A Mystery Star

Rachel Eamtick picked up her skirt daintily, and walked up the steps. A young man only a little older than herself, opened the front door leading into the ballroom. She nodded at him and went inside. Although the size of the room was astonishing, the people’s dresses were even more breathtaking! She walked gently across the room to the food table, her shoes barely tapping the recently polished flooring. She picked up a paper plate and started dishing different varieties of food. Chips, ham, and strawberries.

Why do they have paper plates? This is supposed to be a royal ball, but they are acting like it’s a house party for teens! She scowled to herself. Apparently the people running the ball didn’t know how important this occasion was supposed to be. The king had just died recently, so today the prince would be knighted their new ruler. Why were they having this party anyway? She hadn’t even met the prince, although she guess he was dazzling.

As she nibbled her strawberries, she watched the people dancing. She dreamily watched as they twirled around, their feet in perfect placing. She wished she had learned to dance. Her mother told her she would learn when she was 18. That was in whole 4 months. She sighed. After throwing her trashy plate away, she walked around the huge room greeting people. “Hi, I am Rachel, Duchess of Ireland.” She said to a man expecting him to bow in her presence. Instead he made a face and walked away. He didn’t even kiss her hand! She grumbled telling herself that any young man should kiss her Highness’s hand, and bow before her. She sighed to herself again. If only she could be as elegant as the people in the dancing scene before

her.

At last the announcer said to stop the music. It was time to see the promotion of the prince. “I am happy to be here today with all of you to celebrate this amazing moment, and although we surely miss our king…….” Couldn’t he just get on with it? These un-royal people had to stretch everything out trying to make it sound elegant for the nobles. But they always failed. She heard other people of royal blood grumbling around her. Finally the lowly person’s speech ended with, “I bring forward to you, King Nathan!” Everyone clapped heartily except Rachel. She should be the one being promoted, not some unworthy prince! She watched silently as the lowly servant and King’s advisor placed a golden circlet on his head. Everyone bowed when the new King stood, although Rachel did it against her will.

Finally the ball resumed. “Would you like to dance?” It was the man who had given her a funny face. Embarrassed, she answered, “I would love to, but I’m afraid my mother never taught me.” She smiled sheepishly. “I could teach you.” His eyes pleaded with her. She smiled at him. He led her out onto the dance floor. They went through each step. Many times, Rachel stumbled, her high heels threatening to trip her. But finally, Rachel started to get the hang of it. Unfortunately, just as soon as she had learned, the song ended.

She felt the incredible urge to rub her forehead trying to rid the headache she was getting trying to remember each step. On the second song, however, something awful happened. She tripped on her dress, fell onto the food table, and dirtied her dress with all the lovely food. Everyone stared at her, and her face reddened. She picked herself up, and rushed out the door, tears flooding over her face. She ran, face in hands, not watching where she was going.

When she finally looked up, she found she was in the middle of a forest. How had she gotten here?? She didn’t really care, she just sat down, put her head between her knees, and let the tears spill over. Here, she was trying to be elegant and graceful like all those dancers at the ball. But now she had embarrassed herself in front of the prince himself. Actually, the King, she corrected herself. It didn’t matter now. She was never going back. When she had no more tears to cry, she stood up, and steadied herself against an oak standing nearby.

Fear gripped her heart as she realized something. She had no idea where she was. How long had she been crying? She asked herself studying the deep blue sky. Being 17, she knew that she had to wait for someone to find her. Not go walking on her own. She sat down once again, and wrapped her arms around herself trying to drive away the chill of the night air. She rested her head against the Maple tree behind her, and slept.

When she awoke, her eyes widened as she studied her surroundings. The sky was not blue anymore. It was purple. She pinched herself to make sure she wasn’t dreaming. She was not convinced. This had to be a dream. No way could the sky have turned purple. Another mystery surrounded her. She was in the woods still, but the trees were silver. What was this place? She stood up, but the

gravity was totally different in this new place. She started to float. She grabbed a tree branch, and used the tree’s trunk to pull herself back to the ground. This was going to be quite a struggle for transportation. A plan formed in her

mind. Quite an unusual plan to be sure. One hand holding a tree branch so she wouldn’t float away, Rachel used her other hand to rip small pieces of

bark from the tree she held onto.

Then she used her legs and wrapped them around the tree to keep her steady. Using sap from the tree, she stuck the bark pieces together and built shoes for herself. Sticking her feet into the home-made shoes. She let go of the tree. Her feet gently touched the ground. But she still wasn’t heavy enough to walk normally. This place sure had an unusual atmosphere. She tried taking a step but floated in the air before coming down to the exact spot she had tried at. An idea forming in her mind, she jumped up, and pushed against the Maple tree. Or whatever kind of tree it was.

She spun through the air, and pushed against the next tree at an angle pushing herself forward. As the sky slowly got a darker hue of purple, a problem formed and showed itself to Rachel. How was she supposed to sleep? With the sky getting darker every minute she had to come up with a solution and soon. Her eyes twitched as many thoughts flew through her head. Finally, one in particular caught her attention. She grabbed a bendy twig. Small, but strong

enough. She tied it onto her leg and tied the other end to a tree branch. Then she let herself float into the sky without a fear that she would blow away. The weather was beautiful, perfect for a sleep outside. Then, she slept.

The sound of the wind her reached her ears, as her eyes slowly peeled open. They widened. She could still see the tree she used to be tied to,

but it was floating away. Or more like she was floating away.

The twig that had held her in place had snapped, and she guessed it was on account of the strong wind, flying around her. But she was in more of a

problem than trying to guess how it had snapped. She twisted around trying to see where the wind was taking her.

If she really thought about it, this was actually kind of fun. When she was little she had always wished to fly, but was sure her wish would never come true. But now it had. She whooshed with the wind, flying about 30 feet above the ground. This was amazing! Although it was awesome, and highly enjoyable, her insides turned at the thought of the wind stopping.

Surely she would fall to her death. Her face grew pale at the thought to the gruesome body the people living here would find, if she fell.

She hated trusting things other than herself. But her life depended on the wind. Then something happened that she wasn’t ready for. The wind stopped.

But because of the strange, unfamiliar gravity, she floated to the ground

like a leaf on earth. Surprise etched on her face as her feet touched the surface of dirt.

