"I am of the Shandaha. We are the guardians of this world."
With a start all three of the teens recognized the voice that seemed to come from all around them. It was the voice that had spoken to each of them.
"You! Your the one who caused all this!" Jack shouted with unexpected fury in his voice.
"Yes, it was I and the two others that are no more that brought you here. We saw you in the light. The light showed us that you could aid this world. The light then showed us where each of you were."
Phillip and Tracy exchanged looks as they had caught something The Shandaha said that apparently Jack had missed.
"What did you mean by saying the two others that are no more?" Tracy asked.
"Three guardians are appointed to each world. I am one of the three appointed to this one. Something is happening to this world that is endangering its very existence. It was beyond our powers to correct this. So we consulted the light within, and the light showed us a way that we may still help. You are that help. But, bringing you here took a lot of our essence and dimmed the light. As a result the other two gave their essence to me so that I may live to guide you on your task at hand. We knew the risk, but it had to be done. We three are now just one."
"Oh, isn't this a crock of mumbo jumbo bull! I am sorry for what is going on here, but I have my own life to worry about back home. So you can just send me back right now." Jack retorted.
"I am sorry to say this but that is impossible. I am just one and it takes all three. Until order and balance is restored we will be but one."
Jack felt his legs giving away under him and he slowly sank to the ground to his knees. Having a hard time grasping this bitter pill he buried his face in his hands and broke down. His Mom and Dad were gone; his friends, his house, the park, the race, helping his dad. Gone, all gone. For now it was too much to take. His structured and organized world collapsed so he just shut down refusing to hear anymore.
Phillip coming out of a daze asked the only question he could think of, "So... what do we do to restore order and return balance?"
In a sighing voice The Shandaha replied, "The light within did not show us the how or the means. It just showed us you three in response to our question of how we can help. Then it would speak no more. I do know it has to do with the portal that has opened somewhere that is releasing evil creatures that are setting on this world and causing many tribulations. I know not where this portal is yet as I am looking for it. But even for myself the way is dangerous. For now you need more supplies than what you have been given as gifts. Go East to the Town of Vermel. If the Light is willing I shall see you again after I find the portal. But, there are others that you must meet in your journey. The Krones are just one. Others will have pieces of the puzzle that the Light has shared." The Shandaha, after speaking, floated back a few feet and upward a bit and vanished leaving the stunned trio all alone.
Chapter 5: The Journey Begins
** Jack takes a Bath **
After the departure of the Shandaha Phillip and Tracy joined the sitting Jack who still had not reacted to anything. Silence reigned, as each of them was lost in their own thoughts. The sun impartial to the situation trekked lower and lower in the sky above. Phillip noted that it was starting to get dark around them. He glanced at Jack and saw that he still had not moved, then he looked over at Tracy who had a faraway look in her open eyes. Stretching a bit as he got up he walked to the lake and bent down. Cupping his hands he dipped them in the water. It felt cool and refreshing so he splashed some water on his face. Then he proceeded to wash his face and neck area along with his arms. Feeling a bit better he returned to where Tracy and Jack sat. It looked like Tracy was back from where ever she had gone as she was looking up at him.
"What are we going to do about Jack?" Tracy asked.
"Nothing for now. Maybe he will feel better in the morning. We can’t go anywhere right now, as it is almost dark. I suggest that we just stay here for the night and try and get some sleep. Then tomorrow we will figure something out." Phillip stated.
Looking up and watching the first stars wink on Tracy answered back, ”Sounds as good plan as any to me right now." Then casting a slightly worried look over at Jack's darkening form, she lay down and closed her eyes to sleep.
With the day breaking Tracy and Phillip found out that some time during the night Jack had either lay down to sleep or just fallen over from exhaustion. Knowing that there was no food where they were they knew that they had to get moving or just die of starvation. Neither of them relished the idea of waking Jack, but Tracy bent over Jack and shook his shoulder.
"Jack, wake up." Tracy said as she shook him again, this time a bit rougher.
Jack opened one eye and got up on one elbow and peered around at his surroundings. Then a dismal look came over his face and he sank back down and reclosed his eyes.
Phillip walked over to Jack and stood beside Tracy. Then he bent down and grabbed Jack with both his hands and shook hard. "Dude! Get up! We can't stay here! We've got to get moving!"
