《Myscreth》


 Chapter One: An Unexpected Visitor

    "That''s one small step for ¡­ man, one giant leap for mankind." The young boy sat in front of the small television staring with wide-eyed wonder at the flickering image. That was the moment Mason Grant knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life.


    Of course all his friends wanted to be astronauts, but not Mason. What had fascinated him most about man¡¯s journey to the moon was how they got there; the mighty Saturn V rocket roaring into space, the intricate orbital opera of the capsule docking with the Lunar Module, and the slow motion descent of the Lunar Module to the moon¡¯s surface. Without all those pieces working perfectly, those fateful words would have never been spoken. He wanted to be one of those who made it all possible; an engineer.


    None of this was a surprise to Mason¡¯s parents because his preoccupation with moving objects began when he was a baby. The only way to get him to sleep would be to give the mobile over his crib a gentle push to start it rotating. As a toddler, he spent hours knocking blocks to the floor or rolling a ball off a table staring at them intently until they came to a stop. To his parents, rockets and lunar landers just seemed to be the logical next step.


    Over the course of time most childhood dreams fade away, but not Mason¡¯s. Through hard work and perseverance, he not only became an engineer, but was hired by NASA after graduation. He¡¯d not only realized his dream, but had actually exceeded it. As far as Mason was concerned, he¡¯d achieved everything he could ever want.


    He was dozing on the couch one Friday evening after work when a loud knock at the door awakened him. ¡°Who could that be?¡± he muttered glancing at his watch and seeing it was nearly eleven. Slowly getting up from the couch, he trudged over to the door and peered through the peep hole. He saw a man with wispy white hair, thin white beard, and sparkling grey eyes.


    The face looked familiar, but Mason couldn¡¯t place it. ¡°Who is it?¡± he called.


    ¡°Professor Anklin. Not sure if you remember me.¡±


    Mason smiled. Professor Anklin was a hard man to forget. He¡¯d given a series of guest lectures on the Theory of Relativity in one of Mason¡¯s physics class. Mason had expected it to be boring, but was pleasantly surprised by the professor¡¯s quirky manner and the way he explained things. Mason had even gone up afterwards to let Professor Anklin know how much he¡¯d enjoyed the lectures.


    However, Mason couldn¡¯t help but wonder why Professor Anklin would suddenly show up at his apartment. Curious, he opened the door. ¡°Professor Anklin?¡±


    ¡°Good to see you again, Mr. Grant,¡± offered the professor good-naturedly as he stepped inside. Although it was the middle of July, he was carrying a heavy coat.


    ¡°Why the coat?¡± asked Mason before he could stop himself.


    ¡°Oh, it gets rather cold where I come from,¡± answered the professor.


    Mason gave a nervous laugh and gestured towards the couch. ¡°Considering I only spoke with you for a few minutes, I¡¯m surprised you even remember me.¡±


    "A few minutes is all it takes to make a good impression, Mr. Grant. I¡¯m not easily impressed so I¡¯ve kept track of you over the years," he answered while looking over the apartment. ¡°Seems my opinion of you was correct. After all, NASA only hires the very best.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± answered Mason, hesitating a moment before closing the door.


    ¡°You have a very nice apartment,¡± observed the professor. ¡°How much would you say that couch weighs?¡±


    Mason was beginning to wonder if it¡¯d been a mistake to open the door. ¡°The couch? I have no ¡­¡±


    His mouth dropped open and his voice trailed away as the couch slowly floated upward. His eyes grew wide as the couch came to rest on the ceiling.


    ¡°You look like you need to sit down,¡± observed Professor Anklin with a slight chuckle. He led Mason over to a chair. As Mason sat down, the couch floated downward until it gently settled on the floor. Once it had done so, the professor took a seat on it.


    ¡°But how?¡±


    Professor Anklin leaned forward, his grey eyes fixed on Mason. ¡°I modified its gravity.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible,¡± whispered Mason.


    Professor Anklin shook his head. ¡°An engineer relies on data and observations, Mr. Grant. You saw the couch float so how would you explain it?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°In that case, perhaps you¡¯d be willing to listen to my explanation.¡±


    Mason nodded.


    ¡°First of all, I¡¯m from a planet called Myscreth.¡±


    The professor waited for Mason¡¯s reaction. He stared blankly back at the professor and motioned for him to continue.


    ¡°It was once very much like Earth, though more technologically advanced. Several hundred years ago, our scientists discovered a genetic mutation which allowed people to modify scientific laws. Unfortunately, there were those who used this power for their own selfish ends and war engulfed Myscreth. Within a matter of weeks our civilization lay in ruins.¡±


    The professor was quiet for a moment before continuing.


    ¡°After the war, most people wanted to destroy all information on using this ability,¡± continued the professor, his voice hoarse. ¡°But it wasn''t that simple. The very power which had destroyed our world was the only means of rebuilding it. Even after hundreds of years our society is only starting to recover."


    Why the Professor had levitated his couch now made sense. This was the most unbelievable thing he¡¯d ever heard, but he couldn¡¯t deny what he¡¯d seen.


    ¡°Why are you telling me all this?¡±


    "After my world was nearly destroyed, a Council was formed to lead the rebuilding effort,¡± explained the professor in a quiet voice. ¡°Only they are allowed to manipulate scientific laws. Because our population is still so small, it has been difficult to find suitable candidates for the Council. That''s why I came to Earth."


    Mason''s head was spinning. "And you want me to be on this Council?"


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°But why?¡±


    ¡°Do you know what impressed me about you when we met?¡± asked Professor Anklin.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°That you possess the ability to manipulate scientific laws.¡±


    Mason slowly shook his head. ¡°You just said all this happened on this Myscreth you claim to be from and now you¡¯re saying I have this ability. How do you explain that?¡±


    Professor Anklin looked over at Mason sharply. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m the only one of my people to have travelled to Earth? As war ravaged my world, some of my people were able to escape to Earth to start a new life. I¡¯m sure you can figure out the rest.¡±


    As he finished speaking, the professor leaned his head back and closed his eyes. It was several minutes before he spoke.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Mason,¡± he declared, his eyes still closed. ¡°Even today, my people struggle with the consequences of that long ago war.¡± Sitting up, he looked at Mason. ¡°That¡¯s why they need your help.¡±


    Mason was struck by how much older Professor Anklin suddenly looked. His eyes had lost their sparkle and his body was hunched over as if under some heavy weight. It made no sense to Mason then or afterwards, but somehow he suddenly knew the professor was telling the truth.


    Mason shifted in his seat and cleared his throat. ¡°How can you be so sure I have this ability you¡¯re talking about?¡±


    Professor Anklin sat up a little straighter as he answered. ¡°Those who possess the ability to manipulate scientific laws can sense it in others.¡±


    Mason looked at the floor unable to meet the professor¡¯s gaze. ¡°If you¡¯ve kept an eye on me over the years, you know how hard I worked to get where I am. How could I just give all that up?¡±


    Mason looked up in surprise as Professor Anklin chuckled. ¡°Yes, I have watched you over the years, Mr. Grant, and I¡¯ve discovered two things about your character; you won¡¯t back down from a challenge and possess a willingness to help others. I think once you fully understand what¡¯s at stake, you¡¯ll accept my invitation.¡±This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Mason wasn¡¯t so sure. ¡°I¡¯m willing to listen, but I can¡¯t promise anything.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all I can ask,¡± answered the professor. ¡°I already told you how the war had destroyed our civilization, but it also made Myscreth a lifeless wasteland. The war¡¯s destruction filled the atmosphere with smoke and debris causing temperatures to plummet. The survivors who remained on Myscreth crowded into twelve underground cities which had survived the war. Only the ability to manipulate scientific laws has allowed my people to survive.¡±


    ¡°But if you can travel to other planets, why do you stay?¡± questioned Mason.


    ¡°Because it¡¯s our home,¡± explained the professor. ¡°We look forward to a future when our world is again as it once was. As our population has increased, we¡¯ve even begun to establish settlements near the equator where it¡¯s warm enough to live. Without the Council, none of this would be possible.¡±


    The professor paused and looked intently at Mason. ¡°How many Council members do you think there are?¡±


    Mason thought for a moment. ¡°A hundred?¡±


    Professor Anklin shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s only five with two candidates undergoing training. That¡¯s all there is to satisfy the needs of an entire world. Do you think that¡¯s more important than working for NASA?¡±


    Mason nodded. How could he not, but he still wasn¡¯t sure. ¡°I need time to make a decision.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you two weeks.¡±


    ¡°Two weeks?¡± exclaimed Mason. That¡¯s not enough time and I still have so many questions.¡±


    ¡°Questions I can answer, but the time is non-negotiable. I¡¯ve found a hard deadline forces people to make a choice. Besides, if you¡¯re still undecided after two weeks, it probably means you¡¯ve decided to stay.¡±


    ¡°So what happens if I agree to go?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Once the Council accepts you as a candidate, you¡¯ll begin training.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying I could give up everything,¡± declared Mason, ¡°and I might not even be allowed to join this Council of yours.¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be here unless I was certain you¡¯d be accepted by the Council.¡±


    ¡°Does it matter that I¡¯m not from Myscreth?¡±


    ¡°Considering there¡¯s already a Council member from Earth, I¡¯d say no.¡±


    Mason tried to think of any other objections, but none came to mind.


    Professor Anklin shook his head impatiently. ¡°I¡¯ve been doing this a long time Mr. Grant and I¡¯ve never had a candidate fail to win the Council¡¯s approval.¡±


    "How long does the training take?"


    "It varies depending on the person. It takes most people two to three years."


    Mason nodded feeling sure he could finish it faster. ¡°What¡¯s the training like?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t lie, Mr. Grant,¡± answered the professor. ¡°The training isn¡¯t easy. It will push you to your limits mentally, physically, and emotionally. That¡¯s the only way we can be sure someone is ready to be a Council member.¡±


    ¡°What does the Council do?¡±


    ¡°Whatever the people of Myscreth needs it to do to rebuild our world,¡± answered the professor getting up. ¡°Now I don¡¯t want to overwhelm you . . .¡±


    ¡°A little late for that,¡± muttered Mason.


    ¡°. . . so I¡¯ll leave you to make your decision.¡±


    Mason suddenly thought about his parents. "One last question, if I go with you, will I be allowed to visit Earth?"


    Professor Anklin smiled. "Of course you will. We''d never prevent anyone from visiting their family. However, you must complete your training first."


    Mason stood up. ¡°But there¡¯s so much more I need to know.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that¡¯s what you think,¡± replied the professor sternly. ¡°However, I¡¯ve told you everything that matters. You¡¯ll be able to visit Earth, it¡¯s going to be a lot of hard work, and you¡¯ll be helping a people who desperately need it. If that isn¡¯t enough information for you to consider, I see no need of returning.¡±


    Mason considered the professor¡¯s words. ¡°I¡¯ll see you in two weeks.¡±


    Standing up, the professor put on his coat and slipped on a pair of heavy gloves.


    ¡°Are you going to your spaceship?¡± asked Mason excitedly as he got up. ¡°Could I see it?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t use a spaceship to get here,¡± laughed Professor Anklin good-naturedly. He pointed at a closet door. ¡°Watch that door and you¡¯ll see.¡±


    Professor Anklin concentrated on the door and within a few minutes, a low humming sound could be heard as the door started to flash as if a purple strobe light were shining on it. However, the flashes only appeared on the door and increased in frequency until the door was a solid mass of bright, purple light.


    Mason rubbed his eyes, but the purple light didn¡¯t change. ¡°How?¡± he mouthed soundlessly as he pointed at the light.


    The professor smiled. ¡°It turns out that if you properly manipulate the relativistic space curvature equation you can open a doorway between your world and mine. You might know it better as a wormhole.¡±


    Professor Anklin walked over to the doorway and looked back at Mason. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in two weeks.¡± Stepping into the purple light, he disappeared.


    Mason cautiously approached the still glowing doorway and stared into it, but could see nothing. Curious, he slowly extended a shaking hand towards the light, but quickly pulled it back. After a few minutes, the light faded away. Opening the door, he peered inside and found his closet exactly as he¡¯d last seen it.


    Walking over to the couch, Mason sat down and closed his eyes and tried to think. However, it did little good as the same arguments and counter arguments went through his mind again and again.


    Could he really leave everything behind to help a people he didn¡¯t even know? The only rational answer would have to be no. However, he couldn¡¯t get the idea of travelling to another planet out of his mind. Plus the thought of helping to rebuild a ruined world intrigued him. What better challenge could an engineer ask for?


    He was still sitting there as the apartment windows lightened with the first signs of dawn. Although exhausted, Mason knew he¡¯d never fall asleep so he got up and walked to the bathroom where he splashed water on his face. ¡°You look terrible,¡± he said to his reflection in the mirror. After what he¡¯d seen last night, he half expected it to answer. He was relieved when it didn¡¯t.


    Not bothering to shower or shave, he headed to the kitchen and poured some cereal in a bowl. He grabbed the milk from the refrigerator, but when he turned back to the counter, the bowl was gone. A chill went down his spine as he looked over at the closet door. He opened the refrigerator to put the milk away and there was the bowl sitting next to where the milk had been.


    ¡°You¡¯re an idiot,¡± Mason muttered to himself.


    The rest of the day didn¡¯t go any better. He tried reading to clear his mind, but ended up reading the same page multiple times as he forgot what he¡¯d read. All watching television did was to give him a headache.


    In desperation, he even considered flipping a coin. He couldn¡¯t help but laugh at the idea. Thinking back to what Professor Anklin had said before he left, Mason began to wonder if being unable to make a decision was telling him to stay.


    A frustrated and tired Mason finally crawled into bed and tried to sleep. At best he got a few minutes of dozing, but mostly he lay there staring up at the ceiling wrestling with his decision. By three in the morning, he¡¯d had enough.


    And so at four o¡¯clock on a Sunday morning, Mason Grant was in an empty office building logging onto his work computer. All he wanted to do was get some work done and forget all about Professor Anklin. However, it wasn¡¯t long before the work which had so excited him on Friday could no longer hold his attention. Mason pushed the keyboard away and closed his eyes.


    That¡¯s when he realized he really had no choice. The professor had shown him the impossible. If he didn¡¯t accept his invitation, Mason would always wonder if he¡¯d made a mistake.


    Getting up, Mason walked around the empty office thinking about the people he¡¯d worked with and what he¡¯d accomplished there. He paused at the large bulletin board which listed upcoming projects. There were some he¡¯d really been looking forward to working on. With a wistful smile and a nod, he headed back to his desk, grabbing a box on the way.


    It took only a couple of minutes to remove his few personal belongings from the desk. Writing out his resignation took longer. On his way out of the office for the final time, Mason put his id badge and resignation letter on his boss¡¯ desk.


    Mason had never been one to procrastinate and acting on his decision was no exception. He planned to not only give the professor his answer when he returned, but also be ready to leave with him immediately. Most of the next week was spent cancelling accounts, ending his lease, selling or donating unneeded possessions, and arranging for everything else to go to his parents. As each item on his list was checked off, his sense of anticipation grew.


    He saved the task he dreaded most for last; saying goodbye to his parents. After much thought, he decided to tell them that he¡¯d volunteered to teach in a third world country. He hated the idea of lying to them, but it¡¯d be better than having them think he¡¯d lost his mind.


    Mason spent four days with his parents. He¡¯d hoped to wait to tell them, but when he showed up with his car packed with boxes they knew something was up. Seeing the worried expressions on their faces as he told them he was about to travel halfway across the world, Mason knew he¡¯d made the right choice in not telling them about Myscreth.


    However, his parents¡¯ worries didn¡¯t stop them from expressing how proud they were of what Mason was doing. He felt a bit proud of himself as well. He¡¯d always been taught to help others, but going to Myscreth would be the first time Mason had truly sacrificed something that was important to him for someone else. Those four days made Mason realize even more how much he was going to miss his parents.


    He returned to his apartment the evening before Professor Anklin¡¯s expected return. It was empty of furniture except for a small cot and folding chair. On the kitchen counter sat a parka and a pair of gloves he¡¯d gotten at an army surplus store. The parka was stained and a little snug, but in the middle of summer he¡¯d been lucky to find it. The rest of his clothes were packed in a suitcase along with some books which he read to pass the time.


    He¡¯d hoped that reading would help him sleep, but the combination of anticipation and an uncomfortable cot resulted in nothing but tossing and turning. As night turned into morning, Mason walked over to the nearby donut shop where he often got breakfast. Seeing the donuts and smelling the coffee, Mason wondered what the food would be like on Myscreth. Doubting there¡¯d be anything like what was before him, he splurged by getting four donuts and an extra-large coffee.


    Back at his apartment, Mason had nothing left to do, but wait. He tried reading, but his attention went to the door every time he heard a sound outside. Each time he got up and looked through the peephole, but no one was there. As time passed, he found that he was looking at his watch more and more often. He even moved his chair over to a window overlooking the street below so he could watch for the professor.


    Just as Mason began to wonder if Professor Anklin had changed his mind, there was a knock at the door. Rushing over, Mason didn¡¯t even bother looking through the peephole before he opened the door.


    There stood Professor Anklin holding a heavy jacket. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again, Mr. Grant,¡± he announced, stepping inside. Surveying the empty apartment, he smiled. ¡°Well, it seems you¡¯ve made your decision.¡±


    Mason started putting on his jacket and gloves. ¡°I have and I¡¯m ready to go with you.¡±


    ¡°In that case, Mr. Grant, let¡¯s be on our way,¡± answered Professor Anklin, zipping up his jacket. He concentrated on the closet door and soon it hummed and was covered in the same bright purple light Mason had seen two weeks earlier. The professor stepped towards the purple light. ¡°Okay Mason, follow me.¡± He stepped into the doorway and disappeared


    Picking up his suitcase, Mason took one last look around the apartment and with a deep breath walked into the light.

 Chapter Two: First Impressions

    Suddenly Mason¡¯s body felt as if it had been liquefied and was flowing downhill. There was no fear or any other emotion, just an eerie calmness. Reaching what appeared to be level ground, his body returned to its normal form. The last thing he remembered was the sensation of falling.


    As he regained consciousness, his first sight was a solid mass of grey clouds filling the sky. He felt hard, rough ground beneath him and could feel a strong, cold wind. He turned to see the Professor kneeling beside him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Mason, I¡¯d forgotten how disorienting it can be to travel like this for the first time. How do you feel?¡±


    Mason sat up. ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡±


    Professor Anklin gestured at the surrounding landscape. ¡°This, Mr. Grant, is Myscreth.¡±


    Getting slowly to his feet, Mason was glad for his heavy jacket. They were surrounded by a barren landscape. Large chunks of stone were scattered around them, but they were too regularly shaped to be natural. The dull light filtering through the clouds washed out any color there might be. It was like looking at a black and white photograph. He started to wonder what he¡¯d gotten himself into.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get inside,¡± suggested Professor Anklin. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Grabbing his suitcase, Mason hurried after the professor who headed towards a nearby cliff wall. Rocks and chunks of metal that may once have been a door partially blocked an opening, but there was ample room for the two of them to pass through.


    Mason could feel welcoming, warm air as he stepped inside. Looking around, he saw that they were in a large man-made cavern that was illuminated by what seemed to be large electric lights on the ceiling. Looking around, he noticed piles of rubble and rusted metal throughout the cave.


    Professor Anklin pointed towards the far end of the cave. ¡°This way.¡± They approached a rough wooden door which to Mason seemed out of place. Next to it was a lighted button and above it an indicator was blinking.


    ¡°Where are we?¡±


    Professor Anklin gestured around them. ¡°This is Bendroff, our capital and home of the Council. It was once a military installation, and became a place of refuge during the war.¡± Mason detected a tone of sadness in his voice as he continued. ¡°At one time, there were nearly a hundred such facilities throughout Myscreth, but only this and eleven others survived. They¡¯re home to many of my people, with the remaining population living near the equator.¡±


    Reaching the door, Professor Anklin pressed the button. ¡°The underground cities are mostly self-sufficient, but as our population grows, we must expand our equatorial settlements to have the means to feed our people.¡±


    Mason noticed the indicator above the door changing. When the indicator read ¡°S¡± there was a beep. Professor Anklin opened the door and waved him inside. He could now see that it was an elevator. Closing the door behind them, Professor Anklin pressed a button and they slowly began to descend.


    It was unlike any elevator Mason had ever seen. There were no interior doors and he could see solid rock and the occasional door pass as they descended. A breeze could be felt as air flowed through the open front of the elevator. Unsure how safe it was, he moved as far away from the opening as possible.


    Noticing this, the professor pointed to the opening. ¡°Unfortunately, we no longer have the means to repair all of our machinery and have been forced to improvise a bit.¡± He looked over and smiled. ¡°I¡¯m sure that as an engineer you can appreciate the challenge.¡±


    The elevator finally came to a jerky stop at another door, this one metal, which Professor Anklin opened. Following him out of the elevator cautiously, Mason stared in amazement at a corridor that stretched out of sight in both directions. Like its floor, the walls and ceiling were stone.


    Mason let out a low whistle. ¡°How large is this place?¡±


    ¡°There are five underground levels, each of which covers about a square mile.¡± The immense scale of the place was beyond what Mason had ever thought possible. He couldn¡¯t even conceive the technology that would have been required to achieve it. Myscreth had indeed been far more technologically advanced than Earth.


    He turned slowly in a circle, trying to take in everything around him. ¡°How many people live here?¡±


    ¡°We have nearly seventy thousand people living here now,¡± the professor answered as he started walking. Hurrying after him, Mason was struck by the hodgepodge of doors along the corridor. The doors varied in material from rough wood to smooth metal. No two were alike. The only commonality was that none of them were original. Looking closely at one, Mason noticed a slit in the wall that ran the height of the door.


    He called after the professor, who¡¯d continued walking seemingly unconcerned about Mason keeping up with him. ¡°Did you have automatic doors?¡±


    Stopping and looking back at Mason, he replied with resignation in his voice. ¡°At one time we did.¡±


    At the same instant, a young woman walking in the opposite direction stopped and bowed to Professor Anklin. ¡°Welcome back, Counselor Anklin.¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°Thank you, it¡¯s good to be home.


    As the young woman passed Mason, she gave him a shy smile, but he hardly noticed. ¡°Counselor Anklin?¡±


    Counselor Anklin chuckled. ¡°Ah yes, I guess I never did formally introduce myself. I¡¯m Counselor Anklin and I¡¯m responsible for finding and training all Council candidates.¡±


    Mason kicked himself for not realizing it sooner. Professor Anklin had said it himself: only Council members were allowed to manipulate scientific laws. Therefore, it had to follow that he had to be a member of the Council. ¡°It feels kind of strange since I got used to thinking of you as Professor Anklin.¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°Actually, I¡¯ve grown quite fond of being called Professor, so feel free to call me Professor when we¡¯re alone. However, when we¡¯re with others it would be best if you addressed me as Counselor to minimize any misunderstandings.¡±


    Mason nodded.


    He resumed his brisk pace and Mason did his best to keep up while still taking in everything around him. As was the case with the doors, he noticed the light fixtures illuminating the corridor were also a mismatched collection. This seemed to be a running theme in everything he saw; they used whatever was available. If it¡¯d taken hundreds of years just to get to this point, he couldn¡¯t even imagine how severe the planet¡¯s devastation had been.


    Whenever they passed an intersecting corridor, Mason would stare down it to try to find its end. However, all of them stretched out of sight. He couldn¡¯t help but think that it was like a giant maze that would take him months to learn his way around.


    Everyone they encountered in the corridor would bow and greet Counselor Anklin. Mason was surprised at how enthusiastic they seemed. If he¡¯d lost as much as they had, he couldn¡¯t imagine being happy. He was about to ask about this when Counselor Anklin pointed at an opening in the corridor. ¡°Let me show you something.¡±


    Stepping through the opening, Mason found himself on a balcony that overlooked a large open area. Counselor Anklin pointed at the area below. ¡°This is one of five underground farms which produce enough food for all the people of Bendroff.¡±


    Looking over the balcony, Mason saw an area that had to be larger than twenty football fields filled with vegetation. It was illuminated by immense lights attached to towers around the fields. Throughout the area, he saw large numbers of men and women digging around the plants and gathering crops. The sight reminded him of colonial farming demonstrations his parents had taken him to as a child.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have any farming equipment?¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head and sighed. ¡°No. All our factories were destroyed during the war and we haven¡¯t been able to rebuild them. The Myscreth of today is a pre-industrial society in many ways including farming.¡± He pointed to the corridor behind them. ¡°The splendor around you is from our past.¡±


    Without another word, Counselor Anklin headed back to the corridor, although his pace was noticeably slower than it had been. Reaching a dented and scuffed metal door, he opened it. ¡°Well Mason, here we are. This is where you¡¯ll be living during your training.¡±


    They entered a room that was about twenty feet wide and thirty feet long. The walls were bare except for several mismatched bookcases lined up along one wall. Mason didn¡¯t recognize any of the books they contained, but based on their titles he could tell that many of them had to do with science. There also appeared to be some books on history. Near the center of the room were several large wooden tables that seemed to be cobbled together from old crates. A varying number of chairs surrounded each table, each appearing as patched together as the tables.


    ¡°This is the library where you¡¯ll do most of your studying. The books here contain everything you¡¯ll need to know regarding Myscrethian science and history.¡±


    ¡°Kind of small for a library.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s one of the largest left on Myscreth,¡± noted Counselor Anklin dryly as he walked towards a doorway on the other side of the room.


    Feeling embarrassed, Mason followed in silence.


    Before going through the doorway, Counselor Anklin pointed over at another room opposite the bookcases. ¡°That¡¯s the dining area.¡±


    Continuing on they went down a narrow corridor with several doors on each side of it. Stopping at one near the end of the corridor, Counselor Anklin opened it and reaching inside flipped a switch illuminating the room. ¡°Well Mr. Grant,¡± he announced cheerfully. ¡°Home sweet home.¡±


    Mason peered inside and saw a room that reminded him of ones he¡¯d seen in old farmhouses. There was a roughhewn desk and dresser along with a very lumpy looking bed. Pointing back at the other doors he asked. ¡°Is that when the others training to join the Council live?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You¡¯ll meet them at dinner this evening. And tomorrow you¡¯ll meet the rest of the Council for your interview.¡±


    Mason still felt uneasy that someone other than Professor Anklin got to decide if he could stay. ¡°You¡¯re sure they¡¯ll allow me to begin training?¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t be here if I wasn¡¯t,¡± answered Counselor Anklin with a hint of impatience. He turned to leave. ¡°I¡¯d suggest getting some rest while you can,¡± he added with a quick smile as he walked away.


    Mason walked into the room and dropped his suitcase on the floor and sat on the bed. Instead of the gentle hiss of soft foam or squeaking of springs, the mattress cracked as if filled with straw. This will definitely take getting used to, he thought to himself. Examining the dresser, he found that the drawers didn¡¯t match and one seemed a bit small because it fell to the floor when he opened it.


    A small bathroom was attached, which to Mason¡¯s surprise was very much like an Earth bathroom, only smaller. The tub was about three quarters the size of a standard tub, but he figured he could squeeze into it. He looked at the small sink with trepidation, wondering if there would be running water. Turning the handle he was pleased to see a slow, but steady flow.


    Staring at himself in the mirror, he was struck by how tired he looked. He cupped his hands under the faucet and splashed his face with refreshingly cold water.


    Although Counselor Anklin had suggested getting some rest, he was too excited to sleep and set about unpacking his few belongings. The books he stacked on the desk and the clothes he stuffed into the dresser. As he finished unpacking, there was a knock at the door. He looked up from the dresser and called out. ¡°Come in.¡±


    A young woman opened the door. She was tall, with long blonde hair and brown eyes. Mason guessed she must be in her early twenties. She wore a loose fitting shirt and what looked like jeans. She didn¡¯t speak to him, but at him. ¡°I¡¯ve been sent to inform you that dinner is ready.¡±


    What struck Mason the most about her was her face. She was the first person he¡¯d seen on Myscreth who actually looked sad. ¡°Thank you, I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    She nodded and closed the door behind her without saying another word.


    Walking to the library, Mason went through the doorway Counselor Anklin had pointed out. The dining area was dominated by a table that at one time must have been quite beautiful. However, its surface was now marred which scratches and dents, and its finish had nearly worn away. Two cobbled together benches extending the length of the table provided ample seating.


    Seated there were Counselor Anklin, another man, and to his surprise, the young woman who¡¯d summoned him. It hadn¡¯t occurred to him that she was one of the trainees. As for the other man seated at the table, he appeared older than Mason, with thinning black hair and a bemused expression. All three looked up at him when he entered.


    Counselor Anklin called out. ¡°Good of you to join us Mason. Let me introduce you to your fellow trainees.¡±


    ¡°This is Claridee,¡± began Counselor Anklin as Mason took a seat at the table. ¡°She¡¯s been with us almost a year now. Her specialty is structural mechanics.¡±


    Claridee hardly looked at Mason as she gave a slight nod. Normally this would have bothered him, but he was too preoccupied with what Counselor Anklin meant by specialty.


    ¡°And here we have Gorwold,¡± continued Counselor Anklin, ¡°who¡¯s nearly ready to join the Council.¡±


    Gorwold interrupted with a laugh. ¡°After almost four years, I would certainly hope so.¡±


    ¡°As would I, Trainee Gorwold,¡± replied Counselor Anklin in a slightly annoyed tone. Turning back to Mason, he went on. ¡°His area of expertise is thermodynamics.¡±


    Four years! Thought Mason. What if it took him that long to complete his training? He tried not to think about it as he noticed the bowls of food on the table. None of them contained anything which looked familiar. The only thing he could be sure of was that they were all vegetables of some kind. Not wishing to be rude, he took a little of each dish. He took a bite of what he thought might be potatoes, but they tasted more like bananas. The other vegetables had similarly confounding flavors.


    Counselor Anklin seemed to notice his confusion. ¡°A bit different than what you¡¯re used to, isn¡¯t it?¡± he asked a little mischievously.


    Not wishing appear impolite, especially in front of people he didn¡¯t know, Mason just nodded.


    Turning serious, Counselor Anklin continued. ¡°Unfortunately, during the war, our animals and livestock were completely wiped out. That¡¯s why our diet is now comprised entirely of vegetables.¡±


    ¡°So, Mason,¡± began Gorwold. ¡°Counselor Anklin says you¡¯re from Earth. What¡¯s it like?¡±


    Mason had to think before replying as he¡¯d never had to explain Earth before. ¡°Very different than what I¡¯ve seen of Myscreth so far. It has bright blue skies, trees and oceans.¡±


    ¡°No clouds at all?¡± asked Gorwold excitedly.


    ¡°No, there¡¯s usually some clouds, but not a lot except when it rains.¡±


    Gorwold shook his head. ¡°It must be incredible to see water falling from the sky.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t it rain on Myscreth?¡± he asked, surprised by Gorwold¡¯s reaction.


    ¡°No,¡± answered Counselor Anklin. ¡°It¡¯s much too cold. What little surface moisture that still exists is frozen in the soil. All our water comes from underground and is continually recycled.¡±


    ¡°But someday it will rain again on Myscreth,¡± said Gorwold.


    ¡°Yes,¡± agreed Councelor Anklin, ¡°but I doubt very much any of us will see it.¡±


    Gorwold half shook his head before stopping and looked over to Mason. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to miss Earth?¡±


    Mason thought for a moment before answering. ¡°Yes, but what I¡¯ll miss most is my parents.¡±


    As Mason was saying this, he noticed Claridee look over at him. However, she quickly turned her gaze back to her plate.


    He and Gorwold continued their conversation with small interjections from Counselor Anklin throughout dinner. Claridee left as soon as she¡¯d finished eating. As the three men spoke, Mason remembered his question about specialties.


    ¡°What did you mean by the specialties of the other trainees?¡± Mason asked. ¡°With your abilities, can¡¯t you modify any scientific law?¡±


    The Counselor shook his head. ¡°No, it doesn¡¯t work that way. Most who can manipulate scientific laws can only affect the laws of a single discipline.¡±


    ¡°But I saw you manipulate both dynamics and relativistic physics.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the rare exception,¡± explained Counselor Anklin with a touch of pride. ¡°There are rare cases of someone being capable of manipulating two scientific disciplines, but generally their abilities are less developed than someone who is only proficient in one.¡±


    ¡°So what specialties are there?¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked over at Gorwold. ¡°Perhaps you could answer Mason¡¯s question.¡±


    Gorwold smiled, seemingly happy to demonstrate his knowledge. ¡°There¡¯s dynamics, structural mechanics, thermodynamics, electrodynamics, and relativistic physics.¡±


    ¡°Do you get to choose your specialty?¡±


    Gorwold laughed. ¡°Well I certainly didn¡¯t.¡±


    Counselor Anklin just shook his head at Gorwold. ¡°No, Mr. Grant, just as with many other talents, it¡¯s something you¡¯re born with.¡±


    ¡°So what¡¯s my specialty?


    Counselor Anklin chuckled. ¡°You should know the answer to that. Think about which specialty means the most to you.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a hard question for Mason to answer. ¡°Dynamics.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°Correct. To be able to manipulate scientific laws you must have a personal connection to them.¡±


    By the time Mason returned to his room, he was exhausted. However, the rough mattress made falling asleep difficult as it was uncomfortable and made crinkling sounds whenever he moved. Even the cot would¡¯ve been better than this, Mason thought to himself ruefully. After a while, he started to doze off, but was suddenly startled awake. Whatever filled the mattress was jabbing into him. In frustration, he covered the bed with all the blankets he could find and was at last able to fall asleep.


    The sound of pounding woke him up. Mason looked around the dark room in a panic, forgetting for an instant where he was. ¡°Time for breakfast Mason,¡± called a voice he recognized as Gorwold¡¯s.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Mason called back, remembering he was in Myscreth. The crunching of the mattress and a stem poking him as he got out of bed made that abundantly clear. Turning on the light, Mason got ready for the day ahead.

 Chapter Three: History Lessons

    Counselor Anklin and Gorwold were already in the dining room when Mason got there. ¡°Good morning, Mason,¡± Gorwold called cheerfully, while Counselor Anklin¡¯s thoughts seemed elsewhere. Soon, a young dark-haired girl, who Mason guessed couldn¡¯t be older than thirteen, carried in a bowl of what looked like purple oatmeal. Placing it on the table, she turned and bowed to Counselor Anklin. ¡°Good morning, Counselor Anklin,¡± she said in a shy voice.


    Counselor Anklin didn¡¯t immediately reply, but at last looked at the girl, a kind smile on his face. ¡°Ah yes, good morning Eriline. Thank you.¡± She smiled, and after taking a quick glance at Mason, hurried from the room.


    Gorwold watched Counselor Anklin, apparently waiting for him to serve himself. However, Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°You two go on ahead.¡± Seeming overjoyed, Gorwold spooned a generous helping of the ¡®oatmeal¡¯ into a bowl and passed it to Mason. Not quite sure what to expect, Mason took a small bite. Although it looked like oatmeal, its flavor was almost a cross between peanuts and broccoli.


    Mason was almost halfway through his breakfast when Claridee rushed into the dining room. She hurriedly sat down and ladled a small amount of the breakfast dish into her bowl. When she¡¯d finished, Counselor Anklin finally served himself, filling his bowl nearly to the top.


    ¡°Grestry is one of my favorites,¡± he happily announced as he started eating. ¡°No one makes it like Eriline¡¯s mother.¡±


    While eating Counselor Anklin laid out the day¡¯s activities. ¡°Mason, your meeting with the Council is scheduled for right before lunch.¡± He looked over at Claridee. ¡°Since Gorwold and I will be busy this morning, why don¡¯t you show Mason around Bendroff?¡±


    ¡°Of course, Counselor Anklin,¡± she answered in a tone that didn¡¯t disguise her lack of enthusiasm.


    In spite of her attitude, Mason was excited for the chance to see more of the city.


    After breakfast, Mason waited anxiously in the library for Claridee. Arriving, she barely looked at him. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    The tour certainly wasn¡¯t what Mason had expected. Claridee hardly spoke as she led him through the seemingly endless corridors of Bendroff. A quick ¡°that¡¯s where most of the workers live¡± or ¡°these elevators lead to the surface¡± was all Mason got. The people who greeted them as they passed said more to Mason than she did. Frustrated by her silence, he tried to engage her in conversation, but she ignored his efforts.


    Once they reached the farming area, Claridee¡¯s attitude changed. She held up a leaf from a tall speckled plant. ¡°This is a jerfrome plant which is used to make clothing.¡± She walked over and bent down by a patch of purple leaves. ¡°This is brasturn, that¡¯s what we had for breakfast this morning.¡±


    She continued describing the plants as they walked. Seeing a group of farm workers digging around some of the plants, she went over and started helping them. Mason was surprised to not only see her smiling, but also happily talking with them. He wanted to walk over and get a better view of what they were doing, but felt that he¡¯d be intruding. He had no idea how long he stood there watching them.


    Suddenly Claridee got up and hastily said goodbye to the workers. ¡°Come on or you¡¯ll be late,¡± she called to Mason as she began quickly walking out of the fields. Her smile was now gone and the usual dour expression had returned to her face. Mason tried asking about what the farm workers had been doing, but she ignored him. When they got back to the trainees¡¯ quarters, she disappeared down the hallway before Mason had a chance to thank her.


    ¡°Are you ready for your interview with the Council?¡± asked Counselor Anklin walking in from the dining room.


    Mason took a deep breath. ¡°Ready as I¡¯ll ever be.¡±


    Counselor Anklin cocked his head and studied him. ¡°You¡¯ll be fine. Just answer the Council¡¯s questions honestly and remember that you want to be here.¡±


    Mason nodded, not entirely convinced.


    He silently followed Counselor Anklin to the Council chambers. Mason was surprised at how plain the entrance to the Council chambers looked. He¡¯d envisioned something like a royal throne room with guards and a large ornate door covered in gold. Instead, there was a bench and a large wooden door just as beat up as all the others he¡¯d seen.


    The two of them entered the Council chambers and Mason¡¯s expectations were again disappointed. It was nothing more than a small auditorium with one main aisle and rough wooden benches on either side. At the very front of the room was a platform which was about four feet high and like the benches was made of roughhewn wood. A small set of what passed for stairs on the left side allowed access.


    On the platform was a large table and several sets of drawers. At the table sat four people. They watched in silence as Mason and Counselor Anklin approached. Mason¡¯s heart was pounding so furiously he feared the Council would hear it. As they continued forward, he noticed a small podium in front of the platform. Counselor Anklin walked to the podium while gesturing for Mason to take a seat on one of the benches. Mason could feel the gaze of the Council members as he sat down.


    ¡°Members of the Council,¡± began Counselor Anklin. ¡°I wish to introduce to you Mason Grant, a young man from Earth.¡± He nodded towards Mason who, remembering how everyone would bow to Counselor Anklin stood up and gave a slight bow before sitting back down. ¡°I have found him to exhibit the abilities and strength of character that will make him a fine addition to the Council. His specialty is dynamics.¡±


    Counselor Anklin began to introduce the members of the Council.


    ¡°First is Counselor Halrous, whose specialty is structural mechanics.¡±


    A man who looked similar in age to Counselor Anklin rose from his seat, giving Mason an encouraging smile. He was a short, round man with slight tufts of white hair on the sides of his head.


    Counselor Anklin then gestured toward the older of the two women seated at the table. ¡°This is Counselor Janice who, like yourself is from Earth.¡± She was a woman of medium height whose dark hair was streaked with grey. ¡°Her specialty is electrodynamics.¡± At the end of her introduction, she gave Mason a kind smile, revealing a multitude of laugh lines. He was relieved to see someone else from Earth.


    Counselor Anklin then introduced the younger of the two women, who didn¡¯t seem much older than Mason. ¡°This is Counselor Tranlee, whose specialty is thermodynamics.¡± She had short red hair and bright green eyes. She didn¡¯t stand, but gave a brusque nod. She radiated intensity and strength of purpose.


    Counselor Anklin motioned toward a tall man with blonde hair and grey eyes ¡°This person will be of special interest to you Mason, as his specialty is also dynamics. Allow me to introduce Counselor Proust.¡± The Counselor had a strong chiseled face that showed little emotion. He didn¡¯t even bother acknowledging Mason, almost appearing to be bored.


    Signaling for Mason to approach the podium, Counselor Anklin climbed the stairs to the platform and joined the other Counselors at the table. Standing there, Mason steeled himself to answer the Council¡¯s questions as best he could. He barely had a chance to catch his breath before the blonde-haired Council member fired a question without warning.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Mason¡¯s confidence evaporated under the intense gaze of the five Council members.


    ¡°To help rebuild Myscreth,¡± stammered Mason.


    Counselor Proust leaned forward and shook his head. ¡°You don¡¯t sound very sure of that.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be here if I wasn¡¯t sure,¡± answered Mason with a hint of irritation in his voice.


    Counselor Proust gave a slight smile. ¡°It¡¯s easy to say that now, but will you still feel that way once you¡¯ve discovered how hard life is here on Myscreth. How does the Council know that you won¡¯t go running back to Earth when you tire of your little adventure here?¡±


    ¡°I gave up everything I ever wanted to come here,¡± declared Mason forcefully. ¡°If that doesn¡¯t prove my commitment to being here then nothing will.¡±


    Mason could see some of the other Counselor¡¯s nodding.


    It appeared Counselor Proust was about to respond when Counselor Janice interrupted him. ¡°Counselor Proust, when I first came to Myscreth, there were those who questioned my commitment. But here I am twenty years later loyally serving Myscreth.¡± Mason detected a slight British accent in her voice.


    His attention was drawn back by Counselor Proust¡¯s icy reply. ¡°Counselor Janice, while I applaud your long service on the Council, this isn¡¯t about you.¡±The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Nor is it about you,¡± she retorted. ¡°There are four other Council members who have a say in this matter.¡±


    Counselor Halrous cleared his throat. ¡°That¡¯s right Proust, and I for one want to get some questions in.¡±


    Counselor Proust gave a sweeping gesture. ¡°By all means then.¡±


    While the remainder of the interview process wasn¡¯t necessarily enjoyable, Mason felt that it was fair. He was sent outside and waited on the bench, anxiously watching the door to the Council Chambers. After a while, he could no longer sit still and started pacing impatiently. As he paced, every perceived flaw in his answers raced through his mind. His confidence diminished with every passing moment until he was certain he¡¯d be sent back to Earth.


    He was so consumed by his thoughts that he didn¡¯t hear the door to the Council chambers open. Looking up, he was shocked to see Counselor Anklin standing there, a grim look on his face.


    ¡°Mason, the Council has made their decision ¡­¡±


    Mason¡¯s heart sank.


    ¡°¡­ or should I say Trainee Mason.¡± Counselor Anklin finished, breaking into a broad smile.


    For a moment Mason just stood there staring at Counselor Anklin. Finally the word Trainee registered in his mind and he could breathe again. Mason smiled. ¡°I feel like I just ran a marathon. Is it always like that?¡±


    ¡°Sometimes, but what¡¯s important is that you stood up for yourself and convinced them that you wanted to be here.¡±


    ¡°So when does my training start?¡± Mason asked excitedly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head over to the library and I¡¯ll show you.¡±


    The return trip to the trainees¡¯ quarters was a blur as Mason wondered what his training would be like. Entering the library, Counselor Anklin walked over to the bookcases and pointed at a shelf of books. ¡°You¡¯ll start here.¡±


    Mason felt deflated. Going over, he halfheartedly examined the shelf. It contained about thirty books. Some appeared to be falling apart, while others looked nearly brand new. Among the titles were Myscreth¡¯s Greatest Empires, An Overview of Myscrethian Politics, and The Road to Unification.


    ¡°History books?¡± he asked, unable to hide the disappointment in his voice. He¡¯d been looking forward to reading them, but at his leisure, not all at once.


    ¡°Yes, if you expect to join the Council, you should know Myscrethian history,¡± Counselor Anklin continued in a cheerful voice. ¡°These books should provide a good overview.¡±


    Mason just stared at the books in silence and selected what looked to be the shortest. ¡°The Grastorline War,¡± he read aloud.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good one,¡± enthused Counselor Anklin as he started to leave. Reaching the door he called back. ¡°Be sure to pay careful attention to what you read because I¡¯ll be testing you on it.¡±


    Mason tucked the book under his arm and headed back to his room.


    Over the next two weeks, Mason spent most of his time in the library reading. Although initially disappointed, he soon found himself so engrossed that sometimes he¡¯d end up reading through the night. While he read, Claridee would often came into the library to study. Sometimes, there¡¯d be smudges of dirt on her face telling Mason that she¡¯d been down in the farming area.


    Try as he might to engage her in conversation, he only got a cold look of annoyance in return. Finally, tired of the rejection, he gave up. ¡°If she doesn¡¯t want to talk to me,¡± he grumbled to himself, ¡°why bother.¡±


    On one occasion, Counselor Halrous joined Claridee in the library while she was studying. He was there for quite a while and seemed to do most of the talking, but Mason couldn¡¯t make out what he was saying. However, at the end he could see Claridee half-heartedly nodding before getting up and walking away.


    On his way out of the library, Counselor Halrous stopped by the table where Mason sat by a stack of books. ¡°I see Anklin¡¯s got you reading our collection of history books,¡± he observed with a chuckle.


    ¡°Not exactly the kind of training I was expecting,¡± answered Mason with a smile.


    ¡°I believe Janice said the same thing when Anklin had her do it.¡±


    ¡°Have there been any other Council member from other planets.¡±


    ¡°No, just Janice and hopefully someday yourself. Earth is the only planet we ever visitied and that was hundreds of years ago. Well at least until Anklin started traveling there.¡±


    ¡°So Counselor Anklin¡¯s been visiting Earth for twenty years?¡± asked Mason.


    Councelor Halrous shook his head. ¡°Oh much longer than that. He took his first trip there just after he joined the Council. It was right after his ¡­¡± His voice trailed off.


    ¡°Counselor Halrous?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Mason. Sometimes I get a bit carried away. There¡¯s a meeting I need to attend so enjoy your reading.¡±


    Before Mason could answer, Counselor Halrous had left the library.


    When not reading, Mason headed out to explore Bendroff, eager to see more of it. However, he usually ended up getting lost and would sheepishly have to ask whoever he came across for help. He hoped that in time he¡¯d be able to find his way around.


    He wasn¡¯t so sure he¡¯d ever get used to his bed. The crunching sound it made when he moved, or a stem jabbing into him would wake him up several times each night. At one point, he even considered sleeping on the floor. However, by the time he neared the end of his reading assignment he was finally able to experience an uninterrupted night¡¯s sleep.


    As he read, Mason learned that Myscreth¡¯s history was surprisingly similar to Earth¡¯s. On both worlds a handful of civilizations had dominated the development of culture and science. From the remnants of these civilizations, nations developed and evolved, leading to conflicts and war. However, Myscreth had advanced technologically and socially well beyond Earth¡¯s current state. Separate nations eventually ceased to exist.


    There was one significant difference from Earth: for most of their history, the people of Myscreth had considered themselves to be alone in the universe. Due to its unusual location in space, the night sky of Myscreth was devoid of visible stars, planets, or even a moon. With nothing but the sun to draw their attention to the sky overhead, they had concentrated on the world around them. It wasn¡¯t until late in their history that they¡¯d discovered the existence of other worlds. Mason finally understand why so many people had chosen to remain on Myscreth even though it could barely support life; it¡¯d been the only home they¡¯d ever known.


    Counselor Anklin wasn¡¯t around much as Mason worked his way through the books. His Council duties, both in Bendroff and other parts of Myscreth, took up most of his time. However, he did occasionally check on Mason¡¯s progress, questioning him about what he¡¯d read. For the most part, Counselor Anklin seemed satisfied with his efforts, although once or twice he did suggest that Mason reread parts of some of the books.


    Mason was in the library when he finished the last book. Slamming it shut, he sat back with a satisfied grin. Claridee gave him a look of annoyance, but quickly went back to her studying.


    That night after dinner, Counselor Anklin and Mason sat in the library to discuss the next stage of his training.


    ¡°The first thing any Trainee needs to learn,¡± Counselor Anklin began, ¡°is what it means to be a Council member. That¡¯s why you¡¯ll start accompanying Council members on their assignments throughout Myscreth.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great,¡± exclaimed Mason. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see more of Myscreth.¡±


    Counselor Anklin continued. ¡°I must warn you however, these aren¡¯t pleasure trips, Mr. Grant. It will be a lot of hard work and very likely dangerous. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± answered Mason without hesitation.


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°Very well then. Tomorrow you¡¯ll be accompanying Counselor Janice, Claridee, and myself on a salvage mission to Dafrum.¡±


    ¡°Salvage mission?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± answered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Almost every piece of electrical or mechanical equipment we have,¡± he gestured around the room, ¡°has been scavenged from one of our ruined cities.¡±


    Mason now realized why he¡¯d seen so many mismatched items throughout Bendroff. ¡°But wouldn¡¯t everything have been collected by now?¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s a testament to how far we¡¯ve fallen that there¡¯s still ample equipment to salvage. In fact, there¡¯s hundreds of cities we haven¡¯t even surveyed yet.¡±


    Mason remembered his arrival on Myscreth. ¡°Will you be opening a doorway to get us there?¡±


    Counselor Anklin grinned. ¡°Still a little uneasy after last time?¡±


    Mason looked down sheepishly. ¡°A little.¡±


    ¡°You needn¡¯t worry, we have too much equipment and people to travel that way. We¡¯ll be taking a transport to reach the city.¡±


    Mason smiled with relief.


    Counselor Anklin turned serious. ¡°One thing you need to understand, our sole purpose on this expedition is to aid the workers doing the actual salvage work. They¡¯re the experts and will be in charge.¡±


    ¡°What will we be doing?¡±


    ¡°Whatever needs to be done,¡± answered Counselor Anklin. ¡°That¡¯s your first lesson; the Council was established to serve our people, not the other way around.¡±


    Mason nodded.


    Counselor Anklin stood up and stretched. ¡°Good. Well it¡¯s getting late, and we have a busy day tomorrow.¡±


    Mason suddenly remembered his conversation with Counselor Halrous. ¡°Can I ask you something?¡±


    ¡°Questions are always welcome, but answers aren¡¯t guaranteed,¡± he answered, sitting back down with a smile.


    ¡°Counselor Halrous told me you were the first person from Myscreth to travel to Earth after hundreds of years, but wouldn¡¯t tell me why.¡±


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s smile vanished.


    Seeing Counselor Anklin¡¯s reaction, Mason now regretted his curiosity. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to upset you.¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°No apology needed. I went to Earth because I could no longer remain on Myscreth.¡±


    It took Mason a moment to realize what he¡¯d said. ¡°But why?¡±


    Counselor Anklin leaned back and looked up at the ceiling. ¡°Before I became a candidate to join the Council, I was engaged to be married. I wanted to get married right away so Murlina could join me in Bendroff while I was training. However, she told me that it was more important for me to finish my training first so I could start helping our people.¡±


    Counselor Anklin was quiet for a moment before continuing. ¡°While I was training, Murlina joined a salvage crew to collect equipment from out ruined cities. Just a few weeks before I joined the Council, I received word that while on a mission she¡¯d been killed.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± offered Mason.


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°I blamed Myscreth for her death and wanted to get away. It took time to track down the records of the past journeys to Earth. When I had all the information I needed, I left Myscreth never intending to return.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯d you come back?¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave a sad smile. ¡°Murlina. I knew how disappointed she¡¯d be in me for deserting Myscreth. Also, seeing Earth reminded me of how beautiful Myscreth had once been and could be again. Myscreth was my home and I had a responsibility to help rebuild it.¡±


    As he finished speaking, Counselor Anklin stood up. ¡°And as a candidate to join the Council, Mr. Grant, it¡¯s now your responsibility as well. So get some sleep because we have a busy few days ahead of us.¡±


    After Counselor Anklin left, Mason looked through the bookcases as he remembered a book which contained an overview of Myscreth¡¯s major cities. After a bit of rummaging, he finally found it. He carefully turned the brittle pages until he found the section on Dafrum.


    Dafrum: Sixth largest city with a population of 36 million people. Primary industries are robotics and electrical manufacturing. Best known as the location where the Treaty of Frestline was signed, ending Myscreth¡¯s last war and bringing about the unification of Myscreth. A monument at the center of the city commemorates this event ¡­


    A small picture was included, showing gleaming towers that appeared to Mason to stretch nearly a mile into a bright blue sky. Putting the book back, he felt sad that he¡¯d now see nothing more than the city¡¯s ruins.

 Chapter Four: Lighter Than Air

    The next morning, Mason was awakened by a loud banging on his door. ¡°What is it?¡± he called out groggily.


    ¡°Counselor Anklin says you need to get up,¡± called an irritated voice that he immediately recognized as Claridee¡¯s.


    ¡°Okay,¡± he called out into the dark room. Hearing her walk away he muttered to himself. ¡°Most annoying alarm clock ever.¡±


    He immediately regretted the comment. He could understand Claridee¡¯s frustration since she often had to wake him up. This was due to the one aspect of Myscrethian life Mason still hadn¡¯t gotten used to: the lack of clocks. He couldn¡¯t remember a time when he hadn¡¯t worn a watch and felt lost without it. In fact, he¡¯d worn his watch when coming to Myscreth, but soon put it aside as he grew tired of trying to explain what it was to people.


    Time increments such as hours and minutes weren¡¯t used on Myscreth. Instead, events would be either referenced to meals or vague durations of time such as ¡°awhile¡± or ¡°shortly¡±. What puzzled him most was that somehow people on Myscreth managed to maintain a set schedule.


    When he¡¯d asked Counselor Anklin about this, he¡¯d answered with a good-natured laugh.


    ¡°Janice had the same issue. Myscrethians are born with a strong internal sense of time, which tells us when to wake up or when various events need to take place. Don¡¯t worry though, Janice eventually acclimated and I¡¯m sure you will too.¡±


    Mason hoped he¡¯d get used to it soon or there was no telling what Claridee might do.


    After quickly getting washed and dressed, Mason hurried to the dining room leaving his jacket and gloves in the library. Walking in, he saw that Counselor Anklin, Claridee, and Gorwold were nearly done with breakfast.


    ¡°Hurry up and eat Mason,¡± declared Counselor Anklin. ¡°With all the work ahead of us, we likely won¡¯t be eating again until dinner.¡±


    Mason quickly grabbed a bowl and ladled a little bit from each serving dish from the table into it. Mixing it all together, he started wolfing it down, noticing too late that it tasted like chocolate covered mushrooms. Even so, he continued eating, albeit a bit more slowly. Finally, having satisfied his hunger, he looked up to see he was alone in the dining room.


