LES MUSICIENS DU MONDE
2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
A CROSSOVER STORY
This would be my first chapter in many years since writing this story where a chapter largely takes place in one location. I was inspired by horror films and stories recently. Anthony Bourdain's show Parts Unknown where he traveled to the DRC gave me the idea to set the location. This is my attempt to induce horror elements into this story and flesh out with ideas my best friend and I have explored and had fun with regarding the esoterics in the story's universe. This is going to be fun. Anyway, on with the chapter.
Chapter Fourteen
September 2013, Week Three
Democratic Republic of the Congo
[Sunday]
The sound of local fauna from monkeys to birds filled the early morning air. The tropical humidity hung over the land like a blanket. For the locals it was no more than usual. For tourists, travelers, NGOs, government officials, UN representatives, and opportunists, this place was literally a green hell. In the sky, a flash of light appeared and what came was a Plumber issued spacecraft for Alpha Squad. It landed in a grassy meadow surrounded by trees. The doors opened and a squad of four disembarked. The four held their plasma laser rifles pointing down. Their leader walked from the back to the front.
"Is this the place for the Vilgaxian outpost," the leader said, with his crewcut, and confident stature.
"Sure, thing Brannigan. The last signal detected was weeks ago. It's only two miles east of our position."
Commander Brannigan nodded to his number two, "Then let's go for a little hike."
The squad of four headed eastward, walking through the jungle. Normally walking two miles would take them half an hour or less. But through the thick foliage and watching for threats, it took them roughly an hour to pass on through. Along the path they took, they noticed disturbing imagery. Discarded Vilgaxian armor, destroyed weapons scattered around, and traces of alien blood on the trees and plants. They were careful to not disturb anything and kept their weapons pointing downward. The only sounds they heard were of the birds and monkeys high in the trees. The other sound they heard was faintly detected by their headset. The sound of thumping. Brannigan then turned sharply to his right. His guys were about to raise their weapons, but he stopped them.
"Don't! There is something here. Watching us."
"Something—or someone?"
Brannigan didn't have the heart to say it. He's been to deep primeval places across the galaxy. Carnivorous fauna was always a challenge and made him perform at his best. But something in the forest made him feel uneasy. He did not like that at all.
"Let's keep moving. Whatever or whoever is here, is in charge."
Brannigan led the group and after an hour, they made it out into another grass clearing. There they see the ruins of the Vilgaxian outpost. But they weren't alone. They saw human soldiers investigating the outpost and documenting their findings. Brannigan relaxed and led his group to find the human captain.
Meanwhile as Alpha Squad entered the area, the humans were investigating what the locals reported to the foreign man with his liberator army. The man in question is originally from Lebanon and has spent years being a freedom fighter since the tumultuous Lebanese Civil War. Gathering and fighting alongside men in the field, earning their loyalty along the way. His army of eight thousand, composed mainly of Libyans, Arabs from Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria, and Egypt. Including five hundred volunteers from Congolese men. The man's name was Ibrahim Ghalazi, a former comrade and an old friend of Mohammad Moradi.
Ibrahim Ghalazi was Mohammad's age, around fifty-eight or so and was muscular in build with greying black hair. His aviator sunglasses were folded in the breast pocket of his fatigues.
"The base was equipped to handle forty to sixty soldiers. We have accounted for at least twenty dead." The Congolese man revealed.
"Only twenty were found," Ibrahim asked as he surveyed the site with his arms crossed.
"The villagers have said the being in the jungle may be responsible and may have taken the others."
"You have said that for months to my men. And to my friend's odd traveling orchestra. Do not enter the jungle after dark or with any hunting tools. Who is this being in the jungle?"
The Congolese man was as nervous when asked this question as when giving tour guides to rich Westerners, idealistic environmentalists, or industrialists looking for prospects. The being in the jungle goes by one name. A name tied to the jungle, both here and across the door.
"Garroq. His name is Garroq."
As if on cue, the wind picked up and the birds in the trees fell silent for a moment. A long moment. Something even Ibrahim's men picked up. Some unconsciously raised their weapons when the heavy silence from the trees was felt on their skin. Ibrahim ordered them to lower them immediately. Then another sound cracked the heavy silence and men turned sharply. They were facing a squad of four, with weapons pointing at them in self-defense. Assault rifles were facing plasma laser rifles. The heavy silence weighed heavy upon all, and the Congolese man urged them to put down their arms. Ibrahim's men listened but three out of four Alpha Squad members still held them up at the ready.
"Lower your weapons boys," Brannigan commanded his team and the three did as they were told.
Ibrahim walked forward to meet the alien leader, as did Brannigan to meet the human leader. The two sized up one another. Their stance and overall confidence in their leadership skills were silently acknowledged. Ibrahim held out his hand for a handshake. Brannigan took this as a sign of trust and shook it.
