Below The Surface

The leaves of the grapefruit trees rustled above Ryn’s head, tossing shadows and harsh electric light across his face. He opened his eyes lazily, dragged from his reverie sharply. Green spots of light glittered cheerfully in the branches, swaying gently; the grapefruits, it seemed, were ripening.1

He sighed, and wondered what it would be liked to bite into the succulent fruit again. He had tried it once, and had quickly discovered he was allergic. But it was so good…2

Ryn shook his head vehemently, striving to banish all memories of the fruit’s sweet taste, but, unsurprisingly, he was unable to shake the entirety of the thoughts. The tantalizing perfume of the fruits swirled through his senses, inviting him to sink his teeth into one of the green fruits once more. He cursed, striving to dispel the enticing fumes.3

It was difficult to be allergic to the grapefruits that were the main source of nourishment in the underground metropolis that was Frubachia, as Ryn had experienced. He knew that everyone who dwelt in the caves found the fruit to be excellent sustenance. He managed to keep his malady a secret, as he suspected that he would no doubt be ridiculed and shunned should anyone discover it.4

Ryn felt almost relieved when an uneasy feeling crept over him, managing to distract him from the tempting grapefruits. Of course, the feeling was not necessarily pleasant—he had experienced it before, but it was not something he felt often. He could sense another presence in the grove, the unnatural notion that eyes were watching his back.5

Though he had been expecting it, Ryn started when footsteps rang out in the almost-silent grove. He drew his knees to his chest, pushing himself closer to the tree. It must be the harvesters, he thought, but of course they were not due for another couple of hours, so who could it be?6

The footsteps stopped, very close to his hiding place. His breathing became heavy; he was careful to be as silent as possible, but he wondered if his noisy heartbeat had caused the intruder to pause. An eerie silence ensued.7

“Hi!” A girl’s blond head poked around the tree, greeting him with a smile.8

Ryn cleared his throat, striving to swallow his surprise with little success. “Uh, hey,” he said. He knew her. She was the daughter of the resident doctor; her name was Layna. 9

Layna plopped down next to him, the silky fabric of her generic white robes gathering around her, overlapping with Ryn’s. “So, what’s your name?” she asked with a cheerful grin.10

“Ryn,” he replied in a barely-audible mumble.11

She nodded. “I think I’ve seen you before. Where do you live?”12

“I live with my grandmother. Well, most of the time, anyway. My parents are dead.” He paused to appreciate Layna’s sympathetic gasp—it felt strange to deliberately convey his life’s story to someone. “I take care of myself, mostly. My grandmother, she’s sort of…forgetful. Most of the time she hardly even notices me.”13

Layna seemed genuinely piteous. “I’m sorry.”14

Ryn shrugged in what he hopped was an indifferent manner. “S’okay.”15

“So,” Layna said, obviously eager for a change of subject. “What are you doing here?”16

“Um, I don’t know. Just thinking.” Ryn replied cautiously.17

“Oh, cool. I love coming here, just to lay on my back and watch the purple-tinted leaves swirl around the fruits, and think.”18

“Yeah,” Ryn agreed. He was beginning to warm up to Layna, but his caution had not yet evaporated completely.19

“Especially when the fruits aren’t harvested yet.” Layna jumped high in the air, grabbed one of the luminescent grapefruits, and sat down. She popped open the luscious fruit, revealing its glittering center, and offered a piece to Ryn. “Want some?”20

Ryn gazed at the slice in horror, its tantalizing scent causing his mouth to water. “No. I can’t.”21

“Why ca—oh, you’re allergic, aren’t you? So’s my dad. He just developed it…it’s pretty weird, huh?”22

“Yeah, I guess it is. I don’t know what’s wrong with me, but every time I see a grapefruit, I want to eat it so badly; it’s like it’s talking to me, trying to convince me that I CAN eat it.”23

“Huh.” Layna looked genuinely intrigued. “That’s weird.”24

“Yeah.”25

They sat in silence for a moment. Layna picked at her fruit, but seemed to have lost her appetite. Ryn scooted away from the fruit, but could not escape its sweet perfume.26

Finally, Layna spoke. “I can’t imagine not eating it. It’s just…unnatural. Impossible. How do you live?”27

Ryn shifted uncomfortably. Should he trust her? “Well,” he said, scooting closer, “there’s this pool of water—”28

“Water?” Layna’s eyes widened. “Water’s toxic.”29

“No, no, this water is clear as glass, with coolness and sweetness, not toxins. It’s what I drink.”30

She gaped at him with large unblinking eyes; one blue, one green. “You can’t just live off water, can you?” she asked, the look of surprise slowly fading from her pale white face.31

“No. I also eat Yuricell—you know, the pure rock minerals?”32

Layna nodded. Though grapefruits quenched thirst quite efficiently, they did not satisfy the Frubachians’ hungry. Yuricell, a gritty but flavorful substance, was enough to do that.33

“So,” Layna began, “you say water looks like glass, yeah? But I’ve seen it…it’s murky and green.”34

“Most of it is,” Ryn replied. “But there’s a small pool of it, not far from here, that’s so clean you can see the rocks on the bottom.”35

Layna spit a grapefruit seed skittering across the hard ground. “You’re joking.”36

“No, I’m not,” Ryn contradicted. “I’ll show it to you, if you want.”37

Layna raised an eyebrow in a skeptical manner. “Haven’t you drank it all already?”38

“No.” Ryn knew that this part was slightly shocking. “It’s a spring. The water comes from the outside world.”39

Layna dropped the remainder of her fruit, and then directed her gaze upward as if she thought she could see into the world above. “The outside world,” she whispered.40

It was common knowledge in Frubachia that there was a world outside their underground city, but as to what lay in that alternate universe, no one knew. Ryn himself had often speculated on its content, though most of his theories were outlandish and concocted purely for his own enjoyment or simply out of boredom.41

Ryn felt Layna’s hand clutching his forearm. “Let’s go, Ryn! Take me to the water!”42

Ryn was hesitant, but he would hold to his rash promise. “Okay, right this way.”43

He led her through the rustling sea of trees, past the harvesters’ houses, way out past the city edges, and to a large mound of rocks.44

“Is this the spring?” Layna asked incredulously.45

“No, actually, it’s actually a large pile of rocks.” He said, sticking his tongue out at Layna. 46

Layna grinned, pushing him playfully. "Well, where are we then?" She inquired. 47

“Let’s just say this is where things get interesting.” Ryn grinned in a mischievous fashion as he rolled away a relatively large boulder, leaning it gently against the pile. A dark hole loomed, sloping gently into a black abyss of mystery. “Through here.” Ryn pointed into the murky gloom.48

