Spring Break
Chapter 24
By Rachel76m
Edited by Don Kaufman

We arrive in the courtyard at the Grand Castle like before. We see that we have arrived a quarter-mark before the noon repast on the Great Sundial.

“That's amazing, Sir Halgren. We were able to accomplish all that this morning.”

“Yes, it is, Richard.”

We see more people coming in from the pavilion camps and walking towards the Grand Castle. The royalty greets them as they come. They are glad they came back in time for the noon repast.

Sir Trenton, Sir Valmar and Sir Leland approach us.

“Greetings, Sirs.”

“Greetings, you two. How did it go?”

“We found out that only seven bombs were made. Ghathne destroyed the designs after he made the last one for Draknor, but the Enclave kept the list of ingredients for the compounds.”

“Is Ghathne still alive?”

“No, Sir Trenton. He returned to the Maker ten years ago.”

“I see.”

“Graythor is the new leader in that enclave in Bnar's Under Kingdom. The Outside Helpers have determined he is very smart. He can't wait to start working on the ideas we gave him.”

“That's good, Richard.”

“We already told both enclaves about the special fans for the sea dragons. Hopefully, they will have them built in time for them at the next full outer moon.”

“Excellent, Sir Halgren, that is good news.”

“What's even better, we were able to reorganize the list of elements. We gave him clues on how to look for the missing ones.”

They have wide smiles on them now.

“We also encouraged them to share their knowledge, especially with the metals they have discovered so far.”

“Praise the Maker. Thank you, Richard.”

“You're welcome, Sir Trenton. More than likely they will provide the ores to you. Then it will be up to you to figure out the combinations and how much of each to improve your weapons, for example.”

“Of course, of course, Richard. This is great news.”

“They have some tools down there to determine and catalogue the properties of the elements. We gave them some hints on some additional properties so they can guess better and what to look for.”

“That is great news, Richard. I look forward to coming up with some trading arrangements with them. Thank you very much.”

“You're welcome. There is one more piece of good news, Sir Trenton.”

“There is, Richard? If you keep this up we might have to dedicate a hall or a building in your name.”

“A dedication? I never had that honor. It might be best to include all of the Outside Helpers.” I smile at them.

“Hmm... you do have a point, Richard.”

They all smile back.

“Anyway, we did a recording with Blakner's enclave in King Thranton's Under Kingdom. We talked about increasing the need to teach the rest of Twainor. If you want to learn more about plants, go to Antarte for example. If you want to know more about power and machines go to Laurentil Islands.”

“That is great, it is because of the influence of the Outside Helpers. Right?”

“That's right, Sir Leland. We expressed the need to start teaching the children when young.”

“What do they need to know?”

“Well, basic math problems like adding and subtracting. Learning to read and write. Learn more about Twainor like taking note of the herds of wild animals here.”

“I see, to be more aware.”

“That's right. They need to learn how to do basic first aid and how to stop bleeding and getting help.”

“Yes, that's very important, Richard.”

“They can do field trips to see how others work at their jobs. Who knows, someone might have a good guess as to how to create electrical devices that work in the Ethereal Space.”

“In Blakner's enclave we saw a time piece or clock on the wall.”

“It's similar to the one I have here on my wrist Sir Trenton.” I show it to the commanders.

“I remember that now.”

I show them my wrist watch. “This is mine. The clock we saw is on a wall in the enclave. He said it matches with the sundial.”

They smile at me.

“That's interesting, Richard.”

“Blakner told us there is a shop in Harsten that makes and sells them.”

“I didn't know that.”

“I'm sure they cost some gold pieces.”

“I'm sure they will. Perhaps your smiths can learn how to make one.”

“Yes, anything is possible. Well, we better get inside. It's almost time for the noon repast.”

We all smile and nod our heads to each other. We walk inside the Grand Castle and to the Grand Dining Room. We sit in our sections like before. Up front we see additional seating for the dwarf Kings and Queens.

I sit down with Sir Halgren on my right, Renard on my left. Across from me are a Castle Lord, a Lady and Trianna. We are in the first half towards the front.

Avel, the fairies and the centaurs are towards the rear half of our group. The Commanders are sitting up front. The rest of Thryson Kingdom sit where they wish to sit next to each other. The escorts for the dwarf royalty are split and sitting near the dwarf ambassadors in each kingdom.

The servers mingle among the tables, they make sure the glasses are filled with what they need to drink.

The Chamberlain is standing on the floor in center front. He looks around making sure everyone is being seated. Once he sees they have settled down, he takes his staff and taps on the floor two times, he pauses and taps two times again. “Tap! Tap! ....
Tap! Tap!”

Everybody quiets down and pays attention to the front.

King Dryden stands up. “Welcome,Twainor and Outside Helpers. This is the last full meal we'll have together. Once we are done then we can break camp and return to our respective kingdoms. The Outside Helpers will have their last night with their respective kingdoms tonight. Then tomorrow morning, your choice to provide a morning repast. We suggest you send our Outside Helpers back home between the Second and Third Mark.”

Everybody claps and cheers to the announcement.

King Dryden puts his hand up to quiet us down.

“We all have learned a lot while they have been here. We wish you all the protection and guidance from the Maker of Universe. Keep safe until we need you again. You have solved many problems for us. And you have revealed some thorns that tried to bring us harm. Twainor thanks you from the bottom of our hearts.”

Everybody claps and cheers again.

King Dryden puts his hand up to quiet us down again.

“I'll give another short speech after the meal. Chamberlain, it’s time to begin the noon repast.”

“Yes, my King.” The Chamberlain turns and walks to his left.

The servers put down the pitchers. Everybody claps and cheers while they walk to the kitchen.

The Chamberlain opens the doors that lead to the kitchens. He walks inside to make the announcement. “It's time to begin, Master Chef.”

The servers walk in behind him to receive the carts of food.

“Thank you, Chamberlain.”

The Chamberlain leaves the kitchen. Once he leaves the servers start wheeling out the plates of food.

The royalty are served first then the twelve kingdoms.

I see a plate of greens placed in front of me. On top of the greens are two vegetables and two different slices of fruit. There is a mild spice sprinkled on top of it.

