Island of Abundance

Return of the Phoi

Raja’s eyes fluttered open, as he was drawn out of his slumber by the sound of a crackling fire. The sun was just peaking above the horizon, and Raja could see a large, blurred silhouette in front of him, hunching over the flames. Lifting himself onto his elbow, he strained to see clearer who this visitor was. “Awake I see! Best way for you to be!” Resio’s jovial rhyme floated on the crisp morning air. “Yes. Hello, Resio.” Hearing the bear’s familiar voice, Raja visibly relaxed. “It’s good to see you again.” “Indeed, indeed. I came to lead!” Resio rose up to his full, enormous stature, and he lumbered over to Raja’s side. Raja grinned, lowering his eyes. “To lead, huh?” He paused, then squinted up into Resio’s gaze. “I seem to recall that, the last time you led, I found myself hanging onto your stump of a tail for dear life!” “Yes, I too remember that trip! And, yes, I too recall your grip!” Resio’s fur involuntarily quivered, as if shaking off a bad experience, while his body quaked with laughter. After a moment, he grew quiet; and, dropping to all fours, he lowered his face near to Raja’s. “It is time, my friend,” he softly growled. “Your journey on Resilience is at an end. Arise, arise, and you shall see--Abundance beckons steadily.” With his smile fading to curiosity, Raja stood, shooting a glance at Syndi and Liam, who were both still sleeping soundly. Resio’s eyes sparkled knowingly. “Follow me.” He began rambling his way toward the beach and the rolling surf. Silently, Raja obeyed. In the stillness, he listened to the soft padding of Resio’s paws between the sweeping cadence of each wave. When they finally arrived at the water’s edge, the sun was slowly making her ascent above the Sea of Vario. The bear stopped; Raja drew up beside him and stood quietly. He breathed in deeply as he admired the majestic expanse of the sea. The immensity seemed to engulf him. It was all he could see. Amidst the grey and green hues of the dim morning light, the Sea of Vario sparkled. Its giant girth ebbed in rhythm upon the scattered boulders which lined the shore; frothy, white lace framed each movement, continually changing and continually coming. It enchanted his imagination. Raja had been anxious to know what Resio would speak; but now, he was content to listen to what the sea had to say. Suddenly, a burst of light flared in the northeastern sky. It seemed to call his name. Raja’s eyes snapped into focus; but it was gone. Inquisitively, he turned to the bear. Staring ahead, Resio smiled serenely, then spoke, as if reciting from memory: She beckons me, even as I fall. Where ‘ere you wander, She beckons to us all. After a moment’s pause, Resio continued, “To my voice, your ear must bend.” Then, turning to face Raja, he asked, “Have you seen that light before, my friend?” Resio’s gentle eyes met Raja’s and he studied him with an intense gaze. All at once, a flash of recognition dawned in Raja’s consciousness. Long ago, in Yalwuna, the morning he had determined to climb the mountain, there had been a burst of light, just like the one he’d just witnessed. “Yes, I believe I have,” Raja stated simply, feeling something significant was occurring. “Take in the vastness of the Sea, and it will speak what is to be.” Resio returned his gaze to the water and breathed in deeply. “You’ve been across it on your visit. How boundless is it?” Raja considered the water thoughtfully, listening to the swells and watching the foamy crest of each wave. “I don’t know, Resio.” He paused and looked at the bear, only to see inquisitive eyes staring back at him. So, he continued with a smile, “It’s enormous! Gigantic. I can’t see the end of it.” Raja paused for moments then answered, shrugging, “I can’t tell you.” “You cannot tell me how vast it is? You speak true. Because it is immeasurable...to me and you.” Raja listened intently. Resio nodded approvingly as he spoke. “A man can put his head into the Sea, and nothing lacks; but if a man tries to put the sea into his head, it is his head that cracks.” Resio winked as he spoke the last line. ​ ​ “Always remember this, Raja, my friend, the gifts of Abundance never end. There is always enough and more to spare; but you are not truly rich until you share. They are yours to do good, to help others in need; you pluck of your fruit and help them plant the seed. Never hold to your treasure, never grasp, doubt, or fear; for if your heart is your treasure, it will soon disappear.” Raja was mulling over Resio’s words when, unexpectedly, a menacing chill ran through him, as the sun disappeared behind a great cloud. Looking up, he saw what appeared to be a vast army, floating high above him, heading in the same direction of the light he had just witnessed. As he watched the shadow move slowly overhead, Raja’s heart grew cold. Suddenly, he was back on the Island of Humility. He was alone in the desert--thirsty, cold, and deathly afraid. Batnoam was hissing into his ear, “Raja, get out of here. You are in the worst danger of your life, my friend. Run, Raja. Run like you have never run before. You are no match for the Phoi. Stop your ears and RUN!” “Resio, is that the Phoi?” Raja spoke breathlessly, urgently. “Yes, Raja, it is surely the Phoi.” Raja’s heart sank in despair at the words. His worst fear had found him once again. Resio’s eyes raised to the sky; but his voice remained steady and calm. “As you know, their mission is to enslave and destroy. Lowsapa’s decree is to poison the sea. They fly overhead and corruption is spread; and unheeding creatures fall prey to their bread.” Under a terrified brow, Raja’s eyes fixed on the departing cloud. As he watched, he noticed that, periodically, something was dropped from the mass and spread in the water. It looked like thousands of seeds falling into the waves. Transfixed, Raja wondered what it was. As the dark shadow grew smaller and smaller on the horizon, he became aware that Resio was again staring at him from the side. “These are the wares and the food of the Phoi. Do not let their cunning interrupt your joy. Their weapons are deceit and addiction and rot. Abundance is everything they are not. Abundance can bind them, they know it and fear it. In abundance lies freedom, the truth that is spoken. For the seeker of truth, all chains are broken. Then, bending to look Raja squarely in the eyes, Resio, counseled, “Raja, do not allow fear, worry, or doubt to trouble your mind. Your power comes from discerning their kind. These wares of the Phoi are illusions, not real. Give no heed to their lies; hold the truth that you feel. Allow your heart to rejoice and to freely receive the abundance of hope, peace, happiness, and joy that comes when you believe.” Raja turned his head toward the departing blackness once more, long enough to see an additional glimmer of light bursting through the cloud. When it faded, the shadow had disappeared as well. Raja turned back to Resio and, with a soft smile, breathed in deeply.

Abua the Whale

“Good Morning!” Syndi’s cheerful voice caused Raja to turn. “Resio, so good to see you again,” she sang out. Liam waved his greeting to the beaming bear. “Syndi and Liam, so happy to see you! I came to introduce you to...” ​ ​ His voice was interrupted dramatically by a spray of water bursting out of the sea. “Ah! This is prime! Abua has arrived just in time!” Resio was enormously pleased and grinned expectantly towards the whale. The three friends gaped in awe, as a massive spout disappeared under the wave, followed by the sleek line of a slate-grey body, sliding along the top, and then vanishing beneath the surf. The water continued its pulsing rhythm of waves, as every eye remained spellbound, watching for another glimpse of the magnificent creature. No one spoke, even as the surface of the water remained unbroken. Suddenly, a sweet and haunting sound played along the wind, and the travelers strained their ears to identify it. Glancing briefly at each other, they concentrated again to hear echo after echo of a beautiful, mournful melody. “The song of the humpbacks is what you can hear. To the trained ear, it is clear.” Resio spoke softly with a smile, as he gazed reverently toward where Abua had disappeared. The singing continued and intensified, as other whales gathered and joined their voices. “The abundance below the surface, you hear and feel; and though unseen, it is very real!” As if on cue, another spray of water emerged with power from the depths. This time, the whale had come closer to the shore and the spray misted toward the small audience. Syndi joyfully held out her hand to capture it, as an enormous tail slapped the water before disappearing. With shining eyes, Resio turned to the trio and said, “My friends, we part again! But never fear, this is not the end!” Raja and Liam’s eyes grew wide, astonished at the sudden declaration of being left without Resio’s familiar guidance. “What are we supposed to do with him?” Liam gestured toward the water. ​ ​ Resio chuckled. Walking over to Liam, he stood and rested one gigantic paw on Liam’s shoulder. “True abundance is felt in here,” he said, placing his other paw on Liam’s chest. “Listen, feel, and never fear.” ​ ​ Resio looked on affectionately, until Liam began breathing deeply in and out. Then, he continued, “We’ve built you a raft from a resilient tree; it’s there by those rocks, for you to travel the sea. Abua will guide you sure and true; continue to trust--Abundance awaits you!”Still puzzled, Liam struggled to stay balanced, as the bear returned to his four-legged position. While Resio lumbered off toward the jungle, a parting rhyme reverberated genially over his shoulder. Raja, Liam, and Syndi turned back to watch the water. The haunting, resonant song continued to wash upon the shore with the waves, growing, until it vibrated through their whole beings. It was impossible to pinpoint where the singsong echoes were emerging from, as they could see nothing but the splashing waves before them. However, they each stilled their minds and listened intently with peaceful hearts. And as they did so, they simultaneously identified a message coming through loud and clear. “Friends, it is time to journey to the final island. I am Abua, the whale. Our pod will escort you safely there. Come. We must go now.” As if in a combined chorus, two whales rose up out of the water in a grand display of celebration. They were followed by two more farther out to sea, then three more. Soon, across the mirror of ocean, a dozen whales were lifting and falling across the horizon. The sun, as if to join in the rejoicing, beamed down, fully spotlighting the silhouettes of the breaching humpbacks. Syndi’s hand raised to her mouth and her eyes glistened. Both men stood still, gazing in amazed reverence. When the dancing had ceased, the largest of them all surfaced near the shore, beckoning them. Drawn to the rejoicing of the song and the beauty of Abua, the travelers all walked willingly toward the waves. Liam squinted, as his eyes searched the beach where Resio had directed. Sure enough, almost blended into the boulders, there was a raft. He pointed and called excitedly to Syndi and Raja. As if in harmony with the music, they ran up the beach together, with the whales accompanying them. Reaching the raft, the trio excitedly pushed it out toward Abua and jumped aboard. As they drew closer, his words became clearer. “You have learned and applied the lessons of all the islands and are now ready to be escorted to the Island of Abundance. This is a rare step, and we commend you for your integrity so far in the journey! You will soon complete your quest to become Warriors, not worriers!” All nature seemed to reverberate with the joyful songs of the whales as they surrounded the raft and propelled it toward the Island of Abundance.

