Return of the Council.
The three priestesses were momentarily disoriented. None of them ever experienced this before let alone had any idea what just happened.
Soon as their eyes recovered they noticed they no longer were in the pool. This room was dusty and filled with cobwebs and a deep layer of dust was on every horizontal surface. It was quite big and opened to what appeared to be a balcony; this was the only source of light entering the room... until as if commanded by an unseen paw the room lighting turned on. Light glowed from behind many things at head height as well as from the baseboards and ceiling crown molding; all so it brightened the room without shining directly into one's eyes. As they looked around it became clear what this was: a library.
A hologram shimmered into view nearby. "Welcome to the Sanctum of the Oracle Council. Before you move a muscle, wait here for the servants to complete their cleaning. It has been ages since any living thing has walked these halls, therefore it was determined upkeep was unnecessary. As you can see they have a lot of work to do."
It appeared to be the same one they just spoke with, even sounded the same. But at the moment all the three cared about was to get their bearing.
Clare walked over to an open doorway and now stood on a balcony looking at the scenery. This appeared to be a castle built high up in a mountain range. Her companions joined her; everyone looked across the vast open valley as the height made it quite obvious just how high they were. They also noticed it was connected to other buildings similarly built as well as walkways, all these spanning the mountainside and several nearby mountains. A noise from behind caused them to turn around. A strange machine had just cleaned a path up to where they stood, and now each of their feet was being groomed and cleaned. The sensation was as pleasant as anything they experienced, each wondered how they weren't alarmed as the machine lifted one foot at a time to clean them. Now something caught their eyes; many more machines were inside the room. It was surprising the dust wasn't kicked airborne and the cobwebs weren't flailing around loosely.
The hologram that greeted them shimmered into view beside them. "The study will be ready momentarily for your use. Before you do so each of you must undergo an examination; we need to determine if the necklaces you wear match your ability. Proper ones will be fabricated and attuned to your life essence. Do not worry; this will only take a moment of your time. Please follow me."
"One moment" Hilda muttered. "We need to send word back to our companions we are unharmed. Unfortunately our devices are not working properly. Let us talk to them... it will calm them and prevent undue stress."
The hologram shimmered. "The Gatekeeper has been notified. Speak and your voice will be transmitted through him, please keep your message to a minimum. Once you have been examined and outfitted with proper robes and necklaces, you will be able to come and go as you please... after you demonstrate what skills you currently know. We will then be able to schedule the classes each of you need to undergo before you can consider yourselves proper oracle priest."
Hilda composed a message and it was sent; they were surprised to receive a return message from Ishanah and Aaron. Both acknowledged the three were not harmed and would be undergoing evaluation to prove they were oracle priestesses. They would wait nearby for the remainder of the afternoon until they could return.
The hologram led them through a maze of hallways and many levels as it traveled towards some unknown destination. Paulina was thankful this building had something akin to an elevator; she had noticed this complex was quite high from the valley floor. The elevator must have been quite fast because no sooner than the door closed it opened again, the hallway outside was obviously hewed from solid rock, unlike the stone masonry they exited from. As they walked she noticed the scarcity of doors and deduced this was a tunnel. Finally it opened up into a cavern. The electronics she didn't recognize, but the medical bed made it crystal clear. There were many beds actually, and on most were skeletons of different species. She was surprised three of the beds were empty and as clean as any hospital bed she ever saw.
"Apologies for the others. When you told the story about the defeat of the council, it explained why they stopped returning for their wounds to be mended... and their ultimate fate. These were brought here during the battle and as you can clearly see, many could not be revived. Those that were healed were sent back into battle. We waited for them to return, but they did not. The staff decided to seal access to this complex and instructed the computer to wait for the return of any oracle that could make its way here. They died before this occurred. Their diaries are waiting for you to read; perhaps their final thoughts may give insight into your upcoming battle. But first you should receive an examination. Lie down, please. One each bed."
The procedure was hardly intrusive. A mechanical device glided inched above their bodies as it traveled from head to foot and retraced its path back to the starting point. Several beams of light landed on various parts of their bodies, each a different color and some of same color repeating hitting same point on their body. Soon it was over and a voice announced for them to sit up. The hologram shimmered into view beside them.
"Congratulations. Each of you shall receive upgraded necklaces. You shall also receive robes befitting an oracle. Before you start the lessons on weaponry and spells you will need to dispatch your opponents, you must eat. The banquet hall is this way. Follow me."
This time as they walked the priestesses asked questions. The hologram answered many and deferred others until a later time. One of these was about why the skeletons remained on the beds. The answer was simple: the staff had them in a medical-induced coma hoping they could discover a cure for the wounds. Unfortunately the medical team died of an unknown contaminant brought back with this group and these patients died shortly afterwards. No instructions were left what to do with them so the computer let them remain where they lay, decomposing until only bones remained. The remainder of the staff had placed this facility under quarantine and sealed the main entrance doors. These had died shortly after the medical personnel because the contagion had spread throughout the facility before it was discovered.
Another question was about the lack of insects and other vermin. The answer was that there were many types of repellents used to keep them away. Some mechanical, some chemical, some biological. Spiders were allowed because they preyed on insects; but only in rooms open to the outside air. Insects that would actively eat or damage anything were aggressively dealt with immediately. The cleaning machines would periodically clean these rooms roughly at once in several year intervals, depending on the level of grime.
The banquet hall was immaculate as the machines finished cleaning just as they entered.
The hologram shimmered. "The replicators have a wide variety of meals; each dish can be made and you can inspect, request changes or return for another choice. We once had a fully staffed kitchen but like the medical team they too died of the contagion. Now that you have returned, we will seek replacement staff. Medical teams as well."
"We assume we may have some input into this?"
The hologram shimmered. "When you were verified as being genuine with the oracle gift, events were set in motion. One of which was to identify those with cooking skills. These will be recruited since these replicators cannot replace a paw-cooked meal; these meals may be nutritious but they lack flavor."
As the priestess ate their meals, they were surprised at the many types of condiments available. Apparently mammal tastes didn't change over the millennia. The hologram informed them this information was obtained during the scan so to make meals palatable until living chefs and cooks could be recruited.
"This isn't like them. Still not getting a signal?"
Savage was annoyed; he didn't mean to be grating on Stella's nerves, he simply didn't like every precaution not working as they should have. The hologram wasn't being helpful; each time he asked it simply said they were undergoing evaluation and would be returned momentarily. That was two hours ago. The hologram did tell them the priestesses were evaluated and confirmed as having genuine oracle ability.
A flash of light startled the group, and everyone was relieved. Clare was holding a bowl of something that could only be identified as grubs mixed with mealworms mixed in honey. Everyone declined a taste when she offered. She also was wearing different clothes.
