tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90964222676044820272024-02-07T07:11:13.839-05:00VolataireW.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-68313102920995630252011-05-06T15:08:00.000-04:002011-05-06T15:08:30.939-04:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Five ~ Part Two<span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">While he carefully traversed through the field, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> tilted his head in every direction so that he could compare the dream realm to the actual place itself. The minimal number of trees that existed in his dream did not exist at all in reality. The field was completely bare, and seemed to spread across the horizon for miles. A slight wind blew throughout the area, sending shivers down <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s back. From afar, he noticed that on both sides of the temple’s entrance were massive gargoyles. Sturdy cement stairs lead to a brown wooden door. As he moved closer to the temple, he thought he saw someone standing inside the alcove of the rightmost tower pointing down at him. “Am I being watched?” he thought. He then heard the blaring of a whistle from behind him. “It is him! The rascal Master Fine warned us about! Do not permit him entrance!” a voice with a slight accent shouted. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stood still, petrified. He stared at the wooden door, and contemplated sprinting up the stairway and dashing into the temple. He then spun around and faced whoever it was who shouted at him. Spread out in the field was a group of five men, each dressed in grey robes with hoods that covered their faces. They wielded tall burning torches that were pointing at <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “What business do you have in our temple?” one of the men questioned. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> gave the men a look of perplexity. He tried with all his might to not appear nervous. “And what gave you the idea it was yours?” he asked sarcastically. The man who first shouted at <place w:st="on">Edison</place> pulled back his torch while his arm was shaking. “Don’t get us angry, kid!” he said forcibly. “The last thing we’re going to do is let the likes of you into our temple!” After that, the men began to chase after Edison, who hastily charged up the stairway anyways and threw himself into the temple’s front door. The force of his lunge nearly knocked it off of its hinges. While the men were hot on this trail, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> barricaded the door shut by placing a metal rod from the floor in between both knobs. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on">Temple</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Imbroglio</placename></place>’s interior was tremendously huge. The main floor contained a wide hallway that stretched very far to the right, and only a short distance to the left. The floors were covered with a red velvet carpet that sparkled with gold, and numerous candles hung from the walls. The ceiling was high and arch shaped, and had green streamers hanging down decorating the main hallway. The atmosphere seemed very dark in spite of the glowing candles. Straight ahead of <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was a monstrous room with a circular staircase. The hand railings were lined in purple velvet lace. There was also a wall of windows displaying the view of a river and a small patch of woods. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was just about to take a step forward until there was thumping and banging from the door behind him. “You had better run and hide you rat!” The muffled voice of one of the men threatened. “Just wait until we get a hold of you!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s body cringed, and he searched all over the place for somewhere to escape to. He then remembered the room in front of him, so he bolted inside of it and rushed up the staircase. Just before he reached the next floor, he crouched down and peered into the hallway through one of the railings. The front door had broken off its hinges and fell onto the floor. Nearly twenty men charged in through the front entrance holding torches. “I want all of you to listen to me very carefully!” The man who first confronted <place w:st="on">Edison</place> demanded. “V.H. Fine ordered us to never let that kid even step one foot inside this temple. Since he is lingering somewhere in here, he must be exterminated!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> overheard every word. Drops of sweat poured down from his forehead. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I have no weapons…No way to fend for myself…I am going to die, I am certain of it... </i>Countless thoughts ran through his mind. “We will divide ourselves into groups and patrol the entire building.” The man continued, pointing at seven others standing closest to the door. “I want the seven of you to keep a close guard on this floor. There is no doubt this scoundrel is roaming the temple as we speak.” The men he spoke to nodded their heads obediently. “As for the rest of you,” he ordered, directing his attention to the rest of the men. “Ascend that flight of stairs and search through every hallway.” The men bowed and headed for the staircase.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Edison, who witnessed everything that had just happened, jumped up from his spot on the stairs and ran down the hallway of the next floor. The ceiling was still decorated with streamers, only they were blue instead of green. More candles were hanging out from the walls, but they glowed with harsh violet flames. Looking directly ahead of him, the hallway appeared to continue on and on with no end in sight. While he was mildly confused by this, he focused mainly on finding a proper hiding spot. To his left and right were two doors, one red and one blue. He walked over to the left door and tried its knob, only to discover that it was locked. Mysteriously, the door’s color changed from red to black when he did this. He then heard the sound of loud footsteps coming from the staircase, and saw the faint shining of torch lights. Knowing this, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> scrambled over to the other door and frantically turned the knob. This time, the door opened with ease, so he jumped into the room on the other side and quietly closed the door behind him. He then peered out into the hallway one last time through a small peek hole in the middle of the door, which had now changed its color from blue to white. The room consisted of a lecture hall that contained over three hundred seats, and a blackboard that was covered in words and diagrams that he couldn’t make sense of. Right in front of it sat a podium with an open book. At the end of each row was a lantern planted firmly into the ground. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> sauntered further into the room to inspect the blackboard, until he was spoken to by a timorous voice. “Are you one of them?” It asked. “Please don’t hurt me… Please…”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"></div></span>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-65159418427280252762011-03-19T16:19:00.002-04:002011-03-19T16:22:49.601-04:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Five ~ Part One<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
<div style="border-bottom: windowtext 1.5pt solid; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Monotype Corsiva"; font-size: 16pt;">In a former life, I ruled the perfect kingdom…</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The face of V.H. Fine held a very sadistic expression. He glared at <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, grinning mockingly. “I imagine about now, you wish to see your fiancée?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s body was still flying forward. “I want to know what your purpose of holding her is! She has done nothing wrong!” he shouted. V.H. Fine gave him an even bigger smile, this time showing his teeth. “As you wish…” he said. The image of his head faded into a patch of grey fog, which then showed a room with walls made out of shining purple glass. Two men in long green robes stood with their backs facing <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. They were waving their arms back and forth. “Do you think she will make it through this?” One of the men asked. “Worry not,” the other man responded, “Once she is completed with the hypnotism phase, she will forever be loyal to Master Fine.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> halted and his body lowered onto a platform that was constantly changing colors. He stood and absorbed what he was hearing, and he attempted to run in the direction of the two men. Unfortunately, he was unable to move his body properly. He felt as if his body was being pushed down to the ground. “Who are you two? What are you doing!?” he bellowed. The men did not answer him. They continued to wave their hands. Eventually, one of the men stepped to the side, revealing what was in front of them. Once <place w:st="on">Edison</place> got a clear view of what it was, he became lightheaded and his heart beat so rapidly that it felt like it would burst. He fell to the ground and landed on his knees, trying to keep his head propped up. Tears were spilling out of his eyes and landing on the platform. Only faint whispers could slip from his mouth. “Angelica…”</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lying on a circular pedestal in the room was Angelica, her arms crossed against her chest in stillness. Her appearance had altered drastically, which both saddened and scared <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. Her eyes were no longer the vibrant color of blue that <place w:st="on">Edison</place> once remembered. Instead, her pupils were now jet black. On her cheeks were strange symbolic markings made out of brown ink, and her lips sparkled with purple gloss. She wore a long pink dress that had designs of two black crow heads. One was on the left side of her dress with its head facing to the right, while the other one was on the right side, its head pointing to the left. “Angelica!” shouted <place w:st="on">Edison</place> repeatedly, tears streaming down his face. “Angelica, I’m finally here! I’m here to rescue you!” There was no response. The two men were still standing at the side with their backs turned, and Angelica remained on the pedestal motionless. “What are they doing to you? Who are they?” he screamed in terror. No response. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> tried to move his right leg forward, and found that nothing was holding him down this time. He ran in the direction of the room and attempted to jump inside of it. Unfortunately, he could not. Just as he almost flew right into the room, his body slammed up against an invisible wall, knocking him backwards. He then tried his best to place his left foot inside of the room, but something was definitely blocking the way. Suddenly, the glowing platform beneath <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s feet diminished. The dream realm he stood in began to shake violently. He then started to fall into a darkened hole that shone a white light. He shut his eyes tightly, and couldn’t even hear the sound of his own screaming. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Very briefly, his eyes opened, and he saw black and white images of his childhood. He could see himself as a young child, his parents holding both his hands and walking him down a path in Hollowmill. He then saw himself meeting Angelica for the very first time at the Bazaar, amongst many other images. He shut his eyes again and fell deeper into the hole, until he eventually landed on his back quite forcefully. His eyes remained closed, and the rest of his body stayed completely still. The feelings of both his legs were lost temporarily. Although he was injured, he managed to retain consciousness. Ever so slowly, he moved the fingers on his right hand, being able to do so with ease. No invisible forces held them down. The feelings of his legs started to return, so he tried to move his right foot, and again could do so without any difficulty whatsoever. Nervous at first, he carefully opened his eyes and saw nothing but grey clouds, followed by a quick flash of lightning. He propped his head up, which sent a sharp wave of pain down his back. While he was still lying down, he took a minute to gaze around at his new environment. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Edison</place> had awakened in a large open field. Straight ahead of him was the building from his dream, the <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on">Temple</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Imbroglio</placename></place>. All around him, everything appeared to be exactly the same, only this time the entire area was colored. Most of the grass looked like it was dead, as pieces of it lay everywhere, and were the color beige. Very few trees stood in the field, as a lot of them were cut down, leaving only stumps. Grey clouds filled the sky entirely, with flashes of lightning striking every so often. Cautiously, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> got himself up from off the ground, and dusted the dirt and grass off his clothes. After a few arm stretches and a full rotation of his neck, he set off towards the temple. </span></div></div></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-8769526819486075412011-03-18T13:08:00.003-04:002011-03-18T13:11:08.013-04:00For Japan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvxm0XJJY3pGO_xUX-FRO2CXDyEtw2y7JRw_NoNlu2qsd4LnWjIY-mqrxqMdQ9AwwlV6e96XDLqHk2AaIUlk-P_DpSoAPevnCrTVcPcmf4QnVJo4K9D6Hw10AJ1Il2OegXXyqUbHoybw/s1600/forjapanwithlove_blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvxm0XJJY3pGO_xUX-FRO2CXDyEtw2y7JRw_NoNlu2qsd4LnWjIY-mqrxqMdQ9AwwlV6e96XDLqHk2AaIUlk-P_DpSoAPevnCrTVcPcmf4QnVJo4K9D6Hw10AJ1Il2OegXXyqUbHoybw/s640/forjapanwithlove_blog.png" width="354" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ W.B.</div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-56569361082291140862011-03-05T22:23:00.004-05:002011-03-06T11:43:49.449-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Four ~ Part Six<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti"; font-size: 14pt;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Edison</span></span></place><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> tried blinking his eyes in order to get a clearer picture of where he was, but his surroundings only became blurrier and blurrier. Eventually his body fell to the ground entirely, and his muscles were numb. He was soon about to enter another dream realm. The blur of what was once the Wanderer’s Museum changed into a strange field. The whole area was difficult to see through as it was very foggy. The sky had a small tinge of green in it, while everything else was uncolored and distorted. Although his muscles were weak, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> got himself up off of the ground and made his way forward. The area seemed to shake slightly as he moved. He continued to blink to navigate better, as his eyes were hurting greatly. The fog started to clear up as <place w:st="on">Edison</place> took a few more steps forward. The area itself however, remained colorless and dreary. He halted and nearly toppled to the ground when he saw what was ahead of him in the distance. Luckily, a small bush which appeared to be swaying back and forth sat to the right of where he was standing. He dashed towards it and knelt down, in order to see what was occurring without being seen.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Right in the center of the seemingly endless field stood a tall, temple-like structure. On its rooftop sat a large tower that lightly touched the clouds. The entire building was very elegant to the eye, constructed out of various shaped cement bricks that colors were a mixture of black and grey. The whole structure was exceedingly wide. The tower housed a cracked bell, which suddenly rang three times.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Outside the building, hundreds of young men and women were lined up, with huge gaps in between them. All of them were crouched down on both knees. Their hands were flat on the ground, and their heads were hung down. Each person wore a black gown that had orange stripes running down both arms. From where <place w:st="on">Edison</place> hid, he counted out eleven rows of people. At the end of every row, there stood a man holding a weapon. Each one was garbed in a long auburn robe. Their faces were of a burnt umber color, with white wavy lines painted on both cheeks. All of a sudden, another man much taller than the ones standing at the rows approached the top of the tower. He looked to be about seven feet tall, and wore a burgundy robe with goldenrod markings on the torso. His violet eyes shone across the colorless field. His face was burnt umber as well, however the wavy lines on his cheeks were white and one side, and black on the other. “The school of magic has ceased all spells!” His voice echoed. “I, Sir Vasarlium, have at last obeyed the orders of V.H. Fine and have overthrown the <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on">Temple</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Imbroglio</placename></place>. The teachings of the art of illusionism will be no more!” The men cheered once again. Just then, a person crouched down closest to the temple stood up. “We shall never allow the likes of you to take over this sacred temple!” He screamed. “Just what do you hope to accomplish here?” The person was then seized by two guards before he could utter another word.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Sir Vasarlium proceeded with his speech. “Our leader, V.H. Fine, wishes to use the outstanding arts taught in this facility to become even more powerful and dangerous than he already is! Soon, he will take full kingship of Portrainia, and make it a much lovelier place!” The men at the rows bowed to Sir Vasarlium, who was peering down at the people crouched in front of the temple. “And as for these disgraceful rats, who call themselves the students of Illusionism, I demand for them to be imprisoned! Lead them into the underground chamber this instant!” The men at the rows saluted Sir Vasarlium and gathered the people from in front of the temple. They arranged them all into one straight line, and marched them down a long stony path that leads to a hollow cave under the temple. Without thinking, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> jumped out of the bush and ran towards the scene. However, the temple and the field faded away, until nothing but a grey blur could be seen. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> felt his body being lifted off the ground, as an invisible force threw him forward. He started to fly ahead, and as he did, the blur slowly changed into the head of V.H. Fine, who was grinning precariously. “What an ingenious display of bravery, young man…” he chuckled. “But are you ready for what is next?” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-930280153227322152011-02-26T22:27:00.001-05:002011-02-26T22:28:01.525-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Four ~ Part Five<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Edison stood motionless, gazing blankly at the soldier. “I…am your master?” he asked. “Well yes,” replied the soldier, “You are the one who holds the sacred ruby, are you not?” Edison squinted in confusion, and held up the curator’s key. He centered his eye on the embedded jewel. “This ruby was worn by our dear general. He was done away with by the curator many years ago during our captivity.” The soldier spoke quietly, hanging his head down. “Now that you hold his prized possession in your hands, we are at your command.” The soldier bowed again, while many other soldiers poured out of the exhibit and formed a straight line. They all wore comb morion helmets, and platinum chest armor with black leather cuffs covering their arms.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> When they exited the exhibit completely, they kneeled on one knee and placed their swords against their shoulders. “Oh master, what are your wishes?” They asked in unison. Edison spun around and noticed that Dmitri was smashing the glasses of the exhibits and searching inside of them. “I wish for that museum curator to pay for what he has done!” he shouted. “There have been too many lost lives!” The soldiers stood up from their knees, preparing for battle. Just as they did, Dmitri barged over to them, his whip still in hand. “You thought you had a chance to escape, did you?” he asked, condescendingly. “I was not attempting an escape.” Edison replied coldly. “Oh yes, it appears you have formed an army of your own! But even still, you’re no match for me!” Dmitri stepped aside and revealed a line of several highwaymen, each aiming a flintlock musket at Edison and the soldiers. “Do not fear, this will all be over soon, and you will become yet another one of my fabulous exhibits!” Dmitri faced the highwaymen. “These imbeciles are your villains! I demand that they be destroyed at once!” he ordered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> The highwaymen cocked their muskets and began shooting at Edison and the soldiers. Some of them were hit and fell to the ground, while others jumped out of the way and attacked the highwaymen. Dmitri rushed over to Edison and raised his whip at him. A soldier stood in the way of this and slashed his sword at Dmitri’s hand, causing him to drop the whip and shriek out of pain. While the highwaymen and the soldiers battled each other, Edison picked up Dmitri’s whip and lashed it at his head four times. As Dmitri toppled down to the ground, there came an eerie ray of cyan light from his chest. Everyone in the chamber followed it as it floated upward towards the ceiling. At that very moment, it exploded. The soldiers protected their eyes, as what seemed like grains of sand fell slowly to the ground. Dmitri’s body lay still. No one dared to remove the hood that masked his face. Cheers of joy echoed throughout the cold chamber, while the highwaymen disappeared from sight. “After many years, we are now free men!” The soldiers rallied around Edison with admiration. The one who first spoke to Edison re-approached him, and put his hand out to offer his gratitude. “Do not worry my friend,” he reassured Edison, “I know that you will find what you are searching for.” With a feeling of pride and exhilaration, Edison held the jeweled key tightly in his hand as he headed towards the far end of the chamber where a door stood for his freedom. He grabbed onto the iron door handle and pulled it opened. He had finally found his way out of the museum. At that very moment, there was a scent that he couldn’t decipher. The light that was similar to that of Dmitri’s body encircled Edison, which started to make him feel nauseous. He felt himself becoming weak once again, and desperately tried to regain his composure. It was then that all went dark.</span>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-51025535698196127622011-02-16T17:09:00.003-05:002011-02-16T17:24:37.120-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Four ~ Part Four<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The door made creaking noises that echoed loudly. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> placed both of his hands on it and held it tightly in order to minimize the sound. When it finally rested against a wall, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> extended his left leg out and placed it down on the ground in front of him. He then extended his right leg out and leaned his whole body forward. From there he was able to move his head in each direction to get a look at where he was now. The sound of his shoes clicking against the floor echoed throughout the room as he took a step. The curator’s key had lead <place w:st="on">Edison</place> into an enormous oval shaped chamber. There were six floors, each filled with dozens of exhibits. Tall golden pillars stood between every one. Eleven ground torches formed a large circle in the center of the room. