A trio of grasshoppers drank from the morning dew, while birds searched through the softened mud snatching worms. Emerging from the morning mist, a fox dashes through the grass towards the bottom deck of the wooden house. Right on his heels of a rabid dog. Flipping off the screen and over the dog's head, the fox’s tail slid over the purser's gnashing teeth and scampered off back into the woods. Crashing into the screen headlong making its body come to a crumbling stop. As it gathered itself whimpering it stared through the glass, ears perking up at the distant clattering sound of paws.
Onyx upstairs had heard the disturbance and raced down stairs barking. Tobias, still sleeping, groaned and rolled over. Mist began to evaporate, bringing in the morning light. Condensation covered the wooden home. It slowly dripped down, quenching the soil.
Onyx went scurrying down the stairs, Sliding to the right as he nearly knocked over a statue of a turtle holding a trident. It wobbled back and forth as a pair of hands came to steady it.
Onyx leaped over the wooden table, its grooves etched with claw marks, not something unusual for a dog that is kept alone for months. Onyx moved closer to the screen door, now slowed up and watched the wild animal. Its coat black save for the bottom of its legs, being a light brown. Now face to face with the will animal, Onyx watched the other animal for a few moments, barking, then paused. Taking a few steps back, the wild dog looked to the right of Onyx distracted.
From the corner of the room someone lurched forward. Bringing himself around, two lightly glowing gray eyes stared at Onyx and the wild dog. He ran a hand through his long black hair and turned his focus to the wild dog. As both pairs of eyes stared at each other, the wild dog began moving its hind legs to back up.
“Is he trying to cause you trouble again?”.
The voice muttered moving a hand towards the screen. As the light from the screen disappeared the dog turned tail with a loud “YELP” bolted back into the grass. Taking a few steps out and watching its silhouette fade back into the trees. He sighed and took a few steps back in and patted onyx on the head, as he let out an approving bark.
Before he got out of bed. Tobias kicked his feet over the bed, sending the rest of the blanket to the floor. Hair over his face, he was still clutching his arm. With a quick jolt he punched his arm forward. Elbow was still working fine. Strange, as that nightmare had felt real. Vapor rose from the morning sun, as he stared out the window. A picture on the wall, not stole his attention. His mother, father and himself. In front of a giant whale. An incredibly rare species called Aeriatine. Off the coast of Last Light islands when they took a trip down there. They had been lucky enough to see this magnificent creature face to face.
The underside of its big belly was white. One side was black, the other a dark shade of gray. All of its fins sported a crystalline blue. He was much younger then, sixteen years old. The look on everyone's faces made him happy for a moment. Even the Aeriatine’s expression signaled happiness.
Wherever you are, I hope you are still swimming free, happy and well. Mom…Dad… same to you. If you are still yourselves. Still haven’t heard anything since you left this world behind. The journey as a traveler must be thrilling. To see the stars, worlds being created in their infancy. Someday we will meet again, but I will not leave this body behind to go those distances. Once my time is up, it's up. After that, if there is anything. I hope to see you again, even travel the universe together.
Still in his clothes from the day before, he rose out of bed and took one last longing look at the photo.
From atop of the wooden steps, stood Tobias. His long black hair covered the front of his face and he stared at Onyx and the one next to him. Passing the turtle statue to the cupboard, taking a class went over and placed it under the water dispenser.
First day back and it's already this rowdy. Tobias thought. Glancing at the man who looked just like him, long black hair and beard. Save for the eyes. The rest of his body fit his to a T, a medium sized build with a little some muscle, mainly in the arms, the belly trying to flatten out. Onyx ran up to him and jumped up.
“Morning to you too, boy. How has he been holding up since I've been gone, Ektros?”
The gleaming steel beamed off the ceiling lights, from the only part that didn’t match up with Tobias, his legs.
“Dang, I sure hope you covered that up when you went to get Onyx some food and what not, no one needs to see that,” said Tobias snickering.
“He has been good as always, besides the times when he finds the need to sneak out and chase after everything that hits the screen door, or startles him out on walks. Can't blame him though, gives me the jumps too up here in the mountains,” replied Ektros.
“You? Scared? A nearly indestructible, immortal steel can?”
“No. I still fear. If you haven't forgotten, I was flesh and bone like you. Still here so to speak. Basic instincts kick in every now and then. ” He said, crossing his arms.
“Hmmm, maybe we need to send you to the forge? Or rewire you at a I.C.H.N station. Need to get all that fear out of you! A soulless, cold shell.”
“I think not Tobias. I can manage without being reset”.
Ektros circuitry was clearly rattled. For being a top of the line model, he got pompous and snarky rather quickly.