    Would they leave without me? Came the panicked thought as he rushed into the library.


    He was relieved to see Counselor Anklin and Claridee waiting for him. Mason threw on his jacket as they left the library.


    Counselor Anklin and Claridee walked quickly with Mason struggling to keep up. He was glad for the chance to rest when they finally reached an elevator. It still seemed strange to him to see the wall passing by as the elevator ascended, but at least he could now ride in them without fear.


    They got off the elevator in a large building which was open at the far end. Mason guessed that it must be a hanger of some kind. Looking around though, he didn¡¯t see any aircraft, only what looked like portable trailers in various stages of construction. The low din of voices, interspersed with an occasional shout, echoed around them.


    Mason noticed crates and large wooden panels being wheeled outside. As they walked, Counselor Anklin called out greetings. ¡°Hurline, good to see you. Thristurn, how¡¯s the family?¡± As they passed, workers stopped what they were doing and bowed to Counselor Anklin. Claridee paid no attention to the people around them. She just silently marched along, staring straight ahead.


    Stepping outside, Mason was struck by a blast of bitterly cold air. He zipped his jacket tighter and hurried after Counselor Anklin.


    Outside the hanger was a large plain that Mason assumed to be landing field. He scanned the area, looking for aircraft, but only saw more of the portable trailers he¡¯d seen inside. Each was about sixty feet long with a width and height of about twenty feet. A large door on the side of one of the trailers was open, and the crates and panels were being wheeled into it.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the transport?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Right in front of you,¡± Counselor Anklin replied, pointing at the structure that was being loaded.


    Looking more closely, Mason noticed that at the top four corners of the trailer were struts, which had propellers attached to them.


    ¡°How can that possibly fly?¡± questioned Mason. ¡°The propellers are too small and it doesn¡¯t even have wings.¡±


    Mason could see Claridee rolling her eyes.


    Counselor Anklin hardly glanced at him as he answered. ¡°Think about what you¡¯ve seen and the abilities we possess, Mr. Grant. How do you think we get it off the ground?¡±


    Mason looked more closely at the transport and thought there was something funny about the way it was sitting on the ground. Bending over to look underneath, he saw it wasn¡¯t touching the ground at all, but was being held in place with ropes like a hot-air balloon. He turned to Counselor Anklin. ¡°Is it floating?¡±The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Yes it is. Now tell me why.¡±


    He thought back to the professor¡¯s demonstration in his apartment. ¡°Its gravity¡¯s been modified?¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°Exactly. Much of the technology you know from Earth doesn¡¯t apply here. We don¡¯t have to worry about wings since we can get the transport ship off the ground using our abilities. The propellers are only needed to move the ship forward and to steer it. As you become more familiar with our ways, these things will become second nature to you.¡±


    Mason didn¡¯t have a chance to respond as Counselor Janice caught up with them. She smiled at the look of confusion of Mason¡¯s face and looked over at Counselor Anklin. ¡°I didn¡¯t look like that, did I?¡± She asked with a laugh.


    ¡°Oh no, Janice. You¡¯re look of confusion was far more pronounced.¡± He said with a chuckle.


    As the four of them entered the transport, Mason was surprised to see how plain the interior was. The passenger section took about a third of the transport¡¯s length and was nothing more than benches mounted to the floor. A single aisle ran to the back where several large cabinets were mounted. Between them was a door that he guessed went to the cargo section.


    At the front of the transport Mason saw an opening which he assumed led to the cockpit. His friend Leslie was a pilot and he¡¯d flown with her a few times. The sight of all the gauges and switches on the plane¡¯s control panel had made him glad that she was the one flying the plane. Curious he looked inside and was surprised to find nothing more than a chair mounted in front of a panel with about a dozen levers and what looked like a compass.


    Leaving the cockpit, he found an open window seat near the front. He figured it would give him a chance to see more of Myscreth on their way to Dafrum. He felt around for a seatbelt, but didn¡¯t find one. ¡°No need to worry about that,¡± observed Counselor Janice as she sat down next to him. ¡°It¡¯s not like we¡¯re going to crash,¡± she added with a small laugh.


    He was glad Counselor Janice had sat next to him. He¡¯d been looking forward to speaking with her. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Claridee was already seated in the row in front of them, and Counselor Anklin soon joined her. Mason watched as others came on board. He saw men and women varying in age from teenagers to the elderly. All seemed excited and happily conversed with those around them as they took their seats. A few people came rushing in as a voice outside could be heard calling. ¡°Prepare to close doors!¡±


    After everyone was onboard, the door was closed from the outside. Seeing that everyone was seated, Counselor Anklin slowly rose from his seat and the transport grew silent.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure there¡¯s no need to remind you of how much your efforts mean to our people. However, there have not been many expeditions to Dafrum, so I urge everyone to exercise extra caution. Counselor Janice, myself, and our two Council trainees are here to help in whatever way we can. As you are the experts in this type of work, we¡¯ll let you to tell us how best we can aid you.¡±


    A horn sounded outside. From his window, Mason could see men and women running around the transport, untying the ropes that held it in place. There was a slight vibration and a low hum as the propellers began spinning. Looking out the window, Mason saw the landing field falling away behind them.


    The land below them was barren and unchanging except for the occasional remnants of what looked like buildings or roads. Above was a thick ceiling of clouds that almost looked close enough to touch. Only a dull grey light penetrated the clouds, making the land below seem even bleaker.


    Counselor Janice turned to him. ¡°Certainly a lot different than Earth, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    He nodded. ¡°Is the whole planet this barren?¡±


    She gave a sad smile. ¡°Most of it. There¡¯s only a thousand mile strip around the equator that has vegetation.¡±


    They were near the cockpit and Mason was struck by how quiet it was. When he¡¯d flown with Leslie, there was always the sound of air traffic control and weather reports on the radio. In thinking about it, he didn¡¯t remember seeing anything that looked like a radio in the cockpit.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t the pilot have a radio?¡± he asked Counselor Janice.


    She shook her head and pointed at the clouds overhead. ¡°They not only block sunlight, but radio transmissions too. We have no direct person to person communication, but transports can deliver a letter anywhere on Myscreth within two days.¡±


    ¡°Like a flying Pony Express.¡±


    Counselor Janice smiled. ¡°That¡¯s a good way to describe it.¡±


    Mason was once again struck by the contradictions of Myscreth. They had flight, but no radio or phones. Mason gazed out the window for a while before looking over at Counselor Janice.


    ¡°How¡¯d you meet Counselor Anklin?¡±


    ¡°He gave a seminar on quantum mechanics while I was in graduate school. Then after I¡¯d gotten my doctorate, he just showed up at my flat one day.¡±


    ¡°What did you think when he told you he was from Myscreth?¡±


    Counselor Janice answered with a laugh. ¡°I would¡¯ve told him he was crazy, but my dining table was sitting on the ceiling.¡±


    ¡°Well I did bring it back down before I left,¡± interrupted Counselor Anklin looking back at them.


    ¡°That you did Anklin,¡± agreed Counselor Janice


    ¡°So what convinced you come to Myscreth?¡±


    Counselor Janice turned thoughtful. ¡°When I was growing up, the idea of a woman going into engineering was laughed at. Even in college, I was ridiculed and looked down upon. So I worked harder and even got a doctorate hoping it would earn me respect. But very few places were willing to hire a female engineer and those that were only offered me junior engineering positions.¡± Sighing sadly, she continued. ¡°Myscreth offered me an opportunity to fully utilize my abilities without regard to whether I was a man or woman.¡±


    As the two of them spoke, Mason occasionally looked out the window and noticed something on the horizon. At first he thought it might be a mountain range, but as they drew closer, he decided it was too symmetrical to be a natural formation.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± he asked, pointing out the window.


    She leaned over and looked out. ¡°That¡¯s Dafrum.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s huge,¡± noted Mason, astonished by its size.


    As they drew closer, he could make out remnants of buildings rising hundreds of feet into the air. Even now, hundreds of years after its destruction, smoke from smoldering fires still drifted into the sky. It was unrecognizable from the picture he¡¯d seen.


    Feeling himself being pushed against the bench, Mason looked out the window and noticed that the direction of the propellers had been reversed, causing the transport to slow down. As their forward motion stopped, the transport rocked slightly as the propellers rotated to push them towards the ground. A group of workers began putting on their jackets and retrieving rope, mallets, and stakes from one of the cabinets in the back.


    There was a slight jolt as the transport touched down. The pilot called out in a loud voice, ¡°Secure the transport!¡± The door was swung open and the workers who¡¯d collected the rope, mallets, and stakes rushed outside. Mason watched through the window as people hurried around the transport, pounding stakes into the ground and tying off ropes. A cry of, ¡°all secure,¡± was soon heard, and the propellers stopped rotating.


    They¡¯d arrived at Dafrum.

 Chapter Five: Dafrum

    It was even colder than it¡¯d been in Bendroff and Mason shivered as he left the transport. In the distance were the ruins of Dafrum, but he had little time to look at them as everyone immediately got to work setting up camp.


    After a flat section of ground was cleared of debris, the wooden panels Mason had seen earlier were unloaded from the transport. He now realized that they were portions of a temporary building. Mason was handed a hammer and along with several other workers began pounding in the pegs which held the walls together.


    Even more surprising was that the wall felt warm. It wasn¡¯t residual warmth, but it felt as if the walls were actually generating heat. He scanned the wall and saw no evidence of any heating elements. ¡°How could this be happening?¡± he wondered.


    The work went quickly, and in a short while the walls for three buildings were in place. Mason smiled with pride as he looked at the building he¡¯d helped build. He¡¯d occasionally helped his father with some home construction projects, but never anything this large. Walking around it, he estimated that it was twenty feet square and about eight feet tall. The buildings had no windows and only a single door.


    Noticing Counselor Janice sitting on a crate he saw an opportunity to ask about the walls. He walked over. ¡°Counselor Janice?¡±


    ¡°Yes Mason, what is it?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s heating the walls?¡±


    She smiled and gestured to the area around them. ¡°Everything around us.¡±


    Mason was confused. The air was bitterly cold. How could it possibly be heating the walls? ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°Seems to me that someone needs to take a refresher course on thermodynamics,¡± she replied matter of factly. ¡°Unless it¡¯s absolute zero, there¡¯s always energy around us. The thermodynamic properties of the walls have been modified so they absorb any surrounding energy and emit it as heat.¡±


    He¡¯d never heard anything so fantastic. Unlimited energy without any machinery? He was beginning to understand the wonders that the manipulation of scientific laws made possible.


    As Mason was speaking with Counselor Janice, additional wood panels were brought from the transport and placed on the ground by the buildings. As with the walls, Mason helped assemble these panels into a single section. When each section was completed, ropes were tied to each of their corners.


    At first, Mason didn¡¯t understand why this was being done, but then he saw Counselor Anklin walk over. Counselor Anklin concentrated and one of the wooden sections floated upward. Workers used the ropes to guide it into place over the walls, reminding Mason of the giant balloon characters he¡¯d seen in parades. Once the roof was in position, Counselor Anklin again concentrated and the roof fell gently into place. This process was repeated for each building.


    ¡°Everyone take a short break,¡± called Counselor Janice. Mason was glad for the chance to rest as he¡¯d never exerted himself so much in his life. He went to the transport along with most of the workers to escape the cold wind.


    He saw Claridee sitting in the back by herself. Maybe she¡¯ll be a little friendlier today, he thought sitting down on the bench in front of her. ¡°Hi,¡± he said, but she paid no attention to him.


    Several workers had remained outside and Mason noticed them carrying what looked like a trashcan on its side. They set it down on the ground not far from the transport. He was surprised to see wires running from the buildings being attached to it. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± he asked Claridee.


    ¡°A generator,¡± she answered.


    ¡°Is that the only one?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°And it provides enough power for all the buildings?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s so small.¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°Look, if you¡¯re so interested, why don¡¯t you go outside and find out for yourself.¡±


    ¡°I think I will,¡± muttered a frustrated Mason as he stomped out of the transport.


    Seeing the generator up close, he was even more confused. There wasn¡¯t even a motor to run it, only a small handle mounted to its center shaft. ¡°Stand back!¡± called one of the workers after all the wires had been attached. Once everyone was clear, she grabbed the handle and rapidly pulled it down. There was a whirling sound as the generator started spinning and to Mason¡¯s amazement, it didn¡¯t stop. Impossible, he thought before remembering all the wonders he¡¯d already seen on Myscreth.


    Now the task of unloading the transport began in earnest. Cots, chests, lights, and heaters were moved into two of the buildings while tables, benches, and cooking supplies were moved into the third. Mason was struck by the strange combination of the old and the new. The cots and storage chest were made of rough wood, but there were electric lights and even an electric griddle for cooking.


    As it grew dark, it became even colder. In spite of his thick jacket, Mason shivered. He was glad when they finally finished setting up camp so he could get inside. Removing his jacket and gloves, he leaned against one of the wall, fully enjoying the sensation of the heat defrosting his frigid limbs.


    Once sufficiently warm, he sought out Counselor Anklin and found him sitting on his cot looking over some papers.


    ¡°What can I do for you Mason?¡± he asked.


    Mason got right to the point. ¡°What was done to the generator?¡±


    Counselor Anklin leaned back on his cot and laughed.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to see that you¡¯re not thinking everything you see is impossible anymore.¡± Mason tried to keep a straight face, not wanting to let on that had been his initial thought.


    ¡°After the war, the only habitable places left were the few remaining underground cities like Bendroff. In time, the fusion reactors that provided their electricity started to fail and couldn¡¯t be repaired. A new power source had to be found.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯d they¡¯d figure it out?¡±


    ¡°Mostly trial and error. Initially the dynamic friction and moment equations were modified to allow the generator to keep running after it was started. However, this led to other issues such as the housing breaking and the generator getting too hot. Additional modifications were then made to increase the strength of the housing and to allow heat to dissipate more rapidly.¡±


    ¡°Sounds a lot like putting a puzzle together.¡±


    ¡°An excellent analogy,¡± agreed Counselor Anklin. ¡°However, in this case scientific laws are the pieces. That¡¯s why a member of the Council needs to understand not only their own area of science, but those of his fellow Counselors as well.¡±If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Hearing the sound of footsteps, he turned to see Claridee approaching, irritation evident on her face. ¡°We¡¯re supposed to help serve dinner,¡± she announced to Mason before walking away.


    ¡°Well, you heard her,¡± declared Counselor Anklin. ¡°Better get going.¡±


    Mason quickly threw on his jacket and rushed over to the dining building. By the time he and Claridee had helped serve and clean up dinner, most everyone else was gone. Quite hungry due to the day¡¯s exertions and small breakfast, Mason quickly dug into his plate of food. Looking up, he noticed Claridee picking at her food, appearing deep in thought.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you hungry Claridee?¡± he asked.


    She looked up, exhaustion and sadness evident on her face. He was surprised when she answered.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not hungry, just tired.¡±


    Mason continued eating.


    ¡°Was it easy to leave your family?¡± she asked in a low voice.


    ¡°No,¡± answered Mason remembering his final visit with his parents. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize how much I¡¯d miss my parents until I said goodbye to them. How about you?¡±


    Claridee looked as if she was about to say something, but got up from the table and started walking away. Mason was taken aback by her abrupt departure. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he called, worried that he¡¯d somehow offended her. She didn¡¯t answer.


    Lying on his cot that night, Mason could feel every muscle in his body starting to ache. All he wanted was to soak in a hot bath, but there was no chance of that here. He felt sure he¡¯d never fall asleep.


    The next thing he knew, he found himself being roughly shaken awake. Opening his eyes he saw Strislorn, who was in charge of food preparation for the camp, standing over him.


    ¡°Come on, Trainee Mason. You¡¯re supposed to help serve breakfast this morning,¡± he said impatiently.


    Mason sat up rubbing his eyes, wishing for more time to sleep. ¡°Coming,¡± he mumbled.  After putting on his shoes and throwing on his jacket, he trudged through the dark after Strislorn to the dining building. His body now ached even more than it had yesterday with each movement being a new experience in pain.


    He saw Claridee already at work, stacking plates and setting out of pots of food. He called out a tentative ¡°good morning.¡± Without a word, she headed off to another part of the kitchen.


    As the group was eating breakfast, a short, stout woman with auburn hair, who Mason thought must be in her early thirties, stood up and loudly banged a wooden spoon on one of the tables. Counselor Anklin had told Mason her name was Klarene and that she was in charge of the expedition.


    ¡°Today we have two objectives,¡± she began in a gruff, no-nonsense tone. ¡°The power station just north of us and an electronics factory to the northwest. I¡¯ll be leading the team going to the power station. And Creslurn,¡± she pointed over at a large middle-aged man, ¡°will be leading the other group.¡±


    After breakfast, the two groups prepared to leave camp. Everyone was given a backpack which contained some dried fruit Mason didn¡¯t recognize, water, rope, and a small wooden box. Taking the box out, Mason saw one end was open and there was a small t-shaped shaft sticking out the side. When he spun the shaft, a bright light shot out the open end and as with the generator, the shaft kept spinning.


    Once everyone had their equipment, the two groups prepared to leave camp with Mason and Counselor Anklin joining Klarene¡¯s group. The bitter cold was only made worse by a strong wind that blew in Mason¡¯s face as he turned to face Dafrum. He pulled his hood tighter around his head and stamped his feet to keep warm.


    Initially, they moved at a steady pace, but as they neared the power station, the ground became more uneven and larger sections of rubble impeded their progress. Several times, they were forced to go around what appeared to be portions of collapsed buildings. Mason trudged onward, breathing heavily while doing his best to keep pace with the group.


    As they neared their destination, Mason stared at it in amazement. In the distance were the remnants of a dozen metallic towers. They must have once extended a thousand feet into the air, but were now only rusted husks. The building before them, although only three stories high, extended almost all the way to the city. Like the towers, most of building was now in ruins. However, even the small portion that remained was larger than any power plant he¡¯d ever seen.


    When they reached the building, Klarene called out. ¡°We¡¯ll take a short rest before going inside.¡±


    A grateful Mason sat down on a piece of concrete sheltered from the wind and looked over the building they were about to enter. All the windows were broken and scorch marks could be seen along the outside walls. He shuddered to think what could have possibly caused so much damage. There wasn¡¯t much time to contemplate this as Klarene soon called out. ¡°Everyone over here.¡±


    ¡°The building is in worse shape than expected,¡± she declared. ¡°I want everyone to be extra careful. No one is to go off on their own. We¡¯re looking for the generator room, so watch for any signs indicating it''s location. Any questions?¡±


    There were no questions and everyone seemed eager to get started. Having never done anything like this, Mason could feel his heart pounding. He tried to steady his nerves, but jumped when Klarene called out. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± and the group let out a roar of approval.


    They entered the building through what Mason believed was once a loading dock, passing a truck buried under a pile of rubble. Much of the interior of the building had deteriorated over time and piles of debris were everywhere. Looking up, Mason could see open sky where portions of the upper stories had fallen in. As they walked, creaks and groans could be heard from the building around them as strong winds buffeted it.


    Climbing over a pile of rubble, Mason cried out in alarm when his light flashed over the skeletal remains of a long dead worker.


    Klarene spun around and shined her light at Mason. ¡°What happened?¡±


    He responded with embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯m okay, I just saw a body.¡±


    She gave a small chuckle. ¡°Well, when you¡¯ve done this kind of work long enough, you get used to it.¡± The other workers joined in with good-natured laughter. Their reaction only made Mason realize how different Myscreth was from Earth.


    Mason had no idea how long it was before someone at last called out. ¡°Over here!¡±


    There was a large door labeled ¡°Generator Room¡± in faded letters. Klarene shined her light through a window in the door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure it¡¯s safe,¡± she called out as she slowly opened the door and went inside. It wasn¡¯t long before she returned. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s get to work.¡±


    Everyone followed her inside. It was a large room and light filtered in from a gaping hole where a portion of the ceiling had collapsed. Looking around, Mason saw the walls were covered with electrical panels. Near the center of the room he saw four large metal generator housings that were rusted and dented, but still looked intact.


    Looking around, Mason was struck at how technologically advanced Myscreth had been. However, no one else seemed to share his sentiments as they didn¡¯t even pause before starting to rip apart the panels to get at the wiring.


    While this was going on, Klarene called out. ¡°Okay, now let¡¯s get at those generators.¡±


    In the flurry of activity around him, Mason felt lost, but tried to help as best he could. He brought tools over as they were needed and helped pack up whatever they were able to salvage. Everyone filled their packs with whatever would fit and placed larger items in a pile on the sleds they¡¯d brought. Everyone worked quickly and it wasn¡¯t long before all the useful electrical components had been collected and the housings of the generator units removed. The generators were about eight feet long and six feet in diameter. Klarene walked around them muttering to herself. ¡°They should just fit through,¡± she declared. ¡°We¡¯ll go out the same way we came in.¡±


    Workers attached ropes around the center of each generator. When they were secured, Counselor Anklin concentrated and the generators started to rise off the ground. Mason knew immediately that he had modified their gravity to make them easier to move. They rose off the ground like giant balloons until the ropes holding them became taut. Counselor Anklin went over to the sleds and in a moment, they too had floated upward.


    Two workers held the ropes for each generator and guided them as the group made its way out of the building. Mason, along with the other workers, directed the sleds which were now piled high with electrical equipment. With all the additional baggage, the group¡¯s pace was much slower than it had been on the way in.


    When they finally got out of the building, Klarene called for another rest before heading back to camp. Coming over to Mason, she gave him a hard pat on the shoulder which made him wince with pain. ¡°I wanted to let you know that you did a good job today.¡±


    Mason rubbed his shoulder, feeling a little embarrassed. ¡°Thank you, but I didn¡¯t do as much as everyone else.¡±


    She smiled. ¡°That may be true, but from what I saw, you pushed yourself as hard as you could. That¡¯s all anyone can ask for, especially in a Council member. If you remember that, you¡¯ll do well.¡±


    Mason felt himself blush. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    It was nearly dark by the time they started back to camp with their precious cargo. Those with free hands held up their lights to help everyone see, but it was still slow going. It had grown much colder so even with the wind at their backs, it was a miserable trek.


    As they neared the camp, the sound of shouts and laughter could be heard. The other group was already there, busy loading equipment into the transport¡¯s cargo section.


    The generators were quickly carried into the transport where Counselor Anklin concentrated and they gently floated to the floor. The remaining equipment was then carried in.


    Exhausted by the long day, no one gave any thought to eating. Each member of the expedition headed to their respective sleeping quarters, most falling on their beds without even bothering to undress, Mason included. In the brief time he was still awake, he remembered Klarene¡¯s advice and thought to himself. Maybe I can do this.

 Chapter Six: Doubts and Friendship

    The expedition to Dafrum was the first of many for Mason. He found each one to be an eye-opening experience as he learned more about Myscreth and its people. It also made him wish he''d kept himself in better shape. On Myscreth you walked everywhere, often while carrying something heavy. However, in time, he found himself less tired and better able to keep up with everyone else.


    In addition to the expeditions, Mason also studied different areas of science with members of the Council. He always looked forward to the structural mechanics lessons with Counselor Halrous. Although all business during the lesson, he¡¯d always end with one of his funny stories. Mason¡¯s favorites were the ones about when Counselor Anklin and Halrous were Trainees together.


    Once Councelor Anklin walked into the library while Counselor Halrous was recounting one of those tales. He listened for a moment and shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not how I remember it. As I recall, you were the one who accidently tripped Counselor Gruntlorn while he was carrying a platter of food.¡±


    Counselor Halrous shook his head. ¡°No, it was you, Anklin. I should know because I¡¯m the one who ended up covered in brintleen soup.¡±


    Counselor Anklin laughed. ¡°Oh I remember now. You were quite a sight.¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t been able to eat the stuff since,¡± complained Counselor Halrous. ¡°And it used to be my favorite.¡±


    His lessons with Counselors Janice and Tranlee weren¡¯t nearly as entertaining. However, at least with Counselor Janice, they¡¯d often chat about Earth when the lesson was complete. She had indeed grown up in England and had gone to Cambridge. Mason filled her in on everything that¡¯d happened on Earth since she¡¯d left. She didn¡¯t seem impressed.


    Counselor Tranlee would leave the moment the lesson was done. He¡¯d tried several times to talk to her, but each time she seemed to have something else to do. He¡¯d seen her being friendly with Claridee and Gorwold, yet it almost seemed as if she wanted to get away from him as soon as possible. He worried that maybe she was against him joining the Council.


    Claridee still wouldn¡¯t speak to him, but his friendship with Gorwold had grown. Although Gorwold was ten years older, Mason found that they had much in common. He was even busier than Mason, since he was undergoing the final tests required to join the Council. However, when time permitted, the two of them would sit in the library and talk about their respective worlds.


    Gorwold was from Wartroth, one of the other underground cities. His father was a member of a salvage crew and his mother a transport pilot. Gorwold¡¯s childhood had been nothing like Mason¡¯s. By the time he was ten years old, he was already spending long days helping on his city''s farm.


    What Mason found even more surprising was that Gorwold expressed no bitterness about this. To him, it was just part of life on Myscreth. Everyone had to work if their society was to survive.


    However, one day Mason found Gorwold sitting in the library, his usual smile missing. ¡°Are you okay?¡± asked Mason sitting down beside him.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he answered. ¡°I was just thinking about how long we¡¯ve been working to rebuild Myscreth. There has to be a way to speed up the process.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure everyone feels that way,¡± agreed Mason, ¡°but there¡¯s only five Council members.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the problem. If only there were more.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure Counselor Anklin is doing his best to find new candidates,¡± said Mason.


    Gorwold gave a half-hearted nod and began walking away. ¡°I¡¯m sure he is.¡±


    Remembering how Counselor Proust had treated him at his Council interview, Mason dreaded his first assignment working with him. The assignment was to help complete a road connecting two settlements in the equatorial region. Fortunately, Counselor Halrous was also coming along and it would provide Mason¡¯s first look at Myscreth¡¯s equatorial region.


    Due to the distance from Bendroff to the equator, it took nearly an entire day to reach their destination. Mason sat near a window beside Counselor Halrous. The Counselor regaled him with tales of Myscreth''s past throughout the trip. Counselor Proust sat a few rows in front of them and had made it clear that he wished to be left alone.


    As they neared the equator, Mason noticed that the land below was no longer entirely barren. Here and there he saw small areas of color, similar to what he''d seen when flying over mountain ranges on Earth. The closer they came to the equator, the more vegetation Mason saw. It was still sparse compared to Earth, but in contrast to the barren landscape around Bendroff, it was a virtual garden. While there were no trees, there were small shrubs and tufts of ragged green grass.


    It was late in the afternoon when they finally reached the settlement of Langtom. The settlement reminded Mason of a colonial town. He counted about thirty buildings, evenly distributed on either side of a single road. Farms surrounded Langtom on three sides, illuminating the dim landscape with their grow lights.


    Most of the road to the nearby settlement of Wedikal had been completed, but there was a fifty foot section that was blocked by a ridge of rock. Counselors Proust and Halrous had been sent to remove the obstruction.


    The transport landed on an area of flat ground not far from the settlement. As the transport touched down, men and women from the settlement quickly attached ropes to hold it in place. When the door was opened, Mason felt a breeze which was cold, but not bitterly so, reminding him of an early spring day. It was the first time he didn''t need a heavy jacket when outside. The thick clouds hid the sun, but it was still brighter than anywhere else he''d been on Myscreth.


    The two Counselors and Mason left the transport and were greeted by a small group. A man, who Mason assumed was in charge, stepped forward and he and the rest of his group bowed as the Counselor''s approached. Counselor Halrous enthusiastically greeted the group, but Counselor Proust ignored them and looked around with a disinterested air.


    Mason noticed some people from the settlement starting to unload equipment from the transport. He went over and started helping.


    "Trainee Mason, come here!" called Counselor Proust sharply.


    Mason handed the box he was holding to one of the workers and rushed over to Counselor Proust.


    "Yes, Counselor Proust?"


    "What are you doing?"


    "I''m helping unload the equipment."


    Counselor Proust looked at him contemptuously.


    "Are you in training to be a worker or a member of the Council?"


    "I''m training to be a member of the Council."


    "Then leave the unloading to the workers and stay with Counselor Halrous and myself."


    "Understood."


    "Good," answered Counselor Proust before turning away.


    Mason didn''t understand why Counselor Proust was so upset; he''d always been instructed by Counselor Anklin to help out whenever possible. However, he did as he was told.


    Entering the settlement, Mason expected to see people waiting to greet the Council members, but what few people were there seemed too busy to notice. Among them were young boys and girls carrying buckets to what looked like a well.


    "Is there no running water?" he asked.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "This isn''t Earth,¡± answered Counselor Proust in an irritated tone. ¡°There are more important things than running water.¡±


    "I was just surprised," sputtered Mason.


    Counselor Proust ignored him.


    They were led to guest quarters, which were located near the center of the community. It reminded Mason of the buildings they''d used in Dafrum, except the building was smaller and there were windows.


    "We hope these quarters will be satisfactory," offered the settlement leader.


    "I''m sure they will be," replied Counselor Halrous graciously.


    "A meal had been prepared for you," the leader continued. "It will be sent shortly."


    Counselor Halrous smiled. "Thank you for your hospitality. We look forward to it."


    After bowing once again, the group left.


    Mason followed the two Counselors inside. The windows didn''t provide much light and he couldn''t see much in the dim interior. However, when Counselor Halrous flipped a switch near the door, the room was illuminated in a clear white light. For an instant, this surprised Mason, but then he remembered how the generators modified by the Council made electrical power plentiful on Myscreth.


    Looking around, Mason saw the floor was hard-packed dirt. The room was plainly furnished with only a table and some chairs. A door on the other side of the room led to a bedroom. It contained four beds and a small table. On the table was a bucket filled with water and a small basin.


    Mason had hoped to explore Langtom, but before he had a chance the settlement leaders returned carrying several platters filled with food.


    Counselor Halrous eagerly dug into each dish, suggesting different ones for Mason to try. Counselor Proust ate little and seemed irritated by Counselor Halrous¡¯ running commentary. At the end of the meal the three men turned in. The long day and full stomach helped put Mason right to sleep.


    However, sometime during the night he was awakened by what he thought was the sound of a door closing. Sitting up and looking around the room, he noticed that Counselor Proust¡¯s bed was empty. ¡°Must¡¯ve gone for a walk,¡± muttered Mason to himself before laying back down and quickly falling back to sleep.


    "Trainee Mason!" came a sharp voice rousing Mason from a deep sleep. Groggily, he opened his eyes and recognized the figure of Counselor Proust standing by his bed.


    "Yes Counselor Proust," he replied with a yawn.


    "See to the door," he barked.


    Mason could now make out the sound of knocking coming from the outside door. He got to his feet and walked out of the bedroom to the front door. Opening it he saw a young woman with dark hair tied back in a ponytail holding a tray containing three bowls which had steam rising from them in the cold morning air.


    She studied him before speaking. "I''ve brought breakfast for you and the Counselors," she announced.


    He took the tray from her, but before he had a chance to say a word, she turned and started walking away. "Thank you," he called after her, but she showed no sign of hearing him.


    He put the tray on the table and went to inform the Counselors that their breakfast had arrived. As they were finishing their meal, a group of workers arrived to take them to the section of road that was obstructed.


    It was located about a mile and a half from the settlement. The workers carried a pallet filled with shovels and picks. In addition to the pallet, several people dragged a catapult on a small cart. It was about eight feet long and four feet wide. The cart also contained four metal balls, each of which was about one foot in diameter. Mason had noticed the catapult in the transport but had no idea of what it would be used for.


    The ridge of rock blocking the road was about ten feet in height with shear walls that made climbing difficult. About fifty feet of rock would have to be removed to complete the road.


    Mason accompanied the two Counselors as they went to examine the ridge. Counselor Proust looked over at him.


    "Trainee Mason, how would you remove this rock on your world?"


    He considered the question. "They''d most likely use dynamite to blow it up."


    Counselor Proust laughed coldly.


    "Do you hear that Halrous, people on Earth still use explosives. Trainee Mason, let us show you how we handle this little problem on Myscreth."


    Counselor Halrous now concentrated on the wall. As they walked away from the rock, Mason whispered to him. "What''d you do?"


    "I modified the stress-strain relationship and material failure criteria of the rock to make it more brittle," Counselor Halrous explained. "That will allow the rock to be smashed more easily and to break into smaller pieces."


    Mason nodded.


    Counselor Proust had the catapult brought forward and placed it on the ground in front of the rock wall. One of the metal balls was placed on the catapult. He turned to Mason.


    "Trainee Mason, now tell me how you think we can destroy this rock."


    He tried to think of all the laws of dynamics that might apply.


    "Two things,¡± answered Mason feeling confident. ¡°First, you can modify the gravity of the counter weight so it falls faster to apply more force to the catapult. Also, you can modify the force/acceleration relationship for the ball to maximize its velocity when it¡¯s released.¡±


    Counselor Proust shook his head and spoke in a condescending tone.


    "I see you still have much to learn Trainee Mason. Did you even consider what modifications could be made to the ball after it¡¯s been released? You need to reverse the force/acceleration relationship of the ball and modify the conversion of kinetic to potential energy so the ball will impart an even greater force into the rock."


    Mason felt deflated. What made it worse was that he''d made this mistake in front of Counselor Proust. He''d already shown he wasn''t sure about Mason being a suitable Council candidate, and this would only reinforce that opinion.


    Everyone was ordered back from the rock wall as Counselor Proust prepared to launch the metal ball. As he concentrated, the counterweight started moving upward. Once at its highest point, it fell rapidly, launching the metal ball towards the rock at a high speed. Almost instantaneously there was a deafening roar and the entire fifty foot section of rock blocking the road disintegrated into a pile of rubble. As the dust settled, Mason could see Counselor Proust smiling with a look of satisfaction. Walking away he looked over at Mason.


    "How does that compare to your Earth explosives?"


    On the return trip from Langtom, Mason was miserable. He sat by himself staring at the landscape below. He now felt certain that Counselor Proust didn''t approve of him joining the Council and probably never would.


    Doubts started flooding his mind. What if the other Council members shared Counselor Proust''s opinion? There was so much new information being thrown at him and he knew that it was only going to get tougher. What if he couldn''t handle it?


    The doubts made him wish he could talk to his parents. He tried to push these thoughts from his mind, but couldn''t shake them.


    ¡°Do you know who¡¯s the greatest teacher I ever met?¡±


    Counselor Halrous sat down beside him.


    ¡°No,¡± answered Mason.


    ¡°Failure.¡±


    Mason looked down and nodded. ¡°Then I learned quite a bit today.¡±


    Counselor Halrous shook his head. ¡°Let¡¯s put it this way. Do you think you¡¯ll ever forget what dynamic laws need to be modified for a catapult?¡±


    ¡°I doubt it.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. You¡¯re a Trainee because you don¡¯t know everything yet. Our job as Counselors is to teach you. It may not be a pleasant experience, but it¡¯s necessary.¡±


    Mason gave a grateful smile.


    ¡°Good. Now that that¡¯s taken care of, let me tell you the story of Queen Prorline of the Nashpurl Empire ¡­¡±


    When Mason entered the trainees'' quarters, Claridee was studying in the library. Walking to his quarters he was surprised to hear her call ¡°Mason.¡±


    Stopping, he turned around. She sat there looking down at her hands and twisting her fingers. Her face looked even sadder than usual. He walked over and sat down.


    "I didn''t want to bother you, but I needed someone to talk to." Her words came out in a rush and she avoided meeting his gaze.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "I grew up in the settlement of Wastrene," she began, still not looking at him. "Life was hard, but I was happy. Mostly because of my parents and my brother and sister." She seemed to perk up when she mentioned her family. "Like everyone else we were farmers and that''s all I ever wanted to be. I saw myself getting married and eventually having my own family, just like my parents."


    She paused and glanced over at Mason, her words coming more slowly.


    "Counselor Anklin came to our settlement and I was shocked when he asked me to be a Trainee. I told him no, since I didn''t want to leave my home and family. However, he was so insistent that I promised to reconsider and talk to my parents about it. I was sure they''d want me to stay." She wrung her hand tightly. "But they told me that I should go with him. They told me how important the Council was and that sometimes in life we have to sacrifice our personal desires for the benefit of others. That''s why I''m here."


    She paused, the only sound the nervous tapping of her foot. At last, she continued.


    "I don''t know what to do anymore. I thought I''d get used to being away from my family, but each day I only miss them more. I want to quit being a Trainee and go home."


    Mason nodded. "I knew I''d miss my parents when I came here and thought it would lessen over time, but it doesn''t. Even though they were worried about what I was doing, they still supported me and told me how proud they were. Remembering that only makes me love and miss them even more."


    "Still, it doesn''t make it any easier."


    "No it doesn¡¯t. Think of it this way: missing our families isn''t a bad thing. After all we miss them because we love them and they''re the ones who shaped our lives. We''re here because of them. When your parents told you about sacrificing personal desires for the sake of others, they didn''t mean only your sacrifice, but theirs as well."


    A sudden look of comprehension spread across Claridee''s face as she raised a hand to her mouth. Mason could see her eyes growing moist.


    "I didn''t realize ..." it was almost as if she was talking to herself before looking at him.


    "All this time I''ve been thinking about how much I missed them, but I''ve never even stopped to think how much they must miss me."


    They sat there for a time, each lost in their thoughts. "Your parents sound like wonderful people," offered Mason. "I''d like to hear more about them."


    She gave him a grateful smile.


    He had no idea how long they talked. However after a while, Claridee stood up.


    "I''m sorry Mason, I didn''t realize it was so late."


    He stood up.


    "It¡¯s okay, I enjoyed learning more about your family."


    "Thanks."


    When he reached his room, Mason closed the door behind him and smiled.

 Chapter Seven: Tests

    As part of their training, each candidate was periodically tested by a Council member who shared their scientific specialization. Counselor Proust had insisted on testing Mason himself. Mason was determined to prove that he belonged on Myscreth and prepared himself more than he had for any other test. He enlisted Claridee¡¯s help, asking her to quiz him on every conceivable dynamics law and spent many late nights considering how the various laws of dynamics could be modified along with the resulting consequences.


    At the appointed time, he arrived at Counselor Proust¡¯s quarters and knocked on his door. The Counselor gruffly called out for him to enter. Mason took a quick look around the room, noticing that room was about half the size of the trainees¡¯ library and sparsely furnished with only a desk, a small bookcase, and a few chairs. Counselor Proust sat behind the desk and gestured for him to come forward. He walked over and stood in front of the desk. Counselor Proust continued looking over some papers while Mason anxiously waited. Placing the papers in a drawer he finally turned to him.


    ¡°Shall we begin, Trainee Mason?¡±


    Without warning, Counselor Proust started firing questions at Mason covering every aspect of dynamics.


    ¡°What is the gravitational acceleration equation for an object?¡±


    ¡°The gravitational constant times the planetary mass divided by the square of the distance from the planet¡¯s cent ¡­¡±


    ¡°What is the equation of motion for a damped harmonic oscillator?¡±


    ¡°Second derivative of x plus two zeta omega times the first derivative of x plus omega squared equals ze ¡­¡±


    ¡°What is the rotational equation of motion for a rigid body object ¡­¡±


    Mason had no idea how long this went on. It was the most intense testing that he¡¯d ever experienced, but he was able to answer every question. He couldn¡¯t be sure, but when the questioning ended, Mason thought Counselor Proust looked disappointed.


    ¡°Knowing the laws of dynamics is one thing Trainee Mason, but knowing how to use them is another.¡±


    This started a new round of questions.


    ¡°How would you modify the laws of dynamics to drill a well?


    And so it went, with Counselor Proust presenting hypothetical situations and Mason telling him what dynamics modifications could be used to achieve the desired objective. He was able to satisfactorily come up with solutions to all the scenarios. Counselor Proust¡¯s scowl deepened with each correct answer. At last, he smiled, but there was something menacing about it.


    ¡°One last scenario Trainee Mason, tell me how you could modify dynamics to kill someone?¡±


    Mason was stunned. How could Counselor Proust ask him that? Everything he knew about the Council told him that their abilities would never be used for such a purpose. For the briefest instant, possible ways that the laws of dynamics could be used to kill someone ran through his mind, but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to say them out loud. At last he replied.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Counselor Proust, but I can¡¯t answer that question because it would be wrong to ever manipulate dynamics for such a purpose.¡±


    Mason thought he saw a flash of anger in his face.


    ¡°Very good Trainee Mason. That is the correct answer. A member of the Council is never to use their abilities to injure anyone. I see you¡¯ve made progress since our journey to Langtom.¡±


    Counselor Proust gave a quick flick of his wrist, which Mason assumed was an order to leave. As he turned to go, he noticed a familiar book on the small bookcase. It was the same dynamics book he¡¯d used in college. He assumed Counselor Anklin must have brought it back from Earth as a gift.


    He considered asking about the book, but Counselor Proust had resumed going through some papers and Mason didn¡¯t dare interrupt him. He¡¯d have to remember to ask Counselor Anklin about it later.


    Mason closed the door behind him and breathed a sigh of relief. He¡¯d passed the first big test in his training, but knew there would be many more difficult tests ahead.


    He happily entered the trainees¡¯ quarters and saw Counselor Anklin, Claridee, and Gorwold waiting for him. The wide smile on his face must have told them what they wanted to know and they immediately congratulated him.


    Counselor Anklin and Gorwold soon excused themselves and he found himself alone in the library with Claridee. She beamed at him and gave his shoulder a small pat.


    ¡°I knew you could do it!¡±


    Mason smiled.


    ¡°Thanks to all the help you gave me studying.¡±


    "It¡¯s the least I could do. Now tell me all about the testing.¡±


    The following week a transport ship arrived from the underground city of Resline with news of disaster. There had been a ceiling collapse, cutting off a section of the city and trapping over a thousand people. Only Counselors Anklin, Tranlee, and Halrous were in Bendroff and immediately prepared to go to Resline. Counselor Anklin told Mason he¡¯d be accompanying them.


    Due to the critical nature of the emergency there was no time for a transport ship. Instead, Counselor Anklin opened a doorway to travel there. As he¡¯d done in Mason¡¯s apartment, he concentrated and soon there was a low humming sound followed by a familiar flashing purple light.


    Mason hadn¡¯t travelled in this manner since arriving from Earth and wasn¡¯t looking forward to it. Counselors Halrous and Tranlee went through first. However, when Mason reached the edge of the doorway, he stopped and looked back at Counselor Anklin. ¡°It¡¯s true that it gets easier, right?¡± he asked with trepidation in his voice.


    ¡°Yes,¡± replied Counselor Anklin with a hint of irritation in his voice. ¡°Go on through.¡±


    Mason gulped and stepped through. He experienced the same sensation of flowing downhill as before. This time he didn¡¯t collapse, but had to put his hand on his knees as he felt his head spinning.


    When he finally straightened up, the three Counselors were watching him.


    ¡°Are you all right?¡± asked Counselor Halrous, concern in his voice.


    Mason gave a weak smile. ¡°Just a little dizzy. Still don¡¯t quite have the hang of travelling this way.¡±


    ¡°But you certainly did better than last time,¡± observed Counselor Anklin. ¡°A few more times and you¡¯ll feel no ill effects whatsoever.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t wait,¡± Mason answered with more sarcasm that he intended.


    They¡¯d arrived on Resline¡¯s transport field, not far from the hanger. Counselor Anklin had previously explained to Mason that due to his limitations with travelling in this manner, there was too much uncertainty in the arrival point to risk trying to target a specific location inside the city.


    The four rushed to the hanger where a group of workers were in the process of unloading one of the transports. At the sight of the Counselors, they immediately stopped their work and bowed to them.


    ¡°Inform the city leaders that we¡¯re here,¡± ordered Counselor Tranlee.


    ¡°At once,¡± called a young woman as she ran from the hanger.


    The leaders quickly arrived and Mason could tell from the expressions on their faces how distraught they were.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°We¡¯re so glad you¡¯ve come,¡± said an older woman as she and the other leaders bowed to the Counselors.


    ¡°We came as soon as we got word of the situation,¡± answered Counselor Anklin gravely. ¡°Show us where the cave-in happened.¡±


    As the city leaders led them to the location of the collapse they briefed the Counselors on the situation.


    ¡°Most of the area behind the collapse is living quarters. We¡¯ve been doing a headcount and it looks like at least fifteen hundred people may be trapped,¡± explained one of the younger leaders.


    Another leader jumped in. ¡°We don¡¯t know the extent of the collapse and haven¡¯t been able to get any news from the other side.¡±


    Another shook her head as she spoke. ¡°Workers have tried to clear the rubble, but the area is too unstable and their efforts only resulted in more debris falling from above. We had no choice but to wait for your arrival before attempting anything further.¡±


    Mason noticed a growing number of people following them. Word must have spread that the Counselors had arrived. From snippets of conversation and the crying he heard from the group, it was clear that many of them had family members trapped by the cave-in.


    The group grew quickly and there were soon more than fifty people following the Counselors. Counselor Anklin stopped and turned to face the group.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re concerned about your families,¡± he called out in an understanding voice, ¡°but the best thing you can do for them is to give us room to work.¡±


    Most in the group seemed to accept this and started slowly walking away, but a few seemed determined to continue on. Counselor Halrous leaned towards one of the city leaders and said something Mason couldn¡¯t hear. She nodded and remained behind while the Counselors and other city leaders continued on.


    Near the scene of the collapse, stone and rubble littered the floor and there was a continual sound of smaller rocks falling from the ceiling. After surveying the damage, Counselor Anklin turned to Counselor Halrous with a troubled look.


    ¡°Halrous, could you strengthen the surrounding stone so we can safely dig our way through?¡±


    Counselor Halrous shook his head. ¡°No, it looks to be mostly rubble up there. Even if I were to strengthen the material, it would fall on us when we tried to dig.¡±


    Mason was about to suggest that Counselor Anklin blast the obstruction away as Counselor Proust had done in Langtom, but quickly realized that such a powerful impact might bring the entire section down on them. He wanted to help, but realized there was little he could do.


    Meanwhile, the Counselors discussed the possible solutions among themselves, but the frustration in their voices showed they¡¯d made no progress. At last, Counselor Anklin turned to the city leaders.


    ¡°What sort of digging equipment do you have here?¡± he asked.


    The oldest of the leaders answered. ¡°When I was a boy, my father showed me one of the old storage areas that contained what looked like some kind of mining equipment. He told me that the machines there were left over from the construction of Resline. I don¡¯t know if there¡¯s anything useful there, but I¡¯ll show you where it is.¡±


    The leader led the Counselors and Mason down to the lowest level of Resline where the storage area was located. When the lights were turned on Mason saw a huge room filled with what looked like nothing but piles of rusted metal. He didn¡¯t have much hope of finding anything useful.


    Counselor Anklin called out. ¡°Search everywhere, there must be something we can use.¡±


    As Mason wandered around the room, his first impression seemed to be confirmed. However, he eventually came across what looked like an Earth-style oil rig on its side with a large drill connected at the base. The drill was about twelve feet long and eight feet wide and appeared to be in good condition. As he walked around the drill an idea came to him.


    The more he stared at the drill, the more convinced he was that his idea would work. He practically dragged Counselor Anklin to the drill as he breathlessly explained his idea.


    ¡°What if instead of digging we were to drill though the rock? The centripetal acceleration produced by the rotation of the drill would push the rubble away from the corridor. And, if enough heat was produced by the friction between the drill and stone, it might fuse the rubble together so Counselor Halrous could strengthen it.¡±


    Counselor Anklin considered Mason¡¯s idea for a moment.


    ¡°Yes, yes it might just work!¡±


    He called the other Counselor over and quickly explained Mason¡¯s plan to them.


    ¡°You¡¯ll need to increase the strength of the drill,¡± commented Counselor Halrous.


    ¡°Plus, the surrounding stone as the friction from the drill melts it,¡± added Counselor Tranlee.


    ¡°The stone will have to cool sufficiently before I can increase its strength,¡± countered Counselor Halrous. ¡°Otherwise, it would collapse.¡±


    ¡°Tranlee, could you modify the stone¡¯s thermal laws so it could cool fast enough?¡± asked Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°As long as I¡¯m close enough I should be able to,¡± she replied. ¡°Also, the thermodynamic laws of the drill itself will need to be modified to increase the rate at which it dissipate heats so it will melt the surrounding stone.¡±


    ¡°Excellent,¡± said Counselor Anklin. ¡°It looks like we can make it work.¡±


    Turning to the city leader, he began issuing orders. ¡°We¡¯ll need a sled, a generator, and an electric motor.¡±


    The leaders nodded and rushed off to get the requested equipment.


    Workers were directed to detach the drill and bring it with them. The sled, generator, and motor were waiting when they returned to the site of the collapse.


    The generator and motor were attached to the sled and the drill was mounted to the electric motor. A protective shield was placed on the back end of the sled to keep those pushing it safe.


    Mason watched as Counselor Halrous concentrated on the drill. As he finished Mason looked over at him. ¡°What¡¯d you do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve modified the stress-strain and material hardness relationships of the drill to make it impervious to damage and to more effectively drill through the rock.¡±


    Counselor Tranlee next walked over to the drill and concentrated on it. Counselor Halrous leaned over and whispered to him.


    ¡°Tranlee¡¯s modifying the heat transfer equations for the drill so the drill won¡¯t get too hot and will transfer more heat to the surrounding rock.¡±


    As she continued Counselor Anklin tapped Mason arm.


    ¡°Now what dynamic laws do you think need to be modified?¡±


    Typically, he would have thought through his response, but the current situation prompted him to blurt out his first thought.


    ¡°The drill needs to rotate more quickly, so you¡¯d need to modify its moment equation. Also, since the sled has no wheels, you¡¯d want to modify its gravity so it¡¯d float above the ground.¡±


    ¡°Very good,¡± replied Counselor Anklin with a smile. ¡°Only thing you missed was the electric motor. I¡¯m also going to modify its moment equations so it will work more efficiently.¡±


    Apparently noticing Mason¡¯s disappointment, he added


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel bad, you can only learn that sort of thing with practice.¡±


    When Counselor Tranlee finished, Counselor Anklin concentrated and the sled gently floated off the ground.


    To make the plan work it would be necessary to modify the properties of the fused rock as the drill passed. To do this Counselor Halrous and Tranlee needed to be near the area of drilling to be able to see it. A barrier was built about fifteen feet away from the collapse to protect them. Everyone else moved at least fifty feet away.


    When all the preparations were complete, one of the workers pulled the handle on the generator to start the drill. The drill rotated rapidly with a whirring sound that was deafening. Four workers stood behind the shield at the back of the sled and pushed it towards the obstruction. As the drill hit the rock, sparks and debris flew in all directions. The already earsplitting noise of the drill increased even more, causing Mason to cover his ears. The drill quickly ate into the rock and its high rate of speed kept any debris from falling back onto the sled.


    The efforts of the two Counselors seemed to be working as the section of rock behind the drill appeared to be stable. It was slow and hot work for those pushing the sled. It wasn¡¯t long before they had to be relieved by fresh workers. As the sled moved deeper into the collapsed section, the two Counselors had to move closer. Mason knew that had to be exhausted, but they continued concentrating.


    Mason had no idea how long it took, but eventually there was a telltale change in the sound of the drill. ¡°They must be near the end!¡± he cried. At last, the roar of the drill disappeared and Counselors Tranlee and Halrous stumbled out of the newly drilled tunnel and collapsed near the entrance. ¡°We¡¯re through,¡± called Counselor Tranlee


    Counselor Anklin and Mason rushed forward, helping them to their feet and leading them to an empty area of the corridor where they could rest and get something to drink. Counselor Anklin knelt down beside them.


    ¡°Are you two all right?¡±


    Counselor Halrous gave a small nod while Counselor Tranlee looked up with exhaustion in her green eyes, still managing a slight chuckle as she replied.


    ¡°All in a day¡¯s work Anklin, all in a day¡¯s work.¡±


    Resline had been fortunate, no one had been seriously hurt in the collapse and there was no other significant damage to the city. That evening, the city leaders held a celebration for the Council members that was attended by nearly a hundred of the city¡¯s leading citizens. A great feast was prepared and many speeches of gratitude were delivered. After all the speeches, Counselor Anklin stood up to address the assembled audience.


    ¡°Thank you so much for your very kind words. It brings all of us great joy to have been of help to you during this time of crisis. But we didn¡¯t do it alone; many of your people labored to help rescue those who were trapped and your leaders provided us everything we needed.¡±


    After the celebration Mason and the Counselors returned to the guest quarters that had been prepared for them. Counselors Halrous and Tranlee, exhausted from the day¡¯s activities went right to bed. Mason and Counselor Anklin sat up for a while in the small common area to talk.


    Counselor Anklin looked at Mason with a familiar twinkle in his eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m very proud of you Mason. Today you proved that you have the ability to be a fine Council member.¡±


    Mason smiled.


    ¡°Thanks Professor, but it was really you and the other Counselors who deserve the credit. I only had an idea, the three of you made it work.¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head.


    ¡°Ah, but don¡¯t you see, making it work is the easy part. All that takes is time and training, but coming up with a solution is something that can¡¯t be taught. To do that requires a rare combination of knowledge, confidence, and imagination. When I first met you I saw the first two, but the imagination was lacking. You¡¯ve made great progress in that area and I look forward to seeing more.¡±


    That night as he fell asleep, Mason couldn¡¯t help but smile.

 Chapter Eight: Rapid Developments

    Not long after returning from Resline, Counselor Anklin left Bendroff to search for potential Council candidates. One of his first tasks upon his return was to provide a briefing on his travels to the other Council members. He had the three trainees attend so they would experience how the Council operated.


    Counselor Anklin met the three trainees at the entrance to the Council Chambers, looking weary but still wearing his usual smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll find this very interesting,¡± he declared, with what Mason thought might be a hint of sarcasm in his voice.


    All the Counselors, except for Counselor Tranlee, were already seated on the stage. Counselor Anklin led the trainees to the first row of benches near the podium. As Counselor Anklin approached the podium, Counselor Tranlee came rushing in, taking her seat with the other Counselors.


    Counselor Anklin waited until she was seated to begin his report.


    ¡°As you know, I¡¯ve spent the last month searching for new Council candidates in some of our settlements near the equator. I found several people who are capable of manipulating scientific laws, but unfortunately they currently don¡¯t possess the strength of character necessary to join the Council. I hope that in time these individuals might develop the maturity required to become suitable candidates.¡±


    As soon as he¡¯d finished, Counselor Proust addressed him, a note of frustration in his voice.


