REGIONS OF THE HOME-WIND

This was my first attempt at fiction, a long short story, written about 18 months ago, now retrieved from my Wordpad:

REGIONS OF THE HOME-WIND by "Twilight".

"I am going, O Nokomis,
On a long and distant journey,
To the portals of the Sunset.
To the regions of the home-wind" ( from Longfellow's "Song of Hiawatha")


*********************

Greetings to all who read here.
I am Rethiko, Chief Recorder in The First City of Planet Alterion in the year 800 EA.

The following communications, from two of my former assistants in the Great Hall of Records, have been permanently enrolled within the Central Data Bank of Alterion. Any who read these, in present or future times, will gain important insights which may illuminate a future pathway.

Peace be with you.
Rethiko of The First City.

*************************************************



Chief Recorder Rethiko,

It is with the greatest respect, and some regret, that we must inform you of our departure. Our research within the Great Hall of Records, under your tuition, has taught us much. Unable to resist the temptation, in our free time we continued with searches of our own, encompassing materials stored well beyond our designated limits.

We discovered, at last, what we have always instinctively known was waiting to be found. Hidden deep within the data banks was evidence of the origins of our ancestors. This knowledge has been protected and kept a secret from the people of Alterion by order of the Great Chiefs. You may be privy to their reasons.

We now feel a strong urge to act upon what we have discovered. To this end we have enlisted the help of an old friend who studied with us in our youth. Now an Astronaut of chartered craft, he will provide transport for part of the vast distance we must travel, he will also make available the means for us to complete the second part of the journey independently.

Regular reports of our experiences will be communicated to you via Starcast. We hope that you can forgive any wrongdoing on our part, and that you will try to understand what you must surely look upon as nothing but a reckless adventure.

Farewell Chief Recorder.
Peace be with you.
DRUID and CHEROKA


First Report

This is transmitted from "Onedin Star", a spacecraft normally used to convey essential materials to Alterion from other planets in the System Ra. On this occasion it travels to a more distant galaxy to collect consignments of rare minerals

We approach the Great Space Spiral, main link from System Ra into outer Cosmic space, once this has been negotiated the Astronaut will navigate through a system of lesser spirals to bring us near to the first point of touch-down.

Cheroka and I both experience feelings of strangeness. We realise that for the first time in our lives we shall be independent. Away from the protective and supportive systems of Alterion, many possibilities beckon. This is a new and challenging outlook.

Accommodation inside the spaceship is cramped, the space suits we must wear felt restrictive at first. Cheroka especially was uncomfortable, for these suits are quite unlike her long, light robes.

Within the Great Space Spiral we experienced brief loss of consciousness, rather like falling into a deep dreamless sleep. Wonderful vistas of colour and light can now be seen from the observation deck.

The Astronaut warns us to adjust the instruments in our suits and relax our bodies as the spacecraft enters outer Cosmos.

Peace be with you.
Druid.

************************

Second Report

Now in deep space, the sight before us becomes ever more amazing. Such beauty and vastness, a limitless expanse of stars which shine more brightly than we have ever seen.

We are using the long journey time to study maps and scripts copied from the Great Hall of Records. The planet on which our spacecraft will first land was known in ancient times as "Mars". There we must disembark and detach a lesser craft from the main spaceship. Druid and I will then continue our journey in the small vessel, using programmed instructions, and an Autonaut to assist navigation to our final destination.

Mars is part of a group of planets which circle a star anciently called "The Sun". This group was known as the Solar System, in a galaxy known as "The Milky Way". According to records there was once a thriving mining community on Mars, but because of difficulties connected with the Martian atmosphere, the planet was abandoned.

Counting the passage of time in space is difficult. Alterion time is no longer useful. We have settled upon a method of numbering our periods of sleep. Our bodies are biologically programmed to take regular rest, this is the only reliable method of time-counting we have available to us.

Peace be with you.
Cheroka

**********************

Third Report.

After many periods of sleep we are now within sight of Mars, the planet is shrouded by a strange red glow as we approach.

Thoughts of our continued journey into the unknown make us nervous, but excited. Emotions alien to us on Alterion are starting now to surface. Throughout our lives we have been taught to supress strong emotion, to remain calm and peaceful. Recently we have struggled to understand why these teachings are given such importance on our planet.

Peace be with you
Druid.

Rethiko of Alterion to Druid and Cheroka - Responding via Starcast.

Your reports have reached me in Alterion's Great Hall of Records.
It is a privilege to share the experiences of your journey.

I feel it incumbent upon me to offer some explanations, in light of your most recent report.

The Covenant of Peace and Tranquility was drawn up in the year 01 EA. As you may have learned through diligent research, the Covenant stood as a promise, and a tribute to the strength and courage of the people of a dying planet. A planet left desolate by wars, the after effects of which intensified a wave of natural upheavals which were already occurring. Greed, hatred and the mishandling of the planet's resources were major factors contributing to successive catastrophic events. Greed, hatred and catastrophy are words alien to you, and the people of Alterion. I trust you may never know or experience their full meaning.

The First Great Chiefs were themselves refugees from the dying planet known as Earth. They had suffered equally, or perhaps even more, than the people they helped to escape. Vows made, when a new home for their people was established, reflected an absolute determination that violence between any rival factions must never be allowed to occur again. The Chiefs made solemn vows to protect the new planet home, to educate their people in ways of peace. Meditation, calmness, pureness of thought, and a gradual elimination of strong or violent emotion is the thread which has run through life on Alterion. Many generations have lived peaceful, healthy and happy lives. Issues of conflict, on the few occasions they have arisen, have been taken to The Great Chiefs of Arbitration. Their decisions are never questioned, they are men and women of wisdom, deep insight and psychic powers.

