This is the way it goes

Zandy was walking to his new school. He looked forward to starting senior classes. A point of progress and also the probable exit from the confines of school life. Maybe look forward to getting to a real life. It wasn't so good in his opinion, all these schools to go through. A bit of a hassle he'd look forward to leaving behind. He wasn't enamored with school life either. Kids didn't seem to absorb what was taught.

 

He viewed himself at his former school as an ok student. He entered as a freshman and went through the classes. Most seemed rather uninspiring.

 

 He started in a large port city by a very large inland sound. He got good grades there. As he ended there he noticed he got teased at times. He was not tall, sharp boned, fairly slim build with dark brown hair. He did sports and was good at some like baseball, track, tennis. Nothing outstanding. For heavier games, he was slight, so not accomplishing much in wrestling, football and most contact sports. In those he often felt bruised and wondered if some deliberately picked on him and why don't teachers intervene when he was at obvious disadvantage.

 

Yet some students seem inclined to pick on him at times. "Zandy pandy" he heard often enough. Some shoving and pranks. He tried to brush that off as immature students who don't know better despite going to the same classes at school including civics. At times he wished they would grow up. But maybe some guys just had too much of that T in them, makes them testy. Guessed he mostly would have to put up with it until he was finished with schooling.

 

 He was studious and got very good grades in social studies, psychology, geography and civics. At times he would escort a nice girl along the walkway or to a school theater, exchanged pleasant words. He helped students with their work at times and even the general populace. Mostly, he spent a lot time alone in his comings and goings. However, this also gave him more time to reflect and choose what he would want to get involved with. He retained the initiative.

 

Then something happened with one of his parents. Some authority intervened, talked to people and his parents. This went on for a week. One day his mom told him he will have to live somewhere else. Some authority declared they cannot remain as a family. No further detail was forthcoming. They were looking into places he could live at.

 

It came as a shock. He felt downtrodden and cut loose. He couldn't fathom the message. He apparently would have no input on the outcome. The school time ended with him feeling his life as suspended and pending. One day his mom showed him a letter that the authority decided they found a comparable school to his present one that he could attend and not feel out of place in the curriculum. It was by the large city Xuoix Fall. A whole two states away. He didn't do any wrong. Why punish him? He would know no one at the new location.

 

 The letter further stated he would attend by himself, no immediate family contact. It further indicated that there would be an arranged place for him to reside in a boys home. It would be with a bunch of high school peers. He felt numb. Walked around in a daze. His head felt like screaming.

 

His parents tried to help him pack but authorities said he should not bring much to the new place. He had to sort out, not that he had much. Meager living. A knock at the door indicated that the authorities were here to transport him. Only a few tears were shed as he went to the door. A man dressed in black waited at the door for him. He had to haul his luggage to the van himself. The parents weren't allowed to accompany him to the black van. As soon as he grabbed a seat the vehicle moved away. The van had three silent men in dark suits it who seemed to talk only to get directions. Zandy stared out the window, soaking in the neighborhood for memory. Would this be the last he would see of it?

 

They rode along cement streets lined with trees. Houses were two story and those with yards had grass in them. The panorama usually was restricted by the trees and houses. Being near water, the weather was overcast. The van moved into main streets but stayed away from downtown. Soon it turned to a cloverleaf and linked up with a freeway.

 

After hours of driving on the freeway they took an out turn. The land is so different here, he thought. Rather barren looking, few trees just mostly scrub and bare rocks. With a low landscape he could detect a wider vista all around. It still appeared dismally devoid compared to his former location. Yet he could see traffic on the road with different license plates and he could view afar. Even to the horizon he thought he made out the markings of high rises but it could be hours yet before he got close. He got no clue from the men, they did not communicate with him at all. Made Zandy feel like he was a criminal being transferred.

 

A long loop finally brought the van closer to a civilized suburb, Tea. The big city tucked away to the right of the horizon. Soon zig zagging through some dusty local streets which had many houses and with space for yards between he noted, the van turned down a long two lane road with sparse housing and eventually turned in to a three story building. The building had a long walk that ended at one main door facing to the road and spread out with many windows on each side which presumably were rooms. One window for each. Did not appear inspiring to Zandy, almost drab. An almost sandstone color on the building's exterior wasn't eye catching either.

 

As soon as the van stopped, an elderly looking woman walked up to it. One of the men got out and discussed something with that person. She nodded and he handed over a sheaf of papers to her. He walked to the back and opened the door. "This is your stop, buddy. Your new home. Get your stuff and get out."  He thought to himself, what a grand command of language this so-called authority demonstrated. Zandy did so and was standing beside the van with his belongings on the cement driveway. The woman peered at him in his casual pants and mauve colored long sleeve shirt. He took time to look around at his new surroundings. The land was yellow-brown with sparse tufts of yellow grass for a far as he could see. It looked like nearby driveways and roads had no cement but were stone and slate with oil on it. A cool wind blew from some direction and there was a mixture of cirrus clouds and blue sky overhead. In two directions at the horizon Zandy could make out the distant shapes of hills or mountains.

 

The man entered the van and in seconds drove backward to the road and quickly went away. Driven by complete strangers, Zandy thought to himself. He wondered if his new encounters would be the same.

 

"Welcome to your new home." The woman piped up. "You will join us. Keep in mind you're to be at school at 8:20 a.m. and it lets out at 3:20 p.m. Come on in. We are going to have a meeting in just minutes and I want you to meet your classmates. There will be a meal served shortly after. A busy start for you but your driver arrived in the late afternoon." Zandy picked up his luggage and followed in.

 

A ways in, passed a hallway, there was a large common room. There were several young men sitting on divans that were arranged in a semicircle facing the aperture. The woman stood in the arch and said, "Attention, here is your new classmate. Just arrived. Zandy, put down your luggage next to the wall and meet your fellows. Zandy lip smiled and looked on. "That is Randy", he looked like a dock worker;  "this is Raj", dark hair and skin probably of India who smiled;  "Rale", he looked Irish or something with fiery, wiry red hair; "Jerome", afro black with close cropped hair offered a smile almost shy through his eyes: "Jehova", medium build, perhaps east european Jew and an impacting personality even from their distance, did no offer much of a smile, just a blue eyed stare; "Anhil", difficult for Zandy, he saw a centered personality, self assured demeanor, but background? He has seen some asians before. Could this one maybe be Tibetan? "Kaarl, and that is with two successive a's in the name." Probably scandinavian. Straight, light brown hair. Light blue eyes. slightly long face, big shoulders. A fleeting smile. Likely Swedish. "You all here are of the same grade level.", she said mostly to him.

 

She turned to Zandy, "Others in the building are of different grade levels than your group. And I am Joyce, one of several coordinators here."  She put something hard in his hand, "This is your room key. Don't lose it. Take your belongings to your room and come back here. There will be a meal quite soon.' She dismissed herself and went down the main hall. He didn't look at the key, just held it. It had leather housing with a loop for belt attachment.

 Where he used to live, he did not have to have a key on him all the time. He would have to get used to this and their style. Zandy thought to himself that is just fine. He should be a senior and he won't have to put up with this living arrangement but a little more than a year, or less. He wondered if he was smart enough to advance through some courses by challenging and get out even earlier. Nevertheless, this was the most mixed group he ever has been with. Perhaps he could talk to some and share experiences.

 

Jehova in a vertical white and velvet colored, loose full shirt and grey pants, rose up and walked to Zandy. Stood half a head taller. "I am Jehova. I am task master here for our class. I assign tasks and essentially keep things in order. Pick up your luggage and I will escort you to your room."  Zandy hefted and followed Jehova down the hallway. Jehova unexpectedly grabbed the key and then handed it back.  "Just had to see which is your room assignment." Jehova seemed a preoccupied type of quiet.

 

Zandy on the way commented, "You have quite a mix here. Are any foreign exchange students?"

 

"There are three exchange students in our group. Other classes have some too. I have to tell you there is a native american who is also a senior here in our class. He often is not here because he needs to check into an infirmary or go to a medical clinic. He comes from a different state. If he bumps into you, his name in american is Brent. But I doubt that you will see him often. We seniors get the ground floor because we should be the most trustworthy and advanced of the levels. Juniors take the floor above us and so on. Seniors do most activities in the building separate from the other groups."

 

They passed many rooms on the ground floor. Many. A door on each side of the hall. Just when Zandy was wondering where his room was Jehova stopped. They were way down almost to the end of the right wing of the building. More than 200 yards from the main entrance. He assumed the common area was the equivalent of a hub.

 

Jehova motioned to the door and Zandy tried the key, the door opened. They both entered a half lit room. Zandy placed his luggage near a closet. Light came through the window. It appeared there was a large living area with a couple pieces of furniture visible, perhaps two wooden dressers. One writing desk with a chair and looked like some drawers for storing writing implements and paper to one side. One bed with bedding was by the side of a wall.  Off to one side was a bathroom with shower with a sliding glass door and sink and mirror. One closet with sliding wood door with one bar for hanging clothes The front window had drapes which looked dusty and worn. There was an old looking ceiling fan over the living area. Due to dim light, he couldn't make out color or detail of the walls.

 

"It looks to be in order. Everything is here." Jehova said, "This is your only room, take good care of it. There are penalties for damage. If you find you need anything, contact me first or a room cleaner. Now store your stuff and return to the common room in half an hour. We will be having a meal to go to shortly. Oh, and there are electrical outlets and should be four working light switches in the room. There is an electrical built in heater and in winter you may request a space heater. The room cleaners enter your room once a month but it is up to you to keep it up. " At that he turned and exited. Zandy first looked for a light switch. He needed more light so to place and arrange his materials. He regretted he was not told he could bring a writing pad. He would have put it to use in a place like this. He would have to wait and give the room a good going over later or tomorrow.

 

Zandy showed up at the common room on time and saw all the members he met were sitting and chatting with each other. Raj looked up and smiled and waved him over to his side. Raj turned to him to say welcome. He hinted they could talk together at times. Zandy just agreed to that when he heard a bell. "That means we go eat. Follow me.", said Raj.

 

Together the class proceeded down the hall. Zandy followed and after 4 minutes he followed them into a cafeteria. Not a spacious room, more like a rectangle. There were two long curved tables at the center of the room which made like an oval arrangement in the limited space. Chairs were arranged on the outside. Most were open. Zandy's eye caught a place card with his name on it by the end of one the tables. He went to that. They all remained standing. Jehova stood by his seat a moment and then sat down. Thereafter everyone else took their seat. They seemed muted, did not talk much at the table although some looked at each other. Eventually, everyone just looked ahead, waiting.

