FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

SE-13 S'tauring Role BY Darrel James Vanwinkle (Writing as Ratseye) 11/18/2003

The early November cold drizzly rains made the stay at the Vanlyone mansion a bit dreary. After his last mission, Dominic Bastian Vanlyone settled into more of a conservative role. Gone were the eager energies that would have once projected Dominic into an adventure at a moment's notice. Dominic had awoken in his bed wondering a question that he might never have ever wondered before.

Who was he?

If he wasn't Jansen Tanner, then who exactly was he? He had been slain many, many times. Yet each time, he had been brought back to life. And the name Dominic Vanlyone was given to his magically created clone in the past only after Jansen had met Dominic in the present day time. This was known as a time anomaly. An irregular occurance that should not exist. Yet, here he was. There had to be an answer as to who he was.

The truths were simple to Jansen Tanner. He had magically created Dominic so he could remember his trip to the future. Dominic's apparent life began the moment he had awoken in Chess Headquarters, and his life guided and directed from there. But who had he been before being brought into existance by Jansen? There had been a whole twenty years or so that was missing from Dominic's life. Where had he came from?

Dominic slid out of bed and entered the bathroom. He took his morning shower, shaved, and started preparing himself for a trip into Rocky Falls Missouri. A necessary business trip. When he emerged from the bathroom, he pulled his business suit out of the closet and draped it across the bed. Dominic grabbed the lint brush and began cleaning the suit. It was while he was doing this task when Devyn peaked over the end of the bed at Dominic.

Devyn asked, "What's up, Master Dominic?"

Dominic wasn't startled in the slightest. "I am preparing to conduct some business negotiations in town."

Devyn came over to Dominic's side and brushed up against his leg. "You came in late last night. I was worried about you."

Dominic glanced down at Devyn. "Devyn... do you know who I am? I mean... other than Dominic or King Lion? What is my past like before Jansen Tanner had me created?"

Devyn arched an eye at Dominic. "Why, you're... oh... you're my best friend, I guess. Maybe that isn't the answer you're seeking, but to me, that is who you are. Past or no past."

Dominic nodded his head and began getting into the suit. "Devyn, you've been the best guardian hellhound ever. And I know I haven't shown you the proper respect you deserve." He adjusted his tie. "I need to square some things with Leia, then I have to pick up the usual supplies. Would you like anything from town?"

Devyn grinned. "Only you, Master Dominic. Only you."

Dominic grinned back. "I am lucky to have you, Devyn. I need to get going now. I have little time for a breakfast with Reed before I have to rush off to meet with Leia." Dominic teleported out of the room and straight to Reed's kitchen.

Reed was preparing breakfast when Dominic teleported into the room.

Dominic hugged Reed from behind. "As Devyn would say... boo!"

Reed churred and turned his kangaroo muzzle partly around and licked Dominic's face. "Mornin' mate. Ya look kinda spiffy in that zoot suit. Where ya be off ta dressed like that?"

Dominic kissed Reed in return. "I have a boring old business meeting with Leia. Then, I have to pick up some supplies for the mansion. Then later..." He released Reed and sat down at the kitchen table. "Then later, I need to begin to explore the mystery behind who I really am."

Reed set the table and sat with Dominic to eat. "Yas are letting what Jansen told ya get ta ya, aren't ya?"

Dominic nodded his head as he ate. "If what Jansen says is true, then I am a time anomaly. In order for me to have been created magically, I had to have come from somewhere that the wish snagged me from to give a life's essence to. What I want to know is who was I before Jansen magically had me snagged."

Reed ate his food glancing at Dominic from time to time. Then, Reed said, "Yas want ta refind yerself, is that it, mate?"

Dominic nodded his head again. "Yes. I want to refind myself, no matter how good or bad the last life was. I want to know when my real birthday was. Things like that."

Reed grinned. "Yas know... speakin' of birthdays... Dane Gervase's birthday is today. Would ya like ta 'elp me throw 'im a birthday party? It oughta be a lot of fun, mate."

Dominic sighed. "I'd love to, Reed. But I have my whole morning schedule all laid out. I can't be late to meet with Leia. I'll attend the party when I can, Reed. I'm sorry."

Reed nodded his muzzle. "Ah liked yas better when yas thought yas were Jansen, but there is no way Ah could love Jansen like Ah love you, Dominic. Yas better run along to your meeting. Scoot."

Dominic got up and hugged his kangaroo friend, and kissed his forehead. Then, Dominic teleported back to the mansion in Rocky Falls, where he got into his new Dodge Ram and drove into town.

Dominic met with Leia Tanner in the executive offices at the bank in Rocky Falls. They discussed Dominic's financial history, his holdings, and other key points of property that was in his name. It was obvious that Dominic was an impressive citizen of the community, especially after his huge donations to charity a few months ago.

The rain, plus Dominic's new behavior, was making Jago Fox very uneasy. After his own last adventure, he was all too eager for another.

But nothing had cropped up. Nothing.

Jago sighed, staring at a photograph of Ren of the Northern Herd, Circe's male consort. "If a mission doesn't pop up in the next few days, I'll go crazy."

Gotaki Riverclaw glanced across the library at Jago. "You'll go crazy? What about me? King Lion's new outlook on life is making me want to go kill something."

Jago turned to gaze in Gotaki's direction, but she was already gone. He wondered why Jansen Tanner had been so adamant about setting Dominic on the right path. The truth was important, but the results had changed Dominic into a very boring person. Then, Jansen didn't even have the balls to stay around. He had left after only a week in Rocky Falls Missouri.

Fortunately for Jago, Damon Horse emerged from the furnace room heading towards the kitchen. Jago got up and followed the demon horse general. Damon opened up the refrigerator and got out a carton of eggs and a package of bacon. Jago sat at the dining room table watching his friend.

Jago asked, "Will Dominic ever recover from the shock of what Jansen told him?"

Damon turned his head to Jago and grinned. "A minor setback, I assure you. Give Dominic some time. He'll be on top again..." He turned back to the stove and muttered, "...I hope."

Devyn entered the kitchen at this moment and rubbed his nose along Jago's leg. "Someone please tell me again why Dominic is acting like an automaton? He barely even acknowledged my presence this morning. And worse, he put on a business suit and headed into Rocky Falls."

Jago grinned at the lonely fifth circle beast. "I couldn't agree more, Devyn. Dominic just isn't the same anymore now that he knows he never was Jansen Tanner."

Reed Huxley hopped into the kitchen next and leaned rather heavily on Jago's shoulder. "Are we talking about Captain Depression, mates?"

Jago grinned at Reed. "Yeah, that's the topic."

Reed kissed Jago's forehead. "Ah can verify that the new Dominic is not a welcome one. 'e turned down an invitation to 'elp me throw a birthday party for Dane Gervase."

Jago blinked his eyes. "Dane Gervase. He's that handsome werepanther, isn't he?"

Reed nodded his muzzle. "Fortunately, mate, your buddy, Jonie Dreamsea, volunteered to 'elp me with this, so all is not lost."

Damon exclaimed, "It's not really Dominic's fault, Reed. He's just having to refind himself. Imagine being in his shoes thinking you were one person all this time, only to find out that you were a magically created twin who never had a real past. Dominic needs some time."

Reed nodded his muzzle again. "Ah just 'ope 'e gets over it soon."

Suddenly, from the kitchen doorway, Circe entered the kitchen. "You hope who gets over what?"

Jago smiled at Circe. "We're talking about Dominic, of course." Jago explained the whole situation to Circe, who sat at the table with the others. "So you see, Dominic is a depressing wreck, at the moment. And we're all hoping that it ends pretty fast."

Circe folded her arms over her chest. "Oh that's just lovely. And here I neeeded him for something. Now, what am I supposed to do?"

Jago arched an eye. "You needed him for something? What mission did you have for him?"