In your present circumstances it becomes necessary for me to break my rule of silence on these matters, to make clear the reasons behind our Covenant of Peace and Tranquility. Neither you nor I know what might await you at your destination. The information I have given may be of help.

And now I take leave of my pilgrims.
Go forward in peace and safety.
Rethiko of Alterion.


Fourth Report - recorded by Cheroka

We thank you for your kindness Rethiko. Your words have brought even more certainty that our pilgrimage is essential. What awaits us on planet Earth is unknown. We must summon some of the courage of our ancestors. When first they set foot upon Alterion - what awaited them was also unknown. Their bloodline flows through us, courage is awaiting our call.

The "Onedin Star" has reached the surface of planet Mars. Wearing pressurised helmets we disembarked. Stepping onto another planet for the first time, we felt invigorated. Our spacecraft landed on a plain strewn with large rocks. In the distance stand some ruined constructions which must be remains of the mines and laboratories of which we have read. Scientists from Earth tried to adjust the atmosphere here, but efforts were only temporarily successful.

The smaller spacecraft, in which we are to continue our journey alone, has been detached and prepared. After one sleep period the main spacecraft departed. We have checked equipment stowed on our small vessel. We have portable lights, clothing for a variety of climates, implements of sedation to use should we need to calm any violent creatures, also a selection of medcines.

We shall now continue toward our final destination: planet Earth.

Peace be with you
Cheroka.


Fifth Report - recorded by Druid

We have now been travelling towards planet Earth for 10 sleep periods.
This spacecraft, though small in size, is extremely powerful, and has been programmed to find the most rapid route to our destination.

Today, for the first time, a tiny spot appeared on the navigation screen, the instruments tell us that this is planet Earth! We estimate that 30 to 40 more sleep periods will bring us close enough to see the planet clearly.

We meditate to find patience. Our Alterian training will help us, but it is ever more difficult to remain unmoved at the thought of what lies before us.

30 more periods of sleep have passed - planet Earth can now be seen clearly in the observation bay - a wondrous sight. She is blue - a beautiful, intense blue, much bluer than an Alterian sky. Powerful ancestral memories seem to speak to us as we gaze upon our destination.

Few outlines of land are now visible, we have been unable to relate them to our maps. We fear that many things will have changed since these maps were produced. Copies of astronomical charts will be our main guide in calculating direction on Earth's surface.

Peace be with you
Druid.

Sixth Report - recorded by Cheroka

On waking we found that our spacecraft had touched down while we slept.

We disembarked slowly, wearing pressurised helmets to check the atmosphere. Instruments in our helmets soon indicated that the air is clean and suitable for our systems. It was a moment of absolute joy to remove our helmets and take in first breaths of the air of planet Earth. Sweet, clear as the crystals we find in the hills of Alterion. Sharp as the beak of an Alterion Wildjay. Cool as water from the springs of Mount Alteria.

The spacecraft has come to rest in an area of flat ground. There are hills and mountains in the far distance. In the near distance, some mounds of stones. Green vegetation lies tangled all around. There is silence. The sky is deep blue, and the star they called The Sun shines down, just as Ra shines down on Alterion. We feel the heat through our space suits and long to discard them.

Sitting on the ground, feeling the warmth rise through our bodies, we stripped off the space suits and wore only the loose, short robes which remained beneath. Walking to the mounds of stones lying just beyond our craft, we saw evidence of ornamental carving, decoration which must have been made by people of Earth, long ago. We placed our hands on the stones with reverence, allowing vibrations from the minerals to enter our bodies. It is possible that these stones once formed parts of buildings. Perhaps a great city once stood here. These were the intuitive signals we received. Vibrations are strong on planet Earth, and seem to be in tune with our own. This has given us confidence.

Peace be with you
Cheroka

Seventh Report - recorded by Druid

Near to the craft, we watched the Sun disappear below the horizon. As the sky grew dark, more quickly than on Alterion, stars and planets appeared. The night sky is beautiful.

There is one Moon, larger than Alterion's two, or so it appears. It shines down very brightly, almost a complete disc. Studying star charts, we have identified what the ancients called "The North Star" or "Polaris". For a temporary method of estimating direction, we noted where the Sun fell beneath the horizon.

Cheroka and I enjoy heightened mental communication here. We know from our studies that few people in ancient times used this ability. The leader of our First Great Chiefs was one of the few. We were fortunate that she encouraged those she led to learn, use, and teach these precious skills to young successors.

The air grows cold quickly as darkness falls.

When the Sun rises again we shall note its position, then adjust the craft's controls so that we may hover just above Earth's surface, and begin our explorations.

Peace be with you
Druid.

Eighth Report - recorded by Cheroka

As the Sun appeared above the horizon we completed modifications to our craft and began to travel towards the hills and mountains. The Sun was high overhead by the time we approached the hills.

The ground had become softer, less dry, with a regular covering of green vegetation. Small trees, and coloured flowers lined the edges of a narrow stream of crystal clear liquid, which looked like water. We stopped the craft to examine it. The liquid is, indeed, water. Results obtained after testing left us in no doubt. We tasted Earth's water - delicious!

As we travelled further into the hills, small insects appeared on the navigation screen. This caused some excitement. It was further evidence of life here. Druid increased speed, taking the craft higher from the ground, enabling us to cover more distance before the Sun once again descended.

