Chapter XX
--------------
Crono met up with the others, who were listening to a bard perform beautiful music with a instrument he never seen before.
"What did you find out?" asked Crono.
"Where's Robo?" asked Lucca, somewhat worried.
"He's fine, he took Ayla to the End of Time...Now C'mon! Tell me!" he said, anxious to get some answers.
"The woman said this is the Kingdom of Zeal."
"And?"
Frog smirked. "And 'I be a cute little frog', or so she says."
"Really," Crono said bluntly
"Can ye blame her?"
Marle smiled. "You're in a good mood."
Frog drew the Masamune. "There be something in the air. The spirits of the Masamune seem at peace here."
"Anyway, Crono," said Lucca, "this is a safe place. Kajar is the 'City of Dreams', they're a peaceful people."
"In the middle of the Ice Age?!"
"I can't explain it either. Crono, we're all tired. Let's find a inn or something and get a decent nights sleep."
Crono quickly agreed for he was also very tired. He asked the bard for directions to an inn, but then he realized he had no money.
"Money?!" said the bard. "Enlightened Ones don't need money."
"It's free?"
"Of course. What do you think this is, the Earthbound Village? The inn is right over there. Take care now." The bard continued to play.
"Enlightened Ones?" said Crono, confused.
"Enlightened Ones are people who know how to use magic," said Lucca. "There's a village below here, somewhere in that frozen land we were before, where the 'Earthbound Ones' live."
"Well, that's good to know. I thought history was all messed up here for a second..."
They headed for the inn, admiring the city's beauty. All round them people were talking and laughing, and having a good time. They arrived at the inn, but it wasn't what they expected.
There were no beds, just glowing spots of light. "Enchantment Springs" a man said they were called. They stepped into it, and unlike the Enertron, it made them feel fully relaxed.
"I was hoping for a nice, warm bed..." said Crono.
A nearby woman overheard him. "So you want to dream, eh? The beds are right though here." She opened a door revealing rows and rows of beds, most of them occupied. "Zeal is the place we're dreams become reality, after all. Help yourself."
Crono saw a small boy with shining silver, blue hair hop out of one of the beds, followed by a cat. The boy was wearing a purple robe, and slowly walked to the door, rubbing his eyes. He paused when he came close to the group.
"Hi there," Marle said, cheerfully. "Have a nice sleep?"
The boy looked up at Marle with large, blue eyes, then at Crono. "The Dark Winds howl..." he said in a scared voice. "One of you will soon parish," he said a little louder. He picked up his cat and ran off.
"What are the percentages?" called out Robo.
"What a rude little urchin," said Frog. "He should partake in some manners."
The woman by Crono laughed. "Don't let Janus bother you. He's been having some bad dreams lately."
"Janus?"
"Yes, little Prince Janus Zeal. You don't recognize him? Oh yes, you're not from around here. He and his older sister Schala live with their mother, the Queen, in the Palace. He comes here the get away from all the chaos at the Palace, with the Mammon Machine and all."
"What's that?" asked Lucca.
"The Mammon Machine! Oh, it's a wonderful device! Belthasar and the other two Gurus designed it - before they vanished, that is. It will harvest the powers of Lavos and make the Kingdom of Zeal reign forever!"
Crono was silent for moment. He saw the worry on the others faces. "From...Lavos?"
Right then a little yellow being, much like Masa and Mune, skipped in the building.
"Doreen!" cried the woman. "So wonderful to see you again! Here for some good dreaming? I know how you love it so."
"You bet," the being said. "I'm gonna dream I'm a butterfly today!"
Crono and the others left the dreaming inn.
"Crono," said Lucca. "Queen Zeal is going to use Lavos to become immortal!"
"Yeah.... I think we know our next stop...." He looked skyward and stared at the Zeal Palace, looming over Kajar with a watchful eye.
***
The path to Zeal Palace was series of small warps, up the massive mountain.
"I don't like this Crono," said Lucca. "It doesn't make any sense."
"I know... But I think Lavos is to blame...." He peered at the Palace entrance. "He has to be."
They were warmly greeted at the door by a group of Nu. They all stared at the inside of the Palace. It was huge, and very beautiful, far larger and grander than even the castle of the Tyranos. Two yellow children ran past them.
"I'm the wind!" said one.
"No your not!" said the other, chasing him.
Frog turned his head. "It cannot be..." he said. "Excuse me, Crono." He followed the sword kids. Crono took a good look at the room. Several stairways led to different levels of the Palace...it seemed that the entire place was connected though this hall. Several large paintings decorated the walls. The largest one showed a group of three people, a small boy, a teenage girl, and a mother. Crono recognized the boy as Janus. Below the picture was a large double door, where the same boy stood.
"There he is." he said. "Come on."
By the time they arrived, Janus was gone. Crono opened the door, which lead into a bedroom. The boy was embraced with an older girl.
"It's the Black Winds again..." he said.
"I know Janus," said the girl, her face lowered. "I feel it also. Here, take this." She took a necklace from her neck. "This amulet will keep you safe. It will remind you of me." Janus took a step back, and took the object, and the girl put her hands on his shoulder. "Now, you go and see Mother."
Janus broke away. "That's not Mother! She only looks like Mother!"
The girl noticed Crono and the others, and turned her head toward them. She was very pretty, with shining blue hair in a large ponytail. She was wearing purple attire, just like Janus. Crono assumed this must be Schala, like the woman at the inn said.
"Oh....hello. You might you be?" she said.
But before Crono could respond, a voice called from behind.
"Princess Schala, the Queen needs your assistance." Said a guard.
"Very well. Excuse me. I'll see you later, Janus. Remember what I said," said Schala as she began to walk past the door. Crono noticed she was wearing a blue pendant, just like Marle's....
"Are you here to see the Mammon Machine?" said the guard when Schala left the room. "Then you have the wrong room. It's to the door to the left."
"Let's go follow her," said Lucca. "Say, did you notice her pendant?"
"Yeah...weird."
"C'mon Alfador," said Janus. "Let's go!" The small boy ran out of the room, and the cat followed.
Frog was waiting for them out in the main hall, complete with a new cape. He seemed worried.
"We must head to the Mammon Machine Sir Crono!" he said with worry. "The vile power of Lavos is about to extracted by the infernal device! They are moving it to the Undersea Palace within the hour!"
"I think the Princess is heading there right now," said Crono. "We have to follow her."