Circe glanced to Jago and replied, "My consort, Ren of the Northern Herd, needs an escort to this year's taurean gathering and I cannot escort him. My personal attention is required at my traveling carnival which has been under unscrupulous watch by a private citizen's group. So, I was going to ask Dominic to escort Ren again, this year. But that's obviously impossible now."

Jago hummed. "How hard is it to run your carnival?"

Circe eyed Jago, then laughed. "Unless you're female, you wouldn't last ten minutes, Jago Fox. My carnival tends to transform mortal men into animals."

Jago irked. "I see. Then perhaps I could escort Ren to the taurean gathering. Dominic is obviously in no condition to do so and Shane Wayne is visiting relatives in Texas. I mean, how difficult could it be to escort a large handsome centaur to another location?"

Circe hummed. "You'd do that for me? Well, escorting him isn't really a big problem. It's just that there are people who would try their damnedest to capture Ren for research. He's quite the catch, as I am sure you well know."

Jago smiled. "That picture of him in Dominic's library is certainly a good rendition of Ren."

Circe smiled and patted Jago's shoulder. "Is it worth my threatening you to protect Ren or be a donkey for a year?" Circe winked at Jago.

Jago laughed. "Hee-haw?" Jago giggled. "Just tell me when I am to escort Ren."

Circe grinned. "Can you be ready in two days or less? My carnival needs me almost immediately."

Jago nodded his head. "I am sure I can be ready by then. Is there a quick way to get to your island to tag up with Ren?"

Circe smiled and handed Jago a magical ring. "When you're ready to join Ren, put this on and say, 'Folly of Odysseus.' You, and anyone touching you, will be transported to my island where Ren will be close by to greet you. I am sure I don't have to warn you about wandering off the cobblestone path... I must be off now. Have fun and I hope to hear a good report from Ren."

Circe turned and walked out of the kitchen.

Jago grinned. "You all know the drill," he mocked Dominic's voice with a chuckle. "Who all wants to come along this time?"

Damon laughed out loud!

Reed choked on the tea he was drinking and laughed too. "That was bad, mate!"

Gotaki chuckled from the corner she stood in. "I thought it was a good rendition. I'll come along, Jago."

Jago glanced at Gotaki. "You will? I thought you only served King Lion..."

Gotaki unfolded her arms and approached the kitchen table. "King Lion is a mess right now. I need some action."

Devyn grinned and got up. "I'll stay here and be a good guard beasthound." He padded off into the other portions of the mansion.

Reed hummed. "Ah 'ave a shop to run. Sorry."

Damon grinned. "I'll be coming along. I sorta promised, after all." He winked at Jago.

Jago smiled back. "So that makes three of us. This is great!"

Damon nodded his head. "We have two days to prepare or we can leave immediately. It's up to you, Jago. You're the team leader this time."

Jago hummed. "We'll leave in the morning. No sense waiting two days when one will do. We need to pick up some necessary supplies, like tents, rations, and first aid kits. Never know when someone might get hurt. Oh yes, a good compass or two. Am I forgetting anything?"

Suddenly, standing at the door of the kitchen, Sallee Tanner, with her two favorite cameramen, Casey Maddock and Emilion Arden, said, "Another trip to Greece? I'm in!!"

Jago glanced over at Sallee. "At least you brought the same two cameramen and not two new ones. You better be glad Dominic is in town and not here."

Sallee grinned. "Oh yes, Dominic... You know, I actually feel sorry for him. When I thought he was Jansen, I had to grudgingly treat him like my brother. But now that he's not Jansen, I can really open up to him. In a way, I am glad he's not Jansen. Without Dominic, I'd certainly have never gotten to go on some of the most interesting adventures Rocky Falls has ever seen. Imagine it... demons, werebeasts, furries, gods, mythic figures from holidays, and even dragons! Not to mention centaurs, satyrs, minotaurs and other studly masculine figures. Oh, we can't forget the white stag! He's been a huge help around here. If he were human, I'd likely have married him."

Damon chuckled. "I'm glad not everyone is sad about the truth. But you marrying the white stag? That is a thought that I'd rather not have. He's bad enough single."

Reed glanced over at Casey and Emilion. "Come on over, mates. Ah don't bite, unless you ask all nice like." Reed winked and smiled. "Damon is fixing us a 'earty breakfast."

Casey and Emilion walked over and sat at the table. Sallee joined them at the table, sitting next to Jago and Reed. Damon chuckled and resumed preparing breakfast.

Gotaki grinned. "So King Lion has support from his one time sister. This is most intriguing."

Sallee grinned too. "If Dominic is King Lion, does that make me Queen Snoop?"

Jago laughed. "That's pretty good, but please... don't anyone start calling me king anything. I am happy to be a squire or a knight in training."

Gotaki winked, then said, "Perhaps, Jago Fox, but you do have a dragonsteed in Klondike Town. He will only obey you. You better be glad he agreed to stay in the Furry Realms rather than follow you back here."

Jago nodded his head and hummed. The Furry Realms. His mind drifted back to the summit of kings, and to the repayment to Brand Irondam, a male beaver native wilderness scout, who had said he'd ask for something at a later date. Jago really liked Brand and was really hoping to see the beaver again soon. "I can't wait to see Ren again. I've been admiring his picture."

Sallee asked, "What picture is that?"

Jago smiled. "The portrait in the mansion's library. Ren posed for that one."

Sallee rushed out of the kitchen and into the library to look at the picture.

Gotaki grinned. "Sallee is an excitable woman. Lots of energy. I feel sorry for any man she decides to marry."

Leia finished up the meeting, exclaiming, "I am impressed that you want to research your past and find out who you think you might have been, Dominic. When Jansen explained the whole thing the first time, it made sense to me. But now that I have heard your side of the explanation, it certainly leaves one to wonder where you came from. Jansen came up with your name 'after' he met you on that time trip. Then, Jansen goes back to his time and has you magically created, and even arranges for you to take the name Dominic Vanlyone. But if he had never met you, then he couldn't have arranged for you to be named that. I am not sure what to think. But of one thing I am sure... Gotaki Riverclaw always calls you King Lion, and has sworn that your aura is that of a lion, and not a human, so perhaps you should make a trip to Africa, into lion-country. There must be a lion there who died around the time you were created, and if not at that time, then within a few months of that time. I cannot believe that Gotaki would be wrong, Dominic."

Dominic hummed. "You may be on to something, Leia. I'll certainly give what you've said some thought."

Leia bid good day to Dominic, and Dominic headed out of the bank to his car. He then proceeded to the task of gathering the mansion's supplies. Of course he stopped by the liquor store. This had became a habit. Picking up whole kegs and cases of beer and wine for special members of the household. Funny, he never drank the stuff himself.

By the time Dominic had returned to the mansion, and had stored away all of his supplies, he was ready to ditch the business suit. Gods, he hated dressing up like that during the daytime. Dominic entered his bedroom and began stripping out of the suit slowly for a very amused Devyn. Dominic even hummed a burlesque theme to strip by. Devyn ended up panting and drooling.

Dominic chuckled and got into his casual clothing. He petted and scritched Devyn's head. "My best friend. Glad you can put up with me." Dominic headed out of the bedroom and downstairs, where he entered the office/den where he usually plotted out most of his trips.

Jago and Sallee spent the morning shopping for the necessary supplies needed for the upcoming Greek trip. A half-hour before noon, Sallee dropped Jago and the supplies off at the mansion, then loaded up her cameramen into the van and returned to the KJAG-TV station to produce the News at Noon. Jago grinned as Sallee sped away, then he started packing up the supplies in the den. It was while Jago was doing this, when Dominic entered the den, noticing Jago packing up several camping packs and a few tents and medical supplies.

Dominic then exclaimed, "Someone must have showed up needing something."

Jago turned and smiled to Dominic. "Hey there! Circe was here. I am going to be escorting Ren this year. Circe can't do it." Jago was glad to see Dominic out of that business suit, and wearing casual clothing once again. "How was your morning?"

