Entwining Circles

By Deeana Carole

Ishta was on her last journey through life, as mortals know it to be. Her soul would no longer be required to be sent back to earths light. Her Karma was paid in full, her reincarnation complete. Almost.

The year is now.The wheels have been set in motion. Complete annihilation of all: man, myth, and magic, was beginning. The coming of the most unknown but feared entity was gaining strength and power. With the world turning into complete chaos and anarchy, hate, greed, a total disrespect for all, and an absolute lack of belief and faith in what people could not see. Inner spirituality, self-worth, and trust in the truths set by those much wiser had all but vanished in the mists. This fed the beast endlessly, making him more supreme, his ability to influence near unstoppable. Man wore blinders, oblivious and uncaring to all that surrounded him. One by one, mans ability to imagine, believe, and love began to disappear. His tolerance of what he could not control turned to hate.

A legacy had been born in the ancient manuscripts of time thousands of years before. They foretold of a woman born to the earths light. This woman, if she succeeded, would save the inhabitants of all from extinction. Even those that most thought were figments of the imagination. She must fight for the good of all. Her blood would be the price, of which Ishta was all too willing to give. It is what it is.

Hyetym, her immortal childhood friend and blood brother from many lives, would help guide her through the events of the scriptures. For as it is written, so shall it be. Like following a recipe. If it is followed correctly, with little or no deviation, the outcome benefits all. Ishta is to follow the ancient writings. Many have waited for her beyond centuries. Her task must be complete before any can move forward. A stagnant death is all that awaits them if she fails.

Ishta must lead a double life. One in our present Earth, the other in worlds that run parallel with ours, accessing them through portals. Unbeknownst to her, but not to Hyetym, an immortal man has waited for her tirelessly. Kemp. He has loved her since time began. He has watched her be reborn several times, waiting for her to reach her final life. Ishta has only sensed that her beloved exists elsewhere. Obviously, not of this world. Hyetym has waited for their circles to entwine.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Oct 5, 2009
• ISBN: 9781465326614

Book preview

Chapter One

Passing On

Ishta gazed out of the kitchen window of the apartment that her aunt and she had shared. She watched the trees’ limbs sway in the gentle breeze. Weeping willows were one of her favorites, so graceful. She had no one left. Her aunt had gone from this world. She had died in her sleep, quietly passing on to a place where she would feel no more pain. Ishta would miss her greatly. Her quote for getting through this?

After all we have to make room for the living. That’s the meaning of death. Isn’t it?

Her Aunt Claire had taken Ishta in when she was only three. Her father had disappeared from their lives, leaving no scrap of evidence of his whereabouts or what could have possibly happened.

No other relatives had wanted a child that was as odd as Ishta. She saw peculiarities, heard voices, played by herself in the woods, and talked with those you couldn’t see. When she spoke, it was as if she was from another space and time. She was old the day she came into this world. People always gave her strange looks, trying to create a condescending negative aura around her. She could do nothing right. Always the worst child, the worst at everything and would never amount to anything. Every chance people got to put her down, they jumped at it. People saw through her, as if she didn’t exist or matter. Even chance relationships with men didn’t work out. They imagined what she should be like, not what she was about. Ishta finally settled into herself, happily staying with her aunt up until this point. She had acquaintances, but nothing serious and no one close.

You would have thought that this would have bothered her. She was actually grateful. Always smiling and laughing. Basking in the sunshine through the raindrops. People were drawn to her bright and cheery disposition but didn’t want to get to know her. She was odd as far as they were concerned. Ishta had identified several of her former lives. At a very young age she realized she was here for a specific reason, but she had no idea what it actually was that she was suppose to do. That would change in time.

For example:

She had disagreed with one of her supernatural instructors about the fact that she would not be returning to Earth again. This was her last time through. He looked at her in utter astonishment.

Everyone comes back, he argued.

I will not be back, Ishta had countered vehemently.

The teacher had consulted several spirit guides above, only to discover that she was telling the truth. Her task would be complete this go-around.

He was amazed. He’d never heard of this before, especially from a student, a human mortal like himself. He had been taught some of the ancient ways from his grandmother, so he was well versed. Therefore, he could not fathom how she could know so much, and yet there was something intriguing about her. He guessed that Ishta was right. She wouldn’t be back.