"Apologies for the wait. The place is incredible. When we realized the amount of time that passed by, we asked for permission to return here. Now that I have a necklace attuned to my life essence I can come and go at my leisure. We all can. Unfortunately we are scheduled to begin training momentarily, so I must return. Hilda arranged a compromise: Ishanah and Aaron may return with me. But they will be escorted to specific places that their counterparts millennia ago were allowed to visit. So... do you wish to come along?"
It didn't take twisting paws to convince the ranking members. It was obvious their staff and the GSD team didn't like letting them out of their sight. But since the badger returned and scans by Agent Roger's equipment confirmed she was the real thing and not a clone or hologram, they relented. Clare did confirm Hilda was negotiating for the GSD permission to enter the complex, most because it was only a matter of time before they would locate it and their continuing searching would attract the dark priesthood's attention.
Agent Savage sent a mission report requesting surveillance halted, at least the active search. Last part of his massage stated he would contact the colonel after he talked with Hilda.
When they finished materializing Ishanah and Aaron were impressed with the room. They took a quick walk over to the balcony and marveled at the size of the complex, especially how high up on the mountain it was. It also was clear they were nowhere near where they were just standing only moments ago.
They swore the same rabbit hologram was escorting them, but Clare assured them it was not. The hologram changed its form from an elder rabbit buck to a youthful doe, which was satisfactory to both. It led them to a room just outside the gym where Hilda already was undergoing training; Paulina was in a different gym. Clare was instructed to leave and head to a specific gym to begin her training. The hologram assured her the high priest and priestess would be escorted by Hilda since she was the ranking member of the reformed Oracle Council.
No sooner than the badger left the room the elder vixen entered from a different door.
"Looks nice on you. New robes, new necklace, new dagger. What's with the tiara?"
Hilda smiled. "Goes with the rank, it also enhances the abilities of the necklace. Paulina and Clare will earn theirs soon enough. Don't tell them that, it'll go to their heads."
Ishanah was surprised. "Really?"
Hilda chuckled. "I kid. They will earn theirs when they demonstrate a certain level of proficiency and concentration. Oh, did you know... those ancient necklaces I moved out of your storage and hid for safekeeping? Turns out it was unnecessary. Any priest that has developed the mental discipline to fight against several priests is capable to use the power of those necklaces. Otherwise a lesser-experienced priest would be driven mad. But still... as a precaution I think I'll move them here."
Aaron cleared his throat. "We were told only the two of us would be allowed here. Is there any way our senior staff can come along?"
Hilda's face turned downtrodden. "Not until we discover and eliminate the impostor in your mist."
The hologram shimmered. "There are methods to determine those that belong to the dark priesthood. When these are started, all members must undergo them. No exceptions, including both of you. Given how secretive such member is suspected of being; do not be surprised how high in rank it may be."
Ishanah frowned. "We have extensive measures that all members go through, this test the mettle of each priest before they advance in rank and responsibility. I do not see how such a priest can be so deceptive and yet pass our tests."
The hologram looked at her. "Definition. All one has to do is believe the definition of a word means something different than you do, then such priest can easily pass such tests. If this priest rises high enough in rank, it has most likely convinced those it rules over to accept its definition over yours. Thus before you know it your entire priesthood believes the leadership is corrupt. From here it is easy to remove you via false charges."
The high priestess was noticeably shaken, the high priest remained calm. Hilda could see both knew the implication such action, and both were obviously thinking about: mutiny. Whatever it was called in religious terms that is what would happen. The hologram shimmered and then spoke.
"The archives tell of a similar thing happening shortly before the ancient war in the priesthood. A similar impostor had infiltrated the Dark Priesthood many years before the war actually started. It convinced them their theology and viewpoint was correct and the other priest factions had been corrupted. This information we received because one of their own defected and warned us."
"You see... the dark priesthood was originally a sect of priest that rejected what they thought was pacifism. Mammals needed a firm paw for them to properly behave and these priests had been disciplined for their harsh treatment. Eventually they broke away and formed their own faction. Their skills honed towards a singular purpose: removing the other priesthoods. It took them many years to gain the strength of numbers to start their purge."
"Meanwhile something happened. One of their members discovered how a certain rock strata deep in a cave greatly improved their abilities. Over time as they lived and practiced in the cave, something happened to their bodies. Their need to eat grew less and hunger seemed to take longer to grip their body. Finally a day came when they no longer needed to eat, which at first was a welcome relief because it allowed them to train and practice as long as they wished."
"But when they left the cave they discovered hunger returned. They also discovered physical food did not digest and their hunger remained. It is not known which priest discovered the ability to extract sustenance from a living mammal, what is known their abuse of the citizenry increased afterwards. This increased the actions of the other factions against them which caused them to become increasingly isolated. This spiraled until the dark priests decided that to preserve themselves the others must end. First they attacked was the Oracle Council and as you are aware their numbers were greatly reduced but the Oracles ceased to exist. We were only recently made aware of the council's fate, meaning... the reason why they never returned."
"All this, not counting what the priestesses told us, was given by the one that defected. Until this day this sanctum remained unoccupied. These three priestesses brought with them news that the dark priesthood has gained strength and once again threaten others. If true... the Reformed Oracle Council will need allies. Three verses hundreds is no match; it would be a slaughter. Even with the training a true oracle has."
The hologram shimmered. "Now that Oracle der Fuchs has proper necklace and robes, she can access the historical database any time she wishes. The other Oracles can as well."
"Aaron," Ishanah spoke softly, "Perhaps she can access that mysterious file."
The hologram shimmered. "Please describe the file."
Ishanah looked at the hologram. "There is a file in our system that dates back to ancient times, to before the ancient war. It is password protected and our system will not allow anyone to read it."
The hologram shimmered. "It is not password protected... it requires an Oracle wearing a properly attuned necklace nearby to allow access. This was deemed important as what is contained within was deemed sensitive. This is why your counterparts in ancient times were allowed access to this Sanctum; your counterparts met with the Headmaster to discuss various things. Training of your priests in advanced tactics was among many. This is one of many that needed to be kept from eyes not allowed to see such things."
"Wait... you're telling us that Oracles trained the other priesthood?" Hilda was surprised.
The hologram shimmered. "Yes. All priests once were taught at the Library of the Oracles. With the Dark Priesthood becoming more dangerous and willing to do as they saw fit, it had been decided priests of both your factions that showed aptitude for basic oracle spells would be taught them. Countering the disobedient faction was becoming a necessity. Keeping this list secret was paramount, and it was never foreseen the entire Oracle priesthood would be eliminated."
