Dimensional Dualities Book I: The Key

Dimensional Dualities

Book 1

The Key

Published by C. E. Robichaud at Smashwords

Copyright 2015 C.E. Robichaud

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All Rights Reserved, writing as C. E. Robichaud.

No part of this book may be used, copied or reproduced in any form without the express permission of the author, except for brief quotations used in reviews and critical articles.

All the characters in this book are fictional and any resemblance to any person alive or deceased is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

Edited by Helen Bean and Bernice Pittenger

Important Note from the Author

While reading this story, you will notice that Wylanisa tells some of the story and her narrative and thought process is in plain type. The italics are Paul’s narration and thought process and the bold italics are Justin’s narration and thought process. I did it this way to differentiate between the three main characters because they are all telling the story at one point or another and to avoid constantly saying he said she said or he thought she thought.

In the Hri Yu language two syllable words or names, the accent mark is on the second syllable. Three syllable words or names the accent mark is on the last syllable. For words and names with more than three syllables the accents mark is on the second and last syllable. See pronunciation key for details. I hope it’s not too confusing.

C. E. Robichaud

In Memory of Diane Rose Robichaud Caron

Sister

"Reh wheh bin bahldreh, nahg bin ords

meh thrahseh mahkah umdrah iru hrahmuri."

(We miss you greatly, for you were the cement that held us together)

Hri Yu Trehkahshahm ur Hrahl Mehn Iltahmul

Ahn shahm Bi, zsom teh ilmth olsh modrahl.

Mehn zsuil oshol, mehn Ahnlahs, mehn Thuahsti olsh mehn Sshtehh trul ahzsmul ni Nahrreht ahnthrehmi.

Ssahnch chrahuldeh, mehn ahshol ehthi lort ti brohkiti, dohm ol ehthi lort ti tezs.

Mehn oshol trul grehul frins eh pehlis, mehn Sshtehh lohseh ssahrd trul ti cholst, ehthi ti nith ni cheh, fimn olsh nurch meh priah brehmil ahlnun olsh chehbrufol.

Mehm brehmil eh bahldriudis olsh lozsahil, mehn Sshtehh trul botu ni dithush lis whuil si mehn Hrahleh uzsubahkreh.

Ahn shahmeh Bi, zsom teh ilmth olsh modrahl.

Beh mehn ruhdahrl botueh, Bi trul chutrah bahldriudis olsh shidrumahtu

ni mehn ohzsahmro olsh ohprush ur whuah olsh uzsi.

Ah bahldri zsuahdru trueh mahkah ur eh vrahmahkah trul ovrui pishah olsh hroti.

Hrahl zsuil oshol; loh tum mehn Sshtehh, mehn Ahnlas, olsh mehn Thuahsti, trul qistah mehn vrahmahkah zsylysh ol drimah mehn fudrieh; ahlsh trul vrochim kiohb.

Mehn ahshol trul dumdrah mehn vrahmahkah dolm mehn grahd mahkah eh ah chom ur hroti ni Hrahl.

Mehn zsrahts kriu muzs prahdizsmueh trul threhlu chehl; thahm trul ti bahldri zsrahmish.

Hrahl trul thum sstris; olsh brushdichah teh zsahmro.

Dahrl trul wehk nahg ahsholidrus pulahkridomah dirusudrahs, mahzsidrus whuahtuneh ur mehn Sshtehh.

Mehn zsahmro trul ti sstahnteh mri zsuil mitahms goshtrueh ni mehn fudrieh.

Kuahm mehn vrahmahkah, ol trul ti nehm ssro ku eht zsrahmah si mehn uzsubahkreh.

Umth mahkah wehn ulthzsitri trul ti brokahd; Umth mahkah wehn ahzslus trul ti brahkish.

Mahkeh trul mehn zsahmro ti ku zsrahmahseh pli drui mehn briahdrum ur mehn uzsubahkreh.

Hri Yu Prophesy of Hrahl the Eternal

So says He, who is first and last.

The chosen three, the Portal, the Guardian, and the Key shall travel to Nahrreht together.

Once arrived, the three must not be separated for it must not be done.

The three shall learn what is needed; the Key, whose mind shall be closed, must be made to see, feel and taste the truth through love and understanding.

Then through an ordeal of great pain and hardship, the Key shall come to believe his place within Hrahl’s universes.

So says He, who is first and last.

When the time comes, He shall bring great pain and suffering to the unfaithful and impure of heart and soul.

A great torrent like that of a whirlwind shall envelope all land and water.

His chosen three; who are the Key, the Portal and the Guardian, shall open the whirlwind casting it upon the worlds; day shall become night.

The three shall sustain the whirlwind for the space of time that is like a drop of water to Him.

The fire from its beginnings shall torment all, and there shall be great wailing.

He shall hear their cries and take pity on the faithful.

Time shall stand still for three hundred forty five thousand six hundred heartbeats of the Key.

The chosen seven shall lift the faithful and bring them to the perfect worlds.

Through the whirlwind they shall be made new as infants in the universes.

All that is sundered shall be renewed; all that is spoiled shall be refreshed.

Then shall the faithful be as children but have the knowledge of the universes.

Hri Yu Alphabet Pronunciation Key and Numeric System

A E I O U Y- The vowels are very different from the human alphabet, although it was patterned after it. A is ah as in baa. E is eh as in the e in wet. I is I but always has the ee sound as in weed. O is O and is always pronounced as o as in go. U is U but is always pronounced with oo sound as in tube.

They sound out all the vowels in our words. Example: they would spell concentrate like this—konsehntrahteh but say it kon sehn´ trah teh´.

There are no soft or hard C’s. Where a soft C is used, they replace it with Ss at the beginning of a word and single S within a word or name. Hard C’s are replaced with K.