“How about merging with Pilgrim and becoming my chaperone. Driving across Clausum isn’t that bad.”
“No. I enjoy being myself very much. Cannot risk splitting my personality in two.”
“Fair enough.”
Tobias smiled and patted him on the shoulder.
“I know you can manage just fine.”
Stepping through the screen door, Onyx followed. The screen door retracted back for a moment, until Ektros followed. Outside barefoot taking in the breath of morning, stretching out Tobias groaned.
“So glad to be back and not stuck in that containment cell and not a whiff of salt to start the day! Fantastic. Digging his toes into the morning mud felt great.. No more slipping on water and fish until next year”.
Ektros leaned against the side of the house. Arms still crossed. A sudden dash in the distance immediately caught his attention. A picture of a squirrel popped up into the corner of his vision. Just a rodent.
It nibbled on a giant nut. Partly covered in dirt, then dashed off behind the brush.
“Do you have any jobs coming up after this?” Tobias asked.
“Some. Will be taking off shortly to Grayland. I will be watching over a particular duo of Crevas. Not sure why, they are a very intelligent species of avian as is, we will see.”
“Do send me a video to my feed once you are there, we do not have any in these parts,” Tobias said.
Nodding, Ektros unfolded his arms and straightened out and stood still as a statue. The strands of his black hair began to recede, along with his facial hair as they dissolved back into his body. The human face that was just there, was now briefly in its original state. Robotic with hints of its wiring, its white pupils teaming with life. Outlines of a new body began to form as the face twisted and began to resemble another human. Arms and legs adjusted and Ektros gained height to be just a tad higher than Tobias. His new body was a face resembling an older man, in his late sixties, accompanied by a small pair of reading glasses that took shape. His burnished slate body took on a new outfit, a tuxedo, of course followed by a bow tie. With his new wrinkly hands he tapped his head, there was a small amount of hair on his head, small white strands.
“Ahh,” Ektros quietly said. I see a purchase of a top hat is required to complete today's transformation”.
Onyx whimpered and went to hide behind Tobias.
“It's alright boy, still not used to this weirdo huh? I don’t blame you, this next guy seems to be a bit special as well.”
Squinting at Tobias, the old man moved slightly to him with loud sounds of popping and screeching as the metal “bones” adjusted.
“Careful, old man, we don’t need you breaking down before you even get started”.
Tobias smirked, giving a thumbs up. Reaching out with one hand, Ektros formed a sphere in his hand. The sphere imploded upon itself before turning into a long slender black cane with a golden spiral that stretched from bottom to top, with some kind of hound, much like the hyenas of old. With its snarling face at the top, Ektros stabbed the cane into the mud.
“Thank you for your concern Tobias.”
With disturbingly fast movement, Ektros leaned back and let out a laugh that had Onyx whined and lowered his head. Tobias' ears rang, like an explosion had gone off.
“Good god, what a laugh, you sound like you're drowning underwater. That deep voice does not suit you at all,” Tobias said, leaning down to pet Onyx.
Ektros shrugged and walked over to them with firm hands gripped on the cane.
“Would it be alright if I used your vehicle to get to the station?” he asked. “Yeah. That's no problem, I will go with you. Have some things I need to do around town anyhow.”
“Great”. Ektros nodded. “I will go ahead and wait by your vehicle and review my client’s needs.”
“Alright" sounds like a plan. I’m going to get a few things inside then we can go ahead and take off.
Walking along the side of the house Ektros moved inhumanly swiftly with his cane trudging into the ground with every step. Stepping back through the light of the screen door, Onyx dashing through below creating a hole his size that sent ripples across the light. Jumping up on the table, he barked and was wagging his tail fiercely. Placing on a hand and his head Tobias rubbed his head.
“Don’t worry, you are coming along with us, get you out of town for a bit.” With one loud approving bark, Onyx lunged off the table and went towards his two bowls sitting off on the side. Reaching out a paw, he placed it upon an holographic icon that had an image of flowing water. Taking his paw off, with mouth open and tongue hanging out happily, moving slightly to put his paw on a similar icon, the image looping with a dog eating out of a bowl.
As water streamed out from a hole that formed just above the bowl, dog food poured into the second bowl.
“Getting all filled up and ready for the ride? Good idea, boy”.
Tobias slid his left arm across his right arm's palm. A small screen appeared, that was the length of his hand. Instantly words flashed across the screen.
