I was asked a while ago to start a section of the website for fan fiction, like we had on the old Pen forums. I can’t do a separate section on the site, but I can start a blog. I’m glad that Flight 29 Downer posted a fan fiction because it reminded me to do this! So…here you go.
Just one request…be fair/constructive with your comments on the writing.
Flight 29 downer says:
Ok well I’ll replay my fanfic here then
Flight 92 Down
You’ll be in my heart
It was the night before Jackson, Abby, Melissa and Eric were going to search the west point of the island. Jackson was packing his bag when he noticed lex was crying in his sleeping bag.
“Hey lex. What is the matter?” Jackson said sitting down next to lex.
“I don’t want you guys to leave,” Lex said crying.
“Hey it is going to be alright,” Jackson, said reassuring. Jackson felt bad about leaving him. Lex was one of the few people jackson was close with.
“How do you know that,” Lex said still upset.
Jackson picked up his guitar and began to sing.
“Come stop crying you will be all right. Just take my hand hold it tight,” Jackson sang. Jackson took lex’s hand and held it.
“I will protect you from all around you Don’t you cry,” Jackson sang thinking about everything that has happened since the crash. Outside the tent Abby and Eric just stared into the fire.
“For some small you seem so strong, my arms keep you safe and warm this bond between us can’t be broken, I will be here don’t you cry. Jackson said giving lex a hug.
“‘Cause you’ll be in my heart Yes, you’ll be in my heart, from this day on
Now and forever more. You’ll be in my heart. No matter what they say, you’ll be here in my heart, always,” Jackson sang. Lex had stop crying to hear Jackson sing. Lex thought about how Jackson was the only one who listened to him. He realizes he really loves Jackson
“Why can’t they understand the way we feel? They just don’t trust what they can’t explain. I know we’re different but deep inside us. We’re not that different at all,” Jackson sang. Jackson was thinking back to the day he built the sign for him on his birthday.
“And you’ll be in my heart. Yes, you’ll be in my heart. From this day on
Now and forever more don’t listen to them ‘Cause what do they know
we need each other, to have, to hold. They’ll see in time I know,” Jackson was looking outside at the others. Thinking about how much he will miss everyone.
“When destiny calls you. You must be strong. I may not be with you
But you’ve got to hold on. They’ll see in time. I know. We’ll show them together,” Jackson looked down at Lex’s sad face.
“Oh, you’ll be in my heart. No, matter what they say. You’ll be in my heart, always. Always.”
By the song ended, there was not a single person with a dry face. Dailey and Taylor were holding each other and crying. Nathan was staring in the fire tears streaming down his face. Melissa was secretly packing and crying. Eric was packing his bag angrily, trying to force back tears, but not succeeding. Even Abby was in her sleeping bag outside the plane crying. Jackson looked over at Lex he was asleep. Jackson was really going to miss Lex and Lex was going to miss him. Tears started to stream down jackson’s face.
Flight 29 downer says:
Here is another fanfiic. I’ve done about 5 so this is #2
F29 down
What would happen if it was melissa’s birthday and everyone forgot including her boy friend and best friend. But did everyone forget?
Melissa woke up today was her birthday. I wonder what they have planned, she thought to herself. As she walked out of the tent nothing happened. Lex was messing with the radio, natahan daley were missing in action, jackson was tending the fire, and taylor and eric were down at the beach. “hey jackson” mel said sitting down next to him. “hey” he replied. “so what do we need to get done today.” mel asking hoping for him to mention her birthday. “well we probably should get more fruit and work on the shelter.” “ok” mel replied getting up to go find nathan. If anyone would remember her birthday it would be him. They had been best friends since forever. Mel found nathan and daley collecting firewood. “hey mel could you take this before i drop it.” nathan said “ya sure.” mel said with a hint of dissapointment in her voice. Sadly natahan didnt get the hint. “ill take these back to camp and meet you guys there.” mel said. “ok” nathan and daley replied. Mel wandered off heading back to camp. How could they forget my birthday. I wonder if eric and taylor did. It would suprise me if they even know when my birthday is, she thought. When she got back to camp she grabbed 2 water bottles and headed to the beach.  “hey you guys want water.” Mel  asked taylor and eric. “yay thanks” eric replied kinda unsure to why Mel was being so nice. “see you guys later then” mel said and started walking in the oppisite way of camp. Everyone forgot my birthday, mabey they remember and they just dont like me enough to tell me. Well they wont get a chance because im not going back to camp. She headed to the only spot she knew she could be alone. A cave on the edge of the island that she and lex had found when jackson had gone missing. She sat down and cried herself to sleep.
F29
Back at camp everyone sat down for dinner. “hey wheres mel, i havent seen her since this morning” lex asked. “everyone replied the same thing. “its getting late and i think its going to rain we need to find her.” jackson said. “okay natahn daley you look on the beach, me taylor and eric will check the forest, lex you get the medical kit ready just in case. Meet back here in an hour mel or no mel.” he continued. They split up when everyone left lex tried to figure out why she left. She seemed so happy this morning why? He asked himself. Wait its her birthday today isnt it. He remembered hearing Mel say tomorrows my special day as she went to bed last night.  He almost shouted. We are so stupid, i think i know where she went. He got up and ran down the beach past the place where he got bit by a snake. He stopped outside the cave. He could hear breathing, something was in there he just hoped that something was mel. He slowly walked in. Mel was asleep on the ground. He went over and gently shook her. “mom just 5 more minutes.” she murmured opening her eyes. “happy birthday mel.” lex said. A huge smiled appered on her face. “finally, ive been waiting to hear that all day. I cant believe nathan forgot.” mel said starting  to cry once again. “mel, its really crazy out here mabey he doesnt realize what the date is.” lex said hugging her. “mabey but how did you remember.” she asked. “common sence mostly, you were really happy this morning, and you were nice to eric and taylor.” lex said. At that they both started to laugh. Outside lex and melissa could hear the pounding of rain and the sound of thunder. “hey do you want to spend the night here lex?” she asked “sure” he replied settiling into her arms soon they were both asleep.
F29
An hour after they set off eveeyone was back at camp except mellisa and lex. “lex, lex, where are you lex.” daley shouted repidiatly. Nathan came up behind her “he is probably fine day, we can go find him and mel in the morning tommorow the…., hey what’s the date.” he asked. “the 23 of may, chief.” Eric replied. “oh no, oh no, no I couldn’t have forgotten, Mel is going to kill me.” nathan said sitting down on a log defeated. “we forgot Mel’s birthday.” Nathan finally said. “no wonder she ran off.” Daley said sitting down next to him. “but that doesn’t explain where lex went.” “he probably figured it was her birthday and went to go find her.” “we need to go find them now.” Daley said getting up. “no they will be fine and it looks like it’s about to rain we can find them in the morning if they don’t come back before them.” Jackson said finally entering the conversation. Nathan and daley went to the tents defeated. Soon everyone followed.
The next morning Jackson was the first up. When everyone else woke up they were amazed at what they saw. The campsite was transformed into a palace. One of the chairs was decorated with flowers. Coconut lamps made pathways around camp.  A giant palm leaf was held up by 2 logs and said happy birthday Mel. “Jackson what is this.” Nathan asked. “well we forgot her birthday so we need to make up for it.” he replied smiling. “after breakfast  we can go find them.” he continued.
F29
Mel woke up with lex still asleep in her arms. He looked so little in her arms. He is the youngest in the group but most of the time he seems so much older. Lex started to stir. They got up and found some food. “we need to get back to camp before Daley goes crazy.” lex said. “ya that really wouldn’t be good” Mel said laughing. Lex grabbed his pack and they set off. As they neared camp they could hear jackson on the beach telling the group to split up. “watch this lex” she said and quietly sneaked up behind everyone. Lex caught up and then she said “what about me Jackson.” she asked trying not to laugh. “Mel you can…….. MEL.” Jackson said turning around and giving her a huge hug. “lex, don’t ever do that again.” Daley screamed giving him a huge hug. Soon everyone was giving lex and Mel hugs. “ok, enough of this. Everyone come with me, Nathan you stay with Mel.” everyone followed jackson. “what’s going on.” she asked Nathan. “you’ll see.” he said blind folding her. Nathan led Mel up v to camp, when they got up to camp. Nathan took off the blind fold and everyone screamed “HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEL” Jackson came up to Mel “this seat is for you.” he said leading to the chair. “ok now who did this.” Mel asked looking at nathan. “don’t look at me” nathan replied. “Jackson did all this while we were sleeping.” “thank you Jackson” she said kissing him on the cheek. “anything for you Mel.” he replied kissing her. Mel soon was surrounded by the entire group and was sung happy birthday countless times. They may have forgotten her birthday but they sure made up for it.
Challenger Black says:
This is the beginning of a fanfic I’ve been working on. Haven’t figured out a title yet, so for now, I’m simply calling it: A Sequel to Quillan Games 🙂
Chapter 1: Back to Quillan
Quillan. The game playing territory well known for its wide variety of challenges, from physical battles to mind-racing obstacle courses to computer-driven tests of speed and agility, in which Challengers from all across different territories compete. But on Quillan, the stakes are much higher. It’s not just your simple game of chess or a harmless round of checkers. Bets are placed on competing challengers and depending on whether your chosen challenger succeeds or fails…you could be in big trouble.
“Losers” were taken off by Quillan’s security force of Dado’s and once you were grabbed on by those guys, there was no getting away. They were snatched and dragged off helplessly to…somewhere.
Winners, on the other hand, lived a glorious life and were fed, cared and pampered like that of a King. Whatever they wanted, they got, whether it was arts, music, clothes…you name it. One in particular had played these games, right up to the Grand X itself and in the end…had succeeded.
His name was Bobby Pendragon, or better known as in Rune, Challenger Red.
Bobby had agreed to play these deadly games and luckily enough, he’d thrived. He’d triumphed in games from Zadaa, Eelong and Cloral and others like Tato, Hook and Tock and the horrid Clown Forest. More so, he’d walked out successful of the Grand X after defeating the champion, Challenger Green, who of course, was Saint Dane.
But Quillan had paid a great price when Bobby realized he and the rest of the Travelers had been betrayed by one of their own.
Nevva Winter had given away the location of Mr. Pop, resulting in its sad and heartbreaking destruction, crushing the territories’ last glimmer of hope. Their past was burned and crushed to the ground…eliminating any bit of hope.
Ever since, those games carried on just as successfully with hosts Veego and LaBerge and no surprise…things hadn’t changed.
One day, while Courtney’s parents were off at work, with Bobby and Mark sitting beside her…Bobby’s ring began twitching.
Up till now, Bobby’s plan was simply to chill out and relax before jumping into the flumes and re-entering the territories…but it looked like that just wasn’t meant to be. It was so unexpected and uncalled for, he jumped up in surprise, as if that were the last thing on his mind. He was kidding himself, but he favored every moment where he could just sit back with Courtney and Mark, his two best friends in Halla…and his life on Second Earth. Home.
Besides, after just coming back from the Ibara, and overthrowing a vast army of dados, he felt the exhaustion starting to build, now worse than ever. But the one thing he felt relieved about was the simple fact that his best friend, Mark Dimond, was back home. Courtney had found him aboard the Queen’s Mary and after a hassle and struggle in getting through to him on all she’d seen…they left First Earth.
“B-bobby, your ring-” stammered Mark. He stared wide-eyed at the ring, his mind starting to race.
Bobby put down the ring, stepped back and watched the spectacular ray of beams as they cast the room into a great shower of light.
“No idea what that’s about,” said Bobby unsurely. “Usually I’m the one sending journals, and we’re not near a flume.â€
“You think it’s from an acolyte?” suggested Courtney, staring curiously at the growing ring.
Bobby shrugged and shook his head.
“I don’t know,” he answered. “I didn’t think there was anything important going on at the time, but, hey, guess I was wrong. Then again, isn’t there always something going on?”
After the familiar lights and musical notes came to an end, there next to it, was a small, neatly rolled up parchment. The paper was hard, crunchy and held together with a bright red-colored ribbon. The delivery had been made.
“Look familiar?” asked Mark.
“Not really,” said Bobby, holding up the parchment.
He began to untie the ribbon inquisitively and quickly opened up the paper and to his surprise…a few leaves fell out and gently fluttered to the ground. He blinked, but ignored it and began to read, with Courtney and Mark listening closely.
It read, “Dear Pendragon, I hope this letter has found you and I hope you’re doing well. I’m not sure which territory or time period you’re from but wherever you are, I’m asking you to leave that place at once. Three days ago, I received an invitation from a territory called Quillan and it seems like I’ve been asked to come and stay and become what they call a Challenger. Looks like I’m going to play some games, as far as I know, but that’s not why I’m sending you this. I need you to leave home and come to Quillan. I know you’re probably wondering who the heck I am and how this involves you, but I know all about your stay in Rune and Mr. Pop and you’re competing in the Grand X. I know it all. But I really need you to meet me here on Quillan. I’m pretty lost about this and having a Traveler here would surely help. Believe me…I’m puzzled as well. I was sure Quillan was done with after what happened with Mr. Pop but apparently…things aren’t done yet. Again, I need you to meet me on Quillan. I’m leaving tomorrow morning around eight-thirty. I’m not sure how time works on your territory but hopefully we can find each other. How about we meet at the Castle? Hope to see you soon. Warm regards, Layra.â€
“Layra?” said Courtney. “Who’s that?”
“You think she’s a Traveler?” asked Mark.
“Who knows?,” said Bobby, rolling up the parchment. “But I thought Quillan was done after what happened with Mr. Pop. What’s up with this? I mean, I feel bad for the people and my heart goes out to them and all, but what am I supposed to do about it? That place was a mess! How could they stand a chance now, with their past gone?”
“Maybe it’s another turning point,” suggested Mark, thinking it over. “You know, kind of like how Veelox had another turning point with Ibara? Maybe Quillan’s not done after all. You could have another shot at this. When you left Veelox, you thought that place was dead and done, but look what Ibara did. It saved Veelox.”
“Yeah,” said Bobby. “I just can’t see Quillan having a chance…â€
He knew Mark had a point but hated to think he’d have to end up going back to the messed up world of Quillan again. He dreaded the very thought of having to return.
He sighed tiredly, and put his head into his hands, not saying a word. Courtney and Mark watched him quietly, feeling just as lost and puzzled as he felt.
“I dunno,” he said finally. “I know I have to go, I’m just unsure about this Layra person. What if she’s Saint Dane? I don’t want to go paranoid about the whole thing, but he could be anyone. Kind of freaky, really.â€
Mark and Courtney exchanged glances.
“Yeah, that’s true,” admitted Mark. “You know w-we could always come with you? We could-”
“No!” said Bobby quickly. He then softened and said, “Look, I know you two want to help but I can’t risk that again. You’re being helpful enough reading my journals and I promise I’ll keep writing on Quillan, that is…if I’m actually going. Writing’s the only thing that keeps my head together.â€
He stood there for a long moment, then turned to them and said, “Keep them safe, okay?â€
“Like always,” nodded Mark. “But, you know, if you ever need us,-”
“I’ll call,” smiled Bobby.
“So, that’s it then?” asked Courtney. “You’re going, just like that? Back to that messed up place with those two game freaks and killer games? Are you serious?”
Bobby sighed, his head already hurting. “I guess so. If Quillan does have another shot, I have to be there? I could’ve left Ibara but if I would’ve, Veelox would still be a mess. Right now, Quillan’s the one territory in trouble. The others are all fine.â€
“You’re forgetting Second Earth,” said Courtney firmly. “Our home’s next.”
“I know,” Bobby told her. “But if saving Quillan means saving another territory, Courtney…you know I gotta go. And if Saint Dane’s off on Quillan, that means he’s putting Second Earth aside. It’ll be fine. Once I get back from Quillan, I’ll make sure we’re all here for when he comes. We’ll take him on together.â€
Courtney locked eyes with him, realized his mind was made up and said quietly, “Alright.”
Before leaving, the three hugged just like all those times when Bobby had been time and again called to a territory. This time was no different. What nagged at the back of Courtney’s mind wasn’t entirely the fact that he was fluming off to help a doomed territory, but that she couldn’t help recall reading his last journals during his stay on Quillan and how he’d felt so alone with no one there. She would have argued it was a better idea for her and Mark to tag along, but she’d learned that lesson the hard way. Her and Mark belonged on Second Earth.
So with that, Bobby hugged them one last time, left the house…and was on his way.
Alone, he went to the Sherwood house and by that time, it was ten-o clock. It was dark and streets seemed to be in shadow, especially with that creepy old haunted house. He never liked the look of the place but there was no turning back now. He was on his way to Quillan. Again.
He opened the door, cautiously peering about in case of any sign of lurking, stalking quig-dogs. Not knowing where Saint Dane was or where his plans were, there was no telling where those beasties could be hiding. He assumed the demon was already on Quillan, going about his work but then again, he might not be. He might very well be prowling about Second Earth, waiting in secret. He’d never know.
Luckily, he didn’t come across any of the slobbering hounds so it looked like the coast was clear.
He hurriedly made his way down the familiar flight of stairs, opened the basement door and walked in and came face to face with the time traveling flume like he had multiple times. This was the flume Courtney and Mark had witnessed as it shone and groaned to life, right in front of their eyes. They’d seen the small star carved and burned into the bark of the wooden door.
He walked straight up to it and took a moment to gather his thoughts, wondering if he really ought to leave home and return to Quillan to meet this mysterious, unknown girl named Layra. Was she a Traveler, an acolyte or worse, an ally of the demon traveler? Had she teamed up with him and Nevva? Those were questions he’d have to find out for himself.
There was no other option but to keep going. As much as he loathed and hated the thought of all Quillan was and all its misery, he knew somewhere inside him…it was the way it was meant to be. If the territory was still in play and could still be recovered after all the pain and gloom it’d seen, he had to keep that in mind. His job and mission as Lead Traveler had yet to be finished.
He was going to Quillan. Back to Blok, Veego and LaBerge…and the Games.
He took a deep breath, closed his eyes and called out, “Quillan!”
Instantly, the flume sprang to life with the familiar cracks and shifting of the rocky walls. Like always, it sounded like some sleeping creature had awoken from a dead sleep and was stretching. The walls grew into crystal, and the light came blaring into his eyes, forcing him to look away for a split second before hearing the expected jumble of musical notes that always accompanied one’s trip into the awaiting flume. It took no time for the notes to increase and the invisible force to grab hold of him.
He was on his way. In seconds, the force pulled him in and he was once again staring about at the dark, impossibly huge space within the flume…the star field beyond and the millions of free floating images of Halla.
As he sailed by, he gazed up and saw the confusing mass of images that swam together in a massive sea. He saw a couple of tall, stern looking guys running and as they stormed by, he saw the familiar jaws, square heads and dead doll eyes. Dados. He saw a bright, shimmering trail of light zoom down and heard the unmistakable buzzing of quig bees.
He then saw two small doll like figures hurrying by and cringed when he saw what they were. They were small, brightly colored and when they smiled, their teeth were sharp. The little cretins could bite. He’d seen them before on Quillan. They were the clown dolls he’d seen at the Grand X in the Clown Forest. He shook his head and wondered how in the world anyone could like them? He knew one thing for sure though. LaBerge was a freak.
He lay down, closed his eyes to block out the sight of giggling clown dados and tried to make the most of his trip. He had no idea what was in store for him on the deadly, game playing territory but what he knew for certain was the one thing he could enjoy was the calm, relaxing, silent trip into the flume. No crumbling rocks or crackling sounds. Just silence. So it was goodbye Second Earth…and hello Quillan.
Flight 29 downer says:
Great story so far. Not exactly my intrest cause I never liked the Quillian book. But great job!
Holly says:
Wow. . . . you guys are AWESOME writers! I like your story Flight 29 Downer, but i’m kind of confused with the characters because I haven’t seen Flight 29 Down. But it’s great! And Challenger Black, I think your story seems like it almost came right out of D.J’s books! I loved it! you should finish it because I want to find out who this Layra person is, and what big things Bobby will encounter. Overall, I think this Fan Fiction Spot is a great idea! Except, what exactly is it? Is this blog just for people to share their stories? 🙂
Flight 29 downer says:
Holly I would check the last blog I’m pretty sure I listed all the characters there
Challenger Black says:
Thanks Holly!
I’ve got many more chapters to come. I’ve always wanted to write a fanfic for Quillan Games, since it’s always been my favourite. Quillan’s a fun territory to play around with 😛
Glad you enjoyed so far!
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 2: Arrival at the Castle
Layra. Who was she and how did she know about Bobby and the other Travelers? More important…how much did she know? Was Layra in fact a fellow traveler or worse, was she an accomplice of Saint Dane and would play Bobby over and betray him and the rest of the travelers just like Nevva Winter had done. Was she aware of the shape shifting, demon traveler named Saint Dane? He wasn’t too sure on that one. She obviously knew about Travelers, but she hadn’t mentioned Saint Dane.
Did she know of acolytes and above all, of Halla? A million thoughts flashed through his mind while he drew closer to the end of the flume. When the ride finally came to an end and the jumble of musical notes came to a stop and he was dropped off, he came face to face with a familiar destination. He’d been here before and he never hoped on coming back. But he was here. And there was no turning back.
Like his first drop off on Quillan, he’d landed in a storage-like room that was filled with boxes. Hundreds and hundreds of boxes, all stacked on top of one another. They were of all sizes, some being small while some were much larger.
Like last time, there were again, the various plates with the Blok logo along the bottom. He could only remember that dreaded company too well. Over time, the cooperation of Blok had eventually taken complete control over the territory and forced the citizens to participate and become involved in a harsh, cruel way of life by being a part of a series of deadly games with deadlier outcomes. It scared Bobby thinking he was actually back there and feared how worse things had become here on this game playing territory. Or had things not changed at all? Were things just as he’d left them? Either way, he was about to find out.
Luckily he didn’t have to worry about the robotic quig spiders. As long as Saint Dane was nowhere near this territory, he was safe from the creepy crawlers and from what he was seeing, he wasn’t there. Surely by then, the quigs would have bounced into action but strangely enough, they were nowhere to be seen. What a relief.
He moved his way through the alley of boxes and in no time, found his way out through the tall, double wide door, climbed up a flight of stairs and found himself in that all too familiar game room. Or at least what he called a game room. He was once again at the arcade. Stepping into the massive arcade, all he’d seen on his first trip in this frightening room came flooding back to him. The people, the games…and the intense atmosphere.
The room stretched off for what seemed like forever with a variety of loud, hollering games from pinball to shooting games to races and even something quite similar to dance dance revolution. Sure, it would have been great to sit down at one of those babies and start playing…if he weren’t so scared of losing and being snatched and dragged off by a dado. For him, the place was like any guy’s dream, without the additional part of either-you-win-or-you’re-dragged-off-by-a-couple-of-freaky-robot-thugs. As for the dados, those guys were flat out creepy and not because they were tall and intimidating, but because they were robots. They knew no emotions. They were emotionless. All they knew were commands and doing what they were told.
He strolled by, observing each game and turning, saw a couple of people playing. No surprise there. He felt bad for them, wondering how close they were to failing and being dragged off by a dado officer. They said nothing to Bobby as he walked by. They were too focused and some didn’t even give him a second glance. Their eyes were fixed only on the screens and their minds…were set on winning.
He wasn’t sure if it was because they were so hauntingly focused on winning or if it was simply because they weren’t aware of his presence. Probably both. There were even, sadly, a few kids playing but they were so caught up in the excitement of the game, they hadn’t yet caught onto to what happened if you didn’t win. He wondered where their parents were and why they were allowing their young ones to play. Or maybe…they had no parents. Bobby shivered.
Then it struck him. Turning back and observing the kids…something didn’t make sense. Last time he’d been here, there’d been no kids in the arcade, as well as any other on Quillan. Not one. But here were a couple of kids, sitting down and focusing their attention on the flashing, colorful games. Seeing this…he knew things had definitely changed. This got him fearing what else had changed.
He quickly turned and hurried off, wanting to get out of that place before “they” arrived to pick up the losers. That was never a pretty sight and seeing it twice wouldn’t make it any better. Heck, seeing it a hundred times wouldn’t make it any better. It was simply gut wrenching.
At last he found himself stepping out of the now jam packed, echoing arcade and onto a busy sidewalk. Small, black vehicles drove by while people walked about silently, some staring at the ground while others looked left and right worriedly as if keeping an eye out for awaiting dados. There was no mistaking he was back in Rune. He knew the place too well. He gazed around at the tall, towering buildings, all gray and dull and boring as could be. So far, not much was different about Rune.
It was all “same old, same old,” sadly. With Mr. Pop gone, Blok’s power was unthreatened, the Revival had failed and their leader, Tylee Magna herself had been dragged into the games as the new Challenger Green. He wondered where she was now or if she was even alive. He hated to think the worst of what could have happened to her and pushed the thought out of his head.
He took a look up at the television screens and saw the familiar colorful, geometric shapes. It seemed there was no current match being held since it wasn’t up on any of the screens and neither were Veego and LaBerge. He was glad of that much because he really wasn’t in the mood to watch another of those death games or hear the singing, annoying voice of LaBerge. Not hearing from Veego was a good bonus too. But he knew well enough he was bound to run into them if he was supposed to meet this Layra person at their royal Castle, unfortunately. That…he wasn’t looking forward to.
“Great,” thought Bobby tiredly. “Fun all over again.”
“There!” called a voice.
As if in response, Bobby heard approaching footsteps. When he turned to see who it was, it was exactly who he expected it to be. Dados. And they meant business. There was no fooling around with those fellas As always, they were about six feet tall with blank, emotional faces and unblinking eyes that focused directly on what they’d come for. Bobby. They held their long, steel rods that could zap someone into next week in the blink of an eye.
“You’ll be coming with us,” said one formally.
“Uh, yeah, sure,” said Bobby, trying to change the subject. “You don’t know anyone named Layra by any chance, do you?” He knew it was useless but hey, it never hurt trying.
The two officers exchanged looks. Obviously not.
“No,” said one bluntly. “You’ll be coming with us…now.”
Bobby held back for a moment.
“Yeah, well…how about-”
“Now,” said the other firmly. So much for that plan.
The two dados stood on either side of him, their rods at the ready.
There was no getting past these guys. Whether Bobby liked it or not, he was on his way back to the castle of the game masters, Veego and LaBerge. Were they expecting him? Probably. If they were expecting this Layra person, odds are, they were expecting him as well. What troubled Bobby the most was what to expect with these two again. Like the arcade, had they changed? He’d soon find out.
He remembered his last stay with Veego and LaBerge all too well. Sure, he had to admit their castle was beyond royal and if it weren’t for the dreaded games and outcomes along with the whole thing, he’d love a reservation there! Who wouldn’t? It was gorgeous. Breathtaking. The meals were delicious, there were waiters at your every command and there was always, whether it was a large meal or small…desert. They never forgot sweets. Really good deserts too; sundaes, ice cream, pies, cakes, you name it. Most, as Bobby recalled, were even better than treats back on Second Earth.
On top of all that, there were game rooms and heated pools, all of which came with multiple slides, diving boards, and wave pools. Yes…they even had wave pools! Veego and LaBerge weren’t kidding around when they said winning meant living the life of a King. They meant that in every sense. It all made for a grand stay…except for the fact that you were there to participate in games where losing meant death. Sure, they gave you whatever you wanted but in return, you put your life on the line. Not exactly the best sort of bargain.
The drive there was a quiet one. The dado up front, driving never once looked back at Bobby to ask how he was doing. He kept his eyes steadily on the road as if nothing else mattered. The dado across from him was the exact same.
Whenever Bobby would open up and try and start a light conversation or try and get some answers as to what to expect when arriving at the castle, they’d simply look one another in the eye, and shrug. The chances of getting answers from those guys was slim to none.
“You’re just being stubborn,” said Bobby, leaning up against the seat while staring out the window at the passing buildings.”You’ve got to know something.”
The dado in the passenger seat turned around and said emotionlessly, “We’re taking you to the castle of Veego and LaBerge. There is nothing more to say.â€
“Uh, yeah there is!” Bobby argued, frustrated. “You people don’t say anything. That’s the problem. Geez..lighten up!â€
He didn’t mind playing with them, seeing as they were only machines.
“We’re almost there,” said the driver flatly. “They’ll be expecting you.”
There was one answer questioned. He was being expected and of course, he knew who was expecting him. The cold, glaring eyes of Veego and her clown-loving brother, LaBerge.
“Great,” he thought sarcastically.
“Okay,” said Bobby quickly. If they were approaching the castle, he might as well try and get some extra answers while he was at it. Trying was always better than nothing.
“Do you at least know if I’ve got anything to do with the Quillan games? You can’t tell me you don’t know about those?â€
The dados exchanged looks, but said nothing. So much for that plan.
“It is not our job to speak of what Veego and LaBerge have planned,” said one, in that low, robotic tone. “We are simply here to drive you there. Whatever questions you have should be taken to them.â€
“Of course…” thought Bobby.
It was enough to try and get some talk out of Veego, who looked like she’d burn your eyes out with a single stare, let alone try and get some answers out of her goof brother, LaBerge, who only laughed and clapped when he thought something was funny. He’d just have to wait and save his questions. Luckily, his wait wasn’t long.
The city behind him had long since vanished and they were now traveling amongst the towering, sky scraping trees amid the dull, gray buildings of Rune. It now came back to him that their great castle was located in a city, surrounded by acres of trees. As weird as that was, Bobby had to admit that was pretty cool. A castle within a forest. It must have been nice having your own grand place in the midst of a grand forest.
“Here we are,” said the driver, pulling to a stop.
“Thanks,” said Bobby.
