Jarrod Iii: A Love Story

© 2012 Claudette Graham. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 1/17/2012

ISBN: 978-1-4685-3469-6 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4685-3468-9 (e)

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Contents

CHAPTER 1

A SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY

CHAPTER 2

ANOTHER BEGINNING

CHAPTER 3

RETURN OF THE ANCIENTS

CHAPTER 4

ANABEL

CHAPTER 5

REMEMBERING

CHAPTER 6

ANOTHER SIDE OF KANON

CHAPTER 7

BACK TO THE BEGINNING

CHAPTER 8

GREATER REALIZATION

CHAPTER 9

ANABEL COMES HOME

CHAPTER 10

END OF THE SEPARATION

CHAPTER 11

THE WEDDING

CHAPTER 12

DOWN TO EARTH

CHAPTER 13

OLD LAND, NEW LIFE

CHAPTER 1

A SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY

JARROD STOOD SMILING AT THE young lady who was so engrossed in the book she was reading that she didn’t know he was there. He cleared his throat, but she continued reading. Slowly, he moved toward her. It wasn’t until he touched her shoulder that she raised her head and said, Oh, Master Jarrod, I didn’t hear you come for me. This story of Kanon’s history is so fascinating I guess I got lost in it. They were in the enormous library/museum in the middle of the city called Lae, Capitol of the golden planet, Kanon.

Are you ready to return home now? he asked.

Sighing, she answered. I always hate to leave Kanon, but I am ready. I will use what I learned this week for a report in class. My teacher spent some time here a few years ago, you know. He said King Markle suggested he visit Kanon, and he just loved it here. He will be glad to know I am so interested in Kanon’s history.

Now, Annya, you know you are welcomed to come here anytime you wish, as long as your parents allow you to come. I will take you back to my house to collect your clothing, and have our evening meal, then we will be off for one of the ships that will leave before the first hour of evening. Only two are going out this week, so I don’t want you to miss your ride. Your parents are expecting you in a few days.

That is fine, Master Jarrod, but did you say WE will be off for a ship? The two were walking down the hallway of the House of Records.

Yes, I am going to travel with you this time. I want to visit with King Markle and his family for a while. It has been a while since I was there. Teriana has become one of the jewels in our planetary system. It is always a pleasure being there. Jarrod very briefly recalled the Teriana of old – warring, divided and ignorant of its full potential. Now there was peace, prosperity and brotherhood among its entire population. Master Jarrod, why don’t you just teleport us there. That would save a lot of time. Besides, I still think it is the greatest, to be able to just think your way somewhere. How I wish I could do that. Are Verdes unable to transport by nature, or are we just a little slower mentally than you Kanonites and the Yaks on Teriana? Annya walked briskly to keep up with her hero.

Jarrod turned to look at the girl with light green skin and coal black hair, which lay in loose curls around her pretty face.

Dear child, your people are not slower, they are just not as focused on spiritual development as some races, and that is a process that requires a lot of time. The ability is there for all, and there are many of your race who have developed that ability, and more. Look at your king and queen and their children. Jarrod said.

I know, but Queen Ti is not Verde, and their children are of two different races. Does that make a difference? Annya was very curious about everything.

No, it does not. Teaching and discipline make the difference. More and more Verdes are going to the higher schools for spiritual knowledge. That knowledge is harder to attain than any other knowledge. Your people will one day have many more spiritual masters among them, as do the Yaks. And you know not all Yaks are masters. Some have very few such abilities. Now, young lady, let’s get you home. At fifteen years of age, you cannot get all the answers to your many questions, but do keep that desire to learn. Try to enjoy being young. You have many years ahead to get every question answered. All Right?

Yes, I know you are right. I will think of other things now. I am just so happy to be here with you. Sometimes I do talk too much, and ask too many questions. You are kind to allow me to do so. Annya lower her voice, but smiled to herself.

Jarrod stopped before they reached the aircar depot that would have taken them to his home on the other side of Lae, near the Crystal Lake. Let’s hurry home. I know Menah has prepared a wonderful meal to honor your being here. I will teleport us home. Annya could hardly contain herself.