All Jack did in response was to curl up in the fetal position and ignore them.
With a look of disgust Phillip again reached down and took hold of Jacks shirt and yanked upward pulling Jack halfway to his feet. Jack let his body be nothing but dead weight. With a look of exasperation he motioned to Tracy for help. Together they each grabbed an arm and lifted Jack, dragging him they struggled toward the lake. It seems that they both had the same idea. Reaching the lake they went out to where the water was about eight inches deep then looking at each other and nodding they both let go at the same time. The effect was immediate.
The water seemed to explode as a soaking wet Jack leapt upward.
"GEESH! That is COLD!" Jack yelped as he sputtered and shook his head. Then angrily looking to shore where Phillip and Tracy had retreated to, he glared at them.
Tracy coldly returning Jack's sullen look stated, "We need to talk."
Jack trudged to shore and sat down drawing his knees up to his chest and hugging his knees with his arms. Then feeling something poking him in the side he absently reached and grabbed the hilt of his sword and adjusted it to be more comfortable. With that done he looked from Tracy to Phillip through his wet hair.
Clearing his throat Phillip started, "Jack, right now I don't care who needs us to do what. But one thing is obvious. We need each other. We have no idea as to what is out there and what we are going to face, but in my book three is better than two. We cannot go back and we cannot stay here. If we do we will die. So the only thing left is to go forward."
Tracy then joined in softly, "You don't look to me like the type that just gives up even when you think you’re beaten. Come with us Jack and show us... please."
With a deep heavy sigh Jack stood up. "You’re right, I'm not a quitter. It's just that this is so much to deal with." Jack said with a clicking sound in his throat while raising his arms and turning slowly around.
Still softly Tracy said, "I know. But this is what we have been dealt and you've got to play the cards you have."
Looking to the East Phillip put in, "Shall we roll then? I'm getting pretty hungry and a nice village is just what we need." That being said Phillip started walking.
After just a moment of hesitation Jack followed behind and Tracy fell into step behind Jack.
** The Road to Vermel **
After a walk of about fifteen minutes along the shore of the lake the youths ran across what could only be an old road. The twin overgrown ruts ran away from the lake and headed in the direction that they needed and vanished into the distance. Nothing could be seen as far as the eye could look but the grass and the road. Without a glance back, they turned to follow it wherever it may lead them.
Jack lost in his thoughts followed Phillip obediently keeping his eyes on his back. He knew he was having a hard time coming to grips with the situation but he resolved to do better in the future. If righting wrongs and fighting evil doers was what
it took to get back home then so be it, that's what he would do. He started feeling better almost immediately once he made that decision and felt his old resolve come flowing back to him. Thinking on their current situation he took careful stock. They would need food, water, clothing, and something to tote the supplies in. To obtain those things, they would need money. If the city or town was big enough he would seek employment, then he remembered he knew nothing of this worlds trade habits so he found that he could not even formulate a working plan. It looked like they would just have to play it by ear and just see what events unfolded. Taking his eyes off Phillip's back he once again looked around at his new found home. Still nothing but green grass and that off colored blue sky greeted his eyes. Briefly turning around and walking backwards he gave Tracy a radiant smile to show that all was fine with him now. He felt that Tracy got the message as her eyes sparkled and she returned a grin and nodded her head. Feeling better yet, Jack picked up his speed a tad and caught up to Phillip to walk beside him on his right. Looking at Phillip he gave him an apologetic grin and saw that Phillip understood as he grinned back. He then noticed that Tracy had pulled up on the other side on Phillip. Tracy then started humming something, he strained his ears to make out what it was when it hit him. She was humming the song, "We're off to see the Wizard" from that old classic movie "Wizard of Oz." Jack could not help it, he snickered, then decided what the heck and started humming along. Soon all three of them were singing the song and laughing while walking along. All was right with them and the world for now.
