Haste

By Doug Plamping

In Book 6, the final book of this series, Amy, Paul and Frank have been commanded by the One Who Tests, God, to liberate all 20 slaver planets and have all of the hundred ‘lost’ planets rejoin the Isolated Planets within 142 days, at the end of that time the Enemy will attack their the Isolated Planets. It took 25 days to liberate the first slaver planet they assaulted.

The Enemy occupies over a million planets in the Milky Way Galaxy that are being sterilized of any air-breathing life, and each year they invade from sterilized planets to hundreds of thousands of new planets. They question they need to answer is, how will they stop the Enemy and rescue the Galaxy?

They have taken the first steps in recruiting and training their sword and shield army, supported by soldiers recruited from Earth. The spaceship fleet is installing upgraded piloting controls so they can out-maneuver Enemy spaceships, but the fleet training hasn't been completed. They're not ready.

Why has the One Who Tests chosen to act now, and not for the last four thousand years?

What happens if they don’t meet the deadline?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Doug Plamping
• Release date: Sep 1, 2022
• ISBN: 9780987735959

Doug Plamping

Doug Plamping has recently taken his writing hobby to the new level of published author. Step on the Sun is his first book, with a number of books in the Council of Three series being prepared for publication. Doug has been a science fiction and fantasy fan since he was a boy growing up in the United Kingdom. A Canadian for 40 years, he enjoys rural living north of Calgary, Alberta, and spending time with family and friends.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Amy woke up in a tent. She remembered where she was, and what had happened, and something more. Messages. Messages given to her in a dream, and now echoing in her mind alongside the lingering nightmare of the men and women slavers they had killed.

She mentally pulled herself together, got dressed and stepped outside. Hello, Jimmy.

Good morning, Leadercouncilor. Security Condition Yellow. Just too much confusion with two armies settling in overnight. Your latrine is behind the tent, a bucket, sorry. When you’re ready, they’re still serving breakfast. We'll wake Paul and Frank.

After breakfast Amy went to the Command Tent. While waiting for Paul and Frank, she examined the whiteboards and the names of each of the cities on Ringworld.

They discovered that they all received the same messages. They discussed the implications of the messages from the One Who Tests given by the Angel, and swapped ideas on how to move forward as fast as the One Who Tests had commanded. the three decided that Paul would put forward a process and the couple of examples they felt would work.

Amy said, I remembered that the man on the throne had red hair and a red beard and was yelling blasphemy at us. I think it was an Evil One.

Frank answered, Sounds right. I think we're ready. Let's go in.

They entered the Command Tent. Sitting around a large square of tables were members of the Leadercouncilor Advisory Group, command staff of the Freedom Army, and command staff of the Exploration Group. Daughter and Trackerguard were at the back as Observers. As Amy came in she heard someone saying, But it’s impossible and—

That was quickly cut off as everyone stood.

Amy ignored the comment. Good morning. Please take your seats.

Brian Duncan-Smith, her Chief of Communications was working with his video crew, so this would be recorded, good. These messages were too important to be forgotten.

Amy remained standing. I may be going over ground you’ve already covered, but we need to catch up. First, what were our casualties?

Colonel Daniel Richards and General Straightgrain gave their lists of killed and wounded, which were satisfyingly light. Amy knew what Gin was doing this morning.

Amy said, "From the second part of the prophecy:

‘And the One Who Tests shall aid the council of three in their task to right a great wrong’."

Amy asked, Most Revered Holy One of Springblossom, please lead us in a prayer of thanks.

When Newpath was finished, Amy said, For the members of the past Exploration Group, prayer at military meetings was not a normal event.

Leadercouncilor, past? asked Colonel Daniel Richards.

Amy replied, Past. I will deal with that in a minute. First we remember what the One Who Tests commanded yesterday - In this city, now called Judgment, the judgment of the One Who Tests on the community of slave masters is complete. This Palace is an offense to the One Who Tests, a place of evil, it has been judged. Build here the Temple of the Path of Blood, that the intervention of the One Who Tests will be remembered. Every day, except Temple Day, the three and the Armies of the One Who Tests shall free a planet of slaves, or shall reunite a lost planet with the Isolated Planets community. Haste is needed for the Enemy comes. She who leads shall be obeyed. Bow to the vessel of the One Who Tests.

Amy paused while they all remembered what happened.

She announced, "The following are messages given to the three last night by an Angel on behalf of the One Who Tests. You will have questions, and we will discuss them later. For now I ask that you acknowledge your message."

Yesterday, the One Who Tests said - the Armies of the One Who Tests. The Freedom Army knows it fights for the One Who Tests, but there shall be one change. Your message, General Straightgrain - Units of the Freedom Army shall fight under a flag that represents the One Who Tests and the slaves who have been freed.

Straightgrain responded, Leadercouncilor, we will prepare a flag.

Amy addressed Colonel Daniel Richards, Dan, For the past Exploration Group the changes are more complex. Your message - Earth is your strength and support, and the One Who Tests, God, has determined that. On Earth you are the Exploration Group, but in the galaxy you are an Army of the One Who Tests. Choose your galactic name wisely for it will be spoken of for generations. Ranks in the new Army shall be rationalized to make the Army more effective, but need not have an impact on rank back on Earth. Units of the Army shall fight under a flag that represents the One Who Tests and the Army’s Earth origins.

Amy explained, The One Who Tests does not require anyone to believe, that is an individual choice. The message to those from Earth - Those of the past Exploration Group are not used to the direct involvement of God in their lives and military service. Those who are unwilling to accept this change may return to Earth, permanently. Please pass that on to all members of the past Exploration Group.

Dan said, Yes, Leadercouncilor.

Amy continued, The message to the Armies of the One Who Tests - The first planets to be freed by the Armies of the One Who Tests are those that form the Path of Blood. As I was a vessel of the One Who Tests yesterday, I don’t know which planets we marched through. Can someone tell me?

Straightgrain answered, Leadercouncilor, it was Strongharvest, Greenwaters, Castlehill, and Snowmountain.