"The last thing I want right now is a brawl in the jungle," Brannigan said, but added with a smirk, "Though, it would've been fun."
Ibrahim smiled, "You're young. It's a natural inclination. My name is Ibrahim Ghalazi. Commander of the People's Liberation Force."
Brannigan nodded, "My name is Brannigan. Captain of Alpha Squad 91 for the Sol Quadrant," he introduced himself.
"Pleasure. I'm assuming you've just arrived."
"Yes. My team and I are here to investigate the disappearance of men from this Vilgaxian outpost. This area was intended to be a supply and training facility with the nearest station in your planet's Sahara."
"What have you found in the jungle?"
"Blood, equipment—and something in the trees."
Ibrahim nodded and looked to the Congolese man. The man nodded, confirming his suspicions on who or what may have caused the carnage. Ibrahim gave the order to cease all investigations and return to base. Ibrahim then turned his attention to Brannigan, "You and your group can join us if you like. Bring your craft to our coordinates."
He showed them the location of their base with his global positioning device. A quick look and Brannigan nodded in confirmation. Brannigan motioned his men to walk back to their craft and keep their weapons pointing down. They nodded in agreement and walked back. Brannigan joined Ibrahim.
The base camp for Ibrahim's army were preparing to depart on the following morning. Cecilia's message from the nearby village confirmed the elder in charge of opening the Door to Anywhere without disturbing the forest guardian would arrive then. The eight thousand soldiers packed everything, save for tents to sleep in for their last night in the jungle. Others prepared their supplies and gear for the desert. After serving Ibrahim for nearly twenty years, many of the senior officers, and what the young soldiers learned early on, was the man ran everything like clockwork.
Cecilia was with the rest of LMM and while everyone spent the past two weeks training and learning skills from Ibrahim's men. In order to not be a burden for the army. She was currently speaking with Mohammad about what she learned from the village elder. And what she found out was intriguing to say the least, and exciting at best.
"It's a good thing the village elder is coming tomorrow morning. But this presence in the forest seems to be a lot more than it seemed."
"That's what I've learned sir. And I would recommend we speak with those here and learn a bit more about what's in the forest."
"Why? We're leaving tomorrow."
"Still—this intrigues me. I would like to learn more."
Mohammad nodded, "Okay. Let's go see what these men have to say about this."
"Thank you, sir."
Mohammad looked at the alien officers and whispered to Cecilia, "Make sure to tell the others to main a safe distance for the time being after meeting the elders. At least, until trust is established."
Cecilia understood and got up with Mohammad. They walked to the longhouse where the village elders congregated to discuss affairs regarding the local economy, relations to other villages, healthcare, education, and esoteric matters with the village shaman. The shaman was an elderly man with the physical health of a man in his near prime. The forest's roots, herbs, plants, and bark helped with his health, and the health of the villagers. He would soon need to pass on his teachings and wisdom to a worthy candidate, but until then, he oversaw esoteric matters. He allowed entry for Mohammad and Cecilia. He noticed Cecilia's white dress and head scarf that tied her to the Candomblé faith of Brazil. He motioned her to speak first.
"Ms. Chaves Oliveira. Please, what is it on your mind that you wish to ask?"
She bowed her head, "Thank you elder, for permitting us to enter. There is good news. The elder in charge of opening the gate will come tomorrow morning. The army and Mr. Moradi's orchestra will leave for the north."
"The great desert. To face beings from the stars."
"Yes."
"Interesting to note. An orchestra would be willing to sacrifice their lives alongside an army."
Mohammad felt the shaman's gaze upon him. The shaman's gaze turned serious for a second as he examined the Lebanese man, "You come from the north. The region where three faiths battle for control in what your ancestors called 'The Holy Land'. Yet, here you are, a skeptic. May I ask why?"
Mohammad was surprised to be put on the spot like this, "I—I felt it was necessary for faiths and people to live together and work together. Lebanon is one of the world's few exceptions where this can be achieved. Yes, my country of birth has problems, but it still stands. I'm proud of that."
"Indeed, you should be. Now, what presently has you afraid?"
Mohammad picked his words carefully, "The shrine—with a gorilla, facing eastward at the village's boundary, with open hands, accepting fruit and sweet grass. Every hour, fruit and grass are placed and yet every half hour, both are gone. May I ask what it's for?"
The village elders and shaman conversed in Lingala. Cecilia and Mohammad were relieved to communicate with them in English. None knew Lingala, Swahili, or other local languages. One elder responded, "The Protector demands tribute and from him, we have a great harvest and our children do not live in fear."
Cecilia spoke up, "Is this protector, of the forest then? This—Garroq."
The shaman looked at her and smiled, "What do you think who our Protector is?"
