Bottomless

Bottomless- chapter 6

2010-02-19T20:49:00.003-06:00

" Yay! You do like to play games! I knew it, told Gideon you would play THIS game!" The little scamp just kept running his mouth, and merrily trip, trip, tripping around the well. More than willing to shut it for him, I was, but it's not good to follow impulses like that, settled for snatching him up. Dodged me like a bullet, he did! Watching him with disbelief as he climbed onto the lip of the well. A sense of fate descended on me then, watching him weaving his way around the brim, carelessly. Sure that my face reflected my horror, my minds' eye took over, envisioned him slipping.
And falling.
In.
With my stuff.

Honestly would've enjoyed that at any other time, but he was casually flipping the coin again. Smiling. Took a moment for his words to sink in. "So, Tyson. Which is more important to you? The coin? Or the sword?" When it finally registered, I watched in disbelief as he purposely flipped the coin in. Then gave a piercing whistle. That was when I heard the galloping noises. Moving away. Very fast. Like he read my thoughts, my fears. Toyed with me even. I really didn't want to deal with this. Brain screaming in protest as I forced it to work quickly, I chose the Horse, hoping wells remained stationary, no matter what dimension they were in. No time to gather provisions, either, but highly aware of travelling in a moving rotisserie. My gaze turned to the south end of a north bound horse. Looking small at this point. I took off at a run.

Don't know how long I ran, but it was obvious the horse was winning. I was left watching the dust settle, hoping his tracks would stay fresh. Be my luck, a storm would blow through. As that thought rattled through my half-baked brain, a dark shadow passed over head. Awesome! This place enjoys making my worst fears come true!

Strangely enough the thought occurred to me, if I were writing a story, that's exactly what I would do.

I took advantage of this to look up. Oh please, let this be my brain sufficiently cooked to make me hallucinate. Pure Evil flowing over head. The rippling of the fabric of time, nearing the breaking point. The malevolent force pushing it almost past the point of endurance. My eyes widened as the fabric bulged downward, and the distinct sound of manaical laughter reached my ears. Never imagined evil sounding like that. Like being strained through wind, water and time. And to my amazement an aluminum quality to it, as words were forced inside my head. Echoing furtively, "Everything in the universe can be quantified, traversed, or communicated with, leaving Chaos in it's wake. Without Chaos there can be no order. Without Order, Chaos will Rule. I will rule!"

Pain radiating through me, I was knocked off my feet. I landed a few feet away. Wasn't sure where it came from. Until I heard deadly force approaching. More searing pain. Like before. Rolled to my feet, turned to see Pure Evil running at me with an intensity that didn't bode well for longevity. Watched as everything came into clear, concise focus. Watched as time slowed ,accentuated ,each movement It made. I reached for my absent sword, then took a fighting stance, this was all I had. Whatever happens next, doesn't matter. Then time resumed its natural flow, and we clashed once again. Claws raking at me, my arms flying to block attempts to shred me. Part of me observing, telling me when, where to defend, how to strike. Grappling with the creature, rolling repeatedly. Trying to survive, my world collapsing into this fight. Relentlessly It came at me, not even a moment to breathe between attacks. Don't think, just try to live.
Finally, screaming in my face," I SHALL RULE" !

Just as suddenly as it appeared, it was gone, I was left blinded as the suns returned full force. Lying there, defeated, and in pain, everything seemed hopeless. The horse with sword in tow, was gone, the coin lost in a well. Why should I even bother anymore? What was the point? I was just an ordinary person. Nothing special. Not worthy of being the Champion of Time at all. As despondancy swept through me, I was confronted by my own humanity. Looking the direction the horse went, I missed the spot on the horizon. Wrapped up in my personal demons, curled up the ground, I really wanted that coin. Prayed I was back in the Student Union Store, buying those damn tampons again. Anything was better than realizing I just had my ass handed to me. Would've been better if I had been killed. Humiliation reigned supreme at this moment. Why Me?

Took a few moments to realize I was rocking, as if I were being held, comforted. I became aware of a ringing in my ears, words fluttering softly to me, encouraging me to not give up. Eventually my thoughts were nudged in the direction of why I chose to follow the horse, instead of the easier path of retrieving the coin. Despite craving the comfort of the coin. The answer presented itself suddenly to me, I cared about the horse! I also knew it wouldn't survive out here. Not without water. Speaking of water, I could use some myself. With that thought, instinct kicked back in,and determination flowed through me. My mind rumbled into overtime. Shielding my eyes as best I could, I scanned the desert-like surroundings with new purpose. Wishing I had been in the Boy Scouts, I racked my brain for any knowledge of where I could find water. Vision partially blocked, gaze sweeping across the immediate landscape. Nothing but desert, sand, and cacti.
Wait. Cacti. Something tickled. That's it! Cactus plants hold water within them! Quickly striding through the sand, I made my way to that blessed desert lifeform. Only to be confronted by the plethora of pointy needles laughing at me. Not going to be as easy as I thought. Wishing mightily for my sword, I gingerly attempted to locate a weakness in the cacti hide. No help for it, I would be paying a painful price for survival, this day. Determined to get the life sustaining fluid inside, I didn't notice the clouds building up overhead.
Couldn't tell it was cooling down in my personal, portable crockpot.

Many cacti needle stabs later, I sat there triumphantly with a hunk of cacti in my hand.
And no juice.
Crap.

Then the skies opened up. First a few drops of water hit me. Teasing me with its wonderful wetness. Making me lick my lips in fascinated anticipation. Then with a vengence. At first I was glad of it's refreshing appearance, quenching my thirst, cooling me. Until I felt it trickling inside my boots. This sensation momentarily puzzled me. You'd think with all that sand just lying around it would be absorbed immediately. Realizing I was standing in the middle of a quickly rising, roiling stream. Perfect. A flash flood. Could it get any better? Out in the open, encased in metal, and the tallest target to boot. Not too mention that metal is not conducive to swimming.

Scrambling toward the highest ground I could find, despite that I was the resident lightning rod already, I didn't want to be caught up in the flash flood that quenched my thirst. Stripping off the armour, I stood in my all together. Torn between the frustration of watching the trail wash away, and the cooling sensation of the rain. But it wasn't long before I began shivering. The rain that I had welcomed just minutes ago, had turned it's back on me. Figures. Nothing else to do but put the cold metal armour back on. Better than nothing.

