Brusaura's Search For Emily: Volume two: The Journey Continues

By R.D. Swoopes

In Brusaura's Search for Emily Volume Two: The Journey Continues, the adventure takes a dramatic turn when school friends stumble upon a derelict farmhouse and a cryptic red brick water well. This ancient well houses an interdimensional portal, filled with endless magic, nestled in the weedy landscape. The portal, a bridge connecting the Earth to far-flung galaxies, is a river of mist flowing through a maze of doorways and planets.

Across these galaxies, war and destruction rage, believed to be stirred by Emily, a prodigy raised by King Oscorin, ruler of the planet Brusaura. In Emily's flesh are keys to ominous chambers that imprison ancient, deadly entities guarded by the undead. With Emily releasing these creatures, the king sends a plea for help to his most trusted allies.

Christopher, an age-old fighter pilot and guardian of the Earth-galaxy threshold, responds. Recognizing the potential in the unsuspecting school friends, Joseph and Zac, he recruits them, believing they might just be the ones to succeed him. The journey continues as these young adventurers prepare to confront the unleashed entities, restore cosmic peace, and discover the truth about Emily.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Jun 26, 2023
• ISBN: 9798350909074

Book preview

CHAPTER I: THE GATEWAY

Freskaa, the living tree we had deceived with the mystic Theora plant, stood patiently by, watching us bickering amongst ourselves. Calm down, ladies, there’s really no need for all this quarreling. You will be fine if you follow my instructions and continue walking in the direction of the orange sun. You ladies are unlike any trees I have ever met before. I am just sorry I can’t do more to help you. Actually, Freskaa, there is one more thing you can do for us: answer a question. If I can Helga, please proceed. When you were speaking about the doorway, you didn’t get a chance to finish telling us about the small planet.

A warning is the best advice I can give you, Helga. Be careful inside that place. I’m not sure what the full extent of the moon’s power or abilities are; however, I fear your lack of them will place you at a grave disadvantage. Just so you know, its temperament is the worst. Take heed ladies, any little thing will set that obnoxious moon off. Watch what you say to one another. The more Freskaa spoke about the planet, the more upset she became. After a while, she had both her arms lifted high in the air and was waving them around as if conducting an orchestra. That floating monstrosity insisted on knowing every tiny little thing said and would get frightfully upset if we ignored or refused to clarify what he overheard us talking about. How dare that … Nat immediately interjected. I believe we get your point, he told her.

Freskaa lowered her voice then arms. None of us even noticed it hovering up there in the sky. It looked like an ordinary asteroid or tiny moon. Around evening, it began its sneaky descent, inching its way slowly down toward the planet. I was the first to notice it. Ladies, that planet is moving I told the rest. ‘Don’t be silly,’ Pechka told me. ‘You’re mistaken.’ Suddenly, the planet turned completely around and started glowing. When its rock eyes sprang open, I couldn’t believe what I was looking at. Freskaa’s voice began to raise a few octaves. "That thing was alive. I could see rage in those huge, green, glowing, bloodshot eyes that had no place on a stone. ‘Get out!’ it shouted gliding straight down toward us. ‘This planet along with its inhabitants have been equally divided.’

Oh, ladies, I can still see every fine detail of that terrifying lump of floating rock and hear its earsplitting voice inside my head. We were lucky our dealings with him were short. In situations such as that, flormongath is always the best solution. We vanished amongst the unseen until we were able to leave that wretched place. Many trees amongst my own, are gifted with excellent eyesight. It’s difficult to phantom why at least one of you ladies doesn’t possess this crucial ability. Maybe you should consider sleeping by the river until morning and entering the doorway tomorrow. That ball of horror shouldn’t be around then.

Nat shook his head no. Freskaa, we need to go through the doorway before the men that kidnapped Emily find out she is missing from their holding cell. Alright, ladies, as you wish, let’s hurry then. We pressed on through the forest with haste as if the vine creatures were directly behind us. When worse came to worse, we started downing magic seeds to keep up with Freskaa–all of us that is, except Zac who was used to this kind of abuse. Freskaa led us through areas where the grass grew far up past our heads, and out into an entirely different forest of bizarre yet beautiful trees with braided trunks. Zac tilted his head back and began sniffing the air. We must be close to water. Excellent sense of smell, Beatrice, yes, we are very close to the river, in fact it’s just beyond those trees.

