The Sparkan Scrolls

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The Sparkan Scrolls

By K. Andrew Watkins

Originally Written in 1984

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This is a work of fiction. All the characters and events portrayed in this

book are either products of the author's imagination or are used

fictitiously.

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"Enter," came a voice from the darkened room. As Halan flicked on a light, the door slid open and

The Searcher entered. The Searcher was large creature with four arms and four legs. However, his

disposition was one of mild temperament. A stranger would most assuredly take him for a warrior. As

he approached the administrator, he habitually glanced around briefly.

Halan was sitting behind the desk. The wall on his left was lined with black computer cartridges

numbering in the hundreds. A white computer was centered in the middle of this, with a chair in front.

To his right was a comfortable sitting area. It was furnished with a low table surrounded by a couch

and two chairs. The entire room was covered with deep pile blue carpeting. The only light came from

the walls which glowed faintly.

"Halan, you look like you have just awakened," said The Searcher

"I must have dozed off. I haven't had much sleep lately," said the dwarfish administrator, rubbing

his eyes. "What news Searcher?"

"I have found someone to carry the Scrolls, from Earth," replied the large three-eyed alien.

"Very good." said the administrator. "Please make the arrangements. Brief me when you have

completed them."

"Certainly." replied The Searcher.

He turned and walked slowly out the door. Halan just sat there, hopeful and relieved. After he left

the administrator, The Searcher took a shuttle to a bustling communications complex. He situated

himself in front of a larger-than-usual interspace terminal. With the complex so busy, he surrounded

himself with a sound reflecting shield and proceeded to punch in letters and numbers.

"This is code 'Searcher 9324' requesting a transmission to 'Initiator 1002', Sol Quadrant," he

voiced into the microphone. "Please stand by for code and voice confirmation," replied a pleasant

electronic voice. After 2 or 3 seconds the voice returned.

"Code and voice confirmed, connection commencing, patching through." After two more minutes,

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another voice came through.

"Hello."

"Hello; this is Searcher."

This is Saan, Good Morning Searcher."

"Good evening. You have an assingment from Baladine Administration."

"Certainly," replied Saan affirmatively. What is the request?"

"We need transport for an earthling to Baladine. He knows nothing about Us, so use the cover-

up."

"Which station, Egyptian?" asked the Initiator. "No, better use Cascadian, it's less crowded,"

answered the Searcher.

"Affirmative, canceling transmission."

"Also canceling."

The screen went blank at both ends. Saan stood up and walked out of his apartment, thoughtful.

The Main Character

Steven Somar was walking home after another normal day of work. Well, perhaps not quite

normal as he felt more depressed than usual. He had walked from the bus, almost the whole block

home, when he stopped and looked around at the quiet street which he lived on. He sighed. 10 years

he had been here. 10 years during which he certainly had plenty of opportunities to move up and

move on.

He continued walking to the apartment complex where he lived, climbed the two flights of stairs,

and entered the apartment. Laura, his partner, was there, sitting in an easy chair.

Get off work early? asked Steven.

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"Yup," replied Laura, "How you."

"I'm okay," he said without much pizazz, sitting down.

"Something up?" She asked.

"Well you know how it is. When you want to do something but don't have the motivation."

"Yes, I suppose so, but the right thing will come at the right time," She said sympathetically. "This

state will pass."

She got up and went into the kitchen, Steven following her. Thanks for being so understanding

Laura," he said.

"Of course. What are best friends for," she said and smiled.

"How about Chinese take-out tonight?" he asked.

"Hmm...okay," she answered.

The order was phoned in and Steven went to make the pick-up. The meal was quiet with plenty of

small talk. When it was over, Steven arose and went into the foyer.

I must pop over to see Ma, he said putting on his coat. Back in a few.

I won't be here, Steve responded Laura. Evening class, remember?

Ah, right. See you tomorrow then?

Sure, Steve. They kissed and Steve went out.

The drive to his mother's place was a short 5 minutes into a co-housing community. Steven had

considered joining at the time of building but enjoyed his space at the time. And now? Inertia ruled.

He greeted a few members and went to unit 4B.

Hello Ma, he said upon entering and seeing Jo. How was your day?

Great! Busy. Yours?

No great shakes, he answered. You asked to see me tonight?

"Yes, Steven," she responded. "I was going to wait several weeks, but I feel I should give it to you

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now."

"What is it?" he asked anxiously.

"Wait a minute," she said and went into her bedroom, coming back with a medallion and putting it

around his neck with a chain. It had a note attached to it, which read 'from your Mother, with love."

"Why Mother, it's wonderful." he said handling it carefully. The necklace was made up of a chain

of many rings which seemed to have a bluish hue to them. From the chain hung an octagonal pendant

with a facing of 7 obsidian stones surrounding a white ivory-colored four-pointed star.

"What is the chain made of?" he questioned.

"I was told it was made of a Cobalt-Titanium alloy."

"I can't imagine where you got it from," Steven said.

"Your father, who died just before you were born, gave this to me. He said I should give it to you

and that I would know the proper time."

"Well, I don't know what to say," Steven said.

"You don't have to say anything. It was a gift after all."

After this, they had tea and crumble. He helped clean the kitchen and when this was done, he

bade good night to his mother.

"Thanks for dessert, Ma. I think I am going to leave early. I have some reading to catch up on."

"Good night Steven." They hugged and he left the co-house.

He spent the rest of the evening reading a book about a young man who left Earth and became a

space traveler. He drifted off to sleep reading, and dreamed of a glowing white city in a strange land.

He woke up promptly at eight o'clock and prepped for classes today. It was Thursday and he had

sociology and physics. Breakfast was raisin bran and grapefruit. He left the apartment around eight-

forty five. On his way to classes, he kept thinking about the pendant his mother had given him. He

wondered at the meaning of the words his father had given to her. The morning went by and just

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before lunch, Susan, his coordinator came in.

May I have a word, Steven? she asked. Steven gestured to an empty chair. She sat and

continued.

As you know, our department sends a rep to the Seattle Conference every year. We've talked

about it and decided to offer it to you. Whaddya say?

Are you kidding? Sure! said Steven excitedly. This was just the break he was looking for to get

out of his doldrums.

Very good. Details will be forthcoming.

Steven dreamed of the color silver that night. The following Tuesday, checking his school mailbox,

Steven found the details promised for the conference. It would be held in two months and last a week.

Without Laura, it would have been the longest wait ever. As it was, Steven was looking forward to it

immensely. Work followed school and day followed day. Excitement increased.

There is little need for the reader to have details ad nauseum. Steven worked in the comic book

business and the conference was related to that. Seattle was, of course, Seattle. Pikes Place, the

Dome, some day trips. Five days passed and it was his last evening. He was to go out with a group of

colleagues for a final fling on the town. He walked to the transit center and entered an elevator taking

him to the subway. Upon pressing the button that would take him there, the door closed and he

waited. And waited. And waited. The elevator wasmoving, and moving quickly but it was moving for

far to long. He waited some more. Movement stopped, the door opened, Steven looked out and

fainted.

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Worlds Apart

When he woke, Steven was sitting in a lounge chair in a strange office. The light glowed brightly

but gently. Then a figure appeared and faced him. It was a tall man covered in black. Not a bit of flesh

was showing and even his face was covered with a hood. He spoke.

"Mister Somar, hello. You may call me Saan. That's S double A-N.

"Okay, Steven replied with a grin. "What happened?"

"You took the elevator," said the stranger.

What happened then? asked Steven Did I see what I thought I saw?

Yes, said Saan. This elevator has taken you to a place most humans have no conception of,

except through Hollywood. Would you please follow me," he said more somberly.

"Of course," Steven replied becoming nervous at the mans tone. This is not a dream, is it?

"Not at all. It is just something your rational mind can't grasp. Use your imagination and

everything will fall into place. If you would follow me you will understand everything." Steven followed,

somewhat awed.

Everything was made of plastic and metal. Steven followed Saan into what looked like another

elevator. The tall gentleman pressed a button after the doors closed and the elevator began to move

laterally. Saan was speaking.

"It was 10 of your centuries ago that the first extraterrestrials arrived. About 5 centuries ago, this

hub, and others like it were created. We have been using these hubs for intergalactic communications

and planetary development."

"Excuse me," Steven interjected, "but who are we'?" It felt an illusion but not dreamlike. So,

Steven took it in stride. Thankfully, a career in the comics had prepared him for amazing experiences.