    ¡°Counselor Anklin, this is the same report you always give us. Why do you find it so difficult to find suitable candidates among our people? If we are to rebuild our world we need more Council members.¡±


    He responded calmly, like it was a well-practiced argument. ¡°Counselor Proust, you know why I act as I do. The powers entrusted to the Council present too great a risk to allow those who aren¡¯t ready to possess them.¡±


    Counselor Proust shook his head and Mason could hear anger in his voice as he responded.


    ¡°Look around you Anklin! The war was hundreds of years ago and still our people suffer. We have let fear rule us, preventing us from taking the steps necessary to rebuild our world. You¡¯re too cautious, Anklin.¡±


    Mason noticed Gorwold nodding in agreement as Counselor Proust spoke.


    ¡°You may think me cautious,¡± answered Counselor Anklin, ¡°but as a member of the Council, you know better than most the terrible temptations we face because of the abilities we have. We cannot risk making a mistake in selecting those who will be allowed to join this Council.¡±


    ¡°I understand your caution, Ankin,¡± said Counselor Tranlee. ¡°However, the Council hasn¡¯t been this small in over a hundred years. Requests for Council help take months to fulfill. I think Counselor Proust makes a valid point.¡±


    ¡°I have to disagree, answered Counselor Janice. ¡°As much as I¡¯d like to accelerate the rebuilding of Myscreth, we cannot lower the standards for those selected to join the Council.¡±


    Counselor Proust gave her a sharp look.


    ¡°With all due respect,¡± he declared with barely restrained anger. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to grow up experiencing the suffering and miseries our people faced. How can you possibly understand that as a Council, it¡¯s our sacred duty to end that suffering as quickly as we can?¡±


    Counselor Janice glared at him. ¡°And growing up on Myscreth,¡± she shot back, ¡°you should understand how much harm can result from trusting people with powers they¡¯re not ready for.¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± called out Counselor Halrous. ¡°This is getting us nowhere.¡±


    ¡°With that I certainly agree,¡± muttered Counselor Proust furiously as he stood up and walked out of the Council Chambers.


    Watching him leave, Mason began to wonder if his being from Earth had prejudiced Counselor Proust against him.


    After dinner that night, Mason decided to discuss his concerns about Counselor Proust with Counselor Anklin. He found him in the library reading a history book, its cover well-worn. As he approached, Counselor Anklin looked up from his reading, a smile spreading across his face.


    "Something I can do for you Mason?"


    Mason shifted uncomfortably. ¡°I wanted to ask you about Counselor Proust.¡±


    Counselor Anklin put his book down.


    ¡°What about him?¡±


    ¡°Do you think he¡¯s against people from Earth being on the Council?¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t let the events at today¡¯s meeting give you the wrong impression. Counselor Proust is very passionate about helping our people and sometimes that passion leads him to say things that he later regrets. He¡¯s just frustrated that the rebuilding of our world is going so slowly. I¡¯ve had the same argument with him many times, but deep down he wants what¡¯s best for Myscreth. I¡¯ve seen no evidence that he¡¯s against Janice or you being on the Council.¡±


    Counselor Ankin studied Mason for a moment before continuing.


    ¡°Let me tell you about Counselor Proust. His parents perished in a salvage expedition when he was seven years old, and he spent his childhood being passed from relative to relative. When I met him, he was eighteen and demonstrated great potential, but emotionally he wasn¡¯t ready. It took another eight years for him to finally reach the point where he could join the Council. You see, he¡¯s had a hard life, even by Myscreth¡¯s standards, and that can change a person.¡±


    Counselor Anklin picked up his book. ¡°Does that answer your question?¡±


    ¡°Yes it does,¡± said Mason doing his best to sound positive. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Mason finally reached the point in his training where he would start to learn how to manipulate dynamic laws. He was excited to start, but Counselor Anklin cautioned him not to expect much right away since it required a great deal of time and practice to acquire the ability.


    This new phase of his training took place in what looked like a combination gymnasium/class room. The room was about twice the size of the trainee''s library, and was littered with miscellaneous objects and equipment. There were generators, blocks, sleds, balls, pots, and a variety of other seemingly unrelated items. About a quarter of the room was set aside as a classroom area, housing a large table, an assortment of chairs, and shelves containing an array of smaller items. When they entered the room, Counselor Anklin gestured towards the table.


    "Have a seat Mason."


    As he sat down, Counselor Anklin took a small block from one of the shelves and placed the block between them as he sat opposite Mason. He gestured at the room around him.


    "This room is where you''ll be doing much of your training when not accompanying the Council on their various assignments. All the objects in this room are here to help you understand not only how to manipulate dynamics, but also how different objects are affected by those modifications."


    "Before we start, let me tell you a little more about how the power to manipulate scientific laws works." Mason leaned forward in his chair. This is what he''d wanted to know ever since the night the professor has shown up in his apartment.


    "As I told you previously, the ability to manipulate scientific laws is due to a rare genetic mutation. Myscreth possesses an energy field, similar to Earth''s magnetic field, which permeates everything on the planet. The genetic mutation allows you to use this energy field to manipulate scientific laws."


    ¡°So Earth has a similar energy field?¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head.


    ¡°But I saw you use your abilities on Earth.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave a small chuckle. ¡°That¡¯s because I took a piece of Myscreth with me.¡± Going over to a nearby shelf, he brought back a stone the size of his fist and handed it to Mason.


    It felt warm to the touch and although hard to tell in the lighted room, Mason thought it was glowing. This was clearly no ordinary stone. ¡°I assume something was done to it.¡±


    Counselor Anklin laughed. ¡°You are learning Mr. Grant. Yes, its energy equation was modified. That stone contains the same amount of energy as a hundred thousand tons of material. Without it, my abilities would be useless on Earth.¡±


    Counselor Anklin put the stone away and continued his explanation.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "The basic concept for manipulating scientific laws is actually quite simple, but putting it into practice can be most difficult. First you must visualize the object that you wish to manipulate."


    "You mean just picture it in my mind?"


    He shook his head and picked up the block. "It isn''t enough to just picture it in your mind. It must be as if the actual object is there. Second, you must conceptualize the scientific law you wish to modify, but not merely as an intellectual concept. It must be a personal extension of yourself."


    "What do you mean by personal extension?"


    In response, he lightly tapped the block against the table. "When I''m holding this block, it becomes part of me. You need to think of the equation in the same way; not merely as a collection of numbers and symbols, but part of you."


    Mason nodded, but wasn''t quite sure he entirely understood.


    Counselor Anklin continued. "Next, you make whatever modifications you wish to the law. Finally, in your mind, you must merge the modified law and object to imprint the object with the new scientific law."


    Mason''s head was spinning. He didn''t understand how this could be considered simple. Counselor Anklin seemed to sense his confusion.


    "It can be overwhelming at first, but the best way to make it more manageable is to concentrate on one step at a time. Today we''ll start with the first step; visualizing the object in your mind."


    He placed the block back on the table and slowly rotated it.


    "You need to make the object so real in your mind that you can take hold of it and look at it from all sides. Now concentrate on this block."


    Mason stared at the block and visualized it in his mind. In his mind he tried to reach for the block, but his hand passed through it is as if it were a ghost. He tried it several times, but each time the result was the same. "It''s not working," he muttered, frustration evident in his voice.


    "Let''s give it a rest for a little bit," offered Counselor Anklin kindly. "As I said earlier, this isn''t easy and will take time. What I''ve found helpful is to think of something that is so personal to you, that in your mind it''s real. You need to consider the object you wish to manipulate in the same way."


    Mason tried again, but this time he thought of his parents, nothing was more real to him than them. He now turned his attention to the block in front of him, concentrating on it with all the intensity he could muster. He could now see it in his mind, but it looked different, more solid. This time when he reached for the block, it felt as if his hand had passed through liquid instead of mist. He smiled.


    "It wasn''t solid, but there was something there!"


    Counselor Anklin seemed surprised, but just nodded and smiled.


    "Well done! You''re making excellent progress."


    Mason tried the exercise several more times and each time he felt a slight bit more resistance when he grabbed at the block in his mind. However, the effort took a lot of concentration and he was soon exhausted.


    "I think that''s enough for today. No need to overdo it."


    Mason gave him a grateful smile.


    "You''ve done well," commented Counselor Anklin as they walked back to the trainees'' quarters.


    Although at first Mason hadn''t been sure of what to think of Claridee, he now looked forward to the opportunities they had to spend time together. Having someone to talk with helped him deal with all the stress of training and missing his parents. She also seemed much happier and no longer mentioned wanting to quit training. He wanted to do something to thank her.


    Remembering the Earth dynamics book he''d seen in Counselor Proust''s quarters, he looked though the books he''d brought with him. He found a small reference book which listed many of the fundamental equations of structural mechanics. He thought it would be the perfect gift.


    When he next saw Claridee studying in the library, he went to his room to get the book. Holding the book behind his back, he walked over to her. Suddenly feeling nervous, he fidgeted with the book behind his back, trying to find the right words. She looked up at him curiously.


    "Something on your mind Mason?"


    "Um ... I thought you might like this." He shoved the book towards her.


    Claridee looked at the book and then up at Mason, a big smile on her face. She jumped up and gave him a quick hug.


    "Thank you Mason," but she paused and a serious expression came over her face. "But I wouldn''t feel right taking something you brought from Earth."


    He looked at her and smiled.


    "No, I really want you to have it. I know how much you love structural mechanics."


    Claridee leafed through the book, still beaming.


    "Thank you Mason, I''ll always treasure it."


    Over the following weeks he steadily progressed in his training. Now when he visualized the block, he could pick it up, feel its weight, and look at it from any angle. During his training sessions, he would sometimes get the feeling that Counselor Anklin was astonished at how quickly he was progressing, but that he also somehow expected it.


    In addition to his training with Counselor Anklin, Mason continued to accompany members of the Council when they were sent on assignments throughout Myscreth. One of those assignments was to travel to Resline with Counselor Proust to modify some newly built transport ships so they could fly.


    Counselor Proust barely acknowledged Mason''s presence and sat by himself on the transport trip to Resline. Mason was secretly glad about this, as he had no desire to converse with him either. It was late in the evening when they arrived at their destination, and were greeted by a small delegation of city leaders, all of whom Mason recognized. They remembered him and greeted him warmly. One of the female leaders stepped forward.


    "Trainee Mason, It''s so good to see you again."


    She stopped speaking as Counselor Proust glared at her.


    Another leader stepped forward hurriedly and bowed. "Welcome to Resline, Counselor Proust. We''re honored that you''ve come to help us."


    Counselor Proust gave a dismissive wave.


    "Our quarters?"


    The leader seemed taken aback, but gestured for them to follow as he ordered workers to gather the luggage. They made their way in silence, along the same route Mason remembered from his previous visit.


    When they finally reached the guest quarters, Counselor Proust watched in silence as their luggage was unloaded. He then retired without saying a word to Mason or the leaders. Mason watched the bedroom door close behind him and turned to the leaders.


    "On behalf of Counselor Proust and myself, I just want to thank you for your wonderful hospitality. I''m very happy to be back here under better circumstances."


    The worried looks on the leaders'' faces seemed to ease and the woman who''d spoken to him earlier smiled.


    "We''re pleased to have you here. If there''s anything you need, please let us know."


    Looking around the room, Mason was pleased to see that the book on Myscrethian legends he''d seen last time was still there. He sat at the table and started reading, but soon found himself unable to stop yawning and headed for his bedroom. Passing Counselor Proust''s room, he thought be heard the sound of muffled voices, but couldn''t make out any words. This puzzled him, since he and Counselor Proust were alone in the guest quarters and he hadn''t seen anyone else enter. Not knowing what to think, he continued on to his room and prepared for bed.


    On the verge of falling asleep, there was a low humming sound followed by a flashing purple light shining under his door. Thinking it a dream, he ignored it and was soon asleep.


    The next morning, a young blond haired woman brought a platter of food for Mason and Counselor Proust¡¯s breakfast. Setting the platter before them she bowed and smiled.


    ¡°I hope you like it, my mother made it special.¡±


    ¡°It certainly looks delicious,¡± commented Mason as he filled his plate.


    Counselor Proust gave her an icy stare.


    ¡°You¡¯ve brought the food, you may now go.¡±


    Mason felt angry as he observed to look of disappointment on the young woman¡¯s face. Without another word she turned and quickly left the room. He tried not to look at Counselor Proust lest he say something he shouldn¡¯t.


    After breakfast, the leaders arrived to escort the two of them to the newly constructed transport ships. It seemed they¡¯d learned their lesson from the day before as none of them attempted to engage the two in conversation. They led them to a small plateau located just above the city.


    As they reached the ships Mason noticed that they were being loaded to full capacity and wondered why. He was about to ask Counselor Proust about this, but thought better of it. He decided to be prepared for the inevitable questions.


    Going through what he knew, he tried to fill in the unknowns. Firstly, transports acted much the same as blimps on Earth. To get off the ground a blimp needed enough lift not only for itself, but for its cargo too. That was the key; the gravity for each transport had to be modified so that it could carry a certain amount of cargo and passengers so it had to be modified while the transport was fully loaded.


    Nearing the transports Counselor Proust turned toward him.


    ¡°So tell me Trainee Mason, why do you think those transports are being loaded?¡±


    ¡°You need to have the transports fully loaded so that their gravity can be modified to lift not only the transport, but also whatever cargo it may carry.¡±


    Counselor Proust gave him a long stare before responding.


    ¡°Correct.¡±


    Without another word, he marched towards one of the transports and Mason found himself hurrying to keep up.


    At each of the four newly built transports, Counselor Proust would stop and concentrate briefly. As he did so, the transport would slowly rise off the ground until the tethers holding it down became taut. Mason also noticed Counselor Proust concentrating for a second time at each transport, but wasn¡¯t sure why.


    Seeing no obvious change in the transport¡¯s behavior after Counselor Proust concentrated for a second time, he tried to think of what other laws might need to be modified. Looking at the transports¡¯ propellers he remembered the first time he¡¯d seen a transport and telling Counselor Anklin that the propellers were too small. If the propellers were too small, the efficiency of the propellers would have to be increased. To Mason, the best way to do that would be to modify their moment equations so they would rotate faster. That must be what he was doing.


    After finishing his modifications on the last transport he abruptly questioned Mason.


    ¡°What law of dynamics was modified?¡±


    ¡°Actually Counselor Proust, two laws had to be modified. First you modified the gravity of the transport to allow it to float. Second, since the propellers are too small to move such a large structure so you modified their moment equations to improve their efficiency.¡±


    He glared at Mason and walked away. Watching him go, Mason now felt sure that Counselor Proust wanted him to fail.


    Upon his return to Bendroff, Mason continued his training sessions with Counselor Anklin. Having mastered visualizing objects, Mason started on the next step of his training: visualizing the dynamics law he wished to modify. This part of the training was easier because the dynamics equations were like old friends to him.


    It was during this time that he started having frightening dreams. He¡¯d wake up in a cold sweat unable to remember what they were. This worried him.


    After one of their training sessions, Mason told Counselor Anklin about these dreams. As he spoke, he was surprised to see not concern, but astonishment on the Counselor¡¯s face.


    ¡°Mason, I¡¯ve always had high hopes for you, but you¡¯ve surpassed my wildest expectations. The dreams you¡¯re experiencing is the first indication of possessing the ability to manipulate scientific laws.¡±


    ¡°But you told me it took years to get to that point.¡±


    ¡°Normally it does.¡±


    The way Counselor Anklin was staring at him made Mason feel self-conscious. The feeling of unease only increased as the tone of Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice turned grave.


    ¡°While it¡¯s quite an achievement, it can also be extremely dangerous. We¡¯ll have to accelerate your training so you¡¯ll be ready when your power fully develops. I¡¯ll have to inform the Council of this right away.¡±


    Many questions flooded his mind, but only one seemed to matter.


    ¡°How will I know when I¡¯ve developed the ability?¡±


    Counselor Anklin seemed amused by the question.


    ¡°You¡¯ll know.¡±

 Chapter Nine: Forced Exits

    Early the next morning Mason was awakened by loud knocking on his door. Sitting up, he called out. ¡°Come in.¡±


    He was surprised to see Counselor Janice open the door. She addressed him in a brusque manner.


    ¡°Mason, the Council wishes to see you.¡±


    It took him a moment to understand what she¡¯d said.


    ¡°When?¡±


    ¡°Now.¡±


    He looked down at his pajamas.


    ¡°Can I change?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but be quick about it.¡±


    She left before he could respond.


    He quickly threw on some clothes and splashed cold water on his face, worrying the entire time what he¡¯d done wrong. His concern only increased when he entered the Council Chambers and saw all five Council members sitting up on stage waiting for him. As he drew closer, he could see a range of different expressions on their faces. From the stoic face of Counselor Proust to the bemused smile of Counselor Halrous, Mason wasn¡¯t sure what to expect. Counselor Janice called out.


    ¡°Please approach the podium Trainee Mason.¡±


    He waited at the podium for what seemed a long time before Counselor Janice glanced over at the other Counselors and continued speaking.


    ¡°Trainee Mason, Counselor Anklin has informed us of your progress. While we applaud your achievement, there are some on the Council ¡­¡± Mason saw her give a slight look at Counselor Proust, ¡°who have expressed concerns that you might not be able to control your developing abilities.¡±


    ¡°I think it only prudent that the Council be apprehensive,¡± interrupted Counselor Proust. ¡°As the misuse of these abilities could have devastating consequences for Myscreth.¡±


    ¡°I have to agree with Counselor Proust,¡± added Counselor Tranlee. ¡°I¡¯m sure Trainee Mason would never consciously harm anyone, but he may not be able to prevent it.¡±


    Counselor Halrous lightly tapped the table and gave Mason a smile before looking at the other Counselors. ¡°I think you¡¯re giving Trainee Mason too little credit. I¡¯m confident he¡¯ll be able to handle himself as his abilities develop. I¡¯m sure Anklin agrees with me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he does,¡± muttered Counselor Proust.


    Counselor Anklin shot a glance at Counselor Proust. ¡°Sarcastic comments won¡¯t get us anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Gentlemen,¡± called out Counselor Janice in a clearly exasperated tone. ¡°This isn¡¯t productive. We need to focus on what needs to be done.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s clear what needs to be done,¡± sneered Counselor Proust, ¡°but I doubt certain members of the Council would allow it.¡± As he finished speaking, he glared pointedly at Counselor Anklin.


    Mason wasn¡¯t sure what action Counselor Proust was referring to, but from the look of anger on Counselor Anklin¡¯s face, he was sure it couldn¡¯t be good.


    ¡°If the concern is that Mason has outstripped his training, the solution is obvious,¡± stated Counselor Halrous. ¡°We simply must accelerate his training.¡±


    ¡°All in favor of Counselor Halrous¡¯ proposal,¡± called out Counselor Janice before anyone else could interrupt. Counselor Anklin and Counselor Halrous raised their hands and she followed suit. ¡°Motion carries,¡± she announced.


    Mason thought he briefly saw fury in Counselor Proust¡¯s eyes, but his emotionless expression returned.


    ¡°Although I disagree with the Councils decision, I will do whatever I can to see that it is carried out,¡± commented Counselor Proust smoothly. ¡°The only thing I want to ensure is that the Council keep track of Trainee Mason¡¯s progress and revisit this issue if there are any additional concerns.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s most certainly my intention Counselor Proust,¡± answered Counselor Janice indignantly.


    ¡°Very good,¡± replied Counselor Proust. His smile sent a chill down Mason¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Trainee Mason,¡± announced Counselor Janice, ¡°You¡¯ve heard the Council¡¯s decision. You¡¯ll immediately begin intensive training with Counselor Anklin. You¡¯re to inform the Council immediately of any changes you experience and under no circumstances are you to attempt to try using your abilities on your own. Do you understand?¡±


    He nodded. ¡°Yes, Counselor Janice.¡±


    ¡°Good, go to the training room and Counselor Anklin will join you shortly.¡±


    The silence was stifling as Mason left the room.


    Counselor Janice wasn¡¯t kidding when she said intensive training. He was now spending most of each day working with Counselor Anklin. He soon began the third step of his training: modifying the dynamics law he¡¯d visualized in his mind.


    ¡°Any uncertainty or error in the modifications you make can lead to disastrous consequences,¡± warned Counselor Anklin. ¡°You have to learn to anticipate the result of any potential modification you make. I¡¯ll show you what I mean.¡±


    Counselor Anklin placed a block of wood on the ground and gave a mischievous smile.


    He concentrated and the block crumbled into dust.


    ¡°What¡¯d you do?¡± exclaimed Mason.


    Counselor Anklin gave a slight wave of his hand. ¡°Not much really, I only modified its gravity. Unfortunately, instead of the desired factor of 0.2, I used 20,000. A most unfortunate error.¡± He concluded with a smile.


    The training was grueling, but Counselor Anklin¡¯s encouragement helped Mason persevere. However, the long days took their toll and one day Mason dozed off during one of the training sessions. Counselor Anklin woke him up and gently chided him.


    ¡°Not going to learn much if you¡¯re asleep.¡±


    ¡°Sorry,¡± mumbled Mason.


    Counselor Anklin eyed him thoughtfully. ¡°Maybe we should stop for today.¡± He stood up from the table. ¡°As you know, Gorwold¡¯s swearing in ceremony for the Council is tomorrow so we won¡¯t be training. Get yourself some rest because there¡¯s a still a lot of material we have to cover.¡±


    Mason gave a weak smile.


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    The next day started with a solemn ceremony in the Council Chambers where Gorwold took the oath required of all Council members. Gorwold¡¯s parents had travelled to Bendroff for the celebration and the Council Chamber was filled with spectators. Mason and Claridee sat in the front row where they had a clear view of the five Counselors seated on the stage.


    Counselor Anklin stood up in a dignified manner. ¡°Trainee Gorwold, please come forward.¡±


    Gorwold walked stiffly to the podium and faced the Council. Counselor Anklin looked at him approvingly and began to speak.


    ¡°Trainee Gorwold, you are here today because you have fulfilled the requirements necessary to become a member of the Council. The task of rebuilding our world is a difficult one and requires the full commitment of each Council member. Now raise your right hand and repeat after me.¡±


    Gorwold raised his right hand and solemnly repeated the words.


    ¡°I vow that I will use the powers entrusted to me only for the benefit of the people of Myscreth. I will never use these powers to intentionally injure anyone or for personal gain. Finally, I swear to never instruct anyone who has not been approved by the Council in the use of these powers.¡±


    Finishing the oath Counselor Anklin smiled broadly.


    ¡°I welcome you to the Council, Counselor Gorwold. Please come and join your fellow Council members.¡±


    The audience erupted with applause, rising to their feet as Gorwold made his way onto the stage and took his place with the other Counselors


    As Mason applauded, he saw Gorwold¡¯s parents beaming with pride. He wondered if his parents would be allowed to come to Myscreth when he joined the Council. He chuckled to himself thinking how they¡¯d react when he told them where they were going.


    After the ceremony, a large feast was held to celebrate. When Mason finally found the new Counselor in the crowded room, he vigorously shook his hand.


    ¡°Congratulations, Gorwold ¡­ I mean Counselor Gorwold,¡± he said trying to stifle a yawn. ¡°That¡¯s going to take some getting used to. I¡¯m so happy for you.¡±


    Counselor Gorwold smiled broadly.


    ¡°Thanks Mason, I can hardly believe it. Hopefully we¡¯ll get to go on some assignments together.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡±


    Seeing the long line behind him, Mason quickly said his goodbyes and headed to his room to get some sleep.


    After his one day reprieve for Gorwold¡¯s elevation to Counselor, Mason¡¯s rigorous training went on as before. Between studying and training, sleep became a luxury.


    Entering the training room one morning he was surprised to see it was empty. With a yawn he said to himself. ¡°Something must have come up,¡± and sat at the table to wait. As he waited, he absent-mindedly tossed a small block from hand to hand. Soon his head fell forward as he dozed off.


    The sound of a door opening jarred Mason awake, and through sleepy eyes he saw Counselor Anklin enter the training room. To his surprise, he wasn¡¯t alone, as the other Council members followed. Sitting up, he dropped the block he was holding and it clattered on the table.


    ¡°Training too much for you, Trainee Mason?¡± scoffed Counselor Proust.


    Mason blinked and unsuccessfully tried to stifle a yawn before answering.


    ¡°No, just not getting enough sleep.¡±


    ¡°Trainee Mason is usually very alert during his training,¡± commented Counselor Anklin with a pointed look at Mason. ¡°As you can see Mason, the Council has chosen today to observe how your training is progressing.¡±


    ¡°I look forward to it.¡±


    ¡°So do we,¡± retorted Counselor Proust.


    Counselor Anklin and Mason sat at one end of the table, while the other Counselors took seats on the opposite side. Counselor Anklin picked up the small block and placed it in front of Mason.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start by visualizing this block,¡± he ordered.


    Mason stared at the block and quickly announced. ¡°Got it.¡±


    ¡°Now add the gravitational acceleration equation.¡±


    This took Mason slightly longer than the first task, but he soon declared. ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± offered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Now modify the equation so it will accelerate upward at 0.1 g¡¯s.¡±


    In his mind, he applied a factor of -0.1 to the gravitational acceleration, but as he did so a weird feeling overcame him. As he watched, the block and equation in his mind slowly moved towards one another. This had never happened before. He tried to stop them, but couldn¡¯t.


    Emitting a surprised cry, he immediately erased both images from his mind.


    ¡°What happened?¡± demanded Counselor Janice.


    Mason looked around in confusion.


    ¡°The equation and the block started moving towards each other. I tried to stop them, but couldn¡¯t. That¡¯s why I stopped visualizing them.¡±


    ¡°This is just what I was afraid of,¡± remarked Counselor Proust.


    ¡°Now, now,¡± replied Counselor Halrous, ¡°let¡¯s not jump to conclusions.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not jumping to conclusions if it¡¯s true,¡± countered Counselor Tranlee.


    Counselor Proust continued in a triumphant tone. ¡°Anklin had his chance, but it looks like he¡¯s run out of time.¡±


    Mason looked on, not understanding what all the fuss was about.


    Counselor Anklin responded with barely suppressed anger. ¡°How can you say that? Mason did just what he should¡¯ve done.¡±


    ¡°This time,¡± sneered Counselor Proust,¡± but what about next time, or the time after that?¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± thundered Counselor Janice. ¡°In light of this new evidence, I think the Council must revisit its previous decision regarding Trainee Mason.¡±


    ¡°What new evidence?¡± stammered Mason.


    She ignored his question. ¡°Trainee Mason, you will return to the trainees¡¯ quarters and wait for Counselor Anklin there.¡±


    Mason was now so confused that he just nodded before leaving the room.


    Reaching the trainees¡¯ quarters, he sat in the library and waited. He still didn¡¯t understand why the block and equation had started moving towards one another, and why he couldn¡¯t stop them. Maybe Counselor Anklin could explain it to him when he returned.


    After a while, he could no longer sit still and went over to the bookcase. He nearly dropped the book he was looking at when the door opened and Counselor Anklin came in. Walking over to a table, he gestured for Mason to sit down.


    He sat there a moment just staring at Mason. When he finally spoke, his words came slowly.


    ¡°Mason, I want you to know that the progress you¡¯ve made has been amazing. I¡¯ve never seen a Council candidate advance so rapidly. I think this is a wonderful testament to your hard work and natural abilities, and I want you to know that I¡¯m very proud of you.¡±


    He looked even more uncomfortable as he continued.


    ¡°As you know, some on the Council are afraid that your abilities may be developing too quickly.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know, we had that meeting,¡± answered Mason roughly as he began to understand what Counselor Anklin was trying to tell him.


    Counselor Anklin folded his hands together and looked down, letting out a long sigh before continuing.


    ¡°Mason, there¡¯s no easy way to say this. The Council thinks it would be best if you returned to Earth.¡±


    Mason pounded the table and stood up.


    ¡°I tried to convince them to let you stay. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Mason clenched his fists and began pacing trying to control his anger, but failing. His words came out in guttural bursts accentuated by rasping breaths.


    "After all I¡¯ve gone through, all I¡¯ve given up, this is how it ends? Fine. It wasn¡¯t my idea to come here in the first place, you asked me. If I¡¯m no longer welcome, then send me back.¡±


    The emotions coursing through him had him on the verge of tears. However, he fought them, not wanting to waste his emotions on people who didn''t want him anymore.


    He walked away without even looking at Counselor Anklin, saying the only thing he could.


    "I''ll go pack."


    After throwing his few belongings into his suitcase, he sat on the edge of the bed and looked up at the ceiling. Remembering all he¡¯d learned, and the many wonders he¡¯d seen, his anger began to subside. At least he¡¯d get to see his parents again. That made him feel a little better, although he couldn¡¯t help but feel that somehow he¡¯d failed.


    He looked around the room, committing it to memory. Even if no one would ever believe him, he still wanted to remember.


    Knowing he could put it off no longer, he grabbed his suitcase and headed back to the library.


    He was surprised to see that Claridee had joined Counselor Anklin. She stood there holding the book Mason had given her. The sadness in her face reminded him of the first time he¡¯d seen her. His anger with Counselor Anklin was gone, none of this was his fault. The three of them just stood there in silence.


    Claridee finally held out the book and spoke in a voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Take it. It will only remind me of how much I miss you.¡±


    As much as Mason wanted her to keep it, he knew she was right. He gently took it from her. Before he could say goodbye, she ran down the hallway followed by the sound of stifled sobs.


    Mason put down his suitcase and handed the book to Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°I can¡¯t keep this. Please give it to Counselor Halrous. I¡¯m sure he¡¯d like to have another book from Earth.¡±


    ¡°Another?¡± asked Counselor Anklin sounding confused.


    ¡°Sorry, I assumed that if you¡¯d given an Earth book to Counselor Proust, you probably gave Counselor Halrous one as well. Anyway, I¡¯m ready to go.¡±


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s eyes opened wide.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯m ready to go.¡±


    ¡°No, what did you say about Counselor Proust having a book from Earth?¡±


    ¡°The dynamics book from Earth that you gave him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never given Proust a book from Earth.¡±


    Mason was puzzled.


    ¡°I saw it in his quarters. It was the same kind of dynamics book I used in college. If you didn¡¯t give it to him, how else could he have ¡­¡±


    Mason suddenly remembered the trip to Resline with Counselor Proust. The humming and purple light hadn¡¯t been a dream. The words tumbled out quickly.


    ¡°When I went to Resline with Counselor Proust, I thought I heard voices coming from his room, but he was alone. Then when I was falling asleep, there was humming and a flashing purple light, but figured it was just a dream.¡±


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s face turned pale at Mason¡¯s words. He grabbed him by the arm.


    ¡°Come with me right now.¡±


    He dragged Mason into the corridor where they found Claridee huddled against a wall. Counselor Anklin pulled her to her feet.


    ¡°Claridee. Get every Council member you can find and have them meet me at Counselor Proust¡¯s quarters immediately!¡±


    Claridee gave a confused nod, but ran off as directed.


    Counselor Anklin headed at a rapid pace to Counselor Proust¡¯s quarters with a baffled Mason following close behind. Counselor Anklin pounded on the door and called out.


    ¡°Proust! It¡¯s Anklin, I need to speak with you.¡±


    Initially, there was silence, but then footsteps could be heard and the sound of the door being unlocked followed. Counselor Proust opened the door and scowled at Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°What do you want Anklin?¡±


    As he saw Mason he smiled icily and in a voice dripping with sarcasm addressed him.


    ¡°Oh have you come to say goodbye former Trainee Mason?¡±


    Mason tried to ignore him as Counselor Anklin, visibly trying to restrain his anger, asked if they could come in.


    Counselor Proust moved out of the way and waved for them to enter. Once inside Counselor Anklin turned to Mason.


    ¡°Now show me this book you spoke of.¡±


    Mason grabbed the book from the bookcase and handed it to Counselor Anklin. Counselor Proust protested angrily.


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡±


    Opening the book and looking at the inside cover, Counselor Anklin read. ¡°Published in Chicago.¡± He glared at Counselor Proust furiously. ¡°How¡¯d you get this book?¡±


    His expression didn¡¯t change.


    ¡°I see my little indulgence has betrayed me, but no matter.¡± His voice was calm, but there was a steely malice to it.


    Suddenly Mason felt his shirt pulling him backwards to the floor. Unable to resist, he fell and the weight of the shirt pushing down on his chest made it difficult to breath. He heard Counselor Anklin cry out ¡®Proust!¡± as he too fell to the ground. Mason tried lifting his arms, but quickly realized that Counselor Proust had modified the gravity of his and Counselor Anklin¡¯s clothing, causing it to act as if it weighed hundreds of pounds.


    ¡°Counselor Anklin,¡± croaked out Mason, but there was no response.


    Counselor Proust started grabbing papers from his desk and shoving them into a backpack. ¡°If you¡¯d only left well enough alone Anklin, your precious Mason would be safely back on Earth and you¡¯d have continued on as before with your deluded sense of serving the people of Myscreth."


    Striding toward the door, he stopped at the doorway and looked scornfully at the two men gasping for breath on the floor.


    "I¡¯m sorry it had to end this way Anklin, but I knew you wouldn¡¯t understand. You¡¯ve let fear of the past make you timid, and that will only prolong the suffering of our people. The path I¡¯ve chosen is the only way to return Myscreth to its former greatness.¡± Proust¡¯s footsteps quickly faded as he made his escape.


    Mason tried to call out to Counselor Anklin again, but could now barely manage a whisper. Breathing was difficult as it took almost all his strength to inhale. For the first time in his life, he thought he might actually die.


    As he lay on the floor gasping for breath, his thoughts turned to his parents. If he did die, they¡¯d never know what happened to him.


    As that thought crossed his mind, rage welled up inside him. At first it was directed at Proust, but then it became focused on himself. He couldn¡¯t just give up; even if he wasn¡¯t ready, he had to at least try to save Professor Anklin and himself.


    As he began to concentrate, images of their clothing appeared in his mind. Gasping for breath he began visualizing the gravitational acceleration equation. As happened earlier in the training room, the two images began to move closer together. This time, he made no effort to stop them.


    As they merged, his entire body tingled as if a powerful electric charge was passing through him. The sensation thrilled him, but the magnitude of the power was terrifying. Just as suddenly as it had started, the power drained away and the weight on his chest was gone.


    Lying there, he felt a profound sense of loss and longed to experience that feeling of power again.  He was relived as Counselor Anklin began coughing and wheezing.


    They lay on the floor, too weak to stand as their breathing slowly returned to normal. In a rasping voice Counselor Anklin whispered.


    ¡°Well done, Mason, well done.¡±


    They were still lying there when Counselor Tranlee burst into the room followed by Claridee. The two women helped them to sit up. Catching his breath, Counselor Anklin spoke to Counselor Tranlee in a hoarse whisper.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about us Tranlee, Proust has betrayed the Council! Find him before he can leave the city, but be careful: he¡¯s already used his abilities to attack us.¡±


    A look of alarm came over Counselor Tranlee¡¯s face.


    ¡°We¡¯ll find him,¡± she replied grimly, rushing from the room.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± exclaimed Claridee, as she looked from one to the other.


    Counselor Anklin struggled to speak and seemed to be burdened not only by his recent ordeal, but something more. In a voice filled with anguish he replied.


    ¡°Proust has committed the gravest offense possible. He¡¯s been secretly teaching those not sanctioned by the Council to manipulate scientific laws.¡±


    Counselor Anklin got to his feet.


    ¡°We must find out how many people he¡¯s trained and where they are. Hopefully we¡¯re not too late to stop whatever Proust has in mind.¡±


    He started going throught the desk while issuing orders.


    ¡°Claridee! Go through every book on the bookcase and look for any notes or information. Mason! Search Proust¡¯s bedroom and bring me any papers you find.¡±


    Claridee and Mason quickly set to work. All they found were some torn up notes from a trash container. As the three of them pieced the scraps together, Counselor Anklin¡¯s expression became increasingly troubled.


    ¡°Proust¡¯s treachery is even worse than I imagined,¡± he declared with barely restrained rage. ¡°He¡¯s already trained four non-Council members and is in the process of training two more. We must inform the Council at once.¡±


    After Counselor Anklin made a copy of Proust notes, the three of them ran to the Council chambers where they found Counselor Janice hunched over a map of Bendroff.


    ¡°Have you found him?¡± asked Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°No,¡± she replied. ¡°The other Council members are leading search parties and we¡¯ve grounded all transports.¡±


    As she was speaking, a man ran into the room.


    ¡°Counselor Janice, three transports left before we were able stop them.¡±


    The man cringed as she glared at him, but her anger quickly dissipated.


    ¡°Prepare three transports to follow them. Keep us informed of anything they find.¡±


    The man nodded and hurried from the room as the other three Council members returned.


    ¡°We looked everywhere,¡± reported Counselor Halrous, ¡°but there¡¯s no sign of him.¡±


    ¡°He must have boarded one the transports before we grounded them,¡± concluded Counselor Janice.


    ¡°We¡¯ll never find him now,¡± lamented Counselor Gorwold.


    ¡°We have no choice but to find him. Read for yourself.¡±


    Counselor Anklin laid out the copy of the papers they¡¯d found in Proust¡¯s quarters. As the other Counselors quickly read through them, Counselor Janice went over to a nearby cabinet.


    ¡°Unfortunately, this doesn¡¯t tell us much,¡± observed Counselor Anklin. ¡°Only that the four people that Proust has fully trained have scientific specialties in relativistic physics, structural mechanics, and electrodynamics. There is no information on the names or location of these people or on the specialties of the two people currently being trained.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe Proust would betray Myscreth in this way,¡± exclaimed Counselor Halrous.


    Counselor Tranlee shook her head. ¡°It makes no sense.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s clear why Proust did this,¡± replied Counselor Anklin. ¡°He believes that by adding more Council members, whether or not they¡¯re ready, he will return Myscreth to its former glory. He¡¯s clearly delusional, and that makes him even more dangerous.¡±


    Counselor Janice put a sheet of paper on the table. "Here¡¯s the list of people who¡¯ve been identified as potential Council candidates, but aren¡¯t yet ready." Mason looked at the list and was surprised at how few names were on it. Counselor Anklin hadn¡¯t been kidding when he told Mason how rare the mutation was.


    ¡°The only people who have a specialty matching Proust¡¯s list are Glorine from Grenturn and Thurold from Hindline. Proust has obviously found other people that the Council wasn¡¯t aware of.¡±


    ¡°When we¡¯re done here I¡¯ll travel to those settlements to see if either of them have left,¡± declared Counselor Anklin. ¡°If they have, I think we can safely assume they¡¯re working with Proust.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± nodded Counselor Janice. ¡°We need to inform all of Myscreth of what¡¯s happened and ask for their help in finding Proust.¡±


    Counselor Janice turned to Claridee.


    ¡°Go to the hanger and have them prepare to send out transports as soon as the announcement¡¯s ready.¡±


    Claridee gave a curt nod and raced from the room.


    As the Council members continued their discussion, Mason suddenly remembered the Council¡¯s earlier ruling. The episode with Proust had completely driven it from his mind. Would he still have to return to Earth? He looked over at Counselor Anklin, but he was too distracted to notice.


    As Mason stood there, he suddenly felt as if he were eavesdropping on something that no longer concerned him. Not wanting to make a scene, he decided to wait for an opportunity to slip away unnoticed. Seeing his chance, he quietly headed for the exit.

 Chapter Ten: Reprieve and Reunion

    Mason had almost reached the door when a sharp voice called out.


    ¡°And just where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    He turned to see Counselor Janice glaring at him.


    ¡°Uh ¡­ I didn¡¯t think it would be right for me to be here.¡±


    ¡°And why is that?¡±


    He just stared back at her with an incredulous look. Didn¡¯t she remember the Council¡¯s decision?


    Counselor Halrous cleared his throat. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve already forgotten, Janice.¡±


    For a brief instant, her face showed no recognition of what he was referring to, but she quickly recovered.


    ¡°Ah yes, the matter of Trainee Mason.¡±


    "You know, Janice, in light of these new developments,¡± suggested Counselor Halrous, ¡°maybe the Council should reevaluate its decision. As you recall, it was Counselor Proust who convinced the Council to come to that conclusion and based on today¡¯s events, I doubt his motivation was for the good of Myscreth.¡±


    ¡°After the way Mason performed today, I have no doubt he¡¯ll make a fine Council member someday,¡± added Counselor Anklin.


    Counselor Janice gave a thoughtful nod. ¡°I¡¯m inclined to agree. And if I¡¯m not mistaken, that makes three votes in favor of Trainee Mason remaining on Myscreth.¡± She looked over at Counselor Tranlee and Counselor Gorwold, eyebrows raised. ¡°Any objections?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± they replied in unison.


    She smiled at Mason. ¡°Well, Trainee Mason, it appears the Council has reversed its earlier decision. So why don¡¯t you get back down here where you belong.¡±


    It took all the control he could muster not to jump up and shout with relief as he hurried back into the room.


    Before leaving, Counselor Anklin returned with Mason to the library, it was just as they¡¯d left it. Mason¡¯s suitcase and the book on structural mechanics lay on the floor. Picking up his suitcase and the book, Mason knew there was one more thing he needed to do.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what I said earlier.¡±


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s eyes twinkled and a wide smile appeared on his face.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry yourself Mr. Grant.¡± He placed a reassuring hand on Mason¡¯s shoulder. ¡°When someone loses something that¡¯s important to them they lash out at whoever¡¯s there, and for you that was me. I¡¯m glad to know that being here on Myscreth means that much to you. Now get some rest, we¡¯ve got a lot of work ahead of us.¡±


    Watching him go, Mason realized how right he was; it had taken almost losing Myscreth to make him understand how much it meant to him. The sound of the library door opening caused him to turn around.


    ¡°Counselor Janice just told me!¡± cried Claridee as she rushed towards him. The force of her hug made Mason drop his suitcase. He hardly noticed as he realized that it was more than just Myscreth he would¡¯ve missed.


    ¡°I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re staying,¡± said Claridee when she finally released her hug.


    Mason stood there a moment just relishing the sight of her smile.


    ¡°Me too,¡± he finally blurted out. Feeling the book in his hand, Mason held it out to Claridee. ¡°I¡¯d still really like you to have this,¡± he said. He looked down as he continued. ¡°The thing I would¡¯ve missed the most is our friendship.¡±


    She gently took the book from him. ¡°Thanks, Mason,¡± answered Claridee in a low voice. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I could¡¯ve continued training without you being here.¡±


    The two of them just stood there awhile. Claridee finally broke the silence. ¡°One thing I still don¡¯t understand is how Counselor Ankin found out about what Counselor Proust was doing?¡±


    Mason gestured towards a table. ¡°Let¡¯s sit down and I¡¯ll explain.¡± He told Claridee about the events he¡¯d seen while in Resline with Counselor Proust and the discovery of the book from Earth in his quarters.


    She shook her head. ¡°I knew Counselor Proust wanted more Council members, but never thought he¡¯d do anything like this.¡±


    Mason didn¡¯t reveal his thoughts on the subject.


    The two talked until dinner time. For Mason, it was the best meal he ever had because it was one he¡¯d never expected to be having. Being with Claridee only made it better. As they finished eating, Mason couldn¡¯t stop yawning. The long days of training and the events of the day had left him exhausted. Wishing Claridee a good night, he picked up his suitcase and headed to his room.


    Not even bothering to unpack, Mason crawled into bed. However, all he did was toss and turn as thoughts about the sensation of power he¡¯d felt while saving Counselor Anklin and himself filled his mind. Even now, he had to fight the urge to try it again. For the first time, he truly understood the temptation of this ability was and how it could¡¯ve led to Myscreth¡¯s destruction.


    Giving up on falling asleep, he finally headed to the library to find something to read. He found Counselor Anklin sitting at one of the tables reading a Myscrethian history book. He gave a small nod.


    ¡°You¡¯re back already?¡±


    ¡°Instantaneous travel does have its advantages,¡± answered Counselor Anklin with a tired smile.


    ¡°And ¡­¡±


    ¡°Glorine and Thurold are both gone. I think it¡¯s safe to assume that they¡¯re among those illegally trained by Proust.¡±


    Mason sat down. ¡°Not that it does us much good.¡±


    Counselor Anklin answered in a voice that was both tired and sad. ¡°Unfortunately true. However, it¡¯s whoever¡¯s capable of manipulating relativistic physics that worries me. In the wrong hands that kind of power can be devastating.¡±


    He turned the book he¡¯d been reading towards Mason and pointed at a picture of Dafrum from before the war.


    ¡°Dafrum was a magnificent city with over thirty-six million people living there. It was destroyed even before most of its population knew they were being attacked.¡± He shook his head sadly. ¡°Only fifteen thousand people survived. I don¡¯t want to see that happen again.¡±


    He gave a knowing smile. ¡±And why are you up so late?¡±


    ¡°Well ¡­ when I used my abilities today, it was like nothing I¡¯ve ever felt. What worries me is how much I want to use them again.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right to worry Mason. Using the ability to manipulate scientific laws can be very addictive. You must be careful to not let it master you, but the fact that you¡¯re concerned shows me that you understand the risks.¡±


    ¡°Do you ever get used to it?¡±


    Counselor Anklin laughed.


    ¡°No. Even today, whenever I use my abilities, I have to fight to keep myself from letting them sway me. What helps is remembering that I have been entrusted to help my people, and I¡¯ve seen firsthand how much harm has been done to Myscreth by these powers. I hope that someday Myscreth will have reached a point where we no longer need the ability to manipulate scientific laws. Only then will our world truly be safe.¡±


    Mason was glad to know that what he was feeling wasn¡¯t unique to him. He stifled a yawn.


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°I think it¡¯s time we both turn in. If you¡¯re going to help stop Proust, there¡¯s a lot more you need to learn.¡±


    After a quick breakfast the next morning, Mason and Counselor Anklin headed to the training room. As they made their way there he noticed Counselor Anklin carefully observing each person they passed.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m looking for anyone that Proust might have trained.¡±


    ¡°By just looking at them?¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded distractedly.


    The two continued on in silence until reaching the training room.


    ¡°Anyone who can manipulate scientific laws has an energy field around them,¡± explained Counselor Anklin as they sat down at the table. ¡°The intensity of this field is directly related to the level of a person¡¯s ability. For a new trainee, it will be diffuse, almost like smoke, while for someone like myself, it appears solid.¡±


    ¡°And you can see this field?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Yes, and each area of science has a different energy spectrum. For thermodynamics you¡¯d see a red energy field and for structural mechanics, it¡¯s orange. Dynamics is yellow, electrodynamics is green, and relativistic physics is blue.¡±


    ¡°How do you see the energy field?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s very similar to what I¡¯ve already taught you. You visualize the person, but do nothing else. If they have the ability, you¡¯ll see an energy field.¡±


    ¡°Should I give it a try?¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°I don¡¯t see why not. Concentrate on me and tell me what you see.¡±


    Mason began to concentrate. At first there was nothing, but suddenly he saw alternating patterns of yellow and blue light swirling around Counselor Anklin. He was so surprised that his concentration broke and the lights vanished.


    ¡°I take it you were successful, Mr. Grant.¡±


    ¡°Yes. I saw yellow and blue lights around you.¡±


    ¡°You see those two colors because I can manipulate both dynamics and relativistic physics.¡±


    Counselor Anklin next had Mason practice manipulating the dynamic properties different objects in the training room. Each time he did so, Mason thrilled in the feeling of power it gave him. He tried to fight the desire, but even thinking about his conversation with Counselor Anklin the night before didn¡¯t help. At last he had to stop.


    ¡°I need a break.¡±


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    He hesitated before giving a small shrug of his shoulders. ¡°Same thing we discussed last night.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave a small smile. ¡°I can understand why you¡¯re concerned, but I¡¯ll give you the same advice a dear friend once gave me; by the time we recognize a problem, we¡¯re more than halfway to the solution.¡±


    Mason looked at him quizzically.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    ¡°What that means is that the first step to solving any problem is recognizing it. You understand what¡¯s happening, and that¡¯s why you had to stop. As I said yesterday, it¡¯s good to have a healthy fear of these powers because they are so seductive.¡±


    ¡°I know but ¡­¡± Mason was interrupted by Claridee rushing into the room.


    ¡°Counselor Anklin, the transports searching for Proust have returned.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see what they found,¡± cried Counselor Anklin, leading the way to the Council Chambers. When they got there, Mason nearly ran into Claridee when she came to a sudden stop.


    ¡°Leader Fraster!¡± she cried running to a man waiting outside the chambers. A large muscular man stood up and warmly embraced her. Grey hair covered his head, and his skin was thick and weathered. She motioned Mason to come over.


    ¡°Leader Fraster, this is my fellow trainee Mason. Mason, this is the leader of my settlement, Leader Fraster.¡±


    The two men shook hands.


    Counselor Anklin leaned out of the door and impatiently called out to Mason and Claridee. ¡°Come along you two.¡±


    Claridee called back as she rushed inside.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be long, please wait for us. I want to hear everything about Wastrene.¡±


    ¡°And I want to hear everything about how you¡¯re doing.¡± he answered with a large smile on his face.


    As they entered, the transport pilots had just finished briefing the other Council members. ¡°What¡¯s the news?¡± called out Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°Of the three transports that left, two reached their destinations and there was no evidence that Proust was onboard. However, the third transport has disappeared. Proust could be almost anywhere on Myscreth by now,¡± replied Counselor Janice, frustration evident in her voice.


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s face dropped.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing more we can do right now,¡± lamented Counselor Janice. ¡°We might as well go over the recent requests for assistance we¡¯ve received.¡±


    Claridee nudged Mason and whispered.


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t really concern us. Why don¡¯t we go out and see Leader Fraster?¡±


    He nodded in agreement. While leaving the chamber, Claridee whispered. ¡°Leader Fraster has led Wastrene for as long as I can remember.¡± Mason could see how pleased Claridee was to see someone from home and was happy for her. Claridee sat by Leader Fraster while Mason took a seat beside her.


    ¡°Leader Fraster, what are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to thank the Council for the equipment they recently sent to Wastrene. We¡¯ve been waiting a long time, and I wanted to let the Council know how much it means to us.¡± He gave a broad smile as he continued. ¡°Plus, it gave me an excuse to visit you.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯re my parents?¡± eagerly inquired Claridee.


    ¡°They¡¯re doing well and send their love. They also sent along a few things from home for you.¡±


    Claridee beamed. ¡°Tell me everything about home.¡±


    ¡°The settlement¡¯s really been growing,¡± he began, pride evident in his voice. ¡°Over the last few months alone we¡¯ve added almost thirty families. With all the new people our generators were maxed out and we needed more of them. We¡¯d been asking the Council for new ones for a while now, but none were ever available. It was quite a surprise last week when Counselor Proust walked into Wastrene with three new ones, you should¡¯ve seen how excited everyone was.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t he arrive in a transport?¡± asked Mason


    Leader Fraster scratched his head in thought. ¡°No, he just walked into town with a couple of workers who were pulling a cart with the three generators on it. Once the generators were in place, he left the same way. He didn¡¯t even stay for the feast we were going to give in his honor. That¡¯s part of the reason I came to Bendroff, to let the Council know how grateful we are.¡±


    The two trainees looked at each another.


    ¡°Can you tell the Council what you just told us about Counselor Proust?¡± asked Claridee.


    He gave a shrug. ¡°Don¡¯t see why not. After all, that¡¯s why I¡¯m here.¡±


    They brought Leader Fraster into the Council Chambers and found Counselor Anklin sitting in the front row deep in thought. Mason quickly summarized what Leader Fraster had told them about Proust delivering new generators to Wastrene. Counselor Anklin perked up as he listened and nodded.


    When they finished, Counselor Anklin stood up.


    ¡°I believe that Leader Fraster of Wastrene has some information that would be of interest to us.¡±


    He motioned Leader Fraster forward and had him repeat his story to the Council. The Council members listened in silence. Even before he could finish, Council members started firing questions at him.


    ¡°Have you seen these workers before?¡±


    ¡°What did these workers look like?¡±


    ¡°No I haven¡¯t. It was a man and a woman.


    ¡°You must remember something else.¡±


    Leader Fraster wrinkled his brow in thought. ¡°Well, the man was a little shorter than myself and looked to be in his twenties. I think his hair was blonde and he seemed to walk with a slight limp. The woman seemed older, maybe forty years old? Her hair might¡¯ve been dark with some grey.¡±


    As the other Counselors continued their questioning, Mason saw Counselor Janice go to a file cabinet and pull out a pile of papers. As she leafed through the pages, there was a look of growing concern on her face.


    When the same questions started being repeated, Counselor Anklin raised his hand.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s enough questions. Leader Fraster, thank you for bringing this information to our attention.¡±


    Leader Fraster smiled. ¡°Very happy to do it.¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°Thank you for your time.¡±


    Recognizing he¡¯d been dismissed, Leader Fraster turned to leave. As he exited the chamber, Claridee rushed after him and when she returned, had a big smile on her face.


    Sitting down beside Mason, she leaned over and whispered to him.


    ¡°I invited Leader Fraster to have dinner with us in the trainees¡¯ quarters this evening.¡±


    He enjoyed seeing her smile.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s a great idea.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted by Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I checked, there¡¯s no record of any equipment shipments to Wastrene in the last two months.¡±


    Counselor Halrous pounded the table, startling Mason. ¡°Then where¡¯d Proust get those generators he delivered?¡±


    There was silence as the Counselors looked at one another.


    Finally Counselor Anklin addressed the Council.


    ¡°There¡¯s only one way to find out. I propose that I travel to Wastrene along with Trainees Mason, Claridee and Leader Fraster to see if we can discover anything else about Proust¡¯s visit there. I think we should leave immediately while memories are still fresh.¡±


    As Counselor Anklin spoke Mason could see Claridee¡¯s eyes light up with joy.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s a good idea,¡± agreed Counselor Janice. ¡°What about the rest of the Council?¡±


    Counselor Halrous nodded. ¡°Right now we need information, and what better way of getting it than going right to the source.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not so sure,¡± offered Counselor Tranlee. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the Council remain in Bendroff so we can act immediately if there¡¯s any new developments?¡±


    Counselor Halrous looked at her in surprise. ¡°Why would you say that? You usually complain that the Council is too timid.¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t a normal situation,¡± replied Counselor Tranlee in a composed voice. ¡°We have no idea what Counselor Proust¡¯s plans are.¡±


    ¡°I think what Counselor Tranlee¡¯s saying makes sense,¡± interjected Counselor Gorwold.


    Counselor Janice looked over at Counselor Gorwold with a slight smile. "Seems we have three in favor and two opposed. Okay Anklin, get ready to leave for Wastrene, but be sure to keep the Council informed of anything you discover."


    ¡°Of course,¡± he replied.


    Word was sent to Leader Fraster to pack and report to the trainees¡¯ quarters. Walking back to their quarters, Claridee could barely suppress her excitement.


