Bedtime Stories - The Advent Of Smouse

Join Estelle as she gently prepares you for sleep, guiding you into a relaxed state, calming your mind and opening your subconscious for dreaming with this beautiful story, where the hero, Smouse, is armed only with the counsel of a tiny book, where non violence is the solution
and, as the drama unfolds, subtle changes in negative behavioral patterns are detectable.

Transcript

Today I thought we'd try something new. A story of drama. A story that combines fantasy with reality. For it's a very thin line that separates fantasy from reality. A story where the hero, Smouse, Is armed only with the counsel of a tiny book. The Guide. A story that uses non-violence as the solution. A story in which, As the drama unfolds, Subtle changes in negative behavioural patterns are detectable. A story in chapters. Each week I'll present a new chapter. So if you're ready. Settle back comfortably. Perhaps even close your eyes. And we'll begin. The Advent of Smauce. The prologue. Dane Black, Otherwise known as X, Leans over his younger sister Perry's shoulder to watch a small, Vibrant red zigzag zap back and forth across the screen of her laptop. A long tail ending in a flame-rimmed black hole streams behind it. As they watch. That starts pulling all of the icons into its void. Until they all disappear. The two teenagers are stunned. They stare speechless at the blank screen. Meanwhile, In a far-off galaxy beyond the Milky Way, On a small planet called Imperium, Egg, The Omni-Ruler of the planet. And his granddaughter Angelica. Are exploring distant galaxies for signs of a UFE. How do you? An unidentified energy force that is interfering with their intergalactic communication network. Any breaks in this network can disrupt the balance of the universe. It's usually a sign of madroth. The universe's most negative force. Suddenly, As they watch, Their 3D intergalactic laser space probe spots an unusual auroral glow. Angelica feels a stab of fear shoot through her grandfather. The probe has discovered the source. It seems to be located somewhere in the Milky Way. Chapter 1 Imperium. The small planet Imperium is one of two planets orbiting the Elysian Sun. There used to be nine planets the same as our Earth's solar system, But now there are only two. Imperium and Tartarus. Imperium is bathed in a luminous white light during the day, And a soft, Deep indigo glow at night. Stars light up at night skies. Its landscape is rather like Earth's. Spectacular high mountains, Snow-capped in winter, Are covered in forests of tall, Ancient trees. Within their deep valleys flow rocky streams and wide, Deep rivers. The mountains gradually flatten into gentle rolling hills. Covered in woodlands and verdant pastures which provide shelter and food for its inhabitants. Once upon a time there were deserts, But these have now been transformed into bountiful garden plains. Deep lakes filled with pure fresh water cover about 20% of it. Imperium is a model in Harmonia. Eco-friendly, Interactive living. Its technological advancement in energy channeling, Communication and travel is light years ahead of Earth's. The second planet, Tartarus, Is located on the far dark side of the Elysian Sun. It is bathed in red heat during the day and total darkness at night. It is hidden from the starlights of distant galaxies. It is always very dry. Windy and extremely hot. Its landscape is dominated by rugged mountains and vast, Barren deserts. Tartarus is the home of Madro. It is cloaked in secrecy. Life is hard. Water is scarce. Fall out in sight. The control centre of Imperium's government is a simple circular building perched high on a rocky outcrop. It blends so well with its surroundings and the sky. That even if you look for the building, It's almost impossible to find. There is no visible physical access path. All visitors to the center must be able to transmute. And transport themselves mentally. This is where Egg, The current Omni-Ruler of the planet, Spends much of his time. It is his sole responsibility to protect not only his planet. But all other planets in the universe. Is silver hair. Page. And there you are. He is the keeper of the guides. And protector of the universe. Today his granddaughter Angelica is helping him. Her parents were killed defending the planet when she was just a toddler. Ag and his wife Pax are her guardians. Angelica is almost as tall as a hex. On earth she would be called a teenager. She can already transmute and transport, Skills not usually acquired until middle age. She is a student of the guide. She adores her grandfather and grandmother. Inside the control center, AG. And Angelica are both on high alert. They were in the middle of their daily routine check of the universe. Through the 3D Intergalactic Laser Space Probe. When they discovered the abnormal auroral shimmering. They need to keep a constant vigil for any unusual activities that might mean Madrogue is on the move again. He is continually sourcing supplies of negative energy. To destroy his opponents. His is the most destructive. Negative energy in the universe. Ag fears he has designs on controlling the universe. The instant Ag and Angelica spotted the worrying, Unusual glow, They sent an urgent telepathic message to Mentor and Smouse. Mentor is Ag's quadruped. She looks like a medium-sized dog with floppy ears and large, Long-lashed eyes. She has short pink hair with large black spots and a faint silver pink aura. Her tail is a beautiful curled plume. She is an expert in transportation. She's gentle. And highly intelligent. Smells. Angelica's paired quadrip is tiny, Small enough to sit in the palm of Egg's hand. Is similar to an earth bilby but with a curled spring-like tail and larger rabbit-like ears. His fine silver-beige fur has a faint aura of silver light. Still young, He is impetuous and inclined to be hasty. Not only is he a master channeler of energy, Very skilled in transportation and mental telepathy. But he's a skilled healer. Like Angelica. Is also a student of the guide. But unlike her. Not very serious. When the call comes, Smouse is resting in his relaxation cocoon in Angelica's bedroom. Feet up, Air-supported, With a glass of chilled H2O, With a touch of whisky in one paw, And a bowl of crunchy peanut butter in his lap. He is dreaming of travelling to unknown planets in search of Madrove. Smouse the superhero. Rescuing aliens from an evil menace. He feels the message hum through the spiral of his tail, Up his spine and into his mind. It feels urgent. It's egg. A call from Ag means it's urgent. With a gentle sigh he puts aside the bowl of peanut butter. Then he intuitively locates the message's source. Transmutes and hastily transports himself to the control centre. He disappears and reappears in a rush. Seemingly out of nowhere. Landing suddenly on Angelica's shoulder. Taken by surprise she jumps and accidentally knocks him painfully to the floor, Causing him to spill the chilled glass of water all over himself. He ruefully peers up at her. Help if you'd give me some warning, ' she murmurs, Gently picking him up, Wiping him down and perching him back on her shoulder. Ag turns from the probe and fixes him with a stern look. It would also help if you were a little less gung-ho with your transportation techniques. His eyes twinkle as he adds. Perhaps a little less peanut butter and whiskey and more practice. Then serious once more, He turns back to the probe. Angelica explains the problem to Smouse, That she and her grandfather have discovered an unusual auroral glow in a distant galaxy. And that Ag thinks it is interfering with the intergalactic communication network. Mouse knows that this is essential for the protection of the universe. It's serious. Anything that upsets the balance could be disastrous. Not only for them. But for the whole unit. We think it's located in the Milky Way. Egg tunes to face masks. Do you think you could locate the source? Smiles Nods. As he activates his 3D luminal probe which can fold through the planes of space to find the fault. They are joined by mentors. Fascinated, The watcher's mouse masterfully maneuvers the probe through the galaxy. As it enters the Milky Way. Its signal becomes more intense. And finally track through to a small arm of the Milky Way into a nine-planet solar system. Where it comes to a halt. Illuminating the planet Earth. Can you get closer? We need to find the exact location. Mouse fine-tunes the probe's vision and zones in, Searching for a more specific pairing. The probe moves in closer and closer, Focusing on the hot spots. Once again it stops. Revealing a large bay with a narrow opening to the sea. More please spouse. Its mouth zooms in closer and closer to get a better view. The pro pinpoints a sharp red bluff of land which rises above a narrow beach of rock and sand. Red Bluff. Mentor suddenly announces. The other three look at her with raised eyebrows. Even though they know they shouldn't doubt her incredible in-depth knowledge of the universe. She smiles sweetly and continues. It's between Black Rock and Sandringham. About 20 kilometers south of Melbourne, The capital of Victoria, Australia, She adds, Unfazed by the continued expressions of disbelief. A strange place I would have thought for any auroral activity that might interfere with our systems. Eggnog. That is his thought too. One name passes between the four of them. Madras. A fizzle of fear flows through them. Mentor shakes her head to clear her mind. What is he after now? As one, Their minds suddenly flash with certainty. Power. Madrogue is constantly renewing and amplifying his power to corrupt, Disrupt, And spread fear, Greed and hatred. He has visited Earth many times before. With some success. But why has he returned now? And for what purpose? Apart from solar power, Melbourne is barely on the map in terms of energy. It has to be something he can utilize for negative purposes. Something insidious that he can spread and create disharmony with. We need to find the source. They all contemplate the image. Mouse expands their view to include more of the area. There seems to be some sort of power build-up that creates strange surges of energy. Resulting in red auroral displays. Its source is more concentrated just beyond the red blast. He zooms in closer and projects the display as a hologram. Within the red. Is a fake. Smell sharpens the image. Or a brief second. A catch a glimpse Make your eyes. Ag is trouble. Madrogue is, Once again, Building up a power source on planet Earth. Earth in its current cycle with its existing conflicts and issues is not strong enough to overcome it. Why Melbourne? He makes a snap decision. Someone will have to go and investigate. Agmently and privately shares his concerns with Mentor. Smells She agrees. Smell. It will have to be smell. Although immature and impetuous, He has all the skills and the ability to blend in, Communicate, And discover the source. They discuss the problem at length, But can come up with no alternative. There is no one on the planet they can spare. After considering the pros and cons, They concur. Smouse will have to go to Earth to not only find the source, But to nullify Madrobe. Ag relays their decision to Angelica who has been monitoring the probe with mouse. Smouse is her pair, So it's up to her. She's not too happy. She would rather go with him but she knows there is no way her grandparents will let her go. They've already lost her parents. Reluctantly she agrees that someone must go. And that smiles is the logical choice. Even though he's young, He has all the skills. His ability to transmute is second only to Mentor's. Smouse is nervous. His telepathic fibres are vibrating intensely. Even before Angelica gives her decision, He knows. Despite his fantasies of being a hero. He's never even been off planet. His fur fades to a sickly pale grey. He's not confident that he can do this on his own. He needs mentors skill and wisdom to guide him. He begs Ag to let Mentor go with him. Ag turns to Minta. She nods in agreement. So Ag hesitantly says yes. Insist they take a copy of the guide. Angelica, Breathe the sigh of relief. She trusts Mentor implicitly. And the three days departure date set by Ag. Gives them ample time to prepare. The trio leaves Ag in the control centre and transports themselves back to Angelica's home, Where she and Smouse immediately start pumping Menta for all her information about the planet Earth, Australia and Melbourne and especially the Red Bluffs. Mentor mentally sets up a small information transformer and connects it to them both. Smouse and Angelica are mesmerized. From this distance it looks so beautiful. But more detailed information. The greater the contrasts appear. The beauty of the planet is spoiled by pockets of violence and despair endemic. Even as they tune in, They seem to expand. Smouth's most comfortably seated in Angelica's lap. Suddenly tenses. As an urgent message from Ag vibrates through his tail. He jumps up in the panic, Causing Angelica to lose the images. Mentor is instantly alert. Gotta go, Smell scarfs, Now. We've gotta go, Now. Aga's lost my drogue. He nervously hops from foot to foot in a state of panic. His fur stands on it. Angelica gently lifts him and strokes his fur. Until he calms down. Breathe, She says. A deep breath in. And a long, Slow breath out. This mouse slowly relaxes. Angelica kisses him softly on his nose and sits him on Mentor's back. Let's get you both packed. And prepare the space orb. Human Chapter 2 Meanwhile on Earth. . . Perched anxiously on stools at the bench in their large family room, X and Perry are still trying to fathom out what has happened to Perry's laptop. No matter what she tries. Nothing reappears. X can almost see the angry smoke rising from her as she stabs at the keys. Patience and tolerance are not two of her virtues. Two years her senior, X has often had to extricate her from delicate situations. She tends to speak. And act before she thinks. It's usually in response to some perceived insult or potential harm to animals, Friends or family members. Her intentions are good, But her execution lacks finesse. X, A well-respected gifted footballer who is bigger than most of his peers, Frequently presents as her strong man. In reality, He is gentle and non-aggressive. What's wrong with the stupid thing? She snaps. It's brand new. One of Dad's latest models. He won't be happy. Someone will have to pay for this. Their father, Martin Black, Is a forceful, Very wealthy business tycoon who owns and runs a vast national chain of retail outlets specialising in a wide range of computers, Tablets and phones. His stores showcase the latest technology. Is known as being blunt. And ruthless, But honest. He is a perfectionist in everything he does and he expects his employees and his family to be likewise. Nothing less than perfection is good enough. X says nothing. His sister is right. Their father will not be happy. It's best not to say anything when Perry is in this sort of mood. Besides, He is no expert on computers. Not like to marry next door. Tamari is the eldest of the three Shiro children who live next door. A picture of her flashes into his mind, Causing him to blush. Choose petite. Olive skinned and almond eyed. He thinks she is beautiful. Tamari is a computer whiz. Or, According to Perry, A computer nerd, And is studying computer technology at the university. Her father, Taku, Owns a small local computer store. X hesitantly makes a suggestion. Perhaps Tamari could help? He steps back a little, Expecting her to snap. Instead, She graces him with a wide smile. Even though she considers herself intellectually superior to most. Perry acknowledges talent when it's due. Now why didn't I think of that? You're not just muscle after all, Dear brother. It's the weekend, So let's hope she's home. Come on then. She jumps up, Gives him a sharp jab on the arm and, Laptop in hand, Rushes out of the room, Down the stairs and out the front door, Heading for the Shiro house. X shaking his head at the unpredictability of his sister. Obediently followed her. The Shiro's house. In contrast to the Black's bold, Modern two-storey mansion of steel and glass, With spectacular views across red cliffs to Port Phillip Bay, Is a small, Very old house. Half hidden by ancient trees and creepers. It is set in a beautiful, Rambling garden that includes splendid raised vegetable beds and bountiful fruit trees. The house, Inherited by Tamari's father, Has been lovingly restored by the family. His wife Crystal, A primary school teacher, Spends most of her free time in the garden. Unlike the Black family, The Sheroes are all keen environmentalists. Exumperi are frequent visitors, Enjoying the calmer, More casual lifestyle of their neighbours. Perry slams open the front gate to the Shiro house and races down the side path to the back garden where she finds Raz, The Shiro's large tan and white dog, Asleep on the back doormat. She curses out loud. It means they're out. Rez leaps up and bounds over to greet her. Delighted to have some company. Not today, She growls at him. Crestfallen he drops to the ground, But bounces back up as X appears. He nudges X under his knees. Not Homer, Queries the hex, As he bends down and fondles the dog's ears. Don't state the obvious, Perry Snaps. Rez is outside. If they were home, He'd be in with them. I'll just have to sort it myself. She turns sharply on her heel and storms back home. X makes a wry face at Raz and shrugs. It's just one of those days, Mate, " he tells him. Ex nonchalantly makes his way back through the garden. With Reyes ever hopeful at his heels. Sorry mate, Gotta go now. You know how it is. He gives the dog one last pet before he leaves. Making sure the front gate is secured. Raz dejectedly wanders back to the mat at the back door. X finds Perry in their father's study, Impatiently firing up his main computer. He studies her in amazement. Their father would be outraged. Perry catches his appalled frown. I'm just having a look, " she hisses as the opening icons appear on the screen. On your head, Sis, He replies and turns to leave. I've got footy soon anyway. Is halfway through the doorway when she explodes. OMG! It's the same! He turned back sharply, In time to see a small vibrant red zigzag. Ending in a flame-rimmed black hole zap across the screen of the computer. Pulling all of the icons into its voice. Perry hastily switches the computer off. White-faced, She urgently pushes her brother out of the room. Fearfully closing the door behind them. Both have one thought. What will their father do when he finds out? Chapter 3 The Journey Angelica Smouse and Mentor are frantically making preparations for the journey to Earth. The departure schedule has been brought forward because Ag has just informed them. That Madrogue had briefly reappeared and disappeared again. In the same location. It is vital that Smouse and Mentor leave as soon as possible. Manta checks things off as Angelica loads them into the space orb. Mouse haphazardly gathers the equipment they need to optimize the communication system. And for the Space Orb to navigate them through space. He and Mentor both wear a thought-communicator disc on their chests. Smouse also wears an optic fibre scarf. Which amplifies the message signals received by his tail. Once on Earth, Both he and Mentor can travel unnoticed by absorbing light rays and only reflecting the rays of the objects around them. Other pieces of equipment include a Tron detector to find the sources of energy being gathered by Madrove, And an energy beamer for their return journey. The space orb is about a meter in diameter and perfectly round. Its surface is constructed from diamond-coated pure corundum and tungsten, With an almost silver-blue transparent quality. There is no obvious entry hatch. When necessary. The wall expands and separates, Creating an opening. The interior has ample room to accommodate spouse and mentor. And to allow them to move around. Ergonomically designed storage lockers are neatly fitted within the space orb's curved walls. The control center is strategically placed at the heart of the space orb for easy access. Within this is a very complex communication system which connects them to each other Ag, And Angelica. The navigation system allows the space orb to travel light distances by folding time and space, As it is guided along an intergalactic energy beam. As Mentor and Angelica conduct a final check. Smouse, Who has been doubtfully surveying the small supply of provisions and snacks that Angelica has included. Suddenly disappears. Minda and Angelica stopped midstream, Surprised and bewildered. They're almost ready for take-off. Just as quickly as he left. Smouse reappears, Struggling with a large box filled with bottles of water and whiskey and a jar of peanut butter. Smothering her amusement, Manta assures him that water, Whiskey and peanut butter are easily obtained on earth. Angelica gently confiscates the box. She makes one last quick scan of the space orb and its contents and picks Smouse up. I think we're all set to go. She pauses. Something is niggling her in the back of her mind. Something is missing. She studies Smeths questioningly. He returns her gaze wide-eyed and innocent. Mentor is onto it immediately. A guide, She suggests. This mouse looks sheepish. He slowly produces a very tiny book from within his scarf. Angelica is cross. She smartly puts Smouse down and admonishes him. This is serious stuff, Smouse. No more games. It's hard enough letting you go without me. Tears well in the corners of her eyes. Mouse is instantly remorseful. He apologizes profusely. And Angelica gathers him into her arms. Smouth lightly wipes away the tears with the end of his scarf. Finally satisfied that they are ready, Angelica alerts her grandfather of their imminent departure. Ag and Pax arrive in an instant. Ag issues last-minute instructions and they exchange hugs. Angelica holds Smouse up to her face. Take