"We are representatives of the planet Baladine. The governmental center for the entire Milky

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Galaxy," answered Saan. Steven blinked his eyes but said nothing. The elevator stopped and Steven

felt his stomach settle. "You have just moved 10 miles from Seattle." Saan pressed more buttons.

"Security clearance 1002," he said. A few seconds later, a metallic voice answered.

"Clearance confirmed." Saan pulled on a lever and the doors opened with a gush of air. He and

Steven stepped out. What Steven saw caused his eyes to open wide with awe. The room beyond the

elevator was immense. It looked like a future hangar bay. Runways seemed to be going every way

except up and down. Saan was speaking.

"This is our Northwest Harbor base. You must be overwhelmed by it, as your society has nothing

like this."

Indeed not, Steven answered to himself.

The floor had channels of light pulsating on it. A number of ships were lined up around the

hangar. These ships were spherical in shape and transparent so the inside could be seen in detail.

How the hangar was lighted, Steven couldnt tell, but it was definitely lighted. It looked like daylight.

He followed Saan to what looked like a golf cart and climbed in after him. Saan pulled on a lever and

the unit started to move forward. A low hum followed along with it. The cart was traveling fast but

Steven managed to catch glimpses of the area. They passed ships, carts, strange looking machinery,

piles of boxes, and many other materials. There were even a few maintenance people. This surprised

Steven because he thought they would look like bizarre aliens. But of course Saan looked like a

human, at least in shape. Even so, he still had to inquire about them.

"Are these maintenance people from your planet Baladine?"

"No, they are recruited from your own planet. There are many humans and others from your

planet in the employ of Baladine Administration."

They continued on for several more yards until they stopped at a particular space vehicle. Saan

got out followed by Steven, a bit slower. They walked past the ship through a doorway in the far wall

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entering a clean office. It was a comfortable size and had ten cubicle desks around the perimeter plus

two in the middle. They walked to an area on one side which had two chairs across from each other.

Saan deposited himself and said to Steven with a gesture,

"Take a seat."

Steven did.

Saan continued speaking. "I suppose you're still a bit dazed from the shock. I would be too,

under the circumstances. In fact, I was, at one time. In any case, I hope you will bear with me while I

try to bring you up to speed.

Steven said,"Very well."

First, do you have any questions," asked Saan.

"Yes," replied the other. "Since there has been a logical sequence of events, I must suppose that I

am here for a reason which I have not fathomed. So, why am I here?" he finished.

"You have been picked to perform a mission of utmost importance. You must, should you decide

to accept it, carry a document into a parallel universe to a planet we think is named Sabor. The way is

beset with dangers, so if you decline the mission, we will send you home without any onus on you at

all. I may say we are going to aid you in every way we can."

"You know, I really would like to believe all of this. Maybe my imagination refuses to believe it

also. In any case, I don't suppose there'd be any harm in agreeing to it. You must have had a pretty

good reason to choose me. I am wondering, though, what qualifications I have that you could possibly

be interested in"

"Well, to begin with, the studies show that your mind is extremely comprehensive in learning

situations. A high degree of psychic potential is also indicated. Your coordination is exceptional.

Basically, these are the qualities we are looking for.

"Sounds interesting to say the least. I accept it. I must admit to being a little fearful if this is

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actually happening and not a very detailed delusion."

Well, my personal opinion indicates you will be successful."

Both were quiet for a few seconds, each busy with his own thoughts. After a minute Saan arose

and said, "If you have no more questions, let us get you prepared."

"No questions." replied Steven. Saan and Steven went back to the cart and climbed aboard.

The cart shot forward and continued on until they came to an intersection and turned sharply left.

They drove some more and arrived at a small hangar with closed doors. The hangar seemed to be

made of an all-white metal. Steven thought it was glowing.

"I have never seen a metal like that before," He said staring at it intently.

"Beautiful, isnt it. I understand it's made of Tantalum, Vanadium, and chalk or something like that

and put under tremendous heat and pressure together with some inert ingredients. It's very popular

among the higher classes and also very expensive."

They walked to a side door which slid open and Saan ushered Steven inside. There was no sight

or sound except a faint glimmer in the distance and a low hum.

"May I introduce you to your passport to the stars," Saan said behind Steven in a wondrous voice.

The lights came on and Steven gasped, awe struck.

"My god, what is it?" he asked breathing heavily.

"This is the ship which will transport you to Baladine; and perhaps further." The ship was

magnificent in Stevens eyes. It must have been made of the same material as the hangar. Dazzling

white, as of something glowing. He estimated the ship around seventy-five feet in length, twenty-five

feet wide and with a height of twenty feet.

"If this is real, it certainly seems dreamlike."

"It's the newest thing in this line of ships. Thought wave propulsion. It's even automated. Let's

take a look inside."

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They went up to the glistening ship and climbed up a ladder, one on each side.

"Hold tight," Saan said and pressed a sequence of buttons. A part of the ship slid back revealing

the cabin below. Saan pointed inside. "Why don't you go inside; get a feel for the craft." Steven

climbed down another ladder slowly and looked around. He was in the middle of a small cavity. There

was a couch contraption behind him and a cockpit in front.

"Fantastical," Steven murmured as he climbed out of the cabin.

"Dreams come true, it would seem," he remarked when he came out. "When do I start?" he

asked.

"Right away, if you wish." Saan replied.

"Just one thing," he paused,"What about the people who know me. Some of them would get

worried, to say the least."

"Don't worry, we'll make the arrangements."

"I guess there are no hangups then," Steven said slowly, as if not quite sure of himself.

"Very well, then let's get you suited up." Saan led Steven to a door at the back of the hangar.

They went through into a small locker room and Saan explained.

"This is your flight suit." He brought out a white suit and helmet with directions. "Just read the

directions and put it on. It's quite simple. I'll get the ship ready." He turned and walked out and Steven

was left to put on the suit. "How does this man expect me to put this on," he said quietly to himself.

He stood looking at it and then sat down and read the directions. It did turn out to be simple and he

didnt have much trouble putting it on. He still felt lost and confused but at least the place wasn't

chaotic. After finishing up in the locker room, he walked to the ship. There were hoses running over

the floor as well as a few maintenance people. A foreman was issuing orders and moving about. In no

time at all, preparations were completed and Steven walked over to Saan who was sitting and

watching the action.

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"Is everything almost ready?" the young man asked.

"Everything is ready," was the reply. They walked over to the ship and climbed in. Saan

explained, "the ship will be automatically controlled for the duration of your trip to Baladine. In order to

accelerate your education, we are going to put you into time suspension and feed information directly

into your mind. It's not totally effective but will provide you with a leading edge when you get to

Baladine. Lay yourself down on the couch capsule and we will handle the takeoff." Steven went over

and sat on the edge, not sure how he felt at this time. He found courage somehow and spread himself

out.

"I am not sure if we will meet again," said Saan, "but I wish you the best of luck and good fortune.

Fare well."

He finished pulling some switches. A shield on the capsule slid shut and Steven fell asleep.

A New World

Steven woke up, blinded by a light in his eyes. As his head cleared, he noticed with a shock that

the ceiling looked unusual. He could only stare, not sure how to react.

"Welcome to Baladine," said a strange high voice from a corner. Steven whipped his head up and

looked around. In a far corner was the source of the voice. Steven had seen these sorts of people in

publications put out by his company. Gnomelike the man was and his eyes shimmered of all the

colors of the rainbow. He was cleanly shaved but his hair stretched down beyond his waist.

"Pleased to make your acquaintance Steven." the strange man said.

"Excuse me sir, but where did you say l was?" he asked bewildered.

"The planet Baladine." answered the other. The small man came over, a smile on his face. He

looked at Steven and decided there were no odd effects from the trip. A bit tired and disoriented, that

was all.

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"Would you mind if I thought about this for awhile. Sort of get things in focus?" Steven was starting

to believe everything, as fantastic as it was.

"Certainly, take as long as you like," said the other in response. He turned to go from the room

when Steven called from behind. "What's your name?"

"Halan," he replied simply, leaving the room. Steven was left alone. After two days of thinking

very hard about the circumstances, interspersed with meals delivered, Steven heard the door open.

The gnome who called himself Halan entered.

"Good Morning," he said with the same smile. "Is everything in focus now?"

"Enough," said Steven and smiled himself. It felt strange since he hadn't done that for a long

time.

