Antiqueus: Quest of the Mazzergast

By Xlibris US

Dearkin, a 352-year-old wizard takes his three charges... Eric, 18, Amanda, 14 and Harry 11 back to Antiqueus, the homeland he had left 112 years earlier. Being located in the mid Atlantic, the vast continent is the home of the legendary city of Atlantis. Aboard Dearkin's flying sailboat, the Mazzergast, they pass through a time rift exiting into present day Antiqueus six hours, eight minutes and four seconds into the future. Completely cloaked from our world by the time differential Antiqueus has existed, separate from our world, for nine thousand years when a massive crystal meteorite struck the continent thrusting it into the future.

Besides exploring the stunning wonders of Atlantis, the fanciful landscapes of Antiqueus and the diverse mix of species, Dearkin and his crew increase in number as they track down the crazy wizard who fled with parts of the life-giving Crystal, causing destructive Time Querks and advancing the Crystal towards its inevitable annihilation destroying all of Antiqueus.

Not only fighting the Time Querk's bizarre phenomena, the protagonists must fend off the vile hoard of Psychnaughts: bat-winged creatures who, seeing the young Amanda as the fulfillment of prophesy, seek to kidnap and sacrifice her life for the fruition of the Crystals destruction.

Through their continental quest of finding the crazed wizard and replacing the stolen crystals the philosophy of the Wizardry is revealed, a young romance is started as another long-term one is renewed and all of Antiqueus is rocked to its core fighting a climactic battle between good verses bad and destruction verses creation.

Accompanied by 35 illustrations, 12 maps and an expanded Glossarium, Antiqueus, Quest of the Mazzergast is a compilation of over fifteen years of research, writing and art. It has, at times been the bane of my life, but all in all, getting the chance to share my story with readers, young and old has been the most rewarding joy my life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jul 25, 2014
• ISBN: 9781499018684

Book preview

Copyright © 2014 by M. E. Hale.

Library of Congress Control Number:   2014909178

ISBN:      Hardcover      978-1-4990-1871-4

                Softcover         978-1-4990-1874-5

                 eBook            978-1-4990-1868-4

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Cover and interior art are by Michael Hale, the author. Copying and or use of said art is prohibited without written permission from the artist. Artist may be contacted at [e-mail]

Rev. date: 07/07/2014

Xlibris LLC

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

539400

Contents

INTRODUCTION

1    The Dinner

2    The Mazzy

3    Decision

DAY ONE

4    Departure

5    The Song’hwoos

6    Revelations

7    Arcs

DAY TWO

8    The Passage

9    The Yin and Yang

10    Night Skies

DAY THREE

11    Angels Arc

DAY FOUR

12    Time Querks

DAY FIVE

13    Skip Gliding

DAY SIX

14    The Burble Strem

15    Revelation at the Tyfer

DAY SEVEN

16    Ploffers

DAY EIGHT

17    Atlantis, First Sighting

18    Dearkin’s Home

DAY NINE

19    Sightseeing

20    The Royal Pyramids

DAY TEN

21    The Search Starts

DAY ELEVEN

22    The Cognition

23    Incident at Pontis Na’Rine

24    Disclosure

DAY TWELVE

25    The Kalix

DAY THIRTEEN

26    Enchanteds of Copple’shire

27    A Psy’chlot!

28    The Cha’huttin ma’Hawkk

DAY FOURTEEN

29    Sky Floaters of Bleat Roke

DAY FIFTEEN

30    Separation

31    In Transit

32    The Why

DAY SIXTEEN

33    Falls of Splendor

34    Just Missed

35    The Awkward Dilemma

36    The Light Call

DAY SEVENTEEN

37    The Long Querkening

38    Riverway to the Slot

39    Realization at Tosie Jade

DAY EIGHTEEN

40    The Great Desert Mons

41    The Attack

42    Reunited

43    Stairwell 43

44    Rescue Measures

DAY NINETEEN

45    Arrival at Death Point

46    More Than a Rescue

47    Their Story

DAY TWENTY

48    The Glistrum

49    Splashdown

50    Ka-Boom, Ka… Thump.

51    Crystal Island

52    Sathic’s Recall

53    Time Ripples

54    Psycreat’s Surprise

55    The Great Chamber

56    Aerial Graplineers

57    Deception at the Light Crystal

58    He was gone!

59    The Collapse

60    Having no heart and all.

61    A Blazin’ Wonderment

DAY TWENTY THREE

62    You won’t believe…

THE EPILOGUE

Maps:

Continent of Antiqueus

Northwest Antiqueus

Northeast Antiqueus

Southeast Antiqueus

Southwest Antiqueus

Map Key

Atlantis

Northwest Atlantis

Northeast Atlantis

Southeast Atlantis

Southwest Atlantis

Isle of Isles

GLOSSARIUM

GLOSSARIUM OF NON-HUMAN CHARACTERS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

BIOGRAPHY

For Mazzie and Waneta

and my cat, Aussie, who spent endless hours

next to my monitor as I finished the book.

Introduction

I t seems odd to see my name as the author of this book, a book that has taken me many more years to accomplish than I would ever have imagined. I say that because I am not a writer, this being my very first foray into the written word. Therefore this work may not be as polished as it could be. Forgive me for that, for this story is intended to merely be a record of an incredible journey, one that I was elected to tell. Fortunately, at the time, my interests found me holding pencil, pen, or brush, the implements of an artist.

That, admittedly, is how I first started recording the adventure you are about to begin. Sketch after sketch done either from life or my digital camera, every evening, or in my free time. These representations are how I recorded our days. By chance and for the story’s sake, I’m not a bad artist—not to mention the backs of my drawings were covered with notes and maps. And yes, I’d be remiss if I didn’t include the contributions of my fellow companions whose collective memories filled in those areas I didn’t witness.

I, however, assume full responsibility for creating the sometimes complex, measured moments of these events. My biggest hurdle was to have you, the reader, see all we saw… experience all we experienced. This unique land, its inhabitants, its cities, its terrain, its entire existence was so overwhelming to me that I felt I would do it, and you, an injustice if I didn’t describe it to the very best of my ability. I invite you to take it on, to put yourself there, to be in the paintings I’ve described for you of a most remarkable place and its incredible inhabitants.

