League of Extraordinary Robots

  Meanwhile in the lake Wisker and Sir Porcupine were being pushed and shoved around by the strong waters. Wisker managed to hold onto a tree limb which seemed to give him a secure respite, at least for a little bit. Porcupine, Sir Porcupine, he called softly, trying to locate his friend, but Sir Porcupine was no where to be seen. If Wisker had but known it, Sir Porcupine was having his own adventure, tumbling down waterfalls. Wisker called out to his friend again, but it did no good, there was no answer. The two men were now apart, both following down the river going about their separate ways.

  Wisker held onto the tree limb with all his might, trying to decide what he should do next.

  One part of him would have liked to have given up, but he kept in mind all of the people that he had left behind, all of the people who had risked their lives to save his, and he knew that he must keep on going, that he owed his life to the many people of Mayfair and he must do all that he could to save them. Failure isnt an option, he thought to himself. I also must do all that I can to find Sir Porcupine. He risked his life to save me and I cant just throw away my life without doing all I can to rescue him. Wisker listened carefully to see if he could hear anything of Sir Porcupine but although the areas was anything but quiet, there was no sound of a human voice.

  Porcupine, I will never forget you, called out Wisker at the top of his voice. I will find you someday. Wisker listened carefully to see if there was an answering call but although Wisker didnt know it, his call was drown out by the crashing waves of the water hitting the rocks.

  Wisker wiped away a tear and then carefully pulled himself up onto the banks of the river to rest, for just a tiny bit. Wisker held his head and began to cry. The one companion who was dear to me I have lost, he said to himself. I could not save him.

  Suddenly the leaves and shrubs began to rumble and Wisker could hear the trotting of hooves becoming louder and louder. Wisker quickly jumped up and hid behind a large stone. After a moment he peeked out and saw five headless riders conversing with each other, using some sort of hand signals to communicate. They turned their bodies this way and that as if somehow they were looking around and for a moment, Wisker thought he had been spotted, but the headless riders just turned away and rode off.

  Wiskers knees were shaking so badly that he fell to the ground. He began beating his hands in the dirt in frustration until they began to bleed. The blood, being the blood of a magic wizard, gave off an odor different than that of ordinary humans and suddenly out of the woods came a bunch of blood thirsty diamond ants. These ants are small with a spec of a diamond on their heads. They live off the blood of dead animals or in this case, bleeding wizards.

  Get out of here you blood suckers, shouted Wisker in an angry voice, but the ants werent about to leave until all of the blood on the ground had evaporated through their skin. When this had been accomplished, they turned their attention to Wisker and his bleeding hands, but Wisker began to beat at them with his magic wand and since he proved to be a good aim and to kill several with one blow, they quickly gave up and ran for the shelter of the forest.

  Wisker could feel himself starting to sink into a state of depression, but he quickly shook himself and refused to give into it. Soon I may have to face even more demons, said Wisker to himself, as he gathered his thoughts and began to move on. I must do my best to keep my wits about me. Many people risked their lives for me; I can do nothing less than to do the same for them. I will need to quickly find a safe shelter where I can rest for a little while if I hope to remain alive.

  Wisker continued along the path for a few more miles and suddenly it began to snow. Wisker turned and was going to turn back from the cold but it was too late, the woods were beginning to disappear. Everything seemed to have disappeared and Wisker found himself surrounded by snow. He was so cold and hungry that all he could do was cry. It is my fault, he told himself. I never should have come this way. I should have waited and thought out a different plan. Now Sir Porcupine is lost and I am probably going to freeze or starve to death and I wont be any help to Sir Porcupine of the people of the land of Mayfair, after all they have done for me and it is all my fault.

  Wisker stumbled on, not about to give up but dreading what might happen next. Suddenly a large bison appeared in the path in front of him. It was a huge thing, with horns that stood out about eight feet and the amount of fur that it had could make clothing for a few hundred men.

  Wisker was so cold that he didnt stop to give thought as to whether the bison was friendly or not. It had what he needed and he just approached it with that in mind. He stumbled over to the creature and leaned against it, letting its body heat flow into him. The bison moved so that he was helping to support Wisker as he stood there. Wisker could feel some of his strength coming back with the heat from the bisons body. As he leaned against the bison, Wisker began to get an idea. I know how I can take some of the bisons heat with me if hell let me, he thought to himself.

  Wisker began to pluck some of the bisons fur and to weave it together with his fingers.

  First he wove himself a long coat, then he plucked enough to make himself a hat and a pair of gloves. After he had himself all nicely wrapped up in the coat, hat and gloves, Wisker made himself some heavily padded shoes for his frostbit feet. I have never felt any warmer or more comfortable in my whole life, thought Wisker.

  Wisker went to say thank you to the huge beast when he realized that it had disappeared, there wasnt anything there, just the huge footprints that showed where the bison had stood.

  Thank you, shouted Wisker to the skies, hoping that the bison would hear him or that someone or something would hear him and carry his message to the bison. With his appreciation, a gift fell from the skies, nuts and large eagle eggs. Wisker held out his hands to catch as many as he could and many fell to him. Wisker put some in his pockets and munched on others.

  This is a very humbling experience for me, thought Wisker. Once I was the royal wizard, the advisor for the king. I didnt just entertain the royal family and their guests with my magic, but I used my magic to know what was going on in the land of Mayfair and to keep the king advised as to how he could best serve the people. I never wanted for anything in my life. But then things changed. The king stopped caring about serving the people and only wanted what would best please himself and his family. I am nothing more than a peasant now and am considered an enemy by the king and queen. Enough of an enemy so that if they find me they will either imprison me for the rest of my life or kill me with their guillotine.

  Wisker wiped away a tear as he remembered what good friends he and the king had been at one time and drastically things had changed. As he tracked through the snow, Wisker began to count the golden nuts on the ground to keep his mind from wandering. If the king would only let the people come here and gather nuts, no citizens of Mayfair would ever be poor again, he thought. But right now I have to keep my mind on my task at hand and that is to restore my name and save all the people that risked their lives to free me. Wisker looked all around. There seems to be no land in sight, he thought. All that I keep seeing is nothing more than a blanket of snow and the snow seems to be coming down very heavily.