Curiosity filled her as she jumped into the air, flying once again with the wind. In the air, she tugged off her homemade shoes, happy to get rid of the annoying, bug infested shoes. She floated through the air, watching the stars twinkle above her. It was almost as if she could see the whole galaxy! She flew North, and landed in the middle of a…….desert? Whatever.

This was an unknown place to humans. Until now. Rachel walked, the cool sand soothing her bare feet. Weirdly, today the sky was orange. Also there was no sun. It seemed as if the light bounced off itself creating more light.

It was about 70 degrees except when the wind was blowing. There were no shadows, not even her own. Her brows crinkled in confusion at this and guessed it was because there was no sun. This theory proved wrong when she saw a shadow come from up in front of her.

And it wasn’t her shadow.

Eyes wide with fear as her heart pumped in her chest, Rachel turned her head to look behind her, and screamed.

It certainly wasn’t human or even close. It was a lime green color. It stood on 4 legs yet it had 6 arms. It stood like a snake about to strike. 2 sharp tusks slid into view right where a human’s ears were supposed to be. It’s mouth was a triangle shape, while it’s head wore shaggy, neon pink hair flowing down to it’s knees. One big eyeball was shaded the color of brown.

It’s mouth was open in shocked silence. It’s orange, glowing eyeball grew, until it was the size of a doorknob. Garbled sounds came from it’s blue mouth.

It tilted its head and moved its hands in a spinning motion. Rachel guessed it was trying to communicate with her. She shook her head indicating that she didn’t understand. It rolled its eye, and beckoned her to follow. Caution

swirled around her, yet her curiosity took the better of her. She followed, flying through the air. His eyes widened in what might have been surprise, but

his swift legs kept moving forward. She followed it deeper into the desert. Every once in awhile, she would see it lick its arm with a long, snake-like tongue.

When he wasn’t licking it, black goo would flow from the dry skin, and would soak into its body. She wondered if it was hurt. She guessed it was, as it didn’t lick any other part of its body. After about 2 miles of non-stop

walking, she stopped. She stationed her legs, refusing to walk another step. The alien in front of her turned around, and took her arm and

pulled.

Invisible roots grew around Rachel’s legs keeping her steady, and balanced. The green bug in front of her frowned and held up 2 fingers. 2 steps? 2 miles? 2 yards? She had know way of knowing. She decided she would walk again, but only 2 yards at the most. The invisible roots pulled back into the sandy ground and she walked on, one step after another until she stopped 3 minutes later meeting her 2 yard mark. He tugged on her arm again, motioning for her to keep walking. When she shook her head, he held up one finger. Fine! If it was just one more yard then so be it. She walked along until the thing leading her stopped. She stopped too. She screamed as the ground beneath her shook and she fell into a darkened pit.

Eyes wild with fear, she flew down and landed hard on the bottom. The alien bug thing dragged her forward and she slipped down into another pit,

this one like a tunnel, sort of like a slide. She slid down it for more than 5 whole minutes, until she slowed and her feet gently

tapped the dirt flooring. As soon as the alien’s feet touched the floor, lights burst into the room, filling Rachel’s eyes with encouraging beauty. Chandeliers covered the 11 ft high ceiling, allowing Rachel to see the spacious room, filled with furniture. But, as being in an unknown world, it was interesting furniture.

Not at all what she had expected. She walked around, studying her surroundings. As on Earth, there was an eating room, a sitting room, and an entering room. Even a bedroom. No bathroom? Why doesn’t he have a bathroom.

Maybe these things don’t need to go to the bathroom. She smiled smugly to herself until she realized she hadn’t needed to go, and she had been here at

least a day in a half. Maybe it was the weird gravity. She had no idea.

Or maybe it was because she hadn’t had anything to drink since she got here. The thought made her dry throat ache. She tapped the alien’s shoulder. He turned and gave her a questioning look. She used her hand and

made a cup shape, then lifted her hand towards her mouth. He smiled at her, and went into the kitchen where he picked up a bowl and filled it with turquoise liquid. He gave her the cup then went back into the main room.

She sighed. This was going to take a lot of getting used too, but she was sure she could make it work. She took a small sip from the bowl provided for her, and found the drink inside was delicious! It was sweet, but had a little tang in it. It sorta tasted like a blue raspberry slushie, but it wasn’t frozen. She emptied it, and put it in the sink. Then, not knowing what to do next, she walked around the little home. Studying the slide she came down, she was sure it would be impossible to climb back up. That made her anxious. She had to trust some unknown being to keep her alive. She didn’t even know what his name was! She walked up to him and said, “Rachel.” She hoped he would understand that this was her name.

He nodded and gave her his. “Ella.” A human name! And it was a female! How interesting. It sure was a daring female to live in such a rotten place.

They stared at each other in awkward silence. Then Ella cocked her head, and chewed her top lip. She motioned Rachel into the kitchen and pulled out some red bread. Sticking some grayish goo in the middle, she made a sandwich, and handed it to Rachel. Grimacing, she took it and nibbled some of the “bread”. It tasted sort of like a lemon, but had something she remembered. Something she recognized but couldn’t quite put her finger on it. After eating the whole sandwich, Rachel thought long and hard about where she was.

She was familiar with the gravity. Somehow she had known it in her childhood. “Where am I?” She slowly asked Ella. “Draco.” That was all she would say about their whereabouts.

She guessed that this Ella didn’t trust her. She was, after all, a full-blooded human. Or was she? She remembered this place. She remembered everything; the gravity, the food, even exploring this very desert. But the details wouldn’t show themselves. It was all like a foggy dream.

Remembering would have to come later though. She had bigger problems to deal with. Speaking slowly she asked, “Ella, where-should-I-sleep?” The familiar alien cocked her head, and, twitched her fingers signaling Rachel to follow, led her into the bedroom. On the floor sat 3 blankets of….polar bear fur?

Where on earth would an alien on some ‘earth star’ have polar bear fur hanging out in the middle of a desert?! This was ridiculous! The shock finally wore down the last of her energy. She fell into the soft coverings and immediately fell asleep.