"Nay," said Frog. "The entrance to the Palace can only be unlocked by Princess Schala's pendant."
Marle held up her pendant from around her neck. "Look familiar?"
"Aye! That's it! Could it be, the same pendant?"
"Then we need to hurry!" said Lucca.
The four noticed the Princess near the back of the Palace. Sprinting to catch up they witnessed her placing the pendant on the door. It opened like magic. They waited until she was gone, and approached the door. Marle took her pendant and did the same as the Princess. The door opened.
Crono and the others hid behind a large potted plant when they entered the room. There was a meeting going on. Crono recognized Schala right away, and noticed Captain Dalton by her side. Another woman, probably Queen Zeal, stood by a robed figure who's face was covered by a deep hood. Zeal, like Schala and Janus, had stunning, shining blue hair.
"Why isn't the Mammon Machine ready for transport, you useless worm!" shouted Zeal.
"Progress is, well, slower thanks to the disappearance of the Gurus, your Majesty. It should be ready..." remarked Dalton
"Lavos waits for no one! I want it ready by tonight!"
The robed figure spoke, "If you are up to the task, Dalton."
"Keep out of this Prophet!" Dalton snapped. "It doesn't concern you and your warlock ways!"
"I foresaw this event," he returned with a smirk. A smile could be seen behind his hood.
"Don't start with me!"
"Gentlemen!" said Schala sharply. "Now is not the time for bickering."
"Thank you, my child," said Zeal. "You are like children! Now, Schala. Are you prepared for what you have to do?"
"Of course not," she said. "I will not partake in such a foul act."
"Is that so, Princess? You could live forever." said the Prophet.
"Yes. Immortality is a gift only for the gods."
"Precisely my point," said Zeal. She turned to Dalton. "Dalton! I want the Mammon Machine shipped to the Ocean Palace by nightfall! That's tonight! Understood?"
Dalton stood up strait. "Yes, your Majesty!"
Zeal and the Prophet began to walk out of the room. Crono made sure to keep hidden. Dalton stuck his tongue out at Zeal promptly.
"Wait a moment," said the Prophet as they passed the plant. "Someone is here..." He placed his hand to his forehead. "A boy...two girls...and a demi human."
"Don't be so hard on Mr. Dalton," said Schala with a small giggle. Dalton made a face.
The Prophet pointed to the large plant. "There!" The plant rose from the ground. Crono and the others stood their dumbfounded.
"Explain yourselves at once!" ordered the Queen with a growl.
"Ummm..." said Crono. "This...isn't the way to the Mammon Machine?"
"Dalton! Restrain these intruders at once."
"My pleasure...." he smiled.
"Mother no!" Shouted Schala.
"Silence!"
Dalton raised a arm and a black portal appeared. A large shape dropped out of the hole. It appeared to be a stone statue.
"Golem! Restrain them."
Crono and the others turn to run, but Zeal and the Prophet were blocking the exit. Schala stood there with her hands over the mouth. The Golem stomped forward, and everything went black.
Chapter XXI
----------------
When Crono came to, his mind was a blur. He looked around him, but everything was purple and wavy. He noticed Marle, Lucca and Frog still unconscious next to him, looking perfectly normal. What? He was in something...some sort magic cage...
Time passed, Crono didn't know how long. Lucca awoke, but they were too dizzy and too out of it to speak. He noticed two figures appear in front of them. A moment later, the purple wall disappeared and they landed on the ground.
"Oh dear..." said a female voice. "I...didn't mean for that to happen! Are you all right?"
All four of them were awake now. Crono got to his feet. Princess Schala and Prince Janus stood before them, but Janus didn't seem too interested.
"Why...did you let us out?" he said.
"There is no time to talk! Mother is about to do something dreadful! We must stop her."
"Can you get us to the Ocean Palace?" asked Marle, still a little woozy from the cage.
"Of course, we shall leave right away."
Janus looked oddly at Marle. "Why does she have the same pendant as you, Schala."
"Never you mind, Janus. Oh my, I haven't introduced myself. I am Schala Zeal." She bowed. "And this is my brother Janus." The little boy stood still. Crono noticed he was holing his cat in his arms. "I never got your names."
"This is Crono," said a loud voice from behind them, "this kingdoms downfall, Princess." The Prophet appeared behind them. "The question is how these peasants got here."
"None of your business!" snapped Lucca.
"Why do thy care, dark one?" said Frog. "Tis of no concern to thee."
The Prophet straitened his robe. "I want you to show me how you got here. You're coming too, Princess." He grabbed Schala's arm.
"Let her go!" cried Janus. He charged the Prophet, who simple pushed him aside.
"Never!" Schala said. "I will not let you."
"Then they die," said the Prophet. He raised his arms to them. Crono stepped back.
"You wouldn't," said the Princess.
"Their lives mean nothing to me. I will indeed, and take great pleasure from doing so."
Schala turned to Janus. "Go to your room, Janus."
"But....!"
"Janus....please."
The boy ran out of the chamber.
"Come on," said the Prophet, still holding Schala's arm. He began to walk out the door. "Try anything funny and the Princess will meet a horrible fate."
They all exited the room, and began to walk toward the Gate.
***
"Enter," said the Prophet pointing to the suspended Gate. "Or once again, the Princess dies."
Marle was the first to the Gate, and Frog followed.
"Tis the best course of action," said Frog before the entered. "Thou should agree," and then he disappeared.
"Come on Crono," said Lucca, and she took his hand, but Crono would budge. She entered the Gate without him.
"What are you planning?" Crono said to the Prophet. "What do you hope to achieve?"
"My destiny," he said. The Prophet held out his hand and Crono was pushed back into the Gate. A moment later, he was at the End of Time.
Robo greeted him. "Welcome back, Master Crono. The others told me what happened."
"Yeah... how's Ayla."
Robo turned around. Ayla was fighting with Spekkio, who now looked like a large green creature. "She is practicing....she is 'calm' now." He glanced at the Gates behind him, one was missing. Somehow, the way they came through must have been blocked off.
Crono walked into the main room, where the others were waiting for him.
"That's it," he said. "It's over."
"What do you mean?" said Marle. "We need to stop Lavos."
"The gate is gone. We can't get to Lavos. He's far to powerful to fight outright...we can't go back to when he arrived, and even if we could, we couldn't do anything. We couldn't even stop Magus..."
