Sidetracked

By Michael James Wilbur

After the mess with the princess and the dragon, Jimmy has settled back down in his home at the Saybaro, content that the strangest parts of his life have finally passed.

He's about to get a wake-up call.

Wenapaj is a strange and wonderful country, and Jimmy's about to get a good look at it whether he wants to or not. Dreamer-enchanted dolls, corrupted Glyche, an all out war between magic and technology, and really REALLY big chickens are just a few of the obstacles Jimmy will face in the coming days.

He won't be alone, however; joined by his mysterious and beautiful girlfriend, a silent warrior and his not-so-silent winged cat, a stoner mage of great power and questionable attention span, and a faerie with a penchant for witchcraft, Jimmy's journey continues across Vinta's smallest and strangest nation.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Michael James Wilbur
• Release date: May 15, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301149445

Michael James Wilbur

I'm an author of light fantasy and science fiction novels, my first being "A Dreamer's Knight"; and my latest being "Wisp - A Scarecrow's Tale". While larger themes may appear in my work, I'm simply out to provide an enjoyable experience to my readers ... and possibly a brief escape from the confines of this reality. I call myself a Dreamer, and while I lack the abilities of the Dreamers of the Elsewhere Incorporate, I do my best to leave things better than I find them, be it at home, at my secondary job, or in the world at large. Don't know if I'm really having an effect on any of those, but to try is the thing as far as I'm concerned. I sincerely hope you enjoy my work, and hope that you'll let me know if you do by writing a review.

Book preview

Chapter 1

An Urgent Message

The trouble started when my hand began to ring.

Let me back up for a moment. I’m Jimmy Olsen Sakamota, Specialist of the Wenapaj Royal Guard, Sleeper of the Elsewhere Incorporate, and Inheritor of the Saybaro. Ever since I came to Wenapaj and was posted to guard a bridge in the middle of nowhere, my life was boring … that is, until King Gheraldio Iniagus the twenty-seventh saw an evil portent in his breakfast that led him to proclaim me one of two possible heroes to save Wenapaj from a coming Evil, emphasis on the capital ‘E’.

Since then, I discovered hidden Glyche facilities, fought prop dragons and corrupted core units, bumped elbows with mechanical pirates and living skeletons, and even found love along the way. I went from being a lonely samurai guarding a bridge to having a circle of kind and caring friends.

After the mess with Sera and the Dragon, however, most of said friends had temporarily gone their own way, leaving me alone in the mansion. Even Mick, the incorruptible core unit built in the Saybaro facility, was temporarily out of commission. As such, I was working by myself on the second floor of the Saybaro mansion when the PIM device strapped to my left hand let out a loud ring.

Dropping a roll of burgundy carpet, I tapped the face of the PIM and said, Mornin’ Bethany. What do you need?

CIC Bethany, the artificial intelligence that controlled the Saybaro facility and much of the mansion, appeared in front of me. Her hologram, projected from the face of my PIM, flickered slightly as she said, Good Morning, Jimmy. I wanted to let you know you’ve just received an incoming communications request.

"Terry?" I asked curiously.

"No, it's a Rimstakken woman by the name of Annabelle Kaboume."

My eyes went wide. I'm heading to the study now.

I rushed down the stairwell and raced to the east wing of the Saybaro. The study on the first floor was one of the few rooms that had been usable when I first came to the Saybaro. It was a little ramshackle, but it did have a computer with a somewhat basic connection to the Weave.

That was then. Some dark-wood furniture, a few Glyche consoles installed with the help of Bethany, and a soft brown carpet had changed what had been a glorified closet into a comfortable study.

I hopped into the chair in front of the view screen and said, Patch her through please, Bethany.

The screen activated moments later, showing a Rimstakken woman I hadn't seen in over a decade: curly red hair, freckly face, and wide, green eyes. She looked a little older but was still pretty much just as I remembered.

"Jimmy! she said, beaming. I am finally getting through!"

"Sorry about that, Uncle Ann, I told her, a surreal feeling stealing over me as I spoke to my former guardian face-to-face for the first time in over a decade. We’re still working on tying the Glyche communication systems into the mansion’s grid."

"I am understanding. By the Creator, I am having much difficulty believing how much you have grown. You're having much of your father's handsomeness."

One of the good things about my dark complexion is that I can blush without it being too noticeable. You look well too. How's it going in Rimstak these days?

She blew a raspberry. It always changes, it never changes. You are understanding, I'm sure. Enough about Rimstak. I am wanting to know more about you and your friends, especially this Terra.

I blushed at the mention of my girlfriend. I haven't seen her for a few weeks. She told me she had to take care of some things.

"Ah, well, she is being fional. You should not be worrying. If she's already having formed a partial bond, she'll be back. I am imagining that being in membership to the Queen’s Shadows as well as the Royal Guard is temporally demanding."

"You don't have to tell me, I said, grinning. I did spend thirteen years guarding a bridge in the middle of nowhere."

An uncomfortable silence fell between us. It was, after all, my running away from home in Rimstak had led me to my unusual post. Uncle Ann was probably thinking about the argument we had before I left. I know I was.

"I'm sorry, I told her. What I said before I left was way out of line."

She shook her head. It is not being an issue.

"It is to me. I was wrong; you were an excellent guardian. If you hadn't taught me so much about tech, I never would've made it through that mess with the dragon."