If a word ends with Y such as simply they would spell it ssimpli and say it sseemplee.´

The letter G is always a hard g as in great. Where a word has a soft g, the g would be replaced with their letter Zs so to them gentle would be zsentleh´. Zs also replaces our J. There are no J’s in the Hri Yu Alphabet. Y is a short y as the i in ‘with’ so Skylahr´, accent mark on second or last syllable in most words would be Sky lahr´. Y is also used at beginning of words with the usual ya sound. So the Hri Yu alphabet would look like this:

Ah B Ch D Eh F G or Zs (to replace soft g) H I Zs K L M N O P Q R Ss, Ssh or S, T or Th U V W Y.

Their vowels Ah, Eh, I (ee sound) O U Y with 22 consonants, a total of 28 letters.

Numerics:

1—Ssah 2—Oshu 3—Ahshol 4—Domah 5- Dirus 6—Mahzs

7—Mitahms 8—Izsahl 9—Bahzs 10—Pulah 11—PulahSsa

20—Pulahkrioshu 30—Pulahkriahshol 40—Pulahkridomah

50—Pulahkridirus 60—Pulahkrimahzs 70—Pulahkrimitahms

80—PulahkriIzsahl 90—PulahkriBahzs 100—Ssahidrus

1000—Ssahudras 5000—Dirusudras 100,000.000—Ssahbidahseh

Example: 345, 600 would be—ahsholidrus pulahkridomah dirusudrahs, mahzsidrus

The Hri Yu Council of Spiritualists

First Counselor: Zsehstahl Hahm

Mate/Mehlahzsahm Tahn Hahm

Second Counselor: Zsahseh Sshil

Mate/Nahrdah Sahyah Sshil-1st

Mate/Rehzsahlah Mahahl Sshil-2nd

Third Counselor: Ssolzsahm Ssahnlahs

Mate/none

Fourth Counselor: Ssahlzsehm Nohahl

Mate/deceased

Fifth Counselor: Rolzsahs Pahlsehth

Mate/Brahzsahth Rahmahl Pahlsehth

Sixth Counselor: Mahzsahls Ahnzsahsh

Mate/Mahlzsahth Tahn Ahnzsahsh

Seventh Counselor: Nahzsath Trahlsol

Mate/female unmated

Prologue

The first rays of sunlight pushed their warm fingers above the horizon of the sea, their golden light playing delicately across the surface of the water. A solitary figure sat, hunched against the cool breeze that was blowing softly off the water. She is small and insignificant against the wide expanse of beach and would hardly have been noticed by anyone if it weren’t for her bright red clothing.

The child sat back to so you couldn’t see her face, but somehow I knew I was the child. I was not much older than five years old and looked from side to side along the white sand. I couldn’t see a soul along the expanse of the beach. The wind blew gently through my hair and felt good, inviting somehow. I looked back over the ocean and watched the surf crash on the sand. Looking out over the waves, I noticed something break the surface, once, then again.

At first, I though it might be a fish, but as I watched, the apparition grew and became what appeared to be a head, then shoulders and arms; I didn’t think it was a man but a fish for his skin appeared shiny and grayish. It was a man but unlike any man I had ever seen, something completely unknown to me. I watched as he walked ashore and continued toward me. His arms and face were a bluish-gray color with large dark eyes, lidless and liquid. His wet exterior, partially covered with a short tunic and tight leggings, showed in the sunlight like thousands of tiny crystals and the soft wind dried his skin and clothing quickly. His head moved back and forth in a jerking motion as he scanned the beach and stopped when his gaze fell on me.

I held my breath as he turned and walked toward me, his hands and feet were webbed, and his movements were liquid and graceful as he approached. At first, I was curious, but as he drew closer, fear gripped me and I stiffened and cringed as he came up beside me and leaned over as if to pick me up. I tried to back away as he leaned again to touch me; then I heard a scream escape my lips.

Honey wake up, you’re having a bad dream. I opened my eyes to see my mother sitting on my bed. She reached to pick me up and cradle me slowly rocking me back to sleep. I fell to sleep again seeing the figure leaning toward me and heard a whisper.

Chahrl ssah, Zsahseh Sshil lor sahr chahrl ssah.

I have had this dream many times over a span of years, seeing my mysterious stranger on every occasion. As I grew older, the child in the dream also grew older. It was also when my walking started.

Chapter 1

I looked up to meet two smiling blue eyes.

To say they were blue was an understatement.

They were very blue, electric blue.

He was tall and slim and his smile lit up his face.

I’ve been going places for years now, since I was a small child and don’t know how it is occurring. Going places, that’s a good call. I am relatively sure I was sleepwalking, the constant dreams triggering the walking and apparently the talking, otherwise how am I getting to places I can’t possibly walk to in one night? Was I hitchhiking in my sleep? Scary thought; it’s a wonder I was still alive not having run into someone unsavory or worse, homicidal. I know this fact is what was worrying my mother the most.

At eighteen, thin for my height of five feet five inches and a complexion even paler than my hair, making me look unhealthy, I was pacing back and forth outside a courtroom awaiting a final judgment on my latest disappearance, ending up walking along the road in Saco, Maine. My parents had to pick me up and return me to face up to my actions. My current counselor Emily Prentiss had insisted on bringing it all to a head, not only for my parent’s sake but also for mine. She was sure I would end up hurt or dead if something drastic wasn’t done and quickly.

Outside the courtroom, I waited and I knew there wasn’t a lot the court could do because I was eighteen. They could however, find that I was not a responsible adult, forcing me to adhere to certain strictures and mandating me to seek something more than counseling, like sending me to someone who could delve into what is causing my memory lapses during my sleepwalking episodes and possibly prescribe medications. I did not intend to allow them to give me medications. I mean, I wasn’t psychotic or delusional. I was walking in my sleep and couldn’t remember anything about how I was getting to the places they’re finding me.