The Author

Eric knew the ship could sail herself, but for now she was all his. He had control. The feeling was intoxicating . . . nearly as much as the spectacle on the horizon.

He glanced at the monitor, now showing the ocean two thousand feet below. Its waters were dark and choppy, and if not for the colony of sunlit seagulls flying between it and the ship, the sight would be too ominous for Eric’s liking. Adjusting the toggle switch, he directed the keel camera’s view forward, zooming in on the horizon to their destination.

Incredible! he said to no one but himself. Frigging incredible.

He remembered how this voyage, this amazing adventure, all started . . .

Chapter One

The Dinner

B eing eighteen, the eldest of three children, Eric ran the family boat-chartering business in the small fishing village of Boomdeay Bay, along the southeastern Atlantic coast of the United States. Ten months earlier, their mother and father had gone on a sailing trip to celebrate their twentieth wedding anniversary and had never returned. After a week of searching and finding only two life rings from their boat, Jacob and Annie Casey were presumed lost at sea. After the appropriate legal procedures, Eric gained the responsibility of guardianship over his younger sister and brother.

Of great help during this time was an old family friend Eric, Amanda, and Henry had known all their young lives. He was an old sage known only as Dearkin and had been a friend to their mother and father when they were children as well. People around the village thought he was as old as Boomdeay Bay itself; maybe he was. He never spoke of his age, and even the eldest of the villagers remembered Dearkin as constant presence in their midst.

His age was always a subject of rumor, especially by the elderly women of the town who thought him quite a catch. And by all appearances, he was. At well over six feet and slight of build, he seemed far from ancient, though many lovingly referred to him as such. That fondness could be attributed to his quiet intellect, his friendly manner, or even his unique appearance.

Dearkin’s presence would have been noticed in most any crowd with his long snow-white beard or his bushy salt-and-pepper eyebrows and shoulder-length silver hair that was often ponytailed or capped by an old icon in its own right: a weather-beaten World War I leather pilot’s helmet with goggles. The latter seeming even more out of place because the old man had an eye patch covering his sightless left eye. His face, tanned, narrow, and craggy, seemed a good home for his rather dignified nose. The sparkle in his single light-blue eye, though mischievous, indicated an abundantly warm spirit that inhabited the man.

Dearkin’s attire belonged to another time, another place. Newcomers often thought he was in costume and asked if there was a pirate movie being filmed in Boomdeay Bay. Some thought him eccentric, out of step with the times. But to all that knew him, which was most of Boomdeay Bay, Dearkin was magic, the real McCoy. Someone you called sir purely for the respect you felt for him. No one questioned his ways. They simply felt privileged to call him friend.

He had always lived in the same building located across the bay from the oldest part of town, on what had appropriately become known as Dearkin’s Bluff. Over the years, the town had grown closer to him, and he had turned a large portion of his house into a fantastic secondhand store of sorts called Antiqueus (An-tic’qwe-us). Filled to the rafters with old and unique artifacts and findables, it was truly a magical place where the people of Boomdeay Bay and tourists alike reveled in exploration and discovery.

Though well liked and a friend to all, Dearkin was closest to five people he had loved and adopted as his own family: Jacob and Annie, who were now gone, and their children, Eric, Amanda, and Henry.

Eric was tall, at just over six feet, with an athletic build. With hazel eyes and short windblown blond hair, he was the spitting image of his mother. And like her, he was an artist and an imagineer, as she liked to call the two of them. In his free time, that being when he wasn’t running the business, playing sports, or, now, thinking of girlfriend problems, he was sketching or painting something. He dreamt of creating other worlds in his many drawings full of strange people and mind-boggling contrivances.

Amanda was much more practical and, though only fourteen, was more of a realist than her older brother. She saw her role as the woman of the house. Though they all pitched in to help with the chores, she kept their lives organized now and saw to the daily needs of living. Her cheerful face was framed by long auburn hair and set off by sea-green eyes. You always knew what she felt. Even when she didn’t tell you immediately, it was evident in those expressive, all-revealing eyes.

Henry, the youngest at eleven, took after his father with dark hair, blue eyes, and a mischievous, inquiring face. He would also be tall. Though three years younger than his sister, he was already near her height. Henry was the tinkerer, the inventor of weird contraptions. Always questioning, always curious, and always courageous, Annie would proudly say of him.

Yes, these children and their parents were the family Dearkin had never had, and now that was to come to an end.

Dearkin had invited the children for dinner this warm summer’s day. This was something he often did, but this time was unlike any other. On the deck extending from his house over the bluff, he had lavishly set his old table with a linen tablecloth and fine cloth napkins. As soon as they arrived, he ushered them to the table and asked them to be seated. Quite formally and out of character, Dearkin informed them that he would be serving them instead of the customary smorgasbord out of the kitchen.

What’s the occasion? asked Amanda quizzically.

Not missing Amanda’s puzzled look, Dearkin replied in an uncustomary soft voice, Oh, it’s a special meal, my dear.

Eric and Amanda, noticing the change in the old man’s voice, glanced at each other, wondered what was up, but kept silent. Dearkin had prepared their favorite meal, one of his specialties: cold crab and homemade shepherd’s pie with steaming hot cornbread and hand-churned butter.

These had always been the best times, sitting around the table, talking endlessly while enjoying Dearkin’s numerous and sometimes extreme culinary experiments. This particular evening, they talked about what a great summer’s day it had been and the interesting tourists. Eric had chatted with a man from Russia for a good part of the day. He was, of all things, an ex-cosmonaut and had come by to charter a Silverado Cruiser for the week and had spent the afternoon talking about Russia, its people, and its colorful history along with a few stories of his past space exploits. Eric said that as much as he liked his life in Boomdeay Bay and the running of the family business, someday he’d love to get away, to travel to faraway places. Well, maybe not to space, that was a little extreme, but places like Russia or Australia or Africa or anywhere, just to experience something new.