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“I want to know who you are and why you have brought me here!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> asked piercingly. The torches began to light by themselves, one by one. Wrought iron bars fell from the ceiling and sealed the door behind him. “Are you ready to show yourself to me?” he hollered. “Have you no knowledge of the rules?” boomed the same voice from the museum’s main hallway. “No one leaves the Wanderer’s Museum under any circumstances.” From the chamber’s ceiling, a metallic grate opened up wide, revealing a pitch black hole. The voice let out a vile laugh, and a tall person brandishing a whip dropped down from the hole. They landed on their feet and stood across from <place w:st="on">Edison</place> inside of the torchlight circle. The person wore a bistre colored cloak that had eccentric designs and patterns all over it, outlined in black. His face was darkened by a hood. “You, my child, have broken the rules of my museum time and time again.” the person growled. “It is now time to suffer the consequences.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> gasped and stepped back. “You are Dmitri Downs, the museum curator. Are you not?” he asked. “Indeed, I am.” The person replied. “I travel throughout this lonely world to find people of value. It is then that they are brought here to my museum, never to be heard from again.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> felt his upper lip trembling slightly. “I believe that your reign of terror is coming to an untimely close!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> blurted. “Is that so?” Dmitri responded slowly. “Well I believe that your corpse will make a splendid new statue!” After another evil cackle, Dmitri raised his whip thrust it wildly at one of the torches, making it fall against the one beside it. One by one, all of the torches were knocked down like dominoes.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When the final torch fell, a ring of fire encircled the area between Edison and Dmitri Downs. “Oh yes that’s right, you have no way to defend yourself.” exclaimed Dmitri. “Isn’t that just a crying shame?” He mocked as he raised his whip once again and attempted to strike <place w:st="on">Edison</place> in the head. Luckily, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> moved so fast to dodge it that he even surprised himself. He then rolled over to his right side as Dmitri tried another strike at him with his whip. “Why don’t you just surrender? There is no way you can win this!” Dmitri yelled. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> ignored him and continued dodging the whip. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This is hopeless.</i> <place w:st="on">Edison</place> thought to himself. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How can I possibly fend him off without my weapons?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He then felt a rumbling in his pocket where the curator’s key was. He took the key out and noticed that the red jewel embedded in it was glowing brightly. As <place w:st="on">Edison</place> held it in his hand, one half of the ring of fire dissipated, and he quickly dashed out of the circle. He ran over to one exhibit entitled <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Soldiers of Servenia</i>. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> continued to stand by the exhibit, gasping for air. The red jewel glowed again, and the glass protecting the exhibit shattered. Dmitri jumped out of the fiery circle and stood before <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “You are using my special key without my permission?” he shouted at him. The jewel continued to glow in <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s hand, and he held it high above his head, pointing it in the direction of the exhibit. Bits and pieces of shard glass flew everywhere. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> placed his arms around his face to protect himself. The glass settled to the floor, and <place w:st="on">Edison</place> could see movement from within the exhibit. Soldiers of all different shapes and sizes emerged out into the chamber. Edison stayed still, pondering his fate while the soldiers escaped from the exhibit and encircled <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: small;">The shock of what was happening rendered him speechless, until one of the soldiers walked up to <place w:st="on">Edison</place> and bowed before him. “You are our new master.”</span> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-8310167279180030172011-02-09T16:03:00.000-05:002011-02-09T16:03:06.171-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Four ~ Part Three<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Without responding to Aequgus, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> obeyed his instructions and immediately examined the room for significant differences. He first took a look at the two statues. He then closed his eyes and tried to remember how the real throne room appeared. “The statues…” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> recalled, “I know there is something different about those statues.” He opened his eyes and studied them very carefully. He noticed that the leftmost statue was holding its spear in its left hand as opposed to its right. “One statue holds the spear in the wrong hand!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> shouted. The spear floated up from the statue’s left hand and moved over to the right hand. “Very good,” echoed the voice of Aequgus. “Only two more differences exist. Surely you are clever enough to locate them.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> turned his head away from the statues and directed his attention to the floor. The checkers were colored red and white, and their patterns seemed to be identical. Regardless, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> swam to the far end of the throne room and was able to examine the whole floor. Upon a closer look, he noticed something very peculiar about the checkers to the extreme right of the room. “What is it about that pattern?” asked <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, puzzled. “Of course!” he exclaimed. “There were two columned red checkers, followed by a white one. This time, two white checkers form a column!” Aequgus’ voice chuckled. “You are not as stupid as you look.” he mocked. “Only one difference remains.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s heart started to beat rapidly, and he headed for the ceiling.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The chandelier caught <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s eye. It hung in the exact same fashion as before, but he thought it would be wise to take a look at it. He counted the number of candles that sat in it, and then how many of them were actually lit. He discovered that the previous room’s chandelier had ten candles lit, and that this one only had eight lit. “Two of these candles are unlit!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> shouted. Aequgus’ spirit appeared once again. “That was quite the performance.” he commented, clapping. “You are free to go. Enjoy the rest of your journey, for every step will be challenging.” His spirit faded away, and the throne room turned bright white. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> could feel the water drying up, and his whole body being forced sideways. Moments later, he ended up back in the museum’s hallway, lying flat on his back. He stood up and in his left hand was a bronze key with a red jewel embedded. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was standing in a part of the museum where there were no exhibits. A colossal door with an awkward design stood in front of him. “Go ahead. Unlock the door. I cannot wait to meet you!” bellowed a voice that echoed throughout the hall. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> couldn’t control his hand from shaking, but managed to stick the key through the lock and turn the door handle. He pushed the door open and slowly stepped inside.</span></span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-24595280243947172872011-02-01T14:52:00.002-05:002011-02-01T14:52:55.605-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Four ~ Part Two<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“The statue’s…mouth?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> pondered to himself. He looked up at the spot where Aequgus vanished, and then back down at the statue whose mouth continued to open and close. “Will this will help me find Angelica?” he asked, swimming towards the statue. He hovered over the top of it and waited for its mouth to open again. When it did, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> quickly dove inside. He found himself faced with another tunnel. He swam through this one at a fast pace. The crevices were very wide, so <place w:st="on">Edison</place> had plenty of room to move his body. As he progressed through it, he could see a ray of light shining at the far end, which got brighter as he moved forward. He soon discovered as he reached the other side, it was a dead end. He began to panic, and searched all around for an exit until he found a hole about the circumference of his body on the top crevice. He swam right into the center of the hole and emerged into another monstrous area. He could not believe where he was now.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Aequgus had lead <place w:st="on">Edison</place> into a deteriorating underwater city, with buildings that lay all over the ground in ruins. Broken street lamps and cracked pieces of stone were scattered about, along with old spears, shields, and fish skulls. Ahead of <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was a rundown palace that had tattered flags staying motionless at the very top. To the right of him was a sunken ship where the ghost of Aequgus was waiting. With a sneer on his face, he spoke to <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, “Very good. You’re not as dull-witted as I expected.” Aequgus then turned his body. “Do follow me. What you seek lies in here.” he instructed, swimming into the ship. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> took one last look at the underwater city, and obeyed Aequgus’ command. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The ship’s interior was in surprisingly good shape. Although there were torn paintings of pirates on each of the walls, there were treasure chests set up in straight rows, and a large rectangular table that was covered with a red cloth. At the far end of the ship was a silver treasure chest. As <place w:st="on">Edison</place> approached it, the ghost of Aequgus appeared above it. He raised his hands, causing the chest to open. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> then dove into the chest and noticed a strange looking key. It appeared to be molded, and it glowed with a dark shade of grey. The ground beneath the key then started to shake all of a sudden, and began to crack. “What’s going on here?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> shouted. He tilted his head to see if Aequgus was there, but he was nowhere to be found. The ground inside of the treasure chest cracked some more, and eventually created a hole that the key fell into. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> let out a cry, and his stomach began to get queasy. The treasure chest then fell into the hole that was created, and ever so slowly, the ship went down with it. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> fell straight into the hole underneath the chest, and after what seemed like an eternity, he somehow ended up back in the throne room with the two statues. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Aequgus was sitting on the throne between the statues with a sly grin on his face. His head was cocked to the left. “You didn’t think I would let you off that easy, did you?” he said while snickering. “What else must I do?” begged <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. Aequgus slowly sat up from the throne and spread his arms out wide. The entire room filled with a white haze, yet faded away soon after. Edison and Aequgus were still in the exact same room, although things seemed very different to <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “I sure hope you memorized how the room appeared when you arrived.” Aequgus remarked, “In order for you to leave my kingdom alive, you must spot the differences between my throne room and the room you are in right now.” Aequgus’ sadistic laughter could still be heard as his ghostly appearance vanished from the throne. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-54288555308553187192011-01-25T14:24:00.010-05:002011-01-25T15:36:00.582-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Four ~ Part One<div style="border-bottom: windowtext 1.5pt solid; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Monotype Corsiva"; font-size: 15pt;">The school of magic has ceased all spells…</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> As <place w:st="on">Edison</place> descended down into the hole, he noticed that it was a circular passageway that seemed to stretch down very far. It was extremely narrow with silver pearls that were stuck in the crevices. The passage was very dark, yet as <place w:st="on">Edison</place> swam forward, it strangely illuminated with a hazy light so that he could see his way clearly. Regardless of all this, he still found difficulty in navigating through the hole, as he kept hitting his hands and feet against the sides of the crevices. Without even realizing it, he opened his mouth to speak. “Do I even know where I’m going?” he asked. The words slipped out perfectly, even though he was underwater. He stopped moving momentarily. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can talk underneath all of this?” he spoke again, confused. While he was looking around at the passageway, he felt the urge to cock his head forward. The light that surrounded him began to bounce around from crevice to crevice, almost as if it was dancing. It soon changed its color from grey to orange, and shone on the top crevice. It then formed the shape of an arrow, which seemed to be pointing down deeper into the passageway. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> looked up at the light, which started to shine further and further down into the hole. “What awaits me this time?” he asked himself. The light soon dissipated, and <place w:st="on">Edison</place> dove down further into the passage.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After a short while of navigating through the darkened hole, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> eventually reached the end of the passageway, and was now at the very bottom of the exhibit’s castle. He was shocked by what he saw. Although the passageway was extremely narrow, the area underneath it was an expansive underwater cavern. The crevices were spread apart much farther, and tiny pieces of gold were wedged within them. The ceiling was also much higher. Directly ahead of <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was a crevice with a large crack in the middle of it. When he swam closer to it to get a good look at the other side, he could see a half destroyed throne room with two statues at the very end. The statues were of fish heads with human bodies, and they were both clad with bright blue armor. Their eyes looked as if they were angry, with eyebrows that were slightly slanted. Tall wooden spears were being held in their right hands. As they stood there, both of their mouths were opening and closing automatically.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The entire throne room was fairly gigantic. The floor was colored with red and white checkers, and a dilapidating chandelier was hanging on the ceiling. In between the two statues sat a red chair with a broken backrest. “Where must I go to find the key?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> wondered. Just after he said this, the room began to shake heavily, and air bubbles were forming in the water. “What did I do?” he exclaimed. “You entered the castle of my lost kingdom. That is what you did.” A voice replied. This terrified <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, whose body started to shake. He looked every which way for the owner of the voice, but found no one. “This way, fool!” the voice shouted. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> jerked his head toward the chair between the statues. A ghostly figure of a fish was now sitting in it. The fish wore a black and white crown on its head, and was dressed in a green robe that covered its whole body. Although it had the head of a fish, it had the body of a human. “Ah! Do we have yet another thief who wishes to steal my precious jewels?” it asked, with a scowl on its face. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was speechless at first. “Why no, I am not. I am searching for a key.” he said. The fish leaned its head to the left and raised its arms. “Then I suppose you would have the same intentions as that girl from earlier on.” It stated. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> nodded his head. “Do you know where I can find it?” The fish let out a sigh and stood up from the chair. It then turned its back and started to swim up to the ceiling. “It is hidden here in Absunda, my kingdom under the ocean.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was intrigued to hear this. “And who are you?” The fish stopped and turned its head towards <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “I am Aequgus, the King of Absunda. And you, you claim you are not here to invade my old kingdom and steal my riches?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> nodded his head. “I am not a thief by any means.” he reassured. “I see. Well then, you must prove yourself to me if you wish for my assistance.” The King replied. “What must I do?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> inquired. “First, you must enter the mouth of the statue to your right.” The ghostly figure of the King then disappeared.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-44439818301110464952011-01-11T12:58:00.001-05:002011-01-11T12:59:07.024-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Three ~ Part Three<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">All that could be heard throughout the museum was the sounds of moaning and groaning. The eyes of the exhibits were staring coldly at <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, almost as if they wished to attack him. “So all of these people…are real…” he said to himself, sickened at the thought. Although he tried his best to not look at any of the exhibits, one in particular did catch his eye. It was a large aquarium, and inside of it to the far right sat a castle. Little pieces of seaweed fluttered throughout. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> looked towards the exhibit and noticed a diver figurine swimming out of the castle’s entrance. The figurine wore a blue jacket and pants, with black flippers. A scuba diving mask was on its face. When it fully exited the castle, it swam to the edge of the aquarium where <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stood peering in. The figurine raised its left hand and gave <place w:st="on">Edison</place> a small wave. This startled him, making him jump back slightly. It then motioned <place w:st="on">Edison</place> to come closer toward the exhibit. “Am I completely out of it, or what?” he asked aloud. The figurine continued to motion him. He sighed and slowly approached the aquarium and bent over to get a closer look. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">All of a sudden, the entire room seemed to get larger and larger. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> felt his feet being swept off the ground, and his body began to hover in the direction of the exhibit. The figurine remained on the other side of the aquarium, watching <place w:st="on">Edison</place> as he hovered in mid air. “Where am I being taken to?” he asked, shutting his eyes tightly. Just as he did, he could see a bright white flash through his eyelids. Ever so carefully, he opened his eyes, and was instantly shocked. He found himself inside of the exhibit’s aquarium. Mysteriously, he was able to breathe without any difficulty. From around the corner of the aquarium’s castle, the diver figurine swam towards <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. Both of them were now the exact same size. The diver appeared to be a young woman, with shoulder length blonde hair reaching down from the scuba mask. “So glad you could make it.” She said. “You…you can talk?” replied <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “I thought you were a figurine.” The diver smiled. “I’m not really supposed to be,” she revealed, “I was turned into this by the curator. I must now spend my life inside of this aquarium.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> felt sad and frightened when he heard this. “How did I get in here?” he asked. “I was granted the gift of shrinking people from outside of this exhibit. So when I saw you, I brought you in here to help you.” The diver explained. “Help me with what?” asked <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “There is something hidden within this exhibit that unlocks the curator’s private chambers. It is there that you will find him and defeat him.” The diver spun around and started swimming to the castle. “Follow me, my dear.” she instructed. He obeyed the diver and followed her across the aquarium.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As Edison and the diver approached the castle, its drawbridge lowered for them to enter. A deep rectangular hole was inside, with miniature torches placed in each corner. “The world beneath the castle is a cold and treacherous place.” the diver stated. “I have tried many times to enter it and find the curator’s key, but I have had no luck.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stared at the castle for a brief moment, and then looked back at the diver. “I will try to not let you down.” he reassured her. With that, he swam inside of the castle, and dove into the hole.</span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-81104388910350078092010-12-12T22:27:00.002-05:002010-12-17T15:20:27.698-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Three ~ Part Two<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"></span></place></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Edison</span></place><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">’s body ached tremendously. He found it difficult just to stand up on his feet. When he did, he tried to move his arms and his legs, but could not. “What’s going on here?” he asked, opening his eyes. “Where might I be now?” As he took a quick look around, he noticed he was enclosed inside of a rectangular glass case. The walls and ceilings were decorated with yellow, painted on bricks. Fake sand was scattered across the floor. “I must get out of here!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> blurted out. He tried to move, but again he was not able to. He soon discovered that his body was covered in paper mache. “Trying to escape is a foolish act.” a voice exclaimed. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> gasped. “Who said that?” Nothing but mannequins sat to his left and right. “Would you happen to be the newest victim?” the voice asked. “If you are, then look to the left of you.” Although hesitant at first, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> turned his head to the left and saw a mannequin whose head was facing him. He too was covered in paper mache from the neck down. “Did you just speak to me?” asked <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. The mannequin blinked its eyes. “I did. I don’t get to speak very often.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> shook his head and rubbed his eyes. “But… you’re just a statue, how are you able to communicate?” The mannequin gave a seldom smile. “That is because I am not a statue. I am a person.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s jaw dropped. He could not believe what he was hearing. “The curator of this museum kidnapped me many years ago. I am forced to live my life as an exhibit.” The person continued. “Curator… That caravan… Those masks… Those statues…” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> drifted off. “You must tell me all that you know. Who is this curator? What is this place?” he asked. “This is the Wanderer’s Museum. It is owned by a deranged man who calls himself Dmitri Downs.” The person responded. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Edison</span></place><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> shook his body every which way, with hopes of destroying the paper mache. Luckily, the paper covering his left arm ripped apart, so he used to unravel it off of his body. As he reached for his scabbard to draw his sword, he discovered that both of his weapons were missing. He turned back to the person covered in paper mache. “What happened to my sword and shield?” he asked. The person didn’t respond. His head was tilted back and his eyes were shut. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> searched around the whole exhibit for something to smash the case open, but found nothing. “Well this is just perfect!” He said, kicking one of the walls. When he did this, a small crack formed in the wall. He kicked it again, and the crack became larger. “Perhaps now I can escape!” He shouted, kicking the wall even harder than before. The bottom half of the wall surrounding the crack collapsed, and formed a narrow tunnel. Although hesitant at first, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> embraced himself and stepped inside of it. Everything seemed normal to him at first, until something made him look up. A passage was written on the ceiling. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I see you’re trying to leave so soon. That’s no fun, you haven’t met your doom! </i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">As soon as <place w:st="on">Edison</place> read this, he raced through the rest of the tunnel, and eventually ended up in the main hallway. He scurried over to an arch-shaped door which he assumed was the museum’s entrance. Very carefully, he reached his hand out and tried the door handle. It didn’t budge. “Here we go…” he said. When he touched the handle again, a long metal bar swung down from the wall to the left of the door. “You don’t think you’ll be leaving that easily do you?” A deep voice echoed throughout the hall. “And who might you be?” asked <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, his voice slightly cracking. The voice didn’t answer back. “Speak to me this instant!” he shouted. No answer. “That will not do you any good.” Another voice remarked. <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s cheeks turned bright red. He looked all around him. No one appeared to be standing in the hallway. “Look this way, chap.” The voice said. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> turned to the left, where an exhibit with the inscription <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Man of Greed</i> was situated. It contained a statue of a man sitting on a throne, with doubloons scattered across the ground. The case was decorated with red velvet curtains. The voice spoke again. “You never thought a statue could speak, did you?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stared at it in disbelief. The statue turned his head towards him. “I haven’t always been this way,” it said, “I was once a wealthy and respected man, living in luxury in my home that lies far to the east. Unfortunately, the curator kidnapped me and made me into a statue. He called me the Man of Greed.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stepped closer to the exhibit. “Why exactly were you kidnapped?” he asked. “The curator wanders the world, searching for people to use as exhibits. I suppose I was one of those people…” the statue replied, slowly propping its head up. “It’s a miracle that you were able to escape. However, no one may leave the Wanderer’s Museum unless the curator has been defeated.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> absorbed everything the statue told him. “I shall put a stop to his madness!” he decided. The statue watched him as he walked down the hallway. "Be careful, young warrior..." he whispered.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; line-height: 200%;"><em>Edison's Dream will continue January 2011...</em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-51215670781292716922010-11-30T22:21:00.001-05:002010-11-30T22:23:21.377-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Three ~ Part One<div style="border-bottom: windowtext 1.5pt solid; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Monotype Corsiva"; font-size: 15pt;">The Mummy of Tomorrow here at last, enter my lair, a world so vast…</span></div></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">For a brief moment in the vortex, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> could see images of what seemed to be of his past. He saw himself handing the Scarlet Piccolo to Angelica, and her playing it by the ocean. He then saw the pirate ship invading Hollowmill, and a man presumed to be the captain step out of it. The images soon vanished, and <place w:st="on">Edison</place> landed on a circular platform. His whole body was aching heavily from the fall, but nonetheless, he stood up and examined his surroundings. The entire room was shaped as an oval, and on the wall in front of <place w:st="on">Edison</place> hung a painting of an old woman. She had pale skin, a long nose, and grey hair tied back in a bun. “Could this be the Eccentric Old Lady I have been told about?” he spoke softly. “You’ll soon find out, won’t you?” cackled an old woman’s voice. “Are you the woman from my dream?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> looked up, startled. “Perhaps I am, perhaps I’m not.” the voice responded. The woman in the painting disappeared. She soon reappeared in the oval-shaped room, and floated in the air. “What exactly am I supposed to sweep?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> asked sarcastically. The woman ignored him and began to spin around in a circle. After four spins, her appearance was altered completely. Her skin glowed uncannily with a shade of turquoise. She was dressed in a gown that was a contrast between mauve and cream. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> approached the old lady, but stopped when her eye pupils turned blue. “What…what exactly are you?” he asked, now frightened. The old woman spoke with conviction. “Why so scared my love? I am only an eccentric old lady. I couldn’t possibly mean any harm to you.” She then spread both of her arms out, and the room filled with black sparkles. It seemed to become much darker, as the torches surrounding the room were put out. A broomstick appeared below her, and she encircled <place w:st="on">Edison</place> while she flew around in it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is it…the final challenge…” he whispered. </span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Edison</span></place><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> could only rely on the eccentric old lady’s glowing skin in order to see her. “Come on, just try to follow me!” she cackled. Momentarily, she stopped flying around on the broomstick and faced <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. Although he could not see very clearly, he did see what appeared to be a ball of ice forming in her right hand. “This spell of ice that freezes souls, feel it as it takes its toll!” exclaimed the old lady, tossing the spell. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> swung his sword as it came towards him, deflecting it back at her. Unfortunately she dodged it, and casted another spell at him. This time it was a green ball, with a tinge of yellow in its core. He swung his sword just in time to deflect the spell again. Luckily, it hit the Eccentric Old Lady, and knocked her down onto the ground. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> used this opportunity to rush over to her and fight one on one. She leaped up off of the ground and a silver cutlass formed in her left hand. “Your heroic journey is far from swell, bid your sweetheart a last farewell!” she yelled. A swordfight ensued between the two of them. Although <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was losing the grip of his sword, he continued to fight. After an intense episode of exchanging blades, the old lady dropped her cutlass onto the floor. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> swung his sword at her, and delivered the final blow. A ray of white light shone on her, and she burst into flames. “You menacing little fool!” she screamed. “Soon I will be back to haunt you!” The ray of light grew larger and covered her entire body, and soon all that was left of the Eccentric Old Lady was her gown and broomstick. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> crouched down and tried to catch his breath, until everything around him began to shake. The voice of V.H. Fine echoed throughout the room. “I suppose I underestimated you, child.” He bellowed. “You have found one of the keys to my palace. But don’t think your adventure will be this easy here on out!” He let out an evil laugh, and his voice faded away. The room shook even harder this time, causing it to collapse. Chunks of the ceiling were falling onto the ground. The walls and the ceiling shone a white light that got progressively brighter. <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s eyes were hurting, so he shut them tightly to avoid being blinded.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">A few moments later, he opened his eyes and found himself standing in front of Harpstring Manor. Nothing appeared unusual. However, something made him look down at the ground, where there lay a shiny red key. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> picked it up and studied it carefully. Just as he did this, it vanished into thin air. “Is this another one of my dreams?” he gasped. He took another look around, and everything seemed normal. He readjusted his sword and shield, and set off down the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Deepwind</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Mountain</placetype></place>’s trail.</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">In the main over world, a strange looking caravan was parked next to a river. It was filled with all kinds of mysterious masks and costumes. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> noticed a realistic statue inside of it, its eyes glaring at him. “That’s pretty creepy.” he commented. Taking a walk by the river, he saw a mask floating around in it. “How did that end up in there?” he asked. He bent down to get a closer look at it, and stuck his hand inside the river in an attempt to grab it. The sound of rustling came from a bush behind him. While he fished for the mask, the same person from his dream in Harpstring Manor rose from the same bush wielding a sledgehammer. The figure moved ever so softly without as much as a peep. It raised the sledgehammer up, and it came down on Edison’s head. The figure spoke. “The Mummy of Tomorrow here at last, enter my lair, a world so vast…” </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-84568025143463301882010-11-24T18:11:00.000-05:002010-11-24T18:11:29.795-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Two ~ Part Three<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">The image of Harpstring Manor faded away. An imaginary area formed in <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s mind and took its place. It appeared to be the base of <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Deepwind</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Mountain</placetype></place>, only the scenery was distorted. The sky was pink, and the clouds were gray. The river that separated the over world from the base paused its flow, and the water was emerald green. The trees surrounding it were orange. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> attempted to explore the area, until he heard rustling in a nearby bush. “Is anybody in there?” he asked helplessly. The rustling stopped. He went over to the river and took a look inside of it. Little did he know that as he was doing this, a mysterious figure was rising out of the bush wielding a sledgehammer. The figure, presumably a man, was garbed in a blackish grey cloak, with a hood over his head, hiding his face. Around his neck were two diamond necklaces, which shone an eerie light in the pink sky. The man stepped out of the bush and silently approached <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, whose back was still turned. Before the man could do anything, the imaginary area faded from <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s mind, and the image of Harpstring Manor returned.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">“What are you doing asleep on the floor?” a voice exclaimed. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> found himself lying on the second floor corridor. He happened to look over at a painting of what appeared to be a female opera singer. “Was that you who just spoke to me?” he asked. “Why yes it was, darling. I was becoming worried. You just collapsed onto the floor. What happened?” she replied. <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s head was still aching from the fall. “I haven’t the slightest clue…” he admitted. “Something so strange is happening to me.” “Well, if you wish to leave this mansion, then you must follow this final instruction.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> listened closely to the woman. “If you wish to vanquish the Eccentric Old Lady, you must enter the last door of the right corridor. The final challenge awaits you there.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> took a deep breath. He knew that he would soon meet the old woman from his dream. With a firm hold of his sword and shield, he made his way down the right corridor, ready for battle. As he tried to open the last door, it didn’t open. “The key!” he recalled, reaching into his pocket and taking it out. Ever so carefully, he placed it inside of the door lock and turned the knob. It worked. On the other side of the door was a library that looked different from the rest of the mansion. The room had no paintings or even wallpaper, and was built out of stone. Four rows of bookshelves and a circulation desk sat over to the right. “What challenge awaits me here?” Edison asked out loud. In response to his question, a book flew out swiftly from one of the shelves. It fluttered about in Edison’s face, and the pages were flapping. “I must be losing my mind.” he remarked. “You certainly are not, my lad.” A voice said. “Would you care to follow me?” It asked. The book floated away from Edison, who moved forward to try to follow it. Suddenly, the floor beneath him began to shake. He looked up at the book. “Keep going, dear boy.” The voice taunted. Just as he took another step forward, the floor shook again, and this time the entire library flipped over. Edison started to fall down a deep, darkened hole where he was spinning around and around to the point of unconsciousness. Little did he know at that point he had fallen into a vortex.</span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-20090441029916618562010-11-24T18:05:00.000-05:002010-11-24T18:05:16.067-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Two ~ Part Two<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">The imaginary cliff <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stood on started to fade into nothingness. He thought he could see an envelope floating in the distance. Without thinking, he jumped off the cliff and tried to grab it. Unfortunately, he plummeted straight down into the imaginary country that lay below. After he landed on his back, he instantly woke up. The entire ceiling of his house was gone, and there were holes visible in all of the walls. He stood up and rubbed his head. Looking around, he could see pieces of old furniture lying everywhere. He was shocked when he saw what was on the floor. It was the same envelope that he saw in his dream, wrapped in a blue satin ribbon. “But it was just a dream…” he assured himself. It was torn completely on the left side, almost as if it was ripped out of a book. He slowly reached for it, and began to read the following.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">If the Ballad of the Thieves is what you wish to play,</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Prepare for the most unlucky day.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Monsters shall arrive and raid your place,</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">And capture loved ones leaving no trace.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">This dark illusion you shall never redeem,</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">You will wish this was a dream.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Edison</span></place><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> was horrified. He was overwhelmed with sadness and anger, and fell to the floor. Another imaginary environment was forming in his mind. This time, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> saw himself inside of a hotel room, lying in a bed. Nothing but pink sky could be seen through the window on the left. To the right of the room was a fireplace which was burning brightly. In front of <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stood a door, where he heard a knocking sound. He crept out of the bed and tiptoed over to it. There it was again, only this time it was louder. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> heard the voice of what sounded like an old lady speaking. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">He’s still asleep, he’s still asleep,</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">I wanted him to help me sweep;</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">He’s probably in there all alone,</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">I can hear a fearful moan.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">At this point, he was very fretful. He stepped back from the door and crawled back into the bed. The old lady’s voice spoke again. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Harpstring Manor, my home on the peak,</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Won’t you join me for a cup of tea?</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Edison</span></place><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> jumped to his feet and raced to the door. He tried to open it, but the imaginary hotel room faded into a blur. The next thing he knew he was back laying in his dilapidated house. This time around, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was determined to go search for his loved one. He stood up and grabbed his sword and shield, the only items that miraculously survived the blast. He entered into a room which once was his bedroom. He looked around for something familiar. Strangely, lying on the floor in perfect condition was a map of Portrainia. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> picked it up and studied it carefully. Harpstring Manor was situated at the top of <placename w:st="on">Deepwind</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Mountain</placetype>, which lies in the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Extrarus</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Territory</placetype></place>. It was northwest of Hollowmill. Since he knew where he was going, he tucked the map carefully into his pocket, as his long journey would soon begin.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The hike up <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Deepwind</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Mountain</placetype></place> was exhausting. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was still aching from limb to limb. He required the use of his sword and shield several times, in order to fend off creatures that lurked the hills. Eventually, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> reached the peak, and there before him stood Harpstring Manor, the place that the old lady spoke of in his dream. It was three storeys high, built entirely out of flagstone. On the rooftop there was a widow’s walk. Courageously, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> walked up to the front veranda and rang the doorbell. “Come inside, you’ve been expected…” echoed a voice that sounded similar to the old lady. He took a deep breath, and turned the knob. When he stepped inside, he was baffled by the awkwardly designed foyer. The décor looked unusual, and rather eccentric to the eye. In the center of the room sat a spiral staircase that never seemed to end. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> slowly climbed the stairs and reached the second floor. On the wall was an inscription. On a closer look, he read it aloud to himself, “A lonely old woman, who lives in her home, through these corridors do you dare to roam?” On each side there were corridors that seemed endless. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> felt uneasy as he took a step down the left corridor. The walls were lined with paintings of important looking people and colorful landscapes from Portrainia. “Would you happen to be lost, young man?” a booming voice spoke to Edison, who nearly jumped out of his skin. “Who said that?” he asked fearfully. Something made him turn to one of the paintings, particularly one of an older gentleman with a handlebar mustache and one glass eye. His eye seemed to be peering down at <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “Ha ha, did I scare you, child? Do not worry, there is nothing to fear.” The older man in the painting said. “You must be cautious. An Eccentric Old Lady lives in this mansion, and possesses the powers of a witch. In order to make it out of here alive, you must solve her puzzles. Do you understand, young man?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> nodded his head in disbelief that he was actually listening to a painting speak to him. “Splendid! Now, you must proceed to the third floor and enter the fourth door in the right corridor.” The man finished.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><place w:st="on"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Edison</span></place><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> returned to the staircase and climbed up to the third floor. The corridors were decorated in navy blue wallpaper, a different color than the second floor. He counted the doors and found the fourth one. He carefully turned the doorknob and poked his head inside. It was a sewing room. On one of the tables next to a window was a key. “I don’t like surprises…” whispered <place w:st="on">Edison</place> while he tiptoed into the room and approached the table. All seemed normal for the moment. It was just a simple sewing room. He swiped the key and ran out, as the door slammed behind him. As he walked away, he heard another voice, this time from a woman. “Ah, you retrieved the key I see?” she said. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> rolled his eyes and looked at each of the paintings. “And which one are you?” he asked in disbelief. One of the paintings rumbled. It was one of a slightly pudgy woman wearing a feather boa and an opera mask. “That key is used to open a door, one that lies on the second floor.” she said. “Thank you, madam.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> replied, questioning his sanity. The painting winked her eye at him, and he set off downstairs to the second floor. He started down the left corridor and tried the key in every door. No luck. As he walked back to the staircase, a massive headache overcame him. The environment in front of him seemed to shrink and blur. “What’s…happening…to…me…?” he grunted as he fell to the ground. </span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-46154869306690470602010-11-15T18:05:00.004-05:002010-11-15T18:14:04.565-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter Two ~ Part One<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: windowtext 1.5pt solid; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Monotype Corsiva"; font-size: 16pt;">He’s probably in there all alone, I can hear a fearful moan…</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> <span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Angelica awoke in a mysterious place. It almost appeared to be a throne room, it looked very unusual. As she looked around the place, there were oddly designed walls. They seemed to be made out of dark violet glass mirrors. There were reflections of the entire room through all walls. On the floor in front of her was a carpet of blue that extended all the way to an orange door. Torches were lit on either side of the door. Angelica snapped to attention when she heard the doorknob turning. It opened slowly, what she thought at first was a man entered the room, with the face of a monster. His skin was ash gray, yet oddly, his face was snow white. The pupils of his eyes glowed with a fiery red. He was dressed in a black cloak, with strange patterns she couldn’t make out all over the arms. On his head, he wore a regalia purple crown that had spikes around the rim. There were different colored rings on each of his fingers. Angelica was petrified. As she tried to move her legs to escape, she discovered that she was chained to a boulder behind her. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">“What do you want from me?” she yelled in terror. The man let out an evil chuckle and slowly crept up to Angelica. “You have opened the gates into this marvelous land!” he sneered. “When I heard the ancient song of treasures, I sent my underling Captain Blackeye to bring you to me.” Angelica realized at that moment that the Ballad of the Thieves was a song she had played, and myths behind it were about to come true. “Who are you?” she cried. “V.H. Fine at your service, little one. I shall become the new ruler of Portrainia! And you are going to help me find every sacred treasure that hides in this fair country.” he stated. “I will never help you, you fiend!” she sneered. “Let me go at once!” She struggled to break free from the chains. V.H. Fine let out a laugh and pointed his hand towards the boulder restraining Angelica. A pink translucent cube encircled her, which began to spin around, getting progressively faster. The cube then disappeared, along with Angelica. V.H. Fine held his hands up in the air, and a dark aura formed around his body. He disappeared as well, his evil laugh echoing throughout the room.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">-</span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">While <place w:st="on">Edison</place> lay unconscious on the floor of what was once his family’s home, he was having a terrifying dream. He saw himself on top of a cliff, which was overseeing an entire country. Everything around him looked blurred. Suddenly, a dark aura formed in front of him far in the distance. As it got closer, it turned into a white head. It was the head of V.H. Fine, the captor of Angelica. “Who… who are you?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> asked. “The love of your life is held in my <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on">Palace</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Paradox</placename></place>.” V.H. Fine chuckled. “Follow your dreams…follow your dreams…” he said, his voice getting further away in the distance. Soon, the image of his head vanished. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">~</span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-90265215319197571482010-11-09T17:20:00.001-05:002010-11-12T14:29:13.050-05:00Edison's Dream ~ Chapter One<div style="border-bottom: windowtext 1.5pt solid; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Monotype Corsiva";"><span style="font-size: large;">This dark illusion you shall never redeem, you will wish this was a dream…</span></span></div></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Since the time she was a little girl, Angelica has had a deep passion for music. In her bedroom sits a record player which includes her precious albums by her favorite Portrainian musicians. Under her bed, she keeps several tattered music books which are full of wonderful songs. She enjoys playing her Bluerose piccolo, an instrument that was given to her at a very young age by her mother. Although she adores this with all her heart, she has her eyes set on another instrument called the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Scarlet Piccolo</i>. This one shines with several hues of red. This piccolo is very rare, it has been said to hold magical powers. If one plays a certain song, it will apparently cause drastic effects in their world. Musicians have thought this to be utter nonsense. Angelica ignores their cynical remarks. She believes the magic powers would hold goodness for the people of Portrainia. As every day passes, she becomes less hopeful that she will receive it. This rare treasure may come sooner to her than she expects. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Today is no ordinary day for <place w:st="on">Edison</place> and Angelica, for today they will celebrate their four year anniversary together. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> decided that he would surprise Angelica with a special gift. When he was finished working at the Bazaar for the day, he took a walk to the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rarcius Boutique, </i>a store located in a patch of woods in the Merchant’s Way, a path that leads out of Hollowmill. It is a very odd store, ran by a peculiar owner. No one knows his name, for he has never revealed it. The shop is said to hold rare and priceless valuables to which no one knows how he came into possession of them. Strangely enough, the inventory changes on a weekly basis. One week the store may carry rare coins and stamps, and another week it may carry swords used by legendary Portrainian warriors. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Edison</place> felt uneasy entering the store, considering all he’s overheard from the townsfolk. Nonetheless, he took a deep breath, and took his first step inside. No one seemed to be there. “Hello?” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> repeated out loud, to the point his voice was cracking. The sounds of footsteps came from behind him, and he turned on his heel quickly. Nobody was there. “Well, good afternoon young man.” spoke a deep voice. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> gasped and turned towards the counter. The mysterious owner was standing behind the till after all. “What’s the matter, did I scare you?” The owner asked. “No… No… of course not…” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> replied while trying to keep his legs from shaking. “I’m here to buy a special gift for my fiancée. Today is our anniversary.” He continued. The owner gave an unbidden smile. “Well then, young man,” he said, “This is your lucky day. I just happened to have what you’re looking for…” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was now confused.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The owner reached underneath the counter and pulled out what appeared to be a musical instrument. <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s eyes widened at the beauty of it. “I know I’ve seen that before.” he thought to himself. Then he realized what it was. “Is that the…” He uttered out loud. “Scarlet Piccolo?” finished the owner. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> nodded his head. “My fiancée… It would mean the world to her if she could have that piccolo.” he said with enthusiasm. “Well, I could sell it to you for seventy-five doubloons.” The owner chuckled playfully. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> realized he didn’t have much money. He intended to bring some home for his parents. But this gift was so important to his Angelica that without a second thought, he reached into his pocket and counted out five yellow doubloons, which totaled seventy-five. He tossed them on the counter and the owner placed the piccolo into a box. “I can’t thank you enough for this.” said <place w:st="on">Edison</place>, happily taking the box. As he began to walk out, he heard the same footsteps. Turning around once again, no one was there. The owner had vanished. A little terrified, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> ran out of the store. Sunset began to fall over Portrainia. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> thought it would be wise to get back home to Hollowmill as quickly as he could to surprise his fiancée with his special gift for her. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Meanwhile, Angelica had just finished preparing a special anniversary meal for her and Edison. It consisted of roasted Cornish hens, corn meal muffins, and <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s favorite, split pea soup. Her house was decorated elegantly for their evening. On the dining room table, she placed the best table cover she owned, with white dishes lined in silver, two beautiful goblets, and she lit three pillar candles. Now all that was missing was her fiancée. While she put on one of her favorite records, a knock came at the front door. A wave of excitement and happiness went through her. She hurried to the door, and eagerly opened it. There he was, dressed in a black dinner jacket with a crisp white dress shirt, and black dress pants. How handsome he looked. Her face blushed a little with the excitement of seeing him. In his right hand, he held a bouquet of roses. His left hand was behind his back. “Good evening, my love,” and before <place w:st="on">Edison</place> uttered another word, Angelica threw her arms around him. “Please darling, come inside.” She replied. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The warm ambiance of the house made <place w:st="on">Edison</place> instantly forget his fears of the Rarcium. His nose was tickled by the scent of lavender perfume. The music playing sent a wave of calmness through his head. Angelica sat down on the couch next to the record player. “Won’t you join me?” she asked, patting the spot beside her. Without responding, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> sat down beside Angelica. The melody of the music was soothing, and lingered on his ears. “This song… It’s beautiful… what is it?” he asked, staring off into space. Angelica giggled. “The song is called <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Garden</i></placetype><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> of <placename w:st="on">Libera</placename></i></place><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">. </i>It was written by a pianist named <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Charlton Falke.