care, She whispers. We're depending on you. Smouse gives a solemn nod and twitches his whiskers against her nose. He and Mentor settle themselves into the space orb. They wave farewell to Ag, Pax and Angelica, Who step back to give the space orb space. Minter activates the navigation system. There is a sudden whirring sound and a spiral kaleidoscope of colours fills the air. The space orb is gathered into the energy beam and swept into the stream of time. The space orb travels in a brilliant blur of white and pink light as they fold time and space, Guided by the energy beams. Through the transparent shield of the space orb. Smouse watches in wonder. As galaxies come and go. One moment they are in the darkest of space, In what seems like absolute silence and stillness. And then there is a loud roar as stars and planets stream past, Creating a magical blur of colour and light. Throughout the journey, The pressure within the space orb remains constant. Snug within their safe cocoon, It seems to only take a blink of an eye before the space orb is within the beautiful spiral galaxy known as the Milky Way. The Milky Way is estimated to contain between 100 to 400 billion stars, And more than 100 billion planets. Earth's solar system is located in a small spiral arm called the Orion Arm. From here, It is just another blink of an eye before the space orb enters Earth's solar system. Mouse is mesmerized by the beauty of the planet. It looks like a large blue marble in which intense shades of blue are covered with swirls of white. Patches of green, Yellow, And brown appear and disappear. As they drift closer. He can distinguish water and landform. Mountains and plains are visible beneath the water and upon the land. The range of colours expands. The blues become seas, Lakes and rivers. The reds, Greens, Yellows, And browns become trees, Shrubs, Flowers, And grasses. It reminds Smouse of home, Until the towns and cities come into view. Many of these don't blend into the landscape like those on Imperium. He suddenly realizes Mentor is speaking to him. We're getting closer Smouse. I'll need some directions please to pinpoint a suitable landing position. Immediately it enters the Earth's atmosphere. The space orb changes color, Reflecting the colors of the planet. If anyone noticed it. It would appear as a sharp flash of sunlight. It immediately adjusts to the Earth's pull of gravity. Manta activates the resistors to slow their entry down, As Smouths fine tunes the 3D luminal probe. He quickly relocates the last sighting of Madrogue and with the bearings for the spot searches for a safe, Inconspicuous landing site. It needs to touch down close, But not too close to the location. The space orb is most easily camouflaged in water. Menta points to a secluded cove close to the red cliffs. Smurf nods. The air pressure is good. Plenty of CO2. Daylight? Cloudy, So observation of their descent should be minimal. Under his guidance, Mentor guides the space orb to a safe anchor in the waters of Port Phillip Bay. The space orb settles on sand. In a very deep permanent pool at the base of the Red Cliffs. Mouse examines the state of the environment. The pool water is very clear, Providing excellent visibility. And a large overhang of rock which backs into a concealed cave. Protects the space orb from prying eyes. Under most conditions it's transparent to human eyes, As it only reflects the same colours of its environment. But it's still important to take all precautions possible. From inside the space orb, Smouse and Mentor watch as the sand eddies swirl and settle. Tiny crabs scuttle for safety clusters of shells cling to the enclosing rocks, Which are capped with red, Green and brown algae. Small rock pool fish. Intrigued by this alien intruder. Swim close enough to eyeballs, Mouth and mid-tongue. Before resuming this session. Satisfied all is well, They inform Ag and Angelica that they have accomplished the first part of their mission. They have arrived safely. Mentor then sends up a fine ocular probe. Beyond the red cliffs, Although it's early evening, The beach is quite busy with people walking their dogs. Despite their ability to transmute and blend with the environment. They decide to wait until dark. To reconnoiter the area. Dogs are more sensitive than their human companions. And more likely to pick up their presents. Chapter 4 Madrogue. As the sun sets in a brilliant display of colour. Smouse and Mentor transmute and leave the space orb, Taking with them the small Tron detector. They reform in the dark shelter of bushes that form a verge between the beach and a main road. Smouse activates the Tron which immediately starts to vibrate powerfully. He and Mentor are on immediate full alert. Smouse experiments with changing direction until the Tron locks onto a source and the vibrations are suddenly extremely intense. Smouse experiences a small flicker of panic as his pulse rate rapidly increases and his breath shortens. Tiny beads of sweat appear on his fur. My drogue must be so close. He almost faints, But recovers as Mentor's voice and a wave of calming energy flows over and through him. He's not here, You know, Smouse. It's only his negative energy that the Tron detector picks up. You'll probably never meet him face to face. But you'll recognize his destructive influence. When it appears. Smouse relaxes a little and remembers Angelica's advice. To take a deep breath in. And a long, Slow breath out. After a few breaths, His pulse rate decreases and he breathes easily again. He refocuses to discover that Mentor has left the safety of the bushes. Its mouth nervously peers out. Mentor is standing on the pavement of a wide, Sealed road. Caught in the dazzling headlights of a steady stream of traffic. Smouse cautiously joins her, Keeping back from the curb and settled behind Mentor's hind legs. The loud whooshing sound of the speeding vehicles as they flash past is unnerving. Behind them, The broad expanse of vegetation stretches in both directions, Following the curve of the road. Opposite, A diverse assortment of houses and gardens lines the pavement. Some, In response to the imminent fall of night, Are illuminated from within. Others are lost in the encroaching darkness. At Mentor's directive, Smouse reconfigures the Tron detector. They both watch with bated breath. As it emits a fine laser beam that stretches across the road and pinpoints one house in particular. It is an impressive, Modern, Two-storey mansion of steel and glass, Positioned behind a high-rendered brick wall, With large double gates and a small pedestrian gate. The lights from the street lamps and moving vehicles are refracted off its shiny facade. It dominates its neighbours. A small single-storey period home tucked into a leafy tree garden on one side. And a twin pair of townhouses on the other. The trans-detector's laser beam increases its intensity. And unwaveringly maintains its bearing. Mentor and spouse study the how. Most of it is in darkness. A single thin band of light from a ground floor window is visible through the double gates. As they watch and wait, A luxury sports car screeches to a halt in the driveway. The double gates automatically open and the car zips in. As the gates close, They hear the car door slam. Moments later, A light appears in one of the second-story windows. The blind are immediately drawn. What do we do now? Mouse voices their uncertainty. Do we just fold in and look around? Do you think you could tune into the house? " asked Minta. We may be able to get a sense of what's there. Smells fine tunes and elongates his ears, Directing them towards the house. At first, There is silence. When he arrives home, Martin Black is not in a good mood. He's had a stressful day, Exacerbated by a senior employee's incompetence and inability to follow instructions. His stock of new mobile phones and tablets, Featuring the latest technology, Is selling fast. It's imperative to quickly secure a new shipment before the current supply runs out. The person responsible has failed to follow this up, And Martin Black has had to waste time on it when he needs to concentrate on the international launch of his new line of computers at the end of the week. He is certainly in no mood to discover that his own brand new computer is no longer working. Louis' car parked on the driveway. He strides into the silent house and heads straight for his study. He turns the computer on to be greeted by a blank, Black screen. He makes several attempts. Nothing. Just a black screen. Immediately suspicious, He scans the room. Perry! The roar is so loud it reverberates throughout the house. Unfortunately, In her haste to exit her father's study after the computer debacle earlier in the day. Perry has apparently left a piece of incriminating evidence revealing her presence. Perry nervously presents herself at the study door. She almost wilts under her father's withering glare. In here. His voice is like thunder. Perry stumbles in. How many times do I have to tell you, Perry, That my study is off-limits to you? And that includes you, Dane, " he adds, Observing X, Who, Having heard the bellow, Has arrived to lend support. Perry tries to explain, But her father pays no attention to what she is saying. Brand new computers don't just stop working. I have enough ineptitude at work. I don't need to come home to. . . Dad, It wasn't Perry's fault. X attempts to help, But his father angrily cuts him off too. Don't butt me, Dave. Of course it's your sister's fault. It always is. Martin. The exasperated voice of his wife stops him midstream. I was trying to work. I can hear you all the way down in my studio. Mom. Perry and X turn in welcome relief to find their mother, Paint palette and knife still in her hands, Standing in the doorway. Vera Black, An internationally celebrated hard-edged artist, Is an imposing figure. Tall with a thick mane of orange hair and wearing a voluminous, Vibrantly coloured paint shirt. She fills the doorway. Noticing the anxious faces of her children, She softens her tone. Is something wrong? Sorry mum, Perry hastens to present her case. It's dad's computer. He's blaming me. It happened to my laptop too. X nods in agreement. A mother looks past them and addresses their father. Big breaths dear before you explode. Her husband tightens his lips but says nothing. She returned her attention to Perry. Let's start from the beginning. Tumbling over her words in her haste, Per explains what's happened. A father is about to comment when X has a thought. Have you been using your computer, Mum? Vera Black shakes her head. No, Have you? No, I've been to football. Good thought, Dain. Let's check. I'll see you in my studio. Bring your laptop. You too, Perry. Without waiting for a response, She turns on her heel and heads for her studio. X and Perry quickly follow suit. Outgunned and still unconvinced, Martin Black irritably collects his laptop and follows him downstairs to his wife's studio. The studio is a huge room at the back of the house on the ground floor. Windows the width of the room open to a large expanse of lawn bordered by exotic trees and shrubs. Beyond the lawn, Behind a glass security fence, Is a rectangular swimming pool. A large black cat is comfortably asleep, Nestled in the cushions of a lounge chair which faces the windows. The walls of the studio are covered in the works of Vera Black. Stark black, Grey and white, Sharp-edged oils, Making social comment on the wrongs of society. Several unfinished canvases are on easels. In the centre of the room is a table littered with oil paint tubes, Pallets, Brushes, Knives and jars of turps. This is the only untidy part of the black household. Vera Black heads straight for her computer, Which sits discreetly on a narrow table at one end of the room. Eggs and Perry are hot on her heels with their laptops. Both brand new. They set them up next to the computer. As her mother reaches to turn her computer on, Perry stops her. Way too dead to hear, Mum. Her mother impatiently paces back and forth. Being interrupted in the middle of a painting session is one of her pet dislikes. Especially when she is on a roll. Finally, Her husband arrives. And Perry activates her laptop. Just like her father's computer, It opened to a black screen. Blank screen. She gives her brother the nod to switch on his. All four walks. As the opening screen image of a tiger appears, And then the program icons one by one. They stay in position for several moments before a small vibrant red zigzag zaps back and forth across the screen of his laptop. A long tail ending in a flame-rimmed black hole streams behind it. Opened mouth, They watch in astonishment as it starts pulling the icons into its void until they all disappear. The parents are as stunned as their children. They stare speechless at the black, Blank screen. Try yours, Mum. Perry prod her mum. Vera Black raises her eyebrows at her husband. He half smiled. She confidently presses her on button. As with her son's laptop, The opening screen appears. An image of her artwork. And then the program icons. The family waits with bated breath for the next action. Nothing happens. They edge in closer and wait. There is a flicker. And then a small, Pale zigzag where the long tail appears. However. This time there is no flamed, Rimmed black hole streaming behind it. Computer screen and its icons fade. And recover. Martin Black places his laptop on the table and moves in for a closer view. Immediately the red zigzag, Its tail now streaming behind it, Comes alive. It streaks across the screens, Swallowing all the icons into its flame-rimmed black hole. Finally the screen image is sucked in too, Leaving a blackout. Black screen. And a horrified quartet. What was you, Martin? It reacted to you. Vera Black massages her forehead, Trying to rationalise what she'd just seen. The two children and husband for once. Are without words. Move that! She ushers them all away from the computer and pulls up a chair. The moment her hands touch the computer. A faint image of her icons reappears. She removes her hands and they quiver for a second or two and then disappear into the void again. She repeats the actions, And they quiver for a second or two, And then settle and remain stable on her screen. She turns and faces her husband and children and throws up her hands in confusion. What the hell is happening, She asks. I'm damned if I know. Her husband is equally dumbfounded. There is a sudden explosive bang. The cat with a loud yowl of terror leaps from the chair into Vera Black's lap. The horrified expressions on her husband's and children's faces causes Vera Black to swivel sharply back to the table, Just in time to catch the explosion of red. On the screen of her husband's laptop. Open-mouthed, They watch it change into a vibrant zigzag, Sweeping back and forth, Before vanishing into nothing. The ensuing silence is paralyzing. After a few moments, Totally floored, Europe Lacks suggests they have dinner. And that perhaps afterwards they can see if Taku or Tamari from next door. Can help. Across the street. Mouse relays all of this to Mentor. She replays the information, Assessing it in sequence. Smouse asks. And that the trigger for the explosion of red, And the sudden reappearance of it on the laptops, Is the utterance of the words hell and damnation. She thinks for a moment or two before replying. Yes, That seems a reasonable assumption. Madrogue feeds on words and images connected to him. Bad and negative energy. Martin Black's vast network of stores would appear to offer a perfect channel to corrupt disrupt and insidiously spread his web of destruction. If this happens to all of his computers. . . Doubt will appear. Then, Like a virus, Fear, Distrust, And then anger will grow. She pauses before continuing. We need to discover why Madrogue has chosen Martin Black. It's not likely that he's the only retailer. It's curious too that his wife's computer Although it was temporarily infected, Seems to be okay. Mentor makes a decision. We need to see for ourselves. It's time to get close. Thanks. She pauses, Catching Smouse's forlorn face. You're hungry. It's a statement, Not a question. Mouse opens his eyes wide and nods vigorously. Mentor hesitates. Now is an opportune time to investigate the studio. But a hungry smouse is not conducive to being in the moment. And not being in the moment means not focusing well on the task in hand. She relents. All right. Food first, But not too long. Smouse's demeanor noticeably brightens. The pair transmutes and transports themselves. To the space ore. Chapter 5 A computer die. All is not going well in the Black House. Dinners if Vera Black is in painting mode. Are haphazard to say the least, And usually left to Perry and X or their father. When in host-desk mode, Vera is a fantastic cook. Tonight, However, Completely rattled by the experience with the computers, She takes charge in an endeavor to calm her nerves. Nothing seems to work. The meat is ready before the vegetables and therefore overcooked. The vegetables are almost raw. Martin Black paces back and forth, Offering advice in an effort to hurry things up so that he can sort the computers. Perry and X, After laying the table, Nervously keep their distance. They eat in silence. After dinner, Perry and X escape the dishes by offering to go next door to see if Tamari or her father Taku is free to come and look at their computers. Their father impatiently waves them off. Taku, With Raz at his heels, Answers the front doorbell with a huge, Welcoming smile. He invites X and Perry to come in. Raz gives them both a welcoming lick. They enter and immediately feel the calmness that is always present in their neighbor's home. The family is still seated around the dining room table, Being entertained by the youngest member, Two-year-old Bubbles. So called because she loves making tiny bubbles with her mouth. Bubbles is demonstrating her newly acquired knife and fork skills. It's a little bit hit and miss. Rez hovers close by, Hoping she will drop some of her food. As soon as Perry and X enter the dining room, Crystal Shiro invites them to join the family at the table. Amidst the hilarity, Tamari and her younger brother Sam quickly pull up some extra chairs. Flustered, X almost trips as he takes the chair next to Tamari. Perry squeezes in between Bubbles and Sam. Unperturbed by the interruption and enlivened by the new audience, Bubbles continues to entertain. When Tacko can at last get a word in, He invites Perry and X to explain the reason for their later hour visit. As X seems to have lost his tongue, Perry outlines the problem. To marry and her father immediately offer assistance. They quickly help clear the table, And despite Sam's plea to join them, Leave him to help his mother bath Bubbles and put her to bed. Rez follows close behind. Smouth and Mentor return to their observation spot just in time to see Tamari closing her front gate, Leaving Raz standing forlornly in the garden. They watch as she follows her father and her two neighbors along the street towards the pedestrian gate into the Black's Front Garden. The trio enters before Tamari, Leaving the gate open for her. Mentor makes a snap decision. Quicksmouse, We need to see as well as hear. Mentor is across the now quiet road and standing outside the gate, Before Smouse's time to think. He hastily follows suit. Merging and blending with the surroundings, They slip in before Tamari. Who's sensing their presence? Hesitates momentarily. And glances around before closing the gate. Seeing nothing, She shrugs and hurries to catch the others. Anxious to get things moving, Martin Black takes Taku and Tamari straight up to his study. He directs his children to collect their laptops from the studio and to let their mother know where they'll be. Hexham Perry dutifully complied. Mentor and Smouse, Invisible in their merged state, Follow the three upstairs. When Tamari stops and turns suddenly, They instantly freeze. A little puzzled, She pauses. Nothing is there, So she continues into the study. It is a large sparsely furnished room with huge windows overlooking the foreshore. The computer is set up on one end of a spacious table which occupies the centre of the room. Several chairs are placed around the table. The two-seater couch is positioned against one side wall and a simple sideboard on the opposite side. Damari and her father listen attentively as Martin Black describes in detail what happened. Manta quietly settles herself between the end of the couch and the windows. Smouth perches on the back of the couch from where he has a perfect view. When he finally focuses attention on the computer, He is shocked. Ex and Perry find their mother in her studio, Seated in front of her computer. Hi guys, Any luck? She turns to face him. Examses. Yeah, Dad's taken Taku and Tamari up to his study. Good, Mine's working okay. Try yours. X and Perry both switch on their laptops. They're still both dead. They turn them off and together with their mother head upstairs. They arrived to find Tamari seated in front of their father's computer, Fiddling with a few buttons and switches in the back. Taku stands behind his daughter offering advice. A faint, Hazy white light gradually appears on the screen. Tamari presses some more buttons and the power supply increases, And the screen sharpens to display a strong image of a family photo. One by one the program icons reappear. She turns to Martin Black and us. Can I try opening a program? He nods quickly. Please do. To marry double clicks one of the program icons. It instantly opens. She tries another. And another with equal success. Try the Internet tab. She acknowledges her father's suggestion and performs the operation. Once again, It opens immediately and displays a broad network map of all the connected sites. Tamari is astounded at the extent of the network. It's huge, Worldwide, Encompassing most countries of the world. She leaves it open and hands it back