Four planets. OK. The second part of the message was - The Armies of the One Who Tests will liberate the Path of Blood before Temple Day.

Comments were being made by staff from both armies. Amy held up her hand, waiting for silence. The One Who Tests said - Haste is needed for the Enemy comes. Haste means that things will be messy, but messes can be cleaned up in time.

Amy looked at Straightgrain. He answered, We will obey the One Who Tests, Leadercouncilor.

She looked at Dan, who answered, We also will comply with the deadline, Leadercouncilor.

Amy looked at Master Wayfarer Farmountains. Your message - The Wayfarer Guild shall provide Master Wayfarers and Wayfarers to serve with the Armies of the One Who Tests so the Armies may effectively maneuver on and between planets.

Farmountains said, We obey the One Who Tests, Leadercouncilor.

Amy looked at Master Warrior Captain Firstline. Your message - The Guard Guild will take over responsibility for the changing of the slaver planet economies, from slavery, to trade and commerce.

Firstline and Straightgrain looked worried.

Amy added, "In order to do this the three recognize that you need more resources. The Guard Guild will send out letters from the three, in the name of the One Who Tests, to every city in the Isolated Planets requesting volunteers from the Guard Guild, including retirees, to undertake this task. The volunteers will be paid their Guard wage, plus costs of food and lodging for them and their families, by the three."

Firstline answered, "We will complete the task given to us by the One Who Tests, Leadercouncilor. We thank the three for their support in this."

Amy continued, looking again at Firstline, The One Who Tests said - Build here the Temple of the Path of Blood, that the intervention of the One Who Tests will be remembered.

The second message to the Guard Guild - The people of Ringworld will be responsible to build the Temple of the Path of Blood. The Guard Guild will provide for the training of tradespeople needed, for providing workers, supplies, food and accommodation, but all who work on the Temple of the Path of Blood shall have previously been a slave on Ringworld.

Firstline said, The Guard Guild will undertake this task for the One Who Tests, Leadercouncilor.

Amy said, "Master Healer Amanda Stephanie Andrews. There was no specific message for the Healer Guild, but the three suggest that the training of the eleven newly anointed Healers commanded to - Heal the wounded - should to be moved to the Freedom Army and Exploration Group field hospitals."

Amanda said, Agreed, Leadercouncilor.

Amy looked at the Most Revered Holy One of Springblossom. "Two messages - The Temple Guild will provide teaching, shelter, and support for the orphans, both slavers and slave, until they become adults. We suggest that you consider paying families to take care of an orphan, or orphans where siblings are involved, and the three will reimburse those costs."

Second message - The Temple Guild will provide worship services on Temple Day in every city and village in the Isolated Planets. Where trained members of the Temple Guild are not available for other cities or villages, the Temple Guild will seek out individuals who feel the calling of the One Who Tests to serve as Spiritual Warriors.

Newpath looked stunned and was puzzled by the phrase Spiritual Warriors.

Amy said, Again, you need more resources and the One Who Tests has prepared the way. This is not a new issue. I previously have been given a vision where - I saw a great mass of people, women, men, priests, marching forward. Princess Dawnslight of the Desert Kingdom was at the front with dozens of others as leaders, behind them were hundreds, behind them were thousands, and behind them were millions of Spiritual Warriors. I saw that they were determined, moving forward together, ready for a fight. They didn’t carry swords, they carried the Book."

Everyone had covered their eyes as the blessing was so bright. Amy pulled it back in. Please approach Princess Dawnslight and ask her if she believes this is the time the One Who Tests has set for her to take on her role. If not, seek other leaders.

Newpath hesitated, but answered, We obey the One Who Tests, Leadercouncilor.

Amy looked at Ship Guild Councilor Manyworlds. Your message - The Ship Guild will take responsibility for the Lost Planets Plan. Distributing books to every city, and bringing their leaders to the Isolated Planets and liberated planets of slaves to see the progress for themselves.

Amy explained, Prior to the deadline given by the One Who Tests, the ‘lost’ planets must rejoin the Isolated Planets. They may request conditions on the transition, but only for security, and to protect their trade and commerce. They must honor the old way. They do not have a choice in this, if necessary, rejoining will be forced.

Manyworlds answered, I will pass that on, Leadercouncilor.

Amy paused for everyone to absorb this.

These were the messages given to me by an Angel on behalf of the One Who Tests. Your task is to put this into action. Remember, the One Who Tests gave us until Ship Day 927 to, and I quote - Every day, except Temple Day, the three and the Armies of the One Who Tests shall free a planet of slaves, or shall reunite a lost planet with the Isolated Planets community.

You have 142 days, including today.

Amy looked around at the worried faces. "The Book says,

‘The One Who Tests will enable you to undertake the required tests’.

Each of you should pray for guidance and assistance in undertaking the tests in front of us. Please continue the meeting, I will pray for all of us."

Amy left, signaling Paul and Frank to stay. She went to the top of the hill. On the far side of the city she could see the red platform where the Temple was to be built, and noticed for the first time the rings around the planet. She sat in the lotus position, meditated and prayed about what had happened.

Her Protection Team, and an outer ring of 64 Freedom Army soldiers with dyed red hands, protected her.

Chapter 2

Paul, as Warriorcouncilor, announced after a short break, "the three discussed the commands of the One Who Tests, and how to achieve the deadline. Apart from dealing with the ‘lost’ planets, we are required to liberate a slaver planet every 7 days. I remind you that it took us 25 days to liberate Manymetals."

"the three request that each element of our liberation process be reduced to the absolute shortest time possible. Then we review ways to minimize risk to our soldiers while meeting the deadline. I can give you a few examples of what we mean."

The notice to surrender has given a city a full day to surrender, and with Temple Day that can be extended to two days. Because we have allowed trade and travel to continue, every city knows the terms of surrender. We need to reduce a full day to 10 minutes.

There were a couple of gasps, but there were also a lot of nodding heads.