  Suddenly Wisker heard rustling sound, as if a wagon of some sort were coming. He quickly ran to hide behind a large pile of twigs. He peeked out from around the twigs to watch to see what was coming and down a long stretch of snowy pathway came a group of giant masked men, pulling a wagon They dont seem to mind the cold, thought Wisker. .Because all they are wearing are handmade leather, collars and long pants, no shirts or robes and none of them are shivering or covered with goose bumps.

  The men had marks all over their bodies and a red symbol burned into their chests. The men had yellow skin and massive hands and feet. Even though they are men, they seem to be being used like animals, thought Wisker, as he watched the men strain to pull
the wagon. Leading the masked men was a slender built man, who was adorned in white rabbit fur from head to toe. His facial features could not be made out. Id better stay hidden yet awhile till I know more about them, thought Wisker. He watched as the group stopped to take a rest. The large men were so thirsty that they licked the snow off of the ground like wild dogs. Oh I hate to see that, cried Wisker to himself. I wish I could give each of them a glass of water, but I am powerless, so I guess Id better just stay hidden, I dont want to make things worse.

  Soon out of the wagon stepped a large woman. She has to weigh about three hundred pounds or more, thought Wisker. The woman has pink lips, green skin, bitty ears and big blue eyes. Ass she moved, green slime came from her; out of her nose, from her hair, out of her skin pores, from between her toes and, well, the odor was just awful. Wisker quickly covered his nose as the large lady rolled in the snow to wipe herself off. The odor was so horrendous that the snow began to melt and the animals in the woods began to run away.

  Soon we will take over Mayfair, said the woman, as she climbed back into the wagon.

  , soon out of the wagon stepped out a large woman, she had to be about three hundred pounds or more, with pink lips, green skin, bitty ears and big blue eyes, as she moved green slime came from her, out of her nose, from her hair, out of her skin pores, from between her toes, and the odor was foul, whisker quickly covered his nose, as the large lady roll in the snow to whip herself off, the odor was so horrendous that the snow began to melt and the animals in the woods began to run away. "Soon we will take over Mayfair" said the hideous creature as she got back into the wagon.

  Soon the wagon took off, but Wisker continued to hide behind the pile of twigs. Id better stay here just a few more minutes, just in case they should decide to come back, he said. I wish I could warn the people of Mayfair, but they would never believe me. I need to find Jeronomo and quickly, too many things are falling apart and I need his help right away.

  Wisker soon got a burst of energy and went marching down the snowy path. As he was walking along, a whirlwind came and scooped him up and Wisker found himself flying through the woods. Wisker did his best to set himself free but he whirlwind was too powerful, so Wisker just saved his energy and waited to see where the whirlwind would drop him.

  Finally the whirlwind dropped Wisker gently to the ground, right in the center of a large animal fight. Great, thanks a lot, shouted Wisker sarcastically to the whirlwind. Wisker had landed feet first on the dead animal over which the two animals were fighting. Wisker quickly move his feet and at the same time looked at the beauty and the size of the two animals who were fighting. They were two snow leopards, about eight feet tall and weighing about a thousand pounds. They had long fang teeth hanging over their lips and huge globs of saliva dripping from their mouths. It was evident that they were both hungry for their catch, but there was only enough for one. Id better get out of here before I become dinner for one of them, thought Wisker. As the two animals growled at each other and slowly crept, waiting to attack, Wisker slowly moved out of the way, trying his best not to get noticed. Suddenly Wisker tripped on his long coat and fell with a loud crash. Soon it was a feeding frenzy. The two animals began to attack each other and fight for their food and Wisker scrambled up and ran for cover.

  Wisker quickly climbed up a tree and out onto a tree branch from which he watched the two animals fight. It had begun to snow again and Wisker decided not to try to battle Mother Nature. At least not yet awhile, he told himself. Finally the snow leopards went their separate ways and when it appeared that the coast was clear, Wisker decided that it was time to be on his way and quickly slid down from the tree and resumed walking through the woods. Wisker was so tired that he could only keep his eyes half way open, just enough to try to be sure that he stayed on the path.

  After a few more hours of walking, Wisker noticed that he was becoming hot, and as he completely opened his eyes, he saw that it had stopped snowing and that he was now in another land. He looked to see what was behind him and he could see that behind him it was still snowing, but it seemed as if the snow was completely blocked from coming any further.

  I am so hot, Id better take off these warm clothes and carry them before I pass out from the heat, said Wisker. He quickly took off his handmade coat and threw it to the side. As quickly as it landed on the ground the coat vanished. Wisker ran over to where he had thrown the garment but it was gone. He searched and searched but there was no trace of his coat. Carefully Wisker slipped off his boots, being sure to keep his hands on them so that someone or something wouldnt think that he didnt want them any more. I just might need them again if I come to another land where it is snowing, he thought. Wisker put his hat in one boot and his nice warm gloves in other and tied the lacings of his boots together. Then he slung them around his neck and began to walk on.

  Wisker looked around. The land through which he was now walking was a beautiful one. It was covered with flowers of all different kinds and colors and rabbits were running through the fields. Wisker smiled as he watched the rabbits, they seemed so joyful and happy.

  I have to find Jeronomo and save the people of Mayfair, but I am so tired and weary, I just have to take a rest. Wiskers feet were covered with sores from so much walking and his back was in pain. Wisker saw a small stream running along through the field and sat down beside it. Oh it feels so nice and comfortable here, he thought.

  Wisker watched the small stream as it flowed through the field; it was such a restful thing to see that it made him feel restful himself, at least a little bit. Suddenly a face appeared in the stream. What is your business here? asked the face.

  Wisker was so surprised by the sudden appearance of the face that at first he didnt know what to say, but after a moment he answered, I am looking for Jeronomo.

  The face in the stream just gazed back and soon it appeared much clearer to Wisker. It was pure white with blue eyes. It looked more lake a mast than a face belonging to someone. Soon the face rose up from the water and the eyes opened and shut as the water rolled off of it.

  Wisker jumped up. What is your name? he asked the strange being.

  The face never answered but instead made circles around Wisker, circles from head to toe, surrounding Wisker. Then he said, I am Oslo, the road to Jeronomo runs through me.

  I am a long time friend of Jeronomo, explained Wisker. And I have been imprisoned for awhile.

  Oslo just laughed and jumped back into the water, making a big splash.

  Wait, wait, shouted Wisker, but the entity never waited and Wisker was left all alone. Wisker stared at the stream, waiting for an answer. Soon the stream opened up and a large tree appeared.