to Martin Black. You're a genius. He breathes a sigh of relief. What about the children's laptops? As Tamari relinquishes her seat, He impatiently settles down in front of his computer. His wife shakes her head in despair. Sorry. She apologizes to Tamari for her husband's abruptness. Tamari is sympathetic. Not a problem. I understand. She turns to find her father, Laptop in hand, Seated at one end of the couch with X balanced on its arm. Perry passes to Mari her laptop and suggests she sits next to her dad. She then balances on the arm of the couch to watch. The two sheroes work together. X's laptop responds first. The sequence is almost identical to that of the main computer. First, A faint hazy white light gradually appears on the screen. Then, As if the power supply progressively increases, The screen sharpens to display a strong photo image. A tiger for X, And the comic book character Shuri for Perry. One by one the program icons reappear. X and Taku exchange high fives. They both give their attention to Tamari. Perry's laptop is more slowly coming to life. Perched on the back of the couch, Smouse has an excellent view of the whole proceedings. He has had to remain perfectly still. Because each time he moves, Tamar returns to see if something is there. He knows she feels like she is being watched. He finds one thing about all the computers very concerning. Vera Black is watching her husband as he works at the computer. It seems to be all right. He logs into his emails and selects one in particular. Its contents make him bristle. Vera can see the anger build in him. She rests her hand on his shoulder. As she does, The power fades. The flow of anger hits Smouse like a physical blow. He loses his balance and momentarily his camouflage. Perry shrieks as a silver ball of fur rolls over Tamari's shoulder, Off her legs, Onto the floor and disappears under the couch. Rat! It's a rat! " She frantically jumps up onto the couch, Shrieking over and over again. Tamari, Her father and ex, Spontaneously react to her terror by leaping up from the couch. Vera and Martin Black immediately switched their attention to the drama. Instantaneously there is a loud bang and a red explosive flash on the screen of Martin Black's computer. The remaining light source is sucked into a black hole. A red zigzag line streaks across the screen and disappears. Then there is just the blank screen. In the ensuing silence, Smoughs, Wits gathered and camouflage restored, Scurries from under the couch into the safety of Mentor, Who is hidden deep in the corner between the couch and the window. Martin Black is the first to recover. He is not happy to discover his daughter standing on his couch. Stop making a fool of yourself. Get down off the couch! There are no rats in here. He gives a glimpse of a smile before adding, Your mother wouldn't allow it. X chips in. Norwood's sketch. He quickly checks under the couch. Nothing here? Not even a speck of dust. His mother, Recovering her focus, Playfully pretends to cuff him, Which releases the tension in the room. Perry sheepishly climbs down off the couch. She mouths a sorry to Tamari, Who is standing awkwardly next to the couch, Laptop still open in her hands. She smiles and assures her that it's okay. What happened? Tamari's father returns his attention to his neighbor's computer. I was distracted by the, He hesitates before adding, With a twinkle in his eye, Mouse. I've no idea, Martin Black replied. There was a loud bang, A flash of red. Then it all seemed to be sucked into a black hole, Leaving the screen blank. Both men examined the machine. Nothing they do produces a response. The computer is dead. Two hours later, Smouse and Mentor tentatively leave their hiding place. Tamari and her father have departed. Tamari taking Perry's laptop and promising to sort it out in the morning. Martin Black, Even though it's late, Has headed back to his office in an endeavor to resolve his business problems. Perry, Hex and their mother have retreated to the lounge to watch the television. Smouse and Mentor quietly head straight over to Martin Black's dead computer to examine that part of it that really concerns Smouse. As Mento watches, Smouse clambers up onto the desk and checks it out. He points to a small coloured badge fixed to the bottom left-hand corner of the screen frame. Mentor's eyes widen. The image on the badge is of a small devil with a forked tail. She sucks in her breath and her black spots turn white as she reads the words printed alongside it. Black Diablo. She looks up at Smeth. The Black Devil. Smiles, Nods and adds. The two laptops have the same image and name. He thinks for a moment. Do you think perhaps the mother's computer is different? It didn't have the problem. You could be right, Smouse. Mentor frown. We need to have a look. We have to find her studio. Mouse slips to the floor beside her, Eager to go. She turns to him and asks. When you were listening earlier. Did you get any sense of where the studio might be in relation to this room? Smouse mentally replays the conversations in his head, Assessing the volume and delay in the reception before replying. Ground floor somewhere further back from the road. Without waiting for Mentor to respond, He scoots out of the study. Mentor hastily follows him, Internally urging him to be silent. Mouse tracks the remembered sound waves along the long hallway. Carefully past a room from which the television is blaring, And down a flight of stairs. He stops outside a closed door at the back of the house. Mentor comes to a halt close behind him. Even from Mentor's back, The handle is too high for Smouse to reach. Before she can remind him of the dangers of transporting into an unknown environment, Smouse is gone. Manta shakes her head in disbelief. Too late, Smouse remembers the recommended procedures for transmuting, Transporting, And transforming. When he reforms, He finds himself precariously perched on the edge of an armchair, Staring into the outraged eyes of a large black man. Momentarily terrified by the sudden appearance of this strange ball of fur, Sketch The cat leaps up onto the back of the chair. Arches her back and hisses wildly. Smouse hastily retreats, Desperately seeking shelter under the chair. Sket prepares to leave. Her momentum is interrupted by a vision of, And the smell of, Warm honey milk. When she refocuses, She is staring into the bright green eyes of a pink dog. She leaps off the chair. Races across the floor towards the windows and disappears through a flap in the glass. Mouse heaves a sigh of relief and emerges from under the chair. Not your best effort. Mendo tries not to smile. Smouse has the grace to look abashed. Mentor quickly returns to the task in hand. Let's find the computer. Come on, Before the cat is back. She weaves her way between the easels and table and finally locates it at the far end of the room. Smell swiftly joins her. He springs lightly onto the computer table. There is neither a badge. Nor a name on the front of the computer. Smiles looks at the sides. Yeah, Maybe. He points to a small badge and some fine print on the left-hand side. The pair studies it carefully. The badge is a six-sided geometric shape within a black circle. The writing reads, Black Enterprises. No devil. Mental voices what they are both thinking. Could that really account for what's happening though? It doesn't emit much energy. Smurfs is unconvinced. Mendo nods her head. I agree, She replies. There has to be something more powerful. We'd better get back and report to Ag and see what he suggests before that cat returns. Back in the space orb, Smouse fires up the communication system. Within seconds they are connected and Ag's face comes into view on the communication screen. Mentor quickly assures him that they are both well, And then outlines all that has happened, Finishing with their conclusions. Erg is impressed with their progress, But like them, Baffled by Madrogue's choice of Martin Black's computers as a source of power. He takes some time examining the possibilities. Smouse and Mentor watch the changing expressions play over his face before he makes the decision. You have to get closer. It's becoming urgent. There are signs here that the power base is building. You need to find a way to meld with the family. I think you have to show yourselves. A nervous quiver of his whiskers betrays Smouse as a vivid picture of Sket passes before his eyes. But he says nothing. Ag observes his reaction and directs his response to Menta. It'll have to be expedient and plausible. I have every confidence that you'll find a feasible solution. Remember. Humans love pets. Ag pauses before adding. And smiles. I suggest you read the guide. He blows them a kiss as the screen goes blank. Terminating the session. Smiles turns to Mentor and asks. . . What's a pet? She quotes from an earth dictionary. A domesticated or tamed animal kept for companionship or pleasure. Seeing his blank face, She explains how on Imperium, Quadrips evolved from pets into being a much more respected, Intelligent, Integral part of the ecosystem. Mentor and spouse explore the pet option. It seems to be the most obvious solution. But its implementation could be tricky. Mentor decides to sleep on it and then see what the morning presents. She reminds Smouse that he has to read The Guide before he can retire for the night. She curls up on her bed and instantly drops into a deep sleep. Leaving Smouth to wonder which part of the guide he should read. After unravelling his scarf to retrieve his copy. He flips the pages and lets one fall open, As he settles back and lets himself drift into space. The book opens at a section called On Trust. Smiles starts to read. But it's not long before his eyelids start to droop. And then close. Within minutes he is fast asleep. It's been a long day. In his dreams he vaguely recalls the words from the guide. If you ask for help. Trust that the universe will answer your call. It will support and guide you. Be open to all possibility. Chapter 6 Pets Perry wakes very early. It is just light. She has had a restless night, Interspersed with confusing dreams of exploding computers, Furry mouse-like creatures, And pink dogs. She decides to go for an early morning walk to clear her head. She checks her brother's room, But the fitness fanatic is obviously already gone for his early morning run. The house is in silence. She leaves it quietly, Careful not to disturb her parents. Her father had returned from the office very late in a foul mood. Several of the new computers had crashed. The morning is calm, Just a few clouds on the horizon. In the east, A slim band of sunlight peeks above the skyline, Touching the edges of the clouds with a soft pink glow. The traffic is minimal. The Sunday bike riders are yet to appear. Perry crosses the road and drifts along the footpath, Feeling free and relaxed. She breathes in the fresh morning air. From the tea tree, Shrubs and grasses that form the bush barrier that separates the road from the beach. Early birds start their dawn chorus. Overnight dew sits on the undergrowth bushes, Creating glistening pearls in the streetlights. The gentle lapping of the seawater as it ebbs and flows on the sand is soothing. She delights in being the only person on the street. Last night's dramas feel miles away. Ahead lies the small gravel track to the beach. As she turns onto it. She has a sense of being followed. She turns quickly but sees nothing. The feeling persists. She stops abruptly and swings round in time to catch the glimpse of a dog before it melts into the bush. She waits. Two bright green eyes framed in thick black lashes and a long nose appear from beneath a bush. In the dim light of the tracks. Perry swears it's pink. She waits. A head with soft floppy ears follows the eyes and nose. She crouches and stretches out her hand. A voice is soft. Gentle. And persuasive. He dog? It's OK here. It's safe. Come on! Menta allows herself to be lured out of her concealment into the shadows of the tracks. She edges closer until her nose is touching Perry's outstretched hand. Perry strokes her cheek. Manta sits back on her haunches and extends a paw in greeting. As Perry reaches out to take it, A beam of sunlight reveals its color. She lets out a small gasp. You are pink. Harry is convinced the dog smiles at her. Mentor stands and the rising sun lights up her pink hair and displays her black spots. Perry leaps up in excitement. Wow! You're just like me. Pink and black hair. Perry laughs and bends down to run a hand down Mentor's back. Dad hates it. I thought he was going to explode when I died. I got sick of people thinking I was a dumb blonde. When I was at primary school, The boys used to chant, Girls are weak, Chuck em in the creek, Boys are strong, Like King Kong. I'm not dumb and I'm not weak. She skips a few steps down the track and turns back before continuing to add. It's blonde, Really. What colour's yours? Pink and black. Perry is taken a few steps when she hears the words in her head. She stops dead in her tracks and swings back to stare sharply at the dog. That's still standing where it walks. Perry eyes her suspiciously. Mento innocently returns her gaze. Perry shrugs and snickers at her ridiculous thought. Suddenly, She feels on top of the world. Come on dog, Let's go for a walk. Mentos springs forward, Her tail wagging furiously, And together they head down to the beach. Pirri yaks the whole way as they cross the sand to the water's edge, As they navigate the rocks and pools at the base of the red cliffs. As they climb back up to the road. Mentor pads along quietly at her side, Listening attentively as Perry tells her about her family. And the neighbours about school and her friends. Her ears prick up as Perry talks about injustice and discrimination and how she hates them. Most of all, She hates being treated like an idiot. Just because she's a girl. It really stirs her up. She explains that is why she wears her hair like she does, And why she acts tough, And why she has to step in to help if someone's being bullied or ridiculed. She admits that sometimes she's a bit heavy-handed, And X has to bail her out. Piri is still talking as they cross the road. It's quite light now. As she reaches the Shiro's house. Tamari, With Raz in tow, Opens her front gate. Perry comes to a sudden halt as Tamari's voice breaks her flow of words. Hi, Perry. She looks up and down the road, Sure that she heard voices. See you on your own. Yep, Just me and the dog replies Perry. Seeing Tamari's quizzical expression. She looks down. And then behind her. The pink dog has disappeared. Oh, Well, She laughs. I must have been imagining it. She quickly changes the subject. You taking Rez for a walk? Tamari says yes and suggests they get together after breakfast to see if they can sort out the computer. She stands watching as Perry hastily makes her way home. Then she and Raz crossed the road for their morning beach walk. Perry is delighted to find her mother and brother in the kitchen preparing breakfast. They are both very surprised to see her up so early. Her mother, Wearing a colourful, Quilted art shirt, Is scrambling eggs, While X, Already showered after his regular morning run, Toasts some bread. Her mother assures Perry that she's welcome to join them, That there's plenty for them all. After all, Quip's X. How could we forego such a rare treat as to have the honour of your presence at this time of day? Perry gives him a playful jab in the back and sits at the table declaring, In that case, Brother, You can jolly well wait on me. She smirks and ducks as he threatens to toss her a slice of toast. She turns to her mother who is dishing out the scrambled eggs. Was dead. Gone back to the office, Vera Black passes Perrier Plate. Taku from next door has gone with him to see if he can help. A couple of the new computers crashed last night. To the amusement of her mother and brother. Perry talks almost non-stop throughout breakfast. They can hardly get a word in. She burbles on about the beautiful morning, A pink dog, The beach, And how she met Tamari, Who probably thinks she's a total nut and that she has to now, After having a shower of course, Go and see her to sort out the laptop. When Perry finally excuses herself after helping clear the dishes, They look at each other in disbelief. Perry is not one for idle chatter. X leaves for football training and Vera Black heads for her studio. Still buoyed by her morning outing and breakfast with her mother and brother, But a little embarrassed by her encounter with Tamari. Perry quietly enters her neighbour's property and respectfully knocks on the back door. When no one comes, She tentatively opens the door. Someone, Probably Sam, Is playing soft flowing music on a clarinet. And she can hear Bubble's voice chattering to someone in the kitchen. She makes her way there. Bubbles is sitting by herself at the kitchen table. She is absorbed in a very animated conversation with what looks like a very fluffy, Long-eared, Silvery soft toy that Perry hasn't seen before. The toy has its paw in a half-full peanut butter jar. Careful not to frighten her, Perry softly calls out. Hi Bubbles, Do you have a new toy rabbit? Bubbles half turns to her. Not toy, Rabbit. Smells. Perry laughs and teases her. Oh, A toy mouse with long ears! Bubbles turns fully to face peri and states quite firmly. Not toy. Not mouse. Smouse. Then she resumes her conversation with the Smouse. Admonished, Perry sits next to Bubbles and gives the Smouse her full attention. It looks something like a small silvery bilby, With the soft fur and ears of a rabbit. Its tail is coiled like a spring. She has never seen anything like it. Around its neck is a translucent, Long scar. It must be some sort of new designer pet. Whatever it is, It's totally focused on consuming the peanut butter. She watches and listens, Fascinated as bubbles chat to it in some unintelligible language. Suddenly aware of Perry, This mouse stops eating. It turns and faces her, And she has a sudden mental image of the evening before, In her father's study, And a silver ball of fur rolling over Tamari's shoulder off her legs, Onto the floor, And disappearing under the couch. She and the smouth lock eyes. She is drawn into a soft, Warm sea of deep blue. The spell is broken by Tamari's voice as she enters the kitchen. Oh, Hello Perry. I didn't realise you were here. Jolted out of her vision, Peri swings around to look up at Tamari as she continues. I just thought it was Bubbles talking to her imaginary friends. Perry instinctively looks back at the spouse. And discovers it has disappeared. She promptly turns to face Bubbles, Who giggles and puts her finger to her lips. Sacred. She whispers. Harry is totally confused. She checks the peanut butter jar. It's almost empty. At the same moment, Tamari spots the jar. Bubbles! She exclaims in horror. You've eaten all the peanut butter! Wide-eyed and innocent, Bubbles replies, Not me. Not mouths. Smouths. She puts her finger to her lips again. To marry loves. No more, It'll make you sick. She smiles warmly at Piri. I've got your laptop working. It's in the lounge. As she follows Tamari out of the kitchen. Perry gives Bubbles a quick wink. And the finger to the lip sign. Bubbles just smiles and lets some tiny bubbles float from her mouth. As promised by Tamari, Piri's laptop is working perfectly. Tamara explains that it took a bit of coaxing, That last night, Even though she took it apart and reassembled it, That wouldn't start at all. But when she tried it this morning, Just before she took Rez for his walk, It slowly came back to life. Perry thanks her profusely. She has homework due tomorrow and all the information is on the laptop. She promises to come back if she has any further issues. To marry Caesar to the back door. Smouse is waiting in the garden for Perry to appear. He has copied the light reflections of his surroundings and so appears invisible. As the back door finally opens, The fibres of his scarf unexpectedly begin to vibrate rapidly. There is a loud and persistent barking from the house as Raz, The Shiro's dog, Squeezes past Perry and Tamari and bolts past Smouse. He's after Scat, The cat that is sitting on the fence. Scat hastily disappears over the fence and into a tree. When Tamari calls him, Rez responds obediently. Halfway to the surprise of the two girls, He stops suddenly and backs back until he's right in front of Smiles. Mouse's aura brightens momentarily and casts a faint silver glow around the garden. Neither Tamari nor Piri notice it, But Raz does. He cocks his head and whines, But not in alarm. He then lies down, Facing Smouth. His tail thumping on the grass. Perrie and Tamari exchange surprised looks. There's nothing there. Smouse decides he'd better leave. He transmutes and transports himself into the black's garden. As he transforms in the Black's Garden, There is a sudden ear-splitting yowl. A ball of spitting black fur leaps at him from a tree. Smouse escapes by frantically shifting ground. He finds a safe hiding place between two large pot plants, As Perry, Who has bid a hasty farewell to Tamari, Rushes home to see what is happening. She finds Sket poised to pounce. Eyes focused on the gap between the pots. She crouches next to the cat. And peers in. Two deep blue eyes peer back at her. She recognizes them immediately. The smells. She quickly shoes Scatterwave and, As she did with Mentor, Gently coaxes Smouse from his hiding place. Checking that it's safe. Mouse carefully inches out. Until he is touching Perry's outstretched hand. You're real. She whispers. Smouse moves forward and sits in her hand. And so soft. As Scat appears in her peripheral vision, She carefully picks Smouse up in both hands. He fits perfectly. Slightly curled into a ball. Perry studies him. The big, Deep blue eyes. Long floppy ears, Strange curled tail, Fur that glows silver. And that unusual scarf around its neck that seems to shimmer. A