Lucca approached Crono. "We need to get back to Zeal."
"We can't!" he snapped.
"But we need to. The Mammon Machine is going to extract the powers from Lavos, weakening him. It could be our only chance."
"Lucca, the Gate is gone."
Ayla stopped fighting with Spekkio. "Crono give up?"
"No, it's not that..."
"I thought Crono strong."
"Ayla, we're all out of options."
"Not good reason. Ayla always fight. Crono run away."
The cave woman sat down.
"It was a massive quest, Sir Crono," said Frog. "It is best if we not tamper with fate."
"I wouldn't say that," said the Old Man, standing by the lonely lamppost. "I know someone who can help. His name is Belthasar."
"Belthasar?" said Robo. "I know him."
"He's lived in Zeal," Lucca said to him. "How can you know him."
"He lives near Death Peak in my time. He visited my dome once, looking for robot parts. He kept talking about the Blackbird and Ocean Palace. He's quite passionate about them."
"The Ocean Palace is where the Mammon Machine is!" said Crono. "How did he get to the year 2300?"
"I do not know. I think we should meet him."
"Great!" said Marle. "Let's go!" She stood up, but wobbled a bit. She sat back down.
"You're not over the cage, Marle. No. You stay here...all of you," said Crono. "Me and Robo will go."
"But....!"
"It's to dangerous. Get some rest."
"Why do we have to stay!" cried Lucca. "Women's rights! That's what I say!
Frog stepped forward. "I shall look over the ladies. You go."
"Fine. Take care, Robo," said Lucca, waving, a little sad.
Robo bowed. "We will discuss matters when we return."
Crono and Robo stepped into the Gate leading into the dead future.
***
"I would have wished that Lucca had joined us..." said Robo as they wandered in the wasteland of the year 2300. Robo read was rotating, scanning for hostile robots. The last thing they needed now was another Johnny.
"It's safer at the End of Time," said Crono.
"I understand, but I wanted to spend more time with her. She is my friend, after all."
Crono looked at Robo. "Do you remember back at Magus' Castle, when Flea turned into Lucca."
"Of course. I have detailed files. Do you wish me to replay the events?" Robo's voiced changed into Flea's, "We have to leave..!"
"That's not what I mean, Robo. I mean, I thought machines didn't have emotions."
"That is normally the case," he said, back to normal. "In fact, all other R Series are void of emotion. It is a very complex activity... The Highway Patrol Drones use them to decipher 'justice,' some early protocol droids had some basic politeness and protocols, but none were terribly advanced."
"You seem human," said Crono. "Your different."
"I know," remarked Robo. "But why?"
Crono didn't have the answer. They continued to the base of Death Peak, where they found a small dome marked "Keeper's Dome."
"This is where Belthasar lives - or that's what my records tell me."
"He's a hermit...living all alone in the middle of nowhere."
The door to the dome wouldn't open, and Robo rammed it down. Inside, it was very dusty, and not very large.
"Belthasar!" Crono called. No answer. "Mr. Belthasar?" Still nothing.
"Master Crono, I detect something over by that control station."
Crono examined the floor near the station to see a body of a man. He was wearing blue robes, his face was covered with a thick beard, and he wasn't moving. Crono shook the man. Nothing happened.
"He's....dead," whispered Crono.
Robo scanned the body. "Affirmative. There are no life signs."
"We, should dig him a grave or something."
"Negative, the machines outside might destroy the body if found."
"Then what should we do?"
"Nothing! That's what!" said a voice from behind. "I no longer need THAT body! Ho ho ho!"
Crono and Robo turned around to see a funny looking blue creature; A Nu from Zeal!
"Belthasar?" said Robo. "Is that you?"
"Of course!" said the Nu.
"But...how....?" started Crono.
"That's not what's important!" said the Nu'ed Belthasar, waving his lanky arms. "What's important is getting you back to Zeal! Follow me!"
Belthasar waddled over to a door, and opened it. Crono and Robo followed, but he was gone. Crono walked down the hall was that lied ahead.
-Crono.....
Crono paused. "Did you say something Robo."
"No."
-The Chrono Trigger....
"Do you...hear anything?" But Robo was gone. He found himself in black and purple void. Crono turned around...it was all around him.
-Please be calm. Trust thyself.
"Who are you?" whispered Crono. Suddenly, he was calmed, and felt a peace. A bubble floated up from the void. An image could be seen inside. Ahulking yellow dragon appeared, then disappeared in an instant from within the bubble. The planet could now be seen.
-Millions of years ago primitive man lived on this planet.
A tiny little red dragon appeared, then vanished. A comet was shown hurtling toward the earth.
-A space dwelling being summoned from its travels had changed that. All of it, lad.
A ugly green dragon, showed himself. Then the bubble showed the comet slamming into a large castle.
-Instead it destroyed its summoners, ending the reign of the planet's dominate race, and setting the stage for anew.
A much more peaceful, salamander like blue dragon. Humans were shown evolving from apes to cavemen, to modern man.
-The being absorbs the powers of the mother earth, whilst the son of man flourishes above. Until...
A menacing black dragon. Lavos could be seen rising form the ground, wreaking havoc in 1999.
-The being awoken, exterminating the planet of man.
A beautiful, graceful white dragon with angel like wings. A wasteland appeared.
-Now this is all that remains. Fate shows no mercy to those who oppose it. It is the will of fate.
Crono's eyes whined as a colorful jester appeared inside the bubble.
-This iz your future, Chrono Trigger. You have ze power to prevent it.
The bubble suddenly popped.
"Master Crono?"
"Huh? What?" said Crono, dazed.
"Are you all right boy?" said Belthasar. "Come on, the 'Wings of Time' is beyond these doors!"
Robo followed the Nu though the doorway. Crono looked around him. The void was gone. He hurried to catch up.
Chapter XXII
----------------
"Imagine my surprise when I had discovered that Lavos existed in this time as well. I tried to get back to Zeal, but I grew weak and, well, you know, died," said Belthasar, "but this is my final gift to the world, my finest invention." He pointed to the large machine. "The Wings of Time!"
The machine was quite large, resembling a large bird. Metal wings sprouted from either side, while a domed bubble was attached to the head. Crono didn't know what to make of it.
"What is it?"
"Oh yes...." said the Nu. "I forgot. You come from a time where planes to not exist. This is a carriage that flies! It can carry you to any time where there is a Gate."