We all enjoy the first dish immensely. We eat and talk like before.

“We'll miss you, Richard.”

“I'll miss you all too, Lady Elena. At least I'll have these memories with me. I think it will be best to write these experiences down quickly before I forget them.”

“Perhaps a crystal will do it better Richard.”

“If I did that, I don't know how to retrieve the images.”

“Well, as smart as you are, you might figure it out.”

“Perhaps, Lord Randson, perhaps.”

We smile at each other. We continue eating the first dish and drinking from our mugs.

When we get done the servers come to take our plates away. When they come back in with the carts; they are filled with the main meal.

On the plate we see a mix of bird, fish and vegetables. However, the arrangement is different. There is one piece of fish in middle and two bird portions on the plate. There are three vegetable portions including some mushrooms. Each one is spiced with two different spices that complement each other.

Again we enjoy the meal set before us. It is a very delicious meal. We talk about many things we have seen and heard these past seven days or so.

The main dish proved to be another masterpiece from the Master Chef. As soon as we get done with the dish, the servers come in to take the plates away. They come back in with fruit bowls. In front of us is an entirely different arrangement than last time.

The fruit bowl contains one large piece cut from each fruit that is found in all of the kingdoms. The fruit is still attached to the skin, but the seeds are removed. The four cookies are there like before. But this time the cookies are different than last time. There is a light spice sprinkled on top instead of sweet syrup. The servers also leave a damp cloth for each of us.

We enjoy the challenge of trying to get the fruit removed from the skins. It is not a neat task to do. The spice gives it nice additional touch to it as well. We had to use our damp cloths from time to time to keep our chins and ourselves neat. We all giggle and laugh while this goes on. By the time we get to the bottom of the bowl, the juices have all mixed with spice to give it delightful finish. The cookies proved to be useful to soak up some of the juices. I can certainly do something like this when I get back.

When we get done with the fruit bowl, the servers come back in to take our bowls away. They also make sure our mugs are refilled as well. Once everyone has settled down, the Chamberlain is found standing at the side doors to the kitchen. He nods his head at King Dryden.

King Dryden stands up to speak, “Chamberlain, please notify our Master Chef and all of the kitchen staff to come out please.”

“Yes, my King.”

The Chamberlain opens the doors. The kitchen staff walks inside to the main dining room. They all line up side by side. The Master Chef is in the middle of the group.

“Thank you, Master Chef. That was a very delicious noon repast. We'll be sure to remember it for long time.”

Everyone begins to clap and cheer in the dining room. The Master Chef and the kitchen staff bow their heads with smiles. He then steps forward. We all get quiet to hear him speak.

“Thank you for that kind ovation, Twainor and Outside Helpers. We hope the taste of Twainor lingers long on your tongues when you go back home, Outside Helpers.”

Everyone claps and cheers again.

He speaks again, “It has been our honor to serve you all. May we all do this again at the Fall Festival and the Grand Gala Sea Festival.”

Again everyone claps and cheers.

The kitchen staff and the Master Chef bow again. They turn left and walk back to the kitchens.

King Dryden remains standing to speak again.

“Outside Helpers, please come up here side by side.”

We all get up from our seats. We stand in the front and face the main crowd side by side.

“Outside Helpers, we wish to convey our thanks many times over. We know what you have done for us, will pale what we feel in our hearts.”

Everyone clap their hands and cheer wildly.

We all bow with smiles on our faces as we look around. We see fairies flying, singing and dancing in the air as well.

King Dryden raises his hands to quiet the crowd down.

“Richard, what can we say from our hearts? You have taught us and reconnected the First Ones back to your home world. We all hope and pray peace comes to Earth quickly. We know there is still much work to be done there. Thank you, Richard.”

Everyone stands up to clap their hands. They cheer out loud in a huge crescendo.

I smile as I bow several times to everyone around me.

I stand quietly. Then I raise my hands, they quiet down to hear me speak.

“Thank you very much, Twainor. I must thank the Maker for choosing me. At first I was overwhelmed, but when I saw the First Ones in Thryson Kingdom on my second day, I couldn't believe what I saw. All I can say is that I am humble and glad to meet real live legends from Earth in my life time. Indeed anything is possible from the Maker.”

“Take care, everyone. I made some great friends among the Outside Helpers and everyone here. The Outside Helpers left some clues to keep you real busy and to help you discover more about your world. We don't know when we'll be back again, but you know we will come if called upon. Thank you.”

Then everyone cheers again. The Outside Helpers all hug each other and some of us shake hands with each other. We smile at each other while whispering good thoughts to each of us.

“We'll miss you, Alia.”

“Hey, we'll all miss you, Richard.”

“When you get back home, friends, you better take up some more self defense classes.”

“We will Hikaru, we will.”

“How much longer until you're a judge, Belisar?”

“I don't need that aggravation, Brentann. I'm happy in my position as city prosecutor against the criminals.”

“You know we need to continue our education each day, Geve.”

“Yes Chls, we all need to keep up with the latest discoveries.”

By the time we get done talking with each other. King Dryden interrupts us.

“We know you can continue on all day. But it is time to break camp.”

“Yes, King Dryden.”

“Twainor, you're dismissed. Have a safe journey home, Outside Helpers. We hope to see you all again when we need you.”

“Yes, King Dryden.”

Then everyone stands up from their chairs. We make our way out of the Grand Castle and onto the courtyard. I see all of the First Ones there in a broad circle around us.

The Outside Helpers and I start walking up to each one and hug them closely. When we come to the centaurs we put our arms on each other.

When we get near the dragons they all have smiles on them. We touch each one on the arm. They appreciate the contact they have made back to their home world especially with me.

“You realize, Richard, you're now part dragon.”

“I know, Croin. I may not be able to fly, breathe fire or shoot water streams. But, I know the blood is special. It will be interesting to see what it can do for me.”

When we get near the dwarves, we get on our knees to hug them and put our hand onto their shoulder. When I approach the dwarf royalty, I do the same thing with them. They encourage us all to do well.

