.

But at what cost? Total disregard for anyone who stood in the way? Questions flooded Gabe's
mind as he searched for escape. A sudden roar from the Cyclops brought all resistance to a halt.

"I will trade you for her," the giant said decidedly. "I was sent for her. It was foretold."

"Then you're not from Devonika," Sageus replied. Swooping to a perch beside Gabe in the
hand of the monster.

A single eye bore down on the great horned owl. Housing the wise woman inside a flurry of
black and grey feathers. The Cyclops pondered how a voice could have sprung from the tongue of
such an animal. Then shrugged his massive shoulders. Bewildered by the strangeness. Yet
intrigued with the expressed intelligence.

"A logical conclusion," the Cyclops intoned. "But really none at all from a bird."

"You see form not substance," Sageus reminded him. "That's why you've remained at odds
with your neighbors all these years."

"Well spoken," Jewel whispered to herself.

The initial fear that ran through her for both friends was dissipating. The Cyclops stood
astounded. Almost frightened by the concept. He had never considered anything from someone
else's viewpoint. It seemed very useful to consider other people's feelings and ideas.

"You would be neighbors?" the Cyclops asked. His forehead scrunched together. Seeming to
fight a battle within himself. "You seized our land. Made us seek another home."

"Is that what you believe?" Gabe asked wonderingly.

"You drove us from our homes," the one-eyed gargantuan continued. "We had nowhere left
to settle. Until Stonelight found new caves. Beside the shore."

Jewel's eyes began glowing in anticipation. They had almost completed a cross-island trek
from one side to the other. She wondered if Jason had made it before them. Told the giant about
her and stirred him into action.

"Sir!" Jewel called upward. Hoping to get more facts from the creature before forming a plan
of action. "Can you hear me?"

"Yes, little one," the Cyclops answered calmly. "I hear you clearly. Hidden in the forest."

The young girl smiled. Perhaps Sageus had found common ground for them to continue. The
Cyclops set Gabe and Sageus aside. On a tree branch twenty feet from ground level. Then focused
entirely on the girl. There was interest in her small features. Obviously marred by circumstance,
pure honesty reflected from her face.

"What is Stonelight?" she asked, trying to keep the eagerness from her voice.

"Come," the Cyclops replied, picking her up. "I will show you."

Sageus fluttered her wings in warning. Uselessly. The owl knew she couldn't oppose the
Cyclops' plan. Gabe grabbed the side of the tree trunk. Beginning a quick descent from the high
perch.

"You'll never find them," Sageus noted somberly. Eyeing the departing figures in the distance.
"By the time you reach the ground, they will be far from here. Almost to the shore."

"It's not far," Gabe fired back. "And I will find them."

"I'll keep track of your progress," the owl promised. "And theirs."

She flew swiftly after their friend. Hoping to keep the Cyclops in sight. Soaring skillfully over
the highest treetops, the wise woman carefully kept a safe distance. Never venturing nearer than
several hundred yards.

The giant moved in deep, purposeful strides. Directly toward a distant roar from the shoreline.
It would take the better part of an hour to reach the sandy beach. Crashing waves grew louder
with their approach. As the miles unfolded below her wings, Sageus worried for the girl's safety.

Meanwhile, Gabe lost no time in regaining the ground below. He briefly returned to the
village. Gathering his hunting gear before eluding neighbors and friends. Wanting to question him.
But he couldn't wait another minute. Each passing second put the girl and her abductor another
trail farther away. The quest for rescue was his alone. The young guard would not ask for
volunteers. Especially when he might not return.

The idea of living as neighbors, planted in the Cyclops' mind, might be enough to ensure
Jewel's safety. For the moment. But there was no way of knowing what the strange Stonelight
might decree. If all Cyclops held it as the highest authority, Jewel's life might hinge on a single
word from its counsel. He had to find her. Rescue her. No matter what the odds.

Jewel, unaware of her rescuer's intentions, concentrated solely on the vista speeding by with
the Cyclops' every step. His giant hand cradled her gently against the impact of each foorprint
crushing foliage into rocky paths. Tree limbs bursting with colorful petals got swept aside.
Whirling into rainbow-like configurations among the dark green backdrop of leaves.

Sageus, circling above, dropped once in a downdraft, but swiftly managed to regain altitude.
Warmer sea winds sending the wise owl soaring loftily back to her higher vantage point.

The captured girl reasoned there was no point in calling for help. She noted, glancing back,
Sageus' intense pursuit. Yet realized the extreme danger inherent in any rescue attempt. There
was nothing to be done until the Cyclops reached his destination.

The giant hadn't attempted any conversation with her since leaving the village. Deeming better
wisdom in silence, Jewel said nothing. Yet his labored breathing in eluding any pursuers bore
down against her skin like a hot desert wind. Chapping what was left of her face in its wake. She
buried herself in the beast's palm. Unwilling to consider the final damage to her features.

Feeling the frightened girl's tears, the Cyclops paused in his flight. He bent his head of thick
dark hair for her to stem the moisture-filled tirade. Gratefully, she dried her tears on it.

"Thank you," she whispered.

"No problem, little one," he replied. "I know Stonelight will find a way to restore your outer
beauty. There is much to learn from such wisdom."

Jewel's mind reeled from the giant's compassion. How could such consideration be extended
from so savage a race of creatures? Then she recalled Sageus' advice to the Cyclops. Mentally
chiding herself in forgetting form over substance.

"Even if Stonelight doesn't know and can't help," she continued. "I appreciate your concern."

"Thinking isn't doing," the Cyclops pointed out. "Stonelight knows which is which."

"Which is what?" Jewel asked, innocently enough.

"No," the one-eyed giant replied. "Which is which."

He looked down at the strong-minded girl in his hand. Then grinned. She smiled back. Aware

of the healing power in their play on words. A vital bond slowly forming between the two.

"We're almost there," the Cyclops admitted as he stopped at the foot of a large hill.

"And I don't even know your name," the girl mentioned quietly.

"I am Caphus," the Cyclops replied. "Lead scout for our entire tribe."

"Kay…fus…" she tried sounding out the name phonetically. Liking the solid sound of the

giant's name. It suited him. Then decided on telling him her own. "My name's Jewel."

"I know," he admitted. "Your coming was foretold. I was sent…"

"Let's not get into that right now," the girl begged him. "I don't think I can handle all that

responsibility."

"You will," Caphus assured her. "When you meet the others."

A sudden chill ran down the youngster's spine. She was about to see the hidden homes of the

gargantuans. Meet Stonelight. Perhaps regain her lost beauty. At any other time, all of it would
have raised her hopes. Something darker began filling her mind. Crushing all opposition.

"Who is Stonelight?" she suddenly blurted out. "What's he like? Is he big? Small?"

Jewel found herself rattling off at least a dozen questions from sheer nervousness. Her
newfound camaraderie with Caphus stopped just short of completely trusting him. After all, he
had abducted her. And the physical disparity between them in size did little to alleviate the young
girl's unease.

"Stonelight isn't a person," the one-eyed behemoth explained cautiously. "It lives in water."

His description paused as they cleared the final hill before the shoreline. Jewel glanced quickly
down the opposite side as sea green waves rolled gently against a sparkling sandy beach. A bit
more barren than the island's other side, she noted, lacking trees or any type of small vegetation.
Still, its own unique beauty fascinated her as her view ran the length of foaming tides in the
distance.

Then, at the very edge of a small inlet, Jewel saw an enormous grey object nestled in the
water. Cooling curtains of water spray drenched it from every angle. Securely anchored under a
small waterfall that cascaded in rivulets on the face of the object.

At first, the young girl's eyes were slightly blinded by sunlight dancing through the mist

continually rising over the scene. But gradually growing accustomed to the harsh glare, she noted
the form fit no known animal. Living or dead. And from so great a distance there was no way to
determine if a threatening or promising welcome lay in store.

"That's Stonelight," she whispered to herself. "It's not even alive."

A dull heartache began throbbing in her chest. The excitement of having her features restored
by the imagined benefactor's powers had run a sliver of hope through Jewel's mind. It now
vanished as swiftly as a hummingbird's trail.

The Cyclops glanced down at her as single teardrops fell from both of the girl's sky blue eyes.
He sensed her anticipation vanishing. Stonelight no longer the promise of restoring her beauty.
Given his visual limitations, Nature had exponentially increased the four senses left to him. Pity
broke into Caphus' mind for the first time. Leaving no page unturned in exploring the depths of
the Cyclops' feelings. Emotions for her safety grew with each step of their descent toward the
shore.

Overhead, Sageus flew unerringly toward Stonelight. Intent on discovering the mystery
surrounding its cold grey surface. Lying water-cooled in the hill's shadow. There was no
mistaking malevolence in the two blinking yellow eyes at the owl's approach. A strange symbol
had been painted on its forehead. Next to a backlit directional pointer. The wise woman had seen
many things in her travels throughout the island. But none as odd as this.

Fluttering through the spray of water engulfing Stonelight, the owl landed carefully on its slick
surface. Immediately the yellow eyes blinked shut. A green indicator light clicked on. Red fiery
numerals lit up on a side panel. Beginning a countdown from twenty three hours, fifty nine
minutes and sixty seconds. Sageus shook her head in disbelief. Whatever secret Stonelight held
inside, they now had less than a day to figure out.

Chapter Nineteen

Pipercall and Farina listened intently as Jason finished relating all of his startling morning
events. Several times the flyscout's shimmering eyelids peeked out from behind a protective shield
of hands over her face. She couldn't bear to think of what the Karmen could be planning for the
rest of them. If the creature had even somehow managed to survive the major battle waged
earlier.

"We don't even know for sure Karmen is following us," the forest flutist pointed out. "the lake
is very unforgiving. It never matters who enters or what the person's troubles may be. All the
water does is cleanse visitors. Especially memories."

The three traveling companions paused for a moment. Understanding the need to steer clear
of the lake. Gently lapping against the shoreline. In other circumstances it might have been fun to
explore the depths of the water's power. But focusing on their mission, Devonika's evil plan,
blotted out all other considerations. And the tiny bit of hope for finding Jewel still alive began
growing in leaps and bounds at the back of Jason's mind.

He wondered if she were traveling the same path. Concentrating on the same goal that drove
them forward. It was almost like their last game of chess together. Except this time they were
both on the same side.

"How much farther is it to get around the lake?" he asked Pipercall.

"Not long now," the woodland musician pointed out. "Going around instead of over the water
probably added two hours to our trip."

"But at least we can recall the journey," the boy replied.

Farina flew slightly ahead then circled back. Determined to keep them together. Separately,
plunging through unknown forest wasn't the wisest course for anyone. As a group, they stood
more chance against all adversaries. Her fear wasn't long in materializing.

A chattering sound suddenly filled the air from several directions. The flyscout's wings froze
momentarily as the sound increased. She fell motionless onto Jason's shoulder. Clinging tightly to
his collar.

"What now?" the boy whispered to Pipercall.

The musician put a finger to his lips. Stressing the value of silence for several moments.
Clicking sounds began reverberating. To Jason it seemed useless noise until he listened closer. It
wasn't staying in one place. The sound moved. And as it moved, a distinctive marching military
tone took the place of any friendly encounter. Heading nearer by the moment.

Pipercall peered through a break in the trees. Then drew back quickly. Eyes narrowing to slits
as he indicated a swift retreat as their only immediate choice.

Jason shook his head stubbornly. No danger thus far had been able to withstand a frontal
assault. Direct. To the point. Fleeing or running from peril wasn't an option for him.

Farina, still hiding under the boy's collar, begged him in whispers to reconsider. To no avail.
He pressed ahead of the forest musician. Eager to see the enemy.

Pushing aside the foliage, he gained a bird's eye view of the scene. Flying spiders covered

every available inch of ground in the small valley ahead. Not even a speck of grass escaped the
insects' notice at feeding time.

A small inkling of appetite that had crept from his stomach to mind swiftly vanished. The
flying creatures were feeding on a beast resembling a giant roach in life. Jason quickly refocused
his attention to a rather large cavern no more than twenty feet back from a huge waterfall.
Resultant spray off the cascading water displayed a continually changing rainbow of colors. And a
particularly bright circular orb smack in the middle. It glistened, lying almost hidden in the
forceful curtain of water.

"What's that?" he asked, pointing at the shiny round mystery.

"I call it a travel disk," Pipercall whispered back. "If you reach them in time when they
materialize, you can journey from one point to another on the island."

"Cool," the boy admitted, watching the ball of light twist and turn in mid-air.

"How did you know it could be done?" Farina asked, regaining a bit of her composure.

Pipercall nodded back at her. He knew flyscouts were always suspicious. It wouldn't have
mattered if generations of her people had been welcomed with open arms all over the island. Their
basic instinct for survival kept them wary. At critical keenness. A truce between reasoning and
emotion in one flyscout was a very rare combination. He wasn't about to jeopardize the group's
new-found trust in each other by dodging any part of her query.

There were drawbacks in disclosing the information. Up until now, he had been the only one
using the location transports. Giving flyscouts the same opportunity could prove fruitful or
disastrous for them. Still, since he didn't fully understand the method used by the orb, a word of
caution would definitely need to be included in the explanation.

"I have used the orbs," the flutist replied finally. "That's how I happened upon Jason in his
battle with Karmen."

"I thought your flute brought you," the boy pointed out quickly. "I heard music playing before
you appeared in the flash of light."

"Light is normally faster than sound," Pipercall agreed. "That's why in storms on the island we
see lightning before rolling thunder. But are you sure you heard music before the curtain of light
opened?"

Jason thoughtfully scratched his thick brown hair. Glancing sideways at Farina. She, in turn,
squinched her eyes tightly before confirming the memory.

"Yes," she decided. "It was exactly that way."

"Then something's wrong," the musician concluded. "It may well be a small discrepancy. But
great discoveries often hinge on just such things."

"I think we'd better face these spiders first," the boy champion replied, drawing attention back
to their imminent danger. "Then get to the travel disk."

"The spiders are no problem," Pipercall said, smiling back." I've just the melody for them."

Instantly, a lively reel filled the air. Marching sounds stopped at once. A strange silence
hovered over the trio. They seemed frozen to the ground as hundreds of menacing spiders
dropped from low overhanging tree branches. Thousands more began falling in line with the initial

onslaught.

The flutist moved off. Surrounded on every side by the hideous insects. Farina shuddered.
Hiding once again under Jason's collar. There was no reason discussing strategy at this point. In
her opinion Pipercall was more than welcome to lead the gruesome monsters anywhere he chose.

Like some type of shepherd, the forest musician headed steadily to the cliff's edge overlooking
the valley. Continuing the lively song, he watched as the spiders flung themselves into space.
Their wings frozen in place by the music. Landing below in the midst of the feeding frenzy already
in full swing. The effect was like baiting a shark to attack in open water. The spiders fell on each
other. Gnawing. Gnashing. Completely oblivious to the three travelers.

"Now," Jason ordered, moving quickly. "We need to reach the cavern before they turn on us."

"Not much chance of that," Farina replied, pointing to the tangled mess of wings, legs and
insect bodies littering the landscape. "They're all finished with each other. Nobody's moving."

The boy blinked in disbelief. Pipercall ended the reel and placed Windwood back in its worn
leather pouch. Slyly, he studied the scene in front of him. All of the flying spiders had been
demolished.

"Not a bad tune," the musician noted. "We've nothing to fear from the ones that are here."

"There's more?" Jason asked with the calmest demeanor he could muster.

Pipercall nodded. There was no point in deceiving anyone. They had to be prepared for a still
greater onslaught of the detested species.

"I'm not a betting man, you understand," the forest piper continued. "But I'd lay pretty good
odds in favor of this being a type of nursery. Someplace the older ones drop off their children
before joining the daily quest for food."

"So where exactly does that leave us?" the flyscout interrupted. "When the others return, we'll
be the main course. Right?"

Jason's eyes narrowed to slits. Hurriedly scanning the horizon. There was no sign of any flying
spiders for miles.

"Let's check the cave," he pointed to the cavern. "Maybe our answer's inside."

Pipercall kept a steady gaze on the opening. He wasn't especially fond of venturing into the
dark recesses. But he realized staying where they were left them open targets. For whatever
retribution might spring up over the destruction of the spiders.

"Maybe so," the musician finally agreed.