Dominic placed his hat and coat on the coat rack, then sat in his office chair. "My outing... Well, I had to affirm to the press that I wasn't Jansen Tanner. But I just feel so lost without something to fall back to. If I am not Jansen, then who am I? What am I? Is there any real answers? Fortunately for me, this mansion and estate are in my name. My bank account is in my name. And the companions I do have, I have earned as Dominic, not as Jansen. Perhaps I do have something to fall back to, even if it isn't what I thought it was. My only question now is this: what do I do now?"

Jago smiled. "Live by example, my friend. Look at Jansen's methods and reshape your life. If anything, you are still a knight of Klondike Town. King Bighorn can always use your services. Or you can rejoin the dragons. They consider you to be a family member. Heck, you may even consider a trip to Germany. There's a certain wereowl you met on a Chess mission who wants to meet up with you again. Shane was supposed to tell you, but I guess the message got lost in the excitement. And lest you not forget, you are the Voice of the Cardinal Spirits. And I am sure your white friend buddy still has need of you. And one more thing..."

Dominic asked, "What's that?"

Jago grinned. "You need to spend more time with Reed. He still needs you, for sure."

Dominic finally smiled. "Yes, good old Reed. I hope he's not mad at me. I did sorta put him off this morning. And Dane... I owe Dane my presence, at least... Dane is a good werepanther." He refocused on Jago. "Will you be okay on your journey to escort Ren of the Northern Herd?"

Jago laughed. "I have enough people coming with me. I'll be fine. Damon, Gotaki, and even Sallee and her two cameramen have offered to come along."

Dominic grinned and winked. "Sallee's going? I'll gladly stay with Reed!"

After Dominic departed through Reed's gateway, Jago spent the rest of the afternoon getting the traveling supplies in order, and that evening, spent a quiet candlelight dinner with Gotaki and Damon. Gotaki was once again without her ninja garb and hood. This made the second time Jago had seen Gotaki in her natural form. After dinner, Sallee arrived with Casey and Emilion, carrying in their equipment. Devyn poked his nose out of the library as the cameramen started bringing things in. Casey and Emilion petted and rubbed Devyn's head, then rejoined Sallee and the others in the family room. Devyn grinned and headed back upstairs.

After his talk with Jago, Dominic was indeed feeling much better. He immediately headed over to Reed's place to help decorate the place for Dane Gervase's birthday party. Reed was pleased to see that Dominic had shown up early after all, and was dressed casually instead of like a secret agent. Jonie Dreamsea, Jago's software partner, was also helping Reed prepare for the party.

Once the lab was all decorated, Dominic volunteered to run the shop for a while. There were very few customers. It was almost as if everyone knew that it was Dane's birthday. It was while Dominic was doing a crossword puzzle when someone entered the shop. That someone stopped just inside the door and stared at Dominic in surprise. Then, Dominic's attention was drawn by a familiar male voice.

"I don't believe it. It's been three years and here we are face to face again."

Dominic raised his eyes from the crossword puzzle.

Before him was an 18 year old male human, standing about five foot eleven inches tall, and weighed around one hundred sixty three pounds. He had medium-length brown hair, hazel eyes, and a well-defined tan. He wore a short sleeved blue t-shirt and khaki shorts with big pockets.

Dominic smiled when he saw the young man. "Damian Radford! My, how you've grown!"

Damian smiled and came over, shaking Dominic's hand. "Dominic Vanlyone! I still remember how you and Reed saved my life and helped cure me of my addiction. If it hadn't been for you, I'd still be a draft horse today. You know, I never got to repay you, Dominic. Tell you what... I was getting ready to leave home, anyway, but I wasn't sure where to go. How about if I tag up with you and help you out on jobs from now on? What do you say? Is it a deal?"

Dominic just chuckled. "You'd want to hang out with this old lion? I don't know what to say. If you hang out with me, you'll likely see more than you'd want to. In fact, I was planning a trip into lion country in Africa. Surely you don't want to go there, do you?"

Damian grinned! "Africa?! Wow! Damned right I'd want to come along with you!"

Dominic just shook his head, laughing. "I cannot really say no, Damian. You can come along. But you have to tell your folks that you're planning on working for me. I don't want them to worry."

Damian smiled. "You have yourself a deal! I'll be back later tonight for Dane's birthday party, and then, after the party, I'll be ready to travel with you anywhere." Damian ran back out the shop door.

Dominic exhaled with a grin. "More companions? What did I do to deserve more companions?" He laughed again and resumed working on his crossword puzzle.

By that evening, there was quite a crowd of people gathered for Dane's birthday party. Even people from the mansion were attending the event. And everyone had brought enough cheer to make a werepanther feel really important. Dane eagerly opened his presents, sliced up the cake, and served the beer and refreshments.

During the finally portion of the festivities, Dominic quietly withdrew and sat on his favorite smooth rock down on the nearby beach. Of course, Dominic was soon joined by Damian.

Damian smiled at Dominic. "You're really not the big party type, are you?"

Dominic smiled back. "Not really. Reed understands how I feel about social events. Plus, I told him I'd be coming down here to this rock."

While they sat there, a sea otter popped up out of the ocean water. Dominic spoke to the sea otter in his own language, then, the sea otter winked and dove back into the waters.

Damian looked pretty impressed. "I didn't know you could speak to sea otters. What did he say?"

Dominic smiled. "He was telling me about a sea storm heading this way. We need to go inform Reed about it. And before you ask, I am the Voice of the Cardinal Spirits and can speak all languages."

Dominic and Damian got up and headed back up to Reed's place to relay the weather report.

When Dane Gervase's birthday party ended, Dominic, Damian and Jonie all helped Reed clean up the place. Then, everyone packed themselves off to bed at the mansion.

The next morning, Devyn awoke early and yawned. He nuzzled Dominic's face with a sudden tongue, then hopped off the bed with a heavy THUD, and was out the door before Dominic could remark about the event. Dominic chuckled, and proceeded to get his morning shower. He wanted to be off on his newest mission before any of the others awakened. It was already after noon in Africa, so Dominic didn't want to waste any time.

Damon and Gotaki were waiting for Dominic in the kitchen when Dominic and the others entered to have a quick breakfast. Dominic seemed surprised that the two were already waiting on him.

Gotaki said, "We just wanted to wish you luck. We're accompanying Jago on his trip later this morning."

Damon smiled. "We don't need to remind you to be careful, do we?"

Dominic shook his head gently. "I appreciate your both being up to send me off. Thank you."

Damon set the breakfast table for the three, then headed off to help Jago get dressed.

Gotaki petted Dominic's head. "Please try to stay alive. We won't be with you this time." Gotaki hugged Dominic, then she too departed, in her own special way.

Jonie then asked, "How come you're taking me along?"

Dominic glanced to Jonie. "Because I haven't spent much time with you. You're usually quiet, and I was worried that you might be feeling left out. Plus, you're about the only mansion resident that is down to Earth enough to keep me in line. Everyone else is accompanying Jago. You don't have to come along, but I wanted you along. It's your choice. You can stay here and take your chances with Devyn, if you want..."

Jonie glared across the table. "I'm not THAT shy! I'm coming."

Damian giggled and resumed eating.

After breakfast ended, the three entered the office/den, and Dominic proceeded to get into his armor and equipment. It appeared that Dominic was taking everything, this time. Including the Artemis amulet. "I foolishly left this behind the last time. That won't be happening again."

Jonie watched Dominic get dressed, quietly pondering why she's even there. Everyone else seemed more important than her. Jonie finally lost her nerve and said, "Dominic... please forgive me, but... I think I want to stay with Reed and help him while everyone is gone."

Dominic glanced toward Jonie, but she had already headed off through Reed's gateway. Dominic glanced to Damian. "I wonder what got into her? This would've been a great opportunity for her to be important on a mission. Oh well, are you ready, Damian?"

Damian nodded his head. "You promised us an adventure. Let's do it!"

