Shard of Reality
By errantwill-o-wisp
- 467 reads
Book One:
Before
Chapter One:
Leap of Faith
I sat in the corner; everyone walked right past me. No one noticed; no one cared. Something made me less; something made me lower than everyone else. Somewhere I knew what it was¦ But does me knowing matter?
I sat in the corner tears streaming down my face, no one noticed. I picked myself up; knees now up, with my arms tucked behind. There I cried even more¦ Something made me atypical.
The bell had rung, and there were less people in the hall. Third period had begun. I wiped my tears, but more came. I didn't care. I urged myself along and finally tore my butt from the floor; I teetered. I was slightly lightheaded.
I wanted to stay in that spot and cry until I was dehydrated, but, even in this all-consuming-state, my idiosyncrasies weren't completely quelled. I still had my overbearing personality running me, like some survival instinct. Although I really don't think going to class was going to help me survive¦ Or would it? I guess it would stop me from doing anything stupid¦ like living on. Or¦ Marsquile traced the, still sore, hesitation marks that marred his left wrist.
The halls were desolate.
"Heh¦ It must be the convention of people who give a damn about me¦
Marsquile quickly scanned both directions, then went to the closest intersection and did the same. "Yep. Everyone is here. Minus me of course.
*I, above all, hate myself the most, that is the one thing that no one could take away from me.*
The tears had finally stopped, and all Marsquile could think was:
*Now, even they have left me. Well, I don't much blame them, even if they were just following suit.*
Marsquile went to the nearest window and looked outside. It was a beautiful day out, the sun was shining, and a mocking tone of yellow was radiating from it.
*Even nature mocks me! It should be dreary out, damn it! It should be pouring rain, possibly hailing. 'Oh I just give up!' 'I decided to do that a long time ago.' 'Hey you, shut up!' 'Why don't you come over here and say that!' 'I am over there.' 'Oh, so you are.' 'Now what?'*
The two voices bickered mercilessly inside his head. Soon, though, they both gave up, just as Marsquile should've.
Marsquile shook his head, and walked to his class, which was in another wing.
He stepped out of the business wing into the irreverently bright day and solemnly walked to the art wing. He went up to the door 'Room 215', crept up on his tiptoes - how he hated being short - and peeked through the small window. Mrs. Menloe was starting class with art history like she did every Friday.
Marsquile tentatively pushed the door open and Mrs. Menloe whipped he head around.
"Marsquile where were you?
"Sadly, here¦
"What? She quickly filled in after Marsquile hesitated
" Nothing¦ Marsquile obviously wasn't himself; he didn't even try to hide it. In a way he had given up.
"Good then. Come here you have to sign a pink slip. Mrs. Menloe motioned Marsquile over to her desk and placed a pinkish slip in front of him. She took a pen out of her bun, and handed it to Marsquile, he signed his name and took a seat somewhere in the back.
"And then, Van Gogh cut off his ear, thinking that it would eradicate the voices he had been hearing, as a result of schizophrenia. He was crazy as a loon, but boy could he paint! And now here are some of his paintings¦ That was when Marsquile stopped paying attention; the voices had started bickering again.
*'All in all we were just arguing semantics¦ So are we agreed?' 'Yes.' 'Good then we agree to disagree, now that that is resolved, let me tell you how horrible you are¦'*
Marsquile's eyes stared off past the window; he still wished that at least nature were on his side. All he was asking for was a little rain. He wasn't expecting a tempest or anything, he would settle for a drizzle. But, there still wasn't a damn cloud in the sky.
Marsquile whimpered, he was back where he started; except he wasn't alone by himself, he was alone surrounded by people. It was a simple distinction, and *he* wasn't going to argue semantics¦
The bell rang again, and third period was over. Everyone rushed out of their seats and clamored to the door.
*Like trained rats, running through mazes looking for cheese, all to the utter amusement of those overseeing.*
Marsquile slowly stood up and sloshed out of the room, never looking ahead but always downward. He hated life and he was sure it hated him back. It was supremely unfair; stacked against him. He stood as much chance as someone playing charades with a couple that knew sign language. But, somehow, everyone else seemed to be trump.
All things being equal, you are bound to lose.
Someone cared for them, if no one else, their parents. Utterly unjust!
Marsquile remembered the time his parents said they should have named their son "mistake, so he would never forget what he was. They both always told him that he ruined their lives, and the only reason they allowed him to live with them was for appearance sake. He knew that if they could've gotten away with it, they would've left him the last time they moved.
So this was what Marsquile lived for¦ he would have committed suicide and seriously thought about it a lot¦ but he was afraid that, even death, wouldn't accept him.
Marsquile made a fleeting glance around the corner of the hall, before he decided to go that way. He strolled down the hallway neither hurrying nor dallying. He tried to be beyond other people's notice; and usually he succeeded, but, not today.
Marsquile did his usual: he kept his head down, his gaze cloudy, and adverted. None of this seemed to deter the girl with dark hair, slung over her shoulder in a braid.
She was leaning against one of the lockers half-in and half-out of the shadows; and somehow she knew right where to be so that she would be found in Marsquile's restricted line-of-sight.
Her eyes glinted a shade of grey, and her skin alluded the fact that she spent all her time indoors. She had elfin features but somehow still her face seemed to be made of curves. This coupled with her raw beauty made her almost a painful sight - less the disagreeable connotations.
Marsquile's eyes glazed over every object and person, but they stuck to her like an orthodontist to a hockey rink. He stopped with a scarcely audible grunt; his body tried to move on, but his eyes dug in their heels.
The girl tilted her head, and extended her arm. She turned up her palm, and pulled her pointer finger towards him.
*Wait! She only has four fingers! One isn't missing; her hand just stops at four!*
Even while thinking this, Marsquile was drawn towards the odd little girl; she exuded an aura of command, which juxtaposed with her puppy-dog eyes. Marsquile tried to stop his legs, but they seemed to be relentless in their pursuit.
A tiny squeak was all that could be heard. The world seemed to disappear; except the aisle of black skid-marks made by Marsquile's shoes, and a small area about the mysterious girl.
Marsquile found his attempts vain, and stopped protesting. Instead, he focused on the girl. Out of the corner of his eye he could catch sight of a coalescing, milky-blue wall but, every time he turned his head, the wall receded. Marsquile shook his head.