"Or we could be heading into an even bigger group of them," Farina warned. "They like big
dark places."

"You're welcome to scout ahead," the boy offered an invitation. He waited for her reaction.
The tension breaker worked. She grinned slightly at first. Then broke into one of her brightest
smiles.

"I think we ought to explore it together," the flyscout replied. Buzzing around both of her
companions. "It's only fair since I saw it first."

"You saw it first?" Jason returned. "Let me tell you something…"

Pipercall silently cut them both short. Motioning toward the cave's mouth, he crouched.
Hurriedly, the others joined him in their half-hidden lookout.

"What's wrong?" the boy asked, whispering in the flutist's ear. "Did you see something?"

"Wait and see," the musician replied in hushed tones. "I think we have company at the cave's
mouth."

Together they sat silently for several moments. Then a gasp escaped Farina. A flutter of giant
wings brought the slimy airborne predator they'd been watching directly toward them.

"Frygund!" the flyscout shrieked. Diving for cover among overgrown tree roots.

Jason's split-second sighting of the creature yielded no call for capability. It shot forward at a
cheetah's speed. Slick fangs bared. Wolf mouth open. Howling. A fierce attack cry.

Pipercall barrelled into the boy's side. Rolling into the underbrush with him. Unfazed by the
fall, the forest flutist regained his feet, drawing forth Windwood. Swiftly preparing to play the
winged beast back to the cave.

Before he drew the first note, Frygund roared forth a hideous battle cry. Swooping in front of
Pipercall. Knocking Windwood off into denser foliage. Unprotected, the musician glanced
helplessly at his attacker. Surgical-sharp fangs sank fiercely into the flutist's head. Once. Twice.
Then with increasing intensity until the musician slumped unconscious to the forest floor. Farina's
scream of fright fading into the growing darkness around him.

Chapter Twenty

Sweat poured from his brow as Gabe struggled through dense undergrowth. Sandy-blonde
wisps of wet hair clung tightly to his head. Emerald green eyes flashing at the thought of Jewel
still in the grip of the Cyclops.

He had valiantly managed to cover eight miles. Realizing his arrival at the shoreline would be
only half the battle for rescue. There was no way to maintain the arduous journey and remain
charged for confrontation. The fourteen-year-old's young muscles ached for rest.

Heaving a sigh of remorse, he settled himself for a moment on a tree stump. Yet, just as he
thought about closing his eyes, Sageus soared into view. Alighting on a nearby branch.

"You must hurry!" she cried. "We're running out of time."

"I will try," Gabe promised, unsteadily regaining his feet. "I've gone many miles already. I just
stopped to rest."

The wise woman, trapped in owl form, nodded. Totally comprehending his state of
exhaustion.

"I know you never asked for the quest," she admitted. "But you're the only hope Jewel can
count on. Her life now depends on a machine the Cyclops don't understand."

Gabe's fire of gallantry burned hot at hearing the new revelation. If the giant creatures based
every decision on such foolishness, then they deserved no mercy from him. His vengeance would
be swift. Justified. Jewel must be freed.

"How close are we, Sageus?" he asked. Valiantly summoning the last of his reserve strength.
"Can we reach her in time?"

"Good questions, young warrior," the owl replied. "Your first one is easy for we're only three
miles to the shore from here."

She paused. Pondering his second question. There must be a way to help him. He could never
finish the quest without some type of respite.

"Your other inquiry," she continued, "depends entirely on fate and the hand it deals you."

"Let's go!" Gabe insisted. His enthusiasm returning.

"Wait!" Sageus called after him. "You can't face the Cyclops with no energy."

The young warrior looked up at his guide. He could feel concern emanating from her wide
eyes. She, in turn, kept her thoughts racing to find a solution.

"This path is the only way I know to get from here to there," he explained. "It's the best I can
do."

"Yes," she replied, blinking her large owl eyes in solemn agreement. "But not the best I can
do."

Ruffling herself, Sageus twisted on the overhead branch. Shaking a number of feathers loose
onto the ground below. Then circling overhead, she began chanting quietly.

Alone, apart, no help can start
Faint hope in every feather
Together, though, their help can grow
Balloon strength for any weather

Instantly, the feathers connected. Interweaving with each other. Forming a solid mass that
seemed to multiply until a giant balloon formed. The owl motioned its direction toward Gabe.

"Grab hold," Sageus instructed. "And don't let go. There's no time to waste. You must reach
Jewel within the day or all is lost."

Gratefully, the Landmover warrior grabbed the airborne transport and felt himself lifted gently
off the ground. Low hanging clouds drifted around him as he soared straight up.

"How do I go forward?" he yelled. The take-off point had shrunk to a small dot below his
feet.

"Tilt it in the direction you wish to travel," the owl replied, flying alongside.

"And do we really only have a day for rescuing Jewel?" the young man asked. Concerned
more for the girl's safety than his own as he soared swiftly along through the sky.

"The Cyclops depend on a device named Stonelight," Sageus fired back. "It's a dangerous
machine with an activated timer running on it."

Gabe nodded his understanding. He had less than twenty-four hours to locate the girl, plan a
rescue and escape the Cyclops. Time would be no friend to him over the next several hours.

Pondering his predicament, the young man never noticed how thick and menacing the
surrounding clouds had grown. Suddenly a loud clap of thunder knocked him from his reverie. A
stiff wind sprang up. Blowing the feather balloon apart. Desperately clutching thin air, he plunged
downward at a sickening rate of speed. Barely managing to get a yell for help out over the
growing din of the thunderstorm.

Sageus, taken unaware, only managed to slow his descent with a well-placed cushion of leaves
below. Even with the soft landing, Gabe hit solidly. Knocking the wind from his lungs. Gasping,
he sat up. Trying to restore his automatic breathing rhythm.

Meanwhile, Sageus had soared higher. Seeking familiar air currents to stay aloft. There were
none to be found. Warm and cold clashed together. Forcing the owl to ground level.

The young Landmover quickly motioned for her to join him. Safety in the guise of a small
cave beckoned. No more than ten feet away. Rain pelted both travelers unmercifully as they
ducked inside.

As their eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, Gabe carefully surveyed their surroundings. He
noticed a slight indentation along one corner of a passageway. Hewn in the rock wall. A
cylindrical object, which closely resembled a perfect orb began glowing at his approach.

"Don't touch anything," Sageus warned. "I've got enough to deal with as it is."

"Don't worry," he assured her. "The lightning from outside makes this thing shine."

The owl flew to a better vantage point higher up. Scrutinizing the object. Hope against hope
that the device could somehow protect them. It didn't impress her. The orb probably functioned

on some type of internal power supply. Hidden in the cave, away from outside exposure, light
couldn't be a source of energy. She wondered at its function. An answer quickly surfaced.

Low rumblings filled the cavern as a fierce, snake-like bolt of lightning shot blindingly around
her. Stunned, losing her grip, the great horned owl fell. Landing hard against the back wall.

Sageus shook her head forcefully. Trying to clear thoughts and vision from the intruding force
of the storm. Sheets of rain pummelled the stricken animal as she struggled to rise.

"Gabe!" she called weakly. "Help me!"

The boy was nowhere to be seen. Had he abandoned her? She banished the idea quickly from
her head. He was too loyal. Caught up in the bitter quest to rescue the girl.

A sudden slight flicker from the orb drew her attention. The glow had all but subsided.
Bringing it back to a state of dark burnished gold. Where could the Landmover have gone? There
was only one entrance to the cave. Both she and the boy had found the deeper recesses safer.
Away from the main thrust of the storm. Until he'd vanished.

Thoughts of Devonika sprang to mind. Could she have taken him back to her palace in the
north? No, Sageus concluded to herself. The boy would have been useless without Jewel. Not
knowing what purpose the girl held in Devonika's scheme, a guess meant nothing.

Another crack of lightning sent dark billowing smoke across the cave's mouth. Whatever the
bolt had hit couldn't have survived. A moment of silence echoed eerily in the gloom. Then, a
steady rumbling overhead grew to thunderous proportions. Rolling the helpless owl backward as
stones supporting the cave entrance crumbled away. Falling one on another until the dark fury of
the storm was obliterated. Sealing shut any semblance of an opening.

Sageus held her breath as dust, dirt and residual rockslides fell to the floor of the cavern.
Blinking back tears of despair, she managed to regain her feet. Flapping her wings wildly to
counteract the cloud of earth swirling in all directions.

Several moments passed before silence reigned again. Then the owl skittered along the dirt to
survey the damage. Huge boulders blocked any hope of getting back to familiar surroundings.
Tears welled up in both of the owl's oversized eyes. Regret flooded over her, realizing she'd never
see Jewel again.

"Come now, it's not that bad!" a voice sounded behind her.

Spinning around, she saw a faint form in the darkness. A small man. No more than five foot
two feet high. With thin-rimmed glasses and a totally unruly head of white hair.

"Who are you?" the wise woman asked hopefully.

"People call me a lot of things," the man replied. "But my real name is Bernard C. Kindgarden.
Sageus heaved a quick sigh of relief. His voice, though initially startling, was one of the warmest
she'd ever heard. There was comfort in his tone. An overwhelming sense of security replaced the
fear fading from her thoughts.

"I'm a professor," he continued. "Though my credentials don't mean much here."

"What do you teach?" she asked quizzically. "I hope it includes geology."

"Afraid not," he replied solemnly. "But I do know another way out of here. Follow me."

"Thought you'd never ask," Sageus grinned back as best she could.

Professor Kindgarden led her back past the orb to a hidden cut-out portion of the stone wall.
Tapping twice in a secret spot opened a wide hole. Together, they descended a long and winding
stairwell that ended in a cavern at least ten times the size of the previous one. Brightly lit by some
strange balloon-sized fixtures.

Rows of wooden workbenches stretched as far as the eye could see. Piled high with what
could only be described as experiments in various testing stages. Totally foreign to anything
Sageus had ever seen.

It reminded her of how she imagined Devonika's castle to be arrayed inside. Whatever else the

professor might be considered, he was certainly industrious in the owl's eyes.

"What is all this?" she asked, glad to be free of the upper cavern.

The professor smiled back knowingly. Sensing high concern in her tone.

"I've been here quite a long time," he began calmly. "Not hiding, mind you. More like keeping
to myself."

"That would be difficult here," Sageus pointed out. "especially on such a small island."

Nodding in agreement, the old man continued. She needed to know everything. Only then
could his true motives be weighed. What he brought to the Land of Remote versus what he'd been
given in return.

"I am a professor of astrophysics. With a very strong interest in anthropology, psychology and
many other studies too numerous to consider," he explained. "But I never expected to wind up
here. Apart from my world … my family … my friends."

"How did you get here?" the owl pressed for an answer. "You didn't just wake up one day and
find yourself here. In the middle of a field on the far side."

"Heaven's no!' the spectacled professor laughed gently. "I was exploring fairly deep water one
afternoon. A huge tidal wave hit my boat broadside. Sent me tumbling end over end. Snapped on
my experimental displacer replacer by mistake and wound up here. I've been up all night many
times trying to figure out exact coordinates for the island. Until I do, the displacer replacer must
never be turned on. I created little gold orbs with the same principle. They get me around the
island quicker. But so far no luck on the big one."

Sageus' beak dropped open. A tight sigh of fear escaped. Before she even formed the words,
Kindgarden knew something was wrong.

"Where did you put the displacer replacer?" the owl asked slowly.

"The Cyclops moved it to a safe place for me," the professor explained. "By the shore. Under
a waterfall."

Feathers almost standing on end, Sageus timidly asked the burning question searing through
her mind.

"What happens if it gets activated accidentally?"

Kindgarden shook his head sadly. Hoping the question was purely theoretical.

"It would simply disappear with no set coordinates," he replied. "And I'd be marooned on this
island forever."

Chapter Twenty-One

Frygund's abrupt attack thew all three travelers off-guard. As Pipercall slumped to the ground,
Jason's concentration drew Teathergund to his hand. Immediately, he swung at the creature.
Unerringly. The hammer's gold head sank deep into the beast's side.

A shriek of anger burst from the animal's lips. It leapt for the boy champion. Missing only by
inches as Jason hurled himself into the air with the hammer of justice. Whirling the weapon like a
helicopter blade, he flew to a higher attack position. Farina twirled swiftly in circles, spinning
earth and branches into a fierce controlled tornado. Then, centering herself inside the wall of fury,
she slung it directly at the fanged monster.

"Don't do it!" Jason yelled from above.

But before his warning could reach her, the Frygund carried out its own attack. Pouncing into
the center of the wind. Snaring the shocked flyscout in its paws. Continuing onward through the
opposite side of the air-borne weapon. Only then pausing to roar a victory call back at Jason.

"Let her go!" he shouted.

At that the boy actually saw a smirk of satisfaction cross the beast's face. With the captured
flyscout firmly in its grasp, Frygund knew the small boy champion would pose no threat.

Jason returned gently to the ground as the whirlwind finished dissipating in front of him. It
was now a standoff. The beast had Farina, but nowhere to run that it couldn't be tracked down.

A sudden crackling noise drew hunter and prey's attention. Sparkling folds of light began
forming behind Frygund. The curtain of displacement opened swiftly. Hurling Gabe to the ground.
Into the midst of battle. Still holding Farina tightly, the beast fled into the changing colors of light.
Just as the curtain closed. Fading away into transparent form. Then vanishing completely.

Jason's look of horror at the flyscout's fate changed quickly to anger at the intruder's
appearance. Now there was no telling where Frygund had fled with Farina.

"How could you give that creature a chance to escape?" he yelled at Gabe.

The new visitor showed no sign of recognizing Jason or his surroundings. Everything was as
foreign to him as the strange cave he'd just left only moments before.

"Hey, I didn't plan this," Gabe fired back. "I was in a cave. There was an orb. I moved it to get
a closer look. Then a flash of lightning hit. Next thing I knew…"

A low moan from Pipercall drew Jason's attention back from the edge of his anger. Rushing to
the flutist's side, he gently lifted his comrade's head. Bruised and greatly battered from Frygund's
attack, the musician weakly motioned for Windwood.

Understanding, the boy champion glanced swiftly around. Gabe knelt to help hold Pipercall
still as Jason rose to search the underbrush.

"What's going on here?" the Landmover asked quietly. "Why were you two fighting that
creature all alone here in the forest?"

The younger boy made no response. Merely continued his search for the treasured instrument.

"I'd like an answer," Gabe replied. His patience wearing thin. "I'm trying to be civil about all

this. But I'm just as lost out here as the both of you. I'd like to get my bearings straight."

Jason turned and shot back a fiery glare at the intruder. It wasn't easy controlling all the
conflicting emotions welling up inside of him. He'd lost Farina for good. Almost lost Pipercall as
well. And now the older boy was trying to take control of a situation he had no business
interfering in.

"I'm trying to find Windwood for him," the tightly-muscled boy explained. "Your answers can
wait."

"Oh, you think so?" Gabe asked, releasing Pipercall's head. Carefully lying him against a soft
carpet of leaves. "I've had about enough of your attitude."

Jason's dark eyes flashed back at the Landmover. There didn't seem any way to prevent

another battle from starting between them. Only this one would be more than words.

"Fight together," Pipercall spoke weakly. "Not against each other."

The words sank into both boys' thoughts. Calming the rising tide of hate in its infancy.

"He's right. Separately we don't stand a chance of finding Frygund," Gabe agreed, stooping to

retrieve the wooden flute from its leaf cover. Handing it to Jason, he extended his other hand in
friendship. "My name's Gabe."

"Friends then. I'm Jason," the younger boy said, taking the offer of peace between them. "Let's
focus on getting my friend back to health."

He handed Windwood over into its master's hands. Which cautiously and lovingly, fingered a
series of well-worn notes. Struggling to summon enough breath to play proved too much for the
musician. He sank back against the cushion of leaves supporting him.

"Rest, Pipercall," Jason pleaded. "Save your strength. You can play later."

"You don't understand," the flutist replied weakly. "If I don't play now … I won't survive."

Gabe's expression quickly changed to wonderment at the mention of the piper's name. He

stood transfixed. Staring intently at the stricken musician.

"You're Pipercall?" he asked in disbelief. "My people followed someone by that name when
they travelled west across the island. But that was over a hundred years ago. You can't be the

same person."