Dominic nodded his head. He was a bit preturbed that Jonie had backed out of the mission, but they couldn't wait any longer. Somewhere out there, someone knew just who he was and where he'd come from. Dominic smiled to Damian, and initiated the shimmering air portal. Dominic then held Damian's hand and walked into the shimmering air passageway leading between points A and B.

Meanwhile... after Devyn had departed Dominic's room, he was soon in Jago's room, placing a heavy paw on Jago's chest. "Wake up, Jago. It's 5 A.M. Rise and shine!"

Jago opened his eyes to the near close-up image of Devyn almost on top of him. "Eep! Why aren't you pouncing Dominic this morning?"

Devyn grinned, his paw still in place. "Dominic departed about ten minutes ago with Damian Radford. They were headed for lion country in Africa. Dominic said he was following up on one of Leia's suggestions. Jonie is helping Reed in his shop this morning. Now, you need to get up, shower, and join the others for breakfast. You have a big day ahead of you. Ren is waiting and all." Devyn withdrew with a wink and headed out of the bedroom.

Jago got out of bed and proceeded into the bathroom to take his shower. When he emerged minutes later, he found his travel clothes all laid out on the bed, and his hiking boots polished and ready. Damon was standing in the room ready to help Jago get dressed.

Jago grinned and started getting dressed. "My talking alarm clock woke me up pretty early. How is everyone this morning?"

Damon smiled. "Breakfast is prepared and the others are already having their meals. Keep in mind, Jago, it is already after 1 P.M. on Circe's Hidden Island. Ren has been up for the past eight hours."

Jago hummed. "You're right. Good thing I decided to wait only a day instead of two days. I'd hate to keep Ren waiting."

Damon then helped Jago into his Lutraon adventuring equipment. "I can't get over how great you look in that armor. Makes me proud to be your friend, Jago."

Jago smiled as he fastened his weapon belt around his waist. "I feel very privileged that Rab and Swifty arranged for me to get fitted. I already miss them. I hope I get to see them both again soon."

Damon smiled. "I'm sure you will, Jago. You impressed a lot of people down there this time. Now finish getting ready. We're waiting for you downstairs. And no funny business; remember that Sallee will hunt you down if you sneak off without us." Damon headed out of the bedroom.

Jago laughed, as he finished getting himself suited up.

Damon and Jago soon entered the dining room where the others were gathered. Sallee, Casey and Emilion were positioned over by the fireplace. Casey and Emilion were positioning the cameras and lights, as Sallee held the microphone, facing the camera. Jago could see that the camera was active. Jago sat down at the table and began eating his breakfast quietly.

Sallee was heard saying, "As many of you know from these past few years of my periodic coverage of weird news stories, we have covered some of the most bizarre and strange occurances that have come to our attention. Well, starting today, Weird News will become it's own special series called Fantastic Journeys. I will personally travel abroad with a daring and adventurous team of individuals, covering many of the unusual aspects of the world that most of us would only see in hollywood movies."

Jago about choked on his milk at that announcement.

Casey shut off the camera and Emilion clicked off the spotlight lamp.

Sallee came over to the dining table and smiled at Jago. "Now before you complain, Jago, I've got a really good plan for all this. Hear me out, okay? Dominic got the unicorns on the endangered species list as a forgotten breed of deer. So I was thinking... if all these other civilized species exist, as we know they all do, couldn't we help get them accepted into continental protection and assistance programs within their own countries?"

Jago frowned. "That has to be the craziest idea I have ever heard, Sallee. And Dominic would never stand for it. But because I can't tell you that you can't come along, what I will say is that you better get Ren's permission before you carry out such a crazy idea. I will also add that if you cause Ren and his people any embarrassment, I will personally chop up your precious video equipment and recording devices with my enchanted Lutraon sword."

Sallee yelped! "Not my video equipment!"

Damon chuckled, as Gotaki emerged from the shadows wearing her working clothes and hood. Gotaki affixed Sallee with a very close gaze. "What Jago begins, I will help complete. Do not forget this, Sallee Tanner. If you proceed with your plan without Ren's permission or you cause embarrassment, come the morning, there won't be a KJAG-TV station to return to." Gotaki walked over to stand near Jago's chair.

Sallee paled a little. "Oh. I am beginning to see why Dominic often succeeded in his endeavors, even though his actions made him seem so incompetent to the tasks. His companions would help him succeed when alone he surely would have failed."

Damon nodded his muzzle. "Yes, Sallee. That is why. We care about and respect Dominic a lot. It is true that he often needed our help. I only hope he succeeds in his newest quest."

Jago finished his breakfast and got up. "Everyone gather your equipment. We can't keep Ren waiting for any longer. We have a journey and a gathering to attend to."

Within the Shimmering Air passage, Damian asked, "What is this place called?"

Dominic blinked his eyes, as they traveled. "You know... my mentor never told me that part. As far as I know, it's unnamed."

Damian kept looking around as they walked. Then suddenly, Damian asked, "Dominic? Does anything live in this place?"

Dominic huh'ed? "Not that I know of. Why do you ask?"

Damian replied, "Don't freak out, but there is some sort of creature watching us."

Dominic's free hand was suddenly on the hilt of his sword. "Where is it?" Dominic asked without revealing that he was making ready to go defensive.

Damian glanced around. "Off to our left. It seems to be walking parrallel to our path."

Dominic's eye darted that way, and he caught a glimpse of the creature. The creature must've sensed the eye-movement, as it quickly vanished. "Okay, you're right, Damian. I saw it. Though I think I am it's target; not you."

Damian arched an eye at Dominic. "You? Why are you the target?"

Dominic replied, "You know how we often joke around that Devyn is a hellhound? Well, he's not a hellhound. Devyn is a Fifth Circle Beast. Technically, Devyn isn't even a hound. Well, that thing that was following us is a real hellhound. They normally work for the gods of death. And so saying, I am likely the target because I've escaped death's calling once too often."

Damian oh'ed. "I see. What do we do if it shows up again?"

Dominic exclaimed, "If the hellhound and I cross paths face-to-face again, we'll probably have a talk. A long talk. I have a feeling that this will be my last mission. Death is a very impatient entity."

Damian asked, "How can this be your last if you're the Cardinal Voice?"

Dominic and Damian suddenly emerged from the shimmering air portal inside of Katahnuk Kennison's palace in Africa. "That is a very good question, Damian. Now, don't freak out too much. This is werelion territory. Our sudden arrival might be taken the wrong way."

Fortunately, the first lion to encounter the two was Pyloskye. He smiled to the two when he recognized Dominic. "Well hello. Where's that stud Jago at?"

Dominic smiled, and gave Pyloskye the typical male-to-male greeting. "Jago is on a mission for Circe to the north, across the Mediterranean. Is Lord Katahnuk in? I am on a journey of enlightenment, this time. I need Katahnuk's advice on something."

Pyloskye nodded his muzzle. "Of course. But who's your friend, other than 'Hey You', I mean?"

Dominic replied, "He's a traveling companion. His name is best left unsaid, unless he wishes to be caught in a werelion custom. That is more than fair enough."

Pyloskye awed. "Very well, but I'll bet he'd be a good sniff. Follow me. Lord Katahnuk is holding court today. I know he'll be surprised to see you."

Dominic and Damian followed Pyloskye to the grand courtyard. Katahnuk was there speaking to a werehyena lord. The werehyena noticed the human's arrival and started to switch to animal talk, until Dominic said in hyena, "I am the Voice to the Cardinal Spirits, Werehyena Lord. Please conduct your business. You were here before I was. I can wait." Dominic then shut up.

The werehyena lord smiled and resumed his discussion with Katahnuk. Katahnuk mentally and privately greeted Dominic. Dominic mentally acknowledged the greeting.

The two lords continued speaking for the next two hours, then, the werehyena lord approached Dominic and bowed to him. "Even without your title, I can recognize the agent of the white stag. May he live long and never know sickness." The werehyena lord departed the courtyard, laughing.

