Prologue

Prologue

Though not big, the room was still big enough for the needs of the group known as the Mystics and Beyond. As Mrs. Gertrude Collens entered, the air felt heavy with anticipation, thick with the sweet, smoky scent of incense. Mrs. Collens, the group leader, beamed with satisfaction as she gathered influential people from diverse backgrounds, adding to her growing list of connections. She chose those with the gift of “Sight” in their DNA or chosen by the Gods, making sure their unique abilities would contribute to the group's strength and wisdom. Hushed whispers filled the room as if the chosen few were sharing secrets. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow on their faces, revealing the intensity in their eyes. Their presence alone exuded an aura of mystique and power.

Their unique sensory abilities fueled their mission to explore the past, present, and future. They sought to uncover hidden truths, their senses reaching beyond the realms of countless worlds and galaxies. The weight of responsibility hung heavily in the air, pressing down on their shoulders as they strove to guide mankind in the right direction. The sight of Mrs. For now, Collens and her group, determined and focused, painted a picture of unwavering dedication. The sound of their footsteps echoed with purpose, resonating through the room as they pursued their mission, blocking out any distractions deemed unimportant. 

The scent of determination filled the air, mingling with a hint of disdain as Mrs. Collens wrinkled her nose at the thought of those, she considered less fortunate or societal outcasts. The feeling of contempt seeped into her very being, intensifying her hatred and despise for those who lacked wealth and high societal positions. To her and her little group of Mystics, they were nothing more than insignificant vermin to be removed from their path. In just over a month, she gathered and consulted with her group members about the visions they had been experiencing. She gathered and consulted with her group members about the visions they had been experiencing, which were related to herself, known as The Downing’s, as well as Martha and Wayne Downing, Aunt Margret Cotwellar (also called Aunty M), and their recently adopted son, EJ Stuart. Rumors had circulated that they had disappeared, but she knew otherwise, having consulted her tarot cards, bones, and crystal balls, all pointing to the same conclusion. However, they did not reveal the location or time of their disappearance because time had no meaning in where they went missing.

As she perused through the geological records of numerous individuals, using the many favors and connections she had collected over the years, she couldn’t help but feel curious. She was determined to figure out the reason behind something that seemed inexplicable at the moment.

However, she knew well that time was not on her side, as everything was happening at a breakneck speed, akin to a train hurtling down the tracks without a conductor.

The things that she and her group witnessed were both astonishing and terrifying, to say the least, if not daring to use the word “impossible.” She knew that if they couldn’t get things under control and fast, it would lead to the extinction of all humanity. During her research, she discovered information about the Five Keys of Destiny. She needed to figure out what they were specifically, what they were capable of, or, most importantly, where they were.

However, she learned that gathering these five keys and using the objects related to them could grant ultimate power to the person or persons who possess them. This kind of power would allow them to recreate time and even the very worlds themselves in any dimension of the many galaxies and realms beyond the looking glass. They would become Gods or makers of the Gods themselves, possibly remaking the fabric of time.

That was the most terrifying experience that she and her group had encountered. This incident shook them to their very core, leaving them questioning why anyone would develop such powerful items. The thought of these objects falling into the wrong hands, or even the right ones, was catastrophic beyond belief, especially considering the visions that she and her group had been having. Some of which were beyond terrifying.

As she pondered her discoveries, three people came to her mind: an evil wizard named Morgan Terman and his master Hess Lotti, and a boy named EJ Stuart Downing. She wondered if these were the people her group of Mystics needed to stop or if they could help them with some guidance. She felt fortunate that Martha Downing and her husband Wayne had recently consulted her, even more so when their Aunt Margret (or Auntie M, as she preferred to be called) used the correct English term. Mrs. Collens was a practical woman of her time and did not appreciate being referred to as a backwoods hillbilly who used the wrong words.