I can’t stand this. I don’t want my mother going through any of this. I stated to my teen center counselor, Mrs. Prentiss. She’s been ill lately and she can’t take this kind of stress. The stress I inflicted on her. The stress I created. I wish I knew what is happening. I need to go in there, to reassure her somehow. I need to speak for myself; can’t you do something Mrs. Prentiss? Emily Prentiss rose and went to the door to speak with a bailiff just inside. I saw her nod and return to her seat.

* * * *

I heard the door close and I turned to see the bailiff walking to the front of the courtroom leaning down to speak with the state-appointed psychologist. I saw him nod, stand, and ask to speak.

Your honor Miss Parks wishes to come in to speak on her own behalf. Her current counselor Emily Prentiss is outside with her and insists we allow her to speak.

As the state-appointed psychiatrist you have spent time with this young lady. Do you feel she is coherent enough to speak on her own behalf?

She is coherent and aware of what is going on here. I believe we should allow her to speak your honor. Mom stood raising her hand nervously.

Mrs. Parks, do you have something to add? The judge asked.

Your Honor, my daughter is not crazy. She insists she has no idea how she got to Saco. We did take her there once years ago, I think she was seven, right honey. Why she should choose to go there now is beyond us. Mom trailed off.

She says she doesn’t remember. Dad added. "She doesn’t need to be locked up."

"Mr. Parks no one is talking about locking anyone up. This is a hearing requested by the authorities and councilors who have dealt with Wylanisa since she was a child. I am also taking the talks she had recently with Dr. Khaler into consideration. Due to the fact that these people believe she doesn’t know how she gets to these places, I think that maybe she should have some serious therapy.

The judge raised his hand to still any objections evident on Mom’s face.

Don’t worry, Mr. and Mrs. Parks, I know that Wylanisa is adopted. I also know she is eighteen but this court’s only jurisdiction is to determine if she needs help and to see she gets it. Did either of you ever let her know she is adopted?

Dad motioned Mom to be silent as he began speaking…

Yes your Honor we did sit her down after the numerous instances of her disappearing without our knowledge. The police had picked her up near the hospital in the early morning hours in her pajamas and bare feet. It was fortunate it was June at the time. We sat her down and told her the whole story and she seemed to take it well. She asked a few difficult questions about her real parents, which we couldn’t answer of course. Her ah…real parents were never located. He finished.

She seemed to accept this well? How old was she?

It was just after her twelfth birthday. Even her brother sat in on the discussion. Mom quickly stated. She pointed to me sitting next to her.

He helped her accept it, I think. She adores her older brother; he was close to seventeen at the time. He’s our biological son, but it has never strained their relationship at all. He loves her very much. I sat with my arms crossed nodding my head.

I guess I have a clear picture. My judgment stands for counseling and therapy. You will need to set up the appointments and submit the schedule. You will also have to make sure she goes to her sessions. The judge finished.

We promise to have her there. Mom was nearly in tears. I was at my mother’s side attempting to calm her.

Bailiff, would you show Wylanisa and Mrs. Prentiss in.

* * * *

The court clerk opened the door and motioned us in. Emily steered me toward my parents and my mother wrapped her arms around me. Mrs. Prentiss went to stand before the judge.

Your Honor, Wylanisa wishes to speak on her own behalf. Emily spoke quietly but firmly.

I will hear what she has to say, although I doubt it will change my judgment. Go ahead Wylanisa. My mother released me as I turned to face the judge.

"Yes sir. Everyone is arguing over what is best for me. You are all talking to each other about me but never to me. I should be allowed to say something about all this and I haven’t been asked even once, what I think." I took a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

I need to speak to someone who knows something about sleepwalking. I don’t know if that’s what’s happening in my case, but maybe we can eliminate it as a cause. The police officers who picked me up all said that I was dazed and confused when they found me, but my head cleared after they spoke to me. I honestly don’t know how I ended up in the places they found me. I don’t remember talking to anyone or getting rides by people. Sleepwalking seems to be the only logical assumption. Is it possible to see someone who can test me for something like this? I finished, watching the judges expression and it seemed he was thinking over what I’d said.

I have to say, young lady, that you have given me another alternative to a very puzzling problem. I still think that you need more than counseling; perhaps a good psychoanalyst and I will not rule that out. He raised his hand when he saw I was ready to protest.

There are resources right here in our area specializing in sleeping disorders and treatment, as well as doctors with similar specialties. I want you to go home with your family with the understanding that you are to stay put. I’ll have Dr. Khaler look into this and will notify your parents of our decision.

Your Honor, may I say something? Justin stood looking a little nervous.

Of course, go ahead…, Justin is it?

Yes sir. I have a friend who works in this area, and he is very familiar with this type of study. You know sleep disorders. I met him in college; he was doing some work with some of the professors there while studying computer electronics and electrical engineering. I don’t understand the mechanics of the sleep study thing but he is very knowledgeable and I think I can convince him to do a sleep study on my sister. Justin finished fidgeting.

Engineering, is he an engineer or a counselor? Judge Kent questioned.

He’s a psychologist, and engineer. He’s ah…he’s very smart. After medical school, he got interested in computer sciences and engineering. That’s when I met him. I am studying computer sciences and engineering. He is just opening his own office right here in this area with a couple of his colleagues. They are all certified councilors, psychiatrists or technicians. His father, Dr. Darren Anders is a consultant and partner. He’s still hiring staff but I’m sure he’d be willing to help. Please let him try?

I’m familiar with Dr. Darren Anders but I don’t know his son. If Darren is consulting I see no reason why we cannot give this a try.