"Ah, yes, and the Princess Sera. I am having seen her and her husband on their honeymoon. Such a cute couple! I am being a little jealous."

"Oh? And how many potential suitors did you turn away today?"

She laughed. Only three. One is being most stubborn. Speaking of stubbornness and One, are you having heard more from the personage of Narrator Number One?

"Not yet. Then again, he's probably more interested in spending time with his wife now that they have a kid on the way. I can’t really blame him. With the ‘dragon’ defeated and the princess saved, his work was done."

"What of the other friends in your message? Are they being around?"

"Not at the moment, I said. Arc's off to get some stuff from the Center, Terry's still working through bureaucracy, and Casey's off making movies in Wukice."

"What of Mick? she asked, not even bothering to hide the eagerness in her tone. I would be very much liking to speak with a real uncorrupted core unit."

"Small surprise, I murmured under my breath. Coughing slightly, I said in a louder tone, Unfortunately, Core's in his upgrade pod at the moment. By his estimate, he'll be in there for at least a few more days."

"Then he is having reached his second evolution already?"

"Third, actually. The upgrades he received from the other Glyche facilities were enough for him to skip ahead."

"Oh! Then he is having decided on gender. What was his decision being?"

Chuckling, I replied, He didn't tell me. I didn't even know he was in the pod until he missed breakfast a few days ago.

"Well, I would very much like to be speaking with him or her whenever he or she is having left the pod. In the meantime, if we may be returning to the subject of your bond-mate Terra-"

She glanced back as a trill beeping noise sounded from her side of the communication. I recognized it as the proximity alarm on Uncle Ann's front door, a precaution against the more inventive of her suitors.

"Donavon, no doubt, she muttered, exasperation clear in her voice. I was having hoped that he would have learned a meaningful lesson after last time. Still, maybe the expedited retro-launching mechanism worked according to the projected specifications on this instance. Another concussion would be most unfortunate to his mental state."

Shaking her head, she turned back to Jimmy. I'm going to need to be making sure he isn't caught inside the tertiary enclosure. Still, I would very much like to continue our conversation at a later time. Tomorrow, perhaps?

"I'd like that, I told her. Until tomorrow then."

She started to shut off her screen but stopped abruptly. Jimmy, she said, her tone soft. I am wanting you to know that I am having pride in you. Your parents would no doubt be having the same pride.

"Thank you, Uncle Ann," I said, bowing my head both in respect to her and to the memory of my parents.

As the screen died, I sat back in my chair and let out a deep breath. I had apologized via letter, but it was so much more of a relief to tell her face to face, even if we were hundreds of miles apart.

My eyes fell on the One doll. It sat slumped against the side of the console, its arms resting on either side of its legs and its smiling head tilted slightly to the left. Looking at the doll made me remember the whole Sera and the dragon debacle. Truth be told, thinking about it left me feeling kind of wistful. After all that excitement, life had once again slowed down to a crawl.

I shook it off; according to my insane but benevolent king, there was still the matter of Evil (again, with a capital ‘E') sweeping across the land. I still thought he was making it up, but to completely dismiss it would be an act of foolishness.

The screen beeped again, distracting me from my reminiscing.

"Bethany?" I asked.

"I believe the message is coming from the heart of Iniagusville. Bethany replied, her face appearing on the view screen. A moment later, she frowned. It's King Iniagus."

King Iniagus was the ruler of Wenapaj. He was also a batty old fellow who seemed to only have a loose grip on reality, and not in the Dreamer sense. Still, he was my king, and he had seen fit to give me the deed for the Saybaro, insuring that it was truly the one place I would always call home. The least I could do was give him a few moments of my time.

"Patch him through." I ran a hand through my butter-blonde hair, wishing I had a comb handy. When you live alone, your appearance isn't exactly a high priority.

The screen flared to life, revealing a bright red mustache. It wasn't just red, though; Iniagus had somehow made his most prominent feature plaid.

The tips of his mustache quivered as he broke into a wide smile. Why, if it isn't Sir Jimmy! Of all the surprisingly surprising surprises! What can I do for you?

"You called me, Your Majesty," I reminded him.

"I did? Egads! You're right, my boy! I did call you!"

A few moments of awkward silence fell between us. Iniagus didn't say a word; he just stared at me, tweaking the tip of one mustache. It was quite disconcerting.

"Did you need som-" I said.

"Oh, yes! I wanted to … After a few moments of silence his face fell. Blast it all, I can't remember. Oh well. It'll come back to me sooner or later. Toodles!"

The screen blinked off, leaving me with the tell-tale confusion I normally felt after an encounter with the King of Wenapaj. Shaking my head, I stood from the chair and headed for the lobby. It was my intention to return to my work on the second floor, but a loud rumble from my stomach made me think otherwise.

I hadn't eaten all day. Despite my insistence that it wasn't necessary, Mick usually took it upon himself to make my meals. As Mick was still in his upgrade pod, I was on my own.

After a quick walk to the kitchen, I prepared a nice egg-salad sandwich for myself. I had just raised the first half of the sandwich to my mouth when I heard someone shout, JIMMY!

Plush One came running around the corner, still shouting my name at the top of his little lungs (it didn't have lungs, but that didn't seem to bother him much). Seeing me, he stopped and rested his hands on his knees. There you are!

"What's up?" I asked, kneeling down and picking up the little doll.