The flutist smiled back. His merry eyes still twinkling despite the calamity facing him.

"I assure you," he said calmly, "we're one and the same. I know your tribe well. They bear

strong features with good hearts. Very caring and giving people."

"And you're held in the same high regard now as then," Gabe assured him. "I never thought I'd
actually meet a legend."

"Whoa, hold on," Jason interrupted. "How can anyone live to be over a hundred years old?

That's impossible."

"Actually," Pipercall continued, "it's closer to four."

"Wait a minute," the younger boy champion began again. "Who are you really?"

The forest flutist sighed. Wincing at a stray pain shooting through his head. The Frygund's

fangs had sunk deeper than he'd expected. He didn't have time for lengthy explanations.

"I will tell you all about myself later," Pipercall promised. "But first, I must play. The
Guardian is the only one who can save me now."

"Who's the Guardian?" Jason asked. Trying to understand the strange revelations.

"Wait," Gabe placed his hand on Jason's shoulder. "He will die without the Guardian's help.
Let him call."

Silently, both boys watched as Pipercall began to play. A strange other-world melody filled
the air. Sad, yet hopeful. Sustained high notes at the very end. As if pleading to be heard over
everyday sounds of life. Struggling to beg aid in the deepest need to survive.

An ice blue glow shimmered suddenly around the flutist. He smiled. Comfort filling every fiber
of his being. There was no pain. No discomfort. The blue sheen turned a vibrant pink. Then a soft,
translucent white. A bright golden circle horizontally encompassed the musician. Spinning faster
and faster. Pipercall's lips moved noiselessly. As if talking to some unseen person within the circle
of light.

Jason tried to step closer by a foot. Gabe held him back. The younger boy champion nodded
in agreement with the decision. Neither could help the forest flutist in his struggle for healing.
Both needed to respect the connection Pipercall had with a higher power.

Faint sounds of wind chimes filled the air as the Guardian moved from Pipercall toward the
boys. Standing completely still, they waited for the chance to meet the Guardian on whatever
terms were available.

Instantly, the globe of light moved to within hearing distance. Seconds seemed to pass as
hours before they heard the Guardian addressing them. Its tones weren't totally audible at first.
Sounding masculine and feminine at the same time. A distinction of gender that wasn't important.
They decided the power of conversation from its form was impressive enough.

"You must achieve your mission," the Guardian spoke slowly, emphasizing the importance of
what they heard. "Your help will determine the island's future."

"We can't even protect ourselves, must less the whole island," Jason blurted out. "Frygund
kidnapped Farina. We almost lost Pipercall. What kind of Guardian allows that?"

Silence greeted the accusation. Gabe bit his lower lip. Wondering if the younger boy had gone
too far. This was a being capable of curing the dying musician. Power to heal could be no stranger
to the Guardian.

"Many events happen on the island," the Guardian continued. "True, I am responsible for
putting everything in place. But how various life forms react to each other is up to them. That's
the freedom given to each individual."

Jason smiled. Calmed by the ultimate logic. It seemed a good plan.

"Think of it in terms of planting a garden," the Guardian explained. "A gardener can select a
spot. Gather the right soil. Put beautiful plants together. Yet, there will always be weeds to
control. Some-times hard weather and climate. Even the best gardener is hard-pressed to control
these things. Still the final beauty of the garden is worth all the effort. In both creation and
nurture."

Jason nodded in silent agreement. Finally it seemed their rescue attempt for Farina might stand
a chance.

"You are my workers in the garden," the Guardian replied. The shimmering globe began
rising. Breaking the connection with them. "Work with the plants you've been given. They will
show true beauty when grown and viewed together."

Gabe placed hands under Pipercall's shoulders. Helping him to his feet. Joining Jason, they
watched the brightly spinning globe as it shot into the air against the path of the mid-day sun. In a
moment, vanishing against the double star track of clouds and sky.

"Now we find Farina," the piper insisted. "Every second Frygund runs loose lessens our
chance of getting her back."

"And how exactly do we do that?" Jason asked. Wondering if Pipercall had fully recovered
from the beast's attack.

The flutist pointed to an orb hidden in the hollow of a nearby tree. In an instant, he'd retrieved
the travel disk. Moving it expertly in hand to activate the gold globe.

"Here's a good start," Pipercall replied. "It can take us to Farina in an instant."

Gabe stepped between them. Negatively shaking his head.

"No," he explained quickly. "We could wind up on the far side of the island. Days from here.
We don't have time to go in two directions."

It was the musician's turn to question motives.

"What's more important than saving Farina?" Pipercall asked.

Jason's piercing gaze narrowed on the Landmover. Bracing himself for the older boy's answer.
He sensed the reason would be valid. Yet hoped the freedom of choice would still be an option.

"Stonelight, a terrible force, is already counting down to destroy the island," Gabe explained
earnestly. "We have till sunrise. Or we won't save your friend Farina. Or my own, Jewel."

"Who?" he asked. Jason's breath froze at mention of the girl's name. His voice barely a
whisper.

"The bravest girl I've ever known," Gabe returned. "She saved our village from Devonika."

"I bet she did," Jason grinned to himself. A warm feeling of faith began spreading through
him. Somewhere Jewel was alive. But not for long if they didn't save the island.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Water spray splashed against Jewel's cheeks as she finished a light lunch. The trip with Caphus
had virtually drained all her energy. Now, refreshed by a salad of small herbs and sea leaves, she
sat for a moment on a large boulder overlooking Stonelight.

"What is it?" the young girl asked. Her blonde hair, drenched by the waterfall then dried by the
sun, framed her face in ringlets. She still avoided all contact with reflections from the pool of
water. Her hope of recovering any beauty from the mysterious object had long vanished.

"Can't be certain," the Cyclops admitted. "But a timer is running on it. Could be very
dangerous."

"Maybe we better leave," Jewel suggested.

"I think a meeting should be called," Caphus thought aloud. "All Cyclops should agree on
what to do. After all, Stonelight did find this place for us."

The young girl shivered involuntarily. Unsure of what the final outcome would be from a
convened council. That many giants in one place could decide to eliminate her as well as
Stonelight. She had to find a way to escape.

Caphus noticed the blank faraway look in her eyes. He stepped forward onto the beach.
Sending gentle waves swirling against the large boulder. Foam eddies left small water patterns as
they receded.

"You have no worries," he assured her. "My tribe is nonviolent. Unless provoked beyond
measure. I will protect you from them. You have my word on that."

Silently, Jewel tugged the shell around her neck. A single thought forming in her mind. Was
Caphus really being truthful? If so, she would throw all of her strength into dealing with
Stonelight. If not, there were precious few options left.

"Tell me again, please," the girl requested him.

He smiled. Then began speaking in earnest tones. Jewel blew gently into the ocean-born
instrument of truth. Every word echoed back the promise of her safety. When he finished, she
lowered the shell. Allowing its power to subside. Once more becoming a curious piece of jewelry
around her neck.

"I will trust you, Caphus," she assured him. "Call the meeting. But do it quickly. The timer
leaves us only till dawn and it's now mid-afternoon."

"Stay here, then," his deep voice warned. "You will be safe until I return."

He headed off in the direction of enormous caves along the cliff wall. Home to the Cyclops.
Glancing upward, she saw a small speck outlined against enormous puffy clouds of mixed colors.
All interwoven with various threads of the rainbow.

The airborne object began dropping. Descending rapidly as Caphus disappeared into one of
the larger caverns. In earshot range, Jewel's heart skipped a beat. Sageus called out a greeting at
sight of her apt pupil.

"My dear, you're all right!" the great horned owl cried. Gingerly landing beside the girl. "You
don't know how I've worried about you. If I'd ever see you again."

"Oh, Sageus, I'm glad you're here," Jewel replied. Drawing her close for a hug. "I've been
hoping you'd return. So many things have happened since you left."

"I know," the wise woman replied. "But don't worry. I've found a solution. Stonelight's
creator! He's on the way to help."

It was Jewel's turn to be amazed. Her old friend had definitely found the answer if the object's
inventor arrived in time.

"How soon can he get here?" the girl asked. "There isn't much time."

"Don't worry," Sageus explained. "His name is Professor Kindgarden. He can stop the timer.
There's an elaborate web of travel disks strewn throughout the island. He invented them to get
from one place to another swiftly. He's just on the other side of the cliffs. Should be here shortly."

"Above the caves?" Jewel noted aloud. "I hope he doesn't run into the Cyclops. They're calling
a meeting over Stonelight right now."

Just then both friends felt a slight tremor under the boulder. Jewel jumped down as Sageus
took wing to stay aloft.

"What was that?" the girl asked. Waiting for another sign that the small quake had actually
occurred.

"Something moved under the rock," the owl assured her. "Run for the caves!"

Before either could begin a retreat, Stonelight rocked at a second, stronger tremor. An
incoming wave shoved the device up against the shoreline. Then just as quickly sucked it back in
the opposite direction. The wave's reverse pull then thrust it farther out into deeper water.

"Sageus, do something!" Jewel yelled. "If we lose Stonelight, it could blow up. Destroy the
island in a tidal wave."

The great horned owl flew swiftly to the blinking object. Drifting farther away from the shore
with each passing second. Landing on the surface, she noticed a top panel had been knocked
loose. Exposing intricate circuitry criss-crossing inside. Frantically, but calmly, she studied the
maze of wires. Oblivious to the darkening waters around her.

On shore, Professor Kindgarden managed to clear the last hill. Just as the Cyclops council
emerged from the caverns. Their thunderous footsteps shook loose several large trees. Knocking
him over the side of the cliff into Caphus' outstretched hand.

The jolt of landing kept Kindgarden's sudden appearance a secret from the other Cyclops.
Jewel's abductor made no sign to alert them. Figuring their sole attention should be focused on
Stonelight. Now a mere speck on the horizon.

"We have no way to reach it that far out," Crenum, an older Cyclops noted. Pointing at the
bobbing object on swelling waves.

"If we form a chain, we might," Caphus explained. "The land doesn't drop off for some ways."

At that instant an immense roaring began. The sea floor opened wide in a giant chasm. Waves
crashed down either side of steep cliff walls. Cracks splintering off, circled in front of Jewel.
Dropping the seabed completely around her. To head for the caves and Caphus mean jumping
across at least a hundred-foot abyss. To her back stood two towering waterfalls. Sageus and

Stonelight had vanished in the midst of the uproar. Taking a step toward the separated canyon of
water, she noticed a set of sand stairs, leading downward. Grimly determined to locate Sageus,
she descended.

The first level consisted of a simple wide footpath. Moving cautiously, she tried to block out
the cascading water phenomena on both sides. Whatever controlled the ocean's force could
definitely send all the water back together again. Crushing everything in its path.

Curiosity led her onward. On the second level, she looked back. The sand steps had vanished.
Smoothed into a hill, gently sloping to the surface she'd just left. But there was no comfort or
safety in going back. The canyon remained there. An insurmountable obstacle to rejoin Caphus.

Descending another six levels, a huge cube, carved from sand, came into view. It was a
massive structure. As tall as a mountain overlooking the sea above.

Jewel, tired from the descent, paused a moment to view the watery marvel. It was covered on
all four sides by tremendous rows of seaweed. Dark, tentacled vines. Stretching from top to
bottom. Preventing any observation except at the level of sea floor she had recently attained.

A sudden rumbling sent her running down the remaining two levels. Covering several hundred
feet in only a few minutes. Crests of green sea foam began trickling over the tops of the waterfall
pillars. Rushing rapidly across a loam-soaked sea floor toward her.

As she reached the outer edge of the cube, a crack separated the sand structure across its top
half. The front half cracked again along its mid-section. Then both sides swung outward. Leaving
a lightless entrance beckoning safety.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Jewel ran for the invited haven. Groping carefully
forward in the darkness, she heard only the sound of her own breathing. Exhaling in quick short
bursts. Frightened. Determined to find any escape from the pursuing water.

Hearing a massive crunching sound, she turned in time to see the separated sections closing
behind her. It was totally useless to scream, but she did anyway. Finding no solace in the sound of
her cry for help swiftly muffled. Vanishing in the thick blanket of sea air cradling her dark
abduction.

Just as the sand partitions slammed shut, a pale white light glinted directly opposite the
previous entrance. Heading toward the thin beacon, she noticed its source lay hidden through a
small hole in the sand wall.

"How can I get through that?" Jewel asked herself.

She realized the ocean had closed off any avenue of escape outside the cube. Yet inside there
had to be limited air. Except for the tiny hole that disseminated the light in the darkness. There
was no other outlet from the area.

Shifting from one foot to the other, she ran over every conceivable method of escape that
sprang to mind. Until a single sparkle of light glinted against a moisture drop sliding down the
wall.

"That's it!" she exclaimed loudly.

Jewel drew forth the worn grey headband Sageus had given her at their first encounter with
Devonika. Placing it on her head, she stood in line with the light reflecting against the sandy wall.

Then recalled the plea from memory.

Power of form, stranger to me,
Lend thy shape, in time of need.

Instantly, her body disappeared into shimmering sparkles of light. Every movement now
became a source of illumination in the dark. Lighting every nook and cranny.

She moved, thinning herself into a single stream of glittering iridescence. Then slid nimbly
through the small opening to the room beyond. Reassuming her human form, she removed the
headband. Carefully tucking it back inside her pocket. Sageus would have been proud of her.

Slowly opening her eyes, Jewel saw a wondrous, almost blinding light gleaming from the sides
of an enormous castle made entirely from sand. Four round turrets flanked the major structure. A
thick drawbridge lay poised across a wide moat of gently lapping sea green water.

Drawing nearer, her face broke into a smile at the reflection staring back from the water. Her
beauty had been restored in changing to light and back again. A startled gasp escaped her. But
was quickly interrupted by the sound of a deep voice resounding inside the castle.

"Enter, Princess," the stern commanding voice ordered. "Do not delay."

Summoning her greatest reserve of calm, Jewel stepped haltingly onto the drawbridge.
Amazed at the tension of the bonded sand in its almost wooden appearance. The sparkling walls
outside gave way to a more somber display inside. Dark hallways stretched in every direction.
Quizzically, she studied the options. Then the haunting voice boomed again. Cajoling. Wheedling.

"Come forth! My patience wearies…"

The tone grew sharp. Who or what was calling her? Was there any alternative other than to
follow the hidden host's instruction?

"I don't know which hall to enter," she called loudly. "Tell me and I'll be on my way to meet
you."

A strange, eerie laugh echoed all around. Unnerving. Unsettling her strongest resolve to
remain calm. It was the sound of a hunter stalking prey. Waiting for just the right moment to
strike. How could such dark design exist within the beauty of the underwater marvel? A bright
glinting sand castle. Hiding loathsome danger.

Tiny hairs on the back of her neck stood to attention as she waited for an answer. After a few
moments, she steeled herself for the inevitable. Venturing down the nearest corridor to her right.
Ready to challenge an endless maze of torch-lit hallways. She was fearful, yet eager to confront
the owner of the castle. No matter who or what it proved to be.

Then she heard a sound that sent hope coursing through her again. A faint tinkle of crystal in
the distance. The same tone that had called a travelling cloak. Beginning their adventures on the
island. The blue bell was somewhere in the castle.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Gabe's fingers clenched the sides of the golden orb tightly. Then relaxed. Over and over. Jason
stood adamant against heading back to rescue Jewel before determining Farina's fate. The thought
of Jewel surviving their underwater attack sent cold chills down his spine. Rationalization began
building an image of her. Strong. Independent. Easily able to stand on her own against any
challenge. Then a small laugh escaped him. It was the same opinion he'd formed over a
chessboard in what seemed weeks ago.

There could be no debate. She was definitely capable of handling herself in tight situations.
The flyscout, on the other hand, had been kidnapped by one of the most vicious creatures he'd
ever seen. Lean. Cunning. Able to attack by air or foot in only seconds. Frygund, with a wolf's
head, eagle's wings and speed of a cheetah was definitely the greater danger. Gabe had to agree
before activating the orb.

"Might I suggest something?" Pipercall broke into the heated argument. "Take a good hard

look at what we're up against."

"What do you mean?" Gabe asked. He clutched the travel globe tightly. Unwilling to let it

change hands or destination under any circumstances.

