~Chapter 21~
The Return to Egypt
"My Louis, you have returned from the dead, now you are un-dead."
"I have...?"
"It is you...my good friend!"
"Yes it is...I...my friend, good to see you as well...my Charlie!"
"You were gone three days, lost in the Under-World. Have you been injured?"
"I could not tell how long I was gone Charlie, there was neither day nor night. Only the bizarre, dim blue lights and fogs, of the Blue Hour."
"You were dragged into the Underdark World below our feet, right in front of me. I could not help you Louis. I was so scared."
"I am alive and well now Charlie, don't fear. I have only a few scratches on my arms and legs, nothing more. Digger my newly anointed friend saved me. He offered me advice and deliverance, inside of his knowledge of the Neither World. I trusted him as the writings professed earlier from the Sworn Book. I followed my instincts and survived the Underdark World of not natural beasts and dark-souls."
"I only offered my hand, and sound advice to a friend in need; I am glad he wisely accepted it" said Digger as he wrapped his furry ears around Louis's neck, giving him a heartfelt hug, "I will go with him on his quest, till the end."
"Good Digger. I will call you friend as well. We can use all the help we can get, but we must leave as soon as possible. While you were in the Neither World, I have heard from some of my flying friends from the eastern deserts. Petar has been seen heading eastwards towards Egypt, flying on the back of Rukh the Firebird He is the Turbulent Flame, a harbinger of the dark, who now takes Petar to the Valley of the Kings, to raise the dead, to raise his father and the Minotaur Paragus".
"Who is this mischievous beast that flies?" asked an inquisitive Digger.
"The firebird, he is described as a brightly glowing majestic bird that has red, orange, and yellow light, like a bonfire, it glows incessantly. He shoots fire from his mouth, and if a feather is removed from his plumage, it will eternally glow. He is mean-spirited, very distasteful, and most odious."
"He sounds terrifying Charlie," said the meek Digger
"He is a perfect fit for Petar. Petar must have raised him from the Neither World, from his readings out of the Book of Aka Manah he gains knowledge, and strength with each page he reads. He is evolving, and his powers are growing daily. This is besides the powers he wields, with of the two evil eyes now in his possession" said Charlie.
"It just gets worse every day Charlie; if this is true then we must fly out immediately towards Egypt, even if I have not completed my training. I do not know if I am a High-Thinker or enlightened, or not but I did survive the tunnels, and caverns of the Dark-World, so this must mean something."
"Then we leave immediately towards the Middle Kingdom of ancient Egypt, back to my birthplace. Mr. Beamer is packed and ready as we speak, for we have been waiting your return Louis. You see we knew you would come back to us. It is written."
A new friend joined the band of travelers.
Digger was welcomed by all; although he was diminutive in stature, with a criminal past, his valuable knowledge of the Under-World and his keen sight in the darkness, might come in handy in the near future. Digger was to hitch a ride upon Junior's back, tucked inside of Louis's coat.
There was no time to celebrate Louis's victorious return to the living world, found inside of the life giving sunlight. There would be time later to tell of his harrowing adventures below.
The City of Kapula and King Kulika gathered around, as the last supplies were once again, stored in the saddlebags belonging to Charlie and Junior, as they prepared for their departure to their last and final destination: The desert fires of the Sahara...The Great Desert, now loomed in their future.
"Good luck on your final quest" said King Kulika "did you find your Shambala; did you find The Eye of Providence, the all-seeing eye of the supernatural being, Ozymandia-Ra-Atum-Khepri?"
"I did meet Sanat Kumara, the Shaman who dwells in the clouds, and yes he did have the Seeing Eye but to my surprise, he sent me to the Neither World, to my demise and possible rebirth, so I am not sure if this was my true destiny, if it was my true future. I only trusted in fate, nothing more or less."
"You are a live Louis. No one man or beast, or animal with good in their heart, has ever seen the Neither World, and survived to tell the story. It must be providence that guides you to your future quest therefore you must be on the right path to complete good. Your training must be absolute. Go to Egypt, go to Giza, to the pyramid of Khufu, and meet your written fate."
Louis took the king's words about good to heart: immediately thinking about Digger, with being a thief and all, and surviving the Under-Dark. It was a passing thought, no more, his mind was too clouded in the moment to give it any more mind for now.
Ozymandia-Ra-Atum-Khepri, Tut-ankh-Amon, Aswan, Digger, and Junior turned to face the city's golden robed residents. Aswan the White gave a stately bow as Mr. Beamer climbed aboard. Junior in turn stooped over; with Louis now on his back, and Digger safely secured under his chain mail coat.
Louis guided Junior towards the center of the great square where they had landed only four days ago. Louis carried the Bow and Quiver of Ra, the Sun God and the silver Shield of Heracles across his back, had the Staff of Thebans tightly held in his left hand; once again now owning the brave heart of a proud Child-King deep within his chest.
