Dream Walker: Devil's Peak Chronicles, #1

By Marc Van Pelt

Welcome to Laysel, a town where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, and the dreams of an 11-year-old boy named Christopher hold the key to a world beyond imagination.

As Christopher navigates the challenges of a new school and search for new friends, a mysterious cat named Jellybean enters their lives, sparking a series of events that will change everything. From magical dream realms inhabited by colossal winged rats to impish preschoolers who are more imp than preschooler, Christopher's journey unfolds with humor, heart, and a touch of the fantastical.

When Christopher discovers his ability to enter the dreams of others, he finds himself entangled in a quest that transcends the boundaries of reality. With the support of his siblings, the friendship of a lively cast of characters, and a few unexpected allies, Christopher learns that the power of dreams can shape destinies and redefine what it means to be a hero.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Marc Van Pelt
• Release date: Jan 30, 2024
• ISBN: 9798223162322

Marc Van Pelt

Sobre el autor Al crecer en Bay Point, California, Marc pasó gran parte de su tiempo creando y explorando mundos e historias. Finalmente se dio cuenta de que una vez que escribió las historias, dejaron de atormentar sus sueños dormidos y despiertos. Entonces, comenzó a escribirlos. Escribe el tipo de historias que le gustan, que son historias sobre familias escritas para familias. Marc actualmente vive en el norte de Utah con su esposa e hijos. Puede ser contactado a través de la página de Facebook de su autor en facebook.com/catseye1979

Book preview

Chapter 1

Christopher sat on his bed, staring out of the window at the unfamiliar town of Laysel. It was a small, quiet place, nestled just outside the city of Devil's Peak. The rugged mountains loomed in the distance, giving the town an air of mystery. Christopher's heart raced with a mix of excitement and nervousness as he thought about starting his new school the next day.

He wasn't alone in his worries. His older brother, Tommy, stood by the doorway, peering into Christopher's room. Nervous, little bro? he asked, a mischievous grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Christopher sighed. You have no idea, Tommy. What if nobody likes me? What if I can't find my classroom? What if I spill my lunch all over myself? What if-

Tommy cut him off with a chuckle. Whoa there, Captain Worried Pants! You'll be fine. Just be yourself, and everyone will love you.

I hope so, Christopher mumbled, his fingers fidgeting with the edge of his blanket.

Just then, their sister Katie, the second oldest, barged into the room, her hair a wild mess. What's all the fuss about? Is Chris still worried about starting school?

Christopher nodded; his eyes downcast. Yeah, I don't know anyone, and I'm scared.

Katie hopped onto the bed, making herself comfortable. Well, guess what? Dad got us a surprise to take our minds off the nerves!

Christopher's eyes lit up with curiosity. A surprise? What is it?

Before Katie could answer, their parents walked in, carrying a small cat carrier. Their mom wore a beaming smile, and their dad had that familiar twinkle in his eye. We've got someone new to join the family! Dad announced, carefully setting the carrier on Christopher's bed.

Lily, the younger of his two sisters, clapped her hands with excitement. A kitty! I've always wanted a kitty!

The family gathered around as their dad opened the carrier door. Out walked a fluffy, gray-and-white cat, her green eyes shining with curiosity. She cautiously stepped forward, taking in her new surroundings.

Christopher's worries momentarily faded away as he watched the cat explore the room. She's beautiful, he whispered.

Indeed, she is, Mom agreed. But she needs a name. Any ideas?

Ryder, the youngest in the family and always full of energy, piped up. We should call her Whiskers!

Everyone chuckled at the suggestion. That's a great name, Ryder, Dad said, ruffling his hair. But I think we should pick something that suits her even better.

Katie pointed at the cat's playful demeanor. How about Jellybean? She bounces around like a little jellybean!

The siblings exchanged glances, considering the name. Jellybean, Christopher repeated, grinning. I like it! It's perfect for her!

And so, the decision was made. Jellybean became the newest member of the family. They all laughed and chatted as Jellybean nuzzled against their legs, happy to have found her forever home.

As Christopher watched his family bond over their new feline friend, he couldn't help but feel a warmth in his heart. Maybe, just maybe, starting a new school wouldn't be as scary as he thought. With Jellybean and his family, he felt a newfound sense of courage.

CHRISTOPHER TOSSED and turned in his sleep, his mind drifting into the realm of dreams. In this peculiar dream, he found himself in a dimly lit hallway, his trusty companion Jellybean leading the way. As they ventured deeper, Christopher's eyes widened at the sight of two full-length mirrors facing each other. Their reflections created an endless corridor of images, stretching far beyond what his young mind could comprehend.