“Good morning” were the first two words, before the words quickly vanished and were replaced by menus. News, time, sports, weather, banking, contacts, celestial showers, bills, personal health, home status, water quality and messages appeared going from top to bottom. Hopefully that old man sent me those credits last night, tapping the bank icon:
NEW TRANSFER FROM: KAIN FOWLER, MONEY ALLOCATED FOR BALANCE DUES. REMAINING BALANCE POSITIVE: 7459,39 DIALS. TERMS WITH AGENCY BALLASTIC INC HAS COME TO A CLOSE, PAY NOW?
“The old man came through this time—great,” Tobias said, tapping PAY.
He closed the screen and took a quick jog towards the door, grabbing the wooden stair handle and chugged up the stairs. Turning right, he walked down the hall and turned into a huge room without a door. On the walls were holograms of his family, his mom, dad and three sisters. All from various times, mainly during their baby and child years. Along with those were him and his friends, along with Onyx, of course. Turning towards another wall, Tobias extended his hand and placed gently on the wall, as it swiftly opened. Inside all of his clothes hang suspended up by threads of almost invisible wire. He threw his clothes in the corner of the closet. The wooden tiles where the clothes had fallen, opened up and the recently worn closed had fallen down into the wash room below.
Taking a black shirt off the thread, the clothes shuffled down and moved towards the right side of the closet. All at once they descended as the wooden floor opened. After a brief moment they slowly rose with older laundry that had been done. Shuffling to the left the floor closed up once again.
He grabbed a pair of boxers, socks and black pair of pants and of course a jacket. He quickly changed and adjusted his collar. Luck would have it that Ektros shut the door. Not having Onyx go in and cause havoc made him at ease. He headed toward the deck and quickly glanced at the shield on his wall. A deep shade of red, with an etching of tree. He gave it a quick clank with his knuckles, standing over a desk with a lamp fixture without a light towards the back of it. A huge sculpture of a giant lizard, standing on two legs with spiky dorsal fins from its back to its tail, stands to the side of the desk, just about the same height as him. Opening the desk, moving aside papers and pens, a black hilt with dragons on both sides lay in the back. One dragon was black, the other an ashen gray.
“Don’t think I’ll need this,” he said, holding it up.
“Yeah, that's what you say every time you go fishing, just take the damn thing.” he said.
When he left the room, the lights automatically began to dim and he shut the door heading off. Onyx sat by the front door waiting patiently.
“Open the front door,” Tobias said aloud, as the door thrust open, so did Onyx. Standing on the porch, he placed his hand to close up the house. Outside Onyx had already been on top of Pilgrim; on top of the car he was chasing his tail in circles. Standing still with his cane in front of him, Ektros was looking up to the clouds staring off into space.
Tobias opened the door of the car and Onyx jumped down almost sliding in the grass, then turned and jumped through the doors.
“Chill bro”.
Onyx barked once back in reply. Tobias began Tapping Ektros on the shoulder.
“Are you in there?”
Oblivious no reply. A light hummed filled the air as the car rose and hovered in the air. Next to him, Ektros was giving off the same sound. Standing still, blank eyes.
“Hello?” Leaning in closer and frowning now. “I suppose whatever was left of his soul, has now vanished into the clouds. Rest now forever, in the shining ethereal rivers, my good friend.”
Giving him another whack. As he ducked into the car, Ektros head bolted down from day dreaming and looked over towards Onyx and Tobias who had already kicked back and relaxed in their seats, staring at him.
“My apologies, I got sidetracked for a moment”.
“Next time, I will just leave you there. You would make a good plague you know? Ektros: may he rest, staring forever looking up to the sky, unknowingly leaving his shell behind to float in the cosmos forever. Tragic”.
Ektros got in and sat across from Tobias, cane still firmly in his hands.
“Good morning everyone”. Pilgrim said.
Pilgrim had been ready to go, his static yet calm voice filled the inside.
“Where are we off to today?”
Tobias quietly gestured finger at Ektros.
“To Tempest station, please.”
“Ok, flight mode engaged, just let me know if you need anything this morning.”
Rising up higher and higher, leaving the ground, passing over trees and a thin layer of fog that rests at ground level. Above the clouds lay a vast sea of clouds, with mountains and hills peeking out from the sides, the sea hidden under the cloak of white. The suns imposing rays struck through, with dazzling yellow light.
There is not much, or any air traffic right now, estimated arrival will be in fifteen minutes, Pilgrim noted.
Onyx went up to one of the single long, wide windows and pressed his whole head against it. Turning his head, he watched the clouds flow by and barked at the sign of an early morning flock of strangely shaped birds.
“Sorry bud, you will not be catching any sky surfers up here.”
Tobias got a whine in reply.
“I have to ask Ektros. What happened to you back there? It is not like you to zone out that hard.” Tobias said.
“Astute of you. In my time since, willingly sending my consciousness to another body, I just can’t figure something out, something is missing.”