Before he knew it, he had stopped right in front of the girl; her hands were straight at her sides. The girl's eyes held little flecks of gold in their green background; she stood four nine', and had golden hair. Her aura of command waned like the wall had; now she stood in childlike-naïvety, she seemed innocent in every way. That is until she spoke.
Her voice was entrancing, a melodic tone that sounded like the trilling of hummingbirds. "I have been sent for you, at last, saying the last words with rapture.
Now, close enough, Marsquile could smell her - her scent was nemoral. Images of trees, the chipmunks, and countless other beings that inhabit them, overcame Marsquile's mind.
*Who sent you for me? The principal? Have I done something wrong?* The thoughts soon became words: "Who sent you?
"I will tell you all in good time. All in good time. Her voice was still the sound of hummingbird trills; soothing. Now her eyes were a serene colour of blue, calming. Just by looking at them, Marsquile's mood changed.
"Come with me. She held out her hand amiably.
All that Marsquile could do was stand, and stare.
"Where would you take me? His voice was tremulous and ugly compared to the girl's.
"I would take you home.
"I hate my home; I would rather stay here.
"I am speaking of your real home. It is far far away from here. She seemed completely serious.
Marsquile turned that thought over and over in his head.
*'A place far far away.' What do I have to lose? Absolutely nothing. Anywhere else would be better than the home *I* know. I might as well go. I want to die anyhow, so there is nothing that can happen that would be worse than what I might do to myself. Plus, the girl seems nice. Even if she does seem like someone you would meet in a fever dream, or maybe an acid-trip.*
Marsquile's mental scales tipped in favor of going, so he took the hand offered.
"How long will it take to get there?
"Not long. Her reply was still melodious; it was something that Marsquile wished he could copy.
"But you said it was 'far far away'.
"So I did, but we have our ways.
Marsquile barely noticed the changing from singular to plural. There were plenty of other things to occupy his mind.
"Can I ask your name? If I'm going to take a chance with someone who could harm me, I'd at least like to know their name.
"I would never harm you! Her voice switched from the trill of hummingbirds to the sound of woodpeckers, and her eyes turned to chips of obsidian. "I am oath bound; there would be no way for me to harm you even if I wished to do so, which I don't." Marsquile stopped moving and looked down at his shoes. He hadn't meant to insult her.
She continued: "My name is Nesaryl di'vyne agma sharah feruh meliad. Marsquile looked up at her, eyes wide. She chuckled, the sound of beavers beating their tails. "You can call me Nesaryl.
"Okay, Nesaryl where are you taking me?
"I already told you; I am taking you home. I can't elaborate; I have said too much out in the open already.
Nesaryl hastily traversed the hallway - empty again - over to an alcove, which Marsquile hadn't really noticed before; it had probably held a drinking fountain at some point, but there wasn't one there now.
The hummingbirds sang again. "Do you trust me?
"I have no reason not to.
"I guess I'll take that as a yes. Marsquile made no protest.
"Be prepared.
"Prepared for what?
Nesaryl smirked. "For anything and everything. That is when she leapt towards the point where shadow and light met.
Book Two:
The World In-between:
Chapter Two:
Revelations
Marsquile jumped with Nesaryl into the alcove, at first he thought they would just hit the wall; it was only logical. But, a little experience often upsets a lot of theory.
*What the hell is happening? We didn't hit the wall¦ there is no wall to hit¦ it feels like we are moving¦*
All that Marsquile could see was blue moving past him. Tingling¦ it felt like he was being taken apart piece-by-piece and being put back together. It wasn't at all painful, but disconcerting at the least. Before he knew it, it was over.
Marsquile opened his eyes, though, oddly enough, he didn't remember ever closing them. He looked around thoroughly confused. He wasn't at his school anymore, but that didn't please him as much as he thought it would.
He glanced around relieved at seeing Nesaryl, although that was the only sight that was comforting. What he discovered made him want to close his eyes again, and made the little jaunt, to wherever the hell this was, bearable.
The place had no smell, it wasn't that it smelled sterile; there was a complete absence of scent. Besides that there was light, but it didn't come from any discernable source. It came from nowhere, yet everywhere.
Marsquile forced his eyes open once more, and tentatively surveyed his surroundings again. They, Marsquile and Nesaryl, stood in a field. He could see twenty feet in every direction; yet, after that¦ it looked like the shimmering you see in the air when it is really hot outside¦ but here it was so intense that nothing was discernable.
Marsquile's sight returned to Nesaryl, who had been staring at him.
"What the hell happened?! Where the hell are we?
"Sorry I would have spoken, but I was waiting for the disorientation to wear off. What happened? Well, we took the first step in getting you home. Where is this? The place where shadow and light meets.
"That's impossible!
"Obviously not, as we are here.
"But¦ it defies logic!
The smirk returned to Nesaryl's face. "I wouldn't place to much stock in logic. It's just a systematic method of coming to the wrong conclusion with confidence.
"Where are we? Marsquile was becoming irate.
"Why do you ask questions twice? The answer never changes, just the delivery. We are where shadow and light meet.
"Even if I accept that as fact, the place where they meet is infinitesimally small. We could never fit there.
"Again, you assume too much. It is more about what you don't see than what you do.
"What? Quit speaking in riddles!
"Am I?
"Yes, stop it! Nesaryl tilted her head; "You are cute when you're angry.
Marsquile laughed nervously. "What?
"Again, asking questions twice. There was a moment of silence, in which Marsquile took another look at their surroundings.
"Okay¦ so maybe we are where you say we are. I can't think of anything that would disprove that. But¦
"But what?
"I don't know. What is the deal with my sight?
"What about your sight?
"The fuzziness.
"Oh that. It isn't just you; it is everyone. That is how this place is.
"Why is it like that?
"No one really knows, but some people seem to think that it is because nothing is 'set' here. This place doesn't really exist, except for whatever portion surrounds you. Yet, the world remains the same every time you pass through it. Marsquile looked more confused than when he asked the question. "This place is a world of duality
"What do you mean by that?
"I mean that things both exist and don't exist at the same time.
"How is that possible? Would this place just tear apart?
"A lot of things are possible here that aren't possible elsewhere. The reason that this world doesn't collapse is simple. Okay, say two people are pulling on the opposite ends of a rope, with the same strength. What would happen?