Layna peered into the impregnable blackness, then at Ryn. “Down here?”49

“Yes.”50

Layna narrowed her eyes. “You first.”51

Ryn shrugged, dropped to his hands and knees, and crawled through the small hole. He heard Layna behind him and felt her hands brushing against him as he felt his way along the familiar path.52

After several minutes of tedious crawling the room opened up.53

“Holy obsidian,” breathed Layna.54

“Yeah.” Ryn recalled his first time in the spring room, and smiled.55

The room opened up into a huge cavernous dome, the walls of which sparkled with light. In the very center of the room a pool of water bubbled up; a small hole in the top of the dome sent a sparkle of light just barely illuminating the room.56

“Wow,” Layna gasped.57

“It’s beautiful,” Ryn agreed.58

“Where does the light come from?” Layna wanted to know.59

“Outside,” Ryn replied, grinning at Layna’s awed expression. “It’s sunlight.”60

“Sunlight,” Layna murmured. She reached her hand out, allowing one of the strongest rays to dance across her opened palm. “I’ve never seen it before.”61

Ryn touched her hand. “Come look.62

He led Layna to the spring that gurgled tranquilly in the center, catching the sunlight and sending shadows dancing and leaping across the walls. Ryn cupped the water in his hands, and let it run through his fingers, savoring the moment.63

“Why isn’t it burning your hands?” Layna asked in awed curiosity.64

“Because it’s pure. The water in the city is full of toxins.”65

Layna grimaced. “That’s really gross.”66

“Yeah, it is,” Ryn sighed. He cupped his hands, full of water, and brought the liquid to his lips.67

Layna gasped as Ryn inhaled the water. He smiled as her as he swallowed, water dripping down his chin.68

“I can’t believe you just did that,” Layna said, but she was smiling. “You live off this stuff?”69

“Yes. I have to come here every day.”70

Layna reached over and touched a small drop that had fallen on Ryn’s arm. Her eyes widened as the water made a lazy trail down her hand. “Do you think I can drink it?” she asked suddenly.71

Ryn was surprised; he thought about her proposal for a moment. He could see nothing wrong with it—after all, it had done him no harm. “If you want,” he said to her. “Go for it.”72

Layna bent her face low to the spring. She pursed her lips, as if she were preparing to whistle, but was interrupted before she could taste the cool water.73

Beep, beep! Wawoo, wawoo! The alarm sounded. The lockdown alarm.74

“We have to get back!” Layna cried, her eyes wide. Lockdowns were only issued when something drastic and—on occasion—awful occurred.75

“I wonder what happened?” Ryn said, perplexed.76

“We can find out later,” Layna decided. “Come on!”77

They crawled as fast as possible through the narrow tunnel; Ryn’s ears rang, though the siren was less harsh within the rock.78

They jumped out onto the ground. They did not speak; the siren was far too loud.79

Ryn was surprised when Layna slipped her hand in his. He told himself that it was simply so they would not get separated.80

“We can go to my house!” Layna shouted over the wail. Unable to speak, Ryn simply nodded in agreement.81

They ran through the passages of Frubachia, dodging frantic citizens, wincing at the screaming siren that permeated the air, until they came to a modest house. Layna led him inside.82

“Come on, my room’s upstairs,” said Layna, Ryn along, still clutching his hand.83

Ryn looked around, amazed at the old pictures hanging on the orangey-red walls. The house was so full of color compared to his grandmother’s bland beige walls. He followed Layna, his feet sinking into the deep purple carpets.84

Most of the doors in Layna’s house were locked tight, and though he was curious as to what lay behind them, Ryn did not ask Layna to show him inside.85

The siren had ceased its wailing, for which Ryn was thankful. His ears ached from being exposed to its noise. He wondered again what had caused the lockdown.86

Layna’s room was not unlike the rest of her house—the plush carpets and bright walls were essentially the same. Upon entering the room, Layna made a beeline for a closet that was set into the wall and began rooting around, obviously intent on finding something. Ryn was at a loss to guess what it might be until she emerged, her arms full of blankets.87

“We have to sleep,” she explained at Ryn’s puzzled expression. “Will your grandmother miss you?”88

Ryn shook his head uncomfortably. It was unlikely the old woman would even give a thought to him, if she had registered the lockdown at all.89

“Right. Well, if you help me set these up, I’ll sleep on the floor—”90

“No, it’s fine,” Ryn insisted. “I’ll take the floor.”91

Layna looked about to protest, but instead shrugged. “All right. Fluffy will probably like it better if I have the bed, anyway. He likes it better up there.”92

“Fluffy?” Ryn asked, confused.93

Layna dropped the pile of blankets in a mound on the floor, and cupped her hands to her mouth. “Here Fluffy!” she called, and the sound of a hundred feet pattering along the floor came towards them. Ryn looked to see a large orange and black centipede, with a collar, jump into Layna’s arms. “This is Fluffy,” she explained.94

“Er…hi, Fluffy,” Ryn greeted the large insect. He was not alarmed by the sight of it—giant centipedes were common pets in Frubachia.95

He assisted Layna in setting his bed. He doubted he would be uncomfortable, as the carpet was so thick.96

If Layna had any bedtime rituals, she did not perform them now. In fact, as soon as the blankets that were Ryn’s bed had been prepared, she fell onto the soft mattress and seemed to doze off directly.97

“’Night, then,” Ryn muttered as he laid down and made himself comfortable.98

All was silent for several minutes, until Layna’s unexpected voice shattered the quiet. “I wonder where my dad is…” she murmured in an almost incoherent voice.99

“I don’t know,” Ryn replied truthfully. “We’ll look tomorrow.”100

“Hm,” Layna mumbled in what Ryn took to be agreement.101

Ryn did not think he would be able to achieve sleep. His mind was working at a very fast pace, striving to find answers to the myriad of questions that plagued him. Why had the lockdown been issued? Was there danger? Were they safe?102

He was surprised when he fell off the edge of the precipice that was consciousness and allowed velvety blackness embrace him.103

***104

Ryn was awoken by a hand shaking his shoulder; he soon identified it as Layna’s. He felt a strange tickling sensation somewhere in his stomach area and registered that Fluffy must have been curled up there, and was now stirring as well. The thought did not disturb him.105

“Wake up, Ryn,” she said.106

“Yeah,” he agreed, mentally slapping himself into a sitting position.107

“Come on,” she continued, tugging at his arm, “we have to go check if my dad’s back. I’m going to take you to his study.108

When Ryn had managed to motivate himself to follow Layna out of the room, she took him down a hall to a door that was half closed. She knocked softly.109