As darkness fell we arrived at the base of the mountains. When light returns we shall continue to explore on foot. The temperature has dropped considerably, our space suits will be needed, for warmth and protection.

Further evidence of life has appeared in the damp ground on the mountain-side, imprints which may be footprints of a small creature.

In a clearing, surrounded by enormous rocks and tall trees, we saw the ruins of what looks like a roughly-built shelter. There are carvings on nearby rocks. We shall inspect more closely when light returns.

Peace be with you.
Cheroka.

Ninth Report.

The clear fresh air and physical exercise have affected our systems. We slept so long that the Sun was already high when we returned to the mountainside to inspect the carvings.

Crudely carved inscriptions appear to be names. There is also a recurring symbol, a vertical pillar with a horizontal pillar across it; we remember that this sign was known as a "cross", and related to what some peoples of Earth called "religion". This was a concept we found incomprehensible during our researches. Perhaps this place marks a location where people died, or were laid to rest in the ground. It may have been intended to stand as a memorial. It has certainly done so.

Higher on the mountainside the air became colder. We were amazed to see in the distance, and higher still, what appeared to be smoke. Could it be possible that humans have survived, and still live in these mountains? A more likely explanation, we thought, was that the hot sun had caused some dried vegetation to blaze.

Tenth Report

Cheroka has fallen onto sharp rocks on the mountainside. Her legs and arms are badly torn. I left her where she lay in order to return to the craft to collect medicines. When I returned Cheroka was no longer where I had left her. She could not have walked unaided. I feel she may have been harmed. I shall search the surrounding area. My heart begins to pump vigorously - this is what I always imagined fear would be !

Peace be with you. I hope to return with better news soon.

Druid.

>Rethiko of Alterion responding to Druid via Starcast

Your latest report concerns me greatly. Please feel reassured that if Cheroka has been moved, then it would seem that something, or someone was trying to help her, not harm her. Bear that thought in mind, my pilgrim, as you search.

You mentioned, in an earlier report, the Earthly concept of religion. I will say little now, as I know that your mind must be preoccupied.

For thousands of years, before the migration, most peoples of Earth held belief in a "creator" known by a variety of names and worshipped or respected in various ways in different areas of the planet. Each religion used a framework of rules by which its followers were advised to live. Most retained ancient texts written by their founders.

We have learned from research that religions evolved over long periods of Earth time. They gradually moved away from the original purpose, of promoting peace, harmony, and a healthy way of life. Teachings of two widely followed religions strayed so far from their origins that followers began to destroy each other. This undoubtedly was a factor instrumental in bringing an end to civilisation, and as far as we know, life on planet Earth.

On planet Alterion, as you know, we believe that only life itself is sacred, that it arises from an interconnected universe, of which we all form a part. We are all creators. Peace has enfolded our planet for 800 Alterian years. We flourish, we have created our way of life from a wilderness.

These are matters you should keep in memory if you find that planet Earth proves still to be populated, however sparsely. The descendants of any who survived the destructive events might retain ancestral memories. It is well that you remain aware of this.

Proceed in peace and safety.
Rethiko of the First City.

Report recorded by Druid.

The sun has risen and set many times since my last report. My thanks , Rethiko, for your communication.

I searched for some sign indicating in which direction Cheroka had been moved, but found none. As darkness was falling I saw a column of smoke rising in the distance, and climbed towards it. As I drew nearer I heard sounds. Silence had surrounded us for so long that even the smallest sound now surprises me.

I imagined human voices. A bird flew over my head, then, soon, a second one. As I reached a point close to the smoke, the rocks fell away to a deep narrow ravine with a stream of water flowing through it. To my amazement I saw a small group of people sitting on the grassy bank of the stream, around a fire . High above them, with no route into the rocky ravine, I was unable to make contact. These people may have tried to help Cheroka. I resolved to find a way to reach them as soon as light returned.

After searching for a route into the ravine during many periods of light, my supply of nourishment and liquid diminished rapidly. Finally, almost exhausted, I came upon a hidden pathway which led downwards, winding and twisting to the floor of the ravine. Darkness was falling as I approched the settlement. A group of three people stood close to a fire. I called out to them. The three people, two men and a woman, looked startled.

"I am Druid of Alterion, we are of the same family, you and I".

The people stared, and backed away . I held out my hands to them.

"What you want?" One of the men spoke at last. His voice was deep and rough - but he was using my own language!

"I am looking for my friend. She fell on the mountainside. "

The woman approached me. Her long hair flowing over her shoulders, her body displaying exaggerated curves, her dark eyes flashed in the glow from the fire. She was quite unlike Alterian women in appearance.

"We see her. She here."

The woman beckoned. She led me to a group of roughly made dwellings and pushed open the door of one of them. A crude lamp gave enough light for me to see Cheroka lying in a corner, sleeping, I leaned down and touched her forehead . She woke immediately and jumped to her feet to greet me. Her legs and arms appeared to be almost healed. These people had cared for her well. The woman smiled, and returned to her companions.

Cheroka will continue, and will tell what she learned from these people.

Peace be with you
Druid


Report recorded by Cheroka

After falling on the mountain I was in great pain. When Druid left me I lost consciousness. When I recovered I found myself in a different place, with three people watching over me, tending to the wounds on my legs and arms. I was shocked, but not afraid, for they were gentle and kind. Their voices sounded harsh to my ears, but I understood most of the words they used.

I spoke to them, thanking them for their care. This seemed to frighten them. They asked where I came from. My torn space suit must have appeared very strange . I tried to explain that I had travelled, with a friend, from a distant star to find the people of our ancestors. They did not understand.

