Myst Hina
At the top of the stairs, was something that shocked them. The whole area was strangely colored water. A long walkway led across it, through some shards of rock. "Very decorative", said Kitsune as they walked across. Shinobu noticed a gaping hole below the walkway, in the water, it showed some orange room. "I wonder what is down there", she asked. "Probably nothing", said Motoko, who also noticed. "Only Gehn can do something this grotesque", said Kanako.
At the end of the walkway, was a small staircase that lead to another pathway, which winded in between, rocks holding water. In the water where series of plateaus. "I wonder what those are for", said Shinobu. "I don't think they hold much significance", said Kanako.
At the end of the pathway, ending in a large crack on some sort of rock or building, was a small elevator. Kitsune pushed a small button nearby and the elevator rose. When it stopped, they looked at the crack in front of them. It led to a small balcony overlooking the plateaus. "Let's take a look", said Naru.
On the front bar of the balcony was a small panel, with small button, each with an illustration corresponding to each plateau. The plateaus where lined up in a square. On the top right was a plateau with two sections; below it was a huge plateau with a hole in it. To the top left was a plateau that was almost round, and below it was an L-shaped plateau. Nearby, to the top left of the two-sectioned plateau, was a very small plateau. "You know, the way these things are lined up, they almost look like a map", said Kitsune. Motoko looked at the small buttons on the panel, "There is something familiar about theses shapes", said Motoko. Then Su said, "Let's give these buttons a try." She pushed the button for the two- sectioned plateau. In response the watery substance on it rose and took a strange shape. "What does that mean", asked Kitsune. "Hey, look over there", said Keitaro, who was pointing behind them. Behind them, on the other side of the elevator, was another crack and on the other side, was a huge building in the center of a lake, fortunately, a bridge led right to it. "Let's see what it is", said Naru. They left the balcony, and when Shinobu asked about the button, Naru said to leave it pressed.
As they approached the building, they noticed the walkway leading to the bridge, split off in two separate directions, but they decided to look into that later. Inside the building was but a small device, that showed several squares, and about five of those squares where gray, attached to it was a handle. In front of the small handle device was a flat square showing a five by five grid. "I knew it", said Motoko. "What", asked Kitsune. "See how the five gray squares take the shape of the button you pressed and the grid it is on shows the exact same position as on the button console and on the plateau." "Are you saying that the plateaus are a map of someplace", asked Kitsune. "Not someplace, this place, the plateaus represent the islands of Riven itself", said Motoko. Everyone gasped. "How did you know", asked Keitaro. "I remembered these shapes and patterns of squares from the small map of the inside of the Golden Dome. They meant the locations of where the pipes lead", said Motoko. "And probably to the other domes", said Keitaro. Then Naru noticed one of the squares was yellow, not gray. "Wonder what this means", she said touching it. When she did, the flat piece of gray nearby shot up and formed something, but the red lines did not vanish. It showed a huge patch of land. Naru tested the lever nearby and it caused the panel and the topographical map to rotate. "There is something familiar about that land", said Kitsune. "Let me try this", said Naru, and she pushed a square that was not yellow, the map faded and a new one rose out, showing the other side of the familiar landscape. "Know I know what it looks like", said Kitsune, "It looks like the Golden Dome. Nothing is that huge." "So this means that square thing and that plateau is showing us the temple island", said Kanako. "Guys, I just have an idea, that gray piece shows a topographical area on one of the squares I touch right", said Naru. Everyone nodded. "Well, the way this is, it is just a miniature version of the grid on top of the Great Dome. The smaller five by five grids on it can be divided into separate five by five grids. I think we can use this to find the right square on the grid each Fire Marble Domes are on and then . . ." "Use it to find where on that separate grid where it is in that spot", finished Keitaro, "Great idea Narusegewa." "Then you can help by writing them down. "Okay", he began by writing down the symbol for the island and marked it TI for temple island, in Atrus' journal of course (they found some blank pages). And he noted there where five islands ("Where is the fifth island anyway", he said) so he wrote down five separate grids. After a few presses later, Naru managed to find the temple islands fire marble dome when she saw the shape of it. Keitaro marked down the square and then wrote down on one of the graphs he sketched the location of the Fire Marble Dome on the grid. "Okay, each plateau represents a different island", said Naru as she pushed the same square again to make the thing return to normal, "So we must repeat the process over and over again until we have them all." Looking at Keitaro she said, "And make sure you sketch the positions of the islands as well." "Why", asked Keitaro. "It's simple", said Naru, "The grid on the Great Dome will more than likely reflect the locations of the islands and their square symbols accurately from the ones shown here, other wise it wouldn't be a 25 by 25 grid on their." "You have a point, but shouldn't I write this as a 25 by 25", said Keitaro. "No you shouldn't have to", said Kitsune, "After all the dome's represented spot is on one square and as Naru put it, that section could be put as a separate 5 by 5 area." "Good point", said Keitaro. With that they headed over to the balcony and Shinobu pressed the button of the plateau below the one that represented the Temple Island. The temple island plateau's top shrank and became itself again, while the new one started to grow into a clear, three dimensional map. "Well, let's find the Fire Marble Dome for that location", said Naru. "And what island it is", added Motoko.
A few minutes later they found all the areas for the Marble Domes, except one, the small plateau. Shortly after Kitsune pressed its button, they checked it out, and all it was one area. "Well this should be easy", said Naru. When she pressed the square, it showed something of a huge tree stump, with a path leading to a Marble Dome. "Maybe that is the island Catherine is held prisoner", suggested Keitaro. "You may be right", said Naru. "How is he possibly right", asked Kanako. "Well", said Naru, "according to the journal, along with linking books in the Marble Domes that led to his age, he made linking books that linked to each dome, providing him with an easy transport. Now, if he wanted Catherine isolated he must want a way in which no one could get to her, and that way would be . . ." "With a Fire Marble Dome", finished Shinobu. "Exactly", said Naru. "Come on", said Motoko, "Write down the area and let's search the island more." Shortly after writing that down, they briefly returned to the balcony to deactivate the plateau, by pressing the button again.
When they went back they noticed the bridge to the grid room was gone. "It probably only comes out when a button for a plateau is pressed", said Keitaro. "Well, what was your first clue", said Naru sarcastically. "Hey look there", said Kitsune, pointing to the left. At the end of the branch of the pathway leading to the left was another Fire Marble Dome. "Well, now we see it physically", said Motoko. "Think that the kinescope", said Kitsune, "Is all the way down the other passage." "Well, let's go", said Kanako. They did follow along the other way, corresponding to the grid room. As they walked Shinobu noticed all the Whark totems sticking out of the lake. Shinobu pointed them out to them and Motoko said, "Don't worry, probably of little significance." "Stop saying that Motoko", said Naru, "You know that isn't true." "I am just trying to prevent Shinobu from being scared, that's all." At the end of it, they found the kinescope, pointing from its lone balcony, over to the dome. "Um guys, we have one small problem", said Keitaro. "What now Urashima", said Motoko. "What if I tell you the kinescope is out of alignment", Keitaro said nervously. "NANI", said everyone. Kitsune looked through it and Keitaro was correct. The kinescope could only show the left side of the dome. Angry Motoko and Naru began bashing Keitaro. "What did you do to it you baka", said Naru. "I didn't do a thing, I swear", yelled Keitaro. After they stopped beating him Kitsune said, "Well, now how are we going to know its symbol." "Leave that to me", said Su. He grabbed Atrus' journal from Keitaro and ran off. They saw her run up to the dome and watched it spin. She then made a mark in the book and ran back. "I think this is the symbol", said Su. Keitaro looked at the mark she made. It was a PI over the symbol, which was a circle with a line going horizontally through the middle. "What's the PI stand for", asked Keitaro. "Plateau Island", responded Su. Everyone fainted and after they recovered Keitaro said, "Oh, well, it's better than no name." Then he asked, "What did you do." Su responded, "Oh, all I did was look at the drawings on it, and the one that was painted gold caught my eye. And, being a very fast memorizer, I quickly copied it down." "Well, for once you may have done something that wasn't reckless", said Naru, though her and everyone had a sweatdrop.
"Well, now that we got the symbol, there is no need to be up here anymore", said Motoko. "Can I at least check the combination", said Keitaro. Everyone turned with a, "Huh?" "Well, all the while, I have managed to decipher the numbers. They seem to be like Roman Numerals with a few minor diff.. ." His lip was grabbed shut by Naru. "Enough of the number lesson, can you understand the combination to the domes or not", she said with a glare in her eyes. Keitaro nodded and, after letting go of his lips, Naru said, "Well then, let's give it a shot!" "Yes but how can we open that dome without seeing the symbol on it", asked Kitsune. "I say we keep pressing the button on it until the dome opens", said Su. "Well, that sounds crazy", said Keitaro, "So crazy that it just might work!" He finished that last sentence facing towards us. "Alright, let's not do any movie parodies, let's get started", said Naru.
After a few presses on the kinescope by Su, the dome slowed, stopped and revealed the combo side. "Okay, let's go over there and give the combo a go", said Kanako.
After they went to the dome, Naru dragged Keitaro up front. "Okay what's the combo", asked Naru. "Okay", said Keitaro opening the journal. "If my deciphering is right, the combo for the domes should be 10-12-13-17 and 23", he closed it. "How do we enter it on here", asked Shinobu. "It's simple", said Naru, "If these big marks on here represent the five marks, the others should be the rest of the numbers." "Duh", said Kanako. "And the sliders", asked Kitsune, "I don't think you can slide each number into reverse order." "No, but we string it up the way Keitaro told me to do", said Naru. "How", asked Kitsune. "Well, this fifth slide here goes to the 23 mark", said Naru doing it. "And this fourth one from the left, goes to 17", she said doing it again. After she set the last slide she then said, "Now I believe all we have to do is push this button." "And if it doesn't work", asked Keitaro. "Then you shall be the first outsider to see Riven from a real birds eye view", she said. She pushed the button. There was a whirr of machinery starting up, and suddenly the panel moved back and the dome rolled over top of them. "AAAH", said Shinobu as she clung onto Keitaro's back. They heard sounds of the dome starting to move, and the book, that was on a pedestal, was no longer behind glass and rose up to an appropriate height for them to use. "Let's see this book", said Kitsune. The others followed. Before opening it, Kitsune noted the seal on the cover. "What does this mean", she asked. "Oh, that is what he called this age in his journal", said Naru. Turning to Keitaro she said, "Keitaro, maybe you should decipher what this means." "Okay", said Keitaro. He looked at the seal for a minute he said, "It's the number for 223." "So he calls this his 223rd Age", exclaimed Naru. "223rd", gasped everyone. "That guy is asking for trouble", said Motoko, "Wasting all those trees to try to find a haven to hide in!" Unsheathing her sword she said, "Well I will slit his throat!" She opened the book and after going past an endpaper with the "Fifth Age" symbol on it, to the gateway image, it was dark. "Shouldn't there be an image there", asked Shinobu. "If you recall, I said they needed power", said Naru. Sheathing her sword Motoko said, "We might as well leave this accursed dome. We need to find a way to get out." "I think that button near the pedestal should do it", said Keitaro. He inched towards a small button near the right of the pedestal, on the floor. When he pressed it they heard the dome slow down and the books pedestal lowered. They heard some clunking, then, the combo panel went over the book and the dome flipped over. "Well, now that we are out, let's close this thing and head back for the tram", said Kitsune. "Why head back to the tram", asked Shinobu. "Because there seems to be no other place else for us to visit", said Naru.
Shortly after, closing up the Marble Dome, they headed to back to where they arrived. As they boarded the tram (some where reluctant to go back on board) Shinobu noticed something. On the other side of the tram, was a steel door. "Guys over there. There is another door", she said. Some got of the tram to see, others just peeked out. One them was Naru. "Your right", said Kitsune. "But how do we get over there", asked Kanako. Naru noticed the summon switch on the other side and said, "I know what to do, everyone get aboard." "Why we are leaving", asked Keitaro as Naru went to the drivers seat. "No, you'll see", said Naru. Once everyone was on board, she turned the lever so that the tram was facing the direction going away from Plateau Island. After turning it they heard the sound of the tram door opening again. Everyone looked, and to their surprise, the tram door was open. "Oh, smart thinking Narusegewa", said Keitaro. "Oh, it was nothing", said Naru. Kanako got a little steamed at the sweet talk and said, "If you don't mind, we should check out that door that Shinobu saw."
Shortly after getting of the tram, they opened the door. On the other side was a long corridor that was lit by a orange glow. "I knew I saw a orange room below that walkway", said Shinobu. At the end of the hallway, they reached a huge room with watery floor. There were chains nearby at the platform, near a lever. "Well, it seems we can't get any further", said Keitaro. "Why not try that lever", said Kitsune, "Everything is worth a try." Keitaro nodded and Kitsune pulled the lever. The water started rippling and the chains started moving. A few minutes later, a golden elevator rose out of the water. The front of opened, like a drawbridge, leading to a wooden interior. "Well, that's going down in class", said an impressed Kitsune, "I am sure that would fetch a pretty penny back home." "Don't think about that know fox face", said Kanako. "Kanako's right", said Naru, "We should head on down where this elevator takes us."
Once they all got in the golden (but slightly tight) elevator, Keitaro pushed the button on the left of the door. The door was drawn up and the elevator went down into the water. However, once they went into water, it seemed to be air again. "I think this water might be like the water in on the jungle island", said Kitsune. "Yeah", said Su, "I would like to study it." Soon the elevator reached a small metal corridor. Once the door to the corridor opened, the elevator door lowered. The metal corridor led to a rocky passageway. "Well, we got down here, minus well see where this leads", said Naru. However when they came upon a fork, they noticed a man in white. But when they spotted him, he spotted them, and ran off to the left. Motoko drew her sword, "After him, he might hold information for us!" Kanako ran off too and said, "Yeah, he might be in cahoots with the enemy!" Keitaro and the others then followed. However, when they caught up to him, the guy managed to get aboard a tram, and used it to take off. Motoko and Kanako could only watch as he took off in it. "Damn it, he got away", said Motoko as she sheathed her sword. "It was probably a scribe or something", said Keitaro. "I think it won't hurt anything much, Gehn practically already knows we are here, he is probably waiting for us to retrieve our 'linking book'", said Naru. "Yes I see you're point", said Motoko, calming down. "Let's go see that area where he was coming from", said Keitaro.
The exited the tram station and headed left, through the passageway the scribe came through. On the other side was a huge enormous room and on the far end was a gigantic window, which looked under water. The walkway led to a long staircase that led to a throne at the top. "Let's take a good look at the throne", said Naru.
At the top, they got a good look at the throne. It had two round objects two round objects on either side. Near the end of each arm was a lever. Keitaro tried pulling one of them but it didn't work. "Let me have a seat", said Su. Su sat down in it. She then noticed a small button on the right lever (that's her right from where she was sitting). She pressed it and the throne turned and went up a little ways. "Wow", said Shinobu, "The royalty could use this back in my home country." (An: This also takes place before they went to Mol-mol, so they don't know Su is a princess yet) "HOW WOULD YOU KNOW", yelled Keitaro. Naru smacked him shut. "Well, now that you did that, try the levers", said Naru. "Okay", said Su and she pulled the lever to her left. The round object on the left turned and showed itself in her lap. Keitaro and the others went near the throne and looked over to see it. "It looks like some sort of imager", said Kitsune. There were two buttons on the sides of the screen, one on the right, the other on the left. Also there was a strange cog-like thing surrounding the screen. "Let's try the button on the right", said Naru. Su did so. The imager then filled with a rocky wall and the sight of water on the bottom. "This is pointless", said Kanako. "No wait Oji-san", said Keitaro, "I recognize this place, but I can't picture it." Turning to Su he asked, "Su, try the cog thing around it." "Roger", she said as she turned it a bit. "Stop", said Motoko, recognizing a spot. "I know that area, that's the Whark Gallows", she said. Everyone gasped. "So we must be looking out of that telescope device we saw in the lake", said Kitsune. "I knew we where being spied on." "Su", said Naru, "Turn it to the point before the Whark Gallows." "Okay", said Su. She did so, and the screen showed a area that was below a bridge, and on the rocks was a strange looking shadow. "I think we found it", said Naru. "Found what Naru-sempai", asked Shinobu. "Look at the shape of the shadow, and the reflection in the water", Naru said, pointing to the image, "What does it look like to you." Everyone remained silent, but Su cried from her sitting place on the throne, "A fish, a fish, it looks like a yummy fish!" "That's right", said Naru and then pointing to the water she said, "Now look closely there and tell me what you see there." The team looked at the fish's head and they saw something in the water that made them gasp. "It's the last wooden eye", said Motoko. "Exactly, so we now know the first symbol is a fish", said Naru. "I'll jot this down", said Keitaro, taking out Atrus' journal.
"I wonder what this other button does", said Su. "Well press it", said Motoko. The scene showed the scene of a house, with a small balcony out back. Then they saw someone, a woman, with long black hair, and was wearing a red overshirt over a white dress. She walked through the balcony entrance, carrying a bowl of some kind, went off camera, then went back on camera and went into the balcony entrance and headed out. "Who is she, and why is this camera monitoring her", asked Su. "I think we all know who she is", said Motoko, "The person Atrus sent us to rescue." "So you are saying that woman we saw w-w-was. . .", stuttered Shinobu, who couldn't say the last word. "Yes, it's Catherine", said Motoko sadly. "It makes sense for Gehn to keep an eye on his prisoner", said Kitsune. "Yeah", said Naru, then looking over to Keitaro she said, "But you better not use this to get any ideas." Keitaro nervously said, "Don't worry, I won't!" Su pressed the button for the camera and the imager snapped off. She then pulled up the lever, and the imager returned to its original place. "Let's see what the other one has to offer", said Su as she pulled the lever to her right. The imager came down and it instantly turned itself on. The imager was similar, except, on the bottom, below the image device, was a hexagon shaped piece of wire that housed a button. As for the buttons, there were all around the window, each with a different symbol on it. "Hey, aren't these the symbols that are on the domes", asked Kitsune. "Hmmm", said Naru and she looked at the imager. The image it showed was a small pole, underwater, that showed a light. "Su, press that button in that red wire piece", said Naru. "Okay", said Su as she did it. The symbol was a eye that had it's eyelids at the sides, rather than the top and bottom. The light turned on when she pressed it, giving off a blue light. "Keitaro make a note of that, that blue represents that symbol", said Naru. "Yes but", then lightning hit Keitaro, "Oh, I got you, these things will tell us what colors each symbol represents." "And then we can match them up to the symbols of each fire marble dome and we put the right colored marble in the right spot on the grid on top of the Golden Dome." "And we restore power", finished Naru. Then she said to Keitaro, "Why aren't you getting this down, WRITE!" "I am on it", said Keitaro, using Atrus' journal again.
After writing it down, Su turned of the light, and moved to the next symbol, which happened to be the symbol for the Temple Island. She pressed it and it showed a greenish glow. "Okay, the color for the one on the Temple Island is green", said Kitsune. Keitaro wrote it down and went on to the next symbol. The next symbol showed a normal eye, its color was yellow. "Okay", said Keitaro after he wrote it down, "next." The next one showed the symbol for the Plateau Island's dome, its color was orange.