"Farina was kidnapped against her will," the flutist began.

"So was Jewel," the Landmover fired back.

Jason decided to stay silent. Aware that whichever decision they decided upon, one of their
friend's lives could be jeopardized. Something more than friendship needed to be examined in
making the final determination. He didn't feel suitably neutral to help with that commitment.
Secretly, he hoped Pipercall could lay out the options and a decision could be reached
democratically by all three of them. Realistically, he knew it was impossible.

"We know both Farina and Jewel are intelligent and resourceful," the forest musician
continued. "However, did you see the Cyclops mistreat Jewel in any way?"

"No," Gabe admitted. "He was very interested in getting her back to their camp in one piece.
But I can't say what happened after that. Sageus never returned with any update on her
condition."

"All right then," Pipercall went on. "We know Frygund snatched Farina and then vanished into

the curtain as you entered. She can't defend herself against a creature that vicious."

Gabe shifted uneasily. Knowing the flutist's words rang true. He nodded in agreement.

"Farina is a friend to Jason and myself," the musician noted. "You don't know her. But her

powers could be of great benefit in rescuing Jewel."

"What you say is true," the older warrior admitted. "But there's an even greater danger. A

countdown is running on a device to destroy the whole island. We have less than a day to stop it."

Jason's eyes widened in disbelieft. If Jewel were anywhere near the detonation area she'd be

killed. The power of regeneration only worked on island residents as far as he knew.

"Farina's rescue is important," the young adventurer found himself saying. "But Gabe's right.

We do need to save Jewel first."

No one spoke for several moments. Each knowing they would seal Farina's fate in abandoning
her to Frygund.

"Vote then," Pipercall ordered. "We must be in agreement before entering the curtain. Or we
may wind up in several different locations. That's a definite possibility in using the orb."

"Save the island," Gabe immediately responded.

"I agree," Jason added.

"Then it's settled," the forest flutist replied, taking the orb from Gabe.

Before the travel disk could be activated, a strange smell filled the air. A sense of dread crept
over all three as the wind began to pick up. Pipercall paused. Listening. His normal cheery
disposition disappearing into a grimace.

"What's wrong?" Gabe interruped. His eyes focusing on the musician's face.

A cold chill swept through the highest boughs overhead. Clouds gathering to block both suns
in their afternoon spiral to rest beneath the horizon.

"There's no sound," Pipercall whispered. "No birds. No animals moving. Nothing."

"Perhaps they rest," Jason offered. "Everything doesn't move perpetually."

"Oh, but it does," the flutist responded, leaping onto a leaf-covered hill. "There's no life
without motion. Always changing. Forever in flux. Without it, creation becomes decay. Progress
fails. Time as we know it stops. No reason to move forward. No challenge."

Gabe stared bleakly at the prospect forming in his mind. Something had entered the clearing
without notice. It seemed to be searching each of them. Probing. Discerning which one held the
answer to an unnamed question.

"Do you feel that?" Pipercall pointed to his head. "We are being examined for clues."

"More than that," Jason broke in. "I've felt this before. Underwater. In almost total isolation.
That's where this creature lives."

Each companion looked at the other with fire in his eyes. Hatred burning at the discovery.
Hope arising to flush out the intruder. As one, they joined hands. Looking skyward as the ground
rocked violently under them. A shape began forming in the middle of the circle. A ponderous,
cloud-like mass erupted. Formless at first. Then expanding higher with each passing second.
Thunder rolled as the Karmen's dark, dreadful shape appeared. In the smoky cloud, the creature
towered upward. Touching the sky.

"You puny heroes!" the monster roared. "Give me the bell and I will release you from further
torment."

Gabe's eyes narrowed. Eyeing the monstrosity. There was no solid form to battle. They
couldn't wage an all out war against smoke. Yet, the creature's power shouldn't be
underestimated. He glanced quickly to gauge the others' reactions. Both Jason and Pipercall
remained focused on the giant apparition. Unable to break concentration to assess a plan of
action. Or more likely, unwilling to give the Karmen any opening for further attack.

The Landmover realized their earlier decision was no longer an option. Drawing a clear path
to Jewel would mean yet another problem to resolve before Stonelight's detonation. And the

clock was definitely running. There could be only one solution.

"The flyscout Farina has it," Gabe called upward.

Every fiber of his being strained to refute the older boy's accusation. Yet Jason held his tongue
at Pipercall's signal. The musician squeezed the boy warrior's hand tightly. Nodding knowingly as
Jason's fingers ached to wield Teathergund's force. There must be no argument with Gabe's
direction. All three instinctively sensed the plan of action was sound. They would use the
Karmen's mighty strength against himself.

"WHERE IS SHE?" the Karmen's voice shook the surrounding hundred-foot trees.

"See, that's the thing of it," the elder boy warrior explained in his calmest voice. "She's not
here."

Instantly two colossal arms of cloud cleared a path on either side behind them. Mighty cracks
resounded as the huge trunks snapped like toothpicks in a gale wind. It was all the musician could
do to restrain Jason. Tendons bulged at containing his fury against the monster.

"BRING HER TO ME NOW!" the mile-high creature's breath blew furiously at them.

Gabe's face bore the brunt of his own suppressed emotional storm. Slowly, he raised the orb
aloft over his head.

"The flyscout you seek escaped using this," Gabe replied. Commanding the Karmen's attention
to focus on the travel disk. "We don't know which direction it took her."

A horrid face materialized immediately. Two enormous dark eyes beading down at him. Two
lips sneered menacingly at the small gold object.

"No problem," the boy snapped back. Twisting the top half while turning the side activated
the device.

Pipercall grabbed the older boy's shoulder as the travel curtain opened. Dragging Jason
forcefully along, all three companions jumped into the wall of light just as it snapped shut.
Leaving the Karmen behind.

Tumbling against each other, they emerged instantly in front of a vast landscape of ice and
biting winds. Holding together, each managed to gain momentary footing on the slick land
surface.

An immense ice castle reflected the rays of the two afternoon suns with no warmth
whatsoever. Everything lay frosted solidly in the frozen glacier bed.

"We've got to find shelter," Gabe insisted, chattering out the warning.

"It won't take long to freeze out here in the open," Pipercall agreed.

Jason stomped off in the direction of the castle. Never glancing back, he was soon joined by
the other two.

"Where are you going?" the older champion asked as he caught up. "You can't be thinking of
fighting Devonika at a time like this."

The young boy warrior stopped in his tracks. Eyes glowing hotly at the Landmover.

"I haven't heard any better suggestions from you," he said determinedly. "Think about it. Who
created the Karmen? The flying spiders? For all we know, she might have sent the Frygund to

kidnap Farina. Daring us to take the bait and fight on her home ground."

Pipercall nodded. The assessment did make sense. Yet too many variables were present for
logic to hold any hard and fast explanation.

"I can draw the Frygund here," the flutist replied. "Whether the creature still holds Farina or
not, I can't say."

"Do it then," Gabe quickly agreed. "I'd rather deal with a thousand Frygunds than the witch
who lives in this frozen lair."

Suddenly, a tree bough crusted in ice snapped overhead. Falling directly between them, it
began separating on the ice. Then reassembled into the wicked queen's form.

"The feeling is mutual, Landmover," she spat back. Her breath shot out in short quick gasps.
Freezing into drops of ice as they hit the ground. "You are all intruders here and will be
destroyed."

Jason stepped boldly forward. Drawing Teathergund into battle-ready position. Unsure of her
power. But filled with faith in his own strength of purpose. They had to rescue Farina. And if it
meant sending Devonika to her final fate, he was prepared to do just that.

"We mean you no harm," Pipercall intervened. "Our search is for a flyscout named Farina."

"I know," Devonika admitted. "The Frygund brought her to me as I planned. It was the only
way to lure you here. Now it will be simple to deal with all three of you at once."

Swiftly raising her hand, she transported them instantly inside the ice castle. Covering miles in
the blink of an eye. The three heroes stood amazed at the moment's journey. None had felt the
slightest movement beneath their feet. Yet here they were in the deepest recesses of the
tremendous frozen palace.

Glancing quickly around, Gabe noted a moderately-sized crystal at one end of the room. The
beacon of light trapped inside was Farina. He gave no notice of the discovery as Jason held his
stance against Devonika.

Pipercall tried secretly drawing Windwood from his shoulder pouch. But the queen's fierce
gaze tore it loose. Sending it spinning against the far wall.

Only Jason's tight grip on Teathergund kept the hammer from a similar fate. The dark witch
began a shrill screech at the top of her lungs.

Immediately, huge ice-hardened stalagmites rose from the floor. Meeting descending
stalactites they interwove with similar icy lances sliding into place from the side walls. Trapping
each travelling companion within a waffle of thick ice.

Unable to move, they felt the cold frost spears spreading numbness through every organ and
limb of their bodies. If they didn't break free from Devonika's evil threat in the next few seconds,
the mission was over. And the flyscout's soundless scream in her crystal prison would be silenced
forever.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Jason's attention wavered as his fingers drooped from the numbing cold. The half-foot thick
ice bars blocking any movement made defense impossible. Glaring at the dark queen, he ran
through his options for defense.

It seemed small consolation now that Jewel had survived the near-fatal underwater attack. He
wouldn't be able to reach her in time to stop Stonelight's destructive force. She would be
obliterated along with the rest of the island's inhabitants. Perhaps, he thought, losing to the
malevolent queen would be a bitter pill but a better end for their ill-fated adventure. The young
girl's face floated in front of him as he'd remembered her before they left the comfort of their
families. The last game of chess would never be finished now.

Then, a fire of hope lit his consciousness from within. Steeling himself, the boy warrior's mind
shot forth his most intense logic.

"STALEMATE!" he cried.

Devonika threw her head back and laughed a hideous howl. She had never encountered such
insolence from such inane adversaries. How could they possible hope to defeat her with such
tactics?

"You fool!" she snarled. "Trapped in a prison of ice and you still think to confront me as
worthy enemies? You're nothing!"

"Hear me out," Jason interrupted her, "if you want to keep your castle!"

It was the evil queen's turn to be surprised. She paused. Almost dismissing the boy's words as
an idle threat. Still, there was no guarantee that he didn't hold some hidden weapon to use at the
last minute. She had to find out.

"Speak then," Devonika growled back at him. "Choose your words well. Your fate lies in
them."

Both Pipercall and Gabe closed their eyes. Expecting to lose consciousness at any moment.
The freezing cold pummelling them from every side.

"You don't have the bell," Jason pointed out. "That was the reason for getting us here.
Without it, you have nothing to use against the island."

"Clever boy," the dark queen's eyes flashed at his insight. "But no one here knows that."

"…yet!" the boy champion broke her train of thought. She had to be kept off balance.
Unprotected for his final assault.

"Well, you're in no position to tell them," she replied, waving a hand toward the doorway.
"Go ahead, I'm not holding you back."

Jason paused. Trying to catch his breath. Every intake of air now wheezed from his lungs.
There was no movement from either the flutist or Landmover. Seconds now stretched as minutes.
All too brief to defeat the evil monarch.

"You don't care if the whole island is destroyed," the boy whispered.

"Why should I?" Devonika rasped. "No one's ever cared about me. Besides, why would I

believe the word of some trapped would-be hero? You have no proof this device can obliterate
the entire island."

Jason's eyelids fluttered uncontrollably. His well-planned logic beginning to crumble in his
mind. He had wanted to defeat her on a purely psychological battlefield. Not unlike the mental
wars he previously waged against Jewel in their many chessboard face-offs. Now, with physical
conflict an obsolete option and the mental confrontation laid to rest, Devonika had achieved a
hard-won victory.

The queen stood staring out at the vast icy wasteland beyond the palace. Her attention seemed
momentarily devoted elsewhere. Far beyond the perfectly mapped strategy that had brought the
group under her spell. As Jason's eyes glossed over in one final blink, a single tear fell to the floor.

It was an emotional outlet for failing to stop the destruction. A last realization that the return
home would never happen. Yet, strangely enough Devonika's own admission of unconcern for the
island and everyone on it struck a final nerve with him.

The queen's gaze snapped back to attention. Watching the single tear in mid-air as it hung
motionless. Frozen in descent but not in substance or intent. The glistening drop of moisture
reflected every color of the rainbow inside. Shifting shades of regret in a single expression of
grief.

"What is this?" she shrieked at the nearly unconscious boy. "What have you done?"

"Pity for you," Jason managed to croak with his final sentient thought.

The queen's eyes widened in horror as her power waned. Searching the boy's face for the truth
in his response. No one had ever felt anything for her except hatred. The emotional depth of his
words opened a whole interior struggle. She could no longer base her disdain for life and
everyone on the island solely on mutual abhorrence. He had lost the battle but won the war.

"Release them," she commanded the ice.

Its response was immediate. All of the frost-strengthened spikes shattered into a million
crushed fragments surrounding them. The three friends remained motionless on the floor until she
knelt, helping Jason to his feet. Only then did Pipercall and Gabe begin showing signs of life again.

"What happened?" Gabe asked, turning his neck slowly to the left, then right.

"Her majesty saved us," the flutist smiled faintly. "She found her heart and the love locked
inside."

"Rubbish!" Devonika nonchalantly waved back at them. "I was merely concerned for my
castle."

"Don't ever deny your feelings," Jason replied as he held the queen's hand to his lips and
kissed it. "They're all that matters in friendship."

"Boy, you go too far," Devonika warned him gently. "But you are wiser than your years. The
legend is fulfilled in you."

"Thank you," the young boy accepted her accolade.

Quickly warming themselves, the trio explained what needed to be done before the double
sunrise a scant few hours away. Stonelight had to be stopped before it ticked off the island's last
seconds of existence.

"You're positive of the danger?" Devonika asked at the conclusion of their explanation. Their
redoubled insistence convinced her.

"It is so," Pipercall nodded toward the immense hall window. "We now have the tender mercy
of darkness to deal with in reaching Stonelight in time."

Twin beams of red and orange lit the panorama outside. The ice palace's walls grew dim.
Devoid of their reflective light source, they resumed a cold, rigid façade against the night.

A slight smile crossed the queen's face. Jason wondered if their new-found friendship was to
be short-lived. His fear proved groundless the next instant as she listened intently for several
moments. Indicating complete silence for the effort. Then, her smile widened. Motioning for them
to follow.

"I've located your friend Jewel," she replied quietly, leading them down the oversized passage.
"But, she's in grave danger. We must hurry."

Gabe surged forward between Jason and Pipercall. If the girl he'd admired was in dire
circumstances, they needed to quicken their rescue. Wisely, his companions held him securely in
check, waiting to see how far Devonika's help would extend.

Opening a fifteen-foot high ice block, intricately carved by hand, with one knock she invited
them through the portal. They entered a ballroom-sized area filled with artifacts gathered from
numerous travels across the island. Strange objects too odd to describe in terms an outside visitor
might understand. Some were extremely tall. Twinkling from open-air starlight just visible
overhead.

Pipercall stood enraptured by the discovery. Each item held volumes of information, he was
sure, about the different areas and people of the island. Merely being in the same room with such
a collection made him yearn for hours to spend investigating the phenomenon.

Sensing the musician's interest, Devonika paused. Suddenly realizing his beloved Windwood
had been left behind in their haste. She reached out. Placing one hand on his shoulder, while
opening her palm toward the hallway they'd just left.

"You seem to have forgotten something," the queen said, nodding at the coversack sailing
gently toward Pipercall. "I return that which was lost."

The musician gratefully accepted Windwood's retrieval. Opening the bag, his eyes teared up.
His cherished instrument lay gathered at one side in pieces.

"It is finished, queen," he replied simply. "To be played no more."

"Nonsense," Devonika assured him.

Laying aside their mission for a moment, she turned and picked up a shiny tubular pipe
inscribed in an ancient tongue. The instrument's metallic sheen glimmered. Dissolving into a liquid
mass in her hands. She motioned for Pipercall to approach, then poured the substance directly into
the bag. Completely covering the remainder of Windwood.

Solidly, she chanted the former instrument's inscription. Raising her voice only slightly near
the end of it as the satchel began to glow. In another moment, Devonika reached inside the bag.
Drawing forth a new restored Windwood, glittering with spring-infused metal keys over former
open holes. Its mouthpiece now shone in the hybrid instrument. Pipercall bowed in awe. Thanking

the queen for her generosity. There was no telling what Windwood's improved capability might
be. Nor time to find out.