Fruit of the Phoi

The temperature in the air was mild, as the small raft moved smoothly and steadily over the waves. The whales provided a cocoon of safety and strength around their prized cargo, giving the trio an opportunity to appreciate the tranquil Sea around them and the beauty of the whales’ size and power. Their song carried each heart away into personal musings. Lying on his belly, with his hand tapping the water, Raja’s mind focused on what lay ahead. Abua was swimming close by and rose above the surface with a light spray of water. Raja laughed, then invited the guide into his thoughts. “Abua, I’m thinking about the Island of Abundance.” “I imagined you might be.” The powerful voice reverberated in Raja’s ears. “I shall tell you about it, Raja. The Island of Abundance is true to its name. There is enough, and more to spare, of everything that a person could desire, sufficient and overflowing, always increasing. Because of this, you will see many things on this island that haven’t been on the others. This island is the most challenging of all the islands.” “Why is it the most challenging?” “You shall see. The Islands have taught you that there is always enough and more to spare. You have learned in small ways to share the gifts, talents, and resources that you possess. Your presence here is the culmination of all those lessons coming back multiplied. You are filled with gratitude and hope and are now fully equipped, should you so choose, to use them for purposes larger than yourselves. However, I warn you, Raja, any attempts to hoard or control these gifts selfishly will result in you being swept via this mighty Sea of Change back to Humility where you, if you choose, will begin again.” At this moment, Abua’s words were interrupted by the nearby sound of seabirds passing above--with squawking, chirping, and the distant caws answering in turn. This chorus brought the nostalgic sounds of other seaside beaches Raja had known into his remembrance. He watched momentarily; then, sensing a larger gathering of some sort, he sat up and looked westward in the direction of the birds’ flight. Indeed there seemed to be a convergence of sea life in the distance. He saw seals and fish popping out of the water, heading in the direction of a large, shadowy substance adrift and close to the surface of the water. “Abua, what is that?” Syndi had come and stood by Raja at the edge of the raft, one hand on her hip with the other raised to shield her squinted eyes. “That is the feeding ground of many creatures.” Raja heard heaviness in Abua’s voice. He rose to his feet to get a better view.“Hmm, I guess it’s a krill breeding bed.” Syndi continued to squint, examining the scene curiously for several moments. “Yep, that’s what it looks like to me.” She nodded, satisfied. “We used to catch thousands of them when I…” “It’s not krill.” Raja’s jaw firmly set after speaking. “Of course it is. I used to catch them with my dad.” Syndi smiled, turning to him; then paused after seeing his grave expression. “I watched the Phoi drop it this morning before you and Liam were awake. I don’t know what it is, but it’s not krill.” Raja spoke with resolution. “Raja is correct. This is the fruit of the Phoi and is, much like they are, degenerate, artificial, and destructive. As you see, it is deceptive; and when ingested, very costly indeed. This food gives every indication of satisfaction. It is delicious. However, after hooking its victims, the food dulls the senses of the sea life and they are easily controlled by Lowsapa and the Phoi. They will be led away from this place with each feeding. In time, they will find themselves in the waters of Yalwuna, wondering how it could’ve happened that they have left the home of their hearts.” “Is there nothing that can be done to warn them?” Liam interjected. He stood behind Raja and Syndi looking on the scene with revulsion. “There are constant warning sentinels. Look on the perimeter of the shadow.” All turned their eyes to the edge of the feeding ground. Sprays of humpback whales were swimming around the miles of food, singing their songs. “They sing the truth of the fruit of the Phoi, and are beckoning and inviting the animals away to the actual food, of which there is an abundance. The Phantoms of Illusion are so narrow in their pursuits and their offerings; but to the blind, they seem very real indeed.” Raja looked down at the massive whale and knew emphatically that what he spoke was always true; yet Raja also recalled the cold fear that had gripped him when he saw the Phoi traveling that morning. He observed the assembly of birds, fish, and animals splashing in the feeding frenzy and thought that it looked like they were almost enjoying themselves. Almost. He wondered if he himself was still one of the blind Abua spoke of. As if reading his thoughts, Abua continued, “What do you see, Raja?” “I see what is false appearing real,” Raja said. “Very good, Raja. Remember this lesson well. The Island of Abundance will mature this learning thoroughly.” “What do you see, Liam?” “I’m not sure; but I trust that what you were saying is true. I guess I see a bunch of animals that are going to feel sick when they’re finished.” Something very much like a chuckle gurgled up from Abua’s massive mouth. “Very good, Liam. It is true. Unfortunately, the food of the Phoi is poison and truly destructive. These creatures may believe it is good for them, and very delicious indeed. But it will eventually take from them all they hold dear, leaving them, not only hungry, but in bondage. “What do you see, Syndi?” Syndi stood looking, hands on hips, eyebrows furrowed. “Well, I sure thought that was krill. It really looks like the krill we used to gather when I was a girl. But I guess as I’ve looked and listened, I have had some misgivings. I think I even felt those feelings before Raja corrected me; but I trusted what I saw. I guess I do see a little differently now.” “All of you are learning. Pay attention; when one of you has misgivings, sometimes this is the surest detection system to the Phoi’s trickery.” but You must feel, experience, swim in them if you will, but if you try to grasp in fear, hold on in doubt, or control to diminish your worry, you will be swept, via this magnificent Sea of Change, back to Yalwuna; there to be invited to learn again all the lessons of Humility, Awareness, Courage, Self-Discipline, and Resilience.” He spoke each island’s name with emphasis then continued, “This repetition, if you were to choose it, would prepare you to again navigate Abundance which requires strength of character. Every traveler has found it to be the most challenging of all the islands. The law of life will win, sometimes eventually... and Abundance is the great Law of Life! Let it flow effortlessly!”

Abua then heaved his huge body forward and called, “Friends, let us now turn our eyes to the east and not look back on this scene.” All of them seemed to breathe in a sigh of relief to be looking and traveling anew.

The Island of Abundance Syndi spotted the island first. The raft had floated all day into late afternoon, and the sun was beginning to set. Feeling both hungry and thirsty, the travelers observed the massive shoreline come into view. The island was rich with green foliage and, in its midst, they could see innumerable, magnificent buildings towering above the trees. There were lights already starting to be lit all along the shore. As they drew closer, they heard music and laughter, and many people came into view. The activities of the people were varied, and Raja, Syndi, and Liam had not seen such excitement and enjoyment, ever. They watched, enchanted. Directly in front of their path, there was an eatery overlooking the bay. Tall, delicate torches lit the perimeter of the brick edifice. They could smell delicious food and the sounds of festivity beckoned to them. “I am so hungry,” Syndi groaned, rubbing her stomach. Liam nodded in agreement, his gaze transfixed on the happy scene ahead. “You will feel more than one hunger on this island.” Abua’s voice brought their attention back to the raft. “As you stay centered in the character you have worked so tirelessly to build throughout your journey, it will be made known to you what you truly hunger for.” The travelers all looked at Abua with interested eyes, seeking to understand more. “Remember the krill and the fruits of the Phoi. You will see their handiwork disguised on the Island of Abundance. In fact, the many months you have spent traversing the Islands of Transformation will all be brought to bear on this, the Island of Abundance. Prove yourselves to be strong in character and you will retain all the Abundance that you are yet to witness. However, if you should fall prey to the Phantoms of Illusion, and forget your rightful inheritance on this land, you will be returned, via the Sea of Change, to Humility where you will embark on the journey again.One word of caution. Never forget that this, too, is an Island of Transformation. It is not the end of your journey. You are here to receive all of the gifts Abundance has to offer you, and then to leave.” Abua looked at each of the travelers, then focused in on Raja. “Remember, always remember, Raja - there is enough and more to spare. New creation is always happening EVERYWHERE. Abundant talents, gifts, and dreams to share. Do not be hoodwinked into narrowing or lowering your view.” High up in the sky, a blaze of light captured Syndi’s attention. Pointing, she yelled, “Raja, Liam, look!” Everyone looked up as another burst exploded in the darkening sky. In the midst of the flash, almost like a dream, stood a glowing tree, with shimmering white fruit. It hung in the air for just a second, then the apparition was gone. Syndi turned, wide-eyed. “Did you see that? Did you see the tree?” Abua’s tail slapped the water gently as he spoke furtively, joyfully, “It is the tree of Faiho. Its sweet fruit has beckoned to you all throughout your journey, even from your earliest days in Yalwuna!” His eyes sparkled and his body seemed to dance on the waves, amidst the reflections from the twinkling lights on the shore. By now, the raft had floated very near to the shore. Raja and Liam instinctively observed the people on the beach, sure that they too must’ve seen the tree; but to no avail. There was not one person that seemed aware of the night shattering vision. The eatery was bustling with activity, dishes clinking, and the hum of conversation unbroken, accept for the occasional laughter sprinkled among the patrons. Suddenly, a face jumped out of the crowd. It was a man staring straight at the raft and its passengers. Raja squinted, looking intently at the face while speaking to the others, “Well, I think someone saw the tree besides us.” “Why do you say that?” Syndi also squinted, placing her hand on Raja’s shoulder and seeking to align her view with his. The dark-haired man smiled and nodded; then he turned and disappeared within the crowd. Raja looked after him. “Hmm.” His brow furrowed. “Nevermind. I guess we ought to get ourselves on land.” “And it is also time for my departure.” Abua’s body heaved gently away from the raft. “Farewell for now, my friends. Grati will guide you through the next leg of your journey. Remember well what you have learned today.” With a wave of his tail, and before anyone could say goodbye, Abua slipped below the surface.