Now, on the next one, which was a cat-eye, had nothing shown in the imager, but some pipes. "What's up with that", asked Kitsune. Motoko took a close look at it, "I think I see window that looks like the one we are now." "Maybe it activates that light up there", said Shinobu, point up near the top of the window. There, hanging overhead, was a small lamp. "Well, let's give it a shot", said Kitsune. Su pressed the button and, as they hoped, it turned the lamp on, which gave a red glow. "Okay, now let's. . .", Naru stopped when she heard a familiar whale cry, and saw something swim up to the light. It was huge creature, it had blowhole, a fin that was like a whale's, but what gave away what it was, was the two tusks at its sides. "Wh-w-w-w-WHARK!!!!" screamed Shinobu. Motoko drew her blade and Kanako got into a stance, as for Su, she drew a fork and spoon ("I hope Wharks taste good", she said.). "I don't think it will hurt us", said Keitaro, "this huge window separates us from it." They watched it, as the Whark looked hurt almost, then it swam away, and Su turned the light off. "I think that light, must be used to call it for food or something", said a now relaxed Naru. "Food", said Su, "That's what I want." She pushed the button again and the Whark swam up again. It gave a very displeased look and swam away. "Oh you don't get away that easy", said Su. "Su stop that, you are scaring Shinobu", yelled Motoko. Su didn't pay attention. The Whark was seen at a distance and swam by. "Okay, one more time", said Su and she resetted and pushed the button. The Whark gave a cry and swam up. Not seeing any food the Whark gave a charge and slammed so hard on to the window almost everyone felt it, it even gave Su a start. The Whark swam away. "Su", said everyone looking at here. "Okay, I'll stop", said a nervous Su.
The Whark, now just a bad memory, they resumed looking at the other colors of the symbols. The one for the Crater Island (the island they were on before) was a dead stick, for the it's light was damaged. "Well, guess we have no choice but to solder on", said Naru. The next one, was, well, back where they started. "Well, that's it", said Naru. "Let's see if we can use the tram the scribe ran off on and get there", said Kitsune.
A few minutes later, the whole team returned to the tram station. Shinobu, noticed the button that summoned the tram and pressed it. A few seconds later the now empty tram came in, stopped and opened it's door. "Let's go", said Naru. Everyone hopped in and Naru did the same routine as before, use the levers to turn it around and make it go. The tram ride, again, almost made everyone sick. In fact, they were relieved when it stopped. The stopping point was inside another cavern.
After they exited and after they recovered from the short yet, twisting, almost vomiting ride, Keitaro saw a small elevator near the front of the platform. "Let's see where it goes", said Keitaro. "I am with you Urashima", said Motoko, who was one of the many that didn't want to get back on that tramcar.
The only device in the elevator was a small lever on the right of the wall. "Well, push it Urashima", said Motoko. He nodded and pushed it halfway. When he did the elevator rose and eventually stopped at where they could see the button for tram. In front of them was a wooden wall, and near it was a lever. "Let's see what's up further", said Kitsune. "We will", said Keitaro heading towards the lever, "But before we do, I like to see what's on this floor." "Okay, we might as well", said Naru. Keitaro pushed the small lever forward. Then, in response, the wooden area opened down, but the weirdest part was, that the parts that once connected to each other, looked like teeth, very familiar teeth. The lower jaw formed a stairway down below. "Hmm, this looks familiar", said Kitsune, looking below the stairs, "Keitaro's right, we should take a look."
They walked out of the entry way onto towards some very familiar lamps that bordered the pathway. Shinobu started chattering. "What is . . it", asked Keitaro as he turned around and saw that the entryway, was in fact the huge Whark Idol on the Jungle Island. He got everyone's attention and they looked too. "Very clever, hiding a secret staircase to a elevator in a idol", said Kitsune, giving that sly look. Kanako looked towards the lamp to the right of the idol. A piece of its top was pushed up. "And there is the switch that activates the door from here, look." She pushed the switch down and the idol's mouth closed. "You know what this means", said Naru, getting excited. "That we know why the idol was here", asked Keitaro, who received a whack to the head. "No, this elevator will allow us to see the fire marble dome of the Jungle Island." "Oh yeah", said Keitaro and with huge vigor he said, "Ah HA! And we can see its symbol!" "Well come on", said Kitsune, who walked passed that lamp and pulled on the section Kanako pushed down, and as the idol's mouth dropped open she added, "Let's go."
A few minutes later, after closing the mouth, Keitaro pulled the lever up as far as it will go. The elevator moved left a bit, then shot up and it stopped before a catwalk, over looking the jungle. "Well, time to get a move on", said Shinobu.
They walked on the catwalk until they came to a small fork, on way leading forward, the other way right. "Let's try the right way", said Kitsune. Everyone nodded. At the end was a kinescope. "There's the kinescope", said Shinobu. "And there", said Motoko pointing across from it, "Is the dome." A little ways across from the kinescope's balcony was the Fire Marble Dome. "Well, Oni-san", said Kanako, "You know what to do." Keitaro took out the journal and opened it to the page they wrote the symbols one. "Gotcha", he said. And when he looked through the kinescope, he said, "Good thing this isn't out of alignment. He placed the JI for Jungle Island under the symbol that looked like a cats-eye. "Looks like the color for this one is the red marble", said Keitaro. He pressed the top of the kinescope to test the symbol and it worked. He received a blow and Naru hissed, "Why did you do that, you know we can't use them yet!" "Well I just wanted to test it", said Keitaro and he laughed nervously. Naru put her fist close to Keitaro's and said, "You put it back, or I will let you test out this world's stratosphere!" "Okay, okay", Keitaro said quickly as he pressed the button on the kinescope and sure enough the dome returned to normal. "You know what", said Kitsune looking at the dome "There seems to be a catwalk that goes right pass the dome, why don't we check it out. "Good idea", said a smashed up Keitaro.
After Keitaro quickly healed up, the Hinata-sou team headed on the catwalk back towards the fork and took the one that was opposite the road to the elevator. Eventually it led to the dome. "Well, that was a waste", said Kanako. "No it isn't", said Keitaro pointing to the catwalk that led around it and noticed that it led to some stairs going up a nearby cliff, "There seems to be more like Kitsune said." "He's right, lets keep moving", said Motoko.
When they reached the top of the metal stairs they noticed a small watchtower nearby and a man inside spotted them and turned the crank, making the vanes above it emit a very familiar noise. "Not this again", said Naru. "I guess they thought we left, now they are announcing we are back", said Motoko. A few minutes later, the man hid himself down in the tower, and the sound stopped. Shinobu uncovered her ears, "Well, that's a relief!" "Come on, let's go", said Naru. "Hey, who said you where in charge", said Kanako.
At the end of the walkway, amongst a bunch of long rocks standing out, was a black tower. There was a easy door, in front of it with a single handle. "Another monument to his torment", said Motoko. "Let's check it out", said Kitsune. Kitsune grasped the handle and opened the door, which opened like a hatchway or something. Inside was a throne, made of what they assumed was Whark bones. "I wonder what this is for", asked Shinobu, shaking a little. Kitsune closed the door behind them and said, "I guess we must try those levers." "I will do it", yelled Su as she jumped onto the throne. She tried the lever on the right but it didn't work. "Let me try", said Keitaro, getting on one side. "No, I will try it", said Naru getting on the other. "Maybe this does something", said Su pulling the other lever, and when she did the throne moved up, with Su, Keitaro and Naru. "Wheee", said Su. "Help me Kami-sama", said Keitaro and Naru. The top of the tower opened and the throne stopped at the top, giving them a good view of the village and the lake. "Hey the Whark Gallows are right below us", said Naru, after recovering. "Maybe this lever shall work now", said Su. "It's worth the shot", said Keitaro nervously. Su pushed it and below them, they noticed four or five hidden panels in the gallows close over the hole, forming the star sign. "Hey", said Keitaro, "Maybe we can now . . ." "Use the hangman to try to get up to the top of the gallows", finished Naru. "Um, Su, may we get down now", asked Keitaro. "Sure", said Su. She pushed the left lever forward and the throne returned to its position in the tower, where everyone else is waiting. "Are all of you all right", asked Motoko. "Yes", said Naru, "But listen the hole in the Whark Gallows is . . ." "Closed, we know. We overheard", said Kanako. "Well then, let's head over to where we left the sub and a head over there", said a energetic Kitsune.
Shortly after they headed to the elevator and used it to get to the floor where the Whark Idol entrance was, they opened it, and, through a suggestion of Motoko, they closed the mouth.
After heading on up the stairs, to the fork, they saw a small Rivenese child. It looked at them and then turned and ran. "No don't run away", said Naru, "We won't hurt you." But the child continued to run, even after it fell a bit, it ran into the entrance to the fork. "Naru, these people don't know us, so it makes sense for their children to be afraid", said Motoko. "I know, I know", said Naru sadly.
After a bit, they found themselves back at the docks that led up to the village. They checked the nearby dock where they left the submarine and to their delight, it was there, exactly as they left it.
They boarded it and Kitsune took the controls and headed on the track that led to the Whark Gallows, which was very short.
After they reached the gallows and disembarked the sub once more, they headed for the pull string that brought the hangman down. "Okay", said Keitaro as Motoko was about to pull it, "I will go first, and then the rest will follow." "Good idea, that is practically the best one you have had since we got here", said Naru. Keitaro ignored that. Once Motoko pulled the string the hangman came down and stopped just an inch above the platform. Keitaro walked onto the platform and grabbed the hangman. A minute or two later, the hangman pulled Keitaro up and up and up. At the top was a small area surrounded by whark bones, as well as a plank walk way that led to nearby catwalk. He yelled down, "It's okay! The rest of you come up, I am going to wait for all of you at that catwalk over there!"
So, after a bit, all of them came up, Motoko came up last of course. They went across the walkway and towards Keitaro. "Shhh", he said pointing to a round grate-like thing. "What about a grate", asked Kitsune. "It is not a grate it is a cell, and someone is in there", responded Keitaro. Everyone looked inside. Inside, near the wall, was man, and he looked like he was catching on his Z's. He suddenly woke up and looked at them, and shrugged and went back to sleep. "We must release him", said Motoko. "I think that is the way to open it over there", said Su, pointing to the right. Nearby was a metal knob with an upside-down Riven symbol on it. The star was encircled by a ring and the 'five' was on a knob. "Here we go", said Kitsune, who pulled it out, rotated the thing a full clockwise before letting it go. They looked at the prison, and the bars to it opened up in split directions. "Quick, let's go", said Naru as the headed to it but stopped short when she saw it empty, ". . . free him?" Motoko looked around, "He probably was a illusion." "No way", said Kitsune. Shinobu looked around and then noticed something. "Hey, do grates have hinges", she asked. "Hinges", asked everyone. They looked at the small drainage grate on the floor. "You found something good Shinobu, this is strange", said Keitaro. Shinobu blushed at this. Naru flipped the grate open. "Allow me", said Motoko. She reached into the water below it. "Hey, I feel something", she said. She pulled up on whatever it was to reveal a long pull up switch. She let it go and it fell back into the drain. "Look", said Su, pointing at the wall. A part of the wall was moving back, revealing a secret area. Naru looked around and said, "Let's go before it closes." Everyone quickly ran through the opening, and the false wall closed right after Naru managed to get in. Kanako pointed down a small passageway leading away from the false wall. "I bet you that our friend went that way", she said. "Let's go", said Naru.
Of course they eventually stumbled around in the dark. "Ouch, someone stepped on my foot", said Naru. "Sorry, that was me", said Motoko. A few minutes later they heard Naru said, "I think someone grabbed my breasts!" "Ah-h-h, that was me Narusegewa", said Keitaro. "YOU PERVERT", yelled Naru as she punched him, which caused him to land at the end of the tunnel. Eventually the others caught up to him. "Are you okay, Sempai", asked Shinobu. "Yeah I am fine", said Keitaro. The tunnel led them to an area that looked out over Riven's waters. "Great a dead end", said Kanako. "No wait", said Naru pointing to a stick with a globe on the end. When she touched it, it lit up. "So we can see the way back, big deal", said Kanako. "Hey look", said Shinobu running up the passageway, "Another one." Naru approached it and touched it, making the globe light up the area. "And there's another", said Su, going up even further. This went on and on until they came to the way they entered. "Maybe with the passageway lit up like this, we might see a area we might have missed", said Kitsune. "Good idea, let's head back in there", said Naru.
They headed down back into the passageway. Somewhere in between it they came upon a fork, but there was a stone door on the opposite area. "I guess it is the only way", said Shinobu. "Haven't we learned anything from the bitch", said Kanako. She went over to the door and pulled it open, revealing another passageway. "Oh, yeah, the doors hiding doors", said Kitsune.
At the end of the new passageway was huge room. They stood in the center of it. All around them where stones, each with a different thing on it. In the front of the room, adjacent to the entryway, was a stone knife, the same type of knife they saw the rebel that saved them used. "I wonder what the point of this chamber is", asked Motoko. Kanako then noticed the knife, "That wouldn't be here, unless. . . unless the Moiety use this place. Naru snapped her fingers, "I have it. Those wooden eyes we saw, the Moiety left them to guide people who wanted to join them to show how to get to their HQ." "I see", said Kitsune, "And these stones all have animals on them and we need to press the right animals in the right order." "That's right", said Naru. "Keitaro, hand me the journal." "Okay", said Keitaro, handing Naru the journal. Naru opened it and looked around. She noticed, at the entrance, one stone on the far right was a fish, and the stone on the far left was a beetle. "Okay, Su", said Naru, and pointing to the fish rock she said, "You go and push down that fish stone." "Okay", said Su and she headed over there. Then Naru looked at Shinobu and said, "Okay, Shinobu, I want you to push down that rock over there with the beetle on it." She pointed to it. "I knew what to do before you asked", said Shinobu. Su already pressed the fish one, so Shinobu, pushed the beetle down. "Okay", said Naru, looking at the notes, "The third sign is the frog or ytram." She looked to her left and she then noticed among the other stones there was the ytram sign. "Motoko", said Naru, "That frog symbol there, push that." "I gotcha", said Motoko and she did as she was asked. "By the way the Sunner thing is behind you", said Motoko. Naru turned and sure enough, there was the Sunner sign. "That comes next. Kitsune", said Naru. "Already on it", responded Kitsune as she pressed the rock down. "All that is left is the Whark", said Naru. Naru looked around and then her eyes fell below the dagger. The rock in front of it, was the Whark sign. "This ones mine", said Naru as she went up to it and pushed it down. As soon as she did, the area around the dagger began to ripple. The liquid like substance went off on the trenches surrounding the dagger. Then the dagger panel opened up and revealed a stone pedestal beneath it. On it was linking book, opened to the gateway image. When they went over to it Kitsune asked, "What is this thing on the image?" "That", answered Naru, "Would be that crystal device that Catherine made to power the books more portably. The image showed a huge crater like place, with a tree in the center of a lake, and within it's branches where lights. "Well, let's go. We have gone to far to turn back", said Motoko. Everyone else nodded, and one-by-one they pressed their hands to it and linked out.
The Moiety Age.
The group re-materialized on a dock that was on the water, outside the tree. "Well, so much for that", said Kanako. "Guys, look", said Keitaro, pointing behind them. Behind them the dock led to a room, with a idol, with all sorts of daggers in it. "That must symbolized Gehn", said Motoko. They then noticed, in the idol's hands, was a linking book. "It must lead us back to the chamber", said Naru. "Well, let's go, let's go", yelled Su running on in. "Su wait up", said Shinobu. "Don't be reckless Su", said Motoko. Just as the group entered the room. They heard voices. They turned and saw the prisoner and another rebel. He was yelling to the guy to do something. Kanako got into a kung-fu stance and Motoko was about to draw her sword, but before they could make a move, the rebel used a blow dart on them, and stunned them with some darts. "Unghhh", said Kanako. "No", said Motoko. The others went down slowly.
Keitaro opened his eyes a little bit when he heard water, he felt like he was in a boat, and they were headed for the tree. The prisoner, pointed to it and said something, and looked and saw Keitaro a little awake. Then Keitaro passed out again.
"Wake up", said a familiar voice to Keitaro. "KEITARO WAKE UP!" yelled the voice. Keitaro jumped up. "Gah, where are we", asked Keitaro. He looked around and saw they were in some sort of cavern, the stone he was on, made some sort of bed, nearby was table, with a bowl on it. "We are in the tree, Keitaro", said Naru. A glum Motoko said, "While we were unconscious, they took us over hear and locked us in." "Auu", said Shinobu, "And they won't even give us a chance." Keitaro still looked confused. "Follow me Keitaro", said Naru. She led him down a small corridor to a wooden door, all locked. Keitaro looked out the door and saw dozens of houses lined up with bridges leading to on another. He thought he saw some silhouettes of the rebels, but maybe his eyes were fooling him. After returning to the main cell, he said, "Can't you just use your sword to knock it down?" Motoko yelled, "DON'T YOU THINK FOR A SEC THEY USED THEIR ADVANTAGE OF OUR KNOCKED OUT STATE THAT THEY WOULD REMOVE ANY WEAPONS WE HAD!" "Sorry, just curious", whimpered Keitaro. "Even if we had a way to get out, we wouldn't be able to get back without knowing where the boats are", said Kanako, and pointing out the window to the view of where they entered, she added, "We are all the way up here and the exits, out there."
Then they heard the rustle of keys. "Shh, someone's coming", said Shinobu. A women came out of the corridors, bearing a bundle in a red cloth. She said something to them, but she said a word that sounded familiar. "Did she say Katrin", asked Keitaro. "It almost sounded like, Catherine", said a happy Naru. "Maybe Catherine sent her", said a hopeful Shinobu. The woman gestured to the books and then left. The two books she left behind was a small horizontal journal, and a familiar looking book. "I wonder what they are", asked Shinobu. "Well, let's first read this journal", said Kanako as she opened.