Mother picked her up, and pushed her into the air. But it wasn’t mother. It was Ella. Ella smiled at her and pushed her up, once again into the wind running alongside her, making sure she didn’t fall and get hurt. But then the wind picked up speed. Ella couldn’t catch up when the wind stopped. Rachel fell to the ground and turned to dust. Then she found herself on earth, away from the struggles of life on Draco. She was reborn, new parents and as she got older, the memories were soon long forgotten, like a snake’s hiss slowly getting quieter and quieter until you could hear it no more. Hisssssssss. Hisssssssss

A hissing sound filled Rachel’s ears as she was once again brought to the present. Confusion clouded her face, and Ella, who was standing over her, noticed and, with one wide eyeball, made a sizzling sound with her mouth. She snapped her fingers. What was she trying to say? Ella picked Rachel up. “I can walk on my own, thank you!” Angry at Ella’s babyish acts, she followed the freakish alien into the Main Room. Rachel froze at the sight. All the beautiful furniture which had been there last night in perfect order, was now thrown around the room. Rachel walked to an upside down table, and on it she found something very mysterious. On the table was a burning note. Half of it was already burned away, but Rachel could still read the other half.

It said, ‘Meet me at Crocone Village at 12:00 AM to deliver my gift if you dare. -Unknown’ Fear made it’s way into the pit of her stomach. Who was this? What was the ‘prize’? She and Ella shared a scared look. Ella moved her hand along the rough wood of the broken table and pointed at a little carving in the ash. Rachel studied it and realized it was the picture of a house. “Village?” She asked. Ella nodded and gave her a questioning look.

Rachel nodded and she and Ella made their way through the rubbish towards the slides. Ella touched it, and it turned into a ladder. Rachel wondered at the magic, but knew that questions would have to come later. She crawled up the steps, Ella close behind her. They got into the pit, and another ladder appeared before them. Rachel was once again left in awe. After they had scaled that they reached the top, and Ella opened the roof by simply touching it.

They climbed out into the perfect weather and onto the slightly burning sand. Rachel jumped into the air. Flying had become a regular talent to her. She was awesome at shifting her weight just the right amount at just the right time. Ella watched her with dreamy eyes. This was when Rachel remembered her dream. Not really a dream but a memory. She had once lived here, she just knew it. She had known Ella. She had been like a mother to Rachel. “Ella,” She asked suddenly. “Have I lived here before? I recognize you and the weird gravity, and the perfect weather…… Please, I just have to know.”

Ella tilted her head, as if thinking then nodded. “You did live here. I was your adopted mother. You even looked like me. Your real parents disowned you because you had a problem. You are able to make portals between Earth and Draco. I took you in, and cared for you. But one day, I was tossing you up in the air. You loved it. But the wind took you and you fell, and on this star,

you died. Even though you didn’t know how, as you were falling you made a portal. When you were least expecting it on Earth, you went through the portal when you came to the spot you had landed on Earth.

Because you are a Sixo like me, you will slowly turn to one the more time you spend in this world. It will feel weird and will even hurt a little; such is the way of changing form.”

Only then did Rachel realize she could understand the gurgling sounds that came from Ella. “I think some things have come back already.” They smiled at each other and walked (or flew) on into the lightening sky. As they journeyed across the barren desert, they talked more and more about

Rachel’s childhood. Rachel learned that her real name was RACE, which happened to be her initials: Rachel Anna Catherine Eamtick. She learned a lot about her parents and relatives and learned that she had the

blood of Draco’s king, King Peter. Ella was his daughter, and since Race was her adopted daughter she was the king’s granddaughter. She was a princess. Much higher than a dutchess. This made her a little excited, as Ella told her that after their trip to the village, they would travel to the kingdom. Her kingdom.

The anticipation slowly wore off as they entered the village of about 35 huts. They walked around in the dark of night, looking for the person who had written the letter. As they paused in an intersection, Race spied someone just entering the village looking like he was searching for someone. This had to be their guy. Race poked Ella, and pointed to the suspicious, searching suspect. Ella nodded and they pushed through the cold wind to reach him.

When they were about within 10 feet of him, his ‘ears’ twitched their way. He spun around and stared at them with observing eyes. He looked Ella up and down and his eye widened in surprise when it was Race’s turn. “Are you the one who sent us the burning note?” He nodded his head and lead them to the very last hut.

Letting them inside, out of the freezing wind. He started a fire and Ella and Race gathered around it, warming themselves. Warmth radiated off their bodies, and their fatigue from walking so far, fell upon their shoulders in seconds.

“Is she the portal maker?” “She is the one.” “Come here, my beautiful. Let me look at you.” Glancing at Ella nervously, she stumbled towards the alien. Chills crawled down her back as he caught her before she tripped. She shivered and not because she was cold. “Look into my eye, Race.”

She glanced once again at Ella, who nodded her head, and Race’s eyes made their way to his. When they finally met, Race was surprised. It were warm and and welcoming, the color of the sea on a stormy day. “ I am your brother, Stark, Prince of Draco.” He smiled at her with a loving, caring smile she had seen so many times on Ella. Apparently this was Ella’s son, and her brother. She smiled a shy smile back to his charming one, and they talked about their childhood deep into the night. At about 3 in the morning, they went to bed.

Light filtered through Race’s eyelids and into her brain, wakening her from her deep sleep. Looking at herself in the mirror, she found that she looked more and more like the aliens. Her skin was a pale green color, and 2 new nubs were the beginnings of her other 2 legs. Soon they would grow into full legs. 4 new nubs were on her arms, soon-to-be arms. Her hair was much longer than was yesterday, almost the length of her hip bones. It was a pale pink color, like a beautiful sunset on Earth.

Her skin felt dry and crusty as if it had just rained and wet mud was drying on her, squashing her skin together. She always hated that feeling; especially when her mother on earth would put mud on all her exposed skin to make it look more pale. She grimaced at the memory. She got dressed and came out to the main room. The smell of something similar to bacon filled Race’s sensitive nose, as she descended the steps. Upon reaching the bottom, she found Stark cooking above the fire pit, spinning some kind of animal on the spit.

“Good morning, Race.” He said, noticing her entrance. “Good morning. That smells really good. What is it?”