The travelers took to flight once again.
Lifting off the ground in an excited fashion brought the Kapulian's to gather below them. Both majestic horses circled about, low overhead for a few moments to gaze upon the magnificent, golden city, and her majestic residents one last time. Louis pulled on Junior's right leather rein, directing Junior towards a heading eastward, towards the Fire Desert.
Mr. Beamer spoke out as they rose higher and higher, into the Himalayan sky.
"The Compass of Nubia will guide us safely to the east. The powerful Magic Bell of Amun-Ra will give us strength with courage, and Ozymandia-Ra-Atum-Khepri, will lead us to victory over the malevolence of the Minotaur, Paragus, his evil dominions, and his dark servant Mehan the Serpent, the Dark Serpent. We shall be victorious!!" cried out Tut-ankh-Amon at the top of his voice.
The joyous echoes of the jubilant crowds faltered and fell away from their ears as they climbed ever higher and higher, into the thin cool air that hung over the golden city. Reaching the higher climbs, and back into the upper reaches above the earth, over the Himalayan Mountains; they headed due east. Looking backwards, the golden city slowly faded from sight, but the memories made there...never would.
Louis was locked a tight tuck position, in behind Junior's forelocks and broad neck, shifting his knees up under his soft feathers. Digger peered out of the steely chain mail of Louis's coat, being sure to keep his long furry ears placed across Louis's chest, to keep him warm.
Digger's eyes said it all.
Digger had never flown before, and had never been off the ground more than a few feet: the distance of a hop; for he was a ground dweller. His abode and common life consisted of mostly living underground, being a rabbit and all.
Exhilaration was his.
They glided and sashayed back and forth, with each great downward stroke of the two Pegasus's widely spread, feathered wings; they flew onwards with great confidence once again.
Grand cumulous clouds parted willingly as they traversed through them. The warm summer winds blew steadily beneath their wings, lifting them in spirit and height towards the heavens above. All living in the natural world was their friends on this day.
After reaching the highest promising height possible to sustain an effortless flight, Charlie pulled back in his exertion (showing Junior in the process), how to move smoothly and slide along correctly, to be one with the summer winds. A lesson Junior was quick to become skilled at a
nd remember. He was a speedy study and an easy learner; a skill that all Pegasus's are innately born with.
It was a clear, warm mid-morning. There was limited movement of wind and tides, above and below them, or surrounding them. It was if the earth in its complete and natural world was helping them along in their genuine quest. All good in the world was in cooperation that day which Mr. Beamer was quick to pick upon.
"It is indeed a lovely day. I wish all days were this beautiful Charlie. I hope that in our near future, all of the world and their inhabitants see more days like this one. If we are successful in our quest, it will be so.
"It will be Mr. Beamer, there will be more days like this, if I have anything to do with it" said a resolved Louis.
Junior nodded and Digger thumped his feet a few times, inside of Louis's jacket, which tickled Louis.
Mr. Beamer strained an eye towards Louis and Digger then with reflection in his voice, he began to have a word.
"You look very familiar to me my furry friend. Have we met before?"
"No I don't think so" said a now bothered Digger "I am not sure if I recognize you or not, and I would know your name if we had been formally introduced, at sometime in our past."
Mr. Beamer pulled Charlie's left rein, sending Charlie soaring in closer; sidling in, next to Junior.
Digger rounded his face, scrunched up his soft brown eyes, sending a yielding smile in Mr. Beamer's direction.
"It is true we have not been formally introduced, you are correct in your assumptions, but a thief is amongst us! You know the inner working of my vegetable garden, especially when it is harvesting season."
"That is true. I cannot lie. I may be a thief, but I am not a liar. I also have other vices and faults, but let's not discuss them now."
"Digger the renown: loafer, thief, clever wordsmith, schemer, slouchier, conniver, and conspirator. Well is it not our pleasure today?"
"Yes I have been called some of those names before. Yes I have pilfered from your garden on occasion, and Yes I have been known to be a person of leisure off of the backs of my acquaintances, friends, and unknowing rube's and simpletons" understood Digger as he gingerly poked his head out from inside of Louis's coat "but I have changed my thieving, and conniving ways...really I have! I was arrested, sentenced, and spent my time in purgatory, in the Under-World. I have now been released, and rehabilitated; Louis can vouch for that."
"If it was not for Digger, showing me the correct path to take in the tunnels of the Neither World, I would have surely lost my way, and been taken to my early demise by George the Cave Troll. Due to the pureness, and the goodness lodged in his heart; he showed me the right course to take, he willfully showed me the path to High-Thinking, we would all be lost without him" said a impassioned Louis.