After a hour or so of reading it, she set it down. "This is Catherine's journal." "Really, what does it say", asked Keitaro. "Well, for one thing Catherine didn't always felt like she belonged there." "You mean she had a sense to be somewhere other than Riven", asked Motoko. "Yes, which was probably why Atrus took her with him." "Anything else", asked Keitaro. "Yeah, when the encounter of Gehn, Atrus and Catherine at the Star Fissure occurred, the thing was not witnessed by them alone. Many locals saw it and formed two beliefs. One was that Gehn was a god that banished Atrus, or that Atrus is a god that has stripped Gehn of his power and chose Catherine, the oddball among them, to become his wife, thus making her a goddess. The people that believe this second theory became the Moiety." "Makes sense, and that's why Catherine leads them, they think they will bring them victory over Gehn." "Yes, but they also made the attempt to try to re-open the fissure", Kanako continued, "and try to follow the path, but Catherine convinced them that it was not safe." "Where is the fissure anyway", asked Naru. "Back where we started, under the metal plate, where that huge microscope is. Or more specifically telescope." Everyone gasped at this. "And how did they try to break it open", asked Shinobu. "Well, they found out the combo to the manhole covering the portal. They would smash it open and head through", said Kanako. "Did she write it down", asked Keitaro. "Yep, on this page", and she held it up for Keitaro to see. It showed the telescope and the line pointing to the manhole showed the D'neese numbers for, 2, 3, 1, 4 and 3. He took out Atrus' journal and wrote it down. "What else happened", asked Naru. "Well, she did encourage the illusion of her being a goddess or deity", said Kanako. "That is understandable", said Motoko. "Another thing is that she was the one who made the crystals that can power the books portably, than the domes. Also she wrote this age and the age linking back." "Wait", said Keitaro, interrupting her sister, "She wrote this world and the way back?" "Not exactly, the Moiety stole the book that made this world from the furnace in Gehn's lab before it got burned, long before Catherine's arrival and Catherine managed to re-write it to support the age. The linking book back, came from a fire Marble Dome and she re-wrote that two, as a linking book back." "Smart woman", said Naru. "Another thing", added Kanako, "The daggers where not of the Moiety, or Gehn. Though at one point Gehn claimed he made them to show the islanders that they are some sort of punishment or something. The Moiety, use them as their insignia know." "Where did they came from", asked Shinobu. "Probably written in by Atrus, to keep the Age stable", said Kanako. "Anything else", asked Keitaro. "Well, the Star Fissure seems to be safe and is hospitable to life", said Kanako. "What else", asked Motoko. "Well those crystals are actually re-fined book windows that 'heal' the books and allow them to link without the domes." "So she used the domes", asked Keitaro. "Only once, so she could refine the window substance to lay across the window of the Gateway Image so the book could work." "Oh I see", said Keitaro. "Also", said Kanako, "The name they gave this age is Tey." "Okay", said Naru. Keitaro looked at the book. "There is something about this other book she gave us." "Oh yeah there was this note in the journal as well", said Kanako, she took it out and handed it over. It read like this:
"I write quickly from my prison. . .
Nelah will return your book which the Moiety intercepted upon your arrival. After questioning her, I've concluded that it was written by Atrus for a very specific purpose.
Gehn will desire to use it. . . although he may have suspicions.
If you can find my prison, you will still need the combination to release me, Gehn keeps it in his office. Then, I assume, we're to signal Atrus. . . . I think I know how it might be done. But don't signal him before I am released.
Catherine.
"Don't worry", said Naru, "we won't." "So you mean that this book I am holding is", asked Keitaro. Kanako nodded. "You guys, this is the lost Trap Book that looks like a linking book to D'ni", shouted Keitaro. "But unless you have forgotten, there is no way out of here", said Motoko. Again they heard the sound of keys and the door opening and shutting and the woman, who they now know as Nelah, came in and noticed the books were taken. She said some words, and placed a book on the table and opened it. She placed the crystal on the window for it to work. Then she took something long and handed it to Motoko. She said something to her and Motoko took it. "My sword", she exclaimed. "Thank you for everything Nelah", said Naru. Everyone formally bowed to her. Nelah, didn't understand the meaning of that but she some sorrowful words to them and left. "Look , she left us a linking book back to Riven", said Naru. "Specifically, the stone chamber where we linked to from there." "Well, let's go", said Naru. They each linked out, one by one.
Riven
They found themselves re-materialized in the stone room. "Hey, we got the book, now let's head back to the temple island, and give power to the domes", said an enthusiastic Naru. "Then we can capture Gehn", said Keitaro. "Okay", said Kitsune, "Let's head on out."
They left the chamber and headed back to the entrance with the fake wall. They managed to open it with an easily seen pull up switch, near the end of the track of the fake wall. After they left, they had one small problem. "How do we get down", asked Keitaro. "Well, we could fall and swim", said Su. "No way, not from this height", said Naru. Kanako said, "Let's see where the rest of this catwalk leads to." She was pointing to the left of the prison.
After a bit of walking, at the end they came across a ladder that went back onto the dock of the village. After Naru kicked it down she said, "Well, beats taking that sub again." "Or swimming", joked Keitaro.
After they got down, Naru said they should head to the tram they first used when they got into Riven. "You mean that tram near the frog eye", asked Motoko. "Yes", said Naru. "Oh boy, I am going to toss my cookies before we get to the temple", said Kitsune.
After a bit of a walk, they got to the tram. Some were reluctant, but they got aboard and Naru rotated it and made the tram go.
When they reached the Temple Island, the way in to the temple was closed. "Great it's closed", said Keitaro as they approached. "So, what's the problem", asked Su. "The only way to open it is by that lever in that strange caged chairs room", said Naru. Then Kanako approached and said, "Just great." Suddenly the door began to rise and as it rose they saw some sort of familiar face in the cage near the far side of the temple. "AAAAUUU! IT'S GEHN", shouted Shinobu. But then, a few minutes the face vanished. "I have it", said Keitaro. "What's that", asked Naru. "Remember that chair under the cage", said Keitaro, "I think it is a holographic transmission device, because this cage emitted the same hum we heard there." "Smart thinking Urashima", said Motoko. "So Gehn uses that chair to project himself there", said Naru as she pointed to the cage. "Yep", said Keitaro. "But how come he didn't talk to us or anything", asked Shinobu. "Maybe it was a pre-recording for the people entering the temple or maybe he is just trying to intimidate us", said Motoko. "Come on", said Keitaro, let's head for the gate room." "And the marble thing", said Naru, "Thank goodness I suggested to leave the bridge up."
A few minutes later, they found themselves outside the Gate Room. In a minute or two, after they rotated the room to original position, they had climbed the still raised bridge, to the marble device.
"Okay", said Naru, "Kitsune you stay here and activate pull the switch down and press the button when I tell you. Keitaro, you come with me and dictate the journals." "Oh no you don't", said Kanako, "I am coming too." "Okay", said a nervous Naru, who knew now wasn't a time to argue.
They approached the marble grid and Keitaro took out the journal. "Okay", said Keitaro. "The red symbolizes the dome for the Jungle Island." "Okay", said Naru picking up the red marble, "Now where do we put it", she asked. "Um, if I am right, it should be there", he said pointing to a spot on the grid. "You sure", asked Naru. "I am sure as the fact that I failed the entrance to Tokyo U three times before entering", he said. Naru reluctantly, but obediently, put the red marble in it's designated square. "Okay", said Keitaro, "Orange represents the Plateau Island." "Okay", said Naru as she picked it up. "And it should go about there", he said pointing to an area on the grid. "Alright", said Naru as she did so.
A few minutes later, they got all the positions of the domes (they found out the violet marble represented the Crater Island's dome) except one, and that was for the Prison Island. "We haven't seen the dome, it is either the blue marble, or the yellow marble", said Naru. "We must try one or the other", said Keitaro. "Okay, let's try blue", said Naru. She picked it up and Keitaro designated the spot. "Okay", and turning to Kitsune she yelled "Do it Kitsune!" Kitsune pulled down the switch, making the compressor come down. She pressed the button and the machine gave a huge 'swoosh' and made the sound of powering. "We did it", said Naru. "Well, Naru, you are not so foolish after all", said Kanako. "What is that supposed to mean", yelled Naru.
The group got together in the gate room. "Okay, we will head over to the dome on the Crater Island and use the dome their since it is the least conspicuous", said Keitaro. "As for the bridge, I'd say we use the gate room to go around, of course, then we re-lower it and turn the gate room back to it's original position", said Naru, "So we have easy access to the dome and the land, plus, we don't have to worry about the power supply to the domes." "Makes sense to me", said Kitsune. "I agree", said Motoko. "Let's do it", said Su.
Shortly after turning the Gate room to the position to access the other bridge to the dome, they headed over to the other door, and used the button there to return the room to its original position. And, like they agreed, they returned the original bridge they used to cross the first time, to it's proper state, and headed over to the bridge way to Crater Island.
After heading on down there and after Keitaro used the kinescope in that hidden doorway to open the dome, they all gathered near the console of it, to as Keitaro entered the combination and pressed the button.
The same thing happened as before on the Plateau Island, but this time something different happened. "Now let's see if what we did worked", said Naru as she opened it. At first it was blank, but then an image spread out on it, showing a world of red mountains, and a building in the center. "It worked", said Su in excitement. Everyone was overjoyed. "That must be his office", said Motoko, pointing to the building in the center. "Well group, next stop, Gehn's 223rd Age", said Kitsune.
Everyone nodded and one by one they touched the image, and faded out of Riven.
Age 223
They all ended up inside of a small cage in the center. "Great it was a trap", said Motoko. Everyone could almost barely move. Keitaro said, "All I can say is my front feels terrible with the bars, but my back on the other hand . . ." "HENTAI", said Naru as she punched him in the back.
The group looked around. One part was desk, with a book in the center, a strange pipe-like device near it, as well as certain amount of liquids. To the left was the door; to the right was a strange boiler, with a lever above a round porthole. To the right of the boiler, was a ladder, heading down, and near that, was lever on a nearby windowsill. All around their cage, within the groups reach, where linking books. "Let's leave this joint", said Kitsune as she opened one up but the gateway image showed blank. "They need to be powered too", said Naru. "And look at the squares on them", said Motoko and then she said, "Each book has they square symbol of each island." "Probably to indicate which dome they link too", said Naru. Then Kanako noticed a small switch on the cage. "There is this button here", she said, "Let's press it and see what happens", she said. "Well it's better than staying in here all day", said Kitsune.
A minute or two later, after Kanako pressed the switch, Shinobu yelled, "Look, someone is approaching the door." She was right, a man wearing goggles, gloves, a clean uniform and a strange cane approached the door. He opened it and stepped in.
"Hey you", yelled Motoko, "Let us out of here!" The man removed his goggles and walked over to the desk. "I apologize for the cage", he said. He placed the cane he was holding on the side of the desk and the goggles on the desk. "I am afraid this situation is required a mere more, primitive code of contact that I might have otherwise have chosen." He started to remove his gloves; "I am Gehn." "GEHN!" shouted everyone. "I believe you've heard of me", he said. "In more ways than one", said Kanako. "We heard you are an evil man", said Shinobu. "Yes. Well I suspect you have acquired some false information of who I am now." "False information", asked Kitsune. "Not that my son would have lied to you about me", Gehn said as he took his gloves and placed them on the desk near his goggles, "No, not Atrus it's just that . . ." "Just what", asked Naru. "Well I am sure he believes me to be the depraved father I once was. Yes. I even tried to kill him once." He started moping a bit. "God, if I had accomplished that who knows what I would have become. Great father indeed who tries to murder his own son." Then he turned to them and said; "Thankfully he trapped me on Age Five, a prison of my own creation. No books, no precious eats, no ages to link to, nothing but my own, foolish ambitions." Gehn turned towards the window and said, "That was thirty years ago. Thirty years, thirty lifetimes, it all doesn't matter." He turned to them and said, "No sentence could be to harsh for the man I was . . . but, I have changed." He went towards his desk and took up the strangely made pipe. "I assure all of you that the deeds of my past cannot be completely atoned for, but my mission, was an honorable one." He paused to take a puff out that pipe. "I bet that's frog extract he is using", said Kitsune. "I doubt he has changed a bit", whispered Motoko. "I'm sorry", said Gehn, "This is all a bit awkward I . . . It's been a long time since I have attempted to persuade, anyone of my intentions. Most of the people here have made up their minds about me, one way or another." He turned to the cage and said, "I don't trust the words of most men, so I don't expect any of you to believe me. In the end though you may find that I do have more that mere words to offer." He took a few puffs from that pipe and said, "Atrus' choice of punishment has been hard on the people of Riven. And many have suffered because of it." "YES, FROM YOU", yelled Motoko. "Besides that past misdeed", said Gehn, "The island has been steadily decaying for years. But according to my most, recent measurements that, the Fifth Age has ended it's final days." Turning with a look of concern he said, "Unless the villagers can be re-located soon, the island will collapse entirely and everyone will perish."
Gehn turned toward his desk and said, "It has taken me a long time to do it but. It appears that finally I will make some, substantial amends to my past transgressions. Especially . . ." He shook his head in protest a little. "Especially what", asked Naru. "Well, I am afraid I have had some, trouble with Catherine, and the Moiety." "We can easily understand that", said Keitaro a bit harshly. "In any society there always will be a percentage of the population with, rebellious tendencies. Before Catherine appeared the Moiety, as they call themselves, have been relatively harmless." "Relatively", asked Kitsune. "I mean, the natives here are very violent people by nature. But I have almost come to accept their presence. It seemed inevitable under the circumstances." Then Gehn gave a look of anger and said, "Upon Catherine's return, however, their violence intensified considerably. It seems she has become some sort of, religious savior to them. And as far as I can tell, she's come to believe this herself." Turning to them he added, "So I have had no alternative. I had to separate her from her people. I must admit though, my intentions were not entirely for her safety alone. The actions of Catherine and the Moiety have put my own life at risk, on numerous occasions! Consequently the lives of all the people here!" He then showed a look of seriousness and said, "Therefore I must ask all of you to refrain from any attempt to free her, although I am sure, Atrus desires it." Gehn looked down in sorrow and said, "Indeed, he must desire it with all his heart. But he is completely unaware of her recent state."
He walked over to the area where the 'boiler' was and added with a more cheerful voice he said, "Which brings me to the point of all this." Point towards the trap book in Keitaro's hand he said, "The linking you book you brought with you. You are very fortunate to have recovered it." "He grasped it gently and asked, "If I may." Keitaro smiled and said, "Sure." "Thank you", responded Gehn and he placed his pipe on top of the boiler so he could look at the book. He looked suspicious and then looked through the pages. "I don't think he fully trusts us", said Shinobu. "I guess we should tell him that it is . . ." before Su could say anything more, Motoko placed her hands on her mouth. "Don't say another word", said Motoko harshly. After looking at the last page he closed it and re-opened it to the gateway image. He looked like he was about to use it, but then, he looked at the cage and he held open the book to the gateway image as he approached the cage. "Perhaps it would be best if you all went through first", he said. The group tried but they couldn't bring themselves to touch the image. Gehn closed the book and said, "You may need some time to decide. That is reasonable." He put a hand on the handle of the 'boiler' and turned it to the other side making the portal below it glow. In response the arches surrounding the linking books started to glow and wash over the books. "Until then, as a token of my good intentions, I allow all of you, free access to my, linking books. Who though they may be. And to the rest of the fifth age." He took the pipe from, what they now know as the power source for the books, and headed for his desk. Gehn placed the book then the pipe on the desk, saying, and "Please understand there is nothing more I want than to resolve matters between, Atrus and myself Especially in light in what has become of Catherine." He donned his goggles but not over his eyes, but on his head and then he added as he placed his gloves on he said, "But unless at least one of you is willing to demonstrate to me that your intentions are honorable, I cannot risk it. The sanctuary I have writing for the islanders is nearly complete. After all these years it would be a shame if I were, unable to finish it." He grabbed the cane and headed for the door and, before he left he said, "The work I am doing is quite demanding. Please don't signal me, unless, at least one of you, have decided to use the book. The switch will reset itself once all of you leave from here." He placed his goggles over his eyes, and he opened the door, and stepped outside. They then saw him head off down the mountain.
"Well, that was a bust", said Kitsune. "Not exactly", said Naru, "He still thinks it is a linking book to D'ni, but he isn't taking any chances." "Well", said Kanako, "The question is, where do we link to." "I know", said Shinobu, "Well, um, since the only way to get to the island where Catherine is on is through a linking book, why don't we use that." "Good idea Shinobu", said Naru. "Excellent thought", said Motoko. "Now which one symbolizes the prison island", asked Naru. Motoko pointed to one of the books, "That one, the one with the single square." "Gotcha", said Naru. They opened it. The blank gateway image spilled over with an image of an area they never saw before, and showed the island with a huge tree. Then it began circling around a fire marble dome. "Well, here we go", said Keitaro. They all touched the image, one by one.
Riven- Prison Island
The group re-materialized inside of the dome, as they expected. "Well", said Kitsune, "Let's get out of this dome." She pushed the button near the bottom of the podium the book was on and the book lowered itself. The dome halted and flipped over, letting them out into the sunlight.
They turned to get an idea of where they where. There was but a single pathway, leading to a huge stump. On the path, they spotted the kinescope for the dome. On top of the stump was a small metal building with a weather vane whirling on it. "I think that's Catherine's prison", said Keitaro. "If we can't get her out now, at least we can talk to her, and let her know we are here", said Naru. "Let's go see her", said Motoko.
The single pathway led to a stairway that went, inside the stump. Inside was a small corridor leading to a barred elevator. "Probably to keep her from escaping", said Motoko. Su notice, across from the bars, on the wall was a round device, with a lever on it. Below it, where three switches. "What do these do", said Su. She pushed the one on the left, and it emitted a 'click' sound. "Oooh, these things make noise", said Su. She pushed the other two, the one in the middle made a 'kinnk' sound, and the third made a 'ding' sound. Su was then held back and Naru said, "I think this is the combination system that will rotate the bars and allow Catherine to get out." "Good idea", said Keitaro, "I think that this pull string makes the elevator rise." "Well, duh", said Motoko. "Well, let's go see her", said Naru and she pulled the pullstring in the elevator. The elevator started moving and eventually, it reached the top, to a room, which they recognized from the viewing room on plateau island. From the balcony walked in a familiar woman. "Ne feriti. . .", she said and stopped when she saw who was in the elevator. "Catherine", asked Shinobu. "You all made it", said Catherine as she approached. "But how did you get past Gehn." "He let us through, he allowed us access to his books until we decide to use that book Atrus gave us", explained Keitaro. Catherine looked down and said, "He must really believe I've gone mad." Then with a look of concern she said, "I know what he is doing." "What is he doing", asked Kanako. "He's watching you. He's waiting for any of you to make a mistake. He is hoping you all will lead him back to D'ni." "WHAT", said Everyone. "You can't let Gehn", said Catherine in a begging tone, but then stopped short and said, "Atrus sent all of you to save me, but if Gehn gets back to D'ni he'll kill him." "We believe you", said Shinobu. "I knew we couldn't trust him", said Motoko. Catherine approached the bars and whispered, "I know how we can signal Atrus but it is going to take all of us, including me, you will have to trap Gehn before you all can get the combination. Be careful." She stepped away and said, "Go then. If you will not help me I've got nothing more to say." With that she stepped out onto the balcony.
As they used the elevator the group discussed the matter. "That Catherine girl is pretty, I can see why Atrus chose her", said Kitsune. "Enough of that", said Naru. "We must find a way to trick Gehn into using the book", she added. "But how, if we use it, we will get trapped." "Not all of us", said Keitaro, "One of us." "Huh", asked everyone. "Remember Sirrus and Achenar on Myst Island", said Keitaro. "How can I forget them", said Motoko. "They each got trapped in a separate book. If one of us used it, or completed the pages, we would get trapped. It also says right here, in Atrus' journal, that a person will be trapped, in the book until someone else touches, thus freeing the previous occupant and trapping the one who used it." "So you are saying, to convince Gehn it is a real linking book, only one of us must use it", asked Kitsune. "Exactly", said Keitaro. "But who will take such a risk", said Naru. "I will", said Keitaro. "NANI", said Everyone.