Grati the Dog

The narrow streets were crowded with people buying and selling wares that covered the sidewalks and byways. Women sampled silks and linens, while men partook of the many delicacies and drinks that were offered. Raja took in the scene and smiled, remembering his father and the work they’d done together in markets such as this. The busy throng revived his senses and he drank in the tantalizing smells of sizzling seasoned fish and ripe fruit hanging along the eateries. His stomach growled and Syndi announced, again, that she was hungry. Regardless, the friends were painfully aware that everything around them cost money, and none of them had any. Just then, a minstrel strolled in front of them, playing a ukulele and singing, “All things work together for good! With a positive attitude, an attitude of gratitude, all things work together for good.” He smiled at Liam with a wink, then continued on his way. A beautiful Golden Labrador plodded briskly behind him. “I wonder who he is,” Liam declared, watching the back of the singer’s head moving ​ ​ away from them. Curiously, Raja and Syndi looked on as well. Something drew them to the song he continued to sing. All at once, the dog paused, and turned, looking back at them. There was something shiny in his mouth, a ball of some sort. The dog lowered his head and gently placed the object on the ground. He then stood over it looking at the travelers with a confident and inviting pose. The object shone brightly, lit by something within. It was the loveliest sphere he had ever seen, and Raja’s heart was drawn to it. He took a step in the direction of the dog, but his progress was halted abruptly. “Hello, excuse me.” A well-dressed man inserted himself in between the travelers and the dog. He held out his arms in a warm gesture. “Welcome to Abundance! I saw your arrival and would like to be the first to introduce myself. I am Nik; and I will take it upon myself to treat you to dinner, if you would care to follow me.” Turning to Syndi, he paused. “I see it has been a while since you’ve had decent clothing to wear. I’m sure my servants can accommodate you, should you desire.” He reached for Syndi’s hand and kissed it. “For you, my dear, my servants will find something special.” Syndi glanced down at her simple smock and frayed trousers, with a rope for her belt. She blushed momentarily. Briefly noting her reaction, and feeling slight annoyance by it, Raja tried to look past the stranger, straining to see the dog; but he and his shining orb were gone. The minstrel, however, stood watching them with a calm and knowing look. Raja thought he saw his head shake ever so slightly before Syndi grabbed his arm and started pulling him off toward Nik’s departing form. “Raja, let’s go see what this guy has to offer!” she hissed, clearly unsettled at the prospect of losing this opportunity. “What about that dog?” Raja gestured back behind them. “Who cares about the dog? If you want, we can look for it later! I’m starving.” Syndi’s persistent pulling led him down the opposite street. Even so, Raja continued to search for the dog. Liam followed complacently behind them both.

Grand and Spacious

When they had caught up to him, Nik offered Syndi his arm, and Raja and Liam followed behind. Gesturing to his right and left, Nik explained the history of the buildings and purposes of the shops they passed. Raja felt disquieted. Syndi seemed enraptured with this guy and it bothered him. He couldn’t decide if Nik was a dark character, or if he was just jealous. Afterall, the three of them had been without any other human influence for so long, having an outsider intrude into their tight knit group felt threatening. Finally, Raja shrugged it off, determined not to give into pettiness. Liam leaned into Raja and whispered, “Do you have any idea where we’re going?” Raja shook his head. “Does that guy look at all familiar to you?” Raja asked Liam. Then he paused his step, as recognition dawned. “Wait a minute.” He grabbed Liam’s sleeve. “I know who he is. He’s the man who was watching us when we were on the raft.” “What?” Liam looked doubtful. “Who was watching us?” “It was right after we saw the tree with those shining pieces of fruit… I looked to the shore and noticed a man staring at us. I think it was him.” He jerked his chin toward their guide. “So what? He told us he saw our arrival.” Liam looked sideways towards Raja; and Raja knew he sounded paranoid. He started walking again and Liam followed his lead. “Yeah, but I didn’t like the way that man leered at us. And I don’t know if I like him either.” He jabbed a thumb toward Nik. Then Raja leaned in and lowered his voice. “I just think he’s the same guy.” After confiding his misgivings, Raja took in Liam’s skeptical expression. A smiled played on Liam’s mouth as he repeated, “Leered?” He smirked good naturedly, cocking an ​ ​ eyebrow. As if on cue, Nik stopped and turned toward the two men. Raja tried to appear casual. “We will arrive at my villa soon.” He smiled at Syndi. “It’s my favorite villa; for I have many. You must tell me, my dear, would you like to change your clothing before or after we dine?” “Of course we’ll change before we dine,” Syndi interjected. Raja and Liam stood looking dumbly at her. Dine? When has Syndi ever used the word,‘dine’? Raja thought. ​ ​ ​ Nik’s eyebrows raised in obvious pleasure, as he shot Syndi a warm smile. “Well, then, we shall dine in an hour.” ​ ​ Liam rolled his eyes and glanced at Raja as Syndi took Nik’s arm and started walking again. “I thought she was starving,” Liam spoke under his breath, as his own stomach grumbled. “Yeah, we’ve had to listen to her complaining ever since we stepped foot on land,” Raja agreed. He looked after Syndi who was laughing softly with their new host. Sighing in resignation, Raja followed after them. “Oh, well, we shall dine in an hour.” He softly mimicked Nik’s accent, and grinned at ​ ​ Liam. When they finally arrived at the largest and most spacious building in the center of the city, Nik led them inside the courtyard. It was filled with people fashionably dressed and bejeweled, milling around the manicured grounds, holding drinks. Servants, dressed in sharp uniforms, held platters laden with refreshments, as they mingled among the crowd. Music played softly and candles lit every crevice. It was a magnificent sight to behold. Raja felt entirely out of place and was suddenly grateful they would be changing their apparel before dinner.

Finding Footing

Emerging from their quarters, the travelers scarcely recognized each other. Each had been assigned several servants and these had performed their tasks with graceful precision. Bathed, groomed, fitted, and bejeweled, each appeared a very different person. Syndi’s black hair was pulled up with lovely, fragrant flowers woven into the silky strands. Her face had never appeared so beautiful. Liam gaped and Raja stood transfixed. Syndi regarded t both of them with an expectant smile. Upon receiving only spell-bound expressions, she let out a hearty laugh. Raja was relieved to see his dear friend emerge from within the vision that had held him momentarily captivated. He smiled broadly and nudged Liam. “It’s still Syndi in there.” Raja started toward her and offered her his arm. Syndi lifted her hand; but paused when she noticed Nik approaching from the opposite hall. After greeting each of them, he ended his salutations by confidently offering his arm to Syndi, who instantly took it. Then, with a beaming Syndi by his side, Nik whisked her away toward the outdoor veranda. Raja looked darkly at Liam. Liam shot him a half smile and shrugged; hands in his pockets. Walking briskly past him, Raja followed the pair with determination. “Hey, Nik, wait up,” he called. Raja heard Liam quietly say his name, and knew instinctively that his friend was about to advise him to relax a little before proceeding on his present course. Raja didn’t care to hear Liam’s preaching at the moment, so he purposefully repeated Nik’s name. Nik turned slowly toward Raja, with a knowing smile. “How can I help you, Roho?” In viewing Nik’s smug expression, Raja felt like he’d somehow been symbolically patted on the head. “His name is Raja...not Roho,” Syndi interjected with a delighted giggle. “Oh, yes; how clumsy of me.” Nik mirthfully gazed at Syndi, heartily chuckled, then turned his attention back to Raja. “Raja, how may I serve you?” ​ ​ Raja didn’t know which of them to be more irritated with. He felt betrayed by Syndi’s banter, though it had never bothered him before. As he came to a halt in front of Nik, and caught an unmistakable stonyness behind Nik’s smile, he felt oddly satisfied. “Liam and I just need to talk to Syndi privately, if you don’t mind. We haven’t discussed whether or not we want to stay at this little party you’re throwing.” His tone came out harsher than he had intended, and Syndi’s alarmed expression signaled he’d gone too far. “But of course!” Without missing a beat, Nik took Syndi’s hand and gracefully guided her toward Raja. “My most sincere apologies that I assumed those details had been decided.” Flashing a plastic smile at Raja, he then bowed toward Syndi. “You will find me on the veranda, my dear, when you have decided. Please notify me, and I will personally see that your desires are carried out.” The door closed behind him and the great hall was silent. “What are you doing!?” Syndi’s eyes flashed at Raja in disbelief. “Raja, Nik is the most ​ ​ powerful person on this island, not to mention the richest; and you insulted him!” ​ ​ “I didn’t insult him,” Raja countered. “He insulted me!” He jerked his thumb into his own chest. Syndi made no attempt to hide her contempt at this notion. “And come to think of it, so did you!” he continued, jutting his finger at her. “What kind ​ ​ of friend are you, anyway?” As soon as he said it, he wished he hadn’t. He’d never shown anger toward his friends before. He watched Syndi’s beautiful eyes widen in surprise and then slowly lower to the stone floor with hurt confusion. Raja turned his head toward Liam, who’d joined them. Liam blankly returned his stare. “Syndi, I didn’t mean that; I’m sorry.” Raja breathed deeply and then awaited her response. Furrowing her brow, Syndi spoke slowly, “I guess I’m just not sure why you said it.” ​ ​ Then looking up into Raja’s eyes, she continued, “Why would you even think that?” ​ ​ Raja grasped for an excuse for his behavior. “I’m just hungry. I’m sorry.” Syndi cocked a questioning eyebrow, and then brightened a bit. Encouraged, Raja nodded and attempted a joke. “Syndi, more than anyone else, you ought to understand the mental derangement that occurs with an empty stomach.” Her broadening smile turned into a light laugh. Taking her hand and nestling it inside his arm, Raja continued, “And Liam and I are dressed up like we have never been before…I’m sure many men here have had the exact. same. ​ ​ experience.” Syndi’s sweet laughter encouraged his dialogue as they walked out the door into the candlelit surroundings. Music floated on the warm air as the pair approached their host, with Liam tagging nonchalantly behind. “Nik, we’ve decided to stay.” Raja patted Syndi’s hand confidently as he spoke. “I’m delighted to hear that.” Raja grudgingly noted how unruffled the man was by their prior exchange. Turning to a servant, Nik instructed, “Our guests are now ready for their dinner.” The servant began walking past Raja, as Nik strode to Syndi’s side. “Madam, may I escort you to your seat?” “I would be delighted.” Syndi’s eyes sparkled in response. Raja’s arm tightened on Syndi’s hand. “Raja!” Syndi hissed under her breath. Her eyes portrayed her exasperated disbelief, as she unclasped her hand from his arm. Somewhat embarrassed, Syndi took Nik’s offered arm and she was again whisked away from him. Raja clenched his fists and then glanced angrily at Liam. Liam shook his head back and forth almost imperceptibly. Though his eyes portrayed understanding, the stiffness of his jaw held a warning that Raja received. Raja clenched and unclenched his fists again, but breathed deeply. Turning his head toward Syndi’s departing figure, he then spun on his heels and walked decisively toward the far descending steps in the opposite direction.