"You have made a friend Digger, and he comes to your rescue just as you must have come to his, so you are friends, and so are we. You will be allowed to travel with us un-tethered. You must have been rehabilitated as you say, but Louis just as a zebra cannot change his stripes, be wary. For thieves, usually cannot change their ways: once a thief: always a thief. Again keep an open, fixed eye on this one Louis for he may betray you in the end."
Mr. Beamer glanced sharply in Louis's direction, once again with a face that meant all business. Louis was warned: it was noted.
Digger digressed and recoiled back into the safety of his friend's coat, smiling sheepishly, looking backwards at Mr. Beamer.
Mr. Beamer directed Charlie to elevate higher into the atmosphere as Digger looked up and smiled thoughtfully at Louis.
"Thank you Louis for protecting me, and for standing up for me."
"You're most welcome my friend."
"And don't worry I will never betray you, as that nasty Mr. Beamer says I will. You can always trust me" believed the clever rabbit.
Digger rubbed his soft furry ears one more time upon Louis's bare chest, inside of the coat, purring softly like a cat, which instantly sent warm, lovely feelings into Louis's young heart. The talented rabbit used all of his natural and super-natural charms upon Louis, to curry his favor once again.
Searching the broad, bright horizon in front of them and gaining their bearings with the help of the Compass of Nubia, Junior, and Charlie answered Mr. Beamer's commands, heading away from the still waxing sun.
A few birds could be seen darting and scampering about, below and above them over the smaller mountain ranges of China. There were Loons, Grebes, a few lone Albatrosses, Boobies, and Frigates. Their precise movements were a joy to watch.
Looking further ahead, and to the south they could see the majestic mountains of Katmandu and Nepal. Looking over to the north, they could see Mongolia in all her rugged glory.
It would be a two-day flight to Egypt; or known in the ancient times as Kemet, meaning Black Land, so named because of the fertile black soils of the Nile plains.
They would first fly eastwards to Pakistan, then over the serene waters of the Persian Gulf, over Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea, then directly into the Fire Desert, into the Valley of the Kings.
A few hours passed which each traveler during flight, lost in their own thoughts and assumptions about the dark days to come. Louis thought constantly of Molly, rubbing his belly a few times. Remembering when Molly had punched him there at the rock quarry.
A few thoughts of her sagely advice came to mind: now you are not depressed, now you're mad as heck. Knowing her advice really meant that you can change your mind, and situation just by changing, your state of mind. Louis had kept this singular thought in the back of his mind from the first day they left Centerville, on this great quest. She was instilled in his thoughts, just as his mother, father, and friends were during this expedition.
Mr. Beamer was lost in his manuals, maps, and ancient scrolls that he had brought along. He was constantly reading them, trying to decipher their true meanings as they flew along. It had been so long, since his readings in the old ancient texts and languages that his mind was a bit foggy. He knew there would be one last reading of the Good Book, by Louis before the day of the Blue Hour, before the Day of Hathor and Mehan the Serpent, and the summer equinox.
Now as for Charlie, he had even more pressing thoughts, which the others knew nothing about; for his life was coming to a pinnacle, to a climax. There would certainly be a day of days for him in the near future. He was transfixed by the thought, which Mr. Beamer was quick to catch on to as they glided along, lost in flight.
Louis was fast asleep as they sparred.
"Charlie what troubles you so...?"
"Our destiny..."
"Don't worry now Louis is ready; we have done all that we could to prepare him..."
"But Thomas Beamer he is so young. If he fails us you know the outcome, but you do not know the whole truth, it will not be found in your books. But I know what must be".
"Charlie what are you talking about?"
"I have been on this earth longer than you, as has my family. You are the second generation of your family, you do not know, what I know that must be in the end. When the time comes you have to agree and not fight the decision I make".
"You're right, I do not understand what you are speaking about, but if the end comes, and we are to reside inside of the Blue Hour for eternity, be assured I will trust in your decision, whatever that may be."
Charlie nodded in affirmation, and with a great deal of dignity, which only confounded Mr. Beamer, that much more. Junior was listening and learning, trying to understand the conversation as well.
"Father I know that I am young and that I do know my true place in this world, from what I have seen of it, but you do worry me as you speak. Can you not tell me of your worries and cares at this time? Can I be of help to you in your time of need, should it come?"
"You are a good son and fine young pony. I am proud to call yo
u son. You will become a leader of the world in your day; you will have great responsibilities just as Louis will, and when your time comes in the future as mine might soon, you will step up, and become the distinguished leader you were destined to be. That is all I can tell you at this time because all of our futures, depends on our Louis and what kind of man, and natural leader he really is."
Junior knew his lot in life. He to nodded as well in proof and understanding, it showed of a pride and pleasure, rooted in his great race of horses, of the "Arions". Nothing more was spoken on the subject.