After heading back to the dome, as Keitaro entered the combination in it Shinobu said, "Please reconsider Sempai." "Yes Urashima it is too risky", said Motoko as the dome went over them. "Listen, I know the risks, but it is the only way", said Keitaro. He then turned and said; "Now listen, my idea will only work if none of you go there with me. I want all of you to wait for about, ten minutes then link to the age." Naru hugged Keitaro and said, "Please, I won't forgive you if you get trapped in that book forever." "I won't", said Keitaro, "If I can get into Tokyo U after three failures, then surely I can get Gehn to use the linking book." "Be careful Oni-san", said Kanako. "Good luck Keitaro", said Su. Keitaro turned, opened the linking book and linked out. "May Kami-sama be with him", said Naru.
Age 233
Keitaro re-materialized in the cage. I have to work fast, he told himself, and he pushed the switch on the cage. A second or two later, Gehn came up the path and re-entered the building. "Where are the others", asked Gehn. "They said, they would rather die, than help you. I on the other hand believe you have changed, and I will demonstrate that I have good intentions of reuniting you with Atrus", said Keitaro. "It is understandable, there where a lot of you, and everyone has their own mind to make. However, I am relieved that you, at least, have returned", said Gehn. He made his way to his desk. Placed the cane on the side of the desk and took of his goggles and placed them on the desk and added, as he went over to pick up the book, "I thought perhaps that you all agreed to decide against it. You, however, seemed to believe me, and I am grateful." He opened the book and held the image up to the cage. "Here, I shall follow you directly." "See you in D'ni", said Keitaro as he pressed his hand to the image.
Darkness was all around Keitaro. So this is what it's like in a trap book. Then suddenly the book opened and he saw a square of light, showing Gehn's face. He had his goggles on his head and he stared at the book. He must only still see the gateway image of D'ni, said Keitaro. Then he took up the cane, which Keitaro can see it looked like some sort of weapon. Catherine was right, Keitaro said to himself, He was planning on killing Atrus. Then he saw Gehn place his gloved hand over the image. "Yes, come on, press it", said Keitaro.
A split second later, Keitaro found himself near the desk, outside of the cage. "I did it", he said. "Now to wait for the girls", said Keitaro. Just as he said that, the Hinata-sou girls appeared in the cage. They looked and said, "Keitaro, your okay." Keitaro grinned. "Where's Gehn", asked Su. Keitaro held up the trap book and said, "He is right here." "Great job Oni-san", said Kanako. "Umm, incidentally Keitaro", said Naru, "COULD YOU USE THIS OPPURTUNITY TO GET US OUT OF THIS CRAMPED UP CAGE!" "Of course", said Keitaro. He went to the device in between the desk and the door. "Maybe this device does it", he said pressing the oval button on it. Out came a pleasing music. "Oops", said Keitaro. "Urashima now isn't the time to listen to music", said Motoko. Keitaro pushed it up and said, "Sorry, I didn't know it was some sort of music player." "Try that switch over there", said Shinobu, pointing to the window on the other side of the door. On there was a small lever. Keitaro headed over there and pulled on it, but then it sprang up back into position. There a whirring sound and the cage bars went down, into the floor, freeing the girls, who all ran and hugged him. "Oh Keitaro, we were worried that Gehn would suspect something", said Naru. "What did you tell him", asked Kitsune. Keitaro explained what happened in the past few minutes. "Well, that did the trick", said Kanako. Su took the book and opened it and gave it a raspberry and said, "Fooled you!" Keitaro snatched it back, but everyone couldn't help uttering a laugh in triumph. "Now let's find the combination to free Catherine", said Naru.
They first looked at the desk. They noticed the pipe and the several inks around it. Then Keitaro pointed to the beetle inkwell. "That's what he uses these beetles for, for ink purposes", said Keitaro. Then they heard Su yell, "Hey, check out what is down here." They turned and saw she was calling from the hole, with the ladder in it.
They headed down the ladder and where beheld a small bedroom. Near the ladder was a tapestry with the Riven star mark. Near it was a basin, with an odd faucet. Then they noticed two pictures on the wall adjacent to it. One was a picture of woman, the other of a man. Nearby, was a some sort of oboe device. On the right from the pictures was a bedside table with a book and a strange orb. But Kitsune and the others noticed a hologram cage, adjacent to the bed that was to the right of the bedside table. When they turned it, it showed a woman, speaking like she was talking sweet talk. "Who is that", asked Kitsune. "It's his wife", said Keitaro. They turned and saw Keitaro sitting on the bed with the book from the bedside, "This journal says so." "So that must be his wife on the picture on the wall. "Really, what else does it tell us." "Well, Atrus became the way he was because Atrus was left with his Grandmother, or Gehn's mother", said Keitaro, "After his mother and his wife died, he felt he lost everything, including his son, because of the way he become." "That still gives him no excuse to what he has done", said Motoko. "Agreed", said Keitaro. "Anything about Catherine in it", asked Naru. "It also says he captured Catherine when she was trying to convince some villagers to take their side." "How come can't he get anything out of her", asked Naru. "Actually, she did respond to Gehn's questions, but in her native tongue, Riveneese." Everyone laughed at this. "What about a linking book with her", asked Kanako. "She didn't carry one, much to his dismay. He knows because when she linked here, she also captured in that cage, but the guard was knocked out and Catherine was taken by the rebels", said Keitaro. "She said something similar about that in her journal", said Kanako "Also, Motoko is right about the Wharks, they are used to keep the people in line", continued Keitaro. "Anything more", asked Kanako. "Yeah, it mentions us in this, he was hoping to get back to D'ni, using the book we brought", said Keitaro. "Well we stopped his plans", said Su. "What was he trying to accomplish anyway", asked Naru. "To restore his world and prevent the extinction of his race", said Keitaro, "but he was still trying to do so, in this world." "That is monstrous, Atrus knew this, that's why they trapped him here", said Motoko. "Yes and the reason he wanted to get back to D'ni was to continue to revive the D'ni", said Keitaro. "Well, we put a damper in that", said Kitsune. "That's all it tells us", said Keitaro. "Humph this guy is insane", said Motoko. "But didn't Atrus-san use D'ni technology in his ages", asked Shinobu. "Yes, but he used it to benefit the people in the ages, not for selfish reasons", said Naru. "Come on, let's find that combo", said Kanako.
They looked in the drawer of the bedside table, but found only bed sheets. Then Shinobu noticed the silver orb. "Kenai (pretty)", said Shinobu. She touched it and suddenly in response gave a few sounds that sounded familiar, 'ding', 'click', 'click', 'krrn', 'ding'. After the last sound, the thing opened up with a ticking noise. "Must be a watch", Kitsune. "Those noises like the noises those buttons make", said Su. "That's it, we have the combo", said Keitaro. Naru then smiled and said, "Your right", and when the group hugged Su, Keitaro said, "You really are a genius." "What is a genius, is that a food." Everyone fainted.
Keitaro wrote down the sound sequence, the group headed to the linking book to the Prison Island, and they linked there
Riven- Prison Island
After they arrived and opened the dome to get out, the group all went as fast as they could in excitement to the elevator in the tree stump. Naru approached the device and said, "Okay, Keitaro, give me the order." Keitaro pointed out which buttons to push, with Su explaining which buttons emit which sound. After putting in the last sound nothing happened. "Maybe we should push that handle Naru-sempai", said Shinobu. Naru nodded and pushed the small lever across and it snapped back. Suddenly there was a 'whoosh', and the bars swung 180 degrees to behind them, and the elevator rose on its own. "We did it", said Keitaro.
When they reached the top, Catherine walked out of the balcony. "Hurry Catherine", yelled everyone. "Your free now", said Keitaro. Catherine ran to the elevator and pulled the pull string. As the elevator went down she said, "We have to move quickly, Gehn's people may already know what is happening." "What do w do", asked Shinobu. "Once we are back with the Moiety we'll have time to regroup." Then noticing the Trap Book in Keitaro's hands she asked, "Can I see the book." "Sure, but don't touch the image", said Keitaro, as he handed it over. Catherine looked it over and said, "You did it! We're all free! You captured Gehn!" "You can give that thanks to Keitaro", said Naru. "Yeah, Urashima did a great job", said Motoko. "That's my Oni-san", said Kanako. "Keitaro did a good job tricking Gehn into using it", said Su. "Oh come on", said Keitaro, blushing. Then, as the bars rotated back to their original position after returning to ground level Catherine closed the book and said, "But there are still his followers. I don't know what they will do once they realize he's gone." "What do we do", asked Shinobu. "I'll have to get the villagers to safety as soon as possible." "But what about us", asked Motoko. "All of you, go back to the temple island and re-open the fissure." "But, won't that cause the Age to collapse", asked Kitsune. Catherine said, "I know it's risky but it's the only way to signal Atrus. I will try to make it back there as soon as possible but don't wait for me." She turned and destroyed the combo device for her prison and after pushing through them she said, "Don't forget, the portal combination is in my journal. Good luck." With that they watched her, with the Trap Book, run down the steps." "Come on, you heard what she asked, let's go", said Naru.
They headed back to the dome, but it was closed. "She must have gone through", said Kanako. Keitaro headed over to the kinescope and said, "Well, you know what we must do to open it." He waited for it's gold symbol, which was the horizontal eye. He pressed the button at it and the dome opened. "Come on, the clock is ticking let's go", said Kitsune.
They entered the dome; Keitaro entered the combo to close the dome. Then they all linked back to Gehn's Age.
Age 223
They found themselves behind the cage again. "Why did she put up the cage", asked Kitsune. "Probably as a safety precaution", said Motoko. "Not only that", said Keitaro, looking through the linking books, "She ripped out the pages of the linking books." "All but one", said Naru and she opened the book with the symbol for the Temple Island on it. "The place we need to go", said Naru. "Well, let's go", said Kanako. With that, they all linked out of the Gehn's Age, once more.
Riven- Temple Island
They all appeared within the dome of the island. Keitaro opened it up and, once they stepped out, they decided to close it up again, probably for some unknown reason. They reached the platform but it was raised, but Naru knew the button nearby would bring it down, so, she brought it down. After taking it they all rushed to the catwalk and across the raiseable bridge, through the gate room and back to where they started. "There's the telescope", said Keitaro. "Well come one, let's open that manhole."
Kanako took out Catherine's journal when they approached. She gave it to Keitaro, and he entered the combo on its corresponding buttons. Then he pulled on the manhole and it opened, revealing a black portal. "I see no stars below there", said Kanako. "Maybe not through there", said Kitsune, but I can faintly see them through here", said Kitsune, looking through the eyepiece. "Let me see", said Kanako. Though it was a bit glared, she could definitely see the stars." "Let's zoom in", said Kanako. She turned the lever downwards and pressed the button. After a few pushes she said, "It is still glared." Finally, when the telescope was almost to the glass, she looked and said, "Oh my, it's beautiful." She gestured everyone to look. Everyone, even Shinobu and Su, who could look at it because the telescope was at their height, thought it was gorgeous. "Unbelievable, that something so beautiful, can destroy this age", said Kitsune. "Yes, but it will also signal Atrus and get us home", said Naru. "But how", asked Keitaro. Then Naru snapped her fingers, "I know, Keitaro, you remember that time I told you that in high school, I once accidentally zoomed my microscope too close to the slide, and remember what happened." "It broke", said Keitaro. "Exactly, all we have to do, to break the glass is to cause the telescope to zoom in too close", said Naru. "That is just a button push away", said Kanako, but all the telescope did was shudder and squeal. "Hmm, it is just a button push away", said Kanako, but again nothing happened. "Something is wrong", said Kitsune. Su went under and near the left leg she shouted, "Here is the problem, this stupid step is in the way", she said. She flipped it up and got out from underneath it and said, "It should work now." Everyone got close to the button and Keitaro said, "Okay everyone, we push it one three. Ready, one, two . . .THREE!" Everyone pushed the button and the telescope hit the glass with its squeal and groan. Then suction started. It first pulled most of the manhole below the telescope, and then the telescope itself plunged into it, leaving the steam pipe spouting all over. "Look", shouted Shinobu. They turned to the cage area. The iron plate, near the knife split apart and the knife fell into the Fissure. Around them, they heard rocks falling and the sky was Grey.
Suddenly, a person faded into the cage. "It's Atrus", said Motoko. "Atrus, over here", yelled Su. Atrus walked out of the prison, and braced a bit from the wind and ran over to them, and removed the goggles he was wearing from his eyes. "There isn't much time. Where's Catherine", then seeing that Keitaro no longer held the book he asked, "Where's the book?" Before anyone could explain, Catherine walked into the area. "Atrus", she yelled. Atrus turned. He looked surprised and happy. He walked towards Catherine, and the two embraced. "I feel glad they are together again", said Naru. "Yes", said Motoko, "Maybe fate, created this Fissure for us to help Atrus with his problems." T
Catherine walked over, while Atrus looked at the Trap Book, that Catherine handed to him. As he placed it away Catherine said, "The villagers are safe in the rebel age." She turned to Atrus, then to them and said, "I thank you." "As do I", said Atrus. "All of accomplished more than what I hoped for", and turning to Catherine he added, "You given me back my life", he turned back to them and added, "The path home is now clear for all of us." "It was our pleasure", said Keitaro. "I am pleased with what we have done", said Motoko and she gave a standard Japanese bow. "It was great to help you Atrus-san", said Shinobu. "I am glad everything is okay", said Su. "As am I", said Kanako. The world rumbled almost causing a topple. Atrus reached into his satchel, where he placed the Trap Book, and pulled out a D'ni Linking book. He held it open to Catherine, who caressed his cheek, then she turned, nodded to everyone and then placed her hand on the image, and faded out. Atrus closed the book and then said, "This is where our paths must part." He hesitated and said, "Perhaps we will meet again someday." "Why do you say that", asked Naru. "You know where to find me", responded Atrus. He opened the D'ni linking book over the Fissure and, before he placed his hand on it he said, "Goodbye my friends." He linked out, and when he did, the D'ni linking book fell into the Fissure since the support of Atrus' hand was gone.
"What happens now", asked Shinobu. But just as she said that the ground they were standing on collapsed. "AAAAAAAAAH", said everyone as they fell in.
After they calmed down, they looked up and saw the starting of the Fissure, with the Grey sky of Riven overhead. "This is it", said Keitaro. "Yeah, we are following the path of the MYST book", said Naru, "We are going home."
The dessert where the MYST Book was found.
The group all landed in the dessert. "Ow", said Naru, feeling her behind. "Where are we", asked Kanako. "Guys look", said Keitaro pointing to the archeological digging site. "That's the site Seta and I were at when I found the MYST linking book." "We aren't the only ones that fell here", said Naru pointing nearby. There, sticking out, were the telescope and the remains of the plate that was on the Star Fissure, as well as the knife. "How are we going to get home", asked Motoko.
Just then they heard a "Part-timer." They turned and running up to them was Seta, Sarah, Haruka, and even the tipsy Mutsumi. Of course along with them was the flying hot springs turtle, Tama-chan. "Oh my", said Mutsumi, "They were here all along." Sarah approached with the artifact head and gave Keitaro a hello smack, "Hey, loser", said Sarah, "We have been looking for you guys for a month now." Keitaro's face landed in the sand, where he saw the D'ni, linking book. He quickly took it. Suddenly all the girls ran up and hugged their friends. "Aunt Huruka, I am so glad to see you", yelled Keitaro as he ran up and to hug his aunt, when he received a whack from her and Haruka said, "Just call me Haruka." Su however was relieving the long chase of chasing Tama. "I am so happy to see you Tama! I haven't anything good to eat in a while!" "MYUUUU", said Tama she started fluttering away. "Where were you guys", asked Mutsumi, "We have been searching all over for you." "Yeah, we then saw that book you found part- timer, and we came around here looking for you", said Seta, and with that he took out the MYST linking book. "Mitsumi passed out and fell in the dig, and we went to get her out, but then we heard a crashing noise and came up and saw you guys", said Haruka. "The crash helped awaken me", said Mutsumi. Out of the dig was followed by Haitani, Shirai, and Kentaro. "Naru", yelled Kentaro and rushed up to them. Kentaro grabbed her hands and said, "Naru, I missed you so much, let's celebrate your findings by . . ." He was then whacked off by Haitani and Shirai. "Keitaro, you're alive", said Shirai. "Umm, who are you guys again", asked Keitaro. "Argh, I am Haitani", said Haitani. "And I am Shirai", yelled Shirai.
Nearby, Mutsumi looked at the dagger that fell from the Fissure. "Ara, ara, that is the largest knife I have ever seen", she said. Everyone else looked at it and the remains of Riven. "Where did these come from", asked Seta. "Well, it is a long story but I am not sure you would believe it", said Keitaro. "Try us", said Shirai.
A few minutes later, they where headed for the airport to catch the next flight to Japan. Of course, the other people did not believe them, well, maybe a little. Along with the MYST book, they carried with them the D'ni book. When they didn't believe their story, they showed the Gateway Images of the books. "AHHHH", said Everyone. "Oh my, a moving picture in a book." "Now I think I believe", said Seta. The others nodded.
While they were on the plane, headed for Japan, Naru walked up to Keitaro and said, "Keitaro, the others have asked me to tell you that they are not angry at you for finding that MYST book. Because if it weren't for you finding it, we wouldn't have the chance to heal the wounds of a man's life. They are all grateful for that." Keitaro motioned his hand to silence her and said, "Yes, I know, and I have no regrets." "Neither do us", came the voices of the other girls. "I am glad we helped", said Shinobu. "It was cool to learn that technology", said Su. "The world were interesting", said Kitsune. "I am proud you found that book", said Motoko. "Same here Oni- sama", said Kanako. "I am glad you feel that way, but there is this feeling I can't shake", said Keitaro. "What's that", asked Naru. "The feeling that we have not heard the last of Atrus", said Keitaro. "That's right, he said 'perhaps we will meet again someday' so I guess the feeling is sentimental", said Motoko. "Until that day", said Naru, "Let's try to enjoy our time back here, otherwise we came back here for nothing." Everyone nodded and they headed back to their seats.
"Now I understand, endings and beginnings are within the Fissure. That Riven cleft of stars that access both wall and a bridge. And though I am unable to understand how, the very flow of stars that brought my MYST book into worthy hands, I am sure it'll soon see a safe passage home for my friends. The Age of Riven is closed forever, but the People of Riven are free, and now I am at rest . . .understanding that in books, and Ages and life, the ending can never truly be written"
-Atrus' journal
The End . . .of Riven
To be continued in Exile
Okay everyone, this concludes the Riven chapter, and I hope you all like it. I really would like some reviews. Anyway, keep an eye out for the next chapter, sometime in the next month. Until then, adios.