cross between a bilby and a cengiz, But with ears more like a rabbit. She feels like the zoologist George Shaw must have felt when he first saw a platypus. She decides that whatever it is, The spouse is beautiful. Not the smiles. Says the voice in her head. Smell. Perry and Smouse. OMG! The penny drops. You're like the pink dog. She gathers her wits and hurries inside. She can't wait to show her mother and ex. Further surprises await Perry when she enters her mother's studio. She opens the door without knocking to discover her mother seated at a table. Working with coloured pencils instead of painting at her easel. She is stopped in her tracks by the sight of a pink dog lying under the table at her mother's feet. And mother swivels to greet her. Seeing her daughter's astounded expression, She explains. I found her here when I came down. I thought you must have let her in. Perry shakes her head, Speechless as her mother continues. She's very sweet. I love the black spots on paint. Her name's Mentor, But it's spelt M-E-N-T-R. How do you know that? Perry's voice is barely audible. She told me. Vera Black freezes as she realises what she's just said. Well. It came into my head. You know, As things do. I know exactly what you mean. Perry conceals Smouse as she moves closer to see what her mother is drawing. The pink dog raises her head and wags her tail. Perry peers over her mother's shoulder and gasps out loud. Her mother looks at her sharply and then back at her scape. She has produced a perfectly rendered picture of Smouse. Capturing everything about him. Even the scalp. What made you draw that mum? With the scarf and glow. I don't know, Really. Her mother is equally puzzled. That's how I saw him. In my mind. Perry gently places Smouse on the table. Next to the picture. Her mother looks at him in astonishment. Under the table, Mentor smiles. Outside the studio window, A very miffed scat prowls back and forth. Chapter 7 Malt Whiskey Perry and her mother, Still flabbergasted by the perfect sketch of Smouse and the improbability of not one but two very oddball animals appearing on the same day. Try to come up with a plausible explanation. Nothing they envisage makes sense. Their solutions seem to sit somewhere between fantasy and reality. It's what it is, Perry. No rhyme nor reason. But they seem to be ours to enjoy. Vera Black philosophically ends the conjecture. Perry beams in agreement. Mind you, Her mother continues conspiratorially. We might keep this to ourselves for a while. Perry giggles. It reminds her of bubbles. She places her finger on the lips and mouths. Vera Black laughs out loud. Leaving her mother to continue her art. Perry takes Smiles and her laptop up to her room to do some homework before lunch. The sense of peace fills the house. It lasts until Martin Black returns. Taku has had some success in restoring most of the new faulty office computers, But some are still down. He strides into the house in the middle of a heated conversation on his mobile phone and makes for the kitchen, Where he finds his wife and ex, Who has returned from football training, Preparing lunch. Dropping the phone onto the bench, He slumps into a chair. His wife and son stare in consternation at this most irregular behaviour. Vera hastily pours him a large whisky, And she and X sit opposite him as he explains that his store manager has just advised him that when the IT staff at the main store tested the new display stops, Nearly half of the computers behaved erratically and crashed. His description perfectly matches their experience at home. He's now really concerned about how widespread the problem is, Whether or not the whole shipment is affected. The launch date is scheduled for Friday. The amount of capital tied up in the new release is huge. The advertising campaign alone is costing a fortune. Oh dad, That's awful. With Smouse hidden in her jacket pocket, Enters the kitchen as he finishes. She rushes over to him and gives him a hug. Embarrassed, He shrugs her off. Responding to her mother's signal, She withdraws and sits next to him at the table. Tucked inside Perry's pocket. Smouse's whiskers start to twitch as he catches the scent. Of something special. He recognizes it immediately. The smell of mold. The essential ingredient in his Whisky. He carefully peeks out of Perry's pocket. He can see the tracks of the aroma. It's coming from the glass on the table in front of Perry's father. The glass is still full. He watches as Martin Black lifts the glass. Takes a sip. And replaces it. Mouse slips back into his hiding place and waits. When everyone is distracted by the meal being served, Well camouflaged, He sneaks onto the table and gulps down several very large mouthfuls of the whiskey before retreating to the safety of the pocket. As the warm liquid slides down his throat. He settles back and breathes a sigh of pleasure. He vaguely wonders where Mentor is. Perry feels a sense of peace pass over her like a gentle whisper. She carefully pats her pocket to see if Smouse is still there. At the table, Martin Black is staggered to discover that his glass is empty. He'd only had one sip. He looks questioningly at his wife. She shrugged. He looked suspiciously at his children. They laugh and vehemently shake their heads. Ruefully he refills his glass He must have taken a larger sip than he thought. During lunch, The family explores a variety of options and explanations, But nothing leaps out at them, And unless they can fix the problem. Black Enterprises is heading for disaster. The fact that Perry's and X's laptops are now working is encouraging. And Taku and Tamari have agreed to come into the store tomorrow morning to see what they can do. Mouse, Tucked in a warm glow inside Perry's jacket, Automatically computes all the information. The meal is more relaxed than usual, And afterwards, Vera Black suggests that her husband and the two children go for a game of golf. It takes some persuasion, But eventually they agree. She assures them that she has plenty of painting to occupy her. Back in her bedroom, Perry remembers Smouse. She can't take him to golf. She carefully removes him from her jacket and tucks him between her pillows. As she leaves, He immediately closes his eyes and drifts into sleep. He dreams he is tiptoeing downstairs into the kitchen, Where he discovers the bottle of whiskey sitting on the kitchen bench. The aroma is overwhelming. Before he can stop himself. He has the lead off. The bottle is rather heavy, But he manages to tilt it far enough to allow it to trickle into his mouth. Not too much. He stands the bottle up and recaps it. All he needs now is peanut butter. He fine-tunes with his nose until it picks up the scent. It leads him to the walk-in pantry. He spots a small jar on the third shelf up. The hard part is opening the jar. But with a little tenacity and perseverance, He manages it. He's halfway through the jar when Mentor's voice drifts across his senses, Almost causing him to overbalance. Smouse, What are you doing? He guiltily turns around, But her voice drifts away, And he feels himself floating back. To the comfort of the pillow. Spouse. Smurfs, Wake up! Mentor's voice penetrates his deep sleep. He struggles to open his eye. Gradually the room comes into focus. The afternoon light is much lower in the sky. Mentor's nose is close to his face. He quickly gathers his wits as she reminds him that they have to report back to Ag and plan their next course of action. As the voices of the returning golfers come closer. They quickly transmute and transport themselves back. To the space orb. Back in the space orb. They discuss what they have seen and heard. Smouths foregoes mentioning the Weasley and peanut butter. He fires up the communication system. He is delighted to see not only Ag's face come into view on the communications screen, But also Angelica's. After exchanging pleasantries and information about home. He and Mentor quickly recount the happenings of the day. Ag and Angelica are amazed at how quickly they have assumed the role of pets and are easing their way into the family. They agree that it is puzzling as to why some of the computers are not corrupted by Madrogue. Mentor has a theory that she'd like to test. She wonders if it is connected. To the nature of the computer operator. The neighbors had a positive effect. They were actually able to restore the computers. Even within the black family, There was a remarkable difference between the reactions from the computers. She suggests that tomorrow, Using the guide, They'll create a checklist to appraise the earthlings to determine how advanced they are along the path of harmonious personal relationships, And what effect that is having on the drogue's ability to draw power. If they start with Perry and her brother, Who have contrasting personalities and different reactions from their laptops, They may be able to find a solution. Ag applauds the idea. Before they sign off. He fixes smiles with a stern gaze. Malt whisky needs to be taken in small doses. Chapter 8 Under Surveillance Smouse and Mentor arrive early at the Blacks' house before Perry and X leave for school. As they wait hidden in the garden. They spot the cat, Scat. It's stalking a bird. Smouth sends a warning vibration and the bird flies off. Sket turns in fury to find the cause. She can see nothing but she senses their presence. She arches her back and spits and hisses. Mouse is at a loss as to how to pacify her. He knows aggression is never a solution. Manta also studies cats. She's bad-tempered and easily upset. But she obviously takes a pride in her appearance. Her fur is sleek and thick, And her eyes clear and a brilliant green. Wanting Smouse to stay concealed, Mentor reveals herself. Taken aback by the sudden appearance of a dog, Scat tenses, But. . . Before she can attack. Meant to greet her with a smile and compliment her on her appearance. She describes how she's noticed that the cat always looks so beautiful, So groomed. And wonders how she manages to look so good. Get is totally thrown by this approach. She relaxes. Settles back and outlines her daily routine. While she's on a roll, Minta asks about the family in the garden. Scat is so pleased by Mentor's interest that she forgets to be mean. Mentor introduces herself. The cat reciprocates. Suddenly, Scat tenses as a voice calls her name. It's A. He appears before Mentor can blend into the surrounds. X is surprised to see the strange pink dog. Especially as Scat seems to have made friends with it. He suddenly recalls Perry's morning encounter from the previous day. The pink dog with the black spots. He laughs out loud. You're real. Mentor moses over to him. X is in tree. He's never seen Scat except a dog. Not even Raz next door who is eager to be friendly. He's actually never seen a pink dog with black spots before. From his hiding place, Smouse communicates telepathically with him and introduces Menta. X is puzzled and looks around for the voice. But it seems to be inside his head. Examines Mentor and mutters to himself about dogs can't talk. Despite this, He automatically replies and says his name is Dane. But everyone calls him X, Because when he first went to school, He signed his name with an X. He bends down and affectionately pats Scat, Who is weaving her way between his legs. Without thinking, He asks Mentor where she's from, If she's a stray. Is she lost? How'd she get into their garden? Spouse remembering that humans and their animals can't communicate with each other as they can on Imperium. Stay silent. As X continues to talk half to himself and half to the animals, He sits with them, Stroking them gently. The moment is broken by Perry calling harshly from the house, Demanding whether or not he's ready for school. Scat dots up the nearest tree. X stands up immediately. Sorry guys, I've gotta go. She's in a foul mood today. Frantic about not being able to find something. Mum was on about the same thing. Smiles and Mento exchange the same mental thoughts. I will miss. X grabs his mountain bike, Bag and helmet and hastily joins his sister. Mouse and Mentor melt into the surrounds and follow them as they wheel their bikes through the garden. As she makes several derogatory remarks about his state of mind, He scowls and decides not to tell her about the pink dog. He swats her on the arm and ducks as she retaliates with a fierce punch. As they open the front gate. Perry has the feeling that they're being followed. She keeps turning around. X turns to look 2. They sense shadows behind them, But see nothing. Once they're on the footpath, Perry mounts her bike and rapidly takes off across the beach road. Irate motorists blast their horns at them, But she laughs and gives finger signs as she weaves in and out of the traffic. X shakes his head with a sigh of exasperation and takes off in pursuit. Smiles and Mentor let them go. Smouse tracks their frequencies so that they can follow their route and transport themselves to their destination. Perianix's destination is school. Let's mouse and mentor soon track them. They pick up their trail just as the duo arrives. Perry, Still cranky, Hurtles into the school ground, Ignoring a teacher's request to dismount. She skids into the bike enclosure and drops her bike on the ground before darting away. X calmly follows her and locks both their bikes into the bike rack. Once they're at school, The siblings separate. Perry is in the junior school. While X is a senior. Smouse follows Perry, And Mentor shadows X. They spend the day at school studying the children's behavior in the classrooms and in the school ground. Piri seems to be the leader of a group of girls. During the recesses they appear to be embroiled in an ongoing dispute with an older group of girls over who has the right to sit where. Ex and his friends spend their free time on the oval playing football. Perry's last lesson is in the computer lab. Smouth asked Manta to join him. At first, The computers work well. Perry is obviously one of the experts, As the computer teacher often defers to her. She is ungracious in her responses and ridicules those who are having difficulty. Members of her group support her and others laugh with them. Suddenly, Several of the computers start to fade, And a jagged red line appears across the screens. The students start to harass their teacher. He is bamboozled. He asks if anyone has downloaded an illegal program, A virus or malware. That children vehemently deny. As one, They turn to Perry, Whom they know has previously, Against the rules, Loaded new games onto the computers. They expect her to behave arrogantly as usual. But Perry is stunned by the sight of a familiar red image on her screen. Smouse and Mentor carefully study the children and their computers. Some of the computers are new and carry the black Diablo logo. These are the ones that have died. Mentor sends a strong message of sympathy to the teacher. And smelts an urgent request to Perry that she apologises for her behaviour. Perry Stiffen Apologise? Never! She fights a battle between herself and Smouse. Their opposing attitudes ring in her head. One hash. One Loving. Before she can stop herself. She admits that against the rules, She was sending silly devil messages to her friends who had the new computers. And there. She blurts out an apology to her teacher and the class. The red-lined gyrate angrily. And then gradually fade. And the computers slowly regain their power. The class and teacher look at Perry in surprise. They can't remember her admitting guilt before. Let alone apologising. Smile. The voice in her head persists. Smile. Perry, Smile. The class and the teacher are so surprised by her response, They smile back. Bell rings to signal the end of the session. Perry hurries off quickly before anyone can question her out-of-character behavior. She tells herself that she must be getting an illness or something. Spouse and mentor smile. By the time X catches up with Perry, They are almost home. And he has heard about her behavior. He starts to rib her when he senses a pink and black spotted image out of the corner of his eye. He stops and spins around. Mando stands several meters behind him. Is she smiling? Perry turns to see what has caught X's attention. She just catches a blur of pink. Extends wide mouth. In amazement. The dog has vanished. She's gone, He exclaimed. Peri taps her head significantly and opens her gate. There in front of them stands Mentor. Minta smiles and says hello. Both children look about them for the voice. They look at each other for confirmation and then back at Mentor. She smiles. Again the voice tells them to put their bikes away and they'll meet them inside. Why? It's too much for Perry and X to comprehend, And they do as Minter suggests. No sooner have they let themselves in than there is a knock at the front door. Still in a daze, Perry opens it to find Tamari, Bubbles and Sam with rest. Sam, Who is the same age as Perry, But much slighter, Is carrying a black Diablo computer in his arms. Tamari smiles and said they've come to return one of the computers that she and her father took home from the warehouse. She explains that they managed to fix the others, But this one wasn't responding. But now it seems okay. Perry tries to focus and reaches for the computer. But before she can take it from Sam, Their dog Rez pushes past them and disappears into the Black's house. Sam and Tamari urgently call him back. Concerned that he might damage something, Perry hastily puts the computer down and hurries after him. The sight that Greets are in the family room is beyond all comprehension. X and the pink and black spotted dog and Raz are facing each other. Ex and Mentor are smiling. And Rez is frantically wagging his tail. Between them is Smauce. Perry stops dead in her tracks, And bubbles, Who has followed cannons into her legs. She gives a squeal of delight. Smauce! And scoops him up in her arms. She sits cross-legged on the floor between X and Mentor and Rass. Perry steps into the room. To Murray and Sam crowding behind her. All three are speechless. Smouth settles comfortably in Bubble's lap. Mentor and Raz sit on either side of her. The four teenagers stand frozen like statues. As Smouse opens his arms wide and smiles broadly. They hear a soft hum in their heads. And then an engaging voice invites them to sit down. Hypnotised they do as it suggests. The voice flows through their heads as Smouth speaks. Mouse keeps the story simple. He gives a brief history of the demise of their solar system. Until only two planets, Their home, Amperium, And Madrogh's Tataris, Remained. He explains how Madro gained power by spreading fear and greed through corruption and disruption until the other seven planets destroyed themselves. Now they are committed to keeping the universe, Which includes Earth. Safe from him. The intergalactic communication network is essential for the protection of the university. Without it they have no voice. No power to keep the balance. It's vital to keep the channels open. Madrogue is drawing power from the black computers. This energy drain is interfering with their intergalactic communication network. How does he use the power from the computer? The question comes from Sam. Minter turns towards him and answers. Everything, Sam, Is made up of some form of energy. There is positive and negative energy. Negative energy has a purpose. But if it overruns the positive energy, It can become highly destructive. Madro gathers the negative energy and condenses it into a powerful entity. He then releases it. Like a virus. It spreads more easily than positive energy. Creating fear, Read. Distrust and disharmony. As it spreads, It grows and consumes. Then it destroys by self-destruction. The group is ephonic. So Smouths continues. He recounts their progress so far. The group is confounded as he describes the extent of the problem and the strange variables creating it. How certain computers are and aren't affected. He finishes with the problems encountered in Perry's computer class. After he has finished his story. They remained silent. Finally, Sam again breaks the trance and finds his voice. He asks if they have solved the mystery of it affecting some computers and not others. Spouse and mentor consult. Mental not. Smell suggests that perhaps they could have something to eat and drink. Menta would love some H2O. And, If possible, He'd like some crunchy peanut butter. And whiskey. Perry jolts out of a catalepsy at the mention of peanut butter and whiskey. Her eyes widen and she fixes her gaze on Smouth. She mouths the words. It was you. Dad reckons more was missing this morning. Hey! The peanut butter jar was open on the bench. This mouse gives a start. It wasn't a dream. He has the grace to look guilty. And apologetic. X responds quickly, Hiding a smile, He ass-smells how he'd like the whiskey and peanut butter. He hears the answer in his head. The others ask for juice and biscuits. Tamari offers to help him. Chapter 9, The Checklist. The group settles around the kitchen table. Rez is seated at Sam's feet. Mouse is perched on the table and Manta sits on a chair next to Perry. Harry and Ex desperately hope that neither of their parents return to witness the sight. Menta insists on a bowl of water on the table, Not on the floor like Raz. Smouse produces the guide checklist. He explains that he and Mentor have been recording information during the day and have combined it with their previous observations. He doesn't show them the list. Nor does he inform them as to what it contains. He simply outlines the findings from which they have created a chart. Which displays a percentage rating for the known operators of the machines. In summary, It appears to himself and Mentor that the infected computers are the new ones that carry the Diablo symbol, And that the people who scored poorly with regards positivism or negativism on the checklist are those whose computers were affected by the power drain. He