I asked if more people live nearby. The female told me that there are a few others in the mountains. She knows of them, but has not met them. She told me that some have children, and have moved on to live in a different group, where some elders had recently died.

These people have lived on the mountain all their lives, as did their parents, grandparents, great grandparents, and beyond. What little knowledge they have of their past and why their people came to live in this place, comes from simple stories passed from one generation to the next.

They told me this: Hundreds of Earth years ago their world suffered many bad events: an explosion which caused the whole planet to shake, the waters to rise up and flood the land, a black cloud covered the sky and for a long time there was no light from the Sun. Most people died then, but the ancestors of these people found shelter underground - they describe it now as “a magic place”, where much food, water and medicines were stored. When forced to emerge from the shelter after many years, to look for water and more food, they climbed higher and discovered streams and vegetation . The sky had cleared, birds had returned. They never dared to explore the lower reaches of the mountain again, and their descendants have not done so.

These people have been taught that the land at the foot of the mountain is dark and dangerous. They have learned how to survive in their surroundings, building rough dwellings, eating seeds, nuts, roots and leaves. They catch fish from the streams or sometimes birds or small creatures. They cook and eat these, but only at certain times. They respect a strict rule that whenever a creature is killed for food, every part of it must be put to use. They have the greatest respect for living things. Life here is rare and precious. Their clothing is rough, fashioned from material made of dried handwoven roots and parts of plants and trees, mixed with small skins, and pieces of what I believe to be scraps from ancient clothing of their ancestors, or materials from the ”magic place” . They consider these pieces of material to be their most valuable possessions.

I have tried to find more about the “magic place”, but know only that it is lower down the mountain. I sense that it is important that we search for it.

Peace be with you
Cheroka.

Report recorded by Cheroka

The three Earth people gave us food and shelter for two more nights (periods of darkness). Their names are Mara (the female), Mos and Ari. Their name for this mountain is "Cristo", they say that it is an old name, spoken by their great-grandparents.

We left, promising to return with news if we discovered the "magic place".
Mara gave us food for our travels, packed inside a bundle of dried leaves. To us, at first, their ways appeared rough and dirty. We are learning now that nothing is unclean, we have found it necessary to adjust our attitudes. Their food is nourishing and tastes good. These people know nothing of sterilisation or refrigeration, and yet they survive, and so shall we.

After following the hidden pathway out of the ravine, led by intuition, we proceeded downward towards the other side of the mountain. Trees were taller there, and more dense, sheltering a variety of bird-life. We looked for a pathway, or a pattern of younger trees which might give a clue to the secret location. From the story Mara told, we imagined that the "magic place" could have been a shelter built by those in authority at a time before the worst of Earth's disasters. A shelter stocked with many essentials for the use of Earth's leaders, who later may have been unable to reach it - or who may have been among the original survivors.

Just before darkness fell we saw below us a number of huge rocks forming in an almost straight line . These seemed to have been deliberately placed there, possibly as markers.

Quickening our pace as much as we dared, we reached what appeared to be the mouth of a wide cave in the mountainside. Once inside the cave it became clear that the back wall was not of rock, but metallic material. We had portable lights which shone along the wall illuminating a series of handles and buttons. After much experiment and manipulation slight movement was felt, then, after a short pause, a section of the metallic wall lifted. We walked inside.

Movement had activated energy- the space behind the metallic wall was now flooded with light. A broad spiral ramp led downward, we followed it and emerged into an open area, surrounded by many metal doors, most of which opened to empty spaces on two levels, where perhaps, long ago, as many as 200 people could have made temporary homes.

Behind one larger door was a room filled with what we recognised as ancient communications equipment. Behind another, a dark stairway led downward. Using portable lights we made our way down hundreds of steps to arrive in a small chamber containing only a metal cube which stood at eye-level height. A clear window on its side was the only possible entry point. An implement embedded in the metal seemed to be of significance. We detached it and placed it on the clear panel, which caused the panel to open, revealing a metal bar. As Druid pulled the bar towards us the front of the cube opened with a soft buzzing sound. The contents, stored untouched for so long a time, appeared to be in good condition. Here we shall find many answers.

Report recorded by Druid

The contents of the cabinet include images, maps, documents, letters, and what the ancients called "books". There is also an implement which, if I have understood the markings on its cover, can be activated by light from the sun.

Our first important discovery is that we have landed in a country which was known as North America. These mountains were known as the Sangue de Christo Range in an area known as Colorado. These names are strange to us and convey little. There are maps and documents here showing rapid change in shape of the lands of Earth over a period of fifty Earth years. Many lands became submerged in water, others became uninhabitable because of lack of water. Volcanic activity caused much disruption .

We surmise that these items were brought here, as a place of safety, just before final devastating events occurred on Earth. There is a letter dated December 2045, the writer tells of a violent struggle between the peoples of different areas of Earth, brought about by populations fleeing from continued natural disasters. The writer feared for the planet and its peoples. Threats of enormous force were being made by leaders of lands in conflict. He records that there will be an opportunity for some people to join a mission into space to attempt to find another habitable planet where they might safely settle, but he adds that this carries great risk. Technology for travel into deep space was still in experimental stage. At the time of writing , he knew that few were willing to risk such travel, even in the face of Earth's devastation.

A beautiful book filled with images of the peoples of Earth drew our attention. Their appearance varied greatly one to another, unlike the Alterian population. Alterians must surely be a blending of these different peoples, for our skin is lighter than the darkest shown here, but darker than the lightest. Our features reflect many of the traits we see in these images. The females, however, have a distinctly curved outline, quite different from the delicate outline of Alterian females.