 

Within a couple minutes food was smelled. Soon a couple of people with stone ware platters in their hands entered to the tight space between the oval tables. They individually dished out eating plates and utensils from an adjacent cart. They left and came back with food servers and individually served out the food to each plate. When the serving dish was empty, they would leave and come back with more.

 

Zandy looked at his plate. First meal here. Corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, beets, celery stalks, warmed peas. A hot bun. A glass of milk put beside the plate and a dark napkin. Raj sitting next to Zandy, whispered, "Typical evening meal. They don't want you to eat too much before lights out so you can sleep comfortably."

 

"Quiet at the meal!" Jehova spoke up. "Fellows, we have a new member among us that we should welcome. This is Zandy." He didn't know how to respond as the classmates vocalized a short approval of Zandy. "Commence eating.", pronounced Jehova.

 

Zandy dug in and finished his plate in half an hour just like the others. There was no hint of a second serving. "Dinner is finished," announced Jehova, "We go to our studies or retire to our rooms. Lights out soon and rise at 5 a.m."  Zandy reflected that so far he indeed did not see any of the students of the lower classes.

 

Zandy started to rise, figured he could spend his time putting order to his room since he obviously had no school assignment. Not that he had much to arrange.

 

 "Zandy, meet you at the commons.", Jehova piped up. A couple minutes later Zandy showed up and sat down to an empty room. Jehova showed up with a clip board. "Have to finish some paperwork to finalize your entry here. Do you have a driver's license of this state?" Zandy of course said no. "We will look into that.", said Jehova.

"Do you have an advanced directive or health insurance?" Zandy said no, he was covered by his parents when he was with them. Jehova said, "I think we can handle that here, we will just order the forms."

"Are you allergic to any foods or environmental conditions?"  Zandy indicated none for as far as he knew. "Are you allergic to any medicines or medical prescriptions?" Zandy said he gets some reaction to sulfas.

  "Do you have any travel insurance or agency?" Zandy said his parents had him covered although he never knowingly used it and did not know if the policy was state wide or nation wide.

Last question threw him, "Are you human?" Zandy stammered out a positive reply. Jehova wrote it all down and said, "Ok, I guess that covers the basics for now. If you have any issue, contact me. We are done now. You can stay in the commons for another hour or return to your room. You will be dovetailed into the routine tomorrow. Prepare to rise at 5 in the morning." Jehova rose and exited, it appeared to the direction of an office to submit the clipboard information. The whole area seemed dimmer now including the commons room. Perhaps someone controls the lighting from an office or maybe they are on automatic timing, he guessed.

Soon after Zandy retired to his room to tidy up and after that make the bed, lay in it with his hands behind his head and wonder just what was going on. Shortly after he felt a little chilly, got up and turned on the heater in the wall. It took a while to warm up. Probably old. He also noticed as the room warmed it smelled like it indeed was previously occupied. The odor would probably linger. He flopped back on the top bedding, looking at the ceiling with hands behind his head, and again tried to put together what was happening in his life and how to take it. Sleep stole in.

 

At 5 a.m. he awoke to the sound of a bell sound ringing throughout the building. He got up stuck his head out of his room and looked around. At first nothing but in seconds he saw some room doors opening and some students leaving their room. He closed his and figured he should be getting ready. He dug into his luggage and found clothing. He next went to the shower. Starting water was a little challenging and took over a minute for the water to get warm. He wasn't prepared for that. Then he shaved. He would have to look closely at his bathroom when he had time. He had learned a little about maintenance and up keep from his dad.

 

Zandy got out into the hall and started walking. Raj came up to him," We assemble in the same eating room and have breakfast. Then return to our rooms and get ready to assemble at the front door. The school is six blocks away. Just follow me and we'll get there."

 

They gathered at the cafeteria and waited for breakfast to be served. He noticed the napkins already in place were white. In moments the food was presented, hash browns, eggs, bacon, strawberries and milk. "This should hold you until dinner, unless you have means to buy lunch at school. Sometimes here we are given coupons for lunch but not often.", said Raj. "Quiet!", piped up Jehova.

 

After finishing, they sat a couple moments, then Jehova announced, "Breakfast is over. Prepare to go to school." Zandy went back to his room. He rummaged around to see if he had spare change for lunch, just in case. He saw he had no notebook, books or pens to take to class. Puzzled, he grabbed a jacket and left his room and gathered with others of his class by the front door.

He saw Jehova coming from the offices and walked up to him. "Here's a binder, paper and a notebook and pen. Use these for school." He handed them to Zandy. He noticed a couple adults in the hallway and hall lights weren't on very bright. Probably coordinators, he assumed. The hall lights suddenly brightened up. Jehova opened the front door and they all exited the building. Dim light outside, the breeze felt brisk.

 

They quietly walked to school. They walked parallel to the other branch of the residence. Then turned two blocks one way, turn and go four another direction. The outside of the school didn't appear any more impressive than where he was staying except it had more branches. He saw school busses unloading students from more distant locations. He soon noticed a lot of people use motorcycles here, even girls. The air resounded with rumble.

 

There were only a few steps to enter the building. Jehova said, "You go to the office  three rooms down and get your curriculum and assignments."  Zandy walked in alone wondering what was to come next. He met the big front desk and told the woman there he was new. She asked his name and started shuffling through some papers. She studied them, "Looks like you have a good background curriculum. Should have no trouble working you in here." She went to a typewriter and typed several sheets. "Zan, these are your studies and the rooms you will report to. Go ahead and attend the first class listed. You will receive further assignments as time goes on. You will be assigned an advisor soon."  He liked the sound of his shortened name. Was tired of what 'Zandy' brought him all his life. Zan said thanks and made his way to the first class already in session, English.

He opened a door and the teacher looked up. Zan said, "I just got assigned to this school, It's my first day." The teacher motioned to an empty desk and said, "Take notes." As he made his way, he noticed Raj and Jerome in the class and they looked back with smiles.

A few days later Zandy was in the common room with the others and Raj sat next to him to chat. They chatted casually about many things. Then Zandy started asking him about his background. He said his parents are from India, near the middle. He told how their food is different and their clothing is based on ancient customs. Zandy inquired more on what their history is since americans are so different. Raj described  traditions that practiced self discipline and austerity which had impact in the overall culture. Further depth revealed the austere practitioners could have strong experiences about many natures and many of those are imperceptible. Raj described what can be done through breath control which even children can do and even have enhanced influence with mental capacities. Anhil came over to listen and added more on mind awaremess and mind realms. Zandy was impressed as he had not heard such depth about any other culture. He said he would like to learn more, especially the mind realms, consciousness expansion and how they can shape or bend common reality. Raj agreed he would guide Zandy when they had time to practice together. He said it was simple but later it builds into other features.

One day when Zandy  was walking down at the residence walk towards the door, a burly student he didn't know unbeknownst stepped up to him. "So you think you are smart, huh?" The guy was in casual clothing and gym shoes. Brown hair, not long.

 "Not particularly.", replied Zandy.

"So, then get out of my way, frosh."

Zandy responded, "I am not frosh, I am senior here."  A door opened from the residence.

 The other persisted, "I have been here longer and you are frosh to me. Get out of my way or I will move you!" He stepped up to Zandy with clenched fists.

"You want to do some fist 'n cuffs?" Zandy turned his head and Rale was standing just a few of steps away with a purposeful stare. The antagonist looked at Rale who took a step closer. Rale was in dark short sleeves. His arms were not large but looked like rods and were long. The other said nothing but walked toward the back of the building.

Rale and Zandy exhaled. "Come on in." said Rale, "I should report him, and I will if I ever see him confront someone again. He knows it too. A few here need a couple lessons." They entered the door, Rale went to the commons and started talking with fellows probably about what had just transpired. Zandy noticed Jehova wasn't with them. He felt odd and decided to go to his room. He didn't want any attention.

 

 

About a month into school in the hallway a nice looking brunette walked up to Zandy, "You're new here aren't you?" He answered affirmatively. He said he was impressed the area had so many students and people of different backgrounds. She said she felt special here for that reason. The big city has people from all over the world and the city is most noted for that. So there are many students of those families that attend area schools. Talking with them gives one an additional background you can't get in most schools. Zandy agreed.

 

"So, where are you from?", she asked. He told her. "That's a long ways from here. Where do you stay now?" He described it and gave her the address. She went quiet for a minute. Then said, "I think that's a boy's rehab place. You seem too nice to be in a place like that." Now Zandy went quiet. " You have pretty brown eyes with orange flecks and your eye lashes curl. Well, this is my classroom. Nice talking to you, Zan.", she excused herself. Zandy walked on in a contemplative daze with the information she told him about his residence.

 

Soon after, Zan noticed he was indeed doing quite well in English. He caught on to everything taught and used it well. One day he walked up to the teacher and asked if there was a more advanced class for him. The teacher regarded him a minute and then said he could put a change for him to attend composition literature. Shortly after Zan started composition class and enjoyed the various modes of expression and writing styles. It also opened up a whole new vista for him. True variety in expression.

Zan read many kinds of literature, like E.E. Cummings. He also read Charles Pierre Baudelaire works. Eye opening perspective! Amazing sensation he had never encountered such as in "Les Fleurs du Mal" and others. He also read the unworldly wonders of Thomas de Quincey in "Confessions". He wondered if truly the world could be perceived in such ways. Could indeed the common place world be influenced so differently? Such lurid and vivid descriptions from the authors. To him, it seemed much of subsequent literature was centered on those two authors. He found elements of them in many other pieces. He also added some works of Surrealists like Andre Breton, Salvador Dali and his art.

"This is mind blowing, true exploration!", he exclaimed to Raj at one time. Raj smiled and described some of the literature of ancient India. For them, what is experience is actually living, not academic.

 

Another day he asked to talk to his advisor about challenging in the school. The advisor said it was not common. He looked at Zan's curriculum. "Looks pretty solid. I see you advanced to composition literature. That is a very important step and area that is often overlooked. So what subject would you challenge? I see you could use a typing skills class. Handwriting is just too slow for the modern times."

 

Zandy said he wanted to challenge in social studies, civics and math. The advisor looked at his papers. " Maybe not yet math. Need more work with problem solving there. I will arrange challenges for the other subjects. Be ready to spend all day in about a month. Notice will reach you on the date.", the advisor said.

The day before the scheduled challenges, Zan spent most of the whole day and night cramming with what he could find. Earlier he had found in the school library a computer access. He spent time there also absorbing information. A couple of times at his room someone knocked, "You coming for meal? It's time." Zan yelled out that he was doing ongoing study. No one pursued his absence further.