"Come, we haven't a minute to spare," Devonika hurried them into the far corner of the room.

There, a large ice-hewn mirror had been carved into the wall. The room's reflection caught in
its depths. Expanding the space to twice its normal dimensions.

Jason's hand instinctively sought hidden assurance that Teathergund was in place by his side.
Following that guarantee, he willingly followed Gabe and Pipercall to join Devonika. After their
many battles with a variety of adversaries, a sense of caution prevailed in his mind. He had no
doubt the queen genuinely intended to help them. But something else nagged him. At the back of
his mind a vague suspicion of danger began growing. He'd felt it before. But focused as they were
on rescuing Jewel and harnessing Stonelight's force, the boy couldn't pinpoint the source of peril.

Approaching the mirror, they saw no solid surface. Jason felt the softly-moving liquid plane
and immersed his fingers in what lay beyond. A thin, gel-like substance, pleasant to the touch.

"What do you make of it?" Gabe asked. Eager to feel the reflection himself.

"Not sure," the younger boy replied truthfully. "Never seen anything like this before."

A thin smile crept over Devonika's face. It felt different to actually be admired for what she'd
accomplished. Instead of being shunned for inventions beyond the scope of average imagination.

"Watch and see where your friend appears," she pointed to the center of the mirror.

At once a long dark hallway materialized, glimmering against the other side of the reflective
surface. At the same instant, however, an invisible strength forced its way through the gathered
trio. Knocking Pipercall and Gabe into the queen, while Jason went spinning directly into the
mirror. Followed by the invisible intruder. A booming thunderous voice sounded in the young
champion's ears.

"YOU AND THE BELL ARE BOTH WITHIN MY GRASP NOW!"

The musician, Landmover and Devonika immediately regained their feet. Without hesitation,
they strode through the mirror's surface. Determined to find Jason and whatever had abducted
him.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Professor Kindgarden stared at the waves crashing against the shoreline. Caphus had set him
safely in a small recessed area along the cliffs. Away from the Cyclops' main entrance.

"Thank goodness for that," he muttered to himself.

After watching helplessly as Sageus disappeared with Stonelight, his nerves were shot. Pale
beams from a violet moon lit sparkling white foam by the water's edge. Yet the beauty was lost on
the astrophysicist as his mind raced a mile a minute. Pondering latitude and longitude of his
friend's last sighting.

There had to be a rescue attempt. And it clearly wouldn't come from the Cyclops tribe. Each
of them saw only personal loss in Stonelight's disappearance. None realized the overall
importance to the island.

Absently he fingered a small piece of worn cloth in his pocket. Drawing it out to wipe sea
spray from his forehead, a wee glimmer of light shone down the beach at a distance.

"Now what could that be?" he wondered aloud.

He didn't have long to guess as the light became a steady stream. Separating into at least a
hundred or more pairs of beating wings. Softly reflecting the moon's lavender hues.

Almost instantly they surrounded him, casting a black light effect over the professor's features.
His eyes grew wide as he recognized the forms of the flyscouts.

"I heard you existed," Kindgarden whispered. "But I never thought I'd really see you."

"Only the gravest circumstances bring us forth in great numbers," an older flyscout leader
spoke. "I am Ferguson, head counsel to Farina, our leader."

"I am Professor Kindgarden," the physicist replied. "Why have you come?"

"Farina is trapped by a creature known as the Karmen. The vile monster erased her capture
from the minds of her travelling companions. She sent us warning and a plea for help," the
flyscout explained.

"I vow my assistance as well," the professor promised. "But I'm at a loss as to how to
proceed. My friend, Sageus, is beneath the water with her. And I've no way to reach them."

"Oh, but you do," Ferguson continued. "You hold Bantuk's cloak in your hand."

Kindgarden glanced down at the scrap of cloth. It was the smallest fabric he'd ever used for a
handkerchief. Really only a bit of linen with a small bell insignia in the center.
"This?" he asked wonderingly. "I found it in the cave where I do experiments. Evidently carried
there by some animal. I cleaned it and started using the cloth for wiping down my tables."

The flyscout seemed amazed at the professor's lack of knowledge. Ferguson pointed to the
encircled bell at the center.

"There is Bantuk's symbol," the lead counsel noted. "With this, you may travel anywhere your
heart desires."

"I could go home," Kindgarden gasped. His eyes lighting up with hope.

"Or with us to save your friend," Ferguson quickly suggested.

"Of course," the professor agreed. "How could I have been so selfish?"

Ferguson smiled. It was an honest mistake. He wouldn't hold the stranger's response against

him.

"Unfold it, then step into the middle," the flyscout commanded.

Kindgarden quickly complied. Then Ferguson motioned all the flyscouts to join them.

"Now repeat after me," the lead counsel continued. He began to chant the travel words

Bantuk had shown him years ago.

Though more than twenty years had passed, the rhyme returned easily from memory.
Springing forth as if the wise sage had written them only minutes earlier. Kindgarden listened
closely. Intent on exactly repeating the ignition sequence for the cloak's travelling powers.

In the heat of the morning,
By the cool of the night,
Cloak, take me now
For my wish, soar in flight

At Kindgarden's repetition, the wonderful cloak expanded. Nestling all the flyscouts in its folds.
Closing tightly around them, the magical cloth rose swiftly into the night sky. Heading directly out
to the farthest reaches of the horizon before plunging straight into the pounding waves.

Incredibly, none of the occupants felt any moisture within their enclosed space. Deep into the sea's
darkest dropoffs they sped until the huge underwater cube loomed ahead. Unable to see the
approaching structure, Kindgarden huddled against one side of the cloak. Intent on Ferguson's
guidance. Without recognizing the obstacle in its path, however, the travelling cloak turned
transparent with its occupants. Soaring through the cube's immense front wall.

Materializing inside, the cloak landed. Then opened. Releasing the travellers. They stepped from
the safe confines into a long hallway lit by torches. An eerie silence prevailed over every inch of the
corridor. Until a sudden scream rang out directly ahead. It sounded unfamiliar to Kindgarden. Almost
the cry of a small child in desperate need.

"It's Farina!" Ferguson yelled. "Follow my lead!"

With that, every flyscout assumed their battle formation. A V-shaped wedge, not unlike geese
heading south for the winter as the professor remembered.

Speeding down the hall, they didn't wait for Kindgarden's response. Merely acknowledging his
limitations for flight. Eager to follow Ferguson's plan of action.

Kindgarden retrieved the cloak. Shrunken back to its original size. Then stepped nimbly after
them. But for every step he took, their trail grew dimmer. The torches only lit a small portion of the
hallway. No more than fifty feet ahead. Stairways led in every direction. With no way of telling which
corner offered the most direct path to Farina.

He paused as a thin figure stepped cautiously from the shadows. It was a young girl, removing
a worn headband from her hair. Then he realized why she hadn't been visible earlier. Her entire form
was composed of sand that shifted into her more normal appearance. Still, the sudden apparition
startled the professor enough for a gasp to escape his lips.

"Don't be frightened!" she whispered. "I'm glad you've come."
"I've no idea where we are," he replied. "But whatever assistance I can provide is yours."
The girl smiled. A disarming, free of deception grin that he felt was genuine.
"My name is Jewel," she said, extending her hand.
"Mine is Professor Kindgarden," he replied, properly shaking her hand. "I'm in search of one

friend and involved in saving another."

"Seems to be the way of things here," she agreed. "Right now, I can only tell you we're under the
sea. In a sand castle of sorts. Built by some monster who's holding the one item I need to get home."

The professor paused. Studying her closely. She didn't appear to be a mirage. Or some figment

of his imagination. Yet, where could such a young girl have come from?

"Do you live on the island?" he asked as they pressed forward down the hall.

"Hopefully just a visit," Jewel admitted. "I arrived with a friend, but we got separated. It's a long

story."

Together, they headed toward a faint light in the distance. Beckoning each from the darkness
surrounding them.

"I hope we'll have ample time to exchange adventures," Kindgarden whispered back. "At the
moment, I believe we have to face facts. And the very real possibility we may be out of time to save
our friends."

"Don't even think it," the young girl replied. "Sageus taught me how to survive. I won't let her
lessons be lost in the midst of such evil."

The professor's expression went blank. Had he heard correctly? Was she here to fulfill the same
purpose of his journey?

"I, too, came to rescue my friend, Sageus," he admitted. "And save my travelling device. The
locals call it Stonelight."

Now it was Jewel's turn for surprise. She couldn't believe the small gentle man could have any
connection with the machine's destructive force.

"It is an evil thing," she spoke assuredly. "Set to destroy the island at sunrise. We have only the
few remaining night hours to find and disarm it."

"Oh no, my dear," he replied. "I built the device to open doorways of exploration. Never

dreaming it would maroon me here."

"You can't control it?" she fired back hotly.

"Under normal circumstances, yes," he explained. "But my trip here was unplanned. An accident

of fate. Still, once it's activated, the dials must be set to its original departure point. Otherwise, it
travels forever in the dimension outside space and time."

Jewel's thoughts drifted between their current danger and future possibilities. Stonelight's realm
of operation seemed too strange to comprehend.

"What if we just left it alone?" she asked. Trying to define the machine's destructive reach in her
own mind. It was beginning to resemble some gigantic inter-connecting chess match. With no way

to win.
"Not a good idea," he warned her. "If it vanishes with no one at the controls, there's no telling

what might be drawn into the opening with it."

"Just what I figured," she sighed. "Let's concentrate on one thing at a time."

"Agreed," the professor grinned tersely.

As they turned the final corner blocking the light, a horrifying sight met their eyes. A clear
gelatinous mixture extending two stories high, spread out the length of the room. All of the flyscouts
were tightly embedded in the substance. Unable to move or offer any defense against the glistening
monstrosity.

At first glance, Jewel thought it favored a giant jellyfish, lacking stingers. But as a portion of the
mixture reached for her, it formed a definite hand-like appearance.

Keeping her emotions in check, she grabbed one of the torches from the wall. Hoping to fend off
the attack. At the same moment, however, Kindgarden grabbed her shoulder. Pulling her back around
the corner to safety.

"Leave me alone!" she commanded. "I could've at least cut part of it away."

"Without knowing its composition?" the professor fired back. "How wise would that have been?

You might have set the whole creature on fire. And my friends, the flyscouts, along with it."

Jewel's eyes filled with tears. Realizing the folly of her attack.

"I'm sorry," she apologized. "I didn't realize the danger."

"No harm done at this point," he returned. "But whatever we do, we must do quickly. I seriously

doubt if the creature's intent on keeping them around very long."

Jewel reran every minute detail of the monster's appearance in her mind. There had to be some
weakness she'd overlooked. Then it hit her.

"There was a dark object in its center," she offered. "Maybe that holds the beast's central organs.
If we strike at the very heart, it might dissolve. Freeing the prisoners."

"That wasn't its heart," Kindgarden disagreed. "You didn't see it from the same angle I did. It
looked like a young boy trapped in the middle."

The young girl fought back a feeling of nausea. Threatening to sweep any thoughts of courage

from her.

"Was he moving?" she asked finally.

"Breathing faintly was all I could tell," the professor admitted.

Jewel shook her head in disbelief. It couldn't have come to this. A reunion with Jason, only to

have him snatched away. They had to get back into the room.

Yelling at the top of her lungs, she turned. Ignoring Kindgarden's attempt to restrain her. Dashing
headlong into the center of the liquid within, Jewel drew forth her headband. Swiftly reciting the
transformation chant. Disappearing into the very essence of the Karmen's deadly grasp.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Swirling into the center of the creature, Jewel swam for Jason's faintly breathing form. His eyes
were closed. Definitely not a good sign. Yet, if she could only reach him, she knew there would be
a way to save him.

Pushing through layers of the thick gelatin, Jewel's arms grew tired. Weary of forcing aside each
succeeding barrier. Then she heard an ominous voice directly behind her.

"He is mine until I have the bell," the Karmen warned. "You have served your purpose. Do not
try my patience further. Resist no more!"

"No!" she shouted back in thought. It was almost like tapping into a radio channel, conversing
on a pure pulse of reflection waves. Ideas based on mutual understanding of emotional energy passing
between two conduits. Could the creature consist of emotion and thought without physical substance?
Was this the weakness she needed to turn the tide in her favor?

"Foolish girl!" the Karmen increased the volume of its reply. Roaring loudly in Jewel's mind.

Vainly, she tried moving forward again. But her muscles grew even more weary. Thoughts of past
vacations spent with Jason flooded into her mind. His strong determination had always brought her
to focus on what was important at any given moment. Now it seemed that he'd just given up. Without
a struggle. How could he have been trapped so easily by such a creature?

A deep resounding laugh filled her with dread. The Karmen's face appeared directly in front of
her. Taunting. Oozing derision with a gelatinous sneer.

"If you were any smarter," the creature smiled before continuing, "you might have avoided my
little trap altogether."

"And leave my friend to perish at your hands?" she thought back at the monster. "I don't think
so."

Shifting only slightly, the Karmen managed to send a massive wave through the very center of
its form. The image of Jason dissolved as shadows from the wall torches formed a new image at one
of the other corners of the room.

"I have been called the master of shadows," the creature noted, "and judging from your reaction
to one of them, I believe the title is justified."

Jewel didn't reply. Waiting for the anger raging out of control inside her to subside. She had fallen
for one of the oldest tricks in the book. A ruse of entrapment. Now her wits were all she could rely

on to regain her freedom.

"You don't even know where he's gone," she chided.

"At the moment, I don't," the Karmen agreed. "But that will change when he finds that I have you

in my power."

The monster's reverse tactics had worked like a charm. Goading her into the very spot of captivity
to lure its real target closer. She hated being the pawn that might seal Jason's fate. She had to free
herself before the damage grew any worse.

Were the flyscouts actually trapped within the Karmen as well? She decided to find out. They had
evidently flown in formation directly into the sides of the creature. Just as she had dove headlong into

the center. None of them were moving or even acknowledging by the smallest thought that she was
there. Still, they could consider her a threat as well. Part of a conspiracy by the Karmen to finish them
off with their doubts. Guarding thought patterns and breath control would have been a logical
defense, Jewel noted.

The disconcerting sloshing of the monster annoyed her. It wouldn't remain still for a second.
Seemingly, in constant flux within the confines of the room. At any given moment, its main trunk
changed location. As easily as she altered her direction of thought.

Then, she realized the Karmen's insidious power. It drained knowledge from each living thing
it touched. However, there seemed no rhyme or reason to the way that wisdom was arranged in
luring more prey into itself. Silencing her thoughts, Jewel felt a slight shift in the creature's angle
of movement.

"You are the bait," the Karmen continued, trying to evoke a response. Any acknowledgment
would once again throw the balance of power away from her.

She remained oblivious to the threat. Which only infuriated her adversary more. To the point
of studied rage. It incensed the Karmen to keep her alive. But controlled emotion wasn't the
creature's strongpoint.

"He will be here shortly," the monster slurped greedily. There had to be a way to reach the
young girl's inner resolve. She was too easily drawn back into the circle of controlled power.
Absolutely impotent to resist being used as a simple pawn.

The thought, unable to be blocked from Jewel's instant reception, resounded clearly in her
mind. Setting up a startling chain reaction in cognitive processes just beginning to surface in her
defense. The creature's influence was not limitless. Anything that could be relegated to a mentally
finite existence might have an Achilles heel. Some weakness leaving the monster wide open for
destruction. Or at least containment. Not unlike gas being poured into the fuel tank of a mobile
home. The idea of seeing her parents and friends again filled the girl warrior with renewed
strength.

She reached for the sand wall almost within her grasp. Straining to reach it, Jewel felt the
Karmen's immediate fear spreading through its gelatinous surface.

"That won't work," the creature warned her in the loudest of thoughts. "It will destroy you as
well in the process."

"Don't think so," she sent the mental note firing back. "This is your total composition. Not
mine or the flyscouts. We won't be affected at all."

With her final admonition, she strained mightily. Finally managing to touch the sandy side
wall. At once, the headband glowed. Turning her into a whispered wish for the surface substance.