"Wow," said Crono, dumbfounded. "Cool."
"And I want you to name her," said Belthasar to Robo. "You are from this time, after all."
"I am honored," said Robo.
"Well?"
"A flying machine that travels though time," the robot paused. "The Epoch."
"Excellent!" cried the Nu, waving his arms. "Epoch! I love it! It has a nice ring to it! Go! Board the Epoch Crono! The controls are so simple, a Nu can use it!" He chuckled. "Go! Head to Zeal!"
The dome in the Epoch's "head" opened, and Crono and Robo climbed in. The interior was large enough to hold several people, and Crono took the seat near to the controls.
"Hold on a minute! Time traveling isn't like dusting crops, boy! Let's go over the controls." Belthasar spent a long time explains the complex controls, but Crono insisted that he understood them.
"Take care Belthasar," said Crono. He smiled. "I hope you enjoy your, umm, improved body."
"You have much to learn in the way of the Nu, my boy." Belthasar chuckled again. "All life begins with Nu and ends with Nu. That's my belief...at least for now. Ho ho ho!"
The dome closed. Crono reviewed the controls. The looked like the speed bike he raced against Johnny, a little. Robo explained them to him. Along with the controls, he noticed a dial with all the time periods he had visited. "Useful." He thought. "There's even one to the End of Time." He saw the top of the building open up, and with a simple flick of a switch, they rocketed out of the dome. He spent some time practicing, avoiding some flying Drones, and turned the dial to "End of Time" to show Marle his new ride.
***
"A time machine!" said Lucca. "Amazing!"
"How does thy contraption work?" said Frog, inspecting the Epoch. "Tis a carriage with wings like a hawk!"
"Say hello to the Epoch," Crono exclaimed from inside the cockpit. "Every body get in."
Ayla was the first to jump into the Epoch. "I knew Crono not coward! Go go go!"
The others followed. Crono saved the seat next to him for Marle.
"To the Ocean Palace!" cried Crono, and they were off to the Ice Age.
***
The Skyway to Zeal was inactive.
"We'll just fly up there then," Crono said. He pulled the Epochs throttle back. Nothing happened.
"The gears are frozen." remarked Lucca.
"What! We were just here for a few minutes!"
Lucca shifted he glasses. "It's the Ice Age genius!"
"Master Crono," Robo said form the back seat. "There is a cave to the west of here, where the Earthbound ones live. Me and Chief Ayla passed by it."
They exited the Epoch and began to hike the cave Robo mentioned. After traveling for a bit, they heard a loud crash, like a bomb just went off. They tried to reach the cave even faster. The adventures finally made it to the cave, which was labeled "Terra Cave" on a small, worn out sign near the entrance. They were eager to warm up.
When Crono entered the cave, they were greeted by a group of people. They were dressed in animal furs, but looked and acted more like modern man then Ayla's people.
"More outsiders from Zeal," said one of men. "From Zeal!"
More gathered around.
"How did you escape?"
"How's Miss Schala and Master Janus?"
"Do you know magic?"
"Why are you dresses differently?"
"A walking pile of rocks!"
"Enough! Step aside," said another voice. Crono recognized it instantly.
"Melchior?"
The old sword smith pushed his way though the crowd. "Yes lad?"
"How did you..."
"How did I what? Escape from the Mountain of Woe! It was quite a daring feat, I can assure you! Why, that awful beast had me trapped in a crystal prison, but I...!"
"Don't you recognize me?"
"You...no, I cannot. But then, the entire floating mountain came CRASHING down! Oh my yes."
Lucca pulled Crono to the side. "You haven't figured it out?"
"What out?"
"Melchior is one of the Guru's of Zeal. He's never seen us before."
Crono turned his head to Melchior, missing the obvious. "Oh." He saw Frog approaching the Guru.
"There is no time to waste, Sir Crono." He walked up besides Melchior. "Guru Melchior, we need passage to the Ocean Palace haste!"
"Oh yes, the Ocean Palace! Queen Zeal tried her best to dispose of us, but we proved her wrong! Why, Belthasar, and Gasper must already be there! I shall open the Skyway for you. From there, head to Zeal Palace. The portal to the Ocean Palace is in the main hall to the left. It...." His eyed widened. "Princess Schala?!" He knelt down.
The Princess and Janus appeared from the entrance to the cave.
"You don't need to kneel, kind Guru."
Melchior stood up. The Earthbound ones cleared the way from the two.
"Crono! You are safe! How did you ever...? Never mind. We must get the Ocean Palace. Melchior! Mother is about to do something dreadful."
Little Janus wandered around the dirty cave. "What a filthy little hovel," he remarked, and returned the his sister side.
"Yes, you will go to the Palace Princess," another voice boomed. "The Queen is most upset with you!"
One of the villagers removed his hood to reveal the face of Dalton.
"Captain?"
Dalton rushed forward and grabbed Schala's arm. Janus kicked him in the leg.
"AH! You little brat!" He picked up the small child by the collar. "It seems all of the Queen's children have problems with authority! "
"Put her down." said Crono, saber drawn.
Dalton smirked. "You would risk her life, silly boy? Ha! I would be happy to end your miserable little existence. And the brat's too."
Crono placed the saber back. He also noticed Frog doing the same with the Masamune. The amphibian had a gruff look on his face.
"We Enlightened Ones are about to become immortal. The power of Lavos will make us strong, while you filthy apes hide in the caves. Good day."
Dalton violently pushed Schala forward, while Janus tried to kick his way free. The three exited the cave.
"Oh dear. Oh dear oh dear," said Melchior with his face lowered.
"We have to stop them!" cried Marle.
Melchior drew a slender knife from his pocket.
"Take this Red Knife, lad. It is carved from the finest Dreamstone. It will disarm the Mammon Machine."
"Red Rock..." said Ayla, looking at the knife. Crono took it from his hands. He placed it carefully in his belt.
"If Queen Zeal achieved her goal..." said the Guru. "Then the planet is doomed. It is not the Queen at work here, but something far greater. The Skyways should be open for that loon Dalton to come down here...I know a secret way that only I can enter. I shall meet you there. Good look."
They all left Terra Cave, and the Epoch was waiting by the entrance. Crono and Lucca had a brief argument on how it got there, but Robo stated it must have followed them. Too cold to think about it, they headed for the Skyway.