When we approach the unicorns, we hug each neck. We shed some tears while we do this. We whisper words of encouragement to each other. The fairies fly around us several times to announce that we are a Fairy Friend for life.

Then the Outside Helpers walk up to each Upper Kingdom Royalty, wizards and sorceresses. We smile and nod our heads up and down before them. The ladies get hugs from the Queens. The male Outside Helpers get a hand onto the shoulder from the Kings.

Once we have said our goodbyes, we start walking back to the pavilions where we are greeted by others who stayed there and are packing up for the return trip.

“It is time, Thryson Kingdom. We are heading back. We trust you the tents and equipment get packed onto the ships. We'll see you in several days at our main port in Marseby.”

“Yes, my King, all will be taken care of.”

“I'll be flying back once the kitchen equipment is packed up on the ships.”

“Yes, Beharn, they are prized possessions. See you in a few marks.”

We all connect together to the wizards and sorceresses like the first time we came there. For the military, the group that arrived first is coming back with us. A second group of knights, yeomen and pages stay behind to help with the tear down.

Once we are connected to them, they recite the transport spell. All of the First Ones and the original group fly back with us. We fly westward towards Thryson Kingdom. It doesn't take long for us to arrive in the courtyard in Thryson Castle. We see a group there waiting for us.

They all clap and cheer once we appear. Then Croin and Marcon take off, flying towards the mountains and the Rainbow Falls.

“Apparently, Marcon can't wait to see his brother Ryujin, Sir Halgren.”

“Yes, Richard.”

King Tierion walks up to me. We nod our heads together at the same time.

“Richard, we know it will be a long today for all of us. You can use this time to relax.”

“Thank you my King. When I flew to Angathorn Kingdom for the first time I had an idea for a gift from me.”

“What is it, Richard?”

“I would like to do a drawing of how Earth looks today. It will show the continents, the oceans and some major island groups.”

“Thank you, Richard. We'll probably have to keep it a secret if we get visitors here. That drawing might lead them to your world.”

“Sigh.... I see the wisdom in that my King. If someone comes from my world and discover a previous visitor has been here. It will be interesting to see what the reactions will be.”

“Yes, it would be, Richard. They would be seeking you out to determine if any secrets have been divulged.”

“I can say right now that hasn't happened. I'm in school right now learning. I'm not working with a company or a nation that demands secrecy. Right now the only thing the Outside Helpers did is to help you to be more aware of your world and how you fit in the Maker's creation.”

“I most heartedly agree with that statement Richard. We wish you the best, and blessings from the Maker when you go back home.”

“Thank you, my King. I wish you, Thryson Kingdom and Twainor the best and blessings from the Maker as well.”

“Ask Renard to locate some paper and markers for what you need.”

“Thank you, my King.”

We nod our heads together up and down with smiles on our faces. We go our ways. I turn around to look for Renard. I don't see him around me. In fact when I look around I don't see anyone at all. I'm all alone in the courtyard. The First Ones have returned back to the forest.

“Hmm... well I'll take a seat in the garden to take in that beauty one more time.”

I walk to the garden to find a bench to sit down. Once I spot a good location I sit down to slow down and to look at the flowers.

This has been an interesting week, Maker. Apparently a change is happening to me, perhaps to Earth one day. I still don't see how you're going to do it. Apparently you are doing it step by step and I'm the first one.

I see the insects flying around from flower to flower. “Sigh... apparently you chose me for a reason Maker. What's next on your agenda?”

I feel a slight cool breeze blowing through the garden. “Yes, it is like home in some ways. Mom always likes to have flowers around our homes. She has her ways to recruit us boys to help her out. In the end I helped her more as Kenny and Mike wanted to do something else.”

I look up and see Renard walking towards me. We smile at each other.

“There you are, Richard. King Tierion told me I would find you out here. He said you wanted to do a drawing of Earth for our library.”

“Yes, Renard; I thought it would be a nice gift so Twainor can see where I'm from. I won't give directions where Earth lies. Besides, I don't have any instruments and telescopes to do that.”

I stand up next to Renard and face him.

“That's okay, Richard. A drawing or two will do.”

I follow Renard into the Castle.

“I have it in my room here, Richard.”

We walk up to the second floor. We walk down the hallways until we reach a door. Renard opens the door. We both walk inside. I see a wizard's study room that reminds me of one I've seen on the movie screens. There are shelves of books, crystals on pedestals. Musical instruments are hanging on the walls. There are scrolls with labels hanging from the ends sitting on the shelves. I see glass jars of powders and liquids. There are several tables and chairs in the room. In one corner near the window I see a comfortable chair with a foot stool. There are crystals mounted on little ledges on the walls.

I put my satchel on a chair near a table.

Renard recites the spell to light up the crystals.

“I'm recording this Richard and what we'll talk about as you point out the features.”

“That's a good idea, Renard.”

Renard takes another crystal to start recording what I'm doing. Renard walks over to a table he picks up a sheet of paper. He then picks up a jar of markers. I take them out one at a time to see what kind they are. I choose two types, a fine point and a thicker point.

I orient the rectangular paper so it is in the landscape position. The size of the paper is almost a 'C' size paper. It appears to me to be about 24 x 36. I lean over and to draw a light mark with the fine point first to test it. I see it will work for my rough sketch.

“This one will work for the rough drawing. It will be light so it will be easy to erase. Speaking of erasing, do you have an eraser to remove what I don't need drawn?”

“Here you go, this is what we use.” He takes a rubber block from the shelf and hands it to me.

I look at it closely. “This is rubbery. Where did you find this?”

“We get it from a tree sap.”

“We have a similar tree on Earth as well. It is called a rubber tree, the sap is white. This color is red. That's interesting.” I look at him with a smile.

He smiles back.

I look at the sheet to visualize what I need to draw. Once I picture it and decide on the perspective I start to draw out the outline of the continents first. I decide on the single plane distortion with the poles pinched in at the top and bottom a bit.

I slowly begin by judging the scale that will fit on the paper. I draw slowly making sure where I want the line to go. I see that I'm guessing right. I put the Americas on the left hand side and the major eastern continents on the right hand side.

I look at what I draw. Renard sees what I have drawn so far.