“Dad?” she cracked the door, peeking her head around the corner. The room was empty save for a rather large sandstone desk, covered in papers, a bookshelf, and a big poufy chair.110

“I wonder where he is?” Layna said.111

“Maybe he got caught at a friend’s house when the alarm went off?” Ryn suggested.112

“He doesn’t have friends,” Layna said forlornly. “Not really. He’s a bit of a hermit, really.”113

“Huh.” Ryn’s attention was caught by the newspaper clippings that littered the walls. Ryn had never seen newspaper before, and it intrigued him. He ran his hand over the leafy pages, felt out smooth they were.114

Layna saw his interest. “I don’t know where he got those,” she admitted. “He won’t tell me.”115

“Very cool,” Ryn said. “Hey—oops!” He had accidently knocked down one of the piles of paper on the desk, revealing a wooden cupboard with a keyhole in it.116

“Um.” Ryn blushed. “Sorry…here, I’ll pick up—”117

“A secret cupboard.” Layna stared at it intently. “What secrets would he have hidden from me?” Her eyes were full of a painful distrust.118

“Do you want to open it?” Ryn asked, tracing his finger along the keyhole.119

“Of course I do!” Layna smiled, obviously striving to banish any mistrustful thoughts. “And I know EXACTLY where the key is. Come on, it’s downstairs.”120

She dashed from the room, leaving Ryn with no choice but to follow.121

Layna stopped in front of a large door which she proceeded to fling open. Inside was a closet that was packed with a myriad of objects, many of whose point Ryn was unsure of. All the same, he followed Layna inside, though he did not join her in her apparent endeavor to locate some object within the mass.122

“This is where my dad keeps everything that’s important to him,” Layna said, seeing Ryn’s interest. “He showed it to me when I was really little, so I guess he thought I forgot.” She smiled triumphantly and produced a multi-colored box.123

“Wow,” whispered Ryn. “It’s really intricate.” He admired the ornate pattern that decorated the box.124

“Yeah, it’s a trick box. You have to slide apart the pieces in the correct sequence, otherwise it doesn’t work. It’s also virtually indestructible.” Layna’s hands flew as she dissected the box. The pieces slid around in a blur of many colors. In a few seconds, the box lay disassembled, and Ryn and Layna peered eagerly into the cavity that lay within it.125

“I can’t believe I still remember how that works,” Layna exclaimed as she examined the key that had lain in the velvety interior of the puzzle box. It was not a particularly extraordinary key; it was small, brass, and had a small red jewel inlayed in its center.126

Layna grinned at Ryn. Neither spoke as they sprinted in the direction of the upstairs portion of the house.127

Layna took a deep breath as she inserted the key into the keyhole. Ryn held his breath…the resulting click seemed to resonate through the room.128

Ryn pulled the drawer open eagerly. He registered that what lay within was a large pile of paper similar to that on the desk’s surface; he reached in and retrieved the nearest one. The title read F.R.A.F.F.129

“FRAFF?” Ryn read. “What’s that?”130

“Frubachian Rebel Association For Freedom, apparently.” Layna said; she was reading over Ryn’s shoulder. She indicated the inscription beneath the acronym. She reached in to snatch a page from the drawer.131

“Freedom?” Ryn repeated. “Freedom from what?”132

“It says here that they found out the Elders had imprisoned us here,” Layna said slowly, her eyes traveling quickly down the tattered page.133

“But the Elders are good, right?” Ryn had been raised to believe they were. “How did they imprison us?”134

“They won’t let us leave,” Layna pointed out.135

“Of course. We knew that. But, it’s for our own good, isn’t it? That’s what they’ve always told us.”136

“Exactly. THEY’VE always told us. It talks about that here. It says they poisoned the water, that’s why it’s toxic…doesn’t mention why, though…”137

“So, these FRAFF people,” Ryn said. “They’re conspiracy theorists?”138

“Must be,” Layna agreed, not looking up from the pages.139

“But why are they still down here, then?” Ryn wanted to know. “If they think the Elders are so evil and everything, why don’t they leave? They could announce it in the square, get everyone out. Why are they hanging around?”140

“This paper says they can’t leave. They’re stuck here, somehow.” She looked back in the drawer. “Doesn’t say why, but I bet it’s in here somewhere…”141

As she sound of rustling papers filled the air, a thought occurred to Ryn. “Hey,” he said. “Where’s Fluffy?”142

Layna ceased her shuffling for a moment to look at him. “Wasn’t he in the hallway a minute ago?”143

Ryn frowned in an effort to recall. “Yeah, I guess so. I wasn’t really paying attention. I kind of got caught up in the moment. He’s got to be here somewhere,” he continued. “Let’s look around the house. Close the door to every room we look through. I mean, how hard can it be to find a giant centipede?”144

“I doubt we’ll have to look for him,” Layna replied. “He usually comes when I call.”145

While Layna ran from the room, calling her pet’s name, Ryn glance back at the messy pile of papers that were scattered across the floor of Layna’s father’s study. They had hardly read an entire page…there was so much more to go through…146

Ryn shook his head as he followed Layna. He had considered taking the papers with him, but deemed it most likely unnecessary. There was no doubt they would be back to finish their research.147

As Ryn reached the foot of the stairs, he heard a squeak. “There!” he yelled. Fluffy was running out the open door, out of which Layna was peering, obviously looking for him. Ryn was impressed at the speed with which the centipede dashed through the door and promptly disappeared. “Get him!”148

They chased Fluffy out through the empty streets of Frubachia, calling him loudly. The large centipede had amazing coordination, his hundred feet pattered along at a rapid pace, dodging randomly down side streets, just barely staying within their sight. Their search led them to the center square, the large meeting house loomed above them. As they neared the meeting house, Ryn spotted Fluffy disappearing into a good-sized hole in the stone wall of the structure. He indicated the centipede to Layna, who nodded in silent agreement. They followed Fluffy; it was a tight squeeze, at least for Ryn, but he managed.149

Once inside, they approached the escaped insect from opposite sides, and on Layna’s signal, pounced.150

“Got him!” Layna tried to yell, but Ryn quickly covered her mouth with his hand.151

“Shhh,” he said in a whisper. “There’s something going on in there.”152

There was a large circle in the center of the meeting house that was devoid of rocks, though large boulders surrounded the uncluttered space. Layna and Ryn saw, as they crouched in the shadow of a huge stone, all thirteen Elders huddled around something. Eternidad, the lead Elder, was talking animatedly, waving his hands about.153

Ryn and Layna could hear the Elders’ conversation quite plainly from their hiding place. It was obvious they were discussing the lockdown, they soon discovered.154