Eight hours into the walk, Phillip thankfully called a halt to rest a bit. Jack was surprised at both Phillip and Tracy for being able to hold the pace this long without taking a break. I mean yes they were walking, but the average person could not walk for that amount of time with no breaks. The scenery had changed little around them during the course of the day with the exception of a few straggly trees here and there. Also they had found the remains of a few huts here and there, and seen evidence of what used to be fencing and posts. Looking up he saw that the sun was past its high point and starting its decline, but there was still daylight left for a few more hours of hiking. Licking his lips and swallowing he realized he was getting pretty thirsty. Looking over at the other two he knew that they had to be also as their faces had a reddish tinge to them and sweat was dappling Phillips upper lip. To soon it seemed they were on their way again.
With the daylight fading they spotted what must be the town or village. It was not a city. Holding a brief meeting they decided that they would forgo water and food and approach the village in the morning when sight was better. Walking off the road a ways Jack unbuckled his sword and let it fall. He saw Phillip take off his pouch and Tracy unsling her bow and quiver. Making grunting sounds everyone settled down for the night. Lying on his back Jack saw the stars come out to greet his tired form. Before he was bothered by the thirst, he was asleep.
** Vermel **
Tracy awoke to the sounds of a distant crowd. Sitting up she grimaced, her back and legs letting her know that they did not all enjoy yesterdays long walk. Looking around she saw Jack and Phillip not far away looking off toward the town. Something seemed to be holding their attention, as they had not noticed her stirrings. Getting up she sidled over to them and took a look for herself. To the side of the town set up in a meadow there were banners flying and a large crowd of people. Every once in awhile the crowd would erupt in a roar but she was to far away to see much detail. Curious as to the event they decided to get a closer look. While Jack buckled his sword on, Tracy slung her bow and quiver. Phillip grabbed up his pouch and the trio began walking toward the town.
Half an hour’s walk saw them at a little creek that they had not noticed from the distance because it was in a little dip. Tracy looked at the shallow creek and it was one of the most inviting sites she had ever seen. Kneeling beside the water she scooped some up. It was so cool and clear. Throwing caution to the wind she drank. Oh heaven. She did not know that water could be so sweet, it felt great going down her dry throat and felt even better settling in her stomach. From the happy look on the boy’s faces she could pretty much tell that they were having the same thoughts. Too bad it is not deep enough to jump in she thought. Standing back up she noticed for the first time the scent of food wafting in on a slight breeze. At the smell her stomach let her know that she needed some food. The smell was coming from where the crowd was. Her stomach then growled so noisily that both Jack and Phillip looked up from their drinking.
"I second that thought," Jack said laughingly.
"Well then, it looks like we are to be meeting the fine folks of Vermel if we want to do anything about that." Phillip said while standing up and wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.
Do you think we should hide our weapons somewhere when we meet them for the first time? I don't think that going to meet new people and being armed is a good thing to do."
"Good thought Tracy, well just stash our weapons here and go in and see what’s what. Then if all is ok we can come back to get them." Jack said.
Phillip who looked like he had been mulling this over put in, "What I think we should do is just two of us go unarmed and scout things out leaving the third to watch over the weapons. Then if it checks out come back"
"Let me guess. You want the poor defenseless girl to stay correct? While the macho men go off to investigate." Tracy spat out.
Phillip holding up his hands with a surprised look on his face replied, "Uh... Whoa whoa! Down girl! I never said that, in fact, I never even implied that. In my eyes we are a team. But, I just think that is the best way to go at this since we know nothing about this land or its people. But, now that you mention it; you do have a long-range weapon. I think that is best. Come with us closer then lay low. If Jack and I get into some trouble and have to run you can cover us."
Pacified Tracy replied, "You got a point there. Alright let's do it."
A relieved look came over Phillips face as he turned to face Jack. "Well, you heard the lady. Let's do it."
The three walked toward the crowd. Finding a tree that stood near Tracy positioned herself behind it while Jack and Phillip disarmed and put their things beside her. After a few short well wishes Tracy watched Jack and Phillip walk toward the crowd. She took an arrow out of her quiver for faster loading just in case it was needed. Watching anxiously she saw the boys disappear into the people. Time seemed to slow down and drag as she waited. A few minutes lazily rolled on, taking its own sweet time passing by. Just when she was starting to really worry and contemplate going after them she saw them emerging from the crowd and head back to her at a fast walk. Relief flooded her and she was able to relax. She did not realize how tense just those few minutes had made her. It must be good news she surmised from the smiles on their faces.