In minutes, they were in the front hallway of Jarrod’s splendid mansion.

The trip from Kanon to Teriana took three short days by airship. Once Jarrod had delivered Annya to her parents in Banyan Harbor, he teleported himself to Arvaila, the Capitol, and home of King Markle.

The royal couple greeted him with open arms, and he responded in like kind. Markle’s youthful face beamed as he escorted his longtime friend and mentor into the palatial edifice. Attendants rushed to do whatever Jarrod wished, but Markle dismissed them, saying, This time I will do the serving. You may go your way.

Ti led the way to the roomy, elegantly decorated living quarters. Jarrod, after all these years, Markle is still the young man I fell in love with. When he is at home, no one would know he has rule over the entire planet. He’s so humble, but so strong and wise when it comes to his duties. Sometimes he gives all of the servants time off.

I have really never cared much for all the royal treatment, Markle interrupted. Being king doesn’t mean I am helpless. I think of the servants as friends, more than as servants. Our family feels much closer to each other when we do things for ourselves around the house. I don’t always have much time to spend alone with my wife and children, whenever they are at home—helping so many others with their problems, and traveling around the planet takes a lot of time, as you know. So when I am alone with this lovely creature, I help with dishes and cooking and whatever else she decides to do. The servants think we are a really odd couple, but they love us, he laughed. They do have duties that they must perform without our help, though. When I am away, they take over completely. Since the children are grown and out of the house most of the time. Ti often accompanies me. Her wisdom and special medical abilities are very helpful to me. As you know, dealing with so many different kinds of people can sometimes be difficult and tiring, at best.

Too true, Jarrod said. Believe it or not, I have decided to slow down a little, at least for a while. This year I will not take on another class. Master Reuben will head the House of Learning until I return. I have been on a nonstop schedule for quite a long time. I always advise people everywhere to take time to just enjoy life—to drink in all the goodness around them. I recently realized I haven’t done that for a very long time.

Jarrod, if you will recall, I made that suggestion the last time I saw you in Lae Ti said as she gathered food from a large pantry for the noon meal. It is not that you seemed tired, or any such thing, but I know what dealing with so many diverse people can do to anyone, even the mighty Jarrod of Kanon." Ti laughed as she laid the food on the large round kitchen table.

Can you stay here with us for a few days, at least? Markle asked. Elan and his wife and daughters usually have dinner with us every Thirdday, if possible. They would love to see you. And my children try to get home for that meal, too. You are responsible for all of this, ( he made a gesture with his hand) so you should be here, with the family as much as possible. Markle put his hand on Jarrod’s arm, then sat beside him at the table. As far as I know, there are no pressing matters for me to attend to in the next few days, so I can give you my full attention. That is, if Ti gives her consent," he said with a big smile. Ti hit her husband’s head with a kitchen towel, in a playful way.

Jarrod looked at the strong, handsome man beside him, and for a moment he was looking at the twelve-year-old boy with pale green face and dark hair, who had the courage to resist the teachings of a brutal, misguided government leader. Then he looked at his beautiful wife, who used to be a nursing attendant on Kanon, and remembered the sweet, young, energetic girl who wanted so much to be like him, and the other spiritual masters. Only the Almighty could put together a couple so well matched, he thought. And now, after hundreds of years, their love is as strong as it was the day they wed. He smiled as he watched Ti, queen of the planet, who didn’t have to ever lift a finger, move ever so gracefully around the grand kitchen, while her husband’s eyes followed her with pure adoration.

When the meal was over, Jarrod helped with the cleanup as they all talked about the past and interesting events in their present lives. Each of them possessed the ability to instantly clean the kitchen, or to have prepared the entire meal with a quick wave of the hand, but instead, everything was done without the power of the mind. The simplicity of the visit was a welcomed change for each of them.

Strolling around the exquisitely designed grounds that surrounded the white-stone mansion, Markle proudly called attention to the flower gardens, which he had designed and planted by himself, and the newly created waterfalls, which added to the tropical look of the once barren desert area. It is remarkable how much this whole area has changed since the last war on Teriana ended, and the old city of Symon became Arvila, Jarrod thought to himself.