“As you are aware,” Eternidad was saying. “We have, admittedly, been unable to catch any culprits for these escape attempts.”155

As a grumble passed through the audience, Layna and Ryn exchanged an alarmed glance. Escape attempts?156

Eternidad raised his hands; his fellow Elders were silent. “It is disappointing, I agree. But, fret not. This time, we enjoy success.” The smile that crept across the lead Elder’s lips was slightly insane, and sent an ominous chill down Ryn’s spine.157

Eternidad snapped his fingers, and a lowly-looking attendant dragged a chair into the Elders’ midst, the unpleasant scraping against the stone floor resonating through the room. Ryn was shocked to see that strapped to the chair was a boy of perhaps twelve, his shaggy bangs falling over his pale blue eyes. Though Ryn was at quite a distance, he could almost feel the contempt in the boy’s gaze as he glared at the congregated Elders.158

Eternidad was undeterred by the boy’s malice as he addressed his council. “Silver here was found by the main entrance at the time of the attempted escape, you see. It perplexes me that FRAFF is recruiting such young members.” He cupped Silver’s chin in his hand.159

“But, Eternidad, FRAFF was destroyed years ago,” one Elder said. “And—”160

“I highly doubt that,” Eternidad cut in. “Bring the acid.”161

“But he’s only a child—” Another Elder interjected, surprised at their leaders malice towards such a young child. Though they had tortured many older FRAFF members without the slightest remorse, he felt an urge to save this mere boy of thirteen.162

“Silence. He is part of FRAFF. No punishment is too small.”163

The boy glowered at the Elders as one of them scampered off to appease Eternidad’s order. He did not seem frightened, but nonetheless, a few Elders glanced at him sympathetically, but no one spoke out; no one tried to save him.164

“Here is the acid, sir,” said the Elder who had fetched it, slightly out of breath, handing over a small vial.165

“How many times have I told you to call me ‘master’?” Eternidad snapped. The man scurried off without replying.166

“Hold out your hand, boy,” said Eternidad, turning to Silver.167

“I can’t, I’m chained to this chair.” Silver cocked an eyebrow. “You really should plan ahead.”168

Eternidad, it was evident, did not like Silver’s attitude, though Ryn admired his bravery. The Elder uncorked the vial, and a palpable wave of unease rippled through the assembled Elders.169

Silver, it seemed, sensed the feeling that permeated the air and, though his fierce expression did not dissipate, a frightened glint seemed to enter his eyes.170

Time seemed to slow down as Eternidad tipped a drop of the purple acid onto Silver’s hand. From their current vantage point, Ryn and Layna could not see the full extent of the concoction’s damage, but they could see Silver bite his lip, as if suppressing a scream, and inhale a sharp intake of breath. A look of horror crossed his face as he gazed at his hand.171

“Not so fierce now, are you?” Eternidad laughed maniacally.172

“What do you want from me?” Silver asked wearily.173

“Information, on FRAFF. In exchange, we will give you the antidote for the acid. You have three days before it eats all your skin.”174

“I don’t know anything!” Silver gasped in pain. “I don’t!”175

“Oh Silver,” Eternidad said, shaking his head. “You were at the gate. What were you doing there?”176

“Just—hanging out.” Silver couldn’t hold it in any longer. He let out a blood-chilling scream. From their hiding place, Layna buried her face in the folds of Ryn’s robe.177

“I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING!” Silver attempting to claw of the manacles chaining down his hands. He writhed in agony, shaking the heavy chains that bound him.178

“You have three days until the poison eats away your entire skin, if you tell what you know now, there is hope for you. If you don’t, it is doubtful that your skin will ever heal.” Eternidad grinned, waving the purple vial of antidote in front of silvers frantic eyes. “Tell us Silver. Tell us all you know.”179

“I can’t tell you anything because I don’t KNOW anything!” Silver yelled, his eyes wild. 180

Eternidad sighed as if he were sincerely regretting Silver’s decision. “Have it your way then,” he said. He directed his next order at a nearby Elder. “Take him to a cell and leave him there. We will check on him tomorrow to continue this interview.”181

“Please,” Silver all but begged. “I’m telling the truth!”182

“I urge you to rethink your decision,” was all Eternidad said in reply.183

As Silver was carted away, screaming curses and claims that he was innocent, Ryn became aware that he had been absentmindedly stroking Layna’s hair; she had not yet removed her face from his shoulder. She did not seem to have noticed; he quickly ceased, thoroughly embarrassed, and turned his attention back to the council.184

“To further business,” Eternidad said, shuffling some papers that were in front of him. “Through previous interviews, I think I have discovered another of FRAFF’s agents.” Anxious glances all around. “It is none other than our own doctor Ledi.”185

The Elders gasped. “That’s impossible,” said one, standing. A chorus of murmurs agreed with him.186

“I fear it’s so,” Eternidad said solemnly.187

Layna raised her head at this; Ryn noticed a look of terror cross her features as Eternidad continued in his attempts to convince the council.188

“What is it?” Ryn asked, concerned.189

“Doctor Ledi,” Layna whispered. “My father.”190

Cold fingers gripped Ryn’s spine. “What?”191

Layna’s eyes were wide with fear. “We knew he was in FRAFF. I guess they did, too.”192

“So, what do we do?”193

Layna pulled herself from her cocoon of shock to throw a poisonous glance at the Elders. “I think we should rescue that boy, Silver. He’s innocent.”194

“Same here—” He stopped Eternidad was standing up, banging a crystal to get the others’ attention. “Ledi, the doctor, shall be recycled in three days’ time. This meeting is over.” He banged a pitch black mallet three times on his desk, signaling the Elders to leave. 195

In the shuffling and murmurs that followed this announcement, Ryn saw the awful, horrorstruck expression invade Layna’s features. He took the time to ask, “What’s…recycling?”196

“It’s—it’s when you’re turned to stone, then crushed into little pieces, then added to the cave floor.” Layna gulped. “That’s recycling.”197

“Oh.” Ryn was chilled by the realization that he had been walked on what had once been living souls. “We have to warn Doctor Ledi.”198

A tear trickled slowly down Layna’s cheek. “We don’t know where he is.”199

Ryn put his arm around her comfortingly. “It will be okay,” he whispered in her ear. “Shh, it will be okay.” Leaning over, he kissed the top of her head. She turned her tear-stricken face toward him, and through her tears she smiled faintly. He smiled back.200

Clearing his throat, Ryn stood. “How do we go about rescuing Silver?”201

“We know he’s in a cell,” Layna pointed out. “And I’ve been there; my dad…” she trailed off, then, after taking a deep breath, tried once more. “My dad took me when he first became the doctor. I don’t know if I could find my way back, but I could try.202