“Some of those continents are huge, Richard.”

“I know, Renard. The largest ocean is this one. It has some very deep trenches. We found a way to map the bottom of the oceans with our knowledge. But we don't know everything that is in the water as we go down. We have underwater ships that try to explore this by man and remotely by equipment. It is very dark down there.”

Once I'm satisfied with the outlines, I start with the details to show the mountain ranges, major lakes, rivers and major island groups. As soon as I get done with that I take another long look at the map

“Where are the Kingdoms and nations, Richard?”

“I can show some of those lines as well. A lot of them are small islands in various waters.”

I draw the lines for the countries and nations.

“I see a lot of them follow mountain ranges and rivers.”

“Yes, they are natural borders.”

“Where do you live, Richard?”

“I'm going to put some dots, circles and stars. The stars are capitals, the dots and circles will represent cities. I should do another drawing of where I live.” I put a six pointed asterisk on two locations. One is where my parents live and the other is where I go to school. I put a third asterisk where our mountain cabin is located.

“This is where I'm going to school. This other location is where my parents live. This third location is where the mountain cabin is located.”

I take another sheet of paper. I draw a blow up diagram of the southeastern part of the USA. I indicate the state lines, rivers and some roads.

“What are those lines between the towns?”

“Those are paved roadways for our vehicles. We also have trains on fixed tracks of metal. Trains are carts that are chained together.”

“Those are your machines to get from place to place?”

“Yes, Renard.”

“How do you cross the oceans?”

“We can sail ships like you have here or use motorized ships to go faster. We also have air flight with motorized planes.”

“Wow, I can see how your world really advanced their way with inventions and knowledge.”

“We did as a whole, Renard. However, the wars are the worse display of that knowledge. We found different ways to kill one another.”

We look down in silence with sad faces.

“I'm sorry to hear that, Richard. I can see why there is a struggle to keep the peace.”

“The nation where I live is this one here.” I point to it. “It is divided into fifty states or fiefdoms as you say here. We have peace within the nation, but we also have problems within and with other nations elsewhere for example. There are gangs of lawlessness that are trying to force their murderous way of life. The governments on both sides are trying their hardest to fight them. A lot of innocent lives are lost on both sides.”

“This is where I'm going to school right now.” I point to the city where NC State is located. “This is where my parents live and where the family cabin is located.”

“That is not far from where they live.”

“No, it's not, Renard.”

“I'm surprised the Maker directed my contact to your location.”

“I'm surprised as well. He really directed the frequency for me to receive it only. Usually when I contact someone on our phones or via emails, it is based on a specific address or a phone number. It is how our technology works.”

“What is that technology, Richard?”

“The phone numbers are numbers in a certain sequence. You have to know the sequence to reach someone else. I received your contact via an email address on my computer. It's another network we built for communication. However, both technologies depend on electricity. If it's turned off, I don't receive anything or I can contact someone else.”

“That's amazing. I can see how it is your form of magic.”

“It is, Renard. If I was on Geve's world with his machines, I would feel at home there, in some ways.”

“Or the other worlds that compare with yours.”

“However, we don't have floating cities like Iulia's world. We haven't gotten there yet.”

“Where are your fire mountains?”

“They are located in various places. If you give me a red marker with a fine point, I can put some red dots where they are located.”

“Sure, Richard.” Renard finds a red marker for me and hands it to me.

I put the red dots where I think they are located from the last time I saw the Google map on-line.

“I see it is like here on Twainor.”

“Yes Renard. They are located in these mountain ranges and islands. We call this line of fire mountains The Ring of Fire. It is where the majority of activity takes place. However, some islands elsewhere have fire mountains that are very dangerous. Very few people live near them.”

“I would think so Richard. Go ahead and label what you can Richard.”

“I will have to print it small. I know the words in my head.”

“Write your own words Richard. Since I did the language tap on your mind, I will need to translate them into our language. Do you think Avel will recognize your words?”

“Probably not, Renard. Where he lived is no longer there, however one of the older languages is still being used. He might remember it.”

“Can you indicate the forests and other features?”

“There is a lot of green on Earth. I will need that color. I will also need a light yellow-brown for the desert. I'll need a blue to have the rivers appear better.”

“I have those three colors.” He hands them to me.

I start to color lightly where it is green. I avoid the empty area for the deserts. I use the yellow brown color for that. I redraw the rivers and lakes to make sure they stand out. I don't color the oceans. I write the words down on the maps to name the features.

“That's amazing, Richard. There are deserts everywhere. Do people live there?”

“They do Renard. However most of them live near the cities and where water is plentiful. This region is called the Sahara Desert. It is the largest desert on Earth. There are other areas that are almost desolate as well.”

Then I point to other countries around the world. “Each of these countries have their pluses and minuses. However, there are some nations and kingdoms I will never visit. It is not safe to visit. Some are still hostile and suspicious of help.”

“I remember you saying that. I just don't see how the Maker is going to bring peace to your world.”

“Well, he has a plan Renard. It looks like it starts with me with this reconnecting to the First Ones. What will happen next only the Maker knows.”

“You said there are some nations that can hear the Maker's Voice. Which ones are they?”

I take a black marker and draw a five pointed star in some locations. I put a number one next to only one star.

“This is the first one that hears the Maker's Voice generally. The other stars have capability. I wouldn't be surprised if some of the oppressed people in the difficult countries can hear as well. It has happened before.”

“So, there is hope for Earth.”

“Yes, there is hope for Earth.”

“Are you done with it?”

“I am, Renard.”

“Good I will put a sealing spell on the drawings so it won't fade and get worn.”

Renard ends the spell to record on the crystal. He recites another spell to seal the map drawings. He rolls them up and binds them with a ribbon. He takes a label from a shelf nearby. He takes a marker and writes on them a short phrase and date on each label. He takes the crystal and puts it in his pocket.

I pick up my satchel and put it on my shoulder.

“Thank you, Richard. We'll definitely add this to the library here.”

“You're welcome Renard. There is one thing that King Tierion gave good advice on. Where is Earth located among the stars? I don't think that is necessary at this time.”