“Care to be more specific? Little to help you based on that.”
“Drive, desire, hunger, satisfaction. Those have been lost to me. I just exist, helping where needed.”
“I didn’t know you much before your transformation. Did you have any drive back then? Do you still have it now?
“I..Don’t know. I feel these qualities have left for good.”
Ektros twirled the cane with Hyenas on it and glanced outside at Tempest station. The old face he had taken, showed a deep sadness.
“Every client, every change, I feel less and less of a being. Darkness is coming for me. There will be no escape from its pull.”
“Woah there buddy. Can’t Grayland do anything to help you? Surely they can program some of you back right?”
Tobias already knew the answer. No.
If he is having this many problems. He has lost himself. Once that is gone from a transfer, it is gone for good. That is why I would never do that. A natural disease that would eat your memory would be a better mercy. Instead of knowingly losing yourself, forever.
“No. If they did they would just implant memories and those feelings from another. Merging two consciousness while losing your own, I'd rather cease to be.”
You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.
Ektros gripped the cane harder. Clenching his artificial teeth.
Tobias placed a hand over Ektros old knuckles. They were cold and the skin felt clammy. A smile nonetheless crossed Tobias face.
“Don’t worry my friend. If you get lost or need some drive, just ask me. Even Onyx will lend you a couple paws.” Tobias said.
“Thank you. I will have to come visit you sooner. If the chance arises.”
“So, what is this next client like, have you been given any clue about what you will be doing?”
“I do not know what I will be doing. It really is a strange request coming from Grayland. What is the need for me there, when everyone and thing exclusively operates on their own?”
Tobias shrugged. “Just for those Crevas then, or whatever this guy owns, seems to lean on the fancier side of things. Based on that appearance.”
“The layout of the house is more suited to be called a mansion with all of its floors and rooms. There is a certain section, layers four through five or to not be accessed at any time. The only other bit of information is: “Other than that, make yourself at home and enjoy!”
“Alright then, you got a strange one on your hands that's for sure,” Tobias said.
“Yes, only have Falnor for a name. Indeed those are easy rules to stand by. Sounds like this is going to be a less than exciting three months.”
Tempest station was just ahead. Further out in the distance beyond that was the tall outline that breached the sky above. Traveler’s stairs, from this distance it was just a tall column, with the distant clouds shrouding the lower base of it in the early hours. Most ships stay idle in their bays, as they were most likely just about done being charged up for the day. Four giant rings float and slowly spin on opposite sides along the Tempest docks, each one acting as a beacon for oncoming ships. Large oval shapes warped underneath the docks horizontally, keeping it afloat. A few mechanical machines resembling creatures could be seen moving along the sides of the oval, doing their routine of keeping the station up and running.
As they flew closer to the station, Pilgrim announced a message was coming through and began to speak.
“Welcome to Tempest Station, all flights will be taking off in twenty minutes. In all outbound flights this morning we currently have clear weather. All passengers be ready for the usual scans upon entry to the station. Air vehicles in route towards the station please be ready for standard checks for any chance of volatile, unstable materials or potential power surges. Automatic flying vehicles will be given the signal to turn off, as we send security for the checks. Thank you for flying with us today”.
“Before you turn off for a bit, could I get some water for Onyx and I, Pilgrim?” Tobias asked.
“Sure thing, one moment please.”
As Pilgrim went silent for a moment, putting his hand just to the right of him, near a spherical opening. As it opened up, a water pouch began to rise, about two liters of water had been able to fit inside. Onyx came over next to Tobiasand waited as a small bowl arose.
“Atmospheric water now ready for consumption, do you need anything else?”
“No, that will be all, thank you Pilgrim, talk to you in a bit.”
“You are welcome, shutting down now. As the words trailed off, a black rectangular shape made its way over to the vehicle and it made a “THUNK” as it landed on the front. Stopping in midair, Onyx barked.
“Easy boy, it's just security, it will not be long.”
He took the pouch and poured some water into the bowl for him, he took a swig. To his sides other vehicles were being checked as well. Engines fell silent and this high up in the air, almost all was silent. Besides the thrumming of security flying over. The black shape detached itself from the car and spread out alongside it like a long black net. Contracting, it lined up itself against the car. The security pulsed as it analyzed Pilgrims systems.
As it coiled around and seemed like it was about to devour the light green car. It began to pull back and shape back to its original form. Hovering just above the car, a “Hello?”, rang out through Pilgrims system.
“Hey. How’s it going?” Tobias said.
“Great, thank you. All systems are cleared and you are now cleared for landing. Thank you and enjoy your day. As the shape flew back towards the station, the car followed suit.