A second example would be the destruction of the city gates. The time taken to prepare and safely destroy the gates currently takes too much time and ammunition. We recommend that a Scoutship be utilized to destroy the city gates and portions of city walls with its Timelance Projectors. The use of the Scoutship eliminates the entire preparation time.

We can expect the slavers to flee through the city archways, so we will need to lock the exits to those archways or post guards to prevent the escape of the slavers as quickly as possible. We will use the Landing Craft to secure the Transit Stations immediately after either the surrender, or at the same time of our attack on the city gates.

Paul finished his comments with, Complying with the deadline of the One Who Tests is not a choice, we shall meet that deadline. So let’s put down each step of the process of liberating a planet, review the timeline and the options needed to reduce the time to 7 days per planet or less. Colonel Richards, would you have your staff take over the review at this point?

Dan stood. Thank you Warriorcouncilor. Everyone. Refill your coffee, you’re going to need it. Major Yazbec and his staff will lead this process. First we need a breakdown of…

* * *

A short time after the meeting was completed the Armies of the One Who Tests started to move through archways to Snowmountain.

Paul came up the hill and told Amy, We have enough of a plan to start. The Command Ship will be at Snowmountain in 21 hours and will provide Landing Craft to close the Transit Stations or Plazas. The Ship Guild is also providing two scoutships to provide support during assaults on cities; they will use their Timelance Projectors to destroy city gates and breach city walls if the city does not surrender after 10 minutes. After the gates are destroyed, the Exploration Group will open fire on defending troops as the Freedom Army storms the wall breaches.

Amy said, That sounds like what we were looking for. Thanks for letting me know.

Paul returned to the Command Tent.

* * *

Paul and Frank brought Amy a sandwich lunch.

Paul said, You’ve been crying. We need to talk about what happened. We both felt your pain, and we both channeled the wrath of the One Who Tests. It was frightening.

Amy agreed, For everyone. The One Who Tests, I believe, is Earth’s Old Testament God, acting to ensure the survival of the chosen people, in this case all Kinds in this galaxy. But I had nightmares last night about killing those men and women.

Frank asked, So did I, it was horrible. How did you survive the wounds, the bruises?

Because I was serving the One Who Tests. It doesn’t matter what the service is, it’s a blessing. As long as you believe that, your faith will hold you up.

Paul answered, I think that my faith is not that strong.

Mine isn’t, said Frank.

When it needs to be, it will be, Amy said. I have a vague recollection of Newpath saying something, but I don’t know what happened, or why. Trustways said something too. We should ask them.

Frank went off to find one of the Holy Ones, anxious to be doing something.

Paul, are there more Freedom Army soldiers with dyed red hands?

"We seemed to have started something in Ravinesedge when we had the ex-slaves dye their hands red. We didn’t think about prophecies then.

‘and the hands of blood shall serve them’."

"This is a group of sixty four soldiers plus their Centurion and his staff, calling themselves a Century. They have sworn to the One Who Tests to serve the three as stated in the prophecy."

Other Centurys are organizing. They like what I’ve shown them of ancient Roman army organization and weapons, and are going to adopt what makes sense. Straightgrain doesn’t know what to make of the dyed hands, but the soldiers and officers who have dyed their hands have said they will obey all lawful orders, so he left it alone. Most of them have no families to go back to, they will stay with the Freedom Army.

Amy and Paul sat in silence, thinking.

Frank brought Trustways up the hill. They sat in a semicircle on the grass around the spot where Amy had stood, and looked down the hill along the trail of dried blood that led across the plaza to an archway.

Amy asked, What happened yesterday has happened before?

Trustways answered, It’s called the Agony of the One Who Tests. It’s not mentioned in The Book, but the Temple Guild has records of previous times when this has happened. The key element is that a great wrong is happening at that time. What is happening is reflected on the body of the prophet. It is just a reflection of what is happening, but it is obviously painful. Our records give an explanation to be given to the prophet: The pain was not your pain, the blood was not your blood, the cuts were not your cuts, the bruises were not your bruises. They were from others who suffer.

This has not happened in the Isolated Planets for generations, but the Temple Guild teaches its members about it so they will know how to respond. The Agony will always be followed by a message from the One Who Tests that requires immediate action.

Personally, I found the experience distressing, and I wasn’t the one in pain. We were not ready for this. It’s in the prophecy. We should have realized what it meant and taught you what we knew. We’re examining all the prophecies so we don’t make that mistake again. Reading reports about previous Agonies did not prepare me for the…what’s your phrase?…the real thing.

Paul returned to the Command Tent, and Frank and Trustways stayed with Amy as she prayed.

* * *

Amy was back in her office having reassured those she met and her staff that she was OK. It was morning on the Command Ship. Gin came in and immediately ran over and hugged her, crying. Alice told me you were back. That was terrible, terrible!

Gin, I’m OK now, said Amy. Just part of the job. Remember the One Who Tests said - All Follow the Leadercouncilor to Stop a Great Wrong.?

Yes.

"Remember the prophecy where it says,

‘and the One Who Tests shall aid the council of three in their task to right a great wrong’."

Gin answered, Yes. But I didn’t realize prophecies were so real. I suggest you never look at the original video of you in the Chapel. Brian took off any close-in shots, they were causing people to vomit.

OK, said Amy, "and thank you for caring. But back to work. The One Who Tests told us - Haste Is Needed For The Enemy Comes. That means that we need to get the Defeat the Enemy Plan moving faster. Where is the book on the three?"

Gin grimaced. It’s still too long. The author just can’t understand that the galaxy’s manual printing system cannot deal with that many pages.

Well, send him to me, I'll get the message through.

Gin asked, Give me one more chance, one day, if I threaten him with you it will work. I’ll make him watch the original video from yesterday. Better than you scaring him to death.

I’m no ogre, protested Amy.

No, but you’re really scary at times. You’re driven. Your friends understand, but for outsiders, it’s like facing a charging bull.

Bull?

OK, cow. But that doesn’t sound scary enough.

Enough, said Amy, fighting a laugh.

Amy said, Set up a meeting with the Ship Guild, Astronaut Colonel Jack Andersen, Paul and Frank, for us to go over the Ship Guild part of the Defeat the Enemy Plan. An hour.