More walking, only now wandering aimlessly because the trail was washed away. Head down, feet dragging through the now mud, raindrops losing momentum, the puddles slowly draining away, I nearly failed to notice the horse. Walking towards me. Looking as soggy as I was. I could almost swear it was mumbling to itself. Walked up to me, halted. I wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth, mounted and off we went. Grabbing My sword, not letting it go. Irony struck me, the suns were setting.
Didn't take long to reach the shack. The old man looking worried, and the boy, dipping himself into the Well. Didn't pay much attention to what the old man said this time, wasn't in the mood, but the boys antics were drawing my attention. Think the Old Man said something about me being okay, not knowing that thing could reach into the Sacred Voids. Or something like that. Temper rising, I leapt off the horse. I was going to teach that little scalawag a lesson. Realized he was saying he almost had it. Felt him slipping as my hand grasped his ankle, the suddenness pulling me forward as his balance was lost, feeling the Old Man desperately grabbing my waist as the weight of the armor became too much for us.

The clanging of the sword against the Well, as we slid deeper inside, and eventually the side giving way, and tumbling in. The three of us, all still gripping the other, and it hit me, how could I have missed it? The reason they looked so familiar to me. They WERE me.
Then we were one, and the familiar words tickled through my mind, the vortex swirling around me yet again.

"Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime
Five Lessons you'll learn, eventually with Time.
Destiny calls, You're Fate you must keep,
The Mind is Ageless, Fathomless, Deep.
The Well will reveal the Champion Entwined,
Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime."

Head hitting something solid. Stars again. Sounds of giggling. Feeling arms surround me, lifting me roughly. Hearing someone say, "the cab's here." Practically being carried out and thrown in.

Someone beside me. Too disoriented to care. Being dragged out, and up some stairs. Familiar smells hitting my senses. I was home. Being dumped onto my bed. Soft feminine voice. Come here darling, let me talk to you a minute.
Laughter.
Oops, out loud.
Damn.
Darkness descending.

Waking up, the first thing my eyes see, draped over my chair. The Armor. The Sword across it. And the coin softly glowing from its carved niche. Home Sweet Home. Complete with the tremor in my hand. Stumbled to the bathroom, heaving for all I was worth. Please let this have been a nightmare. Stripping for the shower ended that hope. Revealed the souvineers of battle. Including where my head hit the bar.

Once again, I sit here to record these events in my journal. Tremors worse now. Realizing how unfit I am to be the Champion of Time. Reliving my pitiful attempt to fight Pure Evil, wondering how I survived. Learning a few things about how Self is formed. How much we define, interpret ourselves, by our experiences. How badly I failed when it came down to the line.

I wish I could say, that by looking in the mirror, I could see the Champion with in. But it's not that easy. When I look, all I see is an unkempt boy, drowning in his own ignorance, blithely facing each day with a sense of invincibility. I blink then, and see all my mistakes and imperfections mocking me in the form of the Old Man. Then my own face, staring back, wondering who I really am. How do I put this part of me back together?
Not easy under normal circumstances.
Still, I'm left to wonder,
Why me?

Bottomless-chapter 5

2010-02-19T20:25:00.003-06:00

Once more I am confronted by those distant images of chaos. Terrifying in it's familiarity, yet again, I stand here frozen, unable to move, bound by a sense of traversed quantification. But how can that be? I am merely here as a witness, but a witness to what? Almost as if I am watching what has already been, but has yet to be. Don't want to look, yet I can't stop. Again that feeling overwhelms me. Someone is beside me, but I can't turn my head to see who. My attention is drawn once more to the clash of metal in the distance. Why can't I see it clearly? Who are those people? Why is this so important? Everthing is so far away. Finally I break free! I can move! I have to get there! Then the blinding flash of light, and the pain.

The pain as I hit.
Oh man, what did I hit?
How far up was I?
More pain, as something crashed into me.

What was dream, what was real? Couldn't tell where the dream ended, or I began. Not sure I wanted to. Stomache heaving, head aching, eyes burning, pain everywhere, I knew I had to look. But like last time, I was reluctant. It's never good when I do. Realizing I'd landed on my side, I peeked out. Strange, this place looked a lot like the side of my trunk. But really bright. Why didn't that make sense? Closed my eyes again. Must be the drinking. Yeah, drunk. Just need some sleep. Here was good. Just gonna close my eyes. Sleep. Could someone stop spinning the world? I wanna get off. Not doing my stomache any favors.
What's that noise?
Almost like, slow, deliberate, chewing.
Was that a bite?
That was really close to my ass.

As these thoughts tumbled through my mind, my instincts finally kicked in. I lurched forward, found the trunk, hard, painfully. Were those stars? When I could see past the pain, I couldn't see past the glare. What the hell? Desperate now, I needed to know what that chomping noise was! Feeling the sweat pour off me, the tremors set in with a vengeance. Didn't help that I was blinded by light, in imminent danger of being eaten. I scrambled to my feet, pulled that trunk open, grabbed the sword, and whipped it around. That helped me regain my equilibrium, and bravado. So I challenged," Who's there?" Ok, not my brightest moment, but it is what it is. No reply, other than chewing. Circling the tip, I forcefully repeated myself. Act like you know what you're doing. No need to give it up you don't remember. Rinse. Repeat. The soft nicker almost didn't register past those thoughts. Shadows passed overhead, and I could see momentarily. Couldn't believe it. The horse. Looking very amused. I don't know which emotion hit first. Relief, or disbelief. But it packed a powerful punch. I sank to the ground, running my finger around that coin. Aimlessly. No thoughts, just glaring at the horse. Surprisingly, it didn't burst into flames.
Temper 1/ Patience 1.

Eventually, the shadows crept forward, and I was able to see. Desert like, very little grass, so horsey had better learn to ration soon. Shielding my eyes, I managed to look upwards. No wonder it was so bright. Not one, but three suns. Very hot, too. Need to find water fast. Dehydration's deadly here. Amazed by the color of everything. But where's the water? Big problem, very quickly. Nothing but desert. Not just me I was responsible for, either. So much for sleeping. That would be death. In a nutshell.

I tallied up what I had. Me, the horse. One trunk, complete with sword, coin, and sheet. Plus the armour. Perfect! I looked at the horse. At that the horse stamped it's hoof, and blew at me. I swear a bubble came out it's nose. Packed it all up. An hour later, I threw the trunk down in a fit of anger.
Temper 2.