Young lady, would you be willing to see this doctor? Judge Kent asked me.

Of course sir, anything you say.

Justin, supply me with her schedule, and seeing as this… what is the doctors first name?

Paul, Dr. Paul Anders, sir.

Yes well, seeing as this Dr. Paul Anders is a psychiatrist it wouldn’t do any harm to schedule some sessions as well as a sleep study.

Yes sir, you have my word. Justin promised.

Yes your honor, and thank you. Thank you very much. I smiled and he smiled back, which surprised me. I hugged my mother and father and Justin wrapped his arms around all of us. I turned toward Emily Prentiss and hugged her.

Thank you Mrs. Prentiss, I owe you big time for everything.

I hope you’ll stay in touch Anisa. I have heard of this Dr. Anders and his sleep research center. I think he might be able to help. Good luck to you dear, she said as she turned and left the courtroom. We all rushed out of the courthouse and stopped on the steps.

Mom, Dad, Justin, I don’t care if you have to tie me to my bed to keep me from leaving, I’ll put up with anything at this point. Justin, you can even sit on me if that’s what it takes. I laughed with him as he mock punched me in the arm.

Sure kiddo, I’ll stay awake all night and watch you if I need to, and grab you the minute you move a muscle to get up.

Hey, can we go for a walk down by the lake when we get home. We haven’t done that since you started college. We can talk and catch up, you’ve been away too long, I’ve missed you. I smiled at him and he wrapped his arm around my shoulders.

Sure kid, I’ve missed you too. Justin always made me feel better somehow. As brothers went, he really wasn’t half-bad at all. I liked that I could depend on him when I needed someone to talk with.

I think I better get in touch with Paul Anders first. I did tell the judge I would. You wouldn’t want me to go back on my word would you? I watched him dial the cell on the drive home but he got voice mail. As soon as we pulled into the driveway, he headed for his car.

I’ll be back soon. Stay put sis. He said shaking his finger at me.

I watched him pull away and felt nervous knots in my stomach. I sure hoped this Dr. Anders was as smart as he told me. I was trying to think positive about the upcoming study and counseling sessions, but doubt kept creeping into my thoughts. I mean, what if they found out I was a freak or something. This equipment could be some kind of weird mind control experiment and I may not even like this Dr. Anders. I shivered at the thought. Impossible, Justin liked him so he must be a great person. Justin returned about an hour later, having attempted to contact Paul. I ran out to meet him and he half smiled and shrugged.

What’s wrong, Justin? You look a little disappointed.

Well, Paul’s office is closed and he wasn’t at home either. It’s Wednesday, maybe he isn’t open for business yet. The house he bought is big, an old three story house for his business with plenty of room for a good size apartment on the third floor. The building is closed and there was no one around at all. I wonder if he went to his dad’s place. He shook his head, deep in thought.

Well, get in touch with his dad then. It couldn’t hurt.

Justin dialed 411 and got Dr. Darren Anders phone number. He dialed and waited but got a machine. He left a message but Dr. Anders was a surgeon and was probably at the hospital. Justin shrugged and put his cell in his pocket.

It started sprinkling and I put my sweatshirt hood up. I walked beside Justin as we made our way down to the lakefront.

I hope you don’t mind but I really wanted to talk away from parental ears.

"I don’t mind the rain, if you don’t,’ he said, smiling down at me. I wasn’t sure how to approach the subject with him and I was nervous even considering speaking of my fears. My brother was very understanding and easy going for the most part and was able to take things in stride when things got complicated or weird.

Well, you wanted to walk and talk. We are walking but you’re not talking; what is going on kiddo? Come on talk to me.

I’m not sure how to start. You are going to think I’m weird or crazy like everyone at school. I said glancing up at him half-smiling.

Those kids at school were bullies and stuck up. They didn’t even try to get along with you. Well, you didn’t try very hard to get along with any of them either. He chuckled a little.

I never felt very comfortable around any of them. They always looked down on me. It was as if I wasn’t good enough. You know, I just couldn’t relate to them.

Yeah, I know. Why was that? You could relate to me just fine.

That’s different you’re my brother and I grew up with you and I kind of look at you as my protector somehow. It’s just that you always accept me for who I am.

Okay! So speak to me. What’s bothering you that you’re afraid to talk about in front of Mom and Dad? I sat down on a small rock near the edge of the lake looking at the light rain create circular patterns on the water.

I have these dreams that seem so real; I can actually touch and feel everything. It’s after these dreams that I wake up someplace else. I go to sleep in my bed and wake up in the park, or here at the lake. In Saco, like last month, and I don’t remember getting there. It scares the hell out of me, and…. I trailed off shrugging.

And what, come on? He asked quietly. I just shrugged and stared at my feet.

Hey! We are going to find out what’s happening. I promise! Justin said with more confidence than I felt.

I’m afraid to go to sleep! I’ve been staying up nights since the police picked me up last month. Just dozing, taking cat naps. The minute I suspect I might be slipping into a deep sleep, I jar myself awake and get up and pace the floor. I’ve even started drinking coffee at night. My voice shook as I spoke and I felt tears in my eyes. I felt his arms wrap around me and he hugged me close.

I can see you’re scared. I’m not blind, you know. You’ve been very tense too. Mom and Dad have both noticed how tired you look. Staying awake is not the answer. He squeezed my shoulder again.

What is the answer, Justin? I can’t keep this up much longer, I’m exhausted.

I’ve got an idea that might, just might, let you get some much needed sleep and help solve this mystery too! Let’s conduct an experiment of our own.

What kind of experiment? It doesn’t involve test tubes and bubbling beakers does it? I know your scientific curiosity is on overtime continuously. You did blow up the science lab at school once. It was just your insane luck that nobody got hurt. I laughed easily.