“No it’s not Richard. It will keep your world's location a secret for the time being.”

“But someday it will be known. Hopefully, by that time attitudes will have changed for the better on Earth.”

“We must all have hope, Richard. Not only for your world, but for other worlds out there. I'm sure there are many worlds that are at peace and there are worlds who want to conquer other worlds.”

“I'm sure there are, Renard.”

“Well, it's time for the noon repast, Richard. Let's go to the main dining room.”

“Yes, Renard.”

Renard takes the scrolls with him. We exit his private study. We walk to a room down the hallway. Renard opens the room I was in a few days earlier.

“You can put your satchel here Richard. You'll be sleeping here tonight.”

“Thank you, Renard.” I put my satchel on the bed.

We walk back down the hallway and down the stairs to the dining room on the first floor. We find the doors open to the dining room already open. We walk inside the dining room to see a large table setting. We see the dwarf ambassadors, commanders, the historians, Renard, Trianna, the Duke, the Duchess and both princes; the Chamberlain, Sir Halgren and all of the Castle Lords and Ladies in Thryson Kingdom. Some brought their children as well. There also some wizards and sorceresses as well among the group.

Four long table settings are arranged into a large rectangle so that we can see each other.

They turn to Renard and me as we walk in.

“There he is; our guest of honor.”

Everyone claps their hands.

“Thank you for the ovation ,Thryson Kingdom.”

“My king, Richard was able to draw up some maps from his home world. I recorded his words as he talked about it.”

“Thank you, Richard.”

“You're welcome my King.”

“Come let's sit down together. We can talk some more while we eat.”

We begin to take our seats. Renard directs me to sit near him. Sir Halgren is on my left hand side this time.

Once everyone has settled in the chairs and where they want to sit, Renard stands back up.

“Renard, please give the thanks for the noon repast.”

“Yes, my King. Maker, we just want to thank you for all of your wonderful blessings these last seven days. Even though we couldn't see, our Outside Helpers helped us to see better. Let this food give us the strength we need to help Twainor be a beautiful garden in your Creation. Thank you, Maker.”

Everyone responds, “Thank you, Maker.”

Renard sits down. The servers and attendees come in from the kitchen to deliver the first dish and fill our mugs and glasses.

On the plate is placed in front of me I see the usual selection of greens and vegetables. I start eating what is placed in front of me. I find a very tasty spice sprinkled on top. Beharn must have brought some back when we were in Angathorn Kingdom.

Just when I thought it would be a quiet meal, people start talking to each other while they eat. Eventually someone talks to me.

“Richard, what are your plans when you go back home?”

“Well, when I came here, I was about to start a seven day period called Spring Break. It allows students to get some rest. When it’s over, there are about forty days until a period called finals. That is when tests are given to the students to see if they have learned the lessons since the beginning of the year.”

“If I get back the same day I came here, Duke Traylor, I have a chance to relax for a day or two. I need to get a jump on my studies by finishing a computer program that I've been writing. I have four other classes to worry about as well.”

“Well, it seems you have more to learn to stay ahead.”

“Yes, Duke Traylor. There is a phrase I like to use. Knowledge is always piled higher and deeper.”***

Some chuckle at my little joke.

We continue eating until we get done with salad plates. The servers come in to take them away when we are done. The next time they come out, they bring the main dish. It is grilled fish with some vegetables and mushrooms.

I take a bite from of the fish portion. Again we find Beharn used a different spice from his visit to Angathorn Kingdom.

When we get done with the main dish, the servers come in to take our plates away and refill our mugs and glasses.

The next time they come out, they bring out bowls of fruit for us. However, one is cut up in pieces with the covering and seeds removed. The other one is whole. They leave some damp cloth at each place setting for us to use.

We eat the easy portion first. Once done with that, we take our knives and forks to cut up the whole fruits. We giggle and laugh while we try to be neat. It takes some time but we get it done.

Once we are done, King Tierion looks at a server and nods his head up and down. She turns right and walks into the kitchen. A moment later, Master Chef Beharn comes out with the kitchen staff, the servers and attendees.

“That was very delicious, Beharn. I think we recognize some spices on there that are not from here. It was a good choice, none the less.”

We all clap and cheer.

Master Chef Beharn steps forward. “Thank you, my King. I put those spices on there to prepare you for tonight. I'm planning to prepare a special style tonight. It will be a first for me. I'm curious how it will turn out.”

“Well, we are sure it will be a favorite, Beharn. We look forward to it.”

We all clap and cheer again. They bow and again with smiles, then they turn to the left and walk back into the kitchen.

“Come, let's walk into the throne room my friends. It will be easier to see the maps that Richard drew up. It will also help Beharn to get the dining room cleaned up for the evening repast.

We leave the dining room together and walk towards the throne room. The doors are opened for us by the knights. We walk inside and start getting the room ready. The crystal lights are brightened with the spells. Two tables are pushed together towards the front part by the commanders and Sir Halgren. We gather around the tables.

The children have some curiosity, but are soon bored. The children gather together in a corner of the throne room while the adults have their time together.

The historians pay close attention to what is happening now. Renard takes the
main map and removes the ribbon. He unfurls and lays it on a table flat. The map slides around the table as everyone gets a chance to see it.

“That is a lot of detail, Richard.”

“It is my King. However, the smallest islands are not shown because of that scale.”

“That makes sense, you had to decide what to show.”

“I also did a closer drawing of the area where I live. It incorporates several states or fiefdoms as it is here.”

Renard takes the ribbon off the second map and unfurls it. He lays it on the table like the first one.

“Those circles and dots represent cities. The lines between them are the major roadways that connect them. There are more roads that are smaller. The cities and towns are gridded out in patterns. I didn't show those lines.” I point to the three asterisk locations where I live. “This is where I go to school. This is where my parents live right now. They are near a major city. This location is where the family mountain cabin is located.”

“This is amazing detail, Richard.”

“It takes practice, Duke Traylor. I've always had a good eye for doing maps and learning about places where I have never been.”

“Richard, did you record what you talked about with Renard?”

“Renard recorded it, Segan.”

Renard takes the crystal out from his pocket and hands it to Segan.