I swear it laughed at me. Beast moved everytime I got the trunk up there. " Look, Horse, we need to go. Find water, food, shelter. You got that?" The horse shook his head at me. Then kicked the trunk. Hard. Broke it in half. Scattered my stuff in the sand. I just stared. Did the horse just rebel? Couldn't deal with this. Not yet. Sobering up, but that was still too much. Blankly I knelt, began to pick up the sword, got lost in the coin again. It calls to me. Was it glowing? How could you tell in this light? Next thing I know, the horse knocked me on my face. Standing, I gathered the stuff, trying not to think about how much time had just been lost. Were the suns setting? Might be for the best. I bundled everything together, used what was left of the trunk to mount the horse. Didn't even notice that it had stood still while I climbed on. I was that bemused by the coin.

Remembering the last time, I hoped the horse would know where to go. Felt bad because I was the one supposed to be caring for the horse. Don't know if it was my drunken stupor, or just pure irony, but here I was "riding through the desert on a horse with no name." It was too much. Laughter. At first just a few bubbling giggles and a hiccup or two. But then as I started singing the song, I laughed harder and harder. This was just too rich. I hate to say it, but I sang myself to sleep.

I woke up when the horse dumped me on the ground. I would have said I slipped off, but it was making that weird chuffing noise again. It was joined by the laughter of someone else. Wait a minute? Someone else? And joined in the laughter? I don't think I like that. Then I heard the sweetest sound in the world. The sound of water. Gurgling, deeply and contentedly. Sweet, sweet water. I just listened for a minute, then my thirst overcame anything else. I sat up and looked for the source. Of course. A well, what was I thinking. Sitting in front of the well was an old man. All unkempt hair he appeared to be. Just watching me, with a very curious gaze. Eyes looked familiar, but I couldn't place them.
Then the laughter again, high pitched, shrill, but so full of life, I had to smile in return. I turned my head to see who had such a marvelous laugh. Encountered a young boy, sitting on the back of the horse. He was unkempt also, and again familiar, but I chalked it up to his resemblence of the old man. Must be his grandson. Or what ever it was called here. Grinned cheekily at me he did, then winked. "He has a name, you know."

"Who? The Horse?" I asked.
"Yep!"

Laughter trilled from his small form again, and I smiled, waiting. But all I got was more laughter. And that chuffing noise. Finally I asked, "So, are you going to tell me?" "Nope," he chirped. "He doesn't want you to know yet." To which my jaw hit the floor. Provoking the old man to laugh now, and speak for the first time, "Run along now, and feed the horse then, while I tend to our guest. Rising, he handed me a cup of water. Much needed water.

"So you are the Champion of Time. Or you will be. If you heed the Five Lessons of the Well." He said this so smoothly, I almost missed the hint of humor in his voice.
"What do you mean, will be? I already am, right? I was summoned. Didn't get to choose! Fought that thing already..." I sputtered to a stop, when he held up his hand.
" Yes, you have done all those things, and more. Yet, you have done nothing. I repeat, Yet. Until you have learned, and heed the Five Lessons, you will not understand. Until you understand, you cannot prevent the disruption of time."
Wait, did he just say I had not prevented the disruption of time? So what the hell had I been doing, then?
Good question that. Beside the point though.

What about the old man that died so I could prevent it? The village people that had so little, but gave so freely? All that pain, I know I didn't imagine that. And the lady. The Beautiful Lady. No one else saw her. But she was so real. I hate to admit, but I sulked. None of what he said made any sense. I had done that, and more? But I had done none of it? How was that even possible? Too much to deal with right now. I was hungry, hot, thirsty, and hung over. Basically I just wanted to go home! Even wanted the stupid Tampons if Leilani was there too. Would've stomped away, but there was nowhere to go, so sighing defeatedly, I asked what exactly were these lessons.
He laughed at me.

Should've known it wasn't going to be that easy. He told me that it was best to eat, rest, and let the lessons come as they will. Already I had encountered them repeatedly. But obviously I had yet to recognize them. Great! But I let it go. I was hungry. And that fool horse was already eating. Or did that make me the fool.
Wasn't long before I was sitting there with a plate of something in my hand. Didn't look like anything I recognized. Thought about asking what it was, um, maybe not. If I knew, I might not eat it. Resembled runny eggs, already wasn't doing me any favors. I just took the piece of burnt toast, sopped some up, and shoveled it in. As quickly as possible. All the while the old man was staring at me expectantly. Choking down the last bite, I grabbed my cup, gulped it down, washing out my mouth. When I lowered it again, I found my plate filled again. Oh No, I just couldn't. I was still hungry, but that was foul! Looked at the old man, he looked back. "You ate so quickly, I figured you were still hungry, so I filled you up again. Have at it! Does an Old Man good to see someone enjoy my cooking so much! Especially when all I usually have for company is that young scamp out there. He does nothin' but complain." What could I do after that? Gritting my teeth I suffered through another plateful. Though this time I had to go slow, and pretend to be enjoying it. Making small talk all the while.
Ever have one of those days?

Finally that interminable meal was finished. My stomache rebelled mightily. I needed to be alone. Really alone...Too much to drink, too much to eat...nasty, greasy, runny, whatever it was. I needed privacy now. My head was aching. Unbearable, unrelieved heat, even at night. I just wanted to be sick, then sleep. I wandered outside to the well, found the bucket and pulled some water up. Splashed my face thoroughly. Never liked getting sick, but this is one time I would have gladly just let it happen. No such luck. I slid down to the ground in defeated misery, and put my head in my hands. Quickly lifted my head again. Still too much spinning going on. Is that even still possible this much later? Leaned back against the well. Now that brought some relief. Cool, comforting, timeless, familiar. Why familiar? Becoming restless, I returned inside, losing myself in the coin. Lulled my miserable self to sleep that way, clutching the sword as if it were my sole reality.

Once more I am confronted by those distant images of chaos. Terrifying in it's familiarity, yet again, I stand here frozen, unable to move, bound by a sense of traversed quantification. But how can that be? I am merely here as a witness, but a witness to what? Yet I realize I am more than a witness. It's almost as if I am watching what has already been, but has yet to be, and if I can just reach out and part the veil, I could see clearly. But I don't want to look, yet I can't stop. I know what is coming. Again that feeling overwhelms me. Someone is beside me, but I can't turn my head to see who. My attention is drawn once more to the clash of metal in the distance. Why can't I see it clearly? Because of the veil. Who are those people? Why is this so important? Everthing is so far away. Finally I break free! I can move! I have to get there! Then the blinding flash of light, and the pain.
　
Bright light, piercing in its quality. Winking quickly in and out of my conciousness. I flinched in expectation of the now familiar pain that always follows. More brillaint flashing. No pain. Something wasn't right.
Did I just think that?