Kassy came to visit a few months ago, Markle said, interrupting Jarrod’s thoughts. My sister looks beautiful with the slightly golden skin color she has aquired since being on your planet. Living on Kanon is the fullfillment of hers, and Cleve’s dream for many, many years. Cleve didn’t come with her, but Kassy talked about him and young Marcus constantly. They have adapted quite well to living on Kanon.

Indeed they have, Jarrod quickly responded. "Cleve now goes on many flights around the solor system, with Shawn and his brother Jacob, on their rescue missions. Kassy joined them on a couple trips, mainly for the adventure.

Your nephew, Marcus, is truly his mother’s son. He is interested in anything of a political nature. Cleve was such a doting father to him for so long, but has now learned to let him be his own man. My father, Justin, who was chief of my people, when we lived in the small village on Worus, is still held in high esteem in his city. Now he’s rather like a governor. Marcus enjoys spending time with him, watching how he governs his people. It is a little amusing since for the most part, the people govern themselves. Father is more of a figurehead, but Marcus plays along as his unofficial assistant. Right now he is trying to decide which course his life should take. Kassy may have told you he has finally decided to live in his own apartment. For a Kanonite, he is still very young. Kassy is so proud of him. After wanting a child for so long, he has meant so much to her and Cleve."

Markle stopped walking and stood silent for a moment, then said, with a deep sigh, Oh, well, I should have known the day would not pass without someone wanting or needing something.

Your presence is needed to settle a dispute, I see. Jarrod said. Would you like for me to go with you. I know you are quite capable of handling the problem alone, though.

Yes, why don’t you go with me, Markle spoke quickly. It will be like long ago when my dearest friend was with me through so many problem situations. I am sending Ti the message that we will be gone for a while. He was silent for just a few seconds. The disagreement is with those ambassadors from Vermesa. They have such a hard time with some of the rules established by the Grand Council of Worlds United. They are trying, but still have a long way to go before they reach their higher spiritual potential. Oh, well, let us see how we can help this time. Feel free to say whatever you wish in the meeting. The two men vanished from the garden.

By the time Thirdday came, Ti had arranged a proper welcoming party for Jarrod. The official ballroom was brightly decorated and guests had come from around the planet; representatives from each of the three continents, and several of the people Jarrod had known and worked with in the old Capitol of Ackren were all there to greet him. Many of the powerful Yaks were among the happy crowd. Johnathan, Shasta, Maylee and Aaron, (from the second generation of the founders of the interior world) were there from the interior city of Amere. The real surprise of the day was the appearance of Ethan, head of the mighty group of Yaks in the most inner world of the Interior, With him were Breeanna and Orville. These mighty souls, members of the Circle of Nine, founders and builders of the world within the planet, seldom left their home at the heart of the planet for any reason.

I am honored by your presence, Ethan. And Breeanna and Orville, you have actually surprised me. Jarrod said, as he embraced each of them. As you probably know, I had planned to visit your intriguing world while I was here on Teriana.

Don’t let our appearance here change your mind. Ethan quickly said. Your visits are usually so short that we couldn’t possibly tire of seeing you, he laughed. Ti asked if we would help welcome you. How could we refuse?

Jarrod smiled. There are so many changes to Teriana-

Thanks to you, Jarrod, Orville interjected.

The idea to help Teriana change may have begun with me, but it took a world of others to bring it all about. Each of you played a big role. I am glad you were on my team.

Here, here King Markle said loudly, as he raised his wine glass. Here, here indeed the guests all responded.

After a lavish meal, served buffet style, and much laughter and reminiscing, musicians began playing softly. Slowly, the floor filled with dancers. Markle said to Jarrod, When beautiful music is playing, I often think of Lae and the evening concerts in the park. Our music here in Arvail is lovely, but the music on Kanon has a magical quality about it that reaches into ones heart, or even his soul. Both men became quite, thinking of Kanon.

Breeanna, a tall, willowy, distinguished looking woman, with an ageless beauty, looked like the artist she was. Her smooth, pale skin glowed against her flowing deep pink gown and satin ribbon she wore in her long silver hair. Stepping up to Jarrod, she took his hand and said, in a slightly flirtatious way, Brother Jarrod, I would like to dance with you. May I?