A few hours that are more non-eventful passed.
The sun was finally starting to wane in the western golden red and orange sky above Pakistan. Now circling in flight, Charlie spotted a grassy meadow plateau at the top of a large mountain range. It appeared to be a peaceful place. There was a high-mountain stream trickling through its belly, and a few blooming Cherry trees could be seen surrounding the clearing.
Digger thumped one of his feet upon Louis's lap waking him. He immediately took to the task-at-hand, upon rubbing his refreshed eyes. He placed Junior's leather reins once again in hand, pulling to the left, which sent him into a sharp decline and landing pattern.
Charlie with Mr. Beamer's push followed suit, riding in Junior's slip steam, which softened the wind behind him. Both majestic Pegasus's lightly set their hooves down amongst the summer wild flowers in the field of the tall, undisciplined grasses.
Louis dismounted, helping Digger to the ground. The clever rabbit was lost, back into his own world. He immediately began to dig about the grassy field, adrift in his happiness and merriment. He feverously dug a rabbit hole, quickly disappearing from sight, into it: which Louis was quick to spot.
"Why has he dug his way into oblivion? He has disappeared so quickly, I am alarmed."
"No need to be" said Junior "that's what rabbit's do, that is what they live for".
"Still it gives me pause, for some strange reason, I cannot explain it," queried Louis.
"Maybe he just does not like to be in flight, and the earth is where he feels most comfortable. He is just back into his domain, as I just was".
Louis shook his head. He then searched Charlie's eyes; he did not discover a worry. Digger's actions were noted by Louis; nothing more was said about it.
The group of tired warriors unpacked the best they could, then promptly fell about the ground in an untamed manner. Louis lit a comforting fire then started to boil some mountain water, to make sweet tea.
Mr. Beamer searched about a pack, uncovering some provision, trying to decide what was best for dinner that night. Father and son slowly meandered about the field, grazing on the lush grasses, frocking in the cool mountain stream, fortifying their family bond in the process.
Louis after a few moments rest remembered Chug had once caught a Chinook salmon high in the Northwest Territories of Canada below the Boreal Forest. Louis set about making a fishing rod, and fishing line from their supplies. Within moments, he was down at the high-mountain stream, with a medium-sized brook trout dangling from his line. He shouted out, celebrating his catch to the others delight.
"Fish in on the menu" he bellowed repeatedly.
"Why look at you Louis, the Fisherman Deluxe," exclaimed Mr. Beamer, sharing in his good fortune.
Louis was a freewheeling boy once again, only for a moment.
After a few more moments, a lackluster noise came from the far end of camp. Digger's two long white ears appeared from a rabbit hole. Then a face, and with a well-engineered hop, he was totally exposed; covered in dirt with two handfuls of blueberries, clutched tightly in his furry paws. His fingernails had turned blue from his pilfering and theft.
"Where have you been Digger? We were all so worried about you, you just disappeared" said a vexed Louis.
"Why I was getting dinner of course" said the flummoxed rabbit "why would you worry about me, I am nobody, just a little rabbit with a big appetite.
Mr. Beamer turned abruptly about, staring at the two handfuls of blueberries, the Neither World...he thought to himself. Saying nothing, he looked at Louis to see his reaction to the rabbit's bounty. Louis only expressed relief in his face that his friend had returned to him safe and sound. Mr. Beamer said nothing as both Charlie and Junior returned from their dinner and bath.
Freshly fried brook trout was in the offing, with Mr. Beamer boiling a pan full of white rice, fresh herbs, and vegetables he had dug out from the surrounding fields. Again he thought to himself; why had Digger just done as he had done? There was plenty of food to forage from in the nearby stream and wild grassy field. Mr. Beamer was too hungry, and too tired to give it any more thought, there was so much to be done in the next two days.
All slept that night content and happy, except Louis and Charlie. The lucid dreams and visions that had followed Louis throughout the years were back with a vengeance. He tossed and turned all night.
Charlie ever with the watchful-eye stood over Louis though out the night, offering mummers of reassurance into Louis's ear, and waking him when he wrestled inside of himself. Thoughts of a Minotaur, and Hunchback Pete, Petar's father fogged and clouded his natural dreams. Who was this new threat? His name was...was...wha-t... Was he a deviant man, a beast of the Under-World, or a demon, and the "Firebird" Rukh, would he have to face him in battle as well?
As the dawn broke upon the tranquil, spellbinding field, Charlie could finally take no more, watching Louis tussle about. He gingerly nudged him with his long nose.
"Louis my good friend" said a loving Charlie "it is time to rise. Release yourself from your nightmares, the day in yours to conquer."