--------------
Crono met up with the others, who were listening to a bard perform beautiful music with a instrument he never seen before.
"What did you find out?" asked Crono.
"Where's Robo?" asked Lucca, somewhat worried.
"He's fine, he took Ayla to the End of Time...Now C'mon! Tell me!" he said, anxious to get some answers.
"The woman said this is the Kingdom of Zeal."
"And?"
Frog smirked. "And 'I be a cute little frog', or so she says."
"Really," Crono said bluntly
"Can ye blame her?"
Marle smiled. "You're in a good mood."
Frog drew the Masamune. "There be something in the air. The spirits of the Masamune seem at peace here."
"Anyway, Crono," said Lucca, "this is a safe place. Kajar is the 'City of Dreams', they're a peaceful people."
"In the middle of the Ice Age?!"
"I can't explain it either. Crono, we're all tired. Let's find a inn or something and get a decent nights sleep."
Crono quickly agreed for he was also very tired. He asked the bard for directions to an inn, but then he realized he had no money.
"Money?!" said the bard. "Enlightened Ones don't need money."
"It's free?"
"Of course. What do you think this is, the Earthbound Village? The inn is right over there. Take care now." The bard continued to play.
"Enlightened Ones?" said Crono, confused.
"Enlightened Ones are people who know how to use magic," said Lucca. "There's a village below here, somewhere in that frozen land we were before, where the 'Earthbound Ones' live."
"Well, that's good to know. I thought history was all messed up here for a second..."
They headed for the inn, admiring the city's beauty. All round them people were talking and laughing, and having a good time. They arrived at the inn, but it wasn't what they expected.
There were no beds, just glowing spots of light. "Enchantment Springs" a man said they were called. They stepped into it, and unlike the Enertron, it made them feel fully relaxed.
"I was hoping for a nice, warm bed..." said Crono.
A nearby woman overheard him. "So you want to dream, eh? The beds are right though here." She opened a door revealing rows and rows of beds, most of them occupied. "Zeal is the place we're dreams become reality, after all. Help yourself."
Crono saw a small boy with shining silver, blue hair hop out of one of the beds, followed by a cat. The boy was wearing a purple robe, and slowly walked to the door, rubbing his eyes. He paused when he came close to the group.
"Hi there," Marle said, cheerfully. "Have a nice sleep?"
The boy looked up at Marle with large, blue eyes, then at Crono. "The Dark Winds howl..." he said in a scared voice. "One of you will soon parish," he said a little louder. He picked up his cat and ran off.
"What are the percentages?" called out Robo.
"What a rude little urchin," said Frog. "He should partake in some manners."
The woman by Crono laughed. "Don't let Janus bother you. He's been having some bad dreams lately."
"Janus?"
"Yes, little Prince Janus Zeal. You don't recognize him? Oh yes, you're not from around here. He and his older sister Schala live with their mother, the Queen, in the Palace. He comes here the get away from all the chaos at the Palace, with the Mammon Machine and all."
"What's that?" asked Lucca.
"The Mammon Machine! Oh, it's a wonderful device! Belthasar and the other two Gurus designed it - before they vanished, that is. It will harvest the powers of Lavos and make the Kingdom of Zeal reign forever!"
Crono was silent for moment. He saw the worry on the others faces. "From...Lavos?"
Right then a little yellow being, much like Masa and Mune, skipped in the building.
"Doreen!" cried the woman. "So wonderful to see you again! Here for some good dreaming? I know how you love it so."
"You bet," the being said. "I'm gonna dream I'm a butterfly today!"
Crono and the others left the dreaming inn.
"Crono," said Lucca. "Queen Zeal is going to use Lavos to become immortal!"
"Yeah.... I think we know our next stop...." He looked skyward and stared at the Zeal Palace, looming over Kajar with a watchful eye.
***
The path to Zeal Palace was series of small warps, up the massive mountain.
"I don't like this Crono," said Lucca. "It doesn't make any sense."
"I know... But I think Lavos is to blame...." He peered at the Palace entrance. "He has to be."
They were warmly greeted at the door by a group of Nu. They all stared at the inside of the Palace. It was huge, and very beautiful, far larger and grander than even the castle of the Tyranos. Two yellow children ran past them.
"I'm the wind!" said one.
"No your not!" said the other, chasing him.
Frog turned his head. "It cannot be..." he said. "Excuse me, Crono." He followed the sword kids. Crono took a good look at the room. Several stairways led to different levels of the Palace...it seemed that the entire place was connected though this hall. Several large paintings decorated the walls. The largest one showed a group of three people, a small boy, a teenage girl, and a mother. Crono recognized the boy as Janus. Below the picture was a large double door, where the same boy stood.
"There he is." he said. "Come on."
By the time they arrived, Janus was gone. Crono opened the door, which lead into a bedroom. The boy was embraced with an older girl.
"It's the Black Winds again..." he said.
"I know Janus," said the girl, her face lowered. "I feel it also. Here, take this." She took a necklace from her neck. "This amulet will keep you safe. It will remind you of me." Janus took a step back, and took the object, and the girl put her hands on his shoulder. "Now, you go and see Mother."
Janus broke away. "That's not Mother! She only looks like Mother!"
The girl noticed Crono and the others, and turned her head toward them. She was very pretty, with shining blue hair in a large ponytail. She was wearing purple attire, just like Janus. Crono assumed this must be Schala, like the woman at the inn said.
"Oh....hello. You might you be?" she said.
But before Crono could respond, a voice called from behind.
"Princess Schala, the Queen needs your assistance." Said a guard.
"Very well. Excuse me. I'll see you later, Janus. Remember what I said," said Schala as she began to walk past the door. Crono noticed she was wearing a blue pendant, just like Marle's....
"Are you here to see the Mammon Machine?" said the guard when Schala left the room. "Then you have the wrong room. It's to the door to the left."
"Let's go follow her," said Lucca. "Say, did you notice her pendant?"
"Yeah...weird."
"C'mon Alfador," said Janus. "Let's go!" The small boy ran out of the room, and the cat followed.
Frog was waiting for them out in the main hall, complete with a new cape. He seemed worried.
"We must head to the Mammon Machine Sir Crono!" he said with worry. "The vile power of Lavos is about to extracted by the infernal device! They are moving it to the Undersea Palace within the hour!"
"I think the Princess is heading there right now," said Crono. "We have to follow her."