We’ll try for tomorrow, said Gin. Anything else.

I need to speak to the freed slaves on each planet, and later on each of the ‘lost’ planets that rejoin us. It’s best done in the capital city, at dusk, when the blessing can be seen. Can someone work that out?

Gin suggested, I think Alice could. After an hour she’s almost rebuilt your appointment calendar. She’s also doing Paul and Frank’s calendars. Let her try this. There isn’t enough work for Alice with your normal absences. This will fill her time.

I’ve no problem with that, said Amy.

Now with this blessing being seen business. You haven’t looked in a mirror lately have you? said Gin as she took Amy over to her restroom. Gin created the opening and said, Full length mirror, take a look.

Amy did. The blessing was brighter, a lot brighter, and very intense. It was hard to look at continuously. OK, said Amy, with a sigh, the dusk thing doesn’t matter.

* * *

Lieutenant Valeron had asked to see her on an urgent issue, so Amy had Alice show him in. Amy indicated he should sit down, as she finished a few notes.

How can I help you, Lieutenant?

Leadercouncilor, shortly we will have prisoners from 19 liberated planets, so we would like to duplicate Prison Island as many times as necessary. Again use remote islands as that controls any escape problems. Tropical as it is easier for the prisoners to grow their own food. Villages as that reduces crime. We would identify the locations. What the Engineering Unit is looking for is the installation of the Councilor locked archway, and the two transparent tube barriers as you did last time.

Amy answered, That’s no problem, and I assume you wish to use my personal yellow dome.

Yes, Ma’am.

Also no problem, please schedule each installation with Alice. Before you go I have a request.

Certainly Ma’am.

Amy was going to comment that he should wait before agreeing, but then realized that he was likely to be taking the statement in the prophecy,

‘She who leads shall be obeyed’,

literally, without realizing that she needed honest input and criticism to make good decisions.

Pass on a request that we need a portable archway backing system, like those built for the caves, something that can be put together quickly allowing a Wayfarer to install an archway during a battle. The pieces would have to be small enough and light enough so that it could be delivered through a Fleet ship airlock. Some for each Army, and the Wayfarers should have access to some. Then the Wayfarers and Councilors will be able to deliver units of the Armies anywhere they are needed.

The Lieutenant was completing his notes. Ma’am, we have the quick drying cement kits, but we always need to find something vertical to use it on. This would eliminate that problem.

Amy smiled. Thank you, Lieutenant.

Chapter 3

Next was the Temple Guild and Brigade Chaplain Captain Louis Canet.

As they walked in, Amy indicated that they should use the circle of armchairs. She went and joined them. All of the guild members on the Command Ship were present. Newpath, Trustways, Steephills, Drinlake, and Marshpath.

Amy asked, How can I help you?

Newpath answered, Leadercouncilor, we are here to seek your guidance. Amy nodded so Newpath continued. "The prophecy says that the three will,

‘put back the old way’,

and the message from the One Who Tests said - Where trained members of the Temple Guild are not available for other cities or villages, the Temple Guild will seek out individuals who feel the calling of the One Who Tests to serve as Spiritual Warriors."

Newpath explained, This is something that the Temple Guild has never done before. We don’t understand.

Amy was not surprised, this was completely beyond them at the moment. Please sit down. Let’s examine the old way first. Trustways, when you were in Ravinesedge, it was a special occasion?

Yes, Leadercouncilor.

How often would a member of the Temple Guild hold a Temple Day service in Ravinesedge?

That did not happen.

But a Temple was built there, before the attack of the Enemy. There were Temple Day services in the past?

Yes, Leadercouncilor.

So services in every city and village is the old way?

He hesitated, looking first at Newpath, but answered, Yes, Leadercouncilor.

Amy said, Newpath, how many cities and villages in the 34 Isolated Planets no longer have Temple Day services? A rough estimate.

Amy sat back and let them work it out.

Newpath said, About 350,000, twice the number of the current members of the Temple Guild.

Amy used the conversion app on her tablet. That was 120,000 in base 10, and only 60,000 current members in the Temple Guild. She asked, And how many cities and villages will need Temple Day services on 21 liberated planets and the 105 ‘lost’ planets?

From the expressions they had not thought of that. Amy sat back and waited.

Eventually, Newpath said, We think, Leadercouncilor, that it will be, assuming that their populations are half of the maximum, 2,630,000.

Amy did the math. Approximately 750,000 in base 10.

So Newpath, the Temple Guild has been required by the One Who Tests to - Provide For Worship Services On Temple Day In Every City And Village In the Isolated Planets. You agree that this is the old way. You have calculated this requires an additional 750,000, in base 10, members of the Temple Guild but you only have 60,000 now. There was no argument with the numbers. So, how will the Temple Guild achieve what the One Who Tests has required within 142 days?

Newpath looked at everyone else, then said, Leadercouncilor, we don’t know.

Amy asked, Louis, can you provide some thoughts from the New Testament on how the early church on Earth was organized, and from your knowledge, can you provide us with any Earth examples of those that would serve God, where that service is based on individuals that are not part of the formal church leadership?

Louis had suddenly leaned forward as Amy had asked the question. Leadercouncilor, are you looking at a revival?

Amy answered, Such as the evangelical revivals that happened in Scotland, perhaps, but not exactly. I, Amy, feel that this would be better thought of as a resurgence and strengthening of faith in the One Who Tests. To think of it as a restoration would be closer. Please also explain what we have been talking about.

Louis made some notes on his tablet, and then spent the next 30 minutes covering the ground that Amy requested.

A few questions were asked, and then there was silence.

Amy suggested, Why don’t you think and pray about what we discussed. Let’s meet after dinner, and see what additional questions you have.

* * *

Alice buzzed her, Leadercouncilor, the Assistant Ambassador to the Eight Kind has arrived for her meeting.

Amy answered, Please send her in.

As soon as the opening shut behind her, Sally ran over to Amy and hugged her, and cried.