"Then shall we go?"

"Certainly." Steven noticed that he was wearing a tight but comfortable one-piece uniform. It

seemed to flex in a most unusual way when he moved. In any case, they moved out to a moving

walkway and were transported to a turbolift. They took the lift down several levels and stepped out

onto another walkway and continued on into another room. This room had a circular control panel in

the middle with two oval chairs in front of a view screen. They sat down.

"It's amazing that I seem to recognize so many objects here," said Steven with surprise in his

voice. "Is that the subliminal processing I had en route?"

"Indeed it is." said Halan. "It also accounts for your understanding of my language. You

responded particularly well to that knowledge."

"Would you mind if I tried to use this computer."

"Not at all. Do try."

Steven began punching in numbers and letters at a resounding speed. Images flashed on the

screen at a tremendous rate.

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"Ah, you are the Administrator," said Steven, half to himself. It's amazing: my comprehension and

memory have increased ten-fold. I seemed to have acquired eidetic memory. Fantastic."

"It is fantastic, said Halan, since the program is not normally capable of such proportions.

astounding." The last images on the screen consisted of three rolls of paper with strange illuminated

markings on them.

"That's strange," said Steven, a bit puzzled. "I cannot seem to read these markings. Can you

account for them Halan?"

"In a way," said the administrator. These are the Sparkan Scrolls; your mission, as it happens.

Despite countless sensor readings and studies by experts in the field of ancient scripts, we cannot

seem to make anything of these." he answered. "Apparently, as they come from another universe,

they must be drastically different in origin from anything we have come across before."

"I hope I will be able to discover the meaning," said Steven. "What a find it would be."

"Perhaps you will," said Halan as he arose. That ended the conversation. He went back to the

corridor, Steven following him. They proceeded on until they came to a gigantic gymnasium. Many

aliens were doing different activities. Some were doing jumps, others were vaulting, still others were

climbing, swimming, or flying. The place looked something like a menagerie to Steven. There were

claws, snouts, teeth, and limbs of all proportions, and even some relatively human-looking creatures.

Steven had never seen anything quite like it. Despite all this activity, there were still numerous empty

spaces. Halan was speaking nearby.

"This is the municipal gymnasium." You will be starting your training for the mission here."

"Will I be given an instructor for this?" questioned Steven.

"Of course. You're about to meet him. You need not speak to him about why you are here.

Come," he ended. They went to a door nearby and knocked. The door slid open and a nasal voice

with a strange vibration spoke. "Enter," it said. They did so.

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When Steven entered, he was not surprised at the appearance of the voice's owner. The creature

was covered from head to toe in fur and looked as much like a large cat as anything Steven had seen

on Earth. The vibration must have been similar to a purr. The cat-creature had blue fur. His eyes

were very observant, yellow and seemed to penetrate Steven when the creature looked at him.

"Steven, this is Zelmaric, Zel for short; your trainer." introduced Halan.

"Delighted." said the cat-like creature.

"Likewise, Im sure." returned Steven politely.

"Zel will carry on in my capacity as your guide as well." Halan explained, "for the duration of your

physical training." he paused. "With that, I bid you farewell until the following mission." He turned

abruptly and walked out the door, leaving Steven and Zelmaric alone.

Zel broke the silence. "I don't like long formalities, so we will get right down to business. Your

training will commence with guided gymnastics for 60 rotations followed by simulated survival training

for 16 rotations. You need not be concerned about the schedule as it will fall into place." Zelmaric

pressed a buzzer switch and a smaller alien came in. "Saad, show Steven Somar to his quarters.

Here is his location disk." Saad nodded and Zelmaric handed Saad a plastic case and turned to

Steven. "Follow Saad to your quarters and I will see you in the morning."

"In the morning." parroted Steven and followed Saad out the door. The gymnasium was still busy

with activity even though the sun had set. They took a shuttle to a housing complex and that is where

Steven ended the day. The final preparations were about to begin. In the first phase of training,

Steven became adept at many sports. Swimming, climbing, archery, rowing, karate, fencing, to name a

few. He became skillful with the laser rifle and pistol, the piloting of ships and demolition devices. In

the second phase of physical training, he was able to culminate all previous training. Hunting, building

shelters, and defense against enemies and predators were a few of the tests he had to overcome.

During all this time, Saad became a good friend, uplifting his spirits and encouraging him in every step

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of the process. In this way, the time passed quickly, and then it was over. His total score was 997

pints out of 1000. On the last day, Steven and Saad were sitting in Zel's office. Zel was speaking.

"Steven," he said, "You have done quite well. You have achieved 99.7 percent, which is quite well

considering the short length of training.

Your next step in training will be given by a Dr. Labinthra. This will be mental training, such as

telepathy, telekinesis, empathy, and levitation."

"Zel, before I came to Baladine, I would have thought these psychic powers to be pure fantasy.

It's amazing how much my perspective has increased. Now, they seem within the realm of probability.

I would like to thank you for your educating and guidance. It's been wonderful." They embraced and

said goodbye to each other. Steven, who had memorized the city for the most part, went to the

Psychic Building in section B2 of the city. He arrived at the front desk and approached a receptionist,

a multi-armed and multi-fingered individual with a pleasant disposition.

"Where do I find Dr. Labinthra," he asked her. She punched on keys at the computer terminal and

found the answer.

"Level five number 115 is her location," answered the woman, smiling.

"Thank you," said Steven who then departed. He located a turbolift and went up to level five.

Once there he went to a room labeled one hundred, then fifteen more. The door at room number 115

opened mysteriously and he entered a spacious room full of electronic gadgetry. People were moving

about and *working with highly technical machinery. Some were sitting in chairs with electrodes

attached to their heads. On a hunch, Steven walked over to a figure with it's back turned to him. Just

as he was almost upon it, the figure turned, got up from the chair she was sitting in, and almost walked

into him. They stared at each other for several seconds, when Steven started speaking.

"Excuse me, but where would I find Dr. Labinthra?"

"You're talking to her," she said in a most rushed voice. "May I help you in a minute?"

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"Please," he returned, "I'll wait."

She walked off, leaving him among the bustle. In a minute, she was back, wiping her hands on

her smock, not because she had to but because of habit.

"So, what can I do for you?" she asked breathlessly.

"My name is Steven Somar. I believe you have some information regarding me."

"That's right, but I wasn't expecting you until tomorrow. There must have been a schedule

change." she shrugged and continued, "I suppose since you are here we can start today. Please

come into my office." He followed her into an office at the end of the laboratory. She sat down behind

a desk and gestured Steven to sit in front. She pressed a button and after a moment, a younger

woman came in from another door. Steven was surprised that so many people here looked liked

humans. He asked about this.

"It does seem to be the galactic standard, doesn't it," Dr. Labinthra said in answer. "Steven,this is

Sofila," she continued. "She will explain the process and show you to your quarters. We will make

arrangements to have your belongings picked up." She went to a wall cabinet, slid a door aside and,

retrieving an envelope, gave it to the younger woman. Steven noticed for the first time that Sofila had

mirror-like silver eyes, which, while disconcerting, where not unpleasant. Beautiful, in fact.

She came towards Steven to introduce herself. "So pleased to meet you," she said in a soft voice.

They shook hands slowly.

"Steven, I will see you in the morning," said Dr. Labinthra going out to the lab.

Sofila took the seat vacated by the doctor, and started leafing through the information, staring at it

intently.

"Okay, Steven," she said looking up, "What do you already know about this phase of the training?"

"Just that I'm supposed to be developing psychic powers."

"Well, that's about all it says here. Let's see; telekinesis, telepathy, empathy, and levitation. This

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phase will take approximately two moon cycles with an examination at the end. Thats about it. Shall

we go?"

"Of course," said Steven. With that they departed the office through the further door and walked

along until they came to another door, which they entered. When Steven entered, he saw a large bed

facing him, and on each side a small table. Above the bed, on the wall, was a console with switches,

buttons, and input/output jacks.

Please make yourself comfortable here. I will return in the morning to start your processing, said

Sofila. She departed.

When Steven awoke, the next morning, Sofila was in her normal attire and was standing above

him plugging leads into the input/output jacks. She smiled at him and he smiled back.

"Good morning Steven," she said.

"Good morning," responded Steven.

"Time for work." she said, "Today, I will be putting you in a Biofeedback Trance. Put on some

clothes and go to the next door on your left. It will lead to facilities. You can clean up in there and

have some food."