Landing in a large parking lot atop Tempest Station, the doors opened on both sides. Stepping out into the fresh air of the sky, Tobias looked up to the command tower stretching out from the middle of the station. The clouds were ever so close. If there was a little more room, he could reach out and touch them. Other vehicles landed, their descent causing reverberations felt inside Pilgrim.
Ektros took a few steps forward, cane in hand making light clanking noises as he moved across the metal. Just ahead there were people walking through a light gate. Its orange glow stretches from one to another to the tips of the landing zone.
“I appreciate the ride up here, thanks again.” Ektros said.
“No problem”, Tobias replied. “We would go farther along with you, but you know how it is. The gate will reject us if we do not have a planned flight. We will stay here until you leave though to make sure everything goes smoothly.”
Ektros leaned on his cane with one hand, while the other hand reached out. The two exchanged handshakes.
“See you next time. Thanks for watching Onyx!” Tobias said.
“Of course. You are welcome.”
Ektros had to give a proper parting with Onyx before he left. He reached down to pet Onyx, who was waiting patiently next to his owner.
“Thank you for not being a handful this year, or any others, I’ll miss the chance to spook that wild dog away”.
Straightening up, he waved and made his way to the gate.
“Come boy, let's go sit back inside for a bit. This will not take too long, as he doesn't have any baggage that needs to be sent.”
As the three said their goodbyes, someone was watching this exchange. Mixed in with a herd of other people a medallion depicting the sun and stars dangeld as they walked. Moments after he went through, Ektros was being followed.
Following him back inside, Onyx jumped up and sat up looking around at the cars and people coming in. Tobias took out his hands and held them out, as a light screen dashed across his hands. Going to the news section he began to search about recent events while he was gone, anything that may include Archvile. Beast, strange blood, anomalies, ships, Empyerals, Ovoroth and nothing was coming up. Mostly just the closing festivals on the sea and work being done to other cities. Some even being expanded for who knows what reasons. Leaning back into his seat, he pushed the screen forward and the light particles floated in the middle of the car cabin.
“Play all messages.” As he turned, watching a ship take off. Its long cylinder body moved out slowly as the huge wires unhooked themselves and quickly began to speed up after that. The thrusters in the back kicked in and off it went. With its missile-like appearance, the newer models of these ships had no wings or landing gears. This particular one did not land. As it got to its station, a magnetic force tethered and bound it in place.
The first message was from Old Man Kain:
HEY, I have sent you the credits after checking out the fish barrels last night.
All of them were in good order, something happened to one of them overnight when I went back to check, take a look!.0
As he moved towards the barrel opening a lid, all of the fish were coated in black.
“Believe me it smells worse than it looks.”
Kain said, holding his holoframe with one hand. The other covered his nose with a rag.
Maybe that squid had opened the barrel somehow? The body was gone this morning with the only trace of it being streaks of oil off the boat, could have been there before. Anyway the rest are fine save for this one, I sent this to Maxwell also, alright take care now!”
The second message began to play a few seconds after, this one from the aforementioned Maxwell:
“Hey Tobias, since I’ve got back there have been many small cases aroundtown, nothing too important, mostly small-time thieves, malfunctioning machines and the like. Besides one of course that is really drawing my interest. It is down by the pier on the other side of town by Frog leg alley. If you have the time, stop by the station and I’ll give you a rundown to see if you are interested in joining me on this one, later”.
Tobias sent a video message of his own, saying:
“Yes I will be there after I grab a few things. Dropping off Ektros then I will be in town.”
After the message from Maxwell had ended, he had an incoming call from Ektros. Accepting the call he was met face to face with the old man's mug. He was slowly going to his seat, others had already been seated, about sixty other people had been there all sitting down in separate seats, besides a few pairings here and there. Ektros sat down at a window seat. The other being empty.
The orange gate outside the window seat, fizzled with electricity. Morning security in the upper towers took sips of their coffee, while radioing other stations. Compartments opened up above, as people stashed away their suitcases. For some, there were mechanical cats and dogs that leaped into the empty spaces. One lady was quite angry with their seat partner for having an animal above them.
“I can't believe you would let your sweet animal in there! That's inhuman, let the poor animal get some air!” The lady said, reaching up to grab the cat.
Before she could do that however, she was stymied. The calico colored cat had one paw reach to the top of the compartment. With the other paw the cat made a swiping down motion and surprisingly, spoke.
“Mind your own business lady. I’m no ordinary animal.” It said. With a quick swipe, slammed it shut.
The lady was shocked. Her face turned bright red in either frustration or embarrassment. In any case she sat back down and did not say another word.