"It's trouble. Big, big, big trouble in Brigsonstrat!"

Brigsonstrat was a city to the north of the Saybaro. All I really knew of the place was that most of Wenapaj's power was generated there. If something bad happened in Brigsonstrat, the effects would no doubt be felt throughout the country.

"I'll round up the team immediately." Excitement seeping through my veins, I started toward the computer room.

"NO! The doll shrieked, leaping in front of me and holding up its hands. There's no time!"

"It's that serious?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. In truth, I was getting a little worried. I had never seen One so worked up before.

He nodded. Very serious, deadly serious! Apocalypse-Devastation-Armageddon-Ragnarök kind of serious!

"Okay, I said. I'll grab Glint and some quick supplies and be back in a few minutes."

After a quick run to my room, I grabbed Glint and quickly strapped it to my side. I tossed a few sets of clothes and a handful of shards into my backpack, as well as the nice portable cabin I had bought just for this sort of thing.

As I was organizing everything into my backpack, Terra's image passed into my mind. She could arrive at the Saybaro any day. What if she arrived while I was gone? The last thing I needed was for the only girl in the last decade that had shown interest in me to think I didn't care enough to stick around for her.

I grabbed a piece of paper and quickly scribbled:

Terra,

In case you get here before I get back, I'm out helping One with something in Brigsonstrat. I hate to leave like this, but he says it's really important. I've prepared room #114 for you (right across the hall from my room), but feel free to take any vacant room on the first floor (still working on the second and third floor).

Hope to see you soon, my love.

-Jimmy

I thought a moment about where to place the note before finally setting it on my pillow. She’d already snuck into the Saybaro, after all, and likely knew the location of my room.

The view screen next to my door activated, displaying a hurt-looking Bethany. You could have asked me to leave a message for her, Jimmy.

"I mean no offense, I told her, but you're assuming you'd see her before she snuck into the mansion. Any chance I can take the Ascendant?"

"Not for another two or three days, I'm afraid. I'm still having trouble with some of the upgrades."

"No problem. Any chance Mick’s ready to go?"

"I’m afraid not, Jimmy. Mick still needs at least a week in the Womb."

"The Womb?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

Her cheeks glowed. That’s okay, right? I mean, it serves much the same purpose as an organic womb.

I could’ve made the point that humans didn’t re-enter the womb to grow up but decided it would be unnecessarily hurtful. Besides, there was a nice poetic flare to calling her constructor ‘the Womb’ I couldn’t help but appreciate.

"Fair enough, I said, Well, I guess I'll go on foot for now."

As I started for the door, Bethany asked, Are you sure it’s such a good idea? Leaving for Brigsonstrat so suddenly?

Something in her tone made me stop in my tracks. Bethany?

"There’s no telling what you might be walking into Jimmy. You’re my Inheritor. Blush spread over her simulated cheeks. And you’re my friend. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you."

"Someone's in trouble, I told her matter-of-factly. If One's worked up about it, it must be something big. I’m a Royal Guard; it’s my duty to protect the people of this country."

"I know," Bethany said, but she didn’t look happy about it.

I smiled at her. Thank you.

"For what?" She asked, looking surprised.

"For considering me a friend as well as an Inheritor … and for questioning me rather than just locking me in the mansion outright."

Her blush deepened as a smile slid over her face. I'd still feel better if you'd take an energy pistol with you.

"No need, I told her, holding up Glint. I'm fine with Glint here."

She let out a chuckle. I suppose you are. Very well. Go on and save the world while I stay here with only my squabbling sisters to keep me company.

"You’ll manage," I said with a chuckle as I headed for the door. I made a quick stop to the small pantry near my kitchen and grabbed some provisions; the trip would be a few days on foot, and I didn't want to run out of food half-way there.

When I came back into the kitchen, I told Plush One, All right, I'm ready.

Plush One clapped his little felt hands together excitedly. Excellent. Time to head to destinations unknown!

"Well, to Brigsonstrat anyway," I said. I’d never been there, but it was a major city; following the highway or the foot road north would lead me there, or at least to a road sign that would correct my path.

"There's a man you need to find, said Plush One. He goes by the name ‘Ronisgald McDonald."

"Ronisgald McDonald," I repeated, hefting my pack.

"Right. He identifies himself with a symbol known as the Golden Arch. Plush One informed me, He's a master of disguise too. You'll need your perception at its peak to see through whatever alias he is using."

"Golden Arch, master of disguise. Got it, I said, nodding. What do I do after I find him?"

"I'll let you know when we cross that bridge, the doll said. No reason to bog you down with unnecessary details."

"Right." My eyes strayed to the kitchen counter where I had left my lunch. The sandwich was gone, save for a few crumbs.

"Did you eat my sandwich?" I asked Plush One, but he didn't respond. He was engaged with trying to press his spiky hair against his head.

"One?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Huh? Oh right! The little doll hit itself in the head, before looking up at me, smiling once again. Could you repeat the question?"

"Did you …"

Plush One stared at me with his impossibly cute little button eyes.

Sighing, I said, Eh, never mind. I'm heading out now.

"Roger that!" With a final salute, the doll slumped back down on the table, once again just a plush toy.

Forgetting about the sandwich, I slipped the now limp doll in my pack and headed for the door, eager for what awaited me.