Fruit

The bench upon which Raja sat to sulk was not especially comfortable; but that was not important to him. It was out of the way, nestled among a few overgrown plants by the outer court wall. He still had a clear view of the veranda, however; he could still hear the music and see the candles. Though he internally berated his own behavior, he persisted in it anyway. His stomach continued to growl, and he thought how foolish it was that he was sitting there famished when the whole courtyard was filled with nourishing and delicious enticements. But when a meandering servant offered him a refreshment, he waved it off; and then pitied himself that he was still hungry. The feast finally ended and dancing had begun. Hunched over, and leaning his forearms on his knees, Raja clasped his hands and contemplated. The music drew his mind back to when they were on the raft earlier that day; when things were normal. Was it really such a short time ago? The three of them had passed through so much. It had been difficult; but they’d always done it together. Now, Syndi felt a world away from them. Not away from them--away from him. ​ ​ ​ ​ Liam didn’t seem to care. Raja ran a hand through his newly shaped hair. Lifting his eyes to the veranda, the music swelled, seeming to crescendo the view in front of him. There she was, dancing with Nik, moving smoothly along the line of the pillars overlooking the courtyard. Raja stood, straining to see if perhaps she might be searching for him. Her back was to him and her head was tilted up to… Then just like the view from the raft, a face, that same face, jumped out of the crowd of dancers, and looked straight at him. Most assuredly the man on shore was Nik with that same smug, knowing gaze. In revulsion, Raja’s head instinctively jerked back to the shadow of the plants and Nik’s face disappeared among the many dancing pairs. Raja stood momentarily, his fists involuntarily clenched. He thought of that face staring at him from the shore, in the hall, and now from the veranda, and anger welled up within him. He glanced at the bench and blindly saw a glowing ball. Grabbing it in a fury, he threw it at the courtyard wall. As it hit, it burst into a stream of light, scattered with flashes, and disappeared. The night seemed to grow darker. Raja shook his head, slumped back to the bench, and covered his face in his hands. His body was famished and fatigued. He wished with everything in him that they’d never left the Island of Resilience. He wished they’d never left Self-Discipline. No, he wished he’d never met Syndi. The air that had seemed warm to him was now cold and dark. He glanced at the towering Villa. If only he had such Villa. He could have. Why had he ever left Yalwuna? Hadn’t he been wealthy? Hadn’t he been respected? He’d sacrificed it all, and for what? Colder...Darker… Yes, if he returned to Yalwuna now, he would build such a Villa...no a larger Villa. He would never have to endure that face--that smug smile--ever again. Colder...Darker… But he’d never built anything this big before. What made him think that he could now? It was no use. Why try? He was so hungry... “You will feel more than one hunger on this island.” Abua’s voice seemed to call to him from the depths of the Sea of Vario, with warmth, light, and remembrance. Raja willed his dark thoughts to hush for a instant. In that stillness, he faintly heard another sound coming toward him, seemingly from far away. He strained to listen. It sounded like a low, rolling bark of a distant dog. Drawing nearer, amidst the cloud surrounding his thoughts, and above the music which seemed far, far away, the barking grew stronger. Raja opened his eyes slowly, as if in a heavy fog, and saw the Golden Labrador that had been with the minstrel on the street, bounding toward him and barking fiercely. His eyes were riveted above Raja’s head. With great effort, Raja shook his mind momentarily free of the encroaching blackness and willed his eyes to look above him. What he saw caused his heart to quake. In a storm of black chaos, pulsing with dark malice, a host of Phoi surrounded him. The familiar, cold fear gripped him mercilessly and Raja sat frozen, petrified by the bitter scene. “Raja, hold up the fruit!” The canine’s voice was as magnificent as his appearance had been to Raja moments before; and he gave him strength. “What fruit?” he said in panic, unable to take his eyes off the Phantoms. “The fruit I left here for you. A sphere--it glowed with the fire of this island. It holds the power you need in this moment.” The deep, powerful barking continued in earnest. Raja perceived the Phoi resentfully drawing back and his mind slowly clearing. He was able to look away and see the dog right in front of him. The enraged destruction of the strange sphere rushed back into Raja’s memory. “I don’t have it anymore. I didn’t know what it was,” he admitted shamefully. Raja’s eyes darted fearfully upward at the inky mass pushing to move closer. Gnashing teeth and clawing hands reached out toward him, only to be held at bay by an unseen force propelled from the Labrador. Still barking wildly toward the Phoi, the Lab jumped onto the bench where Raja sat. “Hold me close to your heart, Raja.” Raja immediately wrapped his arms around the dog. Warmth permeated him instantly, and his mind flooded with memories. As if watching moving pictures from his life, Raja watched Respa and Inrock visiting him, honoring him with their presence and responding to his call. He watched Humil carrying him compassionately through the desert after he ignored his council. His laughter floated to him as Mafid instructed him how to pronounce ‘Platypus.’ Awar’s words hissed forth from the past: “Raja M Tannous, you think you are inadequate. You have the capacity to endure ten times what you must passs through on this journey and still remain true to who you really are. It is no missstake you are in this company of heroessssss. You will not fail.” He felt the serenity of Etmo’s fluttering wings close to his cheek, and smelled the sweet flowers in her solarium...on and on the memories surged, filling his being with immense gratitude and warming his freezing cold soul...meeting Syndi and Liam; Ohwel taking them on the midnight slide down the mountain; all the food and help provided...scene after scene after scene rolled forth in perfect clarity before him.

After what seemed like a very long time, Raja opened his eyes and, to his amazement, he beheld that his wonderful rescuer was glowing. Then he noticed his own arms. They too were aglow with a brilliant white light. Drawing his hands in front of his face and turning them over, he watched them in fascination until the light dissipated. Gazing into the dog’s calm eyes, he whispered in awe, “Who are you?” “My name is Grati. I am the guide of gratitude on this Island of Abundance.” His bearing and voice bespoke majesty. “It was gratitude that dispelled the power of the Phoi, Raja. It is the tool you must constantly use, if you are to overcome discouragement, despair, and disillusionment. These lies of the Phoi can hold no power over you when you are filled with gratitude.” Feeling overcome with profound appreciation, Raja touched the head of his deliverer reverently. The moment was shattered by a loud yell. “Hey! Get out of here!” Raja turned to see Nik running toward the steps and yelling wildly at him. Raja turned to Grati in puzzled amazement. Grati gazed at Nik then spoke, “All things work together for good, Raja. Be keenly aware of the fruit you choose to ingest. The fruits of the Phoi lead to greater and greater emptiness.” Nik’s screaming was coming closer. “Grati, thank you so much for what you did for me. Thank you for helping me remember how indebted I am to so many.” He looked over his shoulder and saw that Nik was fast approaching, still pointing at him and yelling. Syndi followed behind in confusion. In that instant, Raja was amazed that he’d thought of Nik as unflappable. He turned back to Grati with urgency. “It looks like I’ll be forced to leave you. I don’t know what’s going to happen to me; but I’ll remember what I have learned. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me.” Nik was almost upon them. “He’s not yelling at you,” Grati replied. He then leapt gracefully off the bench as Nik pounced with a swinging arm, trying to strike him. Grati barked and ran away across the courtyard and between the two attendants poised at the gate. Dumbfounded, Raja and Syndi stood together watching Nik run after him, screaming orders to the servants to catch the dog, but to no avail. They silently observed the scene until, red-faced, Nik returned to them with a finger pointed at Raja. “Whoa, Nik, relax buddy…” Raja raised his hands and backed away a step. “There are no animals allowed in here!” Nik spat the words at Raja, then added as an afterthought, “And you will call me Nikolas!” Then gathering himself, and looking sideways at Syndi, he straightened his collar and walked swiftly back toward the villa.