“Thank you, Renard and Richard. We'll be sure to get this archived in our library.”

“This is a caution statement to you Segan and Aridanne. If we get a visitor from other worlds, these maps have to be locked up. We need to protect our Outside Helpers as much as possible.”

“I understand my King. Until Earth is invited to be among us, we'll keep the maps safe and hidden.”

“From the way Richard has described Earth, the receiving of Outside Helpers there will be very difficult to do. The hostilities and wars must stop first. Their lives could be in jeopardy there.”

“There are some nations that are very suspicious of any kind of help. There was one nation who suffered a major storm that flooded the lowlands. The area grew a staple food there. The winds and rain from that storm did some terrible damage. The government refused help from the other nations. The death toll was over one hundred thousand people. The storm also brought in a storm surge of sea water as high in this room.”

“Gasp!”

“No!”

“It was terrible from what I have read. The government there was criticized for their inaction. Eventually, they accepted the ideas from neighboring countries to improve their readiness for storms like that one.”

“Well, we can see that your world needs peace very much.”

“It certainly does, my King. It appears that I'm chosen to bring about that change. In what way, it is not known to me yet. Hopefully, the Maker will give me some hints as time goes on.”

“I'm sure the Maker will, Richard. I'm sure he will.”

“Just to let you all know. When I look up in the sky at night, I know those two nebulae from our point of view. Since I don't have any measuring instruments and telescopes to get accurate angles, I don't know which direction Earth is located. Those two nebulae are very far from Earth.”

“Well at least we have that going for us, Richard.”

“Yes, my King.”

The maps get passed around one more time. Then King Tierion takes the maps and slides them to Aridanne and Segan.

“Take care of these maps, historians.”

“We will, my King.”

“Do you want us to make a copy for the Grand Library in Angathorn Kingdom?”

“I think that is wise to do. It will have to be secured in their vault of rare documents.”

“We understand that my King. We'll make the copies of the maps and the crystal. It will be delivered once we translate what Richard said on the crystals and the words he wrote on the maps.”

“I would like to see the items before you take them there.”

“It will be done, my King.”

The King looks around the room. “We have the afternoon for you until we meet for the evening repast. We'll have the morning repast at First Mark in the morning. Then we'll all gather together in the courtyard to send Richard home between the Second and Third Mark in the morning.”

“Yes, my King.” Everyone says at the same time.

The commanders push the tables back where they were. The parents collect their children from the corner of the throne room area. We walk out to the foyer area. The people split apart and go their ways. Some return to their rooms, some go to the gardens to relax. The commanders and Sir Halgren walk down the hallway to the left. They walk to their rooms located in the separate buildings near the training fields.

The wizards and sorceresses get together to go over the spell needed to send me home and their other duties for this afternoon.

Then I see Chamberlain Sir Drexton approaching me. “Richard, Master Chef Beharn is requesting your presence in the kitchen.”

I look at King Tierion.

“You may go, Richard.”

“Thank you my King.”

I follow Sir Drexton back to the dining room and into the kitchen. I see a familiar sight of a kitchen getting cleaned up and ready for the evening repast. Sir Drexton turns around to resume his duties elsewhere.

Master Chef Beharn sees me standing near the doors. He walks up to me. We nod our heads together with a smile.

“Good afternoon, Richard.”

“Good afternoon, Beharn. What do you need me for?”

“I just want to pick your brain on some cooking styles and anything else you would like divulge to us.” He smiles at me.

“I'll be glad to do that, Beharn. What is the first thing you want to discuss?”

“Well, as you might surmise I'll be trying the wood chips from our fruit trees tonight. My question is there anything else you would like to create here. This is a rare opportunity for me to share the kitchen with someone.”

“Thank you for the honor. Hmm... since you know the fruit trees, I think you will have an idea which spice will work with each one.”

“That's right, Richard.”

“I would like to add a marinade that can be brushed on lightly while the grilling takes place. There can be many types of combinations you can create for it.”

“A marinade that will help add a mystery flavor until you have a bite.”

“Yes it will, Beharn. It will also help to keep the meat or vegetables moist when presented.”

“Yes, I can see that happening. Let me show our selection of spices and liquids that we use. Perhaps you can create one from it.”

“I'll try, Beharn. If I don't see one here I can provide some alternate choices or some ideas that you can create your own.”

“I would greatly appreciate that, Richard.”

Beharn escorts me to another room. In the room I see shelves of spices in jars; some are open in the air like some roots and bark. The leaves are in jars as well. The liquids are in glass jars with labels.

“I like this, Beharn. It looks like a good selection. I'll try each one by one by smell and a small taste of it. You better record this on a crystal so you won't forget.”

“You can sit here, Richard, I'll bring in a small table and a chair.” Beharn takes a crystal from his pocket he concentrates on it and recites the spell. He puts the crystal on a shelf nearby.

Beharn leaves the pantry shortly. I look around the room. I can smell some fantastic spices already. Beharn comes back with a chair and a small table. He places on top of the table some utensils. He also places a small jar of water and a cloth. There is also some paper and a fine point marker to write notes down.

“Use the water and cloth after each taste, Richard.”

“I understand, Beharn. You don't want to mix the spices and ruin the unique flavor.”

“That's right, Richard.”

I sit down on the chair. Beharn takes the jars one at a time. He opens them and places them on the table. I smell each one in turn. There are some I don't need to taste test, the aroma affected my tongue right away to know what it will taste like. I clean the utensils after each taste test.

I slowly right down certain ingredients that I think will work together. I created several combinations for him. When it comes to the liquids, there are not that many. Beharn has about ten jars of liquids. Once I get done with each one, I lean back and think of several more liquids he can create.

“I like these combinations, Richard. Some of them I've never thought to put together.”

“That's all right, Beharn. I'm trying to remember some that compare to the ones I know on Earth. These are my favorites. But just like here on Twainor, there are many varieties on Earth. I've been thinking about your liquids here. I think I can add a few more here.”

“What would that be, Richard?”

“Do you have a fruit that grows in clusters on a vine?”

“We do, Richard. However, sometimes they are too tart to use.”