admits that he and Manta are not 100% sure, But there appears to be a definite correlation between the two. The hairs on the back of Perry's neck bristle. Embarrassed and upset by the implication, She immediately demands to know what is on the checklist and what their ratings are. Mouse hesitates, Not wishing to ruffle her further. He fixes her with his big eyes and asks for some more of her delicious peanut butter. She scowls at him and obliges. But immediately, Like a dog with a bone, Pursues the matter. He sighs and looks at Mentor who nods. Well, He pauses. If she were on the list. . . Bubbles being 100% positive. Would be at the top. Everyone smiles and nods in agreement. Bubbles hearing her name beams and blows a few bubbles as Smouse continues. Sam and Tamari are both in the 90s. Your mum is about 85 and X varies between 60 and 80. He stopped. And may indeed Perry isn't sure she wants him to continue. Mouse has a quick gulp of his whiskey. Europe it up and down. You have brief moments well over 80. And many fewer than 50. Perry glares at her brother, Warning him not to say anything. And Dad excisit for her. He's usually about 40. Perry sinks disconsolately back into her chair. But you're not 100% certain. Exchanges the group's attention. Perry is grateful for her brother's question. Smouse admits that he and Mentor need more data to confirm their deductions, And they'd like the group to help them. They especially need to determine the extent of the problem in Martin Black's company. Tamari interrupts him for a moment to ask X a question. Smouse mentioned that you have some new computers at school. If your father hasn't launched the new computers yet. How is that? X remains silent, So Perry replies. Dad likes to make donations to certain establishments. The school is one of them. Smouse peers up at her expectantly, Waiting for more. Perry glances sideways at X, Wondering whether or not to elaborate. She coughs nervously before continuing. It gives him some leverage. You know, If he wants a favour or something. Like when you get into trouble, You mean. Smouse puts the question gently. Perry blushes and hastens to defend her father. No, No, It's not like that. He wants to help people. He's tough, But Her voice trails away. Despite her outward confidence, Her rating has shocked her. And she's troubled by the notion that her father's company could be the sole source of the power drain, And that it could lead to the demise of the Black Enterprises, And possibly further ramifications. There must be other companies too. X strives to support her. It's possible. Smouse doesn't disagree. He is sympathetic. But the 3D luminal probe was pretty accurate. Out of all the possible locations in the universe, It pinpointed your place. Perhaps it would help if we could also compare your father's business with Sam's father's store. There is a dejected silence as the siblings consider the possible disaster. Tamari and Sam wisely hold their counsel. Only Bubbles is unaware of the tension. Smouse, The sole focus of her attention. In the silence, Smouse confers with Mentor before asking Perry and X if they'd like to ensure that their father's business doesn't literally fade away. Of course, They speak as one. Smouse then asks Tamari and Sam if they're willing to help. Without hesitation, They both agree. As Smouth starts to describe what they must do, Sam has a moment of insight. To the bewilderment of everyone, He leaps from his seat and rushes from the room. When he returns he has the new computer which he'd left at the front door. In his arms. He places it carefully on the table in front of them. With all eyes on him, Waiting for enlightenment. Sam Wavers. He mumbles an apology and nervously points to the Diablo badge. His sister encourages him to continue. What happens if we remove the logo? The words rush out. All the logos. Would it help? He flops back into his chair as the idea floats around the room. Smouse and Mentor secretly smiled to each other. Part 1 is unveiled. Perry is the first to respond. Great idea, Sam! She reaches across the table and gives Sam a high five. Let's try it now. Without further hesitation, She pulls the computer towards her and attempts to remove the badge. It is firmly stuck. X tries to know a veil. Then Minta does something very strange. She leans in front of Perry and licks the badge several times before sitting back in her chair. Mouse stretches forwards. And peels the badge away from the computer. And drops it on the table. Five pairs of eyes watch in utter amazement as the badge dissolves and disappears. It is some time before Smouse is able to finish outlining the rest of the plan. Chapter 10 An Evening Visit The Shiro children return home, Promising to say nothing. Perry can't believe how easily she has allowed these two strange creatures to not only enter her house, But to organize her activities and influence her decisions. She is used to being in charge. X is bemused by the whole thing, Smouse and Mentor, His sister, And the computers. The thought of his father's business being shattered is alarming, So he's more than happy to go along with whatever is planned. Smentor and Mouse are pleased with their progress. It's vital that they visit the Black Enterprises Corporate Centre and study the situation there. They are depending on Perry to convince her father that she should go to the office with him that evening. Smouse explains to Perianix how to contact him and Mentor using thoughts. They practice. X is far more receptive than Perry. She is frustrated that she can't do it as well as he can. They decide it'll be easier if Smouth and Mentor move into the black household. X is surprised to discover that his mother is already well acquainted with Smouse and Manta. They all agree that a pet spouse might be too much for their father to cope with. X isn't even sure that his father will be able to handle the appearance of a new family pet, A pink dog with black spots. He thinks he'll leave that up to his mother. It's going to be difficult enough convincing his father that he needs to remove all his new Diablo logos. It's essential that Smouse and Mentor return to the Space Orb to communicate with Ag. When they return, They'll bring some of the communication equipment with them. Smouse asks Perry to advise him as soon as her father and mother, Who are out, Return home. She and X have to prepare the way for the arrival of the new doll. Back in the space orb, Smouse and Mentor finish their report to Ag and Angelica. They gather up the belongings and equipment they'll need and sit back to wait for Perry's call. It is one of those perfectly still balmy evenings. A few wispy clouds in the sky catching the colours of the setting sun. Smouse carefully raises the ocular probe. He and Mento watched the activities of the locals on the beach. There are families and their dogs on the sand. Cyclists, Walkers and joggers share the bike path. The sound of traffic drifts down from the road. From its safe resting place at the bottom of the deep pool, The space orb hums gently and emits a faint golden glow. Smouse and Minter watch the sound and colour waves rise up from the water, Across the rocks, And onto the waters of the bay. Smouse's fine-tuning picks up a melodic vibration from the depths. He plays it for Menta, Who recognizes it instantly. Dolphins The space orb's sound and color waves have attracted a pod of dolphins. Smouse is excited by their appearance and asks Mentor if it's possible to join them in their evening swim. They have a lot to share. Mentor too is excited by the thought. She insists mouths tune into their wavelength and ask permission. It takes several tries, But finally Smouse is able to communicate with the dolphins. The reply comes in the affirmative. Within a trice, Smouse and Mentor have transported themselves into the center of the pod. Time stands still as they swim and dive and play. The spectacle of the dolphins in their aerial leaps catches the attention of the people and their dogs on the beach. Amazed by their sudden appearance, They start to gather on the rocks to watch. Menton notices their attention and is concerned for the safety of the space orb. She and Smouse regretfully bid the dolphin farewell. They swiftly transport themselves back to the space orb. The dolphins disappear instantly. This sudden departure mystifies the beach audience. Back in the space orb. Smells and Mentor quickly shut everything down until the crowd disperses. After all the exercise, Smouse is just nodding off when optic fibres in his scarf suddenly start to vibrate. He signals to Mentor that a message is coming through. It is X. He urges them to come quickly. Smouth and Mentor immediately transport themselves back to the Black House. They discover X in a state. Their father came home in a particularly foul mood. More of his computers have gone down, Both here and in his overseas offices. Perry tried to convince him that he should take her back with him to the office, But as soon as they had finished dinner, He stormed off in a rage. Their mother is still out, Having dinner with her mother. Perry has decided to go on her own and has taken his spare work keys. Smiles and Mentor consult briefly. They decide to follow Perry, But before they can leave, Vera Black arrives home. Her entrance is like a whirlwind. She embraces X and plants a large kiss on his cheek. He squirms in embarrassment. She starts to ask where Perry and her husband are, When she spots Mentor and Smouse, Who have maintained their appearances. She forgets about a previous question. Instead, She bends down and hugs Minta and bombards her with questions. Where have you been my magic pink dog and that exquisite mouse? I thought you'd gone! She turns to her son, Her face lit up with delight. Where did you find them? Did Perry let you in on our secrets? Giving X no time to answer she continues. Wait until you see my new paintings. She stops, Stands and studies Mentor from all sides. I'll just have to paint this darling dog too. Before X can say anything, She takes off with a flourish to her studio to capture the moment. X gives a sheepish grin. Mum, He explains, Is always like that when she's on a roll. She'll be in her studio for the rest of the night. Smiles and Mentor assure him that they understand. They refocus on the current problem. X wants to go with them, But they tell him no, As they can travel much more quickly by themselves. Before he can protest, They disappear. He curses angrily at being left behind. He's also worried about Perry. He's not sure if his dad has gone to the office, But if he catches her there, All hell will break loose. Leaving a hasty note for their mum, He grabs his bike and heads for the city. Meanwhile, Perry has caught the bus and train to Melbourne. The Black Corporation is centred in a large modern building close to the Yarra River. She struggles against the flowing home crowd and finally reaches her father's offices. Because of its overseas connections, The office operates 24 hours with a skeleton staff in the evening. The receptionist's desk is vacant. But she is surprised by the number of people still around. Things must be serious. She quickly takes a lift to the upper floors where most of the computers operate. She is staggered by the sight that greets her. The vast room that covers a whole floor is as busy as in the day. All operators are on duty. She spots her father's assistant, Daniel, Anxiously moving from computer to computer. No one takes any notice of Perry as she casually moves into the room. The first three computers look OK. They're operating properly. The next two are down. With a jolt, Perry recognizes a familiar scene on the machines. The light source is being sucked into a red-rimmed black hole. A red zigzag line streaks across the screen. The power starts to fade. The operator zooms into the black hole closer and closer. Terry watches, Spellbound. The system crashes. The computer operator smashes his fist on the desk and swears furiously. He shouts out to Daniel that another computer has gone. Daniel rushes over in despair. He sees Perry but is too distraught to register who she is. He is more concerned about her father's return to find another 10 systems crashed and continuous phone calls from the international offices with the same news. Perry feels her father before she sees him. The whole floor stops, Suspended in fear. Martin Black is white with rage. He demands to know who is doing this to him. No one answers. No one knows. He suddenly spots Perry. His anger renders him speechless. There is a sharp, Loud explosion as the computer screen disintegrates. Everyone turns towards it. The lights in the building slowly fade. The tension is electric. A sudden silver and pink flash illuminates the office. Perry catches a momentary glimpse of Smouth and Mentor. She feels warmth start to flow around her as the lights gradually gather strength. And the tension diffuses. Perry experiences a strange electrical prickling in her head. It seems to be telling her something. But it's like an unformed jigsaw. The office suddenly mobilizes and a father moves towards her, But he is interrupted by a new arrival. X. The appearance of both of his children in his office, A rare occurrence, Is enough to check his intense anger. He returns his attention to the computer. The ideas in Perry's head crystallize. She checks the computers around her to see which ones are working. She suggests to her father that perhaps the operators of the working computers should have a go at restoring the faulty ones. Martin Black starts to shrug her off, But at this stage he realizes he must try anything. He calls the office to attention and makes a quick assessment of those functioning well. Their operators are transferred to the malfunctioning ones. Cynically, The displaced staff gathers around as their replacements take over. They watch in bewilderment as the machines gradually regain their power, And faded icons appear on the screen. They flicker on and off. Stronger. Weaker, And then stronger before stabilizing. Perry suddenly looks up as a thought sparks in her head. Dad? " She hesitates but leaps in. Can you take the Diablo badges off too? Martin Black is about to verbally rip into her for suggesting such nonsense, But something stops him. He thoughtfully studies his children. A flash of pink and silver in front of the nearest computer catches his eye. He turns sharply as X moves towards the computer. The computer operator suddenly gives a sudden whoop of glee as the computer surges into full operation. Perry is the first to notice that the badge is gone. She looks around for X, But he is moving quickly between all the semi-operating machines. As before, There was a brief flash of pink and silver, And then the miraculous recovery of the machines. Each one now minus its Diablo badge. Perry joins X as he moves from machine to machine checking. One by one the disabled machines are restored, Creating a feeling of excitement from the performing operators. Martin Black stands mesmerised in the middle of the room. All of the computers appear to be working. His assistant, Daniel, Breathes a sigh of relief. As they approach the final computer. Perry observes one of the displaced operators moving towards a vacant operating machine. She moves to stop him, But X restrains her. We have to watch, He tells her. Their father spots them as they ease themselves towards the machine to watch. He follows them. The computer operator keys in his operating codes. Several pages of information scroll down satisfactorily. He aggressively types in further data. A thin red zigzag line and a black hole appear on the screen. As before the light seems to be drawn into the black hole. The operator angrily zooms in. The Machine. Crushes. Crushing his ego. Martin Black indicates to the operator to leave. Mortified, He stumbles out of the chair, Drawing the attention of his co-workers. They wait expectantly to see what happens next. Martin Black turns to Perionette. He studies them intently. His staff's eyes on him. You two seem to know something about this. So what's the problem? His eyes narrow. Have you done something? They both furiously shake their heads and shrug their shoulders. In the ensuing silence, Perry studies the computer. It still displays the Diablo logo. She looks back up at her father and back to the computer. She turns and lets her attention rest on the nearest operating computer. Her father follows her gaze. Its badge is missing. He shakes his head in disbelief. You're not seriously trying to tell me the logo has something to do with this. That's absolutely ridiculous. He strides off to make sure his staff get back to work. The displaced operators are unsure as to whether or not they should return to their computers. Their colleagues' experience has made them apprehensive. They wait nervously while their boss and his assistant confer. Out of the corner of his eye, X catches a pink glow. He remembers Smouse's thought instructions. He concentrates. Smouse tells him to advise his father to leave only those successful operators on duty, And to replace the next shift only with those who have had no trouble. This will at least keep things happening while they analyze the problem. X is very doubtful that his father will listen to him. Explains Smouse's proposal to Peri. They join their father who, Now with Daniel, Is checking on the progress of each computer. Perry put forward their suggestion. Daniel is surprised by his boss's immediate acceptance of their proposal. It's not in character. His promise when they get home to have a few harsh words with them about disobeying his directives is more in keeping with the Martin Black he knows. Perry and X wait in their father's company car while he puts into operation the new arrangement. They watch and listen as the disgruntled, Displaced operators leave early for the night. A warm hum and glow fills the car, As Smout and Mentor appear. But before they can say anything, Martin Black appears. He scowls at X's bike strapped to his roof rack and focuses suspiciously on the glow in his car. Smouth disappears. As he opens his driver's side door, He is about to berate his children for coming to the office contrary to his orders, When the sudden appearance of a strange pink dog in his car. Switches his attention from his children. Mentor smiles gently at the torrent of words. X explains that their mother knows and already loves the new dog. His father slumps in defeat into his seat. And drives them home. Chapter 11 Vera Black. After seeing Mentor and Smouse, Vera Black heads straight for her studio. She is a talented artist with a strong following. Her work in acrylics is harsh and aggressive. Since drawing Smouse, Her whole mindset has changed. Yesterday, With Mentor at her feet, She discovered a brand new world. Her usual harsh edged realistic work and social comment was transformed. Her blacks, Greys and whites became a semi-abstract background for the most subtle, Sensitive, Colourful images, Interwoven with delicate calligraphy. Even now when she looks at the large canvas. She can't believe it's hers. Tonight, She once again has this strange feeling as she prepares her papers. Her line drawings of Minta are full of life. She has no difficulty in capturing her image. But she is having trouble in transferring her new ideas to Canvas. She also has this strange urge to use watercolours. Several times she sets up her easel and begins to paint. The acrylics just won't take. Frustrated, She whitewashes another canvas and searches for her watercolour paper and paint. Time flies as the paints flow. She is so absorbed in her work that she doesn't hear her family return. Contrary to the rule, They enter her studio. Wow! Perry and X are transfixed, Stunned by the very large new canvas. Even Martin Black is speechless. It is beautiful. Nothing like a normal black painting. Against a semi-abstract backdrop in greys, Black and white, Depicting the recent bushfires, Are two very young children, So vividly portrayed that they almost leap off the canvas. Rays of sunlight catch their wondrous expressions as they discover the first shoots. Of new life. The contrast between the background and the highlighted children. Is dynamic. Calligraphic words are woven into the background. But they barely register with her children. It's us. Perry and X are overwhelmed. It's so beautiful and powerful. Martin Black is fascinated. My dear girl, What has happened? He moves behind her and places his hand affectionately on her shoulder. Vera Black looks up from what she's doing and laughs. She can't believe it either. Her critics won't believe it. It is warm. And vibrant, Spiritual and alive. At that moment she feels meant to rub her nose against her leg. She feels a strange warmth envelop her. She reaches down to Pat Mender. It's this gorgeous dog, Marty. She gets inside my head. I have all these strange thoughts and feelings. I had to paint her tonight. No acrylic. I had to use watercolours. Her husband inspects her work. Again he is totally unprepared for what he sees. Perry and X crowding behind him. They are captivated. An unimaginable landscape flows in washes of incredible colours. It fades into nothing at one corner. And there in fine detail against a stark white background. As if they are standing in the wings of a stage. Are mental and smashed. What a beautiful place. Where is it, Mom? X voices the question that is in all their heads. I've no idea. It's there in my head. And it's like it paints all by itself. Vera Black suddenly becomes self-conscious about the ridiculousness of her comments. She pushes her painting and equipment to one side, Jumps up and changes the subject. Sorry, Time got away from me. Have you guys eaten? They are sure that they ate before they went out. Good. Let's have some supper then. Come on. You too, Manda. She hastily ushers her family out of the studio before the words take hold. Ah, Yes, Out. Where