  Come on down, said the being. At first Wisker was a little frightened and didnt know if hed go down or not.

  I guess if Im going to get anywhere Ive got to take a chance, he told himself. He looked down into the hole. It was so spectacular. The tree was so tall that it swayed back and forth. Wisker could not see the bottom because there were clouds floating by and large birds flying with their young.

  Wisker took hold of the tree and holding on tightly, he began to climb his way down. The tree was soft, but it showed sign that it had been around for centuries. Wisker found a very old coin, dating back hundreds of years.

  The tree had many nests, from birds of all kinds to squirrels. As Wisker continued to look down, all he could see were the clouds and the blue skies. Suddenly a rush of wind came and blew against Wisker causing him to begin to slide down the old tree. Oh no, cried Wisker, trying desperately to hold on but gravity was so strong that he continued to slide. Wiskers wand shot out of its special pocket and Wisker tried his best to grab onto it, but it stayed one step below him. Wisker cringed at the thought of losing the one and only possession that he thought would help him to save Mayfair.

 
Well, theres nothing I can do about it right now, thought Wisker. I guess Ill just have to wait until Ive landed and then see what I can do. Wisker just let himself continue to slide down the tree until he had slid all the way to the bottom, landing with just a soft little bump.

  Wiskers face lit up with a smile of joy as he recognized the land. From having been there many years ago. He ran to kiss the ground. This is the land of Bimini, he cried, twirling around as he tried to see everything at once. Bimini is so beautiful. It is surrounded by water, has very little grass and is ninety-five percent sand, beautiful wild plants and flowers. The sand rolls under ones feet.

  There are never any nights and large volcanoes spout lava into the air and most of the people live in stone huts and live off of the land. Wisker was so excited and happy that he just shouted all of the wonderful things he could remember about B mini.

  For Wisker there was more to Bimini than the eye could imagine. Bimini was the land where he had first gotten to test out his powers to save the people from the war king and Wisker had won the battle. My face is etched into stones; my messages are stamped on walls and taught in the schools. The people here will be so glad to see me. They will welcome me with open arms. They will help me to find my wand and to save the land of Mayfair from the kings greed.

  Wisker is so excited that he runs towards the town, anxious to see his old friends again and to get their help. The people of Bimini are so beautiful, thought Wisker. They are made of a mixture of sand and skin and they have big blue eyes and coarse black hair. I will be so glad to see them and I know they will be glad to see me too.

  But things are not as Wisker expected. His face is etched off from the stones, his words are erased off of the walls and the people do not welcome him with open arms.

  Whats going on? asked Wisker as the people surrounded him and started driving him towards the temple, poking him in the back with spears every once in awhile.

  Oh, I see what the trouble is, Wisker thought to himself as he looked up and saw that the war king was back in control. I have no choice but to run when they least expect it. I am in no way prepared to fight the war king by myself.

  Wisker watched for a chance to break away and suddenly he saw it. He spun and broke off running as fast as he could through the forest of trees. The people of Bimini chased after him, some throwing darts while others tried to spear him. Wisker ran for his life, fearing the same people that he had once helped.

  I just cant run any further, thought Wisker. Im just going to have to give up and hope that I can convince them not to kill me.

  Wisker collapsed on the ground and put his hands up in the air. Just as Wisker was about to give up, there was a loud boom and ground caved in between him and the people of Bimini, leaving a big hole. Wisker was so startled he gave a loud scream. The whole was dark, so dark that nothing could be seen by looking into it. The people or Bimni were afraid. They backed away and waited to see what would happen next.

  Soon the ground began to shake and the earth cracked all the way down to the village of Bimni, breaking apart houses and temples. A large colorful snake came out of the hole like a winding wave and caught Wisker up on his large horn. Who dared to wake me? he asked, giving Wisker a slight shake.

  Sudo, it is I, Wisker, said Wisker.

  The snake looked confused. The people of Bimni have played a trick on me! he roared.

  Wisker began to wiggle himself around and finally got himself loose from the snakes horn and landed on the ground, right on his nose. He picked himself up quickly and turned to the snake. What a beautiful beast you are, Wisker told him. Sudo was indeed beautiful. He was multi colored with a long red line running down his back. He had ivory horns all over his back and face, long pointed ears, scaly skin and big, black eyes. He had large, golden bangles on his hands, feet and neck and long flowing black hair. The most amazing thing about Sudo was his size. When he stood up on his tail, he stood over fifteen feet high.

  Sudo bent down and looked at Wisker closely. It is you, he cried joyfully. It really is! I am so glad to see you old friend. He looked at the people of Bimni who were standing on the further side of the hole, too frightened to shoot their spears. He gave off a deep growl and the people took off running as fast as they could to get the war king.

  Sudo wiggled his body to get the kinks out of it from his long nap. Well, I am glad to see you my good friend, he told Wisker. I must have been sleeping for years. The war king sent a young girl to cast a sleeping spell on me and now that I am awake I must take revenge. Will you help me, old friend?

  I would indeed love to help you and would consider it an honor and a privilege, but I too have serious problems that I have to take care of also. I have to get my magic wand out of the tree in the sky and then I have to find the wizard Jeronomo and get him to fix it for me.

  I have an idea that will be helpful to both of us, said Sudo. If you will help me to get revenge on the war king, I will help you to get your wand and will get you to Jeronomo.

  Agreed, said Wisker, reaching up to shake hands with Sudo.

  The two old friends put their heads together and soon hatch up a plan; a very good one which both of them feels sure will work. There is only one problem. Wisker and Sudo are not the only ones hatching a plan and the plan being made by others is in direct opposition to the one made by Wisker and Sudo.

  Chapter 4

  Meeting Jeronomo

  Soon Wisker and Sudo were catching up on old times. I want my island back and I want the people to be free, Sudo told Wisker.

  That is the way things should be, Wisker told him.

  Sudo gently lifted Wisker to his back and Wisker held onto Sudos long horns and off the two went, running through the sand and the shrubs of the island on their way to meet the war king. I am running out of time, thought Wisker. We need to get this business here at the island taken care of and then I need to get to Jeronomo.

  By this time, the war king was sitting up his soldiers into place, thousands of islanders, with their daggers, bow and arrows and many little children with their poisonous darts. Most of the weapons were prehistoric in nature and did not pose a threat to Wisker and Sudo.