His skin crawled, knowing in seconds, he’d have to face the two people he really didn’t want to. Then again, he’d also come face to face with this mysterious Layra. He was both curious and anxious to meet her. Perhaps she’d have all the answers to this whole wacko thing and explain to him the reason why he was back on Quillan and what she had to do with all this. If she wasn’t a traveler, clearly there didn’t seem to be any reason for her being there, unless of course she was an acolyte. That could be a possibility. But Bobby knew his fellow travelers and their chosen acolytes and never had he heard of Layra before. Had she taken the place of a previous acolyte?
But wouldn’t the traveler have told Bobby? He needed to get some answers or he was going to be in for one heck of a stay if he had no idea what to expect and the reason for his return to this deadly funhouse.
What he then remembered…were the clowns.
“Great,” he thought in dread.
He’d always lived by the idea of there being two types of people in the world. People who loathe and hate clowns…and clowns. He hated them. He hated everything about them from their creepy little faces to their big, round, red noses and fake, villainous smiles and their haunting, menacing laughs. But then again, not everyone felt the same way about clowns. LaBerge was an exception. Bobby had yet to find out how on earth one could actually like clowns! But right now, that wasn’t important.
While the driver sat staring ahead at the silent street, the other dado got out, opened the door and gestured for Bobby to step out. As much as he wanted to just sit back and demand to be taken home, back to Second Earth, he knew that wasn’t going to happen.
He crawled out, gulped for a second and stood there casually, just waiting for “them” to come strolling down. He knew what to expect.
While he stood there, watching the small black vehicle speed away, he searched around for Layra. At first, he had the idea that he’d been played over and was now trapped at this funhouse to play yet another set of terrifying games. She could have set him up. That would have sent him over the edge. After all those times Saint Dane had taken disguise and cleverly fooled him, he wasn’t in the mood to go through it all again. Or was she running late? Was she already in the castle, being given a grand tour of the place? Was she at dinner having a glorious feast?
He was seconds away from turning around and making a straight run for it back to the flume when he heard a girl’s voice saying, “You must be Bobby.”
Bobby turned around and saw a girl about his own size and age strolling up to him. She was around five foot four, looked to be about sixteen, with shoulder length brown hair tied up in a ponytail, hazel colored eyes and a friendly smile. She wore a dark blue turtleneck sweater with a casual pair of jeans and white sneakers. She looked casual enough and could have easily passed for a girl back on Second Earth.
But there was one thing that didn’t quite fit. He could have sworn, hearing her speak, that her voice wasn’t quite…normal. For a girl that couldn’t have been older than twenty, in some odd way, her voice struck him as surprising. It wasn’t crazy or startling, but it was enough to get him thinking there was a lot to this girl. Was she really sixteen? All he knew was she looked like a normal enough girl.
“Yeah,” said Bobby. “And you are?”
Though he was sure he already knew.
“Layra,” she smiled. “Sorry for being late. This place is kind of strange. I lost my way around, till the dados caught up with me. I didn’t expect the place to be so…huge. It’s massive.â€
“Tell me about it,” said Bobby. “I’m glad you’re here though.
I’ve got a ton of questions.”
“Same here,” said Layra. “I’m just as confused. All I know is, I’m here to participate in these, what are they called…Quillan Games? The only thing is, I’m not very good at games. And I’ve been told about what goes on here.”
“Pretty scary, huh?”
“Yeah,” she said quietly, as if in shock. “I can’t believe it’s all…real.”
“Well, I played these games,” Bobby told her, figuring he ought to give it a shot. “And let me tell you, they’re scary as hell. I’m lucky I’m even alive. I was almost killed here. Sorry if it sounds like I’m trying to scare you or anything, but I gotta be honest…it’s a nightmare here. It’s better to know what you’re in for.”
“I can imagine!” Layra exclaimed, her eyes wide. “Good thing we’re together, huh?â€
Bobby nodded and asked her, “So you’ve never been here before?â€
“Nope,” said Layra. “I just-”
“Shh,” said Bobby suddenly.
“What?” asked Layra, looking around.
“There,” said Bobby pointing, up to the castle entrance and the opening doors.
“Who’s that?” she asked curiously.
“That,” said Bobby with a sigh. “Is LaBerge, one of the game masters and hosts on Quillan. The other’s Veego, his sister.â€
Layra sent him a nervous glance, but he nodded with assurance. She pulled herself together and while the two stood waiting to be greeted. LaBerge casually made his way down the stairs. Like last time, he was wearing what looked like a red and black bathrobe and his hair was no surprise, a wild blonde color that stuck out in every direction. Bobby always had the intention he’d stuck his finger in a toaster, for whatever reason and that’s why his hair was so crazy and out of place. As to why anyone would stick their finger in a toaster, he had yet to find out. His eyes darted to and fro with excitement as he caught sight of them.
He strolled up to them, gave them each an inviting smile and exclaimed, “Welcome, my friends, welcome! So good to see you!”
“Yeah, you too clowny,” said Bobby sarcastically.
LaBerge stared at him for a moment, then said, “Very nice to have you back Challenger Red. I hope you’re stay here at the castle will be enjoyable and perhaps, we can start off fresh? No hard feelings?”
Bobby cringed at the very thought.
He gave a sarcastic laugh and said, flatly, “Not gonna happen.”
LaBerge frowned and turned his attention to Layra, who hadn’t said a word yet. She stood staring at the tall man with a somewhat nervous, yet puzzled look as if she were scared to say anything at all. Bobby guessed she was a bit frightened of the hair…or maybe it was the clown’s smile? Or his wild eyes?
“You must be Layra,” he smiled warmly, holding his hand out. “Delightful to meet you. LaBerge is my name. Please, let me shake your hand.”
Bobby shot her a look as if saying, “Don’t!” But Layra was quick to shake and smiled up at him.
“Nice to meet you too,” she said quietly, almost shyly.
“Now then!” said LaBerge giddily, turning back toward the castle. “If you two would just follow me up, I’ll get you all settled in. You’re going to love this! We’ve got the evening meal all ready and your rooms have been prepared and…oh, this is going to be splendid! Simply splendid!”
“Great,” Bobby murmured, following behind.
Layra caught up to him, whispering, “So what’s the castle like?”
“Oh, the castle’s awesome,” said Bobby quickly. “It’s the games I’m freaked about.”
“You know,” said Layra, somewhat hesitantly, as they walked on up. “L-LaBerge seems kind of…sweet.”
That caught him so completely and utterly by surprise that he almost tripped, but managed to keep steady himself. Had he just heard right? LaBerge…sweet?
“Uhh, hold on?” said Bobby, stopping dead in his tracks.
He took a moment to catch his breath after hearing what Layra had just said. It felt like the world was spinning out of control.
He felt like she was playing with him. Like it was meant to be a joke. But one look at her and he could tell she wasn’t goofing around.
“What!” he shouted. “Are you insane? Are-”
“Look, look,” said Layra quickly, backing away.”I’m not saying that for sure, a-all I’m saying is he seems like a nice guy. That’s all. I didn’t mean anything by it.â€
“Yeah,” scoffed Bobby. “Wait till you see him later on. Then we’ll see how sweet he really is.”
“Everything all right?” called LaBerge from the doorway.
“We’re fine,” said Layra.
“Very good,” said LaBerge, bounding away. Bobby could hear his echoing voice crying with glee, “Veego, they’re here!”
It was only seconds later that the unmistakable image of Veego came into sight. She was just as Bobby remembered. She was tall with slick brown hair that was so perfectly combed and pulled back it looked as if she was bald. Her features were sharp and precise. She was wearing a deep purple turtleneck with a matching pair of pants. She’d always been the professional type while her brother LaBerge was more of the casual, wear-whatever-you-want sort of guy. Veego’s clothes always matched and were always in tip top shape while LaBerge couldn’t have cared less. One day he’d wear a striped blazer while the next day he’d wear a multicolored robe with polka dots and swirls. Two very different people, yet they were siblings.
Bobby could hear her hissing back at LaBerge, “Shut up, ninny!”
She then turned her attention to Bobby and Layra, forced a smile that made her face look like it would crack, and said, “Challenger Red. So good to see you again.”
“Missed me?” he said.
Veego laughed and said coldly, “Hardly. And this must be Layra?â€
Layra nodded nervously. Bobby could tell already that Layra was afraid of Veego. She wasn’t exactly the warm, inviting type like LaBerge and made you want to go hide under a rock.
Veego stared her over before saying, “Now then, if you two could come inside, we’ll have your rooms sorted and your meals served.”
“Yes ma’am,” said Bobby mockingly.
Veego shot him a firm, cold look. That shut Bobby up. She clearly wasn’t in the mood for jokes. On the other hand, LaBerge was always in the mood for a joke, seeing as he was always the one making up the jokes.
“This way,” she said, turning to follow her brother.
Holly says:
Ok thanks Flight 29 Downer. I’ll check it out! because your story would make more sense to me! haha. But I still think it’s really good writing! Keep it up! 🙂
@Challenger Black- Your welcome! I even loved the second chapter!! I want to read more! haha.I’m curious on what will happen on this second adventure to Quillan. You make this story quite interesting! 🙂
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 3: Dinner with the Hosts
When Bobby and Layra entered the castle, Bobby took a quick look around and saw nothing had changed. Things were exactly as he’d remembered, but as this was Layra’s first time seeing such a grand, imperial place, her mouth dropped in amazement. For her, as he guessed, it was like entering a whole new world, which in a way, they were. The city of Rune was among the dullest, greyest sort of place you could imagine but here in the castle of Veego and LaBerge…everything was spectacular.
They were standing in the entrance hall, which alone was an impressive sight that gave you the idea that whoever lived here was living the good life. The windows up along the arched ceiling were stained glass with bright, vibrant colors and pictures of all sorts. They were mostly of Challengers playing games as Bobby now recalled. Some were running, others were shooting what looked like a basketball into a net, though it was much larger and some were standing on that grand and familiar Tato platform. Bobby hoped he’d never have to step foot on that thing again. Once was plenty enough.
As they continued along, Layra noticed the floors were marble and were built with mosaic patterns that crept their way right up the walls which made it look as though the whole place were of shapes and patterns. Dangling from above were golden, expensive looking chandeliers that could have been worth a fortune. There were vines that snaked their way up the star railings and odd, but divine looking plants scattered about. It made the place smell fresh and welcoming. Wherever you looked, there was always something notable. The castle of Veego and LaBerge was nothing less than captivating. They soon found themselves being led up a long, curved flight of stairs that led up to a balcony high above. But what Layra soon noticed were the flags. Everywhere she looked, there were colorful flags fluttering from every level, all purple and yellow. Most of the windows were open, which explained why the various flags snapped in the breeze.
“I’m pretty sure they’re the logo colors,” Bobby whispered to Layra, as if reading her mind. “You know, how people recognize them.”
When they reached the top of the stairs, Veego called out firmly, “Fourteen!”
“Fourteen?” asked Layra, puzzled. “What’s that-”
“He shows you to your rooms,” Bobby explained. “You know, kinda like what servants do. They’re everywhere. Only, the thing is, they’re dados.”
“Oh,” said Layra. “That’s…interesting.”
In seconds, the recognizable figure of Fourteen was at Veego’s command. He was just as Bobby remembered. He was rather small and was dressed all in white. His long sleeved shirt was dressed in white, his pants, his gloves and even his shoes. Very formal. He was bald with a casual necktie which was of course purple and yellow, but what Bobby remembered most about Fourteen was that although he was a robot, that in reality, had no feelings, he felt sure Fourteen was different.
He may not have actually jumped up with joy saying things like, “Oh, you’re going to love the room, Challenger Red!” or anything like that, but Bobby sensed that somewhere in that little machine was a heart, if that was even possible. Most importantly, he was Bobby’s closest friend and ally on Quillan and he was pleased to know he hadn’t gone anywhere. He always hoped he’d get the chance to his robo buddy again and now he’d gotten the chance. And he’d even gotten himself a name tag buttoned onto his shirt, as Bobby had asked. In thin, black, one inch letters read, “Fourteen.”
“Layra, you’ll be coming with me,” said Veego. “Thirteen shall be escorting you this evening.”
Layra turned to leave and looked back at Bobby, smiling nervously. He waved back at her reassuringly. There wasn’t much to worry about right then.
“See you at dinner,” he said in a low voice.
He turned back to Fourteen and said, “Hey! Good to see you.”
“I was told you would be returning,” said Fourteen. “What is the reason for your return?”
“Beats me,” said Bobby, who was still just as clueless as when he’d left for Quillan. “All I know is Layra’s been called here to compete in the Games and she asked me to tag along and that-”
That’s when he remembered Fourteen knew absolutely nothing about their quest to stop Saint Dane. He had to come up with something. Quick.
“It’s about the games,” he told him. “It’s sort of been arranged between the two of us. Kind of weird, but I planned on meeting up with her anyway.”
“Very good,” said Fourteen formally. “Now then, if you’ll just come along, I’ll show you to your room.”
It was a good thing dados didn’t ask questions. They simply did what they were told and attended to Challengers.
“Uh, can I just ask something?” asked Bobby.
“What is the question?” said Fourteen.
“Please don’t put me in another clown room!” he pleaded. He knew he sounded childish but after his last stay in the dreaded room, he’d do anything in avoiding going back. “Sorry for sounding all whiny and all but that room’s just creepy! All those clowns were starting to get to me. Are there any other rooms available?”
Fourteen thought for a moment, and then said, “Yes, I believe we have a spare room that’s clown free. Would that be good for you?”
“Yes!” Bobby exclaimed. That’s perfect.”
“Alright,” said Fourteen. “Come with me.”
Bobby went along with his robot buddy till they found themselves at the end of the hall, at the very last room.
“This,” said Fourteen, unlocking the door. “Is room two hundred and eight.”
“Whoa,” said Bobby, amazed. “You’re telling me they’ve got two hundred and seven other rooms in this place?”
“Yes,” said Fourteen, as if it were no big thing.
“That’s crazy,” said Bobby. “But yeah, this room looks great. Thanks.”
“You’re welcome,” said Fourteen, in that flat toned voice. But it never bothered Bobby. He was used to the whole robo thing.
One look at the room and he could tell already it beat the Clown Room by a long shot.
First off, there were no clowns. No clowns on the walls, shelves and none at the foot of the bed. So far so good. The walls were purple and yellow striped and the ceiling was of a checkered pattern. There were a few shelves lined along the walls, with dolls, yes…but no clown dolls which was all that mattered. Most of the dolls were your ordinary looking animals, with cute puppies and kittens and rabbits and whatnot. There was every sort of animal you could imagine and even a couple odd looking ones he guessed came from Quillan. Animals were fine by him.
There was a large oval-shaped window that looked out into the enormous forest and then beyond that, the busy streets of Rune. A view of the ocean would have been nice but Bobby had the idea there weren’t many oceans on Quillan. All he’d seen were gray, dull streets. His bed was in the center of the room with polka dotted sheets and blankets. Like the walls, the pillows were colors of purple and yellow.
He jumped up on the bed and was surprised at how comfortable it was. After a good look at this new room, Bobby’s favorite thing was by far the bed. It was a great bed and he wouldn’t mind spending a few nights in this room. It would be the perfect place for him to have a snack while writing his journals to Courtney and Mark. He hoped he’d at least be given the privacy to do so. He promised he’d keep the journals coming and knew right then, at that very moment…they were eagerly waiting, just like always.
After he put away all his things and was comfortably settled, he walked out, closed the door and strolled down the hall, wondering which room was Layra’s. He would have gone on looking for her but it could take hours or even days in a place with two hundred and eight rooms. The place was like a maze. He figured she was either settling into her room or was already at the dinner table or was going to be on her way shortly. Bobby hoped he wouldn’t have to go down and deal with those two creeps on his own. If he was with someone else, at least the two of them could put up with it together. It was nice having someone there with him. Last time, he’d been completely alone. Here, he’d have a teammate. Or at least, he hoped Layra would be a teammate. He had yet to find out who she really was and why she was there.
When he entered the dining room, he saw that things were already set. The wooden table was laid out beautifully and sitting contently in the high backed wooden chairs were Veego and LaBerge. The two were kicking back, enjoying a helping of appetizers and sipping drinks.
He took a look around and saw just like last time, tapestries were lined along the walls and there was a warm light that shone in through the enormous glass stained window high up on the ceiling. It was a picture with a tall man, a challenger probably, holding a long wooden stave in his hand and in the other, a small red ball. Bobby had no idea what the game was but didn’t waste time wondering.
Slowly, he approached the table, never taking his eyes off Veego and LaBerge.
At once, LaBerge leaped out of his chair and ran over like an excited child. Bobby stared at the goof for a second and saw he was wearing a multicolored blazer with striped pants.
“What’s that guy’s problem with clothes?” he thought to himself.
“Good to see you, Challenger Red!” he said with a warm smile. “I hope you’ve built up an appetite.” He gave Bobby a pat on the back as if the two were old chums. Yeah, right.
Bobby shrugged. “Whatever.”
LaBerge’s eyes widened.
“My dear boy,” he said, sounding hurt. “Our chiefs have just prepared a most lovely meal. We hoped you were hungry. Come and join us!”
“Where’s Layra?” he demanded.
“I believe she’ll be down shortly,” said LaBerge. “I assume she’s still settling in. Now then, if you’ll just sit here, we’ll have you all-”
“Uh, no,” said Bobby quickly. “I don’t want to sit there.”
Veego shot him a cold look. It seemed like she wasn’t in the mood for arguing.
“Why not?” LaBerge exclaimed. “This is the seat of honor! How could you not-”
“Yeah, well maybe I don’t want to sit there,” he shot back.
Bobby shuffled over to another sit, across from where Veego was sitting and took a seat, staring around at the platters of food. LaBerge stared at him with a frown before going back to his own seat next to Veego.
“Whatever you wish,” he said quietly, hurrying back to his seat.
Bobby immediately began filling his plate with as much food as he could. It wasn’t that he was being a pig or anything, but he always liked to fill himself up, in case he might not get the chance to eat again. Or maybe it was that he was just starving. Probably both.
The food looked delicious. There were steaks and chickens, every kind of vegetable you could think of from mashed potatoes, carrots, peas and corn, squash and of course, LaBerge’s favorite, tribbun. Loads of it. It was an orange, odd looking veggie that had the crunchy feel of a carrot, but had the sweet, yummy taste of a melon. He shot a look at LaBerge to see if he was looking, saw that he wasn’t, and grabbed a couple and dropped them on his plate. He didn’t want the goof seeing that he actually loved tribbun. He’d never hear the end of that with that guy.
He poured himself a glass of that warm Gatorade-like drink and took a sip, forgetting how good of a drink it was. He then took a bite of the steak and was amazed at how great the food was. He may not have liked sitting across him Veego and LaBerge but the food was too good to ignore.
“How’s the meal, friend?” asked LaBerge politely, taking a sip from his goblet.
Bobby murmured, still chewing on the steak, “Good.”
LaBerge smiled and said, “I’m glad you enjoy it. I hope you’ll enjoy our desserts. We’ve picked out our very bests which I must say, are superb. I think I’ll go for a tribbun sundae. Perhaps you’d like to give it a taste?”
Veego turned around and said formally, “Here’s Layra.”
Bobby looked back and saw Layra slowly entering the room, with a touch of nervousness in her eyes. Bobby could tell she was the shy sort. She was wearing a long violet shirt that reached to about her knees, black tights and what looked like a pair of black heels. A beaded necklace of white peals hung from her neck and her curled brown hair was tied up in a ponytail. Bobby thought she looked quite beautiful, like she were dressed for a dance or an occasion of some sort, but wondered why she’d gone and dressed up. Maybe she enjoyed dressing up. She turned her attention to Bobby, and nodded. He gave her a reassuring nod and took another bite of steak.
Almost immediately, LaBerge jumped out of his seat and walked up to Layra, saying, “There you are! So glad you could attend. Do come and sit with us! We’re delighted to have you here. You’re going to love the meal!”
LaBerge may have been delighted to have guests there but Veego sure didn’t look delighted. Then again, she never looked delighted. She hardly forced a smile and kept on staring down at her dish as if she didn’t want to be a part of anything Bobby or LaBerge or Layra were doing. Odds are, she didn’t care the least what they did. Or maybe she was bored with the whole thing.
Layra quietly followed LaBerge over to the table, staring hungrily around at the delicious looking dishes. LaBerge pulled out a chair next to himself, two seats from Veego and said with a smile, “Please, sit down.”
She sat down and looked over and saw she was directly across from Bobby.
“How’s the meal?” she asked him curiously.
Bobby swallowed and said, “Pretty good.” He hated to admit how great the food really was, but he wasn’t going to just lie and say, “It’s atrocious.” Layra was new to this whole experience so he was going to try his best to make her feel comfortable. Of course, he was still trying to comfort himself.
“Now don’t be shy,” said LaBerge, reaching for another helping of mashed tribbun. “There’s loads to eat. Those chiefs really go out of their way with these meals! Especially with these divine tribbun, wouldn’t you say so?”
At once, Layra began piling up her dish excitedly, with a big, freshly made steak, a scoopful of veggies, a small helping of tribbun and to top it off, some mashed potatoes. Her favourite. She stared down at the food with wide eyes. She’d never seen such food, or so much of it. She took a big, crunchy bite of the tribbun and her eyes lit up instantly.
LaBerge chuckled and asked, “How is it?”
“This is the best thing I’ve ever tasted!” she exclaimed, taking another bite. “Can we have this every night?”
“Tribbun is a classic,” LaBerge told her, watching her devour the tribbun hungrily. “As long as I’m around, it will be at the top of the menu!”
“Uhh, you mean us,” growled Veego, glaring him straight in the eye. LaBerge shrunk back and said nervously, “Y-yes,” he said with a tense gulp. “Just what I meant.”
Veego shook her head, annoyed, and continued eating. LaBerge twirled his fork fretfully while occasionally turning to Layra and changing the subject. He was somewhat surprised when he saw she’d answer him back.
Bobby couldn’t understand why she’d want to make conversation with that guy. If that were him, he’d do whatever he could to avoid “chit chat” with that freak. Obviously, LaBerge was doing whatever he could to avoid upsetting his sister. The two may have been partners, but Veego was in control and whatever she said or did, LaBerge didn’t argue.
Bobby then decided it was time to open up the conversation and figure out what the deal here was. He demanded to have some answers. He needed answers. He wasn’t in the mood to be up all night wondering what to expect the following day. He liked knowing what to expect. Most of the time, anyway.
“So,” he began casually. “What’s the deal with the games?”
“Excuse me?” said Veego, raising a brow.
“Uh, you know what I mean,” Bobby shot back at her, losing his patience. “Layra told me she was invited here to compete in the Quillan Games. I get that. I was a Challenger here, remember? I hope you don’t expect me to be a part of this or anything. I’ve done my part!”
“Ahh, but that’s where you’re wrong,” said Veego with a devious grin. Bobby hated it when she grinned. “Layra may be in the position of being given a new name, Challenger Black, but of course we’re going to need an extra competitor. The rules have changed. Instead of each Challenger going about these games and obstacles on their own, they’ll now be teamed up with a partner. So you see, Challenger Red, you are going to be a part of these games again. Whether you like it or not, you’re going to play. I’m sure you’ll love that.”
“What!” Bobby shouted. “That’s stupid! I’ve already played. I bet you’re just making up these rules.”
Veego shook her head and said, “These adjustments in new rulings have been made entirely by Blok. Our trustees have taken these games to a whole new level. Besides, with Mr. Pop gone, there are no limits as to what Blok can accomplish.”
“Tell me you’re joking,” Bobby grumbled.
“No,” said Veego, smiling coldly. “It’s true, sadly enough. Now be a good little boy and eat your tribbun. You’ll need the protein.”
Meanwhile, Layra seemed to be getting along pretty well with LaBerge. She hadn’t said a word yet to Veego and he guessed she feared her as much as he did but it was a whole different story with LaBerge. Veego didn’t seem to bother much with LaBerge. But Bobby had the feeling it wasn’t just because she was being anti social or wasn’t in the mood for chit chat. Odds are, her brain was calculating and she was dealing with some serious matter that most likely had to do with Blok and the Games.
Bobby sat staring around, keeping an eye on Layra and LaBerge and the longer he went on listening to the two, the more annoyed and confused he became. He’d just about had enough of LaBerge’s childish, giggly laughs and chuckles. He wouldn’t be surprised if he found out the goof was in fact a clown at birth and was in disguise as a man who dressed in robes of wild colors and had crazy blonde hair and laughed too much. Bobby kept on telling himself the guy took too many “happy pills.”
During the meal, he showed her something Bobby remembered seeing on his last stay at the castle. It was a little toy Bobby could never understand, or make out why LaBerge found it so amusing. It was called a Runkle and the man seemed very proud of his little invention, as if he’d just created the world’s first light bulb.
The little toy was shaped like the handle of a jump rope with a miniature sized button on the end. As soon as LaBerge pressed the button, out came a red propeller which flew up into the air while making a continuous tweeeeee sound. When it was high enough, its power decreased and slowly and delicately flew back down as LaBerge raised the handle, locking the propeller back into place with a final click.
He clapped his hands proudly, saying, “No one can resist a game of Runkle!”
“Can I try?” asked Layra, staring at the toy inquisitively.
“Of course!” said LaBerge, handing her the toy. “It’s quite simple really. Give it a go!”
Bobby watched as Layra played with the Runkle, over and over again as if she were actually enjoying herself. He shook his head in disbelief and looked at LaBerge who watched the flying propeller like an amazed child. This was his creation after all. Layra was both pleased and amazed with the invention and chuckled as she watched it swirl into the air. LaBerge chuckled. Layra laughed. LaBerge laughed. That’s all Bobby heard from those two and that bland little toy! He felt his head would explode! He felt as if his ears were already ringing with their nonstop laughter. Veego didn’t acknowledge this but he knew somewhere inside of her, she was bubbling with frustration, especially at her idiot brother. Veego seemed to be in a huff while LaBerge was thoroughly enjoying himself.
“That’s really cool,” said Layra, handling the toy playfully. “I’d love one of these.”
“You can have that one,” LaBerge told her, his eyes beaming. “I’ve got tons. Everyone should have a Runkle!”
“I don’t have one,” said Bobby with no emotion. He wanted to see LaBerge’s reaction.
LaBerge shot him a surprised look that said, “Are you kidding me?”
“What!” he shouted, his eyes widening. He leaped up out of his chair and cried, “Runkle is simply one of the greatest games here on Quillan! How can you not-”
Suddenly, Veego turned on him so viscously, Bobby thought she’d storm off screaming.
She hissed, “Shut up! Quit acting like a baby and control yourself, ninny! For once in your life, can you ever keep QUIET?”
LaBerge stared at her wide eyed, with a hurt look in his eyes. He dropped his head, settled quietly back into his seat and looked away with a huge frown on his face as if he’d just been slapped for doing something behind his parent’s back. Bobby could have sworn after a long, hard look at LaBerge that the man was going to cry. He fidgeted with his fingers while licking his lips. He was afraid to look his sister in the eye and she could easily tell. Bobby had to admit though, Veego might have been a clever jerk, and a cold one at that, but she had a point. Her brother was annoying! Bobby couldn’t forget his giddy laughs and the hundreds of clowns. That was one thing he and Veego had in common. They both found LaBerge downright annoying. No arguments there.
Layra stared at Veego, her mouth wide open. It was like she were in utter shock that Veego had just erupted out of nowhere. Had she been building up that outburst of fury? Had she been boggling it up, trying not to erupt? What had once been a peaceful dinner was now an awkward meal and no one knew what to say. Layra stared at LaBerge with soft eyes and a sympathizing frown. Did she actually feel bad for the guy?
There was a long, uncomfortable silence. Veego went on eating as if nothing had happened. LaBerge stared around the room, his eyes darting to and fro nervously. Layra met his gaze for a quick second, and smiled reassuringly. He sniffed, rubbed his eyes and smiled weakly.
After the meal was finished and the servants were strolling about the table collecting the dishes and taking them off to the kitchen, Veego got up and said formally, “Alright then. You two, back to your rooms.”
“When do the games starts?” asked Bobby, not really wanting to know.
“In a couple of days, I believe,” she said, sounding somewhat bored. She then turned and stared down at Layra and said, “And anyway, this one will be needing a good deal of rest if she hopes in succeeding in these most interesting events.”
Layra looked away. Bobby saw a touch of fear in her eyes. He didn’t blame her.
LaBerge timidly rose out of his seat and waited till both Bobby and Layra were standing. Veego remained sitting, staring about the room with that cold, unblinking stare. The women looked pissed. LaBerge turned to them and gestured for them to follow. He led them out of the dining hall and into another hall that led up to their rooms on the higher floors.
“I hope the dinner was, uh, most satisfying,” he said shakily. “Terribly sorry for the outburst. If you’re in need of anything, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our servants. Challenger Red, Fourteen has been specially assigned for your needs and Layra, I’ve asked Thirteen to be at your personal needs.”
Layra smiled and said, “Thank you.”
“A pleasure,” he said meekly. “Sleep well.”
Bobby stared at him, saying nothing and hoped Layra would do the same. She didn’t.
As LaBerge turned for the dining hall, his head dropped, she called to him, “Night.” He turned back with a smile, nodded and continued up the stairs, playing with his Runkle while he went.
Bobby shot her a glare.
“What the hell?” he whispered. “What was all that about?”
“What do you mean?” she asked, surprised. She sounded puzzled.
Bobby raised a brow. “Uh, that guy’s an imbecile! Haven’t you noticed?”
“I should be going to bed,” she said, heading up the stairs, dodging the subject. “See you tommorow.”