"Well, nothing would happen of course¦ Oh I understand. The duality appears with the same force so that neither of them prevails. Thus the world is stable.
"See, I told you it was simple. You humans usually make things so difficult. Again Marsquile was confused, but he dismissed the thought of asking what she meant. He was curious, but there is only so much one can take in in a day.
"Has this world always spun?
"Wha¦ Nesaryl acted quickly, she caught Marsquile just as he fell. She sat him on the ground.
"Some people get dizzy after coming here. I guess you are one of those. Just give it a minute. Rest.
Finally the place quit making sickening lurches and all was right. Well as right as it could be consider where they were.
"I feel a lot better. Sorry, the dizziness came suddenly.
"No need to be sorry. Nesaryl helped him up to his feet. "Sure you're okay now?
"Yes, quite.
"Good. She smiled, a sight that made Marsquile wish she did it more often.
"Okay. So, we are where the shadow and light meet, in a world of duality. Where more is not known than what is?
"Correct on all counts.
Marsquile rubbed his temples. I am getting a headache.
"That's fairly common too. You need rest.
"I agree. But, you said you would tell me everything when we got here.
"I think you have learned enough for today.
"I agree too. Marsquile was quite reluctant.
"Good, then sleep.
The day had taken a toll on him. Marsquile placed his head on the cool grass and promptly fell asleep.
Nesaryl stroked his head and whispered to him, a soft breeze moving over leaves. "Sleep well my prince.
Marsquile woke, not to a sunrise, but that odd light that came from nowhere but everywhere. It was a little less disconcerting than the night¦ or day¦ before. There was no real way for Marsquile to tell which it had been. For all he knew it could have been afternoon.
He yawned and wiped sleep from his eyes, in between stretching. He looked around and found Nesaryl; it appeared that she had not slept.
"How long have I been asleep?
'Nine hours, twenty-three minutes.
"How can you tell the time here? Do you have a watch?
"You get used to it; and what the hell is a watch?
It was Marsquile's turn to smirk. "Never mind.
"So you said you would tell me everything. She opened her mouth as if to protest. "Don't you try to get around it this time.
"I was merely about to suggest that we walk while I tell you.
"Oh, okay.
"Where should I begin?
"Well, at the beginning, I suppose.
"Why doesn't anyone want to begin at the end?
"What? I guess, because you end at the end, and begin at the beginning.
"Why though?
"I expect that is because the words match up.
"So, wait. Are the words that way because that's how it is, or, were they placed that way and everyone just follows them?
"Wait! You are getting horribly off subject. Is there any specific reason that you are avoiding this?
"No¦ Not really. It's just a sad story is all.
"I don't care what mood it carries, just tell it. Please.
"Fine. It all started when your mother, Nidae, became pregnant with you. You were the second male child in the family, which doesn't seem to be significant to you but, where your home is, there is a law that states that there shall only be one male heir in a family. By this law, you would have to be murdered.
Your parents didn't have the heart, or should I say, had too much heart to kill you. So, they kept Nidae's pregnancy secret, and when you were born, you were sent to Earth with two of your parent's servants to take care of you. This brought great sadness to them, but they would rather have you alive with someone else than dead with them.
That is your story; I told you it isn't a pleasant one.
Marsquile accepted the story. But felt that he must inform her of something.
"The people I was sent with treated me horribly all my life. They didn't care about me, they acted like I was a great burden placed on them, and I guess I was.
"I didn't know. Neither did your parents. When the two servants were chosen it seemed as if they were grateful. I was there myself. Your parents never meant to¦ Tears flowed down her Elvin features, disappearing before they hit the ground. Both Nesaryl and Marsquile sat down in the never-ending field.
"I don't know what to say.
"Say that you don't resent your parents. She sounded desperate.
"Why would I resent my parents? They defied a law and tried to do the best they could for me. It isn't their fault the people sent me with turned on them. I am glad to know that those weren't my real parents. I have a question though.
Nesaryl stopped crying. "What is it?
"Why have you brought me back? Won't I be killed?
"No. Your brother has died. You are now the only male heir now.
They got up and continued walking.
"How much longer until we get to this home of mine?
"It is a days journey in that direction. Nesaryl raised her four-fingered hand and pointed generally north. If indeed there were directions in this place.
"Oh, that helps a lot. There is no sunrise, no sunset. How am I to know when a day has passed?
Nesaryl shrugged. "I will tell you.
"Wait, you said that my home is a days journey from here. You mean I live in this place? Nesaryl began laughing softly, like the falling of leaves.
"No one can live here. Nothing can be taken or left. Nothing, nor no one, can stay for more than three days.
" 'Nothing can be taken or left?' Is that why your tears vanished before they hit the ground?
"Yes, that is the reason.
"Well, where did they vanish to then?
"What do you mean?
"When they disappeared they had to go somewhere.
"Why?
"It only makes logical sense.
"You're doing it again. Logic doesn't exist here. Don't try to understand this place. Just take it for what it is.
A long period of silence followed only by the sound of feet crushing grass.
"Ugh! It doesn't feel like we have made any progress. The landscape has been the same for the last hour. At least, I think it has been an hour. Does the entire place look like this?
"No, it doesn't. Don't worry it will change soon.
Just as she spoke everything changed. Well, not *everything* changed, the fuzziness was still there, and the absence of smell, and the unidentifiable light still stayed constant, but the surroundings changed. Instead of a field, the ground became grey stone, perfectly smooth without any interruption.
*How is the entire ground made out of one stone? Haha. If I accept everything else I have been told then this is easy to overlook. *
"Do you trust me? Nesaryl asked the question again.
"Yes, I do, now.
"Good, because you must believe me. Nothing can hurt you here.
"Is there anything here that I might think would hurt me? Because, I haven't seen anything except you, the grass, and now stone.
"Before long there will be. This place harbors what might be or could be.
"I don't understand.
"You will.
Chapter Three:
Warnings and Applications
They continued walking and soon large stone pillars marred the landscape. Marsquile looked up and noticed the same effect that was prevalent in the lateral directions, which made the pillars appear to go on forever.
As they walked, the monoliths getting closer to them, he noticed that they were not smooth - like the ground had been - they were blemished with thousands of interlacing circular glyphs. They were beautiful and looked like a very complex language.
"What are the symbols on the pillars? Marsquile asked Nesaryl curiously.
"Oh that is writing in the language of the ancients that created this place.