We will follow the water source to the dirt field. I need each of you to get in single file behind me the moment I tell you to. Addis swallowed another seed. Why? he asked in between breaths. Agnes, we are nearing a doorway. In order to reach your destination, we must travel through it. There is a small area within the barrier that is corroded and ripped. The opening is guarded by hundreds of protectors that can see within it. Flormongath is the only way I can shield your prisoner from them. If she remains behind me, their eyes will see only the afterimage of us. Freskaa’s eyes and body suddenly turned white as snow. Get behind me now! she cried out in a loud voice. The five of us immediately lined up one behind the other with Emily between us and ran for dear life. 

I glanced around, expecting the worst, believing within seconds we would be transported into a vortex of some kind surrounded by a whole slew of vine creatures waiting to rip us apart; however, nothing like that even remotely happened. As if déjà vu, I found myself repeatedly running through the same forest and canyon, stopping where it ended, then beginning again. After a while I knew every tree, rock and ravine we passed like the back of my hand. The water is very close, Freskaa informed us, racing through the canyon filled with huge protruding blue crystals I had seen at least twenty times before. When the landscape suddenly changed and my brain fog ended, I found myself standing alongside Freskaa facing a river. I recognized the body of water the second I laid eyes on it. Near drowning isn’t something one forgets so easily. I stood staring in awe, wondering if any of us would have made it across without the help of the fish queen’s shell. The river was vast and extremely wide; I wouldn’t doubt it didn’t snake its way across the entire planet. Zac suddenly started shaking my arm. Hey, bro, snap out of it, we gotta go. Freskaa is leaving.

We continued walking at a brisk pace along the riverbank for quite some time, slowing only when Emily tired. There was something magical in the air that seemed to be emanating from the water. Walking east along the riverbank felt like some powerful force was whisking us through a path of everchanging lands. The river to the left of us remained the same; it was the landscape to the right that would switch on a dime, including the speed at which it changed. The mountains and hills in the distance would rise, fall, then flatten in an instant. The trees would occasionally wobble or appear as if shaking superfast. My mind kept zoning in and out as if I was having trouble processing what was happening around me. We arrived a short time later at what appeared to be our destination. I glanced about the field ahead of us unsure of exactly how or when we had veered off course and ended up here. We were completely turned around and was heading west. The river we had been following for the longest was nowhere to be seen.

Freskaa extended her arm and pointed a branched appearing finger. There it is, ladies. You will be able to see the entry into the adjoining planet when root touches the mystic ground. I suggest you go now. None of us budged. Finding yourself in an entirely different place in the blink of an eye was hard enough to process, I couldn’t just blow it off and continue walking as if nothing happened. How did we get here? I asked in a whisper. I never once lost sight of the river. Where did it go? What happened to it? Everyone stood like statues staring wide-eyed at the barren landscape ahead of us. What happened here? Zac asked Freskaa. This place looks like a blast zone. There isn’t a single tree for miles out there, everything green has been annihilated. All is as it should be, Freskaa replied. Zac walked toward the field, stuck out his foot and kicked aside a large brown clump of dried dirt with the tip of his sneaker.

A sudden uneasiness came over him and Zac immediately took a few steps back then turned around. Are you sure it’s okay to cross over this? Yes, it’s perfectly safe, Freskaa assured him. Don’t let the appearance of the field frighten you. No plant life can grow here, that’s the extent of the danger. Freskaa’s voice suddenly began to quiver. She quickly covered her mouth, then lowered her head.  Oh, I will miss you, ladies, all of you. Good luck, may your journey home be  trouble- free. When Freskaa turned and walked away, I could have sworn I heard her sniffling. Go quickly, ladies, she said without turning around. Nat dashed off after her. The group of us followed behind him except Emily. Freskaa, wait! Nat cried out. You can’t just walk away like that; we need to at least properly say goodbye first.

Nat’s eyes began to well up with tears when he saw Freskaa cover her face. He gently lowered her hands. I want you to know of all the trees, and yes, including the humans that I have met in the past, you are by far my favorite. I want to thank you again for everything you have done for us, but most importantly for your kindness and hospitality. Freskaa reached out, grabbed hold of Nat and began hugging him tight. It was my pleasure, she proudly replied. When Freskaa let go of Nat, we each took turns thanking her; surprisingly even Addis said goodbye before heading out across the field to join up with Emily. When I stepped down onto the dried cracked dirt, my jaw dropped. As Freskaa had said, I could now visibly see a waterfall out in the distance. It was so enchanting. There was no mountain or cliff it was flowing down from. The sparkling crystal-clear water was streaming steadily downward from the open sky like a giant curtain stretched out across it.