  Soon the two came down the hill to be greeted by a large group of enemy soldiers. Thousands of arrows and daggers filled the air, heading toward Sudo and Wisker. Sudo spread his magical wings and up in the air they flew, diving and ducking through the crowds of weapons. Sudo took in a deep breathe and blew out fire at the islanders. The people began to run and scream to the war king for help but no one came. Sudo sat the island on fire. Trees began to burn; houses and temples fell to the ground in ashes. I want my island back! roared Sudo, as puffs of smoke came out of his mouth. Sudo Stamped his feet on the ground and made the island crack again. This time many of the villages sank through the cracks in the ground, never to be seen again. The only thing that one could hear was the moans and cries of the people as fell into the abyss.

  I want my island back! roared Sudo again, his cry echoing over and over again as he flew over the island.

  The villagers became frightened and ran toward the temple of the war king. Im sorry, one of the guards told them. In order to call upon the war king,

  a young girl has to sing a sweet melody.

  While the villagers continued to fight Sudo and Wisker, a few of the elders found a young girl and took her to serenade the king. Come quickly, they told a young girl with bushy hair whom they found carrying a wooden harp. We need your help to awaken the war king.

  The elders took the young girl to the rock behind which the war king was known to be sleeping. Now sing your very sweetest song, they instructed her.

  The little girl sang and sang and soon there was movement behind the rock. Who dare
d to wake me up? Shouted the war king. Slowly from behind the rock came out a creature. A creature so frightening it is hard to imagine any being who would not have been frightened. The creature was big, bigger than big, with muscles upon muscles that moved when the creature moved. Its large hands and big head came from behind the rock. It had eyes the size of saucers, deep green in color. Its dark skin was adorned with jewelry which the islanders had made. The creature had big teeth and long fingernails that scraped against the rocks when it arose and stood straight.

  The little girl stopped singing, dropped her musical instrument and ran away as fast as she could, leaving the elders to explain to the war king why he had been awakened.

  The elders trembled in fear as they approached the creature. If please your majesty, you are greatly needed, began the eldest of the elders, his voice trembling in fear. Wisker is back and he has awakened Sudo and both of them are taking over the island.

  Before the last words could leave the lips of the elders, the war king let out an angry roar and stomped his way out from behind the rock and out to the island.

  The war king is on his way! shouted one of the villagers, and the others took up the cry. Wisker and Sudo looked at each other and took off to the skies to meet the war king.

  He certainly is on his way, said Sudo. Listen to the thundering of the clouds and the turbulent ocean waves.

  The islanders began to hide. Some even buried themselves in the ground where they could not be seen. Hurry, hurry, they cried. Danger is approaching and those who want to survive must get out of the way!

  The war king was ranting and raving all through the island. He went to the sea, pushing the waves out of his way. The villagers bowed down and praised the king as he stepped on the shore.

  Where are Sudo and his cowardly friend? shouted the war king. All of the villagers began to point towards the mountain and the king went stomping his way to find Sudo and Wisker. The people of the island followed, cheering and clapping loudly for their war king.

  You fools! shouted Wisker angrily. Being loyal to the war king when you should be loyal to Sudo, your true protector.

  Soon the war king began to smash trees and temples. He even began to run over his own people, killing them instantly as he stepped on them with his huge feet.

  Sudo pranced from behind the large mountain with Wisker on his back. This is my land and I am ordering you to get off, shouted Sudo.

  The war king laughed wickedly. His evil laugh bounced off the mountain and echoed all over the island. You fool! he bellowed. You have been asleep for a long time. The island is no longer yours. This land is mine!

  Seeing that there would be no talking or negotiating, Sudo quickly jumped at the war king, knocking him to the ground. The earth began to tremble and people quickly moved out of the way. Without his wand and magical abilities, Wisker was of no use as far as giving battle was concerned but he encouraged his friend to fight, which in many ways was just as good.

  The war king stumbled to the ground, knocking over temples, structures and destroying villages. Sudo quickly pounced on the king, knocking him back down each time he tried to get up. The war king managed to gather together enough energy to shoot balls of fire at Sudo.

  Soon Sudo and Wisker were running for their lives, flying through the air, trying to avoid the fire balls. Many of the villagers joined in the battle, shooting their poisonous darts at Sudo, but his skin was so tough that the darts just bounced off. The war king mustered up his powers and shouted at the top of his lungs, Temple tops open! The tops of the temples that were still standing opened up and when they did, large flying discs came out and began to chase Sudo and Wisker all around the island. The discs were large and oval in diameter and made of nothing more or less than pure gold that glittered in the sun rays.

  The discs seemed to communicate with each other as they tried to find ways to corner Wisker and Sudo, who swerved this way and that, trying to avoid the golden discs. The discs gave off a loud humming noise that caused the people of the island to drop their weapons and cover their ears.

  Suddenly Sudo seemed to be hypnotized. He stopped swerving to avoid the flying disks and began to hover in mid air. Wake up, wake up theyre coming, cried Wisker, shaking Sudo as hard as he could by his long horns. After a few kicks and shakes, Sudo came back too, but by this time he was faced with more of the flying discs than ever before. The chase is on, cried Sudo. Hold on tight! He dived from the sky and over the body of ocean water. The discs were right on his tail. Back and forth they flew, with the discs following every move of Sudo. Soon Sudo flew through the temple openings, causing the discs to crash by the solar energy that the temples gave off. One by one the discs eventually destroyed themselves, leaving the island in one big fiery ball.

  Smoke was everywhere. Villages were destroyed; temples and structures lay in rubbles. The war king was not happy at all and giving off a tremendous roar, he began to run after Sudo. Wisker, who had loosened his grip on Sudos horns when the last of the discs had crashed, fell off Sudos back and went tumbling to the ground, into the hands of the e angry villagers.

  Sudo and the war king got into a wrestling match. One minute Sudo was on top and the next minute the war king. Wisker and the islanders watched as if mesmerized, none of them had ever seen such a battle. Finally the war king picked Sudo up and threw him into the air, causing him to land in the turbulent ocean. Sudo went bubbling down; there wasnt anything that Wisker could do to save his old friend except to watch in horror as his friend got carried away by the ocean.

  The war king turned to Wisker. Bow down to me you fool! he shouted. Even though he did not have his magic powers, Wisker was both stubborn and brave. I may not have my magic wand with which to defend myself, but at least I do not have to act like a coward, thought Wisker. He turned his back on the war king and gazed out over the sea.