Katahnuk smiled and hugged Dominic. Then Dominic and Katahnuk exchanged the male-to-male werelion greeting. (See F1) Katahnuk grinned at Dominic, "I am pleased to see you, Dominic. Though your new companion is unknown to me. May I be graced with his name?"

Dominic spoke up immediately. "With all due respect, my friend... He's a traveling companion. His name is best left unsaid, unless he wishes to be caught in a werelion custom. That is more than fair enough."

Katahnuk nodded his muzzle. "Yes it is. More than fair. So... what brings you to me, this day?"

Dominic re-explained his dilemma to Katahnuk. "So you see, unless I am a time anomoly, then I must have existed somewhere else. I seek to find that missing life. Of course now, I am being stalked by a hellhound. My finding myself may not be permitted. But this is something I must know. Can you help me?"

Katahnuk thought long and hard on this. He became very quiet as he pondered this question. Then, Katahnuk opened his eyes and asked, "Dominic. Do you remember the Gemini deLeon?"

Dominic paled at the reference to the powerful artifact. "Um, yes."

Damian then spoke up. "What -is- the Gemini deLeon?"

Katahnuk glanced to Damian, then back at Dominic. "It is an artifact for allowing the person touching it, to be in two separate places at the same time. It is a magical cloning device."

Dominic blinked his eyes. "A cloning device? And it affects whoever touches it?"

Katahnuk nodded his muzzle. "However, the effect can only be activated within the temple that housed it. When you fought Hogan Slade in that temple, you touched the Gemini deLeon. Then, you threw it directly into the other Gemini deLeon. The resulting explosion sent you and your friends and enemies back to your own time period. However, after you were gone..."

Dominic was beginning to realize what Katahnuk was saying. "...after we were gone, the Gemini deLeon's power created another Dominic. Is that what you're saying?"

Damian exclaimed, "So, the artifact works, but it has a delayed affect. But that would mean that there is another Dominic. How come he's not been seen?"

Katahnuk replied, "Do you also remember who has the forget magic upon them?"

Dominic oh'ed. "I do. Then, the clone would have remembered everything, while I remained the same as I was when I visited that time period. Be that as it may, where is this Dominic at?"

Katahnuk replied, "When that Dominic remembered everything, he also remembered where he'd been before Jansen Tanner pulled that magical twin trick. Jansen did not clone himself; he pulled his alternate self out of another dimension. That dimension was the world of Atlantis. When your clone remembered this, he wanted to return there. I aidd him in that request. Three years ago. He's been back in Atlantis ever since."

Dominic sighed. "Then, if Jansen is the real Jansen, and my clone is an Atlantean, then where does that leave me? Do I just not have a lifepath to follow?"

Katahnuk reached forth and petted Dominic with a large paw, then he replied, "Dominic... You are Dominic Vanlyone, or, he who is called King Lion. If it is true answers you seek, then perhaps it is time for you to return to they who you represent and ask them for these answers. I have given the answers that I can give. Even a minor god has limits."

Dominic nodded his head. "I thank you, my friend. I should have thought of them before. I am not perfect; I often need a push in the right direction." He turned to Damian and said, "Come. The place we go now is everything and nothing. We go to see the Four Cardinal Spirits."

It didn't take the team long to transport themselves from Rocky Falls, Missouri, to Circe's hidden island in the Aegean Sea. Upon their arrival, Sallee and her cameramen began taping video segments around the island itself. Sallee was wise to stay on the path. Hey, she acts crazy sometimes, but she's not insane! This WAS Circe's island, after all.

Jago met up with Ren of the Northern Herd in his domicile, painting a remarkable portrait of Dominic with all of his companions and friends. It seemed so lifelike and the ghostly white lion and white stag imaging in the portrait's background seemed to portray the truths of the work.

Jago slowly walked up beside Ren and admired the painting. "You really have a great talent, Ren. The realism is amazing."

Ren smiled, as he made a few more strokes, then proceeded towards cleaning his brushes. "Thank you, Jago. This is a work in progress. Been working on it for the past few months. It is my way of thanking Dominic for being around for us. I am glad he is not Jansen Tanner. He needed his own life, and hopefully, once this work is done, Dominic will be able to see that he does have that life." Ren turned to Jago. "Thank you for offering to escort me this time, Jago. It means very much to me to have a traveling companion." Ren hugged Jago fondly.

Just then, they both heard Sallee's voice nearby. "...where we can see the almost pristine marbled structures that are still in use, to this very day. Yes, Circe certainly keeps a tidy little paradise here. Now, over this way we can see some of the many walkways that..."

Ren gave Jago a certain questioning look.

Jago sighed. "I couldn't dissuade her from coming along, Ren. But she did promise me not to photograph you without your permission." Jago explained what Sallee was up to this time.

Ren rolled his eyes a little, then sighed, as he started out the door to meet Sallee and her cameramen.

Jago followed Ren.

Ren stopped when he saw the cameramen. Ren whispered to Jago, "By the gods, those guys are built! Sallee has excellent taste. I simply -must- sculpt those two some day."

Jago blinked his eyes. He couldn't tell what Ren was referring to. But then again, Jago was heterosexual, and definitely more biased toward females, unlike his cousin Andros Fox, who was gay. Jago wondered how Andros was doing in Washington State these days.

Ren was already approaching the filming trio. When Sallee saw Ren approaching, she lowered her microphone, the signal to the cameramen to stop filming. And they complied, just in time. Ren stepped up to them and said, "I respect that you're not photographing me, Sallee. But do you have Circe's permission to take pictures of her island?"

Sallee grinned. "I got that all thought out, Ren. After I get done taping the island segment, I'll show Circe the tape and let her edit out anything she thinks is misappropriate. Besides, Circe DID help me find all those Greek studs last year. She's pretty resourceful."

Ren hummed. "Jago told me why you came along. I myself do not mind your being here, but my gathering brothers and sisters... their permission would have to be gained before you could video tape them. The reason I don't mind is that I have Circe's protection. If any harm or embarrassment comes to me, Circe will immediately be on their case. Not to mention, the Greek gods incurred wraths. I need not remind you of the powers you trifle with here."

Sallee oh'ed.

Ren smiled. "Your sister Jo got to see some of that wrath first-hand a few weeks ago when Hogan Slade made the error of shooting a lovely bullet hole in Circe's best dress. There are some things you never trifle with, and as a woman, I am sure you know full well what I mean."

Sallee grinned. "That I do, but thankfully, I'm not a little firecracker, like Jo."

The wind suddenly seemed to call out in Jo's voice, "I heard that, Sallee! Just wait till you get home!"

Sallee yelped!

Jago, Casey and Emilion all laughed!

Ren grinned. "I invite you all to spend the night here. I will prepare us all a most delectable meal. Everyone tells me how good a cook I am. I will get started now, and you may continue your taping." Ren turned to Casey and Emilion. "May I have the honor to sculpt you both later?"

Casey and Emilion nodded their heads quietly.

Ren smiled and trotted off to begin the preparations for the night's dinner.

Sallee and her crew continued filming the island's segments. Jago joined Gotaki and Damon in the marble pavillion overlooking the western sea. Jago sat down and hummed. "Am I overanxious, or am I just being overly cautious?"

Damon smiled to Jago and patted Jago's left thigh. "I would say cautious. This is really your second mission where Dominic hasn't accompanied you. The first being when you and Jonie accompanied Shane to the Tranquility Moonrise festival at Sexen Reinhard's home."

Jago smiled. "That was a fun mission. We got to meet all those great were-people. I really enjoyed myself that time. Although, I do miss them."

Gotaki grinned. "I am more surprised that the werefox hasn't eaten the wererabbit by now. They must be very happy together."

Jago smiled. "Pablo Kingston. He was a great carpenter." Jago then sighed. "Dominic was a wreck when those two moved out of the mansion."

Damon nodded his head. "I only hope that Dominic remembers to acquire a zookeeper's license while he's traveling." Damon winked an eye.