Looking to his left, Steven found a bathrobe laid out on the bed. He slipped it on and went where

Sofila had instructed. The restroom turned out to be typical, with a sonic shower, shaving laser, other

normal hygiene stations, and, attached, a dining area with fresh, though odd, fruit. When he had

returned, Sofila was standing to the side of the bed, holding a helmet in her hands. The helmet was

similar to those used by fighter pilots back on Earth. The only differences were that jacks were

dispersed around the headpiece.

"If you'll return to the bed I'm going to put this helmet on you. It will put you in trance."

"Of course," replied Steven courteously going to the bed.

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Sofila put the helmet on his head and Steven lowered his head. After he was situated, Sofila

plugged some leads into his helmet, flicked a few switches and Steven started to feel very relaxed. He

had begun his last phase of training. When he awoke, Steven felt very peaceful and relaxed. He felt

as if he were floating on a body of air. He could hear a constant stream of water all around him, as of

a waterfall in the distance. Light began to register on his senses and he saw a face smiling at him. As

recognition came he felt himself fall abruptly onto a soft mattress. The calmness vanished all at once

and the waterfall was gone.

"Good afternoon," said Dr. Labinthra.

"Hello," he returned. He pulled himself up and off the bed, the helmet still attached to his head.

He removed it and handed it to the doctor.

"Doctor," he said, "I don't think I know your first name. We are going to be working together

closely, so should be on a first name basis."

"Quite right," she said apologetically. "My first name is Catrina."

"Catrina," he repeated. "That's a beautiful name."

"Thank you Steven. Shall we get down to business."

"By all means. Just one question, though. Why did I get the feeling of falling when I recognized

you?" he asked sounding puzzled.

"When we hooked you into the Biofeedback Trance, you sank into the alpha brainwave pattern. In

this state, psychic abilities are heightened almost tenfold and brought to the surface. You were

actually floating in space approximately ten inches above the bed surface. When you came out of the

trance, your mental restrictions surfaced."

"Fantastical," Steven said. It was a favorite descriptive word of his.

While Steven was musing on this, Sofila came in and Catrina said, "We are ready to begin."

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This phase was much more enjoyable than the first even though some physical activities were

integrated. He certainly had more attentive guides this time. Through the use of the biofeedback

machine and the alpha brainwave pattern enhancer, they made much progress. His brain energy

centers opened up so much, that he was cognizant of what was going on around him even when he

could not hear or see. Even so, the training period was ending and he could not master the art of

levitation.

"Why is this so difficult." he said to Catrina one day, partly to himself.

"Because gravity is the first experience we feel after birth. It is the most deep seated of all our

mind conditions. The neural configuration needed to levitate is normally quite atrophied. There was

some hope that you might be able to overcome that conditioning. But I wouldn't worry. We have never

had anyone who could achieve this unless they were born to it or had stimulation very soon after

birth."

"I'm not worried. It is enough to know that it's possible."

After two more days of final preparations, the exam finally came. The examination was in the form

of a marathon. Steven had to run through a course in which there were obstacles to overcome. He

had to avoid laser blasts coming from all directions. He had to leap over jaws of steel which would try

to grab hold of him. He had to scale cliffs, move boulders from his path, leap away from flying

creatures armed with sharp fangs and long claws and as a finale, which was a complete surprise to

him, he had to run through a maze which was pitch black with electrified walls and every other

obstacle he had encountered along the course. When he made it through he was breathing heavily

and battered from head to foot. Nevertheless, he made a good score relative to other participants.

With a score of 99%, it was the highest of anyone in his category. After resting, he went to give his

regards to Catrina, Sofila, Zel, and Saad. They had given him so much support in addition to

everything else.

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"I will be leaving soon," said Steven. "I hope we will meet again."

"We hope so too," said Catrina. "The best of luck to you in everytime and everyplace," she

finished. Steven embraced first Catrina and then Sofila, who was smiling.

Steven looked curiously at her and then, turning on his heel, strode away. He took an inner city

shuttle to the Governmental Administration building, often called the GA building, and checked a public

computer terminal for the office location of Halan. After memorizing a map of that section of the

building, he proceeded directly there without stops. He pressed a light panel at the door and a voice

greeted him with one word.

"Enter," it said, and so he did. "I'm surprised to see you so soon. I thought they would keep you

longer. No matter. How did you find me?

"I knew you worked in Administration and reasoned it was in this building. After that, the rest was

easy. Praise computer technology.

"With training done, you're ready for the final briefing."

"Definitely," said Steven anxiously; "I'm becoming antsy."

"Let's go then."

"Where to."

It was Alpha Central, the major spaceport for Baladine. This port consisted of 20 major terminals

and numerous private hangars. The buildings were all in a circular pattern with the landing zone within

those confines. Ships were taking off every minute. The area was bustling and full of noises. Luckily,

Halan knew where he wished to go. Steven would have been at a loss since he had not had the

opportunity to memorize the layout of this complex. As they walked on through the terminal, the

activity thinned out. It thinned to a trickle when they started walking through corridors and around

several corners. Halan opened a door on the right and both walked into a dark room. While Halan

stood at the doorway, Steven walked towards an object in the middle. He climbed up a stairway and

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then done another. He had the feeling of being in a confining place. The lights went on and walls

opened up. People started moving around, working on keyboards, watching graphic displays,

measuring quantities, and giving orders. In the middle of the floor was the white ship which had

transported Steven to Baladine in the first place. Steven climbed back out and walked over to Halan

who had moved by then to a large viewscreen. A technician was using a computer terminal in front of

the viewscreen.

"Shall we commence with the final briefing?" asked Steven.

"Yes," answered Halan. "As you know, your mission is to carry some scrolls to a planet named

Sabor, located in a parallel universe. With the scrolls came one piece of information that we could

comprehend. A parallax warlord was mentioned. This warlord, we know holds sway over a domain

surrounding the link between this universe and the other. The link is a wormhole located some

distance from our sphere of influence. This is our primary target. In any case, you will have to

overcome this line of defense, and also the guard of the vortex. Its called the Cyborg Sentinel, which

may or may not allow you through." Halan finished quite out of breath.

"Is that all?" asked Steven not breathless at all.

"All that we know of. You will have to contend with the Parallax Warlord on the other side, but

that's the extent of our knowledge. If you turn your attention to the screen, we have some pictures for

you to memorize." He turned to the man at the controls. "Technician, start the projections," he said.

The images started. "This first image is of the Warlord's capital city, Barzic, on fifth planet Brinak. The

two following images are other pictures of this city. The fourth picture shows a Black Legion Fighter

ship.

You must take care not to play around with these henchmen. They could blow you out of this

universe and into the next one if you don't watch your step."

"Sounds like just what we need," joked Steven. He wondered how long it had been since he had

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done that. Halan let out a short laugh. The screen blanked out and they went to the ship. Halan and

Steven stood in front, looking at each other. After doing a hand clasp, Steven climbed into the ship

and took the controls. Lights started flashing on the panel and Steven spoke into the comlink.

"Switching to anti-gravitic drive. Open hangar doors." The ship lifted off the floor effortlessly, the

engines making a deep dull roar. The wall behind the ship opened up revealing a long corridor

heading outside the spaceport. The ship made a 180 degree turn and moved out of the takeoff point,

accelerating as it went. Steven moved along until he shot out of the corridor. He gained altitude

rapidly, dwindling from the sight of curious eyes. Radars were blind as far as the occupant of the white

ship was concerned.

Steven continued on until the ship was beyond the gravitational pull of the planet and started

hitting keys on the destination terminal. He flipped four other switches, pushed the accelerator forward

and the ship shot into lightdrive. Steven sat back and relaxed, waiting until the ship reached the

vortex.

VORTEX PASSAGE

"Sector 3B all clear," stated a black uniformed humanoid. Squadron B3 was out on patrol in the

vicinity of the Cyborg Sentinel.

It was so routine most pilots wondered why they had to go through with it. Only the Black

Squadron leader understood the importance of these maneuvers. He also understood the

consequences for disobedience or failing.

"This is Black Leader 3. Return to base."

"Black Leader, this is left wing Iota. I just picked something up on the scope, coming in from

Quadrant II."

"Investigate and identify." replied Black Leader.

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"Affirmative." The pilot sped off in search of the craft which had disturbed the Warlord's space.