"Can you read them? What do they say?
"Yes, Nesaryl chuckled at his curiosity, "I can read them.
They both walked over to the closest pillar. Nesaryl leaned in close and traced the rounded script with her finger. After a minute of deep thought Nesaryl recited:
"Thought is futile, it only allows you to see the different shades of misery intrinsic in the surrounding world. It is the only thing that can harm you while dwelling here.
There was a long silence again. Marsquile thought that Nesaryl was busy translating but she was just standing there.
"That's all the pillar says? Marsquile finally broke the silence.
"Yep. That's all that one says.
"But, there is so much writing¦
"The language is quite longwinded. She stated matter-of-factly.
"It is pretty though, Marsquile declared.
"Yes, I agree, she conceded.
They both moved to another column and Nesaryl, again, traced the whorls. And then spoke:
"Trust neither the sight nor smell. They tell you lies as truths.
On to the next:
Time is not a constant but a variable, ever reoccurring.
One should not harbor thoughts of ill as they may be turned against oneself.
"That's enough. I don't think that they help. Marsquile finally commented dismissively.
"Okay¦ You should keep some of them in mind anyways. Soon you might need them. Marsquile continued to look dubious.
They continued on through the corridor of pillars for another hour or so; he still hadn't gotten used to time in this place. In the farthest reaches of their sight, the rock slab they had been traveling on, suddenly dropped away. Marsquile wanted to stop but Nesaryl didn't seem to be discouraged by the drop, so they continued until they were a foot or so from the edge.
"Do you remember what the one pillar said? 'Neither trust your sight nor touch. They tell you lies as truths.' you must follow that.
"Okay¦
"Don't be alarmed. As she finished talking she moved ever closer to the edge of the drop-off, until she walked right over it.
"Nooooo¦ was all that Marsquile could say. Nesaryl fell into the crevice.
He had only known her for less than a day, but he was already attached. She had been one of the only people to be nice to him. She had turned his life around, informed him that the vile people who had raised him weren't his real parents, and shown him that there were people who loved him. And now she was gone. Why did she do it? To prove a point?
Marsquile finally got the nerve to go to the edge and look down. He saw nothing; the drop seemed to go on forever, partially because he couldn't see through the haziness. Tears streamed down his face freely.
He turned around and started to back away from the fissure, and then he heard something, a voice, definitely a voice.
"Marsquile¦ It is okay. I told you to remember what the columns said. The trilling of hummingbirds invaded his mind, as did hope. Maybe the fall hadn't been that far.
Marsquile turned around and was astonished. Nesaryl was standing in the air above the crevice.
"You didn't listen to me! I told you to remember¦ Nesaryl sighed, shaking her head, "I never fell. You thought I would fall, so to you, I did¦
Marsquile was still standing in the same spot, mouth a gape.
"Close your mouth. You look like a fish. Nesaryl acted as if she didn't have time for his antics.
"We need to get moving. Come on. She waved him over. "Follow me. Don't be a fool, she urged him to movement. Then disappeared into the haze. Marsquile tried to hurry along, but was daunted by the fall.
*Neither trust your sight nor touch. They tell you lies as truths. *
Marsquile still hesitated at the edge.
Nesaryl's head reappeared through the mist. "Oh come on! We don't have the time. After that she promptly disappeared again.
Marsquile made the first step and found firm footing. He was still doubtful as he took the next two steps.
When he was halfway out, he bent down and felt nothingness beneath him. There was no footing, just air, which didn't agree with Marsquile. He speed across, his, heart racing. He chanted ' neither trust your sight nor touch. They tell you lies as truths. ' All the way, but it wasn't as reassuring as he had hoped it would be.
When Marsquile reached the other side, a few feet further, he was breathing heavily.
Standing there, amused, was Nesaryl, hands on her hips. She acted as if he had just stolen the pie off her windowsill.
"Took you long enough. I tried to tell you¦ though your performance after I stepped over the edge was touching, and somewhat amusing. We don't have the time.
"What is with this hastiness on your part? It seems so sudden.
"No real reason, but we are, how you say, on the clock.
Marsquile looked down and for the first time he noticed the change. The ground now looked like it was made out of obsidian. Pitch black, and shiny.
At Nesaryl's urging, they resumed their traveling.
"What did your 'parents' name you? Nesaryl now said that word with obvious discomfort and disdain.
"What? Oh, they named me Marsquile.
"Somewhat predictable. Marsquile is your last name.
"Really? Marsquile was somewhat surprised. As much as he could be with all that had happened. Compared to other events this seemed mundane.
"Yes, really.
"What is my real name then? His eyes were inquisitive.
"Amras. Would you like me to call you that, or Marsquile?
"I think I would like my real name better.
"Okay, Amras. Nesaryl smiled broadly when she spoke it.
Chapter Four:
Too Comfortable, Then Distraught
"How much longer? Amras griped.
"Two minutes less than when you asked me before. Are you trying to be annoying?
"Not really. You should see me when I am. Nesaryl had to laugh.
"I can just imagine. She played along with his game of teasing.
*I think I am learning to like Amras. No! I can't. Well, I can. I just have to hide it. *
Suddenly she was pulled out of thought by Amras's voice.
"Why were you shaking your head?
"What do you mean?
"Just a minute ago you shook your head. Amras tilted his head inquisitively. His eyes held a bit of worry.
"Oh¦ Did I? Nesaryl's pale skin began to colour.
Silence hung in the air. Soon, Amras seized the silence, folded it up, and put it away for safekeeping.
"How much longer until we get there?
"Ugh¦! You are insufferable. Nesaryl chided in mock vexation. She really found this game of his endearing.
They both laughed.
In this little time since his near-abduction, Marsquile's past life had melted away. He now had Amras's life, and a lot to look forward to. More than he could ever imagine.
"Can't we rest for a while again? moaned Amras.
"Sure. Sounds like a good idea, but we can't linger too long.
"Okay.
Both of them sat down on the cool black rock. Amras leaned backwards and lie down on his back.
"Do you have any food?
"Sure¦ In the invisible bag that I've been carrying all this time¦ What are you talking about? I don't have any food.
"Well, with all the oddities I have been introduced with, maybe¦ Amras shrugged his shoulders.
"Why are you asking anyways? You shouldn't be hungry. No time has actually passed.