Silence broken by the trill of laughter, I'm not alone. The young boy standing just out of reach. Eyes blurred from lack of sleep, over indulgence, or both. No way to tell. What was he doing? What was causing that damned flash? I put my hand out, to assure myself that my stuff was still there. My hand came up empty, causing my alcohol abused brain to clear. Completely. He had my stuff. The brilliant flash was him flipping the coin by the window. Stood there just grinning, waiting.
"I like Games. D'you like games? Wanna play a game? Gideon said you wouldn't. But how can anyone not like games? Games are so much fun! We talked a lot about you last night, we did. Wanna play a game? C'mom then! I'll start. This'll be fun!" Shot around the corner, and he was gone, just like that. With MY sword ,and MY coin. Anger boiled up inside me. Little shit! Those're mine! Thinking back to the village, mind replaying broken fragments of instants. A moment of clarity, I knew what to do. I would show that little cretin. I concentrated as hard as I could, and willed the sword and coin into my hand. Where they rightly belonged. Nothing happened. So I tried again. Repeatedly. Temper rising to dangerous levels when nothing happened, I punched the wall.
Found the pain.

Didn't solve the dilemma, but it did bring the old man running. "Why isn't this working?!" I yelled at him, as if he knew even slightly what I was talking about.
"Because we are in a Sacred Void. Neither here nor there." I stared at him as if he had lost his mind. He's the one who lives here, and now he's telling me that we're nowhere? My eyes crossed trying to process that one. " I will explain further as you don your armour, for I think you might be needing it, if only to keep it close to you. For I see that little scamp has been beguiling you to play." With a chuckle he sat himself down.
" It is true, we are neither here, nor there. There are many Sacred Voids. Above, Below, Before, Beyond, Beside, Within, and Without. I cannot explain exactly what each one is, but some Sacred Voids cancel out the Will that you need to call upon, to wield that Ancient Power. It is a learning process that you will come to understand fully, through time and maturity. This I promise."

How he sat there calmly making promises, while I rushed around putting the armour on, and why I believed him so readily, I have no idea. Especially in this heat. Maybe it was the ring of truth to his words. Maybe it was the sincerity and familiarity in his eyes. Or it could simply be, that I couldn't shake the feeling that I knew him. Made me less likely to doubt his words. No time to dwell on it though, had to catch that litle imp. Still angry over that stunt, taking off with my shit. If he only knew the price that had been paid. The frustrations and pain. The sacrifices made, willingly paid. Sneaky feeling the old man did. I shot out of the room, driven to regain my sword and coin. Only to be brought up short by that trilled laughter once again. He hadn't gone that far, was in fact, standing right outside.

Just waiting.

Bottomless- Chapter 4

2010-02-19T20:08:00.004-06:00

Distant images of chaos, terrifying in it's familiarity, Yet I stand here, frozen, Not in fear, But bound by helplessness just the same. A witness to what? Don't want to look, yet I can't stop. Again that feeling overwhelms me. Someone is beside me, but I can't turn my head to see who. My attention is drawn once more to the clash of metal in the distance. Why can't I see it clearly? Who are those people? Why is this so important? Everthing is so far away. Finally I break free! I can move! I have to get there! Then the blinding flash of light, and the pain.
　
Sudden impact, no warning. Brutal awakening of face meeting floor. Reality floods my consciousness once again.
"C'mon Tyson. Get a grip." Disgusted, I pick myself up, dust myself off. Third time this week. It's getting old. I snatch up the alarm clock, look at it, snarl ,and throw it across the room. Always the same time. Three in the morning. Catching a glance at my hand, I noticed the slight tremor that still remains with me. Always with me. I sighed and wiped the sweat from my face. Happens everytime. That's the only time it bothers me. Before I knew it, I had pulled out the trunk, and opened it. I unwrapped the sword, and began tracing the coin with my finger. Just mindlessly running my finger around it repeatedly. I don't know why I do it, I just do. After awhile, the tremors cease. It's been well over a month, since that night. Still it remains, always the dream, never quite remembering, then awakening at three.

The chill of the room seeps in, and I look at where my clock should be. Grinning ruefully, I note that the score is now Temper 1, Patience 0 for the day. Lecturing myself would be pointless, so I carefully re-wrap the sword and place it in the trunk. Pushing it back under the bed, I rise and head for the shower. I'm awake now, might as well get a head start on the day. By the time I finish my three S'es, shower, shave, and what not, drink a quick fix of brew, I find it is already light out. Briefly, I have to wonder exactly how long I knelt there petting that coin. That disturbed me greatly. Was I becoming obsessed with it? With that thought, I left my sanctuary. With a mental note to self, buy two clocks.

Arriving at campus I was early still, shot over to the Student Union store. Sometimes they have things like that here. Ducked in, took a look around. No such luck. Did catch the break of a lifetime! Maybe today would be a good day, after all. Found my old friend, you know, the one who has the 'out of this world' way with words. Oh, I intend to get to know her a lot better! Grabbed the first thing in reach, glanced at the mirror, then slicked up to the counter. Plastering the most innocent look on my face I could manage, I plunked my purchase down, then feigned surprise when I looked at her.

"Well, hello again, uh...'my eyes slid across her blouse, seeking her name tag, 'Leilani! What a surprise!" I smiled my most sincere smile at her. But my smile dimmed when I noticed her puzzled gaze. "Don't you remember me? Well, not my name, of course. Let me rectify that. Name's Tyson. Tyson Devereau.' Still, no more than a slight smile, impersonal, business-like. 'Still don't remember? I literally ran into you outside the Campus Library. Twice." At that, she nodded. Then she said, "Yes, I remember. You sure are a strange one. Will this be all?' By the time I struggled through this, the transaction was finished. She handed me my change, then said, "Your receipts in the bag, in case your girlfriend needs to exchange these. You have a great day." I smiled and walked out. Her name is Leilani and she remembers me!

Wait!
Girlfriend?
Exchange what?!?

I looked in the bag.
I could feel the heat rush into my face. How it burned! Few things in life embarrass me, but I can't believe I just walked in, and chatted up the girl of my dreams while buying a box of Tampons! Great! That was the last of my money until payday, three days from now. Stomping away, I pitched the bag into the nearest trashcan. No way in hell I was going to go back in there for a refund. Not from her. Girlfriend?! Never had time for one. A few dates, awkward times, a nuisance more than anything. Glanced at the campus clock, had just enough time to get to class.