Next to her, the walls of the plane were blacked that stretched all the way down. The seats were all dark blue leather. For people who wanted a different style, they could switch anytime. Only one person decided to go with a wooden seat. It stuck out quite a bit with its dark brown color, mixed with white. The inside of the plane pulsed a faint green as everyone finished getting seated. Ektros raised his eyebrows as he caught a whiff of that stale plane air.
The smell of must. I do not miss this. Time to turn off smell receptors. One of Ektros gray eyes lit up brighter than the other. It slowly turned counterclockwise. His sense of smell faded nearly instantly.
With the plane fully ready, the light changed from a pulsing green, to a solid green.
“All set over here, I am alright and we are just about good to head off. Adjusting and using this body to the proper modifications is rather difficult, limiting myself to this speed to match in with the others is troubling. Being the last one on just before take off, inexcusable.”
“Don’t worry too much about it. You made it on and will not miss the flight. No need to master the art of boarding a plane,” Tobias said.
“I could not find any stalls for selling a top hat either, they must be a rarity. Hopefully Grayland has some available before I reach the mansion. Absurd, cannot copy a simple hat”.
“Ah time to go for now, the airstairs have curled back up inside, we are ready for take off, chat with you sometime after I get setup, farewell!”.
Before the call hung up, someone came and sat next to him. The last thing Tobias saw was Ektros give a tap at the holoframe with his cane. The stranger that sat next to him, wore something that stood out. A necklace that looked to be of crescent sun and moon.
“Well, goodbye to you too, old man,” Tobias said, closing his holoframe. “Pilgrim you there? Let's head to the Island Vault next.”
“Right away sir, we will be there in twenty minutes.”
Without further ado, the craft flew up and away, just before dropping down in the clouds out of sight from the station, the submarine-like aircrafts all began speeding off in all directions. As one flew high above them, the long bluecraft, with the word TEMPEST carved into the body, with a graphic of storms in the background. Descending down lower, the clouds and mist had been letting up and Clausum mare was finally awake. There was a decent amount of traffic up in the air as Pilgrim hovered and waited until there was an opening to get in. The system out here is not as complex as in other countries. The Air Smart Car Intelligence systems there talk to each other constantly and map out all possible routes allowing for constant free flight, without the need for air streets. Out here they are earlier adaptations, so there is a need to stay on the side of caution. The air streets are simply invisible routes in the sky that must be followed within the city limits.
With the go ahead signal, Pilgrim entered the street and hurriedly followed the car in front. It was like a falling roller coaster once you got in line. Dashing with lots of turns at great speed, Onyx looked at Tobias. As pilgrim went through, colors dashed before their eyes. Green, red, white, teal, blue, black. Just about every color as they sped above Insmourn. With a barrel roll move, Pilgrim flew past a neighborhood with a large fountain-like pool in the middle. Machine plant manufacturers, Cragnar’s parts, over the Nostrum Hospital and school. Some of the main and busiest parts of town. Pilgrim began to slow up over a large building, the letters of ISLAND VAULT beamed up from the center room of the building. Its gigantic parking lot was just about seventy five percent full this early morning. On the sides of the building, were big images of different foods stuttering in and out. Along with giant dogs, cats, reptiles, fish, horses, and cows on the side. This was the only megastore in town that combined all your food needs. Setting down in the lot, Tobias asked Pilgrim for a favor.
“Entertain him for a bit, I won’t be gone long”.
“Of course.”
Sounds of dogs barking at each other filled the car.
What a choice. Tobias thought as he stepped out.
It was rather noisy as people came and left. Car doors slammed and steel feet marched through the lot.
He did not want to waste too much time, whatever Maxwell had, to show must be important. People coming out the front doors were accompanied by robots helping, carrying their items. On the left side there was a huge gate where big mechanical birds, carefully grasped bags of dog food, corn, spice, flour, and sugar. Flying their goods to peoples vehicles. Lowering them into the back of their trunks with giant beaks.
Tobias took a right as he got in. Right away there was a giant elevator. He along with a crowd gathered in the elevator. There was no need for buttons. All the departments resided on the same floor. Each one was rather huge. He looked quickly at the time on his wrist and stood next to the exit marking: PET FOOD AND SUPPLIES. With about seventy other people on the elevator there was quite a bit of chatter as it lowered to the shopping sections. As all the four doors opened, he and about twenty other people got off and headed inside. To say it was a zoo here would be an understatement. No, it did not smell like one, or even began to function like one. Inside this giant building, there was an aquarium on the side that offered all kinds of food for marine animals. Along with the option of buying one, as screens lit up with prices and showed information for the pets' needs. The smell of sweet hay and grass did however fill his nostrils. As he passed through a large aisle dedicated to farming. Horses raced across a digital background. Cows and chickens eating grass, while a farmer flung around piles of hay. Doing a fast jog through the other large sections, Tobias went down the dog aisle, with a hologram above displaying a dog chasing after a ball.