"Nay," said Frog. "The entrance to the Palace can only be unlocked by Princess Schala's pendant."
Marle held up her pendant from around her neck. "Look familiar?"
"Aye! That's it! Could it be, the same pendant?"
"Then we need to hurry!" said Lucca.
The four noticed the Princess near the back of the Palace. Sprinting to catch up they witnessed her placing the pendant on the door. It opened like magic. They waited until she was gone, and approached the door. Marle took her pendant and did the same as the Princess. The door opened.
Crono and the others hid behind a large potted plant when they entered the room. There was a meeting going on. Crono recognized Schala right away, and noticed Captain Dalton by her side. Another woman, probably Queen Zeal, stood by a robed figure who's face was covered by a deep hood. Zeal, like Schala and Janus, had stunning, shining blue hair.
"Why isn't the Mammon Machine ready for transport, you useless worm!" shouted Zeal.
"Progress is, well, slower thanks to the disappearance of the Gurus, your Majesty. It should be ready..." remarked Dalton
"Lavos waits for no one! I want it ready by tonight!"
The robed figure spoke, "If you are up to the task, Dalton."
"Keep out of this Prophet!" Dalton snapped. "It doesn't concern you and your warlock ways!"
"I foresaw this event," he returned with a smirk. A smile could be seen behind his hood.
"Don't start with me!"
"Gentlemen!" said Schala sharply. "Now is not the time for bickering."
"Thank you, my child," said Zeal. "You are like children! Now, Schala. Are you prepared for what you have to do?"
"Of course not," she said. "I will not partake in such a foul act."
"Is that so, Princess? You could live forever." said the Prophet.
"Yes. Immortality is a gift only for the gods."
"Precisely my point," said Zeal. She turned to Dalton. "Dalton! I want the Mammon Machine shipped to the Ocean Palace by nightfall! That's tonight! Understood?"
Dalton stood up strait. "Yes, your Majesty!"
Zeal and the Prophet began to walk out of the room. Crono made sure to keep hidden. Dalton stuck his tongue out at Zeal promptly.
"Wait a moment," said the Prophet as they passed the plant. "Someone is here..." He placed his hand to his forehead. "A boy...two girls...and a demi human."
"Don't be so hard on Mr. Dalton," said Schala with a small giggle. Dalton made a face.
The Prophet pointed to the large plant. "There!" The plant rose from the ground. Crono and the others stood their dumbfounded.
"Explain yourselves at once!" ordered the Queen with a growl.
"Ummm..." said Crono. "This...isn't the way to the Mammon Machine?"
"Dalton! Restrain these intruders at once."
"My pleasure...." he smiled.
"Mother no!" Shouted Schala.
"Silence!"
Dalton raised a arm and a black portal appeared. A large shape dropped out of the hole. It appeared to be a stone statue.
"Golem! Restrain them."
Crono and the others turn to run, but Zeal and the Prophet were blocking the exit. Schala stood there with her hands over the mouth. The Golem stomped forward, and everything went black.
Chapter XXI
----------------
When Crono came to, his mind was a blur. He looked around him, but everything was purple and wavy. He noticed Marle, Lucca and Frog still unconscious next to him, looking perfectly normal. What? He was in something...some sort magic cage...
Time passed, Crono didn't know how long. Lucca awoke, but they were too dizzy and too out of it to speak. He noticed two figures appear in front of them. A moment later, the purple wall disappeared and they landed on the ground.
"Oh dear..." said a female voice. "I...didn't mean for that to happen! Are you all right?"
All four of them were awake now. Crono got to his feet. Princess Schala and Prince Janus stood before them, but Janus didn't seem too interested.
"Why...did you let us out?" he said.
"There is no time to talk! Mother is about to do something dreadful! We must stop her."
"Can you get us to the Ocean Palace?" asked Marle, still a little woozy from the cage.
"Of course, we shall leave right away."
Janus looked oddly at Marle. "Why does she have the same pendant as you, Schala."
"Never you mind, Janus. Oh my, I haven't introduced myself. I am Schala Zeal." She bowed. "And this is my brother Janus." The little boy stood still. Crono noticed he was holing his cat in his arms. "I never got your names."
"This is Crono," said a loud voice from behind them, "this kingdoms downfall, Princess." The Prophet appeared behind them. "The question is how these peasants got here."
"None of your business!" snapped Lucca.
"Why do thy care, dark one?" said Frog. "Tis of no concern to thee."
The Prophet straitened his robe. "I want you to show me how you got here. You're coming too, Princess." He grabbed Schala's arm.
"Let her go!" cried Janus. He charged the Prophet, who simple pushed him aside.
"Never!" Schala said. "I will not let you."
"Then they die," said the Prophet. He raised his arms to them. Crono stepped back.
"You wouldn't," said the Princess.
"Their lives mean nothing to me. I will indeed, and take great pleasure from doing so."
Schala turned to Janus. "Go to your room, Janus."
"But....!"
"Janus....please."
The boy ran out of the chamber.
"Come on," said the Prophet, still holding Schala's arm. He began to walk out the door. "Try anything funny and the Princess will meet a horrible fate."
They all exited the room, and began to walk toward the Gate.
***
"Enter," said the Prophet pointing to the suspended Gate. "Or once again, the Princess dies."
Marle was the first to the Gate, and Frog followed.
"Tis the best course of action," said Frog before the entered. "Thou should agree," and then he disappeared.
"Come on Crono," said Lucca, and she took his hand, but Crono would budge. She entered the Gate without him.
"What are you planning?" Crono said to the Prophet. "What do you hope to achieve?"
"My destiny," he said. The Prophet held out his hand and Crono was pushed back into the Gate. A moment later, he was at the End of Time.
Robo greeted him. "Welcome back, Master Crono. The others told me what happened."
"Yeah... how's Ayla."
Robo turned around. Ayla was fighting with Spekkio, who now looked like a large green creature. "She is practicing....she is 'calm' now." He glanced at the Gates behind him, one was missing. Somehow, the way they came through must have been blocked off.
Crono walked into the main room, where the others were waiting for him.
"That's it," he said. "It's over."
"What do you mean?" said Marle. "We need to stop Lavos."
"The gate is gone. We can't get to Lavos. He's far to powerful to fight outright...we can't go back to when he arrived, and even if we could, we couldn't do anything. We couldn't even stop Magus..."
