Jalaby's Journey

by Duane Alston

  “Brand, it's time to go. Tell Malno that we need some guides and provisions to see us through the rest of the Cave Trail to the Neteos River Valley,” said Jalaby.

  Brand reported back. “Malno was more than happy to oblige, in fact they are headed there and would be honored if you, Jalaby, would be their leader.”

  Jalaby realized that he may want to show more authority because he just wasn't sure how secure his footing was in maintaining control over the Zefferts, so he agreed. With that, Malno selected a couple of Zefferts to join Jalaby, Brand and his five Olandie companions. After some bowing all around, they headed back down the Cave Trail. Jalaby was anxious to get back.

  Chapter 27

  It didn't take long, in fact, Jalaby realized soon after they started that he didn't need the Zeffert guides at all, although he knew stocking up with some of their provisions would come in handy, knowing Tom. With the aid of the Du-stone, Jalaby knew exactly which tunnels to take and could sense the direction even when the tunnels turned dark. It wasn't exactly the ability to see in the dark but rather a feeling of where the walls were and how uneven the path was. He could even sense if a stone or other object might trip him which didn't save his companions from the occasional fall, since for some reason of their own the Zefferts chose not to bring lanterns. Jalaby felt they were getting close so he stopped.

  “Brand, I want you and the others to wait here, especially the Zefferts. I don't want to start another conflict by having my friends attack without knowing where we now stand.” Jalaby and his group were currently in the dark so reading their facial gestures was out of the question.

  “OK, no problem. I'll keep them here!” Brand said confidently.

  “OK, see you in about fifteen minutes,” Jalaby said and headed out alone to reunite with his friends.

  As Jalaby approached the dead-end side tunnel where he left his friends, he began to shout to get their attention.

  “Hey it's me and not a Zeffert or Pale One, so don't attack,” Jalaby said as he approached the location where he knew they would be guarding.

  “Hey what do you know guys, he's not a vision this time.” Tom laughed and Jalaby finally felt at ease again.

  “Jalaby!” Sarah shouted and ran to him.

  Jalaby opened his arms and got what he was hoping for, a tremendous hug.

  “What happened and where is Willow and Rosey?” Sarah did not disengage from the hug as she started the volley of questions and Tom added in his.

  “Failed? Well it was bound to happen. You can't rely on the stone for everything you know. You need good old trusty muscle and something up here,” Tom smiled his sarcastic best pointing to his head. “Let Connel and me at it. We'll get your horsey back. I suppose the Pale Ones have him?”

  “Well only part of your speech is right. The Pale Ones, or rather the Zefferts, do have them but they have been rescued,” Jalaby said as he returned Tom's smile with one of his own.

  Then Connel joined in. “Let's not talk here, Come into our camp and tell us all about it. It appears too complicated for a game of questions and answers,” Connel said happily. “You'll be glad, I'm sure, to see Talisbon again.”

  “OK, but I need to go back a short way and get some new friends and don't get too excited, two of them are Zefferts but they are on our side now. By the way, that's what they like to be called. Back in five minutes.” Jalaby finished and tried to disengage from Sarah but found it not so easy, with her arms tightly around his waist.

  “Not so fast. I'm going with you or you are just not going,” Sarah gave a pouting expression that Jalaby could just barely make out in the dim torch light and it made him Smile.

  “OK,” and Jalaby grabbed Sarah's hand and headed back down the tunnel while hearing Tom shouting after them, something about getting a new chaperon and following the rules. It was all nonsense, but Jalaby loved it. It was good to be back.

  It was easy going with Jalaby's new powers and Sarah's headband, so they quickly retrieved Brand and the others and soon found themselves in a grand reunion. The two young Olandie that Sarah had previously escorted back had remained and so were reunited with Brand and his group and Jalaby told in great detail what had happened to him since parting from Sarah.