Gotaki laughed. "Here, here!"

The rest of the afternoon was spent admiring the open sea, relaxing in the open breezes, and making small talk.

Then, as the sun was setting, Ren began ringing the dinner bell. Everyone headed over in that direction. Upon entering the dining hall, everyone was surprised to see so much food lain out on the table. There was even a roast, for the meat-eating members of the team. It was obvious that Ren's section of the dining room was vegetarian, and Ren was already dining on his salad.

Everyone filled their plates, poured themselves either goat's milk or Greecian ale, and took their seats. All in all, it was a great meal. Ren was certainly a great cook.

Afterwards, Ren played some musical selections on his duar instrument, entertaining his friends with the songs of his people. Sallee was clearly enjoying herself.

When Ren finished playing, he stood and invited Casey and Emilion into his sculpter's workshop. After the three departed, Jago hummed aloud, and unrolled a map of Ren's gathering route. Sallee, Gotaki and Damon came close to look at it, as well.

Jago said, "We're here." He taps the map. "We'd normally take a sailing boat to Egidius Island to pick up some people there, then we'd sail to a port just north of Athens, then by boat to Thessalonika, and then, by land to Aridea Kentriki. The whole route is near rediculous. So here's my alternate plan. We take the boat to Egidius, pick up anyone who wants to come with us, then we have Gotaki transport all of us to the point furtherest north on the Greecian mainland that she's been to. We then try traveling either by land, or something, to as close to Aridea as we can get. I admit that it isn't a great plan, but I don't have the resources that Dominic has. I'm a gaming software designer."

Gotaki hummed. "How about this... while you're all spending the night here on the island, I transport myself ahead to Athens, catch a plane to Thessalonika, then scout out a location that Jansen Tanner once visited. I remember reading it in one of Dominic's journals. A centaur lives there. Once I see the location, I study it, then transport myself back to you guys where ever you are. I can then transport the group to the region I memorized."

Jago smiled. "That's a great plan, Gotaki. I really appreciate your doing this." Jago gave Gotaki a kiss on the side of her muzzle.

Gotaki placed a paw on the back of Jago's neck and pulled him into a very deep kiss!

Dominic and Damian soon emerged from the shimmering air gate at a most bizarre location. They were standing within the ruins of an unusual city of ruins. The entirety of the ruins looked as if every culture that had ever (or never) existed was thrown together at this location. Standing at the center of these ruins was the familiar odd black obelisk with four carved animal faces on each side. Damian slowly walked around the obelisk looking at each animal face. Dominic grinned, remembering that the obelisk was a true compass. To the north, the great bear gazed respectfully. To the east, the sure-footed mountain goat gazed studiously. To the south, the African lion gazed proudly. To the west, the eagle gazed with a gleaming eye.

Dominic smiled. "Damian, this is the Sanctuary of the Cardinal Animal Spirits. As their voice, they often communicate to me to have me do things for them."

Damian was impressed. "They are so life like. And totally amazing. I wish I could talk to them."

Just then, Eagle spoke, "And who says you cannot? We are not deaf; we merely watch."

Bear exclaimed, "It is good that Dominic answered our summons."

Dominic huh'ed? "What summons? I never heard you guys call for me, but now that I am here, it is a moot point. What's up?"

Goat replied, "We asked you to bring Damian to us. And you have."

Damian gulped, stepping back a step. "Why me?"

Dominic stepped in front of Damian. "Why do you want Damian?"

Lion exclaimed, "Dominic... you have served us well, but you were never our first choice to be our voice on Earth. Damian was the one we chose originally. He is to become our new representative."

Dominic sighed. "What will become of me?"

Eagle replied, "You will find yourself, and then, you will settle down in Rocky Falls and marry. You have much life to share with those who have called you friend, mate, and love. You will often still have adventures, but your main time has passed. Others must now take the reins. And you will advise them."

Lion then spoke again. "Dominic... touch the obelisk... Damian... please touch the obelisk... the time has come to assign the true voice of the chosen..."

Dominic sighed again, and did as he was asked. He was going to miss having that power. Damian likewise touched the obelisk, and the transfer began. Dominic felt the voice's power leaving his body, and entering Damian's body. Damian could suddenly feel beyond the scope of normal humankind. Damian knew... he knew... that he was the Voice of the Chosen.

Bear exclaimed, "Dominic... to find yourself, you must revisit every special soul you've ever met since setting up shop in Rocky Falls. As we said before, your main time has passed. Now, you must research that which you have seen before... and through that... you will find yourself."

And that was that...

Dominic and Damian were soon back at the Vanlyone Mansion, sitting at the kitchen table with Leia and Shane. Dominic had just informed the two of what had happened during his outing. "And Damian is now the current Cardinal Voice of the Animal Spirits. I've been told to revisit all I had encountered before, and through that, I would find myself. But what gets to me is that I've been told to settle down and marry. I just wish I knew a woman who could put up with me."

Shane hummed. "This really bites, Dominic. After all you've been through, it's almost as if everyone is cutting you off because you're not really Jansen. That just isn't fair. Well, you've got my support. If it hadn't been for you, I'd never have been given White Mage status from our white cervine friend."

Leia also hummed. "Dominic... in truth, even though some people may not approve of it, you could honestly marry whoever you wanted. Male or female. A lot of the people you know aren't even human. You know very few human females at all, and the only two females that I know of through you, that even resemble a human, are Circe and Artemis. And they are both excellent cooks. Then, you shouldn't forget that you are family with the dragons of Thalugulos as well as an accepted member of Castle Klondike's family in the Furry Realms. Hell, I know that Rab, Brand and Garla would love to see you again. Even Santa's own reindeer, as well as the White Stag, and even Reed, calls you a family member. You have tons of choices."

Damian just listened to the circle of wisdoms in silence. This was a group that seemed to know far more than he'd ever know... yet.

Shane smiled slyly. "I still can't believe you proposed to Wendy Gliddle a few months ago. She's old enough to be your mother... or more..."

Just then, the phone rang.

Dominic got up and answered the phone. Then, looked to Shane. "It's for you."

Shane got up and took the receiver from Dominic, and said, "Hello?"

Dominic sat back down and winked to Leia, mouthing, It's Wendy.

Shane winced as he got an earful, then replied, "I didn't mean to imply you were old, Wendy. How do you always know when your name is being mentioned?" He got Wendy's definitive answer, of course. Because I am a witch. Shane said, "Okay, I'll watch my mouth from now on. Bye." He hung up the phone, and sat back down at the table.

Dominic and Leia just grinned at Shane.

Shane grinned back. "Oh hush." Then, Shane became serious again. "So, what should we do about Dominic's newest problem?"

Leia hummed. "Well, according to the financial records, Dominic is still receiving monetary transfers from his investor unicorn friends. They evidently still fully support Dominic. That wereraccoon, Freeway, was passing through the area last month and donated a whole bag of unprocessed gold and silver to Dominic's account. Well, he gave it to me to give to Dominic."

Dominic blinked his eyes. "He did? Freeway didn't have to do that!"

Shane grinned. "No, but you've made some powerful friends, Dominic. You'll never be hurting for funds; they'll always make sure that you have something."

Dominic sighed. "Tell me the truth, guys. Who do you think I am? Jansen is obviously running the Chess organization now and who I thought I was returned to the World of Atlantis. Where does that leave me?"

Leia smiled. "I think Shane will agree with me when I say that you are Dominic Vanlyone, the king lion and brother of the white stags."

Shane nodded his head. "And further, it also leaves you with a Hell of an opportunity to set your life into whatever secure position that you want. And while it may or may not be true that you won't be resurrected if you die again, you know you have friends who'll do their damnedest to keep you alive. But that doesn't mean you should wander around in a foolhardy manner either. You have far too much experience under your belt to just give up now. So what if you're not Jansen Tanner! Your next steps now should be proving that you can be Jansen's equal. If anything, you have the Tanner memories and mindset. Use it."