Lets see here.
Piles of different brand dog food lay on the side and he quickly grabbed a bag of Mare's best, chicken and Lobster flavor, thirty pounds. Grabbed a reusable bag that had a picture of a dog standing on top of a cow, with a chicken standing on the dog. Next to the canned food section, tossing about fifteen cans inside. With haste he made his way back to the exit. Just before he got to the aisle sign, he whipped out his holoframe. Then was quickly scanned head to toe.
While he was waiting, the lights seemed to flicker for a moment. One person seemed suspended in time reaching for a bird feeder. Two of the avian’s helpers seemed frozen as well. Perched atop the isle sections, watching all movements. Their eyes moved to gaze at Tobias, as he turned away.
Just the lighting in here. He thought. Wish these scanners would not scan my whole body. There is no need. With all the security in the building, from the clerks, to the mechanical helpers there was enough to stop theft. Been in here a few times when someone stuffed some small bags of horse feed, and chicken feed into their clothes. One of the avian helpers promptly picked him up. Suspended in the air he begged to be released. Was furiously shook, as the feed flung out from his shirt.
“Purchase of fifteen cans of Pure Island chicken and gravy, one bag of Mare’s, thirty pounds. You have been charged 150.00 Dials, thank you for your purchase!” A voice announced from nearby the exit.
A very odd hologram of a cartoon like cow, gave a hoof up.
“Moo.” Tobias replied.
The white elevator doors slid open and it was even more spacious this time with only ten people inside, including himself. The others mostly had small items like himself, with no custodians to accompany them.
I forgot about those guys. Oh well this isn't that heavy. the big bag thrown over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes.
Tobias closed his eyes for a moment. Hopefully the others are doing alright, especially Solace. Since we are on land let’s hope he will just forget about it, marking it as another eventful time in life and move on.
His eyes shot open and the elevator was now empty.
That's odd. We haven’t reached the top floor. Did not hear footsteps leaving or entering either.
Confused, he turned back towards the center of the elevator and adjusted the bag of Mare’s on his shoulder. His eyes met something he hoped to never see again. Its body rose to the ceiling, its neck was coiling down, adjusting to his level. It let out a howl, its mouth opening revealing sets of fangs that spiraled all the way down its throat.
He took a step back and let the bag fall off his shoulder. Cans of Pure Island chicken hit the ground, rolling in all directions.The thing’s body convulsed, and more long shapes emerged from its body. They all let out a wail, not as loud as the main giant head, as they all focused on Tobias.
There was hardly any where to run. He ran back to the closet elevator door and began pounding on it.
“Hey! Open up! There is something in here. Hurry!” He said.
No response but the echoes of his fist clambering against the steel. There was no help coming. Emergency lights were shut out. No security in Island Fresh made a single movie. Voices over the intercom or even his holoframe, would have been a blessing. He tried prying open the door with his bare hands. To no avail as the joints in the finger bones, to the shoulders tried their best to escape.
A slimy wet, tentacle full with rows of teeth grabbed him around the torso. It brought him closer to its body. Covered in black and red slime. It leaked off and formed puddles on the floor. From within those pools, hands began to reach out.
He was looking into a chasm of death. Sets of eyes opened along its neck as it uncoiled itself. It slithered around him, its full eel-like appearance taking shape. The eyes narrowed on him. As the endless sets of teeth gnashed right in front of him. Inside its mouth red and black began to surge out. In liquid form it rushed out washing over its teeth. With a blast to his face, Tobias gurgled on the liquid. His whole body lit up on fire, pain throughout the entire body.
Hands fell to his side, unmoving. Why is this happening? First last night and now this? What did i…
His thoughts faded to black, for a moment. A red landscape spread out before him. Outlines of black shaded in the rest of the world. Just above him a swarm of jellyfish passed by. Followed by whales high above in the distance, dolphins, squids, sharks, all manners of sea life filled in clearly to him, silhouetted in black. He was underwater, on the seafloor. The pain from a moment ago was gone. His body felt rejuvenated and weightless.
Where in the world am i?
Statues from unknown civilizations sprawled out on the seafloor. Bubbles popped while snails and otherworldly creatures made their homes atop the stone. He rose up, attempting to swim to the surface. Each lunge forward required little effort or breath. Could he have been dead? With each stroke to the surface he noticed a more concentrated blend of the two colors. It seemed to be spilling to the depths. With a hand he reached out and felt the stream of color. It felt like sludge. His eyes turned up again, noting there was a sudden increase in human-like shapes floating around. Their faces were more defined and clearer to see. No words came out but he stared in disbelief as their mouths moved.