Her aunt had been the only one that had taken the time to see inside her.

Now she was gone too. Ishta packed up the few items that were left in the apartment. Her truck was slap full. She saved the two items that her aunt left specifically for her, for last. A long oval mirror and a chalice. Each were priceless. Her aunt had been given these by Ishta’s great aunt. They had been handed down from generation to generation. There was no way of telling how old they actually were. She toted these items carefully down to the truck, closing the apartment door for the last time.

She drove to the office of the apartment complex and handed in the key. The manager was sad to see her go. She had been a good tenant. They wished each other good luck and waved good-bye.

Ishta had been driving for several hours. The mountain ranges were getting closer. The town which she was going to reside in was small. Its quaint little pet shop would be her new way to make a living. She didn’t mind though. It was something until she could get her foot in the door at one of the reserves. She sent her resume to several, both in state and out. She had no family ties, it was the perfect career choice as far as she was concerned. It suited her personality. But, she hadn’t heard from any prospective parks or reserves either. Her aspirations in a career as a park ranger were momentarily in the dumps.

All good things come to those who wait. Still waiting. Okay how about, patience is a virtue? My virtue is running out of patience.

She knew she wasn’t as alone as having no one. No one that was human or mortal anyhow. She had Hyetym. As long as she had him by her side, she was never alone. He made her feel invincible. Hyetym was always close by and with her. He had been her so-called childhood imaginary friend come true. She smiled to herself. She felt warm and loved when she thought of her blood-brother. He told her he would meet her at her new place. What a small world. The new place was above the old garage where she had found the truck she now drove.

Hyetym was standing at the bottom of the steps to the apartment when she pulled up. The red cap fit snuggly over his head. He looked out of place. Though really, there was no way he would or could blend in. He stood out like a sore thumb. You knew he was . . . just different. Gorgeous but different. Ishta loved him dearly. She jumped out of her truck and hugged him tightly.

Thank you for coming.

She needn’t have even said that. Hyetym could read every thought and word. Well almost and only some of the time. He waved her off and began effortlessly unpacking. The heaviest of items weighed no more than a feather to him. He laughed precariously as Ishta pretended to help haul the couch upstairs. She had to make it look real didn’t she? She giggled while Hyetym imitated wiping sweat from his brow.

They soon had the truck unpacked and everything neatly in its place. Save for a few items. The neatness belonged to Hyetym. Ishta was more haphazard about neatness and putting everything away, right now. She was pooped! It had been a long day. Hyetym on the other hand was immortal, never got tired and was a bit anal about doing things right now. He carefully unpacked the mirror that her aunt had left her. He went to hang it in the small hallway adjacent to the kitchen.

Ishta sat cross-legged in the middle of the living room. Carefully, she unwrapped the chalice. Ishta stood up, holding the chalice to the light. She had never held it and had only seen it once. It was always stored in a curio cabinet in her aunt’s bedroom. Inside was a small piece of old and yellowed rice paper. She took the paper out of the cup and began to read it. She read three more times. She stared at it incredulously, her breathing became erratic. Hadn’t her aunt mentioned something about a legacy? Hyetym, hearing the change in her, was immediately by her side.

What’s wrong?

Ishta shakily handed him the note that contained her aunt’s writing. She kept her eyes drawn to the floor, the color draining from her face. Hyetym pulled a chair up behind her and forced her to sit down.

Put your head between your knees, he directed as he began reading the note out loud. He glimpsed at her lovingly while keeping a firm but caring hand on her shoulder.

Place thy chalice where I am well balanced.

I shall call upon you when time is challenged.

As I glow, so shall I speak

My voice you do not know.

Heed my words for thy ringeth true.

They speak of a foretold legacy,

They speak of you.

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He left me sitting in the chair, my dazed look making me look like a strung out zombie. I was never gracious in my problem moments, as I called them.

Hyetym moved fluidly through the apartment, holding the chalice at various angles and areas about the rooms. He settled on the dresser in my bedroom, placing it gently on a red silken kerchief. He placed his nimble limbs in awkward positions and began to chant quietly. I heard the sound of bells resonating. They sounded wonderful.