“It’s the best we’ve got,” Ryn agreed.203

They looked into the meeting room; the Elders had, for the most part, dispersed. Layna glanced at Ryn, a glint in her eyes. “Come on,” she said. Ryn noticed she had slipped her hand in his; he now wondered whether the gesture was more than just an attempt to avoid separation.204

“This way,” Layna said, leading him through several stone doors. Eventually they came to a large cavern. In a metal cage in the center of the room was Silver. The skin on his arm was eaten away by the acid all the way to the elbow. Layna winced at the grisly sight.205

Silver’s head was bent in resigned exhaustion and he did not register Layna and Ryn’s arrival. They walked silently toward the cage, and, when they stopped within arm’s reach of the metal bars, the boy did not raise his head.206

Layna gripped one of the poles, gazing in at the prisoner. “Silver?”207

At last, he raised his head. His eyes were blazing with contained fury. “I’ve told you, I—” He stopped short, gaping at Ryn and Layna in horror. “You’re so young,” he murmured.208

Ryn failed to understand Silver’s meaning, but Layna seemed to comprehend it. “We’re not working for the Elders. We were there when they tortured you. We’re here to rescue you.”209

Silver’s laugh was bitter and reverberated against the walls of the cavern. “That’s a good one.”210

“We’re serious,” Ryn persisted. “We know you’re innocent.”211

Silver gave them a skeptical glance and then winced; the acid was still burning him. “Okay, okay, I believe you. Why are you rescuing me?”212

Layna looked taken aback. “Because we don’t want an innocent person to die.”213

Silver seemed incredulous. “Sure, sure. You’re sure you’re not going to sentence me to an eternity of torture? Maybe I died.”214

“Trust us,” Ryn said. “You’re alive.”215

Silver shrugged; it was evident, however, that he immediately regretted it, as he gasped in pain a moment later. “Fine. I don’t mean to rush you, but could you…hurry up a little?”216

“Okay, how should we do this?” Ryn questioned Layna.217

“Maybe we could break down the bars?” she suggested.218

“Before you do anything, could you give me the antidote?” Silver asked. “The Elders left the doors open, to taunt me, to make me cave in…to tell about FRAFF.”219

“What DO you know about FRAFF?” Ryn inquired as Layna hurried to retrieve the antidote.220

“Nothing—I’d have thought you figured that out. I only know that it has something to do with escaping Frubachia.” Silver scoffed; this was obviously a ludicrous idea. “Personally, I think the whole idea is a load of centipede dung.”221

“Here,” Layna said, reaching her hand through the bars to hand Silver the small vial of antidote. Silver greedily grabbed the vial, quickly unscrewing the lid, gulping down the gold liquid.222

As Silver gasped in relief, Ryn’s attention was caught by a small conglomeration of vials of the same approximate size and shape as the one that had housed the antidote sitting in the cupboard.223

Ryn made his way to the cupboard and proceeded to examine each bottle. He did not recognize the majority of the complicated names, but one of them gave him an idea.224

Ryn snatched the vial of bright purple liquid and rushed it back to Layna and Silver. “Stand back, Silver,” he said hurriedly as he poured the thick stream of liquid on the bars of the metal cage.225

“WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!” Silver yelled as he pressed himself to the far end of the cage. Ryn didn’t respond. The liquid was, as he suspected, the acid that had been used to torture Silver. It ate away at the metal with incredible speed; Ryn could only imagine what it had done to Silver’s arm…226

“Wow, that worked fast!” exclaimed Layna. “How come it didn’t do that to your arm?”227

“They gave me a slightly diluted version, so I could last three days,” Silver replied cheerfully.228

“Come on, let’s get out of here,” called Ryn, nervously glancing about.229

“We could ride Fluffy!” Layna suggested. “Here, Fluff!”230

The giant insect bounded over to Layna gently nuzzling her outstretched hand. Layna jumped on, grasping the leash in one hand, other reaching out to help Ryn and Silver aboard. “He’ll be a little slower than usual because he’s weighed down with two extra people, but it’ll still be faster than walking,” Layna said as Ryn hopped on beside her, followed by Silver.231

“How are we supposed to stay on?” Silver questioned.232

“Just put your arms around the person in front of you,” answered Layna. Ryn slid his arms around her waist, holding her tightly. Layna smiled slightly to herself, the corners of her mouth curling up.233

The ride was not necessarily pleasant, as Fluffy was prone to stumbling and giving them all jolts. It was a while before Silver chose to speak. “Where are we going?”234

“The spring,” Ryn answered automatically.235

“The spring?” Silver echoed questioningly.236

“Sounds good,” Layna agreed, pointing Fluffy in the correct direction.237

Upon arrival, Silver seemed reluctant to crawl through the small tunnel, but he followed Layna and Ryn’s example in the end, and it seemed he was happy he had done so when they reached the spring room.238

“What is this?” Silver asked in awe, admiring the sunlight that glinted off the water.239

“It’s a spring,” Ryn explained. “It’s clear, fresh water, not contaminated like the rest. You can touch in if you want.”240

As Silver gazed at the clear liquid in amazement, soaking his good hand in the water, Ryn caught sight of Layna, who was looking at the water in terrified realization.241

He made his way to her. “What is it?”242

She turned her gaze to him, her eyes wide. “I have to drink it.”243

“What?”244

“It’s the only way to escape,” Layna said. “I’m stuck here if I don’t.”245

“How?” Ryn was confused.246

“It’s the grapefruits that keep us here,” Layna explained. “I don’t know how, but that’s it. Why else would the Elders poison the water? I think it’s the antidote.”247

“You THINK?” Despite his claims of yesterday, Ryn was no longer certain that the water would not hurt Layna. The very thought made him nauseous. “What if something happens?”248

Layna shrugged. “It’s a risk I have to take.”249

Ryn was not sure what prompted him to do what he did next, but when he did it, he knew it was something he had wanted to do for a long time. He kissed her.250

He did not know how long they stood there; any thoughts stopped dead when his lips touched hers. He did, however, register when she began to reciprocate, her arms slipping around his neck, her fingers clutching at his hair, and felt his arms around her waist, clutching her impossibly tighter to him.251

He wanted to float in this blissful oblivion forever, free of the worries and dangers that plagued him, but Silver’s voice interrupted him.252

“How come nobody has their tongue down MY throat?” Silver pouted.253

Layna pulled away from Ryn, all too soon. She smiled at him, then bent, cupped her hands, and brought a handful of the water to her lips.254