have you all been? She feels the gloom settle. It follows them as they leave the studio. She senses an uneasy truth between the children and their father. Scat, Who has been sleeping in her favourite chair. Follows them. Chapter 12, Explaining the problem. When their father head straight into his study. Perry and X decide it's wiser to help their mother prepare supper. Manta settles herself under the kitchen table. While Scat claims a chair. There is no sign of Smouse. The siblings work in silence, Toasting and buttering raisin bread while their mother makes hot chocolate. Well, Who's going to start? Vera Black raises her eyebrows. She glances at Mentor who dips her head knowingly. X outlines what's happened, While Perry fills in the gaps. They have just finished when their father reappears. He is totally dejected. The Melbourne office report is excellent. But news from overseas is black. Repeats of the Melbourne debacle worldwide and no one seems to be able to sort it. The sight of Mentor and Scat, Obviously on friendly terms, Further unsettles him. They share their supper in silence. As they are finishing a warm hum and glow fills the room. Perry and X turn their heads to discover Smouse, Seated at the end of the table. Their parents follow their direction. The sight of Smaus makes Vera Black's face light up. Her husband's reaction is not as receptive. He sharply pushes back his chair and leaps up. He stops abruptly as a sharp warm tingle flows through his head. The cordial words of greeting render him speechless. It's as if the mouse creature is speaking to him. He stares in shock at his wife, Seeking confirmation. She motions to him to sit down. He sits down. It's time for explanations. And solving the problem. But fixing it won't be easy. Perry and X take turns in relating the events of the past couple of days. The mother nods as things fall into place. But for their father it's all too much. A black-spotted pink dog. Mouse that talk. Diablo logos that mix with the personality of his computer operators cause the computers to crash. He's never heard such a load of rubbish. What's more confusing that his children and wife seem to believe it? He wonders if he's having a breakdown. His disbelief is so great that not even Smouse or Mentor can reach him. He slams back his chair and storms from the house, Heading for the office. They hear the roar of an engine as his car takes off, And then a sudden screech of tyres. And the heart-stopping sound of tearing metal. As one they race from the house. Martin Black's car is on its side against a lamppost on the other side of Beach Road. A red sedan, Its driver white-faced and distraught. Is on the nature strip. Martin Black, Blood pouring from a deep gash on his forehead. Is slumped against the driving wheel. Is not moving. The car looks a right off. Fearfully, The children and their mother approached the car. Vera Black repeatedly calls her husband's name. She tries to open the door, But it's jammed. Car doors slam and voices surround them as the neighbours appear, And other drivers stop to offer assistance. The driver of the red sedan stumbles over, Repeating that she hadn't seen him, That he'd just shot out of the driveway. She stands helpless on the footpath. Unseen by the crowd. Smouth appears on the steering column beside Martin Black. He feels for his pulse. Nothing. He and mentor who is standing next to the car with the family. Connect with each other. Mouse stretches and places both hands on Martin Black's heart. He and Mentor focus. A stream of pure white light fills the car. Perry, X, And their mother, And Sam Shiro, Who has joined them. Fearfully hold their breath. The crowd steps back, Afraid that the car might ignite. The four watch in wonder as the light fades and the wound closes up. They feel a powerful loving energy flow between Smouse and Mentor through them and into the car. It's as if time stands still. Martin Black opens his eye. And sees his wife. And children. His head is fuzzy as he struggles to recall what happened. He thinks he remembers seeing the smiles. Was it a dream? He opens his door. Clambers out and staggers out into the arms of his wife and children, Who are overcome with relief. Its mouth has disappeared. The police and tow trucks arrived. As no one appears injured, The crowd gradually disperses. The police check quickly to make sure that neither driver is injured before they sort out the liability details. They are relieved that Martin Black accepts blame for the accident. Fortunately, The red sedan has suffered only minor damage to the front mudguard. Martin Black's car is a wreck. The family, Sam and Minta watch as it's towed away. The driver of the red sedan stands tensely beside her car. She is still rather shaken. Mouse suddenly appears beside Sam. And suggest that he offer help to the lady motorist. Sam nods and approaches the distressed lady and asks if she'd like a cup of tea at his house. She gladly accepted. The calming influences of the Shiro household soothe her. And she is able to gain her composure. And drive with confidence. The Blacks slowly walk back to their house, Where Smouse and Mentor are waiting for them. Smells on the kitchen table and mentor on a chair. In his shocked state, Martin Black finds the reality of Smouse and Mentor even more confusing and hard to rationalize. Still rather stunned, He tries to remember what happened. But he can only recall getting into his car. Then total blackness. And then seeing this incredible light and feeling this wonderful warmth as his family's voices called him to come back. Vera fills him in on what happened. On what seems to be a miracle. He inspects Mouse more intently. Sir Mouse looks back at him. And ducks his head. He laughs. And his words fill everyone's heads. It's not a miracle. Just the power of pure love. It sits in the space of the universe. Mentor an eye with a conduit. We gathered it. And condensed. You, Martin, Actually used that love to heal yourself. You use the love for your family. Anyone can learn how to channel the love. The family looks dubiously from one to the other. Accepting that Smouth is a reality is one thing. But this love concept will take a bit more convincing. Smiles, Just smiles. Regardless of what really happened, Martin Black thinks Mouse profusely and asks what they need to do. Just love, He says. Everyone and everything. Pure love is unconditional. Freely given. The blacks exchange further looks. It's a concept they are not used to. Mentor assures them that with practice, It will come easily. She pauses and consults with Smouse. They agree that the time is right for further revelations. Sir Mouse produces a small dark book with gold writing from within the folds of his scalp. The guy. He addresses them all. I know it's late. But it's important to do this now. It's time to apply its principles to the problem of Madrogue and the computers. None of the blacks seem to be aware that they are actually communicating with Smouths and Mentor. Telepathically. Chapter 13 The guy. Despite their scepticism, The Black family is intrigued by the strange events and feels they owe a debt to Smouse. So they settle themselves into the lounge chairs. Martin Black is willing to try anything to solve his computer problem. They are surprised when Mentor tells them that they'd like the Shiro family to be present. And even further amazed when they suddenly arrive at their front door. Including Bubbles who is fast asleep in her father's arms. In contrast, The Shiro family despite the late hour. Seems to accept everything as normal. When everyone is settled. Smouse and Mentor sit on the floor in the center of the room. A soft pink glow spreads from them and enfolds the gathering. A familiar hum rings gently in their heads. As one. They turn their attention to Smouse and Mentor. It's Smouse who speaks. The small dark book sits in his lap. He tells them they have to go back thousands of years, To a time when their planets were in a state of environmental discord. Worse than that of the earth. A time when the negative and aggressive forces of intolerance, Selfishness and violence were becoming dominant. And many of their people had lost their direction. A small, Dark book. Titled The Guide. A copy of which he now holds. Was discovered by archaeologists on an ancient dig. On the planet Imperium. It was full of blank pages. It was sent to laboratories for testing and dated long before any other known discoveries. Its paper was made with unknown fabric and of exquisite quality. Anyone who looked at it spoke of images in their mind. Of tranquility and hope. It seemed to close. No one could offer an explanation of what it meant. Then, A month after it was discovered. The first word appeared. In an ancient calligraphy. Practice. Practice what? At irregular intervals, New words appear. Many claimed it to be a hoax. But it was kept under tight security and open for 24-hour public scrutiny. Gradually the page is filled until only a few empty ones were left. Then it stops. Small groups of people started to practice the principles of the Guide. The movement grew. Members of the group started to extend the principles to the whole of the environment with wonderful results. Mouse pauses for a moment to see if everyone is listening. They are spellbound, So he continues the story. However. . . Not all of the population wanted to change their ways. And eventually, Led by Madrog, They left Imperium for the neighboring planet of Tartarus. Imperium follows the principles of the Guide. And uses the positive forces of life and love to live in harmony. Tartarus gathers the negative forces to live in a state of discord and chaos. Imperium has been chosen as the watchdog for the universe, To ensure that Madrog and his forces, With their insatiable hunger, Don't take over and destroy other solar systems and their planet. They transmit messages of peace and harmony to all the planets in the universe. Each planet has freedom of choice in its direction. Madrogue wants to remove that choice. He wants to destroy the harmony. The balance. If he harnesses enough negative power. He can block the communication channels of Imperium. Once the moderating effect of Imperium is gone, He has control. That's what's happening now. For some reason he is concentrating on planet Earth. And in particular, Black enterprises. Smouse explains that he and Manta have been sent to ensure that the balance is not destroyed. That the Black Empire is not the beginning of the end. That the negative forces harvested by Madrog are not unleashed onto the natural environment. Which includes the people. Therefore, It is imperative for Martin to solve his problem. For five minutes, The two families sit in silence. Each locked in their own thoughts. Each comparing their roles. Some not liking what they see. But not yet able to change. Vera Black breaks the silence. Why us? Why our company? Black Enterprises is not corrupt. There must be hundreds, If not thousands of companies who are completely unscrupulous. Meritons, Ta. But not unethical. You're perfectly right. Black enterprises shouldn't be a contender. The choice is extensive. Mentor is swift to agree before offering a possible explanation. We think it's one of those chance occurrences. A sudden combination that caught Madrogue's attention. The appearance of the Diablo logo provided the third leg of a triangle, Joining the colour, And your name, Black, With pockets of strong negativity. Together, They created a gap in the cosmic web which allowed him access. Breaking the connection won't be easy. We have a few ideas. But we'd like you to visit Taku's workplace before we say anything further. We need to move quickly, So perhaps in the morning before school, Which will allow Perry and X to join us, To help identify significant differences between the two workplaces. Taku quickly agrees to the arrangement. His store opens at 8. Martin Black is a little more hesitant. It still sounds like utter hogwash to him. But a desperate situation requires an unconventional solution. After the two fathers work out a suitable time. The Shiro family leaves. Vera Black, With sincere gratitude for their support, Sees them out. She returns to find her family sitting in silence, Staring into space. She joins them. Perry breaks the silence. She hesitantly asks. Could I look at the guide, Please, Smouse? Of course! He holds it out for her to take. It is tiny in her hands and as light as a feather. A warm heat flows into her palms. The front cover is a deep indigo colour, Like the depths of the night sky. The words, The guide, Are embossed in gold in an ancient script. They seem to pulsate within the darkness. Minute sparkles of light appear and disappear. Perry looks up at Smouse, Who nods. The others crowd round and watch with bated breath as she delicately opens the book. The words on the title page set against a plain white background, Shimmer with colour. Perry turns the page to reveal the single word as described by Smouse. Practice. She holds up the book so they all can see. Realizing she has been holding her breath. She lets it go and breathes in deeply before she chooses a random page. The page is filled. The ancient script is unfamiliar and she has difficulty in deciphering it. It suddenly fades and comes back into focus. Her eyes open in amazement at the words, And she gives an involuntary gasp. What does it say, Sis? X's voice is barely hoarse by. Again Perry checks with Smouth. Again he nods. She reads out loud. On leadership. Show love and compassion. Be honest. Set a good example. Begin with praise and genuine appreciation. Admit your own mistakes first. Before calling attention to those of others. Avoid giving direct orders. Give others a fine reputation. Make fault easy to correct. Make others happy about their role. Have fun. Within the pages, Faint images of people ebb and flow. She recognizes the location. It's her father's city store. She shows it to her father, But to him it's just gobbledygook. He just shakes his head and matters to himself. Both her mother and ex see what she sees. The pages turn in her hands to the last few. As Smith said. They are empty. She almost closes the book but stops at the very last page. She passes the book to her mother. Vera Black instantly recognizes the scene and the words. Two spotlit children gaze in wonder at the magic of new growth. The words, Hope is the eternal seed. Without it we are lost. Is written underneath. Chapter Fourteen The solution. The following morning as a rain. All four members of the Black family make taco at his shop. As requested by Smouse, Martin Black has brought along one of his troublesome new laptop computers. Smouse is perched on Perry's shoulder and Mentor is closely shadowing Vera Black. They easily find the shop on the main road which forms part of the Hampton shops and is close to Ex and Perry schools. Being on the street rather than in a shopping complex. Means the store has a street access. And large windows which provide an excellent insight into the interior. Taku greets them at the entrance and welcomes them inside. Compared with the black retail stores. It is very small, But light and open. An informal lounge where free coffee and tea are available for customers separates the checkout counters from the main sales area. Here the computers are attractively displayed on high tables. Several customers are already browsing and a handful of sales assistants are available for consultation. Ever alert, They busy themselves discreetly in the background. Smiling and speaking cheerfully to each other and their customers. Taku's cheery greetings for each member of staff is warmly reciprocated. He acknowledges every member of staff by name. If they are surprised at the strange entourage accompanying their boss. They don't show it. The group wanders around while Taco and one of his staff set up the new Diablo laptop computer. The computers on display vary in colour and size. Vera Black is immediately struck by the wonderful array of colours. More like mobile phones than computers. She stops to inspect them. Two of Taku's staff, Intrigued by the lady with the pink, Black-spotted dog, Drift over to talk to her. They are soon joined by Perry and X. At another table, Their father watches anxiously as his laptop is booted up. Teku calls him over. When it's clear that everything is working perfectly, He relaxes and he and Taku rejoin his family. After they've inspected the shop front, Taku takes them through to the office and repair centre at the rear. Just like the shop, It is open and bright. Large indoor plants create a divider between the management desks and the repair workstations. Several computer technicians are already working on repairs to older computers. One of them is whistling while she works. She looks up from her machine and gives a wave of welcome. To one side, A door leads into a large shelved storage room. On the opposite side is a small kitchen centre which opens into an attractive glassed courtyard. Taku invites him to take a seat at one of the table settings in the courtyard whilst he makes some drinks. X offers to help. Deku hums a gentle tune as he prepares the coffee. As with the sales area, Martin and Vera Black and Perry can sense a different atmosphere. A feeling of harmony. They can't pinpoint the cause. It's very peaceful sitting in the courtyard. Smouse and Mentor watch the family loosen up as they sip their coffees and enjoy the biscuits provided by Taku. Conversation is easy. For a brief moment Vera Black excuses herself and returns to the sales room. When she wanders back. She is very thoughtful, But says nothing. Finally, Perry and X have to leave for school. They thank Taku for his hospitality and the chance to see his place in action. They promise Smouse to think about what they have seen and bring some ideas to the dinner table that evening. As they leave, Both teenagers turn back before re-entering the sales department. To discover that both Smouse and Mentor have disappeared. Leaving their parents and Taku in deep discussion. Once they determined that the morning meeting was a success, Smouse and Mentor have quickly transported themselves back to the Shiro house. They want to catch Sam and Tamari before they leave for school and university. They are essential to the short-term success of their plan. Sam is patiently waiting in the driveway for his mother to drive him to school. He greets Smouse and Mentor with a cheery hello. He advises them that Tamari has already left. But will be home after lunch. Smout and Mentor are curious about Sam's music. Smouse asks him where it comes from. How he creates it. Sam tells them that he sits in the garden or down at the beach near the deep rock pool and connects with the earth, The sky and the sea. He listens to the sounds of the water and the breeze. And the music just seems to flow into him. Sometimes he sits in the rain. Sometimes he goes out at night. He then plays what is in his heart on his clarinet until it feels right before recording it, And then he combines it with the sounds of the wind and water. Even as Sam speaks, A web of calmness wraps itself around them. Not even the excited shriek of Smaus, As Crystal Shiro arrives with Bubbles and Raz, Breaks its effect. Bubbles pushes away from her mother and scampers up to Smouth. Raz saddles up to Menta and gives her a gentle nudge. And it's magic, Says Crystal, Giving her son a huge smile, Before rescuing Smouse from Bubble's embrace and ushering her into the car. Sorry, But we've got to go. She apologises. We're running a bit late. Sensing Smouth wants to talk, She adds. You're welcome to join us. There's plenty of room. She straps Bubbles into her safety seat in the back, And Raz and Mentor squeeze in on the floor. Smouse perches on the front passenger seat next to Sam. During the drive to school, He explains what they're considering and how it requires Sam's magic. He asks Sam if he'd like to be involved and asks Crystal for her permission. It will mean he'd miss school next morning. Both willingly agree. The day passes very slowly for Perry. She is impatient to see how her parents fared and what ideas Smouse and Mentor will provide to solve her father's problem. Several times when she's reflecting on Takushiro's computer store, She is reprimanded for not paying attention in class. Instead of flaring up to the surprise of her teachers and classmates. She apologizes and tries to focus. She wonders what Smiles and Mentor are doing. Mouse and Manda are back in Perry's bedroom, Where they have set up their communication equipment. They are in deep discussion with Ag and Angelica as Smouse presents their ideas. They agree that they need a short and a long-term plan to break Madrogue's power source and prevent any recurrence. Short-term, It's not financially viable to consider immediately removing all the Diablo logos in this first launch. This can be corrected for future production. Nor is it reasonable to think that all employees throughout the Black Empire who have dominantly negative thoughts can be instantly removed. They will have to modify their behaviour over a longer period of time with professional development and workplace changes, Or gradually be replaced. Leadership will have to come from the top, Progressively, By example. What they can do immediately is to infuse the black enterprise with some of the subtle influences that help Takushiro's business thrive. This requires the help of Sam and Tamari. Smouse explains what he wants them to do. Ag and Angelica fully support his plan. For the long-term solution, He and Mentor hope that the Black family will have grasped the essence of the total management and design strategies that they observed during their morning visit to the store. The meeting ends on a positive note. Ag and Angelica wish Minta and Smouse all the best. Assuring them that they have every confidence in their ability to see it through. After they terminate the connection. Smouse