Freskaa remained where she was, I suppose, hoping we would change our minds, abandon Emily and go back with her. When Freskaa realized that wasn’t about to happen, she turned around and headed back through the dense forest behind her. Something compelled her to stop and go back. Oh, my! she exclaimed upon reaching the edge of the forest in time to witness our change. The Theora plant had worn completely off. No, it can’t be, Freskaa said to herself, fanning the air with her branched hand. You’re exhausted. Yes, you’re just very tired. Freskaa stood staring intensely at us, trying to convince herself she wasn’t seeing things, or worse going crazy.

The living tree blinked her eyes several times, then began rubbing them rather hard with her fingertips. Why do my friends appear human? she questioned. I was the first to spot Freskaa just standing there in plain sight, staring out at us.  Oh crap! I muttered rushing toward Zac. I grabbed his shoulder and turned him around. Look at Freskaa, bro. I have a bad feeling she can see us, we’re in some serious trouble now. When Addis heard the two of us talking, he immediately stopped where he was.

Hey, brat! Yes you, get over here, Addis yelled out to Nat. I need you to stay with the girl. Alright, sure, Nat replied jogging toward him. Addis headed straight to me and Zac. Nat assumed to find out what the two of us were talking about; however, Addis just kept on walking. Hey, Addis! Zac called out when he passed us. Where are you going? He didn’t answer. Zac placed both hands on his hips. This is insane, Addis, please come back. We need to get moving. Zac looked over at me. Hopefully he’s not up to one of his crazy stunts that will get us all killed. I cupped both hands around my mouth. Nat, you need to get over here quick, we might need your help with Addis. Okay, give me a second, Nat replied. Emily, stay here, I’ll be right back. When Nat arrived, he immediately noticed the change in Freskaa’s appearance and behavior. Addis needs to get back here right now. She can see us, I have no doubt about that."

Oh man, I can’t believe it, why did this have to happen now? All we needed was five more minutes to get inside.  I really didn’t want Freskaa to see us like this. I was making so much progress with her. Oh, yeah, real progress, Addis stopped and said in a sarcastic sounding tone. To our surprise, he stooped down and picked up a small metal gadget that had fallen from his gear. I’d say that talking tree has forgotten those fake names you’ve given yourselves, along with the fact you’re supposed to be her friends. Look at her face. Well, come on, brats, if you want to live to see tomorrow, we had better pass through that doorway right now. Addis gritted his teeth and glared at Nat as he passed him. I distinctly told you to stay with the girl. You left her out there alone, she could have run off. Nat ignored Addis and continued staring straight- faced at Freskaa out in the distance. Please forgive us, Nat mumbled under his breath. Zac glanced back at Addis, then started inching backwards. Hey, do you think Freskaa will send those vine-weaving creatures in after us?

No, brat, Addis replied without turning around. That would be a waste of her time, she knows if she sends her comrades’ pets in there, they will never come back out again. What you need to be asking yourself is where the mutated slug that devious fish queen left behind is hiding. Now she’s the one that doesn’t know the meaning of giving up, she put the R in revenge. Hopefully, that hideous creation of hers isn’t hiding inside that waterfall waiting to pounce the second we step inside. Suddenly, I thought of Emily and turned around to see if she was okay. Emily was massaging her arms and pacing like a racehorse back and forth in front of the waterfall. Hey Emily! Are you okay? I cried out. Yes, I’m fine, she replied, walking at a hurried pace toward me. But we should leave this place as soon as possible. I’ll bet Freskaa sees red when she looks at us, Zac said out of the blue. I wouldn’t concern myself with Freskaa becoming vengeful or hurting anyone of you, Emily told Zac, walking up behind him. That would be the last thing on her mind. Freskaa is a bit overwhelmed and very confused right now. It’s not every day you wake up to find you have just made friends with the very ones you vowed never to.

Zac made a face. Emily, that’s nice of you to phrase it that way, but we know the truth. I’d say it was more along the lines of she made friends with the archenemy. In her eyes we’re the scum of the planet. You are no enemy to her, Zac, none of you are. Freskaa just doesn’t know any better. Deeply rooted beliefs can be difficult to overcome. It’s going to take her a little time to sort through this and see you for who you truly are. Sure, Emily, I can totally see that happening in maybe one hundred thousand years from now, if even. Hey guys, we should go like Emily suggested. It’s not a good idea to hang around here, it’s only going to make matters worse. I headed toward the waterfall, remembering what Addis had said about the slug. It’s not in there; it can’t be, I whispered to myself. That thing died in the river; everyone saw it.