Another caring nudge; Louis escaped his tormentors for another night. Opening his eyes, his first sight of the day was of his best friend, "My Charlie, your nose gets longer every day, and you need to trim those nose hairs".
"As you command oh, Chosen One...er...I mean...Louis the White".
"Charlie does your wife still have that big horseshoe collecting, on her wall?"
"Why yes she does Louis, it gets bigger every day."
Louis smiled; Charlie smiled, both sharing a hug, and a few inside jokes between them, to start their day.
"Will you two be serious? We have to make good time today, for we must be in Egypt by early the next morning: preferable tonight. The summer solstice will soon be upon us. Last night the evening skies were dark and starless, the moon was in hiding, if you did not notice. It should have been a full moon but it did not rise. Hathor took to hiding her; her day will be at hand shortly. We have much to do, much to prepare for."
As Mr. Beamer confessed his worries, a low deep rumble approached towards them from the far side of the field, growing in volume and intensity as it advanced. Junior (who was off in the field, with Digger sitting on his back) took to a sprint, heading directly for Charlie and Mr. Beamer. He raced against the growing sounds as they rumbled below his hoofs.
"The "Precession of the Equinoxes", the earth shifts on its polls once again. It has begun anew...and even more so...!" shouted out Mr. Beamer.
This sent Louis into a violent shaking motion.
Charlie grabbed Louis by the nap of his shirt, tossing him into the nearby stream for safety. As the ground shook violently, the waters of the stream absorbed most of the shock of the trembler. Leaves shook off nearby Cherry trees, summer birds hurriedly took to flight. Echoes and rumbles deep in tone filled everyone's ears; it was deafening to all.
Louis covered his ears in terror.
Digger wrapped his ears about his face, sheltering them the best he could from the earsplitting sounds.
He shouted out in pain.
Junior whinnied as Charlie fought to keep his senses about him. Mr. Beamer stood steadfast in place with his hands over his ears, as well.
A large fissure opened up at the near end of the field, directing th
e mountain stream into it. The water quickly disappeared, draining it completely dry, exposing numerous fish and bottom dwelling creatures.
As hastily as the rumbles and shaking began, was as abruptly as they ceased.
It was all quiet once again.
The sun shone brightly, the trees stopped shaking.
The world fell back into its natural order.
"Hathor calls you Louis. You have a date with destiny," said Mr. Beamer.
Louis spit out two large gulps of water that he had inadvertently almost swallowed upon his entrance into the water.
"Two days, we have only two days, quickly we must hurry now," said a wild-eyed Junior "let us finish our morning chores, and be away into the morning sky".
The night's fire was doused with water, the saddlebags packed once again, with no breakfast eaten this morning. Junior was mounted, Mr. Beamer sidled Charlie and Digger took his familiar position inside of Louis's chain mail coat.
Lifting off the ground in a flash both rider, and horse climbed once again towards the heavens above. The skies were blue and clear, without a cloud in sight.
Heading directly eastwards, out of Pakistan and towards Iran and the Gulf Oman found on her southern tip; a quick two-hour effortless flight and the greenish-blue waters appeared now below them. The emerald green seas were clear and clean. Wind driven white caps sparkled upon the crests of the larger waves as they fell over themselves, in a symbiotic and hypnotic fashion.
Flying fish were noted in large schools exiting and entering the great expanse of blue, as freely as the seabirds dove, and rose around them. There were fanciful Darters and Petrals, Shearwaters and Egrets. All were feeding on a large school of baitfish.
The natural world was alive, pulsating, and thumping around them.
Looking high upwards Louis once again spotted an anomaly; an irregularity.
"Charlie, look above us," said a bewildered Louis "is that a great bird above us? A friend or demon that has risen from the...dare I speak it...from the Under Dark?" Looking upwards into the bright sunlight then, rubbing his eyes, while trying to gain focus, Mr. Beamer spoke up. "It is the Lone Great Eagle that has been shadowing us from the beginning of our journey."
"Then it is not a creature from the Neither World," understood Louis "I have been so worried lately about dark flying creatures, beasts that will be released upon us if we are to fail in our quest, and of course let's not forget the things that go bump in the night. Again, after all, you have to remember, I am only a kid, and that is what kids our age fear, the most. Things that go bump in the night, and let's not even discuss monsters, goblins, vampires, or jumping rats."
Charlie smiled towards Louis to reassure him, that all was well for the time being.
"If my calculations and memories are correct, then he is the Great Eagle of Alexandria He is a lone warrior who guards our flank. He is a friend, and he will be there in the end if we should need him, trust me. He is a great bald eagle. He is the epitome of longevity, imperial grace, and strength. He is the true ruler of the daytime skies, he rules over the raptures and vultures in flight, he will be the guiding hand if need be."