Sally, through the tears, said, Amy, I didn’t know it was happening. I was working in my office. The video, it’s terrible. I threw up. Why?

Amy hugged her back, thankful that Sally really cared about her. In the galaxy the One Who Tests is involved in the day to day lives of all Kinds, like our Old Testament God. I went through that having faith, and my faith allowed me to bear the pain I was feeling. I was blessed to be chosen. I’m OK, except for being a bit exhausted.

Well I have something that will perk you up.

Good.

Sally opened a book from the Leadercouncilor’s Library. This book includes this phrase; ‘…and this was true for the eight Kind; Human Kind, Angel Kind, Airdweller Kind, Herdpack Kind, Waterpack Kind, Bloodkill Kind, Nearspace Kind, and Spider Kind.

Anything more, Amy asked.

No, but now I have the names, I can search for those names in other books. Five are more like a grouping of Kinds. You may be dealing with a Kind that leads the group, or a council representing the group. Something I’ll research. I tried to contact Daughter and Trackerguard to get confirmation. Both of them left Hope immediately after the messages from the One Who Tests were given at this morning’s meeting.

That’s interesting, mused Amy.

* * *

Amy brought Sally to the dinner with the Leadercouncilor Advisory Group.

Everyone was very concerned for any effect that the Agony had on her.

Amy reassured them and then had Sally read out what she had discovered. This created a lot of excitement. Some of the group had read the names of some of the Kinds in other books, not knowing what they meant. They agreed bring to Sally’s attention any reference to the eight Kind.

Chapter 4

After dinner, Amy met again with the members of the Temple Guild and Louis.

Amy asked, Newpath, what questions do you have?

Leadercouncilor, we have prayed. We do not doubt that this is direction from the One Who Tests, but we don’t understand, we don’t know what to ask.

Amy didn’t know how to resolve this, for they honestly did not understand. First let me say that the problem is not as bad as you think. We can increase the workload for individual Temple Guild members. Temple Day on each planet is on different days and services are held two hours after sunrise, working around the planet. With our Earth organizational systems we can provide schedules that would allow Temple Guild members to provide services to multiple Temples every day. We can use our non-military technical resources to help the Temple Guild in this. We would need to continue to improve the archway system to help that schedule to work effectively. That would help with the immediate need.

Newpath agreed, Yes, thank you Leadercouncilor. We see that, and those systems would assist us, but we don’t understand how untrained individuals could serve the One Who Tests.

Amy said quietly, "the three are untrained."

Newpath quickly explained, But you are guided by the One Who Tests.

Yes, we are, and—

Amy felt the contact with the One Who Tests leave her.

She was sad to lose the contact, but honored to serve. The room was white with the brightness of the blessing. Amy pulled it back in, and found she was standing.

They all uncovered their eyes.

I have a message for the Most Revered Holy One of Springblossom and the Temple Guild from the One Who Tests - Your name of Newpath was not given in relation to the three, but was given to announce your role for the Temple Guild. You and seven of the Temple Guild shall go to Earth. Learn from what I have created on Earth. Study the work of the individual believers and their training. Determine a new path. Haste is needed for the Enemy comes. Return here in eight days.

Amy closed her eyes and prayed for a while.

She said, "Louis, please clear your involvement with Colonel Richards. I’m asking that you organize this on behalf of the three, and escort them on Earth. They need to focus on the roles of the individual believers, not church organization as that is to remain in the old way. They need to see firsthand examples from individuals in the most formal church structures, such as the Catholic Church, to individuals in the most informal, such as the Open Brethren. Examples would be missionaries, and those serving God as teachers, doctors, nurses, aid workers, and so on."

Leadercouncilor, asked Louis, I have not heard of the Open Brethren. How do I contact them?

Amy smiled. You don’t. They have no church structure. No offices, except for independent seminaries, publications, and missions coordinated by God. You will need to find a local church or chapel and speak to them.

Leadercouncilor, no church structure? How is that possible? asked Steephills.

Each Open Brethren church, also known in the past as the Plymouth Brethren, is made up of a self-governing local congregation. They are guided by God’s word, The Bible, which includes instructions on running the church, plus they seek inspiration and direction from God.

You will be impressed at the depth of their knowledge of The Bible. Their traditional weekly communion service is quite beautiful. No music, Capella singing, no set order of service, just each individual responding to the inspiration of God. It is thought to be very similar to the type of services held by the Pilgrims who had a big role in the foundation of my birth nation, the United States of America. It is a church of individuals serving God. I attended one of their chapels with a friend many times.

Newpath asked, When will we go?

Amy answered, Gather the eight members of the Temple Guild that the message spoke of. I will take you to Earth after breakfast tomorrow. Please feel free to leave my office now so you can organize this. I will speak to Louis about the arrangements on Earth.

They left, subdued and overwhelmed.

Amy asked, Louis, will you be coming back with the Temple Guild members, or will you be staying on Earth, permanently?

Louis smiled. I have seen the hand of our God working in the galaxy, I will stay here.

Good, said Amy. "Colonel Richards is aware that the three have a secret organization on Earth supporting our goals, it’s called the Rabbit Hole."

Louis laughed. How appropriate.

Amy continued, If you agree to keep it secret, I can take you there so that you can get a head start on organizing the next eight days. Brian should know a documentary maker who can record this event, ask him.

Louis was taking notes. I give my word not to reveal the Rabbit Hole. He smiled. The extra time will help.

Amy continued, We pay our own way on Earth so you’ll get a credit card and cash to fund the travel expenses. You will be dropped off with the eight members of the Temple Guild and some translators at an archway on the wall of a restaurant parking lot in Noce, Bologna, Italy. Amy wrote an address down. That’s about 4 hours from Rome. You should take a Protection Team with you, or have one meet you there. Arrange for a coach with tinted windows to pick you up. I will pick you up at the same spot on Day 794, at 20:00 hours Ship Time. Then you return to this office as the One Who Tests instructed.

Understood, Leadercouncilor, said Louis.

Amy added, Please take care of them for us. On Earth, they’re going to be like babes in the woods, and they will not have an easy time.