The hologram shimmered. "Since the three of you represent the original priest factions, the Pact of the Priesthood is reestablished. Decide when you wish to start your meeting. The servants will begin preparations immediately. But first... both of you should undergo the process. Being the ranking members of your order, it must be proven neither of you is the Impostor. Please follow me."
The hologram led the three through tunnels nearly identical to those Hilda went through earlier. She was certain they would end up in a cavern just as before, but was surprised when they exited onto a balcony overlooking a steep cliff with several holograms waiting for them. The tunnel's door closed and the two high priests were placed on medical beds, and scanned as Hilda was before. After this was completed the holograms began their questioning; the device continued scanning as each question was asked and it seemed to an onlooker that neither priest was aware of the other answering the same question it was.
Soon it was over and the holograms beckoned the two to sit up.
"Both of you passed the examination within acceptable parameters. Therefore since each of you is leaders of your factions you will be given a tiara which will allow you access to this facility just as your ancient counterparts were. In addition you will receive a necklace that will allow you to learn basic oracle spells. Both of you will undergo training before being allowed to leave; the first will get you accustomed to using these and you may schedule the remainder at your leisure. If the return of the Dark Priesthood is as you say, it is recommended not to wait too long.."
Ishanah held up a paw. "Should our senior staff pass, will they receive necklaces of their own?"
The hologram shimmered. "Only those proven not to be the Impostor and possessing ability to learn basic oracle skills will be allowed necklaces."
Aaron had a strange expression on his muzzle.
"You mentioned a Headmaster; is Hilda holding that title now?"
The hologram shimmered. "There can only be one Headmaster."
He cocked his head. "Makes sense. Let me rephrase my question; Since Hilda is the senior-most oracle living today, is she the Headmaster?"
The hologram shimmered. "No."
"No... as in she is not the Headmaster... or no as in she is not the senior-most oracle?"
The hologram shimmered. "No to both."
This was news indeed. All three mammals' jaws dropped at the words. The implication meant so many things, perhaps most was something impossible.
Ishanah held up her paw motioning the hare to remain quiet and spoke. "You said Hilda is not the senior-most oracle and she is not the Headmaster. Is the Headmaster still alive?"
The hologram shimmered. "Unknown. Communication with the Headmaster's Study was lost eons ago. Without positive confirmation of his demise... that title is left with previous mammal. Oracle der Fuchs...you must go to the Headmaster's Study and determine his fate. It is possible he simply placed himself in an extended sleep; if not then you must determine his fate. The Headmaster's Study was kept hidden from everyone save a pawful of the ranking oracles; unfortunately none survived. You will need your two subordinates that came with you to find his resting place. Only those in the valley below have the knowledge to awaken him if he slumbers... and only you have the means to find him."
Aaron looked at the other two. "How will she know where it is?"
The hologram shimmered. "Her tiara allows communication with the Sanctum, just as the necklace communicates with the Altar of the Oracle. She will receive training how to do this, afterwards I will simply tell her everything she needs to know. I will not divulge the Headmaster's location until she is near, I will however guide her. Apologies... but only an oracle can invite a non-oracle into the Study. Until the Headmaster himself authorizes your access, then you two will have to wait at the designated summoning portal."
The hologram shimmered. "The Gatekeeper reports several priests accompanied both of you. They will undergo the process before either of you will be allowed to leave. Do not tell them what to expect least one of them proves to be the Impostor. If none of them are, those that have the ability will receive necklaces and training in oracle basics."
Hilda looked at the two priests. "Well... let's go meet them in the library. Once all have transported they can be escorted two at a time where you were taken. I suppose while these are undergoing it, the others can read a book or two."
The three of them followed the hologram out of the room.
Chancellor of Truth rubbed his chin. They had her right where they wanted... and those two incompetent mammals let her get away. The abomination was under lock and key; who cares who fed her? Important thing was she was healthy and her fur had a shine on it that drove the bidders wild. How the Zootopians discovered their hidden estate was anyone's guess. What was clear they were no match against the dark priests; many of their agents were captured and being interrogated. The screams coming from the rooms were unsettling, but necessary.
News reached them of another event involving the Zootopians.
The Dark Council suffered a tragic ambush in their headquarters. The meeting was disrupted when the Zootopians open fire and succeeded in killing three members, Alphas as they called themselves. This didn't include the many highly trained security mammals. The Zootopians didn't fare any better; nearly all their infiltrators were killed save a pawful and these succeeded in wresting the traitor safely out of harm's way.
Alpha Twelve: leader of the Tundratown mafia and now a known snitch of the ZPD... this shrew were hiding under the protection of the Zootopians. Within hours of the attack minions of the Alphas had swarmed Tundratown and burned the shrew's headquarters. It was doubtful this was done willingly; most likely it was scuttled by the bears that served the shrew. Either way the Dark Council now controlled Tundratown.
He shoved this out of his mind. They must refocus their effort into finding another way to end the abominations lives. Their new pact with the dark priests could be the missing thing that kept success eluding them. Something about them was unsettling, but they proved very competent in achieving what they wanted. Now that the Zootopians captured the doe these priests wanted, it would be cubs play pitting them against the leadership of the great city. He almost felt sorry for the ZPD and GSD... almost.
Bishop Gandoff was leading the weekly sermon. Hidden behind curtains and wearing clothes that concealed his true nature, High Priest Billie watched the religious services. If he was disgusted at wearing the garments of his enemy it didn't show. The undead goat was impressed how the ram's words appeared to be proper sounding, but anyone skilled in religious topics would decipher the changes in meaning of these words.
Over the past few days many priest had fallen unexpectedly sick; they couldn't explain why a sudden bout of weakness befell them. The doctor was befuddled; tests clearly indicated everyone was in prime health and yet clearly their energy level showed each suffering from what appeared to be weakness normally associated with an illness. The doctor was waiting for a reply from Zootopia General Hospital, unaware that each time he visited the technician who would send the actual request the mammal would fall unconscious and the request erased from his computer.
Then it happened. Priests started dying for no apparent reason. One moment they would be perfectly healthy, next they would gasp, suddenly become immobile, and then collapse in a heap upon the floor; their body turned pale as if they had seen a ghost. This was happening in no discernable pattern, some of the newly sicken priest would die shortly after going to the infirmary; their bodies the same paleness.
Now the undead priest was hiding in the chapel. He was genuinely curious how the living companion hid his true nature, now after watching the sermon he knew. It was masterful, clearly so simple a kindergarten cub could do... yet if discovered it was easily countered.
He reached out and sampled the nearest body; its life-force tasted as he remembered and he was careful enough to take just a tiny fraction. He spread his meal through several bodies least someone observant enough noticed what was were the ones most supportive of the bishop thus killing them would be counterproductive.