Cecilia answered, "Well—should I share?"
"Please, do share," the shaman reassured her.
"Well, you speak of him as if he's the true ruler here. A king. But I don't think he is, though. Either he's another powerful shaman who is the human vessel for a nature spirit, or—or he's genuinely a great ape who can talk, with the shrewd mind of a man."
One of the elders smiled as he whispered to fellow elder, "She's smart," prompting a nod in response.
"What gave you the impression Garroq is a great ape with the gift to speak?"
"Usually," Cecilia continued, "Statues like your altar is meant to embody a nature spirit. Or an animal that has attained power."
"And what is power in your belief?"
"A gift from God. A tool to help. But in man's nature, will use it for unjust reasons. Whatever power is here, it is helping all of you and protecting the children. And it requires only fruit and grass. A benevolent entity."
The shaman smiled kindly as he spoke directly to Cecilia, "We don't know if he was sent by the Great Spirit, or another. But we know he is a kind and loving creature. But he is not without teeth."
"He's a great terror!" One elder spoke, "That is certain. Much like the great lion and the lioness in the savannah. A force of nature when on the hunt and a steady force when maintaining the pride. Noble, but can also show ruthlessness to enemies."
Mohammad listened to the French the elder used. He translated for Cecilia into English on what the elder said. Cecilia listened and digested the information. This Garroq entity is now shaping up to be a genuine force of nature. It's not surprising. The shamans of the Amazon have expressed similar stances on animals that become this powerful. Revered, feared, respected, and viewed as messengers between the divine and the human world. She was deep in thought before the shaman spoke to her.
"Young sister, if you are indeed curious on the veracity of our guardian, come to the village gates that lead into the jungle at sunset. A young girl will escort you along the safe path to a clearing. There, you will meet Garroq."
Cecilia's heart pounded with anticipation, fear, and curiosity. She nodded in agreement and the shaman kindly smiled, "Come now, return to your friends. You and your conductor here. And join us for dinner once you are done with our guardian."
She nodded and got up, "Obrigada o frade, obrigada," she thanked the shaman and the man just smiled.
Mohammad got up and thanked the elders and the shaman. The elders and shaman bowed their heads to him out of respect. The shaman however had one final thing to say, "Mr. Moradi. I know you have a deep skeptical mind. But you are a good man, in your fashion. However, for your safety, it would be best for you to not accompany Ms. Chaves."
"Why not?"
"Because he would not like you. No offense. If her intended was here, perhaps. But no other should accompany her into the forest. Only one of our own."
Mohammad wanted to protest. But after being exposed to esoteric culture over the years, it was best to let things lie. He nodded, "Understood."
And with that, the two left the longhouse with a lot more questions. Cecilia's mind was racing on what to discuss or ask of the guardian. Mohammad, however, was left with uncertainty. Yes, he agreed to not accompany Cecilia into the forest. But he felt concerned for her safety. He voiced this to her as they walked.
She replied, "Sir, it is part of the culture. I am confident the elders would not seek to harm guests. Guest right is paramount here."
"I more than understand. But it's just—I am still astonished by the confidence all of you have with regards to what we're about to face."
"Do you have doubts?"
"I do, when I shouldn't." He stopped and turned to face her, "But what also troubles me is your collective understanding of war. You treat it as a bodily function. An innate understanding that war's pattern in humanity can be predicted with as much indifference as the weather."
Cecilia listened before speaking, "I must admit, yes, it is an expectation we have been raised with. It's unfortunate, to always anticipate war."
She softly smiled, "However, I am grateful there are those wiser and more learned in the histories than I. This is not the first time we've faced conquerors from the stars."
"What? Not the first? How can this be? The ancient alien hypothesis is pseudohistory!"
"No, you misunderstood," she loudly spoke. This got his attention, to which she cleared the air, "It's not recorded in the history books available to humanity. It's—I'll tell you more when we get to the desert tomorrow.
Mohammad looked at her perplexed, "Then what can you share?"
"What I can share is this—our collective history predates the Floods."
"The Floods? Don't you mean the Flood," Mohammad relayed, and Cecilia eyed him curiously, but intrigued, "I thought you didn't believe."
He chuckled, "I'll share my own family dynamics later. But I was surrounded by differing takes on Creation and the events that followed concerning the Almighty. In college as you all know, I joined the Lebanese Communist Party."
"A fan of Marx?"
"More like maneuvering between the religious and political factions playing out during the civil war. But back to the topic at hand—I did genuinely wonder if religion was an opiate of the masses. All the stories I grew up learning and believing, to only instill control of the people so a sense of morality is established—I never shared any of this with my family."
"And now? Is your sense of belief restored?" She asked and he smiled, "I hope so."