“Krikan. You’ll love it for sure. Can you help set the table?” He asked nodding to

the mahogany piece of wood near the entrance. She nodded, happy to be able to

do something. Happy being able to know she wasn’t totally useless on Draco. She chuckled to herself thinking of what her 7 year old brother might say to that. “What?” She jerked her head to the sound only to find Stark’s smile widen at her surprise. She sighed. Time to get the story out there for all to hear.

“I was just thinking about how useless I am here. Afterwards I thought about my 7-year-old brother, knowing that he would have something to say about that. I’m kinda getting homesick. I wish I could be normal. Not some freakish alien whom everyone on earth will make fun of. Stark, will I have to live here forever?” Her pleading eyes met his stormy ones. “I don’t know, Race. I-” “What is all this nonsense about?” In came Ella, the mother of the family. “Of course you will stay here forever. I didn’t raise you for nothing. But to be honest, it is your choice. Your parents will forget about you the moment you decide. I promise. They will forget who they were looking for. All the pictures in their house with you in it will vanish and they will forget about those too. Any memory of you on earth would be gone the moment you decide to stay here.” “I am a duchess by blood. Not a princess. I belong on earth. I have real friends. People who care about me. Some of them wouldn’t care how crazy I looked. They would never leave me. Neither will you. But I have more friends back at home. I will go after meeting my grandfather-in-law.”

“But this is you home! You were born here before you were born on earth! We are your real family. We care about you just as much as your friends and siblings. I don’t care whether you were born a servant or a slave; I would still make you a princess because of your heart.; because of the kindness and helpfulness you have shown me. Please. Stay here.”

“I must go, Ella. I’m sorry.” “I cannot do anything to change your mind, can I?” “No Ella, this was my decision. Nothing will alter it. But I promise I will come to visit. I promise.” Tears almost overflowing, Ella grabbed Race and hugged her tight. It was a feeling Race hadn’t felt in a very long time. Safe; secure; loved. This was going to be one of the hardest things she would ever have to do. “Well, who wants breakfast?” She silently sent Stark a ‘thank-you’ for breaking the deafening silence.

She quickly got to work setting the table with orange napkins feeling like sandpaper, and bowls filled with the turquoise liquid. After 5 more minutes of cooking, the delicious smelling meat was done, and set on the table. Everyone sat down, and they started out by just smelling the cooling food. Then Race took a hesitant nibble. It tasted just like bacon, but better. Knowing they didn’t have much time before setting off to meet her grandfather, the mouth-melting food disappeared within seconds.

An hour later Stark was locking up his little hut, and they were on the road. Excitement filled Race, as butterflies took over her stomach. What would he be like? Would he be kind, gentle, compassionate, and sympathetic like Stark and Ella? Or would he be cruel, and authoritative, and prideful like everyone on earth? Her insides shivered at the thought.

She was now heavier and wasn’t jumping up in the air and flying as high as she used to. Now she was more like hopping. The only sound in the air as they traveled was the echoing sound of silence. Bored of just walking, Race tried at a conversation with Stark. “So…….what is my grandfather like?”

“He….is commanding. He likes to make sure people know their place. Sometimes he’s a little rough and hard. But he is okay when he is in a good mood. He’s also very authoritative. But he doesn’t like it when people make fun of others. He sorta fits you. You can be pretty stubborn.”

“Hey!” She frowned at him, but a smile made it’s way onto her face, knowing that he was just teasing.

“Just saying…….” He smiled at her with that mischievous glint in his eyes. She found she really enjoyed his company. He was well gifted with humor and mischief, yet he was full of love and gentleness. Just the kind of brother she had always wished for. Fun, and mysterious, yet kind and loving.

He blushed as he noticed her studying him, clearly embarrassed that she was so close to him. She smiled at him then turned her attention to Ella. “So...tell me about your childhood.” Ella’s eyes focused on her, then narrowed. “Why do you want to know?”

“I have different ways of noticing someone’s personality; mostly by hearing about them, and how they acted in hard circumstances.” Her assuring words confirmed by Stark, Ella started out when she was only 2.

“When I was only 2 years old, my father taught me a very important lesson. He said, ‘Ella, as you get older, people will start to come after you and try to kidnap you, maybe even kill you because of your royal blood. You must be cautious in your older years.’ ‘Yes Father.’ When I was 9, I was kidnapped by a group of thieves. I had overheard them stealing some precious gems and when they noticed me watching them, they took me captive.

Later, when I was rescued, my father told me off. He was so mad. But don’t take him for a cruel person. He was stressed about everything. Can you imagine having to rule a whole planet? And on top of that having your only daughter disappear?”

“I can’t imagine.”

“He was strong and I think he actually liked the challenges, but sometimes the stress gets to him.”

They walked on in silence, pondering Ella’s words. “Look! Fruit trees!” Stark’s unexpected out-bust brought everyone out of their silent thinking and brought their attention to the path ahead. Mango trees littered the field, dotting it with bright green leaves and purely ripe, delicious fruits.

When they reached the trees, Race climbed up, and tossed down a couple of the juicy foods to Stark and Ella.

At least there is one food that is the same as it is on earth. Race thought.

“Race come try one of these Mage. They are awesome!” “Mage? On earth we call them ‘mangoes.’” “It doesn’t matter what they are called; eat one!”

She gladly complied, not hesitating in the least. Digging her teeth into the juicy Mage, Race felt the juice run down her dry throat, soothing the soreness.

After they had finished the Mangoes, they packed up some extras for later on their journey. They sat under one particularly large, gnarled Mage tree to rest. Stark and Ella talked excitedly about something, but made sure Race was out of earshot. “Race, how about you go over there, and have some time alone?” Stark suggested kindly. He must have noticed her confused expression, because he gave her a reassuring smile. “Go on. You need some alone time. All of us do sometimes.” With Ella’s nod of approval, Race wandered over to the tree Stark had pointed to. It was much younger than the other one, it’s leaves bright and bloomed with elegance, filling the meadow with natural, breath-taking beauty.

She watched the blue jays and robins overhead, perching on the silvery branches of the Mango tree. One sparrow in particular caught her attention. It was a mix of blue and green; it looked like it stared right at her, it’s striking eyes penetrating her own. It tilted its head and chirped, lifting its wings and took off. Her eyes trailed it, and it flew in the direction they were heading. She wondered at its weird behaviour, but had no time to dwell on it.