Priests were filing out the room, some leaning against each other. It was obvious the bishop knew the cause and his staring in his direction meant perhaps a change in dinner practices was in order. When the last priest left the doors were closed. He stepped out of his hiding place and walked to where the bishop stood.
"Could you have made it any more obvious?"
"They lived thus no harm done."
"Please refrain from snacking next time. We want those loyal to us to be healthiest. Here are the next few you should... *ahem*... weed out. They remain stubborn in adhering to the original purpose of this faction, removing these should have no consequence for us. "
"Is there any problem with how quickly you wish them removed? Or should we merely... have them suddenly succumb to a bout of weakness?."
The bishop sighed. "Let's have them weakened and you can finish one of them off at your leisure. By the way... High Priest Aaron has left unexpectedly; he took with him the other candidates for replacing him. Since I remain it becomes my responsibility to take over the administrative duties."
"Wonderful! Now we can work faster to weed out those loyal to him."
The bishop rolled his eyes. "That would paint a sign saying *Guess who is taking over your priesthood?*. No... if he keeps to his usual pattern it'll be a few days before he returns. How about you spend some quality time with the computer's main console? You can study the files at your leisure and see if you can find a way into their files they use to defeat us."
"*Sigh*. Wonderful... that's as exciting as watching grass grow. I think I'll go prune some vegetation in the visitor's garden."
"You can do that when I'm taking my break. You still are rusty learning how to behave as a Living."
"As you wish. May I at least snack a little here and there?"
"As long as they are the list of those I've identified... sure."
"Like I do with you?"
The bishop spun around and glared at the Undead. "You did what?"
"Looks like I learned something. You taste... bland. When was the last time you had relations with some female?"
"We priests aren't supposed to have... physical... relations with any females."
"Hmmm... it appears some of your brethren have violated the rule."
This left the bishop speechless for a few moments. Finally he shook it out of his head and left the Undead alone as he went to do his duties.
"OWW!"
Nick rubbed his paw and looked at his wife.
"Nick, I'm not in the mood."
"You'll thank me later. Now just..."
"Get that away from me."
"I'm doing this for your own good."
"I can do this myself."
"But..."
"If those paws get any closer I'll remove them."
He chuckled; which only made the bunny more determined. She was trying to learn how to write a report that normally a higher-ranking officer did. Chief Bogo assigned this to her and wanted it done before he departed for a meeting with the mayor. Nick, since he worked with Detective Markle for a few months, had learned how to do these early this year. His bunny was simply being stubborn, so he decided to try a different tactic.
A knock on their apartment's front door announced the guest he requested. Judy rushed to the door and opened it, obviously surprised and disappointed at same time.
"Detective Markle... come in." She closed the door and walked with him to the sofa.
"Let's go and see how far you've progressed on your test" the Timber wolf said in his usual no-nonsense manner. He could tell Nick didn't tell her why he was here and after he left she would have words with him. Perhaps he could lessen the tongue lashing the todd would receive.
"Judy... you're not supposed to know how to do this report this early in your career. A good officer knows how to ask for help and where to find it. Hence this test. I suspect the chief gave it to you as further proof you are ready for the next rank. You have demonstrated all the other skills and requirements an officer above your current grade... but this one. Let's see if you can grasp the hows-n-whys."
Nick held the chair out so the bunny could sit down, tucking it in as she sat down. The wolf stood on her right shoulder side and he was on her left. Over the next hour the wolf corrected mistakes and showed her why something went where. He had her remote logged-in to her work computer and get information from various cases she had written reports on. By the time the report was finished she was much appreciative and gave him a big bunny hug and kiss. Then he did something else... she had to write a new report but without guidance. To ensure no cheating was involved he took Nick out of the home office and they sat on the sofa to watch Tv.
"I didn't want to bring this up in front of her, but what's with the three heads?"
Nick grinned. "I had nothing to do with those. The rabbit head you already know about; he was the burrow architect up in the Land of the Prophecy. The other two are Abigail Canny and Catherin McKeen. These vixens upset Judy and to this day I don't know how she arranged for this. Dr. Bearinton thinks it's nothing more than simple revenge. But he's continuing the counseling sessions just to be on the safe side. Between you and me... I think he just enjoys her friendship."
The wolf nodded, and then looked back towards the home office where Judy was busy.
"She appears to have lingering effects from the abduction" the detective said as he chewed on a turkey leg.
"I'm trying to build her confidence, but I think she's missing our daughters."
"Hmm... Dr. Bearinton thinks she needs a little more time. But... there is something to be said for the stresses of motherhood and caring for young vixens. Speaking of... when are they coming home?"
"Mom is bringing them to her house for the weekend. The Dennison's have had them for a few days and I didn't think it fair to cut short their time; the Wintersprite's had them the previous weekend, and my parents had them before that. Judy agrees but reluctantly... being at their other set of grandparents is something that's good for Marilyn and Caroline but rough on her. Audrey and GSD has been keeping the news of her abduction off the Furtime they use to talk with their bunny cousins as well as the local news... or at least what their Tv and radios receive. They are going to be emotional enough once they realize what happened."
A knock on the front door announced unexpected visitors. Nick got up and opened the door.
"Daddy!"
Two excitable vixens briefly hugged him and then sped off towards the home office. Eager voices greeting their mom and her reply clearly was heard across the apartment. Outside stood four elder foxes that needed no introductions; Gary and Wendy and his own parents.
"Somehow the news about Judy got to their ears. While we want a few more days it is understandable they need her more" Gary explained as Wendy hugged Nick and she promptly put her matriarch mark on him. He also received one from his mother afterwards, which puzzled him.
"Wow... what did I do to deserve both?"
Gary chuckled. "You raised our granddaughters to be excellent role models. Where's Judy?"
John pointed to the rear of the apartment. "I suspect she is still working on her ZPD test, am I correct?"
Nick nodded in the affirmative as the bunny walked out and towards the front door holding two small paws. She was surprised to receive the matriarch marking from both elder vixens. Afterwards she beckoned them in and as Nick closed the door introductions were made with the detective. As Nick played host Judy and the vixens went into the kitchen to prepare a snack tray and some drinks.
Sometime during the visit Nick made it plain that Gary and Wendy would be staying for as long as they wanted. The guest bedroom was available: this was to be used when Judy's first litter arrived and the litter's godparents needed a room to stay in. As such it had a small half bathroom with a stand-up shower. Gary said a not-so-subtle hint what could be done in the shower, Wendy boxed his ears just for thinking the thought. Nick was pretty sure the elder todd would get his wish.
After a few minutes Jackie and Wendy held Marilyn and Caroline and told Judy to go finish her test. Tonight's dinner was going to be at Romano's Italian Restaurant and Audrey already picked up the tab and would be joining them; a few of the other family members would be waiting when the reservation time arrived.