Ensuot the Otter

Raja tried to relax in his bed, as his stomach loudly complained about the neglect it was given all evening. Willing it to be still, he allowed his mind to incessantly circle around three main thoughts: Grati the dog, his annoyance for Nik, or rather, “Nikolas”, and Sydni. Thoughts ​ ​ of Sydni alone brought a whole slew of twirling emotions. She had apologized for what ​ ​ happened on their walk back to the villa, and it seemed to him that she heaped a great mass of disapproval at Nik in doing so. It was nice to see her old loyalty and fire in Raja’s defense. He smiled briefly thinking about it. Of course, that was the only glimmer of it he’d seen since Nik’s ​ ​ appearance. He rolled his eyes at the thought of it. Unable to ignore the pain in his stomach any longer, Raja sat up in the spacious bed and rubbed his forehead. Why hadn’t he gotten something to eat at that ridiculous party? Surely a place as big as this has some sort of food preparation area, he thought. Maybe I ​ ​ can just find a snack to tie me over until morning. The more he thought about it, the more ​ resolved he became. There was no way he was going to be able to sleep without something in his stomach. Donned in slippers and a plush robe, Raja slipped out of his room. With no one around, the empty hallways seemed much bigger and lonelier. Raja shivered, involuntarily. It didn’t take long before he became utterly lost. Part of the welcome Nik gave us should have included a map of this place, he mused ​ sulkily. After an hour, he felt frustration burn inside him. This was downright embarrassing. He was tired, irritable, and just wanted something to eat. He saw the red, velvety curtain hanging from the window and glared, wishing to exchange it for a simple piece of bread. Raja’s anger was getting the best of him. He paused, took a deep breath, and began to reason with himself. Raja, you’re lost. You don’t know where to find food, and you don’t know where your room is. You have a choice here. You can panic; or you can realize that you will not be lost for good. In the morning, someone will be available to help you. They will bring you food, and all will be well. Moving the velvet curtain aside, Raja glanced out the window, and smiled. Yes, he was on the ground floor. He could climb out the window, circle around the building, and enter the front door for his room. He had a vague idea where it was from the front door. Deftly, Raja slid out the window and was met with a breathtaking scene. The island was beautiful, bathed in the light of a full moon. As he walked, he felt the dew begin to soak his slippers. He wrapped his robe closer around him. In the distance, Raja saw the Sea of Vario, winking with the reflection of a million colored lights from the houses along the shore. He stood before it, admiring the peace, when suddenly, he was hit with a thick wall of fog. Raja glanced around, bewildered. Where in the world has this come from? ​ He couldn’t see anything around him. Knowing the building to be on his left, Raja stretched out his hands and blindly began inching his way in that direction. Once he found the building, he’d just follow the wall until he got to a door. Raja went a few steps...then a few more. With both hands moving wilding before him, he groped for anything to guide him. When the building refused to materialize, Raja reasoned that, since it wasn’t long ago he ​ ​ ​ ​ was in clear skies, he just needed to retrace his steps to be in the open air again. He turned around and headed back the direction he had come from. Again he took a few cautious steps, then a few more. With each step, the fog just seemed to grow more menacing, swallowing him up. What is going on? Panic started to bubble inside him, but he forced it down. He had learned, hadn’t he? He was never truly lost on one of these islands. Then a brilliant hope entered his mind. He had the compass. The compass would lead the way back to his room. It might even lead him to some food. After all, Respa knew his predicament; and he would care that Raja was lost and hungry. Raja reached into his pockets and froze. He tugged deeper, even as his heart sank into his stomach. His compass was in the pocket of his old clothes, flung in a corner in his room. The location of his room was only known to the building itself. And somehow, he had managed to ​ ​ lose the entire building. Sinking down to the dewy ground, Raja held his head in his hands. He was utterly lost, alone, and moreso, especially, without his compass--his gift from Respa. The compass was his one constant companion this whole trip. Losing it was as bad as losing the function of his legs. How could he have been so careless as to leave such a priceless gift behind? Raja started to walk, and then to run. The building couldn’t be far. It was right next to him before the fog had rolled in! It couldn’t have disappeared. The night seemed to stretch out, with no hint of deliverance. Raja continued to wander blindly in the darkness that engulfed him. Finally, his strength exhausted, he stopped running and held his knees as he took in deep gulps of air. He was cold, damp, and desperate to be out of the fog. Looking upward, all he saw was a cloud of choking grey, and a horrible feeling of despair gripped his heart. “Please,” he whispered. Raja didn’t know how to voice his concerns: his despair at losing the compass; his confusion and worry about losing his way; wondering how he was ever going to get back to his friends; and there was still the fact he was starving. He rubbed his hand across his forehead. “What do I do?” he pled. In that instant, peace flooded into his soul. Respa was still aware of him. Raja knew that, somehow, he’d be okay. Straightening up, Raja took another step and bumped into something. Reaching out, he felt a metal railing of some sort. Even though the air was chilly, the railing inexplicably felt warm to the touch. Raja held fast to it, basking in the warmth that spread from the palm of his hands to his extremities. He wasn’t sure where this path would lead, but it was much better than foundering in this soupy mass. Hand over hand, Raja followed the railing, being careful to never let go, as the fog continued to swirl around him. “Well, hello there, friend!” Raja jumped a foot in the air and lost a slipper. “H-hello? Is someone out there? I need help! I’ve lost my way!” “Oh, I see. Need to be careful in a fog like this,” the mysterious voice said. “Yeah. I… I think I lost a building.” There was a laugh, which had a strange chittering sound to it. “Come closer, friend. Let me help you.” Raja, still afraid to let go of the railing which gave him such warmth, inched closer. “Where are you?” Raja asked. “Let’s see if I can do something about this fog, friend.” Raja heard a loud slapping sound, and the fog began to dissipate. Raja blinked in the growing light. Looking around him, he discovered his lost slipper. As he bent down to grab it and put it on his foot, he noticed a slow moving river running parallel to his path. With a shiver, he realized that the only thing between him and the river was the metal railing that he had followed. He glanced around. Raja was able to see a good few feet in front of him, but he still saw no one. “I don’t know what you did, but thank you!” Raja said. Just then, an otter leapt onto the grassy bank. Raja jumped in surprise again, losing his other slipper. “You’re welcome, friend.” The otter gave another chittering laugh as Raja slipped his foot back into his slipper. “Oh Raja. It is so good to see you!” Raja knelt onto the dewy grass. “Are...are you a guide?” His relief was palpable before he heard the response. “I am indeed! I am Ensuot. How can I be of service to you?” Raja paused, then cocked his head to one side. There so many things he needed help with, he wasn’t sure what to ask for first. “I’m rather hungry,” Raja said. The otter nodded. “Yes. Respa sent this.” He pointed to a bundle wrapped in cloth a foot away from him. Raja wasn’t sure how he missed it. He untied the cloth to reveal bread, grapes, and cheese. Raja dove into the bread, remembering how much he enjoyed eating Respa’s food. He got half way through before he remembered his manners. “Thank you,” Raja said humbly. “Only happy to help!” “I seem to have lost my way. Can you help me?” Raja asked, before taking another bite. “Oh, far from it, friend Raja. You have found it again,” Ensuot said. Raja stopped chewing. “What?” The otter smiled as he slid into the bank of the water. He floated on his back, still watching Raja. “Tell me, how did you feel inside Nik’s villa?” Raja pondered the evening party, remembered the jealousy and anger. He realized being out of the building was the first time he felt genuine peace. “The building was…” Raja didn’t know how to explain it. “I mean, it was comfortable. The clothes were nice, the food looked extraordinary, there was music and dancing, but it seemed...well, hostile.” He shook his head, doubting himself. “At least I felt hostile while I was ​ ​ there, anyway.” He bit off another mouthful. Ensuot nodded pleasantly. “A common trick of the enemy.” Raja stared at the otter. “A trick of the enemy?” he repeated questioningly. He mulled over the words as he continued to chew. Ensuot continued to talk easily. “Lowsapa has many faces.” His otter head and nose nodded. “The Phoi have many tools. None as alluring as on the Island of Abundance.” Raja stopped eating and looked at the otter with a puzzled expression. “Remember, Raja.” Raja thought back. He remembered the minstrel on the street shaking his head ever so slightly, and his own misgivings he’d felt when he’d met Nikolas. He envisioned the villa, and recalled the terrible coldness he felt on the bench in the garden. He recalled Nik’s unexpected outburst and...that face. That face staring at him with such arrogance. “I should have realized before! And… and we...” Raja couldn’t continue. He felt the color drain from his face as the bread tumbled from his hands. “My friends! My friends are still in there! Ensuot, I’ve… I’ve got to go back and get my friends!” Ensuot smiled. “Yes. You have to help your friends.” “Let me…let me go get them and bring them here! You will still be here, right?” he asked. Then he paused, as if remembering something, and asked anxiously, “What if I can’t find the building?” “You will find the building. The fog was a gift, to show you the truth! You couldn’t find it earlier because the villa actually floats in the air; it has no foundation. This is its true nature. Raja’s eyes grew big. Ensuot continued good-naturedly. “And of course, friend Raja,” Ensuot chittered, “I will be waiting here for you and our friends.” Raja scrambled to his feet and scanned the landscape before him. The morning sun peeked over the horizon. Raja hadn’t noticed the fog completely disappear while he was talking with Ensuot. He could see the building in the distance, and knew time was running short. The jog back was quicker than the wandering in the fog. By the time he threw open the doors, there were people filing in and out of the halls, talking and laughing. “Raja?” Raja turned to see Sydni and Liam walk up to him. They were dressed in fine silks. “Raja! We’ve been looking everywhere for you! Come on! We’re going to have some breakfast. I almost couldn’t wait for you; I’m starving!” Sydni said. “Wait, listen for a moment.” Raja took Liam and Sydni’s arms. “We’ve got to get out of here.” Syndi rolled her eyes in response. “What?” Liam looked surprised, taking a few steps as Raja began to drag him. “Why?” “This place isn’t what you think; we’ve got to get out of here. I met-” “Ah, Roho!” Nik’s voice floated pleasantly to Raja’s hearing. “So happy to see you.” Raja turned to see him, and he felt his neck tense. “Good morning, Nik.” “I believe I asked you to call me Nikolas.” Nik’s sardonic smile covered the steely anger Raja detected only in his eyes. “And I said my name was Raja,” Raja returned measuredly. There was a beat of silence. Liam and Sydni glanced between the two of them, confused. Raja watched Nik closely, eyes narrowing in distrust. Nik began laughing. “You are a humorous man, Raja. But, I dare say, are you really coming to the breakfast I’m hosting in those clothes? And, my dear boy, slippers too? Seems a tad odd.” Raja flushed as he looked down at his pajamas and slippers. Syndi giggled and others passing by sniggered. Liam looked around, suddenly defensive for his friend. “Will breakfast start soon?” Sydni asked gleefully, turning to Nik. “Quite soon.” He beamed at Syndi; then, as an afterthought, said over his shoulder, “Hurry, Raja. It would be awful if you missed breakfast.” Raja detected the smallest sarcasm emanate from the words. Nik extended his arm to Syndi, who took it. This action snapped Raja out of any irritation, as he again felt a real danger for his friends. “I was wondering if I could talk to my friends alone,” Raja said. “There’s no need to be secretive.” Nik turned around fully facing Raja with a knowing, mocking smile. “I overheard your little conversation. You said this place wasn’t what it appeared to be.” He gave another smooth laugh. “Come now, Raja. I give you all the food you can eat, your own room, the best of everything! It really is quite bad manners.” Raja swallowed, glancing at his two friends. “Please. Come with me. We’ve got to leave.” “To where, Raja?” Sydni asked. Raja tried to think of an answer, but in his hesitation, Nik began to pull her away. “Come! Off to breakfast! Join us soon, Raja. But please, do yourself a favor and get dressed first.” He parted with a condescending wink in Raja’s direction and an arm leading Syndi away. She looked over her shoulder long enough for Raja to see her brow furrowed in uncertainty. Liam looked at Raja as if looking for direction. Raja quickly walked to him and whispered, “Follow her. We’ve got to get her away from him and all of us away from this place. I’ll try to figure out something.” “Raja, you seem to know something I don’t; but I’m sooo hungry for breakfast! Surely it doesn’t matter if we eat breakfast?” Raja swallowed hard. “I suppose not, Liam.” Raja watched his friends go. His mind raced, not sure what to do. He rushed toward his room, only getting lost twice, and finally entered it. His eyes darted through the opulence of it all, until he located a humble bundle of clothes lying in the corner. He ran, searching through his clothes until he felt the hard, familiar metal of the compass. He let out a sigh of relief and held it close to his chest. Never again would he be so careless. Raja changed out of his pajamas and into his old clothes again. They had a familiar feel to them. He walked down the hallway to the open doorway of the dining hall. He saw the breakfast table with people sitting all around it. Raja watched as the people dived for the food, eating quickly, then grabbing for more food. He watched, mesmerized, feeling like he had seen this kind of thing before. It came to him in a flash: The scene with Abua, where the creatures were eating and eating and never stopping. Raja’s eyes widened in fear. His friends were there, eating like they wouldn’t eat again for weeks. Even Liam was eating in a frenzied way, unbecoming of him and who he was. “Care to join them for breakfast?” asked a servant, glancing at Raja’s attire scornfully. Raja took a few steps away, not wanting to stay another moment. “I already ate,” he said quietly, before turning around and heading back out through the doors.