  The war king became angrier than ever. I said bow down to me, he roared, stomping around so that he and Wisker were face to face and giving Wisker the meanest, ugliest look with which he could come up. Once again Wisker turned his back.

  Put him in prison! the war king ordered his loyal servants. Take him to the seas of the alligators.

  Wisker stubbornly refused to move until he was poked in the side with a spear by one of the fighters, then he reluctantly gave up and headed towards his fate. The longer I can stay alive the better, he thought to himself. There is still a chance that something will happen that will enable me to help Sudo. Wisker looked back now and again, hoping for some sign that is friend Sudo was ok, but there was nothing. The waters became calm and the turbulent waves stopped crashing against the land.

  The war king gave a big laugh and proceeded to turn around, his arms raised in victory. I am the victor, he cried triumphantly. I am the victor as always!

  Suddenly there was a big splash. Out of the water came Sudo, stomping back to the island and catching everyone by surprise. Sudo and the war king began to fight again, and the villagers began to run, wanting to avoid getting trampled as the fight continued. Wisker pulled himself free. Thats my pal! shouted Wisker to Sudo.

  Temple tops open! cried the war king once more. The roofs of the temples which were still standing opened up and out came a large herd of fling discs, shooting and passing through the crowds. The fire balls went all over the place, once again burning trees and destroying the island.

  Join me, you villagers, cried Sudo. I am your true king, one who will not use you as slaves but who will serve and protect you. The villagers of the island began to give his words a second thought. Some of the elders began to remember stories they had heard in their early childhood of a true king who had ruled them wisely and well.

  Lets listen to his words, cried some of the elders. What he is saying may be true. Perhaps he is our true king. Certainly he cant be any wors
e than the slavery to which we are subjected now. Lets follow him! It cant be any worse than what we have now.

  The elders turned from the king who had once enslaved them. They stopped chasing Wisker and started fighting on the side of Sudo. Many of the villagers joined them and then more and more. To the true king, shouted one of the villagers.

  To the true king, echoed many of the others and they began to fight anew, with a strength and hope that what they were fighting for would be true and worth the battle.

  If we fight and win only to go back into slavery, what have we won? shouted one of the villagers, doing his best to get in a blow at the war king with his sword. I will follow the true king!

  To the true king, echoed the others and they fought with a renewed energy.

  In the mean time, Sudo and the war king were battling once again, back and forth on the shores of the island. Some of the villagers showed Wisker how to turn off the magic discs that were now destroying the land.

  When the war king saw that the people were now helping to defeat him, he gave off an angry roar. He made one last call to his magical shrine. Come forth! he cried.

  The stone shrine arose from under the island. It seemed to grow right before the eyes of the people. The shrine went up to the heavens and a large humming noise came from the inside. The noise got louder and louder. The villagers began to back back, none of them taking their eyes off from the shrine.

  There is something coming that is more dangerous than anything we have ever seen, said the oldest of all the elders.

  The war king whistled a loud whistle and the large door on the shrine opened and out came a green mist of clouds and puffs. A loud growl came from inside the shrine and the villagers began to scream and run towards the hill.

  While all this was going on, Wisker and a few of the remaining villagers were in the other temple shutting down the golden disc. The temple was guarded by a huge oval ball, an eye actually, and it moved back and forth, forth and back, searching the surrounding area, keeping a close watch on the temple.

  I will slip over that way, whispered Wisker to his companions. When I get close to the door, I want one of you to distract the eye with a smoke bomb and I will do my best to slip into the temple without being seen.

  Wiskers plan worked perfectly. Wisker got into the right spot and one of the villagers released a small distraction of smoke bombs. The eye moved away from its post and Wisker slipped into the temple unseen, in the split second that the eye was away from its post.

  Once in the temple, Wisker looked around in amazement. This has to be one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, he thought. The flawless golden walls were covered with hieroglyphics which had been carefully carved into them.

  In the center of the room, stood a large silver or metallic device that gave off a glowing aura and made a loud humming noise. Wisker was carrying a large stone and he quickly ran up to the device intent upon smashing it before whatever protective device was safe guarding it could give it warning, but the object gave off a big burst of wave of some sort of energy and knocked Wisker across the room. Wisker fell to his knees and then quickly got back up and struck the object with the stone. Over and over again Wisker struck at the object until it stopped producing the flying discs. The object stopped humming, its glowing aura went out and the object fell battered to the floor.

  Now I must get back to the shore line and see what I can do to help my friend, Sudo, thought Wisker. Beat up and tired, Wisker made his way back to the shore line as rapidly as possible. Well, it looks as if Sudo has been doing very well without my help, thought Wisker, as he watched the battle between Sudo and the war king.

  Suddenly things changed. Well, perhaps I spoke too soon, said Wisker. I may have gotten back just in time. Wisker watched as out of the temple of the other worshiping area came a large giant. The giant was not alone. It came with three golden discs in its hand. As the massive giant stepped out of the temple gates, Wisker saw that it had three heads attached to one body. Each head was a different color. One was red, one was green and the other was blue. The third head seems to have been hurt, said Wisker as he watched the gigantic creature. In fascination. It seems to be missing an eye, and it must have happened recently too, judging from all the puss that is draining from the corners of it.

  The giant had on gold bangles around his necks, hands and ankles and was wearing nothing more than an ancient kilt around its lower body. Its chest had ancient markings burned into it and was filled with old spears and arrows. Wisker cringed as he saw the spears and arrows that were sticking from the giants chest. Those must really hurt, he thought to himself.

  Ahhroaoooor! roared the giant. The islands foundation cracked to the center, the trees immediately crashed to the ground and the temples collapsed as if an earthquake had hit them. One by one the ancient structures became nothing more than piles of rubble.

  Attack them! the war king ordered the giant. The giant headed towards the villagers, its three heads spinning at once. The villagers appeared to be stunned. They stood as if mesmerized, unable to move. The giants spinning heads seemed to be holding them in some sort of a spell.

  Run, Wisker told them. Quickly, now run, run! Wiskers words seemed to bring the villagers out of their shock and they took off running, screaming and crying through the land.

  I have no pity on you, the war king screamed after them. You turned your backs on me for Sudo and now you will repay. The giant began to throw his golden disc into the air and with one toss the disc opened up and out of it came a swarm of large, ancient wasps. The wasps began to buzz and to attack the people of the island, driving them away from the battle between Sudo and the war king, knocking them down and devouring their flesh. When Sudo saw what was happening, he left off his fight with the war king and ran to defend the islanders.