As the two walked back to the others, the rest of LMM finished packing and hung out in the outdoor area where many soldiers smoked, drank some liquor, and in general, relaxed. Alberto was discussing his recent communication with Wilfredo in Spain with his friends, while Zane was on the satellite phone with his aunt and uncle who were with his parents. Gilberto was checking their satellite connectivity on his heavy-duty Panasonic laptop. The others were either resting, drinking water, or writing in their journals. But careful to not write exactly their locations. They kept it vague so if their journals were lost, no one would garner any useful information. Which upset Zach who wanted to take b-roll footage. But he compensated with photos of the trees and ventured safely in, based on the word from the villagers.
Asuka finished her call with Stanislaw. The Polish American was currently in Greece with the Russian field officer for the magi and the Kremlin, Yuri Ivanovich. They are awaiting a ferry to head for Lebanon and take a car trip to Jordan. There, they can speak with the king and open channels for Prince Mahbeer and his forces. And upon hearing Fatma was heading southward with her mother, her dragon, and the dragon aliens, this required legal wrangling to convince the hunters and raiders of Jordan's deserts to not shoot her down with ballistae. The news was encouraging, but she was starting to worry about the outcome for all of this.
Then she heard noise from the air. So did everyone else. An alien craft landing near the camp's perimeter. Asuka and her friends recognized the symbol on the spacecraft's side. The Plumber's green hourglass in a black circle. Asuka looked at them closely. They appeared familiar. Then, what she presumed to be their leader walked to them from the army's captain's barracks. He was a tall, broad-shouldered, green skin, and a crew cut. He walked over to his men from the ship, and they saluted him. One of them looked over at her direction and ran to her. She went into a defensive stance but was struck by the alien's gleeful nature. He was a barrel chested of a male alien and his smile revealed two protruding canines from his lower mouth pointing upward. His blue eyes were almond shaped, and his skin was that of nutmeg.
"Hello there!"
"Uh—hello. Do I know you?"
"Last year, you were struck by one of them magic people with a stick! You died and came back to life!"
Asuka eyed him carefully and the rest of his team who was coming. Brannigan's expression was serious. She responded, "Um—wait—oh! Were you all there to retrieve Gwen and Kevin from Israel?"
The male alien bellowed a loud laugh, "That's it! It was nighttime when we came to retrieve them, met them and you and others at that abandoned fortress in the middle of the desert and—you're a good fighter!"
He smiled and she chuckled nervously, "Uh—thank you. But I wouldn't dwell on it if you don't mind."
The male alien wanted to continue talking with her before he heard a cough, "Excuse me," Brannigan spoke. The male alien immediately stood at attention, "Sir!"
Brannigan nodded and turned his attention on Asuka. He examined her and smiled, "Hello red."
"Excuse me? Red?" Asuka ticked. He didn't like being called 'red'.
Brannigan smirked, "Your hair. A darker shade than Ms. Tennyson's. A richer reddish-brown. But what I do remember was your grit when fighting off those men and women in the desert last Earth year."
"Oh?"
"Yep. My team was impressed by your fortitude. In fact, your team's fortitude to charge forward. Despite the ridiculous odds stacked against you."
She blinked and smiled, "So you all have heard we gave it all we had in New York then?"
His team laughed, "New York? Even a few weeks ago, when demonic hordes attacked our officers and once again, heard that Ben got a rag tag team to beat them, you guys showed up, again!"
"We couldn't say no," Zane spoke up and Brannigan's team turned to him and the rest of LMM, "It was the least we could do."
"You're annoyingly too modest," Brannigan quipped in good humor, "All of you. But this is no time to be modest. If you all are here, then you know what's at stake. Time to gird your loins and—"
"Get to work," Christine spoke up and everyone looked at her, "Isn't that what's said in movies and TV?"
Brannigan sighed as his team chuckled a bit, "Not in that tone, but sure."
Asuka smiled as the rest of LMM introduced themselves to the Alpha Squad members. As she saw this, she was reminded of what could've been with Danny, his friends, and to her surprise, Ben and his friends. A simple introduction. Then her thoughts were interrupted by the sounds of birds in the trees. Something startled them to the point of flying southward. The soldiers in the area looked up at the birds, but the villagers looked to the trees, where they and the army heard deep, loud noises coming from within. Then followed a heavy silence before they resumed their activities.
Brannigan looked around and saw LMM looking disturbed. And saw them looking to their leader, and a woman in a white lace dress with a white head scarf walking towards them. He looked at the young woman with a serious expression. Her posture, the quiet confidence, her eyes that held a piercing focus, he knew immediately; she was an esoteric type. Her calm demeanor among her friends and colleagues was not forced. But a natural, sincere quality that exuded from her.