Gary and Wendy told about the young vixen's fascination with the detective book series they had purchased. They wanted to introduce their granddaughters to a world of good books and this series was the usual first stepping stone. The first book was read and they were eagerly reading the second. They were allowed only a few chapters to be read before the book was to be put down and both tell their grandparents what they read in their own words. Afterwards the young vixens had to go outside and play, which naturally involved them reenacting what they read. One of their grandparents or a relative or a few of the next-door kids-goats would play the part of the villain.
Marilyn and Caroline were sad when Kathrin went back to college, taking her coat, hat, and magnifying glass with her. Gary had miniature detective jackets and hats made for them, each was given a plastic magnifying glass and a toy pipe that the great Sherlock Holmes was known to possess. Wendy took a picture and sent it to Carl and Kimberly; it was obvious they would forward it to the other grandparents.
Clare was standing on the balcony they had stood when they first arrived. She found the view acting like a tonic to her soul, the view of the mountains and of the buildings both nearby and on the valley below was pleasant to look at. Many minutes went by and something started troubling her. It seemed as if subtle changes happened here and there, as if the wind moved something. She looked at a walkway for awhile... and it appeared to change colors. She shook her head and then paid closer attention. This was a good distance below her and thus details could not be easily seen without binoculars or similar device.
Hanging on a wall nearby was such a device. Holding it as intended she turned the knob until the scene below was somewhat clear and focused. It wasn't just a walkway... it was wide enough to be a road. Mammals walking and others pulling carts or wagons were on it, and it appeared they were heading in this direction. She slowly moved her gaze, following the road. As far as she could tell it passed far below but something in her gut told her they would be stopping.
The hologram shimmered into view beside her.
"They move along the path regularly. Sometimes few in numbers, sometimes nearly the whole village. Scans indicate the later."
"Who are they? And why are they here? We were under the impression the staff died, thus no other mammals lived here."
The hologram chuckled. "It was said the staff sealed access to the complex... nothing was mentioned as to what lay outside. As you can plainly see, there are support structures along the entire valley. Buildings and roads are along the sides of the mountains, others along the valley below. Non-priests have always lived among the Oracles."
"That can be considered subterfuge, misleading and deceptive."
Clare knew the voice and turned to see Hilda walking towards her, Paulina walking beside the elder vixen.
The hologram shimmered. "True... but necessary. Until it was verified at least one of your group possessed the Oracle gift, knowledge would be revealed in limited amounts. Surely you would do same if situation were reversed, no?"
Paulina now held the binoculars and looked down at the valley below. "The group appears to have stopped directly below us. Perhaps we should go and check them out?"
The hologram shimmered. "They have been notified that the Council has returned. Also that they should move along as you are undergoing evaluation and orientation. When all that you need to know has been given then you will be allowed to interact with them. But for now... steel yourselves. Representative will arrive momentarily."
Hilda barely had enough time to stand in the manner she was instructed previously. A bright flash of light and on the platform they had arrived earlier now stood a couple mammals; a lynx and a hare, both males. Both blinked their eyes and immediately looked around the room, clearly mesmerized by everything within. Once they saw the trio of priestesses they bowed and gestured their paws in a manner none of the priestesses had seen before. They held their paws and stance, not moving for some unknown reason.
The hologram spoke. "Return their gesture... just as they are doing. Please step off the dais."
The trio of priestesses did and the duo returned standing upright and walked the short distance until standing before the priestesses. Both groups were looking the other from head to feet.
The lynx spoke first. "Oracles... welcome home. I am Maximillian Laslo and this is my companion Nathan Swift. We were chosen to be your representatives to the others until you are acquainted with our ways."
Clara waved a paw; something the other lynx knew its meaning. "Representatives?"
Maximillian nodded his head. "Yes. A similar hologram proclaimed your arrival in the courtyard in every village. It instructed the elders to choose among their citizens two that were most capable of explaining our history and what we need from you."
Paulina blinked her eyes. "Need from us? We don't have time for social niceties; the Dark Priesthood is on the march and we three must learn an impossible amount of knowledge in too short of time. My apologies..."
The hologram interrupted the lioness. "Precisely why they are here. These are the descendants of the original staff that once worked inside this complex. They are more than simple villagers... they have retained the skills their ancient forbearers once had. Listen and heed their council."
The hologram shimmered and started walking towards the hallway, leaving the priestesses alone with the newcomers. Awkward silence followed for a few moments.
Hilda waved her paw. "Let's go to the banquet hall and have coffee or similar drink. We'll hear what these gentlemammals have to tell us there."
The group walked to the hallway and joined the hologram as it led them to the small dining hall they preferred over the main hall. The priestesses asked questions and the two representatives answered, the hologram butting-in to explain something in a different but simplified manner as needed.
Kimberly Canter and her tracker team were sitting in the Rorschach Family estate. Their previous attempt to infiltrate the caverns of their former associates via a little-used passageway ended in failure. After spending time under medical observation and regrouping to brainstorm what went wrong, they decided there had to be more about that particular passageway other than it was abandoned due to unstable rock and previous cave-ins. It had to be something important was stored nearby; and after their first attempt it was certainly reinforced.
There was a little-known recently excavated tunnels that rumors said was establish somewhere in Vulpinstan. These were done same time as those in the Outback Isles. One of Kimberly's team was a member of the scouting team that went through the tunnel and explored a small area of the country. While it took some time looking around various satellite photographs, eventually he recognized where the opening was. Now they were prepared to try again.
Colonel Kohle assigned Team Bravo to go along, considering every member of this team already had Pip-Boars issued thus better able to counter against those strange mammals claiming to be priests. Kimberly would have dismissed this if Paulina and Clare weren't with them on the previous attempt and verified this to be true. She wished the two priestesses would be coming along this time but Savage said they were occupied elsewhere. He also said they were doing more training to better prepare themselves for the next time they encountered those priests. Dr. Bevyton and Dr. Dexter adjusted Kimberly's wrist-mounted computer and copied the encrypted files to the other Pip-boars. They also added a high-capacity battery pack on the belts of each agent; hopefully this would give enough power for more than one fight.
"Everyone ready?" Agent Savage received nods in the affirmative from his team and Kimberly's.
Colonel Kohle smiled. "Remember... get in and get out quicker. It's tactical information we need more than scalps to display on our belts. If our Tracker friends recognize any former associates I'll consider that a success. It means they have expanded their operations and most likely are going to capitalize on this foothold in Vulpinstan. The local magistrate has agreed to place some of his guards here to contain them should they attempt to push us out. He appears to be content to let us do the exploring thus sticking our necks out; and he most likely will commit once we verify activity. The Pentagon has special forces on the way and I'll send them in when they get here. Meanwhile your teams are to proceed and establish a presence, don't go too far in that you can get back out in a reasonable time. I'd say half an hour maybe one at the most."