Amanda agreed with Eric. It would be wonderful to travel to different lands, like the places Dearkin often spoke of in his stories. Henry was indifferent to the idea of travel. Between bites of stew, he was hopping up, peering through Old One Eye, Dearkin’s ancient telescope mounted on the deck railing.

They talked of travel for half an hour before Dearkin became very quiet. He pushed himself up from the table and walked over to the railing, staring out to sea, motionless. Finally, he turned to face them.

Why is he so somber? wondered Amanda.

Soberly, Dearkin asked Henry to let the telescope be in that he had something very important to say. The boy swung Old One Eye out of the way and looked at Dearkin, as did the other two. Other than months before, at their parents’ memorial service, they had never seen him like this.

%231%20The%20Dinner.jpg

My dear ones, started Dearkin, I-I have some distressing news, he swallowed. Unfortunately, I have to leave. I have to leave this place and… and most unfortunate of all, I… The old man dropped his head and once again turned toward the sea. A moment later, he turned back to face them, his single blue eye glistening. Forgive me, he said in a weak voice, but, well. The old man stopped and, bringing his hand to his mouth, coughed. Hmm, this is even more difficult than I imagined, he said.

What is it, Dearkin? asked Amanda, concerned over her friend’s unusual demeanor.

Yeah, Dearkin, what’s wrong? blurted out Henry.

Dearkin shook his head and with a sigh and said, Guess there’s no other way to say this.

There was a moment of silence.

I’m afraid I have to return to my home. And, and… in doing so, I have to leave. Unfortunately, that means leaving… leaving the three of you and Boomdeay Bay.

It took a few moments for this to sink in.

Ah, what do you mean? stuttered Amanda, a bit stunned. "This is your home."

Yeah, Henry added, you’ve always been here.

Well, yes, Henry. I’ve always been here, but before always, I lived in another place, the home where I was born and grew up. That’s where I must return, Dearkin said in a quiet voice.

When? Eric’s voice was tense, his eyes locked on to Dearkin’s.

Soon, I’m afraid. One week from tomorrow.

When will you come back? demanded Henry, a desperate look on his upturned face.

I’m not sure, lad. It might be that I’ll never be back, said the old man sadly.

This was the moment he had evaded for a long time. He had known about his foreseeable departure for several years but thought it best not to say anything until the last minute, sparing as much pain as possible. Maybe he’d been wrong… Maybe he should have mentioned it months ago to let everyone, including himself, adjust to the feelings he now felt. Or maybe he should have said nothing and just slipped away one night, avoiding this scene altogether. But Dearkin could never do that, especially not the way things were now with Jacob and Annie’s recent departure. He loved these children too much.

But, Dearkin, Eric protested as he stood up, this doesn’t make any sense. This is your home! This is your store. We’re your family…

It’s a very long story, boy, said Dearkin, holding up his hand to halt Eric. Please, please sit back down, all of you.

Dearkin turned and walked to the railing. He stood there, thinking, gazing out to sea. Turning around, he nodded his head, a smile on his face. He had made a decision.

I would like to share with you something that until now I have only hinted at. It’s time you know the truth about me.

The truth about you? asked Amanda, a puzzled look in her green eyes.

Yeah, what do you mean? spoke up Eric. "You’re… you’re like a frigging open book. What truth is there to know about you?

Yeah! said Henry We know you. You’re our best friend… our best friend who… who owns the coolest store ever.

Well, thank you, lad, answered Dearkin with a wide grin. But, continued the old man as he returned to the table and sat down, where I come from, in my homeland, I was and still am, something quite different than a storekeeper, something quite different indeed. You might say it’s more connected to… to let’s say… science.

Science? said Eric.

To science? What do you mean? Amanda asked, now even more puzzled.

In my homeland, I’m what you might refer to as a… a wizard.

A wizard! Henry chuckled.

A wizard? posed Amanda and Eric simultaneously.

Uh-huh. The old man nodded. And… and as a result of that… , clarified Dearkin, raising a finger in the air, I’ve become aware of an important event… an event that requires me to be at a certain location at sea at a very precise time. That time being just over one week from now.

They were stunned. Not necessarily because Dearkin had told them he was a wizard from a different place. That somehow fit his character. But because he was about to leave them and Boomdeay Bay, his home, and his friends. That was completely out of character for the old man.

Not knowing what to say and hurt that Dearkin would play such a cruel trick on them, Eric was first to speak up.

Do you plan to use your… wizardry, your magic, or whatever you call it to conjure up a boat? he said with a hint of sarcasm.

No, no… Conjuring will not be necessary, replied Dearkin.

So where ya gonna get this boat? Take one of ours or what? asked Eric, wanting to hurt Dearkin the way the old man’s news had hurt him.

I have that solved, lad, spoke Dearkin softly, ignoring and fully understanding the sarcasm.

How? demanded Eric.

I have a… Dearkin stopped, grabbed high on his long white beard, and pulled down through it slowly. He often did this when he was deep in thought. The kids were familiar with this gesture and waited for the thoughtful answer that always came.

Finally, Dearkin slowly stood up and, making eye contact with each youngster, said, "I have something… something I need to share with all three of you."

Chapter Two

The Mazzy

A sking them to follow him, Dearkin walked through the living quarters and into his shop. At the large potbellied stove in the back corner of the shop, cool to the touch on this warm summer’s eve, the old man reached high near the stovepipe and pulled a small chain. There was a snap and then a creaking as the stove rose up, taking a section of the floor with it. Henry and Amanda gasped.

Eric’s eyes shone with surprise as he uttered in amazement, What the… In the sixteen or so years, he could remember visiting Dearkin’s shop. He never would have guessed this was here.

A wide, circular stairway led down and was out of sight. Where does it go? asked Amanda.

Go ahead, said Dearkin. Just watch your step. The stairs are spaced further apart than normal.

Whoa, I don’t think so, she shuddered.

Henry stepped forward and started down the steps. "Come on, you chicken," he goaded.