At the top of the stairs, was something that shocked them. The whole area was strangely colored water. A long walkway led across it, through some shards of rock. "Very decorative", said Kitsune as they walked across. Shinobu noticed a gaping hole below the walkway, in the water, it showed some orange room. "I wonder what is down there", she asked. "Probably nothing", said Motoko, who also noticed. "Only Gehn can do something this grotesque", said Kanako.
At the end of the walkway, was a small staircase that lead to another pathway, which winded in between, rocks holding water. In the water where series of plateaus. "I wonder what those are for", said Shinobu. "I don't think they hold much significance", said Kanako.
At the end of the pathway, ending in a large crack on some sort of rock or building, was a small elevator. Kitsune pushed a small button nearby and the elevator rose. When it stopped, they looked at the crack in front of them. It led to a small balcony overlooking the plateaus. "Let's take a look", said Naru.
On the front bar of the balcony was a small panel, with small button, each with an illustration corresponding to each plateau. The plateaus where lined up in a square. On the top right was a plateau with two sections; below it was a huge plateau with a hole in it. To the top left was a plateau that was almost round, and below it was an L-shaped plateau. Nearby, to the top left of the two-sectioned plateau, was a very small plateau. "You know, the way these things are lined up, they almost look like a map", said Kitsune. Motoko looked at the small buttons on the panel, "There is something familiar about theses shapes", said Motoko. Then Su said, "Let's give these buttons a try." She pushed the button for the two- sectioned plateau. In response the watery substance on it rose and took a strange shape. "What does that mean", asked Kitsune. "Hey, look over there", said Keitaro, who was pointing behind them. Behind them, on the other side of the elevator, was another crack and on the other side, was a huge building in the center of a lake, fortunately, a bridge led right to it. "Let's see what it is", said Naru. They left the balcony, and when Shinobu asked about the button, Naru said to leave it pressed.
As they approached the building, they noticed the walkway leading to the bridge, split off in two separate directions, but they decided to look into that later. Inside the building was but a small device, that showed several squares, and about five of those squares where gray, attached to it was a handle. In front of the small handle device was a flat square showing a five by five grid. "I knew it", said Motoko. "What", asked Kitsune. "See how the five gray squares take the shape of the button you pressed and the grid it is on shows the exact same position as on the button console and on the plateau." "Are you saying that the plateaus are a map of someplace", asked Kitsune. "Not someplace, this place, the plateaus represent the islands of Riven itself", said Motoko. Everyone gasped. "How did you know", asked Keitaro. "I remembered these shapes and patterns of squares from the small map of the inside of the Golden Dome. They meant the locations of where the pipes lead", said Motoko. "And probably to the other domes", said Keitaro. Then Naru noticed one of the squares was yellow, not gray. "Wonder what this means", she said touching it. When she did, the flat piece of gray nearby shot up and formed something, but the red lines did not vanish. It showed a huge patch of land. Naru tested the lever nearby and it caused the panel and the topographical map to rotate. "There is something familiar about that land", said Kitsune. "Let me try this", said Naru, and she pushed a square that was not yellow, the map faded and a new one rose out, showing the other side of the familiar landscape. "Know I know what it looks like", said Kitsune, "It looks like the Golden Dome. Nothing is that huge." "So this means that square thing and that plateau is showing us the temple island", said Kanako. "Guys, I just have an idea, that gray piece shows a topographical area on one of the squares I touch right", said Naru. Everyone nodded. "Well, the way this is, it is just a miniature version of the grid on top of the Great Dome. The smaller five by five grids on it can be divided into separate five by five grids. I think we can use this to find the right square on the grid each Fire Marble Domes are on and then . . ." "Use it to find where on that separate grid where it is in that spot", finished Keitaro, "Great idea Narusegewa." "Then you can help by writing them down. "Okay", he began by writing down the symbol for the island and marked it TI for temple island, in Atrus' journal of course (they found some blank pages). And he noted there where five islands ("Where is the fifth island anyway", he said) so he wrote down five separate grids. After a few presses later, Naru managed to find the temple islands fire marble dome when she saw the shape of it. Keitaro marked down the square and then wrote down on one of the graphs he sketched the location of the Fire Marble Dome on the grid. "Okay, each plateau represents a different island", said Naru as she pushed the same square again to make the thing return to normal, "So we must repeat the process over and over again until we have them all." Looking at Keitaro she said, "And make sure you sketch the positions of the islands as well." "Why", asked Keitaro. "It's simple", said Naru, "The grid on the Great Dome will more than likely reflect the locations of the islands and their square symbols accurately from the ones shown here, other wise it wouldn't be a 25 by 25 grid on their." "You have a point, but shouldn't I write this as a 25 by 25", said Keitaro. "No you shouldn't have to", said Kitsune, "After all the dome's represented spot is on one square and as Naru put it, that section could be put as a separate 5 by 5 area." "Good point", said Keitaro. With that they headed over to the balcony and Shinobu pressed the button of the plateau below the one that represented the Temple Island. The temple island plateau's top shrank and became itself again, while the new one started to grow into a clear, three dimensional map. "Well, let's find the Fire Marble Dome for that location", said Naru. "And what island it is", added Motoko.
A few minutes later they found all the areas for the Marble Domes, except one, the small plateau. Shortly after Kitsune pressed its button, they checked it out, and all it was one area. "Well this should be easy", said Naru. When she pressed the square, it showed something of a huge tree stump, with a path leading to a Marble Dome. "Maybe that is the island Catherine is held prisoner", suggested Keitaro. "You may be right", said Naru. "How is he possibly right", asked Kanako. "Well", said Naru, "according to the journal, along with linking books in the Marble Domes that led to his age, he made linking books that linked to each dome, providing him with an easy transport. Now, if he wanted Catherine isolated he must want a way in which no one could get to her, and that way would be . . ." "With a Fire Marble Dome", finished Shinobu. "Exactly", said Naru. "Come on", said Motoko, "Write down the area and let's search the island more." Shortly after writing that down, they briefly returned to the balcony to deactivate the plateau, by pressing the button again.
When they went back they noticed the bridge to the grid room was gone. "It probably only comes out when a button for a plateau is pressed", said Keitaro. "Well, what was your first clue", said Naru sarcastically. "Hey look there", said Kitsune, pointing to the left. At the end of the branch of the pathway leading to the left was another Fire Marble Dome. "Well, now we see it physically", said Motoko. "Think that the kinescope", said Kitsune, "Is all the way down the other passage." "Well, let's go", said Kanako. They did follow along the other way, corresponding to the grid room. As they walked Shinobu noticed all the Whark totems sticking out of the lake. Shinobu pointed them out to them and Motoko said, "Don't worry, probably of little significance." "Stop saying that Motoko", said Naru, "You know that isn't true." "I am just trying to prevent Shinobu from being scared, that's all." At the end of it, they found the kinescope, pointing from its lone balcony, over to the dome. "Um guys, we have one small problem", said Keitaro. "What now Urashima", said Motoko. "What if I tell you the kinescope is out of alignment", Keitaro said nervously. "NANI", said everyone. Kitsune looked through it and Keitaro was correct. The kinescope could only show the left side of the dome. Angry Motoko and Naru began bashing Keitaro. "What did you do to it you baka", said Naru. "I didn't do a thing, I swear", yelled Keitaro. After they stopped beating him Kitsune said, "Well, now how are we going to know its symbol." "Leave that to me", said Su. He grabbed Atrus' journal from Keitaro and ran off. They saw her run up to the dome and watched it spin. She then made a mark in the book and ran back. "I think this is the symbol", said Su. Keitaro looked at the mark she made. It was a PI over the symbol, which was a circle with a line going horizontally through the middle. "What's the PI stand for", asked Keitaro. "Plateau Island", responded Su. Everyone fainted and after they recovered Keitaro said, "Oh, well, it's better than no name." Then he asked, "What did you do." Su responded, "Oh, all I did was look at the drawings on it, and the one that was painted gold caught my eye. And, being a very fast memorizer, I quickly copied it down." "Well, for once you may have done something that wasn't reckless", said Naru, though her and everyone had a sweatdrop.
"Well, now that we got the symbol, there is no need to be up here anymore", said Motoko. "Can I at least check the combination", said Keitaro. Everyone turned with a, "Huh?" "Well, all the while, I have managed to decipher the numbers. They seem to be like Roman Numerals with a few minor diff.. ." His lip was grabbed shut by Naru. "Enough of the number lesson, can you understand the combination to the domes or not", she said with a glare in her eyes. Keitaro nodded and, after letting go of his lips, Naru said, "Well then, let's give it a shot!" "Yes but how can we open that dome without seeing the symbol on it", asked Kitsune. "I say we keep pressing the button on it until the dome opens", said Su. "Well, that sounds crazy", said Keitaro, "So crazy that it just might work!" He finished that last sentence facing towards us. "Alright, let's not do any movie parodies, let's get started", said Naru.
After a few presses on the kinescope by Su, the dome slowed, stopped and revealed the combo side. "Okay, let's go over there and give the combo a go", said Kanako.
After they went to the dome, Naru dragged Keitaro up front. "Okay what's the combo", asked Naru. "Okay", said Keitaro opening the journal. "If my deciphering is right, the combo for the domes should be 10-12-13-17 and 23", he closed it. "How do we enter it on here", asked Shinobu. "It's simple", said Naru, "If these big marks on here represent the five marks, the others should be the rest of the numbers." "Duh", said Kanako. "And the sliders", asked Kitsune, "I don't think you can slide each number into reverse order." "No, but we string it up the way Keitaro told me to do", said Naru. "How", asked Kitsune. "Well, this fifth slide here goes to the 23 mark", said Naru doing it. "And this fourth one from the left, goes to 17", she said doing it again. After she set the last slide she then said, "Now I believe all we have to do is push this button." "And if it doesn't work", asked Keitaro. "Then you shall be the first outsider to see Riven from a real birds eye view", she said. She pushed the button. There was a whirr of machinery starting up, and suddenly the panel moved back and the dome rolled over top of them. "AAAH", said Shinobu as she clung onto Keitaro's back. They heard sounds of the dome starting to move, and the book, that was on a pedestal, was no longer behind glass and rose up to an appropriate height for them to use. "Let's see this book", said Kitsune. The others followed. Before opening it, Kitsune noted the seal on the cover. "What does this mean", she asked. "Oh, that is what he called this age in his journal", said Naru. Turning to Keitaro she said, "Keitaro, maybe you should decipher what this means." "Okay", said Keitaro. He looked at the seal for a minute he said, "It's the number for 223." "So he calls this his 223rd Age", exclaimed Naru. "223rd", gasped everyone. "That guy is asking for trouble", said Motoko, "Wasting all those trees to try to find a haven to hide in!" Unsheathing her sword she said, "Well I will slit his throat!" She opened the book and after going past an endpaper with the "Fifth Age" symbol on it, to the gateway image, it was dark. "Shouldn't there be an image there", asked Shinobu. "If you recall, I said they needed power", said Naru. Sheathing her sword Motoko said, "We might as well leave this accursed dome. We need to find a way to get out." "I think that button near the pedestal should do it", said Keitaro. He inched towards a small button near the right of the pedestal, on the floor. When he pressed it they heard the dome slow down and the books pedestal lowered. They heard some clunking, then, the combo panel went over the book and the dome flipped over. "Well, now that we are out, let's close this thing and head back for the tram", said Kitsune. "Why head back to the tram", asked Shinobu. "Because there seems to be no other place else for us to visit", said Naru.
Shortly after, closing up the Marble Dome, they headed to back to where they arrived. As they boarded the tram (some where reluctant to go back on board) Shinobu noticed something. On the other side of the tram, was a steel door. "Guys over there. There is another door", she said. Some got of the tram to see, others just peeked out. One them was Naru. "Your right", said Kitsune. "But how do we get over there", asked Kanako. Naru noticed the summon switch on the other side and said, "I know what to do, everyone get aboard." "Why we are leaving", asked Keitaro as Naru went to the drivers seat. "No, you'll see", said Naru. Once everyone was on board, she turned the lever so that the tram was facing the direction going away from Plateau Island. After turning it they heard the sound of the tram door opening again. Everyone looked, and to their surprise, the tram door was open. "Oh, smart thinking Narusegewa", said Keitaro. "Oh, it was nothing", said Naru. Kanako got a little steamed at the sweet talk and said, "If you don't mind, we should check out that door that Shinobu saw."
Shortly after getting of the tram, they opened the door. On the other side was a long corridor that was lit by a orange glow. "I knew I saw a orange room below that walkway", said Shinobu. At the end of the hallway, they reached a huge room with watery floor. There were chains nearby at the platform, near a lever. "Well, it seems we can't get any further", said Keitaro. "Why not try that lever", said Kitsune, "Everything is worth a try." Keitaro nodded and Kitsune pulled the lever. The water started rippling and the chains started moving. A few minutes later, a golden elevator rose out of the water. The front of opened, like a drawbridge, leading to a wooden interior. "Well, that's going down in class", said an impressed Kitsune, "I am sure that would fetch a pretty penny back home." "Don't think about that know fox face", said Kanako. "Kanako's right", said Naru, "We should head on down where this elevator takes us."
Once they all got in the golden (but slightly tight) elevator, Keitaro pushed the button on the left of the door. The door was drawn up and the elevator went down into the water. However, once they went into water, it seemed to be air again. "I think this water might be like the water in on the jungle island", said Kitsune. "Yeah", said Su, "I would like to study it." Soon the elevator reached a small metal corridor. Once the door to the corridor opened, the elevator door lowered. The metal corridor led to a rocky passageway. "Well, we got down here, minus well see where this leads", said Naru. However when they came upon a fork, they noticed a man in white. But when they spotted him, he spotted them, and ran off to the left. Motoko drew her sword, "After him, he might hold information for us!" Kanako ran off too and said, "Yeah, he might be in cahoots with the enemy!" Keitaro and the others then followed. However, when they caught up to him, the guy managed to get aboard a tram, and used it to take off. Motoko and Kanako could only watch as he took off in it. "Damn it, he got away", said Motoko as she sheathed her sword. "It was probably a scribe or something", said Keitaro. "I think it won't hurt anything much, Gehn practically already knows we are here, he is probably waiting for us to retrieve our 'linking book'", said Naru. "Yes I see you're point", said Motoko, calming down. "Let's go see that area where he was coming from", said Keitaro.
The exited the tram station and headed left, through the passageway the scribe came through. On the other side was a huge enormous room and on the far end was a gigantic window, which looked under water. The walkway led to a long staircase that led to a throne at the top. "Let's take a good look at the throne", said Naru.
At the top, they got a good look at the throne. It had two round objects two round objects on either side. Near the end of each arm was a lever. Keitaro tried pulling one of them but it didn't work. "Let me have a seat", said Su. Su sat down in it. She then noticed a small button on the right lever (that's her right from where she was sitting). She pressed it and the throne turned and went up a little ways. "Wow", said Shinobu, "The royalty could use this back in my home country." (An: This also takes place before they went to Mol-mol, so they don't know Su is a princess yet) "HOW WOULD YOU KNOW", yelled Keitaro. Naru smacked him shut. "Well, now that you did that, try the levers", said Naru. "Okay", said Su and she pulled the lever to her left. The round object on the left turned and showed itself in her lap. Keitaro and the others went near the throne and looked over to see it. "It looks like some sort of imager", said Kitsune. There were two buttons on the sides of the screen, one on the right, the other on the left. Also there was a strange cog-like thing surrounding the screen. "Let's try the button on the right", said Naru. Su did so. The imager then filled with a rocky wall and the sight of water on the bottom. "This is pointless", said Kanako. "No wait Oji-san", said Keitaro, "I recognize this place, but I can't picture it." Turning to Su he asked, "Su, try the cog thing around it." "Roger", she said as she turned it a bit. "Stop", said Motoko, recognizing a spot. "I know that area, that's the Whark Gallows", she said. Everyone gasped. "So we must be looking out of that telescope device we saw in the lake", said Kitsune. "I knew we where being spied on." "Su", said Naru, "Turn it to the point before the Whark Gallows." "Okay", said Su. She did so, and the screen showed a area that was below a bridge, and on the rocks was a strange looking shadow. "I think we found it", said Naru. "Found what Naru-sempai", asked Shinobu. "Look at the shape of the shadow, and the reflection in the water", Naru said, pointing to the image, "What does it look like to you." Everyone remained silent, but Su cried from her sitting place on the throne, "A fish, a fish, it looks like a yummy fish!" "That's right", said Naru and then pointing to the water she said, "Now look closely there and tell me what you see there." The team looked at the fish's head and they saw something in the water that made them gasp. "It's the last wooden eye", said Motoko. "Exactly, so we now know the first symbol is a fish", said Naru. "I'll jot this down", said Keitaro, taking out Atrus' journal.
"I wonder what this other button does", said Su. "Well press it", said Motoko. The scene showed the scene of a house, with a small balcony out back. Then they saw someone, a woman, with long black hair, and was wearing a red overshirt over a white dress. She walked through the balcony entrance, carrying a bowl of some kind, went off camera, then went back on camera and went into the balcony entrance and headed out. "Who is she, and why is this camera monitoring her", asked Su. "I think we all know who she is", said Motoko, "The person Atrus sent us to rescue." "So you are saying that woman we saw w-w-was. . .", stuttered Shinobu, who couldn't say the last word. "Yes, it's Catherine", said Motoko sadly. "It makes sense for Gehn to keep an eye on his prisoner", said Kitsune. "Yeah", said Naru, then looking over to Keitaro she said, "But you better not use this to get any ideas." Keitaro nervously said, "Don't worry, I won't!" Su pressed the button for the camera and the imager snapped off. She then pulled up the lever, and the imager returned to its original place. "Let's see what the other one has to offer", said Su as she pulled the lever to her right. The imager came down and it instantly turned itself on. The imager was similar, except, on the bottom, below the image device, was a hexagon shaped piece of wire that housed a button. As for the buttons, there were all around the window, each with a different symbol on it. "Hey, aren't these the symbols that are on the domes", asked Kitsune. "Hmmm", said Naru and she looked at the imager. The image it showed was a small pole, underwater, that showed a light. "Su, press that button in that red wire piece", said Naru. "Okay", said Su as she did it. The symbol was a eye that had it's eyelids at the sides, rather than the top and bottom. The light turned on when she pressed it, giving off a blue light. "Keitaro make a note of that, that blue represents that symbol", said Naru. "Yes but", then lightning hit Keitaro, "Oh, I got you, these things will tell us what colors each symbol represents." "And then we can match them up to the symbols of each fire marble dome and we put the right colored marble in the right spot on the grid on top of the Golden Dome." "And we restore power", finished Naru. Then she said to Keitaro, "Why aren't you getting this down, WRITE!" "I am on it", said Keitaro, using Atrus' journal again.
After writing it down, Su turned of the light, and moved to the next symbol, which happened to be the symbol for the Temple Island. She pressed it and it showed a greenish glow. "Okay, the color for the one on the Temple Island is green", said Kitsune. Keitaro wrote it down and went on to the next symbol. The next symbol showed a normal eye, its color was yellow. "Okay", said Keitaro after he wrote it down, "next." The next one showed the symbol for the Plateau Island's dome, its color was orange.