What awaited me beyond the door turned out to be a soldier in heavy armor that obscured all but the area around his eyes. Unfortunately, he was standing just a little too close to the door when I opened it. As he stumbled backward and fell to the ground with a thud, a clatter of metal plating, and a loud ‘Oof!' It was Terry, my friend and fellow adventurer during the whole mess with the dragon.

"Terry! I took his gauntlet-covered hand and hauled him to his feet. I wasn't expecting you for another week!"

"Her Majesty finally intervened on my behalf. Terry brushed the dirt off his armor as best he could while wearing gauntlets. Thank the Creator, too; Iniagus had me filling out crossword puzzles for him the last few days."

I let out a chuckle. Yeah, that sounds about right. You just come from Salutier?

"Yes sir. Hitched a ride with Miss Meryli." Terry pointed back at the tree. Meryli had parked the floater beside my favorite resting place and was currently pulling out a large duct-taped suitcase out of the back seat.

She waved as she walked over, struggling slightly to maintain her hold on the briefcase. Sorry I've been so quiet lately, Jimbo, but fixing up the old floater rental's eaten up all my free time lately.

"Oh, you're reopening?" I asked curiously.

"Psh. Like I want to loan out a bunch of cars when I can be working with Glyche tech. Nah, Iniagus's already got some new sucker marked out as the new floater rental specialist. Still, I thought I outta at least get the carpenters working on the new place before I bailed. She set the suitcase down by the door and rubbed her hands together eagerly. So, where's my room? Close to the facility entrance, I hope."

Bethany’s hologram activated in front of the front door. I have prepared quarters for you in the facility, if you don't mind. If you're going with Jimmy, I can go ahead and have your luggage moved to your room.

"Going? You going somewhere, Jimbo?" Meryli asked, surprised.

I nodded. One stopped in earlier. From what he says, there's something big going down up in Brigsonstrat.

I was worried that they would be disappointed. After all, they just returned to the Saybaro and hadn’t even had the chance to settle in. To my surprise, however, they both seemed excited by this news.

"Awesome! Meryli said, rubbing her hands together. Yeah, go ahead and send my stuff to my room. Er, please, Miss Bethany."

"Not a problem. Bethany nodded at the suitcase, which promptly vanished. And please, just call me Beth. Would you like me to move your luggage as well, Specialist Terry?"

"Only if it's not an imposition." Terry held out his knapsack, which vanished a moment later. Bethany vanished as well with a final wave.

Meryli hopped back in the car. So, where did you say we were heading, Jimbo?

"Brigsonstrat," I replied, taking the front seat as Terry clambered into the back.

"Ah, nice place, Meryli said. Folks are a bit weird, though."

"Weird? Terry said. What does that mean?"

"Welcome to Wenapaj," I said, grinning as the floater started forward.

Chapter 2

It's a Long Road

It was nice to be on the move again, and even better to be with some of my friends. The previous few weeks reminded me what it was like to be on my own. Let’s just say it wasn’t the kind of life I felt I could go back to at that point.

"So, Terry, I said, raising my voice so I could be heard over the rushing wind. Any guesses as to what's waiting for us in Brigsonstrat?"

"Given our track record, anything from a fiona to a behemoth," Terry replied dourly, checking his plasma rifle for the sixth time since they started their journey.

"Maybe it's not that bad, Meryli said, one hand on the steering wheel while the other rested on the driver's side door. I mean, just ‘cause it's a Dreamer sayin' it don't mean it's life or death. Maybe we just need to go flip a switch or something."

"I doubt it, Terry said, shaking his head. Why would One ask us for something that simple?"

None of us had an answer for that. Then again, how could norms like us expect to understand the whims of a Dreamer?

The floater traveled through the skies and over the fields uncontested, the road between Brigsonstrat and the Saybaro having long since overgrown due to disuse. We passed several abandoned buildings on the side of the road, but most of the journey was filled with long fields of waving grass and the faintly visible mountains surrounding the Saybaro to the southeast.

About an hour down the road, Terry asked, "So, have you seen Miss Terra lately?

"No, I admitted. Not since I left Iniagusville after the dragon incident."

After a short pause, Meryli said, Don’t worry, Jimbo. She’ll be back; probably just had Queen’s Shadows business. Her Majesty keeps them running.

"About that, I asked, Why does the Queen have her own shadows?"

"Because the king alternates between jumping at his own and thinking it’s his best friend, Terry said with a snort. The Queen takes her position seriously, unlike some royalty, and retains her shadows as both personal guard and a means to stop Iniagus’s more disastrous plans without public dissent."

"So Terra reports to the Queen, not the King, I said, nodding. That explains why she doesn't have to wear the female guard outfit."

"Well, yeah, Meryli said with a light-hearted laugh. Kinda hard to be a covert operative when your uniform can’t help but catch every eye."

I couldn't help but smile at thought of Terra wearing the same revealing armor I had seen Princess Sera wearing when we first met.

Meryli’s grin made it clear she knew exactly what I was thinking about. I'm sure she'd put it on for you, Jimmy.

"I wasn't-"

"Of course you were. You may be a hero, but you're still a guy. Nothing wrong with that."

I fidgeted in my seat. I'm not a hero.

"Phhb. Fine: knight, samurai, whatever you prefer. I'm just saying thousands of years of biology ain't something you can just wish away. Isn't that right, Terry?"