As soon as she swallowed, a strange think began to happen. Her eyes began to spark, it seemed, and her whole body began to quake.255

“Layna?” Ryn said nervously.256

“It’s okay,” she gasped. “I just—” Her eyes swirled with hundreds of colors, spiraling around her large pupils, before settling to a brilliant violet. She stopped shaking, and stood up.257

“Layna! Layna, are you okay?” cried Ryn.258

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Layna assured him. “It was as easy as…” she snapped her fingers, and, suddenly and abruptly, where she had been standing a moment before, there was nothing.259

Layna had disappeared.260

“Layna?” said Silver tentatively. “Where are you?”261

“What do you mean? I’m standing right next to you!” Layna’s voice came from midair, right where she had been standing a moment before.262

“Layna?” Ryn reached out his hand to where her voice was coming from.263

“What are you talking about?” Layna’s voice asked. “I’m here!”264

The shadows in one of the dark corners of the room seemed to glisten and expand, then all was still. Ryn and Silver looked around, and here alarmed when Layna stepped from the shadows, looking confused. Ryn gazed at her, striving to comprehend what had occurred, but it was Silver who realized it.265

“I think,” said Silver, “you just became a shadow.”266

“What?” Layna exclaimed.267

“It must have been the grapefruit,” Ryn said slowly. “When you drank the water, the effects of it collided with the effects of the grapefruit, and you gained a power.”268

“Oh. Wow. That’s amazing,” said Layna, surprised.269

“Layna, your hair. It’s not all blond anymore,” exclaimed Silver.270

Ryn reached over and touched a black streak in her once-blond hair. Layna leaned over and looked at her reflection in the shimmery spring.271

“I look so different,” she murmured, fingering the streak.272

“I think you look beautiful,” whispered Ryn.273

Layna smiled at him; Silver made a subtle gagging sound. Then he said, “Your eyes are different too. They’re more…totally black.”274

“He’s right,” Ryn agreed. “They’re black.”275

Layna shook her head, amazed. Then she turned on Silver. “You have to drink it too.”276

“Oh,” Silver said. “Yeah, I guess I do.” He looked hopeful.277

“What is it?” Ryn asked, his suspicion struck.278

“Oh, nothing,” Silver sighed. “I was hoping one of you would kiss me, too. I feel so unloved.”279

“Aw, poor Silver,” Layna teased. “I’m sure Fluffy would love you kiss you!”280

“Uh…” Silver gazed at the insect with a look of repugnance on his face. “Yeah. Thanks, but no thanks. And, I don’t think we have time for me to drink right now.”281

“Why?”282

“Well, shouldn’t we rescue Doctor Ledi first? I mean, he’s gonna be recycled.”283

“True,” said Layna, somber once more. “I just wish I knew where he was…”284

“I do,” said Silver casually, picking at a scab.285

Layna and Ryn turned on him. “WHAT?!”286

“WHERE IS HE?!” screamed Layna.287

“What’s it worth to you?” asked Silver. “How about a kiss?”288

Layna considered carefully. She glanced at Ryn. “Fine, but only on the cheek,” she said, exasperated.289

Silver put out his right cheek. Layna sighed, then leaned forward to kiss him. Right before her lips touched his cheek, he quickly turned his face. Her lips met his; her eyes bugged out of her head. She pulled away quickly, drew back her hand, and slapped him across the face.290

“OW! What was that for?” Silver reached up to touch the red mark on his cheek.291

“What do YOU think?” Layna’s eyes blazed. “Where’s my dad?” she asked.292

“Follow me,” Silver muttered, still massaging his cheek. He threw a glare at Layna as he passed her.293

“Come on, Ryn, let’s—” Layna stopped, catching sight of Ryn. “Ryn, what’s wrong?”294

Ryn had been quietly sulking in a corner during the duration of Layna and Silver's kiss; he now looked up. “Nothing,” he mumbled under his breath.295

“Okay then. Let’s go.”296

While Silver led the way, Layna hung back to walk next to Ryn. She slipped her hand in his. “You know I didn’t mean that,” she murmured to him. “I don’t have feelings for Silver. I mean, there’s probably a three-year age difference—he’s probably only twelve.”297

Ryn squeezed her hand. “I know that,” he said. “I just don’t understand why he would do that, after he saw…us.”298

“Because he’s Silver,” Layna reminded him. “Did you really put it past him?”299

“I guess—” Ryn stopped. He was looking into her eyes, and he had noticed something. “Your eyes. They’re violet again.”300

“Really? This whole water thing is complicated.” Though Ryn was concerned about her gift, he let it go.301

“Hello?” Silver called. “Come on!” They were cautious as they made their way through a tunnel, for there were still officials roaming about. Silver led them to an abandoned crystal mine, its dark mouth yawning at them menacingly.302

He called into the cavity, his voice reverberating off the walls. “Hey, Doc, you better come out! I got your daughter here! We’re getting married!”303

Silver snickered as Doctor Ledi came running out, then winced as Layna smacked him. Again.304

Doctor Ledi’s face was a mask of shock; it was obvious that he had taken Silver seriously. “Layna, what are you doing?! You have your whole life ahead—” He caught sight of the threesome, and it was obvious that they were not serious. “Oh, yes, very funny,” he growled. His next question was aimed at Layna. “What are you doing here?”305

“We’re here to rescue you! You’re supposed to be recycled in three days,” exclaimed Silver cheerfully.306

“Oh,” Ledi said. “That would be a bad I think. Yeah, let’s get out of here.”307

“Dad, why did you leave?” Layna asked, her voice suddenly serious.308

“It was just a precaution. I didn’t think things would get so serious. I’m sorry for leaving without telling you.”309

“It’s fine, Dad.” Though she shrugged easily, Layna looked close to tears.310

Ledi hugged his daughter briefly, then turned to Silver. “So who ARE you, anyway? And you two aren’t together really, are you? Because frankly, I think you’re a little young.”311

“What?!” Layna exclaimed. “That is so GROSS!” 312

Silver sent her a look, then addressed Ledi’s question. “No, we’re not. My name is Silver. Ryn and Layna rescued me when the Elders tortured me for information on FRAFF.” Silver smiled pleasantly, and held out his right hand to the doctor. However, finding that his forearm was a relatively grotesque sight, opted for his left hand instead. “Er, nice to meet you.”313

Ledi, however, did not shake—his gaze was still on Silver’s right hand, in horror. “This is all my fault,” he murmured.314

“Yup,” said Silver, withdrawing his arm. “But it’s okay. It only hurts like hell.”315

Shaking his head slightly, Ledi turned to Ryn. “And who are you?”316

“I’m Ryn,” he said, extending his hand as he glanced at Layna. “I’m…ah…just a friend.”317