    ¡°It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve been home. I can¡¯t wait to show you around and introduce you to my family.¡±


    It gave Mason great pleasure to see Claridee so happy.


    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t long before the four of them were in the library ready to leave.


    ¡°To save time, we¡¯re going to travel to Wastrene by opening a doorway,¡± explained Counselor Anklin to Leader Fraster. He gave Mason a quick glance before continuing. ¡°Some people can find this method of travel a little disorienting.¡±


    That didn¡¯t seem to bother Leader Fraster in the least.


    ¡°Never travelled that way before, but I¡¯m sure it beats taking a transport.¡±


    Mason took a deep breath and steeled himself for the journey.


    Soon the familiar hum was heard and a flashing purple light appeared on the wall. As the flashing stopped, Counselor Anklin led the way and one by one they each went through the door.


    The familiar sensation of rolling down a hill washed over Mason, but it seemed less terrifying this time. When he arrived, he only felt a slight tinge of dizziness. Looking around, he saw that they¡¯d arrived on a small hill not far from a settlement. It was one of the largest settlement he¡¯d yet visited, there must have been nearly a hundred and fifty buildings. Large areas of farmland surrounded the town and the bright grow lights contrasted with the darkening sky.


    Leader Fraster smiled. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t mind travelling that way all the time.¡± Mason couldn¡¯t help but feel a little jealous.


    The air was warmer than anywhere else Mason had been on Myscreth. Wastrene must be very near the equator, he thought.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get moving,¡± called Counselor Anklin as he started walking towards the settlement. The others quickly followed.


    Counselor Anklin continued speaking as they walked. ¡°It¡¯s probably too late to do anything today. I recommend we get a good night¡¯s rest and have an early start tomorrow.¡±


    He turned to Leader Fraster. ¡°Please have anyone who interacted with Counselor Proust or the workers he brought with him report to the settlement¡¯s common building tomorrow morning so I can question them.¡±


    Leader Fraster nodded. ¡°They¡¯ll be there.¡±


    When they entered the settlement, only a few people were outside. Seeing Counselor Anklin¡¯s group a man came over.


    ¡°Leader Fraster? We didn¡¯t think you¡¯d be back for another couple of days. Is everything alright?¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s fine Hourst. Counselor Anklin was kind enough to bring me and Claridee home.¡±


    Seeing her, Hourst nearly knocked Mason over as he rushed to wrap her in a big hug. He then ran through the settlement shouting. ¡°Claridee¡¯s home!¡±


    Cries of ¡°Claridee¡¯s home,¡± soon echoed throughout the settlement. As news of her return spread, people throughout the settlement came to greet her. Mason had never seen her so happy. However, this display was nothing compared to her reaction when her mother and father arrived.


    Embracing her mother and father, she joyfully sobbed as she kissed each of them. Their joy was contagious, even Counselor Anklin seemed a little misty eyed.


    The happy reunion continued unabated until Counselor Anklin good naturedly cleared his throat.


    Claridee gave her parent a sheepish look. ¡°Mom and Dad, I¡¯m sure you remember Counselor Anklin.¡± She then gestured towards Mason. ¡°And this is my friend Mason. These are my parents, Holdern and Pollrine.¡±


    Her parents shook Mason¡¯s hand enthusiastically.


    Claridee¡¯s father turned to Counselor Anklin. ¡°We¡¯d consider it a great honor if you and Mason would join us for dinner this evening.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d be most happy to.¡±


    Leader Fraster led the two men to the settlement¡¯s guest quarters while Claridee went home with her parents.


    After unpacking and washing up, they walked over to Claridee¡¯s home. The streets were now nearly empty, but the few people they encountered bowed and greeted Counselor Anklin. He smiled and a nodded in return, but Mason could see he was preoccupied with other thoughts.


    ¡°Do you think we¡¯ll discover anything here in Wastrene?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Counselor Anklin replied absent-mindedly. ¡°However, I¡¯m glad that you¡¯ll get to see how a typical Myscrethian family lives.¡±


    As they walked, Mason noticed that all the houses they passed were identical and was glad Counselor Anklin knew where they were going. Pausing before one of the houses, Counselor Anklin pointed. ¡°Here we are.¡± Even before they could knock, the door flew open and Claridee grandly waved them in.


    ¡°Please come in; dinner will be ready shortly.¡±


    They stepped into a large room which stretched the length of the house. Along the back wall were several doors which Mason assumed led to the kitchen and bedrooms. Mounted to the ceiling were several lights that didn¡¯t quite illuminate the entire room. The only decorations were a few handmade wall hangings. The dirt floor and a bucket of water sitting on a corner table, made him think that with the exception of the electric lights, this could be a pioneer home from the 1800¡¯s.


    To one side of the room were two tables pushed together with seven chairs around them. At each place there was a bowl, plate, and a small fork. Mason was struck at how austere it was here compared to Bendroff. He was about to ask Counselor Anklin about it when one of the doors swung open and Claridee¡¯s parents came in carrying two platters of food.


    Before they could set them down, Mason heard Claridee cry out excitedly and run out the front door. He turned to see her embracing a man and woman in front of the house. She seemed barely able to contain her excitement as she led them inside.


    ¡°This is my brother Sherlorn and his wife Presline,¡± she said introducing them to Mason.


    Everyone sat at the two tables and the platters of food were passed around. One platter contained what looked like a thick vegetable stew while the other was filled with a variety of vegetables that vaguely reminded Mason of potatoes. Conversation and laughter flowed steadily at the table as Claridee¡¯s mother asked Counselor Anklin about her training and everyone peppered Mason with questions about Earth. Mason now understood why Claridee missed her family so much.


    Shortly after finishing dinner, Counselor Anklin made his apologies and headed back to the guest quarters. Mason was tired, but was having such a good time that he wanted to stay a little longer. He really liked Claridee¡¯s family and could see why she missed them so much.


    Soon Sherlorn and Presline also had to leave. As Claridee was saying goodbye to them, Claridee¡¯s mother took Mason aside.


    ¡°I just want to thank you for all you¡¯ve done for Claridee. I know how unhappy she was to leave here, but she tells me that you¡¯ve helped her realize that she¡¯s where she¡¯s supposed to be.¡±


    Mason blushed.


    ¡°That¡¯s very kind of her to say, but the truth is that she¡¯s helped me far more than anything I¡¯ve done for her.¡±


    Claridee walked over while they were speaking and gave her mom a hug.


    ¡°It¡¯s so good to be home, even if it¡¯s for a short time.¡± She looked over at Mason. ¡°I¡¯m so glad you got to meet my family.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s great to finally meet the people I¡¯ve heard so much about.¡±


    He stayed a little while longer, but reluctantly realized that he needed to get some sleep. He stood up and stretched.


    ¡°I hate to leave, but it¡¯s getting late and we¡¯ve got a busy day tomorrow.¡±


    Claridee stood up and put a hand on his shoulder.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I walk you over to the guest quarters since you¡¯re not that familiar with Wastrene?¡±


    ¡°Thanks Claridee, but I don¡¯t want to take you away from your family. I¡¯m sure I can find my way.¡±


    She gave him a look that he immediately recognized. It was a look that told him that she wasn¡¯t about to change her mind and he¡¯d better change his.


    ¡°Thanks Claridee, I¡¯d really appreciate you walking with me to the guest quarters.¡±


    Mason bade farewell to Claridee¡¯s family and he and Claridee took the short walk over to the guest quarters. As they walked, she looked over at him.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    The question surprised him.


    ¡°Yes, why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°I just know how much you miss your parents and was worried that seeing how happy I was with my family would upset you.¡±


    He stopped walking.


    ¡°I do miss my parents very much. However, after almost being forced to leave Myscreth, I now realize that this is where I want to be. Seeing you with your family only brings me happiness.¡±


    He turned to start walking again, but Claridee gave him a quick hug.


    ¡°Thanks Mason. I was worried it would bother you.¡±


    The two walked the rest of the way in silence. Standing at the door, he wished her a good night. As she walked away, he continued watching until she was out of sight.

 Chapter Eleven: Discoveries and Loss

    After breakfast the next morning, Claridee joined Mason and Counselor Anklin in the guest quarters to go over their plans for the day.


    ¡°Leader Fraster has gathered everyone who interacted with Proust and his group,¡± explained Counselor Anklin. ¡°They may have noticed or overheard something that might prove useful so I¡¯ll spend the morning questioning them.¡±


    ¡°What about us?¡± Asked Claridee.


    ¡°I want you and Mason to try and trace Proust¡¯s route into the settlement. Look for any evidence of where a transport might have landed. After that, check the generators Proust delivered to see if we can learn anything from them.¡±


    The three left the guest quarters with Counselor Anklin walking towards the settlement¡¯s common building while Claridee and Mason headed in the direction Proust had come from. Although Wastrene wasn¡¯t bitterly cold like Bendroff, to Mason it still felt like a late winter¡¯s day on Earth. The sun tried to shine through the overcast skies, but only cast a hazy grey light over the landscape.


    They scanned the ground looking for any evidence of the spikes used to hold a transport down after it landed. Finding a piece of metal sticking out of the ground, he called Claridee over. ¡°Look at this.¡±


    She gave it a quick glance. ¡°Oh that¡¯s just a piece of an old water pipe.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Her eyes narrowed and it sounded as if she was trying to be patient with him. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been farming since I was ten years old.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, forgot about that.¡±


    They kept searching until reaching an area filled with large boulders.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way a transport could have landed here,¡± observed Claridee. ¡°Let¡¯s head back and report to Counselor Anklin.¡±


    Without having to search any longer, they were able to talk while walking back to the settlement. Claridee told Mason how she and her friends would hike in the nearby hills after they¡¯d finished working in the fields. He tried to explain how he and his friends used to play video games, but she had no idea what he was talking about.


    As they neared the settlement, Claridee looked over at Mason and asked in a low voice. ¡°What¡¯s it feel like to use your abilities?¡±


    Mason was quiet as he considered the question. ¡°The feeling of power going through you is incredible, but also terrifying.¡±


    ¡°How is it terrifying?¡± She asked in a hesitant voice.


    Mason didn¡¯t want to scare Claridee, but wished he¡¯d known what to expect. ¡°It¡¯s almost as if the power is trying to take over your will. Once you¡¯ve used it once, the urge to use it again is always there.¡±


    Claridee stopped walking. ¡°But that feeling eventually goes away, right?¡±


    Mason shook his head. ¡°Not according to Counselor Anklin.¡±


    ¡°Did he tell you how to fight it?¡±


    ¡°He told me to remember that these abilities are only to be used to serve the people of Myscreth and,¡± gesturing around them, ¡°the terrible destruction they produced.¡±


    Claridee walked more slowly as she considered Mason words. ¡°Sometimes I worry that once I learn to use my abilities, it will change who I am.¡±


    Mason stopped walking. ¡°I can¡¯t deny feeling different, but it didn¡¯t change who I am.¡±


    Claridee gave him a quick hug. ¡°Thanks. That makes me feel better.¡±


    Before Mason could respond, Claridee resumed walking towards the settlement.


    Once back in the settlement, they went to the generator building to examine the generators that Proust had brought to Wastrene. Walking into the building they saw the ten generators that provided electricity for the settlement. The sight of the generators running by themselves still looked funny to Mason, but with the ability to manipulate scientific laws he was beginning to understand that on Myscreth such wonders were commonplace.


    All the generators, with the exception of the three new ones, were of different sizes and exhibited the dents and scratches consistent with being recovered from ruined cities. However, the three new generators were identical and looked as if they¡¯d just come off the assembly line.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange,¡± observed Claridee. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen generators in such good condition.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, all the others seem pretty banged up.¡±


    She concentrated on the generators, but Mason had no idea why. He was about to ask what she was doing when she started speaking.


    ¡°At least from a structural mechanics standpoint, the new generators have the same type of modifications as the others.¡±


    Mason looked at Claridee in surprise.


    ¡°How¡¯d you do that?¡±


    She looked at him quizzically. ¡°It¡¯s part of the training, didn¡¯t you learn how to do it?¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°No. I must¡¯ve missed that part. Counselor Anklin told me I had a lot more to learn, but I didn¡¯t realize how much.¡±


    She seemed to be deep in thought when a sudden look of comprehension appeared on her face.


    ¡°Mason, what areas of science need to be modified to make these generators work?¡±


    Mason remembered Counselor Anklin explaining the process to him.


    ¡°Dynamics, structural mechanics, electrodynamics, and...¡±


    ¡°Thermodynamics!¡± they cried together.


    ¡°But, according to the papers that were found, Proust hadn¡¯t yet trained anyone who was capable of modifying thermodynamics,¡± argued Mason.


    ¡°Clearly he must have finished training someone who can,¡± she speculated, pointing at the generators. ¡°We¡¯d better let Counselor Anklin know about this right away.¡±


    Mason nodded. ¡°I want to get a closer look at these generators first.¡±


    He went over to the three new generators to see if there were any markings on them that might identify where they were from. Seeing a tag on the underside of one of the generators, he slid himself underneath to get a better view. While a model number was clearly visible, the words at the bottom of the tag were more difficult to make out. As his eyes adjusted to the dimness, he was able to read them clearly.


    ¡°Made in the USA,¡± he read.


    He lay there stunned and had to read the tag again to make sure he hadn¡¯t misread it. Claridee called out to him.


    ¡°What do you see?¡±


    He came out from under the generator and slumped against a nearby wall. When he didn¡¯t respond she asked again, this time more urgently.


    ¡°Mason, what did you see?¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯d better get Counselor Anklin. These generators are from Earth!¡±


    Mason was still sitting on the floor when Claridee returned with Counselor Anklin. He quickly confirmed Mason¡¯s assessment.


    ¡°Clearly Proust has been travelling to Earth to acquire equipment. And based on what I¡¯ve learned today, Wastrene isn¡¯t the only place where he¡¯s made deliveries.¡±


    Mason was confused.


    ¡°But how is that possible? I thought there was a size limit as to what could be transported.¡±


    Counselor Anklin seemed embarrassed.


    ¡°No, that limitation is my own. Since I can modify both dynamics and relativistic physics, my abilities in each are less developed. For someone who can only modify relativistic physics, transporting these generators is entirely possible.¡±


    Mason couldn¡¯t help but think of his parents. ¡°We¡¯ve got to stop him.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to find him first,¡± answered Counselor Anklin.


    Returning to the guest quarters, they briefed Counselor Anklin on finding no evidence of a transport landing. He didn¡¯t seem surprised.


    ¡°Just as I expected,¡± he answered glumly. ¡°If Proust has someone who can manipulate relativistic physics, he wouldn¡¯t need a transport. I¡¯d just hoped you might find something that might help us locate him.¡±


    ¡°Well at least we now know that Proust must have trained someone to modify thermodynamics,¡± offered Claridee in a consoling tone.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    Counselor Anklin nodded, looking thoughtful. ¡°Yes, to modify the generators he¡¯d have to have someone capable of that.¡± He paused, seeming to be lost in thought, before suddenly snapping out of his reverie. ¡°I¡¯m glad the two of you had the insight to recognize it.¡±


    ¡°It was really more Claridee than me,¡± interjected Mason.


    She jumped in quickly, blushing slightly. ¡°Actually, we figured it out at the same time.¡±


    ¡°And what did you find out?¡± asked Mason, eager to change the subject.


    ¡°Unfortunately, not much. However, a couple of people did overhear the two workers mention some other settlements. It wasn¡¯t clear if these were settlements they¡¯d already visited, or if they were ones they planned to visit.¡±


    There seemed to be a hint of hopefulness in Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice. ¡°Even if there¡¯s just one settlement they haven¡¯t visited yet, we may have a chance of surprising Proust. However, we¡¯ll have to act quickly.¡± He stood up, a determined look on his face. ¡°Get packed - we¡¯re leaving for Cranrine.¡±


    Claridee was clearly disappointed to be leaving Wastrene so soon, but she recovered quickly. ¡°I¡¯ll go say goodbye to my parents.¡±


    When the three of them met back in the guest quarters, Counselor Anklin concentrated producing a portal which was accompanied by the familiar low hum and a flashing purple light on the wall. Once the light stopped flashing, the three of them stepped through.


    They arrived on a flat plain outside of a settlement which contained only about twenty buildings. Beyond the settlement there was a small farming area illuminated by grow lights. It was noticeably colder and darker than it had been in Wastrene.


    ¡°It¡¯s freezing; where on Earth are we?¡± asked Mason.


    Claridee looked at him and cocked her head to one side. ¡°Actually, we¡¯re still on Myscreth, Mason.¡±


    Counselor Anklin laughed. ¡°Cranrine is located in the southernmost portion of the equatorial region. That¡¯s why it¡¯s so cold.¡±


    Walking into the settlement they asked the first person they saw where the settlement leader¡¯s residence was.


    Counselor Anklin knocked once, but there was no answer. He continued knocking until it was finally answered by a short older woman who seemed annoyed at being disturbed.


    ¡°What is it you want?¡± she asked.


    Counselor Anklin frowned slightly as he replied.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry to disturb you, but I¡¯m Counselor Anklin.¡± He then motioned at Mason and Claridee. ¡°These are Trainees Claridee and Mason. I¡¯m looking for Cranrine¡¯s leader.¡±


    Upon discovering who her visitors were, her face turned pale and she nearly tripped as she stepped back while bowing. She tried to speak, but no words came out. When her voice returned, she spoke in a low respectful tone.


    ¡°Please come in. My husband Grestern is the leader of Cranrine. He¡¯s working in the fields right now, but I¡¯ll go get him right away,¡± she offered in an anxious voice.


    Counselor Anklin smiled at her. ¡°Please don¡¯t trouble yourself. Just let us know where we can find him since we have pressing business to discuss with him.¡±


    His smile seemed to calm her as she pointed towards the farming area. ¡°He¡¯s at the main pumping station in the middle of the fields. You can¡¯t miss it.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your help,¡± he replied kindly before starting to walk away with Claridee and Mason following him.


    As they drew nearer to the farming area, a group of people could be seen working near a small building. They were trying to lift a new pump motor into place.


    Counselor Anklin hailed the group.


    ¡°Good afternoon. I¡¯m looking for Leader Grestern.¡±


    A rough-looking man looked over from the motor they were lifting and glared at them.


    ¡°I¡¯m Leader Grestern. Who are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Counselor Anklin.¡±


    At his introduction, the others almost dropped the motor as they stared at him. The four quickly lowered the motor to the ground and bowed. Now that Counselor Anklin had their attention he continued.


    ¡°It was my understanding that Counselor Proust was to deliver some equipment here. I want to make sure it got here safely.¡±


    Grestern looked at the pump motor they were trying to install.


    ¡°Yes, he was here a few days ago.¡± He wiped his brow and sat down. ¡°He brought some lights, a generator, and this pump motor. He helped to install the generator, but told us he was too busy to help with the well pump.¡± He gave Counselor Anklin a challenging look. ¡°No disrespect, but I thought the Council was supposed to be a bit more helpful.¡±


    Counselor Anklin frowned. ¡°That was clearly an oversight on Counselor Proust¡¯s part. But I¡¯m here now and will gladly help. Trainee Mason, please hold on to the motor while I raise it.¡±


    He concentrated and the motor started to lift off the ground. As Mason held on to the motor he quickly scanned it for any marking and saw that it too was from Earth. He helped the others position it. Once they were ready, Counselor Anklin concentrated again and the motor slowly fell into place.


    The group thanked Counselor Anklin. He turned to Leader Grestern.


    ¡°Did Counselor Proust say which settlement he was going to after Cranrine?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t say much of anything really. He and the two workers brought the equipment, installed the generator, and then left.¡±


    ¡°Did these two workers happen to be a young blonde-haired man with a limp and an older woman with graying hair?¡±


    ¡°That was them. Now it would be a great honor for our settlement if the three of you would stay for a celebration feast since we weren¡¯t able to hold one for Counselor Proust.¡±


    Counselor Anklin feigned disappointment.


    ¡°I wish we could stay, but we have several more settlements to check today. Hopefully we¡¯ll be back this way again and enjoy your hospitality then. Come Mason and Claridee, we must be going.¡±


    As they walked back towards the settlement Counselor Anklin and Claridee looked at Mason expectantly. ¡°The motor was from Earth,¡± he muttered, not bothering to hide the anger in his voice. They walked the rest of the way in silence. Once back in the settlement they made their way to the generator building. Examining the generator brought by Proust, they saw it was identical to the ones in Wastrene.


    Mason clenched his fists. ¡°Proust must have gotten them from a warehouse to have so many of the same kind.¡±


    Counselor Anklin scanned the generator room and shook his head. ¡°I think we¡¯ve learned all we can here. The next settlement to check is Stranoff.¡± He looked over at Mason. ¡°At least it will be warmer there since it¡¯s right on the equator.¡±


    Counselor Anklin furrowed his brow in concentration as the familiar hum and purple light appeared. Soon they stood outside the settlement of Stranoff. Even though it was now late in the day there it was brighter and warmer than it had been in Cranrine.


    As they approached Stranoff, Mason noticed that it was even larger than Wastrene, with almost two hundred buildings. However, Counselor Anklin seemed to know where he was going.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been here many times before,¡± explained Counselor Anklin seemingly answering Mason unasked question. ¡°I¡¯ve known Leader Krastor for years. He¡¯s a good man and I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll help in any way he can.¡±


    Approaching the leader¡¯s house they saw a man coming out. He was a tall lean man with reddish hair. He seemed much younger that the other settlement leaders whom Mason had met. When he saw Counselor Anklin, he gave a wide smile.


    ¡°Counselor Anklin, it¡¯s so good to see you again! What brings you to Stranoff?¡±


    The two men shook hands.


    ¡°Just here to check on some equipment deliveries. Have you had any equipment deliveries in the last few weeks?¡±


    ¡°No new equipment has arrived in almost two months, but we could certainly use some.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see what we can do. Let me introduce two of our trainees; Mason and Claridee.¡±


    Mason and Claridee shook hands with Leader Krastor.


    ¡°I¡¯d be pleased if the three of you would join me and my family for dinner this evening,¡± offered Leader Krastor.


    Counselor Anklin looked over at Mason and Claridee. ¡°Normally, I¡¯d be happy to accept, but we¡¯ve been visiting settlements since early this morning. I¡¯m sure tomorrow will be just as busy, so we should probably turn in early. If you could just show us to the settlement¡¯s guest quarters.¡±


    ¡°Of course, please follow me.¡±


    As they walked to the guest quarters, Mason noticed that Counselor Anklin had a renewed spring in his step.


    Once they were alone in the guest quarters, the three of them sat down to discuss their plans. There was a tangible sense of anticipation in Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice as he spoke.


    ¡°Proust hasn¡¯t been here yet, it¡¯s the chance we¡¯ve been waiting for.¡± He took out a sheet of paper and pencil and drew a rough sketch of the settlement. ¡°When Proust arrived in Wastrene he used a cart to carry the equipment. Therefore, he¡¯ll have to use one of these three roads,¡± which Counselor Anklin drew on his map, ¡°to enter the settlement. Each of us will watch one of these entrances for any sign of Proust. We¡¯ll have to keep ourselves hidden, but if either of you see anything suspicious, let me know at once.¡±


    Mason spoke up. ¡°When Proust arrives won¡¯t Leader Krastor mention that you¡¯re here?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll speak with him tomorrow morning and ask him to not mention our presence here.¡±


    Claridee seemed more hesitant while voicing her concern. ¡°Counselor Anklin, don¡¯t you think it might be a good idea to have the other members of the Council here?¡± He shook his head.


    ¡°I considered that, but if there were too many Council members here that might cause enough of a commotion to scare Proust away. Remember, we''re looking to track him, not capture him. Once we know where his headquarters are then we can notify the rest of the Council.¡±


    ¡°So how long are we going to wait here for Proust to show up?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Until he does,¡± answered Counselor Anklin without hesitation.


    The following morning at breakfast, they finalized their plans. Counselor Anklin spoke between bites of food.


    ¡°I¡¯ll watch near the road that enters the northern end of the settlement. Claridee, you take the road on the east and Mason you watch the road on the western side of the settlement.¡± He waved his fork for emphasis. ¡°Keep out of sight; I want no chance of Proust seeing us if he shows up.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± replied the two trainees together. After breakfast the three of them set out for their assigned locations.


    Reaching the western end of the settlement, Mason saw a storage building with some pallets stacked next to it. He decided it would be an ideal location from which to observe the road. Over the course of the morning, he watched people entering and leaving the settlement, but saw no sign of Proust or his workers. All he¡¯d achieved from his morning of crouching behind the pallets was an aching back.


    To relieve his boredom, he decided to practice the new skill Counselor Anklin had taught him. Now, as each person passed, he visualized them in his mind to see if an aura appeared. The only one he saw was a hazy red one around a small black-haired boy.


    As lunchtime passed, Mason¡¯s stomach started to grumble and he wished he¡¯d thought to bring something to eat. However, his thoughts of hunger vanished as a young woman entered the settlement. She was of medium height, with her long dark hair tied in a ponytail. Mason guessed she couldn¡¯t be more than twenty years old. He didn¡¯t know why, but was certain he¡¯d seen her before. She continued walking while cautiously scanning the area as if looking for something.


    As he had with everyone else who¡¯d entered the settlement, Mason checked for an aura. There was a brief instant of absolute blankness as he visualized her, but she was suddenly engulfed in a solid blue light. Mason nearly cried out in surprise.


    He considered following the young woman, but knew that Counselor Anklin had to be told about her. Waiting for her to pass, he took off for the northern end of the settlement.


    Reaching the edge of the settlement, he stopped and looked around.


    ¡°Mason, get out of sight,¡± hissed Counselor Anklin from behind a building.


    Running over, Mason had to catch his breath before he could speak.


    ¡°A girl ¡­ a girl just entered the settlement and I saw a solid blue aura around her.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? Are you absolutely certain?¡±


    Mason nodded his head, still out of breath.


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°Where is she now?¡±


    ¡°On the main road of the settlement.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Counselor Anklin took off running, with Mason struggling to keep up. As they reached the main road, they stopped and peered around the corner of a building. Mason saw the woman about thirty feet away. She was walking towards the eastern edge of town. He nudged Counselor Anklin and pointed. ¡°That¡¯s her.¡±


    Counselor Anklin stared at her. ¡°You¡¯re right, she can manipulate relativistic physics. You follow her and I¡¯ll go around the back of the buildings to try and cut her off it she runs.¡±


    Mason nodded and made his way onto the street, careful to stay near the buildings. He¡¯d only gone a few steps when he noticed Claridee walking from the other end of the settlement. Seeing Claridee, the young woman froze. Mason tried to get back behind the building, but the young woman turned around before he could get out of sight. Seeing him, she started running towards the nearest building. Mason called out.


    ¡°Claridee, follow her!¡±


    She began running after the young woman as Mason tried to catch up to them. Seeing Claridee gaining on her, the young woman began concentrating. The wall in front of her almost immediately began to hum and flash with a purple light. Claridee had nearly reached her when she jumped into the doorway.


    Unable to stop, Claridee went through as the light vanished.


    Reaching the wall too late, Mason pounded it in frustration. There was nothing he could do, Claridee was gone.

 Chapter Twelve: Encounters and Dissension

    Counselor Anklin ran over and began examining the wall.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°I¡¯ll explain later, right now we¡¯ve got to find Claridee.¡±


    Counselor Anklin stepped back ¡°It looks like the doorway opened to a location about two miles west of the settlement.¡± He took a few steps back and starting concentrating.


    ¡°How do you know that?¡±


    Ignoring Mason, he continued until the wall began to hum and glow with a flashing purple light. As the flashing stopped, Counselor Anklin stepped through with Mason close behind. They found themselves at the bottom of a small, barren hill. Listening carefully, the only thing Mason could hear was the wind. Counselor Anklin leaned over and whispered.


    ¡°Proust and his group should be around here somewhere. Be quiet and follow me.¡±


    The two of them made their way up the hill, moving slowly so as not to be heard. At the top they crouched down and peered at the landscape below. There was a cart holding generators and other equipment, but no people. Mason¡¯s heart sank, they were too late. Neither man spoke as they trudged down the hill. As he rounded the cart, Mason saw a figure laying on the ground, its long blond hair blowing in the wind.


    ¡°Claridee!¡± he cried, rushing over. Counselor Anklin quickly followed.


    Kneeling beside her, Mason feared the worst. He was about to check her pulse when she opened her eyes and calmly asked.


    ¡°What took you two so long?¡±


    He nearly collapsed with relief.


    Claridee looked over to Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°Proust was here, but he just left. He didn¡¯t want me following him, so he manipulated my clothing so it would be too heavy to move.¡± She scrunched up her face, looking uncomfortable. ¡°If you could fix that, I¡¯d really appreciate it.¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°I¡¯d be delighted.¡±


    In a moment, Claridee was able get to her feet.


    ¡°Thanks. It feels so good to move again.¡±


    Mason was surprised at how much he wanted to wrap his arms around her.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re OK? Proust didn¡¯t hurt you, did he?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°Actually, he took great pains to make sure I was comfortable and that I had no trouble breathing while waiting for the two of you to arrive.¡±


    ¡°Did you see which way they went?¡± asked Counselor Anklin.


    She shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Mason, run to the top of the hill and scan the area for any signs of Proust,¡± ordered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Claridee and I will look for tracks.¡±


    Running to the top of the hill, Mason scanned the horizon, but saw nothing. Counselor Anklin and Claridee were still checking the ground when he returned.


    ¡°No trace of them. Any luck with the tracks?¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked up from the ground. ¡°Not a thing.¡±


    ¡°The wind seems to have wiped away any trace of them,¡± added Claridee.


    Frustrated, the three of them sat by the cart in silence. Finally, Counselor Anklin turned to Claridee. ¡°Can you tell us what happened?¡±


    Claridee pushed her wind swept hair out of her face and nodded. ¡°When I arrived here, I saw the woman, Proust, and his two workers. He ordered the workers to grab me, but told them to be careful not to hurt me. Then he just stared at me, I couldn¡¯t tell if he was angry or pleased.¡±


    She paused and Mason could see her shivering slightly. He wasn¡¯t sure if it was from the cold or the memory of Proust.


    ¡°¡®Claridee, my dear girl,¡¯ he said, ¡®it¡¯s so good to see you. Unfortunately, there isn¡¯t time for a proper reunion since I¡¯m sure Anklin and Mason will be along shortly. You have nothing to fear from me, but I can¡¯t have you following us.¡¯¡± She rubbed her arms. ¡°After what¡¯d he¡¯d done to you and Mason, I didn¡¯t know if I could believe him.¡±


    Mason could feel his anger at Proust growing.


    ¡°He had the workers put me on the ground and he modified the gravity of my clothing so I couldn¡¯t move. He kept asking if I was comfortable and if I had any trouble breathing. It was kind of creepy. Then he had the audacity to say ¡®I am sorry about this Claridee, but I can¡¯t let anything stand in my way of saving Myscreth. As a true daughter of Myscreth, I¡¯m sure you agree.¡¯¡±


    As Claridee recounted her response, there was anger in her voice.


    ¡°I told him what he was doing would destroy Myscreth, not save it and he laughed at me and said, ¡®I see you¡¯ve been listening to Anklin. Look at this equipment we¡¯re providing our people. If we followed Anklin¡¯s way, it would take months and who knows how many lives to acquire this. Tell me - how is this destroying Myscreth?¡¯ I didn¡¯t bother answering. Oh and that¡¯s not even the best part. He asked for a favor from you Counselor Anklin. He wants you to take this equipment to Stranoff.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave a grim laugh. ¡°Is there anything else?¡±


    She rubbed her forehead as she thought. ¡°No, I think that¡¯s it. Proust and his group left, but I couldn¡¯t see which way they went. A little while after that, you and Mason showed up.¡±


    Counselor Anklin interjected abruptly. ¡°Are you sure Proust mentioned me and Mason by name?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Mason looked at Counselor Anklin. ¡°What I don¡¯t understand is why the young woman reacted the way she did when she saw Claridee.¡±


    Counselor Anklin was slow in answering, almost as if his mind was elsewhere. When he finally responded it was in a brusque tone.


    ¡°Clearly Proust sent her into the settlement to make sure it would be safe. She was the perfect choice since she could escape quickly if there was trouble. As to why she reacted the way she did, I would think you could figure that out, since you were doing the same thing.¡±


    Mason suddenly remembered the auras.


    ¡°When she saw Claridee¡¯s aura she knew it wasn¡¯t safe.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded gruffly.


    Mason had another question. ¡°How¡¯d you know where the door went?¡±


    ¡°Ah, another gap in your training.¡± Despite his sour mood, Counselor Anklin seemed unable to suppress a smile. ¡°Even though you haven¡¯t learned it yet, I was able to find Claridee by observing the modifications in relativistic physics that had been made on the wall.¡±


    Mason turned to Claridee. ¡°So that¡¯s what you were doing back in the generator room.¡± He looked at the two of them feeling sheepish. ¡°I feel like I¡¯m constantly reminded of how much more I have to learn.¡±


    ¡°Good, that¡¯s the attitude you need to have if you¡¯re going to be a good student.¡± Counselor Anklin stood up and stretched. ¡°Well, we¡¯d better start back to Stranoff. I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be very glad to get this equipment.¡±


    Mason didn¡¯t believe what he was hearing.


    ¡°You mean you¡¯re still going to give the settlement this equipment even though you know it¡¯s stolen?¡±


    Counselor Anklin responded angrily. ¡°And what would you have me do, just leave it here to rot?¡± He motioned at the cart. ¡°It¡¯s not like I can return it to Earth and Stranoff really needs this equipment.¡±


    Mason was taken aback by the ferocity of his response.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to imply¡­¡±


    Counselor Anklin held up a hand.


    ¡°No Mason, I¡¯m the one who needs to apologize. I¡¯m just upset that Proust got away.¡± He put a hand on the cart. ¡°You¡¯re right of course, but under the circumstances what choice do we have. The equipment is here and people need it. Even considering the source of this equipment, there is no way I can withhold it from them.¡± He paused, looking up at the sky before finishing. ¡°The reality is that we don¡¯t always have the luxury of putting ethics ahead of survival here on Myscreth.¡±If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    The sadness in Counselor Anklin¡¯s eyes as he spoke deeply touched Mason. The three of them silently started the trek back to the settlement with Counselor Anklin leading the way as Claridee and Mason pulled the cart behind them.


    As they entered Stranoff, the joyous reception of the residents at the sight of the new equipment caused the three of them to temporarily forget their gloom. Counselor Anklin and Mason helped install the new generators while Claridee distributed the other equipment to the settlement¡¯s residents. That evening, the settlement held a celebratory feast for them.


    None of them were in the mood to celebrate, but Counselor Anklin insisted they attend. There was plenty to eat, but Mason ate little, distracted by his thoughts.


    It was more than Proust¡¯s escape and Counselor Anklin¡¯s words that were on his mind, however. The terror he¡¯d felt when Claridee disappeared and the elation of seeing her safe again was like nothing he¡¯d ever felt before. His mind was in a jumble as he tried to figure it all out.


    By the time the feast had ended, he¡¯d come to a decision. Walking back to the guest quarters with Claridee after the feast, he cleared his throat and in halting voice asked. ¡°Claridee, would you like to take a walk with me?¡± She smiled and nodded.


    They walked in silence until he felt her slip her hand into his. He could feel his heart pounding and had to stop. He started to speak, but she squeezed his hand and whispered.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just walk.¡±


    They continued until reaching the farming area. The illumination of the grow lights caused their shadows to stretch behind them as they stood there looking out over the fields. Claridee spoke in a soft, dreamy voice.


    ¡°This is how I¡¯d expected to spend my life, working the fields and raising a family. I used to wonder what my life would be like if Counselor Anklin hadn¡¯t asked me to become a trainee.¡±


    She turned to Mason and put her hands in his.


    ¡°But since I¡¯ve met you, I don¡¯t wonder anymore.¡±


    She looked at him expectantly, the grow lights reflecting off her blond hair and highlighting her face. The sight dazzled him. After the events of the day, he now realized just how much she meant to him. He fought to get the words out.


    ¡°Claridee, seeing you disappear through that doorway today was the most terrifying experience of my life. I couldn¡¯t bear the thought of losing you.¡±


    As he struggled to continue, she gently wrapped her arms around him, putting her head on his shoulder, and whispered.


    ¡°I feel the same way about you.¡±


    Mason returned her embrace and before he knew what was happening, they kissed.


    The next morning, they returned to Bendroff where Counselor Anklin briefed the Council on their trip.


    ¡°It¡¯s clear now that Proust is trying to curry favor with our people by providing them the equipment we can¡¯t,¡± he reported grimly.


    ¡°But where¡¯s he getting this equipment?¡± asked Counselor Halrous.


    ¡°He¡¯s stealing it from Earth.¡±


    There was an audible gasp from Counselor Janice, but Mason saw no reaction from the other Council members. Counselor Tranlee shrugged. ¡°At least he¡¯s doing a service for our people. I don¡¯t see the danger in that.¡±


    Counselor Janice shot her an angry glance, but said nothing.


    Counselor Anklin recounted the events which led them to wait for Proust in Stranoff. As he was finishing, Counselor Gorwold angrily interrupted. ¡°And why wasn¡¯t the Council informed of this opportunity?¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave him a long, hard look, and Mason could see Counselor Gorwold cringe slightly. ¡°I thought it best to minimize any additional activity in Stranoff so as to not scare Proust away.¡±


    ¡°Quite understandable,¡± commented Counselor Janice, giving Counselor Gorwold a look one might give while scolding a child. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you agree, Counselor Gorwold?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± he muttered defensively.


    Counselor Janice nodded. ¡°Please continue. What happened in Stranoff?¡±


    Counselor Anklin told of Mason¡¯s discovery of the woman Proust had trained to manipulate relativistic physics and how she¡¯d escaped. When he reported Claridee¡¯s disappearance, the four Council members turned to stare at her.


    Counselor Janice motioned for Claridee to come forward. ¡°I think we need to hear what Trainee Claridee has to say.¡±


    She walked slowly to the podium. Counselor Anklin leaned down and whispered something to her that Mason couldn¡¯t hear. She gave a small smile and described her encounter with Proust.


    ¡°Did you notice anything else?¡± demanded Counselor Tranlee roughly when she¡¯d finished.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s everything,¡± answered Claridee seemingly taken aback.


    Counselor Janice glared at Tranlee before addressing Claridee. ¡°Thank you.¡± Claridee quickly returned to her seat.


    The ensuing silence was abruptly broken by Counselor Tranlee. ¡°Nothing I¡¯ve heard today tells me that Proust represents a danger to Myscreth. Look at how he treated Trainee Claridee. And what else has he done? Only provide much needed equipment for our people. He may be misguided, but a danger,¡± she paused, looking at the other Council members. ¡°I think not.¡±


    ¡°How can you possibly say that we¡¯ve misjudged Proust?¡± shot back Counselor Anklin. ¡°He¡¯s broken our most important law and used his powers to attack Trainee Mason and myself. There¡¯s no telling how the people that he¡¯s trained will react to their new powers. Just because he¡¯s getting equipment from Earth, all he¡¯s done is forgiven?¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t Proust¡¯s treatment of Trainee Claridee show that his true intent is to help Myscreth? Maybe his attack on you and Mason was just a mistake,¡± added Counselor Gorwold.


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice became progressively louder.


    ¡°A mistake, you say? Any trainee who made such a mistake would be removed from training immediately. No--it was a deliberate attack.¡±


    Counselor Tranlee was about to speak again when Counselor Janice called out. ¡°We have enough problems without fighting among ourselves. Proust has broken our laws and must be dealt with. Whatever his motives may be, it doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Counselor Anklin stood there for a moment with his eyes closed before addressing the Council in a calm voice.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to apologize to the Council, and to Counselors Tranlee and Gorwold in particular, for my conduct. We¡¯re all on edge, but that doesn¡¯t excuse my actions.¡±


    Counselor Tranlee was still angry as she spoke. ¡°I¡¯m also sorry for my conduct. I just think it¡¯s a great loss for Myscreth to lose someone of Proust¡¯s abilities.¡±


    ¡°It certainly wasn¡¯t my intent to minimize what Proust has done,¡± added Counselor Gorwold. ¡°I was just happy that no harm had come to Claridee.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± replied Counselor Anklin with a small nod. ¡°Now to the real reason we¡¯re here, finding Proust. To do that we need information. I propose that we contact each of the equatorial settlements to discover if Proust has provided them with any equipment, and when it was provided.¡±


    For a moment it appeared to Mason that Counselor Tranlee was about to disagree, but seemed to change her mind. ¡°I think the Council should do as Counselor Anklin has suggested. I¡¯m sure that having a better idea of Proust¡¯s actives would be very helpful.¡±


    The other Council members shook their heads in agreement.


    After the meeting, Counselor Anklin and the two trainees returned to the library. Counselor Anklin pointed to a table far from the door. ¡°Let¡¯s sit over there. I have something I need to discuss with you.¡±


    Once seated, Counselor Anklin spoke in a low voice. ¡°Someone on the Council is helping Proust.¡±


    Mason and Claridee stared at him in shock.


    ¡°How do you know?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°There are several things. First, there is the fact that the generators¡¯ thermodynamics were modified.¡±


    ¡°But couldn¡¯t Proust have finished training someone to do that?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°According to his papers, Proust started training the two newest members within the last six months, not enough time for them to develop that ability.¡±


    ¡°What else?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Think about it; why else would Proust send someone to make sure it was safe to enter Stranoff? He had no reason to think we knew about his deliveries. Only someone on the Council could have told him of our suspicions. And Claridee, did you tell Proust that Mason and I were with you?¡±


    She shook her head.


    ¡°Then how did he know that Mason and I would soon be there?¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s true,¡± speculated Claridee. ¡°It would have to be either Counselor Tranlee or Gorwold since both can modify thermodynamics.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it would be Gorwold,¡± declared Mason.


    ¡°How can we know for sure?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I asked for the information about Proust¡¯s deliveries,¡± explained Counselor Anklin. ¡°Gorwold only acquired his abilities two months ago. Therefore, if his deliveries began before that time, then Counselor Tranlee would have to be Proust¡¯s accomplice.¡±


    ¡°But it could take a week to get that information,¡± declared Claridee. ¡°What will we do until then?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, all we can do right now is wait,¡± he answered in a troubled tone. ¡°In the meantime,¡± he continued, sounding more positive. ¡°Mason and I have some training to attend to. After all, he still has a few gaps that need filling in.¡±


    ¡°Counselor Anklin,¡± Mason asked when they sat down in the training room, ¡°will you teach me how to do what you did with the doorway?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I think it¡¯s about time you learned that skill. It¡¯s similar to how you observe whether people have the ability to modify scientific laws. However, you can only identify modifications corresponding to your own area of scientific specialization.¡±


    He picked up a block from the table before continuing. ¡°You must first visualize the object you wish to investigate. Then you need to concentrate on the object and merge it with itself.¡±


    Mason was confused.


    ¡°Merge something with itself?¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded.


    ¡°Think of the object as a soft rubber ball. If you apply force to it, you¡¯ll start to compress it, or in other words, merge it with itself. When you¡¯ve visualized the object, try and compress it in your mind. This will reveal the modified scientific laws.¡±


    ¡°So if I were to do this to say, a transport, would it affect how it can float?¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°No, this process only reveals what modifications have been made, it doesn¡¯t actually affect the modifications in any way. Do you think you¡¯re ready to give it a try?¡±


    He went over everything in his mind and thought he understood what he needed to do. ¡°Yes, I think I am.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave him a smile. ¡°That¡¯s the spirit.¡± He put the block down and concentrated on it.


    ¡°Okay, tell me what modifications I¡¯ve made to the block.¡±


    Mason concentrated on it, but it took him a few tries before he was successful. As the equations formed in his mind he called out the modifications he saw.


    ¡°The gravity was increased by a factor of two and the relationship between kinetic and potential energy was changed so potential energy now equals four times the kinetic energy.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s correct Mr. Grant. Well done. Let¡¯s try a few more.¡±


    The Counselor brought several more objects over to the table and concentrated on them. Mason was able to identify the modifications made to each of them.


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed. You got every modification correct.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help but feel a small swell of pride at having mastered this new ability so quickly.


    Counselor Anklin gave a broad grin. ¡°Well that¡¯s one less gap to fill. Only a few hundred more.¡±


    ¡°A few hundred,¡± gasped Mason, all pride suddenly gone.


    Counselor Anklin burst out laughing. ¡°I¡¯m only joking my boy. Don¡¯t tell me recognizing a joke is another gap we need to fill.¡±


    At first he felt a bit foolish, but seeing Counselor Anklin¡¯s smile, couldn¡¯t help but smile himself.


    ¡°I hope not,¡± replied Mason with a laugh. ¡°I¡¯ve already got enough catching up to do.¡±


    The next week seemed to drag on as they anxiously awaited the reports from the equatorial settlements. The three of them were together in the library when word finally came that the transports had returned. Hurrying to the Council chambers, they found Counselor Janice alone reading through a stack of papers. She looked up as they entered.


    ¡°Proust has delivered equipment to fifteen different settlements,¡± she reported. ¡°Most of the equipment was made up of generators, electric motors, and light bulbs.¡± Flipping through the papers she continued. ¡°It looks like the deliveries started about three months ago.¡±


    The three of them looked at one another. Based on this timing, Mason knew that they were all thinking the same thing, Counselor Tranlee had to be Proust¡¯s accomplice.

 Chapter Thirteen: Attack

    Counselor Anklin, Mason, and Claridee walked back to the training room, careful not to say anything until they were alone.


    ¡°Proust must have some way of contacting Tranlee and when we find it, it¡¯ll lead us to him,¡± observed Counselor Anklin. ¡°But first, we need to make sure that Proust can only contact Tranlee when we want him to.¡±


    Claridee was assigned to work with Counselor Tranlee to learn more about the Council¡¯s work. Counselor Anklin suddenly found Mason¡¯s thermodynamics knowledge lacking and increased his number of lessons with her. There also seemed to be a sudden increase in Council meetings where Counselor Tranlee¡¯s presence was required. She even became a frequent guest at meals in the training quarters.


    Mason had no trouble believing Counselor Tranlee was helping Proust. Except when teaching him thermodynamics, she never seemed to want to talk to him. When invited to dinner, she¡¯d sit near Claridee and speak to her and Counselor Anklin while ignoring Mason. Although she¡¯d never treated him harshly, in every other way Counselor Tranlee reminded Mason of Proust.


    At night, Mason and Claridee took shifts watching Counselor Tranlee¡¯s quarters from a nearby storage room. They were to inform Counselor Anklin immediately if they heard or saw any signs of a doorway being opened.


    This went on for a week and the lack of sleep and success took its toll on the three of them. Mason began to wonder if Counselor Anklin might be wrong about another Counselor helping Proust.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand it,¡± commented Counselor Anklin when the three of them met in the training room. ¡°Proust should have tried to contact Tranlee by now.¡±


    ¡°Only if she¡¯s actually working with him,¡± grumbled Mason.


    Counselor Anklin answered in a voice laced with uncharacteristic impatience.


    ¡°You know everything I know. What else could explain all those facts?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a week and nothing,¡± countered Mason.


    ¡°I know, I know.¡± replied Counselor Anklin. ¡°But if the deliveries started three months ago it has to be her.¡±


    Mason had a sudden thought. ¡°We¡¯re basing that on the summary Counselor Janice gave us. Maybe we should look at the actual reports.¡±


    Counsel Anklin considered Mason¡¯s suggestion.


    ¡°The reports should be in the Council chambers. I¡¯ll be right back.¡±


    The two trainees sat together quietly, Mason just enjoying being with Claridee as they waited for Counselor Anklin to return. Counselor Anklin soon returned, holding a thick pile of papers.


    ¡°Here¡¯s everything I could find.¡± He dropped the pile of papers on the table. ¡°Let¡¯s go through these.¡±


    Of the equipment deliveries, only five occurred more than two months ago. Mason noticed something odd about them.


    ¡°Look, these are almost identical.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± asked Claridee rubbing her eyes.


    He spread the papers out. ¡°Each delivery includes only light bulbs and a single generator.¡± Counselor Anklin leaned forward as he continued. ¡°The more recent deliveries are much more varied; anywhere from one to three motors and generators along with light bulbs and electrical components.¡±


    Claridee scanned the papers she was holding. ¡°You¡¯re right, it¡¯s almost as if the earlier deliveries were meant to stand out.¡±


    Counselor Anklin suddenly stood up. ¡°Something¡¯s not right here. I think we need to take a look at those generators.¡± He picked up one of the pages and pointed at Mason. ¡°Grab some jackets, you and I are going to Entlurn.¡±


    ¡°What about me?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°I have something else I need you to do,¡± declared Counselor Anklin. ¡°While we¡¯re gone I want you to keep an eye on Counselor Gorwold.¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Of course,¡± but hesitated before continuing. ¡°Do you mind if I ask why? I didn¡¯t think we suspected Gorwold.¡±


    He looked at her grimly. ¡°That¡¯s what we¡¯re trying to find out.¡±


    As Mason and Counselor Anklin were putting on their jackets, he gave some final instructions to Claridee. ¡°If anyone asks, tell them Mason and I are off training.¡±


    She gave a resolute nod. ¡°Got it.¡±


    Her look softened as she watched Mason zip up his jacket. When he was finished, she wrapped her arms around him and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. ¡°Be careful.¡±


    He hugged her back. ¡°You too.¡±


    Counselor Anklin turned away as he finished fastening his jacket. Mason hoped that they hadn¡¯t embarrassed him, but needn¡¯t have worried as Counselor Anklin called out in a mischievous voice. ¡°You two all done?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± answered Claridee sheepishly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go then Mr. Grant.¡±


    They arrived on a barren windswept plain not far from a settlement with about twenty buildings. ¡°This way,¡± called Counselor Anklin, walking briskly towards the settlement.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°To the generator building, since I don¡¯t want to waste time explaining our presence here.¡±


    The generator building looked much like other ones Mason had seen, but seemed much emptier since it only contained two generators. Both generators were covered in scratches and dents, but one looked slightly newer.


    Counselor Anklin bent over to examine the end of the newer generator. Curious, Mason asked. ¡°What are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°When a generator is salvaged, a marking is placed on it to show where it was found and when it was modified for service.¡± After a quick search Counselor Anklin called out. ¡°Ah, here it is.¡±


    He muttered to himself as he read the information.


    ¡°According to the marking, this generator was modified for service about eight months ago. That¡¯s strange, usually when a generator is modified for use it¡¯s put into service immediately.¡±


    ¡°Unless it was somehow put aside for someone¡¯s later use,¡± interjected Mason.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right. Proust made these earlier deliveries to deceive us.¡± There was deep sadness and concern on his face as he spoke. ¡°Counselor Gorwold is his ally on the Council. We¡¯ve got to get back to Bendroff!¡±The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    Mason couldn¡¯t believe it. The Gorwold he knew wouldn¡¯t betray his people. However, he couldn¡¯t argue with facts. Somehow Proust had gotten to Gorwold.


    Arriving on Bendroff¡¯s landing field, they hurried to the trainees¡¯ quarters. ¡°Claridee,¡± called out Counselor Anklin, but there was no response.


    ¡°She must be following Counselor Gorwold,¡± he muttered. ¡°Mason go to Gorwold¡¯s quarters to see if she¡¯s there. I¡¯ll go check the Council Chambers.¡±


    Mason ran to Counselor Gorwold¡¯s quarters and was about to knock on the door when it suddenly opened. Eriline, the young girl who brought meals for the trainees, stepped back in surprise, nearly dropping the dishes she was carrying.


    ¡°Trainee Mason,¡± she gasped. ¡°You startled me.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, I was looking for Counselor Gorwold,¡± he answered apologetically. ¡°Do you know where I could find him?¡±


    ¡°He was leaving as I returned to get his dishes,¡± she answered. ¡°Seemed to be in a hurry. He didn¡¯t even finish his dinner and it¡¯s one of his favorites.¡±


    ¡°Which way did he go?¡±


    ¡°That way,¡± she answered, inclining her head to the left.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± called Mason as he took off in the direction she¡¯d indicated.


    He asked each person he met if they¡¯d seen Counselor Gorwold or Claridee. Fortunately, some had and he soon found himself on an elevator heading down to the farming level.


    Getting off the elevator he found a group of farmers waiting to get on. ¡°Have any of you seen Counselor Gorwold or Trainee Claridee?¡± he asked. ¡°I saw Counselor Gorwold,¡± answered one of them. ¡°He was walking towards the far end of the fields.¡± Another added. ¡°I saw Claridee in the fields earlier. She seemed in a hurry.¡±


    Mason knew immediately where Counselor Gorwold was headed: the storage area where the remnants of the equipment used to originally build Bendroff were kept. Anything useful had been removed years ago, so it was often vacant. He only knew about it because Counselor Anklin had taken him there when he¡¯d asked about how Bendroff had been built.


    Approaching the storage area, he slowed down and listened. From one of the corridors Mason could hear the sound of someone running. Claridee! Came the panicked thought and he sprinted in the direction of the sound. Rounding a corner, he nearly crashed into her.


    ¡°Gorwold¡¯s with Proust right now,¡± she whispered excitedly. ¡°We¡¯ve got to get Counselor Anklin.¡±


    ¡°He was going to the Council Chambers,¡± Mason answered. ¡°You get him and I¡¯ll see if I can hear what they¡¯re talking about.¡±


    After telling Mason what room Gorwold had gone into and a quick, ¡°be careful,¡± Claridee took off to find Counselor Anklin. Mason hurried to the room and crept up to the door. The sound of angry voices could be heard.


    ¡°¡­ deceived me. I should never have listened to you,¡± cried Gorwold.


    ¡°How dare you talk that way to Counselor Proust,¡± snarled a female voice. ¡°After all he¡¯s given up for Myscreth.¡±


    ¡°Now, now, Darnia,¡± came Proust¡¯s smooth voice. ¡°Gorwold¡¯s clearly been under the influence of Anklin for too long and is confused. Once he returns with us, all will be right again.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere with you,¡± shot back Gorwold. ¡°Counselor Anklin was right all along and I¡¯m going to tell the Council everything I know.¡±


    ¡°I think that would be a mistake,¡± declared Proust with an eerie menace in his voice. ¡°However, if that¡¯s your decision. Come Darnia, it¡¯s time for us to leave.¡±


    There was the tell-tale humming sound of a doorway being opened followed a moment later by a scream and a thud. Without thinking, Mason flung the door open and saw Proust disappear into the purple doorway just before it faded away.