Now, on the next one, which was a cat-eye, had nothing shown in the imager, but some pipes. "What's up with that", asked Kitsune. Motoko took a close look at it, "I think I see window that looks like the one we are now." "Maybe it activates that light up there", said Shinobu, point up near the top of the window. There, hanging overhead, was a small lamp. "Well, let's give it a shot", said Kitsune. Su pressed the button and, as they hoped, it turned the lamp on, which gave a red glow. "Okay, now let's. . .", Naru stopped when she heard a familiar whale cry, and saw something swim up to the light. It was huge creature, it had blowhole, a fin that was like a whale's, but what gave away what it was, was the two tusks at its sides. "Wh-w-w-w-WHARK!!!!" screamed Shinobu. Motoko drew her blade and Kanako got into a stance, as for Su, she drew a fork and spoon ("I hope Wharks taste good", she said.). "I don't think it will hurt us", said Keitaro, "this huge window separates us from it." They watched it, as the Whark looked hurt almost, then it swam away, and Su turned the light off. "I think that light, must be used to call it for food or something", said a now relaxed Naru. "Food", said Su, "That's what I want." She pushed the button again and the Whark swam up again. It gave a very displeased look and swam away. "Oh you don't get away that easy", said Su. "Su stop that, you are scaring Shinobu", yelled Motoko. Su didn't pay attention. The Whark was seen at a distance and swam by. "Okay, one more time", said Su and she resetted and pushed the button. The Whark gave a cry and swam up. Not seeing any food the Whark gave a charge and slammed so hard on to the window almost everyone felt it, it even gave Su a start. The Whark swam away. "Su", said everyone looking at here. "Okay, I'll stop", said a nervous Su.
The Whark, now just a bad memory, they resumed looking at the other colors of the symbols. The one for the Crater Island (the island they were on before) was a dead stick, for the it's light was damaged. "Well, guess we have no choice but to solder on", said Naru. The next one, was, well, back where they started. "Well, that's it", said Naru. "Let's see if we can use the tram the scribe ran off on and get there", said Kitsune.
A few minutes later, the whole team returned to the tram station. Shinobu, noticed the button that summoned the tram and pressed it. A few seconds later the now empty tram came in, stopped and opened it's door. "Let's go", said Naru. Everyone hopped in and Naru did the same routine as before, use the levers to turn it around and make it go. The tram ride, again, almost made everyone sick. In fact, they were relieved when it stopped. The stopping point was inside another cavern.
After they exited and after they recovered from the short yet, twisting, almost vomiting ride, Keitaro saw a small elevator near the front of the platform. "Let's see where it goes", said Keitaro. "I am with you Urashima", said Motoko, who was one of the many that didn't want to get back on that tramcar.
The only device in the elevator was a small lever on the right of the wall. "Well, push it Urashima", said Motoko. He nodded and pushed it halfway. When he did the elevator rose and eventually stopped at where they could see the button for tram. In front of them was a wooden wall, and near it was a lever. "Let's see what's up further", said Kitsune. "We will", said Keitaro heading towards the lever, "But before we do, I like to see what's on this floor." "Okay, we might as well", said Naru. Keitaro pushed the small lever forward. Then, in response, the wooden area opened down, but the weirdest part was, that the parts that once connected to each other, looked like teeth, very familiar teeth. The lower jaw formed a stairway down below. "Hmm, this looks familiar", said Kitsune, looking below the stairs, "Keitaro's right, we should take a look."
They walked out of the entry way onto towards some very familiar lamps that bordered the pathway. Shinobu started chattering. "What is . . it", asked Keitaro as he turned around and saw that the entryway, was in fact the huge Whark Idol on the Jungle Island. He got everyone's attention and they looked too. "Very clever, hiding a secret staircase to a elevator in a idol", said Kitsune, giving that sly look. Kanako looked towards the lamp to the right of the idol. A piece of its top was pushed up. "And there is the switch that activates the door from here, look." She pushed the switch down and the idol's mouth closed. "You know what this means", said Naru, getting excited. "That we know why the idol was here", asked Keitaro, who received a whack to the head. "No, this elevator will allow us to see the fire marble dome of the Jungle Island." "Oh yeah", said Keitaro and with huge vigor he said, "Ah HA! And we can see its symbol!" "Well come on", said Kitsune, who walked passed that lamp and pulled on the section Kanako pushed down, and as the idol's mouth dropped open she added, "Let's go."
A few minutes later, after closing the mouth, Keitaro pulled the lever up as far as it will go. The elevator moved left a bit, then shot up and it stopped before a catwalk, over looking the jungle. "Well, time to get a move on", said Shinobu.
They walked on the catwalk until they came to a small fork, on way leading forward, the other way right. "Let's try the right way", said Kitsune. Everyone nodded. At the end was a kinescope. "There's the kinescope", said Shinobu. "And there", said Motoko pointing across from it, "Is the dome." A little ways across from the kinescope's balcony was the Fire Marble Dome. "Well, Oni-san", said Kanako, "You know what to do." Keitaro took out the journal and opened it to the page they wrote the symbols one. "Gotcha", he said. And when he looked through the kinescope, he said, "Good thing this isn't out of alignment. He placed the JI for Jungle Island under the symbol that looked like a cats-eye. "Looks like the color for this one is the red marble", said Keitaro. He pressed the top of the kinescope to test the symbol and it worked. He received a blow and Naru hissed, "Why did you do that, you know we can't use them yet!" "Well I just wanted to test it", said Keitaro and he laughed nervously. Naru put her fist close to Keitaro's and said, "You put it back, or I will let you test out this world's stratosphere!" "Okay, okay", Keitaro said quickly as he pressed the button on the kinescope and sure enough the dome returned to normal. "You know what", said Kitsune looking at the dome "There seems to be a catwalk that goes right pass the dome, why don't we check it out. "Good idea", said a smashed up Keitaro.
After Keitaro quickly healed up, the Hinata-sou team headed on the catwalk back towards the fork and took the one that was opposite the road to the elevator. Eventually it led to the dome. "Well, that was a waste", said Kanako. "No it isn't", said Keitaro pointing to the catwalk that led around it and noticed that it led to some stairs going up a nearby cliff, "There seems to be more like Kitsune said." "He's right, lets keep moving", said Motoko.
When they reached the top of the metal stairs they noticed a small watchtower nearby and a man inside spotted them and turned the crank, making the vanes above it emit a very familiar noise. "Not this again", said Naru. "I guess they thought we left, now they are announcing we are back", said Motoko. A few minutes later, the man hid himself down in the tower, and the sound stopped. Shinobu uncovered her ears, "Well, that's a relief!" "Come on, let's go", said Naru. "Hey, who said you where in charge", said Kanako.
At the end of the walkway, amongst a bunch of long rocks standing out, was a black tower. There was a easy door, in front of it with a single handle. "Another monument to his torment", said Motoko. "Let's check it out", said Kitsune. Kitsune grasped the handle and opened the door, which opened like a hatchway or something. Inside was a throne, made of what they assumed was Whark bones. "I wonder what this is for", asked Shinobu, shaking a little. Kitsune closed the door behind them and said, "I guess we must try those levers." "I will do it", yelled Su as she jumped onto the throne. She tried the lever on the right but it didn't work. "Let me try", said Keitaro, getting on one side. "No, I will try it", said Naru getting on the other. "Maybe this does something", said Su pulling the other lever, and when she did the throne moved up, with Su, Keitaro and Naru. "Wheee", said Su. "Help me Kami-sama", said Keitaro and Naru. The top of the tower opened and the throne stopped at the top, giving them a good view of the village and the lake. "Hey the Whark Gallows are right below us", said Naru, after recovering. "Maybe this lever shall work now", said Su. "It's worth the shot", said Keitaro nervously. Su pushed it and below them, they noticed four or five hidden panels in the gallows close over the hole, forming the star sign. "Hey", said Keitaro, "Maybe we can now . . ." "Use the hangman to try to get up to the top of the gallows", finished Naru. "Um, Su, may we get down now", asked Keitaro. "Sure", said Su. She pushed the left lever forward and the throne returned to its position in the tower, where everyone else is waiting. "Are all of you all right", asked Motoko. "Yes", said Naru, "But listen the hole in the Whark Gallows is . . ." "Closed, we know. We overheard", said Kanako. "Well then, let's head over to where we left the sub and a head over there", said a energetic Kitsune.
Shortly after they headed to the elevator and used it to get to the floor where the Whark Idol entrance was, they opened it, and, through a suggestion of Motoko, they closed the mouth.
After heading on up the stairs, to the fork, they saw a small Rivenese child. It looked at them and then turned and ran. "No don't run away", said Naru, "We won't hurt you." But the child continued to run, even after it fell a bit, it ran into the entrance to the fork. "Naru, these people don't know us, so it makes sense for their children to be afraid", said Motoko. "I know, I know", said Naru sadly.
After a bit, they found themselves back at the docks that led up to the village. They checked the nearby dock where they left the submarine and to their delight, it was there, exactly as they left it.
They boarded it and Kitsune took the controls and headed on the track that led to the Whark Gallows, which was very short.
After they reached the gallows and disembarked the sub once more, they headed for the pull string that brought the hangman down. "Okay", said Keitaro as Motoko was about to pull it, "I will go first, and then the rest will follow." "Good idea, that is practically the best one you have had since we got here", said Naru. Keitaro ignored that. Once Motoko pulled the string the hangman came down and stopped just an inch above the platform. Keitaro walked onto the platform and grabbed the hangman. A minute or two later, the hangman pulled Keitaro up and up and up. At the top was a small area surrounded by whark bones, as well as a plank walk way that led to nearby catwalk. He yelled down, "It's okay! The rest of you come up, I am going to wait for all of you at that catwalk over there!"
So, after a bit, all of them came up, Motoko came up last of course. They went across the walkway and towards Keitaro. "Shhh", he said pointing to a round grate-like thing. "What about a grate", asked Kitsune. "It is not a grate it is a cell, and someone is in there", responded Keitaro. Everyone looked inside. Inside, near the wall, was man, and he looked like he was catching on his Z's. He suddenly woke up and looked at them, and shrugged and went back to sleep. "We must release him", said Motoko. "I think that is the way to open it over there", said Su, pointing to the right. Nearby was a metal knob with an upside-down Riven symbol on it. The star was encircled by a ring and the 'five' was on a knob. "Here we go", said Kitsune, who pulled it out, rotated the thing a full clockwise before letting it go. They looked at the prison, and the bars to it opened up in split directions. "Quick, let's go", said Naru as the headed to it but stopped short when she saw it empty, ". . . free him?" Motoko looked around, "He probably was a illusion." "No way", said Kitsune. Shinobu looked around and then noticed something. "Hey, do grates have hinges", she asked. "Hinges", asked everyone. They looked at the small drainage grate on the floor. "You found something good Shinobu, this is strange", said Keitaro. Shinobu blushed at this. Naru flipped the grate open. "Allow me", said Motoko. She reached into the water below it. "Hey, I feel something", she said. She pulled up on whatever it was to reveal a long pull up switch. She let it go and it fell back into the drain. "Look", said Su, pointing at the wall. A part of the wall was moving back, revealing a secret area. Naru looked around and said, "Let's go before it closes." Everyone quickly ran through the opening, and the false wall closed right after Naru managed to get in. Kanako pointed down a small passageway leading away from the false wall. "I bet you that our friend went that way", she said. "Let's go", said Naru.
Of course they eventually stumbled around in the dark. "Ouch, someone stepped on my foot", said Naru. "Sorry, that was me", said Motoko. A few minutes later they heard Naru said, "I think someone grabbed my breasts!" "Ah-h-h, that was me Narusegewa", said Keitaro. "YOU PERVERT", yelled Naru as she punched him, which caused him to land at the end of the tunnel. Eventually the others caught up to him. "Are you okay, Sempai", asked Shinobu. "Yeah I am fine", said Keitaro. The tunnel led them to an area that looked out over Riven's waters. "Great a dead end", said Kanako. "No wait", said Naru pointing to a stick with a globe on the end. When she touched it, it lit up. "So we can see the way back, big deal", said Kanako. "Hey look", said Shinobu running up the passageway, "Another one." Naru approached it and touched it, making the globe light up the area. "And there's another", said Su, going up even further. This went on and on until they came to the way they entered. "Maybe with the passageway lit up like this, we might see a area we might have missed", said Kitsune. "Good idea, let's head back in there", said Naru.
They headed down back into the passageway. Somewhere in between it they came upon a fork, but there was a stone door on the opposite area. "I guess it is the only way", said Shinobu. "Haven't we learned anything from the bitch", said Kanako. She went over to the door and pulled it open, revealing another passageway. "Oh, yeah, the doors hiding doors", said Kitsune.
At the end of the new passageway was huge room. They stood in the center of it. All around them where stones, each with a different thing on it. In the front of the room, adjacent to the entryway, was a stone knife, the same type of knife they saw the rebel that saved them used. "I wonder what the point of this chamber is", asked Motoko. Kanako then noticed the knife, "That wouldn't be here, unless. . . unless the Moiety use this place. Naru snapped her fingers, "I have it. Those wooden eyes we saw, the Moiety left them to guide people who wanted to join them to show how to get to their HQ." "I see", said Kitsune, "And these stones all have animals on them and we need to press the right animals in the right order." "That's right", said Naru. "Keitaro, hand me the journal." "Okay", said Keitaro, handing Naru the journal. Naru opened it and looked around. She noticed, at the entrance, one stone on the far right was a fish, and the stone on the far left was a beetle. "Okay, Su", said Naru, and pointing to the fish rock she said, "You go and push down that fish stone." "Okay", said Su and she headed over there. Then Naru looked at Shinobu and said, "Okay, Shinobu, I want you to push down that rock over there with the beetle on it." She pointed to it. "I knew what to do before you asked", said Shinobu. Su already pressed the fish one, so Shinobu, pushed the beetle down. "Okay", said Naru, looking at the notes, "The third sign is the frog or ytram." She looked to her left and she then noticed among the other stones there was the ytram sign. "Motoko", said Naru, "That frog symbol there, push that." "I gotcha", said Motoko and she did as she was asked. "By the way the Sunner thing is behind you", said Motoko. Naru turned and sure enough, there was the Sunner sign. "That comes next. Kitsune", said Naru. "Already on it", responded Kitsune as she pressed the rock down. "All that is left is the Whark", said Naru. Naru looked around and then her eyes fell below the dagger. The rock in front of it, was the Whark sign. "This ones mine", said Naru as she went up to it and pushed it down. As soon as she did, the area around the dagger began to ripple. The liquid like substance went off on the trenches surrounding the dagger. Then the dagger panel opened up and revealed a stone pedestal beneath it. On it was linking book, opened to the gateway image. When they went over to it Kitsune asked, "What is this thing on the image?" "That", answered Naru, "Would be that crystal device that Catherine made to power the books more portably. The image showed a huge crater like place, with a tree in the center of a lake, and within it's branches where lights. "Well, let's go. We have gone to far to turn back", said Motoko. Everyone else nodded, and one-by-one they pressed their hands to it and linked out.
The Moiety Age.
The group re-materialized on a dock that was on the water, outside the tree. "Well, so much for that", said Kanako. "Guys, look", said Keitaro, pointing behind them. Behind them the dock led to a room, with a idol, with all sorts of daggers in it. "That must symbolized Gehn", said Motoko. They then noticed, in the idol's hands, was a linking book. "It must lead us back to the chamber", said Naru. "Well, let's go, let's go", yelled Su running on in. "Su wait up", said Shinobu. "Don't be reckless Su", said Motoko. Just as the group entered the room. They heard voices. They turned and saw the prisoner and another rebel. He was yelling to the guy to do something. Kanako got into a kung-fu stance and Motoko was about to draw her sword, but before they could make a move, the rebel used a blow dart on them, and stunned them with some darts. "Unghhh", said Kanako. "No", said Motoko. The others went down slowly.
Keitaro opened his eyes a little bit when he heard water, he felt like he was in a boat, and they were headed for the tree. The prisoner, pointed to it and said something, and looked and saw Keitaro a little awake. Then Keitaro passed out again.
"Wake up", said a familiar voice to Keitaro. "KEITARO WAKE UP!" yelled the voice. Keitaro jumped up. "Gah, where are we", asked Keitaro. He looked around and saw they were in some sort of cavern, the stone he was on, made some sort of bed, nearby was table, with a bowl on it. "We are in the tree, Keitaro", said Naru. A glum Motoko said, "While we were unconscious, they took us over hear and locked us in." "Auu", said Shinobu, "And they won't even give us a chance." Keitaro still looked confused. "Follow me Keitaro", said Naru. She led him down a small corridor to a wooden door, all locked. Keitaro looked out the door and saw dozens of houses lined up with bridges leading to on another. He thought he saw some silhouettes of the rebels, but maybe his eyes were fooling him. After returning to the main cell, he said, "Can't you just use your sword to knock it down?" Motoko yelled, "DON'T YOU THINK FOR A SEC THEY USED THEIR ADVANTAGE OF OUR KNOCKED OUT STATE THAT THEY WOULD REMOVE ANY WEAPONS WE HAD!" "Sorry, just curious", whimpered Keitaro. "Even if we had a way to get out, we wouldn't be able to get back without knowing where the boats are", said Kanako, and pointing out the window to the view of where they entered, she added, "We are all the way up here and the exits, out there."
Then they heard the rustle of keys. "Shh, someone's coming", said Shinobu. A women came out of the corridors, bearing a bundle in a red cloth. She said something to them, but she said a word that sounded familiar. "Did she say Katrin", asked Keitaro. "It almost sounded like, Catherine", said a happy Naru. "Maybe Catherine sent her", said a hopeful Shinobu. The woman gestured to the books and then left. The two books she left behind was a small horizontal journal, and a familiar looking book. "I wonder what they are", asked Shinobu. "Well, let's first read this journal", said Kanako as she opened.