The steps were wide and made of thick well-worn planks and, as Dearkin had warned, spaced further apart than normal, forcing the three to use the aid of the stair railing. The walls were rough rock, with glowing yellow lights fastened every ten feet or so. As the cautious group spiraled down the steps, the air turned musty. The crash of ocean surf echoed up from below. Within a minute, the stairs opened to an enormous cavern with yellow as well as white lights glaring from the high-vaulted ceiling.

Cool! Henry exclaimed as he rounded a large boulder at the base of the stairs.

He stood there staring as Amanda and Eric hurried to catch up with him. As they rounded the boulder, they couldn’t believe what they saw.

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Before them, rising out of a watery cove, was a ship. A ship unlike any they had ever seen. Speechless, they ogled the unusual craft no more than forty feet away. It had to be nearly a hundred feet in length from the tip of its bowsprit to its high stern and sporting three metallic masts that disappeared into the glare of the ceiling’s lights. At the stern, the bridge rose thirty feet above the waterline and was arched over by a graceful fin. The front of the ship swooped up into a beautifully carved figurehead of a strange beaked animal, the bowsprit extending from its forehead.

Damn, uttered Eric, using a word he seldom uttered in front of his siblings.

Between the stern and the bow were several evenly spaced metallic bands arching over the width of the decks, glistening from the overhead lights. Lashed to them was a long canvas bundle that ran nearly the length of the ship. Lying in the water along the side of the vessel and running from bow to stern was a long pontoon secured by four massive wooden supports to the hull of the ship. The sight was amazing! It was almost too much to take in at one time.

Man… that’s some ship, said Eric, his mouth as well as his eyes fixed wide open.

"This, my dear ones, is… the Mazzergast. Directing his attention toward Eric, he continued, She, my boy, will be the boat taking me home."

Hanging his head, Eric said softly, I’m sorry, Dearkin… I had no idea, now feeling bad that he had been so sarcastic only minutes before.

Forget it, lad, said the old man, turning toward Amanda and Henry.

"So… what do you think of my Mazzy?"

She’s beautiful! praised Amanda.

Yeah, said Henry, she’s huge!

Aye, that she is, said Dearkin, gazing thoughtfully at his ship. "Been on bigger, mind you, but never one as unique as ol’ Mazzy here."

Where did you come up with her name? asked Eric, reconnecting with the group.

"The Mazzergast? Oh, that’s a very long story. The upshot being that a wonderful lady I once was quite fond of named her for me."

What’s the figurehead, Dearkin? asked Amanda. It’s beautiful. Looks like some kind of bird.

Oh, just something I carved years ago to honor some friends, answered the old man.

Geez! interrupted Henry. Look at that! He pointed forward of the ship.

Amanda focused her attention on the sight ten feet in front of the ship and gasped when she realized what she was looking at. It was the ocean with the faint hues of the leftover sunset. That explained the sound of the crashing surf. How could this be? There were no openings, no caves like this in Dearkin’s Bluff, no possible way to see what they were seeing now. The view seemed to twinkle.

What’s that twinkling? asked Henry.

It’s a hologram, replied Dearkin, a cloaking hologram, a projected image covering the cave opening. Makes it appear solid… Solid on the outside, but, on this side, quite transparent and flexible. One can pass right through it.

Wow! But why is it twinkling?

That’s because we’re on the working side of the hologram, millions of microscopic mirrors suspended in a plasmic light. On the other side, you don’t see the twinkling, of course, just the solid cliff that you and everyone else have seen for years.

You mean the cliff face isn’t really there? Eric asked.

Well, some of what you see is real, said Dearkin, but primarily, it’s a projection.

As the three looked at the view in amazement, Dearkin picked up a small pebble on the cavern floor and tossed it at the twinkling scene. A tiny flash and sizzling sound occurred as the pebble passed through the opening, splashing quietly in the inlet just outside the cloaked opening.

Cool! expressed Eric and Henry in unison.

Would anyone care to join me for a tour of my sweetie? asked Dearkin.

Turning from the cavern entrance, Amanda spoke for her still-dumbstruck brothers, who were both busy tossing pebbles through the twinkling scene in front of them.

Oh please, Dearkin, can we?

Right this way, lass. Watch your step, said the old man as he guided her onto the gangplank.

The long ramp was bouncy as it angled up over the pontoon outrigger and onto the main deck of the ship. The boys, having depleted their source of pebbles, raced up the gangplank after their sister and Dearkin.

Neat, panted Henry as he got to the deck.

Wow… great deck. Never seen anything like this before, said Eric, looking at the main area of the boat.

Yes, I’d imagine not, said Dearkin, letting his visitors take in the Mazzergast.

For the most part, the planked deck looked like any of a large sailboat of this vintage, but what differed were the two rounded balconies that protruded six feet beyond the gunnels or sidewalls of the ship, one on either side. They were like open side turrets. Eric crossed the deck, sidestepping an imbedded oval skylight, to the port balcony where Henry was standing.

What are these?

"Ah, my porches… Just a little something I added to increase the size of my walking-around space… Gives one a good look fore and aft without the rest of the ship crowding your view. They just happened to fit nicely on the Mazzy’s rounded hull."

I guess, said Henry, looking over the railing, it’s really rad how the ship’s hull bulges out like that, like a squished balloon. Cool!

I’d imagine pretty seaworthy too, commented Eric.

Precisely… not to mention considerable space belowdecks.

Oh, can we go there, belowdecks, I mean? inquired Amanda anxiously.

You betcha. Follow me, but again, watch your step. I guess I know my footing so well on this ol’ girl that, well, I’m afraid I haven’t really bothered to light her up for visitors.

Walking to the bow of the ship, Dearkin opened a door under the forecastle and descended the steep ladder steps, then turned and offered Amanda his hand. The boys followed. At the base of the steps, they continued down a short hallway.

Ah, the galley, said Dearkin, "my favorite place on the Mazzy, well, next to the helm, that is."

Wow, what a galley, Dearkin! exclaimed Amanda. I’ve never seen such a roomy one.

And look over here, would you, called Henry. What’s this space for, Dearkin? It looks like some kind of lybarry.