Next day he arose and went for breakfast. He ate and talked very little while he rehearsed what he had gathered in his head. At school he went to the advisor.They both walked down to an unoccupied classroom and he said Zan had several hours to complete the challenges. The advisor said Zan would not learn the results for several days.

Zan finished and walked out of the room. Just as the dismissal bell rang. He was surprised he finished by school day's end. The tests were lengthy. He stopped by the advisor's office and dropped off the papers. He then walked back to the residence by himself.

 

Several days later, just after breakfast of strawberry pancakes, there was a knock at Zan's door. He answered. Outside stood Joyce and behind her was Jehova. They had a paper in their hands and broke into smiles. "Got word from the school you passed the challenges. Congratulations!", they both said together.

Joyce handed Zan the paper. She said, "You haven't had much time here. As part of your honoring, I'll drive you over to the city. I'll show you around. Grab a jacket right now and we'll go. I will buy meals today. It's not often we get to share such honors from our students who attend here, so you earned some reward." Jehova nodded and walked away. Zan took a quick look at the paper which had some official confirmation on it. He turned and put it in his desk and grabbed a jacket and departed. He was directed to a modest school van.

About an hour later. They arrived at the city and drove in toward downtown. The van parked alongside a long block with parking meters. He noticed she did not feed the meter after they got out. "We will walk around and see some stores." She said, "If you see some things you could use for school, I can buy a few items for you but it is on school credit so it must be school related like office supplies or clothing."

The city appeared average, somewhat dated. The buildings were based on Euclidean angles. Nothing innovative or fancy Zan could detect from where he was. The sidewalks were not overcrowded and most people seemed to dress fairly modest. No blatant styling stood out. Nevertheless, Zan couldn't help noting many people of various nationalities both on the sidewalks and in shops, some wearing traditional attire.

They ate at a little Lebanese cafe. He enjoyed the food: pita bread, hummus, wrapped grape leaves, falafel, an amazing green salad. Joyce insisted he try their Arabic coffee. Served last, in a tiny cup but what a punch! Never had a coffee like that. Something he'd never forget. Usually at the residence they are served hot tea, so far, not coffee. Last time he had coffee was at his home with his parents.

They walked through local stores. Many clothing stores had heavier materials especially for coats. He mentioned to Joyce that he could use a heavier coat. She told him to pick one out that fit and she'd buy it. He said he'd like one additional pair of pants and she told him the same. At a general store he said he'd like more tablets and implements. She told him to select what he needed. They visited a couple more stores and stopped for hot chocolate before returning to the car. He said he had seen skyscrapers on his way here. She said those would be on the new part of the city several blocks away and they won't have time to see that, besides those he had seen were mostly corporate plazas, very few shops for anyone to browse.

Late one afternoon, Zan was walking by the commons room. He saw Kaarl, Jerome and Randy on the divans. Kaarl motioned him in. Zan took a seat. "You seem to be a good student. Everyone is talking about your change to composition literature and admire your move. What is that class like?"

Zan said he appreciated the broadening affect of studying authors' works and their meanings as well as styles and philosophies. He really can get more a feel of the world that way rather than studying sentence structure and grammar. He ended by saying there were only a dozen students in the class compared to thirty or more in most classes. Perhaps there might be room for more students.

Kaarl said he was almost envious. Studying grammar and structure does not give one a feel of live literature. He wished he could get into composition literature. Grammar does not present one with a sense of future use. In composition, he could use that learning toward studying composition of foreign languages.

Jerome agreed and said he wanted to feel the literature, its meanings and motivation of the authors. It would give more depth and background to what is read rather than sentence structure. Cultures could be better understood through understanding expressions and literature developments.

Zan wondered how he could get to know the area better. Randy said he is often chosen to do chores and supply runs. He would look into having Zan come along after he spoke to Jehova and someone at the office.

A week later, Randy told Zan that they approved that he could ride along. Next day Randy took a ride around the local neighborhoods. Zan saw many blocks of single  houses, most with yards that had sparse bushes or lawns. Not like from where he came that was much greener and had more trees. Very few businesses, mostly small corner or grocery stores and occasional, aged business strips. Still many motorcycles about. At the outer areas housing was sparse and and he could see that there are farms near the town boundary. Dusty. The whole area left him with the impression the region is mostly rock, sand and scanty grass clumps. Not much different than the day of his arrival. Randy said he could take Zan on some supply runs in the big city and Zan would help gather supplies. 

 

One time a big bully caught him crossing the street. He ran up to him and yanked him around, bouncing off the sidewalk and street several times even with cars passing. Zandy was very alarmed. He felt a little heat rise in his chest and then head. Then he was released suddenly and found his body careening through the street. He landed on the opposite sidewalk. tripped and fell. He could've died in the traffic.

 

Silently he hoped the guy was having fun seeing his plight. The thoughtless idiot! Who raises their kids that way and get away with it and why so many? Civics didn't teach that brutes alone could wind up being a top dog. He briefly wondered if many brutes actually were fighting an inferiority complex or not coping with pressures. How would any girl want to marry someone like that? He mentally shook his head to clear his thoughts.

 

Zandy collected himself and stood up. There were people walking by on the sidewalk, not paying much attention to him or what had just transpired. Zandy was coming to the conclusion that civic classes were a waste due to the treatment he received. It just didn't pay off in society. He peered over to the opposite sidewalk, then down the street. The usual hubub is all he gathered. No sign of the bully in the white and red striped shirt and blue jeans. 

 

He turned around to look on the side he now stood and scanned. Something caught his eye, a sign on the top of a door. "Final Resolution   found inside". Just below it were the letters. OEE&E. For some reason, this really grabbed his attention. A final resolution, could that really be possible? He walked to the dark front door, but it had a glass front, just no light emitting that made it appear dark to the outside. Had some trailing cloth in the upper part of the window. Hard to distinguish the color due to overhead shade of an awning. Passing people seemed to try to ignore its existence.

 

Zandy grasped the clean glass door knob and turned it. It opened. He stepped in and peered around. He heard a click. The door shut behind him on its own. Light dimmed. It seemed to have a hallway of the same darkened lighting. Dark light? Never heard of such. A few steps ahead he spotted a written message in fancy handwriting embroidered on the near wall. Squinting in the dark, he read, "Welcome to OEE&E. This is the place of Final Resolution. This is immutable and unquestionable. Reader:Take this very seriously. One who undergoes the training of OEE&E will have to develop unusual temperance, mental agility and focus. There are codes that must be followed, probably for the rest of one's life. This means EVERY second. Think deeply before going any further and beginning training. Once started it will be deemed irreversible and must proceed to a conclusion. You will not see the outside during all training. Very few are accepted for training. Your life will be altered. You must learn more than common knowledge and you must learn temperance. This is Final Resolution, OEE&E. Unquestioned outcome."

 

Zandy stood there and contemplated. He reviewed his life. He reviewed what may lay ahead if he continued his current course in life. He weighed them against one another. Could he find a better way through this unknown discipline? Would it suit him in his present circumstance? He would like to continue to college, maybe he could find a distinguishing subject there. His parents thought he would be good for college curriculum. However, society did not seem nurturing. It looked down on those who might break the status quo. It intervened to obstruct rather than nourish. That may just seem to protract and further the way his life has been. Perhaps this odd discipline could provide focus his life seemed bereft. It sounded very austere. He felt he has lead an almost austere life. Days without a meal, sleeping on the hard floor night after night, often without heat. Little clothing to change. If that is not austere enough then what is? That should make him ready enough for whatever program this would mete out.

 

Gradually, while he was pondering, he became aware of two vertical shadows off to his right. Two legs? He turned and peered into the dark. Someone was there. A sonorous voice came,

 

"Are you prepared to begin?"

"We don't recruit. It is up to the potential candidate to decide if they want to undertake this training. You will find any companionship here to be sparse. OEE&E  is not a popular movement. You are rather young to engage in such a venture, especially for life. Reflect now if this what you want forever. I will give you a couple minutes to think."  Zan did not move. "Now then, follow me and I will outfit you."

 

In the dusky darkness, Zan was led to a dark room that was rectangular. There they stopped. He had to strip down except briefs were optional. He kept his. Then he was turned and was donned with some presumably dark attire. Dark, because he couldn't see any color. He was given a pull over top that covered arms down to the wrists and waist. Then some thin pants with a sash belt. All the clothing felt loose fitting but comfortable, not tight to the body nor too airy or floppy. His former attire was collected but he was not told what is to become of it. He was informed a privy could be found just beyond the cafeteria.

 

"What is OEE&E?", Zandy queried. "I will tell you when it is time." , was the answer.  "Are there secret codes or passages? ", he pursued. "Question to be entertained much much later. Right now you must begin. Throughout all time you must remain as silent as possible. Listen to instructions and comply. I will tell you a little something in advance for the training. Some instructions will seem to be cultured for meditation, if you might be familiar with such. What is done here, at the right times, is not meditation despite the similarity. It must be pursued differently and in a different intensity. You must understand and execute not meditation but rather trance. Trance will provide proactive depth that will become a resource which will be accessed. It will be the active energy that will be focused upon in deeper trances. Yet this also is the very crux whereupon temperance must be exercised. With it all, you must have mental clarity. No action directed by emotion or muddled thoughts. You will receive instructions on these throughout. Keep this in your mind at all times.

 

 You also will learn to communicate differently. Long sentences are frowned upon. If you must talk, do so with thought and make it succinct. Nonverbal communication is encouraged. Avoid making sudden loud sounds in here. Consequence could be immediate and dire. Keep this in practice from now on even if only in your head. You will be instructed further on this. Pay close attention at all times. You will have to, if you graduate, level up and then practice this every second from there on. Do you think you can comply to this?"

 

Zandy went quiet a minute as they strolled and then wordlessly nodded. "Good response. There is much practice needed toward the essence and becoming selfless. Those are needed complementary traits that accompany trance and temperance. And mental agility must also accompany them. There will be much to learn between now and when Final Resolution is bestowed."

 

"Your eyes will adjust to the dark. Here now, to the right is a door, one that you will enter. Go in and make yourself quiet outside and in for as long as possible. The longer the better and the more impressive. Enter, and perhaps enjoy silence. You have had a life of tumult. "

 

Zandy looked at him and wondered but remained quiet. Now only the back of the man might be seen, if it could be seen. Communication has ended. Taking a deep breath he turned to the right and entered an unlit room. No dimension could immediately be made out. Zandy stepped cautiously around to determine if there were any objects on the floor. He did not encounter any.

 

In such a circumstance, how is one to make oneself quiet? Just stand there? Lie down?  No way to tell passing time. That really would not be an obstacle to him. He walked around a little and then resolved he would sit on the floor fold his legs and attempt to fulfill the task.