What little of Terry's mouth was visible went red. I told you it was an accident.

"Sure it was."

Seeing my curious glance, Terry said, I'd rather not discuss it, sir.

As the sun began to set, we came across something that piqued all of our interest: an old windmill a short ways from the remains of the road. It had obviously been abandoned for a considerable amount of time, but amazingly still seemed to be functioning.

"Ah, an old windmill from Iniagus's green power program, Meryli told us, steering the floater around the windmill so we could get a better look. Certainly makes a pretty picture, eh?"

I was inclined to agree. The paint on the wood and metal may have faded, but the windmill still looked like something out of a storybook. The building itself was a larger than I expected, so much so that it wouldn't have surprised me at all to find out someone lived there.

I marveled at the construction for a few moments more before shaking my head. As much as I'd like to take a closer look and maybe a photo or two, we do have pressing business to-

I stopped, my eyes catching on a lone figure a little ways down the road from the windmill. It was hard to tell much about him from that distance, but the massive sword strapped to his back was a dead giveaway.

"I’ll be damned. Looks like you two weren't the only ones heading to the Saybaro," I said, pointing him out to the others.

"Well, I’ll be. HEY! ARC! YOO-HOO!" Meryli honked the horn for emphasis as she started her descent. The figure stopped walking and looked up at us.

"Yup, that's Arc all right, Meryli said with a chuckle. I can't believe he's still carrying that big-ol’ thing. It's almost as big as he is."

"He did pretty well with it against the dragon, I said as we drew near him. Besides, the more the merrier, right?"

Meryli snorted. As long as he doesn't start getting touchy. Sera warned me about him, you know.

As we drew nearer, I could make out more details on my friend and fellow hero. I've never understood what made him decide on the flight goggles or the clothing that looked as though it survived a trip through a trabi thresher, but at least it made him easy to recognize from a distance.

"Hey, Arc!" I called out as the floater touched down a short distance away from him.

He looked at me strangely. Jimmy Olsen Sakamota?

"Luminous Arc Skylad? I replied, raising an eyebrow at him. My apologies. I can't call you that anymore, can I? It's just Arc, right?"

To my surprise, Arc didn't flinch at the sound of his former first name. Instead, he continued to stare at me strangely, as though he thought I was some sort of illusion.

A bit concerned, I asked, Are you okay, Arc?

Arc continued staring at me for a moment before seeming to snap out of it. Sorry, Jimmy. You said something?

"I asked if you were okay, I repeated. You looked like you were staring into the dream realm."

"Yeah, I’m good, he said, still sounding distracted. I was just thinking. I've had a lot on my mind lately, what with gettin’ ready for the move and all."

"Oh? Having any trouble?"

Arc didn't respond. I had the distinct impression that our sudden appearance had caught him completely off-guard. I started to put my hand on his shoulder, but he quickly jerked away.

"Arc? I asked, understandably worried about Arc's strange behavior. Is something wrong?"

"I said I'm fine! he snapped, making me pull my hand back in surprise. After staring at me for a moment, he let out a sigh. I'm just a little tired, that's all. Where are you all headed, anyway?"

"Brigsonstrat, I told him. One contacted me through the doll. Apparently, something's going on that needs some investigating."

"Really? I'm in," he said immediately.

Meryli stretched until her back popped. We're still a few hours away from Brigsonstrat. Might as well settle down for the night.

My gaze fell on the windmill once again. Think we can stay in there?

"No need. Terry hefted a metal canister about the size of the trash can in my study. Brought my cabin with me, just in case."

"Oh … right. Good thinking," I said, neglecting to mention that I had brought mine as well.

I looked at the windmill. I wanted to take a look inside, but after the safety nightmare that was the Nation of teh Noobs, my curiosity in Wenapaj architecture was limited at best.

Terry and I set up the cabin while Meryli parked the floater beside the windmill. Arc simply stood by himself as we worked. I didn't say anything, mostly because there wasn't truly anything for him to do.

Meryli rejoined us just as the cabin finished forming. Wow, a Trygon model. Didn't think you Royal Guard types earned that kind of money.

"Standard issue for all field specialists," Terry said matter-of-factly.

I had to suppress the urge to snort at this; I had never gotten such a device despite the fact that Iniagus had put me in the middle of nowhere by myself. Still, I couldn't complain much now that the Saybaro and its sizeable mansion were legally mine.

"I'll take first watch," I volunteered.

"Watch for what, Jimmy? Meryli asked, giving me a strange look. You expecting something?"

"Well, no, but there are only three beds," I told her.

Terry shook his head. That was the last cabin. I made sure to get one with four beds this time. I figured we might need the extra space if we went wandering again.

Sure enough, the sleeping space was equipped with four serviceable beds, each fully made.

As Terry plopped down into one of the beds, Meryli asked, Don't you ever take that armor off?

"It takes over an hour just to get the chest piece off, Terry replied, his voice muffled slightly by the pillow. I'd rather just go to sleep in it and deal with it tomorrow morning."

Meryli wrinkled her nose. Ugh. You're going to smell something foul.

"I'll shower in the morning."

I held up a hand to stop Meryli from arguing anymore. We should get some sleep. I don't want to delay our mission any longer than we have to.

Sighing, Meryli replied, Sure, Jimbo. I got dibs on the bathroom, though!