"What? No time has passed? How can that be? We have been traveling for what seemed forever, and I slept right when we got here.
"It is another facet of this place. You obvious didn't pay a bit of attention before. Ugh! 'Time is not a constant, but a variable ever reoccurring'. As long as we are in here, time doesn't move, yet it does.
"What?
"Time is different here. It moves but it doesn't. If we were to exit this world right now, no time would have passed in your world. But, time would have passed in here.
"Okay¦ I think I understand. Amras was happy not to ask more questions about the concept of linear time versus cyclical time in another world entirely.
The rest of the time they just sat there, recouping, both apparently deep in thought.
*What if I do like Amras? There is nothing that I could do about it. I would have no place¦ Plus, he is so much younger than me. He probably doesn't want anything to do with me, in that way. *
* I think I like Nesaryl¦ But, I doubt she feels the same way¦ Even if she did¦ She is so much younger than me. In any event she probably has someone¦*
Suddenly Nesaryl looked up and gasped. "We gotta continue.
"Wha¦ Oh okay.
Both of them jumped to their feet and resumed their seemingly endless journey; a short trek can become a long one if the terrain never changes¦
Amras kept sneaking peeks when Nesaryl wasn't looking. Her eyes had returned to a childlike innocence, and her Elvin features made her seem ever more childish. Little did he know¦
Nesaryl tried not to look at Amras, easier said than done; she thought that staring off in the opposite direction would be best. Her sense of duty took strong hold of her.
*It can never happen. That is final! *
When Nesaryl looked up she was startled to see someone else. It was Nessa. *What the hell is she doing here? *
Nesaryl looked panicked, her eyes turned a chilling grey.
Amras noticed the tall women coming towards them too. He instinctively moved closer to Nesaryl, whether his action was for protection or to protect was indeterminable.
Finally the women came near them, and stopped.
"Nesaryl. Nessa spat out the name with derision. "They actually let you out into the world?
"Yes¦ Nessa, they do. Nesaryl was curt in reply; eyes squinted in anger.
"Don't use my name! Isd hu fúier, ish maras Grömier, the woman shrieked then spat in Nesaryl's face.
Nesaryl had to grab the back of Amras's shirt to stop him from going after the taller woman. It was all she could do to hold him back.
"Just leave it alone, Nesaryl whispered to him, "please?
Amras put his arms down at his sides, stopped protesting, then he whispered back to her, "Fine!
They stood where they had been until the women walked away, and had vanished into the mist.
"What was all that about? What did she say? Nesaryl was silent for a moment.
"You wouldn't understand even if I told you.
"Okay¦ But¦
"Please, just leave it alone. Maybe I will explain later. Right now we just don't have time, she begged desperately. Seeing how upset she was, Amras decided to leave it alone as she had said.
For a while silence had become another journeying companion.
"Amras? She spoke timidly.
"Yes?
"Please don't be mad at Nessa. At least not while we are here.
"Why shouldn't I? She spat in your face, and even though I didn't understand what she said, from the inflection it couldn't have been kind.
Nesaryl sighed, "Do you remember what the last pillar said?
"Yeah¦ something about not having ill thoughts?
" 'One should not harbor thoughts of ill as they may be turned against oneself.' She recited the phrase; she knew them by writ. "How about the first?
"Only thoughts can hurt me here?
"Right. They go together. Just trust me.
"You seem to be saying that a lot.
"Well, it is important. You can be angry with her after we leave this place. Okay?
"Well, I was planning on doing that¦ Amras assured her smugly.
"Good. Now, come on¦ Nesaryl started.
"Yeah, yeah. I know. We don't have the time.
"Okay, that could get annoying. She chided mischievously.
"You don't have to tell me.
"Hey! Nesaryl smacked Amras on the arm. Fearing retaliation she gamboled ahead, fading into the coalescing mist; Amras followed hastily behind her.
She appeared to have forgotten about the whole incident. Sadly, the truth was that something like this happened to her on a regular basis; after her many years, she just became desensitized¦
Amras thought that he was leaving his old world of cruel people behind, but he was exchanging it for completely new precepts to conform to.
No matter where you go you cannot escape the status quo.
"Where to now? Amras inquired when he had caught up. Nesaryl may be short but she made up for it in nimbleness.
"Ahead.
"Yeah, I assumed that. If we went the way we just came from we wouldn't get anywhere.
"You should never assume, especially in a place like this. And that isn't necessarily true.
"What? You are telling me that if we turned around, we wouldn't be back where we started? Amras made incredulity an art.
"Like I said, not necessarily. This place neither follows linear time nor set spatial laws.
"Run that by me again.
Nesaryl sighed, shoulders heaving. "This place is not restricted to laws of other worlds; like your own. Space here is not set in its position. As for the lack of linear time; time here does not move sequentially, it is prone to fluctuations.
There was a long pause; either Amras was thinking, or more probable, he just didn't understand and was too afraid to speak.
"H-how do you know where to go? I mean if space is not set in its position then what is in front of us is subject to change too, isn't it?
"You are correct in your assumption. That is why people are trained to travel through here. You didn't think that just anyone was allowed in here, did you?
All Amras could do was shrug. He hadn't really thought that far.
"I don't always know exactly where I am going. That was more than just a little distressing to Amras.
Nesaryl noticed the look in his eyes. "But, I assure you that I never get lost, Amras nodded slightly, still rather uncertain.
As if to reassure her charge, she offered more information than she would have previously. "Soon we will meet one of the gate keepers. He will question us, me mostly. Do not be alarmed by appearances. She left it at that.
Chapter Five:
Gate Keeper
Nesaryl and Amras continued in a dull, uninterrupted silence. Until the scenery, once again, altered.
"Eww¦ Amras was the first to notice, although he wondered how Nesaryl hadn't
"Hmm¦ she inquired coming out of brooding.
"Eww¦ All that Amras could do was repeat himself, pointing towards the ground, which was now a conglomeration of boggy water and floating organic debris. Even though the marsh was only two inches in depth it still made walking unpleasant.
Amras suddenly leapt towards Nesaryl, yelping. Water soaked the front of Nesaryl's leather clothes, already shiny from wear; she seemed untroubled by the fact.
Amras looked over at her, sheepishly grinning. "Sorry. I thought I saw something.
"You probably did. she responded. Her reply did nothing to soothe him.