Dominic hummed.

Leia exclaimed, "If there is one thing I've learned from first meeting you, Dominic, it's that you have qualities that make you better than Jansen. Though, he has skills that make him better than you. He's a man of action, while you're a man of business. You both have that wild 'never cross a Tanner' attitude, and from what I've seen, you've always supported us Tanner sisters, as well as Shane and Richard. And let us not forget all the others you've allowed to live here in your mansion over the years. You never turn anyone away. Damon says you're a zookeeper."

Shane grinned again. "Or more appropriately, the king of the beasts you allow here."

Dominic blinked his eyes. "So, you're saying that I am King Lion because I house a weird assortment of companions, regardless of who comes and goes from here?"

Leia chuckled. "That's a good way to look at it, Dominic."

Just then, Leia's pager went off. She got up and went to Dominic's office/den to use the phone in there.

Shane smirked. "I'll bet Leia's man is checking up on her."

Dominic sighed and nodded his head. "Yeah, I had forgotten that the Tanner sisters were married. They always showed up here without their men in tow. But, I suppose everyone has to work."

Damian asked, "May I be excused please? I need to use the bathroom."

Shane said, "It's through the laundry room hallway and to the right. Or you can use the one across from the library, or the one..."

Damian had already left the room.

Dominic chuckled, then asked, "When will we ever hear about 'the Shane's woman' who checks up on him?"

Shane grinned slyly. "That's for me to know and for you to wonder about!"

Dominic and Shane both laughed.

Dominic then asked, "Do you want to come with me on my 'revisiting everyone' trip?"

Shane grinned. "Believe it or not, I finally told Richard about my secret life. He said he sorta figured something like that was going on and mentioned that he'd like to come along on my next 'outing'. So, if you're not opposed to his being there, you can have both Wayne's with you this time."

Dominic smiled. "Richard must be far more tolerable of you than I thought he'd be, if he let it slide that you've hidden all this from him, all this time. Of course, he can come. I just hope he's more sensible than some of the others who have traveled with me in the past."

Shane winked an eye and got up to use Dominic's second phone line. The mansion had several different phone channels. Shane placed a call to his brother Richard.

Just then, Jonie walked into the kitchen and sat down at the table, facing Dominic. She exclaimed, "I'll come with you, this time. Sorry I got cold feet before."

Dominic replied, "It's okay, Jonie. You really weren't a lion person and are excused for bailing from the Africa trip."

Jonie smiled. "Thank you for not being mad."

Soon, Leia rejoined them at the table and greeted Jonie with a smile. "That worrywort. He called to remind me to stop by the grocery store on the way home. What's been decided here?"

Dominic exclaimed, "Damian, Shane, Richard and Jonie are coming with me on my revisiting trip. I'd invite you along, if you thought you had the time."

Leia replied, "As long as it didn't take more than a few hours, I could come. Otherwise, no. My man needs me home by six o'clock. He literally can't function without me." Leia winked.

Dominic asked, "Have you revealed to your man about the craziness of your visits to this mansion?"

Leia laughed. "I seriously don't think he'd believe me if I told him."

Richard Wayne soon arrived. He was a lot like Shane, only more handsome and a much nicer dresser. Richard had charm, where Shane was wild. Richard sat at the table with the others, greeting Dominic and those gathered there, which included Damian, who had returned from the bathroom.

Richard exclaimed, "Shane tells me that we're going to see some really strange things. Just how strange are we talking about?"

Leia chuckled, "I am still surprised you volunteered to accompany this bunch. Take it from me, Richard. I've been on some of these outings myself and it can be pretty strange."

Dominic smiled. "Leia has a point, Richard. It's best to leave your jaw at the door, because you'll likely be surprised by a lot of the places we visit. And I plan on revisiting these places in the order I first encountered them. Has Shane told you about shimmering air yet?"

Richard nodded his head. "Yeah, he has. I wish that had been available for some of the cattle and horse drives between Texas and Missouri a few years ago. Going from point A to point B in a few minutes would have saved a LOT of trouble."

Dominic grinned. "Has Shane mentioned that he can do the shimmering air himself?"

Richard's jaw fell open, as he turned to Shane. "No, he hasn't!"

Shane just grinned. "I don't use it very often. I consider it to be emergency uses only."

Leia laughed. "Shane is a little stinker! That's funny!"

Devyn poked his nose into the kitchen. "I thought I smelled a new person or two."

Richard's eyes about popped out of his head. "What is that?"

Shane grinned. "That is Devyn. And he's not a bad Fifth Circle Beast. He and I had an accidental romp a few months ago, but no harm done."

Devyn blushed. "I am still sorry about that, Shane." Devyn then sniffed Damian and Richard, then departed the kitchen for parts of the mansion considered to be in his territory.

Richard looked to Dominic again. "Now I see what you meant about leaving my jaw at the door. That's just a sample of the things to come, isn't it?"

Dominic nodded his head.

Leia grinned. "You boys have fun. I need to get going now before my man pages me again. Dominic, please stay in touch and let me know if I can help you out with anything else." Leia got up and departed the mansion.

Dominic smiled. "I think we can get started now."

After Gotaki had left on her little mission, Damon and Jago retired to their shared bedroom. Jago started getting undressed, when he noticed Damon staring at his body. "Um... what is it, Damon? Am I dirty or something?"

Damon lifted his eyes and grinned at Jago. "No, not at all. Just admiring your body." Damon then disrobed and lay himself down on the padded futon. "You know, Jago, Dominic has never slept with me. I guess you don't need to be told how much I love him. But I also have these feelings for everyone who lives in the mansion. You included." Damon sighed, as he lay his head back.

Jago hummed, and lay himself down on the futon, and hugged Damon's torso. "I owe Dominic a lot. He lent us aid when we asked for it. But you've been just as helpful, Damon. I mean, you fix all of our meals, do our laundry, and I've seen the models you create. They're fantastic. You are very talented. A lucky catch for anyone. But that's what you're getting at, isn't it? Though we are all around, you are lonely."

Damon sighed and turned his muzzle to Jago. "Yes, I am lonely."

Jago nodded his head. "I wish I could help, Damon. I really do. What would you need?"

Damon thought on that, then used his powers to extinguish the candles. In the darkness, Jago could feel Damon petting and caressing Jago's body all over, and Damon's tongue licking Jago in a most sensuous, erotic manner, and then...

It was suddenly morning.

Jago said, "Whoa..." He somehow lost track of anything that happened. Damon had evidently already gotten up, gone to bathe, returned, gotten dressed, and was off in the kitchen area of Circe's living quarters. Jago sat up, and found a note from Damon. "Dear Jago. I am sorry. Nothing happened between us. That would have been rape. I cannot do that to a friend. Signed, Damon."

Jago smiled, and proceeded off to get his morning bath. Afterwards, Jago fetched his gear and got dressed once again. Then, he decided to take a walk before breakfast.

While Jago was out walking the island, he suddenly came across the scene where the firefight between Dominic and Hogan had taken place. Jago was surprised that he had been drawn back to this spot. Jago sat down on one of the flat boulders and admired the scenic spot.

Just then, a chipmunk skirted across the clearing from the safety of the trees and climbed up into Jago's lap. Jago stared down at the chipmunk, as it looked up at him. Then, the chipmunk spoke, "Do you remember who I am?"

Jago studied the chipmunk and replied, "You're Hogan Slade. The only chipmunk on Circe's Island. How are things?"

Hogan the chipmunk sighed. "Miserable. Imagine spending the rest of your days as an animal, trapped on a sorceress's hidden island. I'd do anything to be human again. Anything."

Jago hummed. "This isn't a trick, is it? You'll really do anything? And you won't try to kill Jansen Tanner anymore?"

Hogan nodded his chipmunk head. "I swear it. Please! Give me a chance to prove myself!"

Jago hummed again. "You do know that Dominic and Jansen are not one in the same person, don't you? They are separate people. Killing one doesn't wipe out the other."