The rest of the day came and went. Logistics regarding the equipment, coordinates, allies in the desert; esoteric and human familiars, and the dangers in the desert. Not the alien invaders, but what many have encountered over the years since Ibrahim founded the People's Liberation Force. Djinns, demonic spirits, warlocks, witches, isolated ruins deep in the deserts of North Africa far to the west of Egypt and Sudan. Allies in imams, priests, rabbis, shamans, and various military generals who believed in their cause either through sincere belief, or by circumstance. But their list of enemies was also accounted for. Their knowledge of secret routes across North Africa to avoid them, was invaluable.
When the afternoon was waning into evening, Mohammad approached Ibrahim. Ibrahim was sitting on a tree log near the village's perimeter, wearing white t-shirt and fatigue trousers. His boots shined black, even in the dim light. He looked up at his old friend. Mohammad dressed in tanned military trousers with boots, polished black, and sported a white t-shirt. He tossed his friend a water bottle. Ibrahim caught it and motioned Mohammad to sit at the empty space next to him. He complied and sat next to him.
"My orchestra is packed and ready to go."
"Good. I must admit, my men and I are impressed by their fortitude. No doubt your travels over the years have steeled them for the world."
"True. I wish sometimes they didn't take the risks that led to—here."
"What do you mean?"
"I wanted all of us to explore the route of the Nile while also meeting you for an interview and your armed forces. Then travel north, meet the locals of Sudan who are adapting to the new order, and then head west, into the Sahara, meet the Bedouin, and ending our journey at the Atlantic."
Ibrahim laughed, "Still a romantic. Good, we need more of you these days."
"It's overly sentimental I know—but you can't expect us to truly forget those adventure stories we read as boys? I thought you might have—"
"Joined you and your group for a vacation?"
Mohammad nodded and Ibrahim sighed, "What a wonderful temptation, brother."
Mohammad smiled, "I can be a little devil sometimes. How else was I able to win Dania over years ago?"
"You would have. She was already won over by your talent for music. Don't add anything fancy to your words."
Mohammad laughed, "Good point!"
"But still," Ibrahim smiled, "This war may be a chance to accomplish our dreams."
"Meaning?"
"Exploring places we've once read about as boys."
"With all due respect. There's nothing left to explore. All we can do now is visit."
"Oh, that's where you are wrong. I've seen things and people where, many have explored the surface, but none have begun to explore the true depths."
Mohmmad was curious about his friend's choice of words. Then he heard footsteps. Cecilia was walking on the dirt path in her white lace dress and white head scarf. Barefoot. She approached the village's gate, heading deep into the forest. There, she met a young girl, no more than nine years old.
"Grandpa said to take you into the forest," the girl said, referring 'grandpa' to the village's shaman.
"I see. Thank you. I do not wish trouble you or put yourself in danger."
The girl nodded a no, "I am not afraid! He won't allow anything to happen! I promise you," the girl gave a toothy grin, full of confidence.
Cecilia returned it with a soft grin, almost reassured by the girl's good nature, "Then lead the way."
The girl then took Cecilia's hand, and both walked into the forest. Mohammad stood up and Ibrahim stopped him with a gentle clasp on his left shoulder. Mohammad turned around to face his friend, "Leave her be. Out of all of us, she's in safe hands.''
Mohammad's expression was of deep concern, "I know!" His tone was accidentally too harsh to express it, "I'm sorry."
Ibrahim was relaxed and not bothered by his friend's outburst, "No need to apologize. But please, relax. You're far from home. You, your wife, and your orchestra. It's best to listen and learn. Especially to where we'll be going."
"I know. The Sahara and—" but was interrupted by Ibrahim, "Not just into the desert for battle. As I have mentioned, there are depths we have not even begun to imagine to this world."
Mohammad let his friend's words weigh upon his heart and returned his gaze to the trees. Cecilia was long gone from view. And so was the little girl who escorted her in. He breathed in and out to steady his nerves. From another spot, the rest of LMM looked upon the path where Cecilia ventured alone into the forest. As did Alpha Squad. They were confused as to why she did it. LMM less so, but nonetheless, concerned for their friend.
Cecilia walked next to the little girl. Standing to the girl's right and carefully observed the darkness around her. While she felt a little on edge, regarding the legend of Garroq, the girl was unfazed. Comforted, knowing she is protected by the forest guardian. After several minutes, they arrived at a clear spot where above revealed the coming stars against the darkening sky. The trees as observed by Cecilia were mangled, manipulated, and marked by bite marks, and what she deduced, strong hand grips.
She then heard the little girl joyfully laugh and walked forward. Slowly out of the shadows, Cecilia saw it. A giant, gorilla. Looking very much like a Western Gorilla, normally found in West African countries. But for it to be outside of its native habitat and live this far east of the Atlantic, intrigued her. The gorilla then turned its gaze from the little girl to Cecilia. Brown eyes met brown. Cecilia can immediately sense power and deep age. Something she did not account for. Then it spoke.