Feeling better, I got up and walked over to my dresser. Hyetym instructed me to sit in the middle of the bed. I obeyed without question. I watched, shocked as the chalice began to glow, giving the room an iridescent yellow hue. Hyetym watched me, thankful that if I did faint I wouldn’t have far to go.

I have a bad habit of holding my breath when I get overly anxious or excited. My Aunt Claire had said it was hereditary. There’s always one, she would chuckle. Needless to say she always kept smelling salts handy.

A deep calm voice pulsed from within the glow at the center of the chalice. I sat there unable to move as the voice requested my Aunt Claire’s presence in the Realm of the Mystics.

Hello, Claire, It has been a long time since our last retrieval. I apologize for my long absence. We are still trying to locate all the missing words of old. We have need of your presence in the Realm of Mystics. What say you? the voice paused waiting for a response.

Ahh-hmmm. I heard Hyetym clear his throat.

The voice sounded surprised at his interruption.

What is it, Hyetym?

Claire is no longer with us. There was a distinct pause, changing the atmosphere in the room. Her niece, Ishta, possesses your words now.

Well now, that does change things significantly, doesn’t it?

The glow sputtered in an obscure pattern. It seemed to be communicating. It definitely was not Morse code. Hyetym’s eyes glazed. I knew from being around him for so long that he was in a meditative state.

I waited. I was not thrilled about being left out of their little conversation. I watched the clock. Tick, tock, tick, tock. One hour . . . hour and a half . . . Okay, I’m over it.

What are you two discussing? I sounded a bit shrill, but I was tired, hungry, and a little unsettled.

It had been a very long day. These two could hold their conversation elsewhere. I was a bit crabby too, but I didn’t think I was being unreasonable. After all, it wasn’t every day you held an intelligent conversation with a cup. Except on Sesame Street.

They seemed to remember my presence as they both apologized emphatically.

Please accept our sincerest apologies, the voice requested.

We were catching up on old times, Hyetym chimed in.

I wasn’t buying it. I folded my arms and placed a scowl on my face. I preferred being told something directly. I had seen Hyetym’s brows move continuously, his eyes darting in my direction as he had silently conversed. His lips tensing, his neck muscle pulsing, and his nimble fingers twisting around themselves with looks of apprehension washing continuously over his face. Who did he think he was kidding?

The glow halted its sputtering. It seemed there was a break in their conversation.

I saw his left eyebrow arch as high as it would go just before he asked me a question that changed my life forever more.

Would you accompany me through a portal? A different portal A look of unexplained concern and apprehension plagued his eyes.

I didn’t know why at the time, all I knew was that I was excited. I knew about portals. I had visited Hyetym in his realm frequently. Ever since I had been a small child, Hyetym always led me through the portal of the mirror. He would hold my hand tightly as we stepped out. An elder would be waiting on the other side to grab my free hand. Together the three of us would walk through the woodlands toward our destination. The elders enjoyed teaching me almost as much as I liked learning. I had never been allowed to venture through other portals or for that matter, other destinations. That had been strictly forbidden. Until now.

I only had a few months to get acquainted with my job before we left for the Realm of the Mystics.

Chapter Two

Pryjanum

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I fit into my new job at the pet shop quite nicely. The owner was seldom present, thus leaving me to tend to the shop the way I thought it should be run.

Usually, the people that came in were just concerned with appeasing their young child’s whining about getting a puppy. Every so often, a genuine critter caring person would enter the shop. The conversation was typically helpful on both our ends. Several people became regulars, dropping by with a bag of donut rounds and two cups of coffee or a small lunch from the corner diner. We would talk for long hours. It was very enjoyable, and it was good for the morale of the animals.

A few months had passed since the episode with the chalice. Hyetym explained where, how, and why we were going. I asked him what was the reason and when were we going. He stared at me trying to decipher if I was an M&M, with or without nuts. I fit the latter as he ruffled the top of my head. Like he was proud of how I’d accepted the challenge.

You are . . . how do you say? One donut short of a dozen. His smile was blinding. I knew what he meant about the donuts.

I had been packed for what seemed an eternity. The voice, whom I now called Harry (but only to myself), was a constant presence. Both a companion and educationalist.

Hyetym had presented me with two gifts. A sword and a dagger. Both beautiful. Both unique. As I had studied with the elders on my many trips to Hyetym’s realm, I was not completely ignorant about what I was about to do. Words written are repeats of what has already been done. I was ready. Eager to the idea of this adventure. Thankful to be able to help those that I believed in. Myths to most, truths to me.