Cheroka gasped as she gazed at an image showing a group of men and women wearing ornate robes, decorated with feathers and beads. She read the description. "Cherokee".

"Sounds like my name!"

We went on to read that those people were some of the original inhabitants of this land, long before the troubles which caused devastation on the planet.

We looked further into the book , my own heart beat faster as I saw among images of ancient peoples of the Earth, an illustration of a bearded man wearing long robes , under which was the description " A Druid". Also from Earth's distant past, the book tells us that Druids once lived in an area of the planet known as "Europe."

Exhausted from our excitement, experiencing emotions so alien to us, we lay on the floor of the chamber and slept.


Report recorded by Cheroka

On waking, we continued investigating the newly discovered treasures.
Images of Earth's countries and cities, books describing man's history and achievements. Books known as Holy Books, "The Bible", and "Koran" among them.
All of human life on Earth in a single container. We wondered how so much could have become so little, and felt great sadness.

We retained only two maps and the implement activated by sunlight, then replaced all other items in the container, to await a later visit.

The sun was high in the sky as we emerged from the cave. We decided to continue exploring this side of the mountain before darkness fell. Several small creatures crossed our path as we made our way through the rocks and trees. We found no other signs of life until, just before the sun descended. A man and a child stood on a rock above us, facing the opposite direction Druid called out to them. The man didn't move, the child pulled at his arm and caused him to turn and see us. They started to hurry away. I called out, asking them to wait, they seemed less afraid of my voice, stopped, and stood watching us as we tried to reach them.

"We are friends. We have travelled far to find you", I said as we approached.
"You from dark place down mountain?" the man asked.
"We have travelled much further than that. There is no need to fear us.
We would like to meet your people", Druid ventured.
They looked at our clothing, hair and general appearance.
"You strange", the child said, and laughed.
"Yes, we are" we replied , laughing in response
"Come, We take you to home, see people."
We followed them as the sky grew dark. Soon the flickering of a fire was seen a short way ahead.

A group of rough dwellings stood in a circle by a stream of rapidly flowing water. Ten people sat on the ground eating food cooked over the fire.

"Strange people came", the child called out. The group turned to look.

"Welcome" , a tall young man jumped to his feet and ran towards us.
He was beautiful. His rough apparel could not hide the beauty of his face and body.

"I am Roul, son of our elder Feder, who died at the last Moon. I am leader now."

Druid held out both hands to Roul who understood this gesture and mirrored it. I held out my own hands, Roul ignored them, but advanced to embrace me, which startled me so much that I fell over a piece of rough ground, to my knees.

"Oh! I will help you" , Roul lifted me to my feet, my body felt energised by his close presence. I felt my heartbeat quicken.

Roul and his companions treated us kindly, provided us with food, water and shelter. We were able to converse easily with Roul, who passed on to us much of the information he had learned from parents and grandparents. His family have led the survivors on these mountains from the time they emerged from the "magic place". We suspect that many generations earlier, one of Roul's ancestors may have been leader of the great country which existed here before the devastations.

The original survivors from "the magic place" apparently scattered, forming separate settlements within this great range of mountains. Roul told us that the scattered communities come together on two occasions: on the day when the sun remains longest in the sky, and on the day when it lights the Earth for the shortest period. At these times the communities celebrate together. It is common for groups to exchange members, for a variety of reasons: to supplement or balance population levels, and to ensure that the population will not become interbred. Many children die either at birth or soon after. Life-span of an adult here is short. We understand that maintaining even the present level of population is difficult. We were shocked to learn of the primitive method of birth women of Earth must endure, a very different experience from bringing forth new life on Alterion.




From Rethiko of The First City via Starcast

My pilgrims:

I am relieved to know that Cheroka is safe and well. Your latest reports are of great importance. Their contents come as a surprise . I sense a need to discuss a somewhat delicate matter.

Cheroka made mention that the birth process on Alterion is not the same as that you might encounter on Earth. This is an important difference.

As I have explained in earlier communications, and as you are well aware, life on Alterion is tranquil, devoid of fear, hatred, violence, .... and one other emotion. In eradicating strong negative emotion from life on the new planet, a side effect occurred. Passion, which can be both positive and negative, also gradually subsided and became buried deep in our psyches. Sexual urges between male and female faded over several generations, until it became necessary to procreate life differently, in order to maintain the level of our population.

The system of gathering eggs and sperm necessary for reproduction from all Alterians of a certain age group, has been used for at least ten generations. New generations are grown in our laboratories, and reared by designated families, who give our new children unconditional love, attend to their needs and education until fully grown. There is no further need for the female to give birth physically - in fact it might now be impossible.

Passion, and the type of love which was not always unconditional, has faded gradually from our way of life here. I believe that Cheroka's feelings towards Roul may be an echo of passion, hidden, but still residing deep within her.

I would advise caution, my pilgrims. Your bodies may have evolved much further, and differently from those of your Earthly companions. Bear this in mind. Physical connection with one whose body has not evolved in the same way might be dangerous to your well-being, I cannot be certain, of course. Your situation is new to me also. I am using intuition, and as much insight as my long experience will provide. You must do the same. Your psychic training will assist you.

Go with safety and caution my pilgrims
Peace be with you both.
Rethiko.


Report by Druid

Your communication was received with gratitude, Rethiko. Cheroka thanks you for your kindly caring.

With each new day I become more convinced that I must continue exploring the Earth alone. Cheroka longs to remain here, with Roul and his people.