We will miss you! Nat yelled out to Freskaa still standing spellbound in the trees. When he lingered behind a bit longer than he should have, I sent Emily to join up with the others, then ran back for him. Come on, Nat, we need to go. Everyone has gone through the waterfall except us. Nat seemed completely oblivious to the seriousness of our situation. Joseph, I wish Freskaa was in our shoes and could understand why we did what we did. Nat, you can’t change her, it has to come from within. I know, Joseph, but there’s no harm in trying. No, Nat, you’re right. There isn’t, I said to him turning and walking off.

Nat trailed behind me at an extremely slow pace. Fearing he would do something unexpected and possibly reckless, I had him enter the waterfall before me. Nat glanced one last time back at Freskaa before stepping inside. I stared down at the three-foot wide crack in the earth, then up at the cascade of water pouring down from the sky into it, strangely not a single drop splashed onto the rocks or ground, both were bone-dry.

CHAPTER II: THE WATERFALL

When I walked inside, the water didn’t splash onto my body but moved through it like a ghost. I could smell its freshness, feel my skin immersed in it and even taste the water in my mouth. What kind of whacked-out magic is this? I exclaimed stepping out of it onto the other side.

Zac couldn’t help but smile when he heard me. Don’t complain dude, you should count your blessings the clothes on your back are dry. No vine monsters are here waiting to rip you apart and that fish queen’s slug didn’t crawl out of that crack in the ground like Addis thought it would.

I glanced around at the lush green forest. Believe me, Zac, I’m more grateful than you know to be alive and standing here. When I looked over at Nat, he had his arms wrapped tightly around his stomach and was staring intensely at the massive waterfall behind me.

I feel worse than ever deceiving her like that, Joseph. My gosh, all we needed was five more minutes. Let it go! Addis snapped in an aggravated tone, flipping through several pages in his archive. Since when did you start caring about what that walking log thinks? You need to forget it, brat. Had you stayed, she would have squashed you like an insignificant insect without so much as a shred of regret. Emily walked over and began ushering Nat away. Addis, thank you so much for those comforting words, she told him. If you don’t mind, I would like to speak with Nat, just until you finish what you’re doing.

The two walked alongside each other a short distance away from the group to speak in private. Emily tried everything she could to ease some of the emotional stress Nat was going through. I wouldn’t worry too much about Freskaa. In a few days or so, there is a possibility she and the others you met won’t remember seeing any of you; that unfortunately is one of the side effects of the Theora plant. Emily lightly touched Nat’s shoulder then smiled.

Do you mind if we stop and rest for a moment? she asked him. I have this cramp in my leg that’s been bothering me for a while. Oh, man, Emily, I’m sorry for leading you around like this, Nat apologized. Hey, Addis. What! he turned and barked. Is it okay if Emily rests up a minute or two before we leave? Fine, Addis grumbled. But the two of you need to get out of the open and into the woods with the rest of us. Go, sit over there, he said in a demanding voice. Well, what are you waiting for? Move it and keep your voices down. Addis’s eyes suddenly darted upwards. I don’t want that freak of nature the talking tree spoke about sneaking up on us. The two of you are compromising our location standing out there in the open.

Nat and Emily sat down next to each other in the bright green grass beside several redwood trees growing very close together. Nat continued speaking with Emily about Freskaa while she massaged her leg. Freskaa must have been wonderful, Nat. You haven’t stopped talking about her. Oh, Emily, she was amazing. Everyone here loved and admired her so very much. She kind of reminded me of my mother in a strange, twisted sort a way, he said, chuckling afterwards. Nat crossed his legs like a pretzel, then began plucking the tips off the long blades of green grass, tossing them aside. Freskaa was the best. I can’t remember a time when she ever put herself before any of us. I hope she will learn to forgive me one day.

Addis slammed the almanac that he was reading closed, walked over to where Nat and Emily were sitting on the ground and stood over them. Alright, brat, enough! You need to drop the subject on the talking tree. The girl said she won’t remember any of this fiasco. Now let it go, your nonstop gabbing about her is upsetting me. There are more important things to worry about than some malformation that defies nature.

Emily stared with sympathetic eyes over at Nat. I’m afraid Addis might be right, well maybe plus or minus a few things. You really shouldn’t worry about Freskaa, she will be fine. Addis turned up his nose What do you mean I might be right? of course I am, little girl he said, walking away. Emily glanced around at the strange yet beautiful forest then back at us. Actually, our well-being is what concerns me.

Why are you afraid for us? Zac asked, walking up and sitting down on a large, surfaced root. Have you been here before? Emily shook her head no. I’m afraid this place is as new to me as it is to you Zac. Emily folded her arms tightly across her chest. I am free but have never felt so caged and helpless she whispered staring into the trees. I have no sense of direction; that to me is worse than losing my hearing, taste, or smell. I guess we will have to figure out how to navigate our way through these woods as we go along.