"Library," corrected Amanda, walking into the galley.

That’s what I said, ruffled Henry.

Whatever, mumbled Amanda, her attention on something else.

Correct, my boy, correct, agreed Dearkin, walking to the ship’s port side. It is my library and my study… and I suppose even my lounge when I’m feeling lazy.

I see what you mean, sir, by the expanded hull. It does give you a lot more space, commented Eric, following the old man into the study. You know, between the galley and this space, you could fit a pretty good-sized crew.

Yes, s’pose I could. That is… if I really needed a crew, Dearkin winked.

What do you mean? asked Eric, interpreting the old man’s wink.

This size ship, all that sail, of course, you need a crew. One person couldn’t man all this.

Not necessarily. Dearkin smiled. Not if you have the right ship.

What do you mean? interrupted Henry, plopping down on the oversized chair next to Dearkin.

"I mean, young Mr. Casey, it’s not necessary to have a crew if you have the Mazzergast. She’s self-rigging. That’s to say…"

Amanda was oblivious to Dearkin’s description of the self thingamajigging qualities of the Mazzergast. She wanted to see the galley. It was, by far, more completely appointed than any galley she had ever been in. By the looks of it, every modern appliance and fixture you could imagine was here: from a built-in refrigerator, range, and microwave to a dishwasher and double sinks and cupboards, cupboards everywhere. Everywhere, that is, except where a bubbled porthole protruded through the hull above the sinks, offering a view of the brightly lit cavern.

At the aft end of the galley, under an even-larger bubbled porthole, was a built-in gimbaled table, a table that moved with the sway of the sea, always keeping its surface level. This she was familiar with, but WOW, not all this other stuff. Not all of it on one vessel!

After examining the galley’s little extras, Amanda walked back into the study area from its aft end.

Ah, there she is now, said Dearkin as she entered the study area.

Oh, I’m sorry, Dearkin, said Amanda, noticing all three looking at her. I, I sort of got lost in your galley. It’s really nice.

Well, thank you, lass. That’s been one of my many remodeling projects over the last few years. One must have a well-organized galley, wouldn’t you say?

I’d say it’s much better than well organized, it’s, it’s marvelous! praised Amanda.

Let me see, burst Henry, leaping out of his chair and darting into the galley.

My, this sure is a cozy-looking room, remarked Amanda, walking over to a mammoth but beautifully handcrafted rolled-top desk set in between shelves of books.

Above the desk was another small bubbled porthole, looking out to the cavern wall.

Look at this, sis, Eric said.

He touched a wood panel, and it instantly slid open, exposing a large flat-paneled computer monitor.

Cool, huh? And it’s tied into the ship’s workings… Dearkin can run the entire ship from this spot or any other computer on board or from this small hand device. Do you believe it?

Why, Dearkin, I didn’t know you were a computer geek, quipped Amanda.

Oh yes, dear, have been for longer than you can imagine, believe me. However, your models are a bit different than what I’m used to, but I’ve become pretty savvy with their workings. He chuckled. Sort of an old dog learning new tricks kind of thing, if you know what I mean.

Yes, yes, I can imagine, Amanda said, amused, as she looked around the room.

The library was spacious, nearly twice as large as the galley. Like the dining area, it had a large bubbled porthole. This one was directly above the computer monitor, providing a fine view outside. To either side of the computer station were bookshelves filled with very large books. In front of them were two overstuffed chairs, matching an oversized stuffed couch. At the center of the seating was a low, broad table fashioned from a slab of driftwood. All this set upon a well-worn plank floor and was lit from above by the deck’s oval-shaped skylight centered in the high-beamed ceiling.

I’m quite impressed, sir, said Amanda as she playfully curtsied to her host.

Well, thank you again miss, Dearkin said, saluting the young girl.

Now, if you please, follow me. Time to see the rest of the ol’ gal.

Dearkin directed them past the mainmast extension from the upper deck that ran through the ship to a beautifully carved spiral staircase at the back of the study. Walking around the stairs, he led them down a wide-centered hallway. The first door he came to was a small bathroom. Across from that was an equally small utility room containing a stacked washer and dryer.

Hmm, laundry facilities too. I’m impressed, Dearkin, complimented Amanda.

Dirty clothes, smelly sailor, stated the old man. Two conditions I’d just as soon live without.

Walking a few steps down the hallway, Dearkin opened two large separate doors on opposite sides of the hall.

"These are the Mazzy’s two guest quarters," said Dearkin.

Haven’t used them in about… The old man stopped himself. Ah… well, well, let’s just say they haven’t been used for quite some time. They’re both the same, just flip-flopped in design.

Sweet! exclaimed Henry as he slipped around Eric and dashed into the starboard-side room. Nifty windows! Look, Eric, look how big these suckers are.

I guess! said Eric, equally impressed as he looked to the back of the room.

Pretty good-sized closets. Amanda pointed out as she opened two large mirrored doors.

Annnd, said Dearkin as he opened a narrower door.

Another bathroom, confirmed Eric.

With a shower, commented Amanda enthusiastically.

Man, look at all the brass, said Henry as he glanced around the bathroom. Then, pushing past everyone, he crossed the hall to the other guest quarters.

Amanda and Dearkin followed while Eric examined the room he was in. The aft windows were large French windows from ceiling to midway down the wall.

Bet this would be quite some view if we weren’t stuck in this cavern, thought Eric.

On the sides of the bowed-out hull was a bubbled porthole like those in the study. Beneath it sat a large bureau with two built-in gimbaled beds on either side of it.

Come on, Eric, came Henry’s voice from the hall. Dearkin’s showing us the captain’s quarters.

By the time Eric got to the end of the hall, Amanda and Henry had already ascended the spiral staircase while Dearkin stood at the base of the stairs, waiting for him.

After you, the old man said, gesturing with his hand toward the stairs.

Dang, said Eric taking the first step. What’s with the stairs in this place? They’re built for fricking giants.

Yes, they are rather inconvenient. Something I’m about to fix, said Dearkin.