I half expected Arc to leap over to the bathroom just before she could reach the door, but he calmly passed by her, laid his sword against the wall, and sat down on the edge of the bed.

"Are you sure you're feeling okay?" I asked him as the bathroom door clicked shut.

Arc shook his head. I'm just tired, Jimmy. Listen, I think I’m gonna go ahead and crash early.

Without waiting for a response, Arc lay down on the bed facing away from me. I stared at the back of his spiky blue hair for a moment before sighing and laying down on my own bed.

"Terry? I asked, turning in my bed so I could see my armored friend. You awake?"

Terry let out a snore. I must admit, I was a little surprised he didn't say ‘sir' afterwards.

Sighing, I nestled against my pillow and closed my eyes. After a few moments, I fell asleep to the sound of Meryli humming to herself in the shower.

I dreamt I was standing out in a flat green field. It wasn't covered with grass; it was solid green. The ground stretched as far as I could see, while the sky above me was an endless field of white.

The moment I stepped forward, grass and wildlife burst to life around me. Trees rose from the ground, wildflowers burst into full bloom as I stared around and watched. The ground rippled as the plant life spread further, forming hills and valleys as far as I could see.

As I was marveling at the sudden change, I heard someone calling my name. She stood on top of a nearby hill, her beautiful hair rippling around her long hanging ears in the wind like the silk of her floral-patterned kimono.

"Terra!" I called out before breaking into a run. The plant life continued to burst to life around me with every footfall.

She met me with open arms and a kiss that left me breathless. As she pressed against me, her warmth permeating me as her cream-colored fur rubbed against my skin, I knew I never ever wanted to let her go.

A cold wind brushed against my cheek, startling me into opening my eyes. Dark clouds were gathering in the distance. The wind began to pick up, raving the tall grass wildly as the clouds grew nearer.

I saw a dark figure floating above the valley, directly beneath the darkest of clouds. I couldn't make out its shape very well, but it looked vaguely humanoid. The very sight of it filled me with fear, not just for myself, but for Terra's safety.

I quickly broke away and stepped in front of my love. She tried to hold me back, but I slipped from her grasp and ran toward the distant darkness.

The closer I got to the mysterious figure, the harder the wind pushed against me. Eventually it was all I could do to hold my ground.

As I struggled to not get blown away, the figure began to laugh. It stretched out a single hand. My fear peaked with a sudden realization that I couldn't let him touch me. I tried to draw Glint, but the wind knocked it out of my hand the moment I pulled it from my sheath.

Still laughing, the figure drew near, its hand soon only inches away.

Something made it pause, the black pools that were its eyes suddenly growing narrow. Without warning, it vanished along with the strong wind. Braced against no resistance, I immediately fell on the ground. The dream broke as I crashed to the floor of the portable cabin.

I thought it was the fall from my bed that had awoken me until I heard Meryli’s shouting coming from the open door of the cabin.

Still a little groggy, I pushed myself off the floor and hurried to the door just in time to see our floater zoom past the cabin. Meryli passed me a moment later, chasing futilely after the chaser.

I stared at the rapidly retreating floater as Terry ran up to me.

"Arc! he said, sounding furious. He just stole the floater!"

Now alarmed, I turned back to the now distant floater. Meryli had given up chasing it and was now bent over, her hands resting on her knees as she gasped for breath.

I asked, crouching beside her. You okay?

She spat on the ground. I'm gonna get that little brat if it's the last thing I do! All my stuff was in that floater!

"Mine too, sir," Terry told me.

I thanked the Creator I had thought to bring my pack with me into the cabin the previous night, seeing as it contained not only my food supplies for the journey but Plush One as well.

"Well, this is just great! Meryli said, still fuming. What are we gonna do now?"

"I’ll call Bethany, I told her, tapping the face of my PIM. She should be able-"

I stopped and frowned. The PIM didn't activate at my touch or my thoughts. I tapped the face again, but the screen still remained dark.

"That's odd, I said. With the connection to Yaevin back online, I should be able to connect with Bethany pretty much anywhere in Rimstak, let alone Wenapaj. There's no way we could be out of range."

"Interference from the power stations in Brigsonstrat, sir? Terry suggested. I know they mess with the cellular network something awful."

Meryli shook her head. We aren't anywhere near close enough for that.

In the ensuing silence, I couldn't help but wonder if Arc did something to the PIM while I slept. I discounted the idea almost immediately; he was a student of the Kindred, not the Glyche.

The sun was already rising. Shaking my head, I said, Okay, I need one of you to go back to Bethany and let her know what happened.

"On foot? Meryli asked disbelievingly, That's at least a two day walk!"

"By which time Bethany should be finished with the Ascendant," I said.

Terry asked, Why not just head to Brigsonstrat and rent another floater?

"Because we have no idea what kind of shape Brigsonstrat might be in by the time we get there. One didn’t elaborate much on his plan, just who I need to contact."

Sighing, Meryli said, Fine. I'll go. Terry will roast if he walks in that oven all the way back.

"I've had longer marches." Terry said, sounding a little insulted.

I held up a hand to forestall the coming argument. Okay, Meryli. I've got some rations in my pack. We're only a day away from Brigsonstrat, so go ahead and just take the pack.

As Meryli headed inside the cabin, Terry asked, You think she'll be okay?

I nodded. She's resourceful. Besides, we’re the ones walking into trouble.