Jellybean, what are we doing here? Christopher asked, scratching his head in confusion. Shouldn't we be sleeping and dreaming about something normal, like flying pizzas or talking sock puppets?

Jellybean glanced back at him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Her tail flicked playfully as she trotted toward the mirrors, her reflection bouncing off infinitely in the distance. And then, to Christopher's astonishment, she stepped right into the mirror, disappearing into the ethereal corridor of images.

Wait, Jellybean! Where are you going? Christopher called after her, his heart pounding in his chest. Without hesitation, he took a deep breath and followed his feline friend, stepping into the mirror himself.

To his amazement, Christopher found himself in a whole new world. The corridor of images had led him to a magical land brimming with wonders beyond imagination. Vibrant colors danced in the sky, and strange creatures flitted about, their wings casting iridescent reflections upon the air.

As Christopher marveled at his surroundings, a chorus of high-pitched squeaks echoed through the air. He turned to see enormous creatures, giant winged rats the size of dinosaurs, approaching him with friendly smiles on their rodent-like faces.

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Christopher stammered, taking a step back. Giant winged rats? Is this some kind of joke?

One of the rats, sporting a splendid golden crown atop its head, chuckled. Oh, my young Dream Walker, we are no ordinary rats! We are Aumpa's esteemed Aumpamu, guardians of the Dream Realm. We welcome you to the dream world of Aumpa.

Christopher blinked, trying to process the situation. Dream Walker? Me? I'm just a regular kid from Laysel!

The Aumpamu nodded sagely. Ah, but you possess a special gift, young one. The ability to traverse the realms of dreams. You have been chosen as the Dream Walker; a title not bestowed lightly.

Christopher scratched his head, feeling both bewildered and intrigued. So, what does being the Dream Walker mean exactly? Do I get a cool cape or a secret handshake?

The Aumpamu chuckled again. Alas, no cape or secret handshake, I'm afraid. But as the Dream Walker, you have the power to explore the realms of dreams and uncover their secrets. You are a bridge between our world and yours.

Christopher's eyes widened with excitement. That's incredible! But why me? Why did Jellybean lead me here?

The Aumpamu's gaze softened, a glint of wisdom shining in its eyes. Ah, Jellybean. She recognized the spark of magic within you, young Dream Walker. She knew you were destined for greater things.

Would you like to explore Aumpa with us? another Aumpamu asked kindly, sensing Christopher's curiosity and excitement.

Really? You'd let me? Christopher questioned, his heart pounding with anticipation.

Absolutely! the first Aumpamu replied enthusiastically. We love meeting new friends!

As Christopher and Jellybean walked alongside the Aumpamu, he couldn't help but feel both awed and intimidated by their sheer size. Their massive wings created gusts of wind as they flapped gently, stirring up pleasant scents of wildflowers from the fields below. The Aumpamu's friendly demeanor shone through their warm smiles, and Christopher felt a sense of camaraderie growing between them.

Your wings are incredible! Christopher exclaimed, unable to contain his admiration.

Thank you! one Aumpamu replied, its voice booming yet gentle. They help us soar above Aumpa and keep watch over our world. Would you like a ride?

Okay, Christopher agreed, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He reached out and touched the velvety softness of the offered wing, marveling at the warmth radiating from it. The Aumpamu lifted him onto its back with ease, and soon they took to the skies, soaring through the vibrant colors of Aumpa's world.

The sky of Aumpa was a tapestry of vibrant colors, weaving together shades of pink, blue, and gold as Christopher and the Aumpamu soared through the air. With each flap of their enormous wings, the gentle breeze caressed Christopher's face, filling him with an exhilarating sense of freedom.

Look down there! one of the Aumpamu called out, its voice a mixture of excitement and awe. Christopher followed its gaze to see a lush valley filled with flowers that glowed like living jewels in the sunlight. He couldn't help but marvel at the sight, his heart swelling with wonder.

Wow, he breathed, leaning forward to take in every detail. I've never seen anything like this before.

Welcome to the Valley of Dreams, the Aumpamu replied with a warm smile. This is where dreams are born, nurtured, and sent out into the world. It is our duty to protect and care for them until they're ready.

Amazing, Christopher whispered.

Together, they glided over the Valley of Dreams, the wind whispering secrets and melodies that only the Aumpamu