Zac’s eyes remained fixed on Emily. I tried imagining what his thoughts were. If they were anything like mine, he would be asking where she drew her strength and courage from, as well as how she managed to survive alone for so long. Here was this beautiful young girl traveling around all by her lonesome without anyone but her amulets to protect her. You’re amazing, Emily, Zac said out of the blue. How in the world do you do this every day? You seem cool as a cucumber and not the least bit afraid.

Zac began nervously running both his hands through his hair, then down his mouth.  We’ve barely started searching for you and I’m a complete train wreck. My body is bruised, battered, scratched and aching. I’ve been deceived, hypnotized, attacked, half -drowned and now good and lost.

Zac glanced back at the waterfall. How you deal with stuff like this alone is truly unbelievable. This kind of living is what we humans consider a nightmare. I know exactly how Alice felt when she fell down that hole. Oh… crap!  Zac yelled out, leaping up to his feet and smacking his skin. What the heck is crawling on my arm! Addis’s eyes darted in Zac’s direction. Pipe down, you idiot. There is nothing on you but a harmless insect. Zac glared angrily down at the plump rainbow-colored bug crawling across his elbow that managed to escape his thrashing, slowly twisted his arm around, aimed, then flicked it off with his fingertips.

I guess the excitement never ends around here, does it? But in all seriousness, Emily, like Addis said, we should count our blessings that we are still around to talk about surviving this; however, I can’t help but believe the amulet the great frog gave us is jinxed. It’s been nothing but trouble since we laid eyes on that darn thing. At least the amulets on your arms are good for something. It’s like a compass, gives you unbelievable insight and warns you of danger. Emily started to giggle. Zac, you can’t blame the amulet for your troubles, or even compare the two. The jewel is not cursed, I can say with certainty the four of you would never have made it this far without the keys.

Each jewel is unique, serving entirely different purposes. There is nothing wrong with the one you have, Zac. You, only need to discover its secrets, then learn to master its power. That will come in time. I lowered the neckline on my T-shirt, then pulled the amulet out. "You’re definitely right about the learning part, Emily; we don’t know zilch about this jewel. I was also under the impression; we were the ones doing something wrong.

The amulet we have doesn’t protect or guide us around like yours does.  It works more on the line of trial and error. We figured that part out for ourselves with all the slots we’ve had to stick this thing into.  Thanks for the confirmation. Now we know for sure trying different methods was the right way all along. I wonder why the old frog didn’t explain all this, or at least show us the basics before he gave the amulet to us.

Don’t fret, Joseph, I’m sure the ancient had his reasons for withholding information.  I have learned over the years, experimenting with various methods can sometimes be the best teacher. I wish there was more I could tell you about the jewel to make things easier for you. Unfortunately, I’m afraid with limited resources  my present situation is no different than yours. I’m upside down and having to relearn most everything as well as come up with a whole new strategy to get around this circuit breaker strapped on me. I’m grateful to the one above, I haven’t lost my gifts entirely. On rare occasions my amulet’s primary power breaks through this restraint and I catch a glimpse of something. The bad news is that within seconds it’s gone, which isn’t time enough to do anything of significant importance. A few of my lesser senses are surprisingly unaffected by this device. I can still sense emotion.  Zac side-eyed me. That’s good and all, Emily, but are you able to tell us when danger is nearby? Now that would be more useful.

I wouldn’t rely on what slips through my psychic channel or go by any gut feelings of mine to guide you Zac. Chances are the information would be more wrong than right. Emily, I trust your intuition more than ours, Zac said, cutting her off. If there is even the slightest chance you can guide us away from danger-however small it might be–I’m all for it. That goes for me as well, I added. Nat began nodding his head in agreement with us. Emily held up her hands and began waving them around in the air. Wait, guys, don’t put your trust in me alone to lead you out of here. My wires, as I said before, aren’t connected properly with this device on me. To be honest, I don’t want that kind of guilt hanging over my head should anything go wrong.

Addis walked back over to the group, stood over Emily and peered down at her. Don’t get cold feet on us now, brat. You didn’t think about consequences when you left Brusaura, flew into space and waltzed blindly onto those planets alone to so-called save lives. You weren’t afraid or knew fear back then. I bet the word couldn’t, can’t or never crossed that puny little mind of yours. Addis turned a page in the almanac he carried, glanced up at the sky, then back down at Emily.