Jarrod was on his feet before he had time to answer. Well, I would be delighted, Breeanna, he managed to say. I hadn’t planned on doing any dancing. It is joyous to just listen to the music and watch others dance.

Now, now, Jarrod, the lady said, As well as you dance, you should not shy away from it. I know there was a time when you would dance the night away, with the right woman. You have spent too much of your time working. Doing what you love to do is allowed, too, you know. I know you intend to slow your work schedule, so I am merely getting you off to a good start. With this, she whirled him around and livened up their step. Jarrod was taken off guard, but quickly caught her rhythm and followed her lead. Their prancing and whirling soon caught the eye of the music conductor. He picked up the pace of the music. They were soon the center of attention. The rest of the dancers stopped to watch, clapping in time with the lively beat.

Now, there is the Jarrod I remember most. Fresh, young and full of energy and enthusiasm, Ethan told those sitting at his table. He always knew when to be serious and when to play. It is good to see him dance. Breeanna was concerned about him. She always knows what a person needs." He sat back in his chair and smiled broadly.

The party lasted well into the night. When it ended and everyone left the mansion, Jarrod stood by his bedroom window staring at the many lights that outlined the grounds on the south side of the building. The night was pleasantly warm, and the air was still. The mansion was quiet. Jarrod was not one to spend much time thinking about his past, except when there was a specific reason for recalling special events. For some reason, he was contstanly being reminded of events from long ago.

The lighted grounds took him back, mentally, to the old capitol, called Loftland, where he worked closely with Cleve Archer, Kassy Barr and the five other members of the council that ruled this county of Ackren. In the guise of a Yak, a race much dispised by many, his leadership and example helped the Verdes to see the Yaks in a much better light. Eventually, the Verdes (or green race ) were able to see the Yaks (or the pale race) as the wealthy, powerful and courageous people they really were. It was so long ago, and yet it was as fresh as yesterday in his mind.

He smiled as he turned away from the window in time to see Ethan materialize on the other side of his room. Did you have trouble getting to sleep, too? Jarrod asked his unexpected guest.

Ethan walked slowly toward Jarrod. Sleep was the last thing on my mind tonight, he replied.

Is there something troubling you? Jarrod asked in a concerned manner.

No, I wouldn’t say I am troubled, but I do have something pressing on my mind. For some time now, I have contemplated taking a trip back home to Zainia. His voice was less than enthusiastic.

Jarrod invited his old friend to sit in one of the two violet colored chairs near the window. A soft light from a small lamp on an over-sized white dresser gave the large room, of varying shades of purple and white, a comfortable, relaxing appearance. Do you not feel comfortable with the thought of returning after 3000 years?

I do not feel discomfort, exactly, but perhaps apprehensive would be a better word. We, the Circle of Nine, have all looked ahead, and we see no problem, or danger of any kind. I believe the thing that is most unsettling is that all of our friends, families and colleagues, and everyone who knew us have passed on, after a normal lifespan. We would be like ghosts returning from the dead. We are only names in ancient textbooks; people from the ancient past. I do not think our people are spiritual enough, even now, to accept the fact that we are real, flesh and blood people. Jarrod felt the concern in Ethan’s voice.

From your point of view, that would cause some feelings of apprehension, Jarrod said in a low voice. There is more than one solution. Is the trip for you, or for Zainia?

Ethan’s eyes questioned Jarrod. Jarrod said.You and your friends and companions are not the same people that left Zainia centuries ago. You have become a new race with little resemblance to the natives of your former home. Is it important for them to know who you are? Vistors from many places wisit Zainia these days. Think on that.

Ethan shook his head slightly. "Looking at it from that perspective, there is no problem.

With all the added brainpower, and the changes in our appearance, we, or in this case I, still sometimes feel like the brown-skinned, ordinary human being whose only real power was the ability to lead people. Now, I can see through walls and through time, and I can move mountains and change my appearance –yet there was concern when I thought of going home. Strange.