The top of the brass staircase spilled out into a foyer. One wall had glass-paned windows on either side of a French door. It faced the main deck where they had started their tour. Opposite that, Dearkin opened two large doors, beautifully inlaid with pearlescent shells.

My quarters. Be they ever so humble. Please, he gestured, holding a door open for his guests.

Dearkin said an unusual word and lights came on. Eric looked at him quizzically.

It means ‘illumination’ in my home tongue, the old man answered.

The room wasn’t as wide as the combined galley-study belowdecks but was higher. The entire back wall was larger but similar to the guest quarters one deck below. Here, the windows were plushly draped and ran the entire distance from floor to ceiling. An oversized ornamented bed sat centered in front of the windows, with its head facing aft toward—no doubt a fantastic view when out to sea. In front of the bed, near the center of the room was a large chart table, laden with nautical charts and instruments of navigation. Another skylight in the overhead beams, somewhat smaller than the galleys’, lit the table dimly. On the port wall were more bookshelves and drawers and, as in the study, portholes equally divided the wall. Under one of the portholes was a large desk holding yet another computer. Recessed into the entry wall from the foyer was a long overstuffed couch, an inlaid coffee table setting in front of it. Adjacent to that sat a comfortable-looking recliner.

Ah, a wonderful invention, admitted Dearkin, patting the Lazyboy recliner.

Across the cabin, on the starboard side, were sliding mirrored doors that opened to a large closet and another that opened into a bathroom, complete with a large tub, a very large tub. Its floor, as well as the entire floor of the cabin, was covered with plush but worn Persian carpets.

Wow, Dearkin. Is this where you’ve always slept?

"Oh no, I haven’t for years… except for just recently that is, getting the Mazzy ready and all."

Dearkin saw the looks on the faces of the children go from excitement to disappointment by this confirmation of his departure. Needing to take their attention off such matters, Dearkin asked them to follow him. Pulling one of the drapes back from the large windows, Dearkin exposed a tall glass-paned door. Opening it, they stepped onto a narrow balcony fifteen feet above the water and extending across the entire back of the ship. At both ends, the balcony turned and ran along either side of the captain’s quarters. Henry and Amanda took the port side while Dearkin and Eric walked the starboard side, all ending up at the porches of the main deck.

Can we see the helm now, Dearkin? asked Henry.

Be my guest, answered the captain, pointing at the port stairway to the bridge.

The boy ran up the steps with Amanda right behind him. As Eric and Dearkin climbed to the bridge by way of the starboard stairs, Eric stopped.

Now that’s very unusual, he said, pointing to the aft mast just in front of the bridge. I hadn’t noticed it before.

"What’s that, lad? asked Dearkin standing just below him.

Those large ribs or whatever attached to forward side of the mast. Never seen such a thing. In fact, I’ve never seen such wide masts as you have here.

All part of the self-rigging apparatus I was telling you about, Dearkin said. Those ‘ribs,’ as you call them, are mast spars. They’re on all the mast, even the bowsprit. As for the masts being wide… same thing, part of—

The self-rigging apparatus, reaffirmed Eric, continuing his climb up the stairs.

The bridge, traditionally where a ship is controlled from, was nearly as large as Dearkin’s quarters directly below it. Rising two feet from the center of the deck was the wooden casement that held the rectangular skylight to Dearkin’s quarters below, its thick glass covered with a steel grate. The helm, or ship’s wheel, which usually was quite large, wasn’t. At only eighteen inches in diameter, it seemed small for such a large ship.

I’ll bet it’s a bear trying to handle this ship with such a small wheel, commented Eric.

Not at all, said Dearkin. "No mechanical linkage from the helm to the rudder. It’s all done by an electronic signal to the rudder. I turn the wheel here, and bingo, the rudder turns. Easy as pie."

Another of your new innovations, sir? asked Amanda.

"Oh no. No, the Mazzy’s always been equipped like that."

Dearkin, what’s with that? asked Henry, pointing directly above them.

That’s my flying crow’s nest. Go ahead, give it a look. Just mind your step.

Geez, thanks, Dearkin, gushed Henry as he climbed up the metal rungs.

Quite some crow’s nest, said Eric.

But it sure fits this boat, commented Amanda.

And that it did. For it was a graceful structure, fitting a ship as striking as the Mazzergast. Extending upward from the bridge deck, on both port and starboard sides, was a tapered fin that arched over the bridge. A grated catwalk was suspended in the upper portion of the fin. This is where Henry was standing now.

Hwoo, it’s cool up here. Great view! he yelled down to the others.

Think he’d stay up there all night if he could, commented Dearkin, pulling out his pocket watch.

No doubt, agreed Amanda.

Say, would you look at the time? declared Dearkin.

Henry! he yelled up to the boy. You best be coming down… It’s getting late.

Through the complaining during Henry’s descent, Dearkin said to Amanda and Eric, I’m afraid I’m keeping you all from your evening chores, and, you, Eric, from closing up the business.

Oh, don’t worry. Selma is closing for the evening, said Eric.

Its Saturday, Dearkin… We can do our chores tomorrow… Tell us more about your trip… please, pleaded Amanda.

Yeah, your trip! Please! yelled Henry from the ladder.

Dearkin looked at Eric. And you, can you handle me talking about my trip, my departure?

Of course, sir… I think we can all handle it.

You sure about that?

Yes, Dearkin, we’re sure, said Amanda.

Okay. Guess you got me. The old man surrendered, leaning against the back railing.

Chapter Three

Decision

H enry, having seated himself cross-legged atop the grated skylight next to his sister, was all ears as he waited to hear what was so all important as to take their best friend away.

Mmm. Where do I start? said Dearkin, unconsciously pulling at his beard. Well, yes, then, he said after a few moments of thought. Remember all the stories I’ve told you over the years—the places I’ve been, the things I’ve done?"

Yeah, said Amanda in anticipation.

Well, they’re, they’re all true.

True? What do you mean? All those stories, all those tall tales were true? asked Eric.

I know you said they were true, admitted Amanda, scrunching up her face. But weren’t you pretending… you know, just a little?