He didn't have a way to know how long, but he felt he put in a good effort. Certainly his body had aches. He rose up and went to the door and entered the hall. He looked both ways, not knowing which direction to take.

 

"Don't let the mortal senses fool you." That voice came out of nowhere. "You will learn to diminish and ignore the transient body messages and come to the stage where the body no longer bosses you and you will be free of it and so dwell in a more firmer mode without the old, flighty distractions. Now turn right and go down the hall. You will find a cafeteria and you may help yourself. Keep in mind you will eat only once a day and some days not at all."

Zan reflected on discussions he had with Raj and Anhil. They had described much of the same discipline and depth sound probing and its advantages to him then. He was delighted that he would part take in similar experiences and looked forward to more. It would truly be different than what would be experienced generally in current society.

Zandy wandered down the dark hall. After a minute or two he somehow detected another room and entered. It was mostly dark but he could make out a table and it smelled like there was food on it. He went over and found a wooden chair. He tried to scan the food in dusky light. What meal is this? It looked meager. Black rice, artichokehearts, strips of vegetables laid over the black rice, or sometimes a stuffed orange bell pepper and some odd, warmed dish, kim chi with celery seed and mustard seed on the side. That was it.

 

Better than going hungry, he settled to eat the items. He kept his thoughts to himself. Back to practice. At first he received a thin mat to sleep on when he did sleep but later it wasn't provided and he just slept on the floor. And probably not for very many hours. In later times, he received a hot or cold tea usually after sleeping. But it was an invigorating tea he learned to look forward to, sometimes even more than the food. Its vigor stayed with him long hours. He noted that so far when he did eat, he ate alone. It seemed later to become a consequence, he wasn't assigned a place to sleep, so he took his rest in the room he practiced.

The van had waited for Zan nearly two hours. Then returning to the residence, it was reported that he did not come back. After a couple days of searching, the residence put out an all points bulletin for Zan as also did the school. The van was sent back out at times to wait at the last place Zan was seen. Five days after, there was nothing to report. The residence and school then listed him as missing. The residence packed up his room, scant articles and stored them, wondering what became of Zan.

 

So at Final Resolution, this regimen was repeated endlessly. There is no time devices to gauge by. He was urged to make his inner self or core to feel as strong or stronger than the sensations of the body. That the inner core should be sought whenever he felt the body sensations were a threat and to build on it. He was allowed to sleep very little. Every once in a while there would be no food, just continue practicing. Otherwise, he'd get more of the black rice dish.

 

One time he was walking down the dusky hall when he misstepped, lost balance briefly and fell against a wall with a loud crash. He righted himself and went to the center of the hallway when he sensed something was there and dangerous. It seemed to swoosh through the darkness. Immediately Zandy ducked down and through the corner of an eye he made out something in the dark like the shape of a sickle. It swiftly went near him and if he had been standing... Slowly he righted himself looking all around. Saw nothing more.

A voice in the dark said, "Beware of sudden sounds, there are those who are in train so the instant things arise out of sort they launch an immediate response at the source of the disturbance which is imperceptively but deftly traced. Tread carefully." Zandy only got further exasperated and continued to look around but nothing more was forthcoming.

 

 

 Over unknown time, he felt that his inner strengths were proving to be more durable than the usual transient sensations. He felt like he developed a kind of backbone that withstood ordinary feelings. Clearly, to him, the ordinary sensations became more miniscule in his mental attention. He held his attention and focus much longer than when he started. With that, he knew his perception of worldly ways were gaining a different perspective. He knew that he would gain knowings that were very different from the world he had lived in, even some at odds with it. Motivations would change and also his reactions to events. And he still was in the early training stages. What would the future sessions bring?

 

One time as leaving the cafeteria, he thought he heard echoes of three voices down the hallway. It sounded like two guys and a girl. The voices were quickly lost to him. He wondered why a gal would want to undertake training like this. It would be much more strenuous to accept the changes from ordinary life. But there are many different kinds of temperament and situations among women, he rationalized. He returned to practice but with curiosity who or when he might meet others here.

 

One time he was approached. He was told to rid himself of the briefs, which he complied. He was handed something odd that was shaped like a span for the lower pelvis to put on. He assumed it too was black again. It fit snugly and was comfortable enough to him. It didn't cover much. His hips were essentially free of any fabric. He was told he would be wearing such an attire from here on along with the rest of his outfit.

 

He  reflected that he could not see what condition his body was in. It was constantly dusky throughout the center. No variation of this dense atmosphere. No mirrors or reflection device to speak of. At best, he could only make out a general, ghostly outline of himself. The only way he could judge his condition was to feel his contours and try to guess at any changes.

 

In the future session, Zandy was asked to feel what his body felt. And to feel not just the solid construct but also more refined like air, temperature, body energy, breathing. Then after that, keeping those impressions, he was to brace his hands in front, joined and make a long, sharp sucking in of breath. Hold for many seconds, slowly let breath out, repeat many times. Feel what the inside of the body feels.

 

Next he was told to feel for a core of heat in his body. It could be around some organs or along the spine. Eventually, he was to focus and find energy along the spine and throat. After a while he could keep them in or simply breathe out or force the energy out of the mouth. This was to be repeated many times in succession. After weeks of practice he could endure the task for a quarter of a day. He was informed that the practice did not emphasize physical strength like other types of training do. This practice was for durability and strengthening inner resolve which will be better than physical strength and besides this way is to utilize the mind which is not emphasized through physical training courses. This would be the threshold he would concentrate on the heighten his awarenesses and start to expand consciousness.

One time when Zandy could talk to his mentor he asked, "Why do you keep it always dark in here?"

"One reason is that it is important for training. We need to accustom ourselves to situations we are not accustomed to so we can adjust to diversity of conditions. This is very important for agility that we learn to adapt. Hence, we do without much light. It also helps us to reacquaint ourselves to parts of life we might have tended to disregard, maybe even to exploit a situation.", the mentor said.

 

Then he was told at times to briskly rub is palms together for half and hour and then rub the soles of his feet together for a quarter hour. He was to increase this practice with his other routines. He was also to feel what was felt when rubbing the parts together. A lot of frictional heat. As he did more he noted the capacity to enhance certain sensations he not had before.

 

One time, further on, he felt uncomfortable. He had sensation that his throat and inner body was almost flaming up. One of the few times he got to speak to the unnamed mentor, it was always the same voice, he told him about it. The mentor said it will be a hitch in training but it can be dealt with. To release some of the heat, swing the arms to a circle so they meet above head and imagine the heat leaving through the fingers. One could also just raise the arms to shoulder level and project arms straight out from the torso. Be sure no one is standing near, then flex the hands or fingers outward. If that doesn't work, then plunge the fingers into natural ground if outside or cold water until one feels coolness.

He asked the mentor if he had to go through every step of the rigor. The mentor replied that people have different threshold levels and are trained accordingly. The mentor said he felt Zan was progressing well through the first two levels. That he likely would not have to go through every single rigor as he had some natural capacity to his advantage. Soon he would be trained for the important third level. 

 

Zandy asked if he would meet others. The mentor replied that when the conditions are right, he might meet others. That he should recall this is not a social movement and the emphasis here is on individual development.

Zandy then asked what is OEE&E. The mentor paused, and said it was too early for inform him of it. However any subsequent teacher may be totally disinclined to broach that subject. So against better judgement the mentor agreed that with discreetness he would divulge some of the meaning. "OEE&E means Oblivion Eradication Expungement and Extinction. Very heavy meaning indeed not taken lightly. When one is fully graduated to proper level and bestowed, one will have the ability to at least impose on any living being a will power to send it to eradication, oblivion, expungement of all and any traces of that being's presence, and extinction will remove utterly any trace or memory of that being existing ever among those who associated with it be it family, fellow workers, memberships. The impression of that being will quickly fade from memory of others in seconds. After that if anyone inquires where that someone is, no one will have any recall of that presence, physical or mental, not even name association. It may even result in the  eradication of the immediate family lineage. This is very unquestionably secretive. That is why the training is taken very seriously for what one is imbued with is weighty and of immense consequence not to be executed frivolously. "

 

Zandy queried, "What is your definition of living?"  The mentor said, "It includes any thing that relies on composite support. " Zandy asked, "Does that include plants?" An affirmative nod. "The ground and things that grow in it?  "Another nod. "Rocks?"  A nod. "Cliffs, mountains?" Another nod. Zandy paused, could it reach that far? "the planet?" A delayed nod, "No one has proved powerful enough for that.", the mentor solemnly replied. Zandy pushed, "Any contingent composite--the universe?"  "No one has proved--Hence the emphasis on self discipline. This is after all the Final Resolution!" At that the mentor sharply pivoted and walked into the darkness. Zandy stood in awe for several minutes. The whole of everything could just be unwound or undone, vanquished. Zooowie!

 

He returned to his practice area to see a cup of cooling green mint tea. Just what he needed to cool his fiery body. He received a cup of cooling mint tea twice of what could be a day for five days. He reflected the place is austere but they really knew how to take care of their own.

 

But now learning about the result of the discipline! Is that alone enough for aspiration, or what?

Meeting with his first mentor, Zan was told the next level or expectation that he was to become proficient at. Emphasis would shift to mind.This involved deeper understanding. The mentor said that everything one usually encounters, especially common folk, is superficial. The world is indeed diverse and multifarious but that people only work and spend excessive time with the external and extraneous features and pursuits. There is a better way by delving to the fundamental characteristics that compose what is encountered superficially. The knowledge exposes the base of the effects which at least provides expediency when one is dealing with the appearance of the world. So one is not caught up in the unnecessary, befuddling worldliness.This is an aspect of clarity and breaking dependence of former transient behaviors. Seeing through the worldly muddle is important for focusing and trance affects.

Before long, the mind will put together the underlying structures of objects so one learns what is the substrate of everything rather than just the superficial impressions. Then one can work at deeper levels. Next, this also is to be done with exploratory trances. You don't need to be outside to view a scene, you create imagery in your mind and work with that.

Zan also was told that he should work steadily on single minded absorption, one pointed concentration. This practice is key for readying for final stages. It will sharpen focus of the mind which is needed to perform trance. It will mature in stages, so one needs patience. This ability is a rare skill, highly valued in the world. 

Zan was to develop these abilities rapidly as possible. Zan looked forward to this as he liked exploring new fields. This is really different and deeper learning that if he stayed with the common avenues of learning in the society. He would broaden his sensitivity of multi-leveled interactions among the world. He also liked the promise that he was making progress.

"So how long have I been in here?", Zan asked. "Coming up on one year.", the mentor replied.