  “What I now want to hear is what happened here. I mean what is this about a vision? When I first got back Tom was talking about it?” Jalaby asked.

  “It was spooky. I mean you just sort of appeared in the dark end of the tunnel just there.” Tom said and pointed to an area near the spot where they had previously set up guard. “It was hazy but it was your features and definitely your voice. You said everything would be alright and you would be back soon and then the image vanished.”

  “The amazing thing is, I did say that, and I saw an image of all of you just after I combined the Stone of Crieton with the Du-stone. It happened as soon as I thought of Sarah,” Jalaby said and smiled at her. “I think the stones have some sort of projecting power and-.”

  “You are right Prince Langmaster,” Talisbon said and Jalaby noticed Brand seemed startled at the sound of the name. Jalaby let it pass but meant to tell Talisbon again to quit calling him prince. Talisbon continued. “You must realize that what I know about the Stone of Crieton and the Du-stone is legend and something that was told by the elders, usually in the evening around the table while eating our late meal. We took it to be true, but who's to say.” Talisbon's professor style of speaking was in full force.

  “Why didn't you say anything before?” Demanded Jalaby.

  “I didn't know that the Stone of Crieton had anything to do with the Du-stone. In the legend it tells about a first stone and it was called the Aonstone, sometimes referred to as the Onestone. What I think is more important is that if these are the stones of this legend, then I should let you know that there are a total of three stones. The Tairstone completes the set. This is a wonder is it not? That the legends of my youth should come alive to me. Amazing!” Talisbon's face so expressed a childlike wonder that Tom had to laugh and tease him a little.

  “I'm surprised you can remember that far back “Taliman”. Well give us some more, this sounds promising,” Tom's high interest was evident in the eagerness of his voice.

  “Well there is not much to tell. The fact that Narish and Julie Stebon told Jalaby to seek answers at Stoneburst Settlement may be an indication that they believe the third stone to be there, but how they would guess that Jalaby would stumble onto and now possess the second stone, I can't imagine. Perhaps it was just luck or could it be the direct influence on Jalaby of the first stone? Somehow guiding his actions such that it will be inevitable that he find each stone. Ah, that is the question.” Talisbon paused, cupped his hand to his chin and seemed to ponder his next statement, which never came.

  “OK, enough speculating, we are here now and we have a great chance to get through the cave in quick time and outdoors again. I'm feeling pretty closed in, so get plenty of rest tonight and we'll move out tomorrow,” Jalaby said and motioned for Brand to come closer.

  “Brand, since the Zefferts don't require much sleep, have them take the guard duty, but just so you know, I'm not the trusting type so I'll also rotate my friends to also guard. It's what we have been doing since we started this little adventure and I'm not about to stop now.”

  “Jalaby, are you really Prince Langmaster? I know it's a little late in the day to get into this but-.” Brand paused and Jalaby answered before he had a chance to add anything.

  “Well yes, I am. I told Talisbon to quit using my title but he seems to pay me no mind. It's a long story but I was not raised on this side of the Crieton River and the closer I get to Stoneburst Settlement, the more I know that I've come back to end the domination of whoever controls the Fog Warriors. I'm not sure how yet but time may provide the answer.” Jalaby finished earnestly.

  Brand hesitated, but his face indicated that he had come to a decision before his words came out. “Jalaby, I don't know if you would allow me but I would like t
o join you on your journey? I may be of some value as an interpreter and I know the land around Stoneburst Settlement and even the land beyond.” Brand paused with a hopeful expression on his face.

  Jalaby smiled. “Brand you have already done more than I can ever repay but yes, I would be glad to have you along. Now get some rest.” Brand's face lit up and nodding vigorously, he went to find a place to sleep.

  Morning came after a very peaceful night but being in perpetual darkness meant the only way they could actually tell the difference between morning and night was by their timepieces. Everyone was eager to be on their way and packing was quick. Since much of the tunnel ahead would be lit either naturally by the glowing plants or by the Zeffert's lanterns, Sarah decided to give the headband to one of the Olandie so they could return it to Constanto. Come to find out, there was a female member of the Olandie group that was able to use the headband, so fortunately she would now be able to lead them back home more easily.