The implement we found in "the magic place" has caused much excitement.
After leaving it in sunlight for a whole day, we experimented with its controls. We suspected that it might be an ancient recording device, and were proved correct when a voice emerged, startling Roul and his companions.

A male voice, deep and resonant gave the following message:

" To whomsoever may hear these words in the future, I send greetings from the people of the United States of America in the year 2045."

"We fear for the future of our planet in these dark times. We have tried to collect and store, in a secure place, items which may help and inform any of our people who are able to survive into a new age of planet Earth, an age which must surely come. As well as the items you already have discovered within this container, there is more. You must remove the base of the container using the same tool you have used to open the cabinet. Under the base you will find supplies of seeds. These will survive for hundreds, or thousands of years. They are seeds of corn, wheat, vegetables, fruit and flowers from our world. These, carefully planted and tended, will provide an ongoing solution if food is in short supply. There are illustrated instructions to assist you.

We, who have used our planet Earth so unwisely ask one thing only of those who might survive these times to build a new future: Love your planet. Live in harmony with it, and with one another. These are the lessons we have learned, but learned too late.

On behalf of the people of North America and planet Earth, I ask your forgiveness and trust that our mistakes will bring forth your wisdom.

I am President of the United States of America.

Goodbye."

We remained in silence, deep sadness etched upon every face. Cheroka and I felt proud that the people of Alterion have, indeed, learned from the cruel lessons of their ancestors. We promised each other that we shall do whatever is in our power to assist the surviving population of Earth, wherever we find them, and shall spread the wisdom of the President's message .

I plan to return to our craft alone, and shall cross this land, eastward, to where appears on the maps a wide expanse of ocean. I shall cross the ocean to explore the area known as Europe.

At daybreak I bade farewell to Cheroka, Roul, and his companions, promising to return once my mission is completed. We felt sadness at parting, even temporarily, yet this is the only way we can both move in the paths our instincts suggest.

We shall continue to exchange reports via our individual Starcast wavebands, as we send them to Rethiko on Alterion. In this way, and with our psychic link , we shall remain close.

My journey to the foot of the mountain took a whole day. After resting, at first light I adjusted the craft's controls, planning to travel high above the ground, yet low enough to observe surroundings. In the direction of the rising sun, I first re-traced our original journey back to the landing spot, then continued eastward.

I scanned continually for signs of life, but the rocky plains seemed to offer little shelter or sustenance. Barren landscapes continued for a long distance. Areas of what appeared to be large densely grouped rocks and stones appeared from time to time. I believe these to be all that remains of sites of ancient cities. Eventually, in the distance, the wide expanse of water marked on the map as Atlantic Ocean spread out before me. Comparing my two maps showed that all of the original eastern coast of this country is now under the ocean. Where great cities once stood, the heaving sea has covered their splendour and their scars, possibly to an even greater extent than the later of my two maps indicates.

When I reached the coastline I reduced altitude to inspect the land more closely. There is no apparent shelter , though a possible food supply from the ocean would be likely to tempt any surviving population to try to exist here. I can see only desolation, and a grey expanse of sea. On my return I shall explore this area thoroughly.

Peace be with you

Druid.

First Report from Cheroka on Cristo Mountain.

Many days and nights have passed since Druid left us. The Moon has grown full in the sky three times since his leaving. I miss his presence, but feel psychic closeness, which seems unaffected by distance.

I have made much progress here. Roul travelled with me to "the magic place" , saw the contents of the cabinet and was amazed. He was unaware of his planet's history, and found an abundance of new information difficult to absorb. We shall return many times to enable him to properly understand all that the cabinet contains.

We found the store of seeds under the cabinet's base. I have convinced Roul and his people to move their settlement to the gentle hill country which lies at the foot of the mountains, the land there is soft and moist, we shall experiment in planting some of the seeds. The people are nervous, I am persuading them slowly and individually that there is no longer anything to fear away from this mountain.

Mara, Mos and Ari joined our community after I visited their settlement and told them of our plans. Mara has given birth to twin children. An extraordinary event for me to observe. The babies are growing healthily, assisted by some nutrient medicine from my store . Mara looks on me with respect and affection, because I have helped her children to survive and remain healthy.

My relationship with Roul became even closer after Druid's departure. With Druid, I was close mentally, we were like mirror images one of the other. With Roul I feel new emotions, strange and strong. Magnetic attraction, physical needs such as I did not at first recognise. His gentle understanding has brought me experiences of pleasure previously unknown to me. The mental connection I shared with Druid remains, and my life is enhanced further by a joyful physical connection with Roul.

Two more Moons have passed. Visitors to our settlement from a distant part of the mountain range arrived two days ago. Their journey, they said, had been long and difficult. Sitting with us before our fire in the darkness, they told of the surprising reason for their journey. The three men are students of the skies. They carry ancient knowledge passed down through many generations of their families, some of whom were, no doubt, among the survivors from "the magic place".

The visitors told us that the name of this ancient knowledge is "astrology" - science of the stars. The men had noticed a strange object in the sky beyond the mountains several Moons ago - something which looked, to them, like a falling star. They have been searching ever since, visiting every settlement seeking information. I told them, as gently as I could, that what they saw might well have been our spacecraft coming to rest on the rocky plain to the east. The men were jubilant! They asked many questions about Alterion and our journey to Earth. They have chosen to remain with our community. I shall learn from them.


From Rethiko of The First City vis Starcast - to Cheroka on Cristo Mountain, and Druid as he travels:

I am surprised to learn that my two pilgrims have moved in separate directions, but I trust the instincts which have led you thus far.