    Mason saw no sign of Gorwold, but the sound of a low moan drew his attention upward and what he saw made him feel sick. Twenty feet above the floor, Gorwold was pinned to the ceiling. The skin on his face was pulled tight forcing his eyes to remain open and giving him a grotesque countenance. He gazed down from the ceiling with terror filled eyes, but showed no evidence of comprehension. Mason couldn¡¯t even tell if he was alive.


    Mason had no idea how long it was before he could regain his composure enough to concentrate and bring Gorwold down to the floor. As he did so he could see that Proust had caused him to shoot upward at five times normal gravity. Gorwold was still alive, but at each labored breath, a hoarse, gurgling sound escaped his lips. Mason wanted to try and help Gorwold, but the injuries were far beyond his meager first aid skills. He needed a doctor. Mason raced back to the farming area and grabbed the first person he found, ordering them to immediately bring a doctor to the storage room.


    Going back to the room, Mason found Gorwold¡¯s breathing growing more labored. He sat beside Gorwold urging him to keep breathing while he anxiously waited for either the doctor or Counselor Anklin to show up. Mason felt helpless watching the life ebb from his friend.


    When the doctor finally arrived, she knelt beside Gorwold and began examining him. She looked grimly over at Mason. ¡°He¡¯s suffered multiple fractures, including a skull fracture, and has lost a great deal of blood.¡± Gorwold gave deep moans of pain whenever the doctor touched him.


    ¡°He¡¯s alive, but just barely. I¡¯ll have to get him to the hospital immediately.¡±


    By this time, a nurse had arrived with a gurney and behind them were Claridee and Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°Where ¡­¡± began Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°Over there,¡± answered Mason pointing over to where the doorway had been generated. Counselor Anklin immediately ran over to the wall and began concentrating.


    At the sight of Gorwold, Claridee rushed over to Mason. ¡°How ¡­¡±


    ¡°Proust,¡± muttered Mason angrily.


    Counselor Anklin continued his work as Mason and Claridee helped load Gorwold onto the gurney.


    ¡°If only I¡¯d gotten here sooner,¡± muttered Counselor Anklin, finally turning away from the wall.


    He walked over to the gurney and stared at Gorwold with a look of concern. ¡°Will he live Doctor?¡±


    ¡°Too early to tell.¡±


    Once the gurney had been wheeled away, Counselor Anklin looked over at Mason.


    ¡°How did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Gorwold told Proust he was going to tell the Council everything he knew,¡± answered Mason angrily, ¡°and Proust did this to him.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°I think this removes any doubt about Proust¡¯s true intentions. And if he finds out Gorwold¡¯s still alive ¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll try again,¡± finished Mason.


    The three of them walked in silence to the hospital to await word on Gorwold¡¯s condition. Except for the rough wooden furniture and doors, the hospital was very similar to ones Mason had seen on Earth. Although made of stone, the walls were painted a bright white and neatly printed signs showed room numbers and familiar department names. Even the wooden doors differed from what he¡¯d seen in the rest of Bendroff as they each had a small window, allowing a view of each room.


    As they waited, Mason went over everything he¡¯d heard.


    ¡°Darnia,¡± commented Counselor Anklin when Mason had finished. ¡°I¡¯d never come across her while searching for new Council candidates. Well at least we know her name if nothing else about her.¡±


    ¡°How could Proust do something like this to Gorwold?¡± growled Claridee heatedly.


    Counselor Anklin shook his head sadly. ¡°Proust has become a fanatic and will do whatever it takes to achieve his goal of reviving Myscreth¡¯s past greatness. And that makes it even more imperative that we stop him. Hopefully, Gorwold can give us the information we need to do that.¡±


    It was quite a while before the doctor came to see them.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been able to stop the bleeding and repair his broken bones, but he¡¯s still in a coma,¡± she informed Counselor Anklin gravely. ¡°There¡¯s no way to tell how long it will last.¡±


    After the doctor left, Counselor Anklin turned to the two trainees. ¡°I need the two of you to find the rest of the Council and bring them here. Don¡¯t say anything about Gorwold.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t long before the Council members had gathered in an empty office not far from Gorwold¡¯s room. The Counselor¡¯s sat in chairs around a small desk while Mason and Claridee stood near the door.


    ¡°What¡¯s this all about and why are we meeting here?¡± demanded Counselor Janice.


    ¡°Gorwold has been helping Proust,¡± revealed Counselor Anklin in a subdued voice.


    Shocked looks appeared on the faces of the other Counselors.


    ¡°Impossible,¡± declared Counselor Halrous shaking his head in disbelief.


    ¡°I wish it were,¡± replied Counselor Anklin, ¡°but Claridee discovered him meeting with Proust.¡±


    ¡°And where is Gorwold now?¡± demanded Counselor Janice.


    ¡°In a room down the hall. He told Proust he was through and was going to tell the Council everything. Proust tried to kill him and nearly succeeded.¡±


    ¡°Were you able to track Proust?¡± interrupted Counselor Tranlee.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I didn¡¯t get there in time.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s currently in a coma,¡± resumed Counselor Anklin, ¡°but is expected to live. I¡¯ve instructed the hospital to keep his presence here secret, but enough people already know he¡¯s here that there''s no guarantee Proust won¡¯t find out .¡±


    ¡°What do you propose?¡± asked Counselor Halrous.


    ¡°That we each take shifts guarding Gorwold in case Proust tries to complete his attempt on Gorwold¡¯s life.¡±


    ¡°Guarding a traitor,¡± scoffed Counselor Tranlee. ¡°I have better things to do.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s pretty harsh,¡± commented Counselor Halrous sounding disappointed. ¡°Besides, Gorwold said he¡¯d tell the Council everything he knows about Proust¡¯s plans.¡±


    Counselor Tranlee looked at the floor. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Halrous. The thought of Gorwold betraying the Council got the better of me I guess.¡±


    Counselor Halrous nodded. ¡°I can understand.¡±


    Before leaving the hospital, Mason went to see Gorwold and was shocked at the sight of the battered body lying there, hooked up to tubes and machines. It only made him angrier at Proust. If he ever had the chance, he¡¯d make Proust pay for what he¡¯d done.

 Chapter Fourteen: Revelations and Second Chances

    As the Council waited for Counselor Gorwold to recover, reports started coming in from equatorial settlements that generators, motors and other equipment had started appearing overnight. Apparently Proust had decided it was too dangerous to openly deliver equipment during the day. Even more troubling were reports that people in the equatorial settlements were now beginning to think of Proust as their benefactor.


    ¡°They¡¯re starting to think he¡¯s Santa Claus,¡± muttered Mason as he heard the reports.


    ¡°Santa Claus?¡± asked Claridee.


    Mason put a hand to his forehead, frustrated with himself for forgetting that he wasn¡¯t on Earth anymore. He tried to explain. ¡°Santa Claus is a person who brings presents to children at Christmas. He does it at night and no one is supposed to see him.¡±


    She still seemed confused. ¡°And Christmas?¡± she asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s one of Earth¡¯s holidays,¡± he explained.


    ¡°Oh I¡¯ve heard of those,¡± she answered with a smile. ¡°Myscreth used to have them before the war.¡±


    Gorwold remained in a coma for nearly two weeks. During this time, there was always a member of the Council outside his door, but Proust made no further attempts against him. Within a few days of coming out of his coma, the doctors deemed Gorwold strong enough to appear before the Council.


    Counselor Anklin and the other Council members were seated on the stage at the front of the chamber while Mason and Claridee sat at the end of the front row. A strong sense of anticipation pervaded the room.


    Everyone looked to the back of the room when the door opened. An attendant pushed Gorwold¡¯s wheelchair to the front of the chamber. He was still covered in bruises, and a large bandage covered the top of his head. Once the attendant had delivered Gorwold, he bowed to the Council members and left.


    Gorwold sat rigidly in his wheelchair looking at his hands, seemingly unable to face the Council.


    Speaking in a low voice he addressed the Council.


    ¡°I know words may not mean much, but everything I did, I believed was for the good of Myscreth. I now realize that I was wrong. I deeply apologize for everything I did.¡±


    He struggled to continue.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you everything I know about Counselor Proust¡¯s plans.¡±


    ¡°Please begin,¡± instructed Counselor Anklin and giving a pointed look at the other Council members added. ¡°We¡¯ll do our best to not interrupt you.¡±


    ¡°During the second year of my training,¡± began Gorwold. ¡°I worked a great deal with Counselor Proust. He was always friendly towards me and told me of his frustration with how slow the rebuilding of Myscreth was progressing.¡± He broke into a fit of coughing and it was awhile before he could continue. ¡°He¡¯d often tell me how sad it was that so many had to die because there were some on the Council who were too afraid to do more. At first I didn¡¯t say anything when he expressed this opinion, but in time, I told him that I was starting to feel the same way.¡±


    Breaking into another fit of coughing he asked. ¡°Could I have a glass of water please?¡±


    Taking a pitcher from the table Counselor Anklin poured some water into a cup and brought it down to him. Gorwold took a few sips while struggling to control his coughing. Once his coughing was under control, he looked up at Counselor Anklin and let out a weak. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    He resumed his statement. ¡°After this, Counselor Proust started to make allusions to certain ideas he had that would quickly revive Myscreth¡¯s former greatness. Without revealing any details, he said he knew a way to get much-needed equipment and workers to expedite the rebuilding of Myscreth. When I asked what it was, he responded, ¡®All in good time, Gorwold, all in good time.¡¯¡±


    As he spoke, his voice grew hoarser. ¡°One day when we were alone, Counselor Proust told me that he had exciting news, but made me promise to tell no one. The year before he¡¯d found a young orphan girl named Darnia, who possessed the ability to manipulate relativistic physics. I told him how pleased the Council would be to hear this, but he laughed and told me, ¡®they¡¯ll never accept her because she¡¯s only seventeen years old.¡¯¡±


    Gorwold¡¯s brow appeared furrowed in pain, but he still pressed forward with his tale. ¡°I asked Counselor Proust what he intended to do and he replied ¡®Intend? I¡¯ve already started training her along with a few others.¡¯ I was shocked and told him what he was doing was against our laws. I thought he¡¯d be angry with me, but instead, he gave me a look of pity. ¡®My dear Gorwold,¡¯ he said, ¡®you¡¯ve been tricked by Anklin and the others. Don¡¯t you see, they¡¯re keeping Myscreth from achieving its former glory just because they don¡¯t want to share their power. I¡¯m the only one truly fighting for our people.¡¯¡± He looked down and in a low voice confessed, ¡°and I believed him.¡±


    There was a long pause before he could continue. ¡°About nine months ago Counselor Proust told me he¡¯d finished training Darnia and the others. He mentioned nothing else about this until the night after I¡¯d become capable of manipulating scientific laws. That night he came to my quarters and ordered me to come with him. I followed him to the old storage area where he led me to one of the vacant rooms. There he introduced me to Darnia. Before I could say a word, the wall behind me burst into a bright purple light and Counselor Proust told me to go through. I found myself in the middle of a small settlement. It was night, so I couldn¡¯t see much, but it was definitely in a valley and must have been near the equator since it wasn¡¯t bitterly cold.¡±Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    ¡°What else can you tell us about this place,¡± demanded Counselor Tranlee.


    Gorwold cringed at the ferocity of Counselor Tranlee¡¯s question. ¡°Not much. It was made up of about ten buildings near the entrance of a large cave.¡± He broke into another fit of coughing as he finished.


    Counselor Anklin looked over at Counselor Tranlee reproachfully. ¡°No need to be so rough, Gorwold has willingly offered to tell us all he knows.¡±


    Counselor Tranlee glared at Gorwold. ¡°As if he has any choice.¡±


    Counselor Anklin turned back to Gorwold, waiting until his coughing had subsided. ¡°Please continue.¡±


    ¡°I asked Counselor Proust where we were. He said that Bendroff would be too confining for his plans, so had arranged for those loyal to him a build the settlement of their own. Inside the cave, I couldn¡¯t believe what I saw; stacks of generators, motors and other equipment. When I asked where he¡¯d gotten it all from, he smiled and said. ¡®Earth. After all, why should the sons and daughters of Myscreth suffer while Earth has plenty?¡¯ He then pointed at the equipment and told me, ¡®this is just the beginning. To rebuild Myscreth more workers will be needed and the people of Earth, although inferior in many ways, should make excellent laborers.¡¯¡±


    Mason seethed when he heard this. It wasn¡¯t workers Proust wanted, but slaves. Now, more than ever, he knew Proust had to be stopped.


    Gorwold continued speaking while Mason dwelled on Proust. ¡°¡­ there. He told me to perform the required thermodynamic modifications to the generators so they could be delivered to our people. I didn¡¯t see any harm in doing that, so I set to work. As I had just obtained my abilities, I couldn¡¯t modify many generators, but Counselor Proust seemed satisfied with my efforts. Before returning me to Bendroff that night, he asked me to look over the equipment requests sent to the Council and inform him of which settlements needed equipment.¡±


    After taking a few more sips from his cup, he continued. ¡°Over the next few weeks, Counselor Proust would intermittently show up at my quarters and take me back to the settlement to modify more generators. After Counselor Proust fled Bendroff, I had no idea what to expect and was afraid that my helping him would be discovered. Three days after he left, I found a note on the floor of my quarters which read, ¡®Same place, after dinner. Proust.¡¯ I waited in the same room as always when he and Darnia appeared. Without saying a word, Darnia opened a doorway and Counselor Proust pushed me through.¡±


    ¡°Once in the settlement Counselor Proust apologized for his abruptness, explaining that he couldn¡¯t risk being caught. However, I was starting to doubt whether or not I was doing the right thing by helping him.¡± He cocked his head to one side as if suddenly realizing something. ¡°Thinking about it now, he must have sensed my doubt because he asked me if Counselor Anklin and Mason were all right. When I told him they were, he seemed relieved and told me he¡¯d never meant to hurt them, only keep them from following him.¡±


    Gorwold paused to catch his breath and it was clearly a strain for him to go on. ¡°As I was modifying some additional generators, I realized that if the Council determined that the generators started being delivered right after I could manipulate thermodynamics, I¡¯d be discovered. When I expressed this concern to Counselor Proust, he explained that he¡¯d already delivered some Myscrethian equipment to settlements so it would look like the deliveries started before I could use my abilities.¡±


    He broke into a coughing fit. As the coughing subsided Counselor Janice, looking uncomfortable, asked. ¡°Is there anything else?¡±


    ¡°Just one more thing.¡± he continued in a resigned voice. ¡°Before I returned to Bendroff, Counselor Proust asked me to keep him informed of the Council¡¯s actions in searching for him and I did as he asked.¡±


    Counselor Janice followed up her previous question, her tone now hard. ¡°How did you get Proust the information he requested?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d always meet in the same room and each time we met, he¡¯d set the time for a future meeting. He told me if I wasn¡¯t there on time, he¡¯d leave immediately.¡±


    ¡°And your last meeting?¡± asked Counselor Halrous.


    His voice could barely be heard as he responded. ¡°I finally realized that Proust had been deceiving me and what he was doing would not help Myscreth. I told him that I would tell the Council everything I knew. Last thing I remember after that was waking up in the hospital.¡±


    The long discourse had exhausted Gorwold, but the Council still had further questions for him.


    ¡°What can you tell us about the others that Proust has trained?¡± prodded Counselor Tranlee harshly.


    He seemed taken aback by Counselor Tranlee¡¯s tone as he struggled to answer. ¡°In addition to Darnia, Glorine, and Thurold, there¡¯s Nornol who can manipulate structural mechanics. The two newer trainees are Betrine and Klarth, whose areas of science are thermodynamics and electrodynamics. They¡¯re the ones who accompany Proust when he delivers equipment to the settlements.¡±


    The Council had more questions, but Counselor Anklin held up a hand. ¡°I think that¡¯s enough questions for now.¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± responded Counselor Janice, ¡°but we need to decide what¡¯s to be done with Gorwold.¡± She didn¡¯t look at him as she spoke. ¡°Even if he were stripped of his Councilship, he can¡¯t be allowed to move freely among the population. Our only option would be to send him into exile.¡±


    Seeing how miserable Gorwold looked broke Mason¡¯s heart. He could think of nothing crueler than forcing someone to leave everything they¡¯ve ever known.


    ¡°Wait!¡± he cried standing up. He walked over to Gorwold.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this to him, it¡¯s not right. His only mistake was trusting Proust. All he wanted to do was help the people of Myscreth. I heard him stand up to Proust and tell him he was going to tell the Council everything.¡±


    Gorwold looked up at Mason, gratitude evident in his eyes.


    ¡°I think what Trainee Mason said makes a great deal of sense,¡± declared Counselor Anklin. ¡°Gorwold¡¯s remorse is evident. He made a mistake, a serious one, but I believe he can still be a useful member of the Council.¡±


    ¡°How can we trust him after what he¡¯s done?¡± argued Counselor Tranlee.


    ¡°We all make mistakes,¡± countered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Should we trust no one?¡±


    ¡°But he betrayed us,¡± yelled Counselor Tranlee, pounding her fist on the table.


    ¡°Because Proust convinced him to, Tranlee,¡± reminded Counselor Halrous in a subdued voice.


    Counselor Tranlee looked at the other Council members. ¡°Well, it seems the Council has made their decision and who am I to disagree?¡± she declared sarcastically.


    ¡°Very well then,¡± noted Counselor Janice. ¡°It is the Council¡¯s decision that no further action will be taken against Counselor Gorwold. When his injuries permit, he will be welcomed back as a lawful member of this Council.¡±


    Mason could see Counselor Gorwold¡¯s countenance undergo a wonderful transformation as the decision was announced; misery and guilt were replaced with gratitude.


    ¡°Thank you for having faith enough to give me another chance,¡± declared Counselor Gorwold in a suddenly strong voice. ¡°What I did will live with me for the rest of my life, but you¡¯ve given me the opportunity to make up for the harm I¡¯ve caused.¡±


    Mason and Claridee stood and applauded as Counselor Gorwold finished his statement. Counselors Anklin, Janice, and Halrous joined them. However, Counselor Tranlee remained seated, glaring as the newly reinstated Council member was returned to the hospital.

 Chapter Fifteen: Hearts and Minds

    Counselor Anklin stood up to leave.


    ¡°We¡¯re not quite done Anklin,¡± declared Counselor Janice. ¡°There¡¯s another matter we need to discuss.¡±


    ¡°What other matter?¡±


    Counselor Janice gave a reluctant sigh and picked up a pile of papers. ¡°Since we¡¯ve focused so much attention on finding Proust, a backlog of requests for Council assistance has been piling up.¡±


    ¡°Our first priority must be finding Proust,¡± argued Counselor Anklin. ¡°If he isn¡¯t stopped, there¡¯s no telling how much damage he could do to Myscreth.¡±


    Counselor Halrous shook his head. ¡°It may already be too late Anklin. Proust¡¯s providing what our people need right now while the Council isn¡¯t. I¡¯ve recently spoken to some friends visiting from the equatorial settlements and it¡¯s even worse than we¡¯ve been told. Some are starting to think of Proust and his group as the true Council.¡±


    ¡°You see Anklin; this is more than a battle against Proust,¡± explained Counselor Janice. ¡°We¡¯re fighting for the hearts and minds of the people of Myscreth. If we continue to neglect our responsibility to aid them, they¡¯ll turn to Proust. To keep this from happening, we have to concentrate on showing our people that the Council is here to serve them.¡±


    Although clearly not pleased, Counselor Anklin seemed resigned to the situation. ¡°I still think finding Proust should be our highest priority, but I understand the Council¡¯s concerns. All I ask is that all Council members and trainees keep their eyes open for any sign of Proust.¡±


    Counselor Janice looked at the other Council members. ¡°I think we can agree to that Anklin.¡± She then turned to address Claridee.


    ¡°Trainee Claridee, you¡¯ll be travelling with Counselor Halrous to continue your training with him.¡±


    Claridee clapped her hands together and with a large smile replied. ¡°Thank you Counselor Janice.¡±


    Counselor Janice then turned to Mason.


    ¡°Trainee Mason, based on Counselor Anklin¡¯s recommendation, the Council has decided that you will be allowed to use your abilities in the field while under the direct supervision of a Council member.¡± Mason thought he saw a slight smile. ¡°You¡¯ll be travelling with me.¡±


    Each Council member was assigned multiple tasks which would keep them away from Bendroff for several weeks. They¡¯d all be leaving early the next day.


    Mason had hoped to walk back to the trainee¡¯s quarters with Claridee, but Counselor Anklin intercepted him outside the Council Chamber.


    ¡°There¡¯s one last thing you need to learn before you leave,¡± he said before leading the way to the training room.


    Once they¡¯d sat down at the table, Counselor Anklin placed a block between them. ¡°Make the block float upward at 1 g,¡± he ordered.


    Mason concentrated on the block and soon had the images of the block and modified gravitational equation in his mind. However, as he tried to merge them, some force seemed to be keeping them apart.


    ¡°Concentrate harder,¡± urged Counselor Anklin.


    Mason nodded and increased his concentration. Suddenly as if a dam had burst, the equation and block merged and a surge of power went through Mason. He heard a thud as the block hit the ceiling.


    What happened?¡± asked Mason looking up at the block.


    ¡°I was fighting you,¡± explained Counselor Anklin. ¡°When you manipulate the scientific laws of an object, if you continue to concentrate on it, you can prevent others from changing the manipulation you¡¯ve performed.¡±


    ¡°But how ¡­¡± began Mason.


    ¡°How did you overcome my resistance?¡± finished Counselor Anklin. ¡°Quite simply because your abilities are stronger than mine. Whoever has the stronger ability will always win this type of battle.¡±


    After dinner, Mason and Claridee took a walk over to one of the balconies overlooking the farming area. They just stood there in silence with Claridee resting her head on Mason¡¯s shoulder. As much as he wanted to be with Claridee, he¡¯d learned that Council duties took priority over everything else. However, any time spent with Claridee made Mason appreciate Professor Anklin¡¯s surprise visit even more.


    The next morning, Mason and Claridee grabbed their packs and walked to the transport hanger together. They said little, having already made their goodbyes in the privacy of the trainee¡¯s quarters. Before boarding their transports they shared a long goodbye hug.


    Boarding the transport, Mason saw that a group of eight workers was also travelling with them. He settled into a seat by Counselor Janice and soon the transport was heading for their first destination: the equatorial settlement of Mastrion.


    Mason and Counselor Janice spent most of the journey sharing their memories of Earth. Although never far from their thoughts, their fears about what Proust might do there went unspoken.


    It was nearly evening when they arrived in Mastrion. Leaving the transport, Mason looked around and saw a small settlement of about thirty buildings. The surrounding mountains provided protection from the cold winds that extended over most of Myscreth. The resulting climate was much milder than he¡¯d expected.


    They were met by a small group from the settlement. Counselor Janice and Mason approached the group, but before they could speak a large middle aged man with short brown hair stepped forward and without bowing, addressed them brusquely.


    ¡°Well it¡¯s about time you got here. We¡¯ve been asking for your help for several months now.¡±


    Mason was taken aback by the man¡¯s behavior, but Counselor Janice strode up to him.


    ¡°I am Counselor Janice and this is Trainee Mason. I apologize for the delay, but we came as quickly as we could. Now who are you?¡±


    The man stood taller and glared at the Counselor.


    ¡°I¡¯m Leader Glenrol. Now if you¡¯ll excuse me, I have work to do. These men will show you to your quarters, but I wouldn¡¯t expect anything fancy.¡±


    With that, he stalked off towards the settlement.


    The group was shown to a building which reminded Mason of a cabin from when he went to summer camp. It contained a large room set up to be a dining area and two other rooms filled with rough looking beds. A modest dinner was served shortly after they arrived. After the meal, everyone headed to bed to be well rested for the busy day ahead.


    After a scant breakfast the next morning, the group began their work. They unloaded a generator, a crate of light bulbs and fixtures, a large spool of wire, and the wall and roof sections for four new buildings from the transport. Mason manipulated the gravity of the equipment to make it easier to move.


    Leader Glenrol came to watch the transport being unloaded and Mason could quickly see that he wasn¡¯t happy.


    ¡°We asked for two generators, why is there only one?¡± he demanded of Counselor Janice.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    Counselor Janice appeared annoyed, but responded in a calm voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Leader Glenrol, but this is all that¡¯s available right now. We¡¯ll get you the additional generator when we can.¡±


    His face grew red and he replied in a furious tone.


    ¡°That¡¯s not good enough! I¡¯ve heard that other settlements have gotten everything they¡¯ve needed from Counselor Proust. Why must we go without?¡±


    Having never seen anyone on Myscreth show such disrespect towards a Council member, Mason expected Counselor Janice to explode in anger, but she just stood there.


    ¡°Answer me! Why must we go without?¡±


    Mason could tell she was trying to restrain her anger.


    ¡°Proust¡¯s a criminal. The equipment he¡¯s been providing was stolen.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care where the stuff comes from,¡± he cried. ¡°I only know that the people in my settlement need it.¡±


    Leader Glenrol stormed off, muttering to himself. Watching him go, Mason remembered Counselor Anklin¡¯s words after they¡¯d found Claridee. Unfortunately, here on Myscreth we don¡¯t always have the luxury of putting ethics ahead of survival. He now understood how true those words were.


    Unloading the transport was just the beginning of a long hard day of work. Mason used his abilities to help while Counselor Janice kept a close eye on him. He manipulated the generator and building sections to make them easier to move and levitated the roofs as Counselor Anklin had done in Dafrum. Each time Mason used his abilities, the wonderful sensation of power flowed through his body leaving him feeling euphoric. However, the good feelings were quickly replaced with guilt for enjoying the sensation so much.


    The work continued throughout the day with only a short break for lunch. As the last building was completed, a cheer broke out from the workers. Everyone was tired and hungry and looked forward to the customary feast provided by the settlement. However, to everyone¡¯s disappointment, there was no feast. Instead a dinner which was really more of a snack was provided. Based on Leader Glenrol¡¯s earlier behavior, Mason wasn¡¯t too surprised.


    After dinner everyone headed to bed, exhausted from the day¡¯s activities. However, hunger and thoughts of missing Claridee kept Mason from sleeping and he decided to go for a walk. He wandered around the settlement and eventually made his way to one of the farming areas. As he stared at the farming area illuminated by the grow lights he thought about the night that he and Claridee had first kissed. At last, stifling a yawn, he headed back to the guest quarters.


    On the way back, he heard the sound of murmured voices. Although curious, he figured it was just some people out for a walk. However, a sudden humming made him to start running towards the source.


    Peering around the corner of a building Mason¡¯s heart jumped when he saw a collection of equipment illuminated by the purple light of a doorway into which a young woman with long dark hair, clearly Darnia, had just entered. Mason saw a man and woman preparing to follow. He knew they had to be Klarth and Betrine, Proust''s two trainees.


    Here''s my chance to capture one of Proust''s followers, he thought impulsively. Betrine had just entered the doorway and Klarth was about to do so. Deciding it was too good an opportunity to pass up, he concentrated on Klarth''s shoes and set their friction to zero. As he merged the shoes and modified frictional equation in his mind, Klarth''s feet slipped out from under him as if he''d stepped on a sheet of ice. With a yell, he fell backwards and hit the ground hard. As he did so, the doorway disappeared


    Mason rushed over and found Klarth unconscious. He listened for anyone coming, but no one had seemed to hear the scream. Modifying Klarth¡¯s gravity so that he was essentially weightless, Mason grabbed him by the feet and dragged him through the air to the guest quarters.


    Once inside, Mason lowered him to the floor of the dining area and increased the gravity of his clothing so he¡¯d be unable to move. He went to get Counselor Janice.


    He knocked on the door of the women¡¯s bedroom and waited, but heard no one stirring. He knocked louder and his efforts were soon rewarded when the door opened a crack. Lelia, one of the female workers looked out at Mason.


    ¡°Trainee Mason, what is it?¡±


    ¡°I need to speak with Counselor Janice immediately.¡±


    Lelia closed the door and soon Counselor Janice appeared. She was wrapped in a robe and still seemed half asleep. Through bleary eyes she asked. ¡°What is it Mason?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s easier to show you.¡±


    He brought her to the dining area where the sight of a man lying on the floor brought instant wakefulness.


    ¡°What¡¯ve you done?¡±


    Mason couldn¡¯t help but feel proud as he pointed at the man. ¡°That¡¯s Klarth. While I was out walking, I saw him, Darnia and Betrine delivering equipment. I was able to capture him once the others had left.¡±


    Counselor Janice examined the man lying on the floor. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look like you injured him too badly, but you should have gotten me before using your abilities.¡±


    Feeling deflated, Mason tried to not sound defensive. ¡°I had no choice, he was just about to escape.¡±


    As they were speaking, Klarth started to regain consciousness. He tried to stand, but cried out when he found he couldn¡¯t move.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Where am I?¡±


    Counselor Janice looked down at him, the disdain on her face apparent.


    ¡°I¡¯m Counselor Janice and this is Trainee Mason. Right now, you¡¯re on the floor of our dining area.¡±


    There was a brief look of terror, but it was quickly replaced by a composed expression.


    ¡°I should have realized,¡± he responded condescendingly. ¡°Counselor Proust warned us about you and the other Council members.¡± He then gave a seething look at Mason. ¡°And I¡¯ve heard all about you, Trainee Mason.¡±


    ¡°Where is Proust now?¡± asked Mason.


    Klarth glared at him angrily. ¡°That¡¯s Counselor Proust. Show a little respect to those better than you.¡±


    Mason shrugged his shoulders, deciding it¡¯d be better not to antagonize Klarth. ¡°Okay then, where is Counselor Proust?¡±


    Klarth flashed a mischievous smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯s somewhere nearby.¡±


    Mason could tell Counselor Janice was losing patience with Klarth¡¯s flippant attitude as she crossly questioned him.


    ¡°Where does Counselor Proust train you?¡±


    He turned his head and looked at the wall. Counselor Janice repeated her question, but he remained silent. At last she threw up her hands. ¡°You may not answer my questions now, but you will once you¡¯re back in Bendroff.¡±


    He looked at her with contempt. ¡°Counselor Proust will never allow that to happen.¡±


    Counselor Janice motioned Mason to join her at the far end of the dining area where they wouldn¡¯t be overheard. She spoke to him in a low voice.


    ¡°I think we have to assume that Proust will try and rescue Klarth. It would be best if we leave Mastrion immediately before he has a chance to act.¡± As she turned towards the woman¡¯s bedroom, she looked back at him. ¡°It might be a good idea to gag him so he doesn¡¯t wake the settlement.¡±


    Mason nodded and tried to hide a smile.


    After gagging Klarth, he helped Counselor Janice quietly wake the others, telling them to make preparations to leave. Soon they were ready to head to the transport. Mason had workers hoist Klarth onto a pallet so they could carry him to the transport. It was still dark and the streets of the settlement were empty. However, about thirty feet from the transport Leader Glenrol and a group of ten men awaited them.


    ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± barked Counselor Janice.


    Leader Glenrol stepped forward with an almost gleeful expression.


    ¡°A little while ago I had a visit from Counselor Proust. He was kind enough to tell me about the equipment he¡¯d left for us. He also mentioned that one of his workers had gone missing and asked if I knew anything about it. When I told him that maybe he should check with you, he was most upset. He told me all about you and Trainee Mason. You¡¯re not even from Myscreth,¡± he pointed at Counselor Janice, ¡°but aliens who seek to rule over us.¡±


    There were angry murmurs from the crowd of men behind him.


    Mason stepped forward.


    ¡°That¡¯s not true! We¡¯re here on Myscreth because we want to help you.¡±


    Leader Glenrol laughed.


    ¡°Oh, you want to help, do you? All we get from you is excuses, but Counselor Proust gave us what we needed.¡±


    ¡°And what about the new buildings we provided? Is that an excuse?¡± retorted Mason.


    ¡°Crumbs, that¡¯s all that is. Generators and motors are what we need most and Counselor Proust has given them to us.¡±


    Mason glanced over at Counselor Janice.


    In an annoyed tone, she addressed Leader Glenrol.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. Now get out of our way, we¡¯ve important business elsewhere.¡±


    Neither he nor the men with him moved.


    ¡°Well there¡¯s still the question of Counselor Proust¡¯s missing man. He asked me to find him and I think you might be trying to take him with you.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡± replied Counselor Janice ¡°he¡¯s helped Counselor Proust break the law and must be taken to Bendroff.¡±


    Leader Glenrol and his men menacingly took a step towards Counselor Janice¡¯s party. He spoke in a threatening tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t allow that. I promised Counselor Proust that I¡¯d get his man back. I don¡¯t want to hurt anyone, so it¡¯d be best if you gave us the man and left.¡±


    Both groups stood there in silence until Leader Glenrol started leading his men forward. Mason impatiently waited for Counselor Janice to give orders to defend themselves, but she remained silent. At last he could wait no longer and in exasperation asked. ¡°What are we waiting for? We¡¯ve got to defend ourselves. They¡¯re no match for¡­¡±


    Realizing what he was saying, he stopped. He looked self-consciously at Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I should know better.¡±


    She gave him a small smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you understand.¡±


    She called out to Leader Glenrol.


    ¡°Stop! We¡¯ll give you Proust¡¯s man.¡±


    Mason hated giving up Klarth, but realized they had no choice. Their abilities couldn¡¯t be used against the people of Myscreth. Even though Leader Glenrol and his people had been beguiled by Proust, they were still innocent bystanders.


    Counselor Janice ordered the workers to bring Klarth forward and had Mason return his clothing to their normal state so he could move. Mason thought he saw Counselor Janice concentrating as well, but had no idea why. As Klarth took off his gag and stood up, he looked over at Mason and Counselor Janice and in a mocking tone called out.


    ¡°I told you Counselor Proust would take care of me.¡±


    And in a low threatening voice he added.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that in time, he¡¯ll take care of you too.¡±

 Chapter Sixteen: Treachery

    Mason, Counselor Janice, and the workers boarded the transport. Instead of the usual laughing and talking Mason had grown used to hearing, there was silence. Shortly after taking off, Counselor Janice got up and spoke with the pilot. Returning to her seat, she didn¡¯t say a word and just stared out the window.


    Mason didn¡¯t mind, he was in no mood to talk. Proust had outsmarted them again. Now that the people of Myscreth were starting to follow him, there appeared to be no way to stop him. His despair and lack of sleep eventually caused him to doze off.


    When he woke up, he looked out the window and in the dim morning light saw barren grey ground below them. Their next destination, Pranline, was also near the equator, so he¡¯d expected to see some vegetation. Puzzled he turned to Counselor Janice.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to Pranline?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s been a change of plans¡± she replied. ¡°We¡¯re going to the city of Dreardor.¡±


    Mason tried to remember if he¡¯d ever heard of Dreardor, but nothing came to mind. ¡°I¡¯m not familiar with Dreardor, what¡¯s it like?¡±


    ¡°Dreardor is an underground city located in the southern hemisphere of Myscreth. It¡¯s similar to Bendroff, but not quite as large. We should be there shortly.¡±


    ¡°Why are we going there?¡±


    ¡°Because that¡¯s where I expect to find Counselor Anklin.¡±


    He was about to ask why they were meeting up with Counselor Anklin, when he noticed that her demeanor seemed much more positive than it had earlier.


    She seemed to sense his confusion and looked over at him with a smile.


    ¡°You know Mason, there is actually some overlap between electrodynamics and relativistic physics,¡± she said in a low voice. ¡°In fact, theoretically one could modify the electrodynamics of an object such that if it passes through a doorway it will cause the imprint of the modifications made to generate the doorway last indefinitely.¡±


    At first he didn¡¯t understand what she meant, but then it came to him. ¡°You modified Klarth so he¡¯d become a human tracking beacon,¡± he whispered back excitedly.


    She gave a broad smile. ¡°His clothes actually, but you¡¯ve got the right idea.¡±


    ¡°You mean that Counselor Anklin could still track Proust?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my hope. We¡¯ll have to wait for Counselor Anklin to see if it worked. Based on his schedule, he should be in the city of Dreardor.¡±


    He now realized what she¡¯d been doing while he was returning Klarth¡¯s clothing back to normal. Maybe Proust didn¡¯t beat them this time after all.


    Having left Mastrion before dawn, it was early afternoon when they reached Dreardor. Immediately upon their arrival, Counselor Janice sent word to the city leaders that she¡¯d arrived.


    A small group of leaders soon gathered outside the transport. Noticing them, she turned to Mason. ¡°Let¡¯s see what kind of reception we get here.¡±


    As they exited the transport, the leaders bowed and an older woman stepped forward from the group. ¡°Welcome Counselor Janice, it¡¯s an honor to welcome you to Dreardor,¡± she said in a respectful tone. ¡°I am Leader Shorline.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± replied Counselor Janice. She gestured towards Mason. ¡°This is Trainee Mason.¡±


    The entire group of city leaders bowed once again. ¡°And what brings you to Dreardor?¡±


    ¡°We are here to confer with Counselor Anklin, is he still here?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he¡¯s in one of our lower levels, helping to excavate an expansion of our farming areas. Please allow us to take you to him.¡±


    Counselor Janice nodded. ¡°That would be very helpful. And could you please also arrange quarters for our workers?¡±


    Leader Shorline nodded. ¡°Of course,¡± and gestured to one of the other leaders.


    Counselor Janice and Mason followed the city leaders. After taking the elevator to the city¡¯s lowest level, they made their way to the far end of the fields. There they saw Counselor Anklin standing by a small catapult, which was aimed at the far wall. The catapult was identical to the one Proust has used in Langtom.


    ¡°Everyone clear!¡± cried out Counselor Anklin as he released the catapult. Almost instantaneously, there was a loud concussion as the projectile hit the wall causing a large section of the wall to collapse. Workers then went to work cleaning up the rubble, with Counselor Anklin modifying the gravity of the larger pieces to make them easier to move.


    Noticing Counselor Janice and Mason, he called out. ¡°Mason, since you¡¯re here, why don¡¯t you give me a hand.¡±


    Mason quickly began modifying the gravity of the larger pieces of rubble to make them easier to move. The rubble was moved to carts, which were then taken down a tunnel to a section of the city that was too badly damaged to be used by the residents.


    After the rubble had been cleared away, Counselor Anklin turned to Mason. ¡°Why don¡¯t you try this next one? You know what needs to be done, don¡¯t you?¡±


    He thought back to his experience with Proust in Langstrom and what Counselor Halrous had told him. ¡°How could I ever forget?¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave him a quizzical look and gestured towards the catapult. ¡°It¡¯s all yours.¡±


    Mason carefully placed a heavy metal ball on the catapult and after performing all the required modifications, cried out. ¡°Everybody clear!¡± and then fired it into the wall.


    He smiled to himself as he saw a large section of wall crumble.


    ¡°Well done Mr. Grant,¡± congratulated Counselor Anklin.


    They went through this process three more times to achieve the desired amount of excavation. When they were finished, Counselor Anklin wiped his brow.


    ¡°I sure wish Counselor Halrous was here. With him modifying the structural mechanical laws of the rock, we could have done this with a single shot.¡±


    Sitting down, Counselor Anklin looked curiously at Mason and Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to see the two of you, but have to wonder why you¡¯re here.¡±


    Counselor Janice looked around.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go to your rooms so we can discuss things without being interrupted?¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    When they reached the guest quarters, Counselor Janice recounted what had happened in Mastrion. ¡°Things are even worse than we expected, I¡¯ve never been treated with such disrespect. Leader Glenrol,¡± she almost spat out the name. ¡°Went out of his way to make us feel unwelcome.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded gravely. ¡°I didn¡¯t really think it was as bad as Halrous said, but based on your experience, it appears he was right. However, I¡¯m sure you didn¡¯t come all this way just to tell me that.¡±


    ¡°Well something else did happen while we were there,¡± she replied with a small smile. ¡°Proust made another nighttime delivery and,¡± she gave Mason a slight look of disapproval. ¡°Trainee Mason took it upon himself to capture one of Proust¡¯s workers; Klarth.¡±


    Counselor Anklin beamed at Mason. ¡°Well done my boy, how did you accomplish ¡­¡±


    She gave Counselor Anklin a sharp look. ¡°Don¡¯t encourage him.¡±


    ¡°But there was no ¡­¡± began Mason, but Counselor Anklin held up a hand.


    ¡°We¡¯ll discuss it later Mr. Grant.¡± He turned back to Counselor Janice. ¡°Please go on. Where¡¯s Klarth now?¡±


    ¡°Back with Proust,¡± she revealed in what Mason considered a mischievous tone.


    Counselor Anklin didn¡¯t seem to know what to make of her response. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, Proust paid a visit to Leader Glenrol and convinced him to get Klarth back. When Leader Glenrol met us with a group of residents, we had no choice but to hand him over.¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked over at Counselor Janice. ¡°Well at least were you able to learn anything from him?¡±


    ¡°Not yet,¡± replied Counselor Janice with a broad smile.


    ¡°Not yet?¡± repeated Counselor Anklin, but Mason suddenly saw a look of comprehension in his eyes. ¡°What¡¯d you do Janice?¡±


    Mason had never seen Counselor Janice like this, she almost seemed to be blushing. ¡°Before we gave Klarth up, I was able to modify his clothing, so they¡¯d leave a permanent imprint of the modifications made to any doorway he passed through.¡±


    Counselor Anklin laughed out loud and slapped his knee. ¡°Excellent work Janice. Proust would never expect that. We may finally have him, thanks to the two of you.¡±


    Mason stood up. ¡°So should we be going?¡±


    ¡°No, not quite yet,¡± answered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Based on what you¡¯ve told me about Leader Glenrol, I don¡¯t think he¡¯d take too kindly to seeing us. I think it would be best if we left later this evening. That way, we can search for Proust¡¯s doorway without being disturbed.¡±


    Counselor Janice glanced over at Counselor Anklin. ¡°There¡¯s something else Anklin.¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked at her expectantly. ¡°Yes?¡±


    Counselor Janice continued in a subdued tone. ¡°Proust told Leader Glenrol that Mason and I were aliens seeking to rule Myscreth. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯s trying to turn the people of Myscreth against Earth.¡±


    Counselor Anklin stared at the table. ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m not surprised. It helps him turn people against the Council and based on what Gorwold told us, it provides a reason for an eventual war against Earth.¡±This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Mason responded heatedly, a feeling of fierce protectiveness taking over. ¡°I think Proust is underestimating the people of Earth. Defeating us won¡¯t be as easy as he thinks.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave Mason a long look and shook his head. ¡°I appreciate the confidence Mason, but if we don¡¯t defeat Proust, there¡¯s no power on Earth capable of stopping him.¡±


    The three of them sat there in silence as they digested Counselor Anklin¡¯s words.


    Counselor Anklin stood up. ¡°I think it would be best if we get some rest before tonight¡¯s excursion. We want to be late enough to ensure we¡¯re not interrupted.¡±


    It was the middle of the night when he three of them met in the common area of the guest quarters.


    ¡°Any idea where the doorway might be?¡± asked Counselor Anklin.


    Counselor Janice considered the question. ¡°If I had to guess, it¡¯s probably somewhere near Leader Glenrol¡¯s house since that¡¯s likely where he¡¯d taken Klarth.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll start there then,¡± answered Counselor Anklin as he turned to face the wall.


    When they were ready, Counselor Anklin opened a doorway to Mastrion. They emerged near the top of a small hill overlooking the settlement.


    Counselor Anklin bent close to Counselor Janice and whispered. ¡°Show me where Leader Glenrol¡¯s house is.¡±


    They carefully made their way into Mastrion and found the streets of the settlement deserted. Counselor Janice silently pointed at a building a short distance ahead of them. Counselor Anklin nodded and carefully made his way around the nearby buildings. While he worked, Mason and Counselor Janice kept watch.


    It was a while before Counselor Anklin rejoined them. He whispered in a frustrated tone. ¡°I can¡¯t find anything here. Is it possible that there was an error when you made your modifications Janice?¡±


    She shook her head.


    ¡°I¡¯ve gone over the equations again and again in my mind, and I¡¯m sure they¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°Maybe the doorway¡¯s in Leader Glenrol¡¯s house. After all, Proust had no reason to fear him, and that way no one else in the settlement would see him leave,¡± suggested Mason.


    ¡°Seems reasonable,¡± agreed Counselor Anklin. ¡°Let¡¯s try our luck inside.¡±


    As they made their way to Leader Glenrol¡¯s front door, Counselor Anklin whispered instructions. ¡°Mason, you¡¯re with me. Janice you keep watch outside.¡±


    Mason had rarely seen a locked door on Myscreth, and Leader¡¯s Glenrol¡¯s door proved no different. It opened easily when Counselor Anklin lifted the latch. Pushing the door slowly open, the only sound was a very low squeak. Mason followed him inside while Counselor Janice remained outside to make sure they weren¡¯t interrupted.


    The lighting inside was dim, but Mason could see they were in a sitting room with two doors. Counselor Anklin pointed at the doors and Mason went over to listen for signs of anyone coming.


    After closing the door most of the way, Counselor Anklin started slowly walking around the room, concentrating on the walls. He started to the right of the front door and continued in a clockwise direction. Mason could hear him muttering to himself and saw him shaking his head as he worked. At last he reached the front door itself.


    Counselor Janice¡¯s efforts must have been effective because Counselor Anklin appeared startled, letting out a low gasp and taking a step backwards. In doing so he bumped a table sending a small bowl crashing to the floor. At the sound, a loud male voice called out from the bedroom.


    ¡°Who¡¯s out there?¡±


    Mason could see Counselor Anklin continuing to concentrate on the door, but heavy footsteps were rapidly approaching from the bedroom. Noticing the door¡¯s heavy hinges, Mason concentrated on them and increased their friction by a factor of a thousand. He finished just in time as he saw the door knob turn and heard Leader Glenrol screaming as he tried in vain to push the door open.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± whispered Counselor Anklin when he¡¯d finished, motioning for them to leave. For an instant, Mason considered leaving the hinges as they were, but before closing the front door, he returned them to normal. Hurrying to the back of the house, he heard the sound of a crash and someone falling. He couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    Counselor Anklin had already opened a doorway by the time Mason reached him and motioned for him to go through. He found Counselor Janice waiting for him on the other side, and a few seconds later, Counselor Anklin appeared. Looking around, Mason could see transports, and a short distance away, a building which he assumed was Dreardor¡¯s transport hanger.


    ¡°Did it work?¡± asked Counselor Janice excitedly.


    Although Mason couldn¡¯t see his face, he was sure that Counselor Anklin was beaming as he replied. ¡°Yes, but let¡¯s discuss this when we get back inside.¡±


    Reaching the guest quarters, Mason and Counselor Janice both started talking at once. Counselor Anklin sat down wearily and waved his hands in front of him. ¡°Please give an old man a chance to rest.¡±


    Mason smiled to himself, certain that Counselor Anklin was joking.


    ¡°I must say Janice, the modifications you made to Klarth¡¯s clothing were quite effective. I¡¯ve never seen the scientific law manipulations made to an object as clearly as I did tonight.¡±


    Counselor Janice stammered out a small. ¡°Thank you.¡± Mason thought he¡¯d seen Counselor Janice blush earlier, but now there was no doubt.


    Anxiously, Mason asked. ¡°What¡¯d you find out?¡±


    Counselor Anklin laughed. ¡°I think Counselor Janice might be right about your impatience Mason.¡±


    He paused dramatically before continuing with a smile. ¡°But to answer your question, the doorway led to a mountainous area not too far from the equator. If I remember correctly, there was once a large city in that area, but it was completely destroyed during the war. I¡¯ll need to check a map to be sure, but I¡¯m not aware of any other settlements in the area due to the rough terrain.¡±


    Mason was ecstatic upon hearing the news and exclaimed. ¡°We have Proust now!¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°No, finding him was the easy part. Stopping him is another manner.¡±


    Mason looked down sheepishly, embarrassed by his overconfidence.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to gather the rest of the Council,¡± continued Counselor Anklin. ¡°Janice, do you know where everyone is?¡±


    ¡°Counselor Tranlee is scheduled be in the city of Grandline, and Counselor Halrous and Claridee should be in the equatorial settlement of Vandrous.¡±


    ¡°Good, we¡¯ll met up with them tomorrow and then make our plans to move against Proust.¡±


    Mason vaguely remembered reading about Grandline in one of the history books. ¡°Wasn¡¯t Grandline one of the underground cities destroyed during the war?¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°I¡¯m glad to see you remember some of the history I had you read. It was heavily damaged during the war, but was made habitable a hundred years ago.¡±


    ¡°However,¡± he continued as a yawn interrupted him. ¡°I think it would be best if we went to bed. We¡¯ll need to be well rested for the work ahead of us.¡±


    With that the three of them headed to bed, but Mason was too excited to sleep; not only had they finally located Proust, but he¡¯d get to see Claridee again. He lay there staring up at the ceiling, thinking about how wonderful it would be to hear her voice and see her smile again. With that thought, he finally drifted into a peaceful slumber.


    After breakfast, they collected their belongings and prepared to leave.


    ¡°I think we should go to Grandline to meet up with Tranlee first,¡± Counselor Anklin declared. ¡°Then all of us can continue on to Vandrous together.¡±


    ¡°Agreed,¡± responded Counselor Janice.


    Soon they stood about a hundred yards away from Grandline¡¯s transport hanger.


    ¡°I¡¯ll check the hanger manifest to see if Tranlee¡¯s still here,¡± suggested Counselor Janice as they entered the hanger. She wasn¡¯t gone long. ¡°Yes, she¡¯s still here.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s early so she should still be in the guest quarters,¡± suggested Counselor Anklin.


    When they reached the guest quarters Counselor Anklin called out. ¡°Counselor Tranlee, its Counselor Anklin. I need to speak with you.¡±


    After hearing no response, he called down the hall where the bedrooms were located. A bleary eyed Counselor Tranlee opened a door and leaned out into the hall. She was wearing a night gown, and in a sleepy, yet surprised voice replied. ¡°Anklin? What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve discovered where Proust¡¯s settlement is. Once you¡¯re ready to go, we need to travel to Vandrous to collect Halrous and Claridee.¡±


    Mason thought he saw Counselor Tranlee jump when she heard these words, but wasn¡¯t sure. She looked down at her clothes and gave a nervous laugh.


    ¡°Sorry for how I look, guess I enjoyed myself a bit too much at last night¡¯s feast. I¡¯ll be ready to go shortly.¡±


    As they were waiting, Counselor Anklin seemed to be thinking out loud. ¡°It might tip off Proust if Counselor Tranlee¡¯s transport returns to Bendroff without her, so it might be best if the workers travelling with her remain here. Mason, go tell the workers that they¡¯ll be staying here until Counselor Tranlee returns?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Mason was already down the corridor when he realized he had no idea where the workers would be located. He was about to return to the visitor quarters when he saw a young woman. ¡°Excuse me,¡± he called. ¡°Could you tell me where the quarters for visiting workers are located?¡±


    She gave a slight laugh. ¡°Right behind you,¡± said the woman pointing at the door he was standing in front of.


    Mason just shook his head. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    As he entered, he was surprised to see Klarene, who he¡¯d met while on his first assignment to Dafrum. It seemed so long ago now, but he still remembered her kindness. He called out to her.


    ¡°Klarene, it¡¯s good to see you again.¡±


    She seemed surprised. ¡°Trainee Mason, what brings you to Grandline? I thought you were off with Counselor Janice.¡±


    ¡°Some business has come up that requires the Council¡¯s attention, so I¡¯m here with Counselor Janice. Actually, that¡¯s why I¡¯m here. Counselor Tranlee shouldn¡¯t be gone too long, so you¡¯re all to wait here until she returns.¡±


    Klarene smiled.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think anyone will mind too much. We all like it here in Grandline, and they gave us quite a feast last night.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Counselor Tranlee mentioned how good a time she had.¡±


    Klarene looked puzzled.


    ¡°Counselor Tranlee said she wasn¡¯t feeling well last night and went to bed early. She didn¡¯t attend the feast.¡±


    ¡°I must¡¯ve misunderstood what she meant,¡± answered a confused Mason.


    ¡°Happens to the best of us,¡± laughed Klarene as she headed off to inform the workers they were remaining in Grandline.


    Why would Counselor Tranlee lie about being at the feast? Mason wondered as he hurried back to the guest quarters. He¡¯d always felt unsure about her because she never seemed to want to be around him. Could it be because she had the same views about Earth as Proust? All he knew is that he needed to tell the two Counselors about what he¡¯d learned.


    When he got back, Counselor Tranlee was still in the bedroom. ¡°I just spoke with Klarene and she told me that Counselor Tranlee didn¡¯t attend last night¡¯s feast,¡± he whispered.


    A grave expression came over Counselor Anklin¡¯s face, and he spoke in a low voice. ¡°Perhaps she was busy with something else last night.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t think Tranlee ¡­¡± began Counselor Janice in a shocked whisper.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± replied Counselor Anklin. ¡°But I think I have an idea how we can find out. Mason and I will need to go to Bendroff.¡±


    Counselor Janice nodded, a look of shock still on her face. ¡°What about me?¡±


    ¡°I need you to stay here and keep an eye on Tranlee. Until we¡¯re sure, don¡¯t tell her anything about what we ...¡±


    He stopped speaking as Counselor Tranlee entered the common area carrying a satchel. She had a determined look on her face.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready, let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Slight change of plans Tranlee,¡± explained Counselor Anklin. ¡°Janice suggested that Mason and I go to Vandrous to get Halrous and Claridee. We¡¯ll be back shortly.¡±


    Counselor Anklin concentrated on the wall. Once in Bendroff, the two men rushed to the Council chambers.


    ¡°What are we doing here?¡± asked Mason.


    Counselor Anklin started gathering papers from the drawers and looked up at him. ¡°We need the reports that list what Proust provided to the equatorial settlements.¡±


    He thrust a pile of reports into Mason¡¯s hands.


    ¡°I need to know how many generators Proust supplied.¡±


    Mason started going through the reports mentally keeping track of the total number of generators.


    ¡°According to these reports, the settlements received thirty-two generators.¡±


    ¡°And I got twenty-five for a total of fifty-seven generators.¡± Counselor Anklin put down the papers. ¡°Now we need to pay a visit to Counselor Gorwold.¡±


    Although Counselor Gorwold¡¯s condition had greatly improved, he was still in the hospital. He smiled broadly when Counselor Anklin and Mason entered the room.


    ¡°Mason and Counselor Anklin, it¡¯s so good to see the two of you. I thought you wouldn¡¯t be back for several weeks.¡±


    Counselor Anklin got right to his question. ¡°On how many generators did you manipulate thermodynamics for Proust?¡±


    Gorwold thought for a moment. ¡°Must¡¯ve been less than forty. I¡¯d only just gained my abilities and couldn¡¯t do many at one time. On each visit to Proust¡¯s settlement I¡¯d usually do eight or nine, and I went there four times.¡±


    Counselor Anklin¡¯s face had grown pale.