"Tracy, just how good are you with that bow?" Jack asked excitedly when he got near enough.
"Why? What’s going on?"
Phillip unable to contain himself blurted out what they had found out. "It's like a Fair Day! Only a real old one. They have jousting contests, sword fighting duels, falconry shows, jugglers, acrobats, and food! What you keep hearing is the jousting contest. But one contest they have is an archery contest! It pays money to the winner, and we need money."
Blanching Tracy said, "I can give it a go, but no guarantees that we will wind up eating."
Grinning and slapping Tracy's shoulder Jack said, "Well then, let's do it."
After strapping his sword back on, Jack turned and hurried back to the crowd.
"Wow, you seem to think he is in a hurry." Tracy said.
Laughing Phillip said, "You haven't gotten a good close whiff of that food yet."
Having to walk fast to keep up Tracy followed behind Phillip as they pushed themselves through the crowd. Tracy marveled over how the people looked so much like them. They were just dressed differently. The people were dressed all in natural shades. The clothing had different hues of greens and browns for
the most part. The few flashes of bright colors she saw were worn by what looked like dwarfs, jugglers, and yes even down to the bells what could only be court jesters. Tracy heard a clank of metal followed by a thud, then followed by a loud roar from the crowd. She was glad her talent was not jousting. Coming out of the main crowd she saw Jack standing by a knot of people with bows themselves and she saw him gesturing in her direction. Her palms started to sweat and she got a little bit light headed at the thought of an archery contest with people she had never met before. Phillip and Jack seemed to have a lot of confidence in her; she only hoped that she could live up to their expectations. They were now close enough to hear Jack's conversation even over the rest of the crowd.
"No? What do you mean no?" Jack asked hotly directing it at a tall slim dour looking man that had no bow. "Isn't this a Fair Day where people come from all around to compete?"
"Like I tried to tell you before, the contest is full and now closed to further registration. You arrived too late, the contest will be starting shortly." The man said pulling an even longer face.
Tracy had two feelings at the same time. She felt relief as the pressure fell from her shoulders, and then worry as she thought how were they to get food now.
Just then three figures stepped out from behind some of the archers.
"The Krone will forfeit our position to favor the lady. We are most curious to see how well the lady can perform in the task at hand"
"With a nod of his head the dour man said, "As you wish Krone."
With murmurs coming from the other archers The Krone walked over and stood beside the teens. The center Krone who had spoken looked intently up into Tracy's eyes.
"May you do well, and The Light Within shine on you My Lady."
** The Archery Contest **
Taking deep shallow breaths Tracy tried to calm her nerves. Closing her eyes she pictured herself back at home in the woods where she practiced. I can do this she thought to herself as she opened her eyes. Her racing heart had slowed to almost a normal pace. Looking to her right then left she saw the other archers. Twenty of them in all, including herself. Once again she calmed herself by shutting her eyes. Now she opened them and looked at the target standing 25 paces away. That was her entire world now. Pulling an arrow from her quiver she set herself and took a deep breath. Her bow thrummed as she let the first of three arrows fly for round one. Happily she saw that the arrow had flown true to its mark and scored a perfect center shot. Relief flowed in and her jitters evaporated. Smiling she sent her second and third arrows straight to the mark. Her grouping was excellent with less than an inch separating all three. The scores were taken and 2 archers cut. The targets were then moved to fifty paces distant. Once again Tracy narrowed her focus to nothing but the target, all else fell away. Once again all arrows flew and when the scores came back Tracy was happy to advance to the third round. Only ten archers remained. A hush fell over the gathering crowd as she drew a bead on her target now seventy-five paces away. Letting her arrows fly one at a time the crowd oh'd and awwwed as each struck home. She heard some angry muttering from some of the archers as they were now cut. At a hundred paces only she and two other archers remained. The watching crowd had grown in size. At this distance the target looked very small to her. Calmly she looked away from her target and pulled back on the bowstring. She was looking right at Jack who had a very confused look on his face. She just could not resist throwing him a wink right before snapping her head back toward the target forcing her focus and letting fly. With the crowd cheering in her ears the score came back. All three still on target! Then she noted that murmuring had started. One other archer had done the same thing. The sourpuss man then came forward and approached Tracy and the other archer.