Help me. Could be read from their mouths. A body suddenly fell through him transparently. Down to the depths below, he took in detail the body. It seemingly dead. Eyes shut and hands limplessly at their sides. More fell, and they kept falling.
He had to get out of here. With desperate strokes to the surface, more death passed him. Sea creatures sank below, creating a vast graveyard. With a gasp he breached the surface and saw a familiar site.
That creature from three years ago, leaking liquid into the waters and himself and the others. Above he felt the heat of the sun. It felt unnatural, and it was. A black sun weaved above the world. Spots of red littering its face.
As he felt his body shake, deep down below a transformation was begging. All manners of sea life gagged on the liquid as it spread. The particles surged up and began to mutate everything in sight. Even the dead. The human-like forms seemingly stranded there changed as well.
He felt his body shaking as he stared at the sun, coughing up water.
With a last gag he hurled out water onto the steel elevator.
Still alive. He thought, for now. People surrounded him and he felt pats on the back as he coughed a little more.alright. With a worried look people came over to him. They had gathered up the dog food that spilled over the floor.
“You alright there partner? Spilled your dog chow over the floor and tried to open the doors like a man being hunted to death.” One of the men said.
Tobias looked at the others confused and light headed.
“You didn’t see that creature or have the lights go out? I thought I had died.” Tobias said.
“No, im afraid not partner. Afraid you’re the only one who’s lights went out. Looked like you were choking to death, probably seeing the end there I reckon.”
Tobias sat up. Eyes watering from coughing so hard and his throat dry and a little hoarse.
“My mistake. Sorry to give you all a scare.”
“Just glad we didn’t have to deal with someone dying before our eyes.” One lady said wearing a big yellow sun hat.
“Take care and use your holoframe earlier next time. That’s why you have it! Next time you may not be as lucky. Might not have a group around.” Another man said.
As they reached ground level. One man that helped him wearing a cap, gave him a tip of the cap and casually stepped off. Followed by the lady with the sun hat, then the others. A young woman came over and handed him his dropped cans. Another burly man helped him up and threw the sack of dog chow over Tobias as he regained his composure. He thanked them all as everyone exited. A new wave of people washed into the elevator. Passing him like a receding tide.
His face began to burn as he stepped back into the light. His stomach twisted and churned. Almost as his guts were going to spill out at any moment. He looked around frantically for signs of the creature that had greeted him a moment ago. Nothing out of the ordinary as people went about their lives. A man and a lady, both had necklaces that stood out. They looked familiar to the person that sat next to Ektros.
Just a coincidence. There was just one person next to him. Not two. Did not get a good look at them anyhow.
She had dark black hair that almost seemed violet. A long black dress going down her medium sized frame. Their eyes met. Her eyes were light gray with a dark blue pupil. Her presence both felt icy, but not hostile. Just a tint of kindness underneath. Must have recently converted. It honestly gave Tobias the creeps. She also had a necklace of flames and stars. He just barely got a glimpse of the man. As he had his hood up. A stern face, half of it looked to be metal. Glimpses of steel protruded from his skin. Must have just got it done recently. He wore the same necklace the woman was.
How cute, matching necklaces.
He took small steps back to his parking spot, rubbing his temples.
Back at the car Onyx was on his hind legs dancing in the middle, with his tongue hanging out and tail swaying side to side. Tobias' eyes got wide as he watched his dog jam out in the car.
“This must be the chill I felt. What in the world did Pilgrim play for him?”
As the door opened the loud rhythmic thumping of drums was playing, along with clapping, and the occasional blast of horns. He placed the bag and cans in the trunk. He slowly sat down, watching Onyx terrified.
“Well, you know what? I’m not going to ask, but at least you had a good time here. I don't even want to talk about my little adventure”.
Barking triumphantly, Onyx got off his hind legs and sat next to him, head in lap.
“Good boy. Pilgrim let's get out of here. Head to Maxwell’s place next”.
Heading to the east they left Island fresh behind. Tobias leaned against the window petting onyx. He watched the lot for anything strange. Nothing, just the flow of traffic in and out of the lot.
Was that all a hallucination? He touched his face and softly felt his cheeks.
It had to have been. The sun, the ocean, colors, people, that creature. Everything felt strange. We were there though. Watching that beast die again. Has to be why I only saw it, but why that moment? All we did was try to save that man's life. The pain in that moment felt too real. If this keeps up I'm going to lose my mind. Might even die from this. Need to have a chat with the others and see if they are doing alright.