Chapter 5

Runners brought Amy and Frank messages requesting them to meet Paul and General Straightgrain on the Bridge of Paul's Landing Craft, Gladius.

General Straightgrain said, We have a problem on Castlehill. We have unarmed civilians throwing themselves at us to stop us destroying their Blessed Ones. We’ve drawn back for now, but when we do move forward there’s going to be civilian casualties.

Paul added, We found out that this religion is based on the Blessed One’s miracles. The Blessed One’s are able to kill the guilty with thunder and smoke by pointing at them, and by destroying buildings through prayer. We’ve also discovered that they collect saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal.

Frank quickly said, Gunpowder.

Yes, Paul answered, but they have convinced the population that they perform miracles.

Can we get hold of some gunpowder? asked Amy.

Yes, the Armorer has some, Paul said.

Colonel Richards arrived and General Straightgrain briefed him while the three discussed the situation.

General Straightgrain asked the three, What do you intend to do?

Paul said, Pull your soldiers back from one gate, far enough to allow us to slip in as civilians. Allow citizens to leave this city by the archways, we need them to spread the word that the Blessed Ones are false. We’ll demonstrate to the public that there is no miracle in gunpowder Looking at the monitor, Amy added, This temple complex is in its own park. I can lock them in with a tube barrier. Might have to destroy it. Frank how many grams to destroy this temple?

Frank said, If you set it off inside the tube, 200 grams will pulverize the temple, it will be equivalent to one metric ton of explosives.

Paul stated, The flash will be enough to blind people, the dust will choke people.

Amy said, OK, I don’t want to do that. If we use a black tube for the first 20 meters, and the transparent tube will be a kilometer high, that should cover it.

Colonel Richards asked, If 200 grams is a metric ton of explosive, what would have happened if you accidentally used the wrong command on that tank you floated?

Frank answered, It’s exponential, so it’s equivalent to roughly 10 million atomic bombs. It would destroy the Earth and the Moon, probably breaking them up.

Colonel Richards said, after being silent for a while, We don’t have a military answer to this, so please be careful. If it gets out of control just fort up in a black tube, and we’ll come and get you.

* * *

The guard at the gate said, What’s wrong with her?

Paul answered, Her skin turns white and peels off, it’s hard to look at.

The guard took two steps back.

Paul continued, We come to pray for a miracle.

The guard waved them on. Good luck on that.

Amy whispered, You just described sunburn.

Paul answered, smiling, But I didn’t lie.

They walked up the street to the central square. Paul and Frank walked close to Amy as if they were helping her to walk. They didn’t want anyone accidentally pulling open her mufti. There was no Temple here, but they could see what once would have been the Temple steps. There was an even broader street leading from the central square to the Blessed Ones temple.

the three watched the square from the open area in front of the Temple Compound.

An official came out of the Blessed One Temple and announced an execution of sinners. A line of prisoners, wrists tied with ropes and tied to each other, were brought out and lined up in front of a low wall so they were facing the temple.

Paul said, This is our opportunity. Let’s be close enough to get in between the firing squad and the prisoners. To the left side, less people there.

They moved quickly through the crowd listening to a Blessed One threatening citizens with death for disobedience. Arriving at the left side, Amy put a transparent barrier in front of the prisoners, and started her watch timer. They needed 11 seconds. As the firing squad started to come out they walked in front of the prisoners.

Paul asked loudly, What have these prisoners been accused of?

One of the guards threatened them with a spear.

Afraid to answer me? Paul shouted.

One of the Blessed Ones waved the guard back. He said, Have you come for one of these sinners?

No, answered Paul, but we would like to know what they are accused of. What sin have they committed?

Half tube up, whispered Amy. It had firing holes for each of them.

The Blessed One laughed, You cannot demand anything of me.

The crowd was silent now.

Paul said, If you have no charge against these prisoners then release them.

Angry, the Blessed One shouted, They have sinned against the Blessed Ones.

Paul shouted, What sin?

I command you to be silent, said the Blessed One, threateningly.

Paul answered, Not until you answer my question. What sin have they committed?

The Blessed One grinned, The same sin as you, they did not obey. You will now join them.

Paul shouted, Go ahead, the One Who Tests will protect us. We’ll just stand here while you get ready. Will that be a problem?

The Blessed One, made furious by Paul’s tone, shouted at the firing squad, Kill them!

The firing squad raised their arms and pointed at the prisoners and the three. Suddenly straightening their arms, the cords around their shoulders pulled the triggers on the flintlocks hidden under their wide sleeves. The barriers stopped the bullets.

Hidden by the smoke, Amy pulled off her mufti, releasing the blessing.

Paul threw the steel rod behind the firing squad.

Amy placed a clear tube around the whole temple complex, including the firing squad. They’re sealed in.

It’s a little high, teased Paul.

They lengthened their staffs, and touched the points together.

The staffs were filled with the light of the One Who Tests.

They moved forward to stand in front of the tube and turned to face the crowd. The guards and Blessed Ones behind them were frantically trying to break through the tube. The crowd was pointing at them, shouting questions. People came forward to cut the ropes off the prisoners.

Amy stepped forward, and raised her staff. She released her blessing, and it flowed out across the crowd. She pushed it further and further, until it covered the entire city.

Amy said, "People of Castlehill. I am the Leadercouncilor. With me are the Warriorcouncilor and the Wizardcouncilor. We are the three as foretold in prophecy."

Around me you see the blessing of the One Who Tests, who said - My gift to you will not be hidden, all will see it. You have felt the blessing. You now know the goodness of the One Who Tests. I received these robes in the Temple of Healing when I was anointed by the One Who Tests as the First Healer. We were provided our staffs by the One Who Tests at the Temple in Bayside City, on Quenlac.

Amy stepped back, and Frank stepped forward.

Frank said, I am the Wizardcouncilor. There is no miracle in the destruction of buildings or in how people are killed by the devices hidden in the sleeves of the firing squads. This is all caused by something we know as gunpowder. It is made from saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal. That caused a lot of murmuring in the crowd. I ask the Warriorcouncilor to spread some out on the ground and put a flame to it.