“Ensuot!” Raja yelled. “Ensuot! I need help!” He found the otter still in the river, holding a piece of kelp, drifting only as far as the kelp allowed. “Good morning, friend Raja!” Ensuot said. “They didn’t believe me! Nik got to them before I could explain! He must know I know! What do I do?” “Hmmm,” Ensuot said as he clung to the piece of kelp. “Quite the problem indeed!” “Do you have any ideas?” he asked. Ensuot puffed out his furry chest. “I wouldn’t be a guide of Abundance if I didn’t!” “Wonderful! So what do I do?” “You help them, friend Raja. Encourage them, uplift them, and serve them.” Raja waited, but Ensuot said nothing more as he held on to his kelp. “How does that help them get out of the enemy’s hands? They are in danger!” “Very much.” Raja felt the panic return but tried to calm it. He had to trust this guide sent from Respa. “Tell me how it works.” Ensuot smiled again. “Your friends are getting farther into the enemy’s trap, and they must choose whom to follow. It doesn’t take much to serve and to encourage; but it makes a world of difference. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather be with someone who serves and uplifts me.” Raja studied the grass. Ensuot leapt onto the bank. “Don’t worry, friend Raja. You can never go wrong when you encourage and support your friends, especially in times when they don’t seem to be deserving. And should you need help, I will be waiting for you here. I am anxious to see them here!” “Yes,” Raja said. “I’m anxious to see them here, too.” “Remember all you’ve learned, friend Raja. It will aide you.” Ensuot grabbed another bundle wrapped in cloth and gave it to Raja. “Don’t eat the food in there.” “I won’t. Thank you.” Raja stood up and turned. The task ahead felt so daunting. He glanced back at Ensuot, who gave him an encouraging nod. “You can do this, friend Raja. You have the skills to be the leader they’re searching for.” Raja’s soul lightened at his words. It gave him the courage to face the building again.

“Raja, where were you? We didn’t see you at breakfast!” Liam said. “I’d already eaten.” He had found Liam and Sydni again; and of course Nik was next to Sydni. He tried to think of what Ensuot suggested, but still wondered where he could even begin. “I know we just ate, but I can’t wait until lunch. Nik has told us that the cook is making a special dish from Yalwuna! Not sure which, but I bet it’ll be delicious.” Syndi bubbled with excitement. Raja felt Nik watching for his response closely. Raja tried not to show his nerves. “You should join us, Raja,” Nik said. “Oh, no, it’s quite alright.” Nik seemed to stare holes into the side of Raja’s face. “I insist. You’ll be my guest of honor.” “If Raja doesn’t want to eat the wonderful food here, it’s his loss.” Sydni carelessly shrugged. Raja noted that whatever concerns she’d been feeling before breakfast were now gone. “Yes, I’m glad you all made it here. You’ve journeyed too long. Look at the lot of you--skinny as the knives we use for bread. It is time to celebrate, relax, and eat, dressed in our finest!” Raja bit his lips as his mind concocted an insult. But he stopped himself, breathing deeply instead. His heart again felt rooted and firm. “I am forever indebted to Respa for what he’s provided on our journey. Sydni, you’ve been wonderful on this trip. I’m glad you’ve been with me.” Sydni’s sarcastic smile paused curiously. “And you, Liam. You’ve gotten us out of so many tight spots. You are truly invaluable.” “Yes, yes,” Nik said, waving away Raja’s comments. “But more importantly, food. Syndi, Liam, would you like a tour of what we’ll be serving the lunch on? It is only the finest dinnerware...” “Absolutely!” Sydni ejaculated. Liam shrugged. Raja watched with trepidation as Nik lead his friends away from him once again. How was this going to work? He needed to talk to them, but Nik would find some way to stop him. He glanced down at the floor momentarily. When he looked up, he saw Nik pausing at the open door his friends had entered. His face was turned...watching Raja. Nik’s steely eyes transformed instantly to a smirk, as he turned on his heel and entered the room. Ensuot told him to encourage and support, but how long would it take? Raja tried not to think about it, as he made his way down the hall. Maybe he could serve his friends somehow. Find something to do for them. Raja walked into Liam’s room and saw his drawing satchel. He opened it, and looked within to see all the instruments of Liam’s beautiful gift. Perhaps, if he painted Etmo’s solarium... Liam knew Raja couldn’t paint, and so did Syndi. Raja raised his eyebrows with a big sigh, but he felt like he was out of choices. Perhaps...perhaps he could just do enough to get Liam to remember. Raja grabbed the pad of paper with the watercolors and began, holding the vision of Etmo and the solarium in his mind. After several hours, he stopped and took in the reds and greens and pinks covering the paper. Embrace the Moment. he thought. Encourage and Support Others. ​ ​ Etmo’s loveliness gazed up at him. Raja’s eyes started drooping. He’d been lost and awake all night; and it was finally catching up with him. He tried to push it away so he could move on and paint something for Sydni; but his eyes closed involuntarily, and he was soon fast asleep.

“Raja?” The sound jerked him awake and he sat up. He’d been lying on the floor, the picture on the ground next to him. Liam was at the doorway, looking curious. Sydni appeared behind him. “Raja, what are you doing?” Liam asked. Raja sighed, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. “Well, I’m trying to paint Etmo for you.” He gazed up at Liam. “I know she was very special to you. Syndi, I was about to start Ohwel for you, but I must have drifted off! We’ve experienced so many guides together; I thought it would be neat to remember them here.” Liam frowned. “You know, this is pretty good. I can actually tell it’s a bird.” Something of Liam’s wry sense of humor shown from his face. Raja felt a surge of relief to see that his gift had found its mark in Liam’s heart. “I know. You could do much better.” Liam handed the picture to Syndi. She gazed with a soft smile at Etmo’s eyes. “Raja, we’ve been through so much together.” She looked at him affectionately. Raja half expected to see Nik appear at their side, but he didn’t. He felt he must seize this moment before something interrupted his friends’ nostalgia. “We need to get out of here. It’s not safe,” Raja said. “No! We’re completely safe!” Syndi snapped out of her reverie. Her anger was so sudden, Raja was unsure what to do with it. “Look at us! We have food! We have this huge place to stay in! We’re going to have parties every night! It’s great! We’re having a great time! I’m sick of you trying to make us leave!” Raja realized she was trying to convince herself of the safety of this place. He was hit with the second realization that she was still hungry; and when she was hungry, Syndi got angry. The food here would never satisfy her. And just as quickly, Raja knew how to serve them. He pulled out the bundle of cloth and laid it open in his palm to show the humble lunch he was supposed to eat. Sydni and Liam stared at it before they quickly broke the bread apart and ate the food. Silent tears ran down Sydni’s cheeks as she ate some more. “Where did you get that?” Liam asked. Raja smiled. “You already know. Do you want to meet our next guide?” They both nodded emphatically.