However, recently, she discovered this through the help of the “Sight” Margret Cotwellar. Her new role in this life has or would soon come about and change her destiny. She would become The Lady of the Light. A person of great power and interest who could help put things back on track and become the train engineer. Or, worse, derail it if she goes into the shadows and supports Morgan’s causes. So many things were on the edge of the knife as Mrs. Collens and her Mystics gathered in her basement, chanting and conducting unorthodox but necessary preparations.

For those observing, the scene might appear as if the world had slipped into a delightful madness, inviting them to join the revelry. The air was thick with the heady scent of locally crafted incense, designed to prepare both mind and body for the imminent journey. The words, uttered in a rhythmic chant, seemed to carry a weight of ancient wisdom. 

 

“Ramadaya…. serqutsion…. denaertatoo… perverastien.” They said over and over. 

 

They were matching the beat of the heavy drum. Their bodies sway as they raise and lower their hands and arms, listening to the gold and silver bells. They danced barefoot around the circle of fire, attaching the gold and silver bells to their wrists and ankles. The fire glowed hot in the middle of the floor, which they had carefully carved into the base and inscribed with old mystical runes of ages long ago forgotten. Their clothing is nondescript, all-in white robes with gold and silver lining and embroidered in old runes of mystical power, so they believe. They do not realize their power, as a gateway opens in the fire. Watching a circle swirl of many colors collide and reform into a glass mirror of a door that opened before the group. 

A long white robe enveloped him as he appeared, emanating a blinding power. A long white staff member marked his presence with a golden candy cane pattern on its base, symbolizing his authority. He had a small white beard reaching his waist, bound by a golden bracelet etched with ancient runes. He wore a plain yet regal silver circle on his head, a testament to his status.

On his feet, he wore rough yet comfortable tan-hide leather boots with fur lining. His eyes were the color of light blue robin’s eggs, which had seen much and carried a heavy burden. When Mrs. Collens looked upon the personage, she sensed he was looking into their very souls to determine if they were worthy of his presence. She could only guess, considering she only knew of him in one of her many recent visions.

Some people beyond the looking glass knew Glen Termes as the Master of the Light. He was the bearer and granter of life in the realms of the light and the very father of Morgan, a wizard who has turned evil. According to genealogical records, gotten from Jayden Faith, was a member of Death, a Grim Reaper to some, a friend to others, and a curse to some. People knew he struggled to get along with others. He worked for the Brotherhood and is a long-time member of the Council of Light.

He had asked her for a favor related to a task that she and her group of Mystics had previously completed for him. He had given her a key to one of his libraries as a reward. In that library, she stumbled upon an old genealogical record of people with the gift of “Sight.” The record contained many intriguing secrets she knew could be dangerous if revealed. If she were to tell anyone, they might think she was crazy and lock her up forever. Even if she were to live long enough to share the secrets, she wouldn’t risk losing the life she loved. She had too much to lose as a group leader and a happy grandmother.

However, she found comfort in knowing that when her life eventually ended, she could join other worthy souls in serving the Light and preserving the laws and people of this world and realms beyond the stars. As she saw Glen, she couldn’t help but smile at him and nod in recognition. However, she couldn’t help but wonder why he had arrived now, just as things were getting interesting. She noticed her fellow members of Mystics gasp in surprise, thinking they were the ones who had brought him to them. She didn’t mind, though; it made her happy to see him. She felt warm and tingly inside, causing strange goosebumps to go up and down her body.

She attempted to curtsy to him while the other members dropped from their hands and knees and spread forth their arms and hands towards him, showing him a display of affection that she thought was old-fashioned. But then again, what could one expect when encountering someone like Glen? He had just come across the realms to see them in person, which made her wonder about his true purpose. Watching his facial expression turn slightly sour, and his lips curl into a frown, she could tell how bored he was with this display. But it was still a great pleasure to see him in person, as it had been an eternity since she had last seen him.