“Layra!” Bobby shouted. “Layra, wait!”
She kept on going.
‘Layra!” he called. “We need to talk!”
Bobby tried catching up with her but she was a fast one and in seconds, she disappeared out of sight and Bobby was left with no choice but to head up to his own room.
Once inside, he jumped up onto his bed and dropped his head on the soft, velvety pillows, letting his mind wonder. He had a million questions and feared he wasn’t going to get answers, or answers he’d like to hear.
Worse, he still wasn’t sure who this Layra girl was or where she’d come from or if she was a traveler or an acolyte and how she knew about travelers to begin with. That was the biggest question. Was there a specific reason she’d been chosen to participate in the Quillan Games or was it just a coincidence? But what really bugged him was seeing her and LaBerge getting along! Seriously! It was the oddest thing he’d seen yet. The thought made his skin crawl that anyone would actually get along with that creep as if they were buddies.
He tried telling her how LaBerge could secretly be a clown in disguise but obviously, from what he’d seen that night, she thought differently about LaBerge. What he truly feared was the clown loving creep was setting her up for failure for the upcoming games. He now had yet another issue to deal with. He had to somehow, find a way to convince Layra that Veego was not the only one they needed to fear, but LaBerge as well. He needed to use his traveler abilities of persuasion to convince her that LaBerge was involved with these deadly games and if she hoped to walk out alive, she’d have to back away from him. And it was up to him to make that happen.
He was in no mood for sleep, so he got up and busied himself. He got himself comfortable and for some while, wrote his next journal to Mark and Courtney. He knew they were dying to hear what he’d seen and heard so far.
Once he’d sent the journal, he flopped back onto his bed tiredly. He was starting to wonder whether coming to Quillan was such a great idea after all.
Marina says:
I’ll be quite honest, I didn’t read the whole thing. But, from what I read, both of your guys’ stories are really good! Keep it up!
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 4: Suspicions Arise
Bobby slept like a rock. When he woke, he looked up at the clock and saw it was almost noon. His first thought was “Where’s Layra?” Was she still snoozing away or was she the same sort of sleeper he was, the sort who likes sleeping in and at that moment, Bobby was in no mood of getting out of bed. The sheets were warm, the pillows were soft, it was all perfect. If not for the horrid games and deadly results, he’d say this were his dream home. But then again, it wasn’t exactly his. This splendid, luxurious castle belonged to Veego and LaBerge. Not him.
He sighed and sunk his back on the pillow and stared up at the ceiling. He couldn’t help wondering when the upcoming games would take place, and where. He expected another classic Tato match at that towering, high off the ground arena called the Garden. That was no doubt one of the most frightening games, having to be high up off the ground on a tilting, unsteady arena while fighting to survive. Not overly fun compared to a safe, death-free game of tag.
He rolled over, ready for another snooze when he heard a voice close to his ear.
“Bobby?”
He sat up, took a look around and saw…no one. What the heck? He was sure he’d heard someone, but the room was empty, except for him of course and those animal plush toys perched up on the shelves. His mind went to the next crazy, yet possible explanation. Were they talking animals? Bobby shook that thought quickly out of his head to avoid going insane. He always believed LaBerge’s clown dolls to be the talking sort, but not these dolls. It was ridiculous…or was it?
“Hello?” came the voice. Then he recognized it for who it was. It was Layra.
“Uhh?” was all he could get out.
“Sorry for waking you,” she told him. “Just thought I’d let you know I’m going for a morning walk, you know, to get used to the place. I’ve already gotten lost three times. It’d probably be good to try and get used to the place.”
“Wait, hold on,” said Bobby, rubbing his eyes. “How the heck’s this possible? How are you even talking to me?”
“Don’t worry,” she laughed. “I’ll explain that later. I’d love to tell you now but, I don’t know, just doesn’t feel like the right time. Anyway, just thought I’d let you know I’ll be around.”
“Where?” asked Bobby.
There was a brief pause.
“Around…” Layra repeated. “So what are your plans for the day?”
“Not much,” said Bobby tiredly. “I think I’m gonna head down for a bite to eat. How about you?”
“I’ve eaten already.”
“Oh,” said Bobby. “Early riser, huh?”
“I guess you could say that” said Layra. “Well, I better be off. I’ll see you later, okay?”
“Wait, how about we meet somewhere, so we don’t get lost? I’m not gonna go search the castle for hours.”
“Good idea,” said Layra. “How about we meet near the pools outside? I heard they’re huge! Maybe we can even go for a swim?”
“Okay,” said Bobby. “What time?”
“Eight-thirty sound good?” asked Layra.
“Yeah, sounds good,” said Bobby.
“And don’t worry,” she added. “I’ll explain everything later, promise”
And with that, her voice vanished.
“What the-” thought Bobby. He was now officially lost. What did Layra mean when she said she was going to take a stroll around the castle? She was now a Challenger and instead of preparing and training for these upcoming games, she was going to walk about the castle like it was no big deal! What was up with that? When he’d first been told he’d be participating in such games, he definitely didn’t go strolling about the castle. Her life was as at stake and she felt like going for a walk! It just didn’t make any sense.
Sure, it was good to get to know the place, but he couldn’t help feel she ought to be more worried about the games than finding her way about the castle.
Right then and there, he made up his mind that the only way he was going to get to the bottom of this and find out who this girl and what her story was would be to go after her. He knew spying was wrong, but he couldn’t stand knowing she was strolling freely down the halls while his head was throbbing with questions. He was tired of sitting around dazed. He needed some answers.
He crawled out of bed, opened the door and walked out. He stretched, yawned, and saw Fourteen coming his way. He waved to the guy. Fourteen didn’t wave back. Bobby had the idea robots weren’t sure what waves even meant.
“Hey,” said Bobby casually.
“Good morning, Pendragon,” said Fourteen formally. “How was your sleep?”
“Pretty good,” said Bobby. “Have you seen or heard anything weird about Layra at all, yesterday or today or anything?”
“Not that I am aware of,” Fourteen answered. “Why?”
“She said she was going to take a stroll around the castle!” Bobby blurt out. “I bet all the other Challengers are getting ready, and here she’s acting like it’s nothing. It doesn’t make sense.”
“Hmm,” said Fourteen, in that deep robotic voice. “I must agree, that is strange. Perhaps Layra is starting her training later on?”
“Yeah, I don’t think so,” said Bobby after a careful thought. “I’m going after her.”
“What do you expect to find?” asked Fourteen.
“I don’t know,” said Bobby. “But I need some answers.”
“Would you like me to make the bed?” asked Fourteen. “It is our job to look after the rooms of the Challengers.”
“Thanks,” said Bobby, starting down the hall. “And keep an eye on Layra for me, will you? If you see her, let me know, or come and find me.”
“I will,” said Fourteen. “Goodbye, Challenger Red.”
Bobby stopped and called back a quick, “Thanks!”
Bobby had no idea where he ought to search first. The castle was massive. He’d gotten lost enough times before and was bound to get lost that many times more. He decided he’d start on the first floor and work his way up. That seemed like the easiest plan. At least that way, he’d be going floor to floor and not be running all over the place like a madman.
He took the elevator down, walked out and looked around. He caught sight of two Challengers who looked slightly older than himself, strolling down the hall. He watched them and saw they were heading for the front door, which meant they were on their way outside. Were they on their way for a game? If that was the case, the event would soon be up and all across Rune on the giant screens. He wasn’t so sure he wanted to witness another one of those deadly games but if he himself was going to have to play, again, he’d need all the experience he could get.
“Good morning, Challenger,” came a voice from behind.
Bobby turned around and saw a dado servant standing next to him with a platter of toast. “Have you eaten?”
“Uh, yeah, thanks,” said Bobby.
“Very good,” said the dado, who walked away.
“Wait!” called Bobby suddenly. The dado looked back, no expression of surprise and asked plainly, “Yes?”
“Have you seen Layra anywhere?”
“If you mean Challenger Black,” said the dado. “Then, no.”
“Veego?” asked Bobby.
“She’ll be out of the castle for the day,” said the dado. “She’ll be in charge of hosting the recent Tato match.”
Looks like there’d be a game after all. A Tato match. That answered that question.
“Okay,” said Bobby, thinking fast. “How about LaBerge?”
“Oh, him,” said the servant. “Yes, I just saw him pass by. He will be looking over the castle today.”
That right there got him thinking. Veego and LaBerge were the game hosts. They were partners and whenever there’d be a game, you’d either see the both of them, or neither. Why out of the blue, was Veego to go hosting a match without LaBerge? Things weren’t adding up.
“What’s up with that?” he asked. “I thought the two hosted the games together?”
No response.
“Like I said,” the dado repeated. “Veego has left to host the recent Tato match while LaBerge will be staying here.”
“Where?” asked Bobby.
“He’s on his way to the third floor. You just missed him.”
Bobby raced off, yelling a “thanks!” over his shoulder.
Perfect! He may not have known where Layra was but finding LaBerge was certainly a start. Hopefully if he found the clown first, he’d find Layra and then he’d finally get some answers without having to run about the entire castle till his legs cramped.
He hurried over to the elevator, jumped inside and pressed the large round button that read “3.” He was all out of breath.
Bobby saw another guy about his own age standing next to him, staring at him blankly. The guy had black, curly hair and hazel colored eyes. He also wore an orange shirt with diagonal black stripes. That meant one thing. Challenger Orange.
“In a hurry?” the guy asked.
“Yeah,” said Bobby casually. “Stuff to do. You know…Challenger stuff.”
“Same,” said Challenger Orange. “Got training to do, for the games and all.”
“Good luck,” said Bobby. He sure felt dumb for saying that, but that was the only decent thing he could think of saying. It wasn’t like he was gonna say, “Come back alive!” or “Don’t die out there!” That wouldn’t have been cool.
The boy gave a nod and said, “Thanks. You too.”
He stepped out and said, “See ya around.”
The elevator had now come to a stop. Challenger Orange turned and walked to the right while Bobby hurried out, looked left, right and saw no one. For a second, he panicked, wondering if he’d landed on the wrong floor but he was soon mistaken.
He was in fact on the right floor. Far off to the right, strolling freely with his hands behind his back was none other than LaBerge. So far so good.
Bobby hid behind the corner and peeked out to get a closer look. He was wearing his famous red and black bathrobe over a pair of purple and yellow striped pajamas and when Bobby stared even harder, he almost burst out laughing. The guy was wearing slippers! But what soon got to Bobby’s head was the slippers were shaped like clown faces. He shivered. Their little faces had big smiles and bright, beady eyes and polka dots and swirls and…he stopped right there. Not a good idea to start speculating, especially on clowns.
“Crap!” thought Bobby, backing away quickly. He was so busy staring at the clown slippers he hadn’t seen LaBerge approaching him. He was doomed. If that goof caught onto him sneaking around the castle, he’d be onto something, especially because he was going around spying! But he sure as heck wasn’t going to tell LaBerge that.
LaBerge turned the corner, looked down and spotted Bobby, standing there looking as dumb as possible. Bobby forced a smile and chuckled lightly. So much for staying hidden.
“Good morning!” said LaBerge cheerfully. “Sleep well?”
“Yeah, uh, real good,” said Bobby, playing along. “So, what’s up with today’s plan?”
“Oh, not much,” said LaBerge casually. “I’ll be in charge of the castle today while Veego’s off hosting the games and-”
“Where’s Layra?” asked Bobby quickly.
LaBerge stared at him wide eyed and asked quietly, as if in shock, “Pardon me?”
“You heard me!” said Bobby angrily. “I saw you two last night, all giggly and he-he-he! Don’t play all innocent with me. You’re up to something. I’ll bet that’s why Veego left, so you could play her over again! Well, you’re not fooling me. I always knew you and her were up to no good. Leave Layra alone!”
LaBerge frowned and shook his head.
“Challenger Red,” he told him. “If you mean to say I’m up to something, I can assure you you’re mistaken. I treat my guests properly and kindly. What would lead you to think I’m up to something? The needs of my guests are most important to me. If they’re unhappy, I’m unhappy. I always do what I can to assure my guest’s stay here at the castle is nothing less than perfect!”
Bobby groaned.
“Whatever, just stay away from Layra. She doesn’t like you, you know. It was all just a joke. She hates you. She told me herself last night. It was all an act.”
LaBerge said nothing. For a moment, he gazed off, as if lost in thought.
He then smiled and said, almost dreamily “Layra’s the only person who’s treated me, well…like a real friend. I’m terribly sorry if you’re suspicious of me. Please, let’s forget everything and shake hands and start off fresh?”
“No!” shouted Bobby, backing away. “You’re too clowny. Being friends with you’s just…I dunno…too weird. Sorry.”
LaBerge sighed and said, “Very well. Good day Challenger Red.”
He turned and walked off.
Bobby pretended to head the other way and then, snuck back and quietly and sneakily, crept a good distance behind the tall clown-loving goof. With each step, he felt sure LaBerge would hear him and turn around and suspect something, but he never did.
Bobby watched him carefully, observing his every move till he found himself entering a large, round-shaped room. He stopped at the entryway and kept his eyes glued on LaBerge, who was casually strolling toward a line of high arched chairs seated around what looked like some sort of bar. If they had bars on Quillan, that is. But he soon realized it wasn’t a bar. The place sold all sorts of foods and drinks like tribbun, pop, snacks, and desserts. It looked like a café.
He stared harder and saw all the seats were empty except for one in the very middle. It was Layra and she was quietly and contently eating away at what looked like her breakfast or what was left of it. Suddenly, Bobby was dying for a plate of pancakes and wished he would have eaten before going about the castle on an empty stomach. He was getting hungry, but tried to ignore that.
He watched closely as LaBerge strolled over, took a seat next to her and reached into his robe pocket. Bobby crept a tad bit closer, keeping his eyes fixed on LaBerge. What was the guy doing? Bobby soon saw him pulling out a fresh, beautiful, deep red colored flower.
“A rose? A freakin…rose?” he thought to himself.
It couldn’t be true. LaBerge…with flowers! It couldn’t be true.
“What the hell!” he thought, his mouth dropping with shock. “What’s that freak’s deal?”
LaBerge handed her the rose with a big, friendly smile. Layra took it, blushed, and looked to the ground. Bobby stared in disbelief. He thought he was seeing things, but knew it was all real. There was no denying that Layra was blushing!
Bobby quietly moved his way behind a tall arched couch, peeked out and listened.
“Thank you,” she said, her cheeks cheery red.
“You’re most welcome,” said LaBerge sincerely. “I hope your stay at the castle’s going well.”
“Oh, it’s been great,” she told him. “And I’m,” she paused for a moment, her face still red with blush. “I’m glad you’re my host.”
LaBerge chuckled and said, “And I’m glad to have you as my guest. You’re the only one who’s treated me so kindly, Layra. You’re a special gal, you are. You’re…really something.”
Layra smiled and said, “I think this’ll work out fine. How about we take a walk outside?”
“Lovely!” said LaBerge, jumping excitedly out of his seat. “Wait till you see the pools and the gardens! They’re fantastic! You’re going to love them!”
Bobby watched till both were out of sight and whispered to himself, “What the heck did she mean when she said this would work out fine? Man, that guy’s a creep! I always knew he was a creep, but, playing with someone like that’s just…wrong. What’s he got to hide?”
There was only one way of finding out. He was going to have to follow them…again.
veelox0 says:
@Challenger Black:
WOW!!!! I felt like I was reading another pendragon book…congrats on writing so amazingly
Holly says:
Haha yah! i think the same thing veelox0!!! Challenger Black is a crazy good writer!!!!
@Challenger Black- i want to read chapter 5!!!! haha 🙂 nice job so far though
Challenger Black says:
Thanks Veelox0 and Holly! Your comments are greatly appreciated. It’s always great when someone says they enjoy your writing!
@Holly: I’ll have Chapter 5 up ASAP 🙂
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 5: Secrets Revealed
Bobby wasn’t exactly what you’d call the best spy in the world. But he had no choice. Seeing that clown walk out with a Challenger while the two were both giggling with laughter just seemed…wrong. He was fully convinced LaBerge was up to no good. He now felt sure of it that LaBerge was playing and fooling with Layra’s head. The guy was messing with her and Bobby could tell it was working. Layra was falling for it. While Veego was out hosting the recent Tato match at the stadium, here was her brother strolling out back with a Challenger who, like the others, should have been preparing for the games. Something was definitely up. Here LaBerge was in charge of the castle for the day and he was out strolling around all chit-chatty with a Challenger! Talk about weird.
He raced out the doors, looked ahead and saw them at once. They were slowly and quietly walking about the gardens. Bobby eased his way among the tables, which must have been for the guests at dinner and hid sneakily behind one of the rose bushes which luckily had no thorns. He peered over and watched them carefully. LaBerge must have been giving her a grand tour of the outside world of their imperial castle. He had to admit though, not only was the inside of their grand place a spectacular place…the outside proved even better. It was like an entirely new world, especially with the fact that most of Rune and all of Quillan was nothing but a gray, dull, lifeless world. But not here.
Bobby had never seen the actual backyard before but was amazed at how vast it was. There were acres of woodland and all sorts of oddly shaped trees and gardens and bushes and fountains with intricate patterns and neatly paved steps made out of stone and what Bobby soon liked best…the pools. These weren’t just your ordinary outdoor pools. No, this was the real deal. It was one gigantic pool made up of several smaller pools all joined together. Some pools were smaller than others while some were so big you’d swear it was a maze. There was everything you’d need to have a good swim: diving boards, twisting water slides, volleyball nets, a wave pool and even a couple of hot tubs. The place was stunning in more ways than one, and he could of course think of a good hundred other words that described the place. A setting like this would take anyone’s breath away.
Bobby would have loved to throw off his shirt and jump right in but that would have been the end of his secret spying. He made a note to himself he’d go for an evening swim when he got the chance. Right then, he was on a mission and had no time for a dip.
He dropped to his knees, crawled as quietly as he could toward the garden and inched his way in. The garden was shaped like a zigzagging maze and staring around, he wondered how big a structure it really was. There were sharp turns, dead ends and open glades where you could sit down and relax while enjoying the incredible view. There were benches seated for guests and brightly colored flowers dotted about. There were lemony yellows, rosy reds, emerald greens, deep blues and even a few rainbow colored plants. Again, the whole scene was breathtaking and one look at the rainbow colored plant and he knew it was unique to Quillan. From what he knew, such a plant didn’t exist on Second Earth. Though, it caught him off guard catching sight of such a bright plant on such a dull place.
Bobby hurried over to one of the benches, crawled in back of it, and hoped he wouldn’t be seen. He was all confident about this seemingly perfect hiding spot…till Layra and LaBerge came strolling through. So much for his perfect hiding spot. He’d be caught for sure! He should have known he’d be caught hiding foolishly behind a bench, but he couldn’t make a run for it now. He was trapped and worse…he had nowhere to go.
“Crap!” he thought, feeling stupid for even going there. This was it. He either had to keep still or take the chance of making a run for it. He had no idea what to do. His mind was racing with panic. What should he do? Hide or run for it?
He didn’t have much time to think because almost at once, the two walked over and sat down. They were right in front of him, right above him, both unaware of the spying Challenger beneath them. He covered his mouth, breathing softly and tried as hard as he could not to move a muscle. Right then, it was all about getting the answers and not getting caught. Who knew what the punishments were there at the castle for snooping about with no one’s knowing? He hoped he wouldn’t find out.
“The garden’s beautiful” said Layra, gazing around. “I never knew you had such a lovely place. I don’t think I’ve ever seen something so huge.â€
LaBerge smiled and said, “I do try and keep things in tip-top shape. I’m glad you’re enjoying like the view. I designed the yard to be a world of its own!”
He then paused briefly, and whispered, “And we’re lucky we’re alone. My sister would never allow me to be showing Challengers or guests the outside yard. She’s too strict.â€
“She’s hosting the Tato match, right?”
LaBerge nodded.
“Yes. And it’s a good thing too. As much as I love my sister, she…” he hesitated, took a hesitant breath and said in a quivering voice, “but sometimes I wish she weren’t.”
“What do you mean?” asked Layra, sounding concerned.
Bobby stared up curiously. He could tell the two were tense…LaBerge especially.
“Well,” said LaBerge nervously. “You see, Veego and I aren’t exactly what you’d call your average and sister relationship. I know I shouldn’t be saying this behind her back but…I have to! I can’t take this anymore. I can’t stand it!â€
“You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to,” said Layra softly, laying a hand on his shoulder. “If you don’t wanna talk about, don’t. Really, you don’t have to if-”
“No, I-I want to,” he said shaking his head, trying to hold back tears. “I have to let someone know. It’s been driving me crazy!â€
Bobby watched him in silence, wondering what exactly had been driving LaBerge crazy. He was about to find out.
“She forced me into this whole mess,†LaBerge said, fighting the get the words out. Anyone could tell the guy was troubled. “She’s the one who accepted the offer from Mr. Kayto to come here and take charge of the Quillan Games. It was all her doing. I wanted no part of it! Really, I didn’t! But she was always the boss. She always had to have it her way! She never listened to what I had to say, so she dragged me into this and she’s never left me out of it since. And she’s always made fun of me. Ever since we were kids, she’d pick on me and call me Clown Boy and Clown Freak. She’s never once said a kind word to me. I know she doesn’t like having me around. She ignores me whenever she gets the chance and whenever I try and have a good time or put on a smile, she just tells me to shut it. I always tried to be nice to her but she just wouldn’t stop. When we were little, she’d get all the kids at school to come after me. Do you know what it’s like living a life where nobody wants to be around you because they think you’re an idiot and a goof? I’ve never had friends growing up. It’s always been Veego and me, but since she was never there for me, it’s always been me. I tried being a good brother to her, wanting us to get along. But she could never put up with me. She always said I was too much of a goof and that I was nothing but a worthless imbecile! It hurt me every night knowing my sister thought that about me. I felt so lonely, like nobody wanted anything to do with me. I know she’s my sister and brothers are supposed to support and encourage their sisters, but…she’s just ruining my life! I can’t take it anymore, it’s-”
It was at that very moment, LaBerge lost it. He began sobbing. He put his trembling hands in his head and wept as if his whole world were about to crumble and no one could stop it from happening.
Layra wrapped her arms around him, closed her eyes and whispered shakily, tears trickling down her cheeks, “It’s alright, LaBerge. I’m here for you.”
Bobby watched with unblinking eyes. Layra kept her arms around LaBerge, resting her head on his shoulder while he let it all out. Bobby wondered if that’s why he’d acted like a goof for all that time. Was he really trying to hide and cover up all the pain from his past, present and possible future? It seemed Veego was truly cold, not only to the people around her, but to her own brother. Sure, he’d seen Veego snap at him here or bark at him there, but he never had the idea that deep down, she hated the guy. She’d obviously hurt him enough to make him cry. As much as Bobby hated the guy…for some odd reason, he couldn’t help feeling bad for him all the same. Seeing someone cry was never a fun thing and if all he’d said was true, it seemed there was more to the clown goof than he’d thought.
The two stayed like that for a moment. LaBerge then pulled away, sniffled, wiped his eyes and looked Layra straight in the eye. Layra couldn’t help frown, seeing the guy in such misery.
He shook his head miserably, his eyes red from crying and laid his head on her shoulder as she stroked his soft, blond hair.
“You’re the only one who’s ever listened to me,” he sniveled. “I’ve always tried to be a good host for my guests and put on as much as I could, but no one ever cared. They always ignored me or pushed me away. I couldn’t say or do much with Veego around, but without her around, I thought I could talk to people. Maybe they’d give me a chance and see I’m not a monster…but that didn’t work. It means so much to me that you’re here. You’re the only friend I’ve ever had, Layra. I’ve never had a real, true friend before. I can’t even tell you what that means to me.”
He pulled away, looked her in the eye and said quietly, “Thank you.”
Layra smiled weakly, saying “I’ll be here for you LaBerge…promise.â€
LaBerge smiled back and stared down at the ground, gathering his thoughts. He’d just revealed his entire past and no doubt, his mind was still racing.
“I say we do something about this,” said Layra, after a long while.
LaBerge raised his head and said, confused, “Huh?”
“Let’s do something,” she repeated. “Let’s take a stand, you know, go against your sister. You shouldn’t have to put up with this.”
“W-we can’t!” LaBerge cried. “She’s the boss! Getting past her’s impossible. She’s already organized the games and-” he then buried his head in his hands and groaned.
“What?” asked Layra.
“You’re Challenger Black!” he exclaimed gloomily. “You’re part of this! You and Challenger Red will have to play these games, and there’s nothing I can do about it! I’m helpless. Blok’s in total control now, more than ever! Whatever they say goes. There’s no way we’ll change their minds. You don’t even know the power they have.â€
“I know it sounds crazy,” said Layra patiently, leaning in closer. “But you’ve think it over. I know what I’m asking sounds impossible, but I really think we have a shot at this. You and me. We can show Veego what you’re made of…what we’re made of! She’s treated like dirt. I say it’s about time you did something about it. Don’t let her take control of your life, LaBerge! You deserve better than that.â€
“I know,” he said quietly, dropping his head. “She’s ruined my life…and I’m tired of it.â€
He thought her idea over, then said, feeling sudden hope, “Alright…I’m in. But we’ve got to keep this to ourselves. If word gets around we’re up to something, we’re both doomed! I’ll be kicked out of Blok and…I can’t imagine what they’d do to you. Please be careful, I couldn’t stand seeing anything happen to you, Layra.”
Just then…he did something that totally put Bobby in a freaked out zone. Even after all he’d heard, it was uncalled for. At least, Bobby thought so anyway. All those times he’d been shocked and surprised, whether it was on Cloral, Eelong or Veelox…nothing shocked him quite like this.
LaBerge, hesitantly at first, leaned forward…and kissed Layra softly on the cheek.
Layra seemed somewhat surprised, as if not expecting it, but something between a gasp and a giggle escaped her lips. She lowered her head, trying to hide the red in her face.
“I’ll be fine,” she said smiling. “Take care of yourself, okay?â€
“I will,” he assured her. “I’d better get going though. Veego should be back soon. Can’t imagine what she’d do to me if she caught me out here. I’ll see you later then?”
“Yeah,” she said, thinking. “How about at the pool, eight-thirty tonight?”
LaBerge smiled, clapping his hands.
“I’ll be there!” he said in excitement.
As LaBerge got up and strolled off for the castle, Layra called out, “Bye, LaBerge!” He turned around, waved back at her, and continued on his way.
Meanwhile, Bobby was staring up at Layra curiously. He decided right then and there he was going to risk it all and barge out. He couldn’t help it. After seeing and hearing what he just had, he had to get some serious answers or his head would explode. Literally.
“Uhh, you’ve got explaining to do!” he said, sitting himself up on the bench.
Layra’s eyes widened. She looked him in the eye and could tell Bobby was dead serious.
“Where’d you come from?” she asked, puzzled.
“I was uh…down there,” he said pointing. Layra looked down and burst out laughing.
“You were down there?” she chuckled. “All this time? Weren’t you uncomfortable?”
“Now that you mention it, my butt was getting pretty sore,” he admitted. “But I had to get some answers. Look, can you please tell me what’s going on! I’m lost, confused and I gotta get some answers, as in now. What’s going on between you and that clown? I wanna know it all…we’re partners after all. We shouldn’t hide stuff from each other.â€
Layra sighed, and said, “Alright, I’ll tell you everything. Just keep it our secret, okay? If word gets around, LaBerge and I’ll both be dead, got it? You have to keep this a secret. No telling anyone.â€
Bobby nodded and said, “Got it. Now what’s this all about?”
Julia says:
Wow, the scroll-y bar has gotten so small! All of you guys are great writers!
Hobey Ho! says:
@ Challenger Black –
Absolutely love the fan fic! I love how it goes into more detail about LaBerge’s past. Can’t wait to find out more. Keep writing!
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 6: Layra’s Story
“My story’s pretty much the same as anyone else’s,” Layra began. Years ago, I thought I was just your ordinary teen without a care in the world. That’s what I always thought. I never thought I’d be shown or told of things that were, how would you put it…strange?”
“You mean you’re not…normal?” asked Bobby curiously. He couldn’t help wonder where she was going with this and the one question that kept on bugging him was her real identity. Was this girl a traveler?
Hearing Layra think of herself as just an ordinary person made him think of himself. He remembered himself always having that idea being an everyday kid and basket ball player, only to be dragged off and into a whole ‘nother ball game while trying to save all that ever was or all that will ever be. Was she in the same boat? He kept on listening, hoping to get more answers.
Layra shook her head and said, “That’s what I always thought…till I found out I wasn’t like normal people. I was what you’d call ‘different’.”
“You’re not by any chance…a traveler, are you?” he asked. He figured it’d be better to just throw the big question out there right there and then.
Layra thought for a moment and then said, “Yes…and no. I’m a traveler, for sure. It was twelve years ago, Twelve years ago I was visited by someone, a man who told me all about travelers and how I wasn’t like other people. He showed me other territories and explained to me what Halla was and turning points and a shape shifting, demon traveler named Saint Dane who was trying to tear Halla apart and bring it all into chaos. At first, I couldn’t get over it and or even accept it was real. He showed me the farm barges of Cloral, and the Lifelight fantasies from Veelox and the sky bridges of Leeandra. It was all so amazing. For a while, I kept on wondering whether it was all some sort of whacko dream but after seeing it all right in front of me…I knew it was real. And he told me about quigs too. Can’t forget those. The whole story freaked me out but what freaked me out most was knowing there was a guy out there wanting to cause so much trouble. Anyway, I was pretty freaked out and all but there was something about the guy that told me everything would be alright. I knew I could trust him. It was like hearing what he had to say, well…made it seem like everything really was going to be alright. I’d never met a guy like him. He was so calm and sure of things. Ever hear of him?”