    He stared hard at Counselor Gorwold. ¡°I need you to think carefully. Did Proust ever say anything about Counselor Tranlee?¡±


    Counselor Gorwold furrowed his brow in thought.


    ¡°Not that I¡¯m aware of. I¡¯d always thought he didn¡¯t like her since he seemed to go out of his way to avoid her. What¡¯s this all about?¡±


    Counselor Anklin motioned for Mason to check the door. When Mason indicated that it was safe, he bent down close to Counselor Gorwold and spoke in a low voice.


    ¡°We¡¯ve checked, and Proust delivered fifty-seven generators to the settlements. You just told us that you hadn¡¯t modified that many. The only way that is possible is if someone else who can manipulate thermodynamics is helping him.¡±


    Shock spread across Counselor Gorwold¡¯s face.


    ¡°You mean that Counselor Tranlee is helping Proust?¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked down. ¡°It¡¯s the only possible explanation. I knew someone else had to be helping him, since he always seemed to know our plans. However, I never thought it would be another Council member.¡±


    Suddenly Mason realized why the equipment deliveries Proust made before Counselor Gorwold could manipulate thermodynamics were so poorly disguised. Proust must¡¯ve wanted them to discover the earlier deliveries were faked so that Tranlee would not be suspected. He¡¯d been willing to sacrifice Counselor Gorwold to protect her.


    Counselor Anklin concentrated on the wall. ¡°We¡¯ve got to get back to Grandline.¡±


    Almost instantly, a humming sound and flashing purple light heralded the appearance of a doorway. He pushed Mason through before he had a chance say goodbye to Counselor Gorwold.

 Chapter Seventeen: Travel Plans

    When they emerged outside Grandline¡¯s transport hanger, Counselor Anklin paused briefly, almost as if steeling himself for battle. ¡°Come on,¡± he ordered leading the way to the guest quarters.


    As they walked, Mason asked in a low voice. ¡°What are you going to do about Counselor Tranlee?¡±


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll send her on a little excursion,¡± replied Counselor Anklin in voice laced with barely-restrained anger.


    Mason had no idea what he meant by that, and was about to ask him when they reached the guest quarters. Entering the room, they found the two Counselors sitting at a table with Counselor Tranlee pushing an empty plate away from her.


    She looked up at Counselor Anklin. ¡°Didn¡¯t realize how hungry I was.¡± She looked around the room. ¡°Where¡¯s Halrous and Claridee.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯d just left Vandrous when we arrived, but there¡¯s no reason we have to wait. Gather your things and we¡¯ll travel to Bendroff.¡±


    As Tranlee picked up her satchel, Counselor Anklin concentrated on the wall producing a humming sound and a flashing purple light. As the light became constant, Counselor Anklin gestured towards the doorway.


    ¡°After you, Tranlee.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she replied, stepping through the doorway.


    Once she was through, the doorway disappeared. Mason and Counselor Janice stared at the blank wall where the doorway had been.


    Counselor Janice snapped at Counselor Anklin. ¡°What have you done?¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave a grim smile. ¡°Oh, I just sent her on a little vacation.¡± Mason was surprised to hear not even the slightest hint of regret in his voice. ¡°You see, I have this little place north of Dafrum where I like to go when I want to be alone. A friend of mine, who¡¯s a transport pilot, helped me set it up. It¡¯s a sturdy building with a generator and enough food and water for several weeks. It¡¯s a good place to send someone, when you want to get them out of the way for a while.¡±


    Counselor Janice stared at Counselor Anklin. He met her gaze, and spoke in an unapologetic tone. ¡°There was no other way Janice. I couldn¡¯t risk Tranlee informing Proust that we¡¯d discovered his location.¡±


    ¡°But it just seems so cruel.¡±


    ¡°More cruel than how she treated Gorwold?¡± countered Counselor Anklin crossly. ¡°Besides, she¡¯s perfectly safe where I sent her.¡±


    Counselor Janice finally gave Counselor Anklin a look of resignation. ¡°I know you¡¯re right Anklin, but I¡¯m not happy about it.¡±


    He put a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Nor am I, Janice, but it was necessary.¡±


    Staring at the wall, Counselor Janice¡¯s face soon regained its usual no nonsense expression. ¡°I think we should leave for Vandrous immediately,¡± she declared, with the commanding tone Mason was used to hearing. ¡°There¡¯s no way of knowing how long it will be before Proust realizes that Counselor Tranlee is missing.¡±


    Mason¡¯s first sensation upon their arrival was a strong wind blowing in his face. Looking around the darkness, he saw the lights of a small settlement not far away, but was surprised by the lack of grow lights. ¡°Where are the farms?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Vandrous is such a new settlement that they haven¡¯t started farming yet,¡± answered Counselor Janice. ¡°Hopefully, they¡¯ll be ready to start planting in another few weeks.¡±


    The three of them walked into Vandrous. The only person they saw was a small blond-haired boy, who Mason guessed must be about eight years old, filling a bucket of water at the settlement¡¯s well. ¡°Hello,¡± called Counselor Anklin to the boy.


    The boy stared at the three of them, a look of uncertainty on his face. ¡°Hello,¡± he responded in a small voice.


    ¡°Could you tell us where the guest quarters are?¡± asked Counselor Anklin.


    The boy gave a bashful smile. ¡°Yes sir, I was just taking this water there,¡± he replied, gamely lifting the nearly full bucket.


    ¡°Well,¡± offered Counselor Janice. ¡°I¡¯m sure this young man,¡± she nodded towards Mason. ¡°Would be happy to carry it for you, if you¡¯d lead us there.¡±


    ¡°I guess that would be okay.¡± He put the bucket down. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Mason picked up the bucket, surprised by how heavy it was. He¡¯s a lot stronger than he looks, thought Mason


    They hadn¡¯t walked far when the boy pointed at a building that was larger than any other in the settlement. ¡°Here we are,¡± he announced.


    Counselor Anklin bent down and held out a hand. ¡°Thank you for your help.¡±


    The boy stared at the outstretched hand before taking hold of it and gave it a hard shake. ¡°You¡¯re welcome,¡± he replied before running off.


    Entering the building, they found Counselor Halrous, Claridee, and six workers just finishing dinner in the dining area. Everyone looked up in surprise as they entered. Counselor Halrous stood up and bellowed. ¡°What brings you three here?¡±


    Counselor Anklin pointed at Mason holding the water bucket. ¡°Oh, just delivering some water for your meal.¡±


    The entire room burst into laughter.


    Mason put the bucket down as Claridee rushed towards him. She excitedly grabbed him by the hand and dragged him outside.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got great news!¡± she exclaimed with a beaming smile.


    There was something about her smile that mesmerized him and he stood there just staring at her face.


    ¡°Well?¡± she asked impatiently. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to ask what it is?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± he replied. ¡°I just love to see you smile. Now, what is this great news?¡±


    She shook with excitement as she spoke. ¡°Two days ago, when I was training with Counselor Halrous, I was able to manipulate structural mechanics for the first time.¡±


    He wrapped his arms around her.


    ¡°That¡¯s great news! I know how hard you¡¯ve been studying and training. What was it like?¡±


    She paused as if trying to find the right words.


    ¡°It was just like you described it to me. The feeling of power was incredible, but it also seemed sinister in a way.¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯ll be able to handle it.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± She leaned in and gave him a kiss.


    After dinner, the three Counselors, Claridee, and Mason went to an unused room so they could speak without being overheard. It contained a cot, a small table, and some chairs. When they were all gathered, Counselor Halrous stood up, a wide grin on his face. ¡°I have an announcement to make.¡± He waited for everyone to look at him before continuing in a voice bubbling with excitement. ¡°Trainee Claridee has become proficient in using her abilities.¡±


    Counselor Janice stood up and gave Claridee a hug. ¡°Congratulations Claridee, that¡¯s wonderful news.¡±


    Counselor Anklin beamed at her. ¡°I knew you had it in you Claridee, well done.¡±


    Mason watched as Claridee¡¯s face turned a bright pink and, while he couldn¡¯t be sure, thought he saw some tears of joy as well.


    Once the congratulations to Claridee were complete, Counselor Anklin turned serious. He looked over at Counselor Halrous. ¡°Halrous, I think we¡¯re going to need some privacy.¡±


    Counselor Halrous nodded. ¡°Understood.¡±


    Counselor Halrous stood up and stared at each wall of the room, paying special attention to the door.


    As he was doing this, Mason leaned over to Claridee and whispered. ¡°What¡¯s he doing?¡±


    Claridee whispered back. ¡°He¡¯s modifying the structural properties of the walls and door so sound can¡¯t pass through them.¡±


    Once these precautions were in place, Counselor Anklin recounted the events of the last four days: Klarth¡¯s capture and escape, discovering Proust¡¯s location, and finally, Counselor Tranlee¡¯s betrayal.


    This last piece of news deeply affected Counselor Halrous. He shook his head and struggled to get the words out.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it. Tranlee was like a daughter to me, but I never suspected a thing.¡±


    Unable to continue, he looked down and sighed. Mason was struck at how old he suddenly looked. It was as if the force that kept him going had suddenly been taken away.


    Counselor Anklin put a hand on Counselor Halrous¡¯ shoulder.


    ¡°I understand how you feel. She¡¯s the last person I would have suspected of turning against the Council, but Proust got to her somehow. He¡¯s even more dangerous than I thought; he not only has incredible power, but the force of will to convince people to follow him. He¡¯s already started turning people against the Council, just look at what happened in Mastrion.¡±Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    Counselor Halrous looked up, his eyes moist.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re right Anklin, but it still hurts. She¡¯ll have to live with what she¡¯s done for the rest of her life.¡±


    Counselor Halrous sat there in silence, apparently deep in thought. Finally, he sat up straight and wiped his eyes. To Mason, he once again looked like the Counselor Halrous he¡¯d always known. In a voice filled with determination he declared. ¡°We have to stop Proust before he can ruin anyone else¡¯s life.¡± He looked at Counselor Anklin. ¡°When do we leave?¡±


    Counselor Anklin took out the map he¡¯d gotten while he and Mason were in Bendroff and laid it out in front of them.


    ¡°Since there aren¡¯t any settlements near Proust¡¯s location, we don¡¯t have any current maps of the area. The only map I could find was this pre-war map.¡±


    He pointed to a spot on the map.


    ¡°The doorway Proust traveled through led to a valley just north of the city of Antlorn. This matches the description Counselor Gorwold gave us. According to his testimony, the settlement was located in a valley near a large cave.¡±


    At the mention of the name Antlorn, Counselor Halrous looked up, a startled expression on his face. ¡°Did you say Antlorn?¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but it seems odd that Proust would be near Antlorn.¡±


    ¡°Why is that?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°Because it was in a medical facility near Antlorn where the ability to manipulate scientific laws was first discovered.¡±


    ¡°Not that old legend,¡± scoffed Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°It may be a legend,¡± replied Counselor Halrous, ¡°but most legends have a kernel of truth in them. After all, Antlorn was one of the first cities destroyed in the war, so it must have been a place of importance. Besides, some of my ancestors were there and the story¡¯s been passed down for generations.¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°Well, I certainly can¡¯t argue against family history, but I doubt Proust chose the location of his settlement based on a legend. Right now we need to figure out how to get to him.¡±


    Mason was slightly disappointed since he enjoyed hearing Counselor Halrous¡¯ stories about Myscrethian history. Noticing his disappointment, Counselor Halrous whispered. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the full story later.¡±


    Counselor Janice looked over the map and pointed at an area northeast of Antlorn.


    ¡°This looks like a good area for us to arrive. It¡¯s far enough away that we won¡¯t be seen, and the city ruins should provide shelter and concealment.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right, but we have no way of knowing the condition of Antlorn¡¯s ruins since we¡¯ve never sent survey parties there. However, it does appear to be the only way we can approach without being seen.¡±


    ¡°What will we do once we get there?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°The first thing we have to do is get Darnia out of the way. As long as she¡¯s with Proust, he¡¯ll be able to escape.¡±


    ¡°And how can we do that?¡± wondered Mason.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Counselor Anklin admitted. ¡°We¡¯ll have to wait till we get there and see how things look before we can formulate a plan.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s all settled, let¡¯s get going,¡± exclaimed Counselor Halrous.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to,¡± Counselor Anklin responded, ¡°but it might look suspicious if we all suddenly left.¡±


    ¡°Good point Anklin,¡± agreed Counselor Janice. ¡°We¡¯ll say we¡¯re returning to Bendroff and board the transport with the workers in the morning. Once in the air, we can have the transport change course to Dreardor after which you can open a doorway to Antlorn.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded and then turned to two trainees.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need enough food and water for several days, a portable generator, some lights, a heater, binoculars, and blankets. All of this should be on board the transport. If any of us Counselors went out to the transport, it might draw too much attention. However,¡± he gave a slight chuckle. ¡°No one would pay much attention to two young people taking a stroll together. Find a safe place in the cargo hold to hide the supplies so we can get to them quickly when we¡¯re ready to leave for Antlorn.¡±


    ¡°Right,¡± answered Claridee.


    ¡°Now don¡¯t be out too long, we¡¯ve got a busy day tomorrow.¡± he added with a sly wink.


    While the workers were informed that they¡¯d be leaving for Bendroff first thing in the morning. Mason and Claridee wished the Counselors a good night and told them they were going for a walk.


    It was late by the time the two of them left the guest quarters, and the streets were empty. They held hands as they walked, enjoying each other¡¯s company in silence. They took a roundabout route to the transport so it wouldn¡¯t be obvious where they were going.


    As they neared the transport, Claridee asked. ¡°Mason, are you worried about what might happen when we get to Antlorn?¡±


    He hesitated, wondering if he should put on a brave face, but chose to be honest about his concerns. ¡°Yes, there¡¯s no telling what Proust might do if we¡¯re discovered. I suspect the Counselors feel the same way.¡±


    She squeezed his hand.


    ¡°I guess I just wanted to be sure I wasn¡¯t the only one.¡±


    They quietly boarded the transport and started collecting the needed supplies. Mason was surprised that the generator was only about the size of a loaf of bread and was much lighter than he¡¯d expected. Curious, he visualized it in his mind and found that its gravity had been modified to make it easy to carry. Even after all his time on Myscreth, he was still amazed at what manipulating scientific laws made possible.


    In the cargo hold they found some backpacks and filled them with the supplies they¡¯d gathered. After stuffing them with all they could hold, they hid the backpacks behind some crates. Checking to make sure that no one was in sight, they left the transport and headed back to the guest quarters.


    It had now grown cold and Mason wrapped an arm around Claridee to warm her. As they walked, she leaned her head on his shoulder. The streets were now deserted, and the only sound they could hear was the wind. They rounded a corner not far from the guest quarters when Mason saw someone slipping out its front door. He quickly pulled Claridee back around the corner.


    She seemed startled, and looked like she wanted to ask what was going on. But before she could speak, he put a finger to his lips and whispered. ¡°I saw someone coming out of the guest quarters. It seems strange that someone would be going out this time of night.¡±


    She nodded, and after looking around the corner grabbed his arm.


    ¡°They¡¯re coming this way.¡±


    The two of them quietly moved to the other side of the building and watched the person hurry towards the edge of the settlement.


    ¡°Did you recognize who it is?¡±


    ¡°It looks like Laundra, one of the workers who came here with Counselor Halrous and me.¡±


    Once she¡¯d passed, they crept forward and peered around the corner.


    ¡°We should follow her,¡± whispered Claridee.


    Mason agreed, and they started moving parallel to the street she was walking on, careful to keep out of sight. Vandrous¡¯ farming fields hadn¡¯t yet been established so there were no lights outside the settlement. As Laundra reached the end of the settlement she turned on a small light and continued walking.


    Mason paused.


    ¡°Come on,¡± whispered Claridee urgently. ¡°She¡¯s getting away.¡±


    ¡°But we don¡¯t have a light.¡±


    ¡°Laundra¡¯s light should be enough for us to see by.¡±


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go.¡±


    They tried to stay within twenty feet of Laundra, but even then her light still wasn¡¯t much help in traversing the rocky terrain. Several times they tripped over unseen obstacles. After each fall they stayed down fearing that they¡¯d been heard, but Laundra continued on showing no sign of having noticed. After one particularly bad fall, Claridee gave out a small cry of pain.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± whispered Mason.


    ¡°I twisted my ankle,¡± she muttered through clenched teeth.


    ¡°We should go back.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± she argued in a low voice. ¡°I can walk if I lean on you.¡±


    He was about to ask if she was sure when he felt her grab his shoulder and whisper hoarsely. ¡°Move it.¡±


    They continued following Laundra until she stopped at the top of a small hill.


    Afraid she¡¯d hear them if they moved any closer, they crouched down at the bottom of the hill.


    ¡°Turn out the light,¡± hissed a voice from the darkness.


    ¡°That¡¯s sounds like Darnia,¡± whispered Claridee.


    Darkness engulfed them and the voice continued.


    ¡°What news do you have?¡±


    Laundra answered. ¡°Counselor Anklin, Counselor Janice, and Trainee Mason arrived tonight¡­¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t Counselor Tranlee with them?¡± the voice interrupted.


    ¡°No,¡± she replied. ¡°There were just the three of them.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s odd. Now tell me what did they discuss?¡±


    ¡°They met together in a room for quite some time. I tried to listen, but couldn¡¯t hear anything.¡±


    ¡°You heard nothing?¡± the voice replied angrily.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I did my best,¡± Laundra replied fearfully.


    There was a short silence before the voice continued, this time speaking in a soothing manner.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you did, and Counselor Proust deeply values your help.¡± She continued in the same soothing tone. ¡°What are their plans?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve been told that we¡¯re leaving for Bendroff first thing in the morning,¡± answered Laundra, sounding relieved. ¡°They haven¡¯t said anything else.¡±


    The voice replied. ¡°You¡¯ve done well Laundra. Go back before they notice you¡¯re gone. I¡¯ll contact you again when you return to Bendroff.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± replied Laundra.


    Mason and Claridee went down flat on the ground as Laundra turned on her light and started back down the hill. Neither moved as the woman passed within ten feet of them.


    ¡°Should we follow Darnia?¡± whispered Claridee when Laundra had gone past.


    ¡°No,¡± answered Mason. ¡°We already know where she¡¯s going.¡±


    They could make out Laundra¡¯s light rapidly moving away from them and beyond that, the lights of the settlement. The darkness significantly slowed their return trip to the settlement and had to stop several times when Claridee¡¯s ankle became too painful to continue.


    Both were exhausted by the time they reached the settlement and sat down against one of the buildings. Now that there was light, Mason examined Claridee¡¯s ankle.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem to be broken,¡± he reported after feeling the bone, ¡°and doesn¡¯t appear too badly swollen. However, you should probably keep off of it for a day or two.¡±


    She gave a small smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure it will be fine once it¡¯s been wrapped. Besides, I wouldn¡¯t want to miss out on our upcoming trip.¡±


    After resting, they returned to the guest quarters, with Claridee leaning on Mason for support. They entered as quietly as possible in case Laundra was still awake. Once inside, they slipped into the room where they¡¯d met earlier in the evening. After helping Claridee to a chair, Mason closed the door and turned on the light. Turning around, he was surprised to see Counselor Janice asleep on the cot.


    Feeling embarrassed, he quickly looked away and whispered to Claridee. ¡°See if you can wake her while I go to get the first aid kit and the other Counselors.¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    When he returned with the first aid supplies, Counselor Janice was busy examining Claridee¡¯s ankle. Mason handed her the bandages and she began wrapping Claridee¡¯s ankle. When Counselor Janice finished, Claridee stood up and put pressure on the ankle.


    ¡°Feels much better,¡± she announced, but Mason could tell she was trying to put on a brave face.


    Counselors Anklin and Halrous quietly entered the room. No one said a word until the door was closed and locked behind them. The modifications that Counselor Halrous had made to the bedroom walls and door earlier were still in effect so they could talk freely.


    Mason and Claridee recounted following Laundra and her meeting with Darnia. Counselor Anklin nodded gravely when they described Darnia asking about Counselor Tranlee.


    ¡°I have to think that Proust has someone watching each Council member. He probably already knew about Janice and Mason meeting up with me and that we went to see Counselor Tranlee. Her absence will certainly cause him to suspect that we know about her betrayal. However, there¡¯s nothing we can do about that now.¡±


    There was silence as the two trainees finished describing the night¡¯s events.


    ¡°What will happen to Laundra?¡± asked Claridee, concern in her voice.


    Counselor Anklin gave a small smile.


    ¡°Nothing, we¡¯ve already seen how persuasive Proust can be. In fact, she may have actually helped us. He now thinks we¡¯re travelling to Bendroff and that might buy us some time.¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right,¡± agreed Counselor Halrous. ¡°I see no need to change our plans.¡±


    Counselor Janice addressed Mason and Claridee. ¡°Were you able to gather the supplies?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re hidden in the cargo hold where we can get at them tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Excellent,¡± responded Counselor Anklin. ¡°Now, we¡¯d all better get some rest; the next few days may be the most grueling any of us have ever faced.¡±


    After an early breakfast the Counselors, Claridee, Mason, and the workers made their way to the transport. As the transport left the ground, the propellers sprung to life and Vandrous was soon behind them. Once they reached the cruising altitude of five thousand feet, Counsel Anklin whispered to the others. ¡°I¡¯m going to talk to the pilot. When I return, follow me to the cargo hold.¡± Mason and the others nodded as Counselor Anklin got up and spoke with the pilot.


    Leaving the cabin, Counselor Anklin made his way to the door leading to the cargo hold at the rear of the passenger section. The four others got up and followed. Mason noticed the workers watching them, but none showed any outward concern.


    Once in the cargo hold, Counselor Anklin locked the door behind them. They gathered the backpacks that Mason and Claridee had prepared the previous evening while Counselor Anklin opened a doorway. When the light stopped flashing, the five of them walked through.

 Chapter Eighteen: Partings

    Emerging onto a rocky plateau, Mason shivered as a cold wind seemed to go right through his jacket. The ruins of Antlorn were larger and exhibited far more destruction than any other city he¡¯d seen on Myscreth. Twisted metal girders and chunks of concrete were the only evidence that buildings had once existed there.


    Surveying the ruins Counselor Anklin sighed. ¡°So much for using the ruins for shelter and concealment. There¡¯s no way we can get through there. We¡¯ll just have to stay near the edge and try our best not to be seen.¡±


    The group made their way to the edge of the ruins and started heading towards the valley in which Proust¡¯s settlement was located. To get around large sections of debris they¡¯d have to move outside the ruins increasing the risk of discovery. Other times they¡¯d have to backtrack because their way forward was blocked. Looking back behind them, Mason was discouraged by how little progress they¡¯d made.


    Although he¡¯d gotten used to exerting himself during his time on Myscreth, this current expedition was pushing him to his limit, and his limbs were beginning to ache under the strain. Even though she tried to hide it, Mason noticed the winces of pain on Claridee¡¯s face as they walked.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    She tried to give him a smile, but failed.


    ¡°Just my ankle. I¡¯m sure it will feel better when we stop.¡±


    Mason didn¡¯t know how long they¡¯d been moving before Counselor Anklin led the group to an area out of the wind to rest. Everyone was grateful for the chance to get out of the cold. The portable generator and heater were unpacked to warm their frigid bodies.


    Counselor Halrous handed out something that reminded Mason of carrots. ¡°Eat up everyone,¡± he said smiling. ¡°Got to keep up our strength.¡±


    Counselor Janice looked up from re-wrapping Claridee¡¯s ankle and muttered. ¡°Only you could be so cheerful in this god-forsaken place.¡±


    Counselor Halrous chuckled. ¡°I find being cheerful takes far less effort than being miserable.¡±


    When Counselor Janice finished with Claridee¡¯s ankle, Counselor Halrous looked over her work. ¡°Nice job Janice, but I think I might be able to make it better.¡± He concentrated on the bandage. ¡°Try it now Claridee.¡±


    Claridee stood up and tested her ankle. ¡°Wow, it feels so much better. What did you do?¡±


    ¡°You tell me.¡±


    She concentrated on the bandage. ¡°You increased the stiffness of the bandage, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely correct,¡± he agreed with a nod.


    ¡°How much further?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°At least a couple of miles,¡± replied Counselor Anklin. ¡°The city¡¯s in far worse shape than I expected. I¡¯d hoped we¡¯d be able to pass through the city to cut some distance off our trek. We¡¯d better get moving if we¡¯re going to reach the valley before it gets dark.¡±


    The five of them continued on, but soon a new obstacle blocked their way. The remains of a collapsed skyscraper stretched out at least a half mile into the plateau. A collective moan arose from the group. They found a place in the ruins to rest and discussed their options.


    ¡°It will take the rest of the day to get around this,¡± declared Counselor Halrous shaking his head.


    Mason looked at Counselor Anklin hopefully. ¡°Can¡¯t you generate a doorway to get us to the other side?¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave a sheepish smile. ¡°Yes, but due to the limitation of my abilities, the door would have to take us well away from the ruins of the main city. We can¡¯t run the risk of being seen.¡±


    Counselor Janice left to take a closer look and soon returned. ¡°It seems to get less dense as you move away from the city. We might not to have to go all the way around to find a way through.¡±


    ¡°That seems to be our best option,¡± agreed Counselor Anklin. ¡°Let¡¯s see if we can find a way through.¡±


    The group started to make their way onto the plateau, keeping close to the collapsed skyscraper. About halfway along it, and found a path that looked promising. It was not too steep to climb and seemed to go all the way to the top of the collapsed ruins a hundred feet above them.


    They slowly worked their way up onto the collapsed building, moving in a single file. Counselor Anklin led the way, followed by Counselor Janice, Counselor Halrous, Claridee, and Mason. Counselor Anklin carefully picked his way along, seeking to find the safest path forward.


    The rubble was mostly a mixture of concrete slabs and twisted metal. Here and there, Mason saw evidence that it had once been a building; there was wiring, pieces of furniture, and even some clothing remnants. However, as the footing became more treacherous, all Mason¡¯s attention was concentrated on where he was stepping.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    Suddenly, an abrupt scream echoed around them. Mason stared in horror at a gaping hole where Counselor Halrous had been standing.


    Counselor Anklin rushed back and called down.


    ¡°Halrous! Answer me!¡±


    But there was no response.


    Mason took out his light and aimed it into the hole. ¡°I can¡¯t see anything,¡± he called out. He looked up from the hole. ¡°I¡¯ll have to go down if I¡¯m going to find him.¡±


    Claridee started to say something, but Mason gave her a hard look and she simply nodded. After she helped him take off his backpack, he picked up his light and turned to Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°Can you modify my gravity so I can go down?¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded and suddenly Mason felt a sense of weightlessness. If it weren¡¯t for the seriousness of the situation, he might have enjoyed it.


    He moved toward the edge of the hole.


    ¡°When I find Counselor Halrous, I¡¯ll bring him back up,¡± he said, doing his best to sound hopeful.


    Claridee give him a worried look. ¡°Please be careful.¡±


    He gave a slight nod. ¡°I will.¡±


    Counselor Janice just stared at the hole in silence, despair etched upon her face.


    Mason stepped into the hole and started slowly floating downward. Shining the light around the hole he saw it was about ten feet wide with jagged rocks and metal sticking out of the walls. Looking below, he couldn¡¯t see the bottom. The longer he floated down, the less confident he felt. Multiple times, Counselor Anklin called down to him, the desperation in his voice becoming more pronounced each time.


    ¡°Anything yet?¡±


    Each time Mason gave the same report.


    ¡°Still can¡¯t see the bottom.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t sure how long it took, but finally he saw part of a concrete floor jutting out into the opening. Laying on it he saw the body of Counselor Halrous.


    ¡°I see him!¡± he called out.


    Pushing against the edge of the opening, Mason came to rest on the section of floor. Mason¡¯s hopes faded as he got a close up look of the crumpled body lying there. He checked for breathing and a pulse hoping to be wrong, but wasn¡¯t; Counselor Halrous was dead.


    Counselor Anklin called down.


    ¡°How is he?¡±


    Mason didn¡¯t answer. He desperately needed to get out of the there. He tried to concentrate on himself to modify his gravity so he¡¯d levitate out of the hole, but it took several tries before he was successful. As he started moving upward he called out in a voice cracking with emotion.


    ¡°I¡¯m coming up.¡±


    Reaching the top, he found Counselor Janice and Claridee sobbing, while Counselor Anklin just sat there staring blankly into space. Seeing Mason, Claridee threw her arms around him, her voice shaky with grief as she uttered the question on each of their minds.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    He had no idea how to respond. All he could do was hold her close as he fought back his own tears.


    After a while Counselor Anklin seemed to rouse himself from his shock. He spoke in a voice filled with emotion.


    ¡°Halrous and I have been on the Council together most of our lives,¡± his words were cut short by a sob. ¡°It wasn¡¯t supposed to end like this.¡±


    Unable to continue, he turned and walked away.


    The four of them plodded on in silence. By the time they finally cleared the remains of the collapsed building, it was starting to get dark.


    ¡°We should find a place to camp for the night.¡± Counselor Anklin suggested, exhaustion and dispair evident in his voice.


    The others nodded silently and they trudged back towards the remnants of the city. Finding the shell of a building that would provide suitable shelter, they started setting up camp. Mason and Claridee set up the portable generator and heater while the two Counselors scouted the area around them.


    Upon their return, Counselor Janice announced in a haggard voice. ¡°No sign of anyone. We should be safe.¡±


    No one had any desire to eat. Everyone silently set out their blankets and did their best to try and fall asleep.


    Mason was exhausted, but he kept thinking about Counselor Halrous. He remembered his stories about the history of Myscreth and how Counselor Halrous had always been so kind to him. Without realizing it, he spoke into the darkness. ¡°How could he suffer such a senseless death?¡±


    He was startled when Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice answered.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think his death was senseless. He died serving the people he loved and that¡¯s all any of us can ask for when our life comes to an end.¡±


    After a short pause he added.


    ¡°Now try and get some sleep. We all need to be at our best to stop Proust; that¡¯s the best way we can honor Halrous¡¯ sacrifice.¡±


    Lying there Mason heard the sound of muffled crying coming from Claridee¡¯s direction. He wanted to comfort her, but had no idea what he could say that would make things better. Not knowing what else to do, he wrapped his blanket around himself and sat down by her.


    The next morning, Mason felt himself shaken awake by Counselor Anklin. He was surprised to see Claridee asleep by him, her head on his shoulder.


    ¡°We¡¯d better get moving, it¡¯s almost dawn.¡±


    As Mason shifted, Claridee looked up at him, her eyes still red from crying. ¡°Thanks,¡± she whispered.


    It didn¡¯t take them long to pack up the camp and soon they were slowly working their way along the ruins of Antlorn. A number of times, Mason noticed Counselor Anklin anxiously looking back at the rest of the group. After a while, he started leading them back towards the ruins.


    ¡°I think this would be a good time for everyone to have something to eat,¡± he suggested as they stopped in a small alcove sheltered from the wind.


    Although Mason didn¡¯t feel much like eating, he dug out a small bag of food. Claridee did the same, but Counselor Janice just sat there, staring at the ground.


    Counselor Anklin watched the group, a worried expression on his face.


    He put down his food and addressed them in a subdued tone. ¡°Yesterday we lost someone who was very close to all of us. Under normal circumstances, we¡¯d have a chance to grieve and deal with our emotions. However, this isn¡¯t a normal situation, and until we finish what we came here to do, we have to try and put our grief aside. Is that easy? No. Without Counselor Halrous ¡­¡±


    Pausing, he took a deep breath and looked up at the sky.


    ¡°¡­it will be even harder to defeat Proust.¡± His voice took on a steely edge. ¡°However, there¡¯s too much at stake for us to fail.¡±


    In the ensuing silence, Claridee spoke out in a sad, quiet voice.


    ¡°Whenever I had trouble learning something in my training, Counselor Halrous would always say, ¡®don¡¯t give up Claridee. If you give up, it¡¯s not only a loss for you, but for all those you might have helped.¡¯¡± She looked at everyone else, a look of determination in her eyes and loudly proclaimed. ¡°Well, I¡¯m not about to give up.¡±


    Mason looked over at her with pride and sat up straighter. ¡°Nor am I.¡±


    Counselor Janice eyed the three of them and smiled. ¡°Halrous wouldn¡¯t have it any other way. Let¡¯s make him proud.¡±

 Chapter Nineteen: Antlorn Passage

    The group pressed on, but progress wasn¡¯t easy. Unable to risk moving in the open, they were forced to climb over piles of rubble and pass through the remnants of crumbling buildings. At times, Mason noticed a grimace flash across Claridee¡¯s face, evidence that her ankle was still bothering her.


    Reaching a particularly steep pile of rubble, Counselor Anklin looked it over and called out in a tired voice. ¡°Let¡¯s rest here and I¡¯ll scout ahead to see if there¡¯s a way around.¡±


    ¡°No, you stay here and get some rest Anklin,¡± offered Counselor Janice. ¡°I¡¯ll go on ahead.¡±


    He nodded appreciatively. ¡°Thanks Janice; the old body isn¡¯t as spry as it used to be.¡±


    Mason led Claridee to a flat stone where she could sit and knelt in front of her. ¡°Let me look at your ankle.¡±


    He tried to take the bandage off, but couldn¡¯t. ¡°Why can¡¯t I ¡­¡± he muttered. Suddenly remembering that Counselor Halrous had stiffened the bandage, he looked up at her. ¡°Could you modify the bandage so I can take it off?¡±


    A sad expression came over her face. ¡°But Counselor Halrous did that for me.¡±


    ¡°I know, but I have to check your ankle,¡± responded Mason as gently as he could.


    She gave a long stare at the bandage before looking at him. ¡°It may seem silly, but I just want some tangible reminder of all Counselor Halrous did for me. This was the last thing he ¡­¡± She lapsed into silence.


    He wrapped her in a hug. The two of them remained that way until she said with a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I thought I could be strong, but it¡¯s so hard.¡±


    ¡°You are strong, Claridee,¡± encouraged Mason. ¡°Look at all you¡¯ve accomplished. Don¡¯t doubt yourself.¡±


    She gave him a grateful smile. ¡°Thanks Mason, that means a lot.¡± She concentrated on the bandage. ¡°The bandage should come off now.¡±


    He removed the bandage and carefully examined her ankle. ¡°Seems to be healing okay, but it will probably continue to hurt until you can rest it a few days.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not happening anytime soon,¡± she replied with a failed attempt at a laugh. ¡°I¡¯ll just have to deal with it.¡±


    When he finished wrapping her ankle, she once again concentrated on the bandage to stiffen it.


    Counselor Janice soon returned. ¡°The valley¡¯s still about a mile away,¡± she reported. ¡°I couldn¡¯t see any guards, but we¡¯re still too far away to be certain of that.¡±


    ¡°And what if there are guards?¡± asked Claridee hesitantly.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to prevent them from letting Proust know we¡¯re here,¡± Counselor Anklin replied in a serious manner. ¡°Normally we¡¯d never use our abilities against innocent people, but Proust must be stopped. However, if we¡¯re forced to use our abilities against those who¡¯ve joined him, remember that we only want to impede, not injure.¡±


    As they drew closer to the valley, their path along the edge of Antlorn grew more difficult and slowed their progress even more. Exhaustion made the stop for lunch all the more welcome. When they¡¯d finished eating, Counselor Anklin set off to scout the way ahead. Mason noticed the concern on his face when he returned.


    ¡°It definitely looks like Proust has placed guards out along the plateau,¡± he reported. ¡°There are two lighted areas that look like camps and several smaller moving lights that are probably patrols. By now he must know that we never reached Bendroff. I don¡¯t think he knows for certain that we¡¯re here, but he¡¯s clearly worried enough to take precautions.¡±


    ¡°Any guards near us?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°No, the way ahead seems clear. Proust may consider the ruins a sufficient obstacle.¡±


    ¡°Or maybe he wants us to go this way,¡± Claridee pointed out.


    ¡°Yes, that thought had crossed my mind,¡± answered Counselor Anklin somberly, ¡°but if we¡¯re to stop Proust we have no other choice.¡±


    It took the rest of the day for them to reach the edge of the valley. By then, there was barely enough light to see, but they couldn¡¯t risk using their lights for fear of giving themselves away. Moving back into the ruins, they finally found a location that protected them from the wind and hid their lights. After setting up camp, they dug out some food and water from their packs for dinner.


    ¡°Where do we go from here Anklin?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to wait till morning to get a good look at the valley,¡± he answered. ¡°Hopefully, we¡¯ll find some way to get to the settlement without being seen.¡±If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Scanning the ruins around them, Counselor Janice advised. ¡°I think it would be a good idea to have someone keep watch, just in case.¡±


    ¡°A wise precaution Janice,¡± replied Counselor Anklin. ¡°I¡¯ll take the first watch.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take the second watch,¡± added Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go third,¡± offered Mason.


    ¡°Well, I guess that leaves me with the fourth watch,¡± commented Claridee with a shrug of her shoulders.


    Counselor Anklin made his way to a higher section of the ruins to keep watch while the others prepared to get some sleep.


    As Mason and Claridee spread out their blankets, she whispered to him. ¡°I¡¯m not sure I¡¯m ready for what¡¯s ahead.¡±


    Her words surprised him. ¡°Why would you say that?¡±


    She busied herself with smoothing her blanket before answering. ¡°It¡¯s just that I¡¯m worried that I¡¯ll make a mistake using my abilities and hurt someone.¡±


    He paused as he tossed aside a rock that he found under the edge of his blanket. ¡°I¡¯ve seen how hard you¡¯ve worked and studied. You won¡¯t make any mistakes.¡±


    She reached over and gave him a hug. ¡°Thanks Mason, that makes me feel better.¡±


    They wished each other good night and both were soon fast asleep.


    Before he knew it, Mason felt himself being shaken awake by Counselor Janice who was holding a small light.


    ¡°Mason. It¡¯s your watch.¡±


    He sat up and rubbed his eyes.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m up. How were things?¡±


    ¡°Quiet. It doesn¡¯t look like there are any guards around here. If you see anything, wake all of us up immediately. Claridee¡¯s up next.¡±


    He wished Counselor Janice a good night and watched her crawl under her blanket. Taking the light, he headed for the top of a nearby mound where he could watch the surrounding area. The light was barely enough to see where he was stepping, but anything brighter would surely warn Proust of their presence. Once there, he turned off the light and used the binoculars to scan the area, but could see very little in the darkness.


    All was quiet and he was about to head back to awaken Claridee when he suddenly saw a light moving up onto the plateau from the valley below. Straining to see more detail, he could make out two people slowly working their way along the edge of the ruins. Mason silently made his way back to their camp, being careful to keep his light hidden.


    He quickly woke the others, motioning for them to be quiet as he did so. In a low voice he reported. ¡°Two people are heading this way. They just came out of the valley.¡±


    ¡°Do you think they¡¯ll be able to see us here?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so, but they¡¯ll pass close by.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll stay here then,¡± declared Counselor Anklin in a low voice. ¡°It¡¯ll be safer than trying to move.¡±


    The group crouched behind a large section of concrete and listened for the approaching guards. They could now hear the tell-tale sound of feet walking on gravel and the din of low voices.


    As they drew closer, Mason peaked out and saw two men walking towards them. Soon they were near enough to hear their conversation.


    ¡°¡­out here at night. We never had to do this before.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d certainly rather be in a nice warm bed, but I¡¯m not about to say ¡®No¡¯ to Counselor Darnia.¡±


    Mason heard a sharp intake of breath by the two Counselors.


    Beams of light flashed over the ruins and above their heads.


    ¡°She seemed pretty certain that Anklin and his Earth allies are out here somewhere,¡± continued one of the men.


    ¡°Well, I certainly hope we don¡¯t find them. There¡¯s no telling what they¡¯d do to us,¡± responded the other with fear evident in his voice.


    The two men continued on in silence with only the sound of their footsteps betraying their presence. As the sound of the footsteps diminished, Mason breathed a sigh of relief.


    After the sound of the men¡¯s footsteps could no longer be heard, Counselor Anklin whispered in a distressed tone. ¡°That¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve ever seen anyone on Myscreth fear the Council. Proust¡¯s convinced his followers that we¡¯re monsters. Even if we defeat him, it will take a lot of work to overcome the damage he¡¯s done to the Council¡¯s reputation.¡± He briefly paused, but resumed speaking with a more determined tone. ¡°However, we¡¯ll deal with that when we have to. Right now, our top priority is defeating Proust.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± agreed Counselor Janice emphatically. ¡°Especially since it¡¯s now clear that his plan is to establish his own Council. He must be stopped.¡±


    After the close call, no one felt like going back to sleep and the group started packing their equipment and ate a quick breakfast. As they finished, a slight hint of light could be seen on the eastern horizon.


    They waited until there was light enough to see and moved up into a ruins to study the valley below. The valley was about two miles wide with steep sides that were strewn with boulders and crevasses. The ruins extended into the upper half of the valley.


    The valley floor was relatively clear with what appeared to be the remnants of a paved road running through it. The settlement itself was at the far end of the valley, about a mile and a half beyond where the ruins ended. The eastern side of the valley was a collection of boulders and debris, which except for a small area along the ruins, appeared impassable. The western side of the valley wasn¡¯t much better, but at least it looked like one could make their way along it.


    Counselor Anklin scanned the valley with the binoculars and shook his head. ¡°The only way we can reach the settlement without being seen is to go along the western side of the valley. Unfortunately, to get there we have to get through the ruins.¡± He pointed at the valley below. ¡°It looks like they start clearing out about halfway down. Once we get down there, we should be able to work our way across.¡±


    Counselor Janice nodded. ¡°The trick will be getting down there without being seen.¡±


    When she finished speaking, Counselor Janice gave Counselor Anklin an expectant look and he returned her gaze. Finally, he nodded.


    He turned to Mason and Claridee. ¡°Janice and I discussed this earlier;¡± he paused as if searching for the right words. ¡°As Counselors, it¡¯s our responsibility to fight Proust, but we can¡¯t let the two of you ¡­¡±


    Mason was surprised when Claridee interrupted, eyes flashing. ¡°It¡¯s as much our fight as yours.¡± She stared at the Counselors, resolute.


    At first, he didn¡¯t understand why she was so upset, but then realized what Counselor Anklin was trying to say: they planned to leave them behind.


    He tried to control his anger. ¡°Proust is threatening Earth too and I can¡¯t sit by and let it happen.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave Counselor Janice a small smile. ¡°I told you they¡¯d react this way, Janice.¡±


    ¡°I know Anklin, but we had to try,¡± she responded sadly.


    He gave them what Mason considered to be a look of pride. ¡°There¡¯s no guarantee we¡¯ll be successful or even survive. I want you to know that before we continue.¡±


    Claridee and Mason nodded.


    ¡°Very well then,¡± directed Counselor Anklin. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

 Chapter Twenty: Obstacles

    Counselor Anklin whispered some final instructions as they reached the edge of the ruins. ¡°Stay close and be ready to seek cover if I signal.¡±


    Scanning the area ahead, he gestured for the group to follow. The path down was steep and covered with rubble, making walking difficult. With her ankle still bothering her, Claridee struggled keeping her balance. Mason stayed right in front of her, ready to grab her if she slipped.


    To keep out if sight, they worked their way through the sections of concrete and metal which jutted from the ruins. At each turn, Counselor Anklin checked to make sure the way ahead was safe. At one turn he quickly waved to the group.


    ¡°Get back!¡± he whispered urgently, leading them into the safety of the ruins.


    ¡°What¡¯d you see?¡± asked Claridee looking around anxiously.


    ¡°There¡¯s a building about twenty yards further down, but I can¡¯t tell if anyone¡¯s inside.¡±


    ¡°Can we get by without being seen?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I doubt it. It¡¯s on a small hill and has a good view of the area.¡±


    ¡°What if just one of us walked up to the building?¡± suggested Claridee. ¡°It might allow the rest of us to slip by unnoticed.¡±


    ¡°That might work,¡± offered Counselor Janice. ¡°Even if we can¡¯t get by, maybe we could get close enough to safely incapacitate them.¡±


    ¡°But wouldn¡¯t they immediately run to the settlement if they saw one of us?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Not necessarily,¡± answered Counselor Janice. ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯d recognize Counselor Anklin or myself, but probably not you or Claridee.¡±


    ¡°However, I wonder if having someone go alone would seem suspicious. After all, we did see two guards last night,¡± she added.


    ¡°A good point,¡± Counselor Anklin replied. ¡°I think it would be best if Claridee and Mason went. By the way Claridee, how¡¯s your ankle holding up?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s getting better, but ¡­¡±


    She paused, seeming to realize what Counselor Anklin had in mind. ¡°Oh, I see! If Mason and I show up with me hobbling, it would be a much better distraction.¡±


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°The two of you walk up to the building and ask for their help. Do your best to get their attention away from outside. You¡¯ll have to signal us when the coast is clear.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give out a good loud scream when we¡¯re ready,¡± Claridee suggested with a smile.


    ¡°Good,¡± continued Counselor Anklin. ¡°Janice and I will try to get by without being seen. However, if they do see us, be ready to prevent them from getting away.¡±


    The two trainees moved out from the ruins. Once in the open, Claridee leaned on Mason¡¯s shoulder while lifting one foot off the ground.


    He whispered. ¡°If we weren¡¯t in immediate danger for our lives, I¡¯d really be enjoying this.¡±


    She gave him a light punch on the arm and smiled. Turning her expression into a grimace, she whispered back. ¡°Ready.¡±


    The two of them slowly hobbled forward and as they neared the building Mason called out. ¡°Hello? Is anybody there?¡±


    A heavily muscled man stepped out of the small building and bellowed. ¡°Stop! Who are you?¡±


    Mason hadn¡¯t thought to come up with a fake name and nearly blurted out his own name before he stopped himself. Fortunately, Claridee seemed to have thought ahead and called out in a weak voice. ¡°We¡¯re Holdern and Pollrine. I was injured while we were out on patrol.¡±


    Mason immediately recognized her parents¡¯ names.


    ¡°I¡¯m bringing Pollrine back to the settlement so she can be treated,¡± Mason called out.


    The man looked them over carefully. At last he responded. ¡°I don¡¯t remember seeing you two before.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve only recently arrived and have been assigned to watch the ruins outside the valley,¡± explained Mason, internally preparing to defend Claridee and himself if needed.


    ¡°And who gave you that assignment?¡±


    Mason¡¯s mind raced trying to think who would have given them that assignment. Proust was the first name to pop into his head, but it seemed too obvious. Then he remembered the conversation of the two guards from the previous night.


    ¡°Counselor Darnia,¡± he replied, with what he hoped was a confident tone.


    Claridee started to whimper, and leaned more heavily on him.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you see that she¡¯s hurt?¡± Mason insisted angrily. ¡°She needs to rest and I need to check the bandage on her foot.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t sure if the man believed their story, but at last he shrugged and motioned for them to come forward. ¡°Very well, come with me.¡±


    He led them to the building. It consisted of a single room in which a man and a woman sat at a small table finishing their breakfast. There was a single door and two windows which overlooked the ruins.


    There were two cots in the room, and Mason led Claridee to the one furthest from the door. She sat down and Mason pretended to look at her ankle while watching their hosts.


    The man who¡¯d met them outside introduced himself along with the people at the table. ¡°I am Norsturn, and this is Mesturn and Eilorin.¡± He turned to his two companions and continued. ¡°This is Holdern and Pollrine, and they are on their way back to the settlement.¡±


    Mason gave Claridee a small nod.


    She erupted in a loud scream.


    He was pleased to see that everyone in the room was now staring at her. When he felt enough time had passed, he nodded again and the screaming stopped. He continued adjusting her bandage a while longer before helping her up.


    She gingerly set her foot on the ground and with a slight grimace declared. ¡°It seems better now.¡±


    Mason looked up and said in a grateful tone. ¡°Thank you for your help. I should be able to get her to the settlement now.¡±


    Norsturn looked over at his two companions. ¡°It¡¯s still a long way to the settlement. Maybe Mesturn should go with you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not necessary,¡± replied Mason doing his best to keep his voice calm. ¡°We should be able to get there now and wouldn¡¯t want to interfere with your work watching for Anklin and his Earth allies.¡±Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    Norsturn gave a grim laugh. ¡°After the stories I¡¯ve heard, I hope we never see them.¡±


    Claridee coughed, but Mason could tell she was holding back a giggle. ¡°We couldn¡¯t agree with you more.¡±


    They slowly made their way out of the building and headed towards the settlement. As before, Claridee leaned on Mason and favored one leg.


    ¡°You were amazing,¡± whispered Mason as they walked.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± answered a blushing Claridee.


    Once out of sight of the building, they quickened their pace. Rounding a corner, they heard a low voice calling out from the ruins.


    ¡°Mason. Claridee. Over here.¡±


    Following the voice they soon found Counselors Anklin and Janice.


    ¡°Well done,¡± beamed Counselor Janice. ¡°We¡¯d better get moving before we run into anyone else.¡±


    They continued on as before, sticking close to the ruins and checking to make sure they didn¡¯t run into anyone. While Counselor Janice looked around an outcropping of rock, Claridee suddenly whispered excitedly. ¡°Someone¡¯s coming from behind us!¡±


    ¡°Quick, into the ruins,¡± ordered Counselor Anklin.


    They had just settled behind a large chunk of metal as the sound of excited voices and hurrying footsteps became audible.


    ¡°We should have caught up them by now,¡± muttered a male voice which Mason recognized as Norsturn¡¯s.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have let them go until you checked out their story,¡± a woman¡¯s voice shot back. ¡°That¡¯s Counselor Darnia¡¯s orders.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not Eilorin,¡± whispered Claridee peeking out.


    ¡°I know, but the girl was hurt.¡±


    There was a harsh laugh. ¡°She must have had a miraculous recovery for them to stay ahead of us.¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± growled Norsturn. ¡°You show up and immediately think you¡¯re in charge. You¡¯ll see I¡¯m right when we reach the settlement.¡±


    ¡°For your sake I hope they¡¯re there,¡± answered the woman as their footsteps faded away down the path.


    Counselor Anklin grabbed his pack and stood up. ¡°We¡¯ve better move. Once they get to the settlement, Proust will know for sure we¡¯re here.¡±


    They continued on, moving as fast as the terrain and Claridee¡¯s ankle would allow. Mason could see the pain etched in Claridee¡¯s face as she did her best to keep pace. His offer of help was refused with an irritated, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    They only stopped moving to make sure the way ahead was clear.


    ¡°How much further Anklin?¡± asked Counselor Janice with her hands on her knees as he peered around a corner.


    ¡°Not far,¡± he answered in a low voice. ¡°A few hundred feet or so. Once there we can rest.¡±


    At last, Counselor Anklin pointed at a massive metal beam which jutted into the path. ¡°Through there.¡±


    Once back in the ruins, they quickly ducked under a portion of collapsed building. Sitting there, they fought to catch their breath and gulped down water pulled from their packs.


    ¡°Can¡¯t stay too long,¡± declared Counselor Anklin.


    While they waited, Mason took a look at Claridee¡¯s ankle. ¡°How¡¯re you doing?¡±


    ¡°Could be better,¡± she answered, ¡°but, I¡¯ll be okay.¡±


    After a far shorter rest than anyone wanted, they headed into the ruins towards the western end of the valley, keeping low. The way across the ruins was like a maze with dead ends, double backs, and diverging paths. Progress was maddeningly slow and it was already late morning by the time they reached the middle of the ruins.


    Ducking into an opening formed by a chunk of concrete and a twisted girder, the group rested and had something to eat.


    ¡°What do you think Proust will do when he finds out we¡¯re here?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°Probably send out everyone he has to look for us,¡± answered Counselor Janice in a frank tone.


    ¡°That might just work to our advantage,¡± commented Counselor Anklin. ¡°It¡¯d be much easier getting into the settlement if everyone¡¯s gone.¡±


    ¡°Assuming we can get there without being seen,¡± added Mason.


    Counselor Anklin gave a tired chuckle. ¡°A big if, but one I think we can achieve.¡± He took a pair of binoculars from his pack and handed them to Mason. ¡°Go take a look and see where our friend Norsturn is.¡±


    He moved to a spot which gave him a clear view of the lower valley. He scanned the settlement which seemed deserted except for a small group loading crates onto a cart near the cave entrance. He then turned his attention to the valley floor. It took time, but at last he saw two people about halfway across hurrying towards the settlement. Although too far away to see clearly, there was no mistaking Norsturn¡¯s muscular build.


    Mason hurried back to the others. ¡°They¡¯re halfway across.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t give us much time,¡± declared Counselor Janice.


    They raced through the ruins now, hoping to get through before Proust discovered their presence. However, speed wasn¡¯t enough as obstacles slowed their progress and often forced them to backtrack. They¡¯d just run into another dead end when Proust¡¯s voice boomed from the sky.


    ¡°Anklin! I know you¡¯re out there!¡±


    Claridee cried out in surprise while Mason spun around, furiously looking for the source of the voice, but to no avail. Counselor Anklin grabbed his arm.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Mason, he¡¯s not here. He must¡¯ve had Darnia open a doorway above the ruins to project his voice. Keep moving and stay low.¡±


    Before they could take a step, a roar echoed across the valley as the upper end of the valley exploded. The ground shook while plumes of smoke and debris shot into the air. Pieces of concrete and metal rained down on them.


    ¡°What was that!¡± exclaimed Claridee.


    ¡°Proust,¡± replied Counselor Anklin angrily. ¡°It appears that he¡¯s decided to attack.¡±


    Looking through his binoculars, Mason saw a small group of people standing in front of the settlement.


    ¡°But how?¡± he asked, pointing at the destroyed area. ¡°I didn¡¯t see any kind of weapon.¡±


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t need weapons,¡± replied Counselor Anklin darkly. ¡°You just saw what happens when you open a doorway into solid matter and send something through.¡±


    Counselor Janice interrupted. ¡°Lessons can wait. Right now we¡¯d better concentrate on getting out of here before he starts targeting this area.¡±


    Proust¡¯s voice once again filled the air. ¡°That was a warning. Surrender, and I¡¯ll be lenient with you and your group. Surely you must see by now that the people of Myscreth have rejected the Council and its timid ways. You have no hope. Stay and die, or surrender so all of Myscreth will know of your failure to defeat me.¡±


    ¡°Keep moving!¡± urged Counselor Anklin as another detonation occurred, this time further down the valley.


    As the sound of the explosion faded, Proust¡¯s voice once again carried across the sky. ¡°You may wish to die for your outdated beliefs Anklin, but what of those with you? Should Claridee, who has her whole life ahead of her, share in your fate? I would gladly welcome her as a member of the new Council.¡±


    The look of disgust on Claridee¡¯s face told Mason her answer to Proust¡¯s invitation.