Let me tell you a true-to-life story, child. We happened to have run into one of your patients firsthand and up close.  I can tell you, brat, I wouldn’t wish that fish monster on my worst enemy. But you risked life and limb helping her and you did it all by your lonesome. Why not do the same for us? What makes her life so much more precious than ours that you would feel guilt at the thought of pushing yourself a teeny bit more to guide us? "Addis, I never said I wouldn’t help you. Only that I prefer you not depend on me. I don’t want to be blamed, should the outcome not be to your satisfaction.  I can’t help doing what I do; this is my calling, what I was fashioned for.

When someone is terminally ill the only thing on my mind is to get them better. I want to help you, believe me, but I will not put the ones trying to rescue me in harm’s way. You must find another way to avoid the danger here. Emily lowered her head then raised it. My circumstances were different back then too Addis. I wasn’t afraid to go into places like this because my amulets weren’t restricted, nor being manipulated by outsiders like they are now. I was in full control. Taking risks by myself is one thing, being responsible for each one of you is another.

Addis straightened a few loose papers inside the almanac, slammed the book closed, walked off and began packing it away inside his backpack. This selfish, worthless brat isn’t going to help us, he said, glancing toward the heavens. I have checked and rechecked the archive, we are on our own until something within its page’s changes. The moons don’t follow a normal elliptical orbit, leave any footprints or seem to exist on any star charts, including the one I used to get to this sector of space in the past. It almost appears as if this planet behind the waterfall just popped out of thin air, it defies all logical explanation, and shouldn’t exist at all. This place is challenging all that I know, driving me crazy and giving me the worst of headaches. The talking lump of wood said to follow the sun. That up until now will remain our course.

Addis narrowed his eyes at Emily still sitting on the ground. It’s comforting to know there’s still one thing left out here that cares for our well-being, even if it happens to be a dangerous tree deceived by magic. Well, get up, brat! We can’t tarry here all-day long yakking; we need to get back to the ship. Addis gave Emily a long, hard, dirty look when she reached out and grabbed my hand. Why do you keep assisting someone who obviously can’t be counted on when help is needed? The girl must toughen up or she will continue to slow us down with all these unnecessary stops to stretch her dainty legs. Alright, Addis, that’s enough, you need to leave her alone. Fine, brat, then she’s your responsibility. Addis began wagging his finger at Emily. You had better keep up, because I, for one, refuse to wait on you, he said turning, then walking away.

We trailed behind Addis through the forest ,following the westward sun. When I looked over at Zac he was nervously fidgeting with his fingers and biting on his nails. Man, I loathe walking through the forests on these weird planets he said, catching me staring at him. We never seem to know what to expect, even in the best of them. Everything wants to jump out and eat you.

Addis overheard us talking, abruptly stopped and turned around. I couldn’t believe it when he started speaking slowly to Zac as if he were a child. Listening to what is being said by an adult, and actually heeding their verbal warning is key. Believe it or not, brat, the advice is for your benefit. Okay, okay, Addis I see exactly where this is headed, the flower incident. Am I right? Touché, as always, your great wisdom and advice win again. Trust me, Addis, I’ve learned my lesson so please stop rubbing it in my face and another thing; I hate it when you speak to me like I’m some idiot. Emily inched over closer toward Nat. What’s this all about? What flower is Zac and Addis referring to? she whispered. Nat started to chuckle. You don’t want to know. Trust me, Emily it’s just another one of those incidents you want to erase from memory and forget it ever happened.

Addis pursed his lips then shook his head. I’m surrounded by incompetence, and the girl we rescued is useless, he grumbled.  Once again, the task of getting us out of this mess has been dumped on me. Addis peered up through the leaves in the trees and began studying the sky. Alright, I obviously know the constellations don’t follow familiar patterns. Time here, without a doubt, isn’t as it was on the other side of that waterfall. Addis spent the next twenty-five minutes having an intense conversation with himself about terrain, solar time, equations and the visible planets he could see up in the heavens. We continued walking behind him in silence so, as to not break his chain of thought. There was a slow growing chill about the air the deeper we went into the forest. When we crossed a dead tree that had fallen over a flowing stream of water the climate abruptly changed. It felt as if we were walking through a chilly winter forest absent of snow. When I reached the center of the log, for a split second the surrounding trees appeared covered in ice.