"Alien craft coming into visual now." After a pause, the voice continued. "Wow!, this is the

strangest craft I've ever seen. It has a new light-drive propulsion system but its sheathed in some

kind of white, glowing metal, composition unknown."

"Black Squadron coming in." said Black Leader. They arrived a minute later. "Alien craft, you

have penetrated Parallax space. Please identify yourself and give the proper authorization code or

prepare to be boarded." By then, the white ship had come to a full stop, silent for the moment.

"Repeat, identify yourself alien craft."

"This is code-name Somar on business for Baladine Administration. Please be on your way. This

is a peaceful mission."

Cute, thought Black Leader breaking his harshly disciplined thought pattern. He thought it

sounded like this Somar was stalling for time.

"White ship," he said aloud, "give your authorization code or we will escort you to our nearest

base." In answer, the white spacecraft zoomed ahead, between two black ships and out into open

space. Black Leader sighed.

"Squadron B3, I'll stake my reputation and my life on this decision, that this ship is unauthorized to

be here. Overtake and subdue the white ship."

The squadron took off after Steven and as he was not feeling over-rushed, they caught up to him

quickly. Time for games, thought Steven. He had one ace. They didn't know what he could do. The

first ship came in for the attack, laser cannons firing. The ship shook around him. He banked to the

left and then right again. The laser blasts where coming closer.

"I'm sorry stranger, but..." he said aloud to himself. Steven clasped his hands together and the

approaching ship exploded for no explainable reason. One ship down, five to go. The second ship

arrived on the scene. Explosion rocked close to the white ship. Steven flicked a switch and the lasers

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came into firing position. He came around on the other ships' right flank with white light arching across

space. The other ship exploded as the lasers made contact. Four to go yet, Steven thought. He was

just about to turn and attack when his body froze. He could not move a muscle.

"Now mister Somar, or whoever you are, you will come along with us to our base," said the leader

of the Black Squadron.

Steven knew he had to break the paralysis field or he'd had it. He must relax, relax. Concentrate

on the problem at hand. Nothing else must he think about. Absorb the field. While Steven was trying

to fight, the five ships raced across space towards a dark green planet called Balic. The planet Balic

was the base of the B3 squadron of the Black Legions, not to mention the nearest capital planet of the

Warlord to the Cyborg Sentinel. The planet was originally unoccupied except by small, friendly

Creatures who still lived and worked there under the whips of the Warlord. To this planet the five ships

went and just as they reached the outer fringes of Balic, Steven felt his arm move. It was enough and

he waved his hand, sending the lead ship whizzing down into the planet where it smashed to rubble.

The field was disrupted and Steven was able to bring his ship into control. Suddenly, explosions

rocked his ship. He wasn't out of it yet. Steven pulled his ship under the clouds with the three others

following, firing at him. He fell a couple thousand feet more and was just above tree level, skimming

over the tops. He sent a missile into the ground underneath and crash landed in a relative clearing

while the missile exploded. The black legion fighters circled above, sensing no energy emanations

from the ship. They took off for a city, not far away, to file reports. Steven, feeling them move away,

released his breath and opened the hatch. It was peaceful outside as he climbed down from the ship,

stretching his legs. He walked, always keeping his mind alert for anything moving or potentially

dangerous. He sensed an opening in the trees and went toward it. There was no doubt about it, a

cavern of respectable size was below him. He decided to investigate it after hiding his ship. Going

back to the ship, he moved his hand, excavating a hole in the ground next to the ship. Then he moved

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the ship into it and covered it. Then he went back to the cave and, shifting his laser rifle, walked in.

The tunnel ceiling was low and Steven had to stoop. Farther on the sounds of excavation could be

heard. He powered up his rifle and walked on until suddenly he came upon a massive cave. Small

creatures were pulling carts and mining rock. Guards were stationed about, using whips to motivate

the mole-like creatures. Every time he heard a whip sound, his heart boiled with anger. He was just

about to use some motivation himself when, without warning, something furry caught hold of him and

pulled him back. He spun around wildly and found himself staring into large ebony-colored eyes. He

heard little voices all around him. Strange alien voices. He wondered what they were saying until

presently, one, taller than the rest came forward and attempted to speak to him. It was to no avail.

Steven knew he was trying to communicate and decided to use telepathy.

"Find telepath," he transmitted and pointed to his head.

The creature retreated leaving Steven surrounded by other creatures. In several minutes the

creature came back followed by another creature wearing a necklace. This creature approached

Steven with a transmission.

"Welcome to Balic. After consideration, we have all agreed that you are not associated with the

Parallax Warlord. Indeed, we are wondering whether you would be willing to help us in our plight

against this enemy."

"I would," thought Steven to the creature, "except that after I part, there is no guarantee he will

leave you in peace. It seems more the contrary."

"Any help you could give would be highly rewarded, responded the other trying to persuade him.

"Very well, you've talked me into it.

The creature said something to the crowd and immediately everyone started chattering, although

not very loud. The telepath turned back to Steven.

"Im sorry, but I have forgotten to introduce us. My name is Bal and we are the Talpids. Our

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leader, such as we have, is Zoduk. And what may your name be?"

"Steven Somar." replied Steven.

"Stevensomar." repeated Bal. Steven decided not to correct him.

"Stevensomar, since you know the limits of your own resources, we will not instruct you on how to

go about helping us but we will aid you in any way we can."

"The first thing you can do is spread the word among your people that there will be some

fireworks , ah, firing going on."

"It shall be done. Anything else?

You could tell me where the main city of this planet is. If I could destroy it, perhaps the authority

would be shaken."

"You are actually quite near it. It is about a half day walk from here.

"Good. I think Ill start with this mining operation. That should start things off."

"We must go back to work so the guards do not become suspicious, but word will be passed and

we shall be ready."

The Talpids returned to the shadows, leaving Steven alone in the dark. He sat down and waited.

Time went by and he saw guards escorting the Talpids away. A score of the Warlord's men were left

as a security detail. Steven checked himself. He didn't want to kill anyone, yet he could think of no

better time to start things off. He lifted himself up.

"Hey you lugheads, Up here!" he shouted waving his arms.

He leaped back as laser fire came close to cutting him down.

"That was fast." he thought to himself.

Pulling himself to the edge, he succeeded in hitting one man with a laser beam of his own. The

others returned fire, barely missing him. He decided to end it quickly in case he weakened. So while

he was dodging the blasts, he managed to shift his hand and bring down tons of earth behind the

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guards. Some were buried. Steven continued to bring earth down hemming them in. Some were

already trying to climb wildly up the slopes, but sliding back down. Steven singled out a person from

below and sent a message into his head.

"The city nearby will look like this in six hours. Prepare yourselves."

He knew it was dangerous leaving a warning but felt it would not be morally right not to do it. He

departed. It was difficult enough to get to the city. The outbreak he had created sent forces to the

mine vicinity and to guard the perimeter of the city. Most he managed to avoid but some spotted him

requiring that he knock them out. He arrived at the city with a few minutes to spare. Here, he had to

be most careful as patrols were crawling all over the area.

The city was located in a valley with sheer rock-faced sides. It seemed indefensible but the

enormous fire and manpower within kept it intact. Steven happened to be sitting on a cliff overlooking

the city, hundreds of feet below. He gave them a little warning by shaking his hands and setting up a

trembling in the city. Everyone looked around and wondered whether the mountainsides were

crumbling down. It seemed impossible that one person could carry out such a threat as now seemed

imminent.

Steven was about to finish the city off when he clasped his hands together. He could not go on

with it. The power was so awesome. He could conceivably destroy anything of any size. He threw

himself on the rock working to resolve the matter. He searched his memory, trying to remember all the

moral lessons he had ever learned. He sent his senses out to the city and found, there, a central

tower, perhaps the seat of power in that city. That would do. Bringing his senses and hands together,

he tore down the tower.

Steven arose, shaken, wondering how he could have done this act. This could be addictive, this

power. How could he control it? He started the long trek back to the ship. All the people had fled,

wondering what had happened to their tower. The woods were quiet as he continued on. After ten

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hours he reached the place where he had left the ship. There was no sign of it. He grew nervous until

remembering that he had covered the ship. Searching the ground enabled him to discover the traces

of the burying. Except that no matter how much he tried, he couldn't raise it. It must have been the

shock of his latest act with little more trouble than crushing an ant. It would be no small task to clear

that much soil by hand. In fact, it would be impossible. Then, on a moment of insight, Steven

remembered the Talpids. He had no wish to even come in contact with them but could not see any

choice. So, leaving the area, he went to the cave and waited, not knowing how to contact them. After

several moments, he heard a sound of earth moving, behind and to the right. He turned and saw a

fragment of cave shifting. Before long, a head popped out of the wall. Soon the hole body, and a fat

one too, came into sight. A tunnel had been completed. Talpids crowded into the cavern with the

telepath, Bal, in front. And so the conversation began.