    Counselor Anklin suddenly stopped short and Mason nearly collided with him. Before them lay a steel girder which stretched almost thirty feet in each direction. There was no way around it. Counselor Anklin stared at it and Mason could see his shoulders slump.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way out of here,¡± he declared. ¡°I¡¯ll have to open a doorway to escape. There still might be a way to beat Proust, but that will have to wait for another day.¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± cried Mason. ¡°There must be some other way. We¡¯ve come too far and lost too much to leave now.¡±


    Counselor Anklin placed a hand on his shoulder. ¡°I appreciate the sentiment Mason, but sometimes you have to make a tactical retreat in order to fight another day.¡±


    Mason was surprised to see Claridee furiously staring at the girder and muttering to herself. He wasn¡¯t quite sure what she was saying, but it sounded like. ¡°Proust won¡¯t win.¡± As Counselor Anklin started to concentrate, she struggled to pick up a heavy chunk of concrete.


    ¡°Help me with this Mason,¡± she grunted furiously.


    He was about to ask why, but the glare she gave him made him stop.


    He rushed over to help her lift it. ¡°Over there,¡± she gasped gesturing at the girder. Together, they heaved the concrete at the girder which shattered like glass.


    The sound startled Counselor Anklin and he looked over at Claridee.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± she ordered.


    Mason was shocked by the authority in her tone as they rushed through the opening.


    ¡°It brings me no pleasure to kill you Anklin,¡± continued Proust. ¡°For your sake I hope you¡¯re smart enough to escape while you can. However, whatever happens, you¡¯ve chosen your own fate and the fate of those with you.¡±


    Another explosion, this one just behind them, ripped through the ruins with a deafening roar and chunks of concrete rained down on them.


    ¡°We¡¯ve got to take cover,¡± cried an exhausted Counselor Janice.


    Counselor Anklin pointed at a small opening. ¡°Under there,¡± he panted. One by one they squirmed through the small opening.


    Inside they found a cavity that was about four feet high and ten feet deep. It was just wide enough for them to huddle together near the back wall. Claridee buried her face in Mason¡¯s chest at the sound of another explosion. The ground shook violently and Mason could hear large rocks falling all around them. Dust and smoke filled their shelter making it difficult to breath. Mason lost track of how many more explosions followed, but after what seemed like forever there was silence.


    Counselor Anklin called out between coughs. ¡°Is everyone alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± replied Mason.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± rasped Claridee.


    Counselor Janice fought to catch her breath, but finally wheezed out. ¡°I¡¯m alright, Anklin.¡±


    What little light there had been was now gone. Mason got out his light and shined it at the entrance revealing rubble and chunks of concrete. ¡°Looks like we¡¯ll have to dig our way out.¡±


    ¡°Then let get started,¡± gasped Counselor Anklin, breaking into another fit of coughing.


    Without any shovels, they were forced to dig by hand. It took a while, but finally they¡¯d cleared away enough rubble to let some fresh air in. Exhausted, they simply lay there, breathing it in.


    After a while Mason sat up and started pushing away some of the rubble. ¡°Isn¡¯t it about time we got out of here?¡±


    ¡°Not quite yet,¡± answered Counselor Anklin. ¡°If I know Proust, he¡¯ll send out search parties to be sure we¡¯re gone. We should be safe here. And if we¡¯re lucky,¡± Counselor Anklin observed with a wry smile. ¡°We may have just regained the element of surprise.¡±

 Chapter Twenty-One: Persistence

    Counselor Anklin¡¯s guess about search parties proved correct as the sound of voices and and footsteps could soon be heard. The four of them froze, hardly even daring to breath until the sounds faded away. After a sufficiently long period of silence, Counselor Anklin nodded to the others. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s get out of here.¡±


    The dug until there was a large enough opening for them to squeeze through. ¡°I¡¯ll go first to make sure it¡¯s safe,¡± offered Mason.


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ll go first. Everyone wait inside until I signal.¡±


    He crawled thought the opening. Inside the crevice, everyone breathed a sigh of relief as the only sound they heard was the crunching of gravel. After a short while they heard Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice calling softly. ¡°It¡¯s safe.¡±


    Mason helped Claridee and Counselor Janice scramble out before following them through. Looking up at the sky, he guessed that it was around the middle of the afternoon.


    He looked over at Claridee and in the daylight could see that she was covered in dust and her face was streaked with dirt. Even so, to him she¡¯d never looked more beautiful.


    Looking around, Mason realized how fortunate they¡¯d been. The ruins they¡¯d just passed though were now nothing more than rubble. If the explosions had been any closer, their refuge wouldn¡¯t have saved them. He was filled with a sense of dread.


    ¡°So much destruction ¡­¡± Mason trailed off, at a loss for words.


    ¡°Yes,¡± answered Counselor Anklin, taking a long look at the pulverized ruins. ¡°There¡¯s no doubt now that Proust will stop at nothing to revive Myscreth¡¯s past greatness.¡±


    ¡°And neither Myscreth nor Earth are safe,¡± added Mason gloomily.


    Claridee put a hand on his shoulder, and in a kind, but firm voice replied. ¡°We¡¯ll stop him.¡± With the determined expression on her face, Mason couldn¡¯t help but believe her.


    He gave her a weak smile. ¡°After what you did today, how can I disagree?¡±


    She looked down and blushed, clearly pleased. ¡°Well, it made me mad that Proust would ever think I¡¯d join him. What kind of person does he think I am?¡±


    ¡°Well, I know you¡¯re someone who will make a fine Council member.¡± Said Counselor Janice. ¡°However, if we¡¯re going to stop Proust, we¡¯d better get going.¡±


    ¡°Right,¡± agreed Counselor Anklin leading the way towards the western side of the valley.


    The debris from the explosion made progress more difficult, but they continued on carefully navigating the treacherous footing. It was late in the day when the cleared the ruins.


    Counselor Anklin scanned the area ahead. Finally, he pointed at a pile of rocks about fifty feet away. ¡°That should keep us out of sight of the settlement.¡±


    One by one, they crouched down and hurried across with Counselor Anklin going last. Finally able to rest, the four of them just sat there for a while.


    Claridee was the first to break the silence. ¡°Where do we go from here?¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked up at the sky. ¡°It will be dark soon and we can¡¯t risk using lights this close to the settlement.¡± Opening up his backpack, he continued. ¡°Looks like we¡¯ll be spending the night here.¡±


    Mason took out his binoculars and looked towards the settlement. ¡°I don¡¯t see any search parties. Hopefully they¡¯ve given up looking for us.¡±


    ¡°In that case,¡± suggested Counselor Janice digging into her pack. ¡°We¡¯d better set up camp before it¡¯s too dark to see.¡±


    They¡¯d barely finished getting out their blankets and setting up the heater, when the last bit of light disappeared from the sky.


    For Mason, dinner was a strange experience as he¡¯d never eaten in total darkness before. Digging around in his pack, he grabbed the first thing that felt like food. Based on the smell, he at first thought it was froustrine, a vegetable that was a combination of squash and tomatoes. However, upon biting into it, the flavor of under ripe banana and bitter herbs almost made him gag.


    ¡°Something wrong Mason?¡± asked Claridee with a slight giggle.


    ¡°No,¡± he answered choking back a cough. ¡°Just wish I could see what I was eating.¡±


    As they ate, Counselor Anklin outlined their objective. ¡°We¡¯ll head out for the settlement as soon as it¡¯s light. That will give us time to study its layout and come up with a plan of action.¡±


    ¡°What will we be looking for?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°Darnia,¡± he replied. ¡°We have to get her out of the way first if we¡¯re to keep Proust from escaping.¡±


    ¡°But how are we going to do that?¡± questioned Counselor Janice.


    Counselor Anklin shook his head and frowned. ¡°Frankly, I still don¡¯t know. Hopefully we¡¯ll figure out something tomorrow.¡±


    Although exhausted, Mason didn¡¯t feel like sleeping and offered to take the first watch. Sitting in the darkness just outside their hiding place, he observed the settlement looking for any lights that might be moving towards them. Even after Claridee¡¯s reassurance, he was still worried about what Proust might do on Earth. The thought of his parents being in danger terrified Mason and he vowed to himself that no matter what, he¡¯d make sure Proust was stopped.


    The night was uneventful as no additional search parties were sent out. Just before dawn, Counselor Anklin began waking everyone up. Following a quick breakfast, they began packing up to their journey towards Proust¡¯s settlement.


    Before starting out, Counselor Anklin gave final instructions. ¡°We¡¯ll use the boulders and crevices for cover. Stay together and don¡¯t move into the open until I signal it¡¯s safe.¡±


    When they were ready to move, Counselor Anklin scanned the ground ahead of them. ¡°Follow me,¡± he whispered. Remaining crouched low, he ran towards a boulder about fifteen feet away. The rest of the group followed suit. They continued on in this manner, taking only short breaks. It was a tedious and exhausting process. It took all morning to reach a point overlooking the settlement which Mason guessed was about a third of a mile away.


    Their vantage point provided the first up-close look of the settlement. There were ten buildings that sat about hundred feet away from a large cave entrance. Five of the buildings were substantially larger than the others, and Mason assumed they must be dormitories or dining areas.


    They saw about twenty people in the settlement, most of whom were moving carts into the cave. However, there was no sign of Proust or Darnia.


    Suddenly Counselor Anklin pointed towards the cave and spoke in an excited whisper. ¡°Look!¡±


    Proust and Darnia left the cave and paused to speak to a young woman. The woman suddenly ran back to the settlement while Proust and Darnia returned to the cave. Meanwhile, the woman hurried to three of the larger buildings and called into them.


    A rush of people came out of each building and made their way up to the cave. There must have been between forty and fifty people. As this was happening, Mason noticed Counselor Anklin nodding to himself. Curious, he asked. ¡°Do you know what¡¯s going on down there?¡±


    ¡°I think I do. Now what did Counselor Gorwold tell us the cave was used for?¡±Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    ¡°To store equipment?¡± replied Claridee.


    ¡°Yes, and where does that equipment come from?¡± he continued.


    ¡°Earth!¡± interjected Counselor Janice before Mason or Claridee could answer. ¡°You think Proust is preparing to travel to Earth right now?¡±


    ¡°Think about it. If Proust was going to Earth to get supplies, he¡¯d need a lot of people to carry it. Plus, if the cave is where they store everything, what better place to open a doorway?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s our plan to stop him?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Counselor Anklin replied calmly.


    ¡°Nothing?¡± shot back a surprised Mason.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Proust has already been to Earth numerous times. Allowing him to do so once more won¡¯t do any more harm. In fact, it might just be the opportunity we need.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°With everyone in the cave, it should be much easier for us to get closer to the settlement unobserved. Claridee, keep a close eye on the cave and let us know immediately if you see any sign of a purple light. That will tell us that Darnia has opened a doorway.¡±


    Claridee grabbed her binoculars and focused them on the cave entrance.


    It soon appeared that most of the settlement residents had either gone into the cave or were near it.


    ¡°I see a purple light!¡± Claridee announced excitedly.


    ¡°We¡¯ll give them enough time to go through before we start.¡± Counselor Anklin declared. Pointing towards the settlement he continued. ¡°That ridge of stone about a hundred feet from the settlement is our objective. It¡¯ll give us a good view of the settlement without being seen. Stay low and move as quickly as possible.¡±


    After a short while, he signaled. ¡°Go!¡±


    As instructed, they kept low and moved at a steady pace towards the settlement. About halfway down, Mason saw several people leave one of the buildings.


    ¡°Get down!¡± he called out in a low voice.


    Everyone immediately lunged behind the nearest available object that would provide cover. Mason and Claridee ended up together behind a rusted chunk of metal. The people seemed in no rush as they stopped several times to talk while on their way towards the cave. ¡°Hurry up,¡± muttered Claridee impatiently.


    Once the people finally entered the cave, the Trainees and Counselors continued moving towards the settlement and reached the ridge without further incident.


    ¡°All we can do now is wait,¡± Counselor Anklin declared, settling against a rock.


    It was a while before people started to exit the cave. They walked out slowly, exhaustion evident in their movement. However, instead of immediately heading back to the settlement, they formed a large semicircle facing the cave entrance. Once everyone was assembled, Proust, and a group including Darnia, walked out of the cave. Along with Darnia, Mason recognized Betrine and Klarth. There were three others he¡¯d never seen before, but guessed they must be Nornol, Glorine and Thurold. Even as far away as they were, a cheer could be heard emanating from the crowd when Proust appeared.


    Before starting to speak, he took an object from Darnia which he held in front of him. As he spoke, his words thundered from the air above the crowd and echoed throughout the settlement.


    ¡°Darnia, must have opened a doorway on whatever she handed him to project his voice.¡± Counselor Anklin pointed out.


    ¡°Sons and daughters of Myscreth,¡± he began. ¡°Success has smiled on our people. Yesterday, we defeated those who threatened to destroy us.¡± The crowd burst into cheers at his words. Motioning for silence, he went on. ¡°And we have reaped a great harvest of needed supplies from that contemptible place called Earth.¡±


    The crowd erupted into another round of applause.


    After waiting for the applause to subside, Proust continued. ¡°Each day, more and more of our people are seeing the truth of how the fake Council has kept Myscreth from regaining its past greatness. That is due to the dedication all of you have shown to rebuilding our world. The other true Council members and I vow that we will not let anything stand in the way of reclaiming the Myscreth of our ancestors.¡±


    As he finished speaking, the crowd burst into another sustained cheer. Handing the item he was holding back to Darnia, he led his group back towards the settlement. The crowd parted as they passed and continued cheering wildly.


    Mason was disgusted by the crowd¡¯s veneration of Proust. ¡°How can they cheer for him like that? Can¡¯t they see that what he¡¯s doing is wrong?¡± he hissed angrily.


    Counselor Anklin sighed. ¡°I can¡¯t blame them; Proust is offering what they want. I believe most of our people are still loyal to the Council, but there are many who would accept the false hope he provides.¡±


    Proust and his retinue entered the settlement, followed by the cheering crowd. He turned to them and signaled for silence. Once it was quiet, he called out something, but Mason couldn¡¯t hear what it was. The crowd let out a final cheer and started to disperse. Most headed towards the larger buildings while a few went back to the cave.


    As the crowd dispersed, Proust walked briskly to one of the smaller buildings. The others with him also made their way to the smaller buildings. Darnia and Nornol each seemed to have their own quarters while Betrine and Glorine along with Klarth and Thurold appeared to be sharing quarters. Counselor Anklin watched intently, taking careful note of which building Darnia went into.


    ¡°Well, we now know where to find Darnia,¡± he observed, ¡°but that information won¡¯t do us any good unless we can figure out how to get her safely away from here and prevent her from returning.¡±


    ¡°How can we possibly keep her from returning?¡± asked Counselor Janice. ¡°With her ability, wherever you send her, she can just open a doorway and return.¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked down and spoke in a low voice. ¡°There¡¯s one place I could send her where she¡¯d be unable to return.¡±


    ¡°You mean Earth,¡± guessed Mason.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Replied Counselor Anklin. ¡°Without Myscreth¡¯s energy field, Darnia¡¯s powers would be useless. She¡¯d be trapped.¡±


    Mason remembered the stone Counselor Anklin had shown him which allowed him to use his abilities on Earth. ¡°As long as she doesn¡¯t have a stone like yours with her.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to make sure she doesn¡¯t.¡±


    Claridee looked over at Counselor Anklin, disbelief in her eyes. ¡°Sending her alone to a world she knows nothing about seems cruel. There¡¯s no way of knowing what might happen to her there.¡± She looked away seeming distressed. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t really do that would you Counselor Anklin?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not an ideal solution,¡± he replied with a sigh, ¡°but there may be no other way.¡±


    The four of them sat there quietly, trying to think of another means to get Darnia out of the way. Every time Mason came up with an idea, he¡¯d find a reason why it wouldn¡¯t work. He was growing discouraged, and after a while started to think that Counselor Anklin¡¯s suggestion, however unpleasant, was the only way.


    Claridee stared at her ankle and began rubbing it. Mason was about to ask if it were bothering her, when she suddenly exclaimed. ¡°I think I¡¯ve got an idea!¡± looking excitedly at the group.


    With everyone¡¯s full attention now on her, she continued. ¡°To use your abilities you have to be able to see the object you wish to manipulate, which means we somehow have to keep her from seeing.¡±


    ¡°True,¡± agreed Counselor Janice, ¡°but how could we do that?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d wrap a bandage around her head to cover her eyes and then I¡¯d modify it to make it too strong and stiff to remove, just like Counselor Halrous did for my ankle. That way she¡¯d still be free to move, but wouldn¡¯t be able to see to use her abilities.¡±


    Counselor Anklin considered the idea for a moment before nodding. ¡°That should work. It¡¯s certainly better that the alternative. However, we¡¯d better test it first to be sure.¡±


    ¡°You can try it on me,¡± offered Mason.


    He remained sitting while Counselor Janice gathered some bandages and wrapped them around his eyes.


    ¡°Can you see?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°As ready as I¡¯ll ever be.¡±


    The sensation of the bandage on Mason¡¯s head changed. The once flexible bandage now felt like an overly snug bike helmet that had been pushed down over his head.


    ¡°How does it feel?¡± asked Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°A little uncomfortable, but it¡¯s not causing any pain.¡±


    ¡°Okay Mason, try and take it off,¡± directed Claridee.


    He tried to untie the bandage, but was unable to do so. Next he tried pulling it off his head, but it wouldn¡¯t budge. After several futile attempts to remove the bandage, he declared. ¡°This thing won¡¯t budge. But just to be safe, maybe one of you should try to take it off.¡±


    Counselor Anklin tried to pull the bandage off his head. As he yanked on it, Mason let out a small yelp of pain.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way this is coming off,¡± Counselor Anklin concluded.


    ¡°Could it be cut off?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s as strong as steel,¡± answered Claridee. After a brief pause, she added. ¡°You can take it off now Mason.¡±


    He was now easily able to remove the bandage from his head. ¡°I¡¯m glad that¡¯s over,¡± he said with a laugh.


    Once his eyes adjusted to the light, he saw Counselor Anklin looking up at the sky.


    ¡°It won¡¯t be dark for quite a while yet. We¡¯ll want to wait until we¡¯re sure everyone¡¯s asleep before we depart for Darnia¡¯s quarters. We¡¯ll finalize our plans before we go, but I think it would be best if everyone gets some rest before tonight. Each of us will keep watch while the others sleep. I¡¯ll take the first watch.¡±


    They each brushed away an area of loose rocks and spread out their blankets on the cold, hard ground, using their packs as a pillow. Drifting off to sleep, Mason looked over at Claridee. The sound of her soft, steady breathing was music to his ears. He smiled to himself and realized how lucky he was to have someone like her love him. That was his last coherent thought before being shaken awake.


    ¡°Mason,¡± whispered Claridee in a low voice. ¡°It¡¯s your watch.¡±


    Mason sat up, noticing the sky overhead was now dark. ¡°Okay, who has the next watch?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re last. Get the rest of us up when everyone in the settlement is asleep.¡±


    ¡°I will. Have a good sleep.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    He crawled over to the edge of the ridge and stared down at the settlement. The main street of the settlement was illuminated by lights mounted to the buildings. There were some additional lights that were on poles running up towards the cave. All the buildings were dark, except for the building that Proust used for his quarters and one of the larger buildings.


    Scanning the settlement with his binoculars, he saw no sign of movement. Hopefully this meant that Proust was convinced they were gone, and didn¡¯t need any sentries. Soon he saw the light in Proust¡¯s window go out. The light in the large building followed shortly after. He saw nothing out of the ordinary, and after waiting a little longer, woke the others.


    ¡°There¡¯s no lights on in the buildings, and no sign of sentries,¡± he reported after everyone was awake.


    Counselor Anklin nodded. ¡°Hopefully, that will make tonight¡¯s work easier, though as we¡¯ve seen before, nothing¡¯s ever easy with Proust.¡±

 Chapter Twenty-Two: War of Attrition

    ¡°Everyone be sure to eat something,¡± ordered Counselor Janice. ¡°There¡¯s no telling when there¡¯ll be another chance.¡±


    Each of them dutifully dug into their packs, but no one ate much. For Mason, equal measures of excitement and worry dulled his appetite. As he nibbled at something similar to a potato, he kept looking over at Claridee. They¡¯d only been together a short time and he couldn¡¯t image life without her.


    As they finished eating, Counselor Anklin looked at each of them with determination in his eyes and emotion was evident in his voice as he spoke.


    ¡°What we¡¯re about to do won¡¯t be easy, but in a civilization¡¯s history there are a number of critical events that determine its fate. I believe that we¡¯re now facing such a time not only for Myscreth, but for Earth as well. Whatever happens, remember that.¡±


    Picking up his pack, Counselor Anklin began emptying it. ¡°We¡¯ll have to travel light so only take your lights and first aid supplies.¡± Tossing aside the remainder of his food and water, he continued. ¡°We¡¯ll head for Darnia¡¯s quarters first and if we¡¯re successful there, we¡¯ll move against Proust¡¯s other trainees. With them gone, maybe Proust will have the sense to surrender.¡±


    ¡°Do you think he will?¡± asked Claridee.


    Counselor Anklin shook his head and sighed. ¡°No. Unfortunately, the idea of returning Myscreth to its former glory has too strong a hold on him.¡±


    An uncomfortable thought came to Mason. ¡°What happens if we¡¯re seen?¡±


    ¡°If possible, we try to prevent them from raising an alarm. However, if we can¡¯t, everyone is to immediately head back here.¡± He gave Mason a long look. ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone trying to be a hero.¡±


    At last they were ready, and moved silently towards the settlement. The terrain was rocky, and they had to move slowly so they wouldn¡¯t trip in the dim light. As they neared the settlement the ground became less rugged and the light was brighter, allowing them to increase their pace.


    At a small outcropping just outside of the settlement, Counselor Anklin scanned the settlement. After a short time, he reported in a low voice. ¡°The coast is clear. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    They were soon behind Darnia¡¯s quarters.


    ¡°Claridee, there should be a window on the side of the building. Look inside and report what you see,¡± ordered Counselor Janice.


    She nodded and silently slipped around the corner. It seemed to Mason that she¡¯d been gone too long and he was about to go after her when she reappeared.


    ¡°The window looks in on her bedroom,¡± reported Claridee. ¡°Her bed is along the wall to the left of the door opposite the window. She¡¯s asleep and based on how little she moved; I¡¯d guess it¡¯s a deep sleep.¡±


    Counselor Anklin patted Claridee¡¯s arm. ¡°Excellent work.¡±


    The four of them slowly worked their way around the building keeping an eye open for any sentries. Seeing none, they crept to the front door. It was unlocked and the four of them quietly slipped inside.


    The only light came from the window located by the door, but it was sufficient to show a plainly furnished dining room with two doors. Based on Claridee description, the door on the right led to Darnia¡¯s bedroom.


    Counselor Anklin knelt in front of the bedroom door and whispered to the others.


    ¡°Janice, get the bandages ready. Before we go in, I¡¯ll modify the gravity of her blankets to hold her down. When I give the word, you and I will sneak in and try to get to her before she awakens.¡±


    Counselor Janice nodded.


    ¡°Claridee,¡± he continued. ¡°When Counselor Janice signals, you come in and modify the bandages.¡± He then looked at Mason. ¡°Mason, keep watch and wait for my signal to come in.¡±


    The two trainees whispered their acknowledgement of his orders.


    Counselor Anklin slowly opened the door a crack to get a clear view of Darnia. He concentrated before gesturing to Counselor Janice. The two of them tiptoed silently into the room, stopping every few feet to listen for any change in her breathing. However, it remained constant. At last, the two Counselors stood over Darnia, and Counselor Anklin gave a nod.


    He clasped his hand tightly over Darnia¡¯s mouth while Counselor Janice covered her eyes with the bandages and started wrapping them tightly around her head. At the sudden attack, Darnia struggled to free herself, attempting to scream. However, the modified blankets held her in place.


    When she finished, Counselor Janice looked over at Claridee and nodded.


    Claridee hurried into the bedroom and concentrated on the bandages. ¡°Done,¡± she whispered.


    ¡°Now Mason,¡± softly called out Counselor Janice.


    He rushed inside, closing the door quietly behind him.


    Counselor Anklin started rapidly issuing orders while continuing to hold his hand over Darnia¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Janice! Modify the window to prevent light from passing through.¡±


    The window quickly turned opaque throwing the room into darkness, Counselor Anklin called out. ¡°Let¡¯s get some light in here.¡±


    Mason turned on a small lamp.


    Counselor Anklin then turned to Claridee. ¡°Modify the walls and ceiling so we can¡¯t be heard.¡±


    They waited in silence until Claridee finally announced. ¡°Finished.¡±


    He now removed his hand from Darnia¡¯s mouth. As he did so, a high-pitched scream filled the room and continued unabated. Having finally heard enough Counselor Anklin yelled loudly. ¡°Scream all you want, but no one can hear you!¡±


    Darnia seemed to get the message and her screaming stopped, but was quickly replaced with sobbing.


    ¡°What have you done to me?¡± she begged between sobs. ¡°Please don¡¯t hurt me.¡±


    She seemed like a small frightened child and Mason couldn¡¯t help but pity her. ¡°We won¡¯t hurt you,¡± he promised in a comforting tone.


    His words seemed to calm her and her sobbing subsided.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± she asked plaintively.


    ¡°I¡¯m Counselor Anklin, and I¡¯m here with Counselor Janice and Trainees Claridee and Mason.¡±


    Her demeanor immediately changed. Gone was the fear and a sneer appeared on her lips.


    ¡°I should have known,¡± she hissed, in a voice that Mason immediately recognized as the one he and Claridee heard in the dark outside of Vandrous. ¡°I have nothing to fear from you. Counselor Proust has told me about your fear of hurting anyone. I¡¯ll bet you even feel sorry for me.¡±


    Counselor Anklin responded with barely restrained resentment. ¡°Having compassion for someone who hates you shows true strength of character. It¡¯s easy to hate, but so much harder to care. Unfortunately, I see Proust has trained you well.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s Counselor Proust to you!¡± she spat.


    Counselor Janice¡¯s face turned red. ¡°He lost that title when he betrayed his Council oath!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s kept his oath better than any of you,¡± she replied furiously. ¡°He¡¯s given up everything to help our people. All you¡¯ve done is brought outsiders to our world to rule over us.¡±


    She paused before continuing in a calm, glib voice. ¡°I¡¯m sure Claridee understands. She¡¯s a true daughter of Myscreth who wants to help her people. Counselor Proust has spoken highly of you Claridee, and is sure your parents would be pleased to see you make the right choice.¡±


    At the mention of her parents Claridee erupted, eyes blazing. ¡°What have you done with my parents?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, but I¡¯m sure their lives would be much harder if people knew their daughter had turned against her people,¡± she replied in an unconcerned voice.


    Mason had never seen Claridee so enraged. ¡°Don¡¯t let her bother you Claridee,¡± offered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Nothing she¡¯s saying is true, it¡¯s only an effort to provoke us.¡±This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    However, Claridee continued to glare at Darnia. ¡°It¡¯s because I care about our people that I will never join with Proust. His actions will only hurt Myscreth. How can you not see that?¡±


    She gave a slight smile. ¡°Counselor Proust said you were persuasive Anklin, but I¡¯m impressed at how well you¡¯ve turned Claridee against her people.¡±


    Counselor Anklin sighed. ¡°Unfortunately, we still have much work ahead of us Darnia. I¡¯m sorry, but it¡¯s time to send you on your way.¡±


    Her confident demeanor faltered. ¡°And just where are you sending me?¡±


    ¡°To a secluded place I have just north of Dafrum,¡± answered Counselor Anklin. ¡°Tranlee is already there, so she¡¯ll be able to help you get around.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d wondered what¡¯d happened to her.¡± She said in a low voice, almost like an afterthought.


    ¡°And don¡¯t even bother trying to remove the blindfold,¡± added Claridee with a hint of glee in her voice. ¡°It won¡¯t come off.¡±


    Counselor Anklin shook his head, looking exasperated. "Claridee, grab a jacket and some clothes from the wardrobe for Darnia.¡± As she tossed the clothes on the bed, he whispered to Mason. ¡°When I give the word, remove the gravity modification on the blankets.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Counselor Anklin addressed Darnia, frustration in his voice.


    ¡°As much as you see it as a sign of weakness, I¡¯m sorry for what¡¯s about to happen. When you arrive, be sure to scream loudly so Tranlee can hear you. Don¡¯t try moving around on your own, or you might get hurt. Once we¡¯ve defeated Proust, we¡¯ll come and get the two of you.¡±


    Darnia gave a wicked smile. ¡°It will be a long wait then, since I doubt very much you¡¯ll defeat Counselor Proust. However, if you could tell him with your dying breath where we are, I¡¯d appreciate it.¡±


    Counselor Anklin hesitated a moment, but finally stared at the bed and concentrated. It look longer than usual, but the bed was soon engulfed by a flashing purple light and a familiar hum filled the room. At the sound of the humming, Darnia cried out. ¡°You may think you¡¯ve won, but you¡¯ve just ensured your defeat!¡±


    At Counselor Anklin¡¯s signal, Mason adjusted the gravity of the blankets back to their normal state. As he finished, he was alarmed to see Darnia starting to sit up. However, at the same instant, the purple light turned solid and the mattress, along with everything on it, fell as if a trap door had been opened below it. Darnia screamed in panic, but her scream faded away as she disappeared from sight. All that remained was an empty bedframe.


    Counselor Anklin sat at the desk and pounded it angrily.


    ¡°Because of Proust, she¡¯ll never have a normal life here on Myscreth. Of all he¡¯s done, the greatest evil is how he¡¯s ruined the lives of those he¡¯s trained. The best they can hope for now is a life in exile.¡±


    Mason was surprised by his words. He¡¯d always thought of the people that Proust has trained as the enemy. Now, he wasn¡¯t so sure.


    ¡°Where do we go from here Anklin?¡± asked Counselor Janice


    ¡°Nornol, since he¡¯s also alone in his quarters.¡±


    Nornol¡¯s quarters were located at the end of the settlement furthest from the cave. The four of them left Darnia¡¯s bedroom and silently crept to the front door. Mason peered through the window. ¡°I don¡¯t see anyone,¡± he reported in a low voice.


    ¡°Everyone head to the back of the building and we¡¯ll make our way to Nornol¡¯s quarters,¡± whispered Counselor Anklin.


    They slipped out the front door and quietly made their way along the back of the buildings, keeping a lookout for anyone who might be outside. There was less light as they got further from the center of the settlement, slowing their progress. As before, Claridee was sent to look in the window and find out the layout of the building. She quickly returned.


    ¡°It¡¯s too dark to see anything inside,¡± she reported.


    Counselor Anklin frowned. ¡°I don¡¯t like going in blind, but we have no choice.¡±


    He led the way to the front door and the four of them slipped inside. The room was dark except for the light coming through the front window. Counselor Anklin pointed toward the door on the right, and the four of them crouched down in front of it.


    He handed a light to Claridee and whispered. ¡°We¡¯ll have to risk using a light once we open the door in order to see, but don¡¯t turn it on until I signal.¡± He turned to Mason. ¡°Be ready to manipulate the gravity of Nornol¡¯s bedding if he awakens. I¡¯m going to open a doorway to send him away from here.¡±


    He slowly opened the door, allowing a small sliver of light to enter the room, but there wasn¡¯t enough to see Nornol. The sound of a man snoring seemed to come from the wall opposite the door. Counselor Anklin nodded and Claridee turned on the light, illuminating the room. With the bed now visible, Counselor Anklin started to concentrate and soon a hum and flashing purple light engulfed the bed.


    Nornol sat up and cried out in alarm. Mason was just about to manipulate the blankets when the purple light stopped flashing and everything on the bed, including Nornol, disappeared.


    ¡°Check the window,¡± ordered Counselor Janice.


    Claridee peered out the front window while everyone anxiously waited.


    ¡°No sign of anyone,¡± she finally reported, relief evident in her voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting too old for this,¡± Counselor Anklin declared, exhaustion evident in his voice as he sat back against the wall.


    ¡°Where¡¯d you send him?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t send him to Tranlee and Darnia, since he¡¯s capable of manipulating structural mechanics and could remove Darnia¡¯s blindfold. Therefore, I transported him to a small valley near the equator far from any settlements. He¡¯ll be safe there and hopefully won¡¯t be alone for long.¡± He looked out the window. ¡°Right now, we¡¯d better get moving. Klarth and Thurold are in the next building over.¡±


    Once there, Claridee carefully made her way to the side of the building to observe what was inside.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t see too much,¡± she reported ¡°but there are two beds in the room; one on the left wall and the other opposite the door. The two of them must be sharing a bedroom.¡±


    ¡°Well, that certainly complicates things,¡± noted Counselor Janice with a scowl. ¡°How can we remove them without one of them raising an alarm?¡±


    Mason had a sudden idea. ¡°Who says we have to remove them?¡±


    The others gave him puzzled looks as he continued. ¡°All we really need to do is keep them from aiding Proust. If we can trap them inside, wouldn¡¯t that be sufficient?¡±


    ¡°That would mean leaving Nornol without any company, but I¡¯m sure he wouldn¡¯t mind too much,¡± Counselor Anklin replied with a small chuckle. He continued in a more serious tone. ¡°To trap them we¡¯ll have to ensure that the room remains dark so they can¡¯t use their abilities. We¡¯ll need to knock out the building¡¯s electricity and modify the windows so no light can enter.¡±


    ¡°What if they try to get out through the window?¡± offered Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I can take care of that,¡± replied Claridee with a smile. ¡°And I¡¯m sure it would be helpful if no one could hear them yelling.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll also have to do something about the bedroom door,¡± added Counselor Anklin.


    When they were ready to begin, Claridee concentrated on the side and rear walls of the building and modified them to prevent sound from passing through. Next she concentrated on the window and modified it so it would be as strong as steel. She soon declared. ¡°Finished,¡± sounding exhausted.


    Counselor Janice concentrated on the window and Mason watched as it became opaque. ¡°Now to turn off the electricity,¡± she whispered.


    Pointing at the wires entering the building, she explained. ¡°In order to turn off the electricity, I¡¯ll need to make the wire¡¯s resistance infinite.¡± After concentrating, she announced. ¡°The electricity¡¯s now off.¡±


    ¡°Now for the bedroom door,¡± directed Counselor Anklin as he led the group to the front of the building.


    The light mounted to the front of the building was still on and for a moment Mason wondered if the building¡¯s electricity was truly off. However, noticing a separate set of wires that connected all the exterior lights of the settlement he realized that the outside lights got their electricity from a separate source.


    Observing that the street was empty, they hurried to the front door. When they stepped inside however, they were startled to see Thurold coming out of the bedroom carrying a light. For what seemed like an eternity, everyone just stood there, too stunned to act.


    Thurold seemed to recover first as a look of concentration appeared on his face. Almost immediately, the lantern burst into a blinding brilliance. Mason instinctively threw up his arm to shield his eyes, but was too late.


    ¡°I can¡¯t see!¡± cried Counselor Janice.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let him out!¡± exclaimed Counselor Anklin.


    Thurold began to shout. ¡°Anklin is here!¡± while trying to push his way outside. He was unsuccessful, but Mason knew his continued shouting would soon draw some unwanted attention.


    Groping around in his blindness, Mason tried to grab Thurold. Blindly stepping forward, Mason¡¯s legs became entangled with Thurold¡¯s and they fell to the floor with Mason landing heavily of top of him. Thurold¡¯s screams were replaced by a low groan. The light clattered to the floor and went out.


    ¡°Lights are coming on in the other buildings. We have to get out of here!¡± shouted Claridee.


    A voice, which Mason recognized as Klarth¡¯s exclaimed. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere!¡±


    There was a sudden cry of surprise followed by the sound of something crashing to the floor.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t walk if your pants are as stiff as steel.¡± Claridee replied, an edge to her tone. ¡°Now let¡¯s go!¡±


    She led the others outside. As they left, Klarth¡¯s panicked screams evolved into cries of alarm.


    ¡°They¡¯re here! They¡¯re here!¡±


    After closing the door behind them, Claridee paused and the sound of Klarth¡¯s screams disappeared. ¡°That¡¯s better,¡± she muttered.


    She quickly led the the others to the back of the building.


    ¡°People are starting to come outside, but they don¡¯t seem to know what¡¯s going on yet,¡± she reported. ¡°We should be safe here until your vision clears.¡±


    As they waited, Mason whispered to her. ¡°Why are you able to see?¡±


    ¡°Because I was behind the rest of you and was shielded from the light,¡± she whispered back.


    They waited behind the building in silence while Claridee kept watch. ¡°No one¡¯s coming this way so far,¡± she reported.


    At first, Mason could only see rough shapes, but gradually the images sharpened. ¡°I can see now,¡± he announced, careful to keep his voice low. It wasn¡¯t long before the two Counselors¡¯ vision had cleared as well.


    The four of them were startled by the sound of breaking glass coming from the front of the building. Klarth¡¯s bellowing yells of ¡°Anklin¡¯s here!¡± could now clearly be heard. Answering shouts came from other parts of the settlement.


    ¡°He must have found something to throw through the front window,¡± guessed Counselor Anklin. ¡°We can¡¯t stay here any longer,¡± he added with urgency.


    They made their way to a nearby ridge of rocks.


    ¡°Stop here,¡± ordered Counselor Anklin as he concentrated on the back of the building.


    The back wall of a building suddenly burst into a flashing purple light, illuminating the surrounding area. ¡°Hopefully, that will make them think we¡¯ve left,¡± he explained.


    Cries of ¡°over there!¡± emanated from the settlement as people rushed to the building. However, by the time they reached it the light was gone. One of the men called out. ¡°Get Counselor Proust and Counselor Darnia at once!¡±


    Proust quickly arrived and began angrily questioning everyone who was there. As he was doing so, a woman ran up to him and began speaking in an animated manner. ¡°What do you mean she¡¯s gone?¡± he shouted before stalking off.


    After the initial excitement, many of the people behind the building dispersed and began searching other areas of the settlement.


    Mason watched as a group of men carried Thurold and Klarth from their quarters. Thurold was still unconscious and Klarth¡¯s legs remained stuck in mid-stride. As they were being carried out Betrine and Glorine ran over to them. After speaking to Klarth, Mason could see Glorine concentrate and soon he was able to stand.


    Shouts could now be heard coming from Nornol¡¯s quarters.


    ¡°Looks like they¡¯ve discovered Nornol is missing too.¡± whispered Counselor Anklin.


    Proust stomped over to Klarth and started gesturing wildly as he spoke. They were interrupted as a man ran over from Nornol¡¯s quarters. As the man spoke, Proust started screaming furiously. From their hiding place Mason could make out only two distinct words: ¡°Anklin¡± and ¡°kill¡±.

 Chapter Twenty-Three: The Cave

    ¡°We have to keep moving,¡± Counselor Anklin whispered to the others. ¡°Once Proust gets over his initial shock, he¡¯ll realize that we may still be here and start sending out search parties.¡±


    ¡°Are we heading back to Bendroff?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°No, now is not the time to retreat,¡± replied Counselor Anklin with conviction. ¡°To stop Proust, we have to remove his remaining source of influence over our people: the equipment he¡¯s stolen from Earth. Our objective is the cave.¡±


    He paused, looking towards the cave. ¡°But first, we need to put some distance between us and the settlement. We can¡¯t risk using lights, so we¡¯ll have to rely on whatever light comes from the settlement.¡± He pointed at some boulders about fifteen feet away. ¡°Head for those boulders and keep low to the ground. Hopefully we won¡¯t run into anyone, but if we do, we¡¯ll have to try to immobilize them as best we can. It isn¡¯t long till dawn, so let¡¯s go.¡±


    The others grabbed their packs and nodded. Counselor Anklin led them up the slope away from the settlement. Whenever possible, they used boulders or crevices for cover. When that wasn¡¯t available, they crawled along the ground. To protect their hands and knees, they wrapped them in whatever extra clothing they hadn¡¯t removed from their packs.


    ¡°I think we¡¯re far enough away now,¡± declared Counselor Anklin after they¡¯d reached a crevice about two hundred feet from the settlement.


    Looking down at the settlement, Mason could see that it was now bustling with activity as several groups of people set out, their lanterns highlighting them in the darkness. Most were heading back towards the ruins, but some fanned out to the east and west of the settlement. To Mason¡¯s dismay, one of the groups was heading in their direction.


    ¡°We¡¯d better get going,¡± suggested Counselor Janice.


    They started moving towards the cave trying their best to stay out of sight. With limited light progress was slow. As they moved, Mason kept looking back at the approaching group. ¡°They¡¯re getting closer,¡± he muttered.


    Counselor Anklin halted the group when they reached some boulders that offered a good hiding place. ¡°I don¡¯t think we can outrun them. We may have no choice but to defend ourselves if they get too close.¡±


    ¡°Is there a way to distract them so they move away from us?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    Looking over the edge of the crevice, Mason noticed a stone about the size of his fist. Seeing it brought back memories of different movies and television shows where the hero would throw something to distract his pursuers. He¡¯d always found this somewhat unbelievable, but couldn¡¯t think of anything else.


    ¡°I have an idea,¡± he said in a low voice. ¡°Everyone stay down.¡±


    He concentrated on the stone and modified its dynamics so it would travel further and have more energy when it impacted the ground. He grabbed the stone. ¡°Here goes nothing.¡±


    In a singular motion he quickly rose to his feet and hurled the stone back towards the ruins before ducking back down. Soon he heard the satisfying sound of rubble loudly clattering down the slope, well behind their pursuers.


    Cries of ¡°over there!¡± emanated from the search party as they ran towards the source of the sound.


    The trainees and Counselors immediately set out to put as much distance as possible between themselves and the search party. The sight of the lights of their pursuers growing dimmer filled everyone with a sense of relief. Finally, Counselor Anklin called out in a low voice. ¡°We can rest here.¡±


    Counselor Anklin patted Mason on the back. ¡°That was good thinking.¡±


    ¡°I was surprised it worked.¡±


    Counselor Anklin smiled. ¡°What made it work was the modifications you made to the stone. You see, being able to manipulate scientific laws makes the impossible possible for good and for evil.¡±


    They were now almost even with the cave. The area outside the cave was well lit and Claridee quickly scanned it with the binoculars.


    ¡°I see four guards,¡± she reported.


    ¡°How will we get past them?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°Maybe a repeat of yesterday¡¯s plan,¡± suggested Claridee. ¡°I didn¡¯t see anyone there who was at the building so we wouldn¡¯t be recognized.¡±


    ¡°But what if you are?¡± cautioned Counselor Anklin.


    Claridee looked down, unable to answer.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Counselor Anklin sighed. ¡°Unfortunately, it¡¯s a risk we¡¯ll have to take.¡± He looked at the others. ¡°Unless someone has a better plan.¡± He was met with silence.


    ¡°If nothing else, maybe I can provide a little insurance,¡± offered Counselor Janice. ¡°Claridee, give me your light.¡±


    She concentrated on it before handing it back to her.


    ¡°If there¡¯s any trouble, turn on your light. However, be sure to shield your eyes when you do. Based on our experience with Thurold, I¡¯m sure it will provide a suitable distraction.¡±


    The two trainees nodded.


    ¡°The two of you work your way down to the cave,¡± advised Counselor Anklin. ¡°Mason, when you get close, turn on your light and the two of you head straight for the guards. While their attention is on the two of you, Janice and I will move closer. Claridee, if there¡¯s any trouble, turn on your light.¡±


    ¡°See you at the cave,¡± declared Mason in as confident a tone as he could muster. He and Claridee began their trek towards the cave, careful to not be seen. When they were about a hundred feet away from the cave he turned to her.


    ¡°Are you ready for this?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d better believe it,¡± she replied with a smile.


    He squeezed her hand before turning on his light, and the two boldly walked towards the guards. Instantly, shouts of ¡°who¡¯s there?¡± could be heard coming from the guards as they converged on them.


    ¡°Anklin attacked our search party,¡± called Mason not bothering to hide the fear in his voice. ¡°There was a bright light and everyone else vanished. Only Pollrine and I escaped.¡±


    The guards eyed them suspiciously.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you understand,¡± cried Claridee. ¡°He¡¯s right behind us. We have to get Counselor Proust.¡±


    The guards looked at each other fearfully. ¡°Maybe we¡¯d better send for Counselor Proust,¡± suggested one.


    ¡°Your tricks won¡¯t work this time Trainees Mason and Claridee,¡± called a man emerging from the cave. ¡°


    Klarth flashed an evil smile as he came into view. ¡°The two of you will pay for your attack on me.¡± Turning to the guards he gleefully cried. ¡°Seize them!¡±


    ¡°Now!¡± cried Claridee. She and Mason shielded their eyes as she turned on her light. Shouts of surprise erupted from Klarth and the guards. Even through his shielded eyes Mason could feel the intense brightness of the light. After a short time, Claridee turned it off.


    They couldn¡¯t help but smile at the scene before them. The four guards had tripped over one another as they backed away from the light and lay in a heap on the ground. Klarth stumbled around the entrance of the cave with his arms out in front of him, trying to find his way. However, their joy was short lived as shouts could now be heard coming from the settlement.


    ¡°We¡¯d better get to the cave,¡± exclaimed Claridee.


    However, before they could move, the ground beneath the four guards turned bright purple and began to hum. Suddenly, the guards were gone. Turning, the two trainees saw the two Counselors running towards them.


    ¡°Get inside!¡± yelled Counselor Anklin, pushing Mason and Claridee towards the entrance.


    As they ran, Mason saw Counselor Janice concentrating on the lights mounted just outside the cave entrance. As she did so, they began to steadily increase in brightness while the lights along the path leading to the settlement dimmed and went out. Giving what looked like a satisfied nod, Counselor Janice ran to join them.


    The ground beneath Klarth now began to hum and pulse with a purple light. He let out a terrified scream before disappearing. At the same instant, Counselor Janice reached them.


    ¡°Everyone get inside!¡± she ordered urgently.


    As they were running inside, the ground shook and dust fell from the ceiling as the sound of two explosions could be heard.


    ¡°That should slow them down,¡± she declared.


    ¡°What¡¯d you do?¡± asked Mason.


    With a mischievous smile she replied. ¡°I modified the lights outside the cave so they¡¯d absorb all the electricity that entered them. That knocked out the electricity flowing to the settlement. Once enough electricity had built up, they exploded.¡±


    Looking outside, Mason could see that the entrance to the cave was now partially blocked and the ground outside covered with rubble. In the settlement beyond, he saw nothing but darkness.


    The lights in the cave weren¡¯t affected and Mason marveled at what he saw. This was clearly no natural cave, as the floor and walls were smooth. Along one wall of the cave, he noticed crates inscribed with names of companies he instantly recognized. Here was the equipment that Proust had taken from Earth.


    At the rear of the cave there was a deep chasm from which pieces of twisted metal and wiring protruded. Sections of fallen wall surrounded it, and Mason saw what looked like the remnants of an elevator shaft near the center. He was struck by how similar it was to the cave he walked through the first time he¡¯d entered Bendroff. He let out a low whistle. ¡°Counselor Halrous was right.¡±


    ¡°About what?¡± asked Claridee.


    ¡°There is an underground city here.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted as Counselor Anklin started issuing orders. ¡°Claridee and Janice, keep watch at the front of the cave. Mason, help me manipulate the gravity of these crates.¡±


    The two women rushed over to the front of the cave while Mason ran to the crates. He and Counselor Anklin started modifying them so they floated toward the ceiling.


    ¡°Why are we doing this?¡±


    ¡°If Proust gets in here, this might provide a useful distraction.¡± His tone was serious, but Mason thought he could detect a mischievous glint in his eye.


    Once they finished, the four of them crouched just inside the cave entrance and watched for any movement outside. The sky had started to lighten and still no one had approached the cave.


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°Proust should have been here by now,¡± he said in a worried tone. ¡°What could he ¡­¡±


    He was interrupted by a scream as Claridee flew up towards the ceiling.


    ¡°Claridee!¡± cried Mason as he jumped up to try and grab her.


    ¡°Everyone down!¡± commanded Counselor Anklin.


    Instinctively Mason followed Counselor Anklin¡¯s orders, diving behind the stone that had fallen around the cave entrance. He vaguely sensed that the two Counselors had done the same, but he couldn¡¯t see them. From his hiding place, he tried to see Claridee, but the overhang of the cave entrance blocked his view.


    ¡°Claridee! Are you all right?¡± he called out, trying to keep the panic out of his voice.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she replied faintly, sounding like she was having trouble breathing, ¡°but I¡¯m stuck to the ceiling.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll get you down right away.¡±


    ¡°Oh? And how will you do that Trainee Mason?¡± A voice echoed from the back of the cave.


    Mason felt a shiver of terror as he recognized Proust¡¯s voice.

 Chapter Twenty-Four: Standoff

    Proust continued, clearly pleased with himself. ¡°You may not realize it, but this is a sacred place; the birthplace of Myscreth¡¯s power. I¡¯ve spent much time here trying to learn its secrets, and in the process, have found several routes into this cave.¡±


    ¡°What do you want Proust?¡± shouted Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°And here I thought that you were a student of history, Anklin. Aren¡¯t you even the least bit excited about where we are?¡±


    When Counselor Anklin didn¡¯t respond, Proust went on with what sounded like a sigh.


    ¡°Very well, have it your way.¡± Proust¡¯s tone turned menacing. ¡°Up to now, your interference has been a minor nuisance, but the kidnapping of Counselors Darnia and Nornol has crossed the line. I demand that you return them to me immediately.¡±


    ¡°And what will you give in return?¡± responded Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already given you your lives as I could have easily killed all of you. And still you ask for more?¡± After a slight pause, he continued. ¡°Alright Anklin, I can be magnanimous. I will give you my promise of protection, but in return, you and your Earth friends must leave Myscreth forever.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t trust him Counselor ¡­¡± cried Claridee, but her cry was cut short by a sudden scream. The screaming stopped abruptly and was replaced by sharp sobs of pain.


    ¡°Claridee!¡± yelled Mason.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Trainee Mason,¡± taunted Proust. ¡°I won¡¯t let her actually hit the ground, though the stresses placed on a body by repeated falls can be quite painful.¡±


    Hearing Proust threaten Claridee was too much for Mason. He began to get up, but was quickly pulled back by Counselor Anklin


    ¡°Foolish actions won¡¯t help Claridee,¡± he scolded.


    Mason closed his eyes, overwhelmed by a feeling of helplessness. ¡°I can¡¯t just stand by and watch.¡±


    Counselor Anklin gave him an understanding look. ¡°Unfortunately, sometimes that¡¯s all we can do. If we¡¯re to beat Proust we have to think clearly and not act on our emotions.¡±


    Mason knew he was right. If only he could only see Claridee, he¡¯d be able to get her down.


    Suddenly he had an idea. If Proust couldn¡¯t see Claridee, he wouldn¡¯t be able to hurt her. Looking around the cave, he pointed over at the generators.


    ¡°Maybe a little darkness would help,¡± he suggested to the Counselors.


    Counselor Janice nodded. ¡°I think I can arrange that.¡± She concentrated on the generators and suddenly the cave was plunged into darkness.


    ¡°Very clever,¡± called Proust out of the darkness, ¡°But not clever enough. Counselor Thurold!¡±


    At the same instant, a light appeared at the back of the cave. It grew steadily brighter until the entire cave was illuminated.


    ¡°I¡¯m still waiting for your answer,¡± shouted Proust angrily. ¡°And it¡¯s Claridee who will suffer for your delay.¡±


    Screams once again filled the cave immediately followed by panicked sobbing. Mason felt like he was going to be sick.


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost Anklin,¡± declared Proust, ¡°Why must Claridee suffer because of your refusal to see the truth?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me,¡± Claridee called out weakly. ¡°Just stop ¡­¡±


    Her words were cut off and replaced by painful shrieks that echoed throughout the cave.


    Mason looked helplessly at the two Counselor¡¯s. ¡°We have to help her.¡±


    Counselor Anklin sadly shook his head. ¡°We may have no choice but to accept Proust¡¯s terms.¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t ¡­¡± began Counselor Janice before Claridee¡¯s screams once again filled their ears.


    ¡°I¡¯m losing patience,¡± cried Proust.


    Mason desperately surveyed the area in front of them to see if there was any way he could get to Claridee. Then he saw Claridee¡¯s backpack. He could only hope her light was still inside.


    He gestured towards the backpack. ¡°I need a distraction so I can get Claridee¡¯s backpack to her.¡±


    Counselor Janice nodded knowingly while Counselor Anklin glanced over at the crates on the ceiling and chuckled darkly, clearly trying to keep his own emotions in check. ¡°I knew these would come in handy.¡±


    He stared at the ceiling and concentrated on the crates hovering there. Abruptly, they started raining down on the ground below, the sound of cracking wood and crashing metal resounding throughout the cave. At the same instant, Mason concentrated on the backpack and it darted up towards the ceiling. As it started moving he called out. ¡°Claridee! Light!¡±


    As the crates were crashing to the floor Proust called out. ¡°You¡¯re showing your desperation now, Anklin. I shall easily replace everything that you¡¯ve damaged. However, I¡¯m afraid that Clar ¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so!¡± Claridee cried angrily as the rear of the cave was enveloped in a blinding light.


    Screams of surprise erupted from Proust and Thurold. Counselor Anklin soon called out. ¡°That¡¯s enough, Claridee.¡± She turned off the light and before the Counselors could stop him, Mason ran into the cave and stared up at her. He concentrated and she floated downward into his arms. Overcome with relief, he hugged and kissed her. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I am now,¡± she replied, looking into his eyes.


    The two Counselors sprinted towards the back of the cave. ¡°There¡¯ll be time enough for that later,¡± cried Counselor Janice, glancing at them as she passed.


    He put Claridee down sheepishly and quickly followed. As much as he wanted to stay with her, he knew his priority had to be aiding the two Counselors. When he reached the back of the cave, he was surprised to see Thurold cringing on the ground with Counselor Anklin grasping him by the shoulder.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Proust?¡± he demanded.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Thurold whimpered.


    Remembering the elevator shaft he¡¯d noticed earlier, Mason rushed over to it and started climbing down. ¡°Proust must have gone down this way! I¡¯m going after him!¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± cried Counselor Anklin, but Mason pretended not to hear.


    Reaching the bottom, he stepped through the broken elevator doors and listened for any sign of Proust, but heard nothing. He turned on his light and scanned his surroundings. It looked like one of the corridors in Bendroff, except that it was littered with debris and sections of collapsed ceiling. Only one direction seemed passable, so he headed that way.