Composed entirely of sand, Jewel created a fissure the length of her torso. Unable to sustain
its formidable appearance, the Karmen split in half. Each side striving to regroup. Regain its
strength in the massive sub-division.

A howl of despair swept through the cavern. The Karmen's interior began to liquify into seawater.
With no control over its division, the monster totally dissipated into two immense puddles
on the ocean floor.

Removing the headband, Jewel changed immediately back to human form. Greeted by cheers

from the freed flyscouts. Ferguson flew to the girl's side. Patting her shoulder appreciatively. His
eyes held reborn hope for their mission of rescue.

"That was a fine piece of work, m'lady," the flyscout noted. "You're definitely one of the
champions legend foretold would battle great evil."

"Thanks, but I don't consider myself all that," she replied. "I've got other reasons for getting
rid of this creature."

Jewel kicked absently at one of the nearer puddles. Separated by at least three feet of sandbed
from its counterpart, it couldn't rejoin the larger water mass. Until the young girl's innocent action
sent a few drops bridging the gap.

Instantaneously, the divided puddles joined back into one. Rising from the floor, the Karmen
shape-shifted into a pale replica of the cavern wall.

"Our mission can continue as well," Ferguson added. "We're here to rescue one of our own,
Farina."

"I know of her," Jewel added. "She was with Jason and myself when we got separated."

"You must be Jewel then," the flyscout's head counsel smiled back. "I am Ferguson. Farina
sent word of you as well. But we must hurry or the delay might prove disastrous for our leader."

"Let's go," Jewel fired back.

Together, they swept out into the hallway. It was empty. Deserted. The girl warrior searched
intently in both directions for several moments.

"What do you see?" Ferguson asked. Continuing to line up his companions in their former V-
pattern.

"Nothing," Jewel spoke hollowly. "Seems Professor Kindgarden vanished."

"Hopefully, you'll meet again," the flyscout pointed out. "Until then, we'd better stay focused."

"Agreed," the young girl replied, rejoining the group.

Something still nagged at the back of her mind. Even after their close call at the hands of the
monster. Farina's scream for help had definitely originated nearby. The flyscouts, Professor
Kindgarden and herself had all been fooled. Drawn to the same exact spot. Someone should have
heard the cry from a more diverse angle. Maybe leading them to a totally different area. Unless
there had been no physical yell.

That thought registered. Then stuck. Had everyone been fooled by the creature's uncanny
ability to change at will? Evidently mimicking those closest to them. Right down to the last detail.

What were the odds that such a creature could be destroyed by something so easy as splitting
it in two? That question gave her pause to stop. Soundlessly motioning to Ferguson for a delay.

He complied. Curious about her motive. Yet somehow sensing with inevitable realization that
the girl's reasoning powers were at play. Heightened to the extreme in someone her age. Maybe
even going beyond the realm of normal perception. He'd read of such things at Bantuk's cottage.
Never expecting any of it to become reality. Or involve him in the final outcome.

Jewel drew the shell of truth to her lips. Waiting. Listening hard for any slight variation
around them. All of the flyscouts hovered expectantly. Ready to surge into battle at Ferguson's

command.

Moments followed swiftly upon each other before Jewel reluctantly lowered the shell.
Instantly, the flickering flyscouts began to vanish one by one, a tiny sucking sound accompanied
each disappearance. Before Ferguson could react, the girl warrior had the sea-borne weapon back
in place. Springing to action as its tones filled the hallway. A sudden groan drew the remaining
fighters' attention as the Karmen's menacing form reappeared. This incarnation loomed worst of
all as a black liquid cloud, churning incessantly over into itself. Two piercing fiery-red eyes
opened at either side of the apparition. Staring balefully at the gathered army. Then its mouth
opened, spewing forth noxious fumes.

"You cannot defeat me," the creature spoke assuredly. "You will join me in my efforts to
recreate the island with my kind."

"Now we understand your motives," Ferguson shouted back. "And you will know defeat at
our hands."

Jewel continued blowing into the shell. Its inward power aimed directly at the monster facing
them. She would know every last detail of its plans before releasing the creature from her control.
There had to be a way to destroy it. Once and for all.

"Foolish land forms," the Karmen continued. Unable to free itself from the shell's auditory
grasp. "You think this island is all of my mission? I could have destroyed you at any time. The

true prize is yet to come. It will be my creator's greatest success. His crowning glory."

"What do you mean?" the flscout counsellor asked. "Devonika will never rule this island."

At that, the dark cloud began igniting itself from within. Huge peals of thunder accompanied
bright lightning flashes as the Karmen began growing. Elongating. Changing to its true self. An
enormous, twisting serpent. Preparing to strike at the hearts of courage encasing the beast's path.

"I was not born of the dark queen, but a far greater power," the monster roared. "One that has
not been seen since the dawn of this island's first appearance. He holds the bell you seek and will
find the cloak to escape this realm."

Convinced of the creature's mad scheme, Jewel let the shell drop back into place around her
neck. Everything she needed to hear had been revealed.

Yet before anyone could move, a tremendous cracking sound shook the corridor. Ensuing air
pressure from hidden rooms beyond tore loose with enough force to knock everyone against the
far wall.

From where she'd fallen, Jewel looked up in time to see a giant tentacle spring through a
gaping hole. Latching onto the Karmen's immense form with thousands of fleshy suckers. Like
those of some enormous octopus. Dripping with dark, liquid adhesive, they sealed the monster's
mouth shut forever. Then, with the speed of an attacking shark, the tentacle dragged its prey back
through the broken wall.

Ferguson and the flyscouts stood their ground. Awed by the scene that had just unfolded.
Totally shocked for a plan of action against the gargantuan foe that now faced them. An enemy
greater than the Karmen.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Professor Kindgarden blinked in disbelief at the stone wall sliding into place behind him.
Moments before he'd been dashing for cover with Jewel. Convinced the enemy they'd encountered
could easily draw them back into the cavern.

Instead, their separation had occurred so quickly, he'd marvelled at the intelligence behind it.
The creature obviously knew the value of dividing allies before an attack.

Now alone, he was forced to face whatever challenge lay hidden in the dark rock cavern.
There seemed no other exit from the dimly-lit sand chamber. Yet, as his vision adjusted to the
light change, a pair of large nocturnal eyes glared back from the cavern's farthest corner.

"Hello?" he ventured to ask cautiously. "Is anyone there?"

His tone betrayed the voice of a remembered friend. In response, the cave's other occupant
flapped her wings in recognition.

"At last a rational mind in this place," Sageus replied. "Good of you to visit, Professor."

She flew to his side as his face broke into a wide smile. He was definitely glad to find an ally
under the circumstances.

"Sageus, I was afraid you'd been swept away by the sea," Kindgarden explained earnestly.
"Especially when Stonelight vanished under the waves with you."

"Not to worry," the owl acknowledged his concern. "As the saying goes, there's bigger fish to
fry here."

He nodded in agreement. Glancing around, she indicated an inset sand block almost hidden
behind her. The scientist strode purposefully in front of it.

"What's this?" he asked, his curiosity rising with the revelation.

"The flyscout's final resting place," Sageus returned quickly. "Unless we can get her out of
there."

"Sealed inside?" Kindgarden asked in wonderment. "That's a tremendous barrier for someone
to construct."

The owl's eyebrows raised quizzically. Nervously anticipating the effect of her next statement.

"Not someone, Professor. Rather some thing!" she explained, barely managing to control her
fear. "It's a hideous creature that sealed Farina inside."

"Calm yourself," he spoke gently. Placing a hand on the bird's wing. "I've already met up with
the dreaded beast. A giant gelatinous mass that trapped a number of the flyscout rescue team."

It was Sageus' turn to reassure the professor of his error. Quietly, as though expecting the
very walls to dissolve around them, she began explaining the reality of a greater menace.

"I wasn't drawn beneath the waves by any surge of air currents," the owl recounted. "I was
flying just ahead of Stonelight, when a monstrous sea limb wrapped itself around the device.
Glistening with some sort of adhesive, spurting from at least a hundred suckers on the underside
of the tentacle. I tried to turn back for the shore. But the wind and waterspouts prevented that.
There was only one option. To follow Stonelight into the depths of this cube and sand castle."

She paused. Wiping a tear from her eye before resuming. Kindgarden listened attentively.
Eager to learn the exact nature of the beast facing them.

"I swooped in an arc on a parallel air path with Stonelight," the wise bird continued. Raising a
wing for emphasis. "Never knowing if I'd see land again. Or be able to stop Stonelight's relentless
timer."

"Yes," Kindgarden nodded. Suddenly realizing the seconds ticking down before dawn. "We
must find Stonelight."

"Believe me," Sageus replied, "you rescue Farina, and you've found the dreaded menace.
They're both locked in there."

At this, the professor began clawing at the sand block with both hands. Searching for some
crack in its surface. A weak point to exploit in breaking apart the barrier. There was none evident.

"Well, this proves nothing," the scientist admitted to himself. "It can't be invulnerable.
Impenetrable. If the opening admitted Farina and Stonelight, then it must be changed to an exit."

"I like your reasoning," the owl agreed. Flying to take a different stance at another vantage
point. "It's like trying to force a square peg in a round hole. Can't be done. Expends a lot of
energy to no end."

A sudden fire of enlightenment lit the scientist's eyes. The answer lay in compositional
analysis.

"Yes, it can be done," he disagreed. "We're dealing with a solid element, sand, in a liquid
environment. The castle's construction depended on knowing how to bind molecules in water.
That's how the cube operates. Keeping air inside the castle balanced against the water surrounding
it.

Sageus stared at the man with admiration. Expressing his thoughts, he'd taken her for an equal
in whatever reasoning process he'd used. It might have been overkill, but she thought they'd
reached the same conclusion. The owl, in her own way, understanding that the delicate balance
between air and water had to be preserved. Yet liquid, under control, could be used against the
sand barrier. With her magic and his deductive reasoning, they might be able to free Farina.
Without destroying the castle in the process.

She nodded for Kindgarden to step back. Then began chanting. Directing water from outside
the cube into their hidden haven.

Nature's force in liquid form,
Fill our need for hope reborn
Against the stone that holds our friend,
Open wide its hidden bend.

A thin, light stream formed in the middle of a small circle on the wall. Widening slightly, it
focused on the solid block opposite its position. Then began rapidly drilling into the hardened
solid block with enough force to send particles in every direction.

The professor covered his eyes as best he could. Trying at first to protect Sageus from the
inevitable deluge of debris. Then he noticed the operation wasn't disturbing her in the slightest.

For as quickly as the sand particles were blown away from the sand block, they disintegrated into
thin air.

"Very smart work," he commented admiringly.

"Thanks," she replied. "Almost through. So be careful. There's no telling what's on the other
side of the barrier."

"Right about that," Kindgarden agreed. "But hopefully, we're in time."

Together they watched the rapidly diminishing stone wear away to expose a dark chamber
beyond. Sageus flew to the opening as the focused water stream dissipated. Sealing the sand wall
crack behind its departure.

"Can you see anything?" Sageus asked as the professor knelt. Getting a glimpse of the
concealed cavern on the other side.

"There's a huge drop-off," he replied, indicating for her to remain in place.

Training his gaze upward, he saw an enormous opening yawned above. Dark. Forbidding. At
the same time, a glow began forming around the perimeter of the towering hole. The first pale
blue-violet rays of dawn were reflecting from the sea's surface. Bounding through several hundred
feet of water to illuminate the cube's outer shell. Then, in turn, brightening the castle from every
angle. Including the wide chasm separating the two adventurers from Stonelight and Farina.
Perched on a ledge directly across from the opening.

The flyscout remained encased in the Karmen's crystal prison. Which now rested on top of the
brightly ticking counter. Sageus took one look and began fluttering through the opening. For
once, allowing her emotions full rein to overcome better judgment.

"Wait!" the professor warned. "We don't know if there are explosive devices planted around
them."

The owl paused. Halfway across the chasm. Glancing down she saw nothing but emptiness
below. The dark recesses escaping any of the light filtering in from above. Hovering silently, she
scanned the rock ledge. Stonelight's counter busily ticking off the final two hours on its display.

They had to do something. Quickly. Waiting would accomplish nothing. Sageus knew that.
But which plan of action was right? The professor's eyes pleaded with her to exercise caution.
Yet, precious little time remained for that option. Their fate and that of the island rested on
preventing Stonelight's ignition.

"I'm sorry, Professor," she called back. "We need Farina's help."

Flying forward, she landed directly beside the endangered flyscout. Distracted momentarily by
the flickering numerals on Stonelight's timer, it took only a moment to adjust her balance. In
doing so, however, she dislodged the small crystal containing Farina. It fell to the ledge's ground.
Shattering on impact.

A gasp escaped Kindgarden as his eyes beheld the sight. The flyscout seemed dazed. Freed
form her geologic prison, though, she didn't move. Breathing unsteadily against the rocky
remnants.

"Hurry, Professor," Sageus waved a wing toward the unconscious leader. "I can't do anything
for her like this."

"Nor I from here," he admitted somberly.

She dragged her attention back from the spectacle on the ledge to concentrate again on the
chasm separating them. He needed some type of crossing point to help. Instantly, the spell flew
into her head.

Water stream to meet this scheme
Cover air from here to there,
By your thinnest force so strong
Build a bridge, to right this wrong.

Kindgarden moved aside quickly, hearing the flow of water behind him. Springing once more
from the crack in the wall at the far side of the room. This time, however it lengthened across the
abyss. Widening just enough to allow a footpath to reach his companion.

"I'm supposed to walk across this?" he called to Sageus.

"Yes, and hurry," she admonished him gently for his lack of faith. "It will support you."

"But it's a bridge of water," the professor enjoined. "What kind of security can it hold?"

The owl shot him a look of pure desperation. She continued trying to cradle Farina with little
success. Wings could never replace two arms for comfort. In either instance, total concern for the
flyscout or jerking a knot in the hesitant professor seemed at the top of the wise woman's "to do"
list.

"Got it," Kindgarden noted her expression. Then hesitantly started across. Wondering exactly
what kept his feet from falling through the flowing liquid on both sides of the path.

"Stonelight's down to one hour and forty-five minutes," she called out. "I believe some
urgency would be in order."

Farina began stirring as Kindgarden neared. Shaking shards of crystal and sand from herself,
the flyscout managed a quick flight to test her wings. Everything checked out okay as the
Professor joined them.

The joyful reunion was short-lived, however, as a deep rumbling began to shake the wall's
rocky protrusion. Kindgarden clung tightly to Stonelight with one hand. Steadying himself enough
to hold Farina with the other. Sageus sensed the catastrophe about to unfold. Weaving back and
forth in the forceful air currents.

"We've got to leave now," she insisted. "Or we never will."

"What about Stonelight?" the professor blurted out. "I only need a few minutes to stabilize the
counter."

"Haven't got a spare with me," the owl fired back. "I can't hold the bridge against this much
longer."

The scientist understood the gravity of her statement. But coming so close to the device then
losing his only way home was unbearable.

"GO THEN!" he shouted above the encroaching din. "Save yourselves. I can't leave without
Stonelight."

The walls began cracking length-wise around them as the water bridge continued to erode. Its
footpath dwindling to half the original width.

Farina flew to the top of the flashing counter. With both hands she tugged open the display. A
maze of wires greeted the flyscout's invasion as she flew inside the intricate structure.

"This is for you, my brother," she whispered. Treading deeper into the dark tangle of electrical
circuits. "The island and its people must be saved. At any cost."

With that, a thunderous sound sent her flying into an exposed connector. Sparks ignited.
Shooting out at a major function board. But in the next instant, she was flung head over heels
against the timer itself. Blacking out as a large dripping tentacle thrust through the wall overhead.
Kindgarden's yell for Sageus echoing eerily in the early morning stillness. Then darkness
completed its grip on her mind.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Pipercall kept pacing by the maze of hallways facing them. Gabe had left over ten minutes
ago, cautiously exploring a torch-lit corridor to the right. Devonika stared silently ahead.
Transfixed by the myriad of possible paths the Landmover might have vanished down.

"This is impossible," the musician sighed loudly. "He should be back by now. We're running
out of time."

"Agreed," the dark queen replied through clenched teeth. "But the Karmen isn't our only
enemy here."