When Emily jumped down off the log, she began rubbing her arms trying to warm herself.  I wanted nothing more than to embrace her, you know, help warm her up a bit, but knew I couldn’t. When Addis stopped momentarily to document planetary alignment in his almanac, I looked around at the strange trees, trying to keep myself preoccupied and from staring at her like some sicko. Emily hung out with Nat most of the time, continuing to try and uplift his spirits. Nat had this smirk on his face whenever he caught me staring over at Emily. Everyone knew I was becoming more and more attracted to her and big-time. Emily could have tossed a bone, and I would have raced off to fetch it like a dog without giving it a second thought. Whenever Emily busted me for gawking at her, I would play it off by pretending to be interested in something of insignificance next to her. I focused my eyes forward, then briskly walked away.

This forest was of a bizarre kind. Scattered amongst the giant, aged-old, oak trees covered in a fuzzy green moss were tan-colored trees without bark that towered high up into the sky. A few were twisted, looked braided or leaned a bit. The leaves on the trees were triangular or square-shaped and the color super green. Fluorescent speckled yellow fluid could be seen flowing through the stem and veins in each of the leaves which was something I had never seen before. Although it was a bit chilly, for some strange reason I felt less claustrophobic and more comfortable walking in this area of the forest. There were no low-lying branches or hanging vines to get tangled in, the sun’s rays were able to penetrate down to the forest floor and the air didn’t smell like mold or damp dirt.

Addis didn’t speak much as we walked. He was extremely focused and kept a watchful eye on the huge bright orange sun high above us in the sky. The cracking, snapping sound of dried leaves and twigs along with a few odd insect mating calls, plus an occasional bird or two chirping up in the trees was about all we heard for quite some time. The five of us continued hiking even deeper into the forest. Hold up, Emily, I said out of the blue. I raced up to her, feeling proud of myself for finally coming up with a legit excuse to speak with her. Before I forget, I want you to have some of these. Some of what? Emily asked stopping where she was.

I slid one strap off my shoulder, pulled my backpack around to the front of me and began digging around inside for the small brown bag of seeds.  I quickly opened the pouch when I found it, poured a few seeds into her palm, then stepped back. I want you to have these, I said smiling like a crazy person and gesturing as if I had done something great. Put a few in your pocket, you might need them for later.  Nat and Zac decided to share some of their seeds with Emily too, so I didn’t look completely stupid and brain dead for not taking them out before telling her about them. Thank you, she said, glancing around at us. Such a thoughtful gift, I’m sure these will come in handy. Emily began patting the sides of her pants. I have no pockets. Can you keep them safe for me, Joseph?

I sighed with relief when Emily began to smile. Sure, sure, no problem, I told her. I have a gift to exchange with you as well Joseph, well actually it’s for all of you. Emily pulled a solid gold necklace out from under her shirt. The long chain was filled with tiny gold trinkets, charms and symbols exactly like the ones we had seen time and time again on the porthole mirrors. Emily lifted the necklace up over her head and placed it around my neck.  I was floored that she had given it to me and not Nat, having spent so much time with him. I was told my mother gave this to me when I was a little girl. No! No, Emily I can’t except this I blurted out trying to lift the chain up over my head. "We couldn’t possibly except this from you. I’m sure it has sentimental value, not to mention it’s probably worth a fortune.

Why are you giving this to us? Consider it a small token of my appreciation and something to remember me by if we don’t make it out of here together. Oscorin said my mother gave the necklace to me for similar reasons.  I grabbed both of Emily’s hands and squeezed them tight. Please don’t say that; the five of us are going to leave this place as a group or not at all.  Everyone will make it out, now stop talking like you know we’re going to be separated. I will personally see that you make it to Brusaura or I will die trying. Emily smiled halfheartedly up at me. Sure, she replied nodding. I believe you will try. I took off the necklace and held it in my palm. Please take it back, I pleaded.  Emily reached out and gently placed both her hands over mine closing it. No, Joseph, I want you to keep it. Oh man," I moaned, regretting I had ever offered her the seeds. Emily wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Okay, if that’s what you want, I finally told her. I carefully placed the necklace back around my neck and tucked it under my shirt. I will wear this, but only under one condition: you take it back the second we reach the ship, or the deal is off. Okay, Joseph, Emily replied. I extended my arm. Let’s shake on it. No! let’s keep moving, Addis said in an annoyed tone of voice walking away. We have wasted far too much time here already. It couldn’t have been more than five minutes into our walk when we heard an unexpected submarine sonar-like sound that seemed to be emanating from Emily’s bracelet. Addis stopped where he was and turned around. What is that noise I’m hearing? he questioned. A bright red light on the bracelet Emily wore was blinking on and off in two-second intervals.