We were supposed to go into this cave, retrieve some type of relic, and bring it back. That didn’t sound too life threatening. Yeah, right. I’m not supercilious. I’ll be the first to admit I’d been wrong before. This would be no exception. Hyetym would be with me. We had each other’s back. What could go wrong?

We stepped through the portal that Harry had arranged for us. The probability of combat against the Malgore army seemed indisputable. The fighting didn’t bother me. I was confident in my abilities. It was failure that I feared. So much was riding on the success of my anticipated endeavors.

I kept repeating through my mind: follow your vibes, follow your vibes, follow your vibes.

My instincts and intuition were practically infallible. They had guided me this far.

The scenery that lay before me was absolutely breathtaking. It was exactly as I had imagined. Everything was precise. Right down to the smells that tickled at my senses. It felt like I had been in this type of surroundings before. My memory was hazy; it annoyed me as it nagged at my brain.

Pryjanum was Ishta’s first mission. Here, there are creatures most of us only dream of. Creatures of old and those long forgotten. She, however, was quite comfortable in her surroundings. It was like coming home. Ishta had not forgotten. Through her mind and heart, she had experienced it many times. She never stopped believing. Ishta looked around and gazed at the tall oaks that seemed to greet her as she stepped into the domain. They appeared to bow in honor of her. She was oblivious to her status, to her, she was here to accomplish a just feat. Ishta bowed back, her eyes swept shut for a brief but glorious moment. Her humbleness was her greatest trait. It was much admired by those that saw her and, in the future, those that would read about her.

She hurried along the cavern hallways, the torchlights reflecting the shadows and stalagmites that hung precariously from above.

Her good friend Hyetym was right behind her. His pearled sword at the ready. His elfish ears straining to hear sounds of oncoming evil. Hyetym was very tall and lean with sparkling blue eyes that pierced through the darkest of times. His people had stayed true to their hearts and beliefs. Though few still believed in their existence, they still endured.

In their homeland of Julque, they had fought for their right to live as they once did. Malgores had tried to burn them out. The Malgores were led by Captain Graecol, but owned by the very evil and deceitful Raldor. Graecol was a heartless and cunning leader of battle. His eyes were as cold as the steel of his blade, and his hunger for blood and triumph was relentless. He cared for no one, not even his troops that served under him. The Malgores were bred for battle, and that was the only thing that was expected of them. Fight to the death. Their deaths meant nothing. Not to Graecol and especially not to Raldor.

Hyetym fought with his people against Raldor many centuries before. It was when men began to decay that Raldor became stronger through their deceit. Exactly what was happening now. Though now, it is more accelerated and final.

Oh yes, Hyetym was well acquainted with Raldor. He knew what made the evil entity stronger and also what sapped his strength.

Malgores were a breed of men that were nothing but brute strength and muscle. They had no sense of sadness or joy. (Malgores could have been mechanical for all that they felt, but robots where not feasible. It was easier to just create more Malgores.) They smelled of dead skunk. Their armor was made of a three-ply metal that weighed more than two normal men. Malgores would grease their armor with pig fat mixed with dirt to lessen its natural sheen so that it blended more with the creatures that donned it. Their weapons were crude but deadly. They could travel endlessly for days before needing a slight rest and water. Food was whatever was handy at the time. Malgores were not the smartest, but they were survivalists. Above all they were killers without a conscience. They had no soul.

The canopy of trees above them had allowed their roots to delve into the dirt and caves below, their wisdom carrying through to those that could hear. Great council had once been held here. Tall columns of white marble graced the halls while golden angels were depicted blowing their trumpets in a gala of sovereignty.

Upon a great stone slab lay the dried remnants of long ago. This was also a healing slab. It was said that with the aid of the ancient ways and the serenades of the elfin people, great miracles came to pass.

Hurry Ishta, I hear them gaining in their footsteps!

Ishta turned into a darkened hall with a trace of light coming from what seemed to be a red crystal, way down the corridor. Ishta followed it. This was what she had come to retrieve. Behind them the Malgores could be heard. Their armor clamoring, their voices yelling obscenities. Ishta felt the coldness before she saw its cause.