"Nope, nary a word of falsehoods. Every tall tale, as you called them, Eric, was true, just as they happened."

Hmm, okay then, said Amanda. So you’re really going back to… to, what’s that place, Falls of Splendor City or—what’s it other name?—Errose, Errose something?

Ma’Lay, Errose Ma’Lay… Yep. The old man nodded.

Huh! And I suppose that Arc Islands place, queried Eric suspiciously.

To Death Point! chimed in Henry, having none of the skepticism of his siblings.

Yes, all of those places and several others, answered the old man with complete sincerity.

Can I go with you? Henry gushed.

Really. Come on, Dearkin. They’re all fictitious places, said Eric, shaking his head, ignoring his brother’s enthusiasm.

Dearkin focused his single blue eye on Eric,

Have you ever known me to lie to you, lad or to you, lass? turning to Amanda.

Both youngsters looked to each other and then back to their old friend.

Well, no, said Eric, speaking for the both of them.

Yeah, you guys, intervened Henry, Dearkin never lies, you know that.

He’s got a point, said Amanda, turning to her older brother.

Yeah, I know that. I-I know, said Eric, looking at her and then back to Dearkin.

Tell you what, said the old man. I can understand your skepticism. I mean… after all you didn’t think I had a boat for my travels either. So…"

All right, all right, interrupted Eric quietly, lowering his head. I know you’ve never lied to us. I mean, you don’t lie to people. I know that. But to believe…

Dearkin held his hand up to Eric.

So, continued the old wizard, "if you had a chance to actually see these places… my homeland… would you go?

Well yeah. Yeah, of course, said Eric. Who wouldn’t?

Looking at Amanda, Dearkin asked, Would you go?

Amanda looked to the old man and raised her eyebrows.

Would I go? Are you crazy? I’d go in a heartbeat, said the girl.

Smiling, Dearkin looked at Henry.

Do I have to even ask you?

No, sir! I mean, YES! Yes. When do we go? said the young boy, jumping to his feet.

Eyeing all of them, the old man ran his fingers through his beard.

Well to tell you the truth, I’ve considered the thought of inviting the three of you for quite some time, ever since you, well… became orphans. I just wasn’t sure if you’d want to go, especially after I told you what I must.

What’s that, sir? asked Eric.

Raising both hands, Dearkin said hesitantly,

Well, we… we might not be able to come back for quite some time, if at all.

What’s quite some time? asked Amanda.

Oh maybe fifty years or so, said Dearkin.

Henry was doing some figuring in his head and turned to ask Eric, Wouldn’t we be old by then? I mean, really, really old?

Yeah, I’d say so, Eric replied.

All was quiet. Fifty years or so was quite some time. They’d all be old, maybe even dead. Then Henry said, That’s okay. Look at Dearkin. Being old isn’t so bad. You’re really old, aren’t you, Dearkin?

Ah… ah, yes, you might say that, said Dearkin.

So, said Henry, Dearkin is old, and he’s the coolest person we know.

All three brightened. Yeah, yeah! They all agreed. Dearkin was the coolest person they had ever met. He had done more than anyone they knew. Age meant nothing to him—why should it to them?

Besides, maybe we’ll like Dearkin’s home. After all, he wouldn’t let us go if it were dangerous, remarked Henry.

Dearkin agreed to that, saying the only possible danger he anticipated would come during a short midcourse change in direction, which he’d tell them about later, that is, if they came along. However, for all intents and purposes, he was confident that the Mazzergast would make it through that just fine.

But what of their life here in Boomdeay Bay? Dearkin asked. Would they miss it, would they miss their friends? What would become of the business their parents had left to them?

That final point stopped Eric dead. The business, what would he do with it? What would he do with the house? Mom and Dad really loved the house. He couldn’t just sell it. Oh, this responsibility thing, it was getting to be a pain. Wait! What about having caretakers, someone they knew well who could keep the business and treat the house as their own? Ed and Selma. Yes, they were perfect. They were always involved in the business anyway, and Ed knew the business. Heck, he’d virtually taught his dad the business. That just might work.

But damn, Eric thought of something else. There was Missy, his sort of girlfriend, well, actually, his ex-girlfriend. She’d dumped him for that Bret Dills a month ago, telling Eric that he wasn’t exciting enough, that he should be more adventuresome like Bret. Like Bret, who not only sailed, but also rock climbed, skydived, and even bungee jumped. Damn, how could he compete with that? How indeed? He could go with Dearkin. He could do something different, maybe even have an adventure or two. He could do that. He could get out of this one-horse, fricking town. To hell if he wouldn’t see her for fifty years. He’d have a boatload of stories to tell her when he got back. Yeah, yeah, maybe then, Missy might think he was exciting enough. Then she’d want him… What a relief. At last he had a handle on his month-long girlfriend problem. Yes, yes… he could get away. He could go with Dearkin.

As far as their friends, well, that was a no-brainer. Ever since they had had this stigma of orphan put on them, the local government agencies, the church do-gooders, and, in some cases, even their friends had scrutinized or doted over every little thing they did. Did they have enough money or enough insurance or enough food? Were they happy? Were they sad? Damn! Then there were those that equated orphans as having leprosy and shunned them altogether.

Yeah, this was a good time for a change—actually, a great time for a change. Heck, after all, he was Amanda’s and Henry’s legal guardian, and he’d done damn good for the last eleven months. He and his siblings were doing just fine. They were each other’s best friends. And heck, he’d have Dearkin to help. Sure he was a little eccentric, but the old man was a great father figure. Everyone would agree to that.

Now he just had to handle the thing with the house and the business. He’d talk to Ed and Selma in the morning.

I think I have a perfect solution, said Eric, going on to explain his resolution.

That’s a great plan, Eric. Ed and Sel will absolutely love that, said Amanda.

Yeah, and I agree, said Henry. Who needs all that ‘poor little things’ crap we’re always getting from Mrs. Goodly and her friends and… and that government lady with all her ‘trust me’s’ and ‘you shoulds’?

Eric nodded his head in agreement with his brother. Then, looking back and forth between his siblings, he asked, So are we up for this? Are we ready to get outta this place?