“Race!” Stark called from the tree he and Ella had talked under.

“I was wondering if you wanted to go to a close-bye town to get some supplies for the rest of the journey.”

“Sure. What about Ella?”

“She is going to stay here for some...business. She has some work to do. She wants to be left alone.” “Okay. Let’s go!”

Excited to do something other than sit under a tree, Race dashed after her brother, jogging to keep up with his fast trot. As they tromped out of the mango meadow, they entered a small village. They walked at a steady pace towards the town square. Reaching the center of the village, they passed many carts full of different exotic foods and portraits of art. Sculptures and pictures full of bright and friendly trees, fruits, and mountains.

They stopped at a stall full of leather back packs. Because of their special material, it would be hard to tear the strong fabric, even in harsh weather, water couldn’t penetrate the rough traveling pack. They took their time picking out supplies: back packs, food, canteens, and even a new flashlight. You could never be too careful. After filling their new packs with their supplies, Stark and Race ventured back towards the meadow where the mango trees grew, and where their mother was waiting for their return.

As soon as they entered the mango field, Race’s mouth was hanging open with surprise and shock. The trees were lined with colorful ribbons strewn across their slim branches, making the meadow look bright and cheerful. Near the center, there was a big rock with a flat top making it look similar to a table. The sky was an array of rainbow; Red, orange, green, indigo, and blue. Race’s mouth hung open in awe of the beautiful sight. Stark laughed, and brought her to the rock table. A colorful tablecloth lay on the rock, and on that was different kinds of rare fruit and meats. On the other side of the table, Ella stood there, a huge smile filled in her usually empty face, filling it with joy and love for Race.

“Happy Birthday, Race!” Race’s eyes widened at the familiar phrase.

“What?!” Stark smiled and gestured for her to sit. “You are now-in our world-262.” He laughed at her shocked, horrified face. “In this world we live to 1000 years, but our years are shorter than on earth.” Finally it rubbed in. She still couldn’t believe she was…….262. Wow.

That is another reason I’m obviously not human.

Still amazed at the thought, she sat down and started to eat. She used a fresh, clean piece of bark as a plate. First she was complaining about using paper plates and now she was content using tree bark. There was definitely a change in her. She tasted everything: The neon green meat, the purple potatoes, the gray apples, and even the over-sized carrots. Everything was wonderful, despite how it looked. Nothing on earth was more colorful than the variety of food set on the rock slab. After she was contentedly full, she, Stark, and Ella played games similar to tag, people crossy road, and even card games, the cards made of small pieces of bark with numbers engraved into them.

Then they set up some blankets beneath the large mango tree, then went to bed.

“Goodnight Ella and Stark. Thank you for the awesome birthday.”

“Of course, Race. You are the best sister anyone could have. Goodnight.” Ella echoed Stark’s words and then they went to sleep, their chests rising and falling slowly showing their unawareness. Ella’s mind raced with the thoughts of the fun day.

What an awesome day. Never would I have thought that I would one day be 262. Especially when I’m only 17 on Earth. Wow. But I will have lots of time to think it over soon enough. For now I need to catch up on my sleep, not fall even more behind.

She closed her eyes, but for some reason, pictures showed up in her head. Pictures of Ella and Stark. She rolled over and tried to sleep, this time with more success.

Ella was in tears as Race hugged her goodbye. “Please, you don’t have to leave.” Her tortured eyes met Race’s, brown and pleading. They were shiny with the tears building up and about to spill over. Race closed her eyes and moved on to Stark. His deep blue eyes were, like Ella’s, filled with unshed tears. “She’s right you know,” He nodded to the sobbing Ella. “You don’t have to go.” Race was mixed between going to her own world and leaving her brother and foster-mother in a pool of tears just to go to another world or to stay and live a truly happy life with people who were like her. Who understood her emotions and thoughts. People who didn’t judge her at first glance. Who could teach her more about becoming a kind young lady, showing kindness and gentleness to those around her, no matter what they looked like. Her heart broke with a knowing that she would have to make a decision. And soon, because her grandfather was coming for her. To kill her and those around her…”

Race startled awake. The salty smell of sweat filled her nostrils, and, due to the soggy feeling on her forehead, it was coming from her. Around her, Ella and Stark were still enchanted into a deep sleep, their stomachs rising and falling in the movement of their breaths. Relief swept her as she realized it was just a dream. But was it really? She knew she was going to leave, but what about her grandfather? Would he be trying to kill her? But that was the future, she knew. But she would definitely miss Ella and Stark.

I can’t imagine leaving them. The have been so kind to me. They have taught me so much, can I really just abandon them like that? How would that make them feel? Deserted? Abandoned? Used? Those were some perfect words for what I would feel if she was left by someone she had taken in and cared for, even if their own parents didn’t want them.

I’m really tired, but dare I try to get more sleep?

Race’s eyes drooped in the evening darkness, and she knew that no matter how hard she tried to stay awake, the sleep would come. So, with that knowing, she let her eyes close once again. The only sound she heard as she once again stumbled into sleep was the drumming of her terrified, nervous heartbeat.

Race peeled her eyes open to the light filtering through her eyelids. Once again it was morning. Today the sky was yellow, the clouds a deep blue. She struggled out of the soft blankets under the mango tree. But it wasn’t a mango tree anymore. It was a cherry tree.

What?! Impossible!

Then Race laughed at her lack of belief. This world never ceased to amaze her. Stark was still snoring in his sleeping bag, while Ella was making breakfast of the Krikan they had had yesterday.

“Race, would climb up and pick some cherries? I think it would be good with the Krikan.”

Race nodded and started to scale the first lower branches. Getting higher up in the tree, she was surprised to find something very similar to a ….python?

This cannot be happening! No way could a snake from earth have come through the portal I made when I was young.

But as she thought about it, Race found that it was entirely possible.

“Ella… There just happens to be a snake from earth in this tree.”

“Snake? Oh, that would be a Quelm. They are not poisonous, but they can squeeze you to death. I suggest you try not to linger.”