</i> I’ve heard that his music can bring out many emotions.” said Angelica. The soothing feeling that overcame <place w:st="on">Edison</place> turned into fascination. “You have always had a spectacular taste in music, my dear.” he responded.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Together, the couple made the evening magical. For a short while, they sat on the couch and reminisced about the splendid moments of their relationship. Angelica then led <place w:st="on">Edison</place> into the dining room. They happily ate supper by candlelight, and danced to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">An Enchanting Waltz</i>. When the evening was drawing to a close, Angelica decided it was time to give <place w:st="on">Edison</place> his gift. “Close your eyes, my love.” she whispered into his ear. He shut his eyes in anticipation while his fiancée passed him a package. As he opened his gift, he saw a clay sculpture that Angelica created. It was in the shape of a heart, and that she in crimson. <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s and Angelica’s initials were etched in the middle. “It’s beautiful,” he said, “As are you.” Angelica blushed. The sculpture illuminated in the candlelight of the living room. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> stood up from the table and hugged Angelica tightly. “I can’t thank you enough for this, sweetheart.” he whispered into her ear. “Now it’s time for your gift.” he continued. Angelica’s gift sat on the table. It was inside of a box wrapped nicely in white paper. “This is for you. I hope you like it.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> said eagerly as he handed it to her.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Angelica became ecstatic. He handed the box to her. Once she opened it, small tears began to run down her cheek. She stared at the Scarlet Piccolo for a moment, and looked up at Edison, who was smiling. “You…you got this for me?” she asked softly. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> nodded his head. Angelica carefully removed the piccolo from the box. It appeared to be even more beautiful in the candlelight. “I can’t believe you found this,” she said, “Thank you so much.” She leaped over to <place w:st="on">Edison</place> and hugged him. “First thing in the morning, I’ll be playing my new piccolo overlooking the ocean. Won’t you join me?” she asked. “Of course I will.” replied <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “What song are you going to play?” he asked. “I’m not sure yet,” she decided, “Tonight I’ll be going through my music books.” The couple embraced each other with a soft kiss. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> took his sculpture and headed home.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Early the next morning, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was preparing for a training session. He put his wooden sword into its scabbard, and his wooden shield into its holder, and attached them both to his back. He was dressed in a corduroy blue cavalier shirt, and sapphire cuffed pants. As he was about to go into his backyard, there was a knock at the front door. Standing on the veranda was Angelica, holding the Scarlet Piccolo. She was wearing a purple sleeveless shirt and white pants. “Why, hello there!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> greeted. “What are you doing up so early?” “I just couldn’t wait any longer,” Angelica responded, “I found the perfect song to play on my new piccolo.” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> was surely intrigued. “It’s called the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ballad of the Thieves</i>. It was written hundreds of years ago by a gang of thieves. Apparently it tells of how they travelled throughout the world and stole from innocent people.” she told <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. “Come with me down to the ocean, I can’t wait to play the song!” With that, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> followed his fiancée down to the ocean.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The waves crashing against the shoreline soothed Angelica’s nerves. She carefully placed her lips on the tip of the Scarlet Piccolo. She shut her eyes and successfully played the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ballad of the Thieves</i>, note by note. Once the song was complete, <place w:st="on">Edison</place> jumped to his feet and wildly clapped his hands. “That song was beautiful.” he said, overjoyed. “The way you played it was magical.” Angelica giggled and slightly blushed at <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s enthusiasm. “Thank you, Edison,” she responded, “I’m so happy you got this piccolo for me. I want to play so many songs on it!” <place w:st="on">Edison</place> grabbed her and they both walked away from the shore.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Suddenly, the bright and cheerful sun that shone over Hollowmill quickly faded under ominous clouds. The faint sound of thunder could be heard. Lightning struck far in the distance. A thunderstorm quickly ensued. “Let’s get back to my house, look’s like a storm’s coming.” said <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. While the couple was running back, they noticed that an object flew past them and destroyed a house. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> spun around and was shocked by what he thought he saw. The two of them looked towards the ocean, and saw what appeared to be a pirate ship, firing cannonballs at Hollowmill. Villagers were running around frantically at this point, seeking shelter. Angelica saw the gigantic ship. “What… what is going on?” she asked, barely able to move. “You don’t think it had anything to do with the song I played?” “You didn’t do anything, Angelica. It’s just a coincidence, but we had better seek shelter.” reassured <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Luckily, the couple returned safely to <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s house. Strangely, his parents were nowhere to be found. “Mother? Father? Where are you?” he hollered at the top of his lungs. Angelica was completely oblivious to the whereabouts of his parents. She was too busy staring out the window at the pirate ship, which was getting closer to the village. Cannonballs were still being fired. Villagers were screaming and taking cover. There was such chaos which had started off to be such a calm, beautiful morning. <place w:st="on">Edison</place> moved towards Angelica. “Come, we have to get into the cellar. There’s no time!” At that point, there was a loud explosion which ripped half of <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s house apart. And before they had time to move, the last thing <place w:st="on">Edison</place> saw was a beam heading straight towards him and Angelica. </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti"; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">~</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096422267604482027.post-79544398208168998742010-10-17T11:06:00.003-04:002010-10-27T14:49:25.862-04:00Edison's Dream ~ Prologue<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti"; font-size: 14pt;"> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;">Hollowmill is a small, quaint village that rests on the coastline of the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Valhaven</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Ocean</placetype></place>. The residents live in the stone houses that are scattered throughout the village. Some of the homes are situated closer to the shore than others. They make their livings by farming, blacksmithing, or crafting. In the east part of the village is Marvelyn Ranch, where the residents go to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and milk. It is owned by Auntie Marvelyn, an elderly woman who has lived at the ranch ever since she was a child. </span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: white;"> Directly in the center of Hollowmill flows the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Aldon</placename> <placetype w:st="on">River</placetype></place>, which feeds right into the ocean. On one side of the river lives an artist named Achille de Marx, who creates the most glorious and inspiring paintings. The only time he is ever seen outside of his home is when he decides to sell his artwork. The residents of the village consider themselves privileged when they afford some of his paintings. On the other side of the river is a gristmill, where grain is pounded into flour. In the west part of the village is Prowler Woods, the hideout of many stealthy pickpockets. Many residents can tell their own sad stories of possessions being stolen by these thieves.</span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on">village</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Hollowmill</placename></place> is not only home to beautiful sights, but some very interesting people. Living in the house nearest to the ocean is a young man who goes by the name of <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. He is in his early twenties, has a muscular build, and has short brown hair. He supports himself by working at the local Bazaar. He currently lives with his mother and father, Elizabeth and Giles, who run a small baking business out of their home. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><place w:st="on">Edison</place> was taught the “Basic Arts of Swordsmanship”, in his late teens by his now late grandfather. During his leisure time, he is usually seen in his backyard practicing with his sword and shield. </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: white;"> In the house nearest to the east of the village, lives <place w:st="on">Edison</place>’s fiancée, Angelica. She has long, natural red hair, is of a thin build, and is the same age as <place w:st="on">Edison</place>. She spends her leisure time designing clay sculptures. To help support herself, she assists Auntie Marvelyn at the ranch, by caring for her animals, and helping grow crops. The couple met three years ago when Angelica was selling her sculptures at the Bazaar where <place w:st="on">Edison</place> worked. From the time they first met, the couple has shared a romantic, loving relationship, and plan one day to marry. </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The <placetype w:st="on">village</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Hollowmill</placename> is situated far to the south of the mysterious <place w:st="on"><placetype w:st="on">land</placetype> of <placename w:st="on">Portrainia</placename></place>. Not many people know its history, but it’s said to hold a very dark one. The country is divided into four separate territories. Tranquis is to the south, which Hollowmill is part of. Extrarus is to the west, Malus is to the north, and Fiendus is to the east. </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="color: white; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Mongolian Baiti";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: white;">The villagers of Hollowmill only know peacefulness and joy. They live happy, carefree lives, and never hesitate to look out for one another. They walk down to the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Valhaven</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Ocean</placetype></place> to watch the sunset, or they gaze out into the horizon and listen to the soothing waves. They feel as if they will never be exposed to danger. However, their ocean of calmness may soon be used as a pathway for evil to invade their land…</span></span></span></div>W.B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05841802857427762014noreply@blogger.com1