"I also wondered why no one comes in or out of the streetside door. Do your fellows ever leave?"

The mentor said, "We don't use the front door and get caught up in the swarm mentality of mundane pedestrians. We also don't want to attract attention here. There is a door that opens to the back alley. We all use that, including for deliveries and supplies."

The mentor then said, "When you lived outside, did people make remarks on your physical shape and curly eyelashes?"

Zan quietly nodded, wondering how he knew. The mentor said, "Here, we don't indulge in such rubbish and wasteful talk. We grow beyond that, and so we choose to not encounter such swarm mentality."

"Now, follow me.", said the mentor. They walked a ways in the dark hall. The mentor motioned him to stop. He came back and told Zan to strip to the briefs and put on new attire. "They are for your future.", the mentor said.

Zan determined in the dusky air which was the upper garment. It was no longer just a pull over. The sleeves had creases along their length. The upper garment had tie strings half way down the front. Those were different from what he had worn. The pants were much the same except it too had creasing down the legs. The pieces fit a little tighter than the prior one. He felt snug and comfortable.

"Usually we don't present these attire of this level of accomplishment this early. But you have some natural ability even adeptness which sped you along the training faster than normal. You recall an earlier question you asked about having to go through all the rigors. You don't. There is more ahead. It is observed that you already are inclined to have something like the OEE&E function. That is very uncommon. It usually has to be trained in. There also will be a small adjustment added to your meals. At times you will get pepper strips and low calorie vegetables and other foods that contain omega 3 and 7. We will be with you and watching your progress."

"You are to take this seriously for advancing on the way. You are to reflect from your time and training here that life is tenuous and vulnerable. You are to follow codes and practices to respect living beings and their endeavor to persist. The world is a challenge. Your skills you have learned here in no way circumvent that. You are to keep this in mind EVERY second from here on. Be circumspect. That will be all for now." The mentor turned and departed. Zan thought on that a minute and resolved to resume his practice. 

"Do not think merely exhaling projects power." Zan twisted around in the dark hall. The voice came from nowhere but seemed everywhere. "You will learn where the energy comes from and how to manage it. A strongly focused mind like a laser will send forth the OEE&E.  This and more will be developed hereafter in the third level. Be very attentive. Keep an agile mind."

"At first, you are to dwell in your memory or locations you have been in your past and make those images as vivid as you can in your mind. You will do this for a couple months in addition to your routine. When that is well accomplished, you are to vividly place your presence in those imageries as if you are currently present in them."

It nearly caused an uproar. The staid day to day existence at the residence was usurped. A trio of students came running in the front door breathless from outside. They babbled excitedly to other students in front of the common room. Someone called for Jehova, Rale stepped over to hear about the commotion. A few more students crowded around.

After listening a minute, Rale teased, "Did you see a ghost?"

"Keep it down, keep it down.", Jehova said as he walked up. "Now, tell me what this is all about."

They talked again. It had been nearly two years since the disappearance of Zandy. The trio was walking home from school when suddenly at the corner of the near intersection they saw Zandy, just standing there.

"It's true!", one exclaimed. "No joke, all three of us saw him. We gawked, and then we ran here to tell someone."

An adult that was walking down the hall, slowed and lingered several feet away.

Questions about veracity of the experience followed.

"There he is!! Down the hallway near where his room is!", exclaimed one of the same students who was facing that direction. Heads turned to peer down the dim hallway.

"I didn't see anything. Just an empty hallway", said Jehova. No one contradicted him.

The adult said, "You boys better come into the office for now. Come on."

The trio looked at one another but reluctantly complied.

Rale slowly walked away. He actually thought he detected an outline of a body down the hall. He didn't know what to make of it. It was gone in a blink of an eye. He thought someone could advise him but not others here, they were dismissive. How about the two from asia? They would be more familiar with such phenomena. But Anhil graduated last year and moved out. Raj was very busy with practicums and always unavailable. Didn't even eat at the residence anymore. He was due to graduate before long. Who to talk to?

Students dispersed. Students speculated with students and a mystery grew at the residence. It would take time to quell it.

Zan, back in his room at Final Resolution, chuckled about the experience and was also impressed how successful and real it was. This really stirred some prospective thoughts in his head, since without leaving his room he could project himself to other locales.

"You have to be very sensitive and introspective on what you are about to do." The voice simply broke in his head. "Be sure of your focus with surety. Be not frivolous nor impulsive. All existence has an integration in each its own way, you must gain awareness of it and reflect on that deeply. See how actions cause interactions. All are affected by actions, every one. There is no one situation that is universal, we are our own authors of our experience including consequences and that should be dwelt upon. There is no one experience at any level that encompasses everything or any one thing anywhere that can encompass everything. Keep this mind always, for these are important for growth in the third level. We will continue to watch."

One day Zan was told someone would take him outside to a field for practice for most of the day. Zan was provided with some kind of fortified sandals. He got in a car and was driven beyond the outskirts.

Zan noticed the detail of his black attire for the first time. Its seam lines were indeed creased. What he could not see inside the building was black sewn in designs on the exterior that looked like black roses and lightning flashes on his attire. He thought to himself that was rave.

The car was driven to the edge of a field and he was left to go into the field alone. After several minutes of looking around and thinking, Zan thought it would be good use of time to attempt a deep trance.

During a part of his intensive trance, Zan thought to see how far he could extend his sensory field. He spent hours in concentration. He recalled one advice for this: set your sites on the horizon all the time. Keep it there. You will see beyond the horizon. You will see a distant dark line even beyond the horizon. Your vision will close in. You will feel like you slide into this dark arena and just keep traveling, unimpeded.

 Eventually, he felt his second sight leave the earth field, the solar system. Trailed into the darkness a long time and amongst stars. Then another thin field and seem to roam around in that. The atmosphere seemed different, a field of translucence. Gradually he saw images superimposed deeper in. To his surprise, he started making out shapes in bits and pieces. Putting them together, he surmised they were images of superbeings. Were there actual heads and faces? The forms moved in extreme slow motion as if in a thick gel. He tried to get closer to roam around them. There was a swirl of palpable forces of unknown natures. Soon he felt a pushing  and the next thing he knew he was thrust backwards and that place became remote and inaccessible. He was not sure, but did something of that place or atmosphere become a part of him? He had no way to ascertain.

In his mind, he thought, this like what Raj and Anhil had described in their talks and his early attempts at meditation with them. If only they knew what he now accomplished. Living indeed is what is experienced. Orthopraxy.

Zan returned to the car and thought to keep this experience to himself. He would not mention it to anybody since it seemed to happen only to him.

He was walking toward the cafeteria area when he felt a presence suddenly beside him. "It does seem you have quite a natural talent. That was a notable advance you performed in your exploratory trance. You have in one fell swoop by passed several steps effortlessly to reach the pinnacle. An outstanding leap and accomplishment. This will likely make you a candidate for 4th magnitude." In a breath it was gone.

Zan's mind was in a whirl a moment. Where did that come from and how did it know? Do these people monitor or read minds?

One day Zan was driven to the city with another for supplies errands. He was in regular street attire, some from before he entered Final Resolution. When members circulate among common people, they are to wear appropriate attire so as to not draw attention. He was to find stores that offered clothing, food and a few other items. Zan started toward some stores down the street when he heard a scuffle.

He went to look. Down an unlit alley a gang of youth in jackets had cornered a person. It looked like they would rough up the person and rob. One already was grabbing the outer garments.

"You ought not do that.", said Zan.

One turned to him and said, "You some kind of hero, kid?"

Zan took a step closer, "That's not a good way to treat people. Leave well enough alone."

"Oh, hero, why don't YOU leave and forget what you saw? You don't want to make more of it, do you?"

Zan stepped several steps closer. "Wouldn't it be fine just to desist?"

"Behold the hero to be!", snickered the one and motioned to his buddies. They came and surrounded Zan. Grinning, one grabbed at his clothing and another went around to get him in a choke hold then another grabbed his arms.

They pummeled and shoved him for three minutes. "You feel like being a hero now?"

Zan gasped, "You should leave well enough alone."

He got pummeled and shoved some more. Zan felt bruised but he also felt heat in his chest and head.  He tripped up a couple of them but they hit harder next time. They were not very coordinated, so he grabbed one and shoved him to the alley wall. Others lost their grip on him for a second.

In the melee, Zan thought he felt a change of energy level inside his body like an unexpected vortex suddenly formed. Fleeting sensations ran through him and left him with a starry image in brain or eyes. Then it collapsed to a tight, inclusive focus. He felt an internal shudder. It seemed everywhere for just an instant and then gone. They were back on him a second later.

A couple laughed and another couple shoved him into the walls. Zan felt he was at a limit and had had enough. He pondered in his mind what to do next. He breathed in.

Zan didn't plan this, but he managed by force and twisting to free himself and his arms. As a natural reaction, he exhaled. The whole alley went out of focus. Zan shook his head and readied for his tormentors. He eyes widened. He looked around. All five assailants were not to be seen. Could they have left that fast? In the emptied alley, verses of "Les Fleurs du Mal" raced through his mind. "Oh lovers of flesh..." It was from the poem "Danse Macabre". Why?

Looking closer, in the dim light, the alley looked scarred or blasted. Was it like that when he entered?

The potential victim collected their self, stood up and headed out the alley. Seemed to avoid Zan. Odd, he thought, and didn't even say thanks.

Zan walked around the area of the incident in the alley. His mind told him that there must be something residual there but his senses gave the impression of voidness. Nothing was there at the site, no clue, nor evidence. The air had a sense of ringing vacuity. Yet his mind niggled, then the memory and impressions left him.

As Zan exited the alley he felt a sudden strong pull on his mind. Made him almost dizzy. When that subsided he thought he felt a phantom presence beside him that lasted only one breath. A whisper, "Xeriscu" then was gone as if it never happened. Zan was mystified. Why would that be produced?

Puzzled, Zan walked silently to the stores and got items. He found his way to the vehicle and they drove back to Final Resolution. Zan mentioned nothing of the incident. He went to his room in dark Final Resolution to understand what transpired by himself. He vowed to himself to keep solid practice habits and watch himself even more closely in the coming days.

The next several days Zan did not leave Final Resolution. He stuck to his practice. He attempted to intensify his sense of caution and awareness as well as continue to develop the recommended training. He tried to concentrate on the teachings that lead to the balance, power and compassion. He had to admit to himself he had be taken up with developing the power aspect because it brought a sense of unknown to his attention and  convoluted challenges of his endeavors.

He did not engage others but rather stayed in his room a lot and only came out to eat and use the privy.