Lucca approached Crono. "We need to get back to Zeal."
"We can't!" he snapped.
"But we need to. The Mammon Machine is going to extract the powers from Lavos, weakening him. It could be our only chance."
"Lucca, the Gate is gone."
Ayla stopped fighting with Spekkio. "Crono give up?"
"No, it's not that..."
"I thought Crono strong."
"Ayla, we're all out of options."
"Not good reason. Ayla always fight. Crono run away."
The cave woman sat down.
"It was a massive quest, Sir Crono," said Frog. "It is best if we not tamper with fate."
"I wouldn't say that," said the Old Man, standing by the lonely lamppost. "I know someone who can help. His name is Belthasar."
"Belthasar?" said Robo. "I know him."
"He's lived in Zeal," Lucca said to him. "How can you know him."
"He lives near Death Peak in my time. He visited my dome once, looking for robot parts. He kept talking about the Blackbird and Ocean Palace. He's quite passionate about them."
"The Ocean Palace is where the Mammon Machine is!" said Crono. "How did he get to the year 2300?"
"I do not know. I think we should meet him."
"Great!" said Marle. "Let's go!" She stood up, but wobbled a bit. She sat back down.
"You're not over the cage, Marle. No. You stay here...all of you," said Crono. "Me and Robo will go."
"But....!"
"It's to dangerous. Get some rest."
"Why do we have to stay!" cried Lucca. "Women's rights! That's what I say!
Frog stepped forward. "I shall look over the ladies. You go."
"Fine. Take care, Robo," said Lucca, waving, a little sad.
Robo bowed. "We will discuss matters when we return."
Crono and Robo stepped into the Gate leading into the dead future.
***
"I would have wished that Lucca had joined us..." said Robo as they wandered in the wasteland of the year 2300. Robo read was rotating, scanning for hostile robots. The last thing they needed now was another Johnny.
"It's safer at the End of Time," said Crono.
"I understand, but I wanted to spend more time with her. She is my friend, after all."
Crono looked at Robo. "Do you remember back at Magus' Castle, when Flea turned into Lucca."
"Of course. I have detailed files. Do you wish me to replay the events?" Robo's voiced changed into Flea's, "We have to leave..!"
"That's not what I mean, Robo. I mean, I thought machines didn't have emotions."
"That is normally the case," he said, back to normal. "In fact, all other R Series are void of emotion. It is a very complex activity... The Highway Patrol Drones use them to decipher 'justice,' some early protocol droids had some basic politeness and protocols, but none were terribly advanced."
"You seem human," said Crono. "Your different."
"I know," remarked Robo. "But why?"
Crono didn't have the answer. They continued to the base of Death Peak, where they found a small dome marked "Keeper's Dome."
"This is where Belthasar lives - or that's what my records tell me."
"He's a hermit...living all alone in the middle of nowhere."
The door to the dome wouldn't open, and Robo rammed it down. Inside, it was very dusty, and not very large.
"Belthasar!" Crono called. No answer. "Mr. Belthasar?" Still nothing.
"Master Crono, I detect something over by that control station."
Crono examined the floor near the station to see a body of a man. He was wearing blue robes, his face was covered with a thick beard, and he wasn't moving. Crono shook the man. Nothing happened.
"He's....dead," whispered Crono.
Robo scanned the body. "Affirmative. There are no life signs."
"We, should dig him a grave or something."
"Negative, the machines outside might destroy the body if found."
"Then what should we do?"
"Nothing! That's what!" said a voice from behind. "I no longer need THAT body! Ho ho ho!"
Crono and Robo turned around to see a funny looking blue creature; A Nu from Zeal!
"Belthasar?" said Robo. "Is that you?"
"Of course!" said the Nu.
"But...how....?" started Crono.
"That's not what's important!" said the Nu'ed Belthasar, waving his lanky arms. "What's important is getting you back to Zeal! Follow me!"
Belthasar waddled over to a door, and opened it. Crono and Robo followed, but he was gone. Crono walked down the hall was that lied ahead.
-Crono.....
Crono paused. "Did you say something Robo."
"No."
-The Chrono Trigger....
"Do you...hear anything?" But Robo was gone. He found himself in black and purple void. Crono turned around...it was all around him.
-Please be calm. Trust thyself.
"Who are you?" whispered Crono. Suddenly, he was calmed, and felt a peace. A bubble floated up from the void. An image could be seen inside. Ahulking yellow dragon appeared, then disappeared in an instant from within the bubble. The planet could now be seen.
-Millions of years ago primitive man lived on this planet.
A tiny little red dragon appeared, then vanished. A comet was shown hurtling toward the earth.
-A space dwelling being summoned from its travels had changed that. All of it, lad.
A ugly green dragon, showed himself. Then the bubble showed the comet slamming into a large castle.
-Instead it destroyed its summoners, ending the reign of the planet's dominate race, and setting the stage for anew.
A much more peaceful, salamander like blue dragon. Humans were shown evolving from apes to cavemen, to modern man.
-The being absorbs the powers of the mother earth, whilst the son of man flourishes above. Until...
A menacing black dragon. Lavos could be seen rising form the ground, wreaking havoc in 1999.
-The being awoken, exterminating the planet of man.
A beautiful, graceful white dragon with angel like wings. A wasteland appeared.
-Now this is all that remains. Fate shows no mercy to those who oppose it. It is the will of fate.
Crono's eyes whined as a colorful jester appeared inside the bubble.
-This iz your future, Chrono Trigger. You have ze power to prevent it.
The bubble suddenly popped.
"Master Crono?"
"Huh? What?" said Crono, dazed.
"Are you all right boy?" said Belthasar. "Come on, the 'Wings of Time' is beyond these doors!"
Robo followed the Nu though the doorway. Crono looked around him. The void was gone. He hurried to catch up.
Chapter XXII
----------------
"Imagine my surprise when I had discovered that Lavos existed in this time as well. I tried to get back to Zeal, but I grew weak and, well, you know, died," said Belthasar, "but this is my final gift to the world, my finest invention." He pointed to the large machine. "The Wings of Time!"
The machine was quite large, resembling a large bird. Metal wings sprouted from either side, while a domed bubble was attached to the head. Crono didn't know what to make of it.
"What is it?"
"Oh yes...." said the Nu. "I forgot. You come from a time where planes to not exist. This is a carriage that flies! It can carry you to any time where there is a Gate."