Stating the obvious. That would be Ella, the mother of the family. Race smiled to herself. Never had she liked having someone boss her around. Never on earth when she was a duchess. Now look at her! She was a princess and she loved Ella’s protective, mothering ways. She would never get tired of Ella. Nor Stark for that matter. He was just as protective and gentle, like he was meant to be a father. Now thinking of it, he would make an amazing father with his gentle, caring ways. Yet he was also humorous, and mischievous, and playful, and would never be too hard on his kids.

The snake hissed, and and Race was brought back to the present. The python was much closer now, and Race hurried to the other side of the tree, and picked cherries as fast as possible. She liked snakes as long as they didn’t kill her. She climbed down the remaining branches, slipping to solid ground once more. Her heart still racing, she stumbled to the fire, only to find Stark there, smiling at her, his eyes shining.

He could not of just seen me freak out! No way. Brothers are so...hard.

Ella smiled at her, and filled 3 pieces of bark with something that looked like eggs.

“Alcaza.” Was all she said.

The more she thought about it, the more Race knew that Ella was not a talker. She was quiet most of the time, saving her energy for the rest of the journey.

“Well now, was that snake too big?” She rolled her eyes. Stark on the other hand loved to tease her. He smiled, and ate a piece of the Alcaza. “When will we get to the palace?” Asked Race, excited to finally meet the king. “Little hasty there, are you? We will most likely get there very soon. We are only about 6 miles away. If you look really closely, you can start to see the outline of the castle.” He nodded the way they were headed. Race squinted, and for a second she thought she saw something, but then it disappeared. “Uhh. I can’t see it. Annoying!” “Your eyes haven’t fully formed like ours. You will be whole by tomorrow. Ella! Beware! She will soon be one of us! Finally she won’t be useless!” Again, Race rolled her eyes at his sarcastic comment.

That would be Stark, the annoying brother! Thankfully, I think I might be older. We’ll see.

“Stark, how old are you?”

“304.”

Oh bummer. I was wrong.

“Stark! No lying! Race, he is 214.”

So I was right. I am older!

“So Stark, that means I am older than you. Which means, you cannot tell me what to do! Another fact: I get to boss you around! How interesting. I better start making a list of chores I want you to do.”

Stark feigned unhappiness. “Ellllaaaaaaaa. Tell Race to stop.”

“Well, Stark, I would normally tell her to stop, but I think you deserved it. And she was telling the truth, unlike some people I know.” Her eyes bore into Starks with a suspicious, knowing glare. He shifted uncomfortably, and looked at Race, who had a satisfied smile etched on her face.

“You guys are bullying me! I can’t wait to get to Sir’s house.”

Immediately Race was interested. “Sir’s?”

“Oh, he makes us call him ‘sir’ but I think it’s because he is embarrassed when we call him ‘grandfather’ in front of his advisors.”

“Stark! What a horrible idea! He just wants the respect he deserves!” Ella frowned giving him a disapproving glare.

Everyone was silent since the harsh words were spoken, but nobody looked like they held a grudge. In one way, Race was glad they weren’t talking. She needed to save her energy. As they came closer, Race started to easily see the outline of the mansion. Pretty soon, the whole thing was in her line of sight. Stark laughed, looking at her face. Her mouth was open in awe and wonder. “You’ll get used to the sight.” He smiled.

The castle was, not a dreary gray like she had imagined. But a neon orange, bright and cheerful, It’s bright colors contrast against the sky the color of dark blood. As soon as they reached the castle gate, the guard on duty took one look at Ella and opened the gate, and hollered, “Queen Ella and Prince Stark and…”

“Jae, this is Princess Race, the portal maker. Race, this is Jae.”

Race waved, and the guard cocked his head and let a shy smile appear.

Stark came up next to her. “We don’t usually try to make conversations to people with no royal blood. They are lower than us, and don’t deserved to be talked of in that way.”

“We are all equal. You and Ella taught me that. Was I royal before Ella took me in when I was little and abandoned by my parents?”

“No, but…” “Stark! Race! Stop acting like children, and get through the gate so this guard can close it!” Stark’s and Race’s faces reddened, and they walked through the gate as quickly as possible. They trotted to the castle, and the big oak door was opened before them. Race’s eyes widened when she saw what was inside. Portraits of battles, a king on a throne, and her grandfather were splayed upon the tall, golden colored walls. They were led down multiple halls and took many different turns before they came upon what looked like the throne room.

Most of it was empty except for a good-sized throne which sat at the end of the spacious room, which, on the pure gold throne, sat her grandfather. His eyes were deep blue like Starks, but instead of being filled with teasing kindness, they were rigid, and hard, filled with hatred, and something that almost looked like madness. His face was strained and cruel, while his mouth was tight in a stubborn line. He glanced at them, but his face did not lighten.

“Just do what I told you. We’ll talk more of it later when we will have no more… interruptions.” He frowned at them.

The advisors nodded and scurried out of the room, letting Ella, Stark, and Race be alone with the cruel king. Ella, and Stark walked up to his throne and bowed low. Race followed their example but couldn’t stop her thoughts.

What king would make his own daughter and grandchildren bow? He looks really cruel.

They rose, and Ella addressed the ruler of Draco. “Father, King of Draco, this is Race, your adopted granddaughter. She is a portal maker.”

“A portal maker? Get out, you youngling! You do not deserve to be in my presence!”

“But Sir, she has shown nothing but kindness and honor towards us. And she is your granddaughter!” “Stark, you will not argue with me! She will destroy Draco! I’ve had dreams. There is a prophecy. One will leave the planet but will come back one day. They will survive and destroy the whole planet! She must go! Ella, Stark, you will be allowed to stay, and I even beg you to stay, but this Destroyer must leave.”

“We will not leave her to die! She is my daughter, whether you like it or not!”

“She is not your daughter! She is Crackle’s and Armel’s daughter!”

“You knew my parents?” Race had finally found the courage to speak.

“Yes, and they were right to abandon you!”

Tears rushed to Race’s eyes, but Stark, and Ella did not give up. “Well, if you are forcing her to leave, we will also leav.”

“Then you will live like fugitives. And I will not hesitate to kill you. In fact I will take pleasure in it. But I will give you one more chance. Are with me or her?”