  You will not hurt these people, he told the giant in a loud, commanding voice. With one big jump Sudo attacked the three headed giant, knocking him to the ground. Sudo and the giant were now doing battle, first one on top of the other then the other on top. Tossing and turning, throwing each other into walls and onto the ground.

  The war king took advantage of the time to get rested, then he jumped up and began to help the three headed giant in his fight against Sudo. Sudo was stuck fighting two foes at once and there was nothing that Wisker could do to help his friend. As he looked around Wisker read an ancient scroll on the temple walls. Why this tells how the three headed giant was chained in the hidden temple by the people of the land and how he vowed revenge on the people who enchained him.

  Wisker was the only one who knew how to read the ancient writings and the only one who could possibly speak directly to the three headed giant in its own language. Wisker propped himself up on a temple roof and with a large horn, he began to speak in the language of the creature.

  When the heard its language that had been lost for centuries, it fell to its knees as if a ton of bricks had hit it. The war king is the one who truly enslaved you, shouted Wisker. You promised to get revenge from him and now is your chance. The people of the island woke you so that you could get revenge.

  By now the giant was thoroughly confused and a little disorientated. He let out a loud scream and dropped the disc form his hands. Soon horns protruded from his head and his eyes began to look like cats eyes. So, youre the one who was responsible for my being imprisoned! roared the giant. Without another thought, the giant pushed Sudo out of the way and began to attack the war king. The people of the island were escaping by boats and underground tunnels.

  Keep running, said Wisker to the people. Run, run!

  You fool, he is tricking you, said the war king to the giant, but the giant was not swayed and began to fight with the e war king. Soon the island was in a burning fury, as the two creatures fought.

  Batte
red Sudo was guided to his secret hole by Wisker to heal. After they destroy each other, the land will be yours again, Wisker told his old friend. After making sure that the remaining villagers were safe, Wisker and Sudo watched from a distance as the war king and the giant fought. The two massive creatures battled each other until both of them were badly beaten and both of them had lost their strength and were not able to fight anymore.

  Go and get them, called out Wisker to the villagers. Tie them both up and lock them away in the hidden temples for good. He gave a loud blow on the sacred horn and the villagers came running in with their spears and shields, attacking the giant and the war king like a swarm of ants. With strong ropes made from the barks of the island trees, the two creatures were tied up and carried off to the secret temple where they would remain for eternity.

  The two creatures growled as they were being tied up by the villagers, but neither of them had any strength left to fight. The villagers took advantage of this and quickly tied the two up.

  Sudo summoned the temple with the secret knowledge that had been passed down to him from generation to generation. As he said the spell, the temple arose from the ground, sending sand and debris flying through the air. The villagers hovered back into a corner and looked on as the god they once disowned has now saved them.

  As the temple came out of the ground, it was adorned with secret markings and carvings. Two large beasts stood at the entrance of the temple. The beasts were in the form of a large bull and each had a mystical orb on its head. The orbs were opening every now and again, letting off some type of smoke.

  Dont worry my people, they are only awakening, said Sudo as he saw that the villagers were all afraid.

  Soon Sudo asked that the war king and the giant be put into their holding cells. All of the villagers got together and began to pull the massive creatures into their golden cell.

  Once they were in, the two suddenly began to scream. No, not this no, they bellowed. They knew that they were locked up for eternity, never to rule over a nation of people again.

  Quickly in and quickly out the villagers ran, the temple began to sink back to the bottom of the sands. Horary, horary, cheered the villagers, jumping and clapping as the temple, holding those who had once held them in captivity, sunk under the sands and was soon out of sight. Once the temple was under the sands and out of sight, the island made a loud rumbling noise and then everything became calm. The ocean waves, the animals and even the people were now on one accord.

  Thank you so much, my long time friend, said Sudo to Wisker. Thank you so very, very much.

  You are welcome, my friend, answered Wisker. Now I must be on my way. I still need to find Jeronomo.

  First we need to throw a party in your honor, Sudo insisted.

  Im not really in the mood for much partying, thought Wisker, but it will be nice to spend a little more time with my long time friend.

  Soon many of the villagers who had left the island were coming back. They were bringing gifts and presents for their leader Sudo. Many truly wanted to honor him but many others were trying to get in good with their ruler, one whom they had abandoned and neglected and who had just risked his life to save them.

  Both being very wise, neither Sudo nor Wisker demanded anything from the people. Just protect your homeland, Sudo told them. For now we will have festivals and dancing in the street. There are new temples to be built and Wiskers portrait will be hung all through the island.

  As soon as the festival is over, I must be on my way, Wisker told Sudo. I have to save the people of Mayfair; many of them put t heir lives on the line for me.

  As the villagers were worshipping their new king, Sudo called one of the villagers to him. I need you to go into the heavens and retrieve the lost wand of Wisker so that he can repair it, he told him.

  I shall do as you wish, your majesty, said the villager. Taking several of his friends with him, he ran to do his masters bidding. They climbed and climbed up long trees until suddenly they came upon Wiskers broken wand, just lying on a tree branch.

  Here it is master, just as you asked, said the villager whom Sudo had sent after the wand.

  Thank you, my loyal friend, answered Sudo. Now go and enjoy the festival, we have much to celebrate.

  Sudo looked the wand over and then hid it until the festival was over and the two friends had time to be alone. The partying was done and many of the villagers had gone off to their huts. Here is something which you will be needing, he told Wisker. Now go and save your people, and if you ever need me I will be here. Here is a secret hole; it will take you where you need to go

  Wisker climbed into the hole and Sudo gave him a push which sent him sliding, up, down, and all around, much like riding on a roller coaster. With a load scream, Wisker went whizzing through the tunnel. It seemed to be a long ride down, over rocks and through tree trunks, in circles that seemed to be there just because they could be.

  Soon Wisker spun to a complete stop, He looked all around. The magic hole showed him several roads to choose from, but he saw a light shinning a ways away from him. down one of the roads. Sudo wouldnt have sent me this way if he hadnt known it was right, reflected Wisker. I think Ill follow that light and see where it takes me. If it doesnt seem to be the right way, why Ill turn around and come back and try another way.