Ensuot was delighted to see them. He laughed and chittered as he taught Sydni and Liam about encouraging and supporting others. Sydni smiled as she brushed her shoulder against Raja’s. “It all makes sense now. You were trying to encourage and support us by reminding us of all our lessons with your drawing!” Syndi smiled, and added playfully, “That’s the first drawing you’ve ever done that we could tell what it was!”

Raja laughed. “I had to try something drastic. You two were pretty unaware in there.” Syndi paused. Raja put his arm around her in a hug. “Thanks for getting us out of there” Liam said sincerely. “It’s only now that I’m away from that place that I feel the difference.” He breathed in deeply and stretched, while looking around at Ensuot and the river. “This place is better than any villa.”

Cobamu the Sea Turtle

The late afternoon sun glistened white on the river. The time with Ensuot had been both healing and restful. He had counseled them to find a way to encourage and support each other every day. “You’ll be amazed,” he added, “at the payment you’ll receive!” “The payment? Does it pay to encourage and support?” asked Liam with scepticism. “I mean, I guess it feels good; but it seems you’re expending energy and resources, not getting ​ ​ ​ ​ paid.” He smiled. ​ “More than I can tell you, friend Liam. You’ll have to experience and become more aware of the wealth for yourself; it is beyond description. I can promise, however, that you’ll always have more and to spare if you do.” Then he turned their attention to the river. “Take this mighty river, for example. Most of us take it for granted that it is here to serve us and meet our needs. It’s my home, and I am truly grateful for it. But have you ever wondered where all of this water comes from?” Interested, they each waited for Ensuot to continue. “Do you see Mt. Abua in the distance there?” Raja, Liam, and Syndi turned to where Ensuot pointed. Mt. Abua stood majestically in the distance. “At the very top of Mt. Abua is a spring of water,” Ensuot explained. “It is constant in its flow and it gives pure refreshment to every thirsty traveler who dares to make a quest to the summit. As the spring works its way down the mountain, giving all the way, it meets up with other small, like-minded springs. They join together and form a larger brook, which then serves the larger circle of life. As more water finds its way down the mountain, it easily flows into this brook and it expands, ever increasing, until it finds its way to the valley. Here, you see its amazing transformation into this mighty river.” The three friends regarded the river with new appreciation. Ensuot continued, “And it doesn’t stop here. This river continues its journey, freely serving every living plant and animal on both sides of it, until it finally makes its way to the Sea of Vario, where it will join the salt water that feeds the abundant marine life who live there.” “I had no idea that such abundance could grow from such humble beginnings,” observed Syndi thoughtfully. “The life of this river is one of never ending service,” said Ensuot. “It lives always to give. And because this is its nature, it never grows stagnant or bitter. The true nature of abundance flows like this mighty river. It is our choice to abound in its flow. As we do so, giving away our resources to those who can benefit from them, we too will experience the miracle of never drying up or growing stagnant. There is real happiness in such a life.” Raja, Liam, and Syndi silently looked out to the Sea of Vario, each pondering Ensuot’s words. “Now, friend Raja, friend Liam, and friend Syndi, it is time for you to continue your journey down the river to meet your next guide. You will find her where the mouth of the river meets the Sea of Vario. May you always abound in flow. And remember, live always to give encouragement and support. Farewell.” With that, Ensuot dove gracefully into the river and was gone. “Well,” suggested Raja, “it seems like we have a pretty clear path to follow. Shall we go?” Liam nodded his head in agreement, as Syndi said, “Let’s go!”

They walked nearly two hours in the growing dusk before finally reaching the mouth of the river. The stars were beginning to twinkle in the growing night sky, joined by a full moon just waking up on the horizon. Looking up and down the beach for their next guide, Syndi was the first to spot an enormous sea turtle a short distance away from them. She seemed to be sweeping the sand with her yellow-rimmed, paddle-like flippers. Feeling somewhat reserved, they waited for her to take notice of them. She seemed to move at her task slowly, as if she was exhausted. Finally, after several minutes of sand flying every which way, she stopped; and giving a slight nod of satisfaction, began pulling herself toward the sea on her powerful flippers. As she did so, she noticed the three friends staring at her. She stopped and stared back. Then, with a beak-like smile spreading across her face, she called out to them. “Come. I have something to give you.” Her voice was smooth and mellow, lyrical even. Raja, Liam, and Syndi trudged along the dry, sandy beach toward her. She was already making her way to a large grove of trees that bordered the shoreline. It wasn’t long before they caught up with her. Without stopping, she introduced herself, “I am Cobamu, a guide of Abundance; and I am very happy to make your acquaintance, my young friends. You came just in time. It is nearly time for me to go.” “Go where?” asked Syndi. Cobamu stopped and craned her neck to look toward the calm Sea of Vario. “Back to my home,” she replied softly. “Don’t you live here?” asked Raja, surprised. “No, Raja, I do not. This wonderful island is certainly where my life began, and I return to lay my eggs here. But my journey requires me to leave these beautiful shores. I am here only a short time, a few times every year.” They were nearing the edge of the trees when Liam asked, “Why were you sweeping the sand back there?” “I was disguising my nest, in hope to keep it safe from predators, Liam. This is the sixth and final nest I have made this season. Because I am not here to protect my clutch, I do my best to encourage its chance for survival by making it look like every other part of the beach.” They had reached a small incline in the slope of the land, and Cobamu struggled to get up it. The three friends waited patiently for her to push her way to the top before following. The sun had completely dipped below the horizon. Cool moonlight shown down on them and reflected off Cobamu’s brown, marbled shell. Walking a few paces into the grove, Cobamu stopped and said, “Here we are.” Then, gesturing to the trees and berry patches that greeted them, she announced, “You are welcome to eat anything you desire. Please, help yourself.” The three friends stopped and stared in astonishment. Fruits, of every imaginable species, grew in this immense orchard of plenty. The branches of the trees hung low, laden with enough food for the entire population of island to enjoy, and perhaps even more! They all seemed to reflect the glow of the moonlight on their smooth surfaces, giving the hungry travelers a fair light to see by. Gratefully, they each chorused, “Thank you!” Raja, Liam, and Syndi each chose a fruit they hadn’t ever tried before. With the first bite, amazed exclamations burst forth from their lips. “This strawberry tastes like pineapple!” announced Syndi. “I have never seen a white strawberry before! Raja, Liam, you need to try these!” They both stepped forward eagerly and picked a strawberry. With their first bite, the eyes of both men shot wide open in surprise. Syndi couldn’t help but laugh at their uniformed expressions of delight. Cobamu, too, smiled at their enjoyment. Then she instructed, “How many seeds can you see on one strawberry?” The three friends each stopped and held a strawberry in front of them, as they attempted to count the tiny red seeds on one white berry. After a minute, Liam announced, “I counted 75.” Raja added, “69 in mine.” Syndi finally concluded, “I think there were 73, but I might have missed one or two.” “Very good,” observed Cobamu. “As you can see, you can count the seeds on one strawberry; but can you count the strawberries that will come from one seed?” The three friends looked at her as they worked the question out in their minds. “No,” answered Syndi confidently. “We have no idea how many berries will grow from one plant. It would depend on the life of the plant, wouldn’t it?” “You’re absolutely right, Syndi. And the propagation doesn’t stop there. Once a plant is established, the mother plant has offspring—new plants—that are linked to her through tendrils. These runners take root in another part of the soil and grow their own plant. So, from the seed and the root, there is no end to the possibilities of fruit that can come from just one, tiny seed. There is no end, for it comes back multiplied.” Raja carefully picked out one seed from his strawberry. It sat on the end of his finger, like a tiny pinprick of blood. He studied it in awe, contemplating its amazing potential. “Do you now understand what Abundance means, Raja?” “Abundance is Life. It is everything that makes us able to create and to give. It is truly the Law of Life.” “Yes. True Abundance is indeed creation. It is true wealth and true power to do amazing things with your life.” Pausing, Cobamu looked toward the sea and said, “It’s time. Come, I want to show you something.” Using her flippers, she slowly led them back to the beach where she stopped before a place in the sand that looked like a miniature sinkhole. Cobamu’s eyes grew soft. “Now watch...” As they all peered at it, the sand began to twitch and move right before their eyes, when suddenly, a tiny turtle’s head poked through. “Oh,” exclaimed Syndi in amazement. Then, without warning, several more hatchlings erupted from the sand and began emerging from their underground nest, in a valiant group effort. A steady stream of tiny bodies flowed out of the sand and immediately spread out over the beach before them. Instinctively, each baby turtle turned toward the white, frothy waves of the Sea of Vario and began scampering their way toward their new home. Tiny flippers pushed on in a sprint-like effort to reach the safety of the water. In the miracle of the moment, Cobamu whispered, “They are orienting themselves to the brightest horizon. They need to find the water quickly before they die of dehydration. The moonlight reflecting on the waves shows them where to go.” Raja, Liam, and Syndi stared dumbfounded as baby sea turtles, no larger than Syndi’s palm, continued streaming out of the sand. Liam began counting, but quickly abandoned his effort as dozens of tiny hatchlings scattered across the beach. The lead turtle was just reaching the shoreline when a gentle wave enveloped it and it was swept into the sea. Moments later, another swell embraced several others who had reached the water. They, too, disappeared in an instant. “How many are there?” Liam finally asked Cobamu. “I’m guessing around 80. That is the usual number of a bale.” “Of a bale?” asked Liam in confusion. “When I make a nest, I will lay around 100 eggs. That is called a clutch. When the babies hatch, as you are now witnessing, the group of them together is called a bale. They instinctively know that the obstacles of their tender, young lives are perilous; so they decide, before ever leaving the safety the nest, to face this part of their lives as a unit.” The three friends looked at each other in appreciation, as each simultaneously remembered the recent peril they were in with Nik. They, too, understood the benefit, and even vital necessity, of sticking together. As if reading their minds, Cobamu asked Raja, “What have you seen in others on this Island?” Raja paused to consider his answer, then said, “I see Warriors of Light who seem to have forgotten that this is an island of transformation, not the destination. They have mistaken a life of ease and opulence for abundance.” Cobamu nodded her head in agreement. “A trick of the Phoi is to twist the meaning of this Island into one of selfish gratification.” She looked at Raja, Liam, and Syndi in turn as she spoke. “The Phoi are cunning and shrewd. They whisper into the ears of weary travelers that their journey has been fulfilled here. They define abundance as popularity, vanity, and material possessions that lull the foolish into thinking they are rich and powerful. It is all deception, my young friends.” “But aren’t they correct in some respect?” interjected Liam. “From what I can see, everyone here has more than enough to eat, nice clothing, fine houses, luxury and leisure. I’d say they are pretty abundant.” “These gifts are certainly a part of what abundance can look like, but they don’t give the full picture of what abundance is. True abundance centers on the art of giving it away. When you give of your creation, it comes back to you multiplied. Look at my offspring. They have all come from one creation—one life—my life! It is my opportunity to give them back to the sea, and they will soon begin their own transformational journeys and gain their own life experiences. In time, my daughters will return and create new life from their own abundant resources, and the multiplicity of life will continue from these shores forever.” Nodding to Raja, Cobamu continued, “Raja is correct. You were never meant to stay here, my young friends. This island is not the end of your journey; in fact, in many ways, it is the beginning. It is Cowra where your sights must be set. You are nearly there. As you receive True Abundance into your life, you will be empowered to receive the Light that will make you the powerful Warriors you desire to be.” “But how do I take the abundance this island offers with me?” asked Syndi, a little anxiously. Coming from her background of poverty and slavery, Raja understood her need to ask. Cobamu smiled upon her with gentle understanding. “When you left the Island of Humility, did you leave everything behind that you had gained?” “No.” “How about the lessons of Awareness, Commitment, and Courage?” “No.” “Self-Discipline and Resilience?” “I see where you are getting at,” Syndi replied excitedly. “The truths and insights I gained from every island has now become part of me. As with them, I will remain abundant no matter where I go?” “Yes! Your choices to grow from your experiences has transformed you into a new woman—and Raja and Liam into new men. You are no longer without humility, awareness, courage, or optimism. You have each put forth the valiant effort to apply these principles into your lives and now you can see the individual fruits of your labors. This is the Law of the Harvest: you reap in proportion to what you sow. The greater the effort, the greater the reward. ​ ​ What fruits can you identify in yourself, Raja?” Again, Raja paused to consider his answer. “I certainly am more teachable,” he replied thoughtfully. “On Yalwuna, I believed I had everything figured out; I can now see how much I don’t know. But, gratefully, I have guides to teach me, so I know I can always learn. I was prosperous in my previous life, and I thought it was abundance. Now I see it differently. With the transforming gifts I have received from my experiences, I am far richer now, without any foreseen material wealth in my future, than I ever was on Yalwuna. I am truly happy, and I am excited to share what I have gained with others. I have lost nothing, but gained so much!” “You are truly abundant; yes, to be sure,” agreed Cobamu joyfully. “You know you have the true spirit of Abundance when you desire to give away what you have gained.” Then, looking out to sea, Cobamu continued, “Do not be afraid to cast your fruits freely upon the waters for others and, because of the Law of the Harvest, you are sure to have it come back to you multiplied.” They all watched in reverence, as a gentle wave swaddled the last of the tiny turtles, and drew them in—Cobamu’s fruit, liberally given; and they each knew in their hearts that what she had spoken was true. They didn’t know what their own futures looked like, but they sensed a great joy in this Law of Life that promised them so much. “Are you ready to begin?” asked Cobamu tenderly. Raja, Syndi, and Liam looked at each other with radiant faces. Each man taking one of Syndi’s hands, they faced Cobamu and answered, in unison, “Yes!”