Oh yes. Yes, yes… yes! said Amanda.

Count on it, said Henry.

Well, then. I guess it unanimous. We’re going, said Eric. That is if this old man really thinks our going is a good idea.

All three glanced hopefully at their old friend.

With a grin that erupted under his white mustache and lit up his sea-blue eye, Dearkin opened his arms wide and gathered the three of them close.

Well, to be sure, it’s selfish on my part, but… if you’re truly up to it, I’d be right pleased and honored for you to accompany me on my little excursion.

So the decision had been made; they were going with Dearkin to his homeland. Much work had to be done, and time was limited. There was only a week to end one life and make ready for a new one. Eric arranged with the delighted-yet-suspicious Ed and Selma to take over the family charter business, including the house. All three kids told their friends that they would be going on an extended trip with their old friend and began giving away many of their belongings.

Dearkin wrote an article for the Boomdeay Bay Leader, thanking all his acquaintances for their friendship, informing them that he would be taking an extended sailing trip to the Caribbean with the Casey children on a boat he had refurbished and had hidden away in a private cove. And yes, his shop, which he sold for a dollar to a young couple, would remain open. He hoped it would stay the same. He wrote a message for the new owners and left it on the potbellied stove, explaining how to find the hidden stairwell. The cloaking hologram and its mechanisms were set to quietly and safely self-destruct when the new tenants descended into the cavern.

Henry helped Amanda buy more supplies and fix up their new quarters aboard the ship while Eric spent much of his time helping Dearkin ready the Mazzergast. Remembering a damaging incident that occurred during his arrival, Dearkin taught Eric as much as he could about the particular and peculiar workings of the Mazzy, making sure that someone other than himself could handle the ship in case of an emergency. By the following Saturday afternoon, all was ready, and Dearkin and his new crew joined a few close friends at Ed and Selma’s house for a farewell picnic. Though everyone was sad to see them leave, all thought it would be a great experience for the children and knew they would be in good hands with the love and tutorship of Dearkin.

DAY ONE

Chapter Four

Departure

E arly the next morning, Eric, Amanda, and Henry descended into the cavern beneath Dearkin’s shop. Eric made sure the heavy potbellied stove sealed their exit. Feeling a thrill of excitement run through him as he descended the staircase, he realized that they were really going to do this. It felt right. He watched as Henry and Amanda clamored onto the ship, joining Dearkin. Undoing the mooring lines, he scurried up the gangplank and hoisted it up after him.

Standing at the helm, Dearkin also felt the excitement of their departure and his long-awaited return home, but it was offset by the deep sadness he felt, leaving his home and dear friends of many years. He had spent the previous evening saying goodbye to the beloved home and shop he had built so long ago, a place full of countless memories. His only departing wish was that someday, he would see it again; but for now, it was time to move on.

Sliding open a covering on a pedestal to the right of the ship’s wheel, Dearkin exposed the keyboard. He played his craggy fingers across it, then, raising his left hand, held up one finger, pounced it down, striking a key, and announced, We’re off!

There was a slight surge as the old ship edged its way along the rock moorage toward the glimmering opening in the cavern wall. As the leading edge of the Mazzergast touched the cloaking hologram, a crackling sound cut through the air. The bow sparkled brightly as the ship passed through the immense opening and into the rising tide of the sea beyond.

Eric, who had gone out on a midnight shakedown cruise with Dearkin during his week of training, had already experienced passing through the hologram. Now he stood on the deck, with his arms opened wide, waiting for the sensation to pass over him. As it did, he was ringed in a string of white light.

Ah-yee! he yelled.

Amanda and Henry felt a little apprehensive as the crackling hologram approached them. They both stepped back. As the string of white light worked its way back along the main deck, up the railing to the bridge, and over Dearkin, he turned to face them, his face ringed in bright light.

Not to worry, he said. It won’t hurt. Just a tingle to start out your day.

Standing his ground, Henry poked out at the twinkling veil with his finger. Amanda kept retreating until she was against the back rail of the bridge. As the crackling light worked its way down his arm and over his face, Henry started giggling. Ah, this is sweet. After the hologram had passed him, he turned and yelled to Amanda, It’s okay, Amanda! Don’t be afraid. It’s fun.

Trusting her little brother, she closed her eyes and reached out. There was a slight tingle in her fingertips, a coolness. It enveloped her, bit by bit, sending a tiny shiver throughout her whole body. Then it was gone. She gasped, Ah… that tickled!

She turned to look behind her and was amazed! There was nothing behind them but solid rock, or the holographic image of rock.

Wow, that was awesome! I can’t believe it! exclaimed Henry.

Yeah, awesome, but it’s freezing out here, chattered Amanda through clenched teeth.

Here, said Eric, tossing coats to his brother and sister.

The sun had just risen, and it was blinding as they sailed directly into it. Dearkin summoned them to the wheel, where once again he was tapping keys on his strange keyboard. He turned some knobs and pulled a couple of small levers. Then typing in a few last keys, he waited expectantly. There was a loud whirring sound from the masts.

Watch this! yelled Eric over the new sound. You won’t believe it.

Everyone looked skyward as the top half of the mainmast split apart and locked in place. Then from out of its top telescoped another smaller mast.

Wow, whispered Amanda and Henry.

The smaller mast reached its height, and a loud clank sounded as the split mainmast snapped closed, solid once more. The new upper mast then repeated the actions of the first mast by splitting open and locking into place. Once again, a smaller mast rose out of it and slowly reached skyward until it stopped. Again there was a clank as the second mast snapped closed.

Next, directly in front of them, the aft mast repeated the actions of the mainmast. A moment later, the shorter foremast did the same.

Unbelievable! said Henry as Dearkin tapped a few more keys.

Just wait, Eric said, his eyes as big as saucers. You haven’t seen anything yet.

Again, in order, starting with the bottom section of the mainmast, the large ribs, or spar masts, popped free of the mast forward surface. Both spars rotated from a midpoint on the mainmast, one on top of the other, and locked when they came into a horizontal position. Upon receiving another command