Sat there during that three hour lecture, couldn't get my mind off her, or that stupid box. Just wanted to be back home with that coin. With Leilani. With, or without the Tampons. Going to burn a long time over that one. Managed to get what notes written I needed. So gladly I left my Psych class. I'll do some extra reading on it later. But for now, I had to get to my Physics class. So not my favorite course. But necessary for me to graduate. Something about the way everything in the universe has a Mathematical correspondant. How everything can be quantified, traversed,or communicated with, through Mathematics. Don't know why, it's not like I'm the Champion of Time or anything.
Ha!

I entered the hallowed hall of Mathematical learning, took my seat. Found I was early here, too. For once. Not normally my style to pay attention to things, but since that day went down, I have been trying to change that. Not meaning I'm going to stuff my face into flowers and hug trees. But just look around once in awhile. Notice people, what they're doing. Found that helps me with my Psychology stuff. Gave the nod to the Professor. He nodded back with a half grin. Strange, for a second there, he looked familiar. Rubbed my eyes. Looked again. He was talking to someone else. Gonna chalk that one up to exhaution. Looked around the rest of the auditorium, rubbed my eyes again. There sat Leilani. How did I miss that? Too late to relocate myself next to her. Might be best after the Tampon experience. There's always a next time. When I stop burning, that is. Besides didn't want her to think I was stalking her. Class ended at Three p.m. Okay, what is with the threes?

Heading towards work, I pass quite a few interesting people along the way. No more staring at the ground for me. One of the places I pass is a park. Smack in the middle, is a man giving horse rides. Wait a minute, a horse? Why does it look so familiar? Why is it staring at me? Slowly it hits me, I never once wondered what happened to the horse when I left that village.
Did it just snicker at me?
How rude!

With a storm brewing inside, I strode towards my destination, mind revolving with thoughts that weren't pleasant. Was it possible I had been so set on obtaining my goals, that it never occurred to me I was Self Absorbed? Taking that one step farther, did that make me Egocentrical? Add to that the thought of becoming obssessed with the coin, I begin to realize that I am completely a Fool. The Id, the Ego,and the Superego, are all supposed to act together to form our humanity. Without them we are nothing. The three of them together, form the whole. Wait a minute, the three. Is this why I am slamming into threes everywhere? Putting this away for later chewing, I ran to work. But this time, I wouldn't be pretending to be some knight in slightly tarnished armour.
I really have the armour.

My thoughts still churning at the end of the day, I decided to skip writing on my thesis. I headed for the local watering hole, where I could put it on tab. I lost count of how much I had to drink, but realized I was well past schnookered. I had entangled myself on this Journey of Fools, and there was no escape. I don't mean the whole Champion of Time crap either. No, as I sat there contemplating the changes that had occurred in my life, who should come walking in the door, but her. Yep. Her. Tampon Lady. So beautiful to my doubled vision, I just knew I had to speak to her. So I sloshed my way over and plopped down beside her on the stool. So much for not stalking her.

"Hey th...there, Beautifyul.' I slurred, as hopefully I gazed into her eyes, 'I'm a tr... tri-zsexual. I'll try an anyth...thing twice. Jushtto make shure I liked it..it in the fyirst placshe." As those words of wisdom crossed my benumbed lips, I proceeded to pass out. As my eyes closed, and my head slipped forward, I could swear that Leilani softly laughed at me. Strangely, I didn't feel the impact of my head against the bar, nor the sensation of my body sliding to the floor. I did however feel her leaning over me, and whispering.

"Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime,
When will you learn not to drink like a swine."

" What?!?"

"Destiny calls, Your Fate you must keep.
The Well does not tolerate drunken defeat.
Ageless, Fathomless, Don't you dare whine!"

" Hey ! "

"Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime."

I had just enough prescence of mind left to wish I had that trunk. Oh, how I wanted that trunk!
And to think, Oh shit! Not again!

Bottomless chapter 3

2008-07-26T01:42:00.012-05:00

"Do you have the coin?" Simple enough of a question, I couldn't seem to get rid of the damned thing. But as I searched myself, it dawned on me that I had left it in my pocket. The jeans I had been wearing. The ones that had disappeared.

"Quickly, give it to me, we have need of it now. There's no time to waste!" Holding out his hand impatiently for it, I could only pat myself down in confusion.

All this time that thing had hounded me with every breath I took, and now when it was needed most, it was nowhere to be found. Apparently it had a will of it's own. "I don't seem to have it, sir." I nervously stated.

"That's impossible," he snorted, "you would not be here now if you didn't have the coin! You cannot prevent the disruption of Time without it!" Now that didn't sound good, and I wished that I had that coin in my sweaty little palm.

No sooner than that thought had flown through my head, then that now familiar sensation gripped me again. As I clenched my teeth in frustration, I heard the words,"Here we go again, grab the bucket, QUICK!" but I managed to choke down the bile that seemed to be ever present upon my arrival here.

The flash of light almost ignited the room it was so bright, and as it faded leaving behind spots in my vision, I felt the object of my desire firmly gripped in my hand. Still reeling from the sensations that assailed me, I shakily handed it over to him. I should have thrown it, but I wasn't very steady at the moment.

Taking the coin from me, he grabbed my arm and rushed me out the door. Muttering something under his breath that I couldn't quite make out, I began to get angry. Very angry. But before I could say anything to him, he spun me around toward the center of the village.

Now I noticed that the horse had been fed, and groomed. It also had a saddle and bridle. Without releasing me, he marched me over to that creature, and ordered me to mount. I balked at that, no way in hell was I getting on that thing! With the way it looked at me in return, I am pretty sure we were in agreement.

The old man began rubbing the coin and muttering under his breath again, and then that flash of light. Only this time I didn't feel sick. The next thing I knew I was on that horse. Not really clear how I got there either. But the old man looked pale and shaken.

Another whisper, another flash of light and he was holding a sword. Taking the coin he placed it into the rounded groove on the blade.Then held it out to me, saying:

"Blade of Truth, Sword of Might, Call upon the Ancient Rite.
Blessed Tears, continue to weep, Bottomless Source of Wisdom Deep.
The Powers Ancient that hath Prevailed, To seal the Rift of Time Derailed.
Guide Us now, Our Hearts are Pure, With Lightning swift, and Aim that's Sure.
Call upon the Ancient Rite, Blade of Truth, Sword of Might."