That was kind of funny. Mr. Prescott didn’t think so, though. He made me help with the cleanup. It took us almost a month to get the lab back to normal. So, what do you say we try to find some answers together? It isn’t a blow up the lab type of experiment anyway. It can’t hurt to try and if it doesn’t work, I have other ideas that might be to your liking. My ideas usually work pretty well, once I work out the logistics. We can try this idea of mine tonight and every night until I find Paul and set things up with him. He smiled at me waiting for my response.

Okay fine, I guess you’re right; it can’t hurt to try. You’ve got to promise me that you won’t give up on me, please. No matter what happens, you’ll keep trying?

Give up on you; No way! He laughed.

Hey look, it has stopped raining. Maybe that’s a good omen? I said as I stood. I stretched and looked up at him with a more positive outlook than I’ve had in months.

Come on little monkey, let’s get back to the house and plan our strategy for tonight. He walked up the path with me on his heels, humming a tune he used to hum to me when I was very little.

I haven’t heard that tune in a long time. I’ve missed that a lot. I’ve missed you a lot too. I said as we approached the house. He led the way inside and we met out parents just inside the door. They looked anxious and excited at the same time.

Were you able to talk to Dr. Anders Justin? My father asked.

No, his place was closed and he wasn’t in his apartment either. I’ll try calling him again later. He shrugged. My brother put his arm around me and kissed me on the forehead. He bent to whisper into my ear, Tonight, I promise… I smiled up at him, nodded, and dad noticed.

What are you two cooking up now; I can see it in your faces. He finished.

It’s a secret between me and my sister. Just bear with me on this, dad. Don’t worry it’s nothing illegal or anything. It’s also not dangerous for anyone, I promise…, he added, when he noticed dad’s skepticism.

Just don’t get carried away on some hokey lab experiment, I can’t afford any major repairs. I laughed nervously at the word experiment and my father hesitated before he turned and went to the kitchen.

Justin and I spent the afternoon in my room talking about the coming nights experiment. He reassured me repeatedly that he won’t leave me alone and if he had to leave the room for any reason at all, he would wake me up first. I filled him in on what my dreams were about, so if I spoke at all while asleep it would be alert him to the fact that I was slipping deep into sleep.

Wait, you talk in your sleep sometimes? I’ve never heard you. When did this start? He asked curiously.

I don’t really know, but mom mentioned it once or twice when I told her about the dreams I was having and how the dreams scared me sometimes. I shrugged.

The dreams scare you, sometimes? When do they scare you?

When the strange person comes out of the water onto the beach and reaches for me. He’s not really that scary just different looking. He used to look like a monster to me when I was little. You know four or five years old. He’s actually a man that has sort of funny skin. Well, not funny really but sort of leathery and smooth like a whale or a dolphin. Its bluish-gray and his eyes are larger than ours are. They are black and watery looking.

Boy, you have some kind of an imagination kiddo. That’s really weird. What does he do that scares you?

He tries to make me go with him and he speaks in a language I don’t understand but is familiar somehow. His voice is whispery and soft. It’s just scary that’s all. I shivered a little. Justin rubbed my back softly in a reassuring manner.

Anisa, it’s okay! We’ll deal with it all, I promise. You won’t have to be afraid to sleep any more. I’m going to make sure no monsters touch you or try to take you away or even speak to you; No more monsters, ever. I hear mom calling us to dinner.

Alright, let’s eat then we can talk some more before bedtime. We ate dinner in silence, dad giving us sidelong glances as he ate. I got up to help clean up in the kitchen and rinse dishes, putting them in the dishwasher so my mom wouldn’t have to. Justin came in to dry the pots I’d washed by hand and told mom to relax.

We’ll clean up for you tonight mom. Go watch some television or something. She smiled and left the kitchen. I finished the last pot, drained the sink and rinse it out then put away the pans Justin had dried and placed on the counter. We looked at each other when we finished.

Do you want to go back upstairs and talk or maybe go for an evening stroll and talk? It’s still a little early yet.

Maybe you should try Dr. Anders again?

Hey! Good idea. He pulled out his cell, punched in the numbers and waited.

Voice mail, I’ll try the home phone. He said as he dialed and it rang twice.

Hey Paul its Justin Parks; yea it has been awhile. Hey listen, I know you are opening your new offices and I’m wondering if I could come over and talk to you about something important. No not right now, I can’t. I have something to do tonight but how about in the morning. We can get together for coffee. Great, yeah I know the place. I’ll see you then. He closed his cell and looked at me winking.

Let’s go out back and talk some more. I said heading for the back door. I stepped out onto the back deck and walked into the yard toward the tire swing. I climbed on and Justin started pushing me back and forth.

Justin, do you think I’m normal?

Normal, who knows what normal is? I mean, sometimes I’m not normal, Nisa. I’ve done some pretty abnormal things in my life, he said laughing. I looked at him as I swung by on the swing.

Really, I’ve always thought of you as the most normal person I know. I have never felt normal. I’ve always felt sort of detached from everything around me, except from you, mom, and dad. You are the only ones who seem to accept me for who I am. I stopped the swing and sat there waiting for him to say something in response to my remark. He just stared up at the gradually darkening sky.

It has cleared off and I’ll bet we will be able to see the stars clearly tonight. Do you want to sit out here and watch them, just for awhile and relax? I got out of the swing and poked him looking up at the sky. He seemed to be stalling for some reason.

Okay fine but you didn’t comment at all on what I just told you. What are you thinking about?

Oh I’m supposed to comment on everything you say now. I’m thinking that it’s a beautiful night, even though it’s a little chilly for May. I’m thinking that maybe we should stay and watch the stars. Then go upstairs and get started on our little experiment. I stared at him, waiting.