Ledi cocked an eyebrow as he shook Ryn’s hand. “Great,” he said, then turned to Layna. “I like him better.”318

“DAD!”319

“What—oh, sorry. Anyway, moving on.” Ledi’s voice was serious once more. “How did you find out about FRAFF?”320

After exchanging a guilty glance, Ryn and Layna conveyed to him the story of their escapades, beginning with their unlikely meeting and ending with their discovery of Ledi’s hiding place. The doctor listened attentively, and did not speak until they had concluded.321

“So…you’re here to take me away? To help me escape?”322

“Yes,” the three said in unison.323

Ledi’s eyebrows rose. “Where do we plan to go? We can’t stay in Frubachia, the Elders will recycle all of us, or worse.”324

“The outside world,” Layna said.325

Ledi looked shocked. “How do you plan to do that?”326

Ryn, Layna and Silver glanced at each other, unsure. “Well…we don’t know, exactly,” Layna admitted. “We know that the grapefruits are what keep us here, and that the water is the antidote. But…well, we don’t know how to actually get out.”327

Ledi sighed. “Right. So, until we figure it out, are we all in hiding, then?”328

“Not sure,” Ryn said. “But first Silver has to drink from the spring, we left before he could.”329

“You know where the spring is? AND you drank from it?” Ledi asked, a look of disbelief on his face.330

Layna grinned, reached out her hand, and snapped, promptly disappearing.331

“Layna, where are you? LAYNA!” Worry penetrated Ledi’s face; he looked around the cave, searching for his daughter.332

Ryn and Silver just smiled.333

Behind Ledi a snap resounded. “BOO!” Layna materialized behind her father.334

“Aaahhh!” Ledi screamed. “How did you do that?”335

“Oh, that’s what happened when I drank the water.”336

“You—you look different. Your hair is…and your eyes…” He gazed at Layna fixedly337

“Yeah, I know,” Layna murmured.338

“Guys, I’m sure your reunion is very important and heartwarming, but we have to get to the Spring of Freedom.”339

“You NAMED the spring?” Layna asked incredulously.340

“Yeah, it sounds good. What more do you want?”341

“You to shut up,” Ryn muttered a little too loudly.342

“Kids, kids, break it up,” interrupted Ledi. “We have to get to the Spring of Freedom.”343

“Oh, so now you’re taking HIS side?” Layna said exasperatedly.344

Ledi threw up his hands in defense, then led the way from the cave.345

“Wait…” Layna murmured. Her eyes were locked on Fluffy, who was entertaining himself with a small rock. “What about Fluffy?” 346

“What about him?” Silver asked.347

“We can’t take him with us, can we? It’ll be too dangerous.”348

Ryn had not even considered the insect’s fate. Layna’s eyes were wide. “Er…”349

No one spoke for a moment, until Silver piped up, “We could set him free.”350

Everyone gazed at him. “What?”351

“Y’know,” he said. “Fluffy could be, like, a free centipede. Wonder the streets of Frubachia. Go wherever the wind takes him—”352

“Yeah, okay, we get it,” Ryn told him. “Set him free.”353

“It’s as good a plan as any,” Ledi pointed out. “She’s right, we can’t take him. Maybe he’ll find some new owners if we set him free.” He looked at his daughter intensely. “Layna, is that okay?”354

Layna was still gazing at her pet; she looked close to tears. She nodded. “Yeah.”355

She approached her pet, who wiggled excitedly at the sight of her. Her hands shaking, Layna slipped the collar from around the centipede’s neck, and let it fall to the ground. “Go free, Fluffy,” she murmured.356

Layna gazed at him for a moment; the insect did not seem to comprehend her meaning, so she left him by the pile of rocks.357

“Come on,” she said. “We have to get out of here.”358

The going was relatively complicated, as the four could not allow themselves to be seen. Of course, it was simple for Layna, who was not seen even by her three companions. Ryn heard Silver cursing her on several occasions when they barely escaped being caught.359

Ledi hardly fit through the tunnel, but it was obvious from the precision with which he made his way along the dark passageway that he had been there before.360

Unsurprisingly, Layna was waiting for them when they entered the cavern. Silver rolled his eyes, but both Ryn and Ledi embraced her, happy to find her safe.361

Ryn had not considered that hugging Layna in the presence of her father would be an awkward matter, and it was not until he released her that he caught Ledi’s gaze, which was something close to a smirk. Ryn blushed, though he hoped the flush would go unnoticed in the poor lighting. “Er…sorry,” he muttered.362

“Right,” Silver said. “Now that the lovefest is over, can we PLEASE get on to more important things?”363

“Sure,” Layna agreed. “There’s the spring. Happy drinking.”364

“No kiss?” Silver asked.365

“No kiss,” Layna told him firmly. “I’ve had enough kisses from you to last me a lifetime. Possibly more.”366

“Fine,” Silver said reluctantly. He gazed at the water. “I wonder what power I’ll have?” he mused.367

“You’re never going to find out,” said a cold voice behind them. They turned and to their horror, saw Eternidad standing behind them, armed with a large dart gun. Ledi pushed the children behind him.368

Despite Ledi’s efforts, Silver stepped out and gave Eternidad the once-over. He whistled and said, “Hey, big daddy! You gained some weight!” Silver smiled.369

Eternidad turned, and said in a harsh voice, “That’s right, my son.”370

He fired the dart.371

“My son?” said Silver, as the dart his him square in the chest. He fell into the water, the clothes that had kept him warm were now weights dragging him down.372

“SILVER!” Ryn yelled as he dove into the water. He froze for a moment, the water shocking him. He grabbed Silver and began dragging him upward. The blood from the wound was already clouding the water. Ryn gasped, dragging himself and Silver out of the frigid water. He gently flipped Silver onto his back.373

“You okay?” he asked Silver.374

“Yeah, just peachy keen. I’m so good that—”375

A sharp cry of pure hatred cut off Silver’s sarcastic description. Ryn turned to see Eternidad rushing at Ledi, a wicked glinting blade grasped in his pallid hand.376

“Dad! Look out!” cried Layna.377

Ledi produced a shorter blade, whipping around, cutting Eternidad’s left shoulder. The Elder cried out, but with lightning-fast reflexes, he stabbed Ledi in the gut. With a burst of hysterical laughter, Eternidad lifted the dagger above his head, reveling in his triumph.378

“DAAAAD! NOOOO!” cried Layna, half-screaming half-sobbing.379

“Ha! You fool! You thought you could de—” Eternidad gasped, looking down to see Ledi’s knife protruding from his chest.380