    Every few steps he stopped to listen, but heard nothing. He knew Proust wouldn¡¯t be blinded much longer, so had to find him quickly. Hearing the sound of footsteps behind him, he turned off his light and ducked behind a section of fallen ceiling. Seeing a beam of light on the floor he prepared to attack whoever was following him.


    As the footsteps grew closer, he heard a low whisper calling out ¡°Mason!¡± and recognized Counselor Anklin¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Here!¡± he softly called back, stepping out from his hiding place.


    He hurried over and pressed his lips close to Mason¡¯s ear and angrily chided. ¡°What¡¯d I say about taking on Proust alone?¡±


    Mason lowered his head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he whispered, ¡°but there¡¯s no telling how much longer Proust will be blinded.¡±


    He patted Mason¡¯s arm. ¡°Luckily, no harm was done.¡± In a determined voice he continued. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go get him together.¡±


    The two continued on, listening as they went, but still didn¡¯t see or hear any sign of Proust. At last they reached a section of the corridor which overlooked a deep chasm. Mason shined his light down, but couldn¡¯t see the bottom.


    He whispered to Counselor Anklin. ¡°I don¡¯t think Proust could have gotten this far without being able to see.¡±


    Proust¡¯s voice cut through the darkness. ¡°Wrong again, Trainee Mason.¡± His voice echoing all around them.


    Mason and Counselor Anklin immediately turned off their lights and hid themselves behind some debris.


    Proust continued boastfully. ¡°I told you that I¡¯d spent a great deal of time exploring this place and can easily find my way around, even blinded.¡±


    With all the echoes, Mason had no idea where the voice was coming from.


    ¡°I¡¯m close to discovering the secrets of this place and soon shall be able to bestow the ability to manipulate scientific laws upon anyone,¡± asserted Proust.


    ¡°You¡¯re mad!¡± cried Counselor Anklin. ¡°That¡¯s what led to the destruction of our world in the first place.¡±


    ¡°No Anklin, it will be the salvation of our world. Our ancestors weren¡¯t yet ready for that power, but now we are. We¡¯ll learn from their mistakes and turn Myscreth into the paradise it was meant to be. The true sons and daughters of Myscreth will take their rightful place as rulers of their world. And it won¡¯t stop with Myscreth; no, our dominion will extend to other worlds as well, starting with Earth.¡±


    ¡°Earth will never bow to you!¡± cried Mason.


    ¡°Those who don¡¯t obey will be destroyed,¡± responded Proust in a low, steely voice. ¡°I do wish you¡¯d reconsider Anklin; your knowledge of Earth could be useful to me.¡±


    When he didn¡¯t respond, Proust continued in an ominous tone. ¡°I take it by your silence that you won¡¯t accept my offer. That¡¯s unfortunate. Well, I think it¡¯s been long enough.¡±


    Suddenly, a beam of light shot out from the other end of the corridor, illuminating the area around Mason and Counselor Anklin¡¯s hiding place. They were startled by a groaning from above as the ceiling started to buckle.


    ¡°He¡¯s trying to bring down the ceiling on top of us!¡± cried Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here.¡± shouted Mason, starting to get up.


    ¡°No,¡± Counselor Anklin replied, grabbing his arm roughly. ¡°We can¡¯t risk being in the open. You need to counter his attack. I¡¯ll try to distract him.¡±


    Counselor Anklin put his hands to his mouth and bellowed. ¡°Proust!¡± His voice reverberated off the walls. ¡°If you kill us, you¡¯ll never locate Darnia and Nornol.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you needn¡¯t worry about that, Anklin,¡± responded Proust in a harsh tone. ¡°I¡¯m sure Claridee, after the proper,¡± he paused and continued menacingly, ¡°Let¡¯s call it, persuasion, will tell me all I need to know.¡±


    Mason balled his fists in anger, but knew what had to be done. He stared up at the ceiling, which was now noticeably deformed, and started concentrating. He visualized it in his mind, then brought up the equation for gravitational acceleration. He tried to merge them, but something was holding them apart.


    ¡°Proust¡¯s fighting me,¡± he cried.


    ¡°You can beat him,¡± urged Counselor Anklin. ¡°Concentrate harder.¡±


    Loud pops and creaks could now be heard and Mason knew they didn¡¯t have much time. Proust¡¯s threat against Claridee and the terror of being buried alive drove him to focus all his strength on merging the two images. There was the vague sense of kneeling on hard stone, but his concentration blocked out everything else around him. He had no idea how long he remained this way, but suddenly whatever was separating the two images in his mind collapsed and they merged.


    Mason was suddenly submerged in a murky euphoria, numb to everything around him. Part of him never wanted it to end, but it soon dissipated. He thought he heard an angry cry from Proust, but couldn¡¯t be sure as sounds of rumbling and cracking stone drowned it out. Looking up, he saw the cause of the noise: the ceiling had snapped back like a giant spring, destabilizing the area around them. The walls shook, and the edge of the corridor started crumbling into the chasm. Sections of ceiling fell near Proust¡¯s location, and it was clear that the entire area was in danger of collapse.


    ¡°Proust!¡± called Counselor Anklin, still crouched behind the debris. ¡°We¡¯ve got to get out of here, now!¡±


    Even as more of the corridor between them and Proust fell away he didn¡¯t answer. Counselor Anklin tried again, this time pleading with him. ¡°Please Proust; if you want to live, come with us!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± cried Proust. ¡°I will not abandon the birthplace of Myscreth¡¯s power until I possess its secrets!¡±


    Small pieces of rubble began pelting Mason. He looked over to see that Counselor Anklin was now covered in dust.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be a fool, Proust!¡± Counselor Anklin continued, desperation evident in his voice. ¡°It¡¯s not worth your life.¡±


    There was no reply, as a portion of the ceiling fell, extinguishing Proust¡¯s light, plunging them into total darkness. Mason and Counselor Anklin immediately turned on their lanterns, scanning the rubble from their hiding place.


    ¡°Proust!¡± screamed Counselor Anklin. ¡°Answer me. Proust, we want to help you!¡±


    There was no answer.


    Mason shined his light over where Proust¡¯s light had been and began coughing from the dust. ¡°I don¡¯t see any sign of him.¡±


    ¡°We have to try and get to him,¡± exclaimed Counselor Anklin, beginning to stand up.


    ¡°It¡¯s too late!¡± called Mason as the section of corridor in front of them collapsed. ¡°We have to get out of here, now!¡±


    Counselor Anklin hesitated, shining his light where Proust had been. He stared helplessly before letting out a deep sigh. ¡°You¡¯re right. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    They started running back towards the cave, the corridor floor behind them disintegrating at an alarming rate. Reaching the ladder, they clambered up. Emerging in the cave, Counselor Anklin shouted. ¡°Claridee, Janice, get out of here now!¡±


    Claridee and Counselor Janice started running towards the entrance, followed closely by Counselor Anklin and Mason. Behind them the back wall of the cave started to crumble and they had to dodge chunks of stone which rained down from the ceiling. After crawling out the cave¡¯s entrance, Mason saw Counselor Anklin pointing towards the west side of the valley.


    ¡°That way, behind those rocks,¡± he called. Claridee and Counselor Janice were already on their way by the time Counselor Anklin had helped Mason to his feet. The two men took off after them, barely reaching the safety of the rocks before the cave collapsed completely, belching forth a stream of dust and rock.


    The four of them coughed as dust filled their lungs. As he caught his breath, Mason looked around and exclaimed. ¡°We forgot Thurold.¡±


    Counselor Anklin patted him on the shoulder, emitting a small cloud of dust.


    ¡°No need to worry. I opened a doorway and sent him to join Nornol, Klarth, and the guards before coming after you.¡±


    Mason gave an embarrassed laugh. ¡°I should¡¯ve realized you¡¯d do that.¡±


    He looked at what remained of the cave and turned back to Counselor Anklin, who seemed preoccupied.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±


    Counselor Anklin spoke slowly, and Mason could see that he was struggling. ¡°How much I wish Counselor Halrous was here to tell me ¡®I told you so¡¯ about Antlorn. Just to see the smile on his face and hear his laugh would be worth being wrong.¡± He wiped at his eyes before continuing. ¡°However, there¡¯ll be time for that later.¡± His demeanor changed abruptly. ¡°I can¡¯t help but think that you have something on your mind as well.¡±


    Mason paused, almost hesitant to ask. ¡°Do you think Proust got out?¡±


    Counselor Anklin was quiet as he considered the question.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see how he could have, but if he knew that complex as well as he claimed ¡­¡± stopping as if he had to reconsider his answer.


    ¡°Yes?¡± asked Mason impatiently.


    Counselor Anklin finally shrugged his shoulders and answered. ¡°I honestly don¡¯t know, but I¡¯ve learned never to doubt what Proust is capable of.¡±

 Chapter Twenty-Five: The Real Victims

    As the dust slowly cleared, all that was left of the cave was a pile of rubble extending towards the settlement. Standing up, Mason went over the Claridee and helped her to her feet. Looking at her face, he pushed her tangled hair aside and embraced her. He wished that moment could last forever, but knew more work lay ahead of them.


    "We''d better check on the settlement," declared Counselor Janice brushing herself off.


    ¡°Yes,¡± agreed Counselor Anklin, ¡°but keep a lookout for Glorine because she could still be dangerous.¡±


    The four of them climbed over the debris from the cave until they had a clear view of the settlement. The air was still hazy with dust from the cave collapse, but the settlement itself was undamaged. However, a large group of people led by Glorine and Betrine were marching towards the cave.


    ¡°Well this isn¡¯t good,¡± observed Mason dryly as Claridee rolled her eyes at him.


    ¡°Wait for me here,¡± ordered Counselor Anklin. He looked over at Counselor Janice. ¡°If you see Glorine starting to concentrate, try to interrupt her.¡±


    She nodded.


    Counselor Anklin climbed down to the edge of the settlement and waited. The sight of him caused excited whispers to go through the crowd as they came to a halt, but Glorine and Betrine continued on and stopped about ten feet away from him.


    ¡°Where is Counselor Proust?¡± demanded Glorine angrily.


    ¡°Unfortunately, he was in the cave when it collapsed,¡± answered Counselor Anklin.


    ¡°You killed him!¡± cried Betrine, pointing an accusatory finger as angry murmurs rippled through the crowd.


    ¡°No, it was his attack on us that caused the cave to collapse,¡± he replied in a calm, steady voice. ¡°We tried to get him to leave with us, but he refused.¡±


    ¡°Liar!¡± shouted Glorine, taking a step forward as if she intended to strike him. Betrine grabbed her arm and whispered something. Glorine smiled and her brows furrowed in concentration.


    Suddenly Glorine yelled out in pain as small bursts of electricity materialized around her. The crowd surged backwards and Betrine instinctively stepped back. ¡°Don¡¯t hurt her,¡± she pleaded.


    Counselor Anklin studied Betrine for a moment before calling out. ¡°That¡¯s enough Janice.¡±


    The electrical activity stopped and Glorine gingerly rubbed her arms.


    Counselor Anklin stared at them in silence. When he resumed speaking, Mason could see that he was fighting to keep his temper in check. ¡°Let¡¯s try and keep this on a less confrontational basis, shall we?¡± He took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m not lying to you. It was never our intention to hurt anyone, only to protect Myscreth from a misguided attempt to save it.¡±


    He looked past the two women and addressed the crowd. ¡°Our fight was never with you. We know that you were simply obeying the orders of Counselor Proust and those he called Counselors. You have nothing to fear from us and are free to return to your homes.¡±


    Betrine looked down, an expression of uncertainty on her face. However, Glorine immediately spun around to face the crowd. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to him!¡± she cried. ¡°Isn¡¯t he the one who brought outsiders to rule over us?¡±


    Angry shouts could be heard from some in the crowd.


    ¡°Everyone come out,¡± ordered Counselor Anklin.


    Mason and the two women climbed down. Mason helped Claridee as she worked her way down behind him. He couldn¡¯t help but feel self-conscious as the crowd silently watched them.


    The gravel crunched under their feet as they made their way to Counselor Anklin. When they reached him, he gave a quick nod and turned back to the crowd.


    He pointed at Mason and Counselor Janice. ¡°Look at these people. They gave up everything they knew to come here and serve the people of Myscreth. Can anyone tell me a single thing they¡¯ve done to harm our people?¡±


    As he waited, a burly young man worked his way to the front of the crowd and spoke out in a voice that was just short of a yell. ¡°Counselor Proust told us that they kept needed supplies and equipment from us so we¡¯d be dependent on them!¡±


    Others in the crowd nodded in agreement as the man spoke.


    Counselor Anklin fixed his eyes on the man and took a step forward. While his demeanor appeared calm, Mason saw his hands clench.


    ¡°I will not allow the sacrifice of the men and women who have died in our ruined cities to be so dishonored.¡±


    As he continued, anger was now evident in his voice. ¡°How dare anyone think that the Council would withhold equipment which was purchased at such a high cost? Proust gave you what you wanted, but at a steep price: your sense of decency. He gave you what he took from a defenseless people and you thanked him for it.¡± He paused, glaring at the crowd as he continued. ¡°If that¡¯s what you consider regaining Myscreth¡¯s former glory, then I want no part of it.¡± Mason could see he was breathing heavy as he stared grimly at the crowd.


    No one from the crowd dared meet his gaze. Most were looking at the ground in shame, and some in the crowd wept.


    The silence was broken when a woman near the front of the crowd pointed at Glorine and Betrine and yelled. ¡°It¡¯s not our fault; Proust and those with him deceived us!¡±


    Angry cries arose from the crowd and some began moving towards the two women. Glorine and Betrine stepped back, their eyes wide with fear. Seeing how quickly the crowd had turned on them put a lump in Mason¡¯s throat. Counselor Anklin boldly walked forward and stood between the women and the mob.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take your anger out these two,¡± shouted Counselor Anklin. ¡°They are even greater victims of Proust than you are. Because of him, they must now face the consequences of their actions.¡±


    The people stopped advancing and Counselor Anklin continued speaking, no longer needing to shout to be heard.


    ¡°I ask that all of you return to your quarters and start packing any possessions you have. Arrangements will be made to have transports come within the next few days to return all of you to your homes.¡±


    No one moved at first, but finally a few people began to walk away and the rest soon followed their lead.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± declared Betrine in a low voice.


    Glorine was more direct. ¡°What is going to happen to us?¡± she asked, her demeanor far meeker than it had been earlier.


    Counselor Anklin looked down. ¡°You¡¯ll have to be judged for what you¡¯ve done, but all extenuating circumstances will be considered. I can¡¯t promise anything beyond that.¡±


    The two women nodded.


    ¡°Glorine, you¡¯ll have to be blindfolded to prevent you from using your abilities.¡±


    ¡°And what about me?¡± asked Betrine.


    Counselor Anklin shook his head. ¡°Since you haven¡¯t learned to use your abilities yet, there¡¯s no need for you to be blindfolded,¡± he answered. ¡°You can help Glorine find her way around.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Mason saw Claridee hand Counselor Janice her pack. Counselor Janice rummaged through it and finally pulled out some bandages. She began wrapping them over Glorine''s eyes. When she''d finished, Counselor Anklin signaled for Claridee to come over.


    ¡°Do we have to do this?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid so,¡± he replied solemnly.


    All around them, the settlement was now filled with activity. Mason saw people carrying equipment and crates up to some of the larger buildings. A brave few began taking items from Proust''s quarters. Some returned to watch what was happening with Glorine and Betrine and there was a smattering of applause when Glorine was blindfolded.


    Counselor Anklin gave them a sharp look. ¡°This isn¡¯t something to celebrate,¡± he told them gruffly. There were calls of ¡°sorry¡± and a few people bowed shallowly before hurrying off.


    ¡°Maybe it would be best if we got them inside,¡± suggested Counselor Janice.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re right,¡± responded Counselor Anklin. ¡°We¡¯ll take them to their quarters.¡±


    Betrine took Glorine¡¯s hand and slowly led her to their shared bedroom and helped her sit on her bed. Once the two Trainees and Counselors were in the room, Counselor Janice locked the bedroom door.


    "You''ll be safe here while we fetch Nornol, Thurold, and Klarth," explained Counselor Anklin.


    "Thank you," answered Glorine in a soft voice. Mason couldn''t help but feel sorry for the two women.


    Counselor Anklin stared at the wall and a bright purple doorway appeared. The four of them emerged from the doorway on a hill in the middle of a small valley. It was noticeably lighter and warmer than it had been in Antlorn.


    ¡°Thurold and the others should be around here somewhere,¡± explained Counselor Anklin. ¡°Before sending him here I told him to find the others and wait for us.¡±


    It didn¡¯t take long to find them. In a small hollow, Nornol, Thurold, and Klarth sat on Nornol¡¯s mattress while the guards stood nearby talking among themselves.


    Counselor Anklin called down to the group. ¡°This is Counselor Anklin.¡±


    All seven men looked up in surprise at the sound of his voice.


    ¡°What is it you want Anklin?¡± cried Klarth, jumping to his feet.


    ¡°We¡¯ve come to take you back to the settlement. If you wish to return, you¡¯ll have to do as I say.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll never obey you!¡± shouted Klarth.


    ¡°And what about the rest of you?¡± Counselor Anklin asked in a no-nonsense tone. ¡°Do you wish to stay here with Klarth?¡±


    One of the guards got up and walked over to Klarth, towering over the smaller man. ¡°I think you should reconsider,¡± he growled. Klarth nodded weakly.


    ¡°I think we¡¯re all in agreement now,¡± bellowed the guard.


    Counselor Anklin smiled, hollering down. ¡°Nornol and Thurold, lie face down on the ground and don¡¯t move! We¡¯re coming down!¡±


    The two men immediately complied. Reaching the group, Counselor Janice immediately began bandaging the eyes of Nornol and Thurold. As she finished each one, Claridee concentrated on the bandages and modified them so they couldn¡¯t be removed.


    On the side of a large boulder, Counselor Anklin opened a doorway. Once the purple light had stopped flashing, he looked over at the guards.


    ¡°When you get back head to your quarters and start packing any belongings you have.¡± Counselor Anklin told them. ¡°Transports will be arriving within the next few days to return you to your homes.¡± Counselor Anklin gestured towards the doorway. ¡°Go on through.¡±


    The four men didn¡¯t move. ¡°How do we know you won¡¯t send us someplace worse?¡± one of them asked.


    Counselor Anklin looked over at Counselor Janice and sighed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go first,¡± offered Claridee with a shrug as she walked over and vanished into the light.


    The guards looked at each other sheepishly and followed.


    Mason and Counselor Janice led the blindfolded men through the doorway followed by Counselor Anklin and Klarth. The group emerged on the valley floor not far from the settlement.


    Claridee stood there waiting and Mason could see the guards hurrying towards the settlement.


    ¡°They couldn¡¯t get away fast enough,¡± observed Claridee shaking her head.


    ¡°Unfortunately, the fear of the Council that Proust instilled in them will take time to overcome,¡± answered Counselor Janice.


    ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this, all of you,¡± grumbled Klarth as he and the others were led to Glorine and Betrine¡¯s quarters.


    Knocking on the bedroom door Counselor Janice called out in a loud voice. ¡°There¡¯s no need to be alarmed. It¡¯s Counselor Janice.¡±


    Betrine unlocked the door and let them in. Mason saw Glorine as they¡¯d left her, sitting on the edge of the beds, her shoulders hunched. The three men were marched in, their footsteps echoing in the small room. Counselor Anklin had Klarth lead the two blindfolded men to the other bed.


    Once everyone was seated, Counselor Anklin addressed them.


    ¡°We¡¯re now returning to Bendroff where you will be held accountable for your actions. All your needs will be provided for, but the blindfolds will not be removed.¡±


    Counselor Anklin turned to the wall, which was soon enveloped in a blaze of purple light. Betrine took Glorine¡¯s arm and led her into the doorway followed by Counselor Anklin. Claridee and Counselor Janice stood on either side of the other blindfolded prisoners guiding them into the doorway. Mason stood at the end of the line right behind Klarth. As Klarth stepped into the doorway, Mason took a quick glance around the now empty room, and followed.


    It was dark when they arrived on Bendroff¡¯s landing field and they led the group of prisoners to the transport hanger. The workers that were in the hanger stopped what they were doing and stared at the group.


    ¡°These are the individuals that Proust has trained in violation of our laws,¡± announced Counselor Anklin. ¡°The Council will decide what consequences they must face.¡± He pointed at one of the workers. ¡°Veroline, please summon guards to take the prisoners to their quarters.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Counselor Anklin.¡± She gave a small bow before running off to the elevator.


    Counselor Anklin turned to Mason and Claridee. ¡°Go arrange to have transports sent to Antlorn first thing in the morning. Let them know they will be taking people to multiple locations.¡±


    By the time they returned, Counselor Anklin was already addressing a group of guards.


    ¡°¡­ to their quarters. I want a guard outside their doors at all times and no one other than members of the Council are allowed to see them,¡± he directed.


    ¡°Understood, Counselor Anklin,¡± replied one of the guards, who appeared to be in charge.


    As the guards led the five prisoners away, Mason could hear the sound of sobs coming from Glorine and Betrine. He thought he¡¯d be elated when Proust was defeated, but instead felt empty. He looked at Claridee and the two Counselors and sensed that they felt the same.


    ¡°Are we going to retrieve Tranlee and Darnia now?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°No, they¡¯re safe where they are,¡± Counselor Anklin replied, exhaustion evident in his voice. ¡°I think all of us have seen enough misery over the past few days. I think we could all use a good night¡¯s rest.¡±


    As he finished speaking, he turned and slowly walked away.

 Chapter Twenty-Six: Memories and Commitment

    As Mason and Claridee made their way back to the trainees¡¯ quarters, he could hear Claridee let out an occasional sniffle. Entering the trainees¡¯ quarters, the sniffles became full blown tears.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Mason.


    ¡°I was just thinking about Counselor Halrous,¡± she replied in a halting voice. ¡°While we were still after Proust I was able to put those thoughts aside, but returning to Bendroff without him ¡­¡±


    Mason wrapped his arms around her and held her close, gently stroking her hair as she buried her face on his shoulder.


    ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for him, I probably would¡¯ve quit training to be a Council member,¡± she said in a low voice choking back tears. ¡°Now he¡¯ll never get to see me join the Council.¡±


    Mason held her tighter as sobs shook her body.


    After a while, she looked up at Mason and gave a sad smile. ¡°I know the last thing he¡¯d want is for me to cry, but I can¡¯t help it.¡±


    ¡°I think he¡¯d understand.¡±


    ¡°When I first arrived here, I was convinced it his personal challenge to get me to laugh. I just wish it hadn¡¯t taken so long for him to succeed.¡±


    ¡°Which story finally got you to laugh?¡±


    A small laugh escaped Claridee as she considered the question. ¡°The legend of the quarrelsome Counselor.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t heard that one.¡±


    The two of them sat down at a nearby table as Claridee told him that story and several others. Soon both were laughing. However, as the night went on, their laughter became more and more punctuated with yawns. ¡°I think it would be a good idea if we both got some rest,¡± Mason finally suggested.


    She nodded, stifling another yawn. ¡°It will be nice to sleep in a real bed again.¡± Looking down at her dirty clothes, she added. ¡°Not to mention clean clothes and a proper bath.¡±


    She gave Mason a goodnight kiss.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± she said in a soft voice, walking towards her bedroom.


    When Mason reached his bedroom, he was too exhausted to even bother removing his dirty clothes. He collapsed on his bed and was instantly asleep.


    The next morning he was awakened by the sound of someone knocking on his door.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± he called out groggily.


    ¡°It¡¯s Claridee.¡±


    He sat up and rubbed in eyes, too tired to care how he looked.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    She opened the door and poked her head inside.


    ¡°Counselor Anklin sent a message that after breakfast he and Counselor Janice will meet us here so we can go and retrieve Tranlee and Darnia.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, I¡¯ll get ready.¡±


    She started closing the door, but paused and with a smirk added, ¡°I certainly hope that includes changing your clothes.¡±


    Mason looked down at his clothes with a laugh, ¡°Really? I thought they¡¯d be good for another day or two.¡±


    She wrinkled her nose in protest.


    After she left, he quickly washed and put on clean clothes. Once he was done, he hurried to the dining area where he was pleased to see Claridee waiting for him. Almost as pleasing was the sight of platters filled with Myscrethian fruits and vegetables. The meals had been small and inconsistent over the past week, but with all the excitement, he hadn¡¯t realized how hungry he was until he saw the food piled in front of him.


    By the time Mason and Claridee had finished eating, Counselor Anklin and Counselor Janice were waiting in the library. After everyone had put on their heavy jackets, Counselor Anklin opened a doorway. It wasn¡¯t long before Mason found himself in a desolate hilly area where a bitterly cold wind whipped through his parka.


    ¡°Nice little vacation spot you got here Anklin,¡± observed Counselor Janice dryly, wrapping her jacket more tightly around her.


    Counselor Anklin pointed at one of the hills. ¡°The building is just on the other side of that hill. I don¡¯t think Tranlee would attack us, but let¡¯s stay out of sight just to be safe.¡±


    Counselor Anklin led them up the hill. As they neared the top, he gestured for everyone to get down. Peering below, Mason saw a small building, similar to the ones he¡¯d seen in the equatorial settlements.


    Counselor Anklin called down to the building in a loud voice.


    ¡°Tranlee and Darnia, its Counselor Anklin. We¡¯ve come to take you back to Bendroff.¡±


    There was no response, so he called down again.


    This time the door opened and Tranlee peered out. Her hair was disheveled, and she appeared to be wearing a nightgown. ¡°Is that really you Anklin, or have I finally gone crazy?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me Tranlee. Is Darnia with you?¡±


    ¡°How could you do this to me?¡± she hollered angrily.


    ¡°I think you know the answer to that. Now answer me - is Darnia with you?¡±


    ¡°What if she is?¡± Tranlee called back. ¡°Do you plan on torturing her some more?¡±


    Mason leaned over and whispered to Claridee. ¡°Sounds like she¡¯s here.¡±


    Counselor Anklin ignored the taunt and continued. ¡°If you want to return to Bendroff, you¡¯ll have to lie face down on the floor. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious,¡± she screamed. ¡°I¡¯m not a criminal.¡±


    Counselor Anklin remained silent, and for a brief time, there was only the sound of the wind.


    At last, Tranlee called out in a hesitant voice. ¡°Anklin are you still there?¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    He waited before responding. Mason could see that Counselor Anklin was growing exasperated. ¡°I¡¯m here. Now, are you going to do as I ask?¡±


    In answer, she furiously flung open the door and defiantly lay down on the floor just inside the building.


    ¡°Follow me,¡± Counselor Anklin ordered.


    He led the group down the hill, occasionally stopping to make sure Tranlee hadn¡¯t moved. As they approached the building, Counselor Anklin whispered to Counselor Janice. ¡°Get the bandages ready.¡± She nodded and quickly pulled out a roll of bandages from one of her pockets.


    When they reached the door, Counselor Janice knelt beside Tranlee while the others remained outside. She quickly set to work bandaging Tranlee¡¯s eyes. Once finished, she stood up and nodded at Claridee. Mason saw her concentrate on the bandages before calling out. ¡°Done.¡±


    Tranlee didn¡¯t say a word while this was going on, but Mason could tell that she was seething. Once the bandages were secure, Counselor Anklin bent down near Tranlee and said. ¡°Here, let me help you up,¡± reaching for her elbow.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me,¡± she spat, shaking him off while rolling to a sitting position. Getting up, she gingerly felt her way around until her hand grasped a chair. Sitting down she crossed her arms, not saying a word.


    After closing the door, Mason scanned the room. It was simply furnished with only a table and a few chairs. On the table was a backpack and clothing was scattered about the room.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Darnia?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    ¡°She¡¯s asleep in the bedroom,¡± barked Tranlee.


    Counselor Janice and Claridee headed for the bedroom and soon Darnia could be heard screaming. ¡°Get away from me!¡±


    Counselor Anklin turned to Tranlee.


    ¡°After they¡¯re done with Darnia, Janice and Claridee will help you get dressed too.¡±


    She sat there in silence, almost as if she hadn¡¯t heard him.


    Counselor Janice and Claridee soon emerged from the bedroom, leading Darnia to one of the chairs. As Counselor Janice was leading Tranlee to the bedroom, Tranlee violently pulled herself away, nearly falling in the process.


    ¡°Get away from me! I only want Claridee to help me.¡±


    Counselor Janice shook her head sadly. ¡°You heard her, Claridee.¡± Claridee stared in disbelief at Tranlee before nodding at Counselor Janice. Taking Tranlee¡¯s hand, Claridee said in a cold voice. ¡°Come on,¡± before leading her to the bedroom.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen her show such hatred towards me,¡± Counselor Janice sighed to Counselor Anklin.


    Darnia laughed. ¡°And why shouldn¡¯t she? After all, you¡¯re not a true daughter of Myscreth as Claridee is. What other emotion could she feel for your kind?¡±


    Counselor Janice whirled around to face Darnia, face red with rage. She started to say something, but stopped abruptly. She gave Darnia a withering look and stalked over to the kitchen.


    ¡°If anyone needs me I¡¯ll be in the kitchen looking for any of Tranlee and Darnia¡¯s belongings to pack up,¡± she called out behind her.


    Counselor Anklin watched Counselor Janice leave, a look of concern on his face. He sat down next to Darnia. ¡°Antagonizing us isn¡¯t going to do you any good. You need to understand that Proust has lost.¡±


    ¡°And how did he die?¡± she interrupted.


    ¡°A cave-in.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± She gave a smile that Mason found very disconcerting.


    When everything was ready for their return to Bendroff, Counselor Anklin addressed Tranlee and Darnia.


    ¡°You¡¯ll both have an opportunity to address the Council as it decides your fate. Until then, everything you need will be provided, but the bandages will remain in place.¡±


    Darnia and Tranlee said nothing, and to Mason¡¯s amazement, showed no signs of fear. After waiting for a response, Counselor Anklin sadly shook his head and concentrated on the wall. It soon emitted a low hum and the doorway formed. When the light stopped flashing, Darnia and Tranlee were led through by Counselor Anklin. The others quickly followed.


    They arrived back in Bendroff on the transport field. The two prisoners were led into the hanger, and guards were summoned to escort them to their quarters.


    While they were waiting, Tranlee asked. ¡°Anklin, could you have Halrous come see me? I¡¯d like to talk with him.¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked down and said nothing.


    When Counselor Anklin didn¡¯t respond, Tranlee asked. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    Counselor Anklin replied in a slow, halting voice. ¡°We lost Halrous.¡±


    She appeared stunned. When she finally spoke, it was in a shaky voice. ¡°Halrous is dead?¡±


    Mason watched as Counselor Anklin looked down, unable to speak.


    Tranlee paused, seeming to steel herself before continuing. ¡°How did it happen?¡±


    ¡°He died in the ruins of Antlorn,¡± answered Counselor Janice quietly.


    Tranlee erupted, her voice echoing throughout the hanger. ¡°How could you have let him die like that? I thought he was your friend, but you were willing to let him die to satisfy your foolish sense of right and wrong!¡±


    Seeing the two guards arrive, Counselor Anklin held up a hand and they stopped.


    Counselor Anklin sadly shook his head. ¡°Halrous didn¡¯t think it foolish.¡± Without saying another word, he nodded to the guards.


    As the guards led Darnia and Tranlee away, Counselor Janice watched them go. ¡°Unfortunately, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s much hope for those two,¡± she noted sadly.


    Counselor Anklin looked over at her with a grim smile. ¡°You may be right Janice, but I hope they prove us wrong.¡±


    Over the next week the Council members, along with Mason and Claridee, busied themselves catching up on the work that had accumulated while they¡¯d been away. Although not fully recovered, Counselor Gorwold could now get around on his own and was tackling his duties with enthusiasm. Seeing Gorwold¡¯s joy at once again being able to help the people of Myscreth made Mason smile.


    Even beyond the normal work of the Council were the preparations for the upcoming trial of those who¡¯d conspired with Proust. To insure transparency, it was decided to invite the leaders from all of Myscreth¡¯s major settlements to attend. Mason and Claridee were kept busy arranging transports and welcoming the leaders to Bendroff.


    The two trainees saw little of Counselor Anklin during this time. He didn¡¯t even join them for meals as he usually did. Instead, he spent what little free time he had speaking with the prisoners.


    However, one evening while Mason and Claridee were in the library, Counselor Anklin came in looking haggard. He scanned the shelves intently before grabbing a book. After inspecting the cover, he broke into a smile and sat by Mason and Claridee.


    As he read, Mason occasionally glanced over at him, waiting for a chance to ask a question that had been gnawing at him since the cave-in. When Counselor Anklin looked up, rubbing his eyes, Mason seized the opportunity.


    Clearing his throat, he said. ¡°There¡¯s something I¡¯ve been wondering about.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Proust said that anyone could be given the ability to manipulate scientific laws, but you told me it was something you were born with.¡±


    Counselor Anklin closed his book and pushed it aside. ¡°It¡¯s true that a genetic mutation is what allows us to manipulate scientific laws. However, our scientists were able to develop a serum to replicate this mutation. That¡¯s what nearly destroyed Myscreth. After the war, all information on the serum was destroyed to prevent it from endangering Myscreth ever again.¡±


    Mason stared at Counselor Anklin in shock, realizing that Proust had been telling the truth. ¡°Do you think Proust could have succeeded?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± replied Counselor Anklin, leaning forward, ¡°but for the sake of Myscreth and Earth, I hope that knowledge remains hidden forever.¡±


    Mason had another question he needed to ask, but this one was for Claridee. However, everytime he tried to ask it, something else came up or he just chickened out. Finally as they were passing one of the balconies overlooking the farming areas, he knew he was ready. He led her over to one of the benches, ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but I always find it so peaceful here,¡± commented Mason. ¡°Why don¡¯t we sit for a little while?¡±


    She smiled. ¡°Sure, I¡¯d like that.¡±


    They stared at the vegetation below in silence, just enjoying each other¡¯s company. Looking over at her, he was reminded of their first kiss near the farming areas in Stranoff. Watching her serenely taking in the view below, he knew this was the perfect time to ask his question.


    However, before he had a chance, Claridee took him by the hand and smiled. ¡°Mason, there¡¯s something I¡¯ve been wanting to ask you.¡± She looked into his eyes. ¡°Will you marry me?¡±


    Mason was stunned and for a moment he couldn¡¯t get his mouth to work. ¡°Of course I will!¡± he exclaimed as he threw his arms around her and kissed her.


    They both jumped at the sound of someone clearing their throat loudly. Looking up they saw Counselor Anklin and Counselor Janice staring at them.


    ¡°Sorry to interrupt,¡± commented Counselor Anklin dryly as Mason and Claridee got up from the bench. Claridee seemed to get over the surprise faster than Mason.


    ¡°Mason and I are engaged,¡± she exclaimed giving Mason a quick hug.


    Counselor Janice ran forward. ¡°I¡¯m so happy for the two of you,¡± she cried, throwing her arms around Mason and Claridee.


    After she released them, Counselor Anklin shook Mason¡¯s hand and hugged Claridee. ¡°I couldn¡¯t be more pleased. The two of you truly deserve the happiness I know you will bring one another.¡±


    He continued speaking in an almost wistful voice. ¡°I¡¯ve always thought of weddings to be the highest form of human celebration. Two people willingly dedicating their lives to one another is the greatest expression of love I can imagine.¡±


    Looking over at Claridee, Mason couldn¡¯t agree more.

 Chapter Twenty-Seven: Redemption and Defiance

    On the day of the trial, the Council chamber was nearly filled to capacity. The first row was empty and only Mason and Claridee sat in the second row. The three remaining Council members were seated on the stage. Looking up at them, Mason was struck by how Proust¡¯s actions had so decimated the Council. However, he knew it would be the people of Myscreth who would suffer because of it.


    The Council chamber grew silent as Counselor Anklin stood and addressed the audience.


    ¡°Leaders of Myscreth, on behalf of the Council I welcome you. It¡¯s such a rare privilege to have all of you here. I only wish this meeting could have happened under happier circumstances, but it is the obligation of the Council to uphold the laws of Myscreth regardless of who is involved.¡±


    He walked to the front of the stage as he continued. ¡°During the recent crisis, some of our people supported former Counselor Proust. This has damaged the trust our people have always placed in the Council.¡± He stopped and surveyed the crowd. ¡°We¡¯ve invited you here to help us restore that trust. All we ask is that you tell the people in your communities all that transpires here today. It is our hope that when the reasons for the Council¡¯s actions are fully understood, we can once again concentrate on our shared goal of rebuilding Myscreth.¡±


    Counselor Anklin looked to the back of the chamber and nodded. Turning around, Mason saw guards leading the seven prisoners forward. All the prisoners except Klarth and Betrine still wore the bandages that Claridee had modified. At the sight of the prisoners, a murmur passed through the audience. Counselor Anklin remained standing as the guards seated the prisoners in the front row.


    Once the prisoners were seated, Counselor Anklin resumed speaking in a somber voice. ¡°Darnia, Nornol, Glorine, Thurold, Betrine, and Klarth are here today because they were trained to modify scientific laws by former Counselor Proust, contrary to the laws of Myscreth.¡±


    He looked out at the crowd before continuing. ¡°While these six people didn¡¯t set out to break our laws, the knowledge they now possess is too dangerous to allow them to return to their former lives. The improper training of these people by former Counselor Proust has forced the Council into the difficult task of deciding their fate.¡±


    Soft sobs could be heard coming from some of the prisoners, but Darnia stood up, a noticeable snarl in her voice. ¡°How dare you think you¡¯re worthy of judging us! Only Counselor Proust truly cared for our people, and because of that, you labeled him a criminal.¡±


    ¡°Sit down!¡± ordered Counselor Anklin forcefully. ¡°You will be given an opportunity to speak in your defense.¡±


    She opened her mouth as if to reply, but instead felt around for her seat before sitting back down.


    Counselor Anklin continued, voice heavy. ¡°Tranlee stands before the Council because she aided former Counselor Proust in his actions and provided him information about the Council¡¯s efforts to capture him. As she assisted in his crimes, she must also be held accountable for them.¡±


    Counselor Anklin returned to his seat as Counselor Janice called out. ¡°Tranlee please stand.¡±


    Tranlee slowly rose to her feet.


    ¡°Have you anything to say in your defense?¡± asked Counselor Janice sternly.


    Tranlee just stood there in silence, but at last blurted out, anger evident in her voice. ¡°It isn¡¯t fair that I¡¯m being treated as a criminal while Gorwold sits up there with you. He did everything I¡¯m accused of, yet he was welcomed back to the Council with open arms.¡±


    Mason saw Counselor Gorwold look down in shame as Tranlee spoke. In contrast, he saw Counselor Anklin¡¯s face flash with anger. Mason was taken aback as Counselor Anklin began to shout, his voice echoing through the chamber.


    ¡°How dare you use the forgiveness of another to justify your actions? Counselor Gorwold was nearly killed by Proust when he told him that he was going to tell the Council everything he knew. He also expressed genuine remorse for what he did, something we¡¯ve not seen from you.¡±


    Mason could see Tranlee¡¯s lips turn in to a defiant sneer. ¡°Fine words Anklin, but meaningless. Counselor Proust knew Gorwold was weak and would betray him if he was ever discovered. That¡¯s why he told him so little about our plans. As for remorse, the only thing I¡¯m sorry about is the additional suffering our people must endure due to a Council that¡¯s too timid to do everything in its power to help them.¡±


    Counselor Anklin sighed, his anger suddenly gone. ¡°Tranlee, you give the Council no choice. You will be sent away from the people of Myscreth to live the rest of your life in exile. The bandages over your eyes will be removed and everything you need to survive will be provided, but never again will you be allowed to live among our people.¡±


    Tranlee looked down, and Mason thought she might be crying. Instead she tossed her head back and started laughing. Glancing at Claridee, Mason could see a look of horror on her face. He reached for her hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.


    ¡°Exile?¡± she cried. ¡°For my alleged crimes, the punishment should be death.¡± She continued in a shrill, mocking tone. ¡°Does the thought of killing someone frighten you, Anklin? Your weakness will be your downfall. As long as some of us who were with Counselor Proust live, there will be people who will yearn to fulfill his vision.¡± By now she was yelling, and the audience appeared stunned. ¡°And in time, when enough of them see the truth, they¡¯ll bring me back in triumph!¡±


    Mason watched as the Council members stared at her in silence, expressions of disbelief on their faces. It was as if they no longer recognized the woman they¡¯d served with for so long. Mason saw Counselor Janice¡¯s face harden.


    ¡°Guard, return Tranlee to her quarters,¡± she commanded in a firm voice.


    Looking over at Claridee, Mason was surprised to see her eyes were moist. ¡°The Tranlee I knew would never behave this way,¡± she whispered. ¡°Proust did this to her,¡± she continued, fury in her voice.


    Mason didn¡¯t know what to say, so simply squeezed her hand in reply.


    Counselor Anklin addressed the remaining prisoners.


    ¡°Nornol, Glorine, Thurold, and Betrine please stand.¡±


    ¡°Over the past two weeks I have spoken with each of you,¡± continued Counselor Anklin ¡°and in those conversations you acknowledged that you were deceived by former Counselor Proust and regret your actions on his behalf. Is this true?¡±


    The four of them nodded and replied in the affirmative. Mason could see each of them bow their heads and hunch their shoulders in shame as they replied.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°You traitors!¡± muttered Darnia angrily. ¡°After all Counselor Proust did for you, how could you betray him like this?¡±


    Mason heard the sharp voice of Counselor Janice interject. ¡°All that Proust did for them is condemn them to a life away from their families and friends.¡±


    Counselor Anklin glanced at the four prisoners before staring out at the audience, folding his hands in front of him.


    ¡°I was taught to not waste anyone¡¯s talents and to always give someone a second chance if they proved they were willing to change. Both of these lessons are relevant to the four people standing before us today. Even though former Counselor Proust trained them against our laws, their abilities can still do much good for our people. They have expressed remorse and have told me that they are willing to accept the consequences of their actions.¡±


    He paused and glanced over at Counselor Janice. ¡°However, as has been pointed out to me, words alone do not prove that someone has changed.¡± He looked down at the prisoners. ¡°Therefore, the Council has decided that the four of you will be given the opportunity to prove yourselves by becoming probationary candidates to join the Council.¡±


    Cries of outrage came from the crowd. Mason looked back at the audience and saw several people shouting. ¡°They helped Proust! How can you trust them?¡±


    ¡°Quiet!¡±


    The shout resounded throughout the room, causing Claridee to jump and grab Mason. Turning back around, Mason saw Counselor Anklin standing and staring out at the crowd, eyes blazing. It had the desired result and the room grew silent.


    Counselor Anklin walked to the front of the stage, exasperation evident in his voice. ¡°Where is your compassion? How can you write someone off without even giving them a chance to prove they¡¯ve changed?¡± He continued speaking, now seeming more earnest that angry. ¡°Proper precautions will be made to protect our people. The probationary candidates will be trained in an isolated settlement, well away from any other settlements. The only outside people they will have contact with will be members of the Council. Their training will be even more intensive than for normal candidates and none will be allowed to become Council members until the entire Council is convinced of their fitness.¡±


    Mason watched the leaders as Counselor Anklin spoke and could see that some were still not convinced. Counselor Anklin must have noticed as well because his tone became even more intense as he continued speaking.


    ¡°You may say that giving these four the opportunity to join the Council is condoning what Proust did, but it isn¡¯t. There¡¯s one more thing that must be considered,¡± he paused and scanned the entire room, ¡°and that¡¯s justice. Was Proust being just when he gave these people abilities that changed their lives forever? He didn¡¯t care about them, he only used them to try and achieve his own twisted goals. How can we do the same to them? As people with a conscious, we are obligated to try and do what¡¯s right. If that makes things harder, then so be it. I only ask that you allow us to try.¡±


    As he finished speaking, Counselor Anklin gazed out at the audience with an expression of determination before walking back to his seat. Mason looked around, unsure if the speech had convinced the leaders. However, as Counselor Anklin sat down, the sound of a single person clapping could be heard. However, it was soon joined by others and the sound grew louder until a deafening roar filled the room. Up on the stage, Counselor Janice looked over at Counselor Anklin with a smile.


    As the applause died down, Counselor Janice motioned to the guards to return the four prisoners to their quarters. Mason was gratified to see some of the leaders offering them shouts of encouragement as they left the room. After the four had left, all eyes turned to the Council and the two remaining prisoners.


    ¡°Darnia and Klarth, please stand,¡± ordered Counselor Janice.


    When the two didn¡¯t move, she glanced over at Counselor Anklin.


    He nodded. ¡°Counselor Janice asked you to stand,¡± he directed in a harsh tone.


    Mason saw the two prisoners slowly get up, clearly taking their time.


    After the two were standing, Counselor Anklin rose to his feet. ¡°When I attempted to speak with the two of you, you refused to see me. However, the Council is willing to offer you the same opportunity for redemption as the others if you will renounce Proust and submit to the Council.¡±


    Klarth stood there silently, but Darnia immediately answered in a malevolent tone. ¡°I will never renounce Counselor Proust! Someday our people will recognize his greatness and the greatness of all those who served with him. On that day I will be vindicated and eagerly take my rightful place as a member of the true Council. I have no need of your forgiveness for I¡¯ve done nothing wrong.¡±


    Murmurs of anger could be heard throughout the audience and Mason felt Claridee tense up at Darnia¡¯s words.


    Mason could see Counselor Anklin sadly shake his head and look over at Counselor Janice. She nodded and looked down at Klarth.


    ¡°Klarth, have you anything to say in your defense?¡± asked Counselor Janice.


    He replied in a low voice, gone now was any trace of the arrogance and anger he¡¯d shown previously. ¡°Counselor Proust took care of me when no one else would and I won¡¯t abandon him for my own benefit. Regardless of what anyone else may say, he was a good man who only sought to serve Myscreth and I was proud to be with him.¡±


    Some in the crowd jeered, but looking back behind him, Mason could see some of the leaders had been touched by Klarth¡¯s words. He had to admit, he¡¯d never expected to hear something like this from Klarth.


    Counselor Janice leaned over and whispered to Counselor Anklin, who nodded.


    ¡°Klarth, consider the consequences of what you¡¯re saying.¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ve made my decision.¡±


    Counselor Janice sighed heavily. ¡°In that case, the Council has no choice but to sentence both of you to spend the rest of your lives in exile,¡± she announced with resignation in her voice.


    ¡°You can¡¯t exile me, ¡°scoffed Darnia with a laugh, ¡°unless you plan on keeping these bandages on my eyes for the rest of my life.¡±


    ¡°No, that would be much too cruel a punishment,¡± responded Counselor Anklin in a calm voice. ¡°Due to your ability to manipulate relativistic physics there¡¯s no place on Myscreth where you can be exiled. Unfortunately, there¡¯s only one other option. The rest of your life will be spent on Earth.¡±


    ¡°Earth!¡± she cried hysterically, blindly rushing forward. However, she only went a few steps before the guards pulled her back. She struggled against them, crying out. ¡°I¡¯m a true daughter of Myscreth! How can you expect me to live with those aliens? I¡¯d rather spend the rest of my life unable to see than to be forced to live there!¡±


    Mason couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for Darnia as he watched her continue to struggle against the guards. He knew firsthand what it was like to move to a strange new world - and he¡¯d done it willingly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you have no choice,¡± responded Counselor Anklin. ¡°Trainee Mason and I will teach you what you need to know before you are sent there. In addition, I have friends there who can help you get settled.¡± Mason couldn¡¯t help but notice the sadness in his voice as he continued. ¡°I can only hope that in time you¡¯ll discover that the people of Earth aren¡¯t the monsters you imagine them to be.¡±


    Counselor Janice motioned to the guards who started to lead Darnia and Klarth away. Klarth walked in silence, his head held high. However, Darnia fought the guards every step of the way, kicking and screaming. Finally, the guards had to carry her from the room. The last thing Mason heard her shout was. ¡°How dare you treat a member of the true Council in this way!¡± before the door slammed shut, silencing her voice.


    After the prisoners were gone, Counselor Anklin stood up and addressed the audience. Mason was surprised to see he was now smiling.


    ¡°There is one last piece of business that needs to be taken care of.¡± He motioned to Mason and Claridee. ¡°Trainees Claridee and Mason, please come forward.¡±


    Mason and Claridee looked at one another as they stood up, not sure of what was going on. Walking forward, Mason could see the other Counselors also smiling and felt Claridee grab his arm excitedly.


    As they stood before the stage, Counselor Anklin continued speaking.


    ¡°Claridee and Mason, your conduct during the recent crisis has demonstrated to the Council and to all of Myscreth your commitment to serving our people. Furthermore, you have shown your dedication to upholding the principles of the Council even at the risk of your own lives. Therefore, it is our judgment that the both of you are not only qualified, but eminently worthy of becoming Council members.¡±


    Mason was dumbstruck and Claridee burst into tears as the audience stood up and cheered. He could feel tears of joy welling up in his own eyes as he hugged Claridee. On the stage he saw Counselor Anklin and the other Counselors standing and applauding.


    Looking back, it almost seemed impossible that an unexpected visitor had led him to Myscreth and Claridee. Looking up at Counselor Anklin he silently mouthed the words ¡°Thanks, Professor.¡±

 Epilogue

    Mason smiled as he, Claridee, and Counselor Anklin walked down a tree-lined street. Those who passed gave them funny looks, but he didn¡¯t care.


    He couldn¡¯t help but laugh as Claridee spun around as she walked, trying to see everything at once. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± she kept crying at every new sight and sound. Mason did his best to answer, but was afraid he was being more confusing than helpful.


    She stopped suddenly and cocked her head listening to birds singing. ¡°That¡¯s so beautiful,¡± she said in a dreamy voice. She started walking again, looking upward for the source of the sound. Mason had to grab her as she almost walked in front of a passing car. ¡°What¡¯s powering that?¡± she asked, pointing after the car.


    ¡°It uses an internal combustion engine. A flammable fluid called gasoline is ignited in small chambers which drive pistons to power the engine,¡± he explained.


    ¡°I really want to see one of those engines,¡± she replied, eyes wide with wonder, ¡°they sound amazing.¡±


    Mason grinned. ¡°I¡¯m sure that can be arranged.¡±


    Every time they passed a sunny area Claridee would pause, staring up at the blue sky so the sun would shine on her face. Seeing the sun light dancing through her hair, and the look of contentment on her face made Mason¡¯s heart leap with joy.


    ¡°Thank you so much again for bringing us to Earth, Counselor Anklin!¡± she enthused.


    Counselor Anklin smiled broadly. ¡°I was determined to give the two of you a wedding present you¡¯d never forget. However, it might be better if you didn¡¯t refer to me as Counselor. Try Professor instead.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Professor Anklin,¡± she laughed.


    The sound of rustling from a nearby tree drew Claridee¡¯s attention. Looking up, she pointed to a small animal with a long bushy tail running along the tree branches.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± she asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s a squirrel,¡± answered Mason.


    Claridee clapped her hands with glee. ¡°I never imagined a place like this could exist!¡± Turning to Professor Anklin she continued. ¡°Was Myscreth once like this?¡±


    ¡°It was before the war,¡± responded Professor Anklin. Looking around, he continued in a faraway voice, ¡°and hopefully it will be again.¡±The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    The sound of barking caused Claridee to rush over to the edge of a small fenced-in yard. A small white dog stared up at her and barked menacingly.


    ¡°It¡¯s so cute!¡± she squealed. ¡°Isn¡¯t this one of those dog animals you told me about?¡±


    Mason smiled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°It looks so soft,¡± she cried, reaching for it.


    Mason instinctively grabbed for Claridee¡¯s hand. ¡°Be careful, it might bite,¡± he cautioned.


    Claridee stepped quickly away from the fence, frowning.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you had animals that would eat people.¡±


    Professor Anklin chuckled. ¡°No Claridee; dogs only bite to defend themselves or when they¡¯re afraid. Not to eat you.¡±


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t know,¡± muttered Claridee to herself.


    In a little while they stood in front of a small blue house.


    ¡°Here we are,¡± announced Mason, his heart pounding. ¡°Are you ready Claridee?¡±


    She looked at him with an anxious smile. ¡°I¡¯m a little nervous, but I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    The three of them walked to the front door and Mason rang the doorbell. His heart leapt as the door handle turned. Maybe they¡¯d moved away. After all, his father had always talked about moving to Colorado. At the first sight of a familiar head of grey hair, Mason drew a deep breath: it was his mother. She stood there, staring at him in shock. It didn¡¯t last long however, and in the next moment Mason felt himself wrapped in a tight embrace. ¡°Mason!¡± his mother cried, hugging him even tighter.


    In the next instant, Mason heard heavy footsteps rapidly approaching and felt a pair of strong arms embracing him and his mother. ¡°Dad!¡± gasped Mason.


    Blinking back tears, Mason could see Claridee and Professor Anklin beaming. At last Mason and his parents broke their embrace and his parents stood back to get a better look at him.


    ¡°You look wonderful,¡± his mother exclaimed through happy tears.


    For a moment, Mason just stood there, feeling as if it were a dream. However, his reverie was soon broken as Professor Anklin cleared his throat.


    Mason looked around in surprise before coming to his senses. ¡°Mom and Dad, I¡¯d like you to meet two people who mean a lot to me.¡± He gestured towards Professor Anklin. ¡°This is Professor Anklin.¡±


    ¡°Pleasure to finally meet the two of you,¡± he said, shaking their hands warmly.


    ¡°And this,¡± continued Mason, taking Claridee¡¯s hand, ¡°is Claridee, my fianc¨¦e.¡±


    His mother let out a cry of delight and rushed over to hug her. Unable to restrain herself, Claridee started crying. As the two women finished their embrace, his father came over and wrapped her in a huge hug.


    ¡°We¡¯re so happy for the two of you,¡± he whispered to her, and Mason could tell he was desperately trying to fight back tears of his own.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Claridee replied, barely able to get the words out. ¡°It¡¯s so wonderful to finally meet both of you. I¡¯ve been looking forward to this for a long time.¡±


    For a moment, the five of them just stood on the front porch, not quite sure what to do. Finally, Mason¡¯s father took charge.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go inside? The two of us would love to hear what Mason¡¯s been up to.¡±


    Mason smiled at his parents.


    ¡°There a lot I need to tell you about where I¡¯ve been. It¡¯s become very important to me for many reasons,¡± he declared, glancing over at Claridee.


    ¡°You¡¯ve never heard of it, but I wouldn¡¯t want to be anywhere else. It¡¯s a place called Myscreth ¡­¡±