I’m thinking that everyone feels detached at one time or another in his or her life. It’s nothing new. He looked at me then with his heart-melting grin. I really loved and trusted him so much.

Yea, but I feel like that all the time. I’m not even comfortable going to stores or the movies without feeling like I really don’t fit in there. I finished.

I think that you should stop thinking about it and enjoy the stars. We are going to solve this, I promise.

I think that you are the best brother any one person could ask for I hugged him then sank onto the damp grass, continuing to stare up at the sky as stars begin to appear.

When I was just a kid I felt a little detached at times. We’ll find your answers Nisa, I’m sure of it.

You know, I think you’re right.

He sat next to me and stared up just in time to see a shooting star. We both gasp at the same time.

That’s got to be an omen. We said at the same time. We looked at each other and burst out laughing.

We haven’t done that in some time. I continue to giggle. It felt good to laugh with Justin the way we used to when I was little. We lay on the back lawn looking at the sky for what seemed like forever, not talking just watching the bright points.

Do you believe in aliens, Justin? I ask quietly.

Where did that come from? He said looking at me strangely.

I don’t know. I was just looking up at the stars and wondering, with so many of them, it must be possible that there are others out there, don’t you think?

I’ve really never given it a lot of thought, but yea, its possible there are others out there. But I don’t think we’ll ever really know for sure. He glanced at his watch and then pointed to the face. It’s almost nine o’clock, want to go inside? Are you feeling sleepy yet? He pushed himself to his feet and extended his hand to help me. I rose easily and turned toward the house. As we reached the deck, I turned and sat on the edge of it. He sat next to me and watched my face for some sign of doubt. There was none because I really did trust him, but was still afraid of what would happen when I fell asleep. What will happen if he falls asleep too, what if I wake up somewhere too far for my parents to come after me? Mexico, Alaska, and the Grand Canyon sprang to mind. I shuddered and he noticed immediately.

Hey, I thought we had this all set. You don’t have to worry about this

What if you fall asleep too? I questioned him with a worried expression.

I thought about that too. I figure, we will cross that bridge when and if we come to it. We are going to take this one small step at a time. I cannot possibly offer you any guarantees and I already told you I wouldn’t give up. Come on, lets go upstairs and we can talk until you fall asleep. He stood with me taking my hand firmly in his as we walked through the back door. We walked into the living room to let mom and dad know we were going to bed.

Oh yea, I finally reached Dr. Anders and I’m meeting him in the morning for coffee to discuss Nisa’s case and fill him in on what Judge Kent wants and expects. I’m hoping he will be willing to set up an appointment to see us soon.

That’s great, son. You do realize we work for a living. Try to make it in the morning so we can plan time off. We should just ask for the next couple of days off honey. Do you have time you can take?

My boss knows what’s going on. I filled him in last month after….well you know. He is willing to give me the time I need. It’s not a problem for me. She said smiling up at Justin.

Great then, I’ll let you both know what Paul sets up. We’re going upstairs now. Let’s go little one. Justin said.

What did you just call me? I said in a hushed voice, a look of surprise on my face. Justin looked at my wide eyes and shrugged.

Little one, is there a problem with it? I heard Paul use that term once with a friends younger sister when she was visiting the college.

I don’t know it just sounded so familiar. You’ve called me that before right?

I don’t think I have, it just came out. I won’t call you that anymore if you don’t like it.

"No, it’s okay. I don’t really mind, it just caught me off guard when you used it. It didn’t sound right coming from you, that’s all."

He laughed and looked at me with a puzzled expression. It didn’t sound right coming from me? Who would it sound right from, Anisa? He asked with amusement in his voice. We had this exchange while climbing the stairs and were now outside my bedroom. Pushing the door open, I crossed to my bed, and sat down.

I don’t know but it just sounded off coming from you. I shrugged and couldn’t shake the feeling of recognition it had given me when I heard ‘little one’. I shrugged it off, got my pajamas, and headed for the bathroom to get ready for bed. I walked back into my room to see Justin by my bed in the rocker from the spare room. I climbed under the sheet and lay down looking at Justin with trepidation.

Don’t worry, I’m right here. I’ll hold your hand if you want me to.

Okay fine, that would actually be very reassuring, I said smiling at him closing my eyes and trying to relax. I could feel my hand in Justin’s and knew he would be looking out for me tonight. I heard him hum that same little kid’s song from long ago and slowly drifted to sleep.

I woke to bright sunlight warming my face and felt fear as I slowly opened my eyes. Justin was looking at me sleepily.

Good morning, sunshine! You’re still here.

Justin, I didn’t dream last night!

You snore, you know. Boy do you snore!

I don’t snore. We both laughed.

Let’s go down for some breakfast and then I have to go meet Paul for coffee. I will get you set up with him and be back before you know I’m gone. Get cleaned up and dressed, I’ll meet you downstairs. Justin finished heading for the door.

I went to wash up and get dressed quickly racing down the stairs with more energy than I’ve had in weeks. My parents weren’t home, having left for work already. I went into the kitchen just as Justin flew down the stairs noisily. Taking out bowls for cereal and setting them on the table, he hit the fridge and took out the milk. He rustled up spoons and the cereal and we ate quietly. I watched as Justin scoffed down his bowl full, rinsed the bowl and spoon, and then placed them in the dishwasher.

Ok, I’m off to meet with Paul. Get some studying in while I’m gone will you. I don’t want your schooling to suffer. He smiled and kissed the top of my head. I heard his car pulling out then went to the living room and sat down booting up the laptop to start on my lesson plan.

* * * *

I drove into town slowly thinking of how I would explain Anisa’s problem, hoping Paul would be willing to take her on as a patient. Pulling into the coffee shop parking lot, I saw Paul waiting by the door. I exited my car and walked over to shake hands.