"Charlie Chug told me of seeing a great lone eagle after the fight with "Raff the Red Wolf" upon the arctic ice pack below the Dark Mountains last year; he carries with him a eagle feather that was sent to him from above on that day, and do you not own a eagle feather of the same colors? You had it in Mr. Beamer's barn. You said you found it one day while plowing a field of his. I carried it with me to the North Pole last year with your green straw hat. That feather you said once was your pride and joy."
"Yes Louis you are correct on both accounts. This eagle has been with us from the beginning. I can tell you no more now, but if things do not go as planned then all will become evident, look to the Fire Desert below. We must keep our course and concentration on our destiny at this time. Mr. Beamer is we on the right course?"
"Yes Charlie as you two spoke I conferred our headings with the Compass of Nubia, but we must turn northeast now, and head towards the Red Sea. A two-hour crossing of the great sea, then we enter ancient Egypt, the Valley of the Kings and into the heart of the Fire Desert it's self.
Louis looked upwards. The elevated flying figure had disappeared once again, lost in the bright sunlight of the Middle East. Looking below and ahead once more, Louis marveled at the earth's natural wonders, letting his mind release, to enjoy the luster. Sand clouds were below blowing about in a wild fashion. Then a quick rise in elevation as enormous sand dunes spread themselves outwards within the recklessness, and abandonment of hot desert windstorms.
Digger spoke little; but was just as enthralled as Louis was.
"How much longer Louis?" asked Digger, "till we arrive at our destination?"
"Well we can see the far-east coast of the Red Sea, and I can now see what I believe to be the wild Nile River on the horizon."
"We have been in flight for over seven hours now without a break. You must all be getting hungry. We should find a place to rest before our final push into the Fire Desert below.
Charlie searched for an acceptable landing place."
"The Nile River will do. It is only another hour then we can rest. There will be clean water, and Tiger Lilies on her banks. Those are always a treat to eat. Louis can catch a few fish again then we can slumber there for the rest of the day, and into the night. It is only about an hour's flight to the Pyramids from there and our meeting with destiny. We will be refreshed and ready for our calling."
"It is set then. Guide us Charlie on our final leg," said Mr. Beamer.
Charlie took the lead out front of Junior, banking, on a northeastern tack up the Red Sea, towards the Nile. The sky was still cloudless and tranquil. The summer winds pushed them along as they started to descend into the great Fire Desert.
Gliding now at a lower altitude the air became thicker, heavier, and less stable. A few hot gusts of air here, an explosive whirlwind there, a flurry, and then an updraft, as Charlie spotted a mid-sized clearing by the river, level and filled with tall grasses, making for a soft landing.
Fighting off the eruptions of hot air Charlie with Mr. Beamer's prodding's lightly touched the earth once again. Junior followed suite, all were safe and sound on the foreign soil. The dirt was black as coal, and the grasses tall and wild. A few lone water birds were present, loudly announcing the traveling party's stately arrival.
Camp was set up as the scorching Egyptian sun drew long shadows across their faces. The waters of the river were slow and lazy. It was a wide and deep river, changing courses at will much as a teenage girl might. It was neither bothered by the world nor engaged in it, it was its own master, filled with might and courage.
Louis searched about its earthen banks, wondering, inside of his view of it.
"It is indeed a grand river Charlie. I never thought I would see such wonders growing up in Centerville."
"All boys can dream it Louis; you only happen to be living it. Remember it always and write it down in your memories, so you can share it with your children someday Louis."
"I will Charlie and I am, remembering it as we speak. Now as for some food, I am starving."
Digger reached into his front furry pocket, without hesitation, he popped a blueberry into Louis's dry, parched mouth, Louis not questioning the gift; swallowed it whole.
His eyes instantly lit up, as his mind fooled him.
Quietly he asked for another.
Mr. Beamer did not notice the folly. Charlie and Junior were now deep into the late afternoon chores, with plenty on their minds to keep them distracted. Digger produced another poison pill, then another, from deep within his bounty of venom.
Quietly Louis spoke out, "Those are delightful Digger. Where did you get them, and can I have another?"
"Not too many at once Louis. They are habit forming. I only eat a few e
very hour or so, and you have just had a day's worth all at once. They are the mystical berries from the Bodhi Tree, the Tree of Enlightenment from which I helped you escape, remember?"
"I thought we were not supposed to eat those."
"Oh...that wicked...Mr. Beamer he does not know everything. Are they not mind-expanding? Don't you see the world a little more clearly now?"
"Yes I do, the world is focused for the first time, but my eyes grow blurred and my stomach is churning."
"That will pass as the magic that lies within her juices ferment in your belly."
Louis rubbed his eyes. He grew a little weary. Digger closed the pocket on his side and looked about, not noticing anything out of the ordinary except for a now imbibed and very intoxicated little boy, who now grew sleepy, under the dark spell of the Neither World".