Bobby looked to the ground. He knew exactly who she was referring to. He’d had that exact conversation laid down to him years ago, only it felt like yesterday.
“Yeah,” he said quietly. “That was my Uncle Press. He’s the one who first showed me the flumes and told me all about this.”
“Your uncle!” Layra exclaimed. “Well, that explains a lot. He was a great man. He told me all about you and how I’d be seeing you some day. Wait-” she paused, looked him softly in the eye and said, “Was?”
Bobby nodded and told her softly, “He’s dead.”
Saying those words never made him feel any better about the whole thing. Not having his uncle around while bouncing about the territories to accompany and guide and help him felt…lonely. That’s how he felt and as time went on, he found himself missing his uncle more and more. It wasn’t the same having him around, but all he could do was keep on going.
Layra nodded quietly and said in a whisper, “I’m sorry, Bobby.”
He nodded in respect and said, “Keep going though.”
“Well,” Layra continued. “I’m a traveler, but I’m not like you and the other travelers of your generation. I’m what’s called a Hidden Traveler.”
“What’s that mean?” asked Bobby, his head swimming. “How’s that any different from regular travelers?”
“It’s the same thing, basically,” said Layra. “The only difference is we’re not seen as easily as other travelers. In a way, I guess you could say we’re invisible. To Saint Dane, anyway. We’re an extra couple of travelers he never learned about, or even knows about today. We’re only called hidden because that’s what we are. We’re hidden from Saint Dane. He thought you were all the Last Generation…but that’s where he was wrong. He was mistaken. You’re not the last. We’ve been hiding in secret for a long time and as long as we keep hidden, hopefully he won’t know of there being more travelers out there. But we’ve got all the same abilities like you, persuasion, shape shifting, and being able to heal one another…with one extra.”
“What’s that?” asked Bobby.
“It’s called Mind Speech,” Layra explained. “Yesterday morning, when I was able to reach you without being there?”
“Yeah!” Bobby exclaimed. “What the heck was with that all about? I couldn’t even see you. You guys ghosts or something?”
Layra chuckled and said, “Nah, we’re not ghosts…or spies. But it allows us to speak to other travelers without having to be there in person. We can communicate with them through our minds. Pretty cool, aye?”
“Yeah,” Bobby agreed. “That must come in handy. So you and the hidden travelers are pretty much the same as us then?”
“Pretty much,” Layra agreed.
“What about your home territory then?” asked Bobby, eager to hear. “Where do you come from?”
“Rorga’s my home territory. No cities or streets or buildings or anything like that. We’re not too civilized or industrialized. Not too much manufacturing goes on there. It’s all forests and mountains and volcanoes and whatnot. And it’s a pretty dry place. We don’t get much rain but there’s enough to keep trees growing and the plants healthy. The ground might be dry and rocky but back home, plants and trees don’t really need soil. All they need’s a little sun and a bit of rain. Pretty okay place to live. The only thing that’s a bit scary are the volcanoes. They can be nasty, with their explosions and all. I’ve seen plenty of them trust me…it’s not pretty. You don’t keep your distance from those things…you’re a gonner.”
“And the quigs?” asked Bobby.
“Oh…them,” said Layra, sounding casual, as if it were no biggie. “The quigs on Rorga are killers. Big flyers, forest destroyers, fire breathers, you know…them.”
“Uhh…what?” was all Bobby could say, sounding lost.
“I thought you knew!” Layra exclaimed, shocked. “The quigs on Rorga are dragons!”
“What!” cried Bobby. “Are you serious…dragons?”
Layra nodded, saying, “They’re scary as hell. You cross their paths, and you’re fried. They’re fire breathers and they’re fat too…like monster fat. I don’t mean a little overweight with some flabby arms. I mean HUGE! The small ones are about six hundred pounds but if you’re lucky enough to see one of the bigger ones, you’re looking at a nine hundred pound beasty…and we’ve seen heavier. Males of course are heavy, but with the females…man, they’re out of control big.”
“That’s impossible!” said Bobby, his mouth hanging. “That’s just crazy!”
“Crazy, but true,” said Layra. “My home’s already reached its turning point though.”
She paused briefly. Bobby watched her and saw she looked like she was going to cry, but was struggling to hold back.
She pulled herself together and went on, fighting to hold back tears, “Forests were burned, villages were crushed and all the volcanoes erupted and the land was a like a pool of lava. Rivers of lava were everywhere. I’ve seen a lot back home…but those were the worst days of my life.”
“So…Saint Dane won?” asked Bobby in disbelief. It was hard to imagine not only Quillan had been lost…but Rorga as well.
“Yeah,” she said quietly. “The place sure isn’t what it used to be. But enough talk about territories. You wanted to know what LaBerge and I are up to, right?”
“Yeah,” said Bobby quickly, getting right onto the subject. “So what’s up with you two, I mean…okay, look…can I ask you something?”
“Sure,” said Layra.
Bobby didn’t speak at first. He sat there, staring at the ground. He then blinked, turned back to her and took a breath, as if not wanting to ask.
“WHY the hell did LaBerge kiss you?” Bobby blurted out, wide eyed. “A-aren’t you, uh…a little young to be kissing a grown man? He’s what..forty? Don’t you find that wrong…creepy…weird? Even a little? C’mon, be serious! You can’t tell me you didn’t find that one bit weird? Come on, Layra! That’s just…gross. What the heck’s wrong with you? If you’re as normal as you say you are, why’d you let a guy that old…you know…”
Layra looked him in the eye, not saying a word, then…burst out laughing. Bobby didn’t get it and thought she was just playing with him.
After she pulled herself together, she said, still chuckling, “I get why you’d think that, but Bobby, I’m not who you think I am. You might think I’m only sixteen, but I’ll be honest with you, in reality…I’m a thirty year old woman. Really, I am. I’ve told LaBerge everything. He knows I’m a traveler.”
Bobby’s mouth dropped. Hearing that just felt a million times weird, like something that bizarre just couldn’t be true.
“Uh…what?” was all he could say.
“I know,” she smiled. “It seems weird. It does to a lot of people but believe me when I say it’s true. I wouldn’t lie to you.”
“But how’s that even possible?” he asked, dumbfounded. “You look like, well, my age. You sure as hell don’t look thirty!”
“I guess you’d call it a curse,” she said sadly. “I’m a thirty year old woman in the body of a sixteen year old. It’s Saint Dane’s doing. He’s the cause of it. And I’m not the only one like this. A lot of travelers out there of my race are dealing with this. I’m one of many. It all has to do with territories and their turning points and how things turn out. Times have changed. Things aren’t what they used to be. If a territory turns around for the better, we carry on aging just like any other traveler. Nothing happens. But if Saint Dane succeeds in plunging the territory into chaos and madness, which in this case, he’s done to my home, the traveler of that territory is cursed by him. When I failed on Rorga, he cursed me and now I’m frozen. I can no longer age. Technically, I’m still aging as a woman on the inside, but my body’s the same. No change. It just…stays like that.”
“Wait!” said Bobby suspiciously. “I thought you said Saint Dane didn’t know about hidden travelers? You just said he cursed you? He’s gotta know about you.”
“The majority, no,” she told him. “I’m one of few he’s actually met. He seemed to think I was just another traveler. Luckily, our identity’s still secret. That’s the main thing. He still doesn’t know of the existence of Hidden Travelers. The longer we can keep that a secret, the better. He’d always hear tales and rumours of some unknown travelers but trust me…we’re pretty safe. Right now, anyway. Let’s hope things stay that way.”
There was a long pause.
Just then, an odd thought came to Bobby, realizing what he’d just heard.
“Whoa,” said Bobby, staring in shock. “Do you stay like that? I mean, will your body stay like that…forever?”
Layra shrugged. She seemed pretty calm for such a frightening matter.
“Maybe it will, maybe it won’t. It all depends on the turning points of the other territories. Saint Dane might be able to curse us if we’ve failed on our own territories, but if we’re able to help lead another territory to harmony and peace, then the curse can break. Simple as that. So basically, if one territory’s saved, another is. The saving of one territory now means the saving of two. The way I look at it, if we can turn Quillan around, then maybe Rorga can be saved. I’d give anything to see home again. But as for Saint Dane, he has the idea the curse works for one traveler and their home territory alone, but because all the territories are part of Halla, together, that power to undo the curse works throughout every territory. It’s kind of like the idea of territories being mixed. Because of that, the curse can find a way to undo itself. But if each territory were to stand alone, away from the others, the curse would have no way of undoing itself. That’s what the rest of us think, the hidden travelers, anyway. Make sense?”
“Uh, yeah, I think so,” said Bobby slowly, trying to take it all in. “That’s just…wow.”
“It’s a lot to grasp,” Layra admitted.
“Now,” said Bobby, wanting to hear all about her discussion with LaBerge. “Onto you and LaBerge. So what the heck’s goin’ on? I wanna know everything.”
Layra took a breath, saying, “There’s a lot to say. If you heard everything we said, well, then there’s not much to say. He and I’ve agreed to put together a Revolution, against both Blok and Veego herself, seeing as she plays just as big a part in all this, and the trustees. They’re the backbone of it all.”
“And you believe him?” asked Bobby, raising a brow.
“About what?” asked Layra.
“You know,” Bobby went on. “About what he said, about his past and all? How Veego was always pushing on him and treating him like crap? You really believe him?”
“The poor man,” she said quietly, thinking out loud. “Of course I believe him! You saw him. He’s just…oh, he’s just such a mess. I’ve never seen a man so troubled and worried. It’s hard to think of what he’s gone through. I can’t even imagine. Sure, I might have been somewhat scared of Veego earlier but after hearing what she’s been doing to LaBerge, well…it’s too much, really. That poor man’s, uh…never mind.”
“Go on,” Bobby demanded. “I want to hear.”
Layra hesitated and turned away, as if dodging the subject. But Bobby wasn’t giving up. He needed answers.
“Come on,” said Bobby. “Besides, we’re all on the same side here. Travelers don’t hide things from each other…right?”
“N-no, really…it’s fine,” said Layra quickly, shifting uncomfortably. “That’s all.”
“No, I mean…tell me about what you think of LaBerge,” said Bobby, grinning slightly. “Don’t be shy. I’ve seen you all giggly towards him. Don’t think I don’t see something like that and ignore it. No way…there’s definitely something up with you and him. Trust me on that. I could see it in your eyes. You aren’t hiding anything.”
Layra sighed in defeat. She looked back to him and he saw her cheeks were blushing slightly.
“Well…after our time together,” she said nervously. “I-I think I’m starting to…you know…”
Bobby chuckled in disbelief, humouring at the thought, then locked her gaze and saw she was dead serious.
“NO!” he said, not wanting to believe it. “Y-you like LaBerge?”
She gave a light nod. Bobby sat there, staring at her as if she’d grown two heads. From what he’d just heard…maybe she had.
“I do,” was her answer. “Very much so. I’ve never met a man quite like him.”
Bobby argued, still in shock, “I dunno what you see in him. Really, I don’t.”
Layra didn’t answer. She gazed off…lost in thought.
“Anyway, go on,” said Bobby. “I wanna hear it all.”
“Well, if you insist,” she said. “Bobby, I really believe the poor man’s been hiding away a whole lot of pain, all from his past. Obviously, he’s dealt with pain and misery, both from his sister and the people around him, Blok especially. Look at him, Bobby! You can’t deny that his childhood’s been snatched from him. His life’s been a mess. Veego’s taken complete control over him and his life! She watches his every move, he’s told me. That’s why they’re always together. She wants to make sure he’s going by her rules, her commands and her wishes. They’re different. Veego’s the villain here, Bobby. It’s too obvious. She’s out and out cold…cruel. Funny how the two are always together and whenever LaBerge speaks up…she shuts him up before he can say a word! He’s like a dog on a leash and she won’t let him go. He doesn’t deserve that!”
“So you’re telling me,” said Bobby, slowly considering it. “That LaBerge has been acting all goofy and childish and giggly ’cause he’s trying to find the childhood he never had? A lost childhood or something?”
He pretty doubted that whole idea, but was more curious in hearing what Layra thought, though he felt sure he already knew. He could see where this was going…and he wasn’t too fond of it.
“Yes!” said Layra. “That sounds about right but I don’t really think it’s what you’d call an act. Even if Veego was outta the picture, I’m pretty sure LaBerge wouldn’t change. And if I’m right, it’s just who he is. He’s a one of a kind. I’m glad you’re with me though. Hopefully now, we can-”
“Uhh…I’m not,” said Bobby flatly. “I still don’t trust that clown…never have, never will.”
“Bobby!” shouted Layra angrily. “What’s the matter with you? Can’t you see that man’s in pain? Look at what’s he’s had to put up with for the past thirty somethin’ years. Wouldn’t you be upset if you were in his shoes? Anyone would!”
“Layra!” said Bobby impatiently. “The guy’s playing with you! I don’t care what he says. Sure, he might look upset and sound all innocent but I know he’s fooling with you! I’ll bet that’s why Veego’s off hosting the Tato match, so she can let LaBerge play you over. You’re a Challenger now and trust me; I know how those two and their little games work. They’re a team. They work together. They always have…always will! You can’t trust him, Layra. He’s the enemy, just like Veego. They’re in this together, believe me. You’ve gotta ignore him and whatever he says. He’s bad news. He’s going to make sure you lose these games. As long as the people of Rune are betting on these games, he’ll make sure they play out exactly the way he and Veego and Blok want them. People die in these games! This isn’t a joke! This is serious stuff!”
“I KNOW that!” snapped Layra irritably. “What I can’t understand is how you’re so quick to think that man’s the enemy! Oh, look at us arguing like this-” she stopped and shook her head.
There was an awkward silence.
“Look,” she said with a sigh. “I’m sorry for gettin’ all pushy…really. What I really wanted to ask you was if you’d like to join our Revolution and help put a stop to these horrible games, for good? You’re against Blok, right?”
“Well, yeah,” he admitted. “Blok, I am-”
“Then it’s the perfect opportunity for us to strike back!” Layra told him confidently. “Just imagine what the three of us could accomplish! We’d have a chance at this. You, me and-”
“Look!” he argued. “As long as LaBerge is involved in this, I can’t take my chances. Layra, I’m sorry, but…I’m not joining this revolution. Again, I’m sorry. You’re on your own. All I see in that guy’s a clown playing you over and as long as he’s in this…I’m not. No way you’re getting me in this. Maybe he’s fooling you but no way he’ll do the same to me.”
And with that, Bobby got up and stormed off.
“Bobby!” called Layra. “We’re partners! Don’t do this! You said Travelers are supposed to stick together.”
“Yeah, well,” said Bobby stopping for a second. “I don’t trust that clown. And you were supposed to meet me at the pool later, remember? Now you’re with LaBerge? Nice goin’. Way to throw me off for that goof. Real nice, traveler.”
“Bobby, look…I-I’m sorry,” she said genuinely. “But I had to help cheer the guy up. It just slipped out. I had to say something. We can meet later on, or even tomorrow? I promise.”
“Fine,” said Bobby. “I’ll see ya later.” And with that, he continued off.
Layra shook her head and sat back down, wondering to herself, “How in the world’s this happening?”
Holly says:
woe. That is AWESOME Challenger Black! How far have you written your sequel? And how long have you been writing?! you’re crazy good! i check this fan fiction spot at least once a day to see if you’ve written more! i’m you number one fan! haha 🙂
Challenger Black says:
Thank you kindly, Holly! Glad you’re enjoying it so much. Your comments are much appreciated.
I’ve been working on this fanfic for a while now. I’ve only got a few more chapters left and I’ll be done. It’s pretty long, but I’ve been having a blast writing it!
And I’m honored to have a # 1 fan!! 😀
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 7: Lovebirds Falling in Love (PART 1)
While Layra went back to her room to have some alone time and rest for a while, Bobby did likewise and went back to his own room. He took the short way up, the elevator, and went straight to the bed. He jumped up, feeling like his head was in a million spots. After his heated argument with Layra, he needed time to cool down and rethink things. He obviously wasn’t seeing LaBerge the same way she was. What if LaBerge truly was against his sister and Layra was right from the start? Was it possible he was wrong? Or worse, what if LaBerge was cleverly playing with her, Challenger Black, and reporting everything back to Veego and the two together were plotting some great scheme? Or even worse, what if Layra ended up so into it that she went ahead and did just what Nevva Winter had done. Would Layra end of betraying them to this clown? He feared what could happen with LaBerge involved.
And where did Saint Dane fit into all of this? Bobby groaned and sunk his head into the pillow. His head was a mass of throbbing pain. There were so many questions and so few answers. Just when he thought he had a handle on things, it only got worse.
Right then, things just didn’t make a whole lot of sense, from the hidden travelers, to coming back to Quillan and most of all, LaBerge’s sudden story. It all felt so bizarre.
After a long rest, he decided he’d get someone else’s opinion on what he’d been told. There weren’t too many people around the castle he spoke with but there was one in particular he’d befriended when he first arrived. He wasn’t exactly the best choice but he’d be there all the same. Whenever he called, or whenever he was in need of some favor, big or small…he always came.
“Fourteen?” called Bobby.
Instantly, the robot came strolling into the room, as formally as usual.
“Yes, Pendragon?” he asked.
“Sit down,” said Bobby, gesturing.
“Very well,” said Fourteen, who pushed himself up onto the bed. “What is on your mind?”
“Everything,” he groaned tiredly. “I don’t know where to begin, but I need to hear your take on the whole thing. I’m going crazy. I know dados aren’t meant to hear people’s stories or even talk about anything that has to do with things here but…it’s driving me nuts. I gotta tell someone.”
“I’ll offer my best,” said Fourteen with as much encouragement as a dado could show. “Tell me what the trouble is.”
So Bobby went ahead and told Fourteen everything he’d heard from Layra and LaBerge that afternoon while he’d been hiding under the bench eavesdropping in secret. He explained how LaBerge had told Layra of his past and how Veego had been the misery and pain of his life and to this day, she was still in control of him. He told him how LaBerge had broken down crying and how Layra suggested the idea of forming a revolution, a rebellion against the almighty company Blok and above all, Veego and her all powerful trustees. Layra had the idea that by doing so, they might have an actual chance of standing against these people, throwing them aside and recreating the influenced city of Rune and Quillan itself by banishing the cruel outcomes of the games and giving the people their freedom. He then told Fourteen how he wasn’t even sure if he could trust Layra since he was pretty much convinced LaBerge was fooling her over and during the games, would see to her own loss.
At first, Bobby remembered dados weren’t supposed to discuss Blok or the trustees but there was no one else to turn to for suggestions or advice so he knew he had nothing to lose. Fourteen sat there, listening carefully and nodding thoughtfully. For a moment, Bobby really thought he was going to ask him what that meant but being a robot, he showed little concern in the topic. Typical dado.
Once finished, he looked to Fourteen who stared down at the ground. He seemed to be thinking, but even if he did, he sure didn’t look like it. All the same, he’d heard every word.
“That’s quite the story,” he said finally.
“So what do you think I should do?” asked Bobby. “I’m pretty much lost. I wanna help Layra and all, but I can’t help but think LaBerge is on the wrong side. I mean, he’s always been the bad guy, just like his sister. It just doesn’t seem like he’d be a good guy all of a sudden. Seems like he’s plotting something.”
“I am not programmed to help make decisions or give my outlook on one’s situations,” said Fourteen. “But as for own opinion, I say you should give this some time if you’re unsure of things. Don’t go rushing into it. If you’re worried, relax and try and take it easy. We’re always doing our best to insure our guest’s stays here at the castle are as comfortable as can be.”
“You mean,” said Bobby, giving it some thought. “I should just…relax? Get some sleep?”
“Yes,” Fourteen answered. “The last thing you need is an argument between you and Challenger Black. You’re her partner for the upcoming games. You two are teammates and separating would not be a good thing. You two must stick together…especially for the games.”
“Makes sense,” said Bobby. “But we’re still not agreeing on this. I don’t trust LaBerge, yet Layra does. What’s that supposed to do? We’ll just keep fighting and going back and forth saying who’s right and who’s wrong. How’s that gonna get us anywhere?”
“Try not to worry,” said Fourteen. Bobby could have sworn he’d heard a touch of sympathy in Fourteen’s voice, even if he was a robot. “Worrying about things will get you nowhere. Relax…stressing about it will do you no good, and the games are just a few days away. I’m sure whatever your decision will be, it will be the right one. Was that helpful for you?”
“Yeah, helpful enough,” said Bobby with a shrug. “Thanks.”
“Very good,” said Fourteen, getting up and turning to leave. He stopped, looked back at Bobby and told him, “Remember, take it easy. Stressing over this will only make matters worse. If you need anything at all, just give me a call. Goodnight Challenger Red.”
“Night,” said Bobby.
Once Fourteen was gone, Bobby changed into his PJ’s and jumped into bed. His head still hurt just as much as when he’d heard Layra and LaBerge only hours ago. It was like Spader would say: he was in a real tum-tigger. And he needed to get himself out of it.
“What a long day…”thought Bobby tiredly, staring out the window.
Layra, meanwhile, was two floors below Bobby in her own room changing into her swim suit. She was In fact, on her way down to the pool just outside the castle for an evening swim, having told LaBerge she’d meet him at eight-thirty. She had about twenty minutes till she had to make her way down to the pools. Her room for the most part was quite cozy and comfortable. It was round-shaped with a large square- shaped bed in the center with soft, cushiony pillows and warm, velvety sheets. The colors of course were yellow and purple, like every other room in the castle. On either side were two windows, one that looked out into far-off city of Rune, and one that looked out into the vast forest that enclosed the castle.
The floor was painted in funky designs and shapes, as well as the walls and ceiling. Overhead was a majestic fan and next to the bed was a small dresser with a red-colored lamp on top. That was where she kept her journals and sent them off to her acolyte back on Rorga. Her acolyte’s name was Ryder and he was a real upbeat kind of guy. She’d known the guy for years and could always count on him to take good care of her journals. She wrote most of her journals at night when everyone else was in bed which allowed her to write in peace. It was key that she kept up her journals. Whatever happened, it was vital that she kept track of it all, just like Bobby.
She would have loved to sit down and write for a bit longer if she hadn’t checked the time to see it was now twenty after eight. She tucked her journal into her dresser and grabbed hold of a towel.
She then left the room and strolled down the hall, most Challengers up in their rooms already asleep. She figured it made sense that most would be in bed but then again, some could be off in the gym in hopes of building some muscle. Or could some be involved in one of the games, if games were done that late at night? That got her fearing how that day’s Tato match had gone. She didn’t want to know.
If she was right, from what Bobby told her about the Tato match he’d seen where Yellow plunged to his death, a challenger if not already…was going to be killed. She shivered at the thought. She felt certain, whether Bobby agreed with her or not, that joining with LaBerge and forming a rebellion against Blok was the right thing to do. No…the only thing.
She thought back to what she’d heard from Bobby’s Uncle those years ago when she’d first met him. Even at the most difficult times, he assured her, with that one sentence alone, “This is the way it was meant to be.” That was the only bit of comfort and hope she could find. She only wished she could help Bobby see things the same way. If this was the way it was truly meant to be, than she felt certain she was doing the right thing. But she knew Bobby hated the guy. That much was obvious.
What got her worried was how easily was he willing to forgive LaBerge? Or worse, was he willing to forgive him at all? She just couldn’t understand how Bobby could still hold such hatred toward the guy after hearing that tragic of a story! Did Bobby hate the guy so much that even hearing of LaBerge’s wretched past, he’d still hate the man? She wished he’d just forget the whole thing and give the guy a chance, but knew that wouldn’t be that easy. After learning how his last stay on Quillan went…not even close.
Soon, she was strolling out back of the castle headed right for the pool. It was a cool, breezy night, perfect for star gazing. A few people were out dining and chit chatting while laughing and talking about whatever. Looking the place over, she couldn’t see a challenger in sight. She kept on walking, passing through the towering gardens, stone fountains and finally, found herself standing in front of the massive, awesome pools she’d seen just earlier. It was by far the biggest pool she’d ever seen.
It wasn’t just one pool though. It was one massive pool joined with a bunch of other pools, both big and small with, all with diving boards, water slides and even a couple of bubbling hot tubs. There were nets put up in most of the pools as well as beach balls and other accessories. Floating in each of the pools were numerous tubes, only these were like huge, colorful donuts. It was like a kid’s dream place of the world’s greatest water park.
That’s what she noticed about everything after a long look. A lot of it was similar to how she’d seen things on Second Earth when she’d been taken there years ago. Only everything here on Quillan was a lot bigger and more expensive looking. Judging by the size of these pools and what came with it, you’d have to have a lot of bucks to afford such things, which Veego and LaBerge clearly did, being who they were. And farther off, beyond all that was a vast wave pool. It was like they’d built their own water park with enough pools and space for over a hundred guests. It was downright crazy.
“Awesome!” thought Layra. She was now officially in the mood for a swim. And what better night for a swim? The air was nice, not too warm and not too breezy. It was just right.
She hurried down and dropped her towel on the ground. She took a step or two back and ran up to the pool and jumped right in, doing a cannon ball and landing with a great splash! The water was warm, like bath water.
Swimming around, she stared up at the star filled sky, lost in thought. She couldn’t get over the view of the place. The castle itself was enough to make one’s head spin but after you had a quick look at the outside world, the rest felt tiny. The towering walls of the gardens stood tall, casting the grounds in deep shadow. It was a pretty quiet night except for the constant drip, drip, drip of the flowing fountains.
“What a wicked place,” she thought, taking it all in. It was like the place you always dreamed going to… without the possibility of dying in a series of death-defying games, that is. That little nugget of info didn’t help much. But even so, she tried to relax and enjoy what fun time she could have.
“Hey!” called a familiar voice.
She turned around and saw a cheering sight. Hurrying up to the pool, panting out of breath but with a smile on his face…was LaBerge. His shorts, no surprise, were of yellow and purple polka dots. She knew anyone else would have thought them lame and dorky but she thought they were cute. More than that, she loved how LaBerge was willing to dress with such fashion and vibrant colors. It was like even though he stood out from the rest, like color from black and white, he still dressed in his own style. It was like he wasn’t afraid to be unique, to be his own man…and she loved that. It made him all the more unique…original and above all…adorable. Or she thought so, anyway.
“Sorry I’m late!” he said, stopping to catch his breath. “I tried to get here as fast as I could!” By the sounds of it, it seemed like the guy had just made a run through the entire castle!
“You’re not late!” she laughed. “You’re right on time.”
He leaned down and whispered nervously, “I heard some of the dados talking it over and…Veego’s coming back. She’s on her way now.”
He sat down, dropped his legs into the water and frowned slightly. Layra sensed his worry and swam right over to him.
“Don’t worry,” she said reassuringly. “She won’t catch you. As long as I’m here…we’ll get through this. We’re a team, LaBerge. Right?”
LaBerge smiled and clapped his hands, “You bet!”
“Now get in the water!” she said teasingly, giving him a splash. “Don’t stand there watching…jump in! The water’s awesome!”
LaBerge stepped back with a big, playful grin and ran forward. Layra couldn’t help smile as she watched him leap over the water and plunge right in next to her. He surfaced, wiped his eyes and laughed.
“How was that?” he asked, giving his hair a shake.
“Pretty impressive,” said Layra. “You a swimmer?”
LaBerge shrugged and, “Nah. I’ve always wanted to be but-” he stopped and looked away.
“It’s Veego, isn’t it?” asked Layra quietly.
LaBerge nodded, dropping his head.
He sighed, and said, “She’s never left me alone. It’s always been me and her. It’s always whatever she wants and never what I want. Layra, if it weren’t for you… oh, I don’t even know what I’d do. I’d be doomed…”
“Not while I’m around,” she said, laying a hand on his shoulder. “If she wants to mess with you, she’ll have to mess with me first!”
LaBerge giggled and said, “You’d be hard to mess with, wouldn’t you?”
Layra grinned and nudged him in the shoulder, “The hardest.”
And that was the start of a night so enjoyable and so wonderful…both wished they could relive it over and over, wanting to hold onto the joy and fun as long as they could.
The two spent hours in the pool, diving, jumping, doing cannon balls and racing one another to see who could reach the end of the pool fastest. And it wasn’t long till the two were jumping around, splashing at one another in the face while laughing their heads off. If what some said was true, that you could die from laughter, these two no doubt…were well on their way. It didn’t exactly help that LaBerge’s hilarious laugh alone got Layra started and with the two of them both laughing only made it that much harder to stop. For a moment, in fear of the guests hearing. But there were no worries about that. They were so busy chatting and eating that Layra and LaBerge could make all the noise they pleased and still, they wouldn’t be heard.
So with that bit of relief in mind, they jumped back in. When LaBerge surfaced, shaking his hair around, Layra couldn’t help burst out laughing. He gave her a curious look, ran his fingers through his hair and felt…yup, his hair was still out of place. He then inched closer, chuckled playfully and swam right after her.
He chuckled and called, “I’m gonna get you!”
Quickly, she dove down, deep into the water and hurried away with LaBerge trailing right behind, fast as a fish. She came up and almost instantly, felt two arms grab her from behind and a voice saying, “Gotcha!”
But Layra had other plans.
She placed her hands firmly on his shoulders, wrapped her legs around him and pushed him flat onto his back! LaBerge wasn’t expecting that. He stood back up and gave her a stern look and for a moment, Layra thought he was actually serious. But who was she kidding? Seconds later, he lost it and burst out laughing which of course got Layra laughing just as hard.