"I am Garroq. May I ask what your name is?" Garroq greeted in English, with his tone deep and an accent close to a French accent.
"My name is Cecilia Chaves Oliveira. I come from Brazil." She introduced herself.
Garroq nodded and returned his attention to the little girl, "Little one, it is time for you to return to the village. It is dark and dangerous creatures come at this time."
The little girl nodded and happily gave him a hug. He returned it with surprising gentleness. Making some deep guttural noises, a bonobo appeared from behind Cecilia's spot. She had no idea it was there. Now knowing she could not run without the great ape's permission, she surrendered to the situation. Garroq instructed the bonobo to escort the little girl back to the village. Once the girl was gone, Garroq relaxed and took something that was hanging from one of the lower branches. It looked to be a basket, made by ape hands, not human. He offered her a mango, "Fruit?"
Cecilia nodded, "Please, thank you." She accepted the fruit and took a bite, peel and fruit.
Garroq smiled and relaxed, "You're one of the few, aside from the shaman who did not run from me. I can finally have a conversation. Now, what brings you and your group to my jungle?"
She swallowed before answering, "My group's conductor and his friend's army only wish to use the Door, to travel to the Sahara."
"Why? There's not much there. Save for heat, sand, and temperamental merchants."
"A conqueror from the stars has come here. A vast prison camp and bases is in the desert. At least, that's what merchants from Mali have shared with the nearby village."
Garroq snorted, "When will star children learn? Then again—it's as bad as 2,400 years ago. Where beings have come who were twice the size of a human dwelling," he then turned silent and looked on Cecilia who listened and ate her mango.
"Are you a fire worshipper?"
"No. A friend of mine however, is. She worships her Lord who is named, Ahura Mazda."
"And who do you worship?"
"Olodumare, and his prophet, Orunmila. The arixas I commune with are but manifestations of his glory."
Garroq nodded, "Fascinating. A lot has changed since I have come here. I remember when men wore nice hats with little buckles. It's true that tribal peoples change little, or people of your ilk work to maintain traditions. But everyone seems to change at lightning pace. It's a bit disorientating."
Cecilia chewed and swallowed some more fruit, "So—you are older than you look," she spoke, and he laughed a deep, bellowing laugh.
"I remember when I have come here from a Door—I found myself in this world. In a menagerie under a ruler named Louis. Maxi was one of my frequent visitors. He was a good man, but once he got a taste of power," he chuckled and nodded his head, "Poor, poor Maxi."
Cecilia was stunned. Listening to Garroq describing his time in the late 1700s, presumably the king of the time, Louis XVI, and no doubt, Maximillian Robespierre, the so-called 'Incorruptible' of the Revolution. As far as Wilfredo had once showed her when he researched the French Revolution for a class assignment regarding the American War for Independence and its role that led up to France's eventuality of ousting its king, Declaration of the Rights of Man, and the Terror that followed.
As she finished her mango, she then asked the question, "Something's been on my mind. Regarding what you said earlier. What did you mean when you came to this world? Did the Door to Anywhere had a role?"
The gorilla relaxed against the mangled trees and sat down, "I remember I was once on a walk and came across a strange archway. I then found myself here. When I arrived, I was surprised by how small this place is."
Cecilia nodded, "Deforestation, I know."
"No, no. Not that at all. What surprised me how small the forests were here. The flora, the fauna, and unable to communicate with the great apes here. I had to learn their language. Then, in turn, teach them to fend for themselves. So, this is my territory. The village still stands because they are kind. But make no mistake. Should one be disobedient or prove a danger to the people or my kind, then he or she must be dealt with."
Sadness filled her. Justice was never something to be taken lightly. Human or otherwise. Then she felt something rumbling below her feet. It filled her with dread, and she got into a defensive stance. Garroq stood up, taller than her and motioned her to calm down, "Careful, this thing only wishes you to put up a fight."
"What is it?"
"Something the children should never have to face. On the village's shaman can handle them. If he's too far away, I come in."
In a few moments, she got her answer. In the dim light of encroaching night, see saw a giant spider, one of the rare J'ba FoFi, climbing out of the tree roots and uplifting a floor of what she discerned, neatly placed leaves to camouflage its trap door. Its pincers were the size of her forearms. It was a dark brown with streaks of black across its engorged belly. Its black eyes glistened in the dim light. And she knew full well, if a spider felt threatened, it would attack. This species, however, was predatory and would seek out prey that seemed alone and defenseless. Once the prey was near its trap door. Since she had little experience dealing with megafauna, she had little confidence in fighting it off. Running away, yes. But what occurred next, dispelled her fear and was replaced with astonishment.