Faiho

After spending several days in the pleasant surroundings of the gardens, Cobamu informs the travelers that the last leg of their journey is at hand and they are to head northeast as they will be transported to the Land of Cowra from the farthest beach on the Island of Abundance. She gently reminds them that the Island of Abundance is in fact the largest of them all, but asks them to promise her that they will remember the lessons she has taught them, to never fear to give freely and to know that the land of Cowra is the greatest treasure of all. The travelers, supplied from the gardens and Cobamu’s generosity, take their journey in deep contentment and gratitude with high expectations of what lies ahead. The second day on their journey, they come upon the grandest mansions surrounded by gardens and orchards. They discuss that they wouldn’t mind seeing inside one of them and determine to stop. To their surprise, there is no answer to their knocks, in fact they don’t see anyone. “Perhaps Respa has prepared this all for us?” Raja proposes. Syndi and Liam agree and so they enter the house. Filled with riches, foods, art, plants, and every comfort imaginable, they enter pensively at first and then eagerly go through the house. All things do seem prepared for them. They each claim their own quarters and sleep in bliss through that night, and the next night, and the next. Days, then weeks go by. The relief of security begins to dull their prior dreams of Cowra. They lounge, they eat, they sleep, life is full and rich and beautiful. More beautiful than any of them could imagine. One day, Raja arose early and went out to the orchard. The sun was just rising and the temperature perfect. He drank in the beauty of the flowers and the fruits for the hundredth time in contentment and joy, being grateful he’d persevered throughout the long journey to this place. Suddenly, He heard a familiar cry. He looked up with expectation and there was Inrock, flying overhead. “Hello, Raja, my friend.” The voice of Respa was behind him. He turned with a grin and rushed to the Crocodile. “Respa! Respa, thank you for this place. How could I have ever known what would await me when you invited me to leave Yalwuna! Thank you for bringing me here.” “Raja, how you’ve grown!” The beast’s voice rumbled with warmth; and the praise caused Raja’s heart to burst with joy. “I don’t know how to repay what you have given me. What can I ever do for you, Respa?” Respa seemed to smile. “Raja, there is more for you, more than is even here. This is all for you to enjoy, yet there is more. Would you like to continue on to Cowra, and after that, return to Yalwuna to bring others, many others here?” His eyes seemed to gleam with triumph as he spoke, and Raja at once remembered the words from Cobamu and Ensuot concerning bringing others to this place. His eyebrow furrowed thoughtfully as he looked around at the beauty he now enjoyed. After several moments, he turned back and said, “I think we will, Respa...Respa?” Raja looked around quickly, then up. There was no sign of the Crocodile or the Eagle. Breathing out in momentary exasperation, he headed back to the house. “So they show up, ask you to head back to Yalwuna, and then they don’t say anything else?” Liam asked Raja as they sat eating breakfast together. “Pretty much,” Raja returned dolefully. “Well, what else can we do then?” Liam responded matter-of-factly. Raja sighed. He knew they would leave. He knew they would go, he just wanted to stay in this place. It was the greatest place he’d ever known. Not only was there luxury, there was peace - and having passed through so much unrest; this he wanted to hold on to. Syndi got up from the far side of the table and approached Raja. She took his hand and looked at him with determination. “Raja, we will leave with you, I hope you know that. We know you will do it, and you needn’t wonder if we are with you.” The next day, packed and ready, they left headed northeast. Within a day, the terrain became rocky. The going was rough. They continued on. Day after day, they followed the compass. It led them through muddy rivers, dry and barren passes, over steep hills and climbs. Still they traveled on, each with their eyes toward Cowra. Hardest of all were the desert nights. After the heat of the day left, the sudden ​ coldness of the night chilled them to the bone. Raja often thought how the current ​ experiences mirrored what they had already come through, so they did not doubt they would persevere. Born of past victories, and always having a guide show up at the perfect moment for the duration of their journey, gave them courage, and hope. Following the compass, at last they arrived at a mountain range. As far as they could see were mountains. They began their climb late afternoon and just before nightfall and much to their dismay, a lightning storm, worse than any before began flashing around them. Rain began to fall. Not only could they not find shelter, but they could hardly see one step in front of the other. “Keep climbing up!” Raja shouted through the rain. “I am sure there will be shelter closer to the summit!” On through the night, the struggle continued. The travelers helped each other over the sliding rocks, their hands being cut by jagged edges. Right when Syndi had almost lost all of her strength, she looked upward and through the rain saw something. Blinking amidst the falling rain, she pointed to it, calling to Raja. The men turned to see what she saw. After moments they all agree that it is getting larger. Off in the distance, like the point of an arrow, a piercing light is headed in their direction. It grows closer and closer. As it does, the area is illuminated slowly, bit by bit, until, as if bringing the dawn, the entire mountain becomes clearer and clearer, yet the travelers all hold their gaze on the point of the illumination, until she lands right in front of them. A dove. “Look!” she seemed to say looking. Around they turned and the magnificence of what they have achieved rested upon them. They have arrived at the pinnacle of the mountain and are overlooking the Sea of Vario. There in the harbor, set for sail, is a ship to take them on their journey. After celebrating together they sit and listen to the dove. “I am Faiho the Dove.” Her voice sounded like liquid crystal. “Well done, my friends, on this final victory, for now you will have the light I bring with you always. You have felt it in your hearts as you pressed forward, from the beginning, but now you have passed through the deepest night yet and still maintained your hope. The travelers looked at each other in agreement. Hope and Faith, these two powers have kept you going in various spots along your journey, and now you have them so deeply rooted, you will always have them. As you return to Yalwuna, you will know that you will return here with many people, and together, you will enjoy the riches of Cowra which are beyond your wildest dreams.

“Come my friends, let us finish your journey to Cowra!”

With renewed strength, the traveler’s journey down the mountain and onto the awaiting vessel, heading to Cowra - where everyone is free to be, who they really are!