The dirt floor gave way. Down she and Hyetym fell. It was as if they were falling in slow motion for she saw every speck of dirt, root, and stone as they continued their descent. Above them the Malgores were yelling and shooting arrows down at them. The arrows seemed to almost come to a halt as they slowed to a visible crawl, never once hitting their targets but seemingly floating in what appeared to be a clear goo of thick water. Suddenly, Hyetym and Ishta’s descent quickened to a frightening pace as they hit the dirt floor with a resounding thud.

Hurry for cover! she heard Hyetym yell.

It was at that point, she saw out of the corner of her eyes a small furry bundle. He appeared as surprised as she was. It was soaked to the bones and looked like a frightened drowned rat. She snatched him out of harm’s way and rolled under an alcove of rock and dirt. They both watched thankfully as showers of piercing arrows rained down around them. It stopped after a few more moments. The way out was clear as the Malgores were not about to take the same route down that they had.

Ishta, allowing her eyes to refocus, searched for Hyetym. He was already up and about looking at their new surroundings. He had a small cut on his back as his shirt was ripped and had a small spatter of blood on it. Other than that he looked as if he were strolling in the sunshine, not a hair out of place.

Hyetym chuckled loudly as he scanned Ishta’s appearance. She looked like she had been dragged through the mud pits of hell and back. Quite disheveled and scratched up. His eyes softened as he saw what she cradled in her hands. She was attempting to dry the poor creature with her shirt. It was shivering and looked very thin. Ishta reached into her satchel and pulled out some cheese and bread.

Here you go, she cooed. You look rather hungry. It’s not much but it’ll help. Look, Hyetym! she exclaimed as she looked up at him with great wonderment. Isn’t this a surprise?

The kitten chewed up the morsels ravenously and was now trying to get into the satchel for more.

Oh no you don’t, little tomcat. That is for later. Too much at one time, and you will get an upset belly, Hyetym said.

He scooped up the kitten and satchel in one swoop. You are awfully tiny, must have been the runt.

Ishta was sitting cross-legged when they heard a low and demonic growl of sorts. Hyetym tucked the tiny kitten in the satchel, gave a hand up to Ishta, and off they ran toward a tunnel to their left.

They ran for what seemed forever. They passed through doorways into hallways. Torches glowed softly, snuffing out their lights as the trio passed them by. Ishta ran hard; keeping up with Hyetym was no simple feat. His long lean legs carried him gracefully as if he were sprinting on clouds of air. His speed was, of course, unmatched. He is an elf, remember? Hyetym adored Ishta. She was his per se blood sister of long ago. This was sanctified in a ceremony given by the elders. Danu had christened the mix of blood.

Hyetym held tight to the satchel as he darted sharply to the right. This led into a great room that was adorned with jewels of every shape and size. He spotted a large wooden crate in which he placed the satchel that carried Ishta’s precious cargo.

Ishta let out a ferocious yell of warning as Hyetym heard her retrieve her blade. Her blade was made by the elves, and its hilt was crafted by the dwarfs. The blade had a trinity knot embellished on each side while the hilt had three large blue moon quartz on each side. These had been placed in a triangle shape. Her dagger was made in the same way except that the forever-spiraling sharp blade was made from the shimmering yellow crystal found only in the Realm of Water Creatures, called Marlefka. It had been given to Hyetym’s people as a gift for her.

Her sword was light as titanium, but it would thrust deep into its victim as if it were slicing through butter. Hyetym rushed to her side as the Malgores approached. Each was relentless in their battle. Blades gnashed and clanged, their victims falling swiftly to their death, the last falling from Ishta’s blade.

They had backed up into the great room. Ishta’s eyes sparkled as she scanned the room for her quest. Suddenly, something moved. It was about seven feet tall with the shape of a human, but it was made of the jewels it protected. It gave a loud roar as it lunged toward Ishta. She swiped it with her sword, missing as it magically jelled into another part of the room.

It loomed over her, its shadow darkening the room.

No one has set a human toe in here for centuries! You must be a rare species of sorts! Why do you trespass into my home, unwelcomed? he roared.

Ishta saw out of the corner of her eye Hyetym sneaking toward the beast. Too late, so did the monster. He took a huge swipe at Hyetym sending him flying across the room, knocking him unconscious. He slumped on the ground. Brandishing her sword she ran at him full speed with the intent to render him ineffectual. As if she was of no importance, he picked her up wrapping his jeweled fingers around her waist.