They then did a couple of races to see who could reach the end of the pool faster and who could hold their breath underwater longest. Layra was surprised when LaBerge beat her almost every time. Man, was that guy fast! He said it was probably luck but she argued he was bound to be a better swimmer anyway. She told him where she came from, there wasn’t really enough water for swimming.
She told him drawing was always her thing and where she came from, drawing was a big part of the culture. And the best thing was, on Rorga, when you drew something it not only appeared on paper…but appeared right in front of you. Real and in the flesh. The territory itself might have been a pretty dangerous place with erupting volcanoes and whatnot, but that one event made the whole place seem much more alive. LaBerge seemed pretty amazed by it and could hardly keep his mouth from dropping.
She told him you could draw a butterfly and watch it fly over your head, or you could draw a dog and have it as your own pet. She told him you could pretty much draw whatever you wanted, and sure enough, it’d be there. He asked her if it’d work the same if he drew a clown. Layra got a good laugh out of that (she wasn’t laughing at him) but told him if he did that, he’d have a real, live clown, buttons and all. And when she told him it worked the same with food, LaBerge realized if he went there…he could draw all the tribbun in the world! He liked the sound of that.
He couldn’t imagine what he’d do with heaping bowls of freshly mashed tribbun…and Runkles! He almost forgot about that. For him, it all seemed like some glorious play land! He told her he hoped he’d get to go there someday. She told him the idea of live art worked both ways though. You could bring art into the world, yes, but you could take it out of the world, just as easily. She said Rorga’s two basic tools for art were the Pencil and Eraser. The Pencil could bring things into Rorga while the Eraser could wipe them away as if they hadn’t even been drawn.
LaBerge was pretty caught up in the conversation and assured her, “Layra, I’d draw so much tribbun, there’d be no way to erase it all and then I’d stash it all away. Oh, and drawing a robe or two might be good. You can never have enough clothes!”
“I’d love it if you came!” she said excitedly. “I could show you all the famous mountains and volcanoes and villages and the history of art. Maybe one day we’ll go together, you know, like a vacation?”
“You mean that?” he said, his eyes widening. “Really?”
“Definitely” she told him. “I mean, you’ve showed me all around the castle and everything. It’d only be fair if I showed you my own home. It’s not what it used to be but, hey, we could make something out of it!”
“That sounds fun!” he said giddily. “I’d love to go! About time I had a real vacation! If we do get the chance to go, just let me know and I’ll get packing. Don’t wanna forget my dolls.”
“Dolls?” she asked.
LaBerge hesitated, saying, “No, not dolls…w-what I meant was-”
“It’s cool with me,” she smiled, nudging him on the shoulder. “I’ve got tons of dolls back home! Only, they’re all drawn.”
“You mean…” he said, surprised. “You wouldn’t mind if I brought my clown dolls along? Really?”
Layra smiled and said, “Are you kidding? Bring ’em all! The more the merrier!”
Holly says:
haha great! i know i always say it’s super good and all! But your story is just sooooooo GOOD!!! i really want to know what will happen once their plan is in action?! Can’t wait to read on!
Marina says:
Wow! That’s a lot of words! Do you guys re-type the whole thing when you put it on here?
Flight 29 downer says:
Nope thats what the power of copy and paste can do
Challenger Black says:
Yup, like Flight 29 downer says. Copy and paste is a great thing.
I’ve got most of the chapters done, so it’s just a matter of getting them on here.
And thanks again, Holly! A lot does happen once their plan is in action, but I won’t spoil anything… 😀
Flight 29 downer says:
I know this is not a fanficion but it’s about mine.
DJ,
Do Allen and johnny have emails. Becaus I don’t have a facbook twitter or my space email is my only way to contact someon. If there is an email for them. I would love if you could send it to me in the email I usually email u from
Btw this is about my story you’ll be In my heart
Flight 29 downer says:
To make up for my last comment not being really related I wrote a new fanfiction. I was inspired to write this after I learned about a crash in 2007 when, I was looking up other shows that Allen Alvarado is in. So this I based off of a true story (as long as the internet is correct). Hope you enjoy and this is only the first part
“hey wait up” lex yelled as he got back up. Lex had been tying his shoe and had not noticed his friends and sister had already crossed the street. Lex immediately started walking across the street. The light was red so lex assumed he was safe, but a car had already turned the corner and was headed right toward him. Daley who had heard her little brothers cry turned around. “lex watch out” she shouted as the oncoming car grew closer. But it was to late by the time Lex noticed the car it was to late to run. Lex was hit head on by the car and thrown 20 feet in the air. The car didn’t even stop but kept on driving. “lex” Daley shouted and ran for him everyone followed. Nathan grabbed his phone and called 911. “ya a little boy 11 years old has just been hit by a car and flung 20 feet.” he said “we are at the intersection between birch street and elm street, he is breathing but unconscious” he said answering the paramedics questions. Meanwhile, Daley was had lex’s head in her lap and was stroking his hair. Tears streamed down her face and she kept saying “no he has got to be fine, he can’t die, no not lex.” Soon sobs racked her body. Nathan gave the phone to Eric and sat down next to Daley. Lex was like his little brother and this was just as terrifying to him. But he had to be strong, Daley needed him, if he couldn’t be strong for himself he would do it for her. Mel was also crying tears
streamed down her face forming small puddles on the ground. Jackson put his arm around her, and Taylor who was also crying. Soon the paramedics and Nathan had to help them get Daley to go by saying “it’s ok, there going to help him. You need to let go. Daley and Nathan got in the back of the ambulance because it was too small for everyone and Daley was lex’s sister and she sure wasn’t going to let go of Nathan. Mel called Daley’s parents and told them what happened. They agreed to pick them all up and then go to the hospital. Soon everyone was piled into the 2 mini vans and they were on the way.
Flight 29 downer says:
Also I found out I left out a word here and there in the story so some parts don’t make much sense so when I post the next part I will fix the mistakes
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 7: Lovebirds Falling in Love (PART 2)
For what felt like hours, the two floated on their backs while staring up at the clouds, seeing what sort of shapes they could find. Layra knew how much Bobby hated clowns so she decided to keep the whole thing secret since most of the clouds up there were shaped like clowns anyway! Not among Bobby’s favorite. But Layra and LaBerge were happily enjoying themselves, floating about as if they were the only ones out there.
And in a way, they were. Only a few were out finishing up supper or chit chatting and simply enjoying the night. But they didn’t mind. They were having a nice, relaxing swim and for almost once in his harsh, difficult life, LaBerge was actually at ease and could just lay back without having to worry about his strict, controlling sister barking and snapping at him.
After considering it for some while, he believed that night, laying back with Layra staring up at the clouds…was probably the greatest night of his entire life. Finally, after convincing himself it would never happen, he’d at last found someone who didn’t look at him as a worthless imbecile. All his life he’d had to put up with the whispers and comments. He always had the idea he’d spend the rest of his life alone, never to make friends or find someone special…till Layra came around.
She wasn’t like others. She didn’t look at him like he was nuts or insane or an idiot. She treated him like a real friend. She spent time with him and that’s something not too many ever did with him. But Layra did. They laughed and joked and just had a real, heartfelt good time. LaBerge was so glad she’d asked him here. It felt so great for him to just get out and be himself without always having to worry. Right then, he didn’t care about Veego. He only cared about his night with Layra. She’d allowed him to come out of his shell and his gloomy life and be the fun and cheerful guy he was.
And from there, the two quietly and secretly went about this nightly routine…all without anyone’s knowing. They kept it to themselves. Each night, they’d meet out by the gardens out back of the castle. One night, they’d go for a swim. Others, they’d take a long stroll through the winding gardens or gaze up and see who could point out the most constellations. They saw Rune’s Tree, the Shimmering Fall and LaBerges’ favorite…the Colorful Clown. One time, they could have sworn they saw a shooting star. On the odd night, if Veego were out for the evening, they’d even set up a nightly camping trip out back of the castle. They brought everything they’d need for a campout. Sleeping bags, flashlights, tribbun, Runkles, pillows and of course…LaBerge brought a couple of clown dolls.
And the best part of it was…they had the distant hills all to themselves. They were the only ones out there and had all the space and privacy they could ever want. It was perfect.
One night, him and Layra set up a campfire up on the grassy hills and LaBerge showed her one of the things he’d loved doing as a kid (when he was alone). He’d brought from the castle a pack of Tribbun and two long sticks. He placed three of the tribbuns on the end of one of these rods, moved it close to the crackling flames, waited a moment or two…and pulled it out. Layra saw the tribbun had turned a warm, golden orangey color. It looked scrumptious.
“Try it!” he told her, handing her a piece. “They melt right in your mouth!”
She took it curiously, raised it to her mouth, and took a bite.
LaBerge watched her with bright eyes.
“How is it?” he asked excitedly.
Her eyes lit up at once.
“I-It’s delicious!” she exclaimed, licking her wet, sticky fingers.
“I knew you’d like it!” he said, clapping his hands. “Nobody can pass down a round of roasted tribbun!”
He then pulled off the remaining two on his stick and shoved them hungrily in his mouth and let out a satisfied, “Mhmmm!”
Layra laughed.
Puzzled, he looked at her and asked, his mouth full with tribbun, “What?”
Layra tried holding it back, but burst out laughing, “Your mouth! It’s…covered in goo!”
He put his hands to his lips and felt the warm, gooey tribbun. He took a minute or two to pull it off, lick his fingers clean and then asked, “How’s that?”
“All gone,” she said.
An hour later, after they’d dried off, the two were sitting at the edge of the pool, dipping their legs in the cool, still water. It was then, they began to hear a far-off noise.
“What’s that?” asked Layra curiously.
LaBerge looked over his shoulder, toward the castle and suggested, “Sounds like music, the upbeat, crazy kind! Makes me wanna dance.”
“You guys play music here a lot?” she asked him.
“Most nights, yes,” said LaBerge, turning back to her. “The guests here enjoy music mostly at dinner. Tonight must be a special occasion. Romance in the air, I’ll bet! Sure sounds like it.”
“It’s…beautiful,” said Layra dreamily. And it was. Never had she heard such music. Back on Rorga, music was played mostly when Artists were busy at work and needed an inspirational tune but any other time, you’d hardly hear anything. But this melody was almost magical, with flutes playing and soft piano, tying it all together. But what she noticed was that nobody was singing. There were no words involved. It was a wondrous, delicate tune. She knew the whole art-coming-to-life thing back on Rorga must have sounded pretty amazing to someone who’d never even drawn with a pencil…but she couldn’t get over the soft and dreamy a song it was. It all felt like some of kind of dream and the song was pulling her in.
LaBerge noticed Layra gazing off, lost in thought and asked, “You okay? If you need anything, I can-”
“I’m fine,” Layra chuckled, turning back to him. “It’s the song. It’s just so beautiful. People here really know how to play a tune.”
“They do” he agreed. “I’ve always wondered how they come up with such great tunes. They’re brilliant! People ought to be given a bowl of tribbun for putting together that great of a show!”
The two lay back and listened to the soft music, allowing it to ease their minds. If there was ever a time when they needed time to cool down, it was now, and that melodic tune was just the thing. The tune itself, though no words were there, was enough to calm and relax their minds. It just washed all doubts and fears and worries away.
After the song ended and the two sat there, playing the tune over in their heads, they both thought something. They hoped they’d hear that magical tune again. Even though he didn’t say anything, LaBerge liked thinking of it as him and Layra’s own secret song. He wanted to tell her…but he wasn’t quite sure what’d she say or think.
Layra then pulled her legs out of the water, dried them off and sat back down.
“LaBerge?” she asked.
He turned to her and said, “Yeah?”
“About the plan,” she said thoughtfully. “You know…the rebellion? Are we absolutely sure we want to go through with this?”
LaBerge thought for a moment and frowned unsurely.
“I don’t think my sister would ever allow me doing this, going against her,” he said quietly. “It’s so exhausting. She’s taken control of my life and she’s treated me as if she wished I weren’t even part of her life. Sometimes I really do think she means that and-”
“Oh, LaBerge…don’t-”
“It’s true, Layra,” he sniffled, putting his head in his hands. “You should see the way she treats me when no one’s around. She barks at me one minute, snaps at me the next and whenever I try and be nice to her and be friendly, she gets at me like I’m committing some sort of crime! She would have gotten rid of me years ago. She’s only kept me around because we’re brother and sister. I know she wishes we weren’t though. She thinks I’m stupid. Doesn’t everyone though?”
“I don’t,” said Layra softly.
“Everyone else seems to,” he said glumly. “They all take one look at me and start saying ‘Hey, there’s clown boy’ or ‘Look, it’s clowny!’ and ‘How’s it going clowny?’ I know not everyone likes clowns, I can understand that, but they treat me like a freak! It’s been so lonely here at the castle. I’ve always try to make friends with the dados but they don’t even take the time of day to say hello. And they’re no fun, anyway. I try to make friends with challengers but all I get from them is a bunch of sour looks. I know I’m not the coolest guy in the world, maybe I am just a clown loving freak and a goof…but I’m not bad. Really, I’m not!”
He wiped his eyes and sniveled lightly. “I’m just trying to turn things around. It’s just so hard, with everyone thinking I’m a sick villain. I don’t know what to do.”
He sighed quietly and said, “I’m not a monster…”
“I know you’re not,” she told him. “And, I’ll be honest-” here, she took a breath and continued, “LaBerge, these few days have been great. I love spending time with you, in the castle, out in the garden, here in the pool. I don’t know, I guess what I’m trying to say is it just feels…right.”
“Really?” he sniffled, wiping his eyes.
Layra smiled, blushed and leaned in closer, saying, “You bet. I don’t think you’re a freak. You know what? Who cares what others think of you. Let them think you’re a goof. That doesn’t change how I feel about you…I think you’re really sweet.”
Layra was now blushing madly and she couldn’t hide it. She tried turning away but it was no good. Her face was flushed with red.
LaBerge raised his head and gazed into her eyes, his own eyes beaming.
“No one’s ever said that about me,” he whispered, trying to hold back his excitement. “Y-you mean that? No joke?”
She chuckled and said, “No joke and…there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you.”
LaBerge saw her look away for a moment and watched her curiously.
She turned back, her face flushed with red and whispered, “I love you, LaBerge…”
LaBerge was shocked…stunned. He couldn’t believe it. Had his ears heard wrong? Layra had just said she loved him. He felt it was too good to be true, but it was no dream. What she’d said was true.
He reached out, touching her cheek gently and while gazing into her eyes, and whispered back, “I love you too, Layra…with all my heart.”
Layra gazed back into his own eyes and saw a tear trickle down his cheek. He’d never known what love felt like…till now.
Layra smiled and slid over a bit, their eyes still gazing fondly and lovingly into the other’s.
LaBerge smiled and moved in closer till the two were almost face to face. Layra couldn’t help blush madly but LaBerge didn’t seem to care. His own cheeks seemed to be glowing with red. That made two of them.
Slowly, they moved in till they were just within reach of the other’s lips…and then it happened. Layra and LaBerge locked lips. The kiss was slow, soft and passionate. The kiss soon grew into an open mouthed kiss and as LaBerge brushed his lips against hers, one quick thought came to her. Tribbun.
His lips tasted like the after taste of tribbun and that sweet, delicious smell of fresh melons washed all over her…lingering on her lips like some sweet scent. And they were close. Layra leaned up softly against LaBerge, wrapping her arms around his neck to hold him closer while he wrapped his own arms around her waist. She felt lost. Right then, all she felt was LaBerge. His body was so warm and comforting and just being there with him, him holding her felt so right…like it was meant to be. She felt she could stay like that forever, her in his arms, him holding her lovingly while caressing and stroking her hair with his long fingers.
It was probably the greatest kiss either had experienced or hoped to and the way they both saw it….it was nothing less than true love’s first kiss.
Still in a daze, they slowly separated. For a moment, both were silent. Both were trying to wrap their heads around what just happened. But both were thinking the same thing: they loved it and hoped there’d be more to come. Never in his life had LaBerge experienced the emotion or power of love, let alone had he ever kissed anyone! It was all a fresh, new experience…and he loved it.
He felt dazed for a minute, but quickly shook his head and saw that even Layra seemed somewhat dazed. Had their kiss been that intense? Or was he just trying to get over the fact that he, LaBerge, a robe wearing, clown loving guy…had actually been kissed? Probably both. He had the idea Layra must have been a pretty woman for opening up to a kiss with him, or maybe she was a bit like him…different. Maybe she was looking for a real, unique and out-of-this-world sort of guy because if she was…she’d found the right one. No question.
LaBerge broke the silence by saying casually, “Y-you know, I was just wondering-”
“Yes?” asked Layra, smiling.
LaBerge smiled back somewhat nervously, and fidgeted with his fingers, saying “If you’d like, you know, if you’re not busy or anything, would you like to come to the Rune Dance with me tomorrow night? I wasn’t planning on going or anything, but I’d love to go with you, if you’d like to come.”
Layra nuzzled her head against his shoulder and said, “I’d love to. You need a break anyway. It’d be a good night where you can just lay back and have some fun.”
“Wonderful!” he exclaimed, clapping his hands. “You and I going, it’ll be so much fun!”
“And I’ll bet the dances are pretty awesome here,” said Layra.
“Oh, they are!” said LaBerge, obviously excited. “They’re real tribbun if you ask me.”
“What time’s it at?” she asked.
“Nine-thirty I believe,” said LaBerge. “Most get there early, but we can go whenever you like.”
“That sounds good,” said Layra. “But…will she be there?”
LaBerge frowned. “Her…yeah, I’m afraid she will.”
He dropped his head but Layra said quickly, “Don’t worry. She probably won’t even see you. We’ll just make sure we stay out of sight. Let’s not let her ruin a night that’s meant to be fun! You deserve to have a night off, LaBerge…really.”
“Thanks, Layra,” he said sincerely. “That means a lot.”
“I wonder if Bobby’s going,” she thought out loud.
“Most likely, yes,” said LaBerge. “Almost all Challengers attend. I’ve been told by some who’ve gone that they’re pretty popular.”
“What about you and Veego?” she asked. “I mean, are you and her supposed to go?”
“It’s optional,” LaBerge told her. “Veego was never much of the party type. Me, I love a good party but I usually just stay out in the gardens. It’s not that I didn’t want to go or anything…but nobody really wanted me there. I’m too clowny and I didn’t want to ruin the party or embarrass anyone, if you know what I mean. I’m not really what you’d call…cool.”
“But you are cool, LaBerge!” said Layra, shoving him playfully. “You’re the funnest guy around and tomorrow night, everyone will be dancing right along with you. You’ll see. It’ll be a blast. People just haven’t gotten to know you, that’s all.”
“I sure hope so,” LaBerge yawned, feeling suddenly tired. “But we should head back. It’s late and I’m sure Veego will be expecting me…but it’s okay. I’ve got tomorrow night to look forward to because I’m going to the Rune Dance with you! I can’t wait!”
“Neither can I,” said Layra, stretching her arms. “So when should we meet?”
“How about we head down at nine?” LaBerge suggested. “I hear it’s always good to get there a bit early.”
“Alright,” said Layra. “You get some rest though, okay? You need it.”
LaBerge smiled and gave her a warm, loving hug. “I will. You get some rest too. Tomorrow… we’re going to rock the house, you and me! How’s that sound?”
Layra laughed and said, “I like that!”
LaBerge smiled and walked off, headed up for the castle, where Veego was bound to be expecting him.
“Night, LaBerge,” called Layra, waving to him.
He turned round, waved back to her and called, “Night, Layra!”
So with that, Layra and LaBerge strolled back to their rooms, both feeling tired and exhausted, but bursting with excitement at what tomorrow night would bring. Layra wondered, while lying in bed and staring into space, what Bobby would say if he found out she was attending the Rune Dance with LaBerge, a guy that Bobby hated. She knew he’d be suspicious toward LaBerge’s asking her to the dance but she felt certain whether he trusted him or not, going with LaBerge would cheer them both up. They needed this. They were now officially in charge of their own, secret rebellion against Veego, her trustees and the rest at the all-powerful company of Blok. But tomorrow night would be only about her and LaBerge…a night she hoped both could remember.
Andy says:
Hey, I’m writing my own book. It’s called Rolling in the Fire. Here’a a little sneak peek…
It was a cold, dark night in Jne when I found that my parents were spys. Now i’m in the middle of a derest chasing a madman. How did I get here in the first place, you ask? Let’s sit down for a while and talk about shall we?
…
It all started when I was sitting at home, watching T.V and eating popcorn. Did I ever bother to intordounce meself? My is Sean Sheellyf. Alot of people in my family are rich. The one I dislike the most is my cousin , Roderick. He only cares about his money and girlfrined. Did I mention he was rich? Anyway back to the story So I was T.V quietly and I saw a supiosuns white van. There has reports all week about a white van running over cats. I looked a closer to the white van. It looked like there was a sniper rifle on the roof of it. Then a man got out the van. He looked like in his mid fifty’s with salt and pepper hair. He seemed to aiming right up at my parent’s bedroom. Then I heard the sound of glass breaking. I got quickly to see what was wrong.
I was walking the stairs and I saw my father limping the stairs. His left leg was very bloody.
” It was them.” He gasped
I said: “What?”
Then, the truth crashing down on like a baseball bat. Spotlights went everywhere. They were so bright, it was like the sun was in our front yard. Men came bursting in and grabbed my father.
“Sean!” he yelled.
“What’s going on?” I asked.
One of the men replied with a simple anwser: ” Son, you’ll find out in time.”
I turned and saw my mother.
“Mom, what’s going on?”
” Sean, we need to get out of the house” she said.
My mom forced me out the house very quickly. Then there was a white expolsin. My house was gone.
” No!” I yelled.
” Sean we should have told you a long time ago…”
” Tell me what?” I said angryliy.
“That we wer spies.” she said with no emomtion.
Then men grabbed me.
” Wait I have one more question.” I said.
” who did this?’
” Serectia.” she said.
Then I was bounded and gagged. I yelled and srecamed but it didn’t work. The men put in a black jeep.
Seretica. I never fogot the name after that
…
That’s all for today. I hopre you enjoy. More coming soon.
Andy
Andy says:
I’m already coming for plans for a seqyel to my book. I just need to think of a title. Got any ideas?
Blacksword says:
whats the book about?
Blacksword says:
Never mind
Flight 29 downer says:
Here’s everything so far with the Out the extra word, and with the missing ones.
A brush with death
“hey wait up” lex yelled as he got back up. Lex had been tying his shoe and had not noticed his friends and sister had already crossed the street. Lex immediately started walking across the street. The light was red so lex assumed he was safe, but a car had already turned the corner and was headed right toward him. Daley who had heard her little brothers cry turned around. “lex watch out” she shouted as the oncoming car grew closer. by the time Lex noticed the car it was to late to run. Lex was hit head on by the car and thrown 20 feet in the air. The car didn’t even stop but kept on driving. “lex” Daley shouted and ran for him everyone followed. Nathan grabbed his phone and called 911. “ya a little boy 11 years old has just been hit by a car and flung 20 feet.” he said “we are at the intersection between birch street and elm street, he is breathing but unconscious” he said answering the paramedics questions. Meanwhile, Daley had lex’s head in her lap and was stroking his hair. Tears streamed down her face and she kept saying “no he has got to be fine, he can’t die, no not lex.” Soon sobs racked her body. Nathan gave the phone to Eric and sat down next to Daley. Lex was like his little brother and this was just as terrifying to him. But he had to be strong, Daley needed him, if he couldn’t be strong for himself he would do it for her. Mel was also crying tears streamed down her face forming small puddles on the ground. Jackson put his arm around her, and Taylor who was also crying. Soon the paramedics arrived and Nathan had to help them get Daley to go by saying “it’s ok, there going to help him. You need to let go. Daley and Nathan got in the back of the ambulance because it was too small for everyone and Daley was lex’s sister and she sure wasn’t going to let go of Nathan. Mel called Daley’s parents and told them what happened. They agreed to pick them all up and then go to the hospital. Soon everyone was piled into the 2 mini vans and they were on the way.
When the ambulance arrived at the hospital lex was immediately rushed to the ER. To Daley’s dislike she and Nathan were forced to wait in the lobby. When Nathan finally got her to sit down she started sobbing. Him and Daley still weren’t dating officially but they hung out just the 2 of them many times, so he wasn’t exactly sure what to do. Daley made that easy, she grabbed Nathan and held him. Nathan wrapped his arms around her and just kept trying to calm her down. Eventually she fell asleep in his arms.Â
       Mr and mrs. Marin got out of their cars, and everyone followed. They ran towards the ER and burst in. SHhhhhhhh Nathan said for the billionth time, everyone kept barging into the ER and he didn’t want Daley to wake up. “any news about Lex”. Mel asked her concern obvious in her voice. “nothing they haven’t come out yet.” Nathan replied.Â
  As they sat waiting they all were a mess. Mr. Marin had his arm around Mrs. Marin who was crying, Jackson was holding Mel who was in tears and Taylor was crying in Eric’s arms.
    When the doctor walked into the lobby he was surprised to find 8 people asleep. He went over to the young girl and boy who had been in The ambulance with the boy. “excuse me mam” he said gently shaking her awake. “huh, what time is it.” the girl responded yawning. Now the boy woke up. “are the boys parents here.” the doctor asked. “Ya, mom dad wake up.” the girl responded shaking her parents. So this is the boys sister, I wonder who everyone else is? “hi, I’m doctor Seawood. I’ve been taking care of your son.”he said. “hi, how is he.” lex mom immediately asked. “the good news is he sustained no life threatening internal injuries, but he is in a coma, and his left leg is broken in 3 places and his right arm in 2.” the doctor said. At this mrs. Marin started crying.Â
    While this was going on Nathan had gone and woke up everyone else. They all now stood behind the Marin family and listened. “Lex is in a coma but his family can go in and see him. Which of you are his family?” the doctor asked. Daley answered “We are all his family, we just aren’t all blood related.” “well I can only let blood relatives in there right now.” the doctor responded. “ok, but Nathan is coming, I don’t want to go in there with out him.” Daley responded grabbing Nathan’s arm like it was her life line. “ok, we’ll make an exception this time seeing the circumstances.” the doctor replied. He led the family and boy into lex’s room, leaving the rest of the group in the lobby.
Challenger Black says:
Chapter 8 (Part 1) should be up shortly. I’m just finishing up a few things and whatnot, but part 2 of Chapter 7 is up already.
As soon as I can, I’ll post Chapter 8 🙂
Holly says:
Yay!!!! Can’t wait!! Haha. I like how you are building up the relationship between Layra and LaBerge! I love the romance, but now i’m ready for some action! 🙂
Challenger Black says:
Alright, here’s part 1 of Chapter 8. I won’t spoil anything, but this chapter does have a little “twist” I threw in there, so I hope you like it. After this, things really kick off and we’ll get some action once the games start! 😀
And we’re introduced to a pretty “unique” character in part 2 of chapter 8…:P
And thanks again, Holly! That was my goal with this story, to build the relationship so it felt real, and not rushed like a “love at first sight” type thing. And don’t worry…plenty of action is on the way!
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 8: A Date for a Dance (PART 1)
The following day was a hectic one. Dados were heading back and forth, all over the castle preparing for the big event. Most spent their time in the room where the big event was to be held, putting up decorations and helping with lights. On most days, guests and Challengers living at the castle were permitted to roam freely and do as they pleased…but today was different. That evening, a Rune Dance was going to be held and since Challengers were given hardly any time for relaxing without having to worry about being killed in a deathly game with killer sharks or charging dados…parties were a time where they could try and loosen up, lay back and enjoy themselves.
Dances at the castle were among the more popular events. Some even referred to it as a well earned occasion, which was a sick way of thinking of it, but how else could one look at it? Of course the thought of being killed the following day was never a good one and those sort of things stuck with them, but if it were truly going to be their last time for a bit of fun, why not make the best of it? That’s how Challengers felt and tonight, they were going to attend the highly anticipated Rune Dance and by the sounds of it…the hosts knew how to throw an awesome party.
Veego might not have been what you’d called a party girl, not like her party-loving brother, but it was crucial that Challengers were given a grand time, to help build up the excitement for the upcoming games. It was just another basic part of the overall plan. Challengers, when at parties or gatherings, were mostly quiet and didn’t talk much. They’d chit chat here and there, but did whatever they could to avoid discussing the games. But with the Rune Dance being as big and well known as it was…the excitement was only building.
Bobby woke up early and saw it was eight-thirty. He was usually the sleeping-in-sort-of-guy but he figured he might as well head down, have a quick bite to eat and get some input on what to expect at the upcoming dance. Never hurt to ask. He’d just heard about it last night, when he’d heard a few Challenges mention it.
His room that morning wasn’t exactly clean…but that was the least of his worries. A few dirty clothes on the floor were no biggie. Fourteen would be right there to tidy and neaten the place up till it was spick and span and by the looks of the other rooms…dados were quite exceptional with their handiwork.
He took the elevator, made his way downstairs and took a seat in the dining hall and at once, a servant was right there next to him.
“Morning sir, what can I get you?” he asked formally.
Bobby thought for a moment and said, “Just bacon and toast…and a few pancakes.
“And to drink?” asked the dado.
“Doesn’t matter,” said Bobby. “Orange juice is fine.”
“Alright,” said the dado. “I’ll be with you in a moment.”