"W-what?! Y-you mean there was actually something there? Fear soaked him to the bones, making his voice tremor. When he glanced back at Nesaryl her clothes were dry.
"Yep. There probably was. This place holds not just what is, but what might be. There are all sorts of animals here.
Another little blemish in the water arose. Amras stared at it with uncertainty. As it flowed near him he tried to lift both of his feet out of the water at once; he failed miserably. He fell to the sopping ground and fell again struggling to get back his footing.
Nesaryl attempt to hide her mirth, but, finally she couldn't suppress it; she burst out laughing. Amras's face coloured.
He finally made it to his feet; yelping once more, when another creature came near. Amras stared at the still laughing Nesaryl with indignation. "It isn't funny!
"I beg to differ, she managed between gasping breaths. " I can't believe you are scared of these, she bent over scooping under a swell in the water. She brought her hands up so that Amras could see.
The thing in her hand was the cutest animal that could exist. It was a four-inch tall white ball of fur, with four stubby limbs, which protruded between the tufts of white.
Nesaryl turned her hand a bit more and the head, buried deep in the fuzz, finally came into view. It looked somewhat like the head of a baby kitten, except for the two massive sky-blue, glassy eyes, which took up most of the space.
"See? How can you be afraid of this? Nesaryl petted the adorable creature; it began to purr. "No¦ it's okay, nobody will hurt you, Nesaryl coddled the thing, nuzzling it with her nose. Finally she set it back in the water, patting its bottom. "Go on now.. The bulge in the water went to join several more.
"What was that thing?
"A Glibling. Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted one as a pet. Sadly, they don't exist outside of this place.
They both continued on through the marsh; Amras, finally, stopped skirting by the little mounds of water.
Amras glanced back and noticed twenty or thirty mounds of water trailing them.
"Uh¦ Amras tapped Nesaryl on the shoulder.
"Hmm¦? Amras motioned behind them; Nesaryl slowly swiveled her head around.
"Oh! How adorable.
"Adorable? I find it disturbing and more than a little bit creepy. Why are they following us?
"It means they like us. I still think it's adorable. They're like an honor-guard. Nesaryl's voice was giddy; she was clearly amused.
Amras couldn't figure her out. Sometimes she acted so childish; like now. But other times¦ completely serious, like she had a lot on her mind Knowledge, wisdom, and responsibility beyond her apparent years.
"So, what did that woman what was her name, Nessa say? You said you might explain it to me later.
Nesaryl's eyebrows met each other, and were none too happy; neither was she. "Later, is not now. Acid gilded her words. Her eyes had darkened to a deathly shade of red; coupled with her sharp features, she looked slightly demonic.
Amras took a step back, startled at the transformation. Where he had once seen childlike-innocence, he now saw unadulterated fury. Though, somehow he knew that it wasn't directed at him.
Hastily she directed her piercing gaze at a spot near her feet poor spot. She hadn't meant to scare, or focus her residual anger, at Amras. Looking up at him, Nesaryl's eyes clouded with blue mist, which finally conquered the red. Amras took it as an apology, and rightly so.
Silence clothed the moments afterward.
The scenery changed yet again, from the marshy ground to black sand. With each step they took, a melodic tone rivaling Nesaryl's own voice wounded the silence. It was quite beautiful.
"Just a little farther now. Nesaryl was the first to attempt speech. Amras nodded his head an inch.
"Okay. Amras ventured a reassuring smile. Nesaryl smiled back.
Sooner than Amras thought, they had arrived at the 'Gate Keeper'. He was a little gnome-like man; at least one hundred yeas old. He was much shorter than Nesaryl, which was quite a feat. Even though the man was little no one would ever mistake him for being frail. For some reason, that Amras couldn't quite put his finger on, the man looked powerful beyond compare.
Amras kept his eyes trained on the first gatekeeper, noticing that he was talking to thin air; slightly disconcerting.
Once they were about fifteen feet from the man Nesaryl spoke. "Stay here.
"Okay. I was hoping you were gonna say that. Is he a little? Amras made a circling motion with his fingers. Nesaryl smacked them. "No. Just wait here.
Nesaryl walked up to the man. Upon seeing her he hobbled over and gave her a hug, which at his height, looked inappropriate. They seemed to be old friends.
The man said one last thing directed to the air he was speaking to earlier.
Amras looked a little closer and noticed that it wasn't just air. There seemed to be a distortion of some kind. At the last words the distortion moved away, finally vanishing completely.
"Saeros, it is good to see you. How has this place been treating you?
"As well as can be expected, my child. You know how hard it is to keep balance in this place; things can turn volatile quickly. Each solution breeds new problems.
"Yes, I remember.
"Who is it that you have with you? Saeros squinted his eyes, trying to make out Amras.
"I bring Amras Marsquile. She said proudly to her adopted father.
"Really? It is time then? Why am I always the last to find these things out? When I was younger I knew all that was going on.
"That was a long time ago father. Nesaryl teased.
Amras listened intently but to no avail. What he heard made no sense:
'Saeros, thu ga reahi isca. Dheras ughes tha gra is gut reas?'
Amras stopped listening and crept towards the pair. Maybe if he could see their faces¦
"Yes, it was a long time ago. I'm not what I used to be. Soon I will leave you, and this place.
"Father, don't say things like that!
Their conversation was punctuated by a loud smack, then a squeaking sound. Both turned in the direction of the sound. Nesaryl stated giggling.
"I told you to wait there.
Amras, while sneaking up on the two, had met an unseen wall of air. His face had gradually slid down the surface. He was horribly embarrassed, face bright red.
"But, how¦? Amras was still confused. "Well, you got through. Why can't I?
"It is selective. The old man offered.
Amras got to his feet again brushing the sand off of his clothes. He put both hands to the wall and felt his way around. As far as he could tell the wall was quite stable, although undetectable by sight. He did all that he could do: he waited.
"So, that's Amras? We're all doomed.
"Father. Nesaryl admonished him with friendly malice. "He is a good person, intelligent, accepting, although somewhat ungainly. But, I don't think that matters.
"Of course it matters. All of it matters.
Nesaryl sighed.
"Nesy, you know that all of it matters. It isn't always fair, but you understand how much appearances matter.
Nesaryl looked downward. She muttered, "Yes, I do¦ She certainly understood, just too well.