"Such a feat as you have done deserves the entire planet as reward. How may we serve you?"

asked Bal reverently.

"No reward is necessary," said Steven straining to hold back his emotions. "There is one favor I

would ask of you though. My ship is buried and I can't raise it. If you could dig out around it I would

be indebted."

"Fear not. It shall be done," replied Bal. "Create a small sound above your ship, we shall be able

to locate it. What is the direction?" requested Bal. Steven searched his memory and pointed in the

direction he thought it was.

That done, Steven and the Talpids went their separate ways. The Talpids started their tunnel and

Steven went above. When he came to where the ship was buried, he started making thumps with his

rifle handle. They could probably hear the noise as their hearing was very sharp. Now it would just be

a matter of time. Steven concealed himself in a nearby thicket and waited. He immediately fell asleep

and dreamed of a massive stone castle in the middle of a plain. Several hours later he awakened to

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the sound of excavations. The Talpids must have completed their work he thought. He arose and

walked along to the cave. Soon after, a strange Talpid came through a tunnel and beckoned him

along. Steven followed the Talpid through the cramped tunnel, under an arch, and there was the ship

sitting in a large cavern like structure. Bal was waiting to greet him.

"We have done as you asked," he said. "Is there nothing else we could do for you?" he implored.

"This will be sufficient," said Steven wondering if he would ever return to this place. Some other

time perhaps. Right now he had to be going on. Steven bade farewell to the Talpids who then

departed. Then he climbed into the ship. He put the ship into anti-gravitics drive and up it went. It

strained against the dirt roof until it broke through and zoomed away into the stars. Steven had been

in flight for minutes only when he reached the Cyborg. It was an immense machine, about the size of

a small planet. Of course, the wormhole was of modest size. Most others were so much larger but

since Steven had not seen any, the sight was impressive.

The sentinel was composed of a multitude of spheres encircling the vortex. Each was linked with

light rays going between adjacent spheres. Each light ray was three thousand kilometers long.

Automated patrol vessels made periodic checks on the surrounding space. The entire complex was

controlled and directed by a half-man half-machine device. This quasi-machine never allowed anyone

through the vortex except the Warlords henchmen. All others were to be detained or destroyed.

Steven slowed to nearly a full stop. He didn't think he was ready for this challenge. Even though it

looked like minimal danger, Steven knew that instinct would lead him to ruin. If the Cyborg Sentinel

concentrated on capturing him first, he might have a chance. Steven edged the white ship forward,

closer and closer. He could begin to see the light beams. He was 1000 kilometers from the spheres

and the vortex when a voice came over the comlink.

"You have entered the outer defense zone of the Cyborg Sentinel. Identify yourself."

"Code name Somar requesting permission to enter the vortex." The voice paused and then

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continued. "Somar is not entered in memory. What is your authorization."

"Warlord Administration." he had to wing it now.

"Transmit code number for analysis," commanded the voice.

"Oh great," muttered Steven.

What a jam he was in now. Any number he gave would certainly not be accepted. This would

definitely bring about drastic measures on behalf of the Cyborg. Panic overtook him. He would have to

go on the defensive.

Steven secured himself to the cockpit chair with grav restraints. With a swift motion he hit a

switch, pushed the control stick forward and surged ahead, traveling at tremendous speeds. He was

almost at the vortex when his ship went dead, as if the power supply had blinked out of existence.

"You are temporarily out of service." The voice had returned. "Prepare for magnetic towing

This was a worse jam than before, Steven thought. He wondered how he would get out of this

one as he felt a tug on the ship. The ship was being pulled relentlessly toward one of the spheres.

With the power gone and his psychic abilities under restraint, he could only grit his teeth and prepare

for the worst. The sphere was becoming quite clear now, filling the entire viewscreen. Concentric

rings ran around the sphere creating large somewhat square islands. The ship was pulled into a large

hangar where it stopped. Steven pulled on some gear, including the laser rifle, arm band darts, photon

immobilizer, and a sound-wave amplifier. This last device was able to create intense sound wave

distortions which had the effect of any laser but had a more subtle nature. Steven opened the doors

and climbed out. Aside from his ship, the hangar was totally empty. If the Cyborg controlled all

processes here he would have to locate this being and disorient it. He choose a direction at random

and started walking. He had only just started down a corridor when a siren started ringing. As if in

response, six armed robot drones came out a far door and started firing at Steven. Somehow Steven

managed to run behind a column in the wall and returned fire. For some reason, which he could not

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fathom,the drones seemed to be firing off base, as if drawing his concentration. Of course! That must

be it. He turned quickly but was too late. He felt the prick of a needle. Falling to the floor, he could

see a robotic structure and felt the cold touch of metal hands. Then unconsciousness took him.

ESCAPE FROM THE CYBORG

Steven regained consciousness and opened his eyes. The light screamed at his mind so bright

was it. Other than that his body was fine. No bumps or bruises, except that he felt a pin-prick on his

right shoulder. The room became coherent as he awakened completely. He was in a long narrow

room with only one door at the further end. He was lying on a metallic mattress and clad in a robe of

the same material. His clothes and weapons were nowhere in sight. He sat up on the edge of the

mattress. The door slid open and a small hovering vehicle entered. Steven knew it was the Cyborg.

Both the vehicle and the figure in it were all one unit. The Cyborg had no legs, which accounted for

the vehicle. From the waist to the neck was humanoid. The head was covered with gleaming green

metal. The Cyborg came forward, across the distance, to Steven and spoke for the first time in

person.

"Salutations code name 'Somar'. I cannot tell you how joyed I am to see you." Steven couldnt

shake the feeling of apprehension as the Cyborg said this. It sounded like a tape recording after hours

of use.

"Greetings to you also," replied Steven stiffly. "Perhaps you could tell me what this is all about?"

he inquired, almost bluntly.

"I shall indeed. If you would not mind following me, all your questions will be answered."

The cyborg turned descended lazily, turned around and headed for the door. Steven trailed after

the other. As soon as they entered a corridor it started to move, carrying them forward and causing

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Steven to loose his balance momentarily. They took several turns and were carried down several

floors. They came to a doorway and went through it. Steven found himself in a room of modest size,

not too large or small. But it was sparsely furnished, having just two machines.

"What answers are we to find in here?" Steven queried.

"All the answers to your questions and nothing else," the Cyborg answered.

It proceeded to one of the furnishings. It was a platform designed to fit the man-machine

perfectly. As soon as he was in and facing the wall, the platform swiveled 180 degrees.

"This room," he began,"is a miracle worker. It is where my life power is recharged and also my

knowledge increased. Guests, such as you, provide me with these necessities by sitting in the chair,"

he gestured to his right, "and donate a part of their limitless mental energy. No harm done to them."

He had given this speech in a most passive way but Steven still couldn't shake the feeling of fear.

It was as if the Cyborg were made of lead on the inside and gold on the outside. It was time to ask

some important questions.

"Another thing, where are my weapons," he asked, not expecting a plain answer.

"In a safe place," assured the cyborg expectantly.

"Well, I dont think I will step into that chair until I find out their location." The Cyborg paused for a

moment and then said,

"Very well. There can be no trouble with that." A few minutes later, three androids entered,

walking stiffly. "These androids will escort you to your weapons," said the Cyborg. Steven didnt say a

word but walked out behind the strange escorts. After a trip on the moving floor, they came to a door

without number or symbol and walked through. This room must have been the main control center for

at least this sphere. It was circular in design and the entire wall was covered with control panels of

every size and shape. In the middle was an elevated platform, also with controls. On one section of

wall was a window through which Steven could see his weapons. As he stood there deciding what his

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next course of action was going to be, he heard the cyborg's voice behind him. "As you can see, your

weapons are quite safe. It would please me if we could continue the process of my rejuvenation. I can

guarantee no harm will come to you if that is your worry." Steven wondered about this and decided

that he couldnt take the risk. So he rushed for the window, attempting to break it open. He was about

halfway there when he felt a force hit him from behind. It was as if his back had been blasted away.