"Going back to your starting place after more than three thousand years is a huge step, even in our world of longevity. And for a people who have lived out of the mainstream of life for so long, that is an even bigger step. You have your own physical world here, within this planet, and have only been in touch with home, and with other civilizations mentally. With all your knowledge, and all of your great powers, you are still in a physical world, and that in itself can cause apprehension. Because of the invisible currents found in the underground caverns, you and your people experienced in a short time what would have taken perhaps hundreds of years of normal living. Your people are unique. Jarrod concluded.

That we are, Ethan said. He walked to the window, and stared out into the darkness. You know, I have only been on the surface of Teriana a few times since we built our inner world. Before you came and started the big change in the green ones, there was no reason to come to the surface. Now that my people and the Verdes are coexisting, the need for separatism has vanished. You asked if a trip to Zainia would be for Zainia or for me. I first thought I owed my former people something, since I was the one who pushed for space travel. And it was I who led the two thousand souls that were presumed lost in space. Only Allen-Darr, our high priest knew, much later, that we were still alive. Ethan stood in silence for a moment. He continued. I now believe we should become reaquinted with the past before now. I know we will never again be as we were, and we do not want what is gone, but perhaps we will be a better people once we step back and see up close where we began. He turned to look at Jarrod.

I knew a talk with you would help me put things in the right perspective. Even before we could travel in space, you and Naymon, who were many years ahead of us on Zainia, always offered the most sound advise. Your friendship inspired me then, as it does now. Thank you.

The powerful leader bowed slightly and almost instantly vanished, returning to his home in the heart of Teriana.

After two days with King Markle, Jarrod materialized on a busy street in the underground city of Amere. This splendid display of advanced technology was a true work of art. The clear blue sky was the handiwork of Breeanna, chief artist. The chief scientist, Loren, devised machines to puff out thick, white clouds, when desired. Rain was sprinkled upon the massive fields of all manner of produce, or on the people to create realistic weather conditions. Day and night were artifically created. To the thousands of people who were born in one of the internal cities, this was all real. Only the few who went to the surface to learn, or to help the Verdes knew the difference.

The people of the Interior were supplied with everything they could possibly want. This was the gift of the Fathers (the original two thousand men and women) to their children, and their children’s children. Jarrod thought of his first trip to this amazing world, which was eight hundred miles under the surface of Teriana. The streets were much the same as they were those many years ago, except now many Verdes mingled with the happy, well dressed Yaks. Some of the shops on the main street were managed by Verdes. Others worked in the fields, or the storage houses. There was always work to be done for those who wanted to work.

Jarrod walked slowly, taking in all of the wonderful sights, from beautiful people in brightly colored clothing, to exotic trees and other plants, to marvelous buildings of unusual designs. Tall buildings, of pink or beige coloring, stood in the distance, far from the sounds and the excitement of the busiest part of the city.

Jarrod! a voice called from behind him. As he turned around, a lovely Verde woman walked toward him with outstretched arms.

Inez? he questioned. That is you! Inez Wass! He gave her a quick hug, then stepped back and looked at her. How good to see you, again. It has been a long time. You look wonderful.

Jarrod, she smiled broadly. I have wondered many times if I would ever see you again. I don’t think any other golden people have come here. Can you come to my home for a short visit? I won’t keep you long, but I would like to talk to you. It is so good seeing you again.

I’m not on a time schedule. Sure, I would like to visit with you, he answered.

She led him down a short lane, off from the main street, to a small, wood frame, white bungalow. It was a comfortable home. Two small animals, resembling cats greeted them as they entered the living room. Can I get you something to eat, or drink? Inez asked, pointing to a chair near the sofa.

Thanks, but no. I am fine. Please tell me how you are, and how life is going for you now. Jarrod sat back and looked carefully at this woman who was the daughter of the man who brought devastation to the world above them, many many years ago. She was young and ignorant of her father’s true nature, and his intentions to bring war upon their world.