Nesaryl walked over to Amras and brought him back with her. "This is the first gatekeeper. She said with endearment.
Saeros spoke. "To answer your question earlier: All of us are mad. If it weren't for the fact that everyone is slightly abnormal, there wouldn't be any point in giving each person a separate name.
Amras was surprised. Old age had, obviously, not impaired the man's hearing. Amras looked away uncomfortably.
"Father, be nice.
*Father? What does she mean father? *
Nesaryl saw the puzzled look that Amras had on his face.
"He is my adopted-father, she explained.
"What happened to you real parents? Amras wished he hadn't asked. His response was a blank, guarded stare.
"They died. Or rather were killed.
"Oh, I'm sorry.
"It's okay. It happened a long time ago. I hardly knew my parents. I'm not sure if that is better or worse.
Saeros put his arm around Nesaryl protectively. They stood there for a minute.
"Well, we should get moving, Nesaryl said breaking the silence.
"Your probably right, Saeros stated reluctantly.
Nesaryl bent down and gave her father one last hug.
"Come on, she addressed Amras.
Nesaryl and Amras continued a few feet, and then stopped. The spot, to him, looked arbitrary, but, he learned from his recent experience; he stayed with Nesaryl.
Still curious, Amras put his hand in front of him. He felt the same thing he had earlier, an invisible wall of air. Except this one was different. Immediately upon placing his hand on it, he felt a hum travel throughout his entire body; a glissando down his spine. He immediately removed his hand.
Nesaryl raised her hand and traced a glyph similar in style to the ones on the pillars onto the wall. Amazingly it stayed there tinted a shade of blue that burned into his vision. Even when he closed his eyes he could see it.
There was no visible change, yet something did change. It was another of those 'feelings' that this world presented. Amras could just feel that something was different.
Nesaryl walked forward, and Amras followed warily.
Chapter Six:
Second Gatekeeper
Part one
Amras felt the same things he felt when he first came to the world in-between. The fact that this was the second time he experienced it didn't do a thing to subdue the experience.
"Ugh¦ Do I have to go through that every time?
"Did you take Complaining 101 at your school? Because if you did you must've passed.
"Hey!
Amras did his usual look-and-assess procedure. This branch of the world was even more disturbing to him. At first he didn't notice it, but when he did¦
"Ahhh¦!
"Calm down.
"But, we're surrounded by water. Why aren't we drowning? Why aren't we being crushed by the weight of it?
"Uh¦ because.
"Oh, *because*. I'm okay now. He seemed to relax some.
"Good. Nesaryl smacked him hard across the cheek.
"What the hell was that for? I'm fine now¦ Amras cradled his cheek; four bright red marks appearing where her fingers had been.
"I know ” I believe in preventive measures ” I was making sure you didn't freak out again. She smirked; her eyes were cerulean and glinted hard and gem-like. "Now, come on. She grabbed his hand and pulled him along.
Amras immediately began to smile.
A little later ” when Nesaryl was sure that Amras would keep following ” she let go of his hand.
Amras studied the air-water; he was fascinated by it. He repeatedly swished his hand from side to side, the water rippling in his wake. It was neither cold nor warm, and had substance but lacked it. All in all it made for a disturbing, but not uncomfortable experience. He rather enjoyed it, that is until *they* came.
Thousands of fish, in as many colors, swam ” flew ” by. They were everywhere. Amras wasn't normally claustrophobic but he felt closed in.
"What the hell?
"You sure say that a lot. Nesaryl seemed completely unruffled, just as she had been throughout all the happenings.
"What the hell? Amras pointed forward, backward, all around. It really didn't matter in which direction he indicated; they were everywhere.
"Now you are repeating yourself. Calm and patience idolized her. "Don't worry. We're safe.
"Your understanding of 'safe' is obviously a lot different than mine.
"Don't make me get 'preventive' again. Nesaryl warned.
Amras's hand immediately went to the fading red marks on his cheek.
Above, the water cycled through shades found in the pre-dawn sky; the air crinkling ceaselessly, reflecting and blending the shades. It was one of the most beautiful things that Amras had ever seen. Quickly, though, his neck began to ache from craning around.
Nesaryl sighed. She, too, was craning her neck. No matter how many times she had gone through this branch of the world she was still entranced by the wonder of the landscape.
Nesaryl closed her eyes, happiness kissing her lips. Her eyes followed the same color pattern that the air surrounding her cycled through. She remembered her parents; her mother who had the same eyes that she did. Her father¦ Tears fell down her face, reflecting the aurora.
Nesaryl's mother was beautiful; she had skin of oak, hair of thorns, and could sing with the voices of the forest. She had sung lullabies to Nesaryl as a baby. Before¦
"Nesaryl? Nesaryl? Amras interrupted her reverie. "Are you okay?
"Hmm..? Fine. She opened her eyes to the swirling colors.
Nesaryl regained her composure and they journeyed on.
Amras looked at Nesaryl, longingly.