Garroq and his ape kin pounded their chests and roared against the incoming threat. While the other gorillas put up a good show, Garroq's power was palpable. Enough for Cecilia to feel on her skin. Raising the hairs up in anticipation. Garroq charged forward to grab the spider. It was a fierce struggle between giant ape and giant arachnid. The spider's legs shook violently as Garroq grabbed its front legs and dragged it out of the hole. Cecilia moved out of the range, but still observed. Controlling her breathing and not have it haggard. The spider proved to be quick and when Garroq mis-stepped, he fell backward and landed with a thud. The spider then got on its eight legs, flashing its pincers threateningly.
Cecilia can see the gorillas circling around Garroq, willing to give their lives for their leader. But then, on instinct, she got into position. Moving back and forth, performing a ginga. She closed her eyes, feeling the firm earth beneath her feet, her breathing becoming calmer, her heartbeat calmed as well, and she can even hear the bateria. As if it were performed by her father at her family's capoeira school. Its sound soothed and as she continued to move, her eyes opened and focused on the spider. The giant spider turned its attention to the Brazilian and was perplexed by the woman's movements before it got into attacking position.
Garroq sat up and was aided by the native gorillas. He witnessed the aura changed in the young woman. She was moving very dance-like as she then proceeded to combat the giant spider. The spider lunged for her, but she moved out of the way and delivered a kick to one of its legs. Then she slid down, dirtying her white lace dress. Her head scarf came undone, and her hair came unrestrained. She then flipped over the giant arachnid to then deliver a roundhouse kick to the head. It was stunned, and Garroq can see her feet, legs, and even her arms and hands glowing a blue hue when she was attacking. She was indeed the same as the village's shaman, just inexperienced.
Cecilia was holding her own and while she dodged, struck, leapt out of the way, she continued to perform her ginga. Unlike Wilfredo whose seal would normally form beneath his feet, her seal would be divided around her body. Delivering power when attacking and her ginga would center her power around her core. She knew now; she was toying the giant arachnid. She needed to deliver the kill, but Garroq beat her to it.
She then got into one final position as she ran from the spider in a circle. She stopped and leapt upward. Higher than what a woman or man would be capable. But she was grabbed by one of the chimpanzees who kept to the trees. Cecilia was stunned and saw below the battle between Garroq and the giant spider. In a swift moment, the giant ape ripped the arachnid apart. It lay on the ground, split into two. The sight of the spider's innards spilled on the grass sickened Cecilia. But was relieved she and Garroq survived. She can see the apes bumping their chests, cheering on the intelligent ape.
The chimpanzee escorted her back to the grass by climbing down the tree. She wondered if the chimpanzee was also supernaturally intelligent or was ordered by Garroq to get her out of harm's way. Whichever was the case, she was learning a lot this night.
Garroq got up and approached the young woman. His heavy hand gently patted her head, "You were fearful before. Instinct however, aided you. You are noble. But remember what I am about to tell you."
Cecilia listened as he spoke, "You are connected to the elemental powers of nature. But nature is not kind, nor merciful. It pushes every creature to survive. Humans are no different. But many have lost their connection. And many more seek it again. Too many are soft."
He turned her around, "You, however, are not. You need to embrace your instincts so you can defend those who cannot defend themselves. The star children will not show mercy. And neither should you. Protect your kin, the old, and the young. That is all I have to say to you. Return to the village, get some food, and rest."
As Garroq was returning to the trees, Cecilia spoke, "Thank you! But I do have one last question."
Garroq stopped and turned to face her again, "Then ask."
"Earlier, you said you approached an arch that led you here. Where did you come from?"
Garroq walked to her and spoke with a tone that reminded her of a teacher, "I have come from a land where men have sought riches. Their destinies are given meaning. It is a savage place. Such greenery and beasts that haunt many a nightmare and pleasant dreams. This place fuels a primal joy. But can also corrupt man and woman to be beyond redemption. That place is Gaisari."
"Gaisari," she mouthed the foreign word, but Garroq spoke again, "It is not a place for you, or your mate."
"How did you—" Garroq laughed good-naturedly, "You are a woman. Not a girl. Now, please, go. Get some rest. And prepare for war. Remember my words and you will live."
And with that, the giant ape turned and returned to the trees. Cecilia was about to head back, but then was escorted by one of the bonobos. She maintained a respectable distance but stayed close. The sounds of insects and nocturnal birds such as owls filled the evening air. Once she arrived at the village's boundary, the bonobo made some noises and returned to the jungle. She waved back with a gentle smile and returned to the village.