He soared to at least fourteen feet high. As he brought her up to his face she saw that his eyes were of smoky quartz, and his lips of pink sapphires and rubies. From his eyes he shed blue sapphires, shaped like teardrops.

Why do you want to hurt me so? he asked in a nonthreatening voice.

You are the one wanting to harm us! yelled Ishta. You hurt my friend, which makes you no friend of mine.

Ahh, and who was sneaking behind me? Getting ready to ambush me without reason?

What were we to think, you said we were unwelcome? It is by sheer accident that we are here in the first place!

There is no such thing as an accident, he said quietly.

Ishta looked at the gemmed monster inquiringly. The sadness in his voice caught her by surprise. He too sensed the change in her and set her down on a mountain of jewels so that she was still at eye level with him.

Do not feel sad for me, I put myself in this situation, and I alone am to suffer. Take your friend and leave. Take the cave hall to the right till you come to a fork, follow the middle out. Do not touch the walls, for they breathe in your essence if they detect you, he instructed her.

She saw Hyetym stir in the corner where he had fallen. With a wave of the gemmed monster’s hand, a jeweled staircase appeared for Ishta to descend. Ishta glanced at Hyetym, who was now up and ready to leave.

Ishta turned to go down the stairs, but her intuition stopped her.

Why are you here?

I don’t want to trouble you with my discrepancies, but thank you for your concern. I really need you to go now, please.

You are not troubling me.

GOOOOO! the jeweled monster boomed.

Ishta didn’t move. She stood there stubborn as a mule with her feet steadfast in their place.

I said GOOOOOOOOO! he boomed louder.

Not until you tell me! You are right, I should not have judged you so readily, and I sincerely apologize.

Ishta lowered her head in a noble gesture and closed her eyes. This took the jeweled monster by surprise, for she showed him complete trust at that point. Crystal blue topazes rimmed his eyes, threatening to spill over.

First, would you tell me why you are here? he questioned in a throaty voice filled with emotion.

We have come to retrieve a relic that seems to have given this domain power to which it knows not. Raldor wishes to claim it as his own, and this we cannot allow, for the kingdom of Pryjanum will destroy itself under his cruel hand.

What is this relic you seek? What does it do?

Ishta saw no harm in telling him; it was a sink-or-swim revelation.

It glazes their eyes so that they cannot see the truths set before them. As Raldor will use this relic to his advantage, only he will have full reign over everything and everyone that has the slightest question in their heart.

She paused and gulped in some air. It is the Tiger’s stone which I seek.

This stone was a three-layered stone. The levels connected by a simple swivel screw made of pewter, with a small blood red ruby set on top. The outside looked like an everyday old stone, but if you knew the secret to opening the stone, the layers exhibited true layers of tiger’s eye gem. Once opened, the layers could be manipulated for either good or evil purposes.

The following small piece of truth should be remembered throughout this legend: For every right there is a wrong, every truth a lie, and every good an evil. It is the balance of nature so to speak.

I have heard of this stone through legend. In fact—now it was his turn to pause for air—I had been seeking that very same stone when I was changed. I had been on a quest with several of my men looking for this stone. I had forsaken all that was dear to me, my loving wife and family, people that depended on me. I pushed them aside for the sake of the stone. I wanted the stone for selfish reasons, and I tracked it for years, my men believing every lie I told them. My quest brought me into this mountain. I have combed it from beginning to end, losing several of my men along the way. In desperation I enlisted the help of a wizard.

He paused momentarily before he continued.

My payment to him was my family. He saw into my greedy heart and knew I would never return to my wife. I released him from his imprisonment when I found the stone. It was right where he said it would be. He was the last person to find it. The stone imprisoned him here until I came into the picture. If I tell you where it is, you will take my place as to whatever deceit you hold in your heart. I cannot allow that, nor will I tell you where that cursed stone is. The injustice shall stop with me. My punishment is just deserved.

He lifted his head to stand proud once more, as if to chisel his words in stone. Of course for Ishta this would not do. She was already scheming her plan as she climbed down the jeweled stairs and walked over to where Hyetym sat.