As Louis's mind spiraled downwards, he laid back into the deep grasses of the clearing, falling fast asleep. For the first time in his life, he was at peace with his mind, with no dark visions to upset him, no lucid dreaming, or eerie foreshadowing of future events.
Just sleep; he had been tricked by a trickster.
Looking upwards towards the declining sun an image appeared to Digger, blotted out by the long red and golden hued sunbeams, the image was barely discernible. As it grew closer, the cooling winds rustled and twirled about him. Mr. Beamer noticing the commotion quickly turned to face the intruder.
Two large wings flickered above him; a loud whiney was heard above the agitated winds. Baron Von Beck, with Chug in saddle, lightly touched down on the ground, in front of Mr. Beamer.
"We thought you might, need some help Mr. Beamer" proclaimed the wild-eyed little boy.
Charlie trotted over after seeing, another Pegasus land in the clearing. As The Baron turned to face Charlie, a grand smile was seen on his face.
"Why I see you have come to join the fight Baron."
"I have..."
"My god Chug...is that you?"
"Yes Charlie...I..."
"I cannot believe my disbelieving eyes, you have escaped Petar's evil holding cell."
"Only with the help of The Baron; he flew to Saint Louis, kicked in my jail cell, the iron bars and freed me...then he freed my mind with the help of the ancient writing of Mr. Beamer; from some of the writings found up in his attic."
"Good to have you with us Chug. I still cannot believe this good fortune of ours."
"How did you recognize me Charlie?" asked The Baron with a slight smirk on his face "I have not been in this form for over two thousand years".
"Your eyes Baron, they are still honest and belong to only you; whatever form you are in."
The beautiful black winged creature stood before the group, full of pride and courage. The Baron stood almost as tall as Charlie did. He was wider in girth and just a muscular. His wingspan was over twenty feet when fully extended, and his long flowing tail shone of pride and self-belief.
Mr. Beamer hurried over from the bank of the Nile seeing The Baron land.
"And who is this that guides your flight Baron? Why it is Chug, "The Noble". That is what we will call you now" said Mr. Beamer as he helped Chug dismount.
An excited Chug blurted out, "Why...er...ah...Mr. Beamer...we...we are so happy to have found you. We took flight over a week ago. With the help...of...Turk..."
"Chug slow down and try to catch your breath. You are going to have a conniption," said Mr. Beamer.
"Yes oh..."Noble One", slow down and tell us of your journey, and what news you have of Centerville and especially of Molly, Sammy and Harry, and of all the children still trapped in purgatory in the Saint Louis, tell us of those still ensconced inside of Petar's dark evil" added Charlie.
Chug sat down on a medium-sized rock found nearby, caught his breath, then out of the corner of his eye he noticed Louis laying in the tall grass, sound asleep.
"Louis!" called out the overjoyed little boy.
"Louis, it's your Chug, your best friend in the world! I've come to help you! I bring you news of Molly, and your family!"
Louis did not stir; which alarmed Mr. Beamer. He pressed forwards towards Louis, grapping Louis by the shoulder, giving him a soft stir.
Louis did not move.
"Louis...wakeup my little friend..."
There was no movement, none.
Taking Louis in his arms Mr. Beamer looked over at Charlie, then Junior who was showing a great worry in his face. Digger dug into the earth nearby by, only showing his eyes and tall ears to his adversaries, and now fully perceived enemies.
Chug's mouth was agape as well as the other's were. Louis slowly opened his eyes then tried to lick his dry purple lips.
"Can I have a drink of water? My mouth is so dry."
"Why of course Louis. Chug can you take that cup over there, and fill it to the brim in the river, and return quickly?"
The boy dashed as fast as he could, off towards the river.
"How do you feel Louis; you look a little pale" said an apprehensive Charlie.
"Oh I'm Ok...just a little sleepy. It must have been the long flight today, and with the entire hullabaloo over the last few days. It has just been so much. I will be all right, I need just a glass of water please, a little food and rest, and in the morning, I will be fine.
Chug returned with the water; handing the cup to Louis.
"It is so nice to see you again Louis" said Chug "you look thin but you still have that same ugly face."
"Well you will never change," said Louis as a faint smile appeared on his face "you are just as tall as ever."
Both boys smiled.
"You drink up Louis, and rest we'll have dinner ready soon enough. Chug can catch a fish then a fish fry will be ours.
Louis rolled over on his side. Mr. Beamer grabbed a blanket out of his saddlebag, throwing it over a once again, now sleeping Louis. As Mr. Beamer tucked it around his lean shoulders, he noticed that Louis's lips and tongue were a bright shade of blue.