Cheroka, my dear, remember well the words of my last message. I am happy that you have found joy with Roul, your wisdom and experience is of value to the people there. You will gain new knowledge for your own store from the visitors of whom you speak.

I know little about astrology. I am aware that the subject was of some importance during the period on Earth before our migration. Some of our early leaders were well-versed in its application. However, because their knowledge could not be applied on Alterion, study of the subject reverted to observation only, and later faded into obscurity.

Druid, my pilgrim: Travel well and safe. I look forward to news of Europe.

Peace be with you both
Rethiko

First Report from Druid in Europe

I travelled across the Atlantic Ocean at high altitude. A group of large islands was the first land I saw - these do not appear on the maps. Perhaps they consist of the highest ground of the area which once formed western Europe. In a wide valley, protected by hills and mountains on the most westerly of the islands I brought the craft to rest.

The sea around this piece of land is a beautiful, translucent blue-green. Low hills are covered in rich green grass, some animals which I identify as "sheep" wander peacefully in the bright sunlight. There are higher hills in the distance. The air is cold and a sharp wind blows across the land. I shall need to wear extra clothing as I explore.

I have now explored a large area to the south of my landing place on foot.
There is an abundance of vegetation and small wildlife , as well as many sheep. I am confident that people will have been able to survive here. Heading back to the craft, as I reached the top of a low hill, I saw a small sea-craft out on the ocean. I hurried to the shore and waited at the edge of the water waving my arms towards the occupants of the boat, who did the same in response.

As the sea-craft reached shore two people, a man and a woman, jumped out and ran towards me. "Helloooo strrangerr !" the woman used my own language, though with a very different emphasis. I quickly glanced at the map and concluded that I had landed on what remains of the lands of Britain. I greeted the two, offering my hands to both.
"Wherre did ye come fra?" Translating their question as best I could, I told them

"From a far distant land, my friends, but I believe we are related. I am Druid."

"We are James and Lorna".

They took me to their small home, a cabin of strong wooden construction. They carried a container filled with their catch of fish. I was treated with great kindness. They provided food, which was was the most delicious I have tasted since leaving Alterion.

I asked James and Lorna many questions, they, in turn, asked many of me. They have lived here all their lives. They sail to other islands when weather is kind. There are a few people living around the coast here, and more in the higher hills. The population fluctuates - from time to time newcomers reach the island, settle , then move on. Unaware of the true history of their homeland, they know only that hundreds of years ago terrible events caused many people to die, and cities to be swept away.

James told of a land much further to the east where there is a large community of people. Men from an island north of here, who travel great distances in long, strongly built boats brought this news. James understood much of what they told him, although their language was not the same.

I believe that the languages of Earth, which once varied greatly , have blended over time, to such an extent that most of the population in what remains of Europe are able to understand each other's words. I asked Lorna if my name sounds strange to her.

"Druid?"

"We know that word", she told me. "When I was a child my great- great-grandmother used to tell stories of magic, when Druids lived on this land, long before the floods came."

James and Lorna listened carefully to my stories of life on Alterion, and how our ancestors reached their new home. They questioned me, but I sensed they did not believe my words. It would be wise to allow them this doubt, and to continue in their peaceful existence which has remained unchanged for many centuries, even in the face of Earth's devastation. I resisted a temptation to take them to the spacecraft, to demonstrate some of the wonders of Alterion civilisation. They do not need such knowledge. They have everything they need, here in this place of tranquil beauty.

I stayed on the island for two Moons before taking leave of my hosts.



Second Report from Cheroka on Cristo Mountain

I have good news. I am to give birth to a child. Mara is helping me to understand the process, which will come to the point of my giving birth after two more Moons.

We have established a new settlement by a stream in the low hills at the foot of the mountains. Seeds have been planted and are growing well.
People from other settlements in the mountains have joined us, our community grows.

Roul travels with two of his people to the "magic place" at each Full Moon.
They stay for 2 days studying items stored there, and bring back their findings to share with everyone, as we sit around a fire in the evenings. After food has been cooked and eaten, Roul and those who accompanied him relate their news, sometimes speaking, but more recently singing, assisted by one of the community who has made some instruments from wild vegetation, hollowed and filled with dried seeds. With these he produces rhythmic sounds to accompany the storyteller. The people respond to this very well, often memorising the stories.

The three astrologers are constructing a method to assist us in recording the passage of time. They have cleared an area of flat ground and, with pieces of broken rock and stones have outlined a large circle upon which they intend to base their on-going efforts to produce a visible representation of the regular turning of the planet and its seasons.

I miss the presence of Druid. From his latest report I am happy to know that he has enjoyed a period of fine tranquillity in Europe.

Peace be with you
Cheroka.

Second report from Druid in Europe

When I left the islands of Britain I travelled north hoping to find the ocean-going community which James had described. From the maps it would appear that remaining areas of the countries once called Sweden and Norway could form an island base for the ocean-travellers.

White-topped mountains and valleys soon appeared below the craft. Whilst searching for a protected landing area I saw a large settlement between two lower hills. It appeared deserted. Darkness was falling, and I was anxious to bring the craft to land. I discovered a suitable area beyond the settlement, touched down, and slept until the sun rose again.