  Soon Wisker came to a land as mystical as any he had ever seen. The land was made of pure white sand that glittered in the sun rays. There were very few trees around and very little water. I have no idea where I am, Wisker thought after he had walked a ways and met no one. I think I will go back to the magic hole and try another road. He turned to go back and saw that the magic hole was closing up and there was no way to stop it.

  Blast! said Wisker. He was so frustrated that he threw his wand down to the ground. The wand bounced back into his hands and a much older wizard appeared.

  Now that is no way to treat a wand, said the older wizard.

  Wisker was very much familiar with that voice and turned around and looked this way and that. As he looked up he saw his friend the great wizard Jeronomo. Thank the heavens it is you, shouted Wisker, as he ran to hug his friend. Jeronomo was an incredible sight indeed with his long white hair and beard, his big blue misty eyes and a three ring silver and gold halo around his head. He was very tall and slender. He wore an all white garment and leather boots. Beside Jeronomo stood his two loyal servants, two large black cats that could cloak and uncloak. Wisker kneeled at his friends feet. You are the greatest wizard of all time, he told him. I must pay you homage. I am going to need your assistance if you can but find time to help me.

  You are my friend, not my servant, get to your feet, said Jeronomo, as he helped Wisker to stand. Come with me, we will talk later. Jeronomo took Wisker by the hand and flew him through the skies. Soon they stopped in the center of a small pond and Jeronomo commanded it to open. The water pealed back and soon the sand began to do the same, revealing the kingdom below.

  Wisker was truly amazed. I have never seen this before, he said.

  The wizard world has been under attack and we have done what we can to hide from the eyes of evil men, like your King Alfred.

  Wisker felt very embarrassed. I am not happy to be a representative of the king and his kingdom, he told Jeronomo. The king is not the man I once thought he was. He is selfish and wants things his own way. No one is allowed to leave the kingdom or to criticize any member of the royal family. He locks people in prison just because he feels like it. I was locked in prison for what was supposed to be the rest of my life. Many loyal friends risked their lives to rescue me and many are now imprisoned themselves as a result. That is why I am here.

  I must get my wand repaired so that I can help to rescue the people of Mayfair. The king is a dictator and he is teaching his young son Prince H
arry to be just like him.

  Ah yes, said Jeronomo, with a slight smile. The boy is bit of a brat isnt he?

  I would say that is a very good description, said Wisker.

  The two friends landed in the kingdom below and it was even more spectacular than it had looked from above. There were numerous waterfalls, all in different arrays of colors. Every single citizen of the kingdom was of wizard descent. There were schools of magic, magic shops and a large magic academy. The wizard world was lit up with dazzling magic effects. Water danced in thin air and there were many suns and moons. Jeronomo saw the excitement that Wisker once had when he was a boy, the way that magic had once thrilled him. He also saw the sadness in Wiskers eyes.

  So many things have changed. I am now becoming too old, said Wisker.

  Jeronomo laughed and ushered his friend to his home. You can stay here with me for a while, since you no longer have a home here, he told him.

  Wisker looked about at the land that he had once loved and left behind. So much has changed, he thought to himself. He reminisced about the times when he was a young boy and always went to the small magic shop on the corner to the wizard Dougloff.

  Mr. Dougloff, he would say, being especially polite as all the children in the wizard world were taught to be. I have this much to spend today. You are the best at teaching all the young wizards how to develop their talents. What do you have to sell me for this much money?

  Jeronomo saw that Wisker was looking at Dougloffs magic shop and gave a slight smile. He had known Wisker for a very long time and knew exactly what was going through his mind. Go and check it out, he told him. I have some things to do, but Ill be around when you come out.

  Wisker didnt need this suggestion twice. He ran to the shop and burst through the doors, feeling very much like a small boy again. Its like nothing has changed, as if it has frozen in time, said Wisker He wandered through the sop, and came across an old article about a gifted wizard named Wisker, who won the Wizardry award every year. Wisker ran his hands over the paper and then wiped the tears from his eyes. This is my past, he thought to himself. I am still that wizard and I will help the people of the town of Mayfair and I will set them free.

  Suddenly out from a magic aisle out pop Dougloff. Hes now old and a little frail, but he still has a lot left in him, thought Wisker, as he ran to give his old teacher a big hug.

  Wisker, is that you, is it really you? asked Dougloff.

  Yes indeed said Wisker. It is really me and you are really you. A bit older but still very much the same wonderful Dougloff. Suddenly Wisker found himself turned into a big green toad. Hey whats this for? he mumbled, trying hard to make himself understood.

  Thats for making a mockery of the wizard world by using your powers to entertain a spoiled little prince amswered Dougloff sternly. He pointed his magic wand at Dougloff and flipped him up in the air, then set him to busily making summersaults around the table.

  Im sorry, Im sorry, Ill never do it again, honest I wont! cried Wisker, knowing that what his old friend said was the truth. Please Dougloff, Ive had a strenuous time lately and Im so lame and sore. Please dont make me do this.

  Dougloff made Wisker do a few more summersaults and then some cartwheels and then turned him back to his normal self.

  See to it that you dont ever do anything like that again, he told Wisker sternly.

  No sir, I wont, said Wisker. Honest I wont. The two wizards talked for awhile, feeling as if they could go on forever. They were catching up on lost times when suddenly Wisker realized that Jeronomo was waiting for him. He said goodbye to Dougloff and started to run out the door when suddenly he remembered his broken wand. Please sir, do you think you could fix it? I know I can buy a new one, but Im particularly fond of this one, it has always served me wisely and well.

  Oh you mean the same wand that you threw to the ground? asked Dougloff.

  Wiskers cheeks turned red with embarrassment and shame. Yes sir, that one, he answered. After I get it fixed then Ill ask Jeronomo to put some more magic gold dust in it and seal it properly.

  Dougloff quickly summoned one of his elves. Please take this broken wand to the mystical river and clean it.

  Yes sir, said the elf as he carefully took the wand from the hands of its protector, Dougloff and quickly disappeared. It was evident that the elf had been well taught in showing proper respect for a wand. Wisker felt even more embarrassed when he remembered how disrespectfully he himself had treated his wand recently.

  Id like to buy a jar of your best wand polish, said Wisker.

  I think thats a good idea, said Dougloff. When that wand gets back to himself I have a feeling youre going to have a lot of apologizing to do. I dont think hes going to be very happy.