Director Dench spoke next. "The king wants updates; this incursion into his realm has him angered. If his forces weren't involved in the mop-up operation that freed Officer Hopps they would be here and most likely inside the tunnel already. This saving grace is what allows us to use our experience against these dwellers first. Thankfully we have members of their society to guide and assist us. Ms. Canter... thank you and your team. On another note... General Rommel asked to be updated; once his assistance against the Kodiak Empire no longer is needed he wants to push into the caverns, most likely starting in the Tri-Burrows."
Clifford and Margret clapped their paws, letting everyone know they wanted to speak. Clifford nodded to his wife, obviously letting her speak first.
"Gentlemammals, first... thank you for all the help you and the Zootopians have provided thus far. Our hides would be hanging on the swine and sheep's walls by now had you never interceded. It is a pity those two miscreants remain in the wind, as are those priests. We ask should you meet them again, bring them here if possible. They harmed our successors, as such they deserve our wrath."
Colonel Kohle coughed. "If we can it will be done. Please remember there are many that have similar claims for justice. Their claims should be honored."
Clifford put his paw on her shoulder and she looked into his eyes. "Then having them imprisoned here waiting trial will be good enough; or at least waiting here for a week. Knowing we have some satisfaction watching them behind bars will be enough."
"I think the local magistrate probably wants his guards here which will supplement our methods, and the king probably will stop by. Knowing the Zootopia judicial system, Chief Justice Dent probably will be content holding trial here. He's unconventional and likes to have defendants undergo every trial effecting them going on in same courtroom, back-to-back if you know what I mean. One case over, next starts."
Clifford and Margret nodded their heads. "Good enough. We'll remove ourselves so you can continue on with your preparations."
The baron and his wife left the room leaving the Zootopians alone.
Dr. Dexter closed the pip-boar cover and winked at Agent Golden, enjoying his blushing face. "This program worked well the last time; we think if you encounter them again, having everyone's wrist-mounted computer should allow for a decent defense. Oh... we also adjusted the area scanner; now it should tell you how far away and if the target is above or below you if not readily visible."
Dr. Bevyton smiled at the tomcat's reaction to his colleague. "Don't forget to set the scanner to auto-record the rock strata; knowing if they prefer to dig through a certain type might give us an edge. At the very least it might tell us if they dig horizontal or follow the strata."
"OK team... depart when ready. Good luck."
Clare was walking in one of the nearby villages. Maximillian, the male lynx was one of two representatives assigned to guide the Oracle priestesses, had introduced her to the ruling council and presently she was getting a presentation from the members on their responsibilities. Paulina was in another village with Nathan Swift, a male hare who was the other representative assigned to guide the Oracle priestesses. She was experiencing same thing as Clare was. Hilda remained at the Sanctum as members of various Guilds auditioned for the right to work in the various work spaces throughout the Sanctum. The hologram remained active explaining the attributes of each individual; it had access to the various computer nodes in each village and thus access to everyone's evaluations. These were made informally, mostly as a means to determine which mammals were a better fit were for certain tasks.
"So... your control crystal device remains attuned to the Altar of the Oracle? We will need technicians to go with you and check on the electronics. It should never have developed a neutronian radiation leakage. This might be the explanation that allowed them to use it to convert flesh into... them."
Clare blinked her eyes. "Ummm... what is that?"
The beaver wearing a technician uniform looked at her as if she were a simpleton. He briefly opened his mouth and quickly closed it again after noticing the stern look the lynx shot his way.
"Pardon my impoliteness. I didn't realize you weren't skilled in the basics of engineering. I suspect somehow the altar's electronics got damaged sometime during the final battle. Or perhaps they tinkered with its innards. Whatever happened... the end result is it must have been operating with a damaged coil for centuries. It's a miracle it simply didn't explode: the blast would have reduced the entire complex into atoms."
"So... how did my necklace put it into safe mode?"
"See the pendant hanging down? That denotes a control crystal. It acts as an automatic safety device that signals the main computer to stop current operations immediately or as soon as current operations have completed. Your crystal automatically puts your requests in front of any other user not having same crystal. If you do not send a specific series of commands, the mainframe simply goes into standby mode until you or a similar crystal sends the appropriate commands. Seeing as you had no training how to use your crystal, the simple act of grasping it put the mainframe into an inactive mode. We will have to get there and troubleshoot what damage was done and fix it."
"How do I do that? Send the signals?"
"I do not think that is wise to do so at this moment. Once the altar has been repaired, then we will teach you. Suffice it to say, everything is on your necklace already."
The lynx cleared his throat. "Get your team together and when ready we will go to the altar."
The beaver tilted his head. "Are we transporting directly there, seeing as the Sanctum has finally opened after all these millennia?"
"No. The Sanctum's mainframe cannot locate the transporter at that location. It must have been damaged or destroyed back in the Great War. Either way if we did use it we don't know if the Dark Priesthood has it guarded or debris rests atop the transporter pad. Materializing with something in your body would be an unpleasant experience."
The beaver sighed. "Ok... prepare for a long trek through the village. I assume the storekeepers no longer live in the area?"
Clare nodded in the negative. "We saw only collapsed ruins and empty buildings. The altar was glowing white until touched by one of those priests. A dark spot circled around its surface as if going down a sink drain until the entire surface had a dark purplish-black glow."
This caused the beaver and lynx to freeze immobile. They looked at each other as if disbelieving what was just said.
"That... that was never a function it was supposed to have. The altar always glowed bright white; it only dulled slightly when going between operations. This... this signifies it is not malfunctioning, more likely tampered with. I'll have to increase my team's size. We just went from simple troubleshooting to a major tear-down and repair."
"I'll have to request all available Oracle... oh; there are only three of you. Well... security will just have to rest with a few battle droids."
Now it was Clare's turn to grab everyone's attention.
"Forgetting something? I have friends that specialize in just that. When you're ready to go I'll send word for them to have transportation and extra mammals to go with us. Give me a moment."
She grasped he necklace and concentrated. In a moment a voice came from nowhere.
"Clare... what do you need? Have the technicians proven helpful?"
"Hilda... they think the Altar of the Oracles has been tampered with. They need to get inside to find out why it's malfunctioning. We'll need GSD's protection."
"Understood. Good news... Kohle says we'll have Team Lima going along."
"OK. Soon as we're ready we'll transport back. Please remove the cobwebs. Clare out."
The beaver looked puzzled. "Cobwebs?"