Good morning Justin how have you been. It’s been months hasn’t it? Paul smiled and turned to walk into the shop. He approached the counter, placed his order, and motioned me to a seat.

It’s great to see you Paul. I understand you are opening a new sleep research center here in town. I tried to reach you yesterday but the building was all locked up and you weren’t available. My serious expression spiked Paul’s curiosity.

"Sleep Research and Counseling Center to be exact and I was at a meeting at the university going over some last minute details for the transfer of my original dream research computer program to my office. The university wants me speak on it once I’ve eliminated all the glitches. I have no idea what they are talking about; I see no glitches in it at all and…

Paul, hey slow it down buddy. We are having coffee to discuss my sister’s problem remember. As fascinating as I have always found your research, the here and now takes precedence for me okay.

Oh right sorry I get really carried away where this…okay no more talk of research.

You are so single minded about that stuff. Now what I wanted to ask you about is are you taking on patients yet?

I haven’t taken any on but I’m all set for counseling sessions one on one. Why do you ask?

"My sister has been court mandated to get psychiatric counseling for what she believes is a sleepwalking problem. I suggested you to the judge. I’m sorry I didn’t check with you first, but you are the only one I would trust with my sister. The judge was impressed with the fact that you are the son of Dr. Darren Anders.

Yeah everybody is. Paul said in a flat tone. She sleepwalks and it’s causing problems in your home. She ends up watching television at night and wakes up the whole house right. I actually had a friend that did that in med school.

No you are way off the mark. She believes she is sleepwalking after having bad dreams and nightmares. She ends up in places other than her own room.

Okay, like where for instance? Paul asked curious.

Like in Saco last month and dad had to drive down there to get her. She has no idea how she got there and doesn’t remember asking for a ride. She doesn’t remember talking to anyone at all. That’s why she ended up in court. Mrs. Prentiss, her counselor from the teen center insisted on it; along with the authorities.

"Wow that is weird. Does she talk about the dreams?"

Not to my parents or Emily Prentiss but she confided in me. Really weird stuff Paul and she’s been forcing herself to stay awake because of the problem. She’s exhausted from the lack of sleep.

I see, well she would be my first patient and I should be fully staffed by tomorrow for the sleep study lab so yes I will take her on and at least have a session with her. She has to be up front with me Justin or it will do no good. She has to be willing to talk to me. I’ll need to talk to your parents as well. Why don’t you come in tomorrow morning at ten o’clock? I can talk with your parents and you first to get some background and then have an hour session with her. I can ask your parents for permission to use my new dream reading program on her. Paul said excitedly.

Whoa Paul, let’s not jump the gun okay. I just want you to counsel her and see if you can get to the meat of the problem. I can’t allow you to experiment on my sister.

"I have used this program on students at college and it works just fine. Come on Justin it’s not in the experimental stages anymore. I have three years under my belt with this." I looked at Paul with a guarded expression and then noticed the excitement in his face. Sometimes he was just like a kid with a new toy. I shook my head smiling.

I have really missed your enthusiasm Paul. Okay you win but if my parents say no, that’s it and Anisa has to agree as well.

Of course, not a problem; I’ll have to warn you though, I can be pretty persuasive these days. I think a sleep study will be beneficial as well so I’ll schedule that too. My dream research program works in tandem with the sleep study with no problems at all. You don’t even know it’s running except for the pictures you pick up on the monitors. Paul noticed my skepticism. What?

Pictures Paul; what pictures are we talking about?

The dreams Justin, my program actually lets you sit in on someone’s dreams. I laughed then stopped when I noticed how serious Paul was.

You are going to have to show me this program Paul.

Sure no problem but I warn you, it will amaze you.

He glanced at his watch as he finished his coffee.

Listen I have to leave for a couple interviews. I’m still in the hiring process and I’ll be late to talk to my new technicians. You may remember one of them, Carl Williams, electronics technician. I shook my head. "Hey, I have an idea. Why don’t you follow me to the center and I’ll show you around."

I can’t Paul, I promised I’d come right home. The judge remanded Anisa into the custody of her family and she shouldn’t be alone long. I’ve already been gone for almost an hour and I still have to stop for gas.

Well no matter. I’ll see all of you tomorrow at ten sharp. I have to run. I still have to check into a new place for a counseling office. New idea I had when I was talking to some teens at the teen center last year. Paul grabbed his donut and rushed out the door. I rose, taking a last gulp of my coffee and walked slowly to my car. Well at least he agreed to see her. Paul could be so spastic sometimes but he believes fervently in his research and I love his enthusiastic attitude. I really like Paul but I hoped he wouldn’t go overboard. I pulled out into traffic and made my way home. I hoped Anisa did some studying. She was getting behind in her schoolwork with all that’s been happening. I stopped to gas up my car before going home.

* * * *

I sat at my computer just staring at it wondering how everything was going with the meeting between Justin and this Dr. Anders person. I concentrated on my math, having finished my history paper. My parents made the decision that home schooling via computer would be best when I complained about not fitting in at school. When one of the school bullies hurt me it helped reinforce the idea. My dad had met with the principal and he had arranged for my scheduled lesson plan. I did quite well without the constant ribbing from classmates. I studied better in my home environment and was able to concentrate on the business at hand graduating high school ahead of schedule with a 3.9 average. Two months later, I started college via computer of course.

I finished my math paper just as Justin came home. I looked at the clock on the computer desk and was surprised to see that nearly two hours had passed since I sat down and I had finished my history and math, which pleased me to no end. With only four weeks left in my scheduled college courses, I was ahead of where I should be by at least two weeks despite my problems. I had until the end of May to finish and I was very confident I would be done well before that.