After a hour or so of reading it, she set it down. "This is Catherine's journal." "Really, what does it say", asked Keitaro. "Well, for one thing Catherine didn't always felt like she belonged there." "You mean she had a sense to be somewhere other than Riven", asked Motoko. "Yes, which was probably why Atrus took her with him." "Anything else", asked Keitaro. "Yeah, when the encounter of Gehn, Atrus and Catherine at the Star Fissure occurred, the thing was not witnessed by them alone. Many locals saw it and formed two beliefs. One was that Gehn was a god that banished Atrus, or that Atrus is a god that has stripped Gehn of his power and chose Catherine, the oddball among them, to become his wife, thus making her a goddess. The people that believe this second theory became the Moiety." "Makes sense, and that's why Catherine leads them, they think they will bring them victory over Gehn." "Yes, but they also made the attempt to try to re-open the fissure", Kanako continued, "and try to follow the path, but Catherine convinced them that it was not safe." "Where is the fissure anyway", asked Naru. "Back where we started, under the metal plate, where that huge microscope is. Or more specifically telescope." Everyone gasped at this. "And how did they try to break it open", asked Shinobu. "Well, they found out the combo to the manhole covering the portal. They would smash it open and head through", said Kanako. "Did she write it down", asked Keitaro. "Yep, on this page", and she held it up for Keitaro to see. It showed the telescope and the line pointing to the manhole showed the D'neese numbers for, 2, 3, 1, 4 and 3. He took out Atrus' journal and wrote it down. "What else happened", asked Naru. "Well, she did encourage the illusion of her being a goddess or deity", said Kanako. "That is understandable", said Motoko. "Another thing is that she was the one who made the crystals that can power the books portably, than the domes. Also she wrote this age and the age linking back." "Wait", said Keitaro, interrupting her sister, "She wrote this world and the way back?" "Not exactly, the Moiety stole the book that made this world from the furnace in Gehn's lab before it got burned, long before Catherine's arrival and Catherine managed to re-write it to support the age. The linking book back, came from a fire Marble Dome and she re-wrote that two, as a linking book back." "Smart woman", said Naru. "Another thing", added Kanako, "The daggers where not of the Moiety, or Gehn. Though at one point Gehn claimed he made them to show the islanders that they are some sort of punishment or something. The Moiety, use them as their insignia know." "Where did they came from", asked Shinobu. "Probably written in by Atrus, to keep the Age stable", said Kanako. "Anything else", asked Keitaro. "Well, the Star Fissure seems to be safe and is hospitable to life", said Kanako. "What else", asked Motoko. "Well those crystals are actually re-fined book windows that 'heal' the books and allow them to link without the domes." "So she used the domes", asked Keitaro. "Only once, so she could refine the window substance to lay across the window of the Gateway Image so the book could work." "Oh I see", said Keitaro. "Also", said Kanako, "The name they gave this age is Tey." "Okay", said Naru. Keitaro looked at the book. "There is something about this other book she gave us." "Oh yeah there was this note in the journal as well", said Kanako, she took it out and handed it over. It read like this:
"I write quickly from my prison. . .
Nelah will return your book which the Moiety intercepted upon your arrival. After questioning her, I've concluded that it was written by Atrus for a very specific purpose.
Gehn will desire to use it. . . although he may have suspicions.
If you can find my prison, you will still need the combination to release me, Gehn keeps it in his office. Then, I assume, we're to signal Atrus. . . . I think I know how it might be done. But don't signal him before I am released.
Catherine.
"Don't worry", said Naru, "we won't." "So you mean that this book I am holding is", asked Keitaro. Kanako nodded. "You guys, this is the lost Trap Book that looks like a linking book to D'ni", shouted Keitaro. "But unless you have forgotten, there is no way out of here", said Motoko. Again they heard the sound of keys and the door opening and shutting and the woman, who they now know as Nelah, came in and noticed the books were taken. She said some words, and placed a book on the table and opened it. She placed the crystal on the window for it to work. Then she took something long and handed it to Motoko. She said something to her and Motoko took it. "My sword", she exclaimed. "Thank you for everything Nelah", said Naru. Everyone formally bowed to her. Nelah, didn't understand the meaning of that but she some sorrowful words to them and left. "Look , she left us a linking book back to Riven", said Naru. "Specifically, the stone chamber where we linked to from there." "Well, let's go", said Naru. They each linked out, one by one.
Riven
They found themselves re-materialized in the stone room. "Hey, we got the book, now let's head back to the temple island, and give power to the domes", said an enthusiastic Naru. "Then we can capture Gehn", said Keitaro. "Okay", said Kitsune, "Let's head on out."
They left the chamber and headed back to the entrance with the fake wall. They managed to open it with an easily seen pull up switch, near the end of the track of the fake wall. After they left, they had one small problem. "How do we get down", asked Keitaro. "Well, we could fall and swim", said Su. "No way, not from this height", said Naru. Kanako said, "Let's see where the rest of this catwalk leads to." She was pointing to the left of the prison.
After a bit of walking, at the end they came across a ladder that went back onto the dock of the village. After Naru kicked it down she said, "Well, beats taking that sub again." "Or swimming", joked Keitaro.
After they got down, Naru said they should head to the tram they first used when they got into Riven. "You mean that tram near the frog eye", asked Motoko. "Yes", said Naru. "Oh boy, I am going to toss my cookies before we get to the temple", said Kitsune.
After a bit of a walk, they got to the tram. Some were reluctant, but they got aboard and Naru rotated it and made the tram go.
When they reached the Temple Island, the way in to the temple was closed. "Great it's closed", said Keitaro as they approached. "So, what's the problem", asked Su. "The only way to open it is by that lever in that strange caged chairs room", said Naru. Then Kanako approached and said, "Just great." Suddenly the door began to rise and as it rose they saw some sort of familiar face in the cage near the far side of the temple. "AAAAUUU! IT'S GEHN", shouted Shinobu. But then, a few minutes the face vanished. "I have it", said Keitaro. "What's that", asked Naru. "Remember that chair under the cage", said Keitaro, "I think it is a holographic transmission device, because this cage emitted the same hum we heard there." "Smart thinking Urashima", said Motoko. "So Gehn uses that chair to project himself there", said Naru as she pointed to the cage. "Yep", said Keitaro. "But how come he didn't talk to us or anything", asked Shinobu. "Maybe it was a pre-recording for the people entering the temple or maybe he is just trying to intimidate us", said Motoko. "Come on", said Keitaro, let's head for the gate room." "And the marble thing", said Naru, "Thank goodness I suggested to leave the bridge up."
A few minutes later, they found themselves outside the Gate Room. In a minute or two, after they rotated the room to original position, they had climbed the still raised bridge, to the marble device.
"Okay", said Naru, "Kitsune you stay here and activate pull the switch down and press the button when I tell you. Keitaro, you come with me and dictate the journals." "Oh no you don't", said Kanako, "I am coming too." "Okay", said a nervous Naru, who knew now wasn't a time to argue.
They approached the marble grid and Keitaro took out the journal. "Okay", said Keitaro. "The red symbolizes the dome for the Jungle Island." "Okay", said Naru picking up the red marble, "Now where do we put it", she asked. "Um, if I am right, it should be there", he said pointing to a spot on the grid. "You sure", asked Naru. "I am sure as the fact that I failed the entrance to Tokyo U three times before entering", he said. Naru reluctantly, but obediently, put the red marble in it's designated square. "Okay", said Keitaro, "Orange represents the Plateau Island." "Okay", said Naru as she picked it up. "And it should go about there", he said pointing to an area on the grid. "Alright", said Naru as she did so.
A few minutes later, they got all the positions of the domes (they found out the violet marble represented the Crater Island's dome) except one, and that was for the Prison Island. "We haven't seen the dome, it is either the blue marble, or the yellow marble", said Naru. "We must try one or the other", said Keitaro. "Okay, let's try blue", said Naru. She picked it up and Keitaro designated the spot. "Okay", and turning to Kitsune she yelled "Do it Kitsune!" Kitsune pulled down the switch, making the compressor come down. She pressed the button and the machine gave a huge 'swoosh' and made the sound of powering. "We did it", said Naru. "Well, Naru, you are not so foolish after all", said Kanako. "What is that supposed to mean", yelled Naru.
The group got together in the gate room. "Okay, we will head over to the dome on the Crater Island and use the dome their since it is the least conspicuous", said Keitaro. "As for the bridge, I'd say we use the gate room to go around, of course, then we re-lower it and turn the gate room back to it's original position", said Naru, "So we have easy access to the dome and the land, plus, we don't have to worry about the power supply to the domes." "Makes sense to me", said Kitsune. "I agree", said Motoko. "Let's do it", said Su.
Shortly after turning the Gate room to the position to access the other bridge to the dome, they headed over to the other door, and used the button there to return the room to its original position. And, like they agreed, they returned the original bridge they used to cross the first time, to it's proper state, and headed over to the bridge way to Crater Island.
After heading on down there and after Keitaro used the kinescope in that hidden doorway to open the dome, they all gathered near the console of it, to as Keitaro entered the combination and pressed the button.
The same thing happened as before on the Plateau Island, but this time something different happened. "Now let's see if what we did worked", said Naru as she opened it. At first it was blank, but then an image spread out on it, showing a world of red mountains, and a building in the center. "It worked", said Su in excitement. Everyone was overjoyed. "That must be his office", said Motoko, pointing to the building in the center. "Well group, next stop, Gehn's 223rd Age", said Kitsune.
Everyone nodded and one by one they touched the image, and faded out of Riven.
Age 223
They all ended up inside of a small cage in the center. "Great it was a trap", said Motoko. Everyone could almost barely move. Keitaro said, "All I can say is my front feels terrible with the bars, but my back on the other hand . . ." "HENTAI", said Naru as she punched him in the back.
The group looked around. One part was desk, with a book in the center, a strange pipe-like device near it, as well as certain amount of liquids. To the left was the door; to the right was a strange boiler, with a lever above a round porthole. To the right of the boiler, was a ladder, heading down, and near that, was lever on a nearby windowsill. All around their cage, within the groups reach, where linking books. "Let's leave this joint", said Kitsune as she opened one up but the gateway image showed blank. "They need to be powered too", said Naru. "And look at the squares on them", said Motoko and then she said, "Each book has they square symbol of each island." "Probably to indicate which dome they link too", said Naru. Then Kanako noticed a small switch on the cage. "There is this button here", she said, "Let's press it and see what happens", she said. "Well it's better than staying in here all day", said Kitsune.
A minute or two later, after Kanako pressed the switch, Shinobu yelled, "Look, someone is approaching the door." She was right, a man wearing goggles, gloves, a clean uniform and a strange cane approached the door. He opened it and stepped in.
"Hey you", yelled Motoko, "Let us out of here!" The man removed his goggles and walked over to the desk. "I apologize for the cage", he said. He placed the cane he was holding on the side of the desk and the goggles on the desk. "I am afraid this situation is required a mere more, primitive code of contact that I might have otherwise have chosen." He started to remove his gloves; "I am Gehn." "GEHN!" shouted everyone. "I believe you've heard of me", he said. "In more ways than one", said Kanako. "We heard you are an evil man", said Shinobu. "Yes. Well I suspect you have acquired some false information of who I am now." "False information", asked Kitsune. "Not that my son would have lied to you about me", Gehn said as he took his gloves and placed them on the desk near his goggles, "No, not Atrus it's just that . . ." "Just what", asked Naru. "Well I am sure he believes me to be the depraved father I once was. Yes. I even tried to kill him once." He started moping a bit. "God, if I had accomplished that who knows what I would have become. Great father indeed who tries to murder his own son." Then he turned to them and said; "Thankfully he trapped me on Age Five, a prison of my own creation. No books, no precious eats, no ages to link to, nothing but my own, foolish ambitions." Gehn turned towards the window and said, "That was thirty years ago. Thirty years, thirty lifetimes, it all doesn't matter." He turned to them and said, "No sentence could be to harsh for the man I was . . . but, I have changed." He went towards his desk and took up the strangely made pipe. "I assure all of you that the deeds of my past cannot be completely atoned for, but my mission, was an honorable one." He paused to take a puff out that pipe. "I bet that's frog extract he is using", said Kitsune. "I doubt he has changed a bit", whispered Motoko. "I'm sorry", said Gehn, "This is all a bit awkward I . . . It's been a long time since I have attempted to persuade, anyone of my intentions. Most of the people here have made up their minds about me, one way or another." He turned to the cage and said, "I don't trust the words of most men, so I don't expect any of you to believe me. In the end though you may find that I do have more that mere words to offer." He took a few puffs from that pipe and said, "Atrus' choice of punishment has been hard on the people of Riven. And many have suffered because of it." "YES, FROM YOU", yelled Motoko. "Besides that past misdeed", said Gehn, "The island has been steadily decaying for years. But according to my most, recent measurements that, the Fifth Age has ended it's final days." Turning with a look of concern he said, "Unless the villagers can be re-located soon, the island will collapse entirely and everyone will perish."
Gehn turned toward his desk and said, "It has taken me a long time to do it but. It appears that finally I will make some, substantial amends to my past transgressions. Especially . . ." He shook his head in protest a little. "Especially what", asked Naru. "Well, I am afraid I have had some, trouble with Catherine, and the Moiety." "We can easily understand that", said Keitaro a bit harshly. "In any society there always will be a percentage of the population with, rebellious tendencies. Before Catherine appeared the Moiety, as they call themselves, have been relatively harmless." "Relatively", asked Kitsune. "I mean, the natives here are very violent people by nature. But I have almost come to accept their presence. It seemed inevitable under the circumstances." Then Gehn gave a look of anger and said, "Upon Catherine's return, however, their violence intensified considerably. It seems she has become some sort of, religious savior to them. And as far as I can tell, she's come to believe this herself." Turning to them he added, "So I have had no alternative. I had to separate her from her people. I must admit though, my intentions were not entirely for her safety alone. The actions of Catherine and the Moiety have put my own life at risk, on numerous occasions! Consequently the lives of all the people here!" He then showed a look of seriousness and said, "Therefore I must ask all of you to refrain from any attempt to free her, although I am sure, Atrus desires it." Gehn looked down in sorrow and said, "Indeed, he must desire it with all his heart. But he is completely unaware of her recent state."
He walked over to the area where the 'boiler' was and added with a more cheerful voice he said, "Which brings me to the point of all this." Point towards the trap book in Keitaro's hand he said, "The linking you book you brought with you. You are very fortunate to have recovered it." "He grasped it gently and asked, "If I may." Keitaro smiled and said, "Sure." "Thank you", responded Gehn and he placed his pipe on top of the boiler so he could look at the book. He looked suspicious and then looked through the pages. "I don't think he fully trusts us", said Shinobu. "I guess we should tell him that it is . . ." before Su could say anything more, Motoko placed her hands on her mouth. "Don't say another word", said Motoko harshly. After looking at the last page he closed it and re-opened it to the gateway image. He looked like he was about to use it, but then, he looked at the cage and he held open the book to the gateway image as he approached the cage. "Perhaps it would be best if you all went through first", he said. The group tried but they couldn't bring themselves to touch the image. Gehn closed the book and said, "You may need some time to decide. That is reasonable." He put a hand on the handle of the 'boiler' and turned it to the other side making the portal below it glow. In response the arches surrounding the linking books started to glow and wash over the books. "Until then, as a token of my good intentions, I allow all of you, free access to my, linking books. Who though they may be. And to the rest of the fifth age." He took the pipe from, what they now know as the power source for the books, and headed for his desk. Gehn placed the book then the pipe on the desk, saying, and "Please understand there is nothing more I want than to resolve matters between, Atrus and myself Especially in light in what has become of Catherine." He donned his goggles but not over his eyes, but on his head and then he added as he placed his gloves on he said, "But unless at least one of you is willing to demonstrate to me that your intentions are honorable, I cannot risk it. The sanctuary I have writing for the islanders is nearly complete. After all these years it would be a shame if I were, unable to finish it." He grabbed the cane and headed for the door and, before he left he said, "The work I am doing is quite demanding. Please don't signal me, unless, at least one of you, have decided to use the book. The switch will reset itself once all of you leave from here." He placed his goggles over his eyes, and he opened the door, and stepped outside. They then saw him head off down the mountain.
"Well, that was a bust", said Kitsune. "Not exactly", said Naru, "He still thinks it is a linking book to D'ni, but he isn't taking any chances." "Well", said Kanako, "The question is, where do we link to." "I know", said Shinobu, "Well, um, since the only way to get to the island where Catherine is on is through a linking book, why don't we use that." "Good idea Shinobu", said Naru. "Excellent thought", said Motoko. "Now which one symbolizes the prison island", asked Naru. Motoko pointed to one of the books, "That one, the one with the single square." "Gotcha", said Naru. They opened it. The blank gateway image spilled over with an image of an area they never saw before, and showed the island with a huge tree. Then it began circling around a fire marble dome. "Well, here we go", said Keitaro. They all touched the image, one by one.
Riven- Prison Island
The group re-materialized inside of the dome, as they expected. "Well", said Kitsune, "Let's get out of this dome." She pushed the button near the bottom of the podium the book was on and the book lowered itself. The dome halted and flipped over, letting them out into the sunlight.
They turned to get an idea of where they where. There was but a single pathway, leading to a huge stump. On the path, they spotted the kinescope for the dome. On top of the stump was a small metal building with a weather vane whirling on it. "I think that's Catherine's prison", said Keitaro. "If we can't get her out now, at least we can talk to her, and let her know we are here", said Naru. "Let's go see her", said Motoko.
The single pathway led to a stairway that went, inside the stump. Inside was a small corridor leading to a barred elevator. "Probably to keep her from escaping", said Motoko. Su notice, across from the bars, on the wall was a round device, with a lever on it. Below it, where three switches. "What do these do", said Su. She pushed the one on the left, and it emitted a 'click' sound. "Oooh, these things make noise", said Su. She pushed the other two, the one in the middle made a 'kinnk' sound, and the third made a 'ding' sound. Su was then held back and Naru said, "I think this is the combination system that will rotate the bars and allow Catherine to get out." "Good idea", said Keitaro, "I think that this pull string makes the elevator rise." "Well, duh", said Motoko. "Well, let's go see her", said Naru and she pulled the pullstring in the elevator. The elevator started moving and eventually, it reached the top, to a room, which they recognized from the viewing room on plateau island. From the balcony walked in a familiar woman. "Ne feriti. . .", she said and stopped when she saw who was in the elevator. "Catherine", asked Shinobu. "You all made it", said Catherine as she approached. "But how did you get past Gehn." "He let us through, he allowed us access to his books until we decide to use that book Atrus gave us", explained Keitaro. Catherine looked down and said, "He must really believe I've gone mad." Then with a look of concern she said, "I know what he is doing." "What is he doing", asked Kanako. "He's watching you. He's waiting for any of you to make a mistake. He is hoping you all will lead him back to D'ni." "WHAT", said Everyone. "You can't let Gehn", said Catherine in a begging tone, but then stopped short and said, "Atrus sent all of you to save me, but if Gehn gets back to D'ni he'll kill him." "We believe you", said Shinobu. "I knew we couldn't trust him", said Motoko. Catherine approached the bars and whispered, "I know how we can signal Atrus but it is going to take all of us, including me, you will have to trap Gehn before you all can get the combination. Be careful." She stepped away and said, "Go then. If you will not help me I've got nothing more to say." With that she stepped out onto the balcony.
As they used the elevator the group discussed the matter. "That Catherine girl is pretty, I can see why Atrus chose her", said Kitsune. "Enough of that", said Naru. "We must find a way to trick Gehn into using the book", she added. "But how, if we use it, we will get trapped." "Not all of us", said Keitaro, "One of us." "Huh", asked everyone. "Remember Sirrus and Achenar on Myst Island", said Keitaro. "How can I forget them", said Motoko. "They each got trapped in a separate book. If one of us used it, or completed the pages, we would get trapped. It also says right here, in Atrus' journal, that a person will be trapped, in the book until someone else touches, thus freeing the previous occupant and trapping the one who used it." "So you are saying, to convince Gehn it is a real linking book, only one of us must use it", asked Kitsune. "Exactly", said Keitaro. "But who will take such a risk", said Naru. "I will", said Keitaro. "NANI", said Everyone.