She froze and just stood there staring down at the band. Emily’s head slowly lifted then turned in my direction. I could see fear and uncertainty in her eyes. The alarm I’m familiar with she told me. It usually shuts off after a minute or two. But I have never seen this light turn on before. I walked over to Emily and placed my hand over her wrist, attempting to cover the light. Don’t look at it, Emily; you need to think positive. We are in another place on an entirely different planet. They won’t find you. Addis rolled his eyes. Wake up, brat. Obviously the ones searching for the girl have located her or that siren wouldn’t be blaring and the light on it flashing like a beacon. Covering it doesn’t change her situation or the fact that Tyler knows where she is.

What does, however, make a significant difference is our getting out of here before they try and steal her back from us.  If we remain stationary like this, that tracking device will give them her exact coordinates. Alright, guys, you heard Addis, let’s move. I grabbed hold of Emily’s hand, then broke out into a run through the trees. If we can make it back to the ship, Tyler won’t be able to get at you, I assured her. That’s of insignificance, brat, priority is finding a way to get that bracelet off her arm. Or the girl’s pursuers, as I said before, will be able to track her wherever she goes. Yes, Nat added. But Tyler won’t be able to travel the river bend or make it past the gate keepers guarding the secret entries. They need Emily’s amulets to unlock the doorways and get inside.

Nat is right, I said between breaths. The gatekeepers are Emily’s only chance of escape.  We can hide on the river or inside a doorway until we can figure out what to do. I wouldn’t count on that, Emily warned. This bracelet and Tyler’s control over me stems deeper than you know. He can block me from going onto the river with this device, Emily said, sliding her hand free and lifting her arm. Because it’s not of this world. I grabbed hold of Emily’s hand again. Let’s just get you to the ship and worry about that later. Rowbert will know what to do.  We ran for as long as Emily held up. The second I let go of her hand, she immediately slowed, clutched onto her side and started gasping for breath.  I can’t go on, Joseph. I need rest or I’m going to faint." Emily suddenly stopped where she was and dropped to her knees.

I can’t do this, she wailed, inhaling and exhaling deeply through her mouth. I’ve been caged so long my muscles have weakened. Emily laid her head down in the grass, she was exhausted and sweating profusely. Terrified she would pass out; I walked over and lifted her up. Emily’s body was shaking terribly. Try and breathe a little slower, I told her, sweeping the damp strands of hair away from her eyes. The rest of the gang sprang into action. Keep your head up, Zac repeatedly told her. Nat dug around inside his gear for a canteen to give Emily water.

Addis doubled back when he noticed we weren’t following him. He emerged from the trees a short time later looking as if he was about to pass out himself. We can’t stay here, he said, gasping and wheezing between breaths. Addis headed straight to Emily. Focus on your breathing little girl. Mind over matter, now force yourself to stand. Every second we waste here in idle, your foe’s close in on us.  Okay, I will try Emily replied. The three of us helped Emily back up to her feet and continued jogging through the forest at a slow pace. When Emily slowed again, Nat insisted on staying  behind with her.

CHAPTER III: TYLER

The muddled afterimage of a battle cruiser moving faster than the speed of light streaked through the darkness of space, trying to outrun a multitude of fighter crafts trying to shoot it down. Tyler! We lost two more droid ships! They were blasted right off the L-locks before we could make the jump. I’ve never seen firepower like this before in my life. Even worse, it’s as if the men chasing us can read my mind; they’re getting better at calculating my next move. It’s darn hard to outmaneuver them in this ship. Do what you can, Tigo. Send word to the crew on T-Nova before we lose communication. Have them rendezvous with us where the girl is. We all knew the risk; we had no choice but to leave the big ship behind or gamble getting spotted sooner and chased by a lot more than what’s on our tail now.

Demoot Hymer! Do your job! Tigo the pilot shouted over the captain. Get your hind end over here right now! he barked, wiping the sweat from his brows. Don’t you see the fire and smoke? It’s everywhere. Extinguish it before the entire control panel shorts out. The fuzzy being with three oversized eyes and arms unstrapped himself from his seat, then leaped up. This looks really bad, the pilot whispered under his breath shaking his head.

I’ve released the last of the droid ships, Tigo informed the captain glancing quickly back at him. They’re eating the ships like candy. I believe those fighters out there think we have the girl on board. That’s why they haven’t blown us to bits. They will continue trying to gun us down until they get her. Captain, the Nauge tanks are in critical condition. All twelve are overheated, Sauu the engineer informed Tyler for a third time. If we don’t stop now, we will lose more than power. We have to hold our ground against them here, at least until my crew can stabilize the engines. "Alright. You heard Sauu. Cut power to everything that isn’t attached to a blaster or shield. We dig in here.  Tigo, is Emily