Maximillian chuckled. "Last time she transported into that room she walked into an old spider's web. After all these millennia, females still hate insects and other arachnida."
The two males shared a chuckle and the priestesses merely frowned.
"Ok priestess... I'll have the transporter choose a different receiving pad; one that has been cleaned recently."
Clare's mouth opened in surprise. "There's more than one pad?"
The beaver nodded affirmatively. "The one you were first transported is one of several in that library. Others are located at various buildings along the complex. It makes getting across the complex which itself is spread across many mountains easier and quicker."
Clare and Maximillian left the beaver to gather his crew, returning to the Sanctum. She was surprised when they arrived at a different pad itself in a cubbyhole on opposite side of the room from the first one. They went to find Hilda and make plans for the trip.
Kimberly's crew was making their way down the tunnel carefully as possible. Agent Savage said this was going to be a short trip; the Zootopians simply wanted to see if the Dark Underground had made any permanent fortifications in preparing to start operations in Vulpinstan. If they found any Colonel Kohle said he would have teams making entrance into various access points her team had previously disclosed. He was hopeful by doing this it would force enough of their mammal-power to be drawn back. As long as her or Savage's teams weren't detected or got into a firefight, there shouldn't be any reason for them to reinforce these new tunnels.
Team Bravo was taking the right side of the tunnel, Kimberly's team the left side. They were now at the maximum distance recommended by Colonel Kohle, and so far the tunnel was unoccupied and remained as it was when freshly dug. This was rock; and Savage was impressed how smooth the walls were.
"It has to be. Otherwise irregularities would allow water to erode it quicker" Kimberly said pointing out a small part that water had started its erosion.
"We only had more than two thousand years to perfect tunneling through rock. We got to the point of being able to reverse digging, putting back excavated material mimicking the original. We also used this method to repair collapsed tunnels; and altar rock strata to form rooms for new homes. Recently we started excavating large volumes of rock deep underground to fill the voids under our current homes. We got this idea when the one tunnel cut into the power conduit for that bunker. Seeing how far down it went gave our technicians an idea where to get rock. Now old spaces that once were abandoned have been reclaimed once the unstable void under them has been filled, like a dentist does a tooth cavity."
"Color me impressed" Savage said.
"You are welcome. How about we continue? If they follow standard procedure..."
This was the last thing she said before the ceiling collapsed.
"Savage... what was that?" Colonel Kohle repeated his words and waited for an answer.
"Pip-boards remain operational... life signs stable... they're out cold" a technician said his paws moving across a console.
"We got movement."
Colonel Kohle was instantly looking at this screen, his eyes taking in the information scrolling down the left side.
"It was a trap. Impressive."
"Sir... it's almost upon them."
"I've no doubt they were lying in wait for someone to go down that tunnel. Monitor them... and find out how much ceiling was collapsed. I gotta call back to the bunker and see if we have access to similar machines."
The Scottish terroir hated being outsmarted. It had been awhile since a foe got the upper paw on him and now the clock was ticking. His best team was about to be captured, and their ace-in-the-hole was about to as well. As he thought about it the situation became clear... his teams merely set off some kind of trip wire. Now alerted, the sentries were coming to investigate. If he was going to rescue his teams he had to act fast.
"I'm here boss. What happened?" Senior Technician Pangolin said over the comlink.
"It was a trap. Ceiling collapsed. Sensors indicate movement, most likely their equipment excavating to reveal what they caught. Need our own to get there asap."
"Satellite says entire ground between you and them is unstable. This is going to require heavy equipment. You want to dig horizontal or go vertical?"
"Whichever is quickest."
She grunted. "That's the problem. Neither is... unless we're willing to move half a mountain and don't care where it's piled, horizontal is quicker. Not by much."
"Horizontal it is. I've a contact in the Zootopia Corps of Engineers. There's a valley nearby that might be a suitable disposal point."
"Hmm... Yes... I think we can use that to bypass most of the collapse. Requires a dog-leg in the excavation process, but it'll save quite a bit of time. Ok... sending the mechano-droids your way. Oh... might be advisable to get everyone out of where you're presently at, unless squashed is your preference."
He grunted after signing off. Dog leg... he understood the technical term that miners used in tunneling, it was the use of it that got under his fur. He barked orders quickly and shut down his own equipment. Before he did he sent a short message to the Rorschach Family estate; they would be better able to explain what happened and why very large and very strange equipment was entering their territory.
Kimberly awoke with a dull headache. Moments later, probably clued-in by the dust that smelled like rock, it came back to her. Her team was walking down a tunnel assisting Agent Savage. She checked the wrist mounted device... good, still working. Looking at the screen and scrolling through a few applications she found the one and activated it.
"Savage... how's your team?"
"Bumps... bruises... otherwise in one piece. Trap?"
"Probably. Certainly a new trick. My team is same."
"Sensors indicate movement heading this way. Not friendly."
"Let's hope they're the standard welcoming committee. Otherwise this is going to be unpleasant."
She had her team do a quick check of the cavity that miraculously formed around them. Either that or her old comrades developed a new technique. As she waited for the mechano-droid to chew its way to her location, she became aware of what the implications meant for her personally. As a traitor to the Dark Council, the Chancellor most likely would have her chained in a public place and allow the public to throw whatever they wished. It was not unusual to receive cuts and bruises; thus the prisoner would slowly die an agonizing death as infection and disease slowly drained the life from the body. A see-through barrier would prevent the public from these but allow them to witness the agony and death. Such macabre scenes were a warning to those contemplating action or complaining. The strong paw of the council was swift and merciless.
But she had an ace up her fur. She set the Pip-boar's function to mask her bio-signs and instructed her team to not mention she was with them. After receiving their acknowledgement she sent a quick text to Savage. He acknowledged her plan and would do likewise. Now she had to wait for the machine to get here.
Moments later the wall glowed red and peeled back as if flowing down a drain. The energy barrier shimmered until dissipated, and then the machine moved backwards a few yards. Mammals with weapons drawn exited through a door and disarmed her team, then moving them through the door and closing it behind them. Then the machine's energy barrier glowed brightly and soon the rock was back in place as if nothing had occurred.
It was an agonizing long wait until the machine stopped. The whine of the energy barrier ended and then the machine traveled through the tunnel at a decent speed. It seemed like an eternity until it stopped, a side door opened and an imposing figure stepped in.
"Ah... Tracker Canter's team. I was told you had been eliminated. Oh well... the mammal will pay dearly for not ensuring it was so. But where is your leader? Tell me now and I'll consider a... less painful death."
As he waited his security detail tied up her team and waited his signal. Weapons were drawn and pointed, waiting for the order. The Chancellor walked from one team member to another until every one had looked defiantly into his eyes. Each one was asked the question directly, and each team member refused to answer. He sighed and raised his paw. He did not get the chance to lower it.