Paul put down a trail of gunpowder and dropped a small bundle of gunpowder at the end. Using a BBQ lighter, he lit the gunpowder. The flame and smoke moved along the trail until it hit the bundle and gave off a small bang and a lot of smoke.

Amy stepped forward again. "The first part of the prophecy, recorded in the Book says:

'The prophetess stood in the center of the Great Temple Hall on Core and said

this is the vision that the One Who Tests has given me

a time of great trouble will be on the galaxy

and I saw that a council of three was anointed by the One Who Tests

and appointed by all

to be responsible for leadership

and the One Who Tests said

of the council of three

she shall lead and care for all

a wizard shall advise and guide them

a soldier shall protect and serve them

and I also saw that the One Who Tests marked them as eight

and provided their staffs

so that those that found them would know their destiny’

The second part of the prophesy, which is not in The Book, but was preserved elsewhere, says:

‘And the One Who Tests shall aid the council of three in their task

to right a great wrong

and a servant of the One Who Tests shall instruct them

and a daughter of the eighth Kind shall encourage them

and the hands of blood shall serve them

and the armies of the intruders shall educate them

and the way to Core shall be shown to them

and the path to truth shall be given to them’

The third part of the prophesy, which is not in The Book, but was preserved elsewhere, says:

‘And the One Who Tests shall cause the council of three

to leave home

to know home

to put back the old way

to seek the new path

to search out a new harvest

to proclaim a new way’

The Protocol of The Three, which is not in The Book, but was preserved elsewhere, says:

‘When the three shall come the One Who Tests shall guide them

She who leads shall be obeyed

The wizard shall find the knowledge of the past

The soldier shall preserve the future

Guide not their destiny, answer that which serves the path

Assist them in their path

Kill those who are not the three."

Amy added, We're not fond of the last line.

That got a few laughs from the crowd.

"The Principles given by the One Who Tests as written in the Book are these:

‘A guild, planet, community, or person shall serve the good of the One Who Tests, the good of the galaxy, the good of the planet, the good of the community, and the good of others. A person shall be responsible for their own actions, and the actions of their children. A guild or community shall be responsible for its actions, and the actions of its persons. Councilors, anointed by the One Who Tests, and appointed by all, shall serve the good of all, and shall in a Council of Three, judge all in the name of the One Who Tests. There shall be no other principles than these’."

Amy continued, "We, as the three, are here to judge those on this planet who committed blasphemy, who falsely stated that they represented the One Who Tests, and who committed many crimes against the people of Castlehill. the three find them responsible for their actions. In the name of the One Who Tests we judge them to be guilty, and sentence them to death."

Amy turned and put a black tube around the outside of the transparent tube, and started her timer.

Amy said, turning back the crowd, "The One Who Tests has granted powers to each of the three. I, the Leadercouncilor, have been given the power to heal in the name of the One Who Tests."

Amy paused for a few seconds. I have also been given the power to destroy. This false temple is an abomination, and shall be destroyed along with those sentenced to death.

"Outside the city are the Armies of the One Who Tests. The One Who Tests has commanded that the Armies liberate the slaver worlds. Do not resist them as they come to carry out the commands of the One Who Tests. The Guard Guild will assist all cities in changing to an economy based on trade and commerce, and to do that the three will provide grants to pay wages and support businesses during the change. Tell others what I have told you, and what you have seen this day."

Amy’s watch buzzed.

She announced, It is time to carry out the sentence of death. This sentence shall be carried out on the slaver community by the Armies of the One Who Tests in this and other cities.

the three turned around and raised their staffs.

Paul told Amy the identifier on the steel rod and she used the Mass Zero command, starting her timer again. The explosion within the tube created a vertical beam of light that illuminated the clouds above them.

Then a round hole was punched through the clouds.

An instant later a donut shaped dust cloud thrust skyward out of the barrier.

A single shake of the ground, strong enough to knock some people off their feet, rippled out from the ground under the barrier.

Paul said, quietly, When your watch buzzes, release the tube barriers.

Some dust was released, but it drifted away from the city. In front of them was a circular crater with vertical walls. At the bottom was solid rock, the explosion, concentrated by the tube, had vaporized the soil as well as the buildings, the Blessed Ones and their guards.

The dust cloud and the smoke ring continued to climb higher into the atmosphere.

They turned back to the crowd, which was bowing to them.

Amy said, May the One Who Tests bless you all.

the three walked back to the city gates.

Chapter 6

Amy was observing Temple Day in the First Temple on the Command Ship to reassure the people on the ship that she was OK. Jimmy had told her that there was no end to rumors about what had happened. Amy decided she would explain the Agony in her next video.

She took the far left seat in the front row, so the blessing did not intrude on the service and the people sitting behind her. While Paul, Frank, Gin, Sally, Amanda, Dan, and the Temple Guild members had no problem sitting where the blessing could touch them, there was usually a quarter ring of empty seats around them.

Amy felt comfortable in Drinlake’s services, perhaps because of their history. His sermons were applicable to the daily lives of his people in the artificial environment of the Command Ship, and she enjoyed that.

Paul told her that the Quietforest Chapel floor had been stained dark red by the blood where she lay on the floor, and by her footsteps. The Temple Guild had moved the door in the wood partition, and put in a prayer rail to keep people from touching the floor. Even during services there were people silently praying in the chapel, most of them from Ringworld.

* * *

The Armies had liberated Strongharvest, Greenwaters, Castlehill, and Snowmountain before Temple Day, and returned to Progress Island. With Ringworld, five planets were now liberated.

General Straightgrain had invited the three and Dan to join him and his officers for dinner.

the three had chosen this day for the surprise celebration feast and Amy had connected her personal yellow dome, she still needed a name for it, to an empty archway blank on the plaza. Rainwashes had prepared the main course, roasted pig on platters, and they had been put in the dome, which means they were still hot. The disadvantage she’d discovered was that every time she’d used the dome she smelt the food and drooled. One platter for 24 soldiers meant over 4,000 platters, which filled a good part of the dome.