  With the two Zefferts leading the way, they traveled back to the living quarters of the Zefferts. When they arrived at the large open cavern it was in chaos. Zefferts were running around in a frenzy, packing up their belongings for the great return to their homeland as Brand found out by grabbing the nearest one.

  “The leader, Malno, is just up ahead,” Brand said and headed that way followed by Jalaby and the rest of the group.

  “Keep your hands on your horses and kacks at all times. We don't want to lose them again.” Jalaby shouted over the noise of the Zeffert's moving mayhem. They found Malno, but before Jalaby could speak, Malno said, through Brand's interpretation, “Ah, Jalaby, glad you're back. Just over there are your horse and pack animal. Good, I see you found your friends. I hope all is well with them.” Malno paused but getting no quick response he continued. “As soon as you are able and ready to lead us, the main tunnel route is just there.” Malno pointed to a large cave opening just ahead of where they stood. “It should only take you three days to get through. We'll follow as soon as we get a bit more organized.” “I'll send two more of my best warriors with you to lead the way, although the route is simple as long as you stay in the main tunnel. Now to the future. I and my people are indebted to you for allowing us to fulfill our mission in life. You may call upon us at any time and there are far more Zefferts in the world than the hundreds you've seen in the caves here. The Zeffert Kingdom is vast and peaceful and if the need arises, you may lead us at any time.” Malno finished with a graceful bow.

  “Thank you Malno, we appreciate your help. We'll be on our way now,” Jalaby finished with a quick bow of his own and after a quick transfer of his belongings to Willow and Rosey, they moved into the large tunnel and began their final leg out of the mountain.

  The tunnel road was wide and tall but more importantly, it was well lit. Part was lit by the glowing plant life they had seen before but the further they traveled away from the Zeffert's cave headquarters area of the mountain, the fewer the light giving plants, so more and more the main tunnel was lit with lanterns hanging every twenty feet or so. For Jalaby, the best part was he could now ride side by side with Sarah and he had not had the chance to get her opinion about the second stone. For some reason Jalaby felt a little awkward but tried his best not to show it.

  “Sarah, what do you make of Talisbon's legend and this second stone? I mean, I was talking to Talisbon and it does seem to match the capabilities of the stone of Talisbon's legend, based on what he can remember.” Jalaby and Sarah moved rhythmically to the sway of their horses and the clatter of hoofs on the stone cave floor echoed down the tunnel.

  “I'm not sure about that but you do have some sort of projection power with that second stone. Aren't you tempted to project yourself back home to see your uncle or even project yourself to see your birth father? I mean the possibilities are endless. I never asked, do you have a birth mother?” Sarah asked and as important as the questions and thoughts were, he couldn't help but notices how her dark red hair bounced with the rhythm of the motion of her horse Flurry, but he abruptly brought his attention back to her questions.

  “From what my uncle told me, my mother died when I was young, but about your other question, I've thought about it but each time I use these stones it takes a lot of energy out of me and I feel completely drained. I haven't mentioned it, but I think I should probably only use the stones for short periods and not very often. That way I'm saving my energy for a time when I may really need it to defeat the Fog Warriors. Then there are the times when I have a passing thought about my father, which causes the stones to give me an immediate sense of danger and nearly burns my skin off, Ha, Ha. Well, you can see why I think twice about visiting my relatives.” Jalaby's light laugh amid his grim face decided Sarah on lightening the mood.

  “I guess Tom has given up on the chaperoning so we can discuss anything we want now.” Sarah's quick smile brightened up the dim tunnel for Jalaby.

  “Well that would be great, I liked the direction things were heading.” Jalaby smiled and they spent the next several minutes looking at each other and not saying a word.