He fell to the floor, unconscious again. Steven knew he had been captured a second time.

Why did I make such a stupid move,"he said to himself. His head cleared slowly and when he

tried to move he found that his legs and arms were constrained. He was sitting in a chair with clamps

attached to his arms and legs. He struggled uselessly. The cyborg was sitting in his platform on

Steven's left. Steven glared at him and he just smiled back.

"What's going on here! What is this all about!" Steven asked angered. He was about to boil over.

"Your bio-energy will be transferred to my being, so that I may continue to live on. Don't worry; it

is relatively painless. And don't try to struggle. It would be useless." Steven felt a cap settle on his

head. He must break free, and soon. This would be such a horrible way to die. He began to hear a

high-pitched whistle. The sound grew until it lashed across his mind. He pushed his mental energy to

the limit and the head cap, chair, and circuitry to which he was attached shattered at the force.

Stevens body was hurled out of the blast against the wall. He stood up slowly and looked at the

master machine, but there was no sign of the Cyborg. Instead, he saw a big gaping hole with smoke

streaming out of it. Suddenly Steven felt the room shake. He heard the sound of crashing in the

distance. With the destruction of the Cyborg Sentinel, the entire complex was breaking up. Steven

raced up to the control room. The floor had ceased moving. When he came to the door, he found it

was blocked with fallen debris. With a sweeping motion of his hand, Steven cleared a path and leaped

in. The room was in flames with sparks flying here and there. Steven managed to achieve his

weapons and was leaving the room when, among the chaos, he stopped short. He had no idea where

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he was going. He searched the room until he found a computer keyboard with a monitor that was

virtually undamaged. His fingers flew over the keyboard and he found the schematics of the sphere in

short order. He was able to memorize them before the system exploded. He raced out of the room

and headed for the hangar which supposedly held his ship. Fortunately, it was still there and he

quickly boarded, flames raging out of control around him. Metal came crashing down and the floors

buckled. The ship raced out of the hangar and away from the ravaged area. The entire complex

exploded in a dazzling array of searing white sparks. The Cyborg Sentinel was no more. The white

ship with Steven in it stood in space for some time. Finally, after moving his mind into focus, Steven

started toward the wormhole, directly in front. As soon a he hit it, Steven became pure energy.

THE OTHER SIDE

A white speck of light moved through the black hole at infinite speed and emerged from the other

side, shifting form into a glowing white ship with a lone occupant. Steven Somar, from Earth, sped on

his way as if nothing had happened. Suddenly, he noticed a warm sensation, growing warmer, on his

chest. He looked down and discovered that it was also beginning to glow. He ripped his suit and shirt

off and flung the medallion away. It landed on the floor, glowing white.

"What happened!" he said aloud. No answer came of course. By now the medallion was starting

to melt the floor. Steven looked around frantically for a fire extinguisher and noticed a cabinet door

had smoke curling around it. He yanked it open and was engulfed in smoke. The box holding the

scrolls was glowing and melting everything it touched. He flung it out and it landed on the medallion.

Steven looked at his right-hand fingers through the smoke. They were charred and blistering and in

searing pain. Steven screamed horribly and stumbled around until he found the medi-spray his

fingers. The pain subsided but the fingers were just blackened stumps. Steven could only stare at

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them until he realized that would do nothing to heal those fingers. Given his mental acuity, he began

to take stock of the surroundings again and noticed the smoke had cleared. He looked at the box on

the floor noticed that it had stopped glowing. He went over, picked it up off the medallion; immediately

it started to glow again. He dropped it hastily and the light faded. He looked at it, puzzled, and bent

down for a closer look. Plainly visible for first time, he saw an octagonal multi-hued gem embedded in

top of the box. It was logical to assume, he thought, that medallion and gem were somehow related.

It didn't take long to reach a solution. He reached underneath the box and carefully brought the

medallion up and around the box, never once letting them become separated. He started to align the

gem and the medallion but paused. He wasn't sure what would happen should he continue on. The

effects might be devastating. Summoning courage, Steven completed the process. The effect was

monumental as silver light exploded from the box. It flowed through the medallion and coursed

through every limb of Stevens body. His fingers became healed and his head became clearer. The

medallion disappeared and reappeared around Steven's neck. Steven tried to pull it off but it would

not budge. It seemed to be part of his chest now. Then the light faded and everything returned to

normal, except Steven. The medallion was still linked to his chest and he felt electricity running

through his body. It wasn't painful and Steven climbed back into his chair and sent the ship into the

darkness ahead. His eyes had turned to a glowing blue. Steven had been traveling for several hours,

when, without warning, he was flung forward into the console. An explosion had rocked the ship

violently. He switched on the rear monitor and saw, to his dismay, a large white battle cruiser. The

cruiser was firing across his bow barely missing the ship. Steven put on a helmet, switched on the

thought wave propulsion unit and sped forward much faster than the speed of light. The occupants of

the large white ship gaped in amazement as he left them far behind. He had gone light years ahead

when the ship returned to normal light speed. In the distance Steven could see a glowing planet. He

made for it and was surprised to find a squadron of white fighter ships. Steven was preparing to battle

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when he was caught in a soft blue light which rendered him unconscious. From around the other side

of the planet came a second giant white ship. Steven's ship was taken aboard and he was unloaded.

He was sent to a laboratory where physicists and biologists analyzed him and the medallion. They

were astonished as the medallion would not come unattached from Steven's chest, and also because

they had never come across such a humanoid. While an argument was going on about this,

elsewhere Steven woke feeling rested and quite whole. He remained wearing the flight suit and

medallion. The room had very little light but Steven could make out the gray walls and feel the hard

surface he had been sleeping on. Steven arose and searched for an exit. There seemed to be none,

but that was impossible. While he was musing over this thought, a segment of wall started glowing

and suddenly an open doorway became visible. Three humanoids entered and Steven stood there,

biding his time. Steven couldn't help but notice each one had bone-white hair and skin. The tallest

one spoke using a high pitched voice.

"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Admiral Zogard. You are on the cruiser Laskak. I have heard

of your escapade on the other side. Quite impressive really."

"If you've heard about that," returned Steven," then you must realize that I am quite formidable.

Why have you not just tried to kill me."

"It was not necessary. We have your tele-powers under a dampening field. Try to do something

and you will see."

Steven tried but could not carry out a single act. The energy was there but could not be directed

anywhere. He was indeed in a crisis now. Without those powers, he could think of no way to escape.

"The Parallax Warlord is aboard ship by now and would like to meet you," the admiral was saying.

"If you would come with us you shall have the honor of meeting the greatest leader in the galaxy, on

both sides of the vortex."

"I don't suppose that's a request." said Steven simply.

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The guards did not answer so Steven followed the admiral with two guards behind him. After a

time they came to a set of double doors with an emblem of two planets and two crossed laser rifles

over them. The doors opened silently and the foursome entered a large cathedral-like room. Steps led

up and back, to a modest sized throne. In the midst of this was a small man. He was surrounded by

two boars with long tusks and two lizard-like creatures with rows of razor sharp' teeth. Each animal

was chained to the floor. Their eyes were bloodshot and raging. Admiral Zogard strode forward.

"Commander, this is the young man we have heard so much about." he announced.

"Come forth." the Warlord commanded Steven.

His voice was quiet but with a hidden power. Steven had no choice as he was pushed from

behind. There was a lull in speech as they stood there looking at each other. Steven wondered how

such a small man could control such an empire. Likewise, the Warlord couldn't imagine how such a

young alien could cause so much trouble. He certainly didn't look like he was capable of such power.

"Where do you come from, alien," the Warlord asked.

"The name is Steven and I come from planet earth. And dont think I won't escape."

"I see," said the Warlord, apparently unaffected by Steven's threats. "And what is your purpose in

this universe."

"My purpose is my own and not to be divulged to you." Steven knew he was treading dangerous

ground but hoped to put the Warlord in a rage and so lower his defenses or cause him to slip up

somewhere.

"Steven, do you see the four guards I have here." he gestured at the creatures on his side.

"Sometimes they like to expend energy in a most distasteful fashion." His voice was very even and if

he was angry, he kept it well hidden. "You will answer the questions or you will suffer a fate from which

there is no escape," he ended menacingly.

"I am bound not to divulge my business until it comes to it's conclusion," said Steven confidently,

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although he felt afraid inside.