The last thing I saw was the girl rushing to her father, crying out, but that was no longer my concern. A strange feeling engulfed me. I felt all powerful. Nothing could stop me.

And I kicked the horse into motion. Galloping away from the village I had no idea where I was going, only that I would be there when I was needed. Urgency shot through my veins like ice water, and nothing else mattered. Without thought I placed the sword in the scabbard at my side and leaned into the horse. It seemed like we flew over the ground. Speed was of the utmost importance.

Up ahead I saw a horrible sight. It looked as if a hole had been literally ripped into the very fabric of Life. It was glaringly obvious that this was where I was supposed to be.

Not that I knew what I was going to do about it. I noticed that the closer we got to it, the more it seemed to pull us into it. And for the first time in my life, I felt fear. For between me and the Disruption of Time, Pure Evil was standing in the way.

I wish I could describe it to you, but there are no words for what I was witnessing. I wanted to slow down and not rush headlong into certain death, but that feeling overwhelmed me, and in horror I heard my voice bellowing out in challenge.

Everything happened in a blur of motion so quick that my brain couldn't process anything more than the thought of 'what the hell?' I distinctly remember pulling the sword and rushing at that thing. I felt the impact of the blade as it hit.

Then everything went white. There was blinding light all about me, and I felt as if something took over my body.

When I came back to myself, I was covered in sweat and gore. But that thing was gone, and the rift was sealed. I was breathing heavily, and I hurt.

Searing pain throughout my entire body. I fell to the ground and curled into a fetal ball. I couldn't do anything else. For the first time in my life I prayed. I don't know to What or to Whom. I just prayed. Almost wordlessly, just putting it all into emotions that I was unable to express.

Then I felt as if someone laid a cool, comforting hand upon my head, and the pain seemed to melt away. I was swathed in an intensely powerful coccoon of unwarrented, unconditional love. I found myself weeping at this beautiful sensation. I didn't even resist the whisper that touched my mind, telling me that everything would be alright. That I had done well.

I managed to open my eyes a little, but all I could see was the figure of a woman, kneeling at my side, bathed in all the colors of a rainbow. Then I slept.

When I awoke, the first thing I noticed was that I was alone, except for the horse. It stood a little way off with it's head hanging, looking about like I felt. The intense pain was gone, but I felt as if I had been run over by a steam roller.

Standing, which was once a very simple task, now took everything I had in me to accomplish. But somehow, I managed. I even got back up on the horse. Still so tired I could barely see, I gave the horse it's head and slumped over the horses neck, trusting it to get me back to the village.

Images in my mind kept trying to surface, but I couldn't make sense of most of them. Only one thing stood out clear in the chaos of my thoughts. The woman, and how I had felt for those few brief moments.

I felt tears slipping down my face at that memory, I didn't even bother to wipe them off.
Soon enough we arrived back at the village. Good horse. Knows where the food and shelter were kept.

As I lifted my head and opened my eyes, I couldn't miss the torm emotions playing on the faces of the villagers. Both elation at my victory over evil, and something else. Grief? Now why would they be grieving?

Then I saw the preparations of a pyre and the body of the old man laid out on top. All of his material possessions laid around him. His daughter emerged from their hut, and I could see that she had been weeping. Hard. Sliding off the horses back, I made my way slowly over to her. The question in my eyes didn't need to be voiced.

Taking a deep calming breath she answered. "When Father cast the Ancient Rite for you, it required a sacrifice. There was not time for a proper ceremonial ritual, and so he paid the price. For You, and for All of The People in Time.

Do not not be disheartened, he paid the price willingly and without reserve. Just as you answered the Calling of the Champion of Time.

" I just stared at her, probably looking as miserable as I felt. This would weigh heavily on my soul forever. I felt so worthless at that moment.

Some of the village women led me to a stream where I could clean myself, then I attended the lighting of the pyre for the old man.

Afterwards we ate. A feast worthy of a Champion. These people had so little and yet gave so freely.

I was ashamed to be in there presence.

As the evening wore on, I noticed the quality of the atmosphere was clearer, and no longer looked as if it were under water.

The moons were both out full in all their glory. The stars were shining so brightly I could almost reach out and catch the beams of light in a cup.

Breathtakingly entrancing. I almost drifted off to sleep just laying there looking at the heavens.

But as all good things must, it came to an end. I felt the unconditional love spilling all around me, and saw the woman, bathed in the rainbow standing before me, and softy she spoke.

" Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime.
Ageless, Fathomless, Forever Entwined.
Destiny calls, Your Fate you must Keep.
The Well of Remorse is Endlessly Deep.
Ageless, Fathomless, Forever Entwined.
Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime."

I was home. And now that I have recounted this story to you, I sit back and think only truth can be stranger than fiction. It took me a long time to come to this realization. I am recording this here in my journal for posteritys' sake, so that it will always be fresh in my mind, and close to my heart.

If you doubt my story, as I am sure you will, for I still do, I will pull out the coin, and the sword and show them to you. I look at them everyday, and remember, that everything has a price, and only Unconditional Love is Free.

The end.... (or is it?)

Bottomless Chapter 2

2008-07-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

"Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime.
Ageless, Fathomless, Forever Entwined.
Destiny calls, Your Fate you must Keep.

The Well of Remorse is Endlessly Deep.

Ageless, Fathomless, Forever Entwined.
Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime."

With those words my vision began to blur, spinning me into a vortex of confusion and chaos.

My world slipped away, and I was flung headlong into a maelstrom of uncertainty. Then everything went black.

I don't know how long I was out, only that I was stiff, cold, sore, and nauseated. I groaned, as I tried to open my eyes. I immediately closed them again.

This just couldn't be happening. When I couldn't stand not knowing where I was anymore I slitted my eyes open again. Yep, still the same. I was flat on my back staring up into what I guessed was the moons.

There were two of them, one in all it's full blown cosmic awesomeness, the other a sliver that seemed to be mocking my situation. Great! I thought to myself, now what? Looking around, I had the distinct impression that I was in for a rough ride.

Brushing myself off, I realized quickly that 'this wasn't Kansas anymore'. And I didn't even have the comfort of Toto. The landscape was muted and blurred as if underwater, and strange plants surrounded me. Definitely not Kansas.

In the near distance, I could make out a shape. At first I thought that maybe it was the local welcome wagon, but when it didn't approach me, I had to take another look. Did I really want to expose my presence here?