The flutist paused pacing at this. Ever since they'd transferred from Devonika's castle he'd
sensed darker forces at work. Something evil lurked beyond the twisting passageways. He
wondered if she'd known all along.

"Maybe we should find Gabe?" he answered expectantly with a question. She gave no notice
to expand on the greater danger.

"He will be here within moments," she assured him. "Be prepared to follow him. Jason will
need all the strength you can give to gain his freedom."

Pipercall placed a hand on her shoulder as she turned away. The dark queen hesitated.
Uncertain how to respond.

"Where are you going?" he asked earnestly. "We need to stick together."

"I won't be far," she replied. Her tone seemed about to crack from strain. "But I must learn
more about the unseen one before we meet again."

With no other explanation, her cloak dissolved into a shadow. Then faded from view. A torch
on the wall beside him crackled. Drawing the musician's attention to Gabe's return.

"I found Jason," the Landmover announced decisively. "Where's Devonika?"

"She's gone," Pipercall tried to explain. "Thinks there's another enemy greater than the
Karmen."

"Let's hope not," Gabe replied, shaking his head. "This one's bad enough."

Together they retraced the Landmover's route to a small archway at the base of a stairwell. A
cold draft blew chillingly as they descended to an underground chamber. Slick sand stones, thick
with ice, threatened to send them sliding with each step.

Frosty icicles hung from every angle of the cavern's ceiling. Refracted light from somewhere
overhead cast a bluish pall over the room's refrigerated twilight.

"Could it get any colder?" Pipercall whispered. Afraid the sound of his normal voice might
bring icy missiles crashing down.

"Hush," Gabe warned. Quietly reassuring the flutist of his truthful conjecture. "He's just
ahead. On the left."

Moving forward, a horrendous column of ice streamed into view. With Jason solidly encased
at the center.

"Oh no!" the musician's gasp of shock stung him in place.

Circling the frozen spectacle, Gabe surveyed the danger. Earlier, he'd foregone any further
scrutiny to enlist the help of Pipercall and Devonika. Now, on closer inspection, he was totally
unsure of how to proceed. Hope for a safe and speedy resolution had vanished with the dark
queen. Between the efforts of Pipercall and himself, he seriously doubted achieving success at this
point.

"How do we get him out of there?" the flutist asked.

"You mean alive?" Gabe asked. Verbalizing his friend's evasive response.

Pipercall's expression went blank. He hadn't meant to cause any more anxiety over Jason's

condition. Yet no suggestions for help crossed his mind. Even beginning to chip away at the
surrounding ice prison could bring down half the frozen arsenal hanging overhead.

"I don't know," the Landmover continued. "But we need to figure out something quick. Dawn
is bound to be here within the hour. Then Stonelight becomes our biggest worry."

"We can't just leave him," the forest piper pointed out. "With Jason, we'd stand a better
chance of battling the unseen one."

"I have a feeling we'd better concentrate on what the Karmen's done," Gabe explained.
"Rather than something we haven't encountered yet."

"There's also something else to consider," Pipercall replied reluctantly. "We're not on the
island anymore. And the rules may not apply here."

"What now?" Gabe asked, becoming exasperated by the flutist.

There seemed no lack of examination in the musician's mind. Solutions to the pending
predicament were a lot scarcer.

"Well, nothing dies on the island," Pipercall pointed out. "Merely moving from one state of
existence to another."

"Everybody knows that," the warrior agreed.

Then the light of recognition struck Gabe like a thunderbolt. They were all vulnerable off their
magical homeland.

"You mean we could perish for good here," the Landmover muttered to himself.

"Exactly," the flutist replied. "I don't know how Jason was trapped inside. The hammer should
have protected him, unless it's vulnerable in some way, too."

"Like powerless against ice?" Gabe ventured.

"Or its more basic form, water," the musician concluded.

"So what can we do?" the warrior continued. "I'm fresh out of ideas."

"Music never lacks for expression," Pipercall replied, pulling Windwood from its case.
"Maybe sound will convey the help we need."

"From where?" Gabe asked, confused by the flutist's logic.

"Inside himself," the musician responded, drawing a few faint notes from within his modified
instrument.

Eerily, the vibrations pealed from each low hanging icicle. Converting the entire area into a

chilly echo chamber.

Internally, Jason's mind lay trapped by the Karmen's final attack. He recalled being shoved
through the mirror in Devonika's castle. Striking back against the beast's advance. Yet, levelling
his own counterattack had proven disastrous. Striking Teathergund against the floor of the
corridor had yielded a giant opening. Sending both combatants into the frozen watery chamber.
The Karmen's chameleon substance immediately changed to adapt. He, on the other hand, had
not. Stuck within the ceiling-high ice structure, there had been no escape possible. Until now.

Windwood's new sound tore through Jason's consciousness. Reinvigorating his spirit with
hope. Passion for life reborn. Holding that thought, he concentrated. Focusing all of his energy
into moving Teathergund. Still clutched in his hand. A moment passed. Then two. Finally, a single
drop of moisture dripped from the hammer's burnished silver head. Another soon followed.

In a matter of seconds, there was enough space for Jason's fingers to slightly lift the gold
handle. Then it fell. Igniting the power of fire. Heat radiated in all directions from the head of the
weapon. Melting the ice column instantly.

Gabe's eyes grew wide as he and Pipercall leapt to safety. A gushing fountain of water poured
down around the freed adventurer as Jason stepped onto quickly refrozen ice. His clothes, singed

from the heat, dried quickly from the watery deluge.

"Thank you both," he wheezed, regaining his breath. "Thought I'd seen my last battle."

"Not yet," Pipercall grinned back.

"Save the praise," Gabe insisted. "We've got a bigger threat than the Karmen."

"Let's go," Jason agreed.

But before any of them could move from the chamber, they heard a low rumbling sound.
Growing stronger, it set icicles overhead rattling. Like some enormous crystal chandelier.

"MOVE NOW!" Gabe shouted as they ran for the frozen stairwell.

Racing upward as fast as they dared, no one noticed the top step ended in thin air. Until they
reached the final breakpoint.

As the walls crumbled beside them, Jason drew Teathergund overhead. Swinging the hammer
into its familiar helicopter-like rotation, he began being lifted from the steps.

"Grab on!" the young warrior yelled. "Form a chain. It's the only way."

With no need for further instruction, Gabe grabbed Jason's legs. Locking his own into place
within Pipercall's grasp. At the same time, the stairway ripped from its remaining foundation.
Tossed sideways into the cube's outside sandbed.

Flying upward from the cascading remains of the castle turret, they saw an immense tentacle
flailing around them. A tremendous sucking sound warned of its dangerous capability. Paling only
in comparison to the creature directing its attack.

Nothing could have prepared them for such a sight in the early morning light. The immense
sand castle lay in ruins. Torn apart. As if smashed to oblivion by some child, tired of playing with
a beautifully-built toy.

Yet the destructive force came nowhere near youthful animosity. It was the result of a

towering dark creature. Taller than the Karmen, it stretched almost five stories high. Three snakelike
necks undulated in separate directions. Topped by horrifying fish heads with large open eyes.
Staring forever unblinkingly at its prey. The tentacle joined with seven others at the base of the
monster. Its motion consisted of sinking sucker-filled tentacles into the sand, then inching
forward. Given its size, movement gained considerable distance along each sand-filled step.

"What is it?" Jason asked tersely.

"The Levidium," Pipercall whispered. "Only a legend."

"Until now," Gabe broke in. "How do we fight that?"

"We can't from here," Jason noted.

Tightening his grip on Teathergund, he aimed for a landing near a larger part of the castle
ruins. Dodging near hits by two tentacles, the young boy warrior successfully navigated the
challenge.

Back on solid footing for the moment, the three were immediately greeted by shouts of
surprise. Ferguson and his group of flyscouts flew cautiously to their side. Then, a single figure
rose from the sand at Jason's feet. He jumped back instantly positioning Teathergund for defense.

"Don't be afraid," Jewel said, removing her headband.

"I'm not," Jason assured her. "Just glad to see you again."

Each friend fought back tears, knowing the danger facing them demanded control. Though it

didn't stop her from hugging him. Or giving a wink to Gabe who sought to keep his own emotions
in check.

"Hate to interrupt," Pipercall broke the moment of peace, "but we do have a battle going on."

Everyone nodded in silent agreement. Breaking the brief reunion into quick battle plans.
Strategy to avoid direct confrontation.

"Divide and conquer," Jason insisted. "If we're in front, the beast can only use two heads
against us."

"How do you figure that?" Ferguson asked directly.

"Simple," Gabe replied. "Turn your head around. See what's behind you."

"Why watch your back if two heads are already doing it?" Jason finished.

All of the flyscouts tried the maneuver. Realizizing the truth in action. There wasn't time for
more as two tentacles snapped ominously close. At the corner of the ruins, a figure suddenly
emerged. Forcing back the Levidium's sea limbs.

"Devonika … on our side?" Jewel blinked hard. Trying to believe her eyes.

"Needing our help," Jason added. Wielding Teathergund in her defense.

As one focused entity, the group moved into position for the final showdown. But a strong

warning from the dark queen sent chills down each warrior's spine.

"Don't look at the third head," she yelled back. "It turns everything to sand!"

A tentacle instantly whipped around Devonika's throat. Cutting off all oxygen to her windpipe.

Unable to free herself she was drawn swiftly into the air. Directly into the path of the third head.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Farina's eyes fluttered open in the battle surrounding her. Unable to get any sense of direction
until a shrill scream sounded nearby.

"Sageus, is that you?" the flyscout called loudly. Then was forced to hold her ears as the
sound ricocheted off metal on every side. It was pitch black except for a thin sliver of light at the
base of the wall. Strong as she was, Farina needed every ounce of strength to lift the wall just
enough to slide under it.

Stepping back, she glanced upward to view the prison. A giant blue bell with strange
inscriptions. Clapping both hands over her mouth in surprise, the flyscout struggled to contain her
excitement. It was the bell Jason had been seeking. Hidden in Stonelight.

A hand suddenly broke her concentration. Reaching in to test the damaged maze of circuitry.

"Professor Kindgarden?" Farina whispered cautiously. There was no sense in provoking an
unknown adversary into attack.

"Yes, it's me," the scientist's reassuring tone answered. "There's been quite a mess going on
since you got knocked out. Glad you're okay, though."

Farina flew to the edge of the opening. Peering out at the bizarre battle scene, no more than

twenty yards away.

"I don't believe it," she gasped. "The Levidium exists. It was only a myth. A legend."

"Well, something brought it to life," the professor responded. "And we don't have the

firepower to combat it…yet!"
The flyscout pointed to a circling bird of prey overhead. Edging downward carefully between

the three snaking heads of the monster.

"That's Sageus!" she yelled.

"Yes, she flew to Devonika's defense," Kindgarden continued. "If you must…join her. But I

could use your help here with Stonelight."

"It's safe," Farina disagreed. "The counter's stopped."

"I know," the professor grimaced. "And we must start it again."

The flyscout leader froze. Undetermined which cause to join.

"Farina, you're the only one who can fit inside Stonelight," the professor insisted. "My hands

aren't steady enough to make the connections work."

"All right," the flyscout agreed. "Tell me what to do."

As their technological battle began, the other parts of the attack force drew a closer circle to
the creature. One of the front fish-faced heads leered downward at the small team of warriors.
The Levidium's mouth opened. Emitting a hideous, ear-numbing tone.

The floor of the cube shook abruptly. Spilling each member across the sand. Ferguson took
the lead. Calling an ancient flyscout battle cry. Spiritually drawing forth the strength of their
ancestors into a cohesive force to be levied against the horrifying monstrosity. Banded together,

the flyscouts flew upward to the unblinking face. Attacking each eye with handfuls of sand.

Sucking in enough air to fill several large hot air balloons, the creature responded in kind.
Blowing all of the sand into a freakish whirlwind. Knocking every airborne warrior into mighty
struggles. Battling to stay aloft.

Jason, meantime, flew to the neck of the second head. Pounding Teathergund's relentless
force at the base of the neck. The fish face's mouth opened wide, snapping in all directions to
escape the attack. Tentacles writhed until one securely found Jason's mid-section. Slithering into
place up and around his head. Vainly, he tried raising the hammer of justice in defense. But it was
too late. The boy warrior was swiftly forced into the head's gaping mouth. A moan of terror
escaped him as he slid down the creature's throat.

Jewel's scream of fright as Jason disappeared was instantly replaced by a yell of sheer anger.
Grabbing her headband tightly in one hand, she drew forth her trusted camping lighter in the
other. The chant of transformation from her lips immediately changed every inch of the girl
warrior into a flaming beacon. Undaunted by the enormous size of the enemy, she flew on air
currents into the face of doom. Searing hotter by the minute, the fire maiden blanketed herself
over the creature's head. Its response time to the overwhelming element of flame was too slow.
Fish scales began dropping from the Levidium's second face. Totally engulfed, it began laboring
for breath.

"Die, monster!" Pipercall shouted from below. Staying a safe distance from the reach of the
tentacles.

His judgment for the creature's fate almost materialized. Except the Levidium's first head
sprang into action, feeling the sharp pain dissiminating throughout its length. Turning its wrathful
sandstorm onto the second head effectively extinguished Jewel's flame. Stung to a smouldering
ember by the sharp biting sand particles, her headband flew from her forehead to the ground
below. Leaving the girl warrior clinging to existence on the back of the hideous beast.

She watched in sheer terror as writhing tentacles began aiming for her position. Nothing could
save her now from their determined effort at destruction. As a slithering sea limb snaked around
Jewel's stomach, she screamed. Jarring Pipercall to ignore the danger and race to retrieve the
headband. Before he could dash within range, however, Sageus dove for the magical hair piece.

"Stay your ground," the wise owl commanded. "We need your freedom on this side of battle."

Before the flutist had any chance to respond, the owl flew to join Jewel. Dodging tentacle
attacks from left and right.

"Sageus, be careful!" the girl yelled. "It already took Jason!"

"I know," the bird agreed. "And you're going to save him. But not without this!"

The headband dropped exactly into Jewel's hand as the Sageus flew by. Both first and second
heads turned to address the fleeing owl. Loosing a howl of rage against the turn of events, the
Levidium's entire body swung around. Exposing its third head to the hapless bird.

Devonika's warning rang in her ears as the wise woman faced the creature's deadliest wrath.
Jewel's final shriek tore from her lungs. Seeing the second head's gaping mouth, she was thrown
into its throat. Joining Jason in their dual dark fate within the belly of the beast. Her last vision
focused on Sageus turning to sand under the baleful gaze of the third head. Then darkness

enveloped the girl warrior. Sliding into a slick puddle of dark intestinal juices lapping at her feet as
she hit bottom.

"Jewel, I'm over here," Jason's familiar voice sounded to her left.

"You survived!" she grinned in the twilight.

"For the moment," he agreed. "But we have to get out of here. And Teathergund's outside."

Jewel moved slowly toward him. Fearful of falling further in the dank surroundings.

"Where are you?" she asked uncertainly.

"Here," he whispered almost in her ear.

She turned to see the boy warrior securely lashed inside a pocket of skin attached to the side
of the intestine. He seemed straight-jacketed with no hope of breaking free. Until her arrival.

"I'll have you out of there in a jiffy," Jewel assured him. Feeling for her pocket lighter, she
heard shuffling in the darkness.

"Careful," he warned. "They're all around us."

"What's here?" she replied. Eyes widening in fear.

"I don't know," Jason warned. "But they attacked and I woke up like this."

Flicking the lighter on for only a second sent hundreds of glistening sac-like creatures
scurrying away into the dark.

"They're like ants," he noted determinedly.

"Well, this is no picnic," she fired back. Growing more incensed by the minute. "Let's get
ready for barbecue."

Outside, Gabe tugged furiously on Teathergund. Unable to budge the hammer more than a
few inches. It was indeed a one owner weapon of justice.

"Somebody's got to use this against Levidium," he cried loudly.

"It won't be us," Ferguson called from the flyscout battalion. "First head's still acting up."
The dreaded fish's face dodged skillfully between its airborne adversaries. Snapping at first
one, then another flyscout target. Sheer weight of the long neck kept it from achieving the goal.

"Anyone seen Devonika?" the Landmover yelled back courageously.

"Second head took her," another flyscout volunteered.