Would you believe I have only been to the surface twice since mother and I came here to escape certain death from our people for the horrible things father did? She sat back on the sofa. I am quite content here in Amere, now, but it was very hard at first. We were always treated with respect, and made to feel like we belonged here, but we, both mother and I, still felt like outcasts for many years. Our smiles disguised a broken heart. She crossed her legs, and sat up straight, then continued. She had aged, but her skin still had the pale green cast of youth. In her dark eyes, a touch of sadness still remained. Her hair, though still dark, was worn short - close to her head. She was not as slim as when Jarrod last saw her, in her father’s mansion in MorRash, but she was still a very lovely woman. If only my father had known more about these Yaks — how loving and caring, and powerful and rich they were, I wonder if he would have still hated them so. After a short silence, But that we will never know, I guess." She sighed.

The happiness and peace in this city finally began to change me. Shasta, that dear, dear soul, came to talk with me, and when she left I felt like a new person. It was as if she pulled the sad, dark thoughts right out of me. I began to enjoy life here. Mother also felt free from her burden, but decided to no longer go to the rejuvenation center after her two-hundredth year. She died fifty years later. Her last request was to be buried near our old home in MorRash. She smiled to herself. "That was the first time I went back to the surface. I don’t believe anyone, except Governor Bale-Salen, knew me. Quite a large number of the Yaks went with me. The governor arranged a lovely ceremony for mother.

I was tempted to remain in MorRash, but everything is so different now. Being here just felt more comfortable. Again she was silent, deep in thought. One of her little pets crawled onto her lap.

And I see there is finally love in your life, Jarrod said softly.

She smiled. Yes, I am glad to say, there is. I met Ra-Golen when I started self-betterment classes. He was the teacher. His family is from my country, Sedar, not far from MorRash. He was born during the Great War, down here in Amere. His parents returned to the surface when the Verdes were finally allowed to return, but he and others of his family remained here. He has become a spiritual leader. To those who knew me before the war, it would be laughable to think of me marrying a man of God. She paused, thinking of those earlier times. I know we will be together for life. Inez beamed when talking about Ra-Golen.

After a little more talk, Jarrod gave her a warm embrace and left. Returning to the main street, he was approached by several of his old friends, both Verdes and Yaks. Shasta stood some distance away, watching him mingle with his friends and admirers.

Slowly, she approached him. Silently, she stood in the midst waiting for a good time to greet him. He looked as handsome as ever dressed in the main style of the Fathers, in the most inner city. Dark brown balloon pants, of knee length, and light brown puff-sleeve shirt were accented with a wide white sash around his waist. Long brown stockings and brown loafer shoes completed the new look for him. As it was his usual custom to dress in the style of the world he visited, he was now ready to visit with Ethan and the Circle of Nine.

Father Ethan will be happy to see you looking more like them, except for that lovely golden face, Shasta laughed. She quickly went closer to him and put her arms around him. He kissed her forehead.

Think I should look more like a Yak? he asked with a big smile on his face.

Brother Jarrod, you can look any way you want! She answered.

How good to see you, again, Shasta. You really didn’t have to wait to see me. I am happy to see you any time. And it would not have been impolite! When old friends meet, who cares about protocol? He took her small white hand and gazed at her for a few seconds. This daughter of one of the first generation of the Zainians on Teriana, was a tall, slim, pretty and very powerful woman; one of the first of the Yaks (new name for the transformed Zainians) to actively help the Verdes when the Great war began.

Shasta took his arm and started down the street. A few seconds later, they vanished. Without warning, she had teleported him to the white sand beach located in the very heart of the planet, Teriana. This was only the second time he had gone to the home of the Fathers by this route. It was quicker, and easier to teleport directly into their city. Only the highest and purest of souls could endure the rarefied atmosphere in that world. And this was Shasta’s favorite way to enter.

She spoke as they materialized, Hope you don’t mind my taking the lead by bringing you here without first asking your permission to do so. Of course, I knew this was your destination, and I like coming this way. Just look at that lovely green ocean! Listen to those white-capped waves clapping for joy. This is the only great water that was here before the Zainians arrived. This and the great orange ball up there in the air above us were made either by the hand of the Almighty, or by another people who preceded us. For some reason, we have not been able to learn about the beginning of this part of the planet. Not even the penetrating minds of the Circle of Nine have been able to unravel the secret.

"There are some things we are not meant to know. I’m sure you have all