Terry and I looked at the cabin for a moment before turning back to each other.

"What about Arc, sir? Terry asked. Why would he steal the floater from us?"

To that, I had no answer, and I told Terry as much. Perhaps he had some need of it. Perhaps he forgot something back in Naidyr. I honestly don't know, Terry.

Meryli exited the cabin with my pack on her shoulder. I held up my hand to stay her. Hang on! Let me grab a few things before you head off.

She shrugged and turned around so I could access the pack. I pulled out Plush One and enough rations to make it through the rest of the journey, as well as a spare set of clothes.

"Here. Terry said, handing his portable cabin to Meryli. You've got a longer walk than us."

"Besides, I’ve still got my- I stopped abruptly, realizing that my portable cabin was still in the trunk of the floater. Sighing, I said, Well, take it anyway. I’m sure we’ll manage.

"Thanks, Meryli said, hefting my pack and Terry's portable cabin. Well, try not to have too much fun ‘til I get back, y'hear?"

"Fun, Terry said in a flat tone. Right."

I bowed politely. Stay safe, Meryli.

She gave me a salute before turning around and starting down the long road home.

As we watched her leave, Terry commented, Maybe she'll get lucky and someone'll give her a lift.

"Maybe you're right. Shaking my head, I said, Well, let's get going. We've got a long walk ahead of us."

Chapter 3

Preceding Fame

Brigsonstrat is a fairly large city near the northern border of Wenapaj. Although nowhere near the size or scope of Iniagusville, Brigsonstrat is nevertheless home to several hundred thousand Wenapajans. The city is encircled by two-hundred and thirty-seven stream generators that provide power not only for Brigsonstrat, but for much of Wenapaj. Most working residents of the city are employed to keep the generators running, though some do earn their livelihood by harvesting the crystallic that naturally forms around the generators.

There is a constant stream haze above the city. Even the best generator has a slight percentage of stream runoff, and that produced by the generators that surround the city creates enough of a haze to fry the circuits of the most shielded of floaters. It was just as well, as the streets of the city are far too winding and narrow to allow much traffic.

I was told all of this in great detail by Terry as we approached the city.

"How did you learn all this? I asked as we passed a floater rental garage just outside of town. I thought you worked in the palace."

"I spent some time in Brigsonstrat before joining up with the Royal Guard. Terry said. There's a small contingent of Royal Guards in town I used to run with. They’re always looking for recruits, and eventually one of them convinced me to join up. To be honest, I was needing something better than working on the generators anyway."

"I can understand that. Breathing in too much stream can have unpleasant side effects."

"How … oh, right. I forgot you were raised in Rimstak, sir."

I shrugged. Our house was well away from the worst of it, but we'd get a concentrated burst of it every now and then. Even sealed up in our house, I'd get a little of it in me.

"Well, I saw what happened to friends who were overexposed. Everyone was always careful, but … well, I guess you know how temperamental stream energy can be. Did it … y'know, do anything to you, sir?"

"I had a few strange dreams from time to time, but that's about it."

"What about the whole Streamer thing? Could that have given you the ability?"

"No, I said a little more firmly than I intended. I didn't want to elaborate, so I let out a polite cough and asked, So, any interesting sights to see in Brigsonstrat?"

"There's the clock tower," Terry said, pointing at the city. Sure enough, I could make out the tall form of an elegant clock tower rising high above the city.

Something about the tower struck me as slightly off. After squinting at it for a few moments, I realized that the time was wrong.

"Clock's wrong," I said, shielding my eyes from the suns as I double-checked.

"Huh? Terry looked ahead for a few moments before nodding. Oh, right. I forgot to mention that Brigsonstrat runs on the thirty-six hour day."

"Something wrong with only twenty-eight hours in a day?" I asked curiously.

"It's not that. Stream generators need to be purged regularly to prevent interior crystallic buildup, but since we can’t shut all of them off at once, we cycle through them a few at a time. It takes thirty-five hours to make the full circle around the city, and one hour to check the energy synchronization. Since so much of the city is part of the upkeep process, it was simply easier to change over to the thirty-six hour day.

"Huh. That's strange."

"Strange or not, it’s how the city works. He paused for a moment before adding, We'll just have to hope we don't reach town during sync hour."

"We'll be fine," I told him.

The suns were high in the sky as we passed through the southern gate into town. I was a little surprised at just how tightly the buildings were crammed together. Economy of space, I suppose, but seeing so many houses literally wall-to-wall made me crave the wide open spaces of the Saybaro.

As Terry and I walked through the southern gate, I wondered how I was going to find Ronisgald McDonald among the throngs of people wandering the street. That turned out to be the least of my worries. As we continued down the street, everyone gradually stopped what they were doing to stare at Terry and me.

I flashed a smile and waved. Good afternoon, friends.

No one replied. They just kept staring at us until we finally stopped walking altogether.

I stood there in silence for a few moments before looking myself over to see if something was wrong with my appearance, only to see my keikogi and hakama rippling gently in the wind. There was nothing behind me either.

"Uh, Terry? I asked. Is this normal?"

"I don't think so," Terry replied uncertainly.

A horrible idea occurred to me. I spun about, hand on Glint, ready to face whatever horror was apparently lurking behind us, only to find nothing there. When I turned back around, however, nothing was there either. Other than Terry and myself, the street was completely deserted.