I have never been happy¦ she makes me happy¦ and she probably doesn't even realize. I have never known love¦ But, maybe¦>
I see their eyes when I go out. Hatred, disdain¦ People like Nessa. All for one stupid inconsequential thing. It shouldn't matter! > Nesaryl's face contorted at the thoughts; her eyes burned red. Amras saw and swiftly removed his gaze assuming it was because of him. Soon she got control of her feelings, and her face regained its calm expression. Amras's ears perked up. The air rippled with greater intensity. A song rose in the air. Layered melodies, too complex to be made by any human, or any other creature that Amras could think of, caressed his ears. The song was of tears and sorrow, of longing and desperation. The song of alien whales, lost, helpless, and alone. The song had such depth and carried intrinsic emotions; it seemed to not be made of sound but pure sentiment. It embraced his body; his mind. It echoed in his soul, becoming more intricate ” not less ” with each resounding. He began to cry. Nesaryl heard it too, but, she knew from what it came: Eldanárie ” the second gatekeeper. The Aræ dhel ” to which Eldanárie was the last ” had vanished gradually during the last two hundred years. Their original population hadn't been huge to start with so the depopulation didn't take long. It was sad to think that soon no one would ever again hear their song. Before long Eldanárie graced them with her form. She was twelve feet long, completely covered with iridescent scales. She had a long a flat tail at the end of her elongated body. She swam languidly through the water-air, white opalescent wings folded on her back. The song continued, again enticing Amras and Nesaryl to tears. Nesaryl's eyes were iridescent white, as they always were when she was in the presence of Eldanárie. The song stopped. Amras wept more at the loss of the song. Eldanárie spoke, her voice was infinitesimally more beautiful than Nesaryl's. "Greetings my child. "Greetings Eldanárie. She spoke softly, saying the name with unreserved reverence. Eldanárie opened her wings, and turned in the water vertically, so that her stomache faced Nesaryl. Nesaryl bowed her head. The Aræ dhel were very rigidly ceremonial and had many rites that must be followed for meetings. Too many ” too complex ” to learn and memorize but for their long life span. Soon they would all be lost to time. Cruel time. Nesaryl only knew the ceremony for these types of meetings. She raised her right hand, put it to her lips, bowed her head and hummed. (Eldanárie understood that Nesaryl had diminished capacities in vocalization, so just humming was acceptable. There was a specific song that would normally be used for meetings, however it was quite impossible for Nesaryl to articulate.) Two minutes passed. Eldanárie repositioned herself; folding her magnificent wings. "Now child, who is this? Eldanárie questioned, her infinite patience weighing down the words. "I am very much sorry, Eldanárie. I did not mean to not introduce you. Nesaryl sounded frantic. "It is all right my child. I am not angry. Just begin. Eldanárie reassured Nesaryl. "Yes, of course. Nesaryl quickly went to where Amras was standing ” five feet behind her ” and grabbed his hand. "Just do as I do, she hurriedly whispered in his ear. Nesaryl pulled him to where she had been standing. "Eldanárie meets Amras Marsquile, of family Marsquile. Amras Marsquile, of family Marsquile, meets Eldanárie. Nesaryl di'vyne agma sharah feruh meliad consecrates this. Nesaryl bowed her head and hummed in a higher pitch than before. Eldanárie emitted a happier intricate layering of melodies than her previous one was. Amras tried to do the same. He thought he was doing well until Nesaryl pinched him firmly. He hummed in a higher pitch in reaction, and she seemed satisfied. Two minutes passed and they stopped. Amras stopped a little after he was supposed to. He glared over at Nesaryl, rubbing the spot where she had pinched him. His head turned back around at the sound of Eldanárie's speech. "Amras, my child, welcome. "Eldanárie, my child, welcome. Amras replied, trying to follow form. Amras felt the tension in the air. Then he heard Eldanárie¦ I am sorry but I must be evil at least once a week. Well, I saved up for this. Have fun wondering¦ mwhaaaaaaa. Don't misunderstand; I do love doing this to you. Chapter Six: Second Gatekeeper Part Two "Of course I can laugh, my child, I just have not been so inclined during the last two centuries. Amras will do fine. He may be somewhat graceless, and apprehensive, but those can be worked out with time. Eldanárie thought to her. Nesaryl looked over at Amras he seemed to be oblivious to what Eldanárie was telling her. "Do not worry, my child, he cannot hear what I am telling you. She thought back. "Oh, child¦ First of all, it is best not to assume any weakness in anyone. Secondly, I am capable of doing more than you could ever imagine. With that Eldanárie withdrew. She did not move, but Nesaryl could feel her presence fade. Nesaryl calmed her face, and tried to close off her thoughts. Eldanárie turned her attention to Amras. He laughed nervously under her gaze. He didn't know what to expect, but waited patiently. Nesaryl waited too. Nothing happened; Eldanárie never spoke. Then Nesaryl realized she was probably talking to him telepathically¦ Eldanárie heard her thought. "That is not for you to know, my child. Nesaryl fidgeted, her cheeks took on a brighter hue. She thought back, "They are accepted, my child. Eldanárie sang in her mind. Eldanárie, Nesaryl, and Amras exchanged a rite for farewell, and one for a blessing. Then her wondrous presence was lifted. "What did Eldanárie say to you? Nesaryl asked softly. "Eldanárie forbade me from speaking of it. Amras told her smugly. Although he couldn't make sense of what Eldanárie had told him, he finally knew something Nesaryl didn't. Time went by and the effects of Eldanárie's presence slowly faded. But the words she spoke¦thought¦ to him stayed unaltered. They just kept turning over in his mind. Nesaryl had already given up on trying to figure out what Eldanárie had told Amras. If it wasn't for her to know, then it wasn't for her to know. The water-air dispersed so slowly that neither Amras nor Nesaryl noticed until it was completely gone. Even then no one said anything. They were still slightly affected by the numinous reality of such a creature¦ and the fact that something stronger was eradicating them¦ time¦ Thoughts fumbled through Amras's mind, steering clear of that dark, diminutive space that held what Eldanárie had not told him, but instilled within him for when the time was right. Chapter Seven: Unreserved Disregard "Is it hot in here? Amras questioned. He had begun to sweat, which was alarming for the simple fact that he remembered it being neither hot nor cold when he had first arrived. Nesaryl looked at him quizzically, "Are you okay? "Yeah, I'm fine. It is just so hot all of a sudden. Amras couldn't understand how Nesaryl wasn't sweating. He kept looking for a sign stating: "Hades 2 miles, without success. "Is anything else wrong? Nesaryl asked quickly becoming troubled. She thought she might know what was happening, and she hoped that she wasn't right. "Now that you mention it, I am a little short of breath and¦ "And what? Amras couldn't speak; he just made futile motions towards his throat. He spun, or from his perspective the world spun. He vacillated and toppled to the ground. This time Nesaryl was too distraught to move quickly enough to catch him. He hit hard. Nesaryl panicked; she crouched down near Amras and lovingly caressed his face. Tears rolled down her cheeks. She looked ahead and did something regrettable she *willed* the gate towards her, or Amras and her to the gate, she didn't quite know. Neither did she care. Nesaryl quickly and somewhat sloppily carved the proper glyph into the gate, leaving a red trail that burned the eyes. Nesaryl *willed* strength from the faraway trees, and everything surrounding her. She lifted the unconscious Amras over her shoulder and towed him through the transfer. Once through, she willed the third gate towards her, or her towards the gate (again she wasn't quite sure.) The third gatekeeper sent out a probing thought, discovered the circumstances, and allowed this unreserved disregard for protocol. Although not one bit happy about it. Nesaryl made the glyph with her fingers and hurdled through the threshold.
Nesaryl's heart rose in her throat.
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