Seemingly all at once the guards and Chancellor himself howled in pain and dropped to the floor. Their lifeless bodies oozed blood from their ears and mouth. Kimberly shimmered into view and quickly untied her team, being careful not to touch the bodies as she did so. It was not unusual to booby trap one's own body before going into an area to interrogate prisoners. She stepped near the door to close it... but was thrown to the floor. A heavy body pinned her down and she heard her team howl in pain. She saw their lifeless bodies fall onto the floor, then the stench of his breath filled her nose. She knew it instantly... and wasn't surprised. He once was her Instructor and team leader. Now he was the Chancellor's personal Tracker.
"We meet again, Ms. Canter. I'll take possession of your play toy, but after you're properly restrained."
"Magnus Strongpaw. I should have known this was your doing. Nice new variation on an old trick."
The wolf grinned. "Thank you. Oh... someone wants to have a word with you."
She remained pinned to the floor and could only see the feet and lower edge of the robe moving around her. The mammal stopped and then lowered himself until both could clearly see the other. Kimberly should have been shocked... she did verify his bio-sign was genuine before killing him. Apparently the Chancellor had nine lives... she wondered how many were left; she had plans to make quick work of them.
"Ms. Kimberly Canter... we meet again. How unfortunate that you pulled the trigger so quickly... and without remorse. I had you trained well. But you chose to bite the paw that fed you and your family. Now let's talk."
She was ruthlessly hauled up and shackled onto a framework, then moved outside the machine and placed where everyone in this large excavated space could clearly see her. A fanfare announced what everyone knew what was about to happen. Many mammals grabbed tools and things they were about to be allowed to throw. The crowd gathered around, excitement moving through the air.
"Last words, Ms. Canter?"
She looked at him defiantly. "I'll be back... and then your remaining nine lives will be mine. If I were you, I'd prepare now to meet your pride in the vast prairielands in the sky."
The Chancellor grinned. His paw raised above his head momentarily... then rapidly lowered towards the ground. At that moment the lights in the cavern went out.
The crowd waited outside the large old oak doors. They had been chosen to go outside their beloved valley on a mission their elders said was important. These were engineers that had for all their lives been responsible for maintaining the equipment that kept life comfortable. Now an opportunity to go into the outside world presented itself, all because the village hologram said the Oracles had returned.
All their lives and for as far back as the ancient records were kept stories told of mammals called Oracles. Some were beloved but most were unremarkable, just as most villagers. Why the village hologram insisted everyone show upmost respect to these was puzzling. Mammals nobody ever met... why did they deserve respect without earning it? Everyone in their village earned their position by performance, so for them to give this without explanation went against everything their society based on.
The hologram shimmered into view on its usual pedestal, this one located outside the ancient gates that led to the entrance of the Sanctuary.
"Citizens of the Valley Oracles, the day have finally arrived. Long ago those that were the very purpose this valley was created... left us to fight a great battle. The battle was so big and fierce that the efforts of the Sanctum could not keep up with the casualties. Therefore when the last one departed and none returned, these very gates were sealed. The Sanctum itself was put into standby, waiting for priests to return. Through the millennia your ancestors kept the systems repaired and operating, furbishing your villages with same technology so your skills were maintained and when the priests returned the Sanctum would be staffed once again."
"Those of you assembled here have the skills needed to repair the Library of the Oracles. The orb used to train priests has malfunctioned, and has been used by the Dark Priesthood for their nefarious purposes since the end of the Great War. Only through the efforts of the combined factions of other priesthoods has the numbers and power of these dark priests been kept low. Now after millennia they have found a way to strengthen themselves, now they once again threaten the stability of all. Perhaps this is why our Oracles have returned. Without further delay I present to you the Reformed Oracle Council."
The large oak doors slowly opened and three mammals stood on the other side. The crowd bowed and was returned by the priestesses. Then the three stepped forward and stood next to the hologram. The center priestess stepped forward and pressed her necklace.
"Greetings. I will not waste your time with trivial words; for time is of the essence. Our nemesis, the Dark Priesthood, its numbers is growing and once again seek to bring their terrible ways to control mammals everywhere. They believe only harsh measures can keep everyone behaving properly. If you had seen their methods you would understand. I am not here to force you to follow me blindly; too many years have gone by and your society has functioned well without us. But... we do need your expertise to repair the Orb of the Oracles. By doing this you will greatly hinder their efforts, perhaps help end their faction."
"After the upcoming battle is over and whoever wins walks off the battlefield, your society will remain. Your choice then will be to isolate yourselves again or to open up to the outside world. Should we be the victors, it is my intention to allow small and gradual visitations. The outside world never knew you existed and few of you knew about us. It would be the height of ignorance to allow either side to travel without proper instruction on customs and laws. We have those dedicated to easing transition from one group of mammals to another."
"Back at the matter at paw. Maximillian Laslo and Nathan Swift will be our liaison, coordinating our actions with yours. We in turn will act as liaison with the outside world. Your village councils will continue governing themselves and will only send a brief statement to Mr. Laslo and Mr. Swift if a disagreement is between two villages. Otherwise this Council will have minimal impact on your daily lives. We simply must focus our efforts towards the Dark Priesthood."
The three priestesses turned and went back inside the Sanctum, their two representatives remained behind. The lynx stepped up to the podium and cleared his throat.
"Guild leaders... prepare to head out. The transporters in the room behind me will transport your members to the valley were the Gatekeeper will instruct you to go. The Outsiders are waiting with transportation that will bring you to the Library of the Oracles. The Oracles are heading there first; if the Dark Priesthood has a sizable presence, they will determine how best to proceed. You have been given instructions which group is to head out first... let's do so now."
The lynx and hare stepped aside and listened as those mammals obviously the guild leadership talked loudly to their group. One by one the groups moved through the gates and into the room with the transporters. The lynx and hare heard the hum as smaller numbers were transported to the Valley of the Gatekeeper. Meanwhile in the valley GSD teams directed the technicians to keep moving towards the mouth of the valley where many trucks waited to be loaded. It was a surprise when large crates appeared from what was thought to been an empty cave; several technicians moved these with ease towards the trucks designated for them. It seemed the crates outnumbered the technicians and probably did, and soon everything and every mammal were loaded.
Maximillian and Nathan were notified and they gave the order to proceed. It wasn't necessary to notify the priestesses; these were already headed to the Library of the Oracles with a team of GED agents. Colonel Kohle assured them he had teams already there to reconnoiter the area. As with all things, one never knew when Murphy's Law would activate... and the Dark Priesthood would show up.