Bobby sat back comfortably and allowed his mind to drift. He wasn’t looking forward to this dance much and for a few reasons. One, he and Layra had just been arguing last night and it was clear they weren’t off to a good start as Challenger partners. She obviously trusted LaBerge and now the two were secretly part of what they called the Quillan Revolution, a rebellion against Blok, while Bobby wanted no part of it. As long as LaBerge was part of it, it’d be a no go. He just couldn’t wrap his head around the goof actually going against his own sister. It made no difference how he looked at it, it all seemed weird. That guy was a member of Blok. He was part of the company! He couldn’t even get his head around that much alone and now Layra was expecting him to just jump up with a smile on his face and say, “Yeah, buddy! I’ll join!” He shook his head and groaned. If they were going to be partners…they had to find some way to cooperate.
“What have I gotten myself into?” he thought, dazed.
But he had no time to sit and complain because his breakfast had arrived. The dado was carrying two large silver platters. Bobby took a sniff…and could already smell the warm, crisp bacon.
“Here you are, sir,” said the dado, setting down the platters. “Your pancakes, toast with a variety of jams, bacon, cooked not too crispy, and a freshly squeezed pitcher of orange juice. Enjoy the meal.”
Bobby would have said at least thanks but he was too starved to even bother. He was always hungry first thing in the morning, especially if it was that early. The chances of sleeping in at that place were slim to none. If you weren’t pulled out of a dead sleep to play some dangerous game, you were called down for an early breakfast.
Not wasting a second, he began filling his plate with two pieces of toast which he coated with a thick, gooey jam he guessed was strawberry, took a few strips of bacon and left the pancakes for after. It wasn’t long before he’d gorged the entire plate and was still a bit hungry. He dove in for the pancakes, covered them with old fashioned maple syrup.
Once his plate was empty and his stomach was full, he left the table and decided he’d take a quick stroll around the castle and see what the other Challengers were up to. Odds are, most were still in bed snoozing away but he guessed some would be early risers. Depending on the schedule of the games and what times they were held, most of them could be out of bed and off getting ready. A Tato match had already been held which meant another Challenger had been killed. He wondered if Challengers were getting ready for the upcoming events, if they’d miss the Rune Dance. But from what he’d heard so far about the dance, it was a big deal so it only made sense for all to attend. Why else would there be so much hype?
As he guessed, the halls were pretty much empty. He passed by a few Challenger girls who were speaking quietly amongst themselves, paying no attention to Bobby. They were too caught up in their little chit chat to even give him a quick wave.
He must have walked for half an hour till he was tired and wanting to go straight back to bed and catch some z’s. There was no hope in hearing about this Rune Dance. There just wasn’t a big enough crowd out for that. The most he got out of that morning stroll were a few murmurings and gigglings from a few of the girls, but they were only going on about what they would wear, how they’d do their makeup, what shoes they’d wear and no surprise…their dates. They even argued which of their dates was the cutest.
For a quick moment, he listened in, hearing a lot of “Mike’s asked me. He’s just adorable,” and “Well, if you think that’s great, Nick’s asked me. Did you know we almost kissed the other night?” and blah blah blah…
Bobby hurried off, wanting to get away from all the bickering. He was now aware of how annoying some of those Challenger girls could be. Sure, he was considering asking a girl to go with him. Why not? How bad could that be? He told himself right there and then, it sure as hell wouldn’t be any of those three!
And even if he couldn’t find a date, his main goal was going to the dance to observe things. Whatever chance he had in figuring things out or hearing something that might come in handy later on was crucial. If he hoped in surviving these deadly games again, he’d have to see what sort of deal was going on, if he was told correct that Quillan had in fact changed since his last stay. However long ago that was. Had he been gone for a few months…a year…five years? He still hadn’t gotten his head around the fact that time wasn’t relative between territories, which made things that much more confusing.
It turned out to be a lot longer of a day than Bobby expected. He had no idea how he’d get through it all. For a while, he took it easy, grabbed something for lunch, hung out near the gardens and even considered going for a swim…till he caught Veego strolling by. So much for a swim. Wherever she was, he wouldn’t be.
An hour later, he ran into Fourteen and the two spoke for a while, discussing the dance, Layra, LaBerge, the Quillan Revolution and everything else on his mind. Since Fourteen was a dado, he wasn’t programmed to have the answers to questions or offer emotions but all the same, Bobby thought he was great company. If he was ever in the mood to sit back and talk, Fourteen was just the guy…or dado.
“The Rune Dance is held for all who stay at the castle,” Fourteen explained. “Challengers, as well as guests. All are welcome to attend.”
‘What do you mean guests?” asked Bobby. “I thought this place was only for Challengers?”
“Originally, yes, but things have changed,” Fourteen told him. “Veego and LaBerge’s castle is now open for guests to come and stay. I suppose you could say it serves as a kind of hotel for those who’re in need of a getaway.”
“Yeah, but how could it become a hotel all of a sudden?” he asked. “That has nothing to do with the games…or Blok.”
“No, it doesn’t,” Fourteen answered. “But by having guests stay here at the castle, they’re walking about the Challengers themselves and that’s Blok’s newest intention. By bringing more people to the castle, by pampering and attending to them, they’ll only wish to stay another night longer. They want guests to get to know the Challengers. It’s all to do with the betting and the wagering on the games.”
“So, if the whole castle thing’s changed,” said Bobby, thinking it over. “Wait…does that mean the rules of the people have changed?”
“It does,” said Fourteen. “Before, the way it worked was if someone placed a wager on a losing Challenger, they were punished in numerous ways. Most were taken to Blok to carry out certain needs, or were used for medical research or…and this has been increasing over the years… were taken to the tarz. I might be a machine, but I cannot deny that seeing families separated is-” he stopped and thought for a moment, searching for the right word.
“Painful?” said Bobby.
“Yes,” said Fourteen. “Rules here have changed greatly. When people now wager on Challengers…their lives are being put on the line.”
“Put on the line?” asked Bobby.
“If a Challenger loses,” Fourteen went on. “Whoever placed wagers on them…are immediately killed.”
“What?” shouted Bobby. “You gotta be kidding!”
“That’s what happens now,” said the dado. People now, those who bet on the games have a fifty-fifty chance of either surviving…or not.”
“Then why are they betting?” asked Bobby in shock, “If they know what’ll happen, why do they even bet? Can’t they just ignore the games?”
“They can’t,” said Fourteen, with a touch of sadness. “Because of Blok’s incredulous power, they hold complete control over the people’s doings. The people of Rune are no longer permitted in being given free speech. They now must bet on the games…whether they want to or not.”
For a moment, Bobby was still trying to get over the fact from the last time he’d been there…Quillan had sunk into a deep depression, and things had gotten far worse. He never believed things could have gotten this out of hand, yet they had. And what got Bobby wondering was here Fourteen was, a dado, discussing the whole idea with him when under Blok’s rules, he wasn’t even supposed to be mention things…let alone engage in conversation. Now he had yet another question. Did Fourteen have a heart? Was he really just an old machine programmed for nothing but strict, formal orders? Or was he something else?
But before he had time to ask, Fourteen went on, “And there’s a growing theory involved.”
“Wait…theory?” asked Bobby.
“Yes,” Fourteen told him. “Many believe because of the downfall Quillan has taken and due to the extraordinary power of Blok, the territory will soon perish. And if that’s the case, from what I and a few others have heard…Blok is considering seizing hold of Quillan and transforming itself into a new dimension. Their goal is becoming a territory…and replacing Quillan.”
“That’s impossible!” Bobby argued. “Blok’s only a store. They can’t just make themselves a whole territory!”
He then thought for a moment and asked, more softly, “Can they really?”
“Considering the level of power they have,” said Fourteen thoughtfully. “I assume they can. Look at what they’ve done so far.”
Hearing how drastically things had changed on Quillan wasn’t going over too well with Bobby. It was now a whole different ballgame…and a hundred times more dangerous. He decided he’d try and lay off on the freaky news for a while and try and focus on the upcoming dance.
“So, you going to the dance?” he asked casually.
“A few of the dados are assigned in chaperoning for assured security,” said Fourteen. “I believe five have been appointed.”
“But are you going?” asked Bobby.
“No,” said Fourteen. “I was not chosen to attend.”
“Would you be allowed to?” he asked.
If Bobby was going to attend, he’d at least like to have someone there with him for company. After hearing how badly things had changed on Quillan…he didn’t feel too safe going alone.
“I do not see it as a problem,” Fourteen considered. “But why do you ask? Don’t you have a date?”
“A date?” laughed Bobby. “Not really. To be honest, I’m not really looking forward to it…with the games coming up and all. And I’m not even sure if Layra would talk to me…we left off pretty bad last night.”
“It’s encouraged that all Challengers bring dates,” Fourteen told him. “Did you know that?”
“Come on,” Bobby argued. “It can’t be that big of a deal. So I don’t have a date, big deal?”
Fourteen said nothing.
“So will you go or not?” said Bobby. “It’d be nice to have at least someone there to keep me company.”
“Very well,” said the dado. “I’ll go. What time would you like to meet me?”
“How’s nine sound?” asked Bobby.
Fourteen nodded and said, “That sounds good. See you then, Challenger Red. And I’ll advice you, if you happen to come across a fellow Challenger, you should consider asking them to join you. This much I know…it wouldn’t look good showing up alone.”
“Who’s really going to care if I’m there alone?”
“Veego…she’ll be watching.”
Oh…that changed things.
“Yeah,” said Bobby quickly. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe I should go and find somebody.”
“Have you considered asking Layra?” said Fourteen. “You two are partners after all. Would it not make sense in going with her?”
“Well…she’s kind of already taken,” said Bobby awkwardly.
“By who?” asked Fourteen. Bobby could have sworn he’d heard a touch of curiosity there. Was it possible that robots could be curious?
Bobby hesitated, sighed and said “LaBerge…he asked her and she said yes.”
It was just late night he’d passed Layra in the halls and she’d told him how LaBerge asked her to go with him, and how she’d agreed to go with him.
“I see,” said Fourteen. “That’s most interesting. I’ve heard hosts are often encouraged in attending these events, since they’re in charge of the occasion. In most ways, it would make sense for both him and Veego to be going…with dates I might add. I assume it looks good.”
“I doubt she’ll have a date,” Bobby muttered, half to himself. “Really, who’d go with her? Man, though, I’m still shocked that freak’s actually got a date. I just can’t wrap my head around it. It’s just…weird.”
Bobby was now faced with yet another problem. He had to find a date…and fast. What from what his robo-buddy had told him, Challengers were expected to bring a date. Whether it was for appearance or a time for basic socializing, Bobby wasn’t sure, but if he hoped to get Veego off his back that night…he’d have one. He didn’t want to find out how big a deal it was if you showed up without one. He only hoped his possible date wouldn’t be all giggly, bubbly and whispery like those other girls. He didn’t mind girls who laughed a lot…but those three just crossed the line. They were downright irritating. He wondered what their dates were going through. In a way, he felt bad for them. But right then, he had more important things to worry about.
After Fourteen had left Bobby to go check up on how preparations were going, Bobby made up his mind that he’d set off in search of a date. There was no other option…and he was desperate. Not because he was in the mood for a dance or a jolly old swing, but because if he showed up alone, Veego would surely notice…and he wasn’t taking that risky of a chance. If Challengers were told to bring a date, then he’d have to find one.
“Hey, if Layra can get a date, so can I,” he thought surely. “And if LaBerge can, well…then there’s tons of hope.”
But finding a date turned out to be a lot harder of a task than Bobby could have imagined. Most of the girls he ran into were either taken or on their way to ask someone. Even when he went on saying in his most anxious voice he really needed a date, they’d just shrug and walk off like it was no biggie. To them, it might not have been but it was a hell of a task for Bobby…and he was running out of time. It was now six o’ clock. It was near supper time and the girls were probably up in their rooms, getting ready, trying on clothes and doing their hair. The guys, he noticed, were much more casual. They stood around, chit chatting outside their rooms, laughing and waiting around for their dates. If only he could find himself a date! It all felt hopeless…but he couldn’t just show up alone.
And it was at that very moment, he heard a faint sound coming from…somewhere.
He hurried over to a group of guys and asked quickly, “You hear that?”
They all gave him an odd look and said, “No.”
“That sound!” said Bobby. “Listen! Hear it?”
They listened closely, but shrugged.
“No,” one said carelessly. “You’re just hearing things.”
“You all pumped for tonight?” asked another, nudging him in the shoulder. “I hear it’s gonna be sweet!”
“Uh, yeah…gotta go though,” said Bobby, speeding down the hall as if he’d just remembered something.
The guys stood there, puzzled.
Bobby was now certain he wasn’t hearing things. He stuck to his instinct and rushed down the halls, turning sharp corners, speeding down zig-zagging stairs, catching a trip or two on the elevator.
It looked like he was now on the bottom floor of the enormous castle. He hadn’t seen much of this part of it before. What he did know was whatever had made that sound, it was getting louder and seemed to be coming from close by, off to the right. So he rushed off, crossing yet another hall, taking a right, left, another right and finally, a trip down the stairs till he was standing not far from an open doorway that led into a huge rectangular room. And here, at last…he found the place where that far-off sound first came from.
Quietly, he crept up to the door, peered in and took a look inside. It was a good sized room with yellow painted walls with funky purple shapes, a violet ceiling with a golden chandelier that Bobby guessed was worth a fortune. The floor was of purple and yellow stripes and the one thing that caught Bobby’s attention was the grand instrument.
In the dead center of the room was a black piano that was unlike any piano he’d ever seen. It was three times the size of any ordinary piano and it was shaped quite strangely. It curved around which made it look like it were a half circle and on top was a striped vase with a bouquet of red and white roses. The keys were your basic black and whites but above all, what took Bobby by surprise…was who was at the piano.
Seated comfortably at the piano, resting his fingers carefully on the keys with his head dropped slightly…was LaBerge.
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 8: A Date for a Dance (PART 2)
Bobby stared in shock…trying to get his head around what he was seeing. It seemed so bizarre and out of place, yet it was real as could be. LaBerge was at the piano.
“Uh…what?” thought Bobby, blinking. The whole scene, the clown loving guy, the wild blonde curls, the black and red robe, it all seemed so…un-LaBerge-like. But there he sat, wearing that long familiar bathrobe that fell to the ground with his hair done up in loose, dangling curls. The guy must have already showered and was throwing on the few final touches before joining his date at the Rune Dance. No matter which way he looked at things or how many times he tried telling himself what he was seeing wasn’t real… it all just felt like one hilarious joke. LaBerge going to a dance with a date was just so out of the ordinary. Then again, he wasn’t too sure what ordinary was anymore. Like he’d learned time and again…anything could happen.
“He…plays piano?”
He shook himself together and thought, hoping he wasn’t going crazy, “Wait…what?”
In his eyes, piano plus LaBerge equaled ridiculous! If LaBerge was the bubbly goof he’d proven to be, did it make sense he could play the piano as well as put on a host’s welcoming smile and charm? The question was…how good of a player was he? That’s what Bobby wondered.
“Odds are he’s not that great,” he told himself, staring into the room, never his eyes fixed on the huge piano. “So he can play a few notes, big deal…”
He was all set on how good a player this clown-loving guy really was…when LaBerge dropped his hands from the keys and sat there in silence. Bobby watched him and could tell there was something on his mind, whether it troubled and worried him…he wasn’t sure. But he wasn’t about to walk in and start up a conversation. Not with this goof.
It was obvious whatever song or tune LaBerge played earlier, the noise he’d heard out in the halls, there’d be no hearing it again. He guessed the guy’s mind was now on the Rune Dance, and having a few fun hours with Layra.
But he didn’t have much time to stand there and wonder. LaBerge quietly got up and walked straight for the door. Bobby pushed his way back and as quick as his legs could carry him…he rushed off. No way would he let LaBerge catch him spying.
While running, he looked over his shoulder and saw LaBerge hadn’t even seen him or was glancing his way. He just went on staring at the ground while he shuffled on by. But Bobby didn’t stop to stare. He bolted away from there, not wanting to be seen.
“Man, that was close!” thought Bobby, panting heavily. “Last thing I need’s that freak catching me like some kind of spy. I’d never hear the end of it.”
But Bobby had to admit to himself that time was running out. Following the Rune Dance would no doubt, be the dreaded games he and Layra would have to play. The time for Layra and LaBerge to get their revolution started was drawing near. And as much as he hated the idea, and wished for some other option…the possibility might not be there.
Though in his own mind, he feared the worst of it, he had to consider it. He had to consider giving Layra the benefit of the doubt…and trusting LaBerge. Whether he believed and trusted the guy or not…he had to consider joining Layra’s revolution…which meant teaming up with LaBerge.
He stopped dead in his tracks, repeated that thought to himself and burst out laughing. The idea of he and LaBerge becoming friends seemed…pretty much impossible. He hated having to even consider it, but with the way things were going and how badly things had gotten on Quillan, there weren’t a lot of options. He’d at least have to give LaBerge a chance, even if he felt it would do no good for him, Layra, and their chance at surviving the games.
He couldn’t help tell himself that trusting LaBerge would bring forth a great downfall. Though Layra believed him, how would Bobby know for sure what side the clown was on? Was he truly on their side secretly plotting against Veego and the people of Blok…or was he a devious liar and playing the role of a charming, innocent, had-a-rough-childhood-with-his-sister kind of guy while fooling Layra? If he had the answer to that one question…things would be so much easier. But like always, things on Quillan were never easy.
And of course… he was still without a date. He searched the hall, trying to find a clock, when he saw one. He looked up, squinting his eyes and saw it was…eight-thirty!
“Oh, man,” he groaned, rubbing his hands over his face. “I gotta get a date! How hard can it be finding one?”
Not wasting another minute, he ran up to a guy his own age who was leaning casually up against a counter. He stopped in front of him and asked breathlessly, “Where’s the Rune Dance?”
The guy shot Bobby a look as if he’d asked the most ridiculous question. Obviously, everyone must have known where it was…all but him, anyway.
“You don’t know?” said the guy, surprised. Pointing off to the left, he told him, “Keep going that way. It’s at the end of the castle. It’s a huge room all lit up and ready to go. You can’t miss it. I’m heading there now.”
“Thanks,” said Bobby, turning round and heading to where the guy had pointed.
He felt relieved in not having to ponder and search the massive place, not having the slightest clue where he was going. He’d gotten lost plenty of times, and had his plate full trying to find a date. It was like finding a needle in a haystack. Almost impossible.
He passed room after room, corridor after corridor till he saw a blaring stream of flashing lights dead ahead, which he guessed was the location of the Rune Dance. He slowed down and stopped to catch his breath. He hoped this would be the last time for a while where he’d have to hurry his way around the enormous castle because one thing was certain…it wasn’t fun. It was grueling, tiring work. It also didn’t help that he needed to find himself a date, and fast.
But when he finally came face to face with the place, his mouth dropped. The wooden, parabola shaped door leading into the place was incredibly tall and made him feel like some kind of insect. He felt tiny, like he was staring at a massive giant. The huge door was already pushed open, allowing the guests to pass through and into the party. Bobby watched as groups of twos and threes and fours made their way in, all smiling and laughing and ready for an exciting night. Groups of girls strolled in, gazing around at the spectacular setup, their eyes wide. It must have been quite the setup and judging by the fact how impressive the castle alone was…their dances would no doubt be a sight worth seeing.
“Good evening, Pendragon,” came a welcoming voice.
Bobby turned around and saw Fourteen standing there, looking just as formally as usual.
“Hey!” said Bobby. “Thank god you’re here. Look, you’ve gotta help me find a date. I’m not even kidding. I’ve searched the whole castle and found nobody! You’ve gotta-” but he was then interrupted by a giggling voice from behind.
“Hello.”
Bobby turned around and came face to face with…a girl! Bobby would have sighed in relief and even gave a loud whoop…but knew that wouldn’t have been cool.
The girl looked to be about seventeen, the same age as him, maybe a bit younger. She was slightly smaller than himself with short, curly brown hair that fell just past her shoulders, deep, blue eyes, and dangling hoop earrings. She wore a long, rose colored top that fell to her knees, black tights and to go with the carefully picked outfit…heels. She wasn’t wearing a whole lot of make-up, compared to other girls, but she’d gone overboard with the eyeliner…big time. Not that Bobby was an expert in that department or anything, but she reminded him of one of those creepy ladies you saw in horror movies, like a dead zombie bride or something.
Suddenly, he wished he’d been seen by LaBerge, rather than this…odd person. Sure, she seemed like a friendly enough girl but there was something that stood out about her. She was a little overweight, Bobby guessed at least twenty pounds. Her stomach sort of hung over, her arms were pretty flabby and her legs were certainly what you’d call big. With the whole thing she had going on with the eyeliner, anyone would think she was a little girl trying make-up on for the first time…but she was no little girl.
“Uh, hi…” said Bobby awkwardly.
The girl scoffed, put a hand on her hips and said cockily, “Uh, excuse me? Is that how you address a lady?”
She flicked her hair back and stood there, staring him in the eye like a rotten, spoiled little brat with a look on her face that said, “Uh, yeah I’m talking to you!” Bobby was already wishing the dance was over and it hadn’t even started. Way to start a night that was supposed to be fun. Not a good start.
“Sorry, didn’t mean anything by it,” said Bobby holding his hand out. “Forgive me.” He spoke these last few words with a hint of mock apology.
“Whatever,” sighed the girl, rolling her eyes.
“So, uhh, you going with anyone?” he asked, hoping she was. He was now at the point where he really wanted to go find someone else, assuming if there was anyone else to ask. His chances looked terribly slim.
The girl shook her head with a big bubbly smile and chirped, “Nope!”
“You, uh…wanna go with me?”
Bobby couldn’t believe he’d just said that but in this case, he’d rather be seen with this gal rather than show up “dateless” and take his chance with monster Veego. He’d pick showing up with a date. He figured he’d have a hell lot better of a chance humoring this piece of work than Veego. She took things seriously…dead serious, where this girl, whoever she was, seemed pretty out there, wild and definitely crazy.
“Oh, yes, yes, yes!” she squealed, hugging him tightly. Bobby’s eyes widened at how strong the girl was. He felt like he was being choked!
“Okay, okay!” he said, gasping for air, pushing her away. “I get it. Don’t need to get all huggy.”
“Oh, this will be wonderful!” she said, flicking her hair. “Come on, date! Let’s go start this party! Whoooooo!”
Bobby frowned helplessly to Fourteen, who shrugged and said, “You now have a date, Pendragon.”
“Gee, thanks,” said Bobby flatly.
Once the two were inside, the girl grabbed him by the shoulders and said firmly, “Okay, first off, we gotta go over some rules.” Right now, got it?”
“Uh, what?” said Bobby, raising a brow. He didn’t like where this was going. “Rules for what?”
“Pff! You heard me,” she snapped irritably. “Okay, first off, don’t you dare think of ditching me, got it punk? I’m your date. You’re with me tonight. Don’t even think of getting on with any funny business with any of the others. You hear me?”
“Uhh, sure,” said Bobby, going along with it.
“Second,” she piped. “Don’t go dancing with other girls and starting a whole grinding thing. None of that stupid nonsense, okey dokey? Good! I’d say that’s all. Oh, goody, this will be just the greatest night ever, ever, ever ,ever! Whoo! Aren’t we just the coolest?”
Bobby sighed and grumbled, “Whatever.”
Man was this girl was a piece a work. A real, annoying, irritable, pain-in-the-butt and worst of all…she was now officially his date. So much for having a fun night. If he would have known what a weird, freaky sort of person she was, he never would have even considered asking her. But there was no use complaining. He was stuck with her and he’d just have to put up with her no matter how annoying and frustrating she’d end up being.
She jumped up and down like an excited child, twirled around and leaped into his arms. “Hold me!” she demanded bossily. “Well…go on, hold me!”
“Uhh?” was all Bobby could say before being squeezed yet again. At that point, all he could hope was the night would somehow go by fast and before they knew it, the whole dance would be over and he’d be free to go. But he had the feeling it was going to be one long, tiring night. They say time flies when you’re having fun. But what if you’re not having fun? What if you just want to get the hell out of there and run upstairs and hide under the covers? Was there a saying for that? If not, then Bobby was doomed for what could prove to be the most “unfun” night of his life.
“So what’s your name?” she asked with a somewhat-sneaky-yet-playful grin.
“Bobby,” he said flatly.
“Pff, that’s not much of a name,” she scorned with a loud sniff. “Well, who cares? My name’s Jiggy-V. That’s spelled with a J and not a G! Got it?”
“Wow,” thought Bobby. “And she thinks my name’s weird?”
“Don’t you just love dances!” cried Jiggy-V with a whoop. “They’re so fun and awesome and awesomely cool. Whoa, look at that guy over there. What a hottie! Whoo! Wait, where’d they come from? Wanna go and see. No, wait! Let’s get something to eat. Nah…maybe later. Let’s boogie! Woo-hoo!”
Boogie? Man, this girl was like the world’s first drama queen gone crazy. Bobby couldn’t think of anything else to call her but…insane.
“Man, get me out of here!” thought Bobby desperately. Spending a night with Jiggy-V would be a nightmare. Heck, he’d rather be put back in the clown room! He knew the dolls were just dolls with weird faces but this girl was real, annoying and getting on his nerves real fast.
“They sure know how to throw a party don’t they, Bobby?”
He had to admit, she was right about that. The room was simply and utterly amazing. Not only was it one room by itself, you could leave that room and enter another, and multiple others. This one room connected with five others! It made sense if you took a look at how huge the castle alone was.
The DJ was all set up and rearing to go. The lights flashed and beamed with every color, sometimes glowing black and white, other times, multicolored like a beaming rainbow. There were funky shaped balloons soaring high above them, long wooden tables set out near the entrance for food and drinks. There were chips, cake, pop and all your other junk food must haves. Four of the dados had already arrived and were standing there, staring about with no expression but it was clear they were there to keep an eye on things and make sure nothing got out of hand. Fourteen stood among them, looking just as formally and professionally. The one name that came to Bobby’s mind was “security guard.” And that’s what they were. They’d been sent there to keep an eye on things and seeing as they were nothing more than specially designed robots…they’d do a pretty good job.
“Yeah,” he said plainly.
“Oh, yeah,” she chimed dreamily. “La de-de, don’t you just love dances and balloons and cake, Booby?”
Bobby shot her an irritated glare. “It’s Bobby…”
“Yeah, that’s what I said,” snapped. Jiggy-V. “Booby. B-O-O-B-Y. I’m not stupid, you know. Really, who do you take me for?”
She couldn’t even pronounce the poor guy’s name. It was now officially going to be the worst night of his life, no question. And there was absolutely nothing he could do about it.
“Eww, who the heck’s THAT?” gasped Jiggy-V, pointing a finger at the doorway. She sounded far more dramatic than needed, like she’d just seen a hideous beast enter the room. Of course, it wasn’t a hideous beast, but by the way she was going at it…anyone would assume it was something serious.
All the same, Bobby turned his attention to where she’d pointed, already having a pretty good idea of who Jiggy-V was referring to.
Holly says:
Haha! I like Bobby’s date. It’s pretty funny. can’t wait for part 2 of chapter 8! i wonder who the person walking through the entrance is?!?!?!?!?!?!? 😉
Challenger Black says:
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 9: The Rune Dance (PART 1)
Bobby turned around and there…saw a relieving sight. Strolling into the room with a smile on her face was Layra…and she looked great. She wore a black, sparkling dress with white polka dots that fell down to her knees with a loose bow tie-shaped waistband at the side. Her hair was curled and up in a tight but messy bun, with a simple silver headband. She wore a pair of dangling black and white earrings along with a necklace of beaded purls. Her nails were a deep, rose colored red and her black matching heels helped fit the overall picture. She wore a touch of mascara and just the right amount of glittering eye shadow. She looked like she was ready for the long-awaited prom of her life.
And strolling in next to her, holding her hand with a bright smile of his own…was her date, LaBerge. It was impossible to mistake him for anyone else. His hair, as Bobby had seen earlier was a mass of wild blonde curls that bounced when he walked. He wasn’t wearing his black and red bathrobe but what looked like some kind of tuxedo. Bobby looked him over and guessed it was your casual tux…but in color. He wore a white colorfully striped coat with lapels, simple white pants, a yellow and purple polka dotted bow tie, white shoes and pinned up by his left breast pocket was a rose. He too was ready for a dance…and some wild fun. Like always, he looked like the king of Gumdrop Mountain. Normally, guys were supposed dress formal and wear black suits…not wacky color coated suits. To him, it just looked wrong…yet it was so LaBerge.
Bobby looked them over and saw how perfectly matched they were. Layra’s dress was of polka dots, and LaBerge was, not exactly in polka dots that night but her polka dots went quite nicely with his stripes. Bobby only wondered what in the world the others would say when they saw the goof and his wacky tux. After Layra looked the massive room over, she spotted Bobby and hurried over, with LaBerge following right behind.
“Bobby!” she called, rushing up to him. Layra saw that like most guys, Bobby was wearing simple and casual clothes; a t shirt and jeans and a pair of DC shoes. Very casual.
“Hey,” he said somewhat awkwardly. “Look, sorry about the other night, I-”
“Don’t worry about it,” she smiled. “Tonight’s gonna be awesome! Let’s just forget about it. Besides, that’s old news.”
“Sounds good,” said Bobby.
“Uhhh,” Jiggy-V interrupted with a snort. “Who in great name is that goof?” Both Bobby and Layra saw who she was pointing at…LaBerge. He gave her an innocent look and held out his hand with a weak, nervous smile.
“L-LaBerge is the name,” he said shakily. “I-I’m the host of the castle, with my sister of course. Lovely to meet you.”
“Uh, you’re weird,” she spat, rolling her eyes. “Who the hell dressed you, your mommy? What’s wrong with you?”
LaBerge frowned and turned away. Layra placed a hand on his shoulder and snapped at Jiggy-V, “Leave him alone! He owns the place you know.”