and Mentor go their separate ways. Meant her to spend the afternoon with Vera Black in her art studio. And smiles to consult with Tamari before playing with bubbles. Perry is first out of the classroom when her last lesson finishes. She races to the bike enclosure and waits impatiently for five minutes before she remembers that X has football training, Which means there'll be no chance to share ideas before their dad gets home. Many thoughts are still chasing around her head as she rides home. The house is so quiet that she thinks no one is home, So she's delighted to find Smouse waiting for her in the kitchen, The peanut butter jar and her father's whiskey already on the table. She laughs out loud and finds him a glass, A spoon, And a plate before she makes herself some afternoon tea. Smouse asks her about her day, And she admits she's been mulling over everything. And despite her eagerness to share her thoughts, She refrains. And instead asks Smouse to tell her all about his home on Imperium. Warmed by the whiskey and the sweet taste of peanut butter. This mouse graphically describes in full his life at home. His words are so descriptive that Perry almost feels as if she's there. As Smouse pauses. She has a sudden visual memory. Her eyes open wide as she pictures her mother's beautiful watercolour painting, With Smouse and Mentor standing in the wing. Mouse catches her thoughts. He smiles and nods. He finishes his small glass of whiskey and jumps up. Let's go and see what she's painting today. He's off in a flash. Perry needs no persuasion. She carefully replaces the bottle of whiskey and hurries after him. The studio door is shut. Perry taps tentatively on the door, But there is no reply. She quietly turns the handle and they peek in. Her mother is half hidden behind a large canvas set up on an easel. Mentor is lying at her feet. And Scat is curled up in her favourite chair. Her mother is so engrossed in painting that she doesn't notice Perry and Smouse as they tiptoe into her studio. But Menta looks up and smiles. At the sight of Smouse, Sket momentarily arches her back. Before sinking sleepily back into the chair. Perrian's mouth sit quietly on the floor and watch. Perry can only see the back of the canvas and has no idea what her mother is painting. But she is fascinated by her concentration. And the flow of emotions that flicker across her face. At one point her mother acknowledges her presence with a wry lifting of an eyebrow. This is a first for both of them. Because her mother doesn't like being watched. Perry has never seen her paint. As the light begins to fade. Vera Black steps back from her canvas and critically studies her work. Surprised but satisfied with the result. She wipes her hands and greets her daughter. Would you like to look? Yes, Please. Perry quickly scrambles to her feet. This is another first. Her mother turns the canvas towards her, As spouse and mentor join her. From the comfort of her chair, Scat Half opens an eye. And then closes it again. The painting is so stunning it takes Perry's breath away. Five children stand beyond a beautiful panoramic collage of leafy forests, Verdant valleys and rich grasslands. Rivers, Streams and waterfalls flow between. Hidden within the landscape are intricately detailed images of wild flora and fauna. The longer Perry studies the painting, The more plants, Flowers, Animals, Birds and insects she discovers. The children are desperately trying to hold back the relentless march of an army of black men. Grey and white, Semi-abstract buildings. Perry can feel it menace. In a simple script woven through the pathways of the landscape, She reads the words. I am you. You are me. We are one within the fabric of life. Love me. Love you. Nurture me, Nurture you. Destroy me, Destroy you. Save me, Save you. Abandon me? Abandon you. Overcome with emotion, Perry rushes over to her mother and embraces her. Oh, Mom. Smells scissored for her. It's brilliant. For a moment mother and daughter are locked together. Speechless. And then quickly, Suddenly self-conscious and embarrassed by the display of affection. They break apart. Vera Black gives an awkward laugh and gently ushers Perry from the studio. Dinner, I think. Your father and ex will be home soon. Spouse and mentor discreetly follow. Left in the room, Sket stretches languorously. Before leaping from her chair to stand before the canvas. She studies it for a moment. Purrs loudly. And then slip silently after them. Chapter 15 REVELATION After dinner, The family gathers in the lounge to hear Smouse's proposal to resolve the problem. Martin Black is visibly very uncomfortable and disconcerted with the presence of Smouse and Mentor. Even though he has accepted their existence. Is skeptical about their ability to find a solution. But as there appears to be no other answer, He is willing to go along. The Melbourne Office and City Store are managing with the selected staff. But the regulars are due back in the morning. Reports from across the globe are still disastrous. He slumps back in his chair. Smouse perches on the arm of Perry's chair. Mentor settles at Vera Black's feet. Perry, To her mother's embarrassment, Is excitedly describing the new painting. Mouse waits for her to finish and for them all to settle. He starts by asking them about their observations from the morning visit to their neighbour's store. To his surprise, Martin Black sits up. And is the first to respond. He admits that he went back to the store on the way home to see how his computer was behaving. Perfectly. Not like the ones in his office. And his wife prompts him. What did you think? He gives her a surprised look. Well, She persists. It looked out of place, He finally admits. Sort of aggressive and. . . His voice tapers off. I thought the same thing, She says. That's one of the things I went to check on when we were there. Do you think it's just because it's black, Mum? X is curious. No. It's not the colour. It's more than that. The whole store has a balance and a harmony in its furnishings and colour. And Dad's computer doesn't fit in. X nods knowingly. Feng Shui. Even Smouse raises his eyebrows. Feng Shui mimics Perry. X shakes his head in mock despair, Before explaining that he'd been talking to Taku about the shop's design while they were making the drinks. It's to do with balance. Collar. Flow and energy. It's the way the furniture is placed and where you sit. The inclusion of plants and natural light. The different sections are separate. But part of the whole design concept. I looked it up. He addresses his father. You could do that, Dad. It helps create a more harmonious workplace. It's sort of peaceful. He stops abruptly. Suddenly aware of his own enthusiasm. His mother leans across and pats him on the arm. That's exactly it, X. I really noticed the natural light. The colours and the plants. That semi-outdoor area was lovely. Very calming. She turns to her husband. What do you think, Marty? I did feel that, He agrees. But surely that's not going to help my computers work. Not by itself, Mr. Black. Mentor lets the answer to his question flow into his mind. But as a consideration for the future. Martin Black nods thoughtfully to himself. So what else needs to happen and how are we going to fix my immediate problem? Perry takes a deep breath before she speaks. Well, Dad. I've noticed that most of your staff especially the computer technicians, The managers, The finance group and sales team. Are guys. The only females are your secretary and the checkout girls. Taku has a mix of both on the sales floor, In management, In the workshop and at the checkouts. They work as a team too. Not in competition with each other. Taku seems to take a real interest in them. And he got us our drinks. He didn't make one of the girls get them. Like X, She stops suddenly. Worried that she'd gone too far. I don't see what difference that makes. Her father's tone is sharp. Perry's right, Dad. It's part of the balance. X cuts in quickly to support his sister. Your guys are more aggressive, Especially as you have a payment-by-result bonus system. Possibly, But really. His father shakes his head. Anyway, It's too late to change my staff before the launch. There was something else. Vera Black changes the direction of the discussion. When I went back into Taku's shop, I felt something. In the air. Smouse smiles as she tunes into her memory. Like music. X suddenly sits up straight as he recalls. That's right, Mom. And I noticed that Taco and the computer girl were whistling. Both strain their memories to recapture the feeling. Neither Perry nor her father has any idea what they're talking about. Sam. The name echoes in their heads. Smell smiles and Mentor sits up as each member of the family puzzles over the significance of Sam. What's Sam got to do with it? Perry asked the question for them all. They fix their attention on Smouse, And when he just smiles and lifts his paws palms up, On Manta. She smiles too. And a gentle. Barely audible sound of the earth and music flows through the room. Sam? X suddenly makes the connection. That's it! That's what it was like. But more than that. It was like the wind and water and Sam's clarinet. He peters out and turns to his mother who is nodding in agreement. His father and Perry stare at him in bewilderment. Neither of them had heard any music. Martin Black's patience is wearing thin. This is getting them nowhere. He starts to speak, But is stopped by Smouse's strong, Clear words. Mr. Black. Your son is correct. Strange as it may seem, We think the subtle flow of Sam's music combined with his sounds of nature. Play a huge part in creating an ambience in his father's store that produces a harmonious environment. That provides a friendly and positive experience for both his staff. And customers. He pauses momentarily. But, As Martin Black opens his mouth to respond, He quickly continues. With your permission. We'd like to try and experiment tomorrow using sand. If it works, We can set it up in your stores as a temporary measure, And Tamari will create some hidden software to be installed in all of your current new computers until you have time to implement change. Both he and Mentor fix their gaze on Martin Black. As he tries to get his head around the idea. His mind spins. Colors float behind his eyes. The sound of wind reverberates in his ears. The room seems to fall away. For a moment, Everything is a blur. Then his vision returns and he sees himself and all his computers in sharp black against a bright light. The computers start to slide away into redness. He watches as one by one they disappear. Desperately he grabs hold of the last one and finds himself staring into the eyes of a Red. Taken by surprise, He almost lets go. The devil seems to grow bigger as the seconds pass. A fierce struggle ensues as it tries to take the last computer. And Martin Black has almost given up when he feels strong. Slim arms grasp him around his waist. And a familiar voice whispers in his ear. Don't worry, Mr. Black. I'm here. We're right now. And white together. The power of my music. And all of the colours within us. Can overcome anything. It's his young neighbor, Sam Shira. As they pull together, The devil becomes smaller. And s'more. Until it finally disappears. One by one, All the computers reappear. Now in black and white. Sam dissolves into the white. The sound of wind reverberates in Martin Black's ears as the computers transform into full colour. The colors float behind his eyes and blind him. Martin. Martin! Marty? His wife's voice brings him back to the moment. Are you okay? He blinks and refocuses. Everyone's eyes are on him. Suddenly his mind is clear. He smiles broadly at her and assures her he is fine. Then he turns to smell. Tomorrow, He says. With Sam. What time? Chapter 16 THE TEST next morning after much persuasion. Perry and X convince their father to let them go to the office with him and Sam. Sam arrives right on time, His laptop and sound gear safely stowed in a backpack. He tells them that Tamari has been working half the night, Preparing the software, And hopes to have it ready later in the morning. It's decided that just Smouse will go with them. He can communicate with Mentor if necessary. She wants to return to the Space Orb to update Ag and Angelica. When they arrive at the office, All the regular Melbourne workers are back in place. Those who had been ousted for the previous days are still disgruntled about their displacement. They regard the odd collection of children and animals with annoyance and disparaging remarks. They are surprised when their boss, Instead of berating them as he usually would, Appeals to them to indulge him and requests that they get ready to test the computers. They are to wait until he gives the go-ahead before they boot them up. They drift off to join the rest of the team who are already standing by. Ignoring them, Smiles, Perry and X watch as Sam sets up his equipment. He manipulates the complex digital audio workstation program on his laptop. Balancing is music and sounds of nature. He places a small cylindrical Bluetooth speaker in a discrete central position. When he's happy with the results. He gives a nod to Martin Black. Who signals to his operators to fire up. Anxiously, They sit back to watch. As before, Some computers work perfectly. A few fade in and out. The familiar red zigzag line is already appearing on the screens of the machines that are operated by the same guys as before. Two computers crash, A third fails, And then a fourth. And a fifth. Angry voices start to rise as several more fail. It's time to implement Mouse's plan. He nods to Sam who turns on the speaker. The group listens intently. At first, There is no obvious sound. But the more they focus, The greater is their sense of music, Of the sounds of nature. The office atmosphere gradually begins to settle. Operators look about them with bemused expressions as one computer reboots. And then another. Until all computers are back online. Those that had been fading in and out are fully active. Even the agro-workers can feel the sense of calm that flows through the office. Perry and X and Sam exchange high fives. Martin Black smiles and heaves a huge sigh of relief. He can't hear anything. And he doesn't understand how it works. But it works. And he accepts that. He vigorously shakes Sam's hand and thanks him over and over again for rescuing his business. Sam assures him that Tamari's silent installation software will simulate the same effect. And will need to be incorporated within the computer's installation program. It will be hidden. And silence. And a temporary solution until other permanent changes are made. It will be activated as soon as the computer is connected to the internet. Until then. . . They think it will be safe from the drogue. Sam promises to leave his gear in place in the office as long as it is needed. And he'll now set up a similar system in the store so that the display models will work with anyone. He'll also place a copy in Dropbox with instructions so that all the stores can download it and play it over their intercom systems. Time is now of the essence. Once Sam sets up his sound system in the store and Tamari finalises the software. Martin Black needs to ensure that his managers are informed and everything is in place before the Friday launch of his new computers. It will require some time to implement. And there's only a day to do it in. After consulting with Daniel, The group heads to the main store, Where Sam, As a precaution, Using his iPad and another Bluetooth speaker. Sets up the same sound system. There are only a few demonstration models. And they seem to be working okay. It is only when this is done. And they are ready to leave. That they realize Mouse is no longer with them. None of the group remembers him leaving. And Perry and Egg start to look for him. But impatient to get back to see how Tamari is progressing. Martin Black insists they get moving. Perry and X hesitate for only a moment as they remember Smouse's ability to appear. And disappear. Together with Sam, They dash after their father, Who is already heading for the car. Meanwhile, Smouse is back in the space orb with Minter. He had left the office as soon as he knew his plan was successful. After delivering the good news, He and Mentor are in deep discussion with Ag and Angelica. The concern now is how Madrove, Who can't break through the barrier of beauty, Harmony and tranquility, Will react when he discovers that he no longer has access to the black computer systems. He'll be absolutely furious that he's been thwarted. The retribution could be instant and physical, Harnessing the damaging elements of nature. Or slow and undermining, Spreading corruption and disruption through the fear and greed of man. Ag bakes, Mental and smiles, To be on full alert after the launch. He promises to enlist the help of the citizens of Imperium to counter any reaction. Angelica has the communication network already in action. Mouse and Mender. Promise to update them as soon as anything new happens. They sign off. There's little they can do before Friday morning. It's all up to Sam. To Mari and Martin Black to set everything in place. Manta has a premonition that there could be really serious repercussions when the launch is a success. So before leaving the space orb, She suggests they take extra communications equipment and supplies with them. They take their time and make sure the space orb is safe and secure before returning to the family room in the Black's home, Where they find Tamari explaining to Martin Black, In detail, The necessary steps to incorporate her software into the installation programs. Skilled as he is in computer programming and the internet. Martin Black is blown away by the depth of her knowledge, Inventiveness, And technical expertise. When she's sure he has absorbed it all, She hands him a small super speed USB device. He thanks her profusely, Gives a nod of acknowledgement to Smouse and Mentor, And hastily departs for his office, Remembering to warn his wife who has just come into the room. That he may be home very late. Friday is looming closer and closer. In closer. As her husband's car roars out of the drive. Vera Black spontaneously embraces Tamari and Pet's mentor before picking up Smouse and collapsing into the nearest chair. Where would we be without you all? She gives Smouse a huge kiss. He blushes. Menta nestles into her leg. Embarrassed by the display of affection, To marry laughs and sits opposite her. It is going to be alright, Isn't it? Vera Black's voice betrays her doubts. Tamari, Menta, And Smouse. Assure her as one. Of course. They take turns in convincing her that all will be well. In that case, She declares. . . On Saturday, I'm inviting you all to dinner. That spouse and mentor and you and all your family to marry. Please extend the invitation to your parents, Sam, And Bubbles. That'll be lovely. Thank you. As Tamari stands to take her leave, Mentor nudges Vera Black in the knee. She looks down at her quizzically before raising her eyebrows and adding, And res, Of course. Tamari gives Mentor a quick smile and promises to bring Rats. Chapter 17 RETRIBUTION By late Saturday afternoon, There is a remarkable change in the atmosphere in the Black household. After tiptoeing around, Feeling like they're walking on eggshells, Desperately saying or doing nothing to upset their father, Perry and X can finally relax and breathe. Even Smouse and Mentor kept out of his way. They all feel like they've just been rescued from a stint in jail. After a stressful Thursday, Friday's launch went without a hitch, Across Australia and internationally, With outstanding reviews and excellent sales. Today's sales continue to rise. As planned, The Sheroes and Blacks are gathered in the Blacks' large open-planned family kitchen area. It opens onto a large balcony overlooking Port Phillip Bay. The teenagers, Grazing on chips, Cheese and nibbles, Are lounging on couches and cushions, Listening to Smouse, Who is comfortably settled on a circular coffee table in the centre of the room. Mentor and Raz lie close together in front of the windows. Scat is nestled in Perry's lap. A very rare situation. Bubbles sits close to the coffee table, Her attention fixed on Smouse. The late afternoon sun, Streaming in through the huge panoramic windows, Bathes him in a golden light. Between delighting in the rich taste of peanut butter and the warm, Soothing liquid flow of whiskey, Smouse passionately explains why Sam's music works so well as a madrogue block. Sam loves music. Sam loves nature. Sam loves playing his clarinet. Sam loves experimenting and creating. He listens. He observes. He is at one with the world. Love is the thread that binds it all. He pauses as Sam, Embarrassed by the attention, Hides his clarinet under a cushion. It's true. Tamari endorses Smouser's appraisal. She leans over and gives her brother a friendly shove and pulls the cushion off him. He sheepishly places the clarinet in his lap. Perry gives him the thumbs up sign. Very nice too, Sam. I'm looking forward to hearing you play it for us. She gives him a genuine smile before turning back to Smouse. So how does Sam's playing block Madrogue? He smiles blithely. Sam's music is filled with love. Love is a powerful force. It's the one thing that Madrogue can't destroy. What? All that mushy stuff in books and movies? Perisniggers before adding. What do you mean brotherly love? Trust me, There's no such thing. She laughs and ducks as her brother tosses a cushion at her. And then becomes serious as she asks Mouse. How? Love's just a feeling. Smouse shakes his head. It's more than that. It's a very powerful energy source. He suddenly produces the guide from within the folds of his scarf. And asks Sam to play while he reads. Sam Shiley tests a few notes. Before starting to softly play. While Vera Black prepares the meal, The adults grouped around the kitchen