  I think youre right, said Wisker. Youd better make that the super large size jar, the one with all the extra ingredients guaranteed to pamper and please the most finicky of wands. He remembered some other things hed done in the way of being disrespectful to his wand and he cringed inside when he realized that soon his wand would be back to his normal self and was sure to be very displeased. I dont know if Dougloff knows about the other things or not, he thought to himself. He probably does, being Dougloff, but just in case Im not going to bring them up.

  Isnt that the wand that gave you a good paddling when you were a boy?" asked Dougloff, trying to hide the twinkle in his blue eyes.

  Yes, thats the one, said Wisker, resisting the urge to rub his backside at the memory.

  What was it you did anyway? asked Dougloff. He already knew the story, having heard it from the wand himself when hed been in for his regular checkup, but he wanted to hear what Wisker had to say about it.

  Well I was playing with some regular human boys and they didnt know I was a wizard and I didnt tell them I didnt want to be different.

  And that was what made your wand so angry? questioned Dougloff, as he wrapped up the jar of Super Special Wand Polish, large size.

  Well, not quite, admitted Wisker. The other boys were going fishing and I wanted to go too, so I tricked my wand into putting a sleeping spell on himself and used him as a fishing pole.

  Wisker stared down at the floor and tried to hide his tendency to smile at the memory, then he glanced up at Dougloff and both wizards went off into peals of laughter.

  Well, boys will be boys, even when theyre wizards, said Dougloff and Im sure weve all done things that we shouldnt have, even when it came to the proper use of our wands.

  All including yourself, sir? asked Wisker, trying to sound innocent in the asking of the question.

  Most assuredly yes, answered Dougloff. Although I was much better behaved than the rest of the boys here in the kingdom you understand.

  Oh I would never doubt that in the least sir, answered Wisker, trying to sound respectful and not laugh at the same time.

  Dougloff grinned. He reached under the counter and pulled out a small jar. Here is a jar of gold dust for you, he told Wisker. The very best in the world. All youll have to do now is get Jeronomo to add the special magic ingredients and to seal it and your wand will be as good as new. Youll have to deal with his righteous indignation yourself.

  Hopefully the Super Special Wand Polish will help, said Wisker. And how much do I owe you for the gold dust? he asked, pulling his money bag back out of his deep pocket.

  The gold dust is a gift, answered Dougloff. I havent given you a gift in a long time, boy, so I guess its about time.

  Wisker grinned at the familiar statement from his boyhood. Thank you, Mr. Dougloff, he answered.

  The shop elf, who had taken Wiskers wand to be cleaned in the Mystical River, came in carrying it on a beautiful purple cushion. Here is the wand, gentlemen, he said, not quite sure which of the two wizards to hand it to. r />
  Dougloff reached down and picked the wand up. He tapped him four times with his own magic wand and said, Bibbldee, bobbledee, wrinkles be gone, be just as good as the day you were born. The wand shook and suddenly all the bends and crinkles that he had acquired through the years disappeared and he was just as straight as straight could be, just like the day that Wisker had first gotten him.

  Wisker reached out and carefully took the wand from Dougloff. From now on Ill treat you the way a magic wand is supposed to be treated, he told him. He slipped the wand into the special wand pocket of his long robe and slipped the bottle of wand polish and the gold dust into the deep pocket next to it.

  Well, Id better get going, said Wisker. I hope I havent kept Jeronomo waiting.

  Im sure you havent, said Dougloff. Hes a wizard, remember? Hell know just when to get back. Oh, wait a minute; I have something else for you. He started to hand Wisker a bag of Special Wheshill Wizard Candy. He looked at the bag quizzically for a second or two and then reached into the candy container and took out a big handful of candy and dropped it into the bag with the rest. I didnt think there was quite enough candy in there, he told Wisker. I seem to remember you have quite a fondness for that stuff.

  Oh yes, answered Wisker. And I havent had any for years. Thank you Mr.Dougloff.

  Youre welcome son, answered Dougloff, smiling. And you know Wisker, youre a grown man now, it is all right if you call me Dougloff.

  Yes, Mr. Dougloff, said Wisker without thinking, then they both laughed.

  I hope that if I forget and say Mr. sometimes it doesnt mean were not friends, said Wisker.

  Of course not, said Dougloff, smiling. Well always be the best of friends.

  Dont forget to share that candy now, he told him, just as he had when Wisker had been a small boy,

  No sir, I wont, said Wisker. Suddenly he had a thought. He turned back and with a big smile he handed both the elf and Dougloff some of the candy.

  Thank you Wisker, they both said. Then Wisker hurried out of the store, just in time to meet Jeronomo as he was arriving there.

  Here, said Wisher, handing Jeronomo some of the Special Wheshill Wizard Candy. A special treat compliments of Dougloff.

  Ummm, said Jeronomo. I havent had any of this stuff in years. Thank you, Wisker.

  Wisker drew out his wand and the gold dust. I have a special favor to ask of you, he told Jeronomo. Would you add the special magic ingredients to the gold dust so that my wand will work properly? Again?

  Jeronomo was quiet for a long time. Wands are not for spoiled princes to play with or touch, he said finally. The power that a wand has makes it very dangerous in the wrong hands.

  Yes sir, said Wisker, feeling very much like a small boy, just as he had with Dougloff. Ive learned my lesson. Ill never do anything like that again.

  In that case Ill be happy to fix it for you, said Jeronomo. Come, let us go to my house. You may stay with me of course while you are here.

  The two wizards walked to Jeronomos house or I should say castle, for such it was. Wisker took in a deep breath. This isnt like the house you had the last time I was here, he told Jeronomo.

  You havent been here for a very long time, Jeronomo told him.

  Wisker looked all around. Jeronomos home was a brick castle that sat on acres of land. Golden rings hovered over the home. What are those rings for? asked Wisker.

  Those are magical rings that transport me in and out of the wizardry world to many realms, Jeronomo told Wisker. In fact I was in the woods the day that you were being chased by the kings men.

  I didnt see you, said Wisker.

  I was wearing a disguise, said Jeronomo. I was a mystical creature with a helo.

  Oh, you are the one many people say they saw in the woods, exclaimed Wisker. Everyone thought it was a myth, but it was you all the time.

  Yes, it was I, smiled Jeronomo.

  Suddenly Wisker was filled with emotion and turned to Jeronomo and asked, Have you seen my friend William?

  Chapter 5

  Jeronomo War