Zan was walking down the dark hallway when suddenly he became aware of a tall, shadowy figure. He stopped to peer at it. The figure motioned for him to follow.

The figure took him into a large, dark room he had not before seen in Final Resolution. It was large and he could make out it had some decorations on the walls with dark bunting.

He noted one wall was of a glass or something translucent. It did not let in much light. He also noted the tall figure stood behind him near the doorway.

Zan stood for several minutes. Then some people entered and filed to a dark side of the room along a wall. They faced him.

Zan was not sure what was to follow. He stood up straight. He felt trepidation. He tried to blank his mind. What was he to face?

More minutes went by. He was nervous. Then someone spoke from those lined against the wall. "We are called here to address a change." The sentence hung in the air.

The figure continued, "You are to have bestowal as a full member of Final Resolution."

Zan swallowed in relief but held still, waiting for the unknown.

"It is taken that you have successfully completed essential training for OEE&E. It is also noted that you have accomplished a feat worthy of 4th magnitude."

Zan felt more relief inside but stood still.

"Upon completion of convocation and bestowal, you are to fully expedite  responsibilities expected of every full member of Final Resolution. You are to keep these in practice and mind all the time whether inside or outside the hall. You will have more benefits available to you. However, you are ranked as the youngest member of Final Resolution for full bestowing. You will learn more from those who have gone before you and it will help you grow and mature even more. You will be able to communicate more readily with fellow members at times. Toward the end, you may have a choice of name you wish by which to be known here and others of the practice."

"There are also others here who wish you to attend. They have communicated interest in you due to your feat of exploratory nature that makes you eligible for 4th magnitude. Abide here a short while. Be cordial and humble. They may confer something on you. This is an additional honor. This does not occur at every convocation."

They filed out of the room and closed the door after them. Zan remained standing and in anticipation. He had no clue what to expect.

After a few minutes, the lighted side of the room brightened a little. A white, cottony film filled that space. It was followed by a swirl in it. The room cooled. From that image, several pale blue forms emerged.

They seemed to traverse by vertically swirling. They stopped in the room's center. Zan was certainly dwarfed by their size. Their forms filled to the ceiling. Zan could not make out any specific features. They must be amorphous but a hum filled his awareness.

The humming grew stronger. Had a sing song quality to it. The forms moved to Zan and he felt enveloped. Cool mistiness was on his flesh.

Was there communication? None that he knew of. Yet he had the feeling they were studying him. He could feel something of a light pressure on his mind. Rummaging in his mind?

After an hour, he could make out a whispered voice, "We approve you for accomplishing the feat worthy of 4th magnitude. You have reached a pinnacle in an impressive fashion. We approve of that and approve your bestowal. No bestowal can be allowed in our absence.

"You are welded to a very exalted plane now, in our estimation. It will do no good to mention this with your fellows since they have not achieved access to the pinnacle and would not fully comprehend. It would only be a source of confusion.

"Execute your status diligently and with thoughtfulness and care. Your endeavor has placed you at the base of our plane, not temporal. There levels far above what you have achieved. We alone note and  honor your achievement. And the achievement does not occur frequently."

Zan was stunned and didn't know what to do in their presence. He heard a voice whisper in an ear, "Be well" and he had imagery of foreign topography. He felt several cool caresses and then they were gone. The translucent wall faded back to its formal state.

Zan just stood there quivering for over a minute. His mind spinning. He gathered himself together and slowly turned and exited the empty room.

He was walking in the hallway when a member told him to go to another room.

He thought there were people in it but they remained silent. Yet, he could detect some odor from someone being in there.

The sonorous voice in the dark spoke, "This is the time of your bestowal. It will not be long. It is the accruement of your training here. Do not take this short ceremony lightly. There is much expected of bestowal. "

The mentor turned to a small cotrie of four members in the dark, "Fellows, we are to witness the convocation of our young member. He has completed the training schedule of our unique system, OEE&E. He amply exhibits the traits of accomplishment. He knows the codes and follows. May he be found worthy of full graduation and bestowal as the Articles state. If anyone has reservation on this convocation, let them speak. If not, then he is accepted as a full fellow of Final Resolution and OEE&E."

No one spoke up. A minute later, there was some clapping and sounds of approval. Zan felt humbled by their acceptance of his graduation.

"Your convocation is almost complete. Would you like to choose your name?"

Zan thought a moment. He thought of the many ways one could compose a name or title with the terminological background of Final Resolution. He decided he wanted to keep it simple, if they allowed it. He responded, "I will keep my name, Zan."

"So it will be. Zan, report to the cafeteria." Zan left and heard some shuffling. When he arrived, he was surprised by a group of the members there.

In the duskiness, they verbally congratulated him and had him sit down at a long table.  Zan noticed the table was laden with many dishes of food. Members took seats along the table and started passing the dishes around. There actually was some short conversation. Mostly talking about Zan and his new potential.

A couple served Zan items from the dishes. At least he could make out that two or three were women, not much older than he. Most of the men seemed older. The food was varied and invigoratingly fresh.There were squashes, tubers, kim chi, fruits and spices. He also spotted some small bowls of black rice, celery seeds and mustard seeds. He noted most did not eat those at this event.Someone placed a chalice in front of him. He drank and was surprised. It tasted like wine but there was an element in it that kept it brisk and seemed to dissipate any alcohol effect.

Zan was appreciative that he could talk with fellow members. He did not get the chance to meet with others in earlier times. Conversations were short, some mundane. He tried to deflect detailed questions about himself and also on details of how he progressed through training. He felt some events were unique to him.

As the conversations diminished, a couple male members near Zan were talking about the training and that bestowed members must more than ever adhere at all times to the practices. A lot was expected of advanced members.

The convocation and ceremony soon finished. Everyone stood and went their way. Zan returned to his practice room and for days worked on his training. Every once in a while he would meet a member and they would briefly talk. From that, he could gain better perspectives.

One time Zan was in the cafeteria eating when a woman walked in and sat at a small table adjacent to his. She looked over to him. "Hi Zan, call me Crystal. Really enjoyed your convocation."

Zan peered through the duskiness at her. She seemed long boned but solidly built. In the dark, he guessed she would be about mid twenties in age. He stared at her eyes. They were inset and had an odd quality about them. Had a rim of shine he could distinguish even in the gloom. "Thank you." he said. "I really appreciated it and everyone who came. Why are you called Crystal?"

"Some say my eyes give a crystalline look. So I adopted that instead of a more technical term of this place." said Crystal.

Another entered the cafeteria. It was a guy, looked to be in early thirties. He came over and sat next to Crystal. He gave a nod to Zan. Zan nodded back.

"His name is Lazar, like in Laser.". said Crystal. Zan could make out that Lazar may have a receding hairline even though the hair is cut close. Zan resumed his meal. So did Crystal and then Lazar.

They ate in silence. At the end Crystal said, "Enjoyed eating with you. Gotta get back." She rose.

Lazar rose and said, "Same here, Zan. Take care of your practice." Zan wondered. Crystal said back over her shoulder, "Some think you are a marvel but also a badass."

They departed the cafeteria. Zan tried to size up those comments.

Later Zan passed his mentor in the hall and asked, "How many people train in here?"

He replied, "It varies, could be three or around a dozen. Right now we are near a dozen. Remember to observe silence." He walked on in silence.

                  EPILOGUE

"It has been noticed that you have spent a lot of time in urban settings. It might be a good change of pace if you spend a little time out in the open. Country side. In a little over a day you will be contacted and be taken into the natural country side. Be prepared to leave at dawn. Pack lightly and for outdoors", a member told Zan.

Zan had good feelings about being out of urban environments. He would look forward to being in clean air.

That grey morning, Zan dawned his attire. Quietly, he left the building. The driver took the vehicle out of the metro area into the undeveloped land. It looked very scrubby, the trees didn't grow at all tall and were sparse. The land was rock and sand. Not much to say for fields or grass.

The driver left a highway and drove about an hour on a two lane. The vehicle turned unto a dusty road that wound about. Zan had never seen so much dust kicked up before. Outside the window it seemed to be all scrub brush and desiccated, leafless trees.

Then the road became rocky and bumpy. It was more like driving in a dry creek bed. Rills and streaks of ground and flat rock. Up ahead Zan could make out some low hills which also didn't show vegetation. Few ranch houses dwindled  to none.

After bumping around a while, the vehicle stopped. They were at the base of a line of low, barren hills. Looked like a bunch of large flat rock was simply dumped there in no order.

 The driver told him the vehicle can't travel any farther on this rocky terrain. Zan was to get out and follow a footpath toward the hill. Over the ridge he should be able to spot a structure and that he was to go there. Sunset would be in four hours. It would be best if he arrives at the structure before dark. Otherwise, there would be danger of breaking an ankle or leg or snake bite. He was told to put on some protective footwear that was in the trunk. Zan stood alone in his black outfit and footwear.

Zan wandered away from the vehicle trying to determine whether he was following a path or just a creek bed. He watched the vehicle turn and leave.He suddenly realized he was not told how long was to be here. The sun was getting low. Shadows stretched over the land. It must be west, as the sun cast the shadows, as he figured due to the long drive that it would be late afternoon. The wind skirted around the hillsides.

Zan clambered over extruding rocks trying guess at a footpath amongst crevices and sand trails and scrub. This dragged on for minutes. Up and down ridges in total wilderness.

Urgency arose when he saw the clouds turning light orange. The low hillsides loomed large in the shadows. He wondered if he lost the path, which, in these conditions wouldn't be hard.

Zan tried using his training in higher senses to locate the structure. It didn't help.

He had only scrapes and bruises to show for his efforts. The sky darkened for several minutes then followed by dark clouds showing a silver underlining. He trudged on.

Just when he was convinced he would not find the place and seeing the dusk of evening crossing the land, Zan spotted something different on the landscape.

Squinting against the dusk, an almost atypical shape was spotted at the base of a nearby slope. Zan slowly walked toward it. After 50 yards, he affirmed that it was indeed a built structure. Closer, it seemed to look like a ranch style half shack, half stable. Perhaps someone kept horses here for trails or some purpose. Boards and hay lay about and on the adjoining walls. But the stalls appeared abandoned.

In the gathering dark, he peered at the adjacent ranch house. It too looked weather beaten and unoccupied. He would have to make a plan or decision quick because in minutes it would be too dark to see anything. The hillsides were already draped in black.

The house windows were dark. No sign that anyone was inside. Zan walked around the sand and debris to where the door was. Stepping closer, he noted the now darkened door appeared to stand ajar. Still dark inside.

Zan pushed the door aside and cautiously entered. Stepped gingerly around, alert for any signs of an occupant. Mostly in the dark, he went toward the windows which were cloudy with sand and spider web. Some panes were cracked. He noticed the wind reduced to a gentle breeze.