“There are ways to get that fruit become sweeter. Once you find a sweet cluster. Grow the seeds from that.”

“Then once it bears fruit, check if they are sweet. Choose another cluster to keep that sweetness growing each generation.”

“That's right. What do you use to create wine?”

“You're talking about fermented fruits right?”

“Yes, Beharn. Wine can be used for a lot of things besides drinking. It is also used in cooking. However, a different ingredient added to the barrels can change the direction in which way it goes. Most of the times it comes from the wood of the barrel itself.”

“I see, the wood adds its own flavor to it. Obviously you don't need the bitter woods to do this.”

“That's right. There is one liquid that is highly prized on Earth. It is called balsamic vinegar.”

“What is that made from?”

“It is made from the fruit cluster on the vine. We call them grapes. We have many different kinds of grapes with different sweetness and tartness ranges. The bitter ones are never used. There are other fruits to make different wines for different flavors.”

“What is the process to make this balsamic vinegar?”

“Well, once which grape is decided to use. The seeds are removed. The grapes are put into a pot. It is blanched with water to remove the thin covering on the fruit itself. Then the fruit is pressed and boiled to reduce the liquid to a thick syrup. You don't want it sticking and burnt to the pot.”

“I would think not, Richard.”

“But, here comes the patience. Once the boiling is done, the liquid is poured into a wooden barrel. It depends on what time factor you want to try for. Some people will use seven different kinds of wooden barrels. At least three of them are from fruit trees, the other four are from trees that can add flavor to it.”

“How long is the liquid in each barrel?”

“You'll have to have many barrels made. Two years for each barrel.”

“Two years for each barrel? That makes it almost twelve years before it can be used.”

“That's right, Beharn. But once the process begins, you're on roll to keep it going. You take a portion of liquid from the first barrel and put it in the next one. What is left over is put in another barrel of the same kind.”

“I see where this is going. As each cycle completes, the liquid becomes more concentrated and sweeter.”

“That's right. It will have a dark brown color to a dark red color. In one country where this liquid originated, they have a consortium that makes sure each company is following the rules. Each company can make their own type and variety, but it's the process that is protected. The fermentation can usually last up to thirty-six years before it is ready to sell.”

“By that time the price would cost several gold pieces per brath.”

“Brath, that corresponds to about a handful on earth.” I show a clenched fist to him.

“Are there short cuts to do it quicker?”

“There are, but care must be used so it is not burnt. There is an ingredient that is added to speed it up. It is the active ingredient when you make ale or vinegar. What you're doing is giving it a head start. Then you can ferment the liquid in the barrels at faster pace. It should be done in about nine to twelve moons.”

“So which liquid will work here with what we have?”

“I use this clear one here it is like a vinegar already. You need to keep this liquid in a cool room. It must be sealed tightly. Any warmth to it will start to change it.”

“I often wondered what was going on. I'll keep it cool and any others that need it.”

“Add some wine to it. Make the proportions about two to one of the wine. Then your choice with the spice groupings I made. It should work very well.”

“Well we can try that out now. I'm curious how it will come out.”

“So am I, Beharn.”

Beharn looks at the ingredient list. He takes down the jars of spices and dried leaves and puts them on the table. He leaves the room and comes back with another bowl. “One to one, Richard?”

“For right now, you can adjust it later if one is too strong to mask another flavor. Your palate needs to taste each one but it puts them together for a unique combination.”

“I would think so, Richard. Thank you.”

He carefully cuts the dried leaves first and puts them in the bowl. He takes the three spices one at a time. He sees he needs a half portion of one and two full ones of the other spices. He takes the spoon and stirs it. He puts his head over it to get the full affect.

“I like it a lot, Richard. It’s definitely different. I can sprinkle this on top or cook with it.”

“That's right, Beharn.”

Beharn looks on the shelves for an empty jar. He pours the ingredients into the jar and fills it up. He writes a short phrase on the jar to remember what it is. He puts the lid on top and seals it with a sealing spell.
Beharn does the same with the second ingredient listing. He puts his face over the bowl to smell the mixed aroma. He smiles, “This one is very different. I didn't think we can approximate this spice that is found in Antarte. You used four different kinds of spices to achieve this.”

“I thought so too, Beharn. I had a similar dish served up at one of our meals. I really liked it. However, this is not hot and spicy to distract you from the meat itself, but it does remind you of its flavor. But as any cook wants, he keeps his list of ingredients hidden. So the people can guess how it is done. They might guess on certain ones, but it is that one or two spices that kicks it for the surprise.”

“I would too, Richard. They will be surprised when this is served up the festivals and to our royalty that visit here. I think with these ideas I can try some new combinations. You did provide an inspiration here. Thank you Richard.”

“You're welcome, Beharn.”

Beharn takes another empty jar from the shelf. He pours the contents from the bowl into the jar. He writes a short phrase on the jar. He puts the lid on it and recites a sealing spell for it. He puts that jar in a separation location on the shelf.

He repeats the process for the third and fourth ingredient listings.

“Let's try that first one you suggested, Richard.”

“Okay, Beharn.”

Beharn takes another empty jar from the shelf. He takes the clear liquid jar and pours some of it into the jar. He reseals it and places it back on the shelf. He takes the other bottle with the wine. He takes the stopper off of it and pours a little bit to make it a two to one ratio. He puts the stopper back on and puts it on the shelf.

He swirls the two liquids together to see if it mixes. He sees that it does. He smiles at the reaction. He takes the first jar mixture he made. He removes the seal from it. He makes sure the ingredients are well mixed as he sprinkles some of it into the liquid. He places the new jar on the table. He puts the lid back onto the jar and reseals its.

He picks up the jar and puts a spoon into to make sure it is well mixed, plus it will provide an opportunity to taste test it.

“This is really good, Richard. I like it a lot. Thank you very much.”

“The nice thing about it is that the grilling will help enhance the flavors as it is cooked into the vegetable or the meat. It should work for both the bird and fish.”

“Yes it would, Richard.”

“Here is another thought for the fruits. Take a small twig from a different fruit tree and pierce it into another fruit off to one side.”

“What? Wait a moment, that will cause the fruit to have two different flavors.”