bench enjoying drinks and antipasto nibbles are discussing ways, In the light of the current situation, To change and improve black enterprises. With the sudden appearance of the guide and the warm, Mellow sound of the clarinet. They all stop and give their attention to Smouse. As he opens the book and starts to read. On now. Love is the fabric that holds the universe together. The threads that weave us as one. It is a powerful. Invisible and infinite energy that occupies space. The space within us? And all around us. It is the force that invites us to care. To be compassionate. To lend a hand. To be gentle. To be kind. To look after one another. It is a love for everyone. And everything. It accepts. Everyone. And everything. It makes your heart sing. It has power. And passion. It creates harmony. It is unconditional. It is freely given without any expectation. It does not bind or control. It does not harm. It does not make demands. It is non-judgmental. It is not possessive. Smell stop. And there is only Sam's beautiful music. Everyone is still. This mouse focuses on them one by one. Before he etched. It is the antithesis of the energy used by Madro. And in its purest form. Much more powerful. The music ends. And a smile closes the book. Menta and Raz suddenly jump up. They are both on full alert. Anxiously scanning the horizon. In the distance is the deep rumble of thunder. The voice of Mentor fills their heads. And we may need to use it sooner than we think. The sound of thunder intensifies and the golden light of the late afternoon sun instantly disappears. Dark threatening clouds fill the horizon. The sea turns black. X automatically checks his iPhone. The Weather Bureau is still forecasting clear skies and sunshine. The radar shows no storm. He relays the information to the others. For a moment, There is confusion. In the centre of the coffee table, Smouse stands transfixed. Mender moves towards him. The families, Except for Bubbles who is curled up asleep on a cushion, Move out to the balcony to watch the spectacle. They have no sense of calamity. On Imperium, A huge crowd is gathered around Ag, Pax and Angelica. United on the vast lawns of the Garden of Eden. Bips and quadrups together. Angelica is anxious about Smouse. She has heard stories about Madrogue and his retributions. To settle her nerves, She strokes the long, Gold, Blackened striped fur of her grandmother's quadrip, A large feline named Tig. She tries to tune in to smell. There is a soft murmur from the crowd. Using song. They will send the combined love and positive energies of Imperium to Earth. Smaus and Mentor have prepared the Space Orb to receive and redirect the energies and love from Imperium. As the thunder on earth rumbles, The space orb, Secure in its deep pool, Starts to glow and hum gently. With one voice, The imperiums start transmitting. As the minutes pass, The glow in the space orb intensifies. And rays of white light are transmitted through the air. Fascinated by the unusual weather event, The Blacks and Sheroes watch from the balcony as the darkness gathering on the horizon deepens and a strange red light streaks the sky. The rumble of thunder becomes menacing. An incredibly bright flash of lightning and a deafening clap of thunder send them hurrying inside to where Smouse is still standing motionless. In the center of the coffee table. At the edge of the table, Mentor is studying him carefully. Smouse is focused far away. Soft lights play up and down the fibres of his optic scar. With eyes on the storm, The adults and teenagers sit on the couches and chairs in a circle around him. Oblivious to the happenings, Bubbles sleeps on. Res and scat share a safe space under the couch. The storm increases in intensity as the wind picks up and rain starts to fall. Martin Black and X make sure the doors and windows are firmly shut. Huge hailstones ricochet off the balcony. Across the road, People desperately rush for shelter from the onslaught as it wreaks havoc across Black Rock and its surrounding suburbs. Trees, Roof tiles and other debris fly through the air. Electricity and telephone wires are ripped from their posts. Flash flooding is prevalent. Inside the house, It becomes so dark, Perry turns on the lights. A slight uneasiness creeps into the room as they huddle nervously in their seats, Dinner forgotten. Peri spots it first. The storm has slightly eased. She stands up and moves towards the window. She squints, Trying to focus on the strange funnel-shaped column that is rotating between the clouds and the horizon. Mentor, Ever alert, Moves closer to smell. X and Tamari joined Perry. OMG! Is it what I think she gasps? Speechless, X and Tamari can only nod as she whispers the words. It's a tornado. And it's heading straight for us. Their parents hastily join them and then urge them to retreat back to their seats. Mentor urgently tries to communicate with Smouse, Who is still cataleptic. The tornado steadily moves closer. A strange red light flickers at its core. On Imperium, The mass gathering continues to sing. Angelica sees the tornado through Smouse's eyes. A stab of fear shoots through her as she recognises the red shape. She turns to Ag, Who nods and she understands immediately what is required. With all her strength, She sends a message to Smough. It's up to you, Smouse. It's up to you. Be careful. Bubbles suddenly wakes up. She blinks and gathers her wits. Then, Burbling in some strange language, She leans forward and touches Smouse on the head. He is instantly galvanized into action. He takes her hand and kisses it before reaching out for Menta. Mentor stands close to him. A nose touching his. Across the bay, The tornado tracks towards a red bluff, Where for some reason it momentarily stops. Smouse, Grappling with his fears and doubts, Takes a deep breath. And stands tall. Mentor steps back. A silver light encompasses her and Smouse as he faces the group. He speaks to Sam first. Please play now, Sam. Like you've never played before. With all your love. He turns and watches a vortex created by the tornado. Increase in strength. And the redness at its core manifest as it resumes its path across the bluff towards the house. Anxiously, He implores the rest of the group to support Sam and to gather together to send love. Not to him. But to Madrid. No way. Perry is appalled at the suggestion. The tornado is slowly crossing the road, As in slow motion. Smouse's voice is barely a whisper. As he disappears. Love is not judgment. As he reappears precariously balanced on the safety glass fence at the front of the balcony. Bubbles leaps up from her cushion to chase after him. Her father quickly gathers her in his arms and holds her tight. The light surrounding Menta is dazzling. The light around Smouths is pale. The menacing spiral edges forward over the front wall. Mental moves to where Sam is seated. She rests her head on his knees and he starts to play his clarinet. The music. Tentative at first. It weaves its way around the group as the tornado that is Madrogue approaches the balcony and smiles. Shot into action. The group huddles close to each other and links hands. They nervously follow the action outside. As mentors voice flows with the music. Think positive thoughts. Picture a positive outcome. Focus on positive and loving thoughts and direct them outwards. Do this as long as it is necessary. Send love. They desperately focus. Mouse becomes a small bright light against the dense spiralling mass. The glow of light emanating from him increases and splits the darkness of the storm beyond the tornado, Dispersing, Then fragmenting and dissolving the clouds. A beautiful and soothing harmony glides through the air, Absorbing the violence of the wind and hail. Until with one final shriek it stops. And peace gradually descends. But the tornado still remains poised. The other side of the safety glass. Ready to strike. Sam plays his clarinet. A mentor's voice urges them to keep going. Think positive thoughts. Picture a positive outcome. Focus on positive and loving thoughts and direct them outwards. Do this as long as it is necessary. Send love. They frantically continue to focus. There is a sudden jagged flash of red light and a huge clap of thunder. They watch in horror as the safety glass fence on which Smouse is standing shatters. And he is tossed into the air. He drops like a limp rag doll onto the balcony floor. The light around him fades to a faint glow. On Imperium, Angelica collapses into the arms of her grandmother. Chapter 18 Aftermath Martin Black is the first to recover from the shock. The tornado has completely disappeared. The late afternoon sun casts a brilliant golden glow onto the lifeless figure of Smaug. And the shattered glass on the balcony. That are the only sign. That it came so close. Before anyone else can react. He leaps up, Unlocks and slams open the door, And rushes onto the balcony. He gently picks up Smouse and cradles him in the palms of his hands. And carefully carries him inside. Manta is instantly by his side as he places him tenderly on a cushion next to Perry, Who moves over to let her father sit down. Bubbles struggles from her father's arms to get close. Tears flow from her eyes. And she catches one on her finger. And gently dabs it on Smouse's nose. As the families gather round. Mentor places her paw on his heart. While Martin Black softly strokes his head. Bubbles talks to Smouse in her strange language, And Sam quietly plays his clarinet. They have no sense of time passing. But it is well and truly dark before Smouth stirs. It's as if he's in a fog that shifts between Imperium and Earth. One moment, He's with Angelica. And the next, He's with Martin Black. At the back of his mind is a memory of a huge red devil attacking him. He can still feel the faint taste of his fear. As the bright red light hits. Shattering the glass and tossing him into the air. And then that magical surge of energy. Of love that drove the devil away. And the soft loving hand. That picked him up. He blinks several times. It's quite dark. But through the haze he sees rather to his surprise. The very concerned face of Martin Black. And then the familiar loving faces of Mentor and Bubbles. He opens his eyes wide. There is a huge collective sigh of relief, Followed by Perry's voice babbling on. Us Mouse, We were so worried. We thought you were dead. You did it, You know, You did it. She moves close to her dead. Gives him a kiss, And then bends down and gives Smouth a kiss. The warmth of her kiss flows through him and makes him blush. He sits up. Beyond the balcony, Light sparkle across the bay. Despite the storm damage, A few cars are moving along Beach Road. Their lights catch the fragments of glass that litter the balcony. The sky is clear. Stars twinkle in its depths. A full moon is rising. It's hard to believe there was a storm. He looks up at Martin Black. And offers him his paw in thanks. Martin Black smiles and high-fives him and carefully stands, Leaving him cocooned on the cushion between Mentor, Bubbles and Perry. A drop of whisky, Perhaps, And some peanut butter? " he asked. Everyone laugh. This mouse manages a small smile. He nods and straddles into a sitting position in order to thank Sam and the group for their help. Before leaning over and hugging first bubbles. And then Minda. Mentor anxiously scans him for serious injury. Is emotionally rather shattered. Smouth leans close to her. And in a week. Trembling almost accusatory voice. He whispers so no one else hears. You said he wasn't here. That I wouldn't see him. Menta strokes him with her paw and softly replies. He wasn't really. Confused, Smouth sinks back into the cushion. Until Martin Black returns with a full, Small glass of whiskey. A spoon and jar of peanut butter. Perian bubbles help him eat. And drink. Satisfied that Smouse is okay. Martin Black leaves him in the safe hands of Mentor, Perry and Bubbles. Sam, X and Tamari go out onto the balcony. Keeping well back from the destroyed glass fence to survey the damage. While the adults finish preparing the dinner. Fortunately because they have underground power supply. Their electricity is still working. Most of the street lights are still on. And the full moon casts ample light. They are amazed at the amount of damage inflicted by the storm. It has cut a wide swathe through the vegetation. From the Red Bluff to their place. Smaller limbs off trees and foliage are partially strewn across the road. X checks his iPhone for a news update. Several suburbs are still inundated with water. Some houses have lost their roofs. Despite the carnage, No one has been injured. The Weather Bureau unable to explain the bizarre weather phenomena. Is already justifying its forecast. The teenagers try to sort out the sequence of events. But none of them is quite able to describe what occurred. At first, Dinner is a fairly animated affair, As they try to sort out what actually happened. It's very difficult to define. Each of them saw it differently. A variety of theories and questions fly across the table. Was it just a freak weather pattern? Did smells really stop? Or was it the glass safety barrier? What role did they play? Did Sam's music make a difference? Was it aimed specifically at them? Or a coincidence. Were they in danger? Explanations are difficult to find. But the atmosphere is congenial. Gradually the conversation changes to less challenging topics. Vera Black's delicious food and fine wine easily loosen tongues and the two families swap stories of their life. Sket and Rez are stretched out together under the table. Mentor has disappeared. After the soothing drink of whiskey and several spoonfuls of peanut butter. Smouse has drifted into a deep sleep that takes him home to Imperium. He finds Angelica, Resting in her grandparents' home, Recovering from a huge electric shock. She is relieved and delighted to see him. When she describes to Smouse how everyone gathered in the gardens and sang and sent their support while she tuned into him. He realises that he hadn't been alone. They were there with him, And that he and she faced Madrogue together. She tells him how proud her grandparents are of his role in breaking Madrogue's influence. When he recounts the last moment. When he saw Madrogue in the tornado. She reveals the truth of the matter. That it was just the manifestation of his fear. His unconscious mind created an image of what he feared the most. And the apparition appeared before him, Like a three-dimensional hologram. She admits that she had the same experience. But Pax has assured her that Madrog never leaves his home on Tartarus. His network is huge. His minions exploit the weak to spread his disruption and corruption. They gather the negative energy wherever, Whenever and however they can. Converting it into power. With this power, He is able to harness some of the destructive elements of nature. Smells unconvinced. Ponders this as they rest together for a while. He awakes to find a very tired Bubbles curled up and asleep on the couch beside him. He watches her mouth curl into a smile as she moves in her sleep. Contented that all is well. And still very fragile. He settles back and listens with amusement to the dinner table discussions. Dinner is just finishing when Menta arrives back at the house. She appears suddenly without drawing attention, Besides Smoughs. She looks rather worried. He immediately senses her disquiet and quickly sits up. What's wrong? The question is silent. Mentor hesitates, Unsure of what to divulge. He still looks pale and weak. It's all right, " she assures him. It can wait until you're feeling better. Smouse frowns and tries to tune into her thoughts, But he is too tired. He nods and flops back into his cushion and is soon fast asleep again. Mentor lies on the floor next to the couch. She tries to connect with Ag. But her skill is not as fine-tuned as Smouse's, And it takes a long time. At the end of the session. She is exhausted and she too falls asleep. Neither of them hears the Shiro's leave, Nor the clearing of the table. And the washing of the dishes. Chapter 19 No Way Home The sound of the television wakes them. It's Morning, And Ex and Perry, Who are both dressed. Are watching the ABC News. Perry's exclamation of dismay brings Mentor to her side. OMG! It's the bluff. The storms caused a landslide. She calls out to her parents who are in the kitchen. Mom, Dad, Look at this. The whole cliff has slipped. They leave what they're doing and hurry over to watch as a reporter describes the scene. Beyond the devastated vegetation. The pathway down to the beach has been cordoned off with security tape. A small crowd has gathered to gawk. A helicopter provides an aerial view of the beach at the foot of the bluff. A large wedge of the upper layer of red sandstone has dropped onto the rocks below, Obliterating the rock pool. The sad howl of anguish from Smouse, Who has unobtrusively joined them. Diverts their attention. Mentor rushes to his side. He looks at her in horror. You knew? She shakes her head. I knew something was wrong. I couldn't get into the space orb last night. I didn't want to stress you further. A tear slips from Smouse's eye. How will we get home? What's wrong, Smouse? Manta? Vera Black kneels down beside them. Mouse looks at her. But doesn't see her. He instantly realizes. If Mentor couldn't access the space orb. That in his weakened state. He has no chance of transmuting and transporting himself there. If the television report is accurate. Even if he could. There's no way of launching the space orb if it's buried under tons of red sandstone. I have to see it, " he says out loud. See what? Asked Perry, Who has joined her mother. Smouse looks at the television. The landslide Smouth nods. Perry frowns, Knowing the path down is barred. But seeing how upset Smouse is, She says, OK. X and I'll take you. When her father looks surprised, She adds, We know a Beck way down. There's a half overgrown track. X is only too happy to help. He's almost out of the door before Pirrie can gather Smouse in her arms. Their parents caution them to take care and watch anxiously as they leave the house with Mentor in close attendance. They head along the beach road, Away from the cordoned off track for about 100 metres, Before crossing and slipping into a barely defined gap in the undamaged bush. X leads the way. The faint path follows the curve of the cliff. Through thick tea tree. Around the far side of the blouse. Out of sight of the police and television crews. It's Menta who spots the break in the vegetation that reveals a series of rough-hewn steps that lead to the beach. She carefully guides them down. There is no actual beat here. Large rocks rise from the water and spread to the base of the cliff. Keeping close to the cliff, They edge their way round until they can see the rock fall. The area is clear and they are able to move quite close to where the rock pool was. Mental searches and searches, But there is no sign of it. It's gone. The sadness in Smouse's voice stabs at Perry's heart. And an incredible sense of loss and homesickness flows through her. She has a sudden mental picture of imperium. And recognizes that somehow this means it's mouse. And mentor can't go home. She hugs him tight as Mento comes to her side. Oh, Smell. I'm so sorry, She whispers. With her face buried in his soft fur. She doesn't register her brother's surprise reaction, As Mentor suddenly springs up and bounds across the rocks towards a person, Standing close to the water, Observing them. It then takes a moment or two for Perry to realize. The spouse is no longer in her arms. She looks a dicks. And then follows the direction of his gaze. Mentor is standing beside a tall elderly. Regal looking lady. Who is wearing a coat of spun gold. She has snowy, White-braided hair. And a gentle smile. Its mouth is wrapped in her arms. She locks eyes with Perry. And Perry senses her power. Hooray! Her wisdom, And compassion. She instantly knows who she is. Mouse talked about her when he was describing Empyrean. She's Pax. Grandmother of Angelica. Wife of Ag. And sovereign of the universe. A beam of sunlight catches her coat and dazzles Perry and X. Safe in Pax's arms, Smouse begs to say goodbye. But she warns him that she can only hold open the portal through time and space. Back to Imperium. For a brief moment. And if they miss it. He and Mentor will be stuck on Earth. The dazzling sunlight vanishes. They are gone. Perry and X blink rapidly, Trying to focus. They frantically scan the rocks and sea. There is no sign of pecs, Mental or smiles. All that remains is a small shining object where they stood. Perry tentatively steps towards it. X right behind her. She recognizes it immediately. It is Smouse's copy of The Guide. She lightly picks it up. And rested in the palm of her hand. It is tiny in her hands and as light as a feather. A warm heat flows into her palm. The front colour is a deep indigo colour, Like the depths. Of the night sky. The words, The guide, Are embossed in gold in an ancient script. They seem to pulsate within the darkness. Minute sparkles of light appear and disappear. She looks inquiringly at her brother and he nods. Both hold their breath. As she opens the book. The words in an ancient script shimmer in colors of the rainbow before they settle. They read them in silence. On your planet. I am you. You are me. We are one within the fabric of life. Love me. Love you. Nurture me. Nurture you. Destroy me. Destroy you. Save me. Save you. Abandon me. Abandon you. The N. Or is it? 3, 000 kilometers away. On the northwest coast of Australia. In the city of Geraldton. It is still dark. Suddenly all the lights of the whole city fade into a thin red line. And go out. Thank you for joining me and sharing in the story of Smiles and Mentor. I hope you have enjoyed it. And I hope that some of the thoughts and ideas within it. Can help make life more harmonious. And happy. Take care. Stay safe. With love. Estelle.