You alright? she asked as she scanned him for any serious bumps on the noggin.

He had a nice-sized goose egg on the back of his head, but he was fine.

Hyetym looked up at the jeweled monster. You do not know Ishta, nor do you know her plight?

As soon as Hyetym made mention of Ishta’s name, they could see recognition spread over the seven-foot monster’s face.

What did you say her name was?

Ishta, replied Hyetym

Begging your pardon, Ishta, I-I had no idea, he stuttered.

I have read about you in the ancient scriptures. You are legend. So pure of heart, such an impossible feat lies before you. Surely you will be able to overcome the tiger’s stone curse. I understand all too well, my deepest apologies. I am humbled by your presence.

Ishta shot Hyetym a dreadful look. She did not like her name given out. She wanted to succeed on her morals and abilities alone. Most have heard of her through handed-down stories and the like. She wanted to succeed using her knowledge, on her own merit, not her legend. Hyetym knew he had a talking-to coming, but as always she would forgive him and understand why he did what he did.

It was at that time that all three’s attention turned toward the wooden crate where Ishta’s satchel lay. The tiny fur ball had awoken and was mewing at such a loud tone it sounded as if a lion was inside. Mesmerized, they watched as the little furry critter scrambled out of the satchel looking sleepy eyed and full. It had eaten all its little belly could hold. Its green eyes looked up at the trio gazing adoringly at them.

Ishta bent down and cuddled him in her arms touching nose to nose. The kitty licked her nose and began to purr as Ishta stroked his fur. He was quite content with himself.

Hyetym broke the silence, Are you going to help us or not?

Yes, yes, absolutely. It has been told that this day would come. Hopefully it meant you, Ishta. The gemmed monster inclined his illustrious head toward her.

Hyetym rolled his eyes, Who else would it be about?

There was a slight pause before the gemmed man spoke again.

By the way you can call me Thegus.

They introduced themselves to each other again and began their descent, deep down into the caverns. Ishta placed the kitten back in the satchel as it was too small to keep up on paws. Instead he peered over the edge of the satchel taking in the surroundings.

Thegus led the way down the pathway into the belly of the world, or so it seemed, the air getting colder as they descended farther down. Suddenly, the glow emanating from the very bottom of the treacherous path caught Ishta’s eyes. It was an orangish red glow as if emerging from a fire. They approached with caution not sure what they would come up against.

There it sat on a pedestal of white hyalite stone with turquoise insets that were shaped like hearts. The stone itself looked like an ordinary but polished rock. Ishta did not hesitate. She went straight to the pedestal to grab the rock. As she stepped closer, blue flames flicked at her heels; she paid them no mind. Thegus and Hyetym were to stand guard, but they were blinded by a sudden explosion of aqua blue light. Ishta had entered the circle.

She could see them, but they no longer could see her. The cavern walls whirled around her, showing scenes from her many births through her youths, several times, similar but different. These repeated themselves till the present Ishta appeared. She caught glimpses of peoples’ lives and their deaths. She saw things she remembered and memories she would never have known. She even saw herself when she had accidentally found a portal that led into Hyetym’s realm. They had played together frequently when she was a small child. Different times and eras, same people. The scenes slowed to a standstill.

My head was reeling from all that I had just seen. Many lives and lessons. I blinked several times, clearing my thoughts. That’s when I saw the elderly man sitting on a tree stump in the middle of an arrangement of huge boulders. I approached him with no fear; it was as if I knew him. He was dressed in deep cobalt blue robes trimmed in silver ropes of twisted threads, his hair white as freshly fallen snow. On his right pinky finger was a silver ring with a single stone of tiger’s eye set in the middle.

I have waited such a long time. It is good to see you. You have grown much over the many years.

A small tear slid down his cheek. I reached out to catch it as it had escaped to linger on his chin. He arose from his sitting position and reached out his arms to embrace me. We held each other for quite some time.

This was my father from long ago and through all my lives. A man I had really never known except through stories. We talked for hours and days and weeks. Even the little kitty had gotten bigger! This was the most peaceful I ever felt. I did not want to leave when it came time, but knew I had to. My father had given me in death what he could not in life.

They hugged tightly and long as she prepared to leave. She had been given presents for Hyetym and Thegus, the tiger’s stone placed safely on her right index