Mohammad and the rest of the orchestra were having dinner. They saved a seat and a plate of for Cecilia when she returns. The base camp nearby was done with packing their equipment. The low lights in both the village and the base camp were to not draw attention from the guerillas or the megafauna. Ibrahim's army heard the noises in the forest. The sounds of gorillas, and one whose was louder and powerful. Garroq as some whispered in Ibrahim's forces.
Dania noticed Cecilia approaching them and got up to approach the Brazilian. She gave her a hug and escorted her to the group. Cecilia sat down at her place next to Christine and Asuka. Her food was mostly vegetarian, boil cassava root, sweet potato, spinach, okra, and cassava leaves. Water was given for drinks and later for those who wanted, some local moonshine.
As she ate, she was peppered with question on what she witnessed in the jungle. She looked upon her friends and colleagues but gave a coy smile and swallowed her food before responding, "Something I needed. And—that's enough."
While they just accepted her response, Brannigan's team who were nearby heard this looked at one another. The team recalled hearing the noises from the jungle and looked on Cecilia. Why did she, apart from some tears in her dress, appeared in good shape? What was it she communicated with inside? Who was that girl who escorted her? And this—Garroq, who or what was it?
Brannigan took out one of his cigars and twirled it between his fingers. He savored the flavor and looked at his team, "We're on one of those planets, boys. Keep sharp."
The ogre looking alien grunted, "I don't like it. How the hell the GCRD (Galactic Cultural Research Department) didn't find this out? Why hide that power behind a pretty planet? Did Magister Tennyson know all along?"
"That's the idea. What better way to display that power of the second science, than to hide it with beauty," the slim yellow skinned alien with facial tendrils and yellow eyes spoke.
The purple skinned alien with a singular eye then brought up something, "The Galactic Council and Azmuth of the Galvin is not going to like the recent developments here. They might decide to just let Vilgax succeed in stamping out a potential second science emerging here."
Brannigan however disagreed, "Azmuth, despite being an ego driven bastard, won't risk his reputation or drag down the council with him with a move like that. Plus, there's no financial incentive."
"What do you mean?" the ogre alien asked. To which Brannigan replied, "Azmuth and the council need a competitor in order to stave off the Incurseans and the Tetramands. Letting Earth fall to Vilgax is a political blunder of epic proportions. Do you trust someone like him to not wage a campaign against the Incurseans or Tetramands?"
The silence of his team was enough. Brannigan puts his cigar back into his pocket and stood up, "Finish up. Then head back to the spacecraft. We're going to need the rest."
"Yes sir." His team replied and the evening went on, uninterrupted. Save for the sounds coming from the jungle.
[Monday]
Dawn came, with the sound of morning birds and monkeys singing. The relative cool air was felt on the skins of Ibrahim's forces. LMM were standing nearby observing and ready to go as well. Brannigan and his team were standing by in their spacecraft. Brannigan observed the surroundings from his seat, wondering when the elder from the next village over, would come to open the Door. Then he noticed an elderly man walking towards the spot that marked the boundary between the base camp, and the village. Like the shaman, he walked with a staff.
The village's shaman approached him and smiled, "Are you ready, brother?"
"As always. We won't relive the glory days of our youth," the elderly man sighed, "Such a shame."
The shaman laughed, "Let the young have their shot. Our time has passed. But we can lend a helping hand."
The elder nodded, "We can."
The two stood side by side. Both held their staffs, carved with images of their deeds over the course of their lives. Alongside the images were small, script written in a language long forgotten by many. Save for the villages the men hailed from. They called upon the Lord of Lords, He who Rules from the skies, and tapped the ground three times.
Then the rumbling of the ground was felt and heard. Startling birds in the trees, causing them to fly away. The ground then broke apart, and a stone arch emerged. It was large. Large enough for Alpha Squad's spacecraft to pass through. The arched gateway was also carved, this time with the images of animals, people who once carved a civilization here, thousands of years ago, and images of ancient battles that decided the fate of humanity. Across the jungles, and the vast landscape to the north. The door then opened.
Ibrahim's forces marched forward, which took time. Followed by Brannigan's spacecraft, hovering through the archway. And lastly, LMM. They walked through. They swallowed their fear and walked through the archway. Cecilia stopped to bow to the shaman and the elder, as did Ibrahim and Mohammad before her. She turned around to face the trees and bowed toward them. Silently thanking Garroq. She heard their noises of encouragement and smiled. She resumed walking through the archway, to the heat of Mali, the edge of the Sahara. The door closed behind her.
The village elder and the shaman raised their staffs and the Door soon returned to the earth. The two looked at one another. Knowing what lies ahead for the foreigners will be a test. To test their metal, not just against the conquerors from the stars, but also what lies in the desert itself.
To be continued
This was written concurrently with chapter fifteen. I am proud of what was laid down, thanks to a dear friend, who is named Pagliacci-11.
Read, review, critique, and I'll see you soon.