Jiggy-V stomped right up to Layra, glared her straight in the eye and teased, “He, he he, make me! Oh, and if I might ask, is that clown seriously your date? Huh, is he, is he, is he? Tell me! Ahhhh! Just tell me already!”
Layra raised a brow and shook her head.
“Why do you care?” she asked plainly.
“Well, I don’t,” Jiggy-V admitted. “You see, I’m here with Booby.”
“Booby?” asked Layra.
“Yes sir ree,” she said with a childish giggle. “Good old Booby. God, is he ever dashing! Don’t you agree? Now enough small talk! Come on Booby, you’re comin’ with me! Later gators. He, he, he! Let’s get this party started, yeah! Wooooooh!”
While Jiggy-V grabbed Bobby by the arm and yanked him away into the enormous crowd, Layra turned to LaBerge, who stood staring ahead as if in a trance. She noticed the small frown on his face and gave him a friendly nudge.
“I hope no one, you know…laughs,” he said quietly. “I don’t look so great compared to all of them. They all look cool and hip and…you know.”
“Aww, don’t listen to her,” she told him. “That girl’s not all there, you know. Man, I feel bad for Bobby. Hope he’s gonna be okay. It’ll be a great night, though…don’t worry.”
“You’re right,” he smiled. “No way I’m gonna let Jiggy-V ruin my night…our night. This’ll be awesome!”
“Now you’re talking!” she chuckled. “Come on! Let’s dance!”
“Ahhh!” he whispered, tugging her off to the side hurriedly.
“What?” she asked, lowering her voice.
“Her!” he said pointing toward the doorway. Layra knew exactly who LaBerge meant and as long as Veego was here, she and LaBerge had to stay hidden or risk dealing with some unwanted punishment. The last thing they needed was Veego seeing her brother having a grand old time when she’d told him to stay away from these big events. But there she was, standing stock still in the doorway without a smile on her face and a steady, unblinking glare in her eyes. She meant business.
“How about we go into another room?” LaBerge suggested. “That way she won’t see us. She sees me and I’m dead! How’s room two sound?”
“Yeah, let’s go,” she whispered.
Room two wasn’t much different than the first room. There were just as many lights and people dancing and a few grinding off to the right. There were head beams casting a wild flash of colors over the huge place with funky shaped balloons and even a fog machine. In a way, it felt bigger than the other room, or maybe that’s how these connecting rooms worked? Maybe the rooms gradually got bigger and widened out with more space and more room for a wicked night.
“Perfect!” LaBerge exclaimed. “No way she’ll find us way in here. It’s too crowded.”
“Oh, here come a few of my friends,” said Layra quietly. “Well, we’re not really friends but we talk in the hall sometimes. Don’t worry…you’ll be fine.”
LaBerge smiled weakly and gave her a thumbs up.
“Hey girl!” said one, giving Layra a warm hug. “How’s it going?”
“Pretty good,” said Layra. “Good to see you.”
“Is this your date?” asked the other, whose names was Tiffany.
“Yeah,” smiled Layra, wrapping her arms playfully around LaBerge’s neck.
“Hold up,” said Tiffany, looking him over carefully. “I know you! You host the Quillan Games and you own this castle. LaBerge, right?”
Before LaBerge could answer, another girl but in saying, “Uh, duh! It’s pretty obvious with those goofy clothes? Everyone knows him.”
Layra shot her a glare and argued, “Well I think he looks great.”
Tiffany shook her head as if she couldn’t believe what she’d just heard, walked up to LaBerge and patted him on the back saying, “Look, honey. When you go to a dance and expect to fit in and join in with the rest, you can’t just go dressing like that! That’s like…not even cool. Wear something casual like jeans or a t-shirt. What the hell were you thinking? A multicolored tux…so uncool.”
LaBerge just looked to the floor, shuffled his feet and murmured, “Yeah…I guess.”
“Oh, come on,” chuckled Layra, trying to humor them. “We’re all here to have fun, right?”
The girls shrugged and said in agreement, “Yeah.”
“Well quit standing there and dance then!” said Layra.
LaBerge realized what she was doing and smiled. She winked back. The three girls, Tiffany, Alex and Jessica, who were still trying to figure out LaBerge’s wildly colorful outfit…began dancing. They moved a little, looked around and stopped and stared at the doorway and squealed in delight, “There they are!”
Layra turned and saw strolling up to them were three guys, all tall with that “I got it going on” look in their eyes. Each of them wore a black tux with black pants, black shoes and a simple black tie. They had everything going on with their slicked back hair and charming, gleaming smiles. The girls giggled and acknowledged them with a shy wave.
As soon as the guys caught sight of the goof in the rainbow colored tux, they stopped dead in their tracks and looked him over…head to toe. One guy had to cover his mouth from blurting out with laughter. The two other guys smiled and said “How’s it going?”
LaBerge hesitated and said shakily, “Good, you?”
“Pretty good,” replied the guy. “Oh, and I like your tux…very unique.”
LaBerge’s eyes widened in shock.
“What?”
“No really, it’s pretty sweet,” said the other. “Right ladies?”
“Oh, yes!” they said in union. “Totally awesome!”
“You just said you hated it!” LaBerge whined.
“Well,” one hesitated. “Sort of…but come on, we were just kidding. No harm done.”
Just then, two girls approached Layra with bright smiles, gave her a hug and asked her how it was going and if they could join her. But when they saw the tall guy next to her with the colored tux, they looked him over, whispered, giggled and ran off snickering in amusement.
“Forget them,” said one of the guys, whose name was Nick. “Girls do that all the time. No biggie, right guys?”
They nodded.
“No biggie,” said the other.
“Yeah,” lied LaBerge. “I guess so.”
For a while, they stood there chit chatting and staring around at the others, doing the same thing they were doing, standing around as if they were waiting for someone to start the party. It was still early, so not too many people were in the mood to get dancing, so they sort of stood around, chilling…doing whatever.
Layra, LaBerge, Tiffany, Jessica and Alex and their three dates were having a pretty good time in their own little group. The guys seemed pretty cool toward LaBerge and even the girls stopped questioning his choice of clothing and before anyone knew…they were having a grand old time. LaBerge was still blown over by the fact that people were actually around him and by the looks and sounds of it…they were having fun! No one ever hung out with him before, let alone did they ever laugh or chit chat with him.
The DJ was a young, hip guy and played all sorts of awesome tunes. Some of which came from Bobby’s home on Second Earth like: “Lovegame” and “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga and “Boom Boom Pow” by the Black Eyed Peas, “Waking up in Vegas” by Kate Perry, “Alone Again” by Alyssa Reid, and a few songs Layra and Bobby didn’t know, since they were songs from Quillan. Some included names like “Your Very Best” by the Pound Four, “Double Time” by Sir Game Play, “Lights and Wheels” by Gray Sheela and one of Bobby’s favorites…”Get Down Get Down” by Men of the World.
Once the music had come into play, LaBerge was starting to forget the sour and amused looks he’d gotten earlier. Right then, he was having a blast and he was glad to be there. The guys seemed to think that too. In no time they were rooting the guy on, cheering, “Berge, Berge, Berge!” and, “Go LaBerge!” The guy may have dressed out of fashion, but his moves were definitely there and Layra was right there next to him moving just as crazily.
Layra nudged him in the shoulder and whispered, “I knew this would work out…and I never knew you had such moves! You’re awesome!” LaBerge didn’t even know he had moves in him and was pretty surprised when he heard the others rooting him on. Had he actually become the center of attention? The idea alone felt pretty weird to him but he was more than happy to give them a show.
He bounced around, waving his hands in the air, swinging his hips and and even gave his head a good bobbing or two. And he and Layra shared their own dance. LaBerge would take her expertly by the hand and give her a nice, natural twirl and she’d then do the same to him…only he was a bit taller so he had to duck his head a little. They swung in circles and even, soon laughing about it…”bumped” hips. And once the music really got crazy, people moved around, danced a bit here, danced a bit there and of course, off to the side in one long line were what most called, “The Grinders.” Tiffany, Jessica and Alex quickly left with their dates and joined in gladly. LaBerge and Layra watched the grinding line, their eyes wide.
“Uhh,” said LaBerge awkwardly. “That’s…one big train.”
Layra laughed and agreed, “Yeah.”
But the Grinders didn’t get much time to really get into because the music had changed. The wild song now playing came to an abrupt stop which was then replaced with a soft playing song…a slow song.
Layra looked to the ground shyly and walked over and took a seat a few feet from where the DJ was playing. LaBerge stared around and frowned, seeing all those out there slow dancing and cuddling and kissing, all young and hip with their cool outfits and nicely done hair. He took a look at himself and dropped his head. He couldn’t deny the truth…he just wasn’t cool. Unlike the rest, he just didn’t have that “I’ve got it all going on” sort of thing.”
He sighed and took a seat next to Layra and smiled. He wasn’t going to let a little song ruin his one chance to lay back and have some fun.
Layra looked up into his eyes and sensed something was bothering him. But the poor guy just smiled casually as if it were nothing. She moved herself up onto his lap and rested her head onto his neck with a soft nuzzle. Surprised, LaBerge looked down and thought, “Me?”
“I-I thought you’d wanna go dance with one of the other guys,” he said quietly. “They’re a lot cooler than me, you know.”
She gazed up into his eyes, saying, “Why would I do that? I love being here with you, LaBerge and I don’t care what anyone thinks about you or your clothes. I think you’re awesome…and let me just say I adore the curls.” She twisted her finger around one of his curls playfully and kissed him lightly on his now red glowing cheek.
Suddenly, a dado walked up to them, holding a large platter of drinks and asked, “Care for a drink?”
“I’m fine, thanks” said Layra.
“I could go for a drink,” said LaBerge. The dado handed him one of the striped goblets and said, “Here you are, sir. Enjoy.”
“How is it?” asked Layra.
LaBerge took a sip of the cold, kool aid-like liquid and remarked, “Tastes like…tribbun! Who would’ve thought they’ve have tribbun juice?”
Just then, Layra saw Bobby approaching them with Jiggy-V hurrying right behind, gasping and panting out of breath. Bobby sat down on the stage and sighed tiredly. Jiggy-V jumped down beside him and giggled, pinching his cheek teasingly. Bobby shot her an irritated look that said, “Get lost.”
“You, uh…having fun?” asked Layra awkwardly.
Bobby thought for a second and then answered, “Fun isn’t quite the word I’d use. How about you and LaBerge?”
“Yeah,” she smiled. “He and I are great. They sure know how to throw a dance, though. There’s got to be a thousand people here.”
“I’ll say!” shouted Jiggy-V. “Like, seriously. This room’s getting hot? Don’t you think? And the guys are smoking, ooooh! You guys hungry? I know I am. Oh my god, and like, the DJ is like totally bomb, right? Yeah, I thought so. Oh Booby, you’re like totally hot. Thanks for asking me. Maybe we can come here again? What do ya say, huh, huh? What do you say, sugar dumpling with frosting?”
Bobby stared her straight in the eye and said flatly, “I’ll pass, thanks.”
Jiggy-V gasped, slapped him hard across the face and screamed, “What! What’d you just say, punk?”
Bobby rubbed his now sore, throbbing cheek and said through gritted teeth, “Never…again…will I come to a dance with you. You’re just weird! Plus, you’re not even my type.”
“Shut up, Booby!” she scowled. This girl was pissed. “You’re just jealous! Yeah, that’s it! You’re jealous. Poor little Booby’s jealous! What do you got to say to that…hmm?”
“Jealous!” he laughed. “Of what?”
“Of Jiggy-V of course,” she snapped, turning away from him. “You’re just a jerk and because you said that, I’m not going to slow dance with you! How do you like that Mr. Booby? Oooohhh, look over there! Ice cream cake! Yaaaaaayyyyyy!”
She clapped her hands, leaped down off the stage and hurried her hungry little self over to where two dados were handing out cake and drinks. And poor, hungry little Jiggy-V had to make sure she got the biggest slice, and no doubt, seconds and possibly thirds…maybe even fourths.
“Pig,” thought Bobby, but then sighed with relief. Alone at last! Just like that, his night had gone from totally horrible to calm and easy going. As long as he kept his distance from Veego, he’d be alright. That’s what he told himself, anyway.
He laid back down on the stage and closed his eyes. All he wanted to do was chill out and listen to a few tunes. And his cheek was still aching from that hard smack so he decided he’d lay down for a bit till the pain was gone. Man, could that girl ever slap! If she wanted to punch you into next week, odds are, she probably could and worse…she’d break a bone or two. One thing was certain…getting on Jiggy V’s bad side was the last thing you’d want to do. Once you got on her bad side, there was no telling when she’d go back to her good side. That is…if she even had a good side.
“Thank god she’s gone!” sighed Bobby. “I can’t even tell you what a pain she was! I don’t mean to complain and all, but she’s got serious issues. One minute she’s all bubbly and giggly, the next she’s sobbing and then cursing and scowling because I didn’t ask her to dance. She’s tiring.”
“Sounds like a handful,” said Layra.
“Oh, don’t get me started,” said Bobby tiredly. “I don’t even care if Veego spots me without a date. I’ll bet she just made up that stupid rule so Challengers would start panicking that they had to get a date. Funny how they don’t tell us the consequences if we don’t? Well, I’m done with Jiggy-V. No way can you get me back with her again.”
“It is a pretty great dance though,” Layra admitted. “Everyone else seems pretty cool. I even spoke with a few Challengers and they looked like they were having a good time. It’s nice to have some fun for a change.”
“Those dado’s do a heck of a job!” exclaimed LaBerge, clapping his hands. “Even if they are robots.”
Bobby turned, looked at LaBerge and asked, “You having a good time?”
LaBerge nodded and said cheerfully, “I had a feeling this would be the best day ever! I’m so glad I decided to come!”
Layra was relieved that LaBerge had finally forgotten about those snippy girls and their rude teasing and comments. Now, he could just be himself and have a fun time without having to worry about being teased or stared at and whispered about. LaBerge could now just be LaBerge. It was never a fun thing trying to be someone you’re not…and he had the feeling that Layra liked him exactly for who he was and nothing less. Sure the other guys there might have been dressed in a more popular fashion that was considered cool and to a certain extent they may have been what you’d call, “cuter” as many of the girls thought…but Layra didn’t care. She could have been off dancing and grinding with those other guys, those with style and attitude and real moves, but instead…she chose to be cuddled up in the arms of LaBerge.
He only wished it could stay like that, just her and him, him and her on that grand, wondrous night. And Veego, luckily, hadn’t entered the room which meant she was probably still standing stock still in the first room by those massive doors, observing the action and keeping a close, careful eye on things, along with the assigned dado security. So far, it was a truly awesome night for him and his date…and it was about to get even better.
The song Round the Bend had come to an end. The silence was then followed up with the beginning sound of a soft-sounding song called “Here With You,” by Reela Sander. LaBerge wasn’t too familiar with the song, but he knew the feel of it well enough to know it was a slow song…so he did the most natural thing in the world. He was a tad bit nervous she’d say no, but he knew she wasn’t like that…so he went for it.
“You want to dance?” he asked with a smile.
Layra looked up, and gave a smile of her own.
She took his hand and at once, he got the idea.
They got down off the stage and slowly made their way through the crowd where most couples were dancing already and found themselves a spot. Layra wrapped her arms around LaBerge’s neck while he wrapped his own arms around her waist and slowly…they began dancing. LaBerge could hardly believe this was actually happening, him being here at the Rune Dance with Layra, the one girl who’d befriended him and stood by him, unlike so many others who only mocked and picked on the poor guy…always believing he was no more than a clown loving, messed up freak. But not Layra.
As the two of them swayed slowly back and forth to the music, LaBerge looked around at all the others dancing…and noticed something. A few of the girls were staring at him from across the room with wide, somewhat suspicious eyes and he knew exactly why. He wasn’t sure why he hadn’t thought of it earlier. The girls and a few of the guys were staring in his direction because here LaBerge was, a guy in his late thirties, and here Layra was…a sixteen year old girl (though she was really thirty). But how could anyone expect a total stranger to be able to tell the difference…and they were slow dancing!
From their point of view, with them not knowing Layra’s actual story and how she was locked up in her frozen-from-aging body, it looked odd, abnormal, and more than a bit creepy to see a guy LaBerge’s age dancing with a girl that young. Then again, they didn’t seem to care much and assumed it was nothing. LaBerge was just relieved to see that no one cared much. It looked like this dance was going to play out just as he’d hoped.
And luckily enough…it did. It was a warm and wonderful feeling having Layra pressed up against his swaying body, her head resting softly against his neck and her arms wrapped around him. Most of the other couples weren’t that close, body-against-body-close…but Layra and LaBerge were lost in the music and LaBerge convinced himself nothing could ruin the moment. It was all so perfect. Or as close to perfect as you could get. If he believed anything could be perfect…it was him and Layra together.
Meanwhile, Bobby was enjoying himself sitting back, staring around at the dancing couples…till he saw her coming his way. That’s when he heard her calling childishly, “My little Booby? Care for a dance, cookie? My sugar dumpling?”
“No!” snapped Bobby, stepping back quickly. “I already told you…I’m done with you! You’re just, not my type, okay? Leave me alone!”
“Shut up!” howled Jiggy, grabbing him firmly by the arm. “Now get off your fat, lazy butt and dance with me! Oh, you little pumpkin, this way, this way! He he, I just love dances, don’t you? Look at all the pretty lights and moosic! Pretty, pretty, pretty, don’t you think?”
Bobby sighed. So much for having a break. His night had just gotten a hundred times worse…again. And it didn’t help much that Jiggy-V was strong and chubby near the stomach. She pulled or as he looked at it as, dragged him right to the dead center of the room and stood there with a cocky look as if to say, “Don’t even think of running away punk!” Her expressions were pretty easy to read. She was either furious, happy, scared, nervous or upset. There were no somewhat-sad-but-I’m-still-a-little-happy.
She then locked her arms around his neck so tightly…Bobby thought for a second she was trying to choke him.
He only hoped he’d make it back to his room alive. Having no choice but to go along with it, he lightly and hesitantly placed his arms on her waist, wondering what sort of reaction he’d get. She simply giggled annoyingly and whispered, “You’re kind of cute for a punk, Booby. But the other guys, I’ve got to say, are a million times cuter than you. You’re sort of what’s the word…average? Yeah, that’s it. Man, don’t you just love cupcakes with chocolate sprinkles? I hope they have some! He-he!”
“Gee…thanks creep,” thought Bobby.
When Bobby looked back on that night, dancing with Jiggy-V was by far the worst thing he’d ever experienced. She wasn’t a good dancer by any means, let alone did she know how to dance well. And what bugged Bobby the most was her constant gigging. It drove him up the wall crazy and by that point, he really didn’t care whether he had a date or not. Dealing with Veego couldn’t be any worse than what he was seeing with old Jiggy-V…or could it?
But just then, luck was on his side. Jiggy-V stopped dancing, stared off to the right and burst out laughing till she was snorting. Man, did that girl ever sound like a pig. All that was missing was the “oink oink” part.
She left Bobby and hurried her way over, leaving him curious as to what was so funny. He was just thankful she’d left. Once again, he was alone. But how long would that last for? Ten minutes? Five minutes? A few seconds? As much as he wanted to keep as far away from that nightmare of a date, he knew he had to follow. And he wouldn’t mind checking up on Layra to see how she was doing. Her night couldn’t have been going any worse than his. Not by a long shot.
He made his way through the packed room, hurriedly squeezing through, saying, “Sorry, sorry, excuse me, sorry,” at least ten times till he finally caught up with Jiggy-V.
She was standing there, with both hands on her hips, staring ahead at a dancing couple, still lost in their passionate dance. They didn’t even notice Jiggy-V looking them over with that obviously disgusted sneer.
The two dancing, no surprise…were Layra and LaBerge. Both had their heads down, pressed against each other with their eyes closed. They looked like they were really swept up by the soft, dreamy song as if no one else was even there.
“I’m so glad I asked you here, Layra,” said LaBerge quietly, gazing into her eyes. “Everything’s been great…” and it was then, without a word, the two were leaning in and closing their eyes for another soft, warm kiss just like that night out by the pool…till it all came crashing down.
“Hey, HEY” Jiggy screamed, waving her arms wildly. “Everyone! Over here, you gotta come see this! It’s classic!”
Holly says:
Nice job on the dance so far! I like it! i wan’t to read part 2 of chapter 9!!!! you have a great book so far!! 🙂
Challenger Black says:
Thanks again, Holly! Here’s the next part 🙂
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 9: The Rune Dance (PART 2)
All eyes were on Jiggy-V, who was bouncing and jumping up and down like an out of control kid. She looked like a lunatic who’d just seen the impossible…but she sounded so convincing and excited, they just had to come and see. Those who’d been dancing separated and quickly made their way toward Jiggy-V. Girls who’d been standing around sipping drinks and chit chatting, heard the screaming voice and gasped, not expecting such a noise. Then, they slowly made their way to where the overexcited, manic girl was standing. In no time at all, more than half the people in the room had made their way to where Jiggy-V stood. They formed a half circle behind her, all wanting to see what the big fuss was about.
But when they saw what she’d called them there for…they too burst out laughing till their eyes filled with tears. The guys cackled. The girls giggled unstoppably and whispered to one another, pointing, only to burst out laughing yet again. Bobby stood there, staring around at the amused crowd and back to Layra and LaBerge, feeling speechless. He just stood there…and watched.
“Hey, hey!” howled one, pointing excitedly. “Lookie here! Looks like the clown’s got himself a girlfriend!”
“Awwwww, how sweet!” one mocked.
“What a pair!” laughed one. “Dumb and Dumber, or should I say…Clown Dumb and Clown Dumber!”
The gathered crowd erupted with sheer laughter. If what they said was true, how it was possibly to die of laughter, it was possible with this crowd. They were out of control.
Layra looked away, nuzzling her head into his chest and whispered shakily, “It’s alright. Just ignore them…it’s our night.”
LaBerge noticed Layra was starting to cry, but she didn’t want him to see. He frowned and wiped the tears from her eyes and whispered back, fighting to hold back tears, “Don’t worry. This is our night. T-they can’t ruin it…they won’t.”
The two kept their heads down and their eyes closed, hoping to block out the screams and jeers from the roaring crowd…but it was hopeless. They were now officially entertainment for this amused crowd and sadly enough…they were just getting started.
Bobby stood staring at the two in a trance. Here they were, enjoying themselves, lost in their own secret passion till Jiggy-V came along and began a riot…a cruel, sick riot. If he didn’t think this earlier, he was now convinced of it. There was no mistaking the fact that LaBerge, the colorful clothes wearing, clown loving, guy…had no friends. Not even one. Except for Layra that is, but besides her, everyone in that room on that night, jeered at him, mocked him and his “uncool” choice of clothes and danced around him, all waving their arms and chanting, “Clown Boy, Clown Boy, nothing-but-a-clown-boy!” and what Jiggy-V soon started, “Down with the Clown, Down with the Clown!” She had the crowd all worked up and rebbed up for a show. By the way things were going, you’d think her job was nothing less than to make LaBerge’s night downright miserable and if that were the case…she was succeeding.
“It’s okay, Layra,” he sniffled, nuzzling her softly. “They won’t ruin our night.” The poor guy was on the verge of losing it entirely.
“Hey, Clown Boy!” howled one. “What kind of freak goes around dressed in a rainbow tux…or is that the only style of clothes you wear?”
One of the girls stepped up, giggled and sneered, “And what’s up with the curls? Like, what the hell? What kind of guy goes around with curls in his hair?”
“Any hair elastics I can borrow, clowny?” one teased.
“I’ll bet he doesn’t even know the meaning of cool,” said one. “He’s an idiot!”
“Hey, everyone!” screamed Jiggy, bouncing up and down excitedly, clapping her hands. “I say we do something about it. We don’t want some guy dressed in a clown suit here at our dance, right?”
“Right!”
“And he’s the one who’s got us all set up for these stupid games, right?”
“Right!”
“Well then,” she continued, building the hype. “Let’s get him out of here!”
“YEAH!” they screamed back. And that’s when the howling riot began.
“Out-with-the-Clown…out-with-the-Clown…out-with-the-Clown!” They screamed those words, over and over and over till the entire room was nothing but screams and shouts and hollering shrieks.
The DJ, meanwhile, not knowing what to think, stared wide eyed at the dancing couple with a sad, sorry look in his eyes. Without a word, he got up, left the music on so it went on playing automatically, made his way across the howling room…and left.
“Get lost, freak!” one barked. “Nobody wants you here!”
“He’s spoiling all the fun!” one added. “For the love of god, the guy can’t even dress properly. I’m telling ya, this guy’s the biggest loser in all of Quillan!”
“If you can’t dress clowny, don’t show up at all, got it?”
While they went on screaming, just as loudly, LaBerge, shakily…lifted his head up and stared around at the gathered crowd; the jeering guys, the giggling girls and all the others who joined in with words of their own. He looked over each of them, getting the same reaction from each and every one. They wanted him out…gone. He shook his head, tears trickling down his cheeks. He couldn’t help it.
“Awwww, the clown’s crying!” laughed one with mock sympathy. “Aww, the poor little clownie’s crying!”
“Aw, what’s the matter clowny?”
Before pulling away from Layra, who had her head pressed up against his chest, he murmured miserably through tears, “I’m so sorry Layra…”
And with that, he turned away, put his hands into his dropped head and ran straight for the door, bawling and sobbing uncontrollably. And just as he flew out the entrance doors, right where Veego was standing, she watched him till he was entirely out of sight.
Quietly, she pulled out of her pocket a small phone-like device, pressed a few buttons, held the phone up to her ear and muttered, “Greg? Yes, it’s Veego. I’d like you to meet me in room four-one-four. Immediately.”
She tucked the phone back into her pocket and ordered the dados, “Stay here.” She then calmly walked out of the room, heading up to room four-one four.
The crowd meanwhile, erupted with cheer, clapping and whooping like crazy…and that’s when Layra lost it.
She turned on the crowd and snarled viciously “SHUT UP! You think you’re all cool standing around teasing that poor man like that! You think it’s cool to pick on someone just because they dress a little different or act a little different? Well you know what I think? You’re all just cruel! You’re the ones ruining this dance! Leave that poor man alone! For god’s sake…leave him ALONE!”
And in a furious huff…she stormed out of the now awkward and silent room. Jiggy-V stood there with her mouth open, her hands still on her hips.
“Whatever!” she said cockily. “Serves him right!”
Bobby, who’d, said nothing up till then, stomped right up to Jiggy, stared her in the eye and said through clenched teeth, “You know what, Jiggy? Maybe you’re the one who should get lost.”
He turned away and headed for the door, his head boggling like crazy. He had no idea earlier, what to expect from the Rune Dance…but it definitely wasn’t that.
“Booby, wait, come back!” she cried desperately. “It was all a joke! You little meany! Fine, get lost! See if I care, you big fat piece a cake! Go eat some pudding!”
LaBerge meanwhile, hurried through the castle halls, sniveling and sobbing as if his heart would break. He stormed through the doors and found himself among the familiar sight he’d strolled through not long ago. The dining tables, the stone carved fountains, the fresh gardens and of course…the pools where he’d shared his first kiss with Layra.
He sighed and walked up to the pool, sat down and stared down at the calm, still water. His eyes were sore and red from crying and even when he tried stopping, the tears came back only seconds later… with all those cruel, heartless words. The night he’d looked so much forward to, a night where him and Layra, the woman he loved, could enjoy themselves…had just turned out to be one of the worst nights of his life. No…the worst night of his life. Things couldn’t have gone any worse. It was supposed to be the greatest night of his life, after all he’d been through in the past thirty years and now…it had all fallen apart.
“So much for the best day ever,” he thought gloomily, rubbing his eyes.
Just then, he heard footsteps. He looked back and saw Layra slowly walking up to him, her own eyes red from crying. She sat down next to him and for a while, both were silent. They didn’t know what to say. Layra had assured LaBerge that that night was going to work out alright, yet here he was… sobbing his poor heart out. She crawled up onto his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck and softly rested her head onto his shoulder, letting her own tears pour out. The two sat there, holding each other while letting it all out. It had been a miserable night and they just wanted it to end. They just wanted to be left alone.
Just then, someone else strolled outside and took a seat, staring at Layra and LaBerge with a troubled look in his eyes. It was Bobby. Seeing the two there, crying as badly as they were, he decided he’d leave them be and wait a little before going over and saying something. It was quiet and lonely out there and Bobby was the only one among the tables. But he didn’t mind. Right then, he wanted to be alone and have some time to gather his thoughts after having witnessed all that madness and chaos back there at the Rune Dance…where things had gone so terribly wrong and out of control.
“I’m so sorry LaBerge,” she whispered, through tears. “I know how much you were looking forward to this, and-”
“No, it’s my fault,” he told her sadly. “I shouldn’t have gone to that dance to begin with. I’m only a host. It probably would have been better if you would have gone with one of the other guys and-”
“I wanted to go with you, LaBerge,” she said softly. “I didn’t want to go with anyone else. They’re all too young…and you’re the only one I’d want to go with. I love you.”
He sniffled, wiped his eyes and whispered “I love you too, Layra.”
Layra gazed off into the night, her mind in a million places. She then turned back to LaBerge with a changed expression.
“You know?” she said, doubt creeping into her voice. “Maybe it’s for the best that we drop this whole revolution idea. There’s too much we’re up against and we’ll never make it past Veego, let alone the entire company of Blok. It’s almost impossible. Maybe it’s best we just…let it go.”