He glared over at Digger. He was left only guessing what had happened.
Digger sheepishly smiled then quickly disappeared into his rabbit hole for the night.
"Chug we can catch up on your journey and what news you bring us over the dinner, that you are about to catch. You see we need your "noble skills" already," said a calmer Mr. Beamer, now knowing that Louis was all right for the time being.
Mr. Beamer pointed towards his backpack where, the fishing line and hooks could be found inside a small pocket. Without another word, Chug went to work pitching in where he could: catching dinner, tending the fire, and then gathering some more water to boil some rice.
The Baron and Charlie took towards the riverbank to catch up on their friendship as only two good friends can truly do. Softly kicking the grasses, grazing on some wild flowers, and enjoying the Egyptian sunset were theirs. Mr. Beamer and Junior discussed their good fortune with the arrival their friends as they congregated around the roaring fire.
The early evening was warm and inviting. A few fireflies took to flight over the Nile River as the last of the day's light dispersed from view, leaving the stars to make a grand appearance overhead. Shinning outwards, within the sphere of their luminosity: a visual feast was for the taking. The sky was jet black as the evening's creatures started to stir around them, in the darkness. Creatures small and large, friendly, and not so kind were curious of the visitors to their clearing. The fire was kept large to keep away, the not so friendly ones.
Dinner was served, Chug had caught a large bass, which was filleted and cooked over the open fire. After foraging about the clearing for bulbs and tubers, Mr. Beamer added them to the freshly boiled rice. It was a fine dinner. After all were full and satiated, Mr. Beamer asked the first pertinent question of the evening.
"First off Baron do you want to be called by your ancient Arion name
, Benedetto the Good or just The Baron?"
"Either name it does not matter, I will answer to both."
"Now tell us of your transformation?"
"Well it was all Turk's, Doc Wellman, and Mr. Pennywell doings. They knew that you would need help. They scavenged through your attic deep in the night after you left. In one your great chess they found one of your ancient books, filled with; spells, incantations, and magic charms. Upon the readings, they noticed the most important one of all, the ability to reclaim our "Arion" destiny.
Low and behold.
Turk spoke the enchantments, then both myself and Bocephous were magically "reborn" into the form you see now, as Charlie has".
"And where is Bocephous now?" asked Charlie.
"He flew to Saint Louis the night after our transformation with me to Saint Louis to check on Molly, Chug and all of the other children kept there. He could not locate and free Molly but I was able to find Chug. Later the next day I planned my journey with the others, to come to Egypt. I am so glad we found you. We followed the magical attraction or beacon of the Bell of Amun Ra. It guided us here."
"Where is Bocephous now?"
"He is standing by in case we call him. He is helping guard Centerville with Panthera, as we speak."
"Good choice" added Mr. Beamer.
"And what of our children?" asked Charlie.
"They are safe, and sound but still trapped inside of the Under Dark, of the "Neither World" as well as all the other children within her clutches. Their numbers have been growing, since the evil machine has now been finished, completely built. There are now thousands of children lost in the dark, and away from their parents in that awful prison."
"And what has become of the others in Centerville?"
"Well Mr. Beamer they too have been troubled lately; Panthera has had his hands full. Dark creatures have been stalking at the outskirts of Centerville waiting to pounce: waiting their time until the Blue Hour is upon them, waiting for their numbers to grow. Panthera has had many battles with more than a few of them, he is spent."
Charlie spoke.
"Can you tell us about Louis's parents?"
"They are worried; waiting for Louis's return but they are safe. They asked me to send him a message. When he wakes I will deliver that message."
"Chug, how did you get into the center of this?" asked Junior.
"Well the Baron needed a traveling partner to keep him company and to tell you the truth I am kind of fed up with this whole mess as everybody else, you most likely need all the help you can get. And you can tell by my courage that I can get in and out of many tight spaces, so I offer you my services" said Chug as he artfully darted about the campsite between the legs of Junior and Charlie.
"Most impressive my friend, and yes we need all the help we can get. We must now get some sleep for the night, for tomorrow will be the day of our reckoning, A Day of Changes for us all.
"It has been a long flight, we are tired Mr. Beamer" said Benedetto the Good.
"Yes we are all tired Baron. In the morning we will stir little Louis our savior. He will take one last reading in the Sworn Book, the Good Book of Thebes then on into the Valley of the Kings to meet our destiny, to form the future destiny of the world," said Charlie as he looked forlornly at the group.
The fire was kept brightly lit throughout the night by Chug as the others slept soundly in their beds of grass. Songbirds were quiet and the moon again took to hiding; waiting for its grand appearance in the Egyptian sky, at noon on the summer solstice, the next day.
Louis did not budge or shift positions throughout the night; he lay quietly, like a vampire who has been asleep for a thousand years.