I scratched my head, surprised (and admittedly impressed) that all those people had disappeared so quickly and quietly. What in Nocturnes is going on here?

Needing answers, I approached the nearest house. Rapping smartly on the door, I called out, Hello!

"No one's home!"

Narrowing my eyes, I asked, Then to whom am I speaking?

No one replied. Rolling my eyes, I said, I'm not going to hurt you.

Still no reply. Sighing, I asked Terry, You lived here a while. Is this just some weird local custom?

"No, this is a first for me, sir."

Whatever the cause, the entire town seemed to have locked itself down. There wasn’t a single soul in the street and every house was shut tight. Even the windows were covered and presumably latched. There was nothing we could do but continue moving.

"This is downright unnerving," I said, my voice sounding unnaturally loud in the empty street.

Terry nodded. I agree, sir.

A timid voice behind us asked, Are you a demon?

We turned and found the speaker to be a little fional girl in a plain blue dress. Her fingers toyed with the end of the long blonde pigtail that trailed between her floppy ears as she looked at us with unmasked curiosity. I briefly wondered if that was how Terra looked when she was a child.

Kneeling, I said, No, I'm not a demon. I'm Jimmy Sakamota. My friend and I are knights and royal guards of Wenapaj. We came here on an important mission, and are in need of assistance.

She continued staring at me for a few moments before approaching Terry and grabbing his hand, much to his obvious discomfort.

"C’mon, she said, tugging my armored friend’s hand. We gotta see momma."

"But-"

I held a hand to stay Terry’s words. We’d love to meet your mother, Miss. Lead the way.

This seemed to satisfy the little girl. Terry reluctantly allowed himself to be led through the streets with me following behind. I spotted a few eyes peering at us from cracked windows and doors that were just slightly ajar.

The little girl eventually led us to a nice, if a bit small, house. There was a small garden in the front lawn filled with yellow and white flowers, and an old tin mailbox just past the gate, currently empty.

The little fional girl pulled Terry right up to the doorway before finally releasing his hand. When she knocked on the door, a frightened voice called out, Go away!

"Momma! the little girl said, putting her hands on her hips. Momma, it’s me! Open up!"

There was no response, though I could hear a slight creak from the door. Someone was pressing against it from the inside.

Terry opened his mouth to say something, but I raised a hand to hold him off. I think I’ve got an idea. You mind?

"By all means, sir."

"Thank you, Terry. I stepped up to the door, cleared my throat and knocked sharply against the painted wood. By the third bylaw of paragraph eighteen, section B12 of the official lawbooks of his Great and Wonderful Majesty, Iniagus the XXVII, I demand that you open this door or face arrest and seizure of your home!"

The woman inside let out a terrified squeak. The door creaked open, revealing a pretty woman with long, light brown hair. I was a bit surprised to see that she was Galden.

"I’m sorry, sir. She said, her eyes downcast, I didn’t mean-"

The little girl pushed the door the rest of the way open. He’s a member of the Royal Guard, momma! And a knight!

The woman looked at me curiously, fear fading from her eyes. R-really?

I showed her my rank armbands. This is my friend and fellow Royal Guardsman, Specialist Terry Ulyndia, and I’m-

"Terry? she said, looking at my armored friend with surprise. You might have told me you were coming!"

"You’ve met?" I asked, raising an eyebrow at my friend.

"Er, yes sir. During my last visit, sir. Jeane and I were good friends."

"Are good friends, Jeane said, a stern look on her face. I thought you were going to stay in contact with me."

"I’m sorry, Jeane, Terry said, rubbing the back of his helmet. Working for the Royal Guard has been a bit … chaotic."

"My fault, I said, raising a hand. There was a bit of a problem with a dragon."

"Dragon?" the little fional girl said, perking up instantly at the mention of the legendary beast.

Jeane’s eyes widened in recognition. Of course! Sir Sakamota! Sir Jimmy Sakamota of the Saybaro!

"You know of me?" I asked, more than just a bit surprised.

"Of course, she said, smiling at me. Traysia loves your movie."

"Movie?" Even as I said the word, memories of my hectic race through the movie sets of Wukice passed through my mind. The last set had been a production of the very adventure I’d been having, with an ending thought up by Iniagus. His ending had me dead, but my improvisation led to a different ending.

"It’s been on the top of the charts for the last few weeks, Terry said, a grin on his face. I was played by Girspren Huxtable."

"That’s nice. Sighing, I said, Could we come inside for a moment, ma’am? I hate to impose, but you and your daughter are the only person willing to speak with us."

"Yes, I’d imagine so given your appearance," Jeane said.

I frowned at her. What?

"Come inside, and I’ll explain."

She ushered us inside a rather nice home. It was a bit on the small side, but I reasoned that after living at the Saybaro, most houses would no doubt seem small to me. What was important was that the home was well-cared for. The furniture was polished, if a bit worn, and hand-sewn pillows lay on the wooden chairs Jeane pulled out for us.

"Sorry about the strange welcome, she said, setting a cup of tea out for everyone save the little girl, who got a glass of milk instead, but a young man passed through this morning claiming he was being chased by a demon dressed in all black carrying a sword would soon visit the town. He scared up quite a crowd."

"What?" Terry and I exclaimed simultaneously.

She nodded. "The description he gave matches you perfectly, and given that he seemed legitimately frightened, I’m sorry to say I believed him. After that …