"Wow," said Crono, dumbfounded. "Cool."
"And I want you to name her," said Belthasar to Robo. "You are from this time, after all."
"I am honored," said Robo.
"Well?"
"A flying machine that travels though time," the robot paused. "The Epoch."
"Excellent!" cried the Nu, waving his arms. "Epoch! I love it! It has a nice ring to it! Go! Board the Epoch Crono! The controls are so simple, a Nu can use it!" He chuckled. "Go! Head to Zeal!"
The dome in the Epoch's "head" opened, and Crono and Robo climbed in. The interior was large enough to hold several people, and Crono took the seat near to the controls.
"Hold on a minute! Time traveling isn't like dusting crops, boy! Let's go over the controls." Belthasar spent a long time explains the complex controls, but Crono insisted that he understood them.
"Take care Belthasar," said Crono. He smiled. "I hope you enjoy your, umm, improved body."
"You have much to learn in the way of the Nu, my boy." Belthasar chuckled again. "All life begins with Nu and ends with Nu. That's my belief...at least for now. Ho ho ho!"
The dome closed. Crono reviewed the controls. The looked like the speed bike he raced against Johnny, a little. Robo explained them to him. Along with the controls, he noticed a dial with all the time periods he had visited. "Useful." He thought. "There's even one to the End of Time." He saw the top of the building open up, and with a simple flick of a switch, they rocketed out of the dome. He spent some time practicing, avoiding some flying Drones, and turned the dial to "End of Time" to show Marle his new ride.
***
"A time machine!" said Lucca. "Amazing!"
"How does thy contraption work?" said Frog, inspecting the Epoch. "Tis a carriage with wings like a hawk!"
"Say hello to the Epoch," Crono exclaimed from inside the cockpit. "Every body get in."
Ayla was the first to jump into the Epoch. "I knew Crono not coward! Go go go!"
The others followed. Crono saved the seat next to him for Marle.
"To the Ocean Palace!" cried Crono, and they were off to the Ice Age.
***
The Skyway to Zeal was inactive.
"We'll just fly up there then," Crono said. He pulled the Epochs throttle back. Nothing happened.
"The gears are frozen." remarked Lucca.
"What! We were just here for a few minutes!"
Lucca shifted he glasses. "It's the Ice Age genius!"
"Master Crono," Robo said form the back seat. "There is a cave to the west of here, where the Earthbound ones live. Me and Chief Ayla passed by it."
They exited the Epoch and began to hike the cave Robo mentioned. After traveling for a bit, they heard a loud crash, like a bomb just went off. They tried to reach the cave even faster. The adventures finally made it to the cave, which was labeled "Terra Cave" on a small, worn out sign near the entrance. They were eager to warm up.
When Crono entered the cave, they were greeted by a group of people. They were dressed in animal furs, but looked and acted more like modern man then Ayla's people.
"More outsiders from Zeal," said one of men. "From Zeal!"
More gathered around.
"How did you escape?"
"How's Miss Schala and Master Janus?"
"Do you know magic?"
"Why are you dresses differently?"
"A walking pile of rocks!"
"Enough! Step aside," said another voice. Crono recognized it instantly.
"Melchior?"
The old sword smith pushed his way though the crowd. "Yes lad?"
"How did you..."
"How did I what? Escape from the Mountain of Woe! It was quite a daring feat, I can assure you! Why, that awful beast had me trapped in a crystal prison, but I...!"
"Don't you recognize me?"
"You...no, I cannot. But then, the entire floating mountain came CRASHING down! Oh my yes."
Lucca pulled Crono to the side. "You haven't figured it out?"
"What out?"
"Melchior is one of the Guru's of Zeal. He's never seen us before."
Crono turned his head to Melchior, missing the obvious. "Oh." He saw Frog approaching the Guru.
"There is no time to waste, Sir Crono." He walked up besides Melchior. "Guru Melchior, we need passage to the Ocean Palace haste!"
"Oh yes, the Ocean Palace! Queen Zeal tried her best to dispose of us, but we proved her wrong! Why, Belthasar, and Gasper must already be there! I shall open the Skyway for you. From there, head to Zeal Palace. The portal to the Ocean Palace is in the main hall to the left. It...." His eyed widened. "Princess Schala?!" He knelt down.
The Princess and Janus appeared from the entrance to the cave.
"You don't need to kneel, kind Guru."
Melchior stood up. The Earthbound ones cleared the way from the two.
"Crono! You are safe! How did you ever...? Never mind. We must get the Ocean Palace. Melchior! Mother is about to do something dreadful."
Little Janus wandered around the dirty cave. "What a filthy little hovel," he remarked, and returned the his sister side.
"Yes, you will go to the Palace Princess," another voice boomed. "The Queen is most upset with you!"
One of the villagers removed his hood to reveal the face of Dalton.
"Captain?"
Dalton rushed forward and grabbed Schala's arm. Janus kicked him in the leg.
"AH! You little brat!" He picked up the small child by the collar. "It seems all of the Queen's children have problems with authority! "
"Put her down." said Crono, saber drawn.
Dalton smirked. "You would risk her life, silly boy? Ha! I would be happy to end your miserable little existence. And the brat's too."
Crono placed the saber back. He also noticed Frog doing the same with the Masamune. The amphibian had a gruff look on his face.
"We Enlightened Ones are about to become immortal. The power of Lavos will make us strong, while you filthy apes hide in the caves. Good day."
Dalton violently pushed Schala forward, while Janus tried to kick his way free. The three exited the cave.
"Oh dear. Oh dear oh dear," said Melchior with his face lowered.
"We have to stop them!" cried Marle.
Melchior drew a slender knife from his pocket.
"Take this Red Knife, lad. It is carved from the finest Dreamstone. It will disarm the Mammon Machine."
"Red Rock..." said Ayla, looking at the knife. Crono took it from his hands. He placed it carefully in his belt.
"If Queen Zeal achieved her goal..." said the Guru. "Then the planet is doomed. It is not the Queen at work here, but something far greater. The Skyways should be open for that loon Dalton to come down here...I know a secret way that only I can enter. I shall meet you there. Good look."
They all left Terra Cave, and the Epoch was waiting by the entrance. Crono and Lucca had a brief argument on how it got there, but Robo stated it must have followed them. Too cold to think about it, they headed for the Skyway.