“Yes, it would.” I smile at him.

He smiles widely. “I can do that with the spices as well. That is a great idea.”

“Have you tried grilling fruits directly on the grill?”

“You can do that? The fruits will burn to a crisp.”

“Why not, Beharn? You can use that marinade to help enhance it as well. Just brush on a little bit. You have to watch the slices of fruit carefully as it cooks. Have the surface sweat a bit as it grills to soften it. You want the edges have a few grill marks. It won't take long to grill. Probably less than a third of a quarter-mark. The surface will need a light oil to prevent sticking.”

“That's right, Richard. That won't take long at all. I can even mix the grilled fruit pieces with the vegetables or the meats for different combinations. There are some fruits that are very delicate. They can't be grilled. They would disintegrate.”

“I'm sure there are, Beharn. Even using that marinade alone served cold will help provide that mystery hint. You can cut up the delicate fruit and mix it in with grilled fruit pieces.”

“Yes I can do that, Richard. Thank you very much.”

“This style of cooking is called barbecue from where I live.”

“That's an unusual word.”

“It is, Beharn. Now there is one more thing to add a grilled meal.”

“What is it, Richard?”

“It is the sauce. It is served on the side as a cold dipping liquid. There can be many different kinds to provide different experiences. It can be sweetened with honey, made with some of these spices, hot or very hot and spicy. It can have different bases to provide different colors and flavors. There is no fruit in these sauces. Once the meat is cut on the plate, use your fork and dip it into the sauce before eating it.”

“Hmm... we have some sauces here that might work. They are kept in the cold boxes. Wait here, I'll bring some back.”

“Okay, Beharn.”

It takes a moment for Beharn to return. He brings four jars and sets them on the table. He then leaves the room and comes back with four spoons. He removes the seal and opens the jars from each one. He dips a spoon into them one at a time and then hands the dipped spoon to me.

I take a taste test of each one. I find two of them should work well with the spice combinations I gave him. I point to each one. “These two will do for starters, Beharn.”

“I thought so too, Richard. The others are added to soups.”

“You can start with those two and build from that to create some additional combinations.”

“Richard, I heard a rumor in the pavilions these past few days you provided Corrbas some ideas on soups when we get sick.”

“That is right, Beharn. When you get sick with the teary eyes, the headaches, stuffy nose or sometimes it drips. The body needs rest because it feels weak. But the body also needs food and fluids as well to help fight this common sickness. We get it on Earth all the time.”

“I see that happening a lot sometimes. So a vegetable soup with some fowl pieces or not will help that recovery.”

“Yes it will, it can be mildly spiced to help bring heat to the head. That heat will help drain the fluid buildup in the head.”

“Ah, that's what is going on with the stuffy head. It feels heavy and you don't want to do anything but rest.”

“That's right Beharn. Sleep will do wonders to help to heal the body. You're not exerting yourself to spend that energy. That energy is used by the body to combat that illness.”

“There are some sicknesses that are more severe than others. We have to use a special herb combination to help there as well.”

“Yes, that is needed as well. Not only the soup needs to be served, but fruits and fruit juices are needed. That will provide the energy to the body better.”

“Yes it would, Richard. Well thank you very much. You have given me a lot to think about.”

“As you experiment with each combination you'll decide which one will work with each other. Especially which wine will work to make a broth.”

“Yes, that takes time, Richard. To make that balsamic vinegar you describe will take time and planning. I can think of which woods will work to make the barrels. We have two of them already. They are used to store the ales in. Then it’s just a matter of selecting which fruits will be used to make the basic stock.”

I smile at Beharn. “Is there anything else you need to know?”

He smiles back, “If I visit your world, perhaps some time spent with some of your chefs.”

“That can be arranged. It depends on which direction you want to go. I have a collection of cook books that I like. But there are hundreds more from around the world. There are schools that teach the students how to cook all of these styles. However, there are some meat choices I don't like at all.”

“It is because of the influence of eating wild animal meat right?”

“Yes, Beharn. There are also some sea meats I don't eat either. Those meats have made me sick for days afterwards. So, I stick with meats that agree with me.”

“Well, as I learn more about Twainor. I learn more about cooking and what it takes to feed an army.”

“Yes, feeding an army is always tough to do. It is the sheer volume alone that you have to get ready for. Working and cooking in eateries helped me see a glimpse of that each day.”

“Well thank you very much, Richard.” Beharn takes the crystal and recite the spell to stop the recording. He puts the crystal into his pocket. He takes the list I wrote down and folds up the paper and puts it into the same pocket with the crystal.

“You're welcome Beharn. Oh there is one more thing about these new combinations. Once it starts grilling, the aroma will fill the kitchen and drive everybody crazy. Especially as it drifts into the dining room or in the stalls at the festivals. Their mouths will water in wanting more. It's a good memory aid to remember. When I smell it, it reminds me of some home cooked meals by mom and dad.”

“Yes, I can imagine the long lines of people wanting a taste of it.”

We laugh together. Beharn escorts me from the kitchen and back to the doors to the dining room. We face each other again. We smile at each other and nod our heads up and down.

I turn around and leave the dining room. I hear Beharn barking his orders to get the utensils and foods ready for the evening repast.

I walk down the foyer area. I see Sir Drexton approaching me. We stop in front of each other and nod our heads to each other.

“Come with me, Richard. Sir Trenton wishes to see you in the war room.”

“Lead the way, Sir Drexton.”

I follow Sir Drexton down the hallway. After passing some doors on the left hand side, Sir Drexton stops at a door. He knocks on the door two times.

“Come in.”

Sir Drexton opens the door. “Richard is here.”

“Very good, Sir Drexton. Please have him come inside.”

“Yes, Sir Trenton.”

I walk inside the room. Sir Drexton leaves the room and closes the door.

I see all three commanders there sitting in chairs behind a table.

This feels like I'm before a board of review. Okay, now what? The looks on those faces are serious.

*** The knowledge joke
There are three degrees to earn in the universities. There is the BS degree. We all know what BS stands for. MS is 'more of the same'. The PHD is knowledge 'piled higher and deeper'.