  Leave it to Tom to break the spell, as he shouted, “Jalaby, time to eat. Tell those Zefferts to hold up, there's a wide spot here and the horses and kacks need a break. Say who's leading this? I guess I am, while you're so distracted!” Tom's laugh echoed down the long tunnel.

  Chapter 28

  Malno was right, it took only three days to finally exit the dark world of the Altus Cave Trail and to view the scenery of the Neteos River Valley, which was spectacular. Jalaby felt exhilarated by the crisp cold mountain air and he quickly forgot the warm stuffy air of the tunnel that he just left. The view was incredible and the whole group stood in awe, except for the two Zefferts, who upon finishing their assigned orders, turned and headed back into the caves without a word. To Jalaby and the others, what lay behind them didn't matter, for they knew they were getting close now, so very close to their goal.

  Unlike the entrance to the Altus Cave Trail, the exit into the Neteos Valley was only slightly above the base of the mountain. Enough to give that spectacular view, but the gradual slope led easily to the wide well traveled road that they were now on. The Neteos River Valley, for the most part, was grassland with occasional stands of forest. Brand had informed them that in a couple of days they would come to the large town of Neteos before reaching the Stoneburst Settlement.

  Jalaby noted that although everyone's spirit seemed high since learning that they were nearing their goal, there was a certain weariness in their actions. He knew everyone needed a rest and planned that the town of Neteos would give them that opportunity. As they stopped for water at a small lake near the road, Jalaby let them know of his intentions.

  “Hey everyone, I know we've had a hard and difficult journey, so we will be staying for several days in Neteos in order to get provisions, but more importantly to rest and for Tom to finally eat his fill,” Jalaby laughed.

  “And I'm not likely to be the only one. I think Taliman here can finish off a plate or two with the best of them,” Tom smiled and winked at Talisbon who smiled awkwardly. It seemed to Jalaby that even after all their travels, Talisbon could not quite figure out how to respond to Tom's playful goading.

  As Jalaby passed Connel, who was filling his water containers, he couldn't help but notice a far away look in his eyes.

  “Thinking about back home?” Jalaby asked.

  Connel jumped slightly and looked at Jalaby. “No, actually I wasn't. I was thinking about those stones of yours. You know I think you're approaching this all wrong.” Connel paused slightly and Jalaby was in the middle of thinking about a defensive rebuttal when Connel continued. “I mean, you have some historical information right here at your disposal and you don't make use of it. By that, I mean Talisbon. You need to have him tell us all the stories about the stones that he knows, legends he calls them. I think in those stories that were passed down from generation to generation, there may be some key information about these sto
nes. I'll approach him tonight, if you like, and see if he'll oblige us with a lecture about the subject. I noticed that he loves to teach and we'll get the most information out of him if we present ourselves as “eager students” to his professor role, which in many respects I think we are.” Connel finished and reached down for another bucket of water to fill his small barrels.

  “Boy Connel, I think that is the most you've said in regard to our predicament since we started this little journey and I must say that it is good advice. You are right, I shouldn't let my initial dislike of Talisbon interfere. Besides, I kind of like the guy. Yeah, set it up. Tonight we'll learn all we can about these stones!” Jalaby smiled, nodded and moved off to fill his own water containers.

  The place they camped that night was a cleared area just off the road and nestled semicircular into a stand of one hundred or so trees, giving a wooden canvas to display the various shadows cast by the large campfire they had built to cook their food and give them warmth against the cold night air. After Connel relayed to Jalaby that Talisbon was agreeable, he had formally requested in front of the whole group, that Talisbon give them a lecture on all he knows about the stones. Talisbon had readily accepted with the air of someone who had been accorded quite a great honor.

  With all the chores done and the last meal finished, everyone gathered in front of Talisbon, who stood facing them. The campfire was between them and lit up Talisbon's countenance in a soft yellow light. Talisbon began.