Hogan sighed. "Yeah... Circe mentioned that to Ren the other day. I was close enough to hear about it. Please, Jago Fox... give me a chance... I can't take much more of this..."

Jago pondered this. Then, he lifted Hogan up and into his shirt pocket. "I am going to give you one chance. If you mess up, I will make sure the next form is even more repulsive. Or worse... female."

Hogan smiled! "You are a saint, Jago. You won't regret this. I'll do whatever it takes."

Jago replied, "If I do regret it, you'll be a female chipmunk in the middle of a male chipmunk's lair. If you're sincere about this, I'll personally see to your restoration. Agreed?"

Hogan crossed his heart with a paw. "I agree. Thank you, Jago. Thank you. Thank you."

Jago added, "And no guns. If I ever see you with a gun after you're restored, your being a human will be very limited."

Hogan replied, "I understand. No guns. I admit that I made a mistake entering Chess' territory, and crossing paths with their best agent. The only Chess agent who doesn't use a gun. I swear it, no more guns."

Jago smiled. "Then, I promise that you'll be given chances to earn your humanity back. There are worse fates than transformation in the world."

Hogan didn't respond to that.

Jago walked back to join the others.

Ren was ready to travel when Jago arrived once again. Sallee and the others were also ready. Damon escorted everyone down to the docks, and everyone boarded the Secret of Circe, a fine sailing vessel. Okay, it was a small refurbished Navy U-Boat. But it was cozy enough for making the short trips in the Mediterranean that were needed.

Damon noticed the chipmunk in Jago's pocket and said, "Is that who I think it is?"

Jago nodded his head. "We have a deal. Hogan gets one chance to earn his humanity back. I am going to give him that chance."

Richard watched Dominic get suited up in the armor and other adventuring gear. "Isn't that a bit extreme?"

Shane shook his head. "Hell no! I've seen some of the crap that Dominic had to deal with and everything he has on him is 100% necessary. Oh, Dominic... don't forget the amulet!" Shane handed Dominic the Artemis Amulet.

Dominic put that around his neck, IMMEDIATELY. "Thanks, Shane. Never leave home without divine protection. The gods only know how many times I've had to deal with Ares..." Dominic also made sure his Token Bracers were securely in place.

Richard admired Dominic, after the last piece of the ensemble was in place. "You look pretty damned impressive! Do we need any protection?"

Dominic replied, "I am almost always the target of attacks, so aside from that gun you have in your holster, and that pocket knife in your jeans pocket, you should be fine. Besides, I remember Shane telling me that you're no slacker when it comes to fighting, so you should be okay."

Damian smiled to Dominic. "You promised me an adventure."

Dominic replied, "Yes, I did." He next spoke to everyone. "Our first three hops will be to unicorn herd locations. After that, we'll travel to see Sexen and Pablo, then drop in on Reed. Finding Freeway will be tricky, but I think we can do it. Now remember: absolutely no photographs of anything we see, nor can you tell others where you saw these people. They're trust in us is all important. Do you understand, Richard? Damian?"

Richard and Damian nodded their heads.

With that being said, Dominic used his shimmering air power, and led his friends through the psychadelic passage that white stags often used to get from place to place in a hurry. When they emerged on the other side, Shane helped Richard adjust to his first-time trip, then Dominic led everyone to the unicorn herd's meeting location.

They had arrived at the Embarrass River unicorn herd near Big Falls, Wisconsin. But something didn't seem right. All of the unicorns there looked pale and sick.

Dominic nodded to Shane. "You know what to do, Shane."

Shane nodded his head in return, and set himself to work on healing the sick unicorn tribe, curing them of whatever disease they had developed, while Dominic's group stayed where they were.

When Shane was finished with his task, Dominic approached Cornelius Kirkwood, the spokesperson of the unicorn herd. "Cornelius, what happened up here?"

Cornelius looked up at Dominic with a very stern look on his muzzle, "You won't like it, Dominic."

Richard asked, "Why won't Dominic like it?"

Cornelius pivoted an eye to Richard and replied, "Because this was caused by one of Dominic's oldest foes. Ares."

Dominic turned away and cussed something very ungentlemanly about Ares.

Shane whispered to Richard, "Now you know why Dominic has all that armor and stuff. His main foe is one of the most evil Greek gods in existence."

Richard glanced over at Dominic, who was tightly gripping the handle of his enchanted sword. "Wow... And we're going to be crossing paths with this god further along?"

Damian was very surprised. He had asked for an adventure. Fighting against a Greek god was certainly not what he was expecting, but it certainly promised to be a great adventure.

Jonie simply stood back quietly, watching the surroundings. If Ares was indeed around, great danger was surely in store for Dominic.

Dominic finally growled, "Ares is jumping around to all the places I am slated to visit, causing great trouble for those who call me their ally. Well, he's chose the wrong time to show his sorry little face. If I meet up with him this time, one of us will NOT be returning from the encounter."

Richard walked over to Dominic. "How you going to do it? He's a god, remember? If you do seem to kill him, he'll just come right back later."

Dominic sighed. "There's a way, but I may not be able to do it myself. But a woman can."

Shane just grinned at that exclamation. He knew who Dominic was referring to. A woman he got to spend some time with a few months ago.

Dominic hummed. "Come. We need to see what Ares did at the next location. We'll stop off at the mansion en route, then we'll continue after I make a special phone call. That'll also give us all time to make some bathroom breaks."

Damian smiled. "When you promise an adventure, you don't fool around, do you?"

Dominic released the hilt of his sword. "Damian... this wasn't expected. If you want out of this, I can drop you off at the mansion. Otherwise, we'll all be in for a bumpy ride."

When Jago's boat arrived at the docks of Egidius Island, Damon stopped Jago and Sallee before they just blindly followed Ren off the boat. Damon explained, "I don't think you humans should go ashore here. This _IS_ Egidius Island, the very place that changed Dominic into a teen ager once upon a time. No human is immune to this effect. Only non-humans are immune."

Sallee said, "Oh," as she moved back to her spot on the boat.

Jago blinked his eyes. "You mean I can't even look at the place from the boat itself?"

Damon replied, "You can look but don't go ashore. The magic is powerful."

Jago nodded his head and he and the other human passengers, joined him to look at the island from the safety of the boat.

Emilion said, "It's beautiful. Untouched by grubby human hands."

Casey nodded his head, taking a few non-citizen photographs of the island's beauty. "It is really something. I can imagine humans being lulled off guard and falling victim to this place."

Sallee smiled. "I imagine that's what happened to Dominic that one time. If I hadn't been warned, I likely also would have fallen victim to this place myself."

Jago kept quiet. He was mainly looking to see where Ren had went.

Soon, Ren returned with a few centaurs and satyrs in tow. They carefully boarded the boat, just as Gotaki was returning. Gotaki hugged Jago and Sallee and exclaimed, "We're in luck. I scouted out the cabin and met Duffan Arlyn, nicknamed Duffy. He is willing to let us spend the night there while en route to the gathering. He seemed to know about Ren, already."

Ren smiled. "Yes, I am familiar with Duffy. He's a border guardian for the centaur territories on the mainland. One of many guardians."

Jago asked, "Are these the only ones coming this time, Ren?"

Ren replied, "Yes, these are the only ones. We're ready to take the shortcut whenever Gotaki is ready to open the gateway for us."

Gotaki smiled to Ren and began opening the gateway, saying, "If someone will dock the boat or set it to return to Circe's Island, I can bring us right back to the boat when the gathering ends. Ah, the gateway is opened. It's set to emerge in Duffy's front yard. It was partly cloudy while I was there, so we may be in for some wet weather."

Jago helped Ren set the boat's auto-pilot to return to Circe's Island. Then, the both of them helped guide the centaurs, satyrs, and others through the gateway. Lastly, Ren, Jago, Casey and Emilion lugged their equipment through the gateway to the Arlyn border cabin.

To Be Continued in SE-14 Refinding King Lion