I could feel hunger clawing at my belly, and knew that soon I would have to take some action. Hesitantly I looked around. No food in sight, at least to my knowledge. How was I supposed to know what was safe, and what wasn't. I certainly didn't want to poison myself out of pure ignorance. Well, there was no hope for it, I had to get moving. If anything, sitting still was not in my nature.

As I walked, I began to take in more of my surroundings. It all seemed so foreign to me. Being the BMOC, this was a feeling I didn't like. Nothing seemed real. Or at least what I perceived as real.

Absently I put my hands into my pockets. Encountered a smooth round object, and flat. It only took a moment for me to register what it was. That damned coin.

Fortuitous my ass! That coin had brought me nothing but trouble from the moment I laid eyes on it.

That thought brought to mind the words the girl at the Library had spoken. What the hell was that all about anyways. Without hesitation I pulled the coin out, and was about to fling it from me in frustration, when I noticed it had begun to glow.

It was warmer than before, and pulsing slightly. Almost as if this coin was an entity in and of itself. "What now?", I questioned aloud. I should have been repulsed by this thing, but it kept drawing my interest as nothing else ever had.

Finding myself contemplating this oddity yet again distracted me from how far I had travelled, and soon I found myself at my intended destination. What I had thought was a welcome wagon ended up being a small hut. Complete with a well.

And man was I thirsty! Water was water right? I peeked inside the well and found a bucket, lowered it and pulled it back up. I drank deeply and quenched my thirst. It was the most delicious water I had ever tasted. Fresh, cool and clear, perfect!

Next to take care of my hunger. So I knocked on the door to the hut. It swung open under the pressure of my fist, so I cautiously entered. At first glance I could tell that this place was rarely used. It contained a wood burning stove, a bed, and a table.

The term slim pickings crossed my mind, but I persevered and hoped to come across something marked as edible. Let me tell you right now, I had always been a picky eater, but right now I could eat a horse!

As a sudden wave of nausea clenched my innards, light flashed outside. I fell to my knees fighting to keep what little was left of my lunch. When the feeling passed, I shakily stood, and then went to investigate the flash of light.

Stepping out of the shack, I looked around, only to find my gaze riveted upon the form of a horse. "What now?" I yelled. I didn't understand what was going on, and I couldn't believe what I was seeing.

Hungry, tired, dirty and disgusted, I found myself a roomate to this animal. I hadn't meant that literally. But here it was, calmly looking at me as if I were something that had crawled out from under a rock. Hope it didn't want to eat me.

I went back inside on the off chance that it might and looked around again. No cupboards, no fridge, nothing. Sighing, I gave up on food and decided to just go to sleep. It was warm enough that I didn't need a fire, thankfully, So I shucked off my clothes and crawled in. It wasn't long before I crashed.

I awoke to the most wonderful scent in the air. I had been dreaming of a nice, big, tall stack of blueberry pancakes, and I swear that's what it smelled like. I figured it was just me lingering on the edge of sleep combined with my ever growing hunger, but when I opened my eyes there they were.

Steaming and real. I reached for my clothes, but didn't feel them. I didn't think anything about that, I was so hungry, So I stumbled my way across the room and fell on the food, devouring it all very quickly. I wasn't about to question this good fortune, nor was I about to let it get away!

As I pushed the now empty plate away from me, I noticed a draft, aft, and remembered my state of undress. This place sure did leave a lot to be desired. I looked at the spot where my clothes should have been, not seeing even my skivvies. I got up and made a quick search of the entire premises, even going so far as to peek outside to make sure that beast wasn't munching on them, but no go.

My clothes were gone! Thinking to myself this was such a great way to start my day, I grabbed the only covering I could find, draped it around my person, and made my way outside. To my utter embarrassment, I realized I wasn't alone. And neither was the horse.

Now where did she come from? She wasn't there a moment ago! Hearing the door squeak had alerted her to my presence, and she turned to face me. So, of course, the first thing I did was make a complete ass out of myself.

I started rushing forward, only to trip over the trailing edge of the blanket, which naturally came unwrapped, falling off, and exposing me in my altogether. She merely appraised me, and raised an eyebrow in my direction. So much for first impressions. Then she spoke.

"So you're the new Champion of Time. Well, there's no help for it now, come with me." With that, she started heading off down the path that I had yet to explore.

" Woah! Hold up there a minute, lady, I ain't going anywhere without my clothes! Much less without some sort of explanation as to what the hell is going on!"

I was starting to get a wee bit ticked off. Being nude wasn't helping me any. I needed a moment to think of how to handle this, but I wasn't being given even a chance to think, or a choice.

Wishing desperately that I had some sort of clothing, I opened my mouth to give her a piece of my mind, when that mysterious light flashed, and I was assailed with that extremely debilitating nausea.

I grabbed at my stomach, feeling it begin to heave, but this time I wasn't so lucky. I spewed my breakfast on the ground in front of me. Feeling very disgusted with myself, I wondered what was wrong with me. As the last of the gut clenching nausea subsided, I wiped my face,and made my way over to the well.

I pulled up some more water and rinsed out my mouth thoroughly, then drank deeply again. I didn't care if she was still walking away or not at this point, But when I turned around again, she was calmly watching me. She didn't say anything, but this time, when she gave me the once over, I got the distinct impression she was amused.

Looking anywhere but at her, I finally saw the bundle of material that was laying on the ground where I had been standing. Ok, how did that happen?

But being the opportunist I am, I stalked over to the bundle and picked it up.

Great! Tights! Just what I had in mind. Complete with a pair of shoes. Hoping they were my size, I put them on figuring it was better than nothing.

"I see you have discovered the very first lesson of of the Well" she stated. I just tossed her a disgusted look." There is much to be learned, and very little time to learn it in. You must come with me. Now." And she turned away, making her way up the path again. The way I see it, she was really a rude person, but 'when in Rome'.

So I followed her. Hearing a soft nicker behind me, I looked and saw that the horse was following. What the heck, the more the merrier.

"So what exactly IS this place, and why did you call me The Champion of Time? What is that supposed to mean?

Where are you taking me? And what is the Well, much less it's first lesson?" My mouth just kept going a million miles an hour, but all she said was that I would know soon enough, it wasn't for her to tell me. That shut me up. Kinda glad it did. But it pissed me off even more. Sulking I almost turned back, but I wanted answers.

It wasn't long before we reached our destination. It was a little village, very poor from the looks, and not very welcoming. The local natives all came out and stared at me, but I stared right back, wasn't about to let them intimidate me.