I left the craft, wearing extra clothing, but the intense cold exhausted me.
By the time I reached the settlement I was near to collapse. I approached the nearest wooden cabin and pushed the door. It was empty, but a pile of animal skins lay inside. Shivering, I crept between them. I was wakened by a loud noise. Feeling much warmer, wrapped in one of the skins, I jumped up and looked outside. A small crowd was whooping, and laughing as the watched some men bringing into the settlement a large dead animal, carried between them. One of the crowd noticed me and called out in a language I did not recognise. I called a greeting, and extended my arms to them. They came over to where I stood, encircled me, and continued speaking. I made gestures to indicate that I am a traveller from long distance, which they seemed to understand. A man from the back of the small crowd came forward.

"You speak English!" He placed a strong rough arm around my shoulder and laughed loudly.

"You come with me!" he pulled me towards another cabin and took me to where a fire burned inside, its smoke taken through a wide hole in the top of the cabin. Two young children sat by the fire, a woman worked nearby, I think preparing food.

I told him my name, and discovered that he is Oric, the woman Lata, and the two boys Oraf and Kal. He is a sea-traveller, he told me of the lands he has visited. In return I told of my own journeys, which entertained him greatly. He has said that he will translate them to tell to his companions in the settlement.

This community is aware of the devastating events of long ago. Their travels have revealed evidence which at first shocked them. They found, in a country far from here, ruins of cities where ancient scripts and artifacts still remain, along with bones of those who perished. They do not understand how these have survived, and no community remains there now. I asked in which direction I might find this place. Oric could only describe it as "to the east".

Although I find the coldness here difficult to bear, the land has great beauty. The night, which lasts much longer than in the mountains where Cheroka is living, brings a black sky filled with wonderful shining dancing light, which these people call "Northern lights".

Cheroka's latest report has reached me. I am filled with joy at her news, our psychic connection told me that something new and exciting was happening, but I had not anticipated the details. I feel relieved that Mara remains close to Cheroka. I shall return soon to join them. I plan to conclude my travels with a final journey eastward.

Peace be with you
Druid



From Rethiko of The First City via Starcast, to Cheroka on Cristo Mountain, and Druid as he travels:

Greetings and congratulations to you both, my pilgrims.

You have, indeed, found the courage of the ancestors you admire.

Cheroka, my dear, take great care, and follow the advice those who assist you. My thoughts are with you, and psychic assistance is speeding towards you now.

Druid, the explorer! You have achieved great things, both alone and with Cheroka. I am proud of your courage and insights. I shall await news of your further travels and ultimate return to Cheroka.

Peace and safety remain with you both
Rethiko.


Third Report from Druid in Europe

My thanks, Rethiko, you are very kind.

Six Moons have passed since my last report. I have received none from Cheroka, and feel concerned that psychic contact has faded. This could be due to my current location, however for I have travelled far to the east.

I have explored deserted cities which lay in ruins. I have travelled over a wide wilderness where wild animals roam. I have seen expanses of sea between mountainous island groups, and two larger land masses. Upon one of these I brought the craft down to explore on foot.

Within an area of hills and high sandy plains, I discovered some settlements populated by people of darker skin than others I have met. At first I did not understand their language, but with careful application I have learned enough to converse with them, and am learning more each day. I seem to have gained the respect and confidence of these people, and they encourage me to stay with them to teach them about our way of life on Alterion, stories of which fascinate them.

When a neighbouring settlement became angry following an event caused by one of my hosts, it seemed likely that discord would spoil the normally peaceful way of life here. I am proud that I was able to discuss the conflict with the two parties and assist them to come to agreement. On other occasions I have been able to alleviate pain when members of the community fell sick, by providing some medicine from my store.

After one Moon I intend to return to North America by continuing in an eastward direction. The maps show that this will bring me to the western edge of that land, and I shall have travelled full circle around the globe of Earth!

Peace be with you
Druid.


Report from Roul of the Cherokees

I try to make Starcast as Cheroka told to me.
The heart breaks to tell that Cheroka died when she give birth to our daughter. I name Cheroka, in memory of her mother.

My people are very sad.

We thank Cheroka's people for sending her to us.

We now have much food from the seeds we plant with Cheroka's help.

Our thanks and sadness never end.

I call our people for Cheroka - "Cherokee".

Peace for you and for us.
Roul of the Cherokees.


Final report from Druid in the East of planet Earth

I have waited for many Moons to pass before responding to Roul's report of Cheroka's death. I have suffered a deep unending sadness, which I have never before felt.

Forgive the lateness of my report.

I thank Roul for his kind words, and actions in Cheroka's memory.

I have considered whether to travel back to join the Cherokee community, but conclude that my place is here, or perhaps elsewhere.

Cheroka's work is done - I cannot presume to improve upon her wisdom. I should like to meet her daughter, and when time has passed and young Cheroka has grown, I will journey back. Until that time I will continue to live among the people of the east, helping them when I am able, teaching what I can, and hoping that I am affecting them as much as Cheroka has affected her companions.

I shall not send further reports.

In great sadness I now leave you, Rethiko.
Peace be with you.
Druid.

From Rethiko of The First City via Starcast to Roul of the Cherokees, and Druid in the east of planet Earth.

Druid -
I feel your pain, my solitary pilgrim.

Receive my psychic healing sent to you over vast distances, gathering strength with each moment.

I know that your work in the east will come to be of equal value to that of Cheroka in the west.

I regard your achievements with the greatest pride and humility. Your words will remain in the data banks here for all time. Others will be inspired to follow in your steps, I am confident of this.

You have, indeed, lighted a pathway home for many.

Roul-
Accept my deep sympthy for your loss. Please protect well and teach wisely our small, precious gift - young Cheroka. May your community flourish and go on to teach others what you have learned.

Peace be with you both in your sadness.
Rethiko of the First City.

THE END

We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Wll be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time. (T.S. Eliot)