Glen stepped forward, his gaze fixed on the gate he had just passed through, which closed behind him, leaving a lingering scent of apple and cherry blossoms. The other Mystics in awe, silently made way for him as he conjured a large stone table and chairs in the center of the room.

Glen, a powerful and wealthy man, filled the table with delicious food and expensive wine from his private orchards and winery. He was always generous and loved to share his gifts with others. Although he was eager to get down to business, he wanted to ensure everyone was comfortable first. He invited Mrs. Collens and the group of Mystics to sit around the table while he sat at the opposite end.

His demonstration of power left them in awe. However, they saw only a small fraction of his true abilities. Glen and Mrs. Collen possessed unique powers beyond the “Sight gifted to them,”, but they didn’t reveal this to the group. After nodding to Glen, Mrs. Collen followed his lead and placed her napkin on her lap. Glen waved his hand, and wine poured into each of the goblets. He then showed that they should begin filling their plates without formal words.

As they enjoyed their meal, Glen thanked the group for inviting him to give counsel regarding recent events. He coughed as the smoke from the fire and the burning incense bothered him, but Mrs. Collen quickly cleared the air with a fresh breeze. This surprised the group, as they didn’t know she had powers beyond the gift of “Sight.” However, Mrs. Collens just smiled and said nothing about it.

Glen introduced himself as the Master of the Light, head of the Council of the Light. The Council of the Light earned a reputation as the gatekeepers and protectors of numerous worlds beyond the realms. Their mission was to prevent the Shadow from taking control and extinguishing the Light forever.

Mrs. Collens spoke without hesitation, her voice resonating in the air as she introduced Glen. “Most importantly, Glen, a renowned seer and trusted advisor,” she began, her words carrying a sense of authority. Her group gathered around her, their eyes fixed on her, hanging on to every word. Anticipation and unease hung heavily in the room's air.

“As he speaks, let the words seep into your mind and touch your heart,” she continued, her voice tinged with a hint of urgency. The room fell silent, the only sound being the faint rustling of clothing and the occasional breath taken in.

Mrs. Collens nodded to each member; the motion almost imperceptible. She then brought the goblet to her lips, taking a sip. The fruity aroma wafted through the room, tempting the senses. She savored the taste, the sweetness of the fruit dancing on her tongue, a momentary distraction from the gravity of the situation. Suppressing the urge to roll her eyes, she settled into her seat, relinquishing the control to Glen. The ball was now in his court, and the weight of their future rested on his shoulders.

Glen explains that life as they know it was about to change, that a devastating plague, unlike any they have ever seen, was heading their way of great magnitude, and that it will disrupt everything from trade to everyday living. They will witness firsthand how the trees and the air change. Nothing will grow, and nothing can stop it, for there hasn’t been a wizard or a healer with the skill to prevent it from spreading or remove it from the very planet itself in many centuries. Now is the time to take precautions. Build up their stores and save as many as possible until a wizard is born with skills, according to the prophecies. A man with the heart of a lion and a genuine believer in the Light and the Truth you will find a healer and a wizard.

“In the midst of the vast expanse of the universe, a person will emerge, their mission to safeguard not just humankind, but the planets scattered across galaxies and even beyond the twinkling stars.” As Glen spoke, his words echoed with an air of urgency, painting a vivid picture of the future that lay ahead. The sound of his voice carried a sense of foreboding, like distant thunder rumbling through the air. The room filled with the scent of anticipation, a mix of anxiety and hope intermingling in the air. The weight of the impending events settled upon the listeners, their hearts pounding in their chests, their skin prickling with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

“The very fabric of time will be ripped, and nothing but the Shadow will exist. The only person who could prevent that from happening was the White Solon, who would travel throughout time and beyond and fight for humankind, putting back the Light and Truth for all and the freedom of others. So, the Light and the Shadow may coexist as they have always done. You cannot have one without the other.”