He turned his back to a window so he could view the inside with the remaining light that seeped through the window. Somewhere near the center of the main room or living room he spotted the outline  of a square table. He went to it and managed to make out some kind of lantern standing near a corner. Leaning in, he determined it was a kerosene lantern. That old style would be of no help. First, he didn't know how to operate one. Second, he wasn't sure that there was any kerosene around for its fuel.

It was too dark to make out anything now. Surrounded by night outside and in, he had to quit investigating and decide what to do.

The place was unoccupied as far as he could see. He decided that perhaps he should find a spot to settle for the night and resume his search in the morning. He walked to the door and shoved it closed as well as he could. He made his way in the dark to presumably a bedroom. He felt around and found no furniture. He scraped and swept around on the floor as best he could to clear a space to lie down. Set down his material. He noted the bedroom had no door.

A distance away he heard a coyote's singular howl. He resolved nevertheless to get some sleep, if only to have better energy and alertness in the morn. He noticed he could see stars through the window and roof.

It would be interesting in the morning to find out what kind of place they sent him to and whether it was sufficient for someone to occupy. No sign of occupancy now except for himself. He put his hands behind his head. And he wondered just what is to happen being out here under these conditions. He sighed and let himself be lulled asleep with the sound of the night breeze.

The next morning, Zan woke up to daylight. He recalled he was going to scout out this place. In daylight it did not seem very spacey inside. In fact the room he selected was more of an adjacent space, narrow and no door, just a frame cut out of the wall. Really crude. A small, grey lizard scampered out and past the door to the outside.

He reentered the living/common room area. It had some counters and shelving built in. He spotted the table which now looked rough.

He was thinking of looking to eat something. Hoped some food was stored here. He pulled open a drawer and spotted a small, rectangular, wooden box with a latch. He pulled it out and opened it. It had a cloth bag inside. Inside the bag was a deck of cards.

Amusement, he thought to himself. He thought he take a quick look at the cards. He pulled them out. They were not ordinary cards. Images were inscribed on them by hand.

He found a folded instruction sheet underneath them and read the introduction.

"Consequences" it was named. Never saw it before. The folded sheet read:  A deck of 48 cards. 12 cards are for outcomes. The remainder are modifiers. The modifiers are conditions to be dealt with. Some can be positive and others are detractors.

The play of the game is to shuffle and then draw with all shuffled cards put face down. Each player may choose as many cards to draw as they want each turn, one or more. If an outcome card is drawn, then it may be set aside and further turns are to rid modifiers that may influence the outcome card. Only one outcome card per draw is set aside. Others are returned for the next shuffle and draw. The objective from drawing is to collect an outcome card that is free from influence of any modifier after drawings i.e the first to have an outcome card that is not accompanied by any modifier. Shuffling and drawing may be unlimited.

Wryly Zan put the set back in the drawer. Maybe when he has free time. Right now he has to organize how work here and figure out what should happen.

Next he scouted the house, looking for usable items and food. He hoped he wasn't totally stranded out here but he had no clear indication to go by from anyone. He found some ration packets that he could use for simple preparations and dried fruits.

A couple days later, Zan wandered around the landscape. He merely wanted at first to get a feel of the immediate environs. Perhaps he could explore here, maybe get some bearings.

After walking around the landscape, the thought came to him that he would have time to attempt another exploratory adventure with the sensory field. He selected some flat rocks a ways away from the house. He sat down,  imaged the immediate surroundings. Then he closed his eyes and resorted to his mental impressions. He took long breaths and relaxed but with each breath he pushed his awareness outward each time.

It must not have been many hours, but he felt his senses leaving the confines of the planet and drift far beyond. A kind of springiness, or levitation like when an additional weight is removed. Felt like he was circulating above planetary planes into celestial fields. He experienced again the curious, unbounded darkness and much the same phenomenon as before. Suddenly he felt a light brushing by something unseen. He awoke to find himself back on the rocks.

Zan felt a presence. He thought he was alone here. So he immediately drew up a defense field. He looked around in a circle. Nothing was seen. He still felt it. He scanned again. There! About fifty yards away, standing on a small mound, was his object of attention. A stout figure in black of which the attire resembled a samurai facing him.

He had his field up just in time. He felt sustained pressure on his periphery.

"Who are you and what are you doing here?", Zan queried.

"I am  Xeriscu. I am the primordial of Final Resolution.", the voice was monotone with a hard edge. An ominous exhalation followed.

"What are you doing here?", Zan repeated.

"You have been under observation. It has become evident you have fallen to temptation several times of your power use. It was improper and transgressional use of entrusted special training which constitutes abuse." Another ominous exhalation followed. Zan felt at his periphery a tangent activity which was slightly mesmerizing. The air seemed slightly out of focus. Something hazed his vision. He took a deep breath and it cleared for a moment.

"I am a natural.", Zan stated. "I am also of the fourth highest magnitude."

"And I am the first magnitude.", Xeriscu somberly replied.

"I have heard of none of the first magnitude in current times.", said Zan.

"I am the first magnitude, not of the first magnitude.", said Xeriscu. "You had better believe that." Prickly feelings emerged on Zan's skin, could feel akin to biting gnats.

"What are you here for?", asked Zan. He took breath to extract the feeling on the skin. Peered at the other to try to gain more detail of the appearance. Didn't succeed much. The face seemed to have a dark, sunburned pigmentation, a brown mustache, penetrating black eyes.

"To administer redress. You have several irrational and reprehensible transgressions. You have not shown constraint. There is the incident outside of Final Resolution with the  striped shirt guy at the street. You didn't see him afterwards? That was because you loosed the OEE&E on him. An unnecessary reaction. Again in the city with the hooligans you unleashed the force. It again shows lack of self discipline that is a bedrock. The OEE&E is of immense force and should not be used arbitrarily."

"But I am not a tyrant. I pursue to live a peaceful life, all my life.", protested  Zan.

"Observation does not bear that out.", Xeriscu gravely pronounced. "You have fallen to power temptation. Your auras and energy levels have been detected out of proper range, and match abuse."

Zan decided it would be wise to boost his defense field. He was fortunate that he had training beforehand. He was sure if he did not know how to raise a defense field, even this first wave would have destroyed an unaware, innocuous being. Zan figured there would be no second guessing on what all this is about and what would transpire here.

Zan offered, "Couldn't we talk this out? Certainly a better understanding of the situation could be reached without resorting..."

"No more talk! No more talk!", Xeriscu thunderously blustered.

Zan felt a buffeting of his field. It came again a little stronger. Particles of dirt raised and swirled around a couple seconds. He sent a sharp swat back to Xeriscu. It didn't budge him at all.

The two exchanged several blows. Dust and debris swirled around. Xeriscu remained unmoved. Zan sent several more back but also impacted a little. He felt like his skin was being shaved. Likely, his opponent knew more than he how to apply the energies, as he undoubtedly would be more senior and seasoned.

A white sheen was arising from Zan's skin. He kept the power coming. His vision became clouded with white haze. Zan's eyes now registered that small cells of his skin were peeling off. Soon he had the impression the hair on his head was loose or falling out. He resolved to be unrelenting. He would not lose face. He had to hurry to the point of no return, if it must come to that. He took in deeper breaths.

Zan strove to pull more power. He must win. Hold out for the win. Yet, after several exchanges, Zan felt his limbs stiffen, muscles cramped. He felt his breathing shorten.

 

Zan knew he was in trouble. His steadfastness was wavering. His whole body was rolling in sweat and he felt immense pressure all around, along with vicious probes of his defense. Perhaps inescapable.

Yet Zan wryly reflected for all that is thrown at him, he is still in one piece. But could he hold out more? What more could Xeriscu devise to assail him? Smiling, he believed he knew a couple manipulative manouvers of nature they wouldn't suspect. If his defense held, he would immediately set about executing one or both. For one, he concentrated on the white sheen and would remould that.

He was not totally sure what the white sheen was, or what constituted it. He knew he alone was experiencing it and probably no one else was and would be prepared with what he might fashion. Bending some of his energy and quantum energies of quasiparticles, he went about producing a new nature while fending off further assaults.

Zan felt something through his field. He looked. There, standing on the edge of his field was Xeriscu. The concentration of Xeriscu's dark visage of determination was almost a fright to behold. Zan knew he was now in a battle to the end, as he so anticipated.

The sky darkened until only the two could see each other. It looked like an opaque cone.  Heavy pounding gave way to miniscule striping away of Zan's defense. Zan only made a wry smile and released what he had fashioned.

Too late? Zan's body convulsed and flesh flew away in strips. Thin streams of blood appeared all over him. Blood lined his lips and probably inner membranes. He bubbled up blood. That's ok, there was no need to utter sounds in this battle, just concentrate. He knew he would now suffer physical defeat. Yet his mental prowess remained intact. He was always resourceful and kept a lot of knowledge to himself that he would draw upon.

Xeriscu made an odd, sweeping half arc and lunge gesture with one arm. An ugly grunt followed. Zan had confidence in his knowledge and would work to refine his...!!

Zan doubled over! The breath left him. Yet in the doubled over posture, he could discern there was something like a translucent, white, vaulted  cathedral wall overarching him. He managed a thin smile. This would protect him more and more now as long as he put energy into it. He might not win outright but he would not be vanquished with this unique protection. Just strengthen it now.

Zan took a long, painful breath. He exhaled. The inner torments ceased. A tiny, dim slit of light rebuilt between them in the dark cone. He managed to stand up.  He could faintly make out dim outlines of various earthly objects.

Zan took a less painful inhalation. He felt different energy arise, a vortex formed in his mind and then it tightened. He exhaled with energies directed to Xeriscu. These were the OEE&E he was trained in and presumably what his opponent was exercising. Zan unleashed it with as much power as he could muster. The world winked away.

Xeriscu flew backward many yards. Particles and detritus were flying around. Something of Xeriscu's form winked in and out. Yet Xeriscu remained.

Xeriscu strode toward Zan. A wave of both arms in a half circle and the whole land seemed to disappear. Still, Zan could feel the ground but not see it.

Zan assessed he did not hit Xeriscu with enough power. His own was taxed now beyond the limits of his training. He rolled back his eyes to access his mental imagery and coordinate it for focus. He raised the same OEE&E ultimate power. Then he inhaled and exhaled again at his opponent.

Xeriscu  whirled and stumbled back. His arms outspread, flailing. Large areas of earth uprooted and flew wildly about. Large rocks suddenly erupted. Holes appeared here and there. Ragged breaths, Xeriscu then regained composure and fixed Zan with a baleful stare. Xeriscu drew himself up and thrust out his arms accompanied by an unearthly cry. Horroration beyond words enveloped the site.