After heading back to the dome, as Keitaro entered the combination in it Shinobu said, "Please reconsider Sempai." "Yes Urashima it is too risky", said Motoko as the dome went over them. "Listen, I know the risks, but it is the only way", said Keitaro. He then turned and said; "Now listen, my idea will only work if none of you go there with me. I want all of you to wait for about, ten minutes then link to the age." Naru hugged Keitaro and said, "Please, I won't forgive you if you get trapped in that book forever." "I won't", said Keitaro, "If I can get into Tokyo U after three failures, then surely I can get Gehn to use the linking book." "Be careful Oni-san", said Kanako. "Good luck Keitaro", said Su. Keitaro turned, opened the linking book and linked out. "May Kami-sama be with him", said Naru.
Age 233
Keitaro re-materialized in the cage. I have to work fast, he told himself, and he pushed the switch on the cage. A second or two later, Gehn came up the path and re-entered the building. "Where are the others", asked Gehn. "They said, they would rather die, than help you. I on the other hand believe you have changed, and I will demonstrate that I have good intentions of reuniting you with Atrus", said Keitaro. "It is understandable, there where a lot of you, and everyone has their own mind to make. However, I am relieved that you, at least, have returned", said Gehn. He made his way to his desk. Placed the cane on the side of the desk and took of his goggles and placed them on the desk and added, as he went over to pick up the book, "I thought perhaps that you all agreed to decide against it. You, however, seemed to believe me, and I am grateful." He opened the book and held the image up to the cage. "Here, I shall follow you directly." "See you in D'ni", said Keitaro as he pressed his hand to the image.
Darkness was all around Keitaro. So this is what it's like in a trap book. Then suddenly the book opened and he saw a square of light, showing Gehn's face. He had his goggles on his head and he stared at the book. He must only still see the gateway image of D'ni, said Keitaro. Then he took up the cane, which Keitaro can see it looked like some sort of weapon. Catherine was right, Keitaro said to himself, He was planning on killing Atrus. Then he saw Gehn place his gloved hand over the image. "Yes, come on, press it", said Keitaro.
A split second later, Keitaro found himself near the desk, outside of the cage. "I did it", he said. "Now to wait for the girls", said Keitaro. Just as he said that, the Hinata-sou girls appeared in the cage. They looked and said, "Keitaro, your okay." Keitaro grinned. "Where's Gehn", asked Su. Keitaro held up the trap book and said, "He is right here." "Great job Oni-san", said Kanako. "Umm, incidentally Keitaro", said Naru, "COULD YOU USE THIS OPPURTUNITY TO GET US OUT OF THIS CRAMPED UP CAGE!" "Of course", said Keitaro. He went to the device in between the desk and the door. "Maybe this device does it", he said pressing the oval button on it. Out came a pleasing music. "Oops", said Keitaro. "Urashima now isn't the time to listen to music", said Motoko. Keitaro pushed it up and said, "Sorry, I didn't know it was some sort of music player." "Try that switch over there", said Shinobu, pointing to the window on the other side of the door. On there was a small lever. Keitaro headed over there and pulled on it, but then it sprang up back into position. There a whirring sound and the cage bars went down, into the floor, freeing the girls, who all ran and hugged him. "Oh Keitaro, we were worried that Gehn would suspect something", said Naru. "What did you tell him", asked Kitsune. Keitaro explained what happened in the past few minutes. "Well, that did the trick", said Kanako. Su took the book and opened it and gave it a raspberry and said, "Fooled you!" Keitaro snatched it back, but everyone couldn't help uttering a laugh in triumph. "Now let's find the combination to free Catherine", said Naru.
They first looked at the desk. They noticed the pipe and the several inks around it. Then Keitaro pointed to the beetle inkwell. "That's what he uses these beetles for, for ink purposes", said Keitaro. Then they heard Su yell, "Hey, check out what is down here." They turned and saw she was calling from the hole, with the ladder in it.
They headed down the ladder and where beheld a small bedroom. Near the ladder was a tapestry with the Riven star mark. Near it was a basin, with an odd faucet. Then they noticed two pictures on the wall adjacent to it. One was a picture of woman, the other of a man. Nearby, was a some sort of oboe device. On the right from the pictures was a bedside table with a book and a strange orb. But Kitsune and the others noticed a hologram cage, adjacent to the bed that was to the right of the bedside table. When they turned it, it showed a woman, speaking like she was talking sweet talk. "Who is that", asked Kitsune. "It's his wife", said Keitaro. They turned and saw Keitaro sitting on the bed with the book from the bedside, "This journal says so." "So that must be his wife on the picture on the wall. "Really, what else does it tell us." "Well, Atrus became the way he was because Atrus was left with his Grandmother, or Gehn's mother", said Keitaro, "After his mother and his wife died, he felt he lost everything, including his son, because of the way he become." "That still gives him no excuse to what he has done", said Motoko. "Agreed", said Keitaro. "Anything about Catherine in it", asked Naru. "It also says he captured Catherine when she was trying to convince some villagers to take their side." "How come can't he get anything out of her", asked Naru. "Actually, she did respond to Gehn's questions, but in her native tongue, Riveneese." Everyone laughed at this. "What about a linking book with her", asked Kanako. "She didn't carry one, much to his dismay. He knows because when she linked here, she also captured in that cage, but the guard was knocked out and Catherine was taken by the rebels", said Keitaro. "She said something similar about that in her journal", said Kanako "Also, Motoko is right about the Wharks, they are used to keep the people in line", continued Keitaro. "Anything more", asked Kanako. "Yeah, it mentions us in this, he was hoping to get back to D'ni, using the book we brought", said Keitaro. "Well we stopped his plans", said Su. "What was he trying to accomplish anyway", asked Naru. "To restore his world and prevent the extinction of his race", said Keitaro, "but he was still trying to do so, in this world." "That is monstrous, Atrus knew this, that's why they trapped him here", said Motoko. "Yes and the reason he wanted to get back to D'ni was to continue to revive the D'ni", said Keitaro. "Well, we put a damper in that", said Kitsune. "That's all it tells us", said Keitaro. "Humph this guy is insane", said Motoko. "But didn't Atrus-san use D'ni technology in his ages", asked Shinobu. "Yes, but he used it to benefit the people in the ages, not for selfish reasons", said Naru. "Come on, let's find that combo", said Kanako.
They looked in the drawer of the bedside table, but found only bed sheets. Then Shinobu noticed the silver orb. "Kenai (pretty)", said Shinobu. She touched it and suddenly in response gave a few sounds that sounded familiar, 'ding', 'click', 'click', 'krrn', 'ding'. After the last sound, the thing opened up with a ticking noise. "Must be a watch", Kitsune. "Those noises like the noises those buttons make", said Su. "That's it, we have the combo", said Keitaro. Naru then smiled and said, "Your right", and when the group hugged Su, Keitaro said, "You really are a genius." "What is a genius, is that a food." Everyone fainted.
Keitaro wrote down the sound sequence, the group headed to the linking book to the Prison Island, and they linked there
Riven- Prison Island
After they arrived and opened the dome to get out, the group all went as fast as they could in excitement to the elevator in the tree stump. Naru approached the device and said, "Okay, Keitaro, give me the order." Keitaro pointed out which buttons to push, with Su explaining which buttons emit which sound. After putting in the last sound nothing happened. "Maybe we should push that handle Naru-sempai", said Shinobu. Naru nodded and pushed the small lever across and it snapped back. Suddenly there was a 'whoosh', and the bars swung 180 degrees to behind them, and the elevator rose on its own. "We did it", said Keitaro.
When they reached the top, Catherine walked out of the balcony. "Hurry Catherine", yelled everyone. "Your free now", said Keitaro. Catherine ran to the elevator and pulled the pull string. As the elevator went down she said, "We have to move quickly, Gehn's people may already know what is happening." "What do w do", asked Shinobu. "Once we are back with the Moiety we'll have time to regroup." Then noticing the Trap Book in Keitaro's hands she asked, "Can I see the book." "Sure, but don't touch the image", said Keitaro, as he handed it over. Catherine looked it over and said, "You did it! We're all free! You captured Gehn!" "You can give that thanks to Keitaro", said Naru. "Yeah, Urashima did a great job", said Motoko. "That's my Oni-san", said Kanako. "Keitaro did a good job tricking Gehn into using it", said Su. "Oh come on", said Keitaro, blushing. Then, as the bars rotated back to their original position after returning to ground level Catherine closed the book and said, "But there are still his followers. I don't know what they will do once they realize he's gone." "What do we do", asked Shinobu. "I'll have to get the villagers to safety as soon as possible." "But what about us", asked Motoko. "All of you, go back to the temple island and re-open the fissure." "But, won't that cause the Age to collapse", asked Kitsune. Catherine said, "I know it's risky but it's the only way to signal Atrus. I will try to make it back there as soon as possible but don't wait for me." She turned and destroyed the combo device for her prison and after pushing through them she said, "Don't forget, the portal combination is in my journal. Good luck." With that they watched her, with the Trap Book, run down the steps." "Come on, you heard what she asked, let's go", said Naru.
They headed back to the dome, but it was closed. "She must have gone through", said Kanako. Keitaro headed over to the kinescope and said, "Well, you know what we must do to open it." He waited for it's gold symbol, which was the horizontal eye. He pressed the button at it and the dome opened. "Come on, the clock is ticking let's go", said Kitsune.
They entered the dome; Keitaro entered the combo to close the dome. Then they all linked back to Gehn's Age.
Age 223
They found themselves behind the cage again. "Why did she put up the cage", asked Kitsune. "Probably as a safety precaution", said Motoko. "Not only that", said Keitaro, looking through the linking books, "She ripped out the pages of the linking books." "All but one", said Naru and she opened the book with the symbol for the Temple Island on it. "The place we need to go", said Naru. "Well, let's go", said Kanako. With that, they all linked out of the Gehn's Age, once more.
Riven- Temple Island
They all appeared within the dome of the island. Keitaro opened it up and, once they stepped out, they decided to close it up again, probably for some unknown reason. They reached the platform but it was raised, but Naru knew the button nearby would bring it down, so, she brought it down. After taking it they all rushed to the catwalk and across the raiseable bridge, through the gate room and back to where they started. "There's the telescope", said Keitaro. "Well come one, let's open that manhole."
Kanako took out Catherine's journal when they approached. She gave it to Keitaro, and he entered the combo on its corresponding buttons. Then he pulled on the manhole and it opened, revealing a black portal. "I see no stars below there", said Kanako. "Maybe not through there", said Kitsune, but I can faintly see them through here", said Kitsune, looking through the eyepiece. "Let me see", said Kanako. Though it was a bit glared, she could definitely see the stars." "Let's zoom in", said Kanako. She turned the lever downwards and pressed the button. After a few pushes she said, "It is still glared." Finally, when the telescope was almost to the glass, she looked and said, "Oh my, it's beautiful." She gestured everyone to look. Everyone, even Shinobu and Su, who could look at it because the telescope was at their height, thought it was gorgeous. "Unbelievable, that something so beautiful, can destroy this age", said Kitsune. "Yes, but it will also signal Atrus and get us home", said Naru. "But how", asked Keitaro. Then Naru snapped her fingers, "I know, Keitaro, you remember that time I told you that in high school, I once accidentally zoomed my microscope too close to the slide, and remember what happened." "It broke", said Keitaro. "Exactly, all we have to do, to break the glass is to cause the telescope to zoom in too close", said Naru. "That is just a button push away", said Kanako, but all the telescope did was shudder and squeal. "Hmm, it is just a button push away", said Kanako, but again nothing happened. "Something is wrong", said Kitsune. Su went under and near the left leg she shouted, "Here is the problem, this stupid step is in the way", she said. She flipped it up and got out from underneath it and said, "It should work now." Everyone got close to the button and Keitaro said, "Okay everyone, we push it one three. Ready, one, two . . .THREE!" Everyone pushed the button and the telescope hit the glass with its squeal and groan. Then suction started. It first pulled most of the manhole below the telescope, and then the telescope itself plunged into it, leaving the steam pipe spouting all over. "Look", shouted Shinobu. They turned to the cage area. The iron plate, near the knife split apart and the knife fell into the Fissure. Around them, they heard rocks falling and the sky was Grey.
Suddenly, a person faded into the cage. "It's Atrus", said Motoko. "Atrus, over here", yelled Su. Atrus walked out of the prison, and braced a bit from the wind and ran over to them, and removed the goggles he was wearing from his eyes. "There isn't much time. Where's Catherine", then seeing that Keitaro no longer held the book he asked, "Where's the book?" Before anyone could explain, Catherine walked into the area. "Atrus", she yelled. Atrus turned. He looked surprised and happy. He walked towards Catherine, and the two embraced. "I feel glad they are together again", said Naru. "Yes", said Motoko, "Maybe fate, created this Fissure for us to help Atrus with his problems." T
Catherine walked over, while Atrus looked at the Trap Book, that Catherine handed to him. As he placed it away Catherine said, "The villagers are safe in the rebel age." She turned to Atrus, then to them and said, "I thank you." "As do I", said Atrus. "All of accomplished more than what I hoped for", and turning to Catherine he added, "You given me back my life", he turned back to them and added, "The path home is now clear for all of us." "It was our pleasure", said Keitaro. "I am pleased with what we have done", said Motoko and she gave a standard Japanese bow. "It was great to help you Atrus-san", said Shinobu. "I am glad everything is okay", said Su. "As am I", said Kanako. The world rumbled almost causing a topple. Atrus reached into his satchel, where he placed the Trap Book, and pulled out a D'ni Linking book. He held it open to Catherine, who caressed his cheek, then she turned, nodded to everyone and then placed her hand on the image, and faded out. Atrus closed the book and then said, "This is where our paths must part." He hesitated and said, "Perhaps we will meet again someday." "Why do you say that", asked Naru. "You know where to find me", responded Atrus. He opened the D'ni linking book over the Fissure and, before he placed his hand on it he said, "Goodbye my friends." He linked out, and when he did, the D'ni linking book fell into the Fissure since the support of Atrus' hand was gone.
"What happens now", asked Shinobu. But just as she said that the ground they were standing on collapsed. "AAAAAAAAAH", said everyone as they fell in.
After they calmed down, they looked up and saw the starting of the Fissure, with the Grey sky of Riven overhead. "This is it", said Keitaro. "Yeah, we are following the path of the MYST book", said Naru, "We are going home."
The dessert where the MYST Book was found.
The group all landed in the dessert. "Ow", said Naru, feeling her behind. "Where are we", asked Kanako. "Guys look", said Keitaro pointing to the archeological digging site. "That's the site Seta and I were at when I found the MYST linking book." "We aren't the only ones that fell here", said Naru pointing nearby. There, sticking out, were the telescope and the remains of the plate that was on the Star Fissure, as well as the knife. "How are we going to get home", asked Motoko.
Just then they heard a "Part-timer." They turned and running up to them was Seta, Sarah, Haruka, and even the tipsy Mutsumi. Of course along with them was the flying hot springs turtle, Tama-chan. "Oh my", said Mutsumi, "They were here all along." Sarah approached with the artifact head and gave Keitaro a hello smack, "Hey, loser", said Sarah, "We have been looking for you guys for a month now." Keitaro's face landed in the sand, where he saw the D'ni, linking book. He quickly took it. Suddenly all the girls ran up and hugged their friends. "Aunt Huruka, I am so glad to see you", yelled Keitaro as he ran up and to hug his aunt, when he received a whack from her and Haruka said, "Just call me Haruka." Su however was relieving the long chase of chasing Tama. "I am so happy to see you Tama! I haven't anything good to eat in a while!" "MYUUUU", said Tama she started fluttering away. "Where were you guys", asked Mutsumi, "We have been searching all over for you." "Yeah, we then saw that book you found part- timer, and we came around here looking for you", said Seta, and with that he took out the MYST linking book. "Mitsumi passed out and fell in the dig, and we went to get her out, but then we heard a crashing noise and came up and saw you guys", said Haruka. "The crash helped awaken me", said Mutsumi. Out of the dig was followed by Haitani, Shirai, and Kentaro. "Naru", yelled Kentaro and rushed up to them. Kentaro grabbed her hands and said, "Naru, I missed you so much, let's celebrate your findings by . . ." He was then whacked off by Haitani and Shirai. "Keitaro, you're alive", said Shirai. "Umm, who are you guys again", asked Keitaro. "Argh, I am Haitani", said Haitani. "And I am Shirai", yelled Shirai.
Nearby, Mutsumi looked at the dagger that fell from the Fissure. "Ara, ara, that is the largest knife I have ever seen", she said. Everyone else looked at it and the remains of Riven. "Where did these come from", asked Seta. "Well, it is a long story but I am not sure you would believe it", said Keitaro. "Try us", said Shirai.
A few minutes later, they where headed for the airport to catch the next flight to Japan. Of course, the other people did not believe them, well, maybe a little. Along with the MYST book, they carried with them the D'ni book. When they didn't believe their story, they showed the Gateway Images of the books. "AHHHH", said Everyone. "Oh my, a moving picture in a book." "Now I think I believe", said Seta. The others nodded.
While they were on the plane, headed for Japan, Naru walked up to Keitaro and said, "Keitaro, the others have asked me to tell you that they are not angry at you for finding that MYST book. Because if it weren't for you finding it, we wouldn't have the chance to heal the wounds of a man's life. They are all grateful for that." Keitaro motioned his hand to silence her and said, "Yes, I know, and I have no regrets." "Neither do us", came the voices of the other girls. "I am glad we helped", said Shinobu. "It was cool to learn that technology", said Su. "The world were interesting", said Kitsune. "I am proud you found that book", said Motoko. "Same here Oni- sama", said Kanako. "I am glad you feel that way, but there is this feeling I can't shake", said Keitaro. "What's that", asked Naru. "The feeling that we have not heard the last of Atrus", said Keitaro. "That's right, he said 'perhaps we will meet again someday' so I guess the feeling is sentimental", said Motoko. "Until that day", said Naru, "Let's try to enjoy our time back here, otherwise we came back here for nothing." Everyone nodded and they headed back to their seats.
"Now I understand, endings and beginnings are within the Fissure. That Riven cleft of stars that access both wall and a bridge. And though I am unable to understand how, the very flow of stars that brought my MYST book into worthy hands, I am sure it'll soon see a safe passage home for my friends. The Age of Riven is closed forever, but the People of Riven are free, and now I am at rest . . .understanding that in books, and Ages and life, the ending can never truly be written"
-Atrus' journal
The End . . .of Riven
To be continued in Exile
Okay everyone, this concludes the Riven chapter, and I hope you all like it. I really would like some reviews. Anyway, keep an eye out for the next chapter, sometime in the next month. Until then, adios.