Glen paused for a moment to let it sink in. Then he waved his hand, showing them who the White Solon was�"stating that the young man before them would become a great warrior and wizard, a king among men�"a ruler of many and a noble knight in the Truth and Light. The man in front of them, known as the White Solon, will wear the Armor of the Light and the Shield of Truth and, on his waist, the Sword of Power, giving him the strength of kings and the very Gods themselves.

“Around his neck and above his heart, he will wear the heart containing the life and blood of the stars themselves, known as the Mother’s Tears. He will carry in his hand the Staff of the Golden Sun. Forged in fire and cooled in the sacred springs, rivers, and lakes of Jaramana, the righteous and the beloved king and ruler of the sands of time and beyond, which he will hold in his hands, the knowledge and the power of the very stars and the planets themselves and their creation.

“He will be reborn with a body reforged and fortified by the knowledge of kings and wizards. The power of Quartz’s springs and rivers will flow through his blood, drawn from the four ocean waters and Galena’s hottest fires. The stars of Coranera will form and reforge his eyes, while the winds of Derina will nourish his heart and lungs. His skin and bones will be rebuilt from the very essence of countless planets, infused with the rugged minerals of Harden Dale and the granite of Gerlanda's mountains.

“He will be from each of the rulers far and wide and of kings of many nations throughout time. This is the prophecy written and forged upon the altar of Truth and the Light, for he will judge and be bound by the Light and the power of Truth in all things, great and small. He will be the judge and king who will set things right and give freedom to all who live in the Light. Meanwhile, the Shadow will only destroy and take away humanity’s freedom and rule with injustices and an iron fist of cruelty, and it will seek power overall.

“I also give unto you a new prophecy and message from the Gods of Light this very day.” Glen stands tall, his eyes ablaze with intensity, as he points his finger towards the walls of the room, commanding the attention of the captive group. The room is filled with an air of anticipation, as if holding its breath in anticipation of what is to come. Suddenly, a golden thread shoots forth from Glen's outstretched hand, shimmering in the sunlight that streams through the windows. The thread dances through the air, creating a symphony of soft whispers as it weaves intricate patterns on the walls. The words, written in glowing letters, come alive before the captivated audience.

“For I bring with me the Truth and knowledge you seek,” Glen's voice echoes through the room, carrying a weight of authority. The words seem to reverberate in the air, resonating deep within the souls of those present. The scent of ancient wisdom lingers, as if the very essence of knowledge has been unleashed.

He continues, his voice steady and unwavering, “By staying on the path of the Truth and the Light, you will bear fruit, and a mighty nation will emerge from your journey. This I have seen.” The room seems to vibrate with the energy of possibility, a tangible excitement that electrifies the air.

Glen's eyes meet each person in the room, his gaze filled with a mix of determination and hope. “Seek ye the Truth and stay upon the path of justice for all humanity, for it is being held on the edge of a knife.” The tension in the room rises, the atmosphere heavy with the weight of the world's destiny.

A faint scent of fear mingles with the anticipation, as if the consequences of failure hover just beyond reach. The room seems to hold its breath, as if aware of the immense stakes at play.

“Everything will be lost, and all will become extinct if the Shadow tips it all,” Glen warns, his words dripping with urgency. The gravity of the situation hangs in the air, suffocating like a heavy fog.

"But until then, you must gather your forces far and wide and prepare them for the battlefield and the richness of living in the Truth and Light. For this will be the Coming of the Dawn.” The sound of his words reverberates through the room, like the distant rumble of thunder, promising both turmoil and triumph. The room fills with a sense of purpose, a collective determination to rise against the impending darkness.

Glen stood as the heavens’ light formed in the room, watching the very stars wink out … Then they were all standing in the darkness alone and forgotten, hearing the winds howl and the earth shake the foundation of the very floor they stood on. Then it stopped, and the fire in the middle of the room burst into light. They found themselves alone, sitting at the table, looking at each other, their host Mrs. Collens and their visitor were gone.