Justin came in and was standing behind me as I shut down the computer, leaning down and whispering into my ear,

I have good news. Paul is going to give you, not only a sleep study but counseling as well. He set up an appointment to speak with all of us tomorrow at ten o’clock. He wants to talk with mom, dad and me first, then he’ll set aside an hour to talk with just you, one on one. You are going to have to be up front and honest with him. He is willing to do what it takes and he is willing to go the distance until he gets results. You can trust him. He finished.

I’m willing to do just that, Justin I promise. I want answers as much as everyone else does. It’s just that I don’t know this Dr. Anders and you know I feel uncomfortable with strangers.

Believe me Paul is someone you feel at ease with immediately. I can’t put my finger on it but I felt I’d known him forever after just an hour with him. He is very easy to talk to and handsome according to some of the girls at school. They called him the hottest looking guy on campus. Justin said with a smile raising his eyebrows up and down.

The hottest looking guy and easy to talk to, that is a stumbling block right there. I’ll be tripping all over my tongue.

Come on Nisa, I’m telling you he’s a great person. The professors all liked him on campus and he got along with just about everybody.

Just about everybody, who didn’t he get along with? I ask quickly.

"When you talk to him ask a few questions of your own and maybe he’ll tell you about it. He is easy to talk to and you will like him very much." Justin stated smiling and nodding.

Okay I’ll take your word for it. I’m still nervous about the whole thing. Not so much the counseling sessions, though they bother me but the sleep study part. I felt safe with you when we did our little experiment but I won’t have you there to hold my hand. I’ll be all by myself.

You won’t be alone. He will be there with you and I’m sure if you ask, he’ll be more than willing to hold your hand.

It won’t be the same. I don’t know him. You are my protector, not him. I looked up at him smiling.

You still see me that way after all this time? I think I spoiled you when you were growing up, a little anyway. I stared at him trepidation showing in my face. Okay, maybe he’ll be willing to let me sit in on the sleep study. It can’t hurt to ask, if it will put you at ease. He wrapped his arms around me and hugged me. Hey, did you get some studying done while I was gone?

I finished my math and my history papers. I’m ahead by almost two weeks. I just have a very long English essay to finish then I’m done. I stated proudly.

Wow that’s great. My sister the genius, I always said you were too smart for your own good; I guess I was right huh? We have the rest of the day to ourselves. What would you like to do?

How about going to get some lunch and go to the mall, I want to go to the book store and maybe get some new music to listen to.

Not a bad idea, I am starved and I may buy a book myself. What do you feel like eating?

I think I’d like something light, like a salad. Yeah a salad and some iced tea.

Great, I know just the place. He bowed, laughed, and motioned me to the door. I walked to the front door giggling.

You’re chariot awaits my lady. We can shop and eat right at the mall. I followed him out to his car and he opened my door for me, playing up the chivalry with a wide smile.

It’s was a short drive to the mall opting to take the interstate instead of dealing with the intown traffic. The mall was busy as people rushed here and there, store to store. We walked to the food court, I sat at a table, and Justin stood in line to order. After a short wait, he brought our food over and sat down across from me. We had begun eating when someone stepped up to the table.

Justin, nice to see you again, may I join the two of you I looked up to meet two smiling blue eyes. To say they were blue was an understatement. They were very blue, electric blue. He was tall and slim and a smile lit up his face.

Hey Paul, please join us. This is my sister Wylanisa. I guess you two get to meet before tomorrow. Convenient I think, or is it? He questioned

I’m actually here because someone mentioned there was an empty store for rent, it’s small, but it will be perfect for a counseling office. I think that kids will feel more comfortable coming here than some formal office in town. Dr Anders finished and I was still staring at him mesmerized by his soft smooth voice. He looked at me and spoke again but for some reason I didn’t really hear the words.

How are you Wylanisa? It is a pleasure to meet you. Justin told me all about you. He extended his hand, smiled and I reached out to shake hands. I melted and blushed as thoughts of how the girls on campus were right about the good-looking part. He was very good looking. The light gray suit he was wearing fit him to perfection and he seemed to be the type who insisted that looking absolutely perfect wasn’t stuffy or stiff to him. His easy manner and bright blue eyes could easily mesmerize any woman. Little did I know how much our lives would change with this simple introduction to this incredible looking man?

Anisa, Anisa wake up? Justin’s voice broke into my thoughts.

I’m sorry. Hello, it’s nice to meet you too. You don’t look like a psychiatrist or a scientist for that matter? I said softly.

I get that a lot; don’t let it put you off though. I’m glad I ran into both of you. This way I get to meet Wylanisa outside the structured environment of my office. Less formal and a little less intimidating don’t you think?

Please call me Anisa. I requested.

Alright Anisa it is. Please go ahead and eat your lunch. Actually, I think I’ll go and get something as well. I’ll be right back. He rose and I watched him walk over to the counter to place his order. Suddenly, something didn’t feel right in the pit of my stomach. He was standing with his back to me as the uneasy feeling grew. As I watched him return with just a coffee and small sandwich, I felt dread or fear. Not fear of him but fear for him; how odd that I should feel that way about someone I didn’t even know.

You look like you already have some questions and maybe some concerns? He leaned toward me smiling.

I ah …well we were….Justin and I did talk…..ah….I guess I… I looked over at Justin pleading with my eyes.

She’s a little nervous, Paul. She has a hard time talking to people she doesn’t know.

Well I can certainly sympathize with that. When I was just a kid, younger than you are now, I had a very difficult time relating to my classmates. Of course, my classmates were usually several years older than I was. I skipped several grades, so my friendships with other kids my own age was very limited. I actually had an easier time relating to the teachers. My studies came very easy for me but my social skills left a great deal to be desired. As I grew older it got a little easier. He shrugged and smiled. I smiled back and nodded.

"I feel that way all the time. It’s not that I’m a brain or