Chapter 8 March 3, 2010

Graven returned to Axium very much changed. The Book of Ind explained to him a great many things about the changes both recent and past. He understood now and for the first time the reason for Gaia's sacrifice and that it was necessary for the advent of the Age of Forge the creator. Iboga's actions were preordained, he knew that now. From the book he garnered insight into the rune alphabet concerned with the elements, similar to the incantations Iboga had used. Apparently Coral was his conduit to a realm beyond rune sight. He now saw in new colors, saw in new shapes. He saw runes now not only in form, but beyond forms. Graven reached home a new person. Coral approached him at the edge of the village.

"It has been a long time my friend. Have you finally found the peace you were looking for?"

"I understand her death was warranted now and I understand why?"

"Why?"

"It was ordained by the creators themselves."

"What are you talking about young one?" Coral seemed genuinely surprised by the statement.

"The writings in the cave...are you not aware of what you scribbled upon the walls of the cavern?"

Coral chuckled for a moment before finally answering.

"My dear, dear child. I am blind. I have been blind from the day I stepped into this world and from the day I stepped into your lives."

"How...how is this possible, I never knew."

"The masks I feel have guided me, I have never needed sight. My feet simply carried me where I needed to be and for now they carried me here. We have much to discuss, come let's see to your return home. Much has changed in the years you've been gone."

"Years, you mean months?"

"I'm afraid more time has passed then you are aware of..."

With that the two approached the once small village which was now bustling. All about him movement stirred on the ground or in the trees. The forest had become the city, almost overnight from Graven's perspective. Finally making his way to the dome of the Gaiasphere Graven was amazed at what he saw. The Gaiasphere project had transcended both his and Adahn's hopes. The facility now was an indoor jungle complete with wildlife and proliferated with art larger then life. Four statues now encircled the gaiasphere and they were massive. The four resembled none other then Graven, Adahn, Syrka, and Veyn and appeared to be supporting the Gaiasphere's weight with hands upstreched. Graven felt quite honored yet embarassed at the scope and style with which he had been portrayed, as some prodigal godlike figure.

Looking closer at the individuals as he passed he could scarcely recognize his people. The change from the lake had now come to total fruition and Coral now informed Graven that they choose to be called human, the Etherian word for 'fated'.
Entering his home Graven had to ask. "How long have I been gone?" He said with much timidity.

"Thirty-seven years Graven, to the day actually. It was on this date thirty-seven years ago you left the commune for the prison."

"I...I don't understand...Kalyx...Where is Kalyx? Is she alive? Is she ok? How does she feel about..."

"Easy Graven. Calm yourself. Your daughter is fine. We figured it would be too much of a shock for you to meet at the edge of the city so she is waiting for you at your home. As for how she feels about your absense, I can assure you that your trek was seen as no less then necessity and she understands completely.