LaBerge lifted his head up and argued, “We can’t, Layra! We’re the only ones willing to commit to this! We can’t quit now. I know it seems impossible but…I don’t want to risk losing you in the games. Not to mention all the others on Quillan who’ve been wagering. Things have changed. Thousands could die just by wagering!”
He groaned and shook his head, but then pulled himself together. “I won’t quit,” he said firmly.
Layra stared into his eyes…and could see that LaBerge was dead serious. He wasn’t giving up on the Blok Revolution…or Layra.
She closed her eyes, sighed softly and said, “Alright…I’m with you.”
He smiled and cried, “That’s the spirit!”
She wiped her eyes and chuckled.
“You want to dance?” he asked, holding his hand out.
She looked back to the castle where she saw lights and colors flashing along the glass windows, the place of the Rune Dance.
She turned back, moved her hand on top of LaBerge’s and whispered, “I’d love a dance.”
The two rose to their feet and slowly moved in, LaBerge holding Layra lovingly in his arms while she nuzzled against his chest. Holding her in his arms was probably the greatest feeling in the world for LaBerge…and he didn’t want it to end. That dance really did prove to be the closest thing to a dream with the cool air, lit candles circling the pool that let off a soft glow amid the darkness of the night, the moon high over their heads…and the calm silence around them. It was just him and Layra…and nothing would change that. This was their dance, their night…and their love. They swayed back and forth, never wanting to let go and it was then…they finally shared another warm and passionate kiss. One they’d both so longed for.
They were so lost and caught up in the moment that nothing or no one around them seemed to matter. As miserable of a night it turned out to be…being with Layra right there and then told him it wasn’t too late. He wasn’t giving up yet. He wasn’t done yet, not with the games, not with Blok and above all…not with his sister. Kissing Layra, and feeling her so close to him…it felt like a new strength was flowing inside of him. Never on his own or by himself would he have found the guts or courage to even consider putting together a revolution. But with Layra, he felt they really did have a chance at putting Quillan on the right path…and overthrowing Blok.
Moments later, they pulled apart and sat back down near the edge of the pool. Layra dipped her feet into the pool while LaBerge gazed up into the sky, lost in thought.
“Hey,” came a familiar voice.
Both Layra and LaBerge turned around and saw Bobby strolling up to them. Layra waved to him and he came and sat down next to them.
“I’m sorry about…what happened,” said Bobby sincerely. And he was. He really did feel sorry for the two and thought once and for all he ought to try to make an effort with LaBerge. He’d just been through a lot.
“And I’m sorry about how I’ve been, uh, treating you, LaBerge,” he added. “I’ll be honest, I didn’t think too much of you at first but…now I see you really are, well…not like your sister.”
LaBerge’s eyes widened in shock.
“But you said I was a goof?” he asked, puzzled.
“Yeah, well…I guess I was wrong,” said Bobby thoughtfully. “Look, you really seem to care about Layra and after hearing about this Blok revolution, well…I think I should join. I don’t know really how to say this LaBerge but…how about we start off fresh? With you and me, I mean?”
“Really?” asked LaBerge, surprised.
“Yeah,” he answered. “The games are what, two days away?”
“They’re exactly two days away,” LaBerge told him. “We’re running out of time! And while we’re here, I’d better tell you two what you’re up against, since you’re partners and all.”
“Please tell me it’s not Jiggy-V,” said Bobby.
LaBerge chuckled and then said with a scared look in his eyes, “No…it’s worse.”
Bobby and Layra exchanged glances. What could be worse than Jiggy-V? The thought made Bobby’s skin crawl.
“Tell us,” said Layra.
LaBerge took a breath, and said, “You’re going up against two of the most experienced Challengers of our time, Challenger Gray and Challenger Brown. They’re brothers and they’ve been trained and coached for years by some of the greatest Challengers in Quillan history. And they’re not friendly. They’re not people you’d want to mess with. They’re strong, brawny and they’ve got skills like no others. They’ve been told of your previous victory, Bobby, and that’s only given them the benefit of seeing how you went about this and how you dealt with the Tato match. They’ve seen everything. And let me tell you…they’re worse than Challenger Green.”
But Bobby knew the secret truth behind Challenger Green. Challenger Green was only another disguise of the demon traveler.
“So we’re doomed then?” said Bobby doubtfully.
“No, we’re not doomed!” argued Layra. “I don’t care how experienced those two think they are. Bobby, we’re partners. We’ve gotta get through this, not just to stay alive, but to start the rebellion against Blok. Times running out, people are wagering, and it’s all going to fall apart depending on how the games play out. We have to get through this.”
“There’s not much time left” LaBerge admitted, fidgeting nervously. “And it’s about-
“LaBerge!”
LaBerge jerked his head and whispered miserably, “No!”
“What?” asked Layra.
LaBerge dropped his head, saying, “It’s Veego. She knows I’m here.”
“LaBerge, come back to the office!”
LaBerge hesitated and waited a moment or two.
“NOW!” she hollered.
LaBerge sighed, got up and said quietly, “I’m not really sure where we go from here. But I’m in this rebellion. Tomorrow’s going to be a hectic day, especially for you two. You’ll be in for a full day of training and preparing for the games.”
“Please tell me I’ll see you,” whispered Layra, wrapping her arms around his neck. “And you’ll be okay with her, right?”
“I’ll be fine,” he smiled, hugging her back. “And don’t worry. I’ll stop by tomorrow and check up on you two. Just make sure you stay with Bobby. You have no idea how important it is for you two to win…you have to. Depending on the wagerings and which Challengers people are rooting for…it could all turn out a disaster.”
He then turned to Bobby and said, “You and Layra get some rest.”
Bobby nodded, and said, “You too.” He meant it.
LaBerge then gazed into Layra’s eyes, with a touch of sadness and whispered to her, “I love you so much, Layra.”
Layra stood there for a second and jumped into his arms, kissed him on the neck and said shakily, “I love you, too. Please be careful.”
Before leaving, he gave her a thumbs up and assured her, “I will. Make sure to get some rest.”
As Layra watched LaBerge make his way up to the castle doors, she saw him stumble. He quickly got back up and continued on, his shoulders drooping with his head tucked into his chest. Layra sighed…missing him already. She took a seat next to Bobby.
“Crazy night,” said Bobby, lost in thought.
“Tell me about it,” said Layra.
“So, about you and LaBerge?” asked Bobby, somewhat awkwardly. “It’s, uh…true?”
“What do you mean?”
“You know,” said Bobby casually. “You like LaBerge, LaBerge likes you? He really seems to like you. You like him?”
“I don’t like LaBerge, Bobby,” said Layra surely. “I love him. I know you might not have liked him before and it’s pretty obvious all the others think the same but…I’m just crazy about him. I’ve never in my life met a man who’s so honest, fun, and not afraid to be himself. He’s funny, bubbly, he’s got an amazing personality…and he cares.”
“So it’s true?”
“Yeah,” she said dreamily.
“So about this rebellion?”asked Bobby. “Where exactly do we go from here, with the games coming up and all? You do know what we’re up against, right?”
“That part I haven’t figured out yet,” she told him. “All I know is after hearing the way that woman treats LaBerge, how she ruined his past and made him so miserable inside…I’ll stop at nothing to get rid of her. I hate her. She’s been ruining that poor man’s life and it’s about time something was done. Look at what he’s had to deal with for the past thirty years. She has to be stopped, Bobby. Not just for the people of Quillan…but for LaBerge!”
“You do know if Veego finds out about this rebellion, we’re doomed?” Bobby told her.
“Yeah,” said Layra bluntly. “But that’s not stopping me from moving ahead with it.”
“I wonder what she’d think of you two?”
Layra shook her head and said, “She’d probably tear us apart. She’s his sister after all. There’s no telling what she’d do. She controls him, Bobby. As long as she’s around, he’s a prisoner to his own sister. That’s not even right.”
“So this is pretty much it then,” Bobby concluded. “This is going to be a final showdown. It’s not going to be about the games, the wagers or even Blok. This is even going to be a final showdown between Veego and LaBerge, a brother and sister showdown…isn’t it?
“That’s exactly what it’ll be,” she admitted sadly. “Her and LaBerge. In a way…it’ll be their war.”
“It’s kind of creepy,” said Bobby. “But we better get to bed. I don’t know about you, but I’m beat and I want to get some rest for tomorrow.”
He stood up, stretched his arms and added, “Great… so there’s no sleeping in tomorrow, is there?”
She thought that over and shook her head and said, “Not really.”
So the two got up and headed to their rooms, both tired, exhausted and wanting nothing but a good night’s sleep. That night had been an out-of-control-gone-crazy-and-wild mess. And even in Bobby’s room which was up on one of the highest floors, the blaring music could still be heard and that must have been eight floors below! Getting a bit of shut eye as long as that was still going on wouldn’t be so easy. That music was loud.
So he, same as Layra, did the most natural thing they could do. They stared up at the boring, blank ceiling for what felt like hours.
So many thoughts rushed in their heads and just as Layra was starting to drop off…she heard someone. At first, the sound was brief so she figured she’d let it go until it grew suddenly louder. There was no mistaking it was a man’s voice and by the sounds of it…he wasn’t too happy. She could hear a loud howling and whimpering echoing through the halls.
She hurried out of bed, rushed over to her door and looked out to see…no one. Whoever it was…was gone.
Trevor Planet Films says:
The robots were coming…
“Blok! Blok! Blok!”
AN SLIGHTLY obese LaBerge rotateth in his swivel chair.
and he rotateth FAST!
“What the!?”
The robots were actually coming…
“Blok! Blok! Blok!”
LaBerge at that moment proclaimeth:
“O no.”
“BambambambabambabamKAPOW!”
“AAAAOOOOOO!”
Blok had turneth Evil…er.
Trevor Planet Films says:
And then LaBerge’s rather troubled sister (whose name escapes me) put down the comedy script she had secretly been working on, and said
“I’t’s Perfect! It has everything a good comedy should have: A swivel chair, the Wilhelm Scream, and Laberge getting killed to death! Wa ha ha!”
Heather says:
Lol! That was awesome. I bet LaBerge would write a comedy with Veego trapped in the Clown Forest by a bunch of clowns 😛
Challenger Black says:
Part 2 of Chapter 9’s up. I’ll get Chapter 10 up as soon as I can.
Mozartghost says:
LaBerge’s Surreptitious Soap Opera: Act I.
The following events transpired in the Valley of the Shadow of Death.
Darknessssss.
And some insignificant character entitled Veego awoke to the ambient sounds of…the I Don’t Know Whats.
“Wa Ha Ha!”
And thus ended the First Day.
Pain!
And thus our unfavorable protagonist found herself bound!
Hands and feet!
In the surrounding area there were what appeared to be some sort of Gnomes or something yes something a bit mour sinister…
“AH HA I’ve got it: CLOWNS!”
Said the minion of Insignificance.
And then it could be seen that one such clown approached it’s prisoner. “Initiate the Restitution.” it said.
and then came the needles,
the knives,
the lasers,
the spikes,
the plastic platypuses,
the blowtorches,
“AAAAAAAEEEEEEEEOOOOOOOWWWWWW!!!!!!”
And thus ended the Second Day.
Challenger Black says:
Alright, here’s Chapter 10. Hope you enjoy!
A Sequel to the Quillan Games
Chapter 10: Meeting the Enemy
It was an early start to a long and not so eagerly awaited day. Bobby had just been slumbering away, all caught up in a great dream with an endless supply of all you can eat Garden Poultry Fries with a bucket of warm, gooey gravy when suddenly, he felt a hard, uncomfortable arm shaking him lightly. He groaned, opened his eyes to see a short dado, a robot standing over his bedside staring down at him with blank, unblinking eyes. It was Fourteen.
“Good morning, Challenger Red,” said the dado formally.
“Little early, don’t you think?” he mumbled.
“No sir,” said Fourteen. “Don’t you remember? Your training begins today. You’ve got a long day ahead of you. It’s important to assure you’re awake, fed well and fully prepared.”
“Huh?” said Bobby sleepily, rubbing his eyes.
“The games are tomorrow,” Fourteen explained. “Have you forgotten?”
“Oh!” said Bobby, just remembering. “Crap…right. Yeah, thanks for the reminder.”
“It is my job,” was his simple answer.
“Is Layra awake?” asked Bobby.
“Thirteen is currently on his way to get her,” Fourteen told him. “I’m sure the two of you will be wanting a decent breakfast to start you off, am I right?”
“Yeah!” said Bobby, feeling quite hungry and a little tired and irritably cranky. There was nothing more Bobby hated than being woken up early, right out of a dead sleep when all you want to do is lay back, sleep in and get some z’s. There’d be none of that today.
“Very good,” said the dado. “Come with me and I’ll take you down to the dining hall. I expect your friend and your partner, as I’ve been told, Layra, will be awaiting your arrival. Oh, and I’ll advise you to change into your Challenger shirt. All Challengers are expected to be wearing them, in tradition of the upcoming games. You must wear the appropriate gear, as you’re representing the trustees and the very company of Blok. Not wearing them simply wouldn’t do. Though I’m sure you’re well aware of that by now.”
“Great,” thought Bobby. In all honesty, he hated those shirts. Not because they were ugly or itchy or scratchy, but because whenever he wore that striped shirt, it meant he pretty much had a fifty-fifty chance of being killed. Each time he put on that shirt, he was putting his life on the line. Not exactly a shirt you’d want to be wearing.
As Fourteen strolled out of the room, waiting out in the hall for Bobby to get changed, Bobby sleepily and tiredly, crawled out of bed, walked over to his practically empty drawer, dug through and pulled out his red shirt with the diagonal black stripes. His old Challenger shirt.
He never thought he’d have to wear that stupid shirt again, yet there was, about to wear it again. The only reassurance he got with the upcoming games was the fact that he wasn’t going to be competing in these horrid events alone. At least he’d have a partner and with that, hopefully the two of them together would have what it took to overcome those two champions, Challenger Gray and Challenger Brown.
After quickly getting changed, he joined Fourteen and soon, the two were casually strolling through the halls, on their way to the dining hall. Many of the Challengers were up and about already, some hanging about the halls, chit chatting about either the Rune Dance, the upcoming games or what was no surprise to Bobby, himself and Layra, Challenger Red and Challenger Black. It looked like the two were becoming a heavily talked about topic and the games hadn’t even started. He wondered how popular they’d become when the games were officially on and they were out, struggling and fighting for their lives and not to mention possible thousands who placed wagers on them. Bobby had a real sick feeling these games were going to be huge, huge as in even grander and greater than the notorious Grand X.
When Bobby arrived in the dining hall, he saw Layra sitting herself down while Thirteen formally strolled away. Fourteen left Bobby and followed Thirteen away and up the stairs, going who knew where. Probably to do dado chores and dado duties. When Bobby sat down to join her, he saw her shirt, obviously with her name being Challenger Black, was black but instead of the stripes being solid black, they were a bright yellow. He saw Layra looked pretty tired and was still getting the sleep out of her eyes but she put on a casual smile as if she were up and ready to go. But he knew she felt just as tired as him.
They sat there for some while, wondering where the dado servants were and why breakfast hadn’t been prepared and served yet, when they heard approaching voices. Both turned round, listening curiously and seconds later, they saw two familiar figures strolling their way. It was Veego and LaBerge and they looked completely different in comparison with the other. Veego had that well kept, sharp look about her and her dark eyes were wide with that cold, constant stare. She wore that deep purple shaded turtleneck Bobby had seen her wear so many times before, with a pair of formal, gray pants and her hair, as usual was long and combed and slicked back perfectly. She, out of the two, was always flawless, prim and proper.
LaBerge was another story. The long, tight curls were long gone. Instead, his blonde hair was its natural wacky and wild self, sticking out in every direction and it looked frizzier and messier than usual. He wore his black and red bathrobe over a pair of polka dotted pajamas and when he sat down and joined the two Challengers, Layra saw there were dark bags under his eyes. Veego was up and ready for action, while LaBerge was out and out, dead tired.
Veego took a seat next to Bobby while LaBerge tiredly and with a long yawn, took a seat next to Layra, who smiled welcomingly. He rubbed his eyes and smiled back. Usually, LaBerge moved pretty quickly but today…he was slow, tired and looked like he hadn’t slept in days.
The meal consisted of a whopping table of freshly made pancakes, waffles, scrambled eggs, toast, cereal with sliced up strawberries, bowls of delicious fruits and a plate of warm, crispy bacon. Bobby helped himself with a plate of toast, scrambled eggs, some toast with maple syrup and his all time favorite, some stripes of bacon. Layra grabbed her own plate and filled it with some toast, eggs done the way she liked them, sunny side up, pancakes with whip cream and raspberries and a few pieces of toast with blueberry jam. They were given tall pitchers of drinks, from orange juice, to lemonade, milk and of course, tribbun juice which Bobby had never tasted but it soon became his favorite drink. He never thought he’d develop such a liking for such a weird veggie but he just couldn’t deny how delicious it was.
Veego and LaBerge helped themselves without saying a word. It was a very quiet, awkward meal and no one said much. It was pretty much a lot of munch, munch, munch, could you pass the milk please or could I have another pancake or two? There wasn’t much conversation except for when someone wanted another helping. Veego ate her meal with dead silence while lifting her head every now and then with those cold eyes, like she was keeping an eye on things, watching both Challengers suspiciously.
LaBerge was the opposite. He gulped down his meal quietly, while fidgeting nervously and biting his lip or mostly, licking his lips with an awkward, uncomfortable look in his eyes. Layra watched him and sent him assured smiles that seemed to say, “It’s alright.” Whatever was going on between Veego and LaBerge, or what had happened the previous night, it was right now between them two. Veego didn’t look like she planned on saying much. At all.
Once the meal was finished with Bobby and Layra both stuffed, Veego said formally, “Alright, now that that’s all taken care of, you two can follow these two here into the gymnasium.”
“Gymnasium?” said Bobby. “Isn’t-”
“Yes, the gymnasium,” said Veego sharply. “Where else do you expect your training to be held? The games are fast approaching Challenger Red and it’s about time you accepted that. You’re up against a lot more than you think. I suggest you smarten up and take this seriously or if not, face the consequences, if that’s what you wish.”
“Yeah?” he said jokingly.
Veego shot him a cold glare, saying, “Why of course.”
“And where’ll you be while we’re off working our butts off, hmm?” he asked, raising a brow.
“Taking care of official business,” snapped Veego. “I’d drop the smart ass comments and focus and getting through these events, if that’s even possible. Now get going.”
So while the dados came hurrying in, taking the plates and hurrying back into the kitchen to clean them off, Bobby and Layra got up and started for the hall. Bobby would have went on arguing with Veego if he could but he didn’t want to waste any more time, knowing it would get him nowhere. The most he’d get out of it were a few smart ass comments, and that wasn’t going to help prepare him for what was to come.
While they were leaving, Layra looked over her shoulder and saw Veego whispering something into LaBerge’s ear. LaBerge, who stood shuffling his feet and licking his lips, said nothing at all. The guy looked tense.
Bobby stopped, noticing Layra wasn’t following and glanced back. Veego then grabbed hold of her brother, tightly and firmly by the arm and, like a scolded child, dragged him out of the room while snapping, barking and bickering at him to keep quiet. In other words, she was demanding him to simply shut up. The poor guy flinched and shivered. Before disappearing out of sight, he caught Layra’s gaze, who stared at him with a worried frown. He gave her a helpless shrug and a quick weak smile.
She only hoped he’d be there to root them on and give her the support and encouragement she so desperately needed. Wherever Veego was dragging him to, she only hoped, he’d be there for her. For a moment, she panicked, wondering if Veego had caught them, her and LaBerge nuzzling at the Rune Dance because if so, odds are LaBerge was in for a mean punishment. A time out from Veego herself, which couldn’t be good.
“He’ll be back,” Bobby assured her, seeing the fear in her eyes. “Veego probably just needs her partner to, you know; get ready for the games and whatnot. He’ll come.”
She sighed and answered, “I hope you’re right.”
And with that, they left the dining hall and made their way to the gymnasium, with two dado’s professionally leading the way. The dados led them every which way, down a floor or two, past the empty rooms where the Challengers had once been, past an indoor pool and finally, down another three floors where they found themselves approaching two huge, heavy wooden doors that towered high in front of them. Bobby and Layra stared up and realized how puny and tiny they were, compared with this gigantic, monstrous door.
“This is the gymnasium,” said one dado, pulling the doors open with ease.
“This is where you’ll be spending your afternoon,” said the other, gesturing for them to enter. They exchanged looks; nodded and walked on in…and into the biggest, most incredible gym they’d ever seen. This wasn’t your ordinary, junior high gym or even your typical high school gym. Not even close. This was a whole lot bigger and a great deal more impressive. Compared to Bobby’s gym back at Stony Brook Junior High, this gym was easily at least three times that. The floor was so spotlessly polished and taken care of, you’d have no chance of your sneakers not squealing and squeaking along the immaculate floor. The ceiling was way up there, so high in fact, it made their heads hurt for a second till they realized how terribly high it actually way. It was like the ceiling went on and on forever as if there were no end to it.
And as they stepped in, taking it all in, trying to get over how incredibly huge and massive the place was, they saw they weren’t going to be the only ones working their sore, tired butts off. All round them in their own corners, working hard and working up a mean swea…were other Challengers. Those who Bobby recognized back in the halls were now here in this huge gymnasium, preparing and training themselves for what was to come. They needed to get in just as much time and dedication to preparations as him and Layra needed. They were all Challengers and were all in the same boat.
Some were doing push-ups, over and over till their arms shook like mad. But they kept on going, like it were no biggie. Others did sit-ups, crunches, laps around the huge, lengthy perimeter of the gym, warm ups, stretches and those few who proved themselves to be relatively strong among the rest; some serious weight lifting. And these weren’t your simple five pound weights. Oh no. These competitors were lifting weights up to fifteen pounds, barely breaking a sweat. Either they were foolishly strong or they were desperate and determined to push themselves to the max. Probably a little of both. Bobby’s mouth hung open when he saw all this.
Layra just stood there, her eyes wide in shock. Bobby and Layra’s own personal game against Challengers Brown and Gray may have been tomorrow, but by the looks of it, it seemed like these Challengers here were just as busy and had worries of their own to deal with. For all they knew, any of them could have been preparing for a game that was scheduled to take place on that very day? Perhaps two hours later? They all shared something in common though. They were all working to win, walk out victorious and even more importantly…alive.
The dados, having done their job; turned round and marched off, going somewhere else to accompany someone else needing a favor.
Bobby and Layra shook their heads and moved in further, staring around at all the hard working Challengers, wondering if they stood even the slightest chance. When they found their own private spot, a little ways into the gym where Bobby was just starting an early stretch, Layra suddenly gasped and tapped him on the shoulder. He looked up and saw her pointing off to the right.
He glanced over, shrugged and asked, “What?”
“Look!” she said, pointing timidly. “Don’t you see?”
“Wait,” he said, his eyes squinting. “You don’t think-”
“Yeah,” she said, slowly shaking her head. “I’d say that’s them.”
Bobby gulped. “Oh, man. They’re nuts!”
“Yup” thought Bobby, thinking it over. “We’re doomed. For sure. Time to pack up and head for home!” But he knew he was in this till the end, whether that meant succeeding in the events…or losing and taking the ultimate fall.
Standing a little ways off, not far from their own spot were two impossibly tall men…both wearing those familiar diagonal striped shirts. One quick look told them there was only one possibility. Entering that gym, they’d just come across the two opponents, the two competitors whom they were going up against. Challenger Brown and Challenger Gray. And they were monsters. They were easily about 6’4, with long shoulder length curly brown hair, sharp, beady little eyes, black as hell, nicely tanned skin and above all, strong, impressive muscles.
These two could have been body builders with the sort of bodies they had. After looking them over, Bobby and Layra both agreed on something. They were twins. No question. They were identical and they could hardly tell them apart as if they were in fact the same person, somehow split in two. And they were mean looking. Real mean.
Those two, Bobby guessed, could probably stare you down till your eyes hurt and then give you a real smack if they were in a cranky enough mood. What Bobby wondered was what sort of temper these two had. Could they take a joke? Did they take things dead serious? Were they easy going, laid back without a care in the world sort of guys?
Probably not.
“One thing’s for sure,” thought Bobby, his throat going dry. “Some time tomorrow, I’m gonna get my ass kicked…bad.”
“Don’t let them see us,” whispered Bobby. “That’s all we need is them storming over. They’d beat the hell out of us.”
“We’re fine,” Layra assured him, lowering her voice just in case. “They’re not even looking. Just keep your back to them.”
But that, as they realized about two seconds later, wasn’t going to work. Those two Challengers saw them alright and they weren’t about to ignore it and carry on with their dead serious work out. They slapped one another on the backs and came straight…toward them! Bobby held back and tried casually looking away as if he were doing something else, which obviously he wasn’t. He was just scared of getting his ass kicked a day too early. Layra stood there stock still, watching with wide eyes at the tall, hefty men making their way on over with huge manly grins on their big, mean faces.
Soon, the four Challengers stood face to face. Bobby kept his mouth shut and his eyes to the floor, praying they were in a relatively good mood and weren’t in the mood to kick some serious ass. If that were the case…they’d be doomed.
“Hey,” said one flatly.
“Uh, hi,” said Layra nervously. “You, um, you must be Challenger Gray, and Challenger Brown, right?”
“Well, duh,” barked the other quickly. “Who else would ya think it was? Old Granny Manny?”
His brother laughed. Bobby and Layra didn’t. They were far too afraid to do much of anything, except stand there and do all they could not to get on their bad side. They only hoped these two had a good side to work with.
“And you’re Challengers Red and Black, I assume?” chuckled the other. “Surely, this must be a joke. Really, you two aren’t much bigger than children! Hilarious!”
“I, uh…I won the Grand X, you know,” Bobby threw him, risking it all right there and then to put on his bravest face, at the time…wasn’t very brave. Still, it was a shot.
Challenger Brown leaned in, scoffed and laughed till his beady little eyes were watering, “Oh, is that right? Ok, little boy. We get it. You think just because you won a little game of Grand X, played a little hop scotch and some leap frog that you’re the ultimate champion, the winner, the big man? Well, let me tell ya…you better get the facts straight and get into your head that we’re the champions here. Got it? Don’t go saying things that aren’t true.”
“The Grand X is for simpletons,” added Challenger Gray cockily. “And if you think winning that’s your biggest accomplishment, and now you’re going to get a gold medal and a pat on the back, well, we hate to break it to ya but, you see, you’re practically at this point what we like to call, hopeless. You’ve got no chance of getting out of this, alive.”
“We’ve beaten the Grand X dozens of times,” bragged Challenger Brown, with a smug smile. “It’s one of the easier games if you ask me. It’s like chess really, a little strategy, a few clever moves here and there and boom! Winner takes all. Nothin’ to it, really.”
“Yeah?” said Layra, trying to humor them. Actually, she was terrified to the bone, but she wasn’t going to show it. Not yet, anyway.
“Oh, yeah,” said Challenger Brown quickly. “And we’ll let you in on a little something, you’re in for one hell of a ride, you can count on that. We’ve already heard all about these little so called games tomorrow. Can’t say I’m exactly scared but hey, if you two are, that’s quite alright with me. Never hurts to show a little gut, a little fear, eh bro?”
His brother shrugged and grinned.
“Sure, why not?” he said swaggering.
“What do you know?” asked Bobby.
“It’s called the Great Four,” Challenger Gray explained, sounding as if he knew all about it, which odds are, he did. “And seeing as we’ve been played this game before, you’d better watch yourselves. Really, take care of yourselves out there. Get going while you can but, watch out, cuz we’ll be right there with ya. Every step of the way!”
“What about the wagerings?” asked Layra hesitantly. “You know what’s going on with those?”
“Are you nuts!” laughed Challenger Brown. “We’ve got the entire city of Rune behind us. Heck, we’re just the greatest and nobody can stand not voting for us. By the time this whole crazy event’s over, we’ll have the entire territory in our favor. It’s just, how do you say it, so easy? We’re champions. Who wouldn’t vote for us? You two, on the other hand, are mere rookies. No more than young simpletons. You’re average. Nothing special bout you two, that’s for sure. You’re just two simple teens hoping to get outta this thing alive, just like all the other hopeless Challengers here. You’re all ridin’ the same boat, sadly. Oh well.”
Challenger Gray added smugly “Sucks to be you.”
Bobby and Layra said nothing to that. As hard as it was not to lose it and take a punch or two at those two babbling braggers, they had to act wisely. Not foolishly. Starting a fight definitely wasn’t wise.
“Well,” sighed Challenger Brown, stretching his arms casually. “Better get back to work. Lots a training to do. Don’t worry, by tomorrow morning, we’ll have taken care of you two so terribly, you won’t even know what hit ya. Think of it this way. You’ll feel no pain.”
Before turning to leave, Challenger Gray called back cheerfully, “No pain…no game! That’s what I always say!”
“We’re so dead,” said Bobby bluntly.
Layra shot him a quick look and argued, “Not while I’m here! Come on, we got work to do.”
“Have you even seen how huge they are?” he said, his eyes widening. “Those two are like, pro wrestler huge or omething. It’s not even funny.”
“Yeah, I know,” she said thoughtfully. “But we’ve gotta get going. You wanna get through this, don’t you?”
“Well…yeah,” said Bobby flatly.
“Then we can’t give up,” said Layra firmly. “We still have a chance. Plus…I’m sure it’s not that bad.”
She had no idea how completely and utterly wrong she was.
Holly says:
Good chapter 10! Action is on it’s way! i can’t wait for the game/match with Bobby and Layra against the crazy challengers gray and brown!