"Guards, take him away!" he ordered. Steven was taken under force to the lower levels of the

ship. He was thrown violently into a cell and the door slammed shut. Steven was alone in the

darkness, except for a faint glimmer in his chest. There was not a sound to be heard. Time marched

on and he was just dozing off, when he heard, in a corner, a grating sound. Looking where he thought

the sound was coming from, he could see nothing, but he heard a low growl and then, a slithering

sound. Two pairs of hatred filled eyes were shining at him. Cold fear combined with defiance took

hold of him. He backed into a corner preparing for an attack. The eyes advanced and the hatred grew

more intense. Stevens' situation looked pretty grim, when with lightning speed, the two shapes leaped

after him. He threw off the first attack with wild frenzy matching their own. Though, it surprised him,

he couldn't think about it now because the creatures were preparing for another attack, weaving back

and forth in front of him. Again they attacked piercing his clothing. Blood gushed forth from multiple

wounds. His clothes were tattered and torn. He let out one ear-shattering scream, when with a burst

of mental energy, explosive silver light burst from his chest and slammed into the creatures. They

were hurled against the far wall and landed on the floor, broken and dying. Silver light coursed

through Steven's body, as before, healing all his gashes with lightning speed. With one more burst of

mental energy, Steven sent a beam into the door and it burst open. Then he fell to the floor and the

light faded. Steven woke several hours later with a splitting headache. He was in a cold dark room

with no visible openings. He was beginning to think the whole attack had been a dream but there

could be no other reason why his clothes were tattered than to realize it had not been a dream. His

concentration was rudely interrupted by a bolt sliding back and the door opening. Two guards came

stomping in and one hauled him roughly to his feet. The massively limbed guards pushed and shoved

him along the gray walled corridors and into a turbo lift. After a ride up several levels, the guards

ushered him to the same cathedral-like throne room. The Parallax Warlord was sitting in the throne as

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if he had never departed. And as before, the same creatures were stationed around him as if they had

never left. Maybe it had been a dream after all. Steven couldn't imagine one person owning six of

those loathsome creatures much less one. The Warlord broke the silence.

That must have been a terrific display of force to be sure. My pets thought so anyway. I am sure

that whatever you used will come in quite useful for me. I am sure it had something to do with your

medallion.

"Perhaps." replied Steven smugly. They certainly would not get information out of him that easily.

Then he remarked "It will not be easily found out by you, will it?"

He had a feeling that he shouldn't have said that but it was too late to worry about it now. The

Warlord made a motion to the guards which caused Steven to turn around apprehensively. Something

crashed into his stomach sending him sprawling towards the throne, doubled up in pain. Mental

energy started building up as result of the pain and Steven looked up at the Warlord. "Meet your fate."

he gasped.

Silver energy exploded from his chest and crashed into the Warlord. Steven continued on his

rampage scattering first the creatures and then the guards. As soon as he crashed through the door

the Warlord raised his dwarvish face. It was crushed and battered with yellow fluid streaming down.

But the eyes were still intact. They would remember. Steven went on, throwing guards aside. Lasers

fired and klaxons sounded, but were mere trifles compared to the silver fury within him. Steven made

it, with luck, to a hangar bay and grabbed hold of the first person he came in contact with. "Where is

the White Ship." he said grimly.

He was becoming exhausted and knew the power would soon fade. "Ten levels down, three

across." The man blacked out. Steven let him fall to the floor and ran to the nearest turbo lift. He took

ten levels down and three across. The door opened as the power faded altogether. Steven crawled

across the floor to the White Ship and managed to limp inside as soldiers arrived and fired on the ship.

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His strength was ebbing fast as he pushed himself into the cockpit. Pushing buttons, he managed to

get the ship moving forward. It burst through the atmospheric shield and disappeared into the Stars.

THE ILLUSIONESS

The ship sped along as Steven slowly regained consciousness. He was lying on the floor with his

head leaning against the pilots seat. In a few more moments, he was sitting up straight and guiding

the ship towards Sabor. He had been traveling for several hours and going at a leisurely pace when

his vision faded momentarily but then returned to normal. The event would have gone unnoticed

except that a glowing planet suddenly moved into his line of vision. He checked the astral charts and

discovered that no planet was supposed to be there.

"I think Im going space wacky," he commented to himself. "Time to get some shuteye."

He put the ship in a stasis field and the ship stopped dead in space, not even drifting. Steven

retired to the capsule bed and went under for several hours. The planet sat in front of his ship, not

even revolving. A Steven stirred and opened an eyes. Then two eyes. He returned to the view screen

and the glowing planet was still there. Steven was determined to find an explanation to this. He broke

the stasis field and moved the ship towards the planet. As soon as he reached the outer atmosphere,

the planet started receding from him at the same speed as he was progressing. Steven slowed the

ship to a crawl and the planet appeared to do likewise. Steven sat there, puzzled about the situation.

Suddenly, with no logic in his actions, Steven pushed the ship forward, quite rapidly. The planet

continued to move also, keeping time with the white ship until it shimmered and faded away. It was

illusion. Steven was stunned. The power it must have taken had to be enormous. Who had such

power he wondered. It couldn't be the Warlord. He was destroyed. Sabor couldn't have done it and

wouldn't either. Their power was different, if the medallion was any indication. Steven was stymied.

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While he was thinking about this, he casually glanced out the view screen and stricken with

amazement. At least one hundred warships of every size and shape were coming towards him, closer

and closer. "Probably another mirage."he thought until they started firing on him. Explosions rocked

the ship. Whoa." he muttered. Those explosions were real. He sent the ship forth and then took a

sharp left dodging the deadly blasts. Another planet loomed in front of him. This was not an illusion

as it was on the astral chart. He would be able to hide out there. The ship went in for a landing,

everything becoming clearer by the minute. He discovered a relatively flat space in among the hills

and valleys. He landed, shut off the engine and waited. There was no sign of pursuit from above.

Steven climbed out of the ship and stretched his legs, looking around. The area around him was

forested with green trunked trees. Gentle hills rose in the distance. Everything seemed tranquil and

peaceful. No problems to be had here. Steven decided to explore the area for a short time. After a

short rest anyway. He went back to the ship and dozed off. As he slept, a lone ship circled the sky

above. The pilot radioed in that the white ship had been spied. Minutes later, a larger ship arrived on

the scene and lifted the white ship with an anti-gravitron beam. The larger ship departed. The smaller

ship had already returned to its base. Steven did not feel anything as he was transported smoothly

and silently mile after mile. He was taken to an ebony castle of immense proportions. It took several

minutes to enter the structure. And still he slept, unaware of what was happening to him. Steven

woke with a start. He was lying in a soft bed in utter darkness. Steven had been captured by the

Illusioness, a woman of great power and authority. She was able to cast illusions of great immensity

and sophistication. It was a well known fact that prisoners of this witch oftentimes changed

allegiances to her side. But of course, Steven did not realize any of this. All he knew was the floor

was damp and the air was cold, but the bed was soft. That was certainly a strange contrast but

Steven didnt wait to see if it also was an illusion. He arose and groped in the dark until he felt what he

thought was a door. He put some weight against it but to no avail. He sat back down on the bed and

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considered what was to be done. He could have used the medallion but the illusion that dwelt here

might not allow him to see. He would just have to bide his time and wait for opportunity. He didnt

have to wait long. Just as he was drifting off, the door was opened and light streamed in, waking him.

Two guards came in and one motioned him out. He obeyed silently as the black-uniformed guards fell

in behind him. The way was simple with no passages branching left or right. The trio walked quite a

while and climbed many stairs. Steven counted five hundred stairs before he lost count. His breath

was becoming ragged and hoarse and his feet were dragging. The guards seemed to understand and

made no attempt to prod him along. After another flight of stairs they came to great wooden doors on

one side. They stopped as the doors opened, creaking on the old hinges. The room behind was as

plush as the hallway had been sparse. A large balcony opened to the land beyond. Tapestries and

weapons hung on the walls. Steven stared as the doors closed behind him. He was alone. He

walked towards the opening and immediately had a feeling of someone behind him. He turned and

saw the slim figure of a woman. She was robed in many dazzling colors and her face looked as

smooth as silk. Steven thought her the most beautiful alien he had seen in his travels.

"Welcome to Imatere. It is a pleasure to meet you," she said with an accent. Her voice w

The Sparkan Scrolls

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Transcript of The Sparkan Scrolls