“Her.” Said Ella and Stark in unison with no hesitation. “Because you are my family, I will give you a one day headstart. Then I will be chasing you to kill you three!” Quickly, Ella, Stark, and Race, the new fugitives, rushed outside into the courtyard. They ran straight through the opened gate, and back towards the Fruit Meadow. They worked fast, and packed a good amount of cherries in their bags. Then they rushed in the opposite direction of the castle, and in it, the burning hatred in their grandfather’s watching, knowing gaze.

Then something evil-looking happened. The sky darkened until it was the color of a dark storm.

Fog lay in heavy blanket over the weary travelers as they struggled through the smoke trying to escape the king’s clutches.

Knowing they had until midnight, they scrambled as quickly as they could, trying to get as far away from the evil king as possible, knowing he would come after them as soon as he had the chance.

“Ella, why doesn’t he like me?”

Ella sighed, “He never liked portal makers. He thought they were evil.

Mostly because of his dreams.” She flinched. “In all my childhood that was all he would talk about. He would tell what he dreamt the night before, and tell me what it meant.

“‘It is a prophecy!’ He would always say. I believed him in my early years, but as I got older, I noticed that these ‘prophecies’ never came true. I became suspicious, and soon afterwards, I stopped believing.”

Race nodded, and knew that she would miss Ella’s stories, and her mothering ways. And Stark’s teasing, of course. How could she leave? Then the answer hit her hard in the face. She didn’t have to.

She could stay here, with a real, loving family. She could enjoy having real friendships with people she understood, and loved.

“I’m not going.” Ella and Stark gave her confused looks.

“You might have to start at the beginning, Race.” Stark moved his suspicious eyes from the terrain to her face.

“I won’t go back to earth. I want to stay here, with you guys.”

Ella and Stark shared a look, not one of surprise and happiness as she had expected, but one of gloom, and sympathy.

“Are you sure that’s what you want, Race? My father will stop at nothing to kill you. You’re whole life will be filled with on-going danger. It will not end until my father has succeeded.”

Race thought a moment. “I would much rather be in danger, but still be with you, then go back to earth and live my normal life. I like this life, and living as fugitive will make this a challenge, and I love challenges.”

Race smiled at them. They hesitantly nodded their heads, and let their own smiles appear.

“Okay, then we have to make a plan. We’ll make it as we walk.” Said Stark, intent to be the center of attention. “Ella, remember that cave I used to play in? It was well hidden, but did Sir ever know about its whereabouts?” “I don’t think so…”

“Good, maybe we could go there?”

“Wait, guys, I have a different idea.”

Their heads snapped back towards her. There eyes landed on her face with a questioning gaze.

“Ella, is their any way I could make a portal to a different, unknown planet, even if I don’t know about it?” Ella nodded slowly, and a smile appeared. “Now I get what you are saying! If we don’t know about a certain planet, then neither does the king!”

Ella had stopped calling the king of Draco her father. She probably feels hurt that he is trying to kill her and her children.

Race forced the thoughts out of her head. Now was the time for planning, not mean thoughts.

“So, how do I do this?”

“Well, Race, you will repeat what I tell you. Sark mae mellony sello katgh fary hague sanl trossil makeriter unknown.”

“ Sark mae mellony sello katgh fary hague sanl trossil makeriter unknown.”

Light immediately burst around them in a powerful gleam. Race looked at Ella, and was surprised to see Ella’s skin coming off in patches. Slowly Ella was losing her appearance and shape. Race looked at Stark; the same thing was happening to him-she could no longer tell his shape. And last of all she looked

at herself patches surrounded her. Her body was

nowhere to be seen.

But her eyes were perfectly focused and she could still see everything going on around her. But the light got brighter and hurt her eyes, and everyone around her was going blurry. Then the light around her slowly wore off shapes around her became much more clear...and dangerous.

Her body shaped back, and she could move her limbs once again.

She studied her surroundings.

Ella and Stark were still body-shaping, so she looked at the terrain.

Yay. Just yay.

All around them were mountains. High ones. They were bigger than any she had ever seen in her 18 years that she had lived on earth. She groaned. It would take forever just to pass one of the mountains. The only way to go in between 2 mountains was to go over another mountain. To escape this they would have to leave to a different place.

And no way could she do that again. Her energy was so drained she could barely stand.

Just thinking of standing, she collapsed onto the ground, knowing that it would take a couple days to recover from that. Ella and Stark recovered from the enthusiastic ride. They walked over to her and asked if she was okay.

“I’m fine; just really tired.”

“It does tire out a portal maker. Especially when they haven’t experienced it very much.” “I have a question Ella.” “Hey, she’s not the only one with answers.. And you are not the only one with questions.” Stark added. Race smiled, and looked back at Ella. “How are we going to get across those mountains?”

She grimaced.

Ella cringed. “We are going to have to climb them. It might take weeks or even months to do it, but this is the only place where we are safe.” Stark threw his head back and groaned loudly, letting the world know how annoyed he was.

“Well, let’s get going then.” Ella insisted in between Stark’s

groaning.

They walked slowly towards the middle of the ring of mountains.

“Which one?” Asked Race.

“I have an idea.” Stark’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Let’s stay here; right next to the portal!” He suggested, his eyes shining.

“Uh no. It is too dangerous. What if a wolf or a bear just happened to make their way into the portal by accident? We would be killed instantly!” Ella’s face was distracted, and her eyes started to fog with a memory.

“Stark, remember when Race made a portal when she was little. The bats escaped into their world.

Remember how many people died until they found a to make them small?”

Stark grimaced, but nodded.

They were silent, all thinking back to their own childhoods.

But Race came up with an idea. “Yes, people might die, but isn’t it worth a try? Remember how tired we all were, and dizzy, when we landed?

The same thing would happen to them, and they wouldn’t be quick to see what was going on around them. As soon as their bodies take form, we can attack! We would be expecting and preparing while they wouldn’t suspect an immediate attack. And if we go over the mountains they may still find us, and they will have the advantage in numbers. If we stay here, at least we have an advantage.”

Race was out of breath from her long speech, but her heart was racing in anticipation of a good fight.

Stark nodded, understanding the adrenaline in her veins. She was sure he felt it too; the need to get the fight over with; to be rid of their grandfather’s cruel rule.