I was led to a central hut, and ushered inside. I glanced behind me, and yep, the horse was still there, but now the villagers were staring at it. Well, at least it had made itself useful, might actually have to figure out what to feed it now.

"Father," I heard the girl say,"I have returned with the Champion, just as you bade of me." Okay, that was definitely humor in her voice, no mistaking it this time. I was feeling a bit insulted now.

"Quickly, give it to me, we have need of it now. There's no time to waste!" Holding out his hand impatiently for it, I could only pat myself down in confusion.

All this time that thing had hounded me with every breath I took, and now when it was needed most, it was nowhere to be found. Apparently it had a will of it's own. "I don't seem to have it, sir." I nervously stated.

To be continued...

Bottomless Chapter 1

2008-06-28T22:19:00.001-05:00

Sitting here poised to write this journal, I look around myself and realize that what I am about to share with you, has become to me as surreal as a dream.

And yet it is a tale full of intrigue, adventure, magic, and life lessons. I will begin this tale with the certain assumption that not all is as it seems, for as I look around, I am still struck by the inconsistencies between reality and the inner workings of a troubled mind, and how my life changed irrevocably.

My tale begins with the finding of a simple coin. An ancient talisman of unknown origin.

I was young, and foolish, but I thought I had the world in the palm of my hand.

I had just finished my third year of college, and was well into my thesis on 'The Subconscious, How it affects our daily lives', when I had to stop, the campus library was closing for the night. I didn't have much money, and I had to scrimp and stretch each coin until it screamed, gave up the ghost, and screamed again.

I was here to make a difference in the world, and I wasn't about to let anything stop me. So I saved my work, and packed up my gear, then headed for the door.

It was well after dark, and having made this journey many times before, I Iook back now and realize I actually braced myself before I plunged into the deep of night.

I couldn't shake the feeling that something momentous was about to unfold.

As I was walking, I lost myself in my thoughts, just staring at the sidewalk passing beneath my feet, when I crossed into the light of a street lamp. Contained within that pool of light was a flash of metal. I thought to myself that this truly was a fortuitous find.

I could use any help I could get, so I quickly reached down and snatched the coin and deposited it in the recesses of my coat pocket. Immediately I returned to my wandering attentions and the long walk home, and promptly forgot the coin.

When I finally arrived at my humble abode, I threw my things down and put myself to bed. That was the last bit of normalcy I was to experience for a long time.

When the alarm sounded the next morning, I groggily reached out to shut it off when my hand slipped and I knocked something off the nightstand.

It landed, and rolled for a minute, gently spinning until it settled to a halt, with a soft tinkling noise.

This brought me to a closer point of waking than what was normal for me. I didn't recall placing anything other than the alarm on the table before going to bed.

I climbed out, stumbled to the wall, and flipped on the overhead light.

Rubbing my eyes against the uncomfortable intrusion, I had to wait a moment to adjust.

When I could finally see again, I looked, and to my utter consternation, I saw the coin I had snatched up the night before.

Now, to my sleep dulled mind, this presented an unsolvable conundrum, I clearly remembered putting that coin into my coat pocket. What confused me was that I didn't remember taking it back out.

I shook my head, and thought oh well, I was really tired when I arrived home, and possibly without thinking I had placed it there for safe keeping. I picked it up, again, and deliberately placed it back on the stand.

I took myself off to the shower, and then headed straight for the coffee pot. I didn't have much time to dwell on the mysteries of the morning,

I needed to get to class. Downing a quick cup of the scalding brew, I glanced into my bedroom, noting that the coin was still there. Then I let myself out and started my day.

Walking between the buildings with my head down while on my way to my next class, I was suddenly knocked off balance.

Irritated, I looked up to give this bumbling idiot a piece of my mind, but I couldn't continue.

Here was the most incredibly beautiful woman I had ever seen in my life.

She started to apologize, but I quickly intervened and said not to worry about it, I was the one at fault. I should have been watching where I was going, but she interrupted me.

Her face had gone blank, and she asked me if I had found it.

Then she was gone, before I could take another breath. Found what? Puzzled, I continued to my next class. And after that, I needed to get to work. I didn't have time to deal with this kind of nonsense.

Arriving at work, was almost anticlimatic, and I couldn't get her, or what she had said, out of my mind. It had been another long day, and it wasn't over yet.

I sat down in my little cubby hole. Data processing is very boring and time consuming, so I like to imagine that I am working in a more glamorous field.

Maybe today I would be a Knight in slightly tarnished armor, but as I seated myself, a metallic flash caught my eye. There was the coin. Sitting there innocuously on my desk.

I couldn't believe what I was seeing, so I sat there for a few moments, just absorbing the fact of the coins presence. Finally I reached out to pick it up.

Strange this little coin was, to say the least; it was slightly warm to the touch, as if it had been in my pocket all day.

Underneath it had a very dull copper color, but was rather patina'd with age, giving it some intricate shadings of blue and green, with a single word imprinted upon it. I had to strain to make out what it was, but I eventually concluded that the word was "Bottomless".

Well, so much for any work being accomplished today. I became consumed by trying to research this coin. I wanted to know what it meant, who had made it and where it had originated from. By the end of the day, I had found out so very little about it, and I gathered my things to leave.

I put it back in my pocket and headed out to the campus library again, thinking to myself what a total waste of time and productivity.

I was determined to continue about my business, and to complete my thesis in a timely manner.

But when I arrived at the library, I ran into her again. I couldn't help but notice her unusual good looks. She was definitely easy on the eyes, and stood out from the crowd.

Overcome by curiosity, I approached her. I wanted to know what she had meant by that strange question earlier that day. Maybe she had meant the coin, and knew something about it.

It couldn't hurt to ask. But when I introduced myself, she acted as if she had never seen me before. The more I tried to jog her memory, the more she protested that it hadn't happened, and I was mistaken.

Until I pulled out the coin. Once again, her face slackened into a blank look. As if in a trance, her lips began moving...

"Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime.
Ageless, Fathomless, Forever Entwined.
Destiny Calls, Your Fate must Keep.
The Well of Remorse is Endlessly Deep."

"Ageless, Fathomless, Forever Entwined.
Bottomless, Eternal, Deeply Sublime."

With those words my vision began to blur, spinning me into a vortex of confusion and chaos.

My world slipped away, and I was flung headlong into a maelstrom of uncertainty. Then everything went black.

To be continued...