“Nooo!” Eternidad cried, then collapsed into a crumpled heap on the floor. A look of victory spread across Ledi’s face just before he toppled to the ground.381

Layna’s screams echoed across the cavern. Ryn followed her example and rushed toward the fallen doctor.382

“Dad, you’re going to be fine,” Layna was saying in a reassuring tone, though her voice wavered. “You’ll be fine.”383

Ledi shook his head. His face was pale and drenched in cold sweat. He gazed at his daughter in confusion. “Layna?”384

Layna shot Ryn an anxious glance. “Yeah. Yeah, Dad, it’s me.”385

Ledi closed his eyes. “Good. That’s good. I want you here.”386

“I’m always here, Dad.” Tears trailed through the layer of grime that was smudged on Layna’s cheeks.387

“I know. I love you.” Ledi’s lids fluttered open lazily. It was evident that it caused him much pain. “Ryn,” he mumbled.388

“I’m here,” Ryn answered.389

“Take care of her,” Ledi said in what was obviously meant to be a commanding tone. “You’re going to be great. Both of you. I—” He winced, clutching his would, from which was issuing a copious stream of blood. “You need to get out,” he whispered. “Use…use the spring. If you swim through it, it leads out. Take Silver through.”390

“What about you?” Layna’s voice was hushed.391

“Before he died, Eternidad summoned the other Elders. I…I need to stay here. You have to go.”392

“I’m not leaving you!” Layna shrieked.393

“Layna, you have to. Please. For me.” Ledi’s glazed eyes were imploring.394

“I won’t!” Layna insisted.395

“Ryn, you have to take her,” Ledi said. “Take Silver and Layna outside.”396

“I will,” Ryn agreed. “Thank you. For everything.”397

A tear trickled into Ledi’s hair. His eyes closed once more. “Go. Now.”398

Ryn was preparing to drag Layna into the water when Ledi’s eyes popped open suddenly. “Oh, and by the way,” he said. “I approve.” He smiled wearily, and his eyes closed for the final time.399

“NO!” Layna screamed. She fought against Ryn’s arms around her, but he held her tight. When he reached Silver, the younger boy reached out to him, and Ryn hooked his arm around Silver’s elbow and dragged the group into the icy water.400

“Take a breath,” Ryn yelled as the shouts of Elders began to draw nearer and they plunged in. the swim seemed to last forever. Ice shards cut at Ryn’s face, and Layna’s and Silver’s combined weight was almost enough to pull him under permanently. Then, when he felt like there was no air left in his body, he surfaced. He lay gasping on the sandy ground.401

“Eternidad. He is my father,” croaked Silver.402

“No. That’s just what he wanted you to think,” said Ryn firmly.403

“He is a liar,” added Layna vehemently.404

“I think I knew it all along,” said Silver sadly.405

“How could you have known that?” asked Ryn, perplexed.406

“I’m just awesome like that.” Silver shrugged, then winced, his face clouding over, the pain drowning out everything else.407

“You okay?” asked Ryn.408

“To tell you the truth, I’m not feeling so hot,” wheezed Silver. “I think I’m going to die.”409

“No. No, you’re NOT going to die!” exclaimed Layna passionately.410

“Layna, I’m sorry I kissed you,” said Silver.411

A tear trickled down Layna’s cheek. “Apology accepted.412

“Ryn, I’m sorry I called you a floggleheaded moron,” Silver continued.413

“What? When did you call me a floggleheaded moron?” Ryn asked, puzzled.414

“Just now,” smiled Silver. He turned to Layna. “Layna, take care of Ryn. He’d gonna need it.”415

“I promise.” Layna smiled slightly through her tears.416

“You two, play safe.”417

Ryn glared at Silver, while Layna turned an unusual shade of bright pink.418

A few golden rays of sun glinted over the horizon, illuminating the gushing river that flowed nearby. “I’ve always wanted to see the sunrise,” said Silver dreamily, his eyes glazing over as he gazed rapturously at the rising sun.419

And thus Silver perished.420

“Silver,” sobbed Layna. “SILVER, NO!”421

“He’s gone, Layna,” said Ryn quietly, wiping a tear from his own cheek.422

“My—my father—and…and now Silver, I just—oh Ryn!” She collapsed into him, crying heaving sobs.423

Ryn lost count of the reassurances he whispered in Layna’s ear, or how many times he kissed her in futile attempt to cheer her. It was difficult, however, when tears streamed down his own cheeks also.424

Eventually, when Layna’s sobs reached a lull, Ryn spoke. “What should we…what should we do with him?”425

Layna raised her red-eyed, tear-stricken face to look at Ryn. “What?”426

Ryn indicated Silver’s peaceful body. “We can’t leave him here.”427

Layna nodded wordlessly. She cocked her head and stared into empty space, obviously deep in though. Ryn gazed at the glittering water, remembering his spring with a strange melancholy.428

“The water,” Layna said suddenly.429

Ryn gazed at her, perplexed. “Huh?”430

“The sun on the water looks like silver,” she murmured.431

They looked at each other, and both knew what to do.432

Silver’s body was not necessarily heavy, and Ryn and Layna found it simple to carry him to the glittering river. Layna began sobbing once more as Ryn pushed the corpse into the water, and he held her as they watched their deceased friend sink slowly to the bottom.433

Ryn did not know how long they stood on the bank, but he registered when Layna’s sobs ceased. He allowed them to lapse into silence for a moment before he spoke. “What now?”434

Layna sniffed before she spoke. “We need to get the others out, I think. We can’t let the Elders rule over them, although now Eternidad is gone they might not be so horrible, it seemed like he was sort of their master. We might have to find another way out though—I wouldn’t be surprised if they poisoned the spring. I suppose we’ll just have to wait and see, but they can’t be allowed to live underground anymore. They have to know there’s more.”435

“I agree,” Ryn said. “Someday, that will happen. But first, we need to explore this world. We need to see what kind of place it is.”436

“Yes,” Layna agreed. She was gazing at the river, and the spring that fed it. “And we won’t forget them. Either of them.”437

Ryn knew immediately to whom she was referring. “Never.”438

Again they were silent. The only sound was the soft bubbling of the river. It was Ryn who again broke the silence. “Come on. We should go. We can’t stay here.”439

Layna nodded. She glanced at the river, and the spring gurgling gently. To a passerby, it would be impossible to guess that it was an entrance to an underground civilization. Ryn followed her gaze, and put his arm around her shoulder.440

“Let’s go.” Layna turned her back on the only life she had ever known.441

“Yeah. Let’s go.”442

Ryn and Layna, hand in hand, walked purposefully in the direction of the blazing sun.443