The vision of Zan blinked out. An overwhelming pressure, then he felt suspended then transfixed. A field of stars appeared momentarily in his mental vision. He recalled on the last assault that he hoped the white vault would protect him. He was disoriented. "Danse Macabre" ending stanzas swirled and whispered to his ears.

His last thought was to tell himself to draw breath and put all of his energies into that white vault. Totally numb, he hoped he succeeded. Then something would remain of his works, even if his body is banished. That would confound the OEE&E.

There was no more thought, no more orientation of any kind. That was the last of what Zan experienced. Silence was all around the site. Slowly light filtered back.

Xeriscu stomped over to the last sighting. Clouds of dust slowly settled back to the ground. Outlines of hills peeked through it. He stopped because there was a barrier, a thin, white barrier. He stood and scrutinized it. He grunted, he had never experienced such a thing before. It resisted his attempts to further break it down or vanquish it.

Out of nowhere, Kingbirds flew to that spot and formed a oval pattern three times and then flew off. Xeriscu observed it in quiet astonishment.

This is the spot where the young fourth magnitude stood. He could not make out the youth in the white haze. Nor could he affect this barrier where there should be at least eradication and expungement. An impasse. This is not just unusual, it' s unheard of!

Xeriscu knew responsibility and that he must make a report. He walked around and around the barrier. He sat and studied it. He made several probes and combinations that should have lead to its vanquishing. It steadfastly remained. In fact it seemed the more energy put against it, the more it strengthened.

Inside dusky Final Resolution, several huddled at a table. One said, "I don't understand, the OEE&E did not complete on him. That's never happened before."

A second asked, "What did you see there at the conclusion?"

 Xeriscu responded, "It didn't complete. Something remained, but I could see no form of a body. It was just this hazy, coruscating  white wall or pillar where the body stood. It seems to resemble a compressed energy."

The second asked, "Does it remain?"

 Xeriscu said, "Apparently. His activities ceased as far as I could sense. So I stayed to see what would become of the locale for a couple hours. Nothing changed at all. The white wall or pillar just persists alone. Nothing can get at it to determine its exact nature or status."

"Extinction did not proceed. Did the non returner complete?"

"Candidly, I cannot ascertain anything at that site due to the white phenomenon. The coruscating haze obscures and physically scatters any probe.", Xeriscu admitted.

A third with sonorous voice said, "I had noted, he was of the fourth magnitude, very talented, had modern education and is a quick learner. Need it be such a big shock that such a one could change OEE&E?"  Xeriscu glared at him.

The air filled with exasperation. " How can anything resist OEE&E or have the means to counter it? Can we bring about conclusion?" Meaning a combined effort of all.

Xeriscu said, "The phenomenon is totally resistant and impenetrable. It might not be vanquished. As you know, I am first magnitude. I have greatest over all capacity. I already tried many techniques while I was there."

The second asked, "Has anything ever had this same result using OEE&E?"

Two other members continually looked on in silence with obvious intensity.

Xeriscu said, "To my knowing, this is without precedence."

 

The second asked, "Does anyone know how he obtained his powers? Was he born with this propensity or what?"

 

The third said, "We are here to exercise these talents. Where they come from, we will not likely learn of it because we are not scientists, merely practitioners of this discipline. It is acquired by refining natural phenomenon, not through sciences. Nor are we exactly oracles. So this line of inquiry will not be productive for us."

 

Xeriscu turned his head toward the third and grunted, "I might find means to contest that. I would watch your tongue if I were you. You do not know all the extent of powers that can delve into knowledge. We all have very little hindrance."

 

The third said, "You are first magnitude. You have greatest and longest abilities of us. If you are so inclined and confident, I would like to hear your findings and explanation of what transpired out there with a talented young man who could withstand OEE&E and construct on his own a phenomenon in defiance of it and you."

 

Xeriscu glared at his fellow, "And I just might. If i succeed, there will also be lessons and consequences. Be prepared. You may remain and just talk. I am going out to that site to analyze it. Anyone else is welcome to join as they wish." He arose and stomped out of the building.

 

Amidst blustery winds and darkening skies, Xeriscu sat unmoving on a shelf of rock steadfastly studying the white pillar for two days. Once in a while on the third day he would get up and walk around it, scrutinizing. A grunt escaped once in a while.

 

Morning of the fourth day the sky had a razed, torn appearance even though the winds calmed a little. Xeriscu stood right up against the white barrier, staring. He wondered if it had molecular structure, maybe he could fragment it. But his probes again produced no information on that. Yet it must be some force of nature and nature should yield to the application of OEE&E.

 

Xeriscu pinched his nosebridge. Perhaps he should take a break. He had been here four days nonstop. He'd rest at that ranch house.

 

"You reached the pinnacle in one leap."

A disembodied voice drifted into Zan's mind field. He faintly wondered, where, who.

 

"You accomplished a great feat. Plus you molded the barrier. We think something needs to be redressed. But your planet atmosphere is too complex and dense for us. Allow us to use your planet adapted body to accomplish this.", the voice continued.

 

Zan assented in his mind. He thought he was cooked by Xeriscu until now. Coolness rushed into his senses.

The white barrier flickered once and Zan walked out. Turned toward the house.

 

Xeriscu was sitting upright against a wall in the dark. His alertness faded to a doze. In the doze he heard voices, like wind blowing through rock wall crevices. He felt a distant presence of atmosphere unlike any of this planet. Diaphanous. Yet it was before him now.

 

"Xeriscu, Pada." , several voices spoke in sync.

 His eyes flickered. That was his true secret name! Who knew?

 

"We know. And do you understand OEE&E? Where do you think this energy comes from?

 

Xeriscu shrugged his shoulders, eyes still closed.

"Not from this world system. Therefore, Pada, you are not the owner, just a borrower like others of your group. Who named you Pada? We did."

 

"Yet you took out your prowess on the one who understood and accomplished much. Open your eyes!'

 

There, directly across the room in shadow stood the image of Zan.

 

"But he is only 4th magnitude. I am first magnitude primordial and for a very long time.", said Xeriscu. He wondered how it is possible that youth could be standing here.

 

The voices said, "You are first magnitude, so you say. That means only so much to us. The young man accomplished a leap to the pinnacle in one session which you have not. That is notable to us. We believe you did not need to exercise your force to the extent you did on such a notable one. You should also have recognized and respected his accomplishment. Instead you asserted your pride and arrogance. Xeriscu, we who monitor the energy have found your act has done greater disturbance by truncating a precocious individual's development."

 

"He misused his OEE&E on individuals. It needed to be redressed.", said Xeriscu.

 

"Perhaps so, but one also should keep in mind if another is accomplished, act accordingly. It is seldom that one advances so far and that is noted and valued by us."

 

The voices continued, "Zan, you will choose an appropriate response for redress. Accomplishment trumps contrived levels of a small center. Do not over reach. Remember, even we are not the source of the energy but we can oversee its use, even on such small scale. And it is we who bestow the presence of the energy. Nothing anywhere will escape our attention."

 

Suddenly, with a whoosh, the strange atmosphere whirled over to Zan and seemed to meld with him. It seemed to Xeriscu that they had made two existences become one.

 

Xeriscu stood up and puffed out his chest. "I am first magnitude primordial, Pada, a long time.", was all he said.

 

The wind spoke, "'Pada' implies primordial. You will no longer be primordial due to your lack of deeper understanding. That role will be transferred."

 

Zan pondered a while. He was new to this. Perhaps there were nuances he hadn't yet grasped and he didn't want to over step. Balance power with compassion, he recalled.

 

Xeriscu's eyes widened as the figure of the young 4th magnitude winked out in front of him.

 

Next, Xeriscu felt like an unraveling of all around him. He felt displacement as if he were suspended for a moment from the world. His own powers seemed suspended. His vision started focusing first on a nondescript landscape. Featureless everywhere. Only a pervading vermillion color.

 

Something whispered to his mind, "You have been sent here to a stasis for restitution until you better grasp deeper implications of this special nature. Good luck and good bye." The following immense silence was practically deafening.

He gasped, looking around. After many minutes, he attempted to settle but his mind still raced, whirled and went numb in the silence.

He figured he would have a long time to contemplate this reality in a better way. He had the impression he would not fatigue at this plane. He began a more methodical approach to understand his situation.

 

Back at the white barrier, Zan was consulted, "We admire your accomplishment, it is rare and should be cherished but it is not paramount. However, your kind like free choice in life. We will let you choose your further course. Keep in mind that you have paid a price which cannot be revoked.

 

"You can choose to remain here, in the barrier you constructed, within you might act as a monitor or gatekeeper of these energies. This world is too dense for us to remain for now. If you monitor, it would be of assistance to us who might not always detect what transpires amidst densities. FYI: What your kind have not realized, is that we monitor the order of energies in the cosmos that you cannot. That is, we control the forces of existence and nonexistence of what your kind term 'virtual particles' and their comings and goings. We would not ask that large of a task of you.

 

 "Or, you can go to the oblivion that you were sent.

 

 "Or, you can explore more of existence in one kind of our mode, mostly by yourself.  If you wish to make your choice alone in private, we can accomodate. Either way, we will know."

 

Zan reflected a long time, recalling his experiences.

 

Imperceptibly, the voices departed the world system.

 

 Zan stood still. Then his form evaporated, not to be seen again.

 

The white barrier remained steadfast under red velvet colored sky.

 

Days after, a lone member of Final Resolution arrived at the scene to determine what has become of Xeriscu and his declaration or what the status is out here of anything.

 

He saw an empty land. The new object, a white barrier, remained by itself. He probed it. It seemed set up to be self sustaining. No further information could be garnered. He wondered at that.

He turned his attention to other matters at the site. No one was found there. He searched, sniffed and used his trained senses to find anything over a number of square yards. He spent most of the day under blue sky searching. He returned to the center.

 

At the table they assembled. Crystal turned to him and said, "Report."

The sonorous voice reported to the others that he could find no one or nothing other than the presence of the white barrier. He did detect there was some disturbance at the site. He suggested they cordon off that area from anyone entering; not that anyone ventures out there. It might have undetected effects on someone who unknowingly wandered into that area. In sum, it is still not known what nature may be active on the site. He recommended that there be made a special entry in their chronicles of the special member, Zan, and his accomplishments.

 

They answered in silence. No one countered his suggestion.

At a distance from Final Resolution, in wild lands, a coruscating white barrier burns every day and night on bare rock.

On clear nights in the firmament, starlight twinkles high above.