Amy really wanted to name it something other than ‘her personal yellow dome’. Hope and what? Ah! 1st Corinthians 13 verse 13, ‘and now these three remain: faith, hope, and love.’ She’d call it Faith.

The rest of the feast was being prepared by the Freedom Army cooks. One soldier from each group of 24 was sent to the archway to pick up their platter, while the cooks placed the remainder of the feast on the tables.

Paul and Frank entered the Command Tent, which had been laid out for the meal. Paul went over to Straightgrain.

Straightgrain said, You’re early?

Paul smiled and nodded to the Master Cook at the back of the tent. We invite you to join us in this event.

Event?

"In order to celebrate your freedom, the three have arranged for a feast for every soldier of the Freedom Army. One soldier from every 24 is going to the plaza to pick up part of the feast. We’d like to invite the General to represent the Command Team."

Certainly. How many soldiers will be doing this?

Over 4,000, said Paul. You do have a big army.

Don’t we! I’m intrigued. Let’s go.

Paul and Frank escorted the General to the archway, where Amy was waiting, holding the archway open.

Paul announced, On this day, celebrating that you are free? Cheers drowned him out. "the three have arranged a feast. More cheers. You have completed the task set for you by the One Who Tests, in freeing the planets on the Path of Blood. the three congratulate the Freedom Army and the Exploration Group for this success. Thank these people who represent those that did all the hard work. Pilgrim Food Services Manager Rainwashes. Cheers and clapping. And Master Cook Manyfolds." More cheers.

Paul said, It’s hot and ready. Use this archway and take one wood platter of roast pig… More cheers. …take it back to your group. Don’t drop it! Laughter, and then a general rush through the archway.

Paul and Frank escorted Straightgrain into Faith so he could see how much food there was.

Amy said from the archway, General, please pick up a platter for your Command Team and take it to them. Once the food and the soldiers are out of here, I will join you. Start without me.

It went almost perfectly. Less spilled platters than they expected, and the demands for seconds removed the remaining platters from the floor of Faith.

In the Command Tent the feast was enjoyed by everyone.

After everyone had eaten, Straightgrain stood up. "On behalf of the Freedom Army, and especially our Command Team, I want to thank the three for this feast and celebration. Now it’s our turn to surprise you. Let me present the Flag of the Freedom Army."

Two soldiers came in and displayed the new flag. The flag was blue with two elements printed on it. The symbol for The One Who Tests, in red, on the left, and on the right, broken chains in black.

Everyone stood and applauded.

Paul said, It’s a great flag. Well done.

Amy asked after the applause died down, Colonel Richards, How is your flag coming? And the name?

Dan said, As a really good name, Freedom Army was taken, we had to look for something else. As we are not under the direction of the United Nations on Earth, the popular choice of Army of the United Nations was ruled out. However the second choice was also very popular, and was the final choice. The United Earth Army, same meaning but less political problems. Works well in Galactic, English, Italian, and Spanish. Ranks will change only at the senior level, I will be a General, equal with Straightgrain, and my senior combat staff will be Colonels.

And the flag, Amy prompted.

"Working on it. Looking to use the symbol for the One Who Tests the same way as the flags for the three and the Freedom Army. On the right the popular choice is a dove with an olive branch in its beak. You know the symbolism of that. But it just does not feel martial enough."

* * *

Gin came into the Leadercouncilor’s Office. "Amy, something the three need to make time for."

OK?

Gin said, "Trackerguard of the Guardian Two One Four Two Family of the Lupdess Kind formally requests an audience with the three in order to present a message from the First Council of the Lupdess. Trackerguard is waiting in Reception."

Interesting. How soon can we meet?

Frank is in the Command Ship electronics workshop testing the final version of the corridor and room relay modules, and can come with a few minutes notice. Paul is on Progress Island, and it’s late evening there, so he should be coming back soon. Shall I send a runner for Paul?

Yes, we’d better do that. He likes spending time with the soldiers and might not be back for a while. How are the runners working out?

Apart from some stupid tween stuff, really well. They like the uniform, the official yellow staff, and the pay. They especially like that they can run through the ship corridors when no one else is allowed to. Silentgull supervises them once they’re trained, and that has worked out well. He’s like a grandfather to them.

Gin added, I’ve a suggestion. Both Alice and Maria are both acting as Executive Assistants, except that they can’t leave their desks during our office hours, and they need to. Let’s promote them both, and hire two receptionists under them.

I agree. It would make Alice more effective for me.

* * *

Alice created the opening, and announced, "Trackerguard of the Guardian Two One Four Two Family of the Lupdess Kind, in audience with the three."

Five of the eight armchairs and all of the coffee tables had been removed from the Leadercouncilor’s Office. The remaining armchairs were placed in front of the ship desk facing the opening. Gin and Sally were standing to one side, and Brian’s crew was recording the event. Their twelve bodyguards were spaced around the office, standing at attention, backs to the wall now all the cabinets had been removed except for the one behind Amy’s desk.

the three stood, and Amy responded, "We, the three, welcome Trackerguard of the Guardian Two One Four Two Family of the Lupdess Kind, and would hear their announcement."

Trackerguard came forward and stood in front of the three. She said, I present a message from the First Council of the Lupdess. She reached around to her harness and pulled out a small tube.

Gin walked over and took the tube, stood to one side of Trackerguard, and opened it. She pulled out a rolled parchment, and holding it open, read, "From the First Council of the Lupdess, to the three of the Human Kind. We trust that you are well. The First Council of the Lupdess invites the three to meet with them to discuss the implications of the statement of the One Who Tests that - Haste is needed for the Enemy comes. For that purpose, the three, and their staff and protectors, are invited to the planet of the Lupdess within the Isolated Planets provided that the three and those that serve the three agree to keep the location of the planet of the Lupdess secret at this time. There is a signature at the bottom which I cannot read."

Amy looked at Trackerguard.

Trackerguard explained, "It is the signature of