Gabe shrugged. They could count on no more reinforcements from the rear. Thinking back to
the start of his rescue mission, though, he never looked for outside assistance. There were many
ways to battle the creature. With or without a large army. His strongest resource would be within.

A sudden plan of action launched itself in his mind. Sending Gabe's attention to Teathergund.
The hammer lay half-buried in the sandy seabed. Now was not the time for so powerful a weapon
to lie useless. Reflected rays of pre-dawn light gleamed brilliantly against the hammer's golden
shaft.

With any luck, the older boy reasoned, he might be able to attract the creature's attention. Or
at least the focus of the third head. Just as he finished calculating the distance for a margin of

safety, a writhing tentacle grabbed him. Hoisting both him and Teathergund into the air.

Ferguson looked back in anger. Noting Gabe's sacrifice to protect what was left of the battle
group. The flyscout couldn't leave his fellow warriors for even a moment as the first head
continued its unrelenting attack.

On the ground below, Pipercall dashed to draw forth Windwood. Convinced that the altered
instrument's power would be his best offense. Beginning to play, the flutist sent a strange harmony
belting into the air. The melody started as a lilting pulse, no more than three or four notes thrown
together to cover a single measure of music. But then a dark dangerous string of emphasis reared
from the depths of musical expression. Sending a melodious threat to anything evil within its
range of hearing.

A sudden spark of contact drew the musician's attention toward its source. Farina flew from
the insides of Stonelight to its surface. Rejoining Kindgarden as the counter began to blink once
again.

The scientist glanced morosely at his activated creation. Thoughts briefly wandering back to
the spatial displacer's first journey which had brought him to the island. A tear formed at the
corner of his right eye. Understanding the consequences in restarting Stonelight didn't block an
emotional tug of war that now raged inside himself.

"Professor, did you feel that?" Farina asked as her feet jarred loose from the surface of the

device. "It's moving!"

"Yes," he replied decisively. "Almost time to do its work!"

The flyscout became airborne as she saw Stonelight begin sliding past Kindgarden. Then she

realized he no longer controlled the machine's direction.

"Pipercall's got it," she whispered more to herself than the professor.

"Yes," he agreed. "And godspeed to the musician's aim."

As if being called to attention, Stonelight obeyed the musical summons for battle. The device
floated past the forest musician to assume position for its next command.

Overhead, Gabe found himself face to face with the dreaded third head of the Levidium. Eyes
blazing with the hatred of a thousand suns bore down on the helpless Landmover. Completely
powerless to move within the grasp of the giant tentacle. Yet, a small smile played at the edges of
the warrior's mouth. Almost goading the monster into strike position.

Gabe wondered if his plan would destroy the creature. Save them all from its terrifying wrath
within the sea-bound cube. Confidently eyeing a slim hope for victory in his mind, he managed to
keep Teathergund's silver-forged head directly in front of his own.

Chapter Thirty

Jewel's initial joy at fending off the scurrying sac-like creatures disappeared as her lighter's
flame vanished. Frantically, she snapped the small plastic button to ignite the remaining supply of
fluid. With no success.

Then she managed to stifle a scream as some viscous mass slithered over her feet. Darkness
only heightened the fear building in her heart. Would she and Jason be defeated alone in the belly
of the Levidium? Cut off from the rescue party she knew was frantically battling outside?

"Jason, what can we do?" she finally whispered in the blackness. Trying to stay calm.

"First get me off this wall restraint," he replied quietly. "Then we can plan a way out."

Shivering, she stepped toward his last remembered position. Kicking a small stone away at her

feet.

"There's a Swiss army knife in my front pocket," he began. Guiding her toward him by voice
alone. "You can reach it through this stuff. Then cut the rest of this mess away."

"Ugh!" the girl replied as her hand plunged into the fleshy restraint. It felt warm and slick to
her touch. Setting off a slight shudder along the entire intestinal tract.

Dark, gooey liquid began dropping in puddles all around. Sliding down the sides of the

stomach lining.

"Hurry," Jason urged. "It's sending more acid to attack us."

"Jason, I can't get through this," she explained. "It's too dense."

"Find something else to cut with," he warned. "We're almost out of time."

Frantically, Jewel withdrew her hand from the fleshy obstruction. Bending down, she felt for

the small stone that had been kicked away. It lay within arm's reach.

Feeling the stone in her grasp, she turned and plunged her hand back into the solid restraint.
Buried almost to her elbow, Jewel slit a small opening in front of Jason's pocket. Immediately a
warm liquid started pouring through her fingers. Withdrawing slightly at its touch, she refocused

her attention on reaching the knife.

"It's just blood," Jason reassured her. "Hurry, or we'll be caught when it clots."

Redoubling her efforts, she drew the blade free, then cut decisively down the length of flesh

holding him captive. He was free in a moment as the floor began an ominous rumbling motion.

"We have to get out of here now," he yelled over the building thunder around them.

"There's no way," she cried, oblivious to the increasing number of sac-like creatures scurrying

toward them in pitch blackness.

"No," Jason refused to listen. "There's always a way. We just have to find it."

As Jewel put the small stone back in her pocket for safekeeping, she felt a surge of power

flow through her. Drawing forth the headband, she placed it on her head. Then swiftly recited the
transformation chant.

"What are you doing?" he asked. Worried at the strange words from her lips.

The only response was a slight clicking noise and the sound of a tiny amount of gas being
released from her lighter. Instantly, a cushion of heavy gas formed under the boy warrior's feet.
He felt himself lifted from the dark danger surrounding them on the floor. Then moving with the
speed of a cheetah, the gas cushion headed back up the throat of the Levidium's second head.
Emerging from its gaping mouth only moments before the gathered forces' final attack.

Farina and Kindgarden broke into vocal cheers at Jewel and Jason's return. Pipercall noted the
arrival with hope rising in every melody from Windwood as Stonelight slid into its final holding
pattern for release.

At the same moment, Levidium's third head turned to sand, caught in its own reflection in
Teathergund's burnished silver surface. Shrieking in pain, the remaining two heads spread to
attack from the farthest manageable angles.

Ferguson's battalion split accordingly to renew the attack. Effectively blocking any verbal
communication between its companion head. Pipercall nodded to the eager flyscouts to disperse
before sending Stonelight's fury against the common enemy. Unable to gain their attention,
however, he was forced to lay aside Windwood's mesmerizing song for a single moment of
warning. Immediately a snaking tentacle knocked him one way as Windwood went spinning off in
another.

As Jason sank through the thinning gas cloud, he saw a silver headband being drawn from
Jewel's head. The change drew his attention as she resumed human form in front of him.

"Powerful stuff," he admitted with a grin. "And thanks for the ride."

"No problem," she smiled back. "Now save the island. Everyone's counting on you."

Gratefully, Jewel hugged him. Realizing he was the only one to resolve the balance of battle.

Focusing upward, Jason brought his full attention on Teathergund. Beginning to swing in a
circular motion, the hammer rose. Wrenching Gabe free from the weakening grip of his tentacle
entrapment. The Landmover let out a single whoop as Levidium's second head tried swallowing
its airborne prey. But a resounding blow to the creature's nose brought its attack to a standstill.

Directing Teathergund to the sandy sea floor brought Gabe back to solid footing as well. A
terse smile and hearty clap on Jason's shoulder assured him of the older boy's loyalty to whatever
plan lay ahead. Everyone knew the battle to be far from over. Yet no one doubted both sides had
already sustained heavy casualties.

Sageus' transformation to sand weighed heavily in their hearts. But losing Devonika's strength
as well had been a double blow. And a telling one in the balance of power being waged overhead.

Jewel's fingers slid lightly over the contours of the stone in her pocket. Nervously fidgeting
with its edges until she drew it out for closer inspection. The simple sharp rock glinted in the
morning rays from the island's double suns. It was the most perfect diamond she'd ever seen.
Refracting the dawn's early light, Jewel watched in awestruck wonder as a swirling rainbow of
colors transformed itself back into Sageus' familiar form. Then, in the next instant, she was joined
by Devonika's change from diamond to human form.

"I'm so glad you're back," the girl warrior hugged her mentor with tears in her eyes. "And you,
as well, Devonika."

Jewel included the dark queen in her triumphant embrace. In response, the North Island
monarch's fingers slowly joined around the girl as well.

"It's good to be back," Devonika agreed. "And it appears my diversion worked to save Sageus
and myself."

"Not to mention providing a way out of that creature's stomach," Jewel added. Shivering at
the memory.

Sageus reached to grip Jason's forearm. Now wielding Teathergund for a final assault, he was
preparing to send Stonelight directly through the middle of the Levidium's two remaining heads.

"Did Kindgarden agree to this?" the wise old woman asked. "It's his decision, you know."

"The boy has my wholehearted approval," Kindgarden called from some distance away. "It's
the only way. Our last resort."

Sageus joined Devonika who had already sent a final warning to Ferguson. Swiftly the
flyscouts dispersed. Releasing both heads' wrath. Vigorously snapping tentacles sought the
assembled army. But as Teathergund's arc grew greater over Jason's head, everyone knew the
monster could never withstand its force.

The hammer rang. Solidly connecting against Stonelight's rear propulsion system. Already
beginning to hum as the counter wound down its last few seconds.

"Everyone back into the castle," Jewel cried. Realizing the dangerous backlash from the
weapon.

"That won't protect us," Devonika disagreed. Raising her arms in a tremendous sweeping
motion, she sent a wall of sand hurtling at the beast. Momentarily blinding the creature. Then
nodded for Sageus to join her. Without hesitation the wise woman stepped to the dark queen's
side.

"We need a shield," Devonika admitted. "Something to cover all of us."

"There's nothing that big around here," Sageus replied.

"Yes, there is," Farina broke in, pointing to Jason a short distance away. "The bell is in
Stonelight. Use it to call the cloak."

"The cloak will expand," Jewel agreed. "Protecting us all."

"Call off the search then," Kindgarden added. "It's right here in my pocket."

Surprised by the sudden disclosure, Jewel swiftly examined the cloth drawn to view. She
realized the familiar worn fabric with the bell's image in the center circle. Eyes sparkling with
hope, she turned to call her original travelling companion.

"JASON!" she yelled. "Time to go!"

The words echoing in his ears, he edged backward away from Stonelight. But his movements
were slow. Stilted. The boy found himself fighting for every step. Almost like struggling in the
quicksand that had originally ensnared them in their first adventure on the island. The Levidium's
two heads angled for one final strike against him. Both would crash skulls together to destroy the
young antagonist. He would not be able to escape their fury this time.

Jason stood transfixed. Stonelight remained in its original position in front of him. The

hammer of justice had failed to move it even an inch forward. Yet, the thunder of his blow had
rocked the seabed beneath him. The device's counter showed no numbers left on the luminescent
dial. Why did it still appear visible in place? Then Professor Kindgarden's voice broke his
concentration.

"It's gone, Jason. Sound moves faster than light here," the scientist shouted. "We can see the
movement. You're too close to the source. Get back to the cloak now!"

Turning, Jason aimed Teathergund for the group gathered behind him. The hammer's
burnished silver head flew swift and true, sending him straight to the edge of the travelling cloak.

"Everybody help get him on board," Jewel pleaded with the escaping forces.

All of the flyscouts, Sageus, Devonika, Pipercall, Gabe and even Kindgarden quickly lent their
efforts to the task. True to form, the cloak expanded once more to allow him inside its safe
confines. Glancing back to the ground below, everyone saw the effects of Stonelight's final
passage. The Levidium lay split in two, forever destroyed at the bottom of its water filled tomb. In
the wake of the time displacement toward the island, it had split the entire ground structure in
half, north to south. Slowly enough, though, for every creature's safe retreat from the new
seashore dividing the island.

"We'll have to build a bridge between it," Sageus said, nodding at the gap.

"Since my castle was right in the middle," Devonika noted, "I'll cast the first chant for

solidarity."

"Peace will reign again," Pipercall replied, smiling at them.

"And we have our way home," Jewel added.

As the comment left her lips, everyone felt a sudden jolt inside the enfolded cloak. It began
spinning rapidly, throwing them all against each other. Jason clung tightly to Jewel. Strengthened
by their challenges apart to keep them together. He would not let her go again. They both closed
their eyes trying to recover from the dizzying travel effect.

All at once, the cloak stopped spinning. Paused in place to hover gently before landing. Jewel
cautiously opened one eye. She saw Jason's smiling face above her.

"We're home," he said simply.

Glancing around, the familiar forest they'd left at the beginning of their adventures surrounded
them on all sides. Jason rose to his feet. Drawing her with him.

"We're back," she whispered gratefully. "We're really here!"

Then she noticed the silence. None of their travellling companions had finished the journey.
Except one.

"Yes, we made it home," Professor Kindgarden agreed. "Thanks to the wonderful travelling
cloak. And a wish to get back"

He held the worn cloth in his hands. Now reduced to the size of a small handkerchief.

"Where are the others?" Jason asked. "They were right with us until the last spinning motion."

"Oh, they're here," the scientist replied. Holding up the blue bell with its strange insignia.
"Look closely at the sides."

Close inspection sent chills down both children's spines. Their friends were imminently
displayed around the perimeter of the bell. A ring of flyscouts overlapped a flutist, a queen, an
owl, a strong Landmover warrior, a cyclops, a lion, a headband, a shell necklace, a sand castle and
a magnificently engraved hammer.

"But the bell was in Stonelight!" Jewel insisted. "Farina said so."

"Yes," Kindgarden continued. "But she didn't build Stonelight. Or transfer its principles of
motion into this!"

He held up a glinting time displacement disk. Jason immediately recognized the travel device.
Grinning at the professor's ingenuity for retaining it.

"I merely took the initiative of reaching Stonelight in time to retrieve the bell before the

counter hit zero," he explained.

"So you can go back to the island anytime?" Jewel asked.

"Precisely," the professor nodded. "And that time is right now. I've got to get back to my

experiments on the island."

"How will you get there?" she wondered aloud.

"Forgotten about the cloak so soon?" Kindgarden smiled. He handed the bell to Jason. "Here,

you might need this if you decide to visit again."

"Thanks," Jason replied, hugging the scientist. "I will."

"Not without me," Jewel insisted, joining in the hug. Her eyes began filling with tears. "We'll

miss you, Professor."

"And all the others?" the older man asked, forcing back his own emotion at leaving them.

"Definitely," Jason admitted. Remembering Farina's bright eyes sparkling at him.

"Don't worry," Kindgarden replied, sensing the boy's mixed feelings about their return. "It's

only been a few minutes since you left here. That's the nature of the bell."

He wiped a smudge from Jewel's cheek. Brushing off a few grains of sand from her hair.

"Your parents will only notice a few nicks and tears from your journeys," the professor

released them. Spreading out the cloak in front of him. "But keep the memories in your hearts and
you'll always find your way back to the Land of Remote."

"We will," Jewel promised.

"See you soon, Professor," Jason replied.

They waved as the scientist climbed aboard the magnificent travelling cloak. Its edges
expanded then hid him from view as it lifted back into the air. Disappearing in the twinkle of an
eye. Then a single note from the bell in his hand signalled their first adventure was over. Its loud
clear tone met by their parents' voices calling in the distance.

Jason grasped Jewel's hand. He felt gratitude for her safety welling up inside. And secure,
knowing that many more adventures lay ahead on the strange island in the Land of Remote.

Epilogue

Jason and Jewel did meet Professor Kindgarden again on several trips back to the Land of
Remote. They had many close calls in those adventures, but never forgot the first time they found
the mysterious bell and its companion, the wonderful travelling cloak. Today, both children are
grown and have grandchildren of their own to pass down the morals and traditions of the island.
For it's no secret that explorers have travelled to many parts of the globe we live on. Travelling
into deepest ocean or farthest space for answers to the unending question of truth and its effect
on our lives.

Without goals to achieve and friends to bond with, life holds little promise for dreams. In our
lives, many people come and go, some having a more profound effect than others. Yet, in the
tapestry of life, we're all sewn in the same fabric. Such is the gift of the wonderful travelling
cloak, protecting all who use it for peace and unity.

The lessons of the island are not so remote as its location. They're in the hearts and minds of
every child. Listen to the call of working together. In unity, there is peace. That surpasses all
understanding.

Until the next adventure, my friends, I bid you farewell and safe journeys!