Ella hesitantly agreed. “Are you sure you will be able to kill my father? I mean, he is family.” “Ella, I know this is hard for you,” Race caught the tears in Ella’s eyes, and her voice softened. “But we cannot let Draco fall into ruins because he is our family.

We must get rid of his rule to save all of Draco. Don’t you have friends whom you want to live?

Other family? If we let your father rule, then a lot of people will die; the whole planet of Draco would be destroyed.”

Ella cringed, but agreed. “Then let’s prepare; my father will reign no more.” She nodded her head in determination, with bravery and courage splayed across her face.

The 3 friends ran around in the circle of mountains exploring and finding items of use to get ready for the coming battle.

Race raced around a small field finding sticks and large rocks to throw at their enemies. Stark started scaling the first few feet of one of the mountains, and claimed he had found good shelter for the night in a cave only a few feet off the ground.

Ella gathered fruits and smiled to herself at the use these would be.

Then they all gathered at the small cave and started sharpening sticks with sharp rocks. This fight was going to be quite……. amusing.

They went against making a fire to draw less attention from themselves in this unknown world of living things. Who knew what kind of aliens lived here and whose side they were on?

The 3 exhausted travelers collapsed in the cave. They planned everything. Stark would stay up first. Then Race, then Ella. When the sun was just making it’s way into the sky,

And dawn was approaching did they get up and get ready for battle, each muscle tense under their skin.

Their eyes were ever watching where Race had made the portal, waiting for anything to come through. They heard a low whistling, and all three jerked at the inhuman sound. Although they thought they were ready for anything, what came out of the portal shocked them.

Trolls, elves, and aliens from different worlds staggered into the area, in bizarre colors, shapes and sizes. They were purple, orange, neon blue, and blood red. Although the 3 were shocked, they were ready. Hundreds of sharpened

sticks made into spears, and large rocks rained down upon the

unsuspecting, small army. Screams rang out as goblins, and walking sharks collapsed. Along with the screams came the satisfying sounds of bones

snapping, and the scraping sound of strong, sharpened sticks scraping deep into skin.

The tang of blood filled the air, as the screams of surprise and pain quieted down. Race dared a glimpse below them into the arena.

Everyone was searching the mountains looking for any living creature that could have started the avalanche of weapons. But they found

nothing.

Ella nodded at Stark, who was settled on the mountain across from them, giving him the signal. 3 extremely large boulders cascaded down the mountain, crushing anything it it’s way. 8 more followed, crushing bodies, trees, and grass leaving traceable trials and destruction in their wake.

Race dared another glimpse, and her heart quickened. There were only 4 living things left-but they were trolls. From her research, Race knew that trolls were the hardest to kill.

The only way was…….water!

They had to find water; gallons of it. “Stay here.” She whispered to Ella, who nodded in understanding. “Be careful.” Race made her way to the top of the mountain. Luckily, there was a large pool of water nearby. Now...to lead the trolls into it. She raced back down the mountainside back to the cave, telling Ella her plan. She knew it was going to be dangerous….and risky. But it was worth it.

She went down to where the trolls were easily able to identify her. They stared at her with unblinking, unnerving eyes. She stuck her tongue out at them and laughed, then said, “You can’t catch me! Boleh boleh boleh boleh boleh!”

She then dashed up the mountainside towards the lake, her heart racing the whole way.

She dared a glance behind her, and found the trolls chasing after her, their faces filled with fury and rage.

She made her way to the lake. Almost there! Just have to make them more mad!

She splashed into the lake and swam out of harm’s way.

“Aw, are you too scared of a little water? Aren’t you thirsty? I dare you to drink 3 mouthfuls of water and jump into the lake and swim to the other side and back. If you don’t you will be known as cowards. Aw, so sad. The little cowards aren’t gonna do it.” She actually felt a little guilty for taunting them like that, but a zip of satisfaction welled up in her when their mouths twisted with rage. They gulped down 3 mouthfuls of water, and jumped into the pool. Nothing happened. They gained

courage at knowing that they were immune to this water. Race was in trouble.

They swam, their muscled arms propelling them forwards forcing themselves to the other side and started coming back. But then, something happened. One of the trolls was pulled under the water by something deep in the depths of black liquid.

Another troll was pulled under and then the other and in seconds they were all struggling against some kind of monster. Race swam as fast as possible into ankle deep water, and made her way safely to land, where she saw someone she had hoped to never see again; her grandfather. She could feel his evil presence, and could see the wicked glint of cruel joy.

“Hello, Rachel. He used her human name, haunting her to her earlier days.

But then she saw Ella and Stark behind Grandfather, in the bushes, sharpened sticks and rocks at the ready.

“It’s Race, thank you very much!” She resisted the urge to glance at her rescuers again. He smiled, his eyes hard with cruel, unending hatred in his revel glare.

Then her grandfather cried out in obvious pain, his hands scrambled to get a hold of the weapon Ella had threw. Seeing the perfect opportunity, Race jumped on him, making his focus go on her rather than in the sticks and rocks being thrown at him. Blood poured from the wounds, and Race wanted to look away. But she had to stay focused. If she failed, her grandfather would be Draco’s downfall.

When they ran out of weapons, Stark and Ella raced to assist. They attacked. Their grandfather stood up and raced away. Stark picked up a rock and threw it at him. It was a fairly large rock and had perfect aim, letting itself fly right into their grandfather’s chest. He flattened against the tree with the force, and the 3 survivors her the resounding snap of his neck snapping.

They had one. 3 to 26. They were the only survivors.

They collapsed next to the lapping waves on the shore and let their eyelids droop. The next morning, they went back through Race’s portal back onto Draco. They came to the palace and told everyone who would listen of the king’s downfall. The people were devastated, but then they had an idea. “Ella, you are next in line! Long live Queen Ella, Prince Stark, and Princess Race!” The 3 were shocked but pleased. They went to the palace to feast, and the 3 new royal friends went to bed. “Goodnight everyone. Ella how did it feel to kill your father?” “It felt…….shameful. But I feel satisfaction. Like I did something that no one else would do; something honorable.” Race nodded and looked out the window at the full moon